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Apostolic leadership serves as a catalyst for the disruption of settled expectations within church communities. This episode elucidates the premise that such leadership does not aim to maintain comfort within established systems, but rather to uphold faithfulness to core principles. Comfort, as we contend, poses a significant impediment to the vitality of church planting and outreach efforts. When congregants become complacent, their engagement diminishes, thus stymieing the potential for growth and outreach. We acknowledge that while systems can provide structure and support, they may also cultivate an atmosphere of ease that is antithetical to the essence of a life committed to the teachings and challenges inherent in a crucified existence.Coming Monday on Echoes Trough Eternity we will discuss In this episode of Echoes Through Eternity, we explore what happens when spiritual formation begins to reshape your pace, your availability, and your leadership—while others still expect the version of you that ran on urgency.Drawing on the wisdom of Jesus, Alan Hirsch, Henri Nouwen, Richard Rohr, and lived pastoral experience, this conversation names the quiet collision between formation and expectation.If you are leading with care, protecting your soul, and feeling tension instead of applause, this episode is for you.Formation always disrupts assumptions.The question is whether you will stay faithful when it does.
Happy New Year! Welcome to Season 8 of Heart + Sole! Kathryn catches up with Melody Wiseman after a two-month break, discussing their holiday experiences, the importance of routine, and their favorite binge-worthy shows. They dive into the latest season of Salt Lake City, share insights from Taylor Swift's documentary, and reflect on pop culture trends, including celebrity relationships and New Year's Eve celebrations. I can't wait for another season of H+S with you! Follow me on Instagram:Kathryn @kathryn_benkoHeart + Sole @heartandsolepodcastSole Fitness @sole_fitnessSubscribe to our new YouTube Channel and WATCH all episodes of Season 6 and 7!Sign up for the Sole Online Training App!Use coupon code 'SOLE20' for 20% off your first month!!Follow Melody on Instagram: @melodywiseman
Most men aren't broken.They're soft.And the world is perfectly designed to keep them that way
Today’s Bible Verse: "Hear this, you that trample the needy, and do away with the poor of the land" - Amos 8:4 “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ MEET YOUR HOST: Dr. Kyle Norman at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ The Reverend Dr. Kyle Norman is the Rector of St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in Kamloops BC, Canada. He holds a doctorate in Spiritual formation and is a sought-after writer, speaker, and retreat leader. His writing can be found at Christianity.com, crosswalk.com, ibelieve.com, Renovare Canada, and many others. Rev. Norman has 20 years of pastoral experience, and his ministry focuses on helping people overcome times of spiritual discouragement.Find more from Rev. Norman at revkylenorman.ca Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
A Prayer When We Need to Comfort our Kids by Danika Cooley Parenting can sometimes feel like a three-ring circus—chaotic, loud, unpredictable, and overwhelming. In this episode, we reflect on the deep emotional challenge of watching our children suffer and the uncertainty that comes with wanting to respond “the right way.”In today's episode by Danika Cooley, we are reminded that God does not stand at a distance from our pain or our children’s pain. He is the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, meeting us in our hardest moments and loving us through every affliction. Reference: 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4 Prayer: Lord, you are a God of mercy and comfort. Throughout our lives, you have comforted us when we suffered. Thank you for the afflictions you have brought us through. We praise you that because you cared for us during our trials, we can now comfort our kids. LINKS: 5 Habits of a Praying Mom Connect with Danika Cooley Follow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The Thought Leader Revolution Podcast | 10X Your Impact, Your Income & Your Influence
"Comfort absolutely murders your passion for life." Progress comes from earning results the hard way—through discipline, physical effort, and daily standards that do not bend when motivation fades. Comfort weakens execution, while controlled hardship sharpens judgment, energy, and resilience. Whether in business, health, or life, the ability to persist when things get hard determines who lasts and who fades out. Joe De Sena reflects on a life shaped by hustle, structure, and relentless effort—from early business lessons learned as a teenager to walking away from Wall Street in pursuit of something more alive. He shares how Spartan began as a failed idea, survived a decade of losses, nearly collapsed during the pandemic, and still grew into a global movement with a single mission: get people off the couch and back into ownership of their lives. Joe is the founder of Spartan Race, bestselling author of Spartan Tough, and a lifelong advocate for physical challenge as a gateway to mental strength. His work has influenced millions worldwide by blending endurance, mindset, and discipline into a framework that rewards action over comfort. Expert action steps: Win the morning – Wake up early, train first, and earn your day before distractions take over. Manufacture discomfort – Use cold exposure, physical challenge, and discipline to sharpen focus and resilience. Eliminate friction – Remove social media consumption and processed habits that dilute energy and execution. Learn more & connect: https://joedesena.com/ IG: @realjoedesena Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.
Summary In this episode, Cultivating Curiosity host Jeff Ikler reflects on his love of year-end "Best Books" lists and why reading sits at the heart of his podcast and personal life. He welcomes lists from institutions like The New York Times and the New York Public Library, seeing them as both a defense against book banning and a source of discovery, connection, and generosity. For Ikler, books spark curiosity, deepen empathy, and create bonds—whether through gifting or thoughtful conversation with authors. He also underscores podcast hosts' responsibility to read their guests' work in full, arguing that preparation honors both listeners and writers. Ultimately, Ikler finds himself drawn to books that slow him down through careful observation and reflection, or expand his understanding through deeply researched history, reinforcing reading as both nourishment and refuge. Three Major Takeaways Reading lists are acts of resistance, curiosity, and connection—not just recommendations. Thoughtful reading is essential to meaningful conversation, especially in podcasting. The most rewarding books either sharpen our attention to the present or deepen our understanding of the past. Jeff's favorite books in 2025 Crossings – How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet by Ben Goldfarb. Quoting from the book jacket, "Creatures from antelope to salmon are losing their ability to migrate in search of food and mates; invasive plants hitch rides in tire treads, road salt contaminates lakes and rivers; and the very, very noise of traffic chases songbirds from vast swaths of habitat." In this beautifully crafted book, Goldfarb makes the case that overpasses and underpasses are essential for reducing the deaths of animals and humans who inevitably come into brutal contact with one another. One of the chief takeaways in our era of divisiveness is that road ecologists and other scientists, insurance companies, and government officials are working collaboratively to solve problems. They have different goals for doing so, but they're working effectively at the intersection. You can access my two-part podcast interview on Getting Unstuck–Cultivating Curiosity with Ben in episodes 347 and 348. The Comfort of Crows – A Backyard Year by Margaret Renkl. This title came from one of last year's best books, and it did not disappoint. Quoting from the book jacket, "Margaret Renkl presents a literary devotional: fifty-two chapters that follow the creatures and plants in her backyard over the course of a year." How often do you read a chapter or passage because the writing is so moving? If you're interested in slowing down and seeing more of your immediate world, this is a great place to start. This small volume is a course in observation and reflection. Challenger – A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space by Adam Higginbotham. Like many Americans who watched the Space Shuttle Challenger break apart just seventy-three seconds into its mission, I thought I knew the story, but I was so wrong. As the book jacket explains, "…the Challenger disaster was a defining moment in twentieth-century history–one that forever changed the way America thought of itself and its optimistic view of the future. Yet the full story of what happened, and why, has never been told." I was moved to head-shaking anger after reading how decisions were made and bungled. Higginbotham's explanation of a highly complicated topic is beautifully presented. The book is a primer on the dangers of overly complex and competing bureaucracies and ego. Remember Us – American Sacrifice, Dutch Freedom, and a Forever Promise Forged in World War II by Robert M. Edsel with Bret Witter. Remember Us documents twelve lives connected to the American Military Cemetery near the small village of Margraten, Netherlands. Approximately 8,300 Americans who helped liberate the Netherlands from the Nazis and the grip of fascism during World War II are buried there. One of these was a Black American soldier who, along with a company of other Black Americans, dug the graves under the harshest weather conditions. The cruel irony is that Black soldiers worked in segregated and mostly non-combat roles in a war fought to eliminate tyranny and oppression. The cemetery is remarkable because local Dutch citizens have taken it upon themselves to adopt each grave and visit it weekly. This practice reflects the citizens' ongoing gratitude, and their visits ensure that the soldiers are always remembered for their sacrifice. There is a waiting list of citizens who wish to adopt a grave. Raising Hare—a Memoir by Chloe Dalton. This title has made almost every list I've come across. From the jacket cover, "…Dalton stumbles upon a newborn hare—a leveret—that had been chased by a dog. Fearing for its life, she brings it home, only to discover how difficult it is to rear a wild hare." Dalton deftly and wisely navigates caring for the hare as a house guest versus a pet, a choice that lets the hare move between the wild of the nearby woods and the security of her home. Like Renkl, Dalton has a keen eye for observation, one that put me in her home and garden as a witness to their interactions. Origin — A Genetic History of the Americas by Jennifer Raff. When I was growing up, I watched or read with almost religious fervor anything National Geographic produced featuring Louis Leakey, a paleoanthropologist and archaeologist. I was in awe of how he dug through the layers of time to find bones and artifacts from our earliest ancestors. Leakey's work was critical in demonstrating our human origins in Africa. So, when my friend Annette Taylor, a researcher of evolutionary psychology and biology, shared an article featuring Professor Jennifer Raff, an anthropologist and geneticist trying to rewrite the history of human origins in the Americas, I knew I had to invite her on my podcast. As a history enthusiast, I found it especially rewarding to co-host, along with Annette, a discussion with Professor Raff on podcast episode 358 about how and why early peoples migrated to and within North America. Raff has a talent for simplifying complex topics and making listeners comfortable with uncertainty. Scientists have theories and are constantly testing and revising them. We don't yet know for sure how early peoples arrived here or why they migrated, but that's the beauty of science and history. There is always more to discover. If You Lived Here, I'd Know Your Name by Heather Lende. I read this book decades ago and was as captivated then as I was this year by Heather Lende's storytelling ability. Adapted from the back cover, "As both the obituary writer and social columnist for the local newspaper (in Haines, Alaska, population about 2,500), Heather Lende knows better than anyone the goings-on in this breathtakingly beautiful place. Her offbeat chronicle brings us inside her — and the town's — busy life." Why read about a small town in Alaska? Maybe because it helps us look critically at our own lives. Like Renkl and Dalton, Heather Lende has an eye for detail, but also the humanity beneath the detail. She has graciously agreed to be my guest in podcast episode 400 this coming February. The most interesting books read in 2025 by his friends and colleagues Steve Ehrlich – The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul by Connie Zweig. Zweig writes from a Jungian perspective that is accessible to anyone who thinks about old and new agendas, internal and external, as we transition to later life, and reflect on what we want to hold on to, and what we're prepared to let go of to live an authentic life. Cindy House – What Just Happened by Charles Finch. It's one person's experience of the terrible year that was the pandemic lockdown, with all the fear, uncertainty, and strangeness I had forgotten. I loved his cultural observations and witty take on one of the weirdest years of our lives. I am so glad this particular record exists. By Edgington – The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. I first read the book in 2013, then again in '24, and now I read and refer to it every year. Singer's book is what propelled me to join his Temple of the Universe, where Mariah and I now live on the grounds. It's filled with inspiration and simple, almost homely wisdom: "The moment in front of you is not bothering you; you're bothering yourself about the moment in front of you!" Spencer Seim – To Possess the Land by Frank Waters. It follows the life of Arthur Manby, who came to the New Mexico territory in 1885 from England. He quickly tried to cash in by calling parcels of land his own. He quickly ran into resistance, often by force, and had to learn the hard way that the land of New Mexico in those days was a bit more complicated. Charlotte Wittenkamp – Shift by Ethan Kross. Kross examines Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning and the notion that we always have the freedom to choose how we respond - even to the atrocities Frankl had to put up with in a WWII concentration camp. Kross examines and supports, with scientific findings, various ways we can shift our perspectives to gain easier access to that freedom of choice. Paul McNichols – E-Boat Alert by James F. Tent. The book offers a nearly forensic yet highly readable analysis of the threat posed by the E-Boats of the German Kriegsmarine to the Allied invasion of Europe in 1944. It covers the development, use, strengths, and limitations of these fast, maneuverable craft, as well as their impact on the Normandy landings on D-Day and the weeks thereafter. The most interesting part is the chain of events that ultimately led to their neutralization. Annette Taylor – My Name is Chellis, and I'm in Recovery from Western Civilization by Chellis Glendinning. Chellis writes affectionately and respectfully about eco-psychology and nature-based peoples from whom members of Western Civilization could learn a lot. Sue Inches – The Light Eaters – How the unseen world of plant intelligence offers a new understanding of life on earth by Zoe Schlanger. A thrilling journey that leads the reader from an old paradigm of plants as separate inanimate objects, to the true nature of plants as sensing, alive beings who communicate with the world around them. An inspiring example of how human understanding of the world around us is making progress! Rich Gassen – The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker. Priya teaches us how to have better parties, events, and relationships through her writing. I used this book's information (along with her podcasts) to plan a better 10-year anniversary party for the Campus Supervisors Network community of practice I lead at UW-Madison — making it exclusive, inviting, and tailored to those who attended. Mac Bogert – Renegades by Robert Ward. After some time as a college professor, Bob decided to try journalism. He spent twenty years interviewing folks from Waylon Jennings to Larry Flynt, and, damn, he's good at it! Hunter Seim – Catch-22 by Joseph Heller. The novel is set during World War II, from 1942 to 1944. It mainly follows the life of antihero Captain Yossarian, a U.S. Air Force B-25 bombardier. The term "Catch-22" itself refers to a paradoxical situation in which contradictory rules or circumstances trap a person. In the novel, Yossarian discovers that he can be declared insane and relieved from duty if he requests it, but by requesting it, he demonstrates his sanity. Remarkably accurate in describing organizational dysfunction and bureaucratic absurdity. It was the perfect book to read in 2025. Bill Whiteside – I Regret Almost Everything by Keith McNally. I wondered whether this memoir by a New York restaurateur (who hates the word "restaurateur" and much else), who suffered two strokes and survived a suicide attempt, would live up to its social media hype. It does.
In this episode of Operation Be, I sit down with Pat Doyle for an honest, grounded conversation about growth, fatherhood, and what it really means to show up as a man today. Pat's journey—from professional baseball to mortgage lending, podcasting, and parenting—has been shaped by real-life experiences that forced him to slow down, reflect, and evolve. We talk openly about mental health, emotional intelligence, and the responsibility that comes with being a present father and a self-aware leader. Pat shares how navigating divorce changed the way he approaches parenting, personal accountability, and his own inner work—and why choosing growth over ego has mattered more than anything. This episode is about aligning purpose with practice, learning from life instead of running from it, and understanding that clarity doesn't come from having all the answers—it comes from being willing to look inward. Whether you're a parent, a professional, or someone committed to doing the work to live with more intention, this conversation offers perspective, honesty, and a reminder that growth is always available when you choose it.
You know what to do. Do you turn away or step forward? Sometimes the easiest choice is to stay comfortable. This teaching explores two responses to being guided—one shaped by avoidance, the other by attention—and how choosing comfort can quietly cost us more than we expect. POD 283 1 Samuel 3. Eli and young Samuel
The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
852 · The State of the Disney Parks: What 2025 Changed and Why 2026 MattersIf you had to describe Disney in 2025 and what it means for 2026, what word would you choose?2025 wasn't a year defined by massive new attractions. Instead, it was a year of movement, transition, and emotional goodbyes. Lands closed. Atmospheres shifted. Comfort gave way to construction. And for many fans, it felt like Disney was asking us to trust what comes next.This is not simply another 2025 Disney year in revue and look ahead to or predictions for 2026. This week, we have a very honest, thoughtful conversation about Disney in 2025 and what it means for 2026. We look at what closed, what opened, what surprised us emotionally, and why this year may end up being one of the most important setup years in Disney history. We also explore what Disney needs to deliver in 2026 to make all of this feel worth it.Join the conversation, share your memories, and be part of the WDW Radio community.
In this message, evangelist Ray Comfort talks about "Hells best kept secret." By using a variety of stories and Biblical passages, Comfort explains the importance of using the Law in evangelism and why we as believers need to not only evangelize but call sinners to repentance.To learn more about Ray Comfort, please visit Living Waters.Learn more about the Bravehearted Voices Podcast and how you can be discipled and grow spiritually by visiting braveheartedvoices.com
In this solo episode, I explore the reasons behind his decision to run another marathon, delving into the concept of the 'comfort trap' and the importance of challenging yourself. I try to discuss the balance between personal capacity and the pursuit of goals, emphasizing the need for meaningful suffering that leads to growth. Enjoy. Timestamps (may vary by 2-4 minutes based on your podcast platform) 00:00 The Comfort Trap: Why I'm Running Another Marathon 03:13 Challenging Comfort: The Importance of Setting Goals 06:04 Capacity and Balance: Managing Life's Challenges 13:22 Suffering with Purpose: Finding Meaning in Challenges 22:48 Proving Myself: The Drive Behind My Goals 29:21 The Importance of Internal Validation 35:51 Training for Success: The Marathon Mindset 40:53 Choosing Difficult Paths: The Key to Growth Business Mentorship: https://briankeanefitness.com/mentorship-and-business-coaching The Circle Online Mastermind: https://briankeanefitness.com/online-mastermind All my books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Brian-Keane/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3ABrian%2BKeane Everest Base Camp Details October 2026: https://earths-edge.com/expedition/brian-keane-everest-base-camp-october-2026/ Marathon company: https://agoodnudge.co.uk/opportunities/ Running through the arctic podcast: https://briankeanefitness.com/podcast/213-running-230km-through-the-arctic-circle Running through the Sahara podcast: https://briankeanefitness.com/podcast/148-marathon-des-sables-running-250km-through-the-sahara-desert My first 100 mile ultra marathon podcast: https://briankeanefitness.com/podcast/266-my-first-100-mile-ultra-marathon-jackpot-100-in-las-vegas-nevada Chris Williamson from Modern Wisdom podcast: https://briankeanefitness.com/podcast/313-chris-williamson-on-getting-over-the-fear-of-criticism-making-sure-your-friends-dont-suck-and-the-ill-be-happy-when-fallacy
This Sunday, we'll be spending our time in the small but powerful book of Joel. Though we know very little about the prophet himself, his message could not be timelier. Joel speaks to Judah in the middle of a national catastrophe, a locust invasion so severe that it collapses the economy, disrupts worship, and brings everyday life to a standstill. Rather than rushing to solutions, Joel presses a deeper question: Why is this happening? His conviction is that God often speaks through disruption, using moments we cannot ignore to reveal what we have been trusting in and what has been quietly shaping our hearts. As we walk through chapters 1 and 2, we'll see how crisis exposes spiritual complacency. Comfort, Joel shows us, can be spiritually numbing. When life is stable, prayer becomes polite, worship becomes routine, and dependence on God becomes theoretical. But when everything is shaken, illusions of control fall away, and honest self-examination becomes possible. God's call through Joel is not merely to feel bad or perform religious acts, but to return to Him with all our hearts. “Rend your hearts, not your garments,” God says. This is an invitation to genuine repentance rooted in humility and trust in His gracious and merciful character. We'll also see that Joel's message doesn't end with judgment, but with restoration and hope. God responds to repentance with mercy, promising not only physical renewal but spiritual renewal through the outpouring of His Spirit, a promise Peter declares fulfilled at Pentecost in Acts 2. Joel then lifts our eyes to the coming Day of the Lord, when God's justice and mercy will be fully revealed, and He will be a refuge for His people. My prayer is that this Sunday helps us see disruption differently, examine where comfort may have replaced dependence, practice quick and honest repentance, and learn what it truly means to live each day empowered by the Spirit of God.
Prayer & Fasting 2026 Sermon Series
How can our deepest hurts reveal the promise of God? --- Have you ever felt powerless? I have, and it's a horrible feeling. I'm used to being able typically to figure out the challenges that come my way. Sometimes, though, nothing seems to work. As we walk together through 2 Corinthians, we're going to see what true power really looks like. We're going to see in various ways that God's power is made perfect in our weakness, and we're going to see why Paul would say “when I am weak, then I am strong” Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49543773 Submit a Question: bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions
Isaiah 40 Comfort for God's People17 All the nations are as nothing before him, they are accounted by him as less than nothing and emptiness.18 To whom then will you liken God, or what likeness compare with him?19 An idol! A craftsman casts it, and a goldsmith overlays it with gold and casts for it silver chains.20 He who is too impoverished for an offering chooses wood[h] that will not rot;he seeks out a skillful craftsman to set up an idol that will not move.21 Do you not know? Do you not hear? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth?22 It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers;who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in;23 who brings princes to nothing, and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness.24 Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown, scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth,when he blows on them, and they wither, and the tempest carries them off like stubble.25 To whom then will you compare me, that I should be like him? says the Holy One.26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these?He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name;by the greatness of his might and because he is strong in power, not one is missing.27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel,“My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God”?28 Have you not known? Have you not heard?The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles;they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 3:30 am and 7:30 am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on KSPD 94.5 FM and 790 AM Boise's Solid Talk in the Treasure Valley, Idaho, USA. If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them. Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website: https://www.790kspd.com/gospel-for-life/
Send us a textAnd Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” Luke 5:10Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. John 21:3From Peter's first call as a disciple to the end of John (chapter 21), we see a return to the thing he was doing before Jesus found him: fishing. It may have been a return to what was comfortable for him and the other disciples. It might have been finding something familiar amidst the disillusionment. Or it might have been just not knowing where to go after he (Peter) denied Christ. For whatever reason, Peter returns to the nets. But when are called by Christ, we are not to return to what He calls us from...whether a life of sin or to step into a new calling. Today's episode sets a tone for 2026: don't go back to the nets. What God has begun in you, continue to walk in it. Let Him guide and direct your path. Move closer to Him this year!
Title: The Lord's Comfort Preacher: Caleb Morell Series: What Will God's Judgement Reveal? Passage: Isaiah 51:1-23
Sunday Evening, January 4, 2026Given by Dr. Kevin DeYoung | Senior Pastor, Christ Covenant ChurchOur Only ComfortHeidelberg Catechism—Lord's Day 1Watch on YouTubeDownload our mobile app
Welcome to the garden, sweet songling.
I didn't come over tonight just to learn ASL. Not really. I wanted to see you - watch the way your hands move like music, hear the sound of your laugh when I get it wrong, feel what it's like to stand beside someone who makes the quiet feel safe again. I didn't mean to say too much. But gods, you're beautiful when you don't even see it.
Jeremiah Nichols,FBCW,FBC Wheeling,Psalm Sermon, 2 Corinthians, Unlimited Comfort, 2 Corinthians 1,
The Preaching at Community Evangelical Free Church of Harrisburg
2 Corinthians 1:1-11 | Preached by Ron Smith
Malachi Tresler. 2 Corinthians 1:1-11. "Christian comfort follows trust, not relief."
Tim reunites with old friend and Close to Comfort star Jim J. Bullock, reminiscing about their early days working together and sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the set. The conversation continues as Jim reflects on his career and recalls crossing paths with a young James Marsden before he became a household name.The crew then shifts to a practical—and hilarious—discussion on proper etiquette when getting pulled over by the cops, comparing strategies, nerves, and what not to say. And to wrap it up, Tim relives his time hosting the MTV Awards, along with an unforgettable (and slightly traumatic) run-in with a June bug.Hollywood nostalgia, life lessons, and bug-related chaos—this Best Of delivers classic Conway storytelling to close out the year.
Brave Leadership: How Courage, Not Comfort, Drives Results with Jill Schulman Fear shows up quietly in leadership. It delays decisions. Avoids hard conversations. Keeps talented people playing it safe. In this episode of Deep Leadership, I'm joined by Jill Schulman, Marine Corps veteran, leadership consultant, and author of The Bravery Effect, to break down why courage—not comfort—is what actually drives results. Jill shares how fear silently controls behavior at work, why avoiding discomfort makes leaders weaker (not happier), and how bravery can be trained like a muscle. Drawing from military leadership, positive psychology, and decades of executive work, she explains why doing hard things is essential for growth, confidence, and performance. We talk about: Why fear is one of the biggest hidden problems in leadership The science behind bravery and why it's a skill anyone can build How avoiding discomfort fuels anxiety and poor decision-making Why action—not confidence—creates courage How leaders can build braver teams and cultures Why “doing hard things” leads to better results and greater fulfillment If you're a leader who wants stronger performance, better decisions, and a team that doesn't crumble under pressure, this conversation will challenge how you think about fear, comfort, and courage.
Nelson finishes our Advent sermon series, "God of All Comfort", with a sermon from Revelation 22:1-5. (December 28, 2025)
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What if your hearing aid could listen to you, read the room, and fix the problem before your next appointment? We explore Omega AI's newest leap—Telehear AI—and how on‑device intelligence lets people request help in real time when noise, wind, or tricky spaces get in the way. Instead of waiting days for a follow‑up, users can compare new settings with their originals, choose what feels best, and keep moving, while clinicians still see the changes and refine care. This feature, of course, does not replace the role of the hearing care professional. We go deep on the sound engine first—directionality, spatial awareness, and DNN‑driven scene detection—because clarity is still the heart of hearing care. Then we widen the lens: fall detection keeps evolving, Balance Builder supports everyday stability, and translation is taking shape as a practical tool to bridge conversations. The dream of “Jarvis in your ear” starts to feel real when the hearing aid becomes a daily assistant that protects, informs, and adapts without adding friction. Comfort matters too; lighter, more discreet devices make it easy to forget you're wearing them, right up until they save the moment.Data is the quiet force behind these wins. Smarter data logging breaks listening lives into patterns that clinicians can act on—who's in wind all day, who's stuck in high noise, who's wearing less than they say. Those insights reduce returns, raise satisfaction, and turn fittings into living plans. We also share a candid look at where this is heading: a convergence of digital and traditional care where professionals remain central, devices handle minor tweaks on the fly, and the ear becomes a true superpower for communication, safety, and independence.If this vision resonates, follow the show, share it with someone who loves great audio tech, and leave a quick review telling us which feature you want next. Your feedback helps shape where we go from here.Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast
#471 The Secret Ingredient to Living Your Best Life Including Hypnosis What if the reason things haven't quite stuck yet isn't what you want… but why you want it? In this longer, deeper episode of Personal Development Unplugged, I take you beyond goal-setting, beyond wishy-washy intentions, and right into the one missing ingredient that makes real, lasting change inevitable. This episode includes a guided hypnosis / deep visualisation process designed to help you connect emotionally and unconsciously with the version of you who is already living their best life — and to install the inner resource that makes it all possible. We explore why New Year's resolutions fail, why motivation fizzles out, and how your unconscious mind can be guided to work for you instead of against you. In this episode, you'll discover: Why "who do you want to be?" isn't enough without a powerful why The secret ingredient that turns desire into action How your unconscious mind learns just as powerfully from imagination as reality Why visualising your future self isn't fantasy — it's training A practical demonstration showing how imagination rewires behaviour A deep hypnosis process to connect with your future self and install commitment How to access the will to do whatever it takes Why alignment with your values creates effortless momentum How living your best life benefits you, others, and the world around you
Isaiah 40 Comfort for God's People40 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to herthat her warfare[a] is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned,that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins.3 A voice cries:[b]“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low;the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain.5 And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”The Word of God Stands Forever6 A voice says, “Cry!” And I said,[c] “What shall I cry?”All flesh is grass, and all its beauty[d] is like the flower of the field.7 The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the Lord blows on it; surely the people are grass.8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.The Greatness of God9 Go on up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news;[e]lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news;[f] lift it up, fear not;say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God!”10 Behold, the Lord God comes with might, and his arm rules for him;behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.11 He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms;he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens with a span,enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance?13 Who has measured[g] the Spirit of the Lord, or what man shows him his counsel?14 Whom did he consult, and who made him understand?Who taught him the path of justice, and taught him knowledge, and showed him the way of understanding?15 Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are accounted as the dust on the scales; behold, he takes up the coastlands like fine dust.16 Lebanon would not suffice for fuel, nor areFor more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 3:30 am and 7:30 am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on KSPD 94.5 FM and 790 AM Boise's Solid Talk in the Treasure Valley, Idaho, USA. If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them. Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website: https://www.790kspd.com/gospel-for-life/
As the holiday season comes to a close and parts of the country face frigid temperatures this New Year's, we explore a concept of comfort, warmth and joy that began in Scandinavian countries and has recently spread to America. Deema Zein reports on the art of hygge. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
We are creatures of habit. Most people because they keep repeating what's familiar, even when it no longer works. Comfort is efficient. Adjustment is expensive. And most people are too lazy to pay the cost. In this episode, I break down why real growth requires constant adjustment, why people resist it, and how to properly recalibrate your habits, energy, and standards as you enter a new year, without drifting back into the same life under a new calendar.Buy my book Above the illusion. Above the Illusion: The blueprint for mental clarity, self-respect, and irreplaceable value" is a deep exploration into the hidden forces shaping our lives – the conditioning, beliefs, and stories we've unknowingly accepted as truth. This book exposes the psychological distractions that cloud our vision, keeping us blind, fearful, and stuck in cycles of limitation.Anthony Minaya challenges you to question the narratives that hold you back, illuminating the illusions that prevent you from seeing yourself clearly. From the self-imposed boundaries to the unconscious patterns dictating your choices, "Above the Illusion" guides you to break free from the mental fog and step into undeniable personal growth.This isn't just a book about change – it's about learning how to see. When you learn to recognize what is real and what is fabricated by fear and doubt, you gain the clarity, awareness, and self-respect necessary to reshape your life."Above the Illusion" will leave you more prepared, more conscious, and more powerful than ever before – ready to live with a sharpness that cuts through deception and a confidence rooted in truth.Buy now. https://a.co/d/8w516R7
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! THRIVE in 2026 - Women's Event: https://www.youaremore.com Hey guys — welcome to 2026.I don't know about you, but something about this year feels different to me. Not just another fresh start… but a moment. A line in the sand. A decision point.So today, I want to ask you a simple but powerful question:What does December 2026 need to look like for you to honestly say, “Wow… that was the most epic year of my life”?Because here's the truth — I've asked myself that question for the last few years. And if I'm being completely honest? While there was growth… while there was movement… I didn't accomplish what I knew I was capable of.And I had to get real with myself.This episode is about what it's actually going to take to possess — not wish for — your dreams in 2026.I talk about why hoping isn't enough anymore. Why vision without action leads to frustration. And why this year is going to require radical commitment, not comfort.We talk about:Why you must see the vision, not casually think about itWhy clarity creates movement — and confusion keeps you stuckWhy continuing the same thoughts and habits guarantees the same lifeHow comfort, certainty, and growth are constantly in tensionWhy your kids don't just need your words — they need your exampleHow stacking small wins creates momentum that changes everythingI also share personal stories — from watching my dad work third shift while building a business, to realizing how fast time moves when my kids just turned 11.This is not about hustling harder.This is about deciding — once and for all — that you are done pushing your dreams down the road.2026 doesn't need to be louder.It needs to be intentional.If you've felt emotionally thin… worn out… or like the last season took more than it gave — you are not alone. But this year can be different.And it starts with a decision.
Your intrepid hosts, Ben Creighton and Kenny Windorski, have meticulously ranked Batman: The Animated Series, The New Batman Adventures, Superman: The Animated Series, Matlock, Batman Beyond, Murder She Wrote, and Justice League with unimpeachable SCIENCE! After a science-free year with Static Shock, now we're back to SCIENCE with Justice League Unlimited!Join us on Discord at bit.ly/LandOfTheBlindGet your own Justice League Cold Open Bingo card and play along: https://bingobaker.com/#64c7bfe36e604708The List:1.) Question Authority 2.) The Doomsday Sanction3.) A Better World4.) Starcrossed5.) Panic in the Sky6.) Divided We Fall7.) Epilogue8.) Fearful Symmetry9.) Secret Origins10.) Murder She Wrote - The Death of Sherlock Holmes11.) Task Force X12.) Flashpoint13.) Savage Time14.) Kid Stuff15.) A Knight of Shadows16.) In Blackest Night17.) The Enemy Below18.) Hereafter19.) Wild Cards20.) The Cat and the Canary21.) For the Man Who Has Everything22.) Initiation23.) Comfort and Joy24.) Only a Dream25.) Double Date26.) The Greatest Story Never Told27.) The Once and Future Thing28.) Eclipsed29.) Tabula Rasa30.) Twilight31.) The Brave and the Bold32.) Paradise Lost33.) Clash34.) Ultimatum35.) The Ties That Bind36.) Legends37.) Injustice For All38.) War World39.) The Balance40.) Hunter's Moon41.) The Return42.) This Little Piggy43.) I Am Legion44.) Secret Society45.) Maid of Honor46.) Hawk & Dove47.) Fury48.) Hearts and Minds49.) The Terror Beyond50.) Metamorphosis51.) Wake the Dead52.) Dark Heart
Camilla lists her top 10 comfort games of 2025!
Most leadership mistakes don't come from a lack of care — they come from choosing comfort over growth. In this episode, Coach Collins dives deep into how smooth practices, avoided conversations, and softened standards slowly erode culture, even on talented teams. Through real coaching experiences, this episode breaks down why clarity beats comfort, why standards only matter when they're enforced, and how accountability is actually a form of belief. You'll hear why teams don't “flip a switch” when it matters — they fall back on the habits their leaders allow. If you're a coach, teacher, or leader who wants more than short-term harmony, this episode will challenge you to examine where you've chosen ease over excellence — and how one clear, consistent decision can shift your culture in the right direction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
As the holiday season comes to a close and parts of the country face frigid temperatures this New Year's, we explore a concept of comfort, warmth and joy that began in Scandinavian countries and has recently spread to America. Deema Zein reports on the art of hygge. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
My DEEP SLEEP MASTERY COURSE GOES LIVE 15TH JAN! Special Early bird price before 14th Jan lauren-ostrowski-fenton-s-school.teachable.com/p/sleep-mastery-unlock-the-secrets-to-deep-sleep-and-rest Would you like to support our Content? If so, thank you. Here are the links Read my Substack https://substack.com/@laurenostrowskifenton Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/Laurenostrowskifenton Support me https://www.patreon.com/laurenostrowskifenton Would you like to sign up for my course, Deep Sleep Mastery? lauren-ostrowski-fenton-s-school.teachable.com/p/sleep-mastery-unlock-the-secrets-to-deep-sleep-and-rest I offer online counselling sessions as a certified counsellor with a Master's in Counselling. BOOK A COUNSELLING or PERSONAL TRAINING SESSION. https://laurenostrowskifenton.simplybook.me/v2/ Listen to my podcast, Sleep meditation with Lauren Ostrowski Fenton https://open.spotify.com/show/4YfDM1kGnepG5NG4poCwK0? Sleep mastery course http://lauren-ostrowski-fenton-s-school.teachable.com/p/sleep-mastery-unlock-the-secrets-to-deep-sleep-and-rest Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurenostrowskifenton/ Explore my stories on Medium, where I share insights intertwined with life experiences: https://medium.com/@laurenostrowskifenton Check out my book, "Daily Rituals For Happiness," an instructional workbook designed to help you cultivate happiness every day. Please remember that while my content is intended to provide support, it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health guidance. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalised advice. Original vocals and video by Lauren Ostrowski Fenton copyright © 2025 # sleepmeditation # guidedmeditation # fallasleepfast #personaldevelopment #deepsleep #mindfulnes
https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251231dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Matthew 2:16 The Comfort of Christmas Herod, furious that the Magi left without telling him where Jesus was, went scorched earth and ordered every boy in the vicinity two years old and younger to be killed. Historians estimate that twenty to thirty children were murdered in his desperate attempt to eliminate the Christ child. It is uncomfortable to read this so soon after Christmas. Wouldn’t it be better to skip this part? Why remember such horror during Christmastime? Because it shows what happens when light enters a world of darkness. When the light arrives, the darkness does not politely step aside. It tries to snuff the light out. This is why Jesus came: to battle the darkness that rejected him from his very first days. This same battle between light and darkness continues in your own heart. When Christ’s light shines within you, your sinful nature fights against it. Yet God remains on your side—God rescued his Son from Herod’s sword so that his Son could rescue you from eternal darkness. Jesus’ death and resurrection became the ultimate light that conquers the darkness. And here lies one of the Bible’s hardest truths: though God possesses all power and hates evil, he still permits suffering. So here is the comfort of Christmas: God may save us from evil, or he may save us through evil. The boys of Bethlehem died tragically, but Christ the Savior was born not to save them from Herod, but from hell, and that is what he did. With God, wherever there is weeping, comfort follows. The grieving mothers of Bethlehem would see their sons again because their King came to save them through tragedy into heaven’s triumph. This is the comfort of Christmas. That even though the darkness could take the boys of Bethlehem away from their parents, it could not take them away from Christ. It cannot take you away from him either. Prayer: Merciful Father, thank you for the comfort of knowing that no darkness can separate me from the light of your Son. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
As we wrap up the year, we're inviting you into a different kind of year-end ritual—one that's less about resolutions and more about reflection. In this episode, we're doing a midlife audit: looking honestly at what we're ready to shed and what we want to intentionally carry forward into 2026. From other people's opinions to outdated expectations, we're talking about the emotional baggage that quietly drains our energy—and how freeing it can be to finally let it go.We also dig into what we're keeping: connection, meaning, nervous system regulation, health, authenticity, and the freedom to live outside the status quo. This is a grounded, honest conversation about midlife as a season of shedding skins, reclaiming agency, and choosing a life that actually feels good to live. If you're craving clarity, permission, and a more intentional way to step into the new year, this one's for you. Episode Highlights:[0:46] – Kicking off a year-end audit instead of traditional resolutions [1:18] – The inspiration behind “not caring anymore” at midlife [3:03] – Letting go as a lifelong practice and why shedding gets easier with age [4:40] – Releasing other people's opinions about our bodies, habits, and choices [7:44] – Being done with explaining ourselves—bedtimes included [9:28] – Downsizing, simplifying, and redefining what “home” needs to be now [13:09] – Midlife as a season of shedding and making space for what's next [14:45] – Letting go of one-sided or draining friendships [16:43] – Prioritizing nervous system regulation and protecting our peace [17:42] – Giving up pretending we're fine when we're not [20:00] – Choosing depth, authenticity, and real conversations over small talk [22:06] – What we're keeping: health, strength, movement, and time outdoors [24:56] – Filtering life through meaning, purpose, and connection [25:51] – Saying yes to connection and whole-body yeses [28:00] – Comfort over performance: clothes, shoes, and realistic expectations [30:08] – Speaking our truth, changing our minds, and honoring ourselves [31:02] – Letting go of the status quo and choosing a life that fits [34:44] – Remembering that life is happening now, not later If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here's to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!Pre-order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette's new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launches February 3rd. Secure your copy today and get VIP bonuses available only before launch day. https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book
https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251231dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Matthew 2:16 The Comfort of Christmas Herod, furious that the Magi left without telling him where Jesus was, went scorched earth and ordered every boy in the vicinity two years old and younger to be killed. Historians estimate that twenty to thirty children were murdered in his desperate attempt to eliminate the Christ child. It is uncomfortable to read this so soon after Christmas. Wouldn’t it be better to skip this part? Why remember such horror during Christmastime? Because it shows what happens when light enters a world of darkness. When the light arrives, the darkness does not politely step aside. It tries to snuff the light out. This is why Jesus came: to battle the darkness that rejected him from his very first days. This same battle between light and darkness continues in your own heart. When Christ’s light shines within you, your sinful nature fights against it. Yet God remains on your side—God rescued his Son from Herod’s sword so that his Son could rescue you from eternal darkness. Jesus’ death and resurrection became the ultimate light that conquers the darkness. And here lies one of the Bible’s hardest truths: though God possesses all power and hates evil, he still permits suffering. So here is the comfort of Christmas: God may save us from evil, or he may save us through evil. The boys of Bethlehem died tragically, but Christ the Savior was born not to save them from Herod, but from hell, and that is what he did. With God, wherever there is weeping, comfort follows. The grieving mothers of Bethlehem would see their sons again because their King came to save them through tragedy into heaven’s triumph. This is the comfort of Christmas. That even though the darkness could take the boys of Bethlehem away from their parents, it could not take them away from Christ. It cannot take you away from him either. Prayer: Merciful Father, thank you for the comfort of knowing that no darkness can separate me from the light of your Son. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
WATCH MY PREVIOUS PODCAST w/ MIKE: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3DwbyHh13igCPVSx3Aa5uV?si=nceziBn2RWCsBAKLlqF6Ig (***TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ Mike Ritland is a former 12-year Navy SEAL Team 3 member, world-renowned dog trainer, NYT-Award-Winning Author, & YouTuber. Ritland saw significant action in Iraq and later became one of the Navy SEAL's first dog trainers. MIKE's LINKS - YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@MikeRitland - IG: https://www.instagram.com/mritland/?hl=en - X: https://x.com/MRitland - MIKE WEBSITE: https://mikeritland.com/ FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY INSTAGRAM (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/juliandoreypodcast/ INSTAGRAM (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://twitter.com/julianddorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 00:00 – Intro 01:23 – YouTube Titles, Algorithm, Culture, Populism, Zohran 10:04 – Trump Comparisons, Distraction, Comfort, Service 20:13 – Military Life, Purpose, Discipline, Balance 30:06 – Complacency, Self-Governance, Stoicism, Gratitude 40:42 – Stoicism, Meditations, Entrepreneurship, Mindset 51:35 – Human Nature, Morality, If Religion Disappeared 01:01:45 – Iraq War, Power, Money, Military-Industrial Complex 01:11:42 – Politics, Corruption, Accountability, Protests 01:22:02 – Rule of Law, Government Failure, Founding Principles 01:31:42 – Extremism, Authority, Israel–Palestine 01:34:29 – Emotion, Judgment, Roman Empire, Movies 01:43:43 – Christopher Nolan, Interstellar, Storytelling 01:50:55 – China, Social Collapse, Nuclear Family 02:02:09 – Hardship, Comfort, Discipline 02:10:55 – Charlie Kirk 02:23:31 – Polarization, 2016 Election, Charlie Kirk Symbolism 02:40:47 – Mike's Work CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - COO, Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef - https://www.instagram.com/joeydeef/ Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 369 - Mike Ritland Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
It's the last episode of 2025! Join Raechel and Amanda as they reflect on the final week of our Advent 2025 study and the whole of 2025. What a year it's been, and we are so grateful you've been along for the journey!Open your Bibles with us this week! This episode corresponds to Week 5 of She Reads Truth's Advent 2025 reading plan. You can read with the She Reads Truth community on our site, in our app, or with our Advent 2025: Tidings of Comfort and Joy printed or digital Daily Reading Guide.She Reads Truth on Instagram & FacebookRaechel Myers on InstagramAmanda Bible Williams on Instagram*If you purchase something through our links, She Reads Truth may earn an affiliate commission.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Magellan AI - https://docsend.com/view/5vdvbdx7cr4tikmyPodscribe - https://podscribe.com/privacy
Showing up as your true self is terrifying, but it's also the unlock key for so much of what makes your life good. Through powerful stories and research-backed insights, this conversation reveals why showing up as your real self unlocks extraordinary possibilities, and how embracing imperfection creates deeper connections than striving for perfection ever could. Whether you're leading a team, raising children, or pursuing creative work, you'll discover practical tools for choosing courage over comfort and building genuine connections in a world that often fears being real.You can find Brené at: Website | Instagram | Brené's Podcasts | Episode TranscriptIf you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversations we had with Elizabeth Gilbert about bringing your whole self to your life.Check out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta sits down with Denise Vasi, founder and creative force behind MAED, for a thoughtful conversation about building beauty with intention, patience, and care. Denise's path into the industry began early—signed to Ford Models and immersed in on-set artistry long before social media shaped beauty culture. Those formative years, paired with memories of her grandmother's at-home esthetic rituals, planted the seed for a philosophy rooted in preparation, respect, and craft.Before MAED ever existed, Denise built something rarer than hype: community. Through years of honest storytelling around wellness, motherhood, and clean living, she created a dialogue with women who trusted her voice. That trust shaped MAED's slow, deliberate evolution. Rather than chasing trends or speed, Denise chose to listen—developing products only when they solved real, lived problems.At the heart of the brand is a deceptively complex product: the red lip. Denise unpacks why most formulas fail—dryness, poor undertones, and exclusion baked into development—and how MAED set out to fix that. Comfort came first, followed by rigorous testing across skin tones, lip shapes, ages, and backgrounds. Inclusivity, she explains, isn't a campaign—it's formulation, design, and function.Central to MAED's ethos is one guiding principle: care before color. Lips lack oil glands and cannot repair themselves without real barrier support. MAED's formulas focus on hydration, resilience, and wear—so color performs because the foundation is healthy.Beyond product, the conversation explores beauty as ritual and self-expression. The red lip becomes more than pigment—it's confidence, protection, and presence.Listen to the full episode to hear Denise Vasi share the philosophy behind MAED, the science of lip health, and why meaningful beauty innovation starts with care—not trends.SHOP MAED and learn more on their social media!CHAPTERS:(0:02) - Introduction & Welcoming Denise Vasi(0:59) - Early Career: Modeling, Beauty Sets & Formative Influences(2:16) - Building Community Through Editorial & Made.co(4:48) - Slow Beauty, Brand Intention & Resisting Trend Cycles(7:13) - Reimagining the Modern Red Lip(8:04) - Formulation, Testing & True Inclusivity(12:16) - What Inclusivity Really Means in Beauty(16:30) - Lip Health, Barrier Science & Care-First Formulation(23:10) - Care Before Color & The Cultural Power of a Red LipPlease fill out this survey to give us feedback on the show!Don't forget to subscribe to Skin Anarchy on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform.Reach out to us through email with any questions.Sign up for our newsletter!Shop all our episodes and products mentioned through our ShopMy Shelf! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ian McEwan's latest novel, “What We Can Know,” is many things at once: It's a science fiction imagining of a future world devastated by climate catastrophe; it's a literary mystery about a scholar's search for a long-lost poem; it's a deep dive into complicated marriages; and it's a meditation on how the past lingers and how history morphs with time.“It's the best thing McEwan has written in ages,” our critic Dwight Garner wrote in his review. “It's a sophisticated entertainment of a high order.”In this episode of the Book Review Book Club, the host MJ Franklin discusses “What We Can Know” with his colleagues Sarah Lyall (who profiled McEwan for the Book Review this year) and Leah Greenblatt. You can follow along, and add your own comments to the discussion here.Other Books mentioned in this discussion:“Atonement,” “Saturday,” “On Chesil Beach,” “The Comfort of Strangers,” “The Cement Garden” and “Enduring Love,” by Ian McEwan“Fleishman Is in Trouble,” by Taffy Brodesser-Akner“Fates and Furies,” by Lauren Groff“Marston Meadows: A Corona for Prue,” by John Fuller“How the Word Is Passed,” by Clint Smith“The Stranger's Child,” “The Line of Beauty” and “Our Evenings,” by Alan HollinghurstWe would love to hear your thoughts about this episode, and about the Book Review's podcast in general. You can send them to books@nytimes.com. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.