Podcasts about courageous life

I'm guessing we've all dealt with breaking up. Perhaps you're in the midst of a breakup right now? And if you haven't yet broken up with anything then get prepared for the eventual guaranteed experience ;) I'm not just talking about the kind of breakup most of us are familiar with. You know, the significant other kind of break up. But rather I'm including ALL the breakups that can, and most likely will find their way into your life experience at one time or another. Those breakups can include: Breaking up with an employer, a particular career path, lover, family member, friend, idea or ideal, perspective, belief system, mandates, behavior pattern, relationships of all kinds, thought process, living situation, a place you've called home, etc... I can shorten the list by just saying breakups include all PEOPLE, PLACES and THINGS! And although many might call this more of a process of "letting go", I've recently realized that for me the breakup has to come before I can really begin to let go in any healthy manner ;) A few months ago I was back in my longtime homestate of Colorado, and it really washed over me that I have been in the process of breaking up with Colorado for a few years now., but for whatever reason I hadn't been able to see it from that perspective until this most recent visit. That being said, I have since been feeling a shift is taking place within and I'm now more able to embrace my new home, even though I've been here for 3 years now ;) Better late than never!  If any of this resonates with you then please take a listen and join me in breaking up with the people, places and things that are no longer serving us, so as to get on with the business of living a life untethered :)   Lifeline (988lifeline.org) Eagle Valley Hope Center: Your Hope Center: YOUR 24/7 SUPPORT LINE: (970) 306-4673 I LOVE Ebay!! I've had an online shop for over 15 years! My podcast is proudy sponsored by SHYGIRL'S SHOP :) | eBay Stores I'm always in the process of rebuilding my inventory :) 1 Million Strong - Supporting 1 Million People in Recovery High Country Infusion And Wellness : Ketamine Treatment In Frisco, CO My friend Alex introduced me to the world of podcasting and was the catalyst in my creating a podcast of my own! Below is his podast ;) The Builders Journey - A behind the scenes look at the Vail, Colorado and its surrounding communities through the eyes of a builder. My intro & outro music came from the endless archives of Pond5!! Are you interested in Pond5's incredible catalog of music, sounds and videos for your own podcast? Use my link for 20% off your first order!  https://www.pond5.com?ref=ashy743 Michael Singer 8 Week Course: Living From a Place of Surrender – Michael Singer Course Michael Singer Podcast - Sounds True Pema Chödrön Foundation – Wisdom for a Courageous Life https://www.dramapothecary.com/?sld=ashyisbadass https://www.everydaydose.com/ANGIESHY https://taspens.com/?ref=ANGELASHY https://wingedwellness.refr.cc/default/u/angieshy?s=esp&t=cp Interested in checking out some of the books I've mentioned in any of my episodes?   If so check out Audible or Amazon to find what your lookin' for :) AND feel free to use the links below to explore membership options available on Audible :) Try Audible Premium Plus and Get Up to Two Free Audiobookshttps://amzn.to/3JckYp5 https://www.amazon.com/hz/audible/mlp/membership/plus?ref_=assoc_tag_ph_1524216631897&_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=pf4&tag=jabberjaw777-20&linkId=a99e6a781d9a05447fc1965421e65c63 https://www.amazon.com/hz/audible/gift-membership-detail?tag=jabberjaw777-20&ref_=assoc_tag_ph_1524210806852&_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=pf4&linkId=684d5bd8bca7a06ed5c2816b57fd73d9 https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/hz/signup?ref_=assoc_tag_ph_1454291293420&_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=pf4&tag=jabberjaw777-20&linkId=0dfcda1f5ff3e45f2cb35569b0bd50db

Show NotesSummaryHave you ever started your day with the best intentions... and before you know it, you're stuck in procrastination, overwhelmed, or just "not feeling it"? I've been there too. In this episode, I'm sharing the simple, powerful framework that helped me pull out of depression, take control of my thoughts, and start living with more joy and courage. You'll discover how your thoughts, feelings, and choices are all connected — and how Philippians 4:8 can help you flip the script. If you're ready to stop letting emotions run your day and start taking courageous action toward what God has called you to do, this one's for you!TakeawaysDo your thoughts often leave you feeling overwhelmed?Direct your imagination to work for you instead of against you.Mastering your mindset is key to personal growth.Philippians 4:8 offers a powerful framework for thinking.We Think then We Feel then We Choose Our thoughts plant seeds that shape our emotions.Emotions are signals that reveal our inner world.Courageous actions flow from empowered feelings.You cannot think a negative thought and a positive thought at the same time.Breathing techniques can help release negative emotions.Sound Bites"Your mindset is just a set of thoughts on repeat. Choose the ones that set you free.""You can't think a negative thought and a positive thought at the same time. Flip the script.""Our emotions are just signals. They don't have to be the steering wheel.""We think. We feel. We choose. That's how we change our life one thought, one feeling, one decision at a time."Chapters00:00 Mastering the Philippians 4:8 Framework for Courageous Living01:21 Directing Your Imagination Set Up03:43 How Depression Lead Me to the Philippians 4:8 Framework10:21 The Power of Thoughts - Where the Philippians 4:8 Framework Comes From15:58 The Philippians 4:8 Framework17:07 #1 We Think – Thoughts are Seeds22:34 #2 We Feel – Emotions as Signals24:58 90 Seconds to Emotional Freedom28:49 #3 We Choose – Actions Flow from Feelings32:46 Recap34:32 Courageous Action Steps37:47 Next Week Teaser and ClosingCourageous Action Practice the "Think, Feel, Choose" Framework:

SummaryIn this episode, I'm kicking off Secret #3 of The Courageous Life series: Direct Your Imagination. If you've ever spiraled into fear and worry before doing something new, this one's for you. I share the story of how my thoughts ran so wild with “what ifs” before a networking event that I literally fainted. Yup—down for the count. But here's what I discovered: your imagination isn't the enemy. It's actually one of your greatest God-given tools for courageous living—if you learn how to direct it. You'll learn why fear feels so real, how to use biblical truth and brain science to reframe your thinking, and three practical ways to get your imagination working for you instead of against you.TakeawaysYour imagination holds the secret to breakthrough.Fear is the biggest obstacle to your courageous life.Imagination can powerfully affect our emotions and actions.We need to direct our imagination towards God's promises.Awareness of imagination patterns is crucial for change.Visualizing desired outcomes enhances motivation and reduces stress.Using imagination as prayer aligns us with God's power.Fear often stems from anxiety and uncertainty.Transforming fear into faith is essential for growth.We are not victims of our thoughts; we can choose them.Sound Bites“Fear is just anxiety and uncertainty that had a baby—and it was called fear.”

SummaryHey, friend! In today's episode, I'm sharing the moment I discovered I wasn't holding the empty bag of gifts after all—turns out, God had packed some pretty incredible ones inside me all along. We're diving into how your natural strengths and unique abilities aren't just quirks or “no big deal”—they're the very keys to your next business breakthrough. I'll show you how to recognize what God already put inside you, how to name your unique ability (your courageous zone!), and how to start using it on purpose in your business. Because when you show up in your strengths, not only are you serving others—you're serving Jesus and leaving a legacy. Let's unpack it together.TakeawaysUnderstanding your strengths is crucial for success.An intimate relationship with God is foundational.Your identity shapes your actions and purpose.Discovering your gifts can unlock new opportunities.Using your strengths can help others and serve God.Your unique abilities are valuable and needed.Don't dismiss your natural talents as insignificant.Creating a legacy involves using your gifts for good.Courageous actions lead to personal and professional growth.You are not alone in your journey; community matters.Sound BitesJust because it's easy for you doesn't mean it's not valuable to someone else. That ease might be evidence of God's gift in you.""Your unique ability is like your divine fingerprint—nobody else has it, and the world needs it.""When you use your gifts, you're not just serving people—you're serving Jesus. That makes it holy work.""You're not holding the empty bag of gifts, friend. Your strengths are already inside you—now it's time to use them boldly."Chapters00:00 Opener: Unlocking Your Unique Strengths and Abilities00:53 Recap Current Courageous Life Series03:21 Next Breakthrough Is Already in You - How to Discover Your Strengths & Unique Abilities04:58 My Story - I Thought I Was Holding The Empty Bag-Off Gifts13:37 1. What Are Your Strengths and Unique Abilities?17:50 2. What Are Your Unique Abilities?21:01 3. Leveraging Strengths in Business28:04 Recap29:05 Courageous Action Steps31:11 Sneak Peek Next Week31:48 Resources to Dig DeeperCourageous ActionActivate Your Gifts✅ Identify Your Strengths: Write down three things you do naturally that others struggle with.✅ Name Your Unique Ability: Define what sets you apart—how you solve problems, serve others, or bring value in a way only you can.✅ Implement It in Your Business: Choose one way to intentionally use your strengths this week—whether it's in your marketing, services, or communication.ResourcesHello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com Or get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPCourageous Club - The exclusive monthly Coaching Membership from Heather Bunch that empowers your Entrepreneurial Adventure so you can take focused, confident and courageous ACTION and not do it alone!https://courageous.club/

TakeawaysDeflecting compliments can indicate deeper self-perception issues.Self-discovery is about recognizing and improving the real you.Our identity is multifaceted, like a diamond.We often focus on our flaws instead of our strengths.Proactively loving ourselves is essential for personal growth.Setting boundaries is a form of self-love.Investing in personal growth enhances our ability to help others.Upper limiting beliefs can hinder our success and self-perception.Shining a light on limiting beliefs helps us overcome them.Success is about bringing God's goodness to others.Sound Bites"We are going to become limitless.""Your growth can actually inspire others.""You have got to see you."Chapters00:00 Deflecting Compliments and Self-Perception01:12 The Courageous Life Series Recap02:40 Three Components to a Better You03:50 I Was The Master Compliment Deflector04:57 Lesson 1 - See You—Call Out the Best Parts of Yourself13:21 Lesson 2 - Love You—Proactively Love Yourself20:14 Lesson 3 - Improve You—Become Limitless by Removing Upper Limiting Beliefs34:20 Recap35:19 Courageous Action Steps38:17 Want to Dig Deeper? Check out HelloCourageous.com

Show NotesSummaryWhat if the thing keeping you stuck isn't your skill set—but the story you've been believing about yourself? In this episode of The Courageous Life, we're diving further into Secret #2 of living courageously: Discovering Your Identity by uncovering the narrative that's been shaping how you show up in business and life. You'll learn how to spot the story that's been sabotaging your confidence, decisions, and calling—and how to rewrite it with God's truth.Because God didn't get your calling wrong—your story did.It's time to change the story so you can step boldly into your purpose.TakeawaysYour biggest roadblocks often aren't external—they're the internal stories you've believed about yourself.Your earliest experiences likely shaped the way you see yourself today—often in ways that are still driving your decisions.Hiding parts of yourself to avoid conflict can lead to living out a false identity.Your thoughts, your words, and even your blind spots all reveal the story you're currently living by.What you believe about yourself directly impacts how you show up in business, relationships, and life.Self-sabotage often stems from lies we've believed for so long, we don't even realize they're there.God never called you to shrink back—He created you to walk boldly in His truth.You have the power to rewrite your story by identifying the lie and replacing it with God's truth.Blind spots can keep you stuck, but asking the Holy Spirit to reveal them brings freedom.You don't have to live by your old story—God is doing a new thing, and it's time to step into it.Sound Bites “God didn't get your calling wrong—your story did.”“The biggest roadblocks in our lives aren't external—they're the stories we've believed about ourselves.”“Your words are prophesying your future—make sure they align with God's truth.”“You don't have to stay in your old story. God is doing a new thing—step into it.”Chapters00:00 Breaking Through Self-Doubt02:10 Where did my beliefs come from?03:40 Unpacking My Old Story07:00 The Power of Our Narrative09:10 1. Discovering Your Old Story—Where It All Started13:48 2. Exposing Your Current Story—How It's Driving Your Life & Business25:31 3. Rewriting Your New Story—Aligning with God's Truth29:16 Recap - Old, Current and New Story30:33 Courageous Action - Discover Your Old Story, Expose Your Current Story and Rewrite Your StoryResourcesHello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com Or get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPHeather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

Show Notes 348SummaryHave you ever struggled with feeling not enough—in your business, relationships, or even your faith? Do you find yourself constantly trying to prove your worth? What if the confidence you've been searching for doesn't come from doing more but from knowing who you truly are?In this episode, we're unlocking Secret #2 to living a courageous life—Discovering Your Identity. Your identity is not who you think you are—it's who God already created you to be. Together, we'll uncover the lies that have shaped your story, expose the beliefs that have held you back, and step boldly into the truth of who you were always meant to be.TakeawaysStruggling with self-worth is common among entrepreneurs.Confidence comes from knowing who you truly are.An intimate relationship with God is foundational to identity.Identity issues can hold us back from our true potential.We are all like diamonds, needing to shine despite life's dirt.Our true identity is shaped by God's truth, not societal labels.The lies we believe about ourselves drive our actions and decisions.Courage is necessary to embrace our true identity.We must actively choose to believe in our worth and purpose.Practicing self-affirmation can help transform our self-image.Chapters00:00 Discover Your True Identity02:59 My Identity Issues started young09:35 What is Identity16:01 Lesson 1. Identity Is Not Who You Think You Are—It's Who God Already Created You to Be21:15 Lesson 2. The Lies You Believe Shape How You Show Up25:03 Lesson 3. Courage Is Believing the Truth About Who Father Says You Are29:36 Recap Discover Your Identity Lessons31:46 Courageous Action and I Am StatementsResourcesHello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com Or get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPHeather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

SummaryCraving more than just a successful business? I invites you on a journey to a more fulfilling entrepreneurial life in this episode of Live Fearlessly Free. Rethink your business strategies as with the most overlooked key–love. This revolutionary business model can look like many things, including showing up consistently for your audience to taking selfless actions for your network. So today, let's learn how to turn business into a mission of love. Listen in if you're a solopreneur ready for a faith-driven business approach.TakeawaysBusiness is not just about transactions; it's about relationships.Love is the most powerful force in business.Serving clients means going the extra mile and making them feel valued.Refer potential clients to others if you're not the best fit.Building a supportive network involves giving before you get.Engaging with your audience authentically builds trust and loyalty.Consistency in showing up for your audience is crucial.Small acts of love can create big ripple effects in business.We are called to love like Jesus loves us.Love in business is the kingdom way to do business.Sound Bites“Engage with your audience like a real person, in real intentional ways.” "We are called to love like He loves."“Love your network! Give before you get.”Chapters00:00 Introduction to Love in Business02:25 Intro Love in Business Topic03:37 Why did I faint before my first networking event?05:41 What does love in business look like?08:03 1. Love Your Current Clients: Serve, Delight, and Go the Extra Mile14:01 2. Love Your Potential Clients: Serve Them, Even If It's Not You17:34 3. Love Your Network: Give Before You Get23:05 4. Love Your Audience: Connect, Don't Perform31:56 Recap four ways to love in business34:13 Courageous Action37:42 Sneak peek of what's coming up in Next Week's podcastResourcesHello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPHeather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

SummaryHey friend, do you pour into everyone else but leave yourself running on empty? It's time to change that. Loving yourself the way God does isn't selfish—it's stewardship. In today's episode, we're tackling the missing key to confidence—learning to love yourself well. We'll silence that nagging inner critic (looking at you, C-3PO) and start speaking life instead. If you're ready to step boldly into the Courageous Life God has for you–let's do this!TakeawaysDo you ever feel like your own biggest roadblock?Loving yourself is the key to confidence.Your love tank matters; fill it up!Loving yourself isn't selfish, it's stewardship.Self-criticism isn't humility; it's hindering you.Choose to be a Dory, just keep swimming.You are fearfully and wonderfully made.You are God's masterpiece.Nothing can separate you from the love of God.Sound Bites"Your love tank matters.""Self-criticism is not humility; it's pride.”“Loving yourself is stewardship of God's creation.Chapters00:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Confidence02:49 Do you love yourself or are you critical of yourself?05:15 Key Scripture - Love your neighbor as yourself06:24 Lesson 1 - Your Love Tank Matters09:03 Lesson 2 - Loving Yourself Isn't Selfish, It's Stewardship11:39 Lesson 3 - Self-Criticism Isn't Humility, It's Hindering You14:35 Are you a Dory or a Marlin?19:44 Recap Lessons20:38 Courageous Action Steps23:40 Need more help? Hello, Courageous Book to the rescue25:53 OutroRecap of LessonsLesson 1: Your Love Tank Matters – Just like a car can't run on empty, neither can you. You can only give from what you have. Lesson 2: Loving Yourself Isn't Selfish, It's Stewardship – When you treat yourself with kindness, you're honoring God's creation—you.  Lesson 3: Self-Criticism Isn't Humility, It's Hindering You – Harsh self-talk and self-rejection don't make you more godly, they just hold you back. Courageous ActionIdentify one way you can be kinder to yourself this week.Write down what God says about you (not your inner critic).Pray and ask God to help you see yourself the way He does.ResourcesHello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPHeather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

SummaryWe're diving into the final facet of the first secret to the Courageous Life. You'll discover what it means to lean on God's amazing guidance in your business and life. Join me as I chat about the transformation that happens when you form a deep, personal bond with God, kicking back and resting in His presence. I'll share some of my own stories and insights on staying connected to the vine and the beauty of hearing from your Creator. We'll talk about how we can flourish by letting go of what's not serving us. And, of course, I'll dish out some actionable steps to help you live that courageous life you're meant for—embracing all of God's incredible grace and love along the way.Takeaways Remember, you're definitely not alone when you feel overwhelmed. Delighting in God is key for your growth journey. Resting in God's presence brings you peace and comfort. Staying connected to the vine provides your nourishment. Crying out to Abba opens deep emotional connections. Your relationship with God is a two-way street. Pruning out what's unnecessary is crucial for growth. God's grace is more than enough for any shortcomings. Staying close to God fuels your courage. Taking action steps is essential for living courageously.Sound Bites"We need to rest in Father's love.""God's grace is enough for us."“Let Jesus nourish you.”“We have got to prune what's not serving us”Chapters00:00 Intro - Embracing God's Guidance in Business01:03 Recap The Courageous Life series03:34 Facet 3 - Rest in Father's Presence10:22 Lesson 1 - Let Jesus Nourish/Care for You14:14 Who do you cry out to?19:41 Lesson 2 - Intimate Relationship is Personal22:52 Lesson 3 - Let Father Prune What's Not Serving You33:36 Recap36:17 Courageous Action Steps38:43 Further Study/OutroCourageous Action:Now for your courageous activity, here's what I want you to do: Take time to write a heartfelt prayer to your Abba Father about any current or past pain you're experiencing.  Imagine yourself crawling up in His lap if you want to, and then share your heart and prayer with Him. Hang with Father throughout the day.  Chat, share, be vulnerable, and lay it all out there, just like having a cup of coffee and a piece of pie with your best friend.ResourcesHello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPHeather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

Erwin McManus is a pastor, author, and speaker. Fear is so ingrained in our minds that we forget it's not our natural state. So how do we break free from it, understand ourselves better, and push past fear to become our best selves? Expect to learn why people find it so hard to know and show themselves, why so many people are negative at a default, how to not get paralysed by overthinking, how do you live a courageous life, how to overcome fear and how to stop being so afraid, the biggest differences between being lazy and tired, why we're so mean to ourselves, the most common myths people should stop believing immediately, balancing the tension between humility and confidence, and much more… Sponsors: See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://chriswillx.com/deals Get up to $50 off the RP Hypertrophy App at https://rpstrength.com/modernwisdom (use code MODERNWISDOM) Get $350 off the Pod 4 Ultra at https://eightsleep.com/modernwisdom (use code MODERNWISDOM) Get 5 Free Travel Packs, Free Liquid Vitamin D, and more from AG1 at https://drinkag1.com/modernwisdom Extra Stuff: Get my free reading list of 100 books to read before you die: https://chriswillx.com/books Try my productivity energy drink Neutonic: https://neutonic.com/modernwisdom Episodes You Might Enjoy: #577 - David Goggins - This Is How To Master Your Life: https://tinyurl.com/43hv6y59 #712 - Dr Jordan Peterson - How To Destroy Your Negative Beliefs: https://tinyurl.com/2rtz7avf #700 - Dr Andrew Huberman - The Secret Tools To Hack Your Brain: https://tinyurl.com/3ccn5vkp - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chriswillx YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/modernwisdompodcast Email: https://chriswillx.com/contact - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SummaryThis week, let's walk through the challenges of self-doubt and shame in your business journey. We're continuing our conversation on how cultivating an intimate relationship with God leads to your Courageous Life of adventure and purpose. Now, in order to create intimacy with Father, you've got to embrace His grace. It's imperative that you understand that grace is a free gift that allows them to let go of past mistakes or poor decisions. We'll end with actionable steps to rest in God's grace, integrate faith into business, and live a courageous life free from shame.Takeaways Navigating the challenges of being a Christian woman solopreneur requires deep guidance from God. An intimate relationship with God is foundational for living a courageous life. Embracing grace means letting go of shame and self-doubt. Grace is a free gift from God, not based on our works. We must actively receive God's grace to experience its benefits. Grace is enough to cover all our mistakes and shortcomings. We are worthy because of what Jesus did for us, not our own actions. Resting in God's grace allows us to approach Him with confidence. Our relationship with God is integrated with our business endeavors. Letting go of shame is essential for personal and professional growth.Sound Bites"It's time to let go of the shame.""Grace is a free gift."Chapters00:00 Open - Embrace God's grace to live your best life03:20 How rootbeer float bars showed me what God's grace means07:47 Lesson One: What is Grace Really?09:37 Lesson Two: Is Grace Really Enough?16:11 Lesson Three: How to Actually Rest in Father's Grace20:51 Recap22:31 Courageous Action23:51 Need Extra Help Overcoming Shame, Check Out These Podcasts25:02 OutroCourageous Action:"Take a few minutes to go to your Father with privilege, knowing you're fully loved and fully accepted. If you have something specific you've been holding onto, give it to Father and let it go.Receive His grace with gratitude. Let Grace shammy away the shame.Be at peace in His presence. Enjoy. And if you need extra help overcoming shame, check out the podcast, Your Fearless Journey with Becky, Kat, and Heather for their three-part series on shame."Episodes 17, 18 and 19Resources:017 Shame, it ain't good for what ails ya: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-fearless-journey-with-becky-kat-and-heather/id1643773833?i=1000589242051Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5oD7dncfnjH89lxIPcvk2J?si=9ebe52d750cc4b79018 Shame on us - when others try to put shame on us:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-fearless-journey-with-becky-kat-and-heather/id1643773833?i=1000590161582Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0n3Zt4rx2MVkQhLu33IhgM?si=91298ce0525c4abd019: Here are the tools to let freedom from shame ring!Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-fearless-journey-with-becky-kat-and-heather/id1643773833?i=1000590880567Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5AW3iYct8jEf33GdwDcwDz?si=d4835567800c483aHeather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

SummaryWe're diving deeper into cultivating an intimate relationship with God, hitting it from our entrepreneurial journeys. Today is about resting in Father's love and integrating romance and adventure with Him. Romance is that beautiful letting go and rising and falling like a waltz with God. Adventure is stepping out of our comfort zones and into our passions with Father as our partner. Like the passionate Tango, we follow our Father's lead. As you live in romance and adventure with your heavenly Father, everything else will be birthed out of this love relationship.TakeawaysFeeling stuck and fearful is common among entrepreneurs.Intimacy with God is essential for personal and business growth.Resting in God's love allows us to embrace our worthiness.Romancing God involves personal experiences and deep connections.Gratitude and appreciation strengthen our relationship with God.Nature and art can enhance our spiritual experiences.Adventure with God requires trust and stepping out in faith.Daily routines can be infused with romance and adventure.Communication with God is key to intimacy.Living fearlessly free means embracing both romance and adventure.Sound Bites"We love because He first loved us.""Romancing allows us to let go of our former selves."“Every day is an adventure with God if you let it.”Chapters00:00 Introduction03:04 The Importance of Intimacy with God05:21 Intimacy is Partnership10:49 Father's calling us to Romance and Adventure14:11 How Do You Romance with Father?24:14 How Do You Adventure with Father?28:30 Integrating Romance and Adventure in Life29:11 Courageous Action30:45 OutroCourageous Action:1. This week, reflect on how you can romance with Father, whether it's through nature, a book or prayer and meditation. Try something new.2. Seek out an Adventure with Father. Where can you push yourself out of your comfort zone—an adventure partnered with God?Heather Bunch – The Courageous Coach Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously. Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about. Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch:https://hellocourageous.com/hcbookOr get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZPBeat Procrastination cheat sheet:https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatitYou can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com. Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

Wendy Killoran joins today's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast. Wendy is a passionate sea kayaker and adventurer and she shares her transformation from elementary teacher to a paddling nomad, living life on her own terms. As she takes us through her extensive kayaking experiences, from circling Prince Edward Island to the rugged shores of Newfoundland, Wendy reveals how these journeys have helped her feel more alive and connected to nature. Wendy discusses her philosophy of living courageously, facing fears, and constantly questioning what truly matters. Her adventures are not just about kayaking but about personal growth and the freedom she finds on the water, whether paddling solo around Newfoundland or exploring the icy fjords of Iceland. Join us as Wendy inspires with her tales of resilience, discovery, and living a life full of adventure and purpose. Kayak Wendy (Instagram)

Marni Battista, an entrepreneur, author, and transformational coach, shares her journey of rebuilding her life and finding meaning after experiencing hardships. She emphasizes the importance of creating a life that aligns with one's values and desires. Marni also discusses the challenges of dating and the need for self-love and self-worth in the dating process. She provides insights on overcoming comparison despair and finding clarity in one's financial situation. Marni's approach focuses on inner growth and empowerment to create a meaningful and fulfilling life. Marni's website Another route to Marni's website Marni's book: How to Find a Quality Guy: Without Going on 200 Dates Marni's book: Becoming Irresistible: How to Effortlessly Have Men Pursue You, Treat You Like a Goddess, and Commit to You for Life Marni's LATEST book! Your Radical Living Challenge

Summary Do you desire a life that's more? It's time to create your Courageous Life! Let's talk about intimacy with God and how this is the first secret to overcoming feelings of inadequacy, not-enough-ness and fear. I'll give you three key steps to develop a deeper relationship with God: resting in His love, embracing His grace, and enjoying His presence. Time to take some actionable steps toward experiencing God's love and guidance in your life and business. Takeaways Feeling stuck or inadequate can hinder your goals. Living courageously means pushing through fear. Intimacy with God is foundational for personal growth. The journey of self-discovery is as important as the destination. Delighting in intimacy with God leads to true identity. Resting in God's love allows for authentic living. Grace is a gift that cannot be earned. You are enough because Jesus is enough. Prayer is a conversation with God, not a ritual. Taking small steps daily can lead to significant change. Sound Bites "We love because He first loved us." "You are your Father's daughter; approach Him like you are.” "You are enough because Jesus is enough." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Courageous Life 05:19 Delighting in Intimacy with God 08:07 Do You Know God or Know About God? 15:53 Step 1 - Rest in Father's Love 19:46 Step 2 - Rest in Father's Grace 21:44 Step 3 - Rest in Father's Presence 25:20 Courageous Action Steps and Conclusion Courageous Action: This week, dedicate daily moments to intentionally seeking God's presence.  Reflect on His love and grace.  Think of one area in which you may still feel unworthy and talk to God about it. Embrace the freedom and strength it provides. Heather Bunch – The Courageous Coach  Heather is a certified life and Enneagram coach, speaker and author who helps women of faith close the gap between their dreams and reality by Live Fearlessly Free. Now they can stop hiding, show up fully themselves and fulfill their God-given purpose–courageously.  Heather also uses her ninja writing skills to help other coaches, speakers, and authors get their ideas out of their heads into their signature system so they can create the income and income they dream about.  Heather's book is available on Amazon––Hello, Courageous! The Gal's Guide to Delight, Discover, and Direct Your Divine Life by Heather Bunch: https://hellocourageous.com/hcbook Or get it on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP3BZ7ZP Beat Procrastination cheat sheet: https://www.heatherbunch.com/beatit You can find Heather at https://www.heatherbunch.com.  Or email her at hello@heatherbunch.com.

Following God's calling on your life often brings excitement and fear. In this message, Pastor Nate Nupanga shares the challenges of Joshua following Moses' leadership and how fear is one of the biggest obstacles you will face in your obedience of following God.

Today is our final Heroes and Helpers episode for Season 4 on The Courageous Life.This series launched earlier in 2024 and throughout the year we've shined a light on stories of everyday heroes,Ordinary people who are navigating life's challenges and adversities with hope, courage, resilience, and love. These are the remarkable stories of:Our neighbors, Our friends, Our colleagues, And members of our communities. And because no one does it alone - We've also focused on elevating the work of the mentors, the coaches, and the guides.Those we call the helpers .They are the ones who walk beside the heroes on their journey. Helping the hero to strengthen themselves, and transform in ways that allow them to meet their life from a wiser, more skillful, and often more responsive place.Today's episode invites you into another one of these uplifting conversations with Lizi Oceransky.Lizi holds an MA in Counseling and is a Master Certified Coach.She's a gifted helper who creates space for those she works with to: connect with their true selves, feel accepted for who they really are, and explore new possibilities for growth and fulfillment.During our conversation Lizi will share more about: Her journey to discovering belonging and self-acceptance, A deep knowing from the time she was young about what the work she was here to do.A helper who challenged her to step fully into that work. And more about her passion for offering spaces where people feel a deep sense of belonging as they pursue what matters to them. To learn more about Lizi please visit lizi4u.comDid you find this conversation inspiring? Here are other episodes we think you'll love:Embracing the journey from 'doing' to 'being' with Amy DongThe power of presence with Vicky Furlan  Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts.     Thanks for listening!Support the show

As we get ready to close out the 4th season of The Courageous Life  we are revisiting inspiring stories of everyday heroes and the helpers who walk beside them.These Conversations, which launched this year, shine a light on ordinary people,Our neighbors, friends, colleagues, and members of our communities, who rise up to meet challenges, And navigate their journey through the messy middle parts of life with hope, courage, compassion, love, and resilience.And because no one does it alone (not even heroes) this series also features conversations with helpers:The mentors, The coaches, The sagesand the guides. The people who help heroes to strengthen themselves and ultimately transform in ways that allow them to meet their lives from a wiser, more skillful, and often more responsive (vs. reactive) place. Today, we are highlighting Vicky Furlan.Vicky is an HR leader, a psychologist, and a coach who believes that leaders are grown not born.For the past 8 years, Vicky been helping people in software organizations make the leap from being high-performing individual contributors to becoming high-performing managers. She helps those she coaches, and works with, to grow and create more fulfilling careers and lives. To learn more about Vicky, and the wonderful work she is doing please visit vickyfurlan.comDuring our conversation Vicky will share more about her own journey, how she walks beside people, and her steadfast belief in the importance of giving people the permission to be human at work. Did you find this conversation inspiring? Here are other episodes we think you'll love:Acceptance and unconditional positive regard with Liliana ÖğünEmbracing the journey from 'doing' to 'being' with Amy Dong  Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts.     Thanks for listening!Support the show

In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with Scott Simon, author of "Scare Your Soul: 7 Powerful Principles to Harness Fear and Lead Your Most Courageous Life." Scott shares his journey from being bullied as a child to becoming an expert on overcoming fear and living courageously. They discuss how small acts of bravery can lead to transformative life changes, the importance of vulnerability in connecting with others, and practical ways to build a "courage practice" in daily life. Scott also offers insights on how parents can model courage for their children and the power of gratitude in fostering a more courageous approach to life's challenges. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about facing fears and embracing a life of courage and connection.   New podcast episodes released weekly on Thursday. Follow along with the links below: Sign up for the Celebrations Chatter Newsletter: https://celebrationschatter.beehiiv.com/    Subscribe to Celebrations Chatter on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@celebrationschatter  Follow @CelebrationsChatter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celebrationschatter/    Follow @CelebrationsChatter on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@celebrationschatter  Listen to more episodes of Celebrations Chatter on Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/celebrations-chatter-with-jim-mccann/id1616689192    Listen to more episodes of Celebrations Chatter on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Yxfvb4qHGCwR5IgAmgCQX?si=ipuQC3-ATbKyqIk6RtPb-A    Listen to more episodes of Celebrations Chatter on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5saWJzeW4uY29tLzQwMzU0MS9yc3M?sa=X&ved=0CAMQ4aUDahcKEwio9KT_xJuBAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNg  Visit 1-800-Flowers.com: https://www.1800flowers.com/    Visit the 1-800-Flowers.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@1800flowers  Follow Jim McCann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim1800flowers/  Follow Jim McCann on X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/jim1800flowers (@Jim1800Flowers)

Today's practice features guest teacher Amy Dong.Amy is a talented therapist, and a breath work facilitator, who specializes in helping both individuals and couples to find steady footing through life's inevitable twists & turns. She's also the author of a beautiful sub stack called The Softening.Which she describes as a walk through our internal landscape, a journey with mental health and well-being in long form. In our most recent Courageous Life episode, Amy joined me in conversation as we dove headfirst into the topic of uncertainty and the possibility of opening and softening as we learn to let go, surrender, and trust ourselves. Today's practice builds on that conversation as Amy will invite you to explore a powerful blend of progressive muscle relaxation and breathwork. The intention is to notice where we're holding tension, physically and metaphorically, and pausing to release. Please note: if you're pregnant, it's not advised to do the breath holds.If you want to dive deeper into this topic I would encourage you to check out the interview with Amy (if you haven't already):Everything You Want is on the Other Side of Fear | Amy DongThank you for your practice.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaLooking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.The FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

One of the highlights of this season on the Courageous Life has been expanding the show with a new series that features inspiring stories of everyday heroes and the helpers who walk beside them. One of these helpers conversations featured Amy Dong.Amy is a talented therapist and a breathwork facilitator. During our conversation she offered a window into her work and how she walks beside people on their journey in therapy,where one of her core areas of focus is helping people learn fundamental practices that can help regulate their nervous system in ways that lead to:Greater wellbeingAn increased sense of agencyAnd the possibility of experiencing inner peace amidst the everyday hustle. For today's Practicing Courage episode I asked Amy if she would be willing to record a brief practice along these lines that we could share here. She agreed. And here we are. I hope you enjoy this brief time with Amy and find that what she offers creates a restful pause in the midst of your day. More from Amy:Heroes and Helpers #4 - Embracing the journey from 'doing' to 'being' with Amy DongThank you for your practice today.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaLooking for more practice opportunities? Check out:LIVE 6 Week Training in Positive Neuroplasticity with Joshua (begins October 5th, 2024)Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.The FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

In this episode of the Self-Employed Life, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Scott Simon, author of Scare Your Soul: 7 Powerful Principles to Harness Fear and Lead Your Most Courageous Life about how to live a more courageous life. We discussed why getting out of your comfort zone is important and how to get yourself to it. Scott explained the seven principles to harness fear and why they are important.  Scott Simon is a renowned courage keynote speaker, facilitator and experience designer inspiring CEOs and their teams to cultivate courageous leadership and foster cultures of true belonging. As the founder of Scare Your Soul, Scott has guided thousands worldwide to harness fear through his transformative programs combining storytelling, positive psychology, and immersive activities. His new book, published by Hachette, is "Scare Your Soul: 7 Powerful Principles to Harness Fear and Lead Your Most Courageous Life." Scott has presented to groups around the world, on TV and podcasts, given a TEDx Talk. Scott partners with forward-thinking CEOs to nurture the "courage muscle" their companies need to adapt, innovate and outperform competitors. He is a contributor to Psychology Today, has been profiled in Fast Company Magazine, and was recently invited to address staff at the United Nations Global Compact. Scott earned his BA from Skidmore College, his MA from Case Western Reserve University, and Certificates in Positive Psychology and Coaching from The Wholebeing Institute, and behavior design from the Stanford Behavior Design Lab. Scott is the proud father of two children, and when not speaking around the world, he lives in Cleveland, Ohio. Everything you need can all be found at jeffreyshaw.com.  Remember, you might be in business FOR yourself but you are not in business BY yourself. Be your best self. Be proud and keep changing the world. Guest Contact – Website - Scare Your Soul Book - Scare Your Soul: 7 Powerful Principles to Harness Fear and Lead Your Most Courageous Life Contact Jeffrey – SelfEmployedNewsletter.com JeffreyShaw.com Books by Jeffrey Shaw Business Coaching for Entrepreneurs Watch my TEDx LincolnSquare video and please share! Valuable Resources – The Self-Employed Business Institute You know you're really good at what you do. You're talented, you have a skill set. The problem is you're probably in a field where there is no business education. This is common amongst self-employed people! And, there's no business education out there for us! You also know that being self-employed is unique and you need better strategies, coaching, support, and accountability. The Self-Employed Business Institute, a five-month online education is exactly what you need. Check it out! Take The Self-Employed Assessment! Ever feel like you're all over the place? Or frustrated it seems like you have everything you need for your business success but it's somehow not coming together? Take this short quiz to discover the biggest hidden gap that's keeping you from having a thriving Self-Employed Ecosystem. You'll find out what part of your business needs attention and you'll also get a few laser-focused insights to help you start closing that gap. Have Your Website Brand Message Reviewed! Is your website speaking the right LINGO of your ideal customers? Having reviewed hundreds of websites, I can tell you 98% of websites are not. Fill out the simple LINGO Review application and I'll take a look at your website. I'll email you a few suggestions to improve your brand message to attract more of your ideal customers. Fill out the application today and let's get your business speaking the right LINGO! Host Jeffrey Shaw is a Small Business Consultant, Brand Management Consultant, Business Coach for Entrepreneurs, Keynote Speaker, TEDx Speaker and author of LINGO and The Self Employed Life (May 2021). Supporting self-employed business owners with business and personal development strategies they need to create sustainable success.

How can we more effectively navigate conversations with people who have different values, and beliefs than we do?Neighbors, community members, co-workers, and family members who care deeply about the same issues, but who have widely different views about them. What are the conditions that would be needed in order to have productive conversations? What are the intentions, skills and mindsets we need to cultivate? In this new 3-episode mini series we will  explore these complex yet practical questions with Courageous Life guests new and old. You'll be exposed to leaders at the forefront of researching, facilitating, and sharing their hard earned wisdom, about how to have constructive dialogues, find win-win solutions to our hardest problems, and build bridges across difference. As we move into election season here in the US, these conversations are particularly timely,But the skills and insights contained within each conversation are also timeless.Today we'll continue this series with our second conversation - a past episode with Juliana Tafur who is the Program Director for the Greater Good Science Center's Bridging Differences Program. Together we explored the art and science of listening in ways that lead to meaningful connection, deeper relationships, empathy, and can build bridges across difference.  Highlights include:A framework for compassionate listeningThe importance of giving ourselves and others grace while engaging in constructive dialogueWhy opening the heart across difference begins with tuning into selfDiscerning when to engage in constructive dialogue and when it's safer, and wiser, not to. The power of asking questions from a place of genuine curiosityLetting go of winning as a fundamental practice of effective listeningWhy listening is an act of courageThe importance of appreciating complexity in other people's stories, and lived experiences Ways to quiet the ego in tough conversations Interested in diving deeper into this topic? Check out the Bridging Differences Program for free resources including the Bridging Differences Playbook. Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are other conversations we think you'll love:Rediscovering the art of constructive dialogue | Dr. Mylien DuongIs curiosity a superpower? | Dr. Jud Brewer More about Juliana:Juliana Tafur is the Program Director for GGSC's Bridging Differences Program, applying her experience as social entrepreneur and founder of Listen Courageously, and as Emmy-nominated senior television producer and award-winning documentary filmmaker. Juliana creates resources rooted in science to bridge political and cultural divides. She also forges strategic partnerships across sectors—government, education, philanthropy, and public service—and oversees communities of practice, to ensure bridge-building skills and resources reach people and strengthen social cohesion across the US. As a Colombian-American devoted to listening to bridge what divides us (as seen on her TEDx talk), fostering a broader culture of belonging—through dialogue, connections, and understanding—is her life's mission.Support the show

Yesterday we re-released a moving Courageous Life conversation with Juliana Tafur.  Juliana is a journalist, award winning documentary filmmaker, and bridge builder.  She serves as the Program Director for the Greater Good Science Center's Bridging Differences Program.   During our time together she shared shared some of her story, and insights from her incredible work as we explored the art and science of listening in ways that lead to: Meaningful connectionDeeper relationshipsAnd ultimately that build bridges across difference.  Today I'd like build on that conversation by re-releasing a practice that can support finding ways to connect.  Particularly when it's difficult. Given that we're human, imperfect, and not always at our best (at least speaking for myself) this idea of finding ways to connect when it's difficult, when we are in conversations that are charged, or there's reactivity etc…  Can be quite a useful inquiry to explore.   Today's practice will infuse a blend of storytelling, research-backed insights from leading organizational scholars, and simple ways to deepen self-awareness and tap into more empathy, understanding, and compassion.  For more ways to have constructive conversations, including insights and practices for connecting across difference, check out these conversations (if you haven't already):Building Bridges Back to Each Other | Juliana TafurRediscovering the Art of Constructive Dialogue | Dr. Mylien DuongPracticing Courage #40: Let go of assumptions and embrace curiosity  Thank you for your practice.  I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!  -Joshua    Looking for more practice opportunities?   Check out:LIVE 6 Week Training in Positive Neuroplasticity with Joshua (begins October 5th, 2024)Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and Unlocking Creativity a brand NEW 5-day challenge for realizing your unique creative potential.The FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

When I was first learning to be a coach we had a saying before stepping into a coaching conversation:Leave your assumptions at the door and embrace curiosity. In reality we often know SO little about someone's experience, and about their story.And when we recognize that, what seems to make the most sense is to get curious.To ask questions,And to listen deeply. In a recent episode with Dr. Jonah Paquette we took a dive into the depths of awe and wonder he offered a beautiful reminder of the power of curiosity. And that reminder is the inspiration for today's practice which centers around finding ways to let go of your assumptionsAnd to choose learning over knowing.This practice is being re-released as a powerful complement to our new mini-series which highlights Courageous Life guests new and old. Each episode in the series featuring leaders who are at the forefront of researching, facilitating, and sharing their hard-earned wisdom related to how to have constructive dialogues, how to find win-win solutions to some of our hardest problems, and ultimately how to build bridges across difference. Want to dive deeper into these topics? Check out these past Courageous Life episodes:Rediscovering the Art of Constructive Dialogue | Dr. Mylien DuongAwe, Wonder, and Everyday Miracles | Dr. Jonah PaquetteIs Curiosity a Superpower? | Dr. Jud BrewerThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-Joshua Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:LIVE 6 Week Training in Positive Neuroplasticity with Joshua (begins October 5th, 2024)Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.The FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

How can we more effectively navigate conversations with people who have different values, and beliefs than we do?Neighbors, community members, co-workers, and family members who care deeply about the same issues, but who have widely different views about them. What are the conditions that would be needed in order to have productive conversations? What are the intentions, skills and mindsets we need to cultivate? Over the next few weeks these are the complex yet practical questions we will explore with Courageous Life guests new and old. You'll be exposed to leaders at the forefront of researching, facilitating, and sharing their hard earned wisdom, About how to have constructive dialogues, find win-win solutions to our hardest problems, and ultimately build bridges across difference. As we move into election season here in the US, these conversations are particularly timely, Bet the skills and insights contained within each conversation are also timeless. Today we'll begin this powerful mini-series by re-releasing a past episode with Dr. Mylien Duong. Mylien is Senior Director of Research at The Constructive Dialogue Institute, where they define Constructive dialogue as a form of conversation in which people who have different values, beliefs, and perspectives seek to build new ways to understand and interact with each other, even as they sustain commitments to their own principles and perspectives. Mylien helps to build out evidence-based content for having constructive dialogues, and oversees measuring the efficacy and effectiveness of the programming.  So far programming offered by the Institute: Has impacted over 50K learners Is being leveraged by 900+ Institutions Shows that 86% of learners improved communication across differenceAnd, 95% of educators recommend their programmingTheir work has been featured in Time Magazine, Forbes, The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, Oprah Magazine, Psychology Today and moreIn today's conversation: Mylien's story about how she came to this workThe 5 principles of Constructive Dialogue that the Institute has establishedThe power of curiosity and storytelling in constructive dialogueThe importance of humility, self-worth, and feeling that you matterThe power of emotional intelligence and nervous system regulation in navigating hard conversations more effectivelyMore about Mylien:Dr. Mylien Duong has deep expertise in developing scalable behavioral interventions. Trained as a clinical psychologist, she was previously a senior research scientist at the Committee for Children, where she led the research to develop a social-emotional learning program for teachers in K-12 schools. Prior to that, she was faculty at the University of Washington, where they conducted federally funded research studies to develop and test behavioral interventions for youth in school and juvenile justice settings. She has received over $17 million in grant funding and published over 40 scientific articles and book chapters. For more please check out https://constructivedialogue.org/Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are more conversations we think you'll love:Dr. Marc Brackett - Permission to Feel: The Power of Emotional IntelligenceParker Palmer - Reflections on Living with an Open HeartEnjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen!Support the Show.

In this episode, Sandy Stream discusses her book 'The Courage Circle' and the importance of living in truth and daring to stand up for oneself. She shares her personal journey of switching careers and finding peace within herself. The Courage Circle is a community where people come together to discuss and explore different aspects of personal growth and self-discovery. Sandy explains the three types of listening and emphasizes the need to listen and reflect without dismissing or trying to fix others' emotions. She also highlights the importance of accepting oneself and setting healthy boundaries. Connect with Sany Stream: Website: https://thecouragecircle.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecouragecircle/ Substack: https://sandystream.substack.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Switching Lanes 02:37 The Courage Circle and Building a Community 04:19 The Power of Listening and Reflecting 09:20 Accepting Yourself and Setting Healthy Boundaries 30:43 Trusting Yourself and Making Choices 35:50 Challenging Negative Thoughts and Practicing Self-Compassion 40:31 Overcoming Loneliness Through True Connections and Deep Listening CONFESSIONS is now available: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/confessions-book/ Thank you for joining me on this MIRROR TALK podcast journey. Kindly subscribe on any platform. Please do not forget to leave a review and rating. Let us stay connected: ⁠https://linktr.ee/mirrortalkpodcast⁠  More inspiring episodes and show notes here: ⁠https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/podcast-episodes/⁠⁠ Your opinions, thoughts, suggestions and comments matter to us. Share them here: ⁠https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/your-opinion-matters/⁠ Invest in us by becoming a Patreon. Please support us by subscribing to one or more of the offerings that we have available at ⁠http://patreon.com/MirrorTalk⁠  Every proceeds will improve the quality of our work and outreach. To serve you better. 

In yesterday's Courageous Life episode with psychologist and author, Dr. Jill Stoddard, we took a deep dive into overcoming self doubt and imposterism. Part of which reminded me of a powerful practice for transforming stress.A practice I first learned from Dr. Alia Crum and her team at Stanford's Mind and Body Lab. I originally created this practice for the 5-day Transforming Stress Challenge, which features 5 days of guided practices, insights from leading experts, and different tools that can help you change your relationship to stress in a whole host of beneficial ways. Today we are re-releasing a modified version of this practice.In it you'll be exposed to Dr. Alia Crum and her growing body of research on the power our mindsets hold to transform our lives, our health, and our performance.You'll learn three powerful steps for shifting your mindset on stress. Rather than push it away, you will be invited to acknowledge, welcome, and utilize your stress in ways that can lead to positive ripple effects in life, on health, and that lead to better performance. Simply put, this practice can help you to stress better.Curious to explore this topic further? Check out the full conversation with Dr. Jill Stoddard or the 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge:Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposterism | Dr. Jill StoddardTransforming Stress ChallengeThank you for your practice today.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaLooking for more practice opportunities? Check out:LIVE 6 Week Training in Positive Neuroplasticity with Joshua (begins October 5th, 2024)Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.The FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

In the hero's journey, the hero or heroine is called to adventure. Often in the form of a quest, a challenge, or an adversity.And often in unexpected ways.One of the things that's interesting about the heroes journey is that shortly after the call a helper enters the picture.A mentor, sage, guide, or a coach who helps the hero to navigate the adventure,as they strengthen themselves and ultimately transform in ways that allow them to meet their life from a wiser, more skillful, and often more responsive place. Today, we're bringing you the next episode in this new adventure on the Courageous Life - inspiring stories from everyday heroes and the helpers who walk beside them. I am thrilled to share another beautiful helpers conversation, with Liliana Öğün.Liliana is an Executive & Career Coach with more than 20 years of experience in leadership coaching, career coaching, and communication consulting. She holds a Master Certified Coach credential from the International Coach Federation. And since 2010 has been helping leaders across the globe enhance their productivity while maintaining work-life balance. Through coaching, she empowers her clients to raise their awareness and take personal accountability, leading to transformative changes in their careers and lives. For more on Liliana please visit surfingchange.comToday, we'll explore some of Liliana's journey:Including a personal story of her parents loss of one of their children, and how she and her sister navigated the experience together.  What she learned, and how the adversity shaped how she approaches her work today. Liliana will share more about how she “walks beside” her clients. Including meeting them with curiosity, unconditional positive regard, and challenging them to realize their potential.She'll offer tools and practices that have helped her clients to deepen awareness, and transform their relationship to themselves, and others. This conversation was beautiful.  Liliana showed again and again how she embodies the qualities she speaks of, and if you're looking for practical takeaways, you'll find she offers those as well.I hope you enjoy the time with her as much as I did. Did you find this conversation inspiring? Here are other episodes we think you'll love:Building a future starts with feeling seen with Hayley PhilanderEmbracing the journey from 'doing' to 'being' with Amy Dong Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts.   Thanks for listening!Support the Show.

"It's very important work to be calm in a storm. To be a center for the people in your life." -Elizabeth Lesser (Courageous Life Episode 112)So often when storms arise in our life they unleash a variety of feelings:UncertaintyFearGroundlessnessWhen these experiences arise the mind will often will enter into a cycle of trying to find ground, often by running through future based scenarios, and planning thinking. And while planning can be helpful up to a point, if we spend too much time focusing on what ifWe can get lost in cycles of worry. In these moments a helpful practice to find calm, and return to center is to remember that: The only moment we have is this one.That, there is no "there".There's only here.And to return to the present. Finding calm again even in the midst of a storm. Today's practice will offer a clip from yesterday's Courageous Life conversation with Elizabeth Lesser, and a story of my time with Mark Nepo in 2018 where he offered a reminder of this beautiful practice. Curious to explore this topic further? Check out the full conversations Elizabeth Lesser and Mark Nepo:Strong Back, Soft Front: The Practice of a Lifetime | Elizabeth LesserFinding Inner Courage Where it Lives | Mark NepoThank you for your practice today.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaLooking for more practice opportunities? Check out:LIVE 6 Week Training in Positive Neuroplasticity with Joshua (begins October 5th, 2024)Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.The FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

After work one evening I met a friend who has been navigating big questions about their career and what's next.We sat outside and they shared some of their story.A close friend of theirs, whom they care about and deeply respectHad called them up And offered advice about what to do.While well intended it completely missed the mark. My friend left feeling much worse than they had before. Wishing that the advice had never been given. Wishing that their friend had been aware that the advice they were giving, while well intended, was really more about their own discomfort with the situation, then truly about helping. Have you had this experience? Either being on the receiving end? Or the giving end of well intended advice that completely misses?It's such a common experience as humans. When we care, when people matter to us, there can be a whole host of emotions and desires that arise in these types of moments. A desire to fixTo solveTo saveTo adviseTo pleaseSometimes these are born out of fearSometimes they are born from our lived experience (well this is how I did it so it should work for them). Or (well this happened to me, so I want to make sure it doesn't happen to them). These are various Expressions of the ego.Expressions that we can only see when we pay attention closely, when we bring mindful awareness to our inner life in these moments.Without awareness it's all too easy to fall into a trap of offering unwanted advice. Today's episode will offer ways to not fall into the trap nearly as oftenAs you are invited into the practice of being real A practice that can help deepen relationships and foster more meaningful connection in our lives. Today's episode was in part inspired by a recent Courageous Life conversation with renowned therapist Dr. Jacob Ham.Curious to explore this topic further? Check out the full conversation with Dr. Ham:The Art of Meeting Life with Curiosity, Presence, and Love | Dr. Jacob HamThank you for your practice today.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text?If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice.Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

Courage means choosing growth despite uncertainty. How can entrepreneurs adopt this mindset? Joshua Steinfeldt, a renowned coach and host of “The Courageous Life” podcast, joins Alex Raymond to discuss the psychology of courage, fear, and personal growth.   Joshua's coaching journey began during the 2008 economic downturn when he noticed fear as a prevalent challenge. This led him to explore courage deeply, culminating in his master's thesis on its four key components: choice, fear, risk, and a worthwhile goal. He emphasizes aligning actions with core values and regularly reassessing motivations to stay true to oneself.   Joshua's research highlights that effective coaching requires courage—honest feedback, self-awareness, and empathy are essential. He distinguishes coaching from therapy, noting that coaching focuses on future goals without diagnosing clinical issues. Entrepreneurs must clarify their goals and approach coaching with openness and vulnerability.   Community and support are also crucial. Joshua debunks the lone hero myth, stressing the importance of feeling connected and supported. Alex reinforces this, sharing feedback from the Conscious Entrepreneur Summit about the desire for deeper connections.   This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to navigate their journeys with courage, authenticity, and community. Joshua Steinfeldt's insights provide a clear roadmap for overcoming fear, staying aligned with values, and leading with bravery.   Quotes “So often, living well, leading well, or doing what we really want to do in life requires some degree of risk. There might be fear around it, and often there's a sense of courage, whether small or big. This is the centerpiece of what I tend to focus on.” (07:19 | Joshua Steinfeldt) “As entrepreneurs, we want to provide value for customers and clients. That's such a natural thing… And I think, to work through some of that, being able to continually ask for feedback from a client, and to be able to receive it—to be able to hold that, take it in, and learn, ask questions to get better—I think there's courage in that, as there is in leaders asking their team for honest feedback. And not shaming your team members, but really making it safe, and taking those learnings and putting them into action to get better, to grow.” (25:10 | Joshua Steinfeldt)  “I think coaching is more about working. It's a very collaborative process, working more to kind of help the client find their own answers in many ways.” (31:43 | Joshua Steinfeldt) “To be a leader right now is so hard. You have to be with uncertainty, which is so human, but people like control too. There has to be a part of you that's willing to let go and be willing to go with it to some degree, like relaxing into uncertainty. I think that is the superpower of our time—being able to deepen and relax into uncertainty, to be with it. That takes courage because the natural response for so many people is to want to control it.” (36:49 | Joshua Steinfeldt)   Links Connect with Joshua Steinfeldt: https://www.practicingcourage.com/   Connect with Alex Raymond: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/afraymond/ Website: https://consciousentrepreneur.us/   HiveCast.fm is a proud sponsor of The Conscious Entrepreneur Podcast. Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

The blank canvas.The blank page.The big questions:What's next in my life?What do I want to do for work? How do I want to live?These are familiar moments and seasons of life marked by the unknown.Often filled with feelings of uncertainty, what's beautiful about  these moments, and these seasons is that They are an invitation into creativity.But there's a catch.To accept the invitation we often need to be able to practice opening. Finding ways to relax into uncertainty. What I see as a great superpower for our time. When we do, we find possibility. Today's recording comes from Day 3 of Unlocking Creativity, our most recent 5-day guided meditation challenge for living well and realizing your unique creative potential. In this practice you will be exposed to two eye opening insights from Courageous Life conversations with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, and yesterday's guest: leading meditation teacher Kaira Jewel Lingo. Together they will offer inspiration, and ideas for facing the unknown with greater joy, passion, and possibility.Interested in Unlocking Creativity? Learn more and sign up hereWhen you do you will also gain access to our two other guided meditation challenges:The 5-Day Transforming Stress ChallengeThe 28-Day Practicing Courage ChallengeCurious to explore this topic further? Check out the full conversation with Kaira Jewel Lingo:Lessons for Moving Through Change, Loss, and Disruption | Kaira Jewel LingoThank you for your practice today.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text?If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice.Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoomThe Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

Join us for a deeply moving and heartfelt episode as we welcome Edward Steinhauser to share his extraordinary journey of parenthood. Edward and his wife Haley, are the proud parents of their daughter Scotty and their son Cooper. Their path to parenthood has been marked by immense love, resilience, and profound loss.In this episode, Edward opens up about the challenges they faced, from multiple rounds of fertility treatments to the emotional rollercoaster of NICU life. He shares the profound bond they formed with Cooper, the unforgettable moments created with the help of incredible NICU staff, and the heartbreaking transition to palliative care.Experience a testament to the strength and enduring love of a family determined to keep their son's memory alive. Stay tuned for an intimate and emotional conversation that will touch your heart and inspire you with its message of hope and resilience.Dr. Brown's Medical: https://www.drbrownsmedical.com Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 61 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode61 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

There is a beautiful teaching metaphor that comes out of buddhist psychology about 2 darts.As we move through life we inevitably experience pain.From minor bumps and scrapes,To major injury, loss, heartbreak, and catastrophe.This is the 1st dart.What's interesting about pain though is that it can often be accompanied by thoughts about the pain:“This shouldn't be happening.”“What if this doesn't end?”“There's something wrong with you." Etc.These are add ons.They're the extras that in moments where we are in pain, can pile on.Adding to the weight and intensity of the experience.Turning what is already painful into experiences marked by additional suffering.These add ons are the 2nd dart. Within this metaphor though there is a possibility for less suffering. When we learn to put the second darts down, to not throw them as much, or not throw them at all, we suffer less and we experience more freedom. Today, we'll look at a simple practice for turning this possibility into a reality which in part was inspired by yesterday's Courageous Life conversation with renowned therapist Dr. Jacob Ham.Curious to explore this topic further? Check out the full conversation with Dr. Ham:The Art of Meeting Life with Curiosity, Presence, and Love | Dr. Jacob HamThank you for your practice today.I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text?If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice.Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

In the hero's journey, the hero or heroine is called to adventure. Often in the form of a quest, a challenge, or an adversity,And often in unexpected ways.One of the things that's interesting about the hero's journey is that shortly after the call a helper enters the picture.A mentor, sage, guide, or a coach of some sort.They help the hero:Navigate the adventureStrengthen themselvesAnd ultimately transform in ways that allow them to meet their life from a wiser, more skillful, and more responsive place. As we looked at starting a new series featuring everyday heroes, the role of the helper was striking. And we couldn't help but think this new series would be incomplete if we didn't include episodes featuring helpers. So here we are. Launching our fourth episode in this new adventure on the larger Courageous Life podcast. Conversations featuring inspiring stories from everyday heroes and the helpers who walk beside them. Last week we released a helper interview with Executive and Leadership Coach Alfreda McCray where we explored the practice of becoming your own inner ally.Today, I am honored and excited to share another beautiful helpers conversation, with Amy Dong. Amy is a therapist who specializes in working with individuals and couples, navigating anxiety, supporting relational health, healing from burnout, reprocessing trauma, and finding steady footing through life's inevitable twists & turns.Amy is also a gifted writer.You can find her beautiful and inspiring work on her substack: The SofteningWhich she describes as a walk through our internal landscape, a journey with mental health and well-being in long form. Personally I subscribe to Amy's blog and look forward to receiving each new piece as I find her writing a breath of fresh air. It offers an invitation to slow down in the midst of the hustle of everyday life, to reflect on what's truly important, and often leaves me feeling hopeful and energized. I would encourage you to check it out.Today, we'll explore:The story of a helper who during a particularly challenging point left a deep positive impression on Amy - not in what she did, but rather through her way of being. How she approaches her work, and the ways in which she walks beside her clients. Some of her favorite tools for regulating the nervous system, and finding greater ease as we navigate the 'messy middle' parts of our lives. Reflections about the practice of becoming a better friend to yourself. This conversation was deep, heartfelt, and also offered a number of practical takeaways. I hope you enjoy the time with Amy as much as I did. Did you find this conversation inspiring? Here are other episodes we think you'll love:Becoming your own inner ally with Alfreda McCrayCuriosity, trust, and inner wisdom with Shandra Lamotte Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts.   Thanks for listening!Support the Show.

Why can it be so difficult to receive? Whether it's something small like a compliment,Or something bigger, like receiving help when we are in some form of pain or distress. While the response can vary of course, For many of us the instinct  can often be:To brush off the compliment To minimize the recognitionTo turn down the help Essentially to close off in one form or another. And there are a whole host of reasons why this might happen.From the way we're raised,To:Expectations or cultural norms that have to do with identity, the workplace, etcFears of being perceived as weak, of not being liked, or not fitting in.The list goes on.This past week as I was engaged in a discussion around receiving (and the difficulty with it) with my long time collaborator Matt Donner.And in the process was reminded of a past Courageous Life conversation with Dr. Kelly McGonigal where we explored self-compassion.In particular, challenging the popular forms of self-compassion practice that so often focus on Going off by yourself and doing your self compassion practice, Alone. Don't get me wrong, individual practices like self-compassion meditation or journaling can certainly be helpful, but they are also somewhat limiting and incomplete. The limits of these practices can be seen when we start to consider important practice questions like:What about self-compassion that looks like opening to and receiving help when you're in pain?What about allowing others to carry some of the weight that you've been shouldering on your own?What about self-compassion that is found in relationship and community?And that involves taking the risk to be vulnerable,And to receive?Becoming a better friend to ourselves isn't always done in isolation. It can include engaging in the powerful practice of opening toAnd receiving help,Rather than closing off to it. So today this is what we will explore and you will have the opportunity to hear directly from Kelly McGonigal in a moving clip from our conversation, about how this not only benefits us, but how it can be a gift to those offering their help. Curious to explore this topic further? Here are some conversations on the podcast we think you'll love:Courage, Hope, and Human Transformation | Dr. Kelly McGonigalThank you for your practice today. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text?If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice.Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show. Support the Show.

Sunday, June 23, 2024  |  Message by Pastor Josh Bevan Main Scripture: Joshua 1:1-9

In the hero's journey, the hero or heroine is called to adventure. Often in the form of a quest, a challenge, or an adversity.And often that adventure arrives unexpectedly.One of the things that's interesting about the hero's journey is that shortly after the call a helper enters the picture.A mentor, a sage, a guide, or a coach of some sort.They help the hero to navigate the adventure, as they strengthen themselves and ultimately transform in ways that allow them to meet their life from a wiser, more skillful, and often more responsive place. As we looked at starting a new series featuring everyday heroes, the role of the helper was striking. And we couldn't help but think this new series would be incomplete if we didn't include episodes featuring helpers. So here we are. Launching our third episode in this new adventure on the larger Courageous Life podcast. Conversations featuring inspiring stories from everyday heroes and the helpers who walk beside them. Last week we released our first helper interview with Stanford compassion teacher, and family systems coach Shandra Lamotte as we curiosity, trust, and uncovering our inner wisdom. Today, I am thrilled to share another beautiful helpers conversation, with Alfreda McCray. Alfreda is a board-certified Executive Coach, a writer, social justice advocate, and doctoral student examining the intersections of identity, leadership, and authenticity. She is a life-long learner with a passion for optimizing wellbeing, reducing harm, and increasing compassion in the workplace and beyond. Her background includes over 20 years of experience in professional services and consulting. To learn more about Alfreda you can follow her on LinkedIn. In this episode we'll explore: Alfreda's inspiring journey and the story of a helper, who in her words, saved her life.How she approaches her work, and the ways in which she walks beside her clients.Some of her favorite tools and practices for slowing down, and meeting life from a more responsive place.This conversation was both moving and practical, and I hope you enjoy the time with Alfreda as much as I  did. Did you find this conversation inspiring? Here are other episodes we think you'll love:Faith, Hope, and Love with Eddie GarciaCuriosity, trust, and inner wisdom with Shandra Lamotte Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts.   Thanks for listening!Support the Show.

As part of a 4-part series on the Power of Compassion on The Courageous Life, yesterday we released  a beautiful conversation with Roshi Joan Halifax and Rhonda Magee. Together they explored a variety of themes related to meeting the most pressing challenges of our time with backbone and heart. To complement the conversations in this series I have be sharing some potent practices for opening the heart, and accessing more courage and compassion. Today's practice is a re-release of the first Practicing Courage episode we ever produced and relates to one of the themes that Joan and Rhonda explored. How we can respond vs. react in moments where we feel triggered?An idea that is beautifully highlighted by holocaust survivor, Viktor Frankl, who famously said:"Between stimulus and response there's a space. In that space is our ability to choose. In that choice lies our growth and our freedom." Today's episode will explore how we might find this space more often in our lives, our work, and our relationships.  Throughout episode you'll be exposed to:Highlights from the science of courageAn inspiring clip from a conversation with Dr. Amy EdmondsonAnd a simple 3-part practice for finding more of this space, and more courage in the midst of our busy day-to-day lives.Thank you for your practice today!I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-Joshua8 Week Compassion Cultivation Training with Joshua begins July 12th!If you are interested in a deeper more experiential dive into these insights and practices I  would encourage you to join me on July 12th, as I will be teaching an 8 week course on compassion originally created at Stanford University. Learn more by heading to practicingcourage.com/cctWant these practices delivered via text?If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice.Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

In the hero's journey, the hero or heroine is called to adventure. Often in the form of a quest, a challenge, or adversity.And often that adventure arrives unexpectedly.One of the things that's interesting about the hero's journey is that shortly after the call a helper enters the picture.A mentor, a sage, a guide, or a coach of some sort.They help the hero to navigate the adventure, as they strengthen themselves and ultimately transform in ways that allow them to meet their life from a wiser, more skillful, and often more responsive place. As we looked at starting a new series featuring everyday heroes, the role of the helper was striking. And we couldn't help but think this new series would be incomplete if we didn't include episodes featuring helpers. So here we are. Launching our second episode ever in this new adventure on the larger Courageous Life podcast. Conversations featuring inspiring stories from everyday heroes and the helpers who walk beside them. Last week we released our first hero interview with heart attack and heart transplant survivor Eddie Garcia as we explored faith, hope, and love. And today, I  am thrilled to share our first helper conversation, with Shandra Lamotte. Shandra is a coach, facilitator, and teacher who believes that every person she works with has an inner knowing that is far superior to her ideas or advice on what to do. Her work centers around inquiry and processes to support people in connecting to themselves, their own wisdom, and their wholeness so they can navigate the inevitable ups and downs of life with trust, grounding, and heart. Shandra is certified as a Compassion Cultivation Training instructor through CCARE at Stanford University where she teaches courses in compassion. She's a family systems coach, and is a lead facilitator of rites of passage workshops through COR. For more on Shandra, and the wonderful work she is doing you can visit shandralamotte.comIn today's conversation: We'll explore some of Shandra's own journey including the story of a helper who met her along her path, and helped her to grow and transform.Shandra will share more about how she walks beside her clients including tools, and practices she uses.How she approaches her work from a place of curiosity, compassion, and a steadfast belief in people's potential. This is a beautiful and practical conversation and I  hope you enjoy the time with Shandra as much as I did. Did you find this conversation inspiring? Here are other episodes we think you'll love:Faith, Hope, and Love with Eddie GarciaEnjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks for listening!Support the Show.

As part of a 4-part series on the Power of Compassion which we are re-releasing on The Courageous Life, yesterday we released  a beautiful conversation with Dr. James Doty and Dr. Jacinta Jiménez. Together they explored a variety of themes related to cultivating greater compassion and empathy, including the possibility of fostering cultures of care within organizations. To complement these conversations over the coming weeks I will be sharing some of the most potent practices I've come across for opening the heart, and accessing more courage and compassion. Today's practice is is the second of these and is all about building great relationships.Years ago I had the chance to meet a couple who was truly happy and deeply in love after 35 years.Sitting together I asked them what their biggest piece of advice would be for a successful, happy marriage (or relationship)?I will never forget what they shared that day. It was both simple and profound. Today's you'll hear what the couple shared with me, and how it can be applied to create thriving relationships in all domains of life, including at work. Curious to explore this topic further? Here are some conversations on the podcast we think you'll love:The Power of Compassion Pt. 1 | Barbara Fredrickson and Sharon SalzbergThe Power of Compassion Pt. 2 | James Doty and Jacinta JiménezThank you for your practice today!I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-Joshua8 Week Compassion Cultivation Training with Joshua begins July 12th!If you are interested in a deeper more experiential dive into these insights and practices I  would encourage you to join me on July 12th, as I will be teaching an 8 week course on compassion originally created at Stanford University. Learn more by heading to practicingcourage.com/cctWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

Over the next four weeks on the Courageous Life podcast we will be re releasing a 4-part series on the Power of Compassion. Yesterday we began with Part One, a powerful and moving conversation with Positive Psychology Pioneer Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and world renowned meditation teacher Sharon Salzberg.To complement these conversations over the coming weeks I will be sharing some of the most potent practices I've come across for opening the heart, and accessing more courage and compassion. And if you are interested in a deeper more experiential dive into these insights and practices I  would encourage you to join me on July 12th, as I will be teaching an 8 week course on cultivating compassion. Learn more by heading to practicingcourage.com/cctToday's practice is is the first of these and is all about finding common ground when it's hard. This may include times where we are engaged in heated conversations over divisive issues, or simply find ourselves in conversations where vastly different and conflicting views are present. The big questions are:When these moments arise, how can we practice with them? How might we get better at recognizing the patterns of thoughts and sensations that may be leading to separation, isolation, and othering?And when we do, how might we find common ground again as we increase our capacity to connect with others when it's difficult?These are questions with no easy answers. And yet with intentionality, and a willingness to practice there is a possibility of opening to greater empathy, civility, and compassion as we return to our shared common humanity. Today's practice will offer one way to realize this possibility in our lives, our work, and our relationships.Curious to explore this topic further? Here are some conversations on the podcast we think you'll love:Building Bridges Back to Each Other | Juliana TafurFinding Our Way Home to Belonging | Jerry ColonnaRediscovering the Art of Constructive Dialogue | Dr. Mylien DuongThank you for your practice today!I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

Yesterday we released a Courageous Life conversation with Dr. James Doty.Together we explored themes from his new book: Mind Magic The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How it Changes Everything.In both the book and our conversation Dr. Doty challenges the popular narrative around manifestation, A narrative that has narrowly emphasized outward success, materialism, and individual benefit.As an alternative James calls upon his work as a neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, and leader in the field of compassion science, As he invites us into a deep exploration of how our brains work, And what happens when we pair their full power with the intention for a kinder, better world. What I appreciate so much about this new book, and the work Dr. Doty has done over his career is, that he continues to offer evidence-based practices that can change the structure of our brain. These Practices harness the power of attention, meditation, visualization, and compassion. He argues that over time and with dedication they can support us in moving through the world in ways that help us see clearly—reclaiming our agency, realizing our dreams, and reaching out to help others along the path.Toward the end of our time together I  asked James if he would offer a guided practice that could be used as a starting point for anyone who is looking to begin manifesting more of what they want in their lives. What he offered is truly a place to begin, and serves as the practice for today. For more on the manifestation process, including a 6 week program that Dr. Doty created with more practices like this, you can pick up a copy of Mind Magic wherever books are sold. And be sure to check out the conversation with James (if you haven't already):Using Neuroscience to Manifest a Kinder, Better World | Dr. James DotyThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

How To Live An Empowered Courageous Life by Faith Promise Church

Yesterday we released a moving Courageous Life conversation with Juliana Tafur.Juliana is a journalist, award winning documentary filmmaker, and bridge builder. She serves as the Program Director for the Greater Good Science Center's Bridging Differences initiative. During our time together she shared shared some of her story, and insights from her incredible work as we explored the art and science of listening in ways that lead to: Meaningful connectionDeeper relationshipsAnd ultimately that build bridges across difference. Today I'd like build on that conversation and dig further into how we can find ways to connect. Particularly when it's difficult.Given that we're human, imperfect, and not always at our best (at least speaking for myself) this idea of finding ways to connect when it's difficult, when we are in conversations that are charged, or there's reactivity etc…Can be quite a useful inquiry to explore. Today's practice will infuse a blend of storytelling, research backed insights from leading organizational scholars, and simple ways to deepen self-awareness and tap into more empathy, understanding, and compassion.For more ways to have constructive conversations, including insights and practices for connecting across difference, check out the conversation with Juliana Tafur (if you haven't already):Building Bridges Back to Each Other | Juliana TafurLearn more about Juliana's award winning documentary Listen at listencourageously.comThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

In yesterday's Courageous Life episode with Dr. Todd Kashdan, the author ofThe Art of Insubordination, we unpacked the recipe for what he calls, principled rebellion:A courageous practice of going against the stream, Challenging conformity and questioning conventional ideas.But doing so from a place of heart. Rebelling in ways that are generative as opposed to destructive. Along these lines, Todd offered practical research-backed insights into how we can dissent in ways that lead to:Being heard, Making change, And effectively defying an unhealthy status quo.  As part of our conversation we explored the courage it takes to be a principled rebel, including how these moments, when we push back against conformity, often bring with them a good deal of discomfort.Today's practice will hone in on a simple way we can get better at skillfully working with discomfort. And how doing so can be part of our preparation to speak up and push back with courage, wisdom, and heart, When it matters. For more ways to dissent and defy effectively check out the conversation with Todd Kashdan (if you haven't already):Practicing the Art of Principled Rebellion | Dr. Todd KashdanOr  pick up a copy of his book: The Art of Insubordination: How to Dissent and Defy EffectivelyThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word courage to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the Show.

In this episode, I speak with Sandy Stream on suppressing your emotions, adjusting your behaviour for others, living a courageous life, the inner critic and the comfort zone. ★ Sandy's Bio: ★ Sandy Stream is an author and activist whose work is built on the belief that everyone deserves and is capable of finding peace and warrior-like strength within themselves. After teaching law for 20 years, raising her two children, and facing a life full of adversities and lessons, she decided to turn her efforts towards facilitating workshops for young and experienced adults to encourage them to live in peace and power.Connect with Sandy:http://thecouragecircle.com/https://www.instagram.com/thecouragecircle/https://www.youtube.com/@TheCourageCircle