Podcasts about encouragement

Stay informed on current events, visit www.NaturalNews.com - Ice Shooting Incident and Pushback Against Border Patrol (0:11) - Senator Rand Paul's Call for Testimony and Maga Crowd's Reactions (3:09) - Mike Adams' Training and Law Enforcement Principles (4:57) - Financial Situation in America and Silver Market Volatility (14:25) - Potential Consequences of a War with Iran (24:12) - Maga Movement's Hypocrisy and the Rule of Law (44:31) - Trump's Role in the Crisis and the Potential for Martial Law (1:23:36) - The Importance of Preparedness and Critical Thinking (1:25:36) - Upcoming Special Reports and Interviews (1:25:54) - Conservative Principles and the Second Amendment (1:26:11) - Critique of Conservative Behavior and Principles (1:30:07) - Zero Hedge Article and January 6 Protests (1:31:31) - Principles and the Rule of Law (1:33:49) - Support for ICE and Rule of Law (1:35:59) - Conservative Hypocrisy and Principle Abandonment (1:42:01) - Christian Zionism and Satanism (1:48:47) - Low IQ and Principle Abandonment (1:52:23) - Surveillance and Government Power (2:09:05) - Universal Principles and Society (2:13:50) - Understanding the Importance of Addressing Root Causes in Mental Health (2:27:28) - The Role of Diet and Environment in Mental Health (2:59:55) - Impact of Media Violence and Social Media on Mental Health (3:01:12) - The Power of Focus and Attention Building (3:04:30) - Building Mental Resilience and Emotional Regulation (3:09:43) - The Importance of Neuroplasticity and Self-Responsibility (3:11:17) - Final Thoughts and Encouragement (3:14:19) Watch more independent videos at http://www.brighteon.com/channel/hrreport  ▶️ Support our mission by shopping at the Health Ranger Store - https://www.healthrangerstore.com ▶️ Check out exclusive deals and special offers at https://rangerdeals.com ▶️ Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed: https://www.naturalnews.com/Readerregistration.html Watch more exclusive videos here:

Marriage is one of the most meaningful relationships we experience—but when mental health struggles enter the picture, it can feel overwhelming for both spouses. In this episode, we dive into how mental health impacts the overall health of a marriage, what couples are really facing today, and why caring for your own emotional well-being is essential for a thriving relationship. Drawing from counseling experience and faith-based wisdom, we address common misconceptions, signs that mental health is affecting your marriage, and practical ways to support a struggling spouse without losing yourself in the process. You'll also hear encouragement for couples navigating anxiety, stress, or depression, guidance on boundaries and self-care, and insight on when to seek professional help. This honest and hope-filled conversation offers tools to help couples stay connected—even in difficult seasons. Episode Highlights: Mental health struggles distort how we see things. How to identify red flags that your spouse may be dealing with something deeper. How to recognize the difference in support and rescue. Encouragement to remain present in the difficult season.   Quotes from This Episode: You can't build intimacy from survival mode. Anxiety tells you everything is a threat and depression tells you nothing is going to get better. Resentment builds when the healthier spouse feels like they are carrying the whole load. Your job is to walk alongside your spouse, not carry them.  This is a season, not a sentence.   Talk it Over Together: What helps you feel emotionally supported by me when you're struggling? Are there topics, emotions, or struggles you find hard to share with me? What makes them difficult? How can we check in with each other more intentionally moving forward? Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Marriage need a reset so you can reconnect? This month's 4 Week Connection Challenge helps you and your spouse intentionally reconnect emotionally, physically, and spiritually—one simple, meaningful step at a time. Start closing the distance and rebuilding the intimacy you're longing for today. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Want to see what God's Word says about having an Awesome Marriage. Check out 7 Secrets to an Awesome Marriage. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 4 Week Connection Challenge.  

Join the Unashamed Unafraid crew for a Live Unashamed episode where they openly discuss their experiences with sexual addiction, recovery, and the journey to self-forgiveness. Through heartfelt conversations, they explore the immense challenges of forgiving oneself despite being forgiven by others, the power of brotherhood and support, and how spirituality plays a crucial role in healing. Dive deep into personal stories, struggles, and moments of divine revelation that helped shape their paths to redemption. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode is a powerful testament to the transformative power of grace and self-compassion.Make a donation and become an Outsider!Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:52 Discussing Self-Forgiveness03:01 The Role of Brotherhood in Recovery05:57 Personal Stories of Forgiveness09:04 The Journey of Recovery15:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Your life is a marathon. And it's tough. In today's episode of Live the Bible, we get to gulp down some encouragement to keep going and growing in the hardest part of every marathon: the middle! What keeps you from giving up when you have so far to go?If you're growing weary in the race, I'm here to cheer you on! Support the show

As riders we use our body every time we sit on our horse, but often our own fitness, motion and movement gets passed over. It's easy to invest in our horses's bodywork and ignore own own! This month Solange speaks with Ifa Simmonds, a professional fitness coach who specializes in equestrians. As the creator of EFA, the Equestrian Fitness Academy, Ifa is the perfect person to talk about all things rider bodies!Horses in the Morning Stable Riding with Solange Episode 3871:Host: Solange of Stable RidingSponsor: Stable RidingGuest: Ifa Simmonds from IfaFitTime Stamps:0:00:03: Show Intro & Host Welcome0:00:31: Solange Ellis Introduces Stable Riding and Episode Theme0:05:00: Guest Introduction: IFA Simmons of Equestrian Fitness Academy0:09:06: Discussion: Importance of Individualized Rider Instruction0:16:24: Facility & Learning Environment—Why Private Lab Matters0:29:42: Common Rider Issue: Injury and Low Back Pain Stats0:35:36: Are Riders Embracing Fitness? Industry Trends & Challenges0:46:57: Virtual Sessions & EFA Coaching Programs Overview0:53:15: Rider Homework: Dead Bug Core Stability Exercise (with instructions)0:55:00: Final Thoughts: Teaching Philosophy and Encouragement

In this episode of the Radical Radiance Podcast, host Rebecca George speaks with Kim Harms, a breast cancer survivor and author of 'Carried Through Cancer.' Kim shares her personal journey through cancer, the inspiration behind her book, and the importance of community and connection during difficult times. The conversation delves into the emotional process of writing and interviewing other survivors, the role of faith in navigating cancer, and the healing power of sharing stories. Kim emphasizes the significance of allowing others to help and the grace needed in these challenging moments, ultimately conveying a message of hope and resilience for those facing similar struggles.Keywordsbreast cancer, faith, community, healing, resilience, cancer journey, support, writing, inspiration, hopeTakeawaysKim Harms is a breast cancer survivor and author.The book 'Carried Through Cancer' shares stories of hope.Community support is vital during cancer journeys.It's okay to feel anger and fear during tough times.God's presence can be felt even in suffering.Writing can be a therapeutic process for healing.Specific offers of help are more effective than general ones.Sharing stories can connect people in similar struggles.Faith can help reconcile difficult experiences with God.It's important to show grace to those who may not know how to help.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kim Harms and Her Journey02:10 The Inspiration Behind 'Carried Through Cancer'04:43 The Emotional Process of Interviewing Survivors05:44 Personal Stories of God's Presence During Cancer10:29 Reconciling Faith with Cancer Diagnosis13:44 The Importance of Community and Connection17:11 The Healing Power of Writing20:13 Messages of Hope for Those Diagnosed24:44 Radiance Through SufferingCarried Through Cancer on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4s9iFe6Sponsors:Comfy Earrings: ⁠⁠www.comfyearrings.com⁠⁠CSB: ⁠⁠https://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/csb-womens-study-bible/?emid=pm:em:260101|acq|na|bibles|christian_standard_bible|na|2634076_radical_radiance_womens_study_bible:na:na&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=fy26_bh-bibles_spring26_womens-study-bible&utm_source=radical-radiance&utm_content=acquisition_womens-study-bible_20260101⁠⁠Live Oak Integrative Health: ⁠⁠http://www.liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radiance⁠⁠Links: Radiance Retreat Info: ⁠⁠⁠Radiance Retreat 2026 — Radical Radiance⁠Speaking: ⁠⁠https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking⁠⁠ Creative Business Coaching: ⁠⁠https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching⁠⁠ Camp for Creatives: ⁠⁠https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives⁠⁠ Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4⁠⁠ Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f⁠⁠ Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: ⁠⁠https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6⁠⁠ Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: ⁠⁠https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67⁠⁠ Books:You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World: ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/44omO3k⁠⁠Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/43IaFpM⁠⁠Before Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv⁠⁠ 

As riders we use our body every time we sit on our horse, but often our own fitness, motion and movement gets passed over. It's easy to invest in our horses's bodywork and ignore own own! This month Solange speaks with Ifa Simmonds, a professional fitness coach who specializes in equestrians. As the creator of EFA, the Equestrian Fitness Academy, Ifa is the perfect person to talk about all things rider bodies!Horses in the Morning Stable Riding with Solange Episode 3871:Host: Solange of Stable RidingSponsor: Stable RidingGuest: Ifa Simmonds from IfaFitTime Stamps:0:00:03: Show Intro & Host Welcome0:00:31: Solange Ellis Introduces Stable Riding and Episode Theme0:05:00: Guest Introduction: IFA Simmons of Equestrian Fitness Academy0:09:06: Discussion: Importance of Individualized Rider Instruction0:16:24: Facility & Learning Environment—Why Private Lab Matters0:29:42: Common Rider Issue: Injury and Low Back Pain Stats0:35:36: Are Riders Embracing Fitness? Industry Trends & Challenges0:46:57: Virtual Sessions & EFA Coaching Programs Overview0:53:15: Rider Homework: Dead Bug Core Stability Exercise (with instructions)0:55:00: Final Thoughts: Teaching Philosophy and Encouragement

►► GET MY FREE VIDEO & WORKSHEET - SHATTERPROOF YOURSELF LITE! 7 SMALL STEPS TO A GIANT LEAP IN YOUR CONFIDENCEUnlock the secret superpower of leadership with Episode 188 of the DYL Podcast! Join Adam Gragg as he reveals why encouragement isn't just an optional pep-talk—it's the rocket fuel your team, family, and community need to soar.Discover the three daily decisions that transform ordinary leaders into extraordinary encouragers. Learn how a simple act, like making a list of people to uplift, can revolutionize your workplace and relationships. Find out why real encouragement is more than empty praise, and how it can spark confidence, boost engagement, and ignite lasting success.Are you ready to be the kind of leader others want to be around? Want your legacy to be one of courage, optimism, and contagious energy? Hit play and start building your encouragement habit today—because culture, performance, and your impact all begin with one courageous conversation at a time. Tune in now and unleash your leadership legacy with encouragement!CHAPTERS:00:00 "Leading by Example"03:38 The Power of Encouragement07:20 "Focus on Encouraging Others"10:56 Breaking Free from Leadership Shame15:27 "Positive Qualities Reflection Process"16:50 "Encouragement Fuels Lasting Leadership"19:23 "Your Legacy, Your Choice" Be sure to check out Escape Artists Travel and tell them Decide Your Legacy sent you!

Isn't entrepreneurship the dream?For years, our client Tyler has lived it – running his own video production business and enjoying the freedom many people chase. But over time, he realized that entrepreneurship wasn't the calling for this season. In this episode, Audrey and Tyler discuss:Why entrepreneurship isn't always the right pathHow to pivot careers without starting overBreaking into tech sales without prior experienceUsing bold outreach in a job searchTrusting God through a career changeIf you're looking for inspiration to make a career pivot, no matter how impossible you may think it is, this episode is for you.Cheering you on,Kelsey Kemp & Audrey BagarusBOOK A FREE CALL WITH US THIS WEEK:https://portal.kelseykemp.com/public/appointment-scheduler/6222458612c06afee1de0032/scheduleFREE CAREER COACHING RESOURCES:Free Training: How to Find and Land a Job You Feel Called to in 8 Straightforward Steps → https://thecalledcareer.com/our-processMore of a reader? ⁠Download the 22 page PDF⁠ version instead → https://thecalledcareer.mykajabi.com/PDFFOLLOW US ON OTHER SOCIALS:

Massive Political Shifts and Media Accountability with Matt Robison: ICE Tragedies and Trump's InfluenceJoin Matt Robison on the latest Worth Knowing livestream where he breaks down the monumental shifts in the political landscape following recent tragedies involving ICE. Ryan McConaughey, a Congressional Insider, returns to provide an insider's perspective on the dynamic changes inside Congress and among voters since last week. Mark Jacob, former editor of major Chicago newspapers, offers a deep dive into media coverage and its role in shaping public perception of ICE's actions in Minnesota. And Matt starts with a deep dive on three critical things that are NOT part of this story. #Politics #MediaAccountability #ICE #TrumpAdministration #Congress #PublicPerception #Policy #Livestream00:00 Introduction and Current Events Overview01:48 Unpacking the Inevitability of Tragedies02:44 A Lesson from History: Policy and Consequences05:46 The Blame Game: Accountability in the Trump Administration10:42 Democratic Response and Shifting Strategies20:43 Republican Reactions and Political Dynamics28:45 Media's Role and Public Perception33:39 Polite Euphemisms and Political Lies34:27 The Insidious Nature of Right-Wing Disinformation36:56 The Role of Video in Exposing Truth39:55 Fox News and the Trump Administration's Narrative43:05 The Olympics of Lying51:24 Engaging with Differing Viewpoints55:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Summary  In this episode of the Prosperity Podcast, Kim and Spencer explore the future of technology with an intriguing discussion on robo-taxis and the implications of a tech-driven world. Kim shares her firsthand experience with Waymo taxis, highlighting the cost efficiency and potential of this innovation. They discuss the balance of embracing technology while living a simpler life, and Kim offers insights on maintaining positivity and adaptability in a rapidly evolving landscape. Perfect for those curious about the future and seeking ways to thrive in an abundant world. Tune in to expand your perspective!.   Episode Highlights 00:00:10 - Robo-taxis as future abundance. 00:00:54 - Comparison of cost per mile: Robo-taxi vs Uber. 00:01:35 - Waymo problem during power outage. 00:02:00 - Rarity of issues with driverless cars. 00:02:17 - Embracing, not fearing, technological change. 00:03:25 - Excitement for a gardening robot. 00:04:21 - Future envisioning with robots and AI. 00:05:08 - Adapting to innovation: Personal anecdotes. 00:07:09 - Encouragement to find good in technology. 00:08:51 - Choice in technology: Picking what's beneficial. 00:11:09 - Balancing high-tech and low-tech lifestyle. 00:13:42 - Importance of positive perspectives. 00:15:19 - "Busting the Scarcity Mindset" book recommendation. 00:16:07 - Children's book series on prosperity principles. 00:16:33 - Visit prosperitythinkers.com for financial control.   Episode Resources For resources and additional information of this episode go to https://prosperitythinkers.com/podcasts/ http://prosperityparents.com/  https://storage.googleapis.com/msgsndr/yBEuMuj6fSwGh7YB8K87/media/68e557c906b06d836d9effad.pdf  https://www.youtube.com/@KimDHButler Keywords Prosperity podcast   Prosperity thinkers   future abundance   robo-taxis   Waymo taxis   cost per mile   Uber   driverless technology   San Francisco   Peter Diamandis   robots in the home   gardening robot   innovation   AI   NVIDIA   Sam Altman   China   2026   positive perspective   compute   solar arrangement   oil industry   rural living   scarcity mindset   abundance   Busting the Scarcity Mindset   multigenerational families   seven principles of prosperity   Adventures at Prosperity Patch   Prosperity Patch series   Prosperity thinkers.com  

The final episode of Your 2026 Body Blueprint brings the entire series together.  In Part 1, Ted explained why most men over 40 age faster than they should.     In Part 2, he broke down why weight loss alone doesn't equal health.     In Part 3, he showed how men should train to preserve muscle and strength with minimal time.     In Part 4, he explained why cardio and cardiovascular fitness are essential for longevity—even if you already lift.   And  In Part 5, he shared a clear, evidence-based approach to nutrition that supports metabolic health, longevity, and fat loss without quitting your social life or eliminating foods you enjoy.   And in Part 6, he talked the most underestimated drivers of how you age: sleep, stress, and lifestyle.   Now, in Part 7, Ted explains how to organize everything into a realistic, year-long system built around one outcome goal—fat loss—and the process goals that actually make it achievable. This episode focuses on training structure, cardio decisions, nutrition fundamentals, recovery, measurement, and the behavioral shifts required to make progress stick over time.  You'll learn:  Why choosing one outcome goal leads to better long-term results than chasing multiple goals  How to structure strength training for fat loss while preserving muscle after 40  How calorie and protein tracking simplify fat loss and improve food choices   Why data tracking prevents emotional decision-making and plateaus  How recovery and stress management determine whether fat loss succeeds or fails  Why identity and habit reprogramming matter more than willpower  What Ted discusses in this episode:  (00:00) Introduction  (01:47) Setting Realistic Goals for Long-Term Success  (05:19) Effective Training Strategies for Fat Loss  (12:36) The Role of Cardio in Your Fitness Journey  (16:27) Mastering Nutrition for Optimal Results  (22:03) The Importance of Tracking and Measurement  (24:30) Avoiding Burnout and Ensuring Recovery  (27:18) Behavioral Change and Long-Term Success  (30:48) Client Success Story: Chad's Transformation  (33:15) Final Thoughts and Encouragement 

Do you struggle when the challenging winds of leadership blow? Do you hide when the forecast calls for struggle? Do you doubt your ability when you know God is calling you? No more. It's time to take these 3 steps and learn to lead strong in the storm.  Listen as Pam gives you 3 Steps to Take to Lead Strong and fulfill God's plan even in the middle of a raging storm. Satan wants to steal, kill, and destroy our commitment to lead well. But Jesus came so that you not only can lead, but lead well out of His abundant equipping, preparation, and His presence. It takes being intentional to prepare, a commitment to stand firm, and choosing His peace even in the chaos of the storms. Let God grow you into the leader He is calling you to become. Are you ready? Invitation:  If you are a Christian woman who wants to lead with clarity, confidence, and biblical alignment, I invite you to sign up for the Confident Leader Workshop, a 3 session experience designed to help women lead intentionally and stay rooted in God's plan. Click here to sign up.   Your Next Step If this episode resonates and you're craving deeper clarity, confidence, and intentional growth, I would love to walk alongside you.

In today's devotional, Pastor Kerrick shares how rain and snow remind us of God's promises. Stream today's devotional to learn more!----Order your copy of the Rhythm of Rest today:https://www2.fccga.com/storeSubscribe to the Faith in the Morning Newsletter:https://www.kerrickbutler.com/subscribe

Are you feeling anxious about raising kids in today's world? I get it, mama. Every time we turn on the news or scroll social media, it feels like something new is happening that makes us wonder what kind of world our children are growing up in. That heavy feeling on your chest? The racing heart? I've been there too. I'm opening up about my own journey with anxiety—from that first panic attack when my oldest was just a week old to learning how to recognize and combat anxious thoughts today. But here's the truth that changed everything for me: anxiety is not something we have to own. It's an attack, not our identity. This episode is packed with biblical encouragement that will bring you hope and remind you that you don't have to walk through motherhood in fear.  What We're Diving Into: Why God did NOT give us a spirit of fear (and what He gave us instead) The power of Psalm 23 when you're walking through dark valleys of worry Removing the guilt and shame that often comes with experiencing anxiety How your children were created "for such a time as this" 4 practical steps to shift from fear to faith when anxiety hits Here's what I want you to know: God knew exactly what our world would look like right now. He knew the challenges we'd face. And He still chose to give you your children because He knew YOU were the one to raise them. They're not accidents in this timeline—they're warriors being prepared for this exact moment. I'm sharing biblical encouragement straight from God's Word, plus the exact declarations I speak over my children every morning on the way to school. Because when we renew our minds daily in Scripture, when we shift our perspective to see the good, and when we declare truth over ourselves and our families—that's when everything changes. You are courageous. You have power, love, and a sound mind. And you don't have to walk in fear. Grab your headphones and let's find hope together, mama. Want the powerful prayers and declarations I use with my kids? Download the Ignite Revival Guide at www.alyssarahn.com/prayers Email alyssa@alyssarahn.com for coaching  

A hard truth about marriage: it's not always sunshine and butterflies. If you're longing for things to change, the best option can seem like walking away. But lasting love comes from committing to choosing them, not comparing them to something "better."

A hard truth about marriage: it's not always sunshine and butterflies. If you're longing for things to change, the best option can seem like walking away. But lasting love comes from committing to choosing them, not comparing them to something "better."

Community Prayer and Encouragement

Community Prayer and Encouragement

Jim Herrington has been a steady voice on The Leader's Journey Podcast for years. In this episode, Trisha Taylor reflects with him on the long arc of his life, leadership, and learning as he steps into a slightly different role at The Leader's Journey. Together they explore the leadership principle that has shaped everything Jim does: leadership is all about learning. From early experiences of trauma and racism, to systems thinking, reflection, and the ongoing work of emotional and spiritual maturity, this conversation offers a deeper look at the experiences that formed Jim's perspective and continue to shape his work today.   Conversation Overview Leadership is all about learning Learning shaped by pain, experience, and reflection Seeing yourself, your system, and your role within it Defining yourself and staying connected under pressure The long work of systems change and emotional maturity Encouragement and wisdom for the next generation of leaders   Resources and References Mentioned The Fifth Discipline by Peter Senge Murray Bowen Family Systems Theory The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard Union Baptist Association

By Mark Tannert - Encouragement is much needed in today's society. It should be part of what defines us as Christians and something we should practice at every opportunity.

There is power in every song of worship. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Ever wondered about the significance of friendship in your life? Join Daniel Bennett as he explores powerful biblical friendships that elevate our understanding of loyalty, support, and mutual respect.

The "Success/Struggle" Angle Ep.03 / Timeless Wisdom, Modern Mind PodcastBook Reference: BooK: Thank You, Mr. FalkerBy: Patricia PolaccoDo you ever feel like you're working twice as hard just to look "normal"? In today's talk, we dive into the moving story of Thank You, Mr. Falker to uncover why so many of us hide our "jumbles" and how one person's belief can rewrite a lifetime of failure. Whether you're struggling with a hidden challenge or want to be the advocate someone else needs, this session is for you.Main Takeaways:The Mask of Competence: We often spend more energy hiding a struggle than fixing it. Learn how to stop "acting" and start healing.The Power of an "Interrupter": Discover how one person (a "Mr. Falker") can break the cycle of shame and bullying.The Sweetness of Knowledge: Shifting your mindset from seeing learning as a "chore" to seeing it as "honey" for the soul.The Follow-Along Breakdown:The "Jumble" : Why letters, numbers, or life tasks sometimes feel like a blurry mess—and why we hide under the "stairwell" of life to avoid being seen.The Comparison Trap: The unique pain of watching others "get it" effortlessly while you feel left behind.Being the "Falker" (The Advocate): How to spot the "jumble" in others and lead with "honey-sweet" words that heal (Proverbs 16:24).The Barnabas Effect: A look at how the biblical "Son of Encouragement" saw potential where others only saw a threat.Put it Into Practice:Identify Your Jumble: What are you hiding because you're afraid of looking "dumb"?The Honey Ritual: Treat one thing you learn this week as a gift, not a task.Speak Up: Be the person who silences the bullies and validates the value of those being dismissed."Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." — Proverbs 16:24

Falling off a goal is normal. Knowing how to get back on track—without shame or drama—is the real skill. I'm hosting a free 60-minute live workshop on Tuesday, January 27 at 7pm ET to teach a simple framework for getting unstuck. Register now for ⁠Falling Off is Part of It: The Framework for Getting Back on Track (Without the Drama)⁠! In this episode, Casey McGuire Davidson talks about discovering life beyond alcohol and strategies for lasting sobriety and emotional wellness. She shares her struggles with alcohol, repeated attempts to quit, and how support, coaching, and treating sobriety as an experiment helped her succeed. Casey also discusses the challenges of early sobriety, the importance of community and self-care, and practical strategies for replacing drinking habits. The conversation emphasizes curiosity, planning, and support as keys to lasting change, offering hope and encouragement for anyone considering a break from alcohol. Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, ⁠How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!⁠ Key Takeaways: Personal journey of struggling with alcohol and attempts to quit. Challenges faced during early sobriety, including anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. Benefits of sobriety, such as improved emotional stability and better sleep. The concept of treating sobriety as an experiment rather than a permanent decision. Importance of support systems, including coaching, therapy, and community groups. Strategies for replacing drinking habits with healthier alternatives and activities. The role of public accountability in maintaining sobriety goals. Understanding the cultural conditioning around alcohol and its impact on social interactions. The significance of creating new rewards and self-care practices to replace alcohol. Encouragement to approach sobriety with curiosity and openness to change. For full show notes: click here! If you enjoyed this conversation with Casey McGuire Davidson, check out these other episodes: Special Episode: 4 Different Journeys to Sobriety The Joy of Being Sober with Catherine Gray The Magic of Being Sober with Laura McKowen By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you! This episode is sponsored by: Check out Mountains to Cross by Dr. Abraham George. It's the story of how a life built on success was redirected toward compassion, and how that choice led to the founding of Shanti Bhavan, a school helping children break free from generational poverty. Find it wherever books are sold. ⁠David Protein⁠ bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to ⁠www.davidprotein.com/FEED⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve (Sicangu Lakota and Ponca) mistook her first interaction with racism — a separate gas station outhouse reserved for “Indians” — as a privileged courtesy for her and her people. It is one of the “Special Places, Sacred Circles” that she recalls in the account of her life on the dry, windy plains of South Dakota. She tells of the Great Depression, grandmothers who taught her the power of words, and the navigation of a literary world that embraced her. Sneve was one of the first authors to offer an alternative to children's literature flush with stereotypes. Her insightful writing took her from her home along Ponca Creek to a presidential honor at the White House. We'll hear Sneve talk about her life as a writer and public school educator. Break 1 Music:  Song of Encouragement (song) Porcupine Singers (artist) Alowanpi – Songs of Honoring – Lakota Classics: Past & Present, Vol. 1 (album) Break 2 Music: Elle Danse [Boogat Remix] (song) Mimi O'Bonsawin (artist)

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael returns with guest Kristin Silva Linder, an author and biblical counselor from Portland. The conversation delves into the theme, 'Wisdom Adorns the Shamed,' focusing on how wisdom and scriptural truths can address the impacts of trauma and shame. Kristin shares personal experiences and insights into helping individuals who feel unworthy or dirty on the inside by showing how God's promises beautify them. She discusses the importance of holding onto steadfast love and faithfulness to trust God's narrative over feelings of shame. The episode underscores that through leaning on Jesus and embodying His words, one can experience radiance, beautification, and joy despite the burdens of shame.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Introduction01:23 Kristin Silva Linder's Background and Current Work02:47 Exploring the Concept of Shame and Trauma06:49 God's Response to Shame and Trauma13:33 Practical Wisdom from Proverbs18:17 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Happy Friday! Topics today include preparing for winter storm Fern, preparing for the return of Christ, the temptation to return to bondage, Heaven is real, God wants our whole heart, and more! EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FOR THE FAITHFUL LADIES DAYCATION 2026 is open!! Janice's books What Do I Have to Lose? Books 1 and 2   are available NOW!! The complete set is just $25. Check it out at FaithMusicRadio.com. >> Also, featuring A Word of Encouragement with Vicky Mutchler, CW Today with Loretta Walker and Silhouettes with Shari House.  Be sure to subscribe to this podcast and please share this podcast with your friends so we may be an encouragement to them through the music and programming on Faith Music Radio. Music is brought to you by Faith Music Missions. Learn more here >>> https://www.faithmusicmissions.org Eleven2One Facebook  Eleven2One on Instagram Faith Music Radio is a listener supported Christian station.

A Word of Encouragement with Vicky Mutchler is heard at 11:30 AM Central Time on Faith Music Radio.  Join the Facebook group On a Positive Note to get more words of encouragement from Mrs. Vicky - https://www.facebook.com/groups/171863542874382/

This is a Q&A session from the Soul Searchers Retreat. Acharya das delivers a comprehensive discussion on spiritual life versus material life, emphasizing the fundamental distinction between material consciousness (identifying with the physical body) and spiritual consciousness (recognizing oneself as an eternal spiritual being). He explains that material life is founded on the belief that "I am material," while spirituality recognizes "I'm an eternal spiritual being." A wide range of topics were addressed (as you can see from the chapters listed below) including the concept of karma yoga which was introduced as a process of integrating life activities with spiritual practice by offering all actions as service to a higher spiritual reality. **************************************CHAPTERS‎ 00:00 Distinguishing Material and Spiritual Life02:39 The Concept of Karma Yoga 04:09 The Bhagavad Gita: Arjuna's Dilemma‎05:42 Arjuna's Breakdown and Krishna's Response08:24 Krishna's Teaching on Duty and Nature09:46 The Radical Teaching of Spiritual Action11:23 The Lesson of Utilizing Our Tools12:42 The Fundamental Shift in Consciousness14:06 Two Schools of Thought: Traditional vs. Advaita15:43 Critique of the "I Am God" Philosophy17:05 Qualitative Oneness vs. Quantitative Difference18:31 The Complete Whole Principle21:40 The Appeal of False God-Realization22:58 Three Aspects of Self-Realization23:56 The Inevitable Fall from Impersonal Realization25:37 Three Features of the Absolute Truth27:30 The Nature of Transcendental Connection29:40 Comparing Levels of Transcendental Happiness31:27 Rejection of Blind Faith32:42 The Problem of Consciousness Filters33:26 Indescribable Spiritual Delights‎34:52 The Importance of Questioning35:46 Proper vs. Improper Questioning37:07 The Problem of False Self-Importance39:32 Three Authorities in Vedic System41:00 Internal Spiritual Guidance‎43:17 Alignment of Spiritual Authorities45:13 Universal Accessibility of Spiritual Realization46:19 Divine Assistance for Sincere Seekers48:05 Recognition of Spiritual Truth49:30 Encouragement and Final Thoughts50:35 Kirtan Meditation**************************************

PSR Podcast is a listener supported outreach of Be Broken Ministries. Partner with us through giving at BeBroken.org/donate. Thank you for your support!----------In this episode of our new “Family Time” segment, I chat with Norma Brown, our Family Care Director, about the first of six “critical conversations” parents should have with their kids: Feelings and Emotions. We focus on the importance of talking about feelings and emotions as the foundation for deeper topics like sex. Norma shares practical tips, resources like the “Honest Talk Game,” and encouragement for parents to build trust and emotional connection. Together, we explore how modeling vulnerability and emotional honesty can help families create a safe space for open, ongoing conversations.For all our Family Care resources, visit Bebroken.org/family. Topics Covered in this Episode: Introduction of the "Family Time" segment focused on parenting in a sex-saturated culture.Importance of having "critical conversations" with children.First critical conversation centered on feelings and emotions.Building trust and emotional expression as foundational elements in parent-child communication.The role of parents in modeling emotional regulation and expression.Strategies for parents to connect with their children emotionally.Tools and resources to facilitate discussions about emotions, such as emotion wheels and the "Honest Talk Game."Encouragement for parents to embark on their own emotional growth journey.The significance of vulnerability and humility in parenting.Reassurance that it's never too late to start building emotional connections with children.Resources for Next Steps:Just Between Us Journal*Honest Talk* by John FortHonest Talk: The GameFor more parenting podcasts, go to Bebroken.org/tp-pods and scroll to Family Bundles.*This is an affiliate link. Be Broken may earn referral fees on purchases through this link.----------Please rate and review our podcast: Apple PodcastsFollow us on our Vimeo Channel.

Send Us Your Prayer Requests --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

This episode of Agents of Recovery centers on real questions from listeners who are navigating recovery, personal growth, and life after addiction. Coach Blu and Wendell offer direct, grounded answers drawn from lived experience, professional insight, and years of work in recovery spaces. The conversation is honest, practical, and focused on progress rather than perfection, giving listeners tools they can apply immediately.Episode OverviewIn this Q&A-style episode, Coach Blu and Wendell respond to questions submitted by the Agents of Recovery community. Topics range from maintaining sobriety under pressure to rebuilding trust, managing emotions, and redefining identity in recovery. Each answer blends compassion with accountability, reflecting the podcast's core philosophy.What Listeners Will Hear- Practical recovery strategies for everyday challenges- Straightforward answers to complex, real-life questions- Personal insights from Coach Blu and Wendell's recovery journeys- Actionable guidance for emotional regulation, boundaries, and growth- Encouragement without sugarcoating, focused on sustainable changeThis episode reinforces that recovery is not about having all the answers, but about staying willing, honest, and connected. By addressing listener questions directly, Coach Blu and Wendell remind the audience that no one recovers alone and that clarity often comes through shared experience.

Hey Friends~  This episode is about the journey of podcasting and coaching and what I have learned after 250 episodes.   I invite you to email “congratulations” to me to share in this milestone celebration.  And, when you do, I will email you back with a fun pdf that will bring a smile to your face as well as offer support and encouragement.  I think you may be surprised and get a laugh along the way today!  Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com   A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!   Cindy Howard  Lightening Admin VA   cindy@lightningadminva.com 2026 Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica

Come and See: The First Disciples – John 1:29–51In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane continue through the Gospel of John by exploring John 1:29–51, the calling of the first disciples. From John the Baptist's declaration—“Behold, the Lamb of God”—to Jesus' simple yet powerful invitation to “come and see,” this passage reveals how relationship, curiosity, and witness draw people to Christ. Together, they unpack what it means to follow Jesus before fully understanding Him, how obedience often begins with an invitation, and why discipleship is rooted in encounter, not perfection. This conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own call to follow—and who God may be inviting them to bring along.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Website: www.janewwilliams.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams

If you've ever wondered why you don't feel God lately (even if you've been seeking Him), you're not alone. In today's conversation, we gently and honestly explore possible reasons God may feel distant, while holding a big, important caveat. This episode is not about self-condemnation, but about loving reflection, truth, and encouragement. We'll talk through some common reasons we may not feel God's presence — and I also share an exhortation for those seasons when none of these apply to you, yet God still feels far. In this episode, we cover: Why unrepented sin can dull our spiritual sensitivity (and how repentance brings freedom) How constant distraction, busyness, and mental overload can crowd out time with God A powerful shift that happens when we confront misconceptions about God's character What it looks like to seek Jesus half-heartedly (and how Scripture calls us deeper) An honest reflection on how seasons like motherhood and overwhelm can impact our walk with God Why God's presence is not performance-based, but how our practices still matter Encouragement for those walking by faith, not feelings, when God feels silent This episode isn't me talking at you — it's me talking with you. These are things I've wrestled with myself, and my prayer is that this conversation leads you toward freedom, clarity, and renewed hope. If none of these reasons apply to you — hear this: Faith is the evidence of things not seen. Keep trusting. Keep pursuing. Keep running the race. Do not grow weary. God is faithful — even in the quiet. LINKS: Some tools as you seek Jesus more:  Eden to Eternity Bible Study: https://collabs.shop/obrgbv code MEGANHOLMES10 for 10% off Handbook Bundle: https://collabs.shop/obrgbv code MEGANHOLMES10 for 10% off Prayer Calendar: https://collabs.shop/obrgbv code MEGANHOLMES10 for 10% off ESV Study Bible: https://collabs.shop/sqpk0u code SHELIVESPURPOSEFULLY for 10% off Notebook: https://collabs.shop/matpjd code SHELIVESPURPOSEFULLY for 10% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leading Into 2026: Executive Pastor Insights Momentum is real. So is the pressure. This free report draws from the largest dedicated survey of Executive Pastors ever, revealing what leaders are actually facing as they prepare for 2026. Why staff health is the #1 pressure point Where churches feel hopeful — and stretched thin What worked in 2025 and is worth repeating Clear decision filters for the year ahead Download the Full Report Free PDF • Built for Executive Pastors • Instant access Welcome back to another episode of the unSeminary podcast. We’re continuing our conversations with executive pastors from prevailing churches, unpacking what leaders like you shared in the National Executive Pastor Survey, so you can lead forward with clarity. Today we're joined by Paul Alexander, Executive Pastor at Sun Valley Community Church and Senior Consultant with The Unstuck Group. With more than 25 years of ministry experience and nearly 15 years at Sun Valley, Paul brings a blend of practitioner insight and coaching wisdom. Sun Valley is one of the fastest-growing churches in the country, with six physical locations, a prison campus, and more expansion on the way. In this conversation, Paul helps unpack one of the most pressing themes from the National Executive Pastor Survey: staff health, culture, and organizational structure. Is your church clear on vision and strategy but still struggling to move forward? Do you sense tension or fatigue beneath the surface of your staff team? Paul offers candid, practical guidance on how leaders can cultivate both healthy and high-performing teams. Staff culture is often the real growth lid. // Many churches leave strategic planning sessions with remarkable clarity—clear vision, strong strategy, and actionable next steps—yet still fail to move forward. The reason is rarely theological or missional; it's cultural. Team culture and staff structure often become the limiting factor. Just as personal growth stalls when internal issues go unresolved, churches stall when unhealthy patterns persist within leadership teams. Healthy and high-performing. // Many churches swing between two extremes: high performance with little concern for soul health, or relational warmth with minimal accountability to achieve the vision. Neither honors the full call of ministry. The healthiest teams refuse to live at either end of the pendulum. Instead, they pursue a culture where people are cared for deeply while being challenged to steward their gifts faithfully toward the mission. You can't legislate health. // Health cannot be enforced through policies alone. Leaders set the tone through example, not rules. Staff watch how senior leaders manage time, rest, family, boundaries, and pressure. Late-night emails, skipped days off, and constant urgency quietly shape expectations—even if leaders say otherwise. Pastors need to lead with moral authority, not moral perfection: modeling rhythms that reflect trust in God rather than fear-driven overwork. Practical rhythms that protect people. // At Sun Valley, staff health is reinforced through intentional systems. Leaders are expected to take their days off and use vacation time; reports track whether staff actually do. Full-time staff receive sabbaticals every seven years, including non-director-level roles. Marriage retreats are offered as a gift to staff couples, recognizing that healthier marriages produce healthier ministry. These investments cost little financially but yield long-term fruit in sustainability and trust. Hire leaders, not doers. // A common staffing pitfall is hiring doers instead of leaders. While competence and skill earn someone a seat on the team at Sun Valley, long-term effectiveness depends on their ability to develop others. Staff are evaluated not on how much ministry they personally accomplish, but on how well they equip volunteers to lead. Volunteers are the heroes; staff exist to serve and multiply them. This mindset shifts ministry from bottlenecked to scalable. Structure must evolve with growth. // Churches often treat structure as fixed, but Paul insists that growing churches must restructure continually. Span of care, staffing ratios, and role clarity must be revisited regularly. He points to healthy benchmarks—such as staffing costs and staff-to-attendance ratios—as helpful indicators, not rigid rules. When leaders ignore structure, culture suffers; when structure is aligned, momentum increases. Fruit requires clarity and measurement. // Every staff role at Sun Valley includes measurable outcomes. Paul likens this to personal goals—no one expects a marriage to improve without intentional action. Clear metrics create focus, alignment, and accountability. Monthly one-on-ones blend personal care with performance review, ensuring leaders are supported holistically while still moving the mission forward. Encouragement for leaders sensing tension. // For executive pastors who feel something is “off” but can't quite name it, Paul urges them not to ignore that instinct. Growth exposes weaknesses, and structure or culture may need adjustment. Whether the issue is misalignment, unclear expectations, or misplaced roles, addressing it early prevents deeper damage later. To learn more about Sun Valley Community Church, visit sunvalleycc.com. For resources on staff health, structure, and strategy, explore theunstuckgroup.com or email Paul directly. Watch the full episode below: Thank You for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, but you chose unSeminary, and I'm grateful for that. If you enjoyed today's show, please share it by using the social media buttons you see at the left hand side of this page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they're extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally! Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: SermonDone Hey friends, Sunday is coming… is your Sermon Done?Pastor, you don't need more pressure—you need support. That's why you need to check out SermonDone—the premium AI assistant built exclusivelyfor pastors. SermonDone helps you handle the heavy lifting: deep sermon research, series planning, and even a theologically aligned first draft—in your voice—because it actually trains on up to 15 of your past sermons. But it doesn't stop there. With just a click, you can instantly turn your message into small group guides, discussion questions, and even kids curriculum. It's like adding a research assistant, a writing partner, and a discipleship team—all in one. Try it free for 5 days. Head over to www.SermonDone.com and use promo code Rich20 for 20% off today! Episode Transcript Rich Birch — Hey friends, welcome to the unSeminary podcast. Really glad that you’ve decided to tune in. We’re doing a special series here this month where we’re looking at the results of a national survey that we did of executive pastors across the country. And we’ve pulled in some leading XPs from prevailing churches to help us think through these issues. Like we’re sitting across the table, if you talk about this problem, they want to help you with that. And today it’s our honor, our privilege really to have Paul Alexander with us. He is the executive pastor at Sun Valley Church for over 10 years. He has 25 years of experience. He’s a senior consultant with Unstuck, I think for 13 years. And he’s worked with all kinds of churches on health assessment, strategic planning. Sun Valley, if you don’t know this church, you’re living under a rock. fantastic church in Arizona, six physical locations, if I’m counting correctly, plus in prison, plus online. It’s repeatedly one of the fastest growing churches in the country. Paul, welcome to the show. So glad you’re here.Paul Alexander — Yeah, Rich, glad to be with you. Hopefully the conversation can help your listeners, man.Rich Birch — I really appreciate that. Why why don’t you fill in the picture about Sun Valley? I know we’ve had you on in the past. You should go back and listen, friends, but kind of give us the Sun Valley picture. Kind of tell us a little bit about that to set some context today.Paul Alexander — Yeah, man, been here now for almost 15 years. It’s wild to think back. When I first joined the team, it was one location, 10 acres, one exit, one entrance.Rich Birch — Wow.Paul Alexander — And, you know, there’s a lid to what you can do with that. And so we had originally went multi-site because we had to go multi-site. You know, the mission that Jesus gave the church to help more people meet him and grow up in their friendship with him. We had a lid to that with the space we were in. And so we had to go multi-site. It wasn’t cool. It wasn’t cute. It wasn’t fun. It wasn’t an experiment. It was like, if we’re going to obey Jesus, we don’t have an option.Rich Birch — Right. Yes.Paul Alexander — And so over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to add new locations. And, yeah, six physical locations, one in a prison. Our next prison campus opens up Q1. We grand open our Chandler location in March, and we break ground on San Tan in May. So, yeah, man, fun times, lots of people meeting Jesus.Rich Birch — So multi-sites not dead at Sun Valley.Paul Alexander — Man, multi-site’s not dead in America. Yeah.Rich Birch — I know. And it’s true, right? It’s one of those like, people are like, oh, I don’t know. That’s an old idea. I’m like, that’s not what I’m seeing. I’m like, gosh, there’s so many prevailing churches like Sun Valley that are just doubling down. That’s that’s fantastic. Rich Birch — Well, looking forward to today’s conversation. So friends, you’ve joined us actually for within, what did we ask, two questions that were about fears for next year and or for this year, 2026, you caught me. We recorded this late in 2025.Rich Birch — And we’re talking today about the biggest fear. 24.8% of all respondents identified staff health, organizational structure, morale, succession, leadership – the people issues as a primary fear heading into this year. In fact, and then a separate question we asked about data and insight. Where are you lacking some of that? Almost 9% of respondents answered that they’re looking for better data on staff pipeline and org chart and leadership development, these sort of things.Rich Birch — When you combine them together what does that mean? Nearly three in ten surface staff related tension as a defining pressure point for 2026. And when I was thinking about this issue, I thought of no one better than Paul to pull on and to have this conversation with. So Paul, when you look at the churches across the country, you interact with a lot of churches both just because you’re a great person and through Unstuck, and you’re and Sun Valley’s a leading church and people will ask you questions all the time. Where do you think staff health breaks down the most and why is that? Why is this such a tension for us as we lead from our seats?Paul Alexander — Yeah, well, to your point, Rich, it comes up repeatedly with my work with Unstuck with churches. It’s not uncommon to do a health assessment, strategic planning with the church, and you walk out of the room and they have great clarity on vision, on where they’re going next. They have great clarity on strategy, like how they’re actually going to pull this off and do it.Paul Alexander — And yet you walk out of the room and the lid to move towards that vision, actually obey Jesus and do what Jesus has commissioned and command commanded them to do, the lid is the culture of the team. And the team culture and the team structure is what’s holding them back from going where Jesus wants them to go. Paul Alexander — Which we shouldn’t be surprised by this, frankly. that’s That’s the organizational side of how that shows up. This shows up in our own life personally. So on a micro scale, what’s preventing you and I from actually following Jesus and what He’s calling us to do in 2026? Well, it’s not Jesus’s problem. The problem is not with him. The problem usually with us.Rich Birch — Yes.Paul Alexander — The problem is with how we structure our life, our family, our time, maybe something in our own heart and in the culture of our own heart and our families.Paul Alexander — And so on on a macro scalele scale in the church, it’s not a surprise that this shows up. Most most churches have a tendency to run on a pendulum, Rich, of either being a really high performing team or a very, very healthy team. And at Unstuck, we want we want staff teams to be both very healthy and very high performing.Paul Alexander — The the problem is most churches, their staff swing through that pendulum from one side to the other. And so, and you’ve seen this repeatedly, where it’s take ground and in just do the next thing. And they’re very project oriented and destination oriented, and they have a tendency to not really care about the soul of the team, the health of the team, and they’re caring much more about the the destination they’re chasing.Paul Alexander — Or they’re sitting around looking at each other, praying for one another, kumbaya-ing together, and they’re neglecting the actual call that God’s put on their life. It’s not just a personal holiness, but to invite others people other people to know Jesus as well.Paul Alexander — And while that’s an over-exaggeration, fundamentally, that’s very true of what happens with staff teams. And so, yeah, walking away from a strategic planning with the church, you’re thinking, oh, they’ve got everything they need.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — They just don’t have the culture to pull it off. their Their staff culture is going to prevent them from going where God wants them to go. Or they’ve hired ah a lot of doers on the team and they don’t actually have leaders. So they’ve hired people to do ministry instead of lead ministry. Or they don’t really have a development pipeline. You know, they don’t have a plan to coach up and build up people that the Lord’s already entrusted to them right underneath their nose, to invite them into leadership in the church. And so, yeah, there’s some overarching things that are common.Rich Birch — Yeah, so when I saw this came out, I wasn’t surprised by this result. We’ve seen similar results in past years. But whenever I look at this fear that leaders have, I’m reminded what our mutual friend Jenni Catrin says. She talks about senior leaders are, we think our staff culture is better than it actually is. Like from our perspective, sitting as an executive pastor, lead pastor, we look around and we’re like, man, this is a great place to work. But that’s not necessarily the case with our people. Rich Birch — Sticking with this idea of like high performing and healthy, when you think about Sun Valley or the churches you coach, what are some practical rhythms or structures that you’ve put in place or seen put in place that really help try to do both of those things. Cause I think that’s, I think that’s ultimately what honors the Lord is like, we do want to be high performing. We, the mission’s massive. Like, gosh, we got to get out and reach some people, but we, we don’t want to drive over our people to get there. Paul Alexander — Yeah.Rich Birch — Help us understand what does that practical, some of those practical rhythms look like.Paul Alexander — Well, I don’t I don’t think a lot of XPs are going like what I’m about to say… Rich Birch — Uh-oh. Paul Alexander — …but you you cannot legislate health. You can’t. You can’t build enough guidelines. You can’t build enough policies. You can’t make people be healthy. You also can’t lead a healthy organization unless you yourself are healthy. It’s that’s a just it’s just a fact. You can’t take your family somewhere you haven’t been.Paul Alexander — You disciple people, to use a Bible word for a second, you can’t disciple your own children and your own family and people close to you by intention or neglect. We do that all the time, and unless you have something to actually give them. And so this is why even in the Old Testament, you know God gives the law and we realize we can’t live up to the law. And so it honestly only shows our own imperfection. Right. And so God you know, Jesus says, “Well, hold on a second. The Sabbath was made for man. Man wasn’t made for the Sabbath.” Paul Alexander — And so um what does that mean? It means, I think, as executive staff, senior staff in the church, you actually have to lead with some moral authority in this area. And so people are going to watch if if they get an email from you at 11 o’clock at night, that tells them what’s expected of them. Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Without you ever even saying it, you’re telling them what’s expected. If you’re texting them after work hours, so to speak, and it’s not an emergency, it actually, you know, it could probably wait till tomorrow, but you’re having it right now because it’s important to you, and you don’t have the personal self-control to be able to not have that conversation with that staff member at that time.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good.Paul Alexander — You’re telling them how they’re supposed to behave. They’re watching you just again, leadership so much like parenting. And I don’t want to minimize this, but children watch their parents and they naturally adhere to and take on the behaviors of their parents and the family unit that they grow up in. Rich Birch — Yeah, it’s so true.Paul Alexander — And culture a lot like that. It’s way more caught than taught. And so the leaders of the executive staff and senior staff, they’ve got to lead with moral authority, not moral perfection. We’re not going to see that this side of seeing Jesus, right? Not moral superiority. We’re not better than anybody. But just to be able to say, hey, man, if if everybody at my church and on my staff. If they manage their time the way I manage my time, if they manage their finances the way I manage my finances, if they used alcohol the way I use alcohol, or if they use the internet or social media the way I do, if they traded their… would my church be more of what Jesus wants it to be or less?Rich Birch — That’s good. That’s so good.Paul Alexander — And so there’s a moral authority component to this. They got to model this. Okay.Paul Alexander — Now, practically, Rich, because you know, okay, what does it actually mean? Take your time off. Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Like that sounds so silly, but I mean, I remember as a young guy in ministry, my my wife was working Monday through Friday. Friday was supposed to be my day off. I’m not the kind of guy that’s going to sit around and like watch Oprah on Friday. Or like, you know, just snack and binge watch Netflix or something like that. That’s not how God wired me up. And so I would just go into the office.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — And I’m like, my my wife’s working. Well, we don’t have kids. um I’m going to go get some stuff done. I’m going to move the ball forward.Rich Birch — Yeah.Paul Alexander — And I remember the XP I was working with on the senior staff at the time came in to get something out of the office. And he saw me and he’s like, Paul, what are you what are you doing? And so I do the whole, my wife’s working and I’m not going to sit around and watch Netflix, blah, blah, blah. He’s like… he gave me a gift. He said, Paul, if you don’t take every day off between now and the end of the year, don’t bother coming in in January.Rich Birch — Oh my goodness.Paul Alexander — Yeah, yeah, yeah.Rich Birch — Wow.Paul Alexander — And looking back, that high challenge was a tremendous gift, to begin to teach a young man in ministry that had a propensity to drive hard to learn how to actually slow down and enjoy my life and receive from the Lord.Rich Birch — That’s interesting.Paul Alexander — And so, um yeah, take your day off. It sounds so silly.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s so good. No, it’s good.Paul Alexander — I get a report on my desk once a year, Rich, of all of our staff, even multiple campuses, all that, who’s taking their time off and who hasn’t taken their time off. And it’s not uncommon for me to have a conversation in January to say, hey, dude, if you don’t take all your time off this year, we’re going to have a problem. Because you’re no good burning out. The Lord needs you in the game for the long run.Rich Birch — Yeah.Paul Alexander — And I need you in the game for the long run. Sun Valley needs you in the game for the long run. Rich Birch — Yeah. Right. Paul Alexander — Your family needs that, and you can’t self destruct. So.Rich Birch — Yeah, it’s so good. I had a similar interaction early on in ministry where I had a senior leader say to me, it with a similar kind of tone, don’t forget, take your day off is on the same list as don’t kill someone. Like, you know, which always stuck with me where I was like, you know, okay. And he said it in a funny kind of like, but but the message was was clear, right?Paul Alexander — Yeah.Rich Birch — Same kind of thing. Hey, we, and I don’t know that I’ve always lived by that. Paul Alexander — Yeah, sure.Rich Birch — Are there other behaviors that you, you know, in a similar way would lean in. I think the fact that you’re pushing on, okay, as us as senior leaders, are we setting the pace with the health of our organizations? Lean a little bit more in on that for us.Paul Alexander — Yeah, sure. So a couple of practical things that any leader can actually make their decision to start doing today. Establish a finish line. In some regards, you know, when is ministry ever really done? Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Well, when 7.5 billion people on the planet know Jesus, we’re done, right? So it’s one of those, the poor will have you with you you’ll have with you always. There’s never going to be a done moment. So you got to choose each day when you’re done. And if you don’t choose it, someone else will choose it for you. Paul Alexander — And so talk with your family, figure it out. And there may be a moving target from day to day and what the rhythm of your family is and the rhythm of your ministry is the Lord’s entrusted to you. But you have to personally establish when’s the finish line. I’m going to turn my phone off. I’m gonna turn my email off. I’m going to mute this or whatever. And unless something’s burning down, I’m not going to I’m not going to jump in. Simple things.Paul Alexander — Marriage retreats. We started experimenting some time ago with marriage retreats for our staff at Sun Valley. And so like everybody would say, it’s a good thing for people’s marriages to get better. And sometimes we’ll do that for our people in our churches. And we just thought, well, gosh, what if we did that for our staff? You know, if the marriages of our staff got better, would the ministries that the Lord’s entrusted to them get better? Of course they would.Rich Birch — Of course they would, yeah.Paul Alexander — So we just started doing a marriage retreat couple times a year for our staff.Rich Birch — Wow.Paul Alexander — We invite, you know, 10 to 15 couples. We have a professional counselor that we pay for that runs the thing. And we we just do that as a as a gift to our staff. Because we think, if our staff marriages get better, the ministry that the Lord’s entrusted to them will get better. Paul Alexander — We do sabbaticals every seven years for our full-time director level staff and up. And there’s a period of time that they get and a financial allowance they get. And they think about it in three in three different buckets, like professional development, personal development, and just family. And and ultimately we want them to rest so they can minister from a from a full cup, you know?Paul Alexander — And ah some time ago, we actually made the decision. It didn’t cost us anything, Rich, that even our full-time staff, no matter what their level in the organization was. So for example, a full-time administrative assistant. If they’re full-time, every seven years they get a sabbatical. We give them… Rich Birch — Oh, wow.Paul Alexander — …yeah, you’re full-time admin at Sun Valley. You get, now the scale of it’s a little different.Rich Birch — Sure.Paul Alexander — We just give them a month off with no financial allowance, but we give a month off every seven years to take at one lump sum… Rich Birch — Wow. Paul Alexander — …to get out and refresh their soul and enjoy their life a little bit. What’s that really cost us? Nothing, but time.Rich Birch — Right. Right.Paul Alexander — Nothing.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — And so, yeah, there’s some real tactical things that you can do to invest in your team. Again, you can’t make them be healthy people, but you can kind of roll the carpet out and pave the way for them to be healthy people.Rich Birch — I love that. That’s some real practical examples. I love what you’ve you’ve outlined there and been you know super practical. That’s, yeah, that’s fantastic. I get the sabbatical question actually quite a bit. I think churches wrestle with that and they you know they they think, oh, you know how should we do that? So you do, kind of like what we would typically think of as a sabbatical at director and above, but then everyone else does kind of this one one month off. That’s great. And they do they have to submit a plan for the sabbatical ahead of time? Some churches will do that where they have to kind of define, hey, this is how we’re going to do. Just give us a little more detail on that.Paul Alexander — Yeah. We’re not uber religious about it, Rich. Rich Birch — Sure. Paul Alexander — We, we, we, there is a plan and their supervisor talks through their plan with them… Rich Birch — Yeah. Paul Alexander — …because there’s a financial allowance that follows that. Rich Birch — Yep.Paul Alexander — So yeah, they have the conversation ahead of time. As a representative of the board, I actually sign off on all those sabbaticals just to make sure they’re thinking about and they’re thinking…Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — …intelligently about how they want to spend their time. But functionally, to be honest, like you and your wife just went on vacation, right?Rich Birch — Yep.Paul Alexander — If our staff went on vacation for like an entire sabbatical and sat on the beach for a month or two, and they came back a little bit more rested, and they’d read a couple of books and spent time with the Lord… Rich Birch — Right. Paul Alexander — …and they walked and prayed and fasted and enjoyed their life a little bit, they’d probably come back a little healthier. Rich Birch — Right. Yeah, that’s great.Paul Alexander — So I don’t have strong feelings about it, man. Rest, enjoy your life.Rich Birch — Yeah. Yeah, that’s good.Paul Alexander — Yeah.Rich Birch — That’s so good. I love that. I want to loop back on one thing you talked about earlier. You talked about hiring or or are the way our staff position themselves as doers versus leaders. I think this is a critical Ephesians 4, how we’re supposed to be equipping our people. But I see way too many of our team members, I see us fall into this all the time where we just slip into doing. Coach us around that. What difference does that make around cultures in our organizations?Paul Alexander — Well, yeah. Wow. Now you’re starting to talk about where accountability comes into play in culture, right? And where culture gets violated.Paul Alexander — So it’s not uncommon. So I still, at the size we are, director level and up, I still at least have a phone conversation interview with every single director level hire and up about our culture as they’re joining the team here. And if they do join the team, we go through net new staff orientation. Once a quarter, Chad, the lead pastor and myself, spend a half a day with all of our new staff and talk through our culture and our philosophy of ministry and our strategy and all that stuff.Paul Alexander — And frankly, it’s just a time to hang out have a meal together and create some relational accessibility. Because most these people I’m not going to work with day to day. Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — But I want them to know that we care about them, love them, and they’re they’re part of the family now. And so we we don’t hire people that aren’t absolutely fantastic, incredibly gifted people. Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — And it’s easy to compliment everybody in the room. Rich Birch — Right. Paul Alexander — Hey man, glad you’re on the team. Whether I hired you or somebody else hired you, I know you’re awesome because we don’t hire people that aren’t awesome. And you were gifted, you’re gifted. Someone saw something in you. We invited you to the team. But here’s the deal. You’re no longer going to be evaluated on how awesome you are. Now that you’re on the team—congratulations—you’re going to be evaluated how awesome you can make everybody else. Rich Birch — So good.Paul Alexander — And so your job and how great you are and gifted you are and skilled you are, that’s what got you in the room. What’s going to keep you in the room is your ability to make everybody else just as incredible as you. And so we just say that from the very beginning. Paul Alexander — And, you know, a lot of churches, their ministry staff kind of think, OK, I have to get all these volunteers in place to help them accomplish my ministry. At Sun Valley, we flipped that upside down. And the hero of the ministry at Sun Valley is the volunteer. We’re helping the church actually be the church. The staff’s role is to be a servant, to help people find their gifting, their place, their calling. And real leaders who are getting paid real money that attend your churches, um they want to solve big problems. They don’t want to just push a broom. Now, occasionally you run into the CEO or the general or whatever, who’s like, I just want to push a broom to help me remain humble. Great. We can we have a lot of brooms you can push.Rich Birch — Yes.Paul Alexander — But most people are competent, skilled, gifted, educated people. And they want to be called into something that’s big, and where they feel like they’re making a real difference. And so, yeah, our job as a staff is to call them into that, tee them up for that, support them in that, and let them run. Not let them run within the boundaries of our strategy and our culture and our vision, but let them run. So, but we’ve got to paint the riverbanks for them.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s really good. I love that. You know, kind of a related issue is how how is Sun Valley ensuring that you’ve got the right people in the right seats? What does that look like in your system? Like, how are you, like, what’s the what’s the cadence of, you know, regular reporting and like goal setting? Paul Alexander — Yeah.Rich Birch — And, you know, how are you holding people accountable? What does that what does that look like? I realize that could be like a whole episode in of itself… Paul Alexander — Sure. Rich Birch — …but give us kind of a thumbnail version of that.Paul Alexander — Yeah. Thumbnail. I mean, at the end of the day, I’ll give you the, how it happens, but, besides the hiring process and recruiting process, that stuff matters a lot. Right. So you’re inviting people to something that they’re actually gifted and called to. But at the end of the day, um it’s really results, Rich. The Bible way to say that is fruit. Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — OK, for all of our listeners who are high on the theology side of things, I can sympathize with you. I went to Bible school, too. Really, it’s fruit. And when you are in a place, when your staff are in a place where they’re playing to their strengths and their gifting, and they’re in a place where they’re not overreaching and trying to attain a different role, and they’re not talking about career path, they’re just content to be the person and play the part in the body of the Lord’s gifted and call them to to play, they’re going to have more fun and they’re going to produce more fruit.Rich Birch — Yep.Paul Alexander — It’s just a fact. And so when when you see all this striving and, you know, this ambition to like, I want more, I want more, I want more. It’s a very American, Western idea, right? And the biblical way of doing that would be, hey, well why don’t you be faithful with what the Lord’s entrusted with you today? And when he sees fit to entrust more to you, guess what? He probably will.Rich Birch — He will.Paul Alexander — There’s probably going be some stray arrow out of the battle that was never even intended to hit that guy. It’s going to find just the right place in the chink in the armor. And you’re going to ascend to the throne at the right time when the Lord wants you to. So, you know, relax. Do what the Lord’s called you to do today.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Be faithful in that.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — And he’ll entrust more to you when he’s ready.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — So that’s a big deal. that it may sound ah like a contrite, a little bit Bible answer to that. But when your staff are personally in a place where they’re doing what God’s called them to do, and they’re they’re very sober-minded about that, they’re going to have more fun. That’s really important. They’re go to have more fun in ministry. It’s going to be more fulfilling and they’re going to produce more fruit.Paul Alexander — Now, how’s that work its way out with what you’re talking about? We have an annual run of strategic planning that we do, both senior staff and then at the campus level. And that we refresh that every single year. Out of that come real clear objectives where the Lord’s calling us to go. Then goals, professional goals are set around that at the campus level. And then that kind of trickles down. That all gets into review systems. There’s monthly one-on-ones where they’re talking about the performance side of things.Paul Alexander — But it’s really normal, Rich, where if you and I were working with one another and I was reporting to you, you’d say, hey, Paul, what’s going on with you and Lisa? And you’d be asking about my daughters and you’d be asking about my sons. And we’d be talking about life and marriage and family. And and what’s the Lord doing in your life? What’s he saying to you these days? You know, and you know where’s he challenging you? Where’s he encouraging you? So they’re very natural, normal, that part of things there. You’d probably pray for me actually in that meeting that one-on-one. Paul Alexander — And then we talk about, okay, how are we doing with our goals? What what are the measurables? What are the setbacks? Because there’s always setbacks. Rich Birch — Right. Paul Alexander — And what are the things that went faster than you thought they would go? And you’re finding real real traction.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — And then my your job as a supervisor would be, how do you get roadblocks out of the way for me to be successful? Rich Birch — Right. Paul Alexander — How do you fuel things that I need fueled so I can be successful and and reach my goals? Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good. Paul Alexander — So yeah, does that make sense? Rich Birch — That makes total sense. So I, you know, in other contexts, I’ve said results matter because the work that you do matters so much. Like and, and we, and we, we want to think about results. We want to think about fruit. What percentage of, or you know, in a round sense of the team at Sun Valley has like a number or a metric or a like they can measure, it’s not like qualitative, like, oh, things are better. It’s like, no, no, we know. I know whether this is working or not. What percentage of your people you think have a metric like that they they think about on a regular basis?Paul Alexander — All of them.Rich Birch — Love it. Tell us about that. I think this is going to be mind blowing for leaders of churches who do not think about these things. And I know, you know, there’s people out there who, who they they haven’t wrestled with this idea. Unpack that a little bit more.Paul Alexander — Yeah. So, I mean, okay. So if I say, I want my marriage to get better this year, we’ll go real personal for a second. Rich Birch — Sure.Paul Alexander — I want to get my marriage. That’s wonderful. Who doesn’t want their marriage to get better? How are you going to do that?Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — That that just doesn’t magically happen. You don’t drift towards relational intimacy with your spouse.Rich Birch — Yes.Paul Alexander — What you do is you drift apart. That’s what happens.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Absence doesn’t make the grow heart grow fonder. It makes it wander. Rich Birch — Yes. Paul Alexander — And so, you know, you’ve got to figure out, okay, how many date nights am I going to do? How much am I going to budget towards this? Are we going to do an annual retreat as a husband and a spouse together, maybe a marriage retreat? Are we going to go on vacation? What are the conversations we feel like we need to lean into? Do we need some do we need some coaching? Rich, if you’re a professional counselor, do I need to go to you and get some some input and some professional coaching? Because goodness gracious, you can see some things that I don’t see because I’m in the fray of it day in and day out. Paul Alexander — So yeah, we’ll get real tactical and say, what book are you going to read? How many of those books are you going to read? What podcast? Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Are you going listen to the unSeminary podcast? You know. What are you going to do to to grow and in your marriage this year or as a leader. And so, yeah, if you can’t measure it, then you can’t actually do it. Rich Birch — Right. Paul Alexander — And then it gets down to opinions and, you know, everybody’s got one of those. So.Rich Birch — Yeah. Alright. I imagine imagine I’m an executive pastor you meet at a conference or you’re somewhere and you’re at an airport lounge, and they’re church of a thousand people, maybe 1500 people. They’ve got 10 staff and they’re sensing that, man, there’s some misalignment, but it’s it’s at the level of like, I think there might be a problem here. I’m not entirely sure. I feel like there’s cracks starting to happen in the staff culture, but it’s not like a giant fizzer. It’s just like things just don’t feel right. What would be some of the first steps that you would suggest a leader take to try to get clarity on actually where things are at with their staff team… Paul Alexander — Yeah. Rich Birch — …you know, in the next 90 days kind of thing?Paul Alexander — Yeah, that’s a good question. Okay, so first of all, I’d say, and this may sound, I mean, play Captain Obvious for a second, don’t ignore that inclination.Rich Birch — That’s good.Paul Alexander — So the Holy Spirit is is is impressing upon you, something doesn’t smell right, then it probably doesn’t smell right.Rich Birch — That’s good.Paul Alexander — Don’t bury that. Don’t avoid that. Avoiding something you know you have to solve is never going to make that situation better, ever.Rich Birch — That’s so true.Paul Alexander — And so don’t avoid it. Go with that feeling. Lean into it a little bit and and begin. Why? Why do I feel this way? What is what am I sensing that needs to be solved? Because my hunch is they’re anticipating something. If they are a good intuitive leader, they’re probably anticipating something before it’s going to happen.Paul Alexander — And so structure is always a lid to growth in a church. Churches always need to restructure. This is really important. So once you get a structure, it’s not like, oh we’re going to be with this structure for the next 15 years. Rich Birch — Right. Paul Alexander — And if it’s a growing church, you’re always going to need to restructure. And that’s just normal. Get used to it.Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — It’s just part of what it is. Rich Birch — Yes.Paul Alexander — And so I think you’ve got decipher, is it a structure issue or is it a culture issue? That that’s, you know, Wwhat am I sensing that needs to be actually needs to be solved? If it’s a culture issue, where is there a violation of your culture taking place, and how do you help it get better? Maybe you haven’t defined what your culture is. Rich Birch — Right.Paul Alexander — Maybe you can’t actually really articulate it. Maybe you haven’t written it down, trained it. Maybe you have not filmed 5 to 10 minute videos for every new staff member to to onboarding to actually understand your cultural distinctives. Maybe you’ve not embedded that into your annual reviews and actually, you know at review time, you’re actually reviewing me on how we’re doing, how I’m doing with our staff culture.Paul Alexander — So maybe that’s something you need to just kind of look in the mirror and say, you know what, as a leader, I have the power to change that. And I’m going to get that better this next year. We’re going really clear about what our staff culture is. Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good.Paul Alexander — And then we’re going embed that and train it. If it’s a structural thing, is it truly a structural thing or do you have one or two players that just aren’t playing their part? You know, you’ve got ah this wonderful body the Lord’s put together. He talks about the church being the body of Christ, this wonderful body but where we’re limping because our ankle, we got a bum ankle. And the reality is we either need to rest it, you know, so we can get it healed up. We need to maybe get some repair done to it, or we need to like reconstruct that thing. We need a new ankle. Rich Birch — Yeah.Paul Alexander — All of those are fine answers. And I think just being honest about the team that we have and everybody playing in the right place. And then structurally, you start to get into span of care and you know do we have the right number of staff? Those are real answers you can really get. When we do staffing and structure with churches at the Unstuck Group, there are real healthy benchmarks. There are real healthy financial numbers that are good benchmarks, you know. If you’re spending more than 50 cents on the dollar on your staffing, you should ask yourself why.Paul Alexander — You know, if you have more than your staffing, you’re, you know, beyond one to 75 and you’re creeping into an area that’s really unhealthy. You know, I’ve seen churches that are staffed like one full time staff member for every 30 attenders at the church.Rich Birch — Right, right.Paul Alexander — And you’re just like. It’s sad, frankly, because the Lord’s called us to so much more. And um so those are those are like the basic science side of things that need to be changed. You know, if you’re not clear about who your senior staff is, if you got, if your senior staff, like your executive staff, are making decisions about like the color of the carpet, and they’re making decisions that that are low-level decisions, then you kind of got to look in the mirror and say, boy, are we training our staff that all big decisions have to come to us? Or are we pushing decisions down and actually teaching people how to lead and make decisions? So myriad of things.Rich Birch — That’s good. That’s so good. One of, in last year’s, kind of rundown of, you know, most listened to podcasts, Amy from the Unstuck Group, hers, I think was our second most listened to podcast. And she, she dove in deep on exactly what we were just talking about their, friends. You should go back in the archives, find that episode. It will, it’ll, you know, all that structure stuff. Rich Birch — And I would say on that, particularly on structure and some of those benchmarks, I think too many of us think our church is like this precious, it’s so different than every other church out there. And and and that’s true. It is a unique body. There’s a there’s one way that that is true. But in this way, there are actually a lot of commonalities you can learn from other churches and gain wisdom from folks like Paul who have done this before and talked with lots of churches. So don’t don’t be in isolation about this, Paul. This has been an incredibly helpful. I’ve got a page of notes and other questions I wanted to ask as we were going through. Oh, I want to talk about that. Oh, I want to talk about that.Rich Birch — But I know you’ve got other things to do than be on our podcast. But as you’re thinking about the 2026, the year coming up here, what’s a question or two that you’re wrestling with that you’re thinking through? It doesn’t have to be on what we just talked about there. But just as you think about the future of Sun Valley, what are some things that you’re thinking about going into this year?Paul Alexander — Yeah, that’s a good question. I mean, we pressure we’ve deal with pressure points just like every church does, right? Frankly, the pressure points we’re dealing with, we’re going through a season of a couple of years of pretty significant growth. A lot of people needing Jesus. last This is the first time in back-to-back years we baptized more than 1500 people, you know, in back-to-back years. And so there’s a huge responsibility that our growth, our front end growth is beginning to outpace our engagement. Things like people engaging in groups and building meaningful friendships that are around God’s word or, engaging and volunteering and being the church, not just coming to church, right? And a giving, learning to be generous, generous and steward with the Lord’s entrusted to them. Kind of these markers that we see of people who are actually beginning to look like Jesus. They’re not just, you know, you know, attending church and trying to figure Jesus out a little bit.Paul Alexander — And so in a lot of ways, we need a bigger boat. We’ve got multiple campuses that are doing two services on Saturday and three services on Sunday. And we’ve, we’ve got to get some bigger rooms. And you know, the other side of it is is growth sometimes can grow faster than our ability to grow leaders. I mean, you think about your own personal leadership, Rich. I mean, how long has it taken you to become the leader you are today?Rich Birch — Right. Right. Not overnight. Not in 18 months.Paul Alexander — Yeah, your whole life.Rich Birch — Yes, exactly.Paul Alexander — Yeah, the answer is your whole life. Rich Birch — Yes.Paul Alexander — And so there’s definitely been crucible moments. My hunch is if we unpack your leadership journey, there’s been crucible moments where the Lord has ah stretched and grown you in unique ways and unique seasons because of pressure points that you went through. And so um we’re figuring out how do we accelerate leadership in in our staff?Rich Birch — That’s good.Paul Alexander — And you you accelerate leadership not by by giving resources, but by constricting resources. Because leaders always figured out and grow through constriction moments. Rich Birch — That’s good.Paul Alexander — And so giving stretch assignments, all those kind of fun things. So yeah, we deal with pressure points just like everybody else does. I mean, everybody’s like, oh, I’d love to have that problem. I know you would. It’s a wonderful problem to have. It’s still a problem because we don’t want to become a lid to more people meeting Jesus in 2026. You know, by us not solving something that’s in our control to solve.Rich Birch — Yeah. In other contexts, I’ve talked about platinum problems. Those are are great problems, but they’re still problems with things we have to wrestle with. And and friends, if you’re not tracking with Sun Valley, you should be, or Paul or the Unstuck Group, these are all organizations you should be getting a chance to kind of follow along with. If people want to kind of connect with the church, get a better sense, follow along with your story, where do we want to send them online? Tell us about that. And then also Unstuck Group. I want to make sure we we send people there too.Paul Alexander — Yeah, Unstuck Group is super easy to find. Unstuckgroup.com. The listeners can email me at paul@theunstuckgroup.com. That’s the easiest way to get me, frankly. The easiest, cleanest way to get me if someone has a question or wants to follow up on something personally. I’m happy to do that, man.Rich Birch — Thanks so much, Paul. I appreciate you being here today and and really looking forward to seeing what happens in 2026 at Sun Valley. Take care, man.Paul Alexander — Yeah, glad to, man. Thanks for the invitation. Hope the conversation is helpful.

Episode 100 is a milestone conversation for High Performance Parenting. Greg and Jacquie Francis sit down to model something most families rarely do well: stop, reflect, celebrate wins, and then intentionally plan what's next.Through humor, family stories, faith conversations, and real examples from their own home, they walk parents through:Why celebrating wins matters for kidsHow reflection builds gratitude and confidenceWhy families forget how much they've actually accomplishedHow to talk through goals without pressure or overwhelmWhy faith, leadership, and intentional environments shape long-term growthThis episode isn't about hustle or perfection — it's about perspective, gratitude, and moving forward with clarity and faith.(00:00)– Welcome & Family Culture(01:43) – Birthday Traditions That Build Identity(04:12) – Celebrating Family Wins(05:22) – Teaching Life Skills Through Responsibility(07:14) – Confidence Through Music & Learning(10:44) – Setting Family & Marriage Goals(12:20) – Sports, Encouragement & Growth(15:16) – Parents Growing Intentionally(16:40) – Closing Encouragement

Alicia and Margie explore Intuit's Canny boards at intuit.canny.io, a powerful but underutilized platform where accountants can submit specific, actionable feedback directly to QuickBooks product managers and developers. They break down how to use the three available boards (bank feeds, modern view reports, and payroll), explain the difference between productive feedback and unproductive complaining, and reveal how the upvoting system helps prioritize which features get built. This transparency tool shows what's under review, what's planned, and what's already been released—but it needs more accountants to use it correctly to prove its value to Intuit.SponsorsUNC - https://uqb.promo/unc(00:00) - Introduction and Hosts (00:36) - Importance of Feedback (01:24) - History of QuickBooks Feedback Systems (02:01) - Current Feedback Methods (03:04) - Feedback Processing and Action (04:43) - Using Loom for Feedback (06:36) - Introduction to Canny Boards (10:14) - Navigating the Canny Boards (17:59) - Submitting Effective Feedback (19:13) - Encouragement to Use Canny Boards (21:51) - Upcoming Events and Classes (25:52) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts LINKSCheck out Canny at intuit.canny.ioAlicia's current classes: 1099s in QBO: http://royl.ws/QBO1099?affiliate=5393907, recording with CPEQBO Year-end Cleanup for Taxes: http://royl.ws/yearend?affiliate=5393907, recording with CPEProjects & Job Costing in QBO: http://royl.ws/ProjectCenter?affiliate=5393907, recording with CPESales Tax in QBO, Jan 27: http://royl.ws/SalesTax?affiliate=5393907Payroll Perfection Bundles (4 QBO Payroll classes - 1099s, Running Payroll, Compliance, and QB Time), Live Feb 3-10: http://royl.ws/payroll-perfection?affiliate=5393907   Margie's Free Class Friday: www.akadian.com/lockerroomWe want to hear from you!Send your questions and comments to us at unofficialquickbookspodcast@gmail.com.Join our LinkedIn community at https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14630719/Visit our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@UnofficialQuickBooksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Sign up to Earmark to earn free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://www.earmark.app/onboarding 

Happy Thursday! Topics today include a masterpiece in the making, how singing helps to boost your immune system, how to pray for wayward children and more. EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FOR THE FAITHFUL LADIES DAYCATION 2026 is open!! Janice's books What Do I Have to Lose? Books 1 and 2   are available NOW!! The complete set is just $25. Check it out at FaithMusicRadio.com. >> Also, featuring A Word of Encouragement with Vicky Mutchler, CW Today with Loretta Walker and Silhouettes with Shari House.  Be sure to subscribe to this podcast and please share this podcast with your friends so we may be an encouragement to them through the music and programming on Faith Music Radio. Music is brought to you by Faith Music Missions. Learn more here >>> https://www.faithmusicmissions.org Eleven2One Facebook  Eleven2One on Instagram Faith Music Radio is a listener supported Christian station.

A Word of Encouragement with Vicky Mutchler is heard at 11:30 AM Central Time on Faith Music Radio.  Join the Facebook group On a Positive Note to get more words of encouragement from Mrs. Vicky - https://www.facebook.com/groups/171863542874382/

If you've ever sat in a quiet room and wondered, “God… do You still love me? Have You forgotten me?” — this episode is for you.Today we joined by my friend Whitney Lowe to talk about those real, holy, confusing seasons when God feels distant, silent, or impossible to feel. We unpack how God pursues us even when we feel unworthy, overwhelmed, or spiritually numb, and why His silence doesn't mean His absence.Whitney shares pieces of her story and Scripture to remind us of this truth: God's steadfast love gets the final word. Every time.Inside this conversation:• What we often believe about God when we feel overlooked• Why slow, hidden seasons are not signs of failure• The lies that make us doubt God's goodness• How to recognize God's pursuit in ordinary, quiet moments• Encouragement for the woman who feels nothing but fatiguePour a cup of coffee and take a breath, friend — today is the day to remember you are not forgotten. God is nearer than you think.To connect with Whitney, head over to @whitneypiersonlowe on IG!Get Whitney's book, Called Back to Who You Are: https://amzn.to/3YhvbKE Submit a question for “Ask Han” here: https://forms.gle/qWGxyy9M5Q5N2tMz9 SUPPORT BY WORDS: https://buymeacoffee.com/bywordsMy favorite Bible studies + devotionals - HANNAHHUGHES10  for 10% off: https://thedailygraceco.com?dt_id=300773 CONNECT:hello@thehannahhughes.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thehannahhughes 

In this perspectives episode of Money & Meaning, Jeff Bernier challenges the value of short-term market forecasts and urges listeners to focus instead on long-term financial planning. Drawing from recent blog posts and research by financial thinkers like Bob C. Wright, Ruben Miller, and Larry Swedroe, Jeff outlines why predictions often miss the mark and how earnings yield can guide more meaningful expectations. He offers practical advice for building resilient portfolios, emphasizing humility, diversification, and focusing on what we can control in uncertain times.    Topics covered:  Why annual market forecasts are often unreliable The psychological allure of financial predictions The difference between short-term forecasts and long-term return assumptions Insights from Bob C. Wright's “Forecasting Follies” Ruben Miller's satirical take on 2026 forecasts How earnings yield helps set intermediate-term expectations The role of the CAPE ratio in understanding market valuations US market overvaluation and the case for international diversification How government deficit spending has impacted recent market performance Building resilient portfolios for retirees and pre-retirees Practical portfolio planning principles for uncertain environments Encouragement to focus on controllable factors and maintain realistic optimism   Useful Links:    Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/  TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/    TandemGrowth Financial Advisors (“TandemGrowth”), a registered investment adviser, is providing this video which is intended for general educational purposes and is not personalized investment advice. The information provided is not tailored to any individual's specific investment objectives, financial situation, or risk tolerance. Registration as an investment adviser is not an endorsement by securities regulators and does not imply that TandemGrowth has attained a certain level of skill, training, or ability. While the content that will be presented is believed to be factual and up to date, it is based on information obtained from a variety of sources. TandemGrowth believes this information is reliable, however, it has not necessarily been independently verified. TandemGrowth does not guarantee the complete accuracy of all data in this video, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the presenter as of the date of the webinar and are subject to change. This video does not constitute personalized advice from TandemGrowth or its affiliated investment professionals, or a solicitation to execute specific securities transactions. Participants should not use any of this content as the sole basis for any investment, financial planning, tax, legal or other decisions. TandemGrowth is neither a law firm, nor a certified public accounting firm, and no portion of the video content should be construed as legal or accounting advice. We encourage attendees to conduct independent research and seek advice from qualified professionals before making any investment decisions. The information presented in this video should not be the sole basis for investment decisions. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss, and different investments and types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. There can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, including those undertaken or recommended by TandemGrowth, will be profitable or equal any historical performance level. Additional information about our Firm, including its Form ADV Part 2A describing its services, fees, and applicable conflicts of interest and Form CRS is available upon request and at www.tandemgrowth.com.

Innocence Shattered with Joe Horn | KWR0056 Kingdom War Room YouTube Description This Kingdom War Room roundtable is all about keeping children safe. Dr. Michael Lake is joined by Dr. Mike Spaulding, Dr. Corby Shuey, and special guest Joe Horn (host of SkyWatch TV and author of Innocence Shattered: Dismantling the Insidious War Against Our Children) to equip believers to protect children from trafficking, abuse, grooming, and cultural deception. They expose how: Human trafficking and exploitation target the most vulnerable The foster care system can be abused and misused Pornography addiction in the church fuels demand for exploitation Schools, media, and culture are softening and rebranding evil (e.g., "minor-attracted persons") The erosion of biblical masculinity and the family leaves children unprotected But this conversation is not just about exposing darkness — it's about practical, hope-filled solutions so that parents, grandparents, pastors, and the remnant can actively keep children safe: How to pray strategically and stand in the gap How to get involved locally to protect kids in your community How ministries like Whispering Ponies Ranch and Royal Family Kids / For The Children bring healing to deeply traumatized children How restoring biblical family roles and strong, godly men creates safer homes and communities If you want to protect the lambs, guard your home, and see genuine revival that restores families and rescues children, this episode will equip and challenge you.

In this episode of the Evolving Wellness Podcast, Sarah dives deep into the world of myofunctional therapy and airway health with speech-language pathologist and myofunctional therapist Karen Yong. They discuss the critical connection between airway, sleep, and overall health for both children and adults. Topics include the importance of nasal breathing, proper chewing, and restful sleep, along with practical advice for parents and adults on how to improve these aspects of health. Don't miss this comprehensive guide to understanding how better airway health can lead to improved overall wellness. Head down to the show notes for resources, early access to podcast episodes, and more.About MyoHacker: MyoHacker is dedicated to helping people eliminate pain, restore movement, and optimize physical performance by addressing the body through the myofascial system. Founded by strength coach and educator Matt Wallden, MyoHacker blends biomechanics, fascia science, and real-world movement training to resolve chronic pain and dysfunction at the root cause. Their mission is to empower individuals, trainers, and practitioners with practical tools and education so they can move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free—without relying on quick fixes or passive therapies.Connect with Karindy Ong:https://www.myohackerslp.com/https://www.instagram.com/myohackerslp/?hl=en _________Sponsored By:→ Bon Charge | Go to https://boncharge.com/products/demi-red-light-device?rfsn=8108115.26608d & use code SARAHKLEINER for 15% off storewide.→ VivaRays | This episode is sponsored by VivaRays - VivaRays Blue - code YOGI https://vivarays.com/yogi→ Organifi | For an exclusive offer, go to https://www.organifi.com/SARAHK for 20% off your order._________Timestamp:00:00 Understanding Sleep Disruptions and Their Impact01:43 Introduction to the Evolving Wellness Podcast05:32 Guest Introduction: Karen Yong06:20 The Importance of Myofunctional Therapy09:40 Addressing Airway Health in Children and Adults16:05 The Role of Chewing and Jaw Strengthening24:20 Collagen and Joint Health35:52 The Impact of Light on Sleep and Nervous System36:14 Encouragement for Moms: Hormonal Benefits and Restorative Sleep36:39 Sleep Regression and Restorative Benefits37:40 Vagal Tone and Nervous System Regulation38:47 Personal Story: Teaching Kids Regulation40:11 Red and Infrared Light Benefits42:26 Addressing Sleep Issues in Children45:32 Primitive Reflexes and Neural Pruning52:22 Airway and Sleep: Impact on Children's Health56:35 Mouth Breathing and Digestive Health01:01:02 Practical Advice for Parents01:06:09 Resources and Final Thoughts——— This video is not medical advice & as a supporter to you and your health journey - I encourage you to monitor your labs and work with a professional!________________________________________Get all my free guides and product recommendations to get started on your journey!https://www.sarahkleinerwellness.com/all-free-resourcesCheck out all my courses to understand how to improve your mitochondrial health & experience long lasting health! (Use code PODCAST to save 10%) -  https://www.sarahkleinerwellness.com/coursesMy free product guide with all product recommendations and discount codes:https://www.canva.com/design/DAF7mlgZpJI/xVyE4tiQFEWJmh_Xwx8Kbw/view?utm_content=DAF7mlgZpJIFree Webinar on Light & Health (includes free light bulb guide) - https://www.sarahkleinerwellness.com/mycircadianapp-free-webinarGet Early Access to Podcast Episodes & my Seasonal Food Course + UVB+Red Light Therapy course for free -  https://open.substack.com/pub/sarahkleinerwellness/p/uvbred-light-protocol?r=5eztl9&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

You're offended, I'm offended, we're all offended and trying to get the world to operate in a way in which we don't get offended. But the reality is, life and people just don't work that way. What does it mean to live 'unoffendable'? Author and Bible teacher Alexandra is today's guest on the AllMomDoes podcast with Julie Lyles Carr and she reveals how to build resilience, grace, and realistic boundaries, not just for ourselves, but to also show our kids how to walk in emotional health in a complicated world.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4byvVTy Takeaways:We are raising people who are watching how we handle these things.Our past does not define us, it only gets to shape us.Healing takes work and intention.A prayerful mom is a mom who can move mountains.We have to trust God to parent them.Letting go is an invitation to live in freedom.The work you are doing now will leave a legacy.Modeling forgiveness is crucial for emotional health.Navigating personal stories helps in parenting.Resilience is built through facing challenges.Sound Bites:"Healing takes work and intention.""I am not the Holy Spirit.""We have to trust God to parent them.""We are the ones holding ourselves hostage.""Letting go is an invitation to live in freedom.""The work you are doing now will leave a legacy."Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Emotional Health in Parenting02:53 The Genesis of Emotional Health Conversations06:02 Navigating Personal Stories and Identity08:58 Healing and Parenting from a Place of Humility12:01 The Role of Resilience in Parenting14:58 Boundaries and Letting Go18:09 Repairing Relationships and Modeling Forgiveness21:02 Navigating Consequences and Comfort in Parenting23:55 The Balance of Letting Go and Holding Boundaries26:47 Living Beyond Offense and Embracing Healing30:06 Conclusion and Encouragement for MothersKeywords: emotional health, parenting, resilience, forgiveness, boundaries, personal stories, healing, motherhood, identity, relationships

Falling off a goal is normal. Knowing how to get back on track—without shame or drama—is the real skill. I'm hosting a free 60-minute live workshop on Tuesday, January 27 at 7pm ET to teach a simple framework for getting unstuck. Register now for Falling Off is Part of It: The Framework for Getting Back on Track (Without the Drama)! In this episode, Chris Guillebeau explores time anxiety and the illusion of urgency that is st. aling your joy. He explains the pervasive feeling of never having enough time, discusses the psychological roots of time anxiety, and shares practical strategies for managing competing demands, avoidance, and procrastination. Chris also offers insights on creating personal “rules of engagement,” decluttering schedules, and embracing acceptance, encouraging listeners to cultivate a more intentional, compassionate, and fulfilling relationship with time. Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders! Key Takeaways: Definition and exploration of time anxiety as a psychological issue. The distinction between feeling overwhelmed and traditional productivity challenges. The impact of competing priorities and requests on time management. The concept of “rules of engagement” for managing daily demands. Strategies for overcoming avoidance and procrastination. The importance of self-awareness and intentionality in managing time. Practical tips for improving time management, such as allowing buffer time for tasks. The idea of “time decluttering” to create space in schedules. The role of cognitive distortions in exacerbating time-related stress. Encouragement to embrace a mindset shift towards a more fulfilling relationship with time. For full show notes: https://www.oneyoufeed.net/time-anxiety/https://www.oneyoufeed.net/time-anxiety/! If you enjoyed this episode with Chris Guillebeau, check out: Chris Guillebeau (Interview from 2014) How to Accept Limitations and Make Time for What Counts with Oliver Burkeman Time Management for Mortals with Oliver Burkeman Oliver Burkeman on Modern Time Management (2019) By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you! This episode is sponsored by: David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED Aura Frames: For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting AuraFrames.com /FEED to get $35 off Aura's best-selling Carver Mat frames – named #1 by Wirecutter –  by using promo code FEED at checkout. This deal is exclusive to listeners, and frames sell out fast,  so order yours now to get it in time for the holidays! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We would love to hear from you! Please send us your comments here. --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.