Podcasts about encouragement

Interview with Natanya Ross: From Child Star to Homeless Advocate In this episode of Reza Rifts, host Keith Reza interviews Natanya Ross, known for her roles in Boy Meets World, The Babysitters Club, and The Secret World of Alex Mack. They discuss the shift to Zoom interviews post-pandemic, Ross's fascinating journey from child stardom to her struggles with addiction, and her impactful work with homeless foundations. Ross shares personal anecdotes, reflects on her acting career, and talks about her participation in feeding the homeless during the pandemic. The conversation also touches on the pressures and challenges faced by child actors, and they end the show with light-hearted discussions about tattoos and potential future projects.  Natanya's Socials IG: https://www.instagram.com/natanyaross/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/natanyabethross/  X: https://twitter.com/NatanyaRoss  Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Show 00:26 Interview with Natonya Ross Begins 00:56 The Impact of the Pandemic on Interviews 01:40 Getting Natanya on the Podcast 04:14 Challenges of Being a Child Star 11:22 Natonya's Homeless Foundation 13:56 Hope of the Valley and Tiny Homes 18:16 Hollywood Career and Early Roles 20:02 Discovering a Talent for Comedy 20:54 Encouragement to Pursue Stand-Up 22:02 Comedy Inspirations and Influences 22:45 Memorable Roles and Projects 28:59 Conventions and Fan Interactions 31:47 Personal Reflections and Future Plans 33:41 Fun and Lighthearted Questions 35:07 Favorite Tattoos and Social Media 37:15 Conclusion and Farewell   Support the show on https://patreon.com/rezarifts61  Follow Keith on all social media platforms: FB: https://www.facebook.com/realkeithreza IG:https://www.instagram.com/keithreza  X:https://www.twitter.com/keithreza  TT:https://www.tiktok.com/keithreza  Book Keith on cameo at www.cameo.com/keithreza Check out my website for dates at https://www.keithreza.com/  Subscribe - Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts - Tell a friend :) Be a Rifter!   #NatanyaRoss #ChildStarJourney #FromHollywoodToHumanity #HomelessnessAdvocate #90sActorsWhereAreTheyNow

Today's a sassy one about the problem with comparison! It's so easy to compare our own imperfect lives to the lives of others.Sign up for my weekly Letters of Rebellion! ✉️ | A transcript of this episode is available here.About Meg & The Daily Pep!I'm Meg and I'm the host of The Daily Pep! and The Couragemakers Podcast and founder of The Rebel Rousers. I'm a coach, writer and all-round rebel-rouser for creative and multi-passionate women to do the things only they can do and build a wholehearted life. When I'm not recording episodes, writing bullshit-free Letters of Rebellion to my wonderful Couragemakers community or hosting workshops/group programmes, I'm usually covered in paint or walking my wonderfully weird cockapoo Merlin.Website | Instagram | The Couragemakers Podcast | Letters of Rebellion | Rebel Creators

Sometimes it isn't about trauma brain or nervous system talk. Sometimes it's just about life being messy and complicated and still leaving you asking, what the hell am I supposed to do with this?In this episode, I answer two big questions from a daughter:Trust after rupture: What do you do when someone you love, someone you thought was safe, lashes out, apologizes, and takes responsibility…but you're still hurt and not sure where to put it? We talk about what it means when trust gets shaken in relationships, how to stop pretending everything's “fine,” and why real healing comes from honest conversations, not band-aids.Self-doubt at work: What happens when you're offered a leadership opportunity you've always wanted  but instead of celebrating, you're stuck in fear of messing it up, losing respect, or not being “ready”? I share the real talk about stepping into leadership, owning your power, and saying yes to more without waiting to feel 100% confident first.If you've ever struggled with rebuilding trust, navigating self-doubt, or stepping into leadership while carrying the wounds of being a daughter of a narcissistic or emotionally limited mother, we've got you covered today.You'll walk away with:-Clarity on why ruptures in close relationships matter (and what to do about them).-Practical ways to rebuild trust without gaslighting yourself.-Real talk on how to step into leadership even when fear and insecurity show up.-Encouragement to stop waiting to feel “ready” and start saying yes to the life you want.Because sometimes it's not trauma. It's just life. And you still deserve to know what to do next.Head to MayhemDaughters.com to join Group, our community, or to become a sponsor of the show.

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn and faith becomes your anchor? In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Jennifer Rothschild—best-selling author, speaker, podcast host, and Bible teacher—who lost her sight at age 15. Jennifer shares incredible wisdom born out of real life struggles that will encourage you, strengthen your faith, and give you insight to deal with your own challenges in life. Jennifer shares how her parents’ steadfast faith and practical love helped her trade bitterness for hope and how parents can model handling hardship for our kids. We explore the value of “seeing” life through God’s promises, like Philippians 4:13 and 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 and the necessity of constantly “accepting then adjusting” to life change. Jennifer is vulnerable, honest, and wise. This isn’t a glib “praise God” bumper sticker conversation, but one where Jennifer reminds us that “earth is short and heaven is long,” and our present struggles prepare us for an eternal glory beyond imagination. You will love this conversation and walk away inspired! And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : (05:34) - Navigating Blindness With Faith and Grace (15:08) - Finding Hope in Hardship (21:46) - Embracing Hope and Encouragement (31:06) - Connecting Through Faith and Friendship Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Jennifer Listen to her podcast - 4:13 Podcast with Jennifer Rothschild Website: https://www.jenniferrothschild.com Instagram; @jennrothschild Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Shannon Jamail, Erin Haag, and Alison Katschkowsky come together on this special episode to officially announce the Retreat Industry Forum happening May 14–17, 2026 in Colorado. In this conversation, they share the vision behind the event, why this gathering is unlike anything else in the retreat industry, and what attendees can expect-from powerful keynotes and interactive workshops to a VIP experience designed for deeper strategy and connection. The big news? The interest list opens TODAY (October 15th) for 10 days only! Those on the list will have first dibs at VIP tickets before they're released to the general public on November 1st. If you've been waiting for your chance to learn from top retreat leaders and transform the way you build, market, and profit from retreats, now's the time to get in early Get on the list: retreatindustryforum.com      The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Get your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Colorado  Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ----- Timestamps Guest Introductions & Excitement (00:01:16) Shannon welcomes Aaron Hague and Alison Kaye, expressing excitement about a big announcement. How the Collaboration Began (00:01:40) Speakers discuss how their partnership started, referencing a seed planted in May 2025 in Champagne, France. How They Met & Initial Connections (00:02:06) The group shares how they met online, became aligned, and eventually met in person at a retreat. Industry Frustrations & Shared Values (00:03:39) Speakers discuss frustrations with the retreat industry's mindset and their shared business-focused approach. Business Perspective on Retreats (00:05:02) Alison emphasizes treating retreats as serious business ventures, not just fun getaways. Aaron's Background & Industry Disruption (00:06:01) Aaron shares her business background and how she became an “accidental disruptor” in the retreat industry. Profit, Impact, and Industry Mindset (00:09:08) The group discusses the false separation of profit and impact, and the prevalence of scarcity mindset. Retreats Beyond Wellness & Industry Vision (00:09:55) Aaron highlights that retreats exist beyond wellness/spirituality and introduces their vision to elevate the entire industry. Announcement: Retreat Industry Forum (00:11:38) The team announces the Retreat Industry Forum, a three-day event in Colorado to help retreat leaders build profitable businesses. Event Details & Waitlist Information (00:12:44) Aaron explains the event dates, waitlist process, VIP tickets, and opportunities for vendors and sponsors. What to Expect at the Forum (00:14:28) Details on the forum's content, including sharing proven strategies and bringing in industry experts. Encouragement to Join & Industry Movement (00:16:35) Speakers encourage listeners to join the event, emphasizing collaboration, industry growth, and the importance of being “in the room.” The Power of Saying Yes & Collaboration (00:18:42) They reflect on how collaboration started by saying yes to opportunities and the importance of networking. Closing & Call to Action (00:20:07) Final reminders to join the event, check the website, and stay tuned for more details. Podcast Outro (00:20:25) Shannon thanks listeners, encourages subscribing, and shares where to find more resources. Are you happy with the results?

If like me you often get frustrated by just how damn long things can take, then today I have a sassy and compassionate reminder for both of us.Sign up for my weekly Letters of Rebellion! ✉️ | A transcript of this episode is available here.About Meg & The Daily Pep!I'm Meg and I'm the host of The Daily Pep! and The Couragemakers Podcast and founder of The Rebel Rousers. I'm a coach, writer and all-round rebel-rouser for creative and multi-passionate women to do the things only they can do and build a wholehearted life. When I'm not recording episodes, writing bullshit-free Letters of Rebellion to my wonderful Couragemakers community or hosting workshops/group programmes, I'm usually covered in paint or walking my wonderfully weird cockapoo Merlin.Website | Instagram | The Couragemakers Podcast | Letters of Rebellion | Rebel Creators

What if every budget you've ever "failed" wasn't your fault at all? Here's the truth they don't want you to know: Your budget isn't broken. Your willpower isn't weak. Your body is literally hijacking your financial decisions to protect you from perceived danger. In this episode, Brandon exposes the invisible force that's been sabotaging even the smartest, most capable people... and it has nothing to do with discipline. You'll discover: Why your brain goes offline the moment you open your bank account (and what's really happening in your nervous system) The shocking research: financial stress drops your IQ by 13 points, you're literally making decisions with a handicapped brain How your "Financial Nervous System" mistakes budget reviews for life-threatening danger Why all the spreadsheets, apps, and perfect plans in the world can't override biology Key Quote: "You can have perfect financial knowledge, flawless systems, and iron discipline, but if your nervous system interprets financial management as dangerous, it will override everything. Every. Single. Time." This isn't a character flaw. This is biology working against your bank account. And once you understand it, everything changes.

In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore continues October’s "Fear Free Fall” series by digging deep into the often-hidden fear of rejection and how it influences our lives. She unpacks how perfectionism and people-pleasing are tightly related to our need to feel accepted and loved. Through personal stories, relatable examples, and biblical truth, Heather unravels the underlying self-protective strategies we adopt—and how the gospel offers real freedom and grace. Key Topics Covered: What is the Fear of Rejection?Heather explores how this fear drives us and manifests as perfectionism and people-pleasing. She explains that these are self-protective strategies formed by our desire for secure love, belonging, and worth. Perfectionism:Often, we think, “If I get it right, then I’ll be enough.” Heather shares a personal story from college when a single missed typo made her feel immense shame, showing how perfectionism can lead to exhaustion and shame rather than peace. People-Pleasing:The fear that “If I make everyone happy, I’ll be safe.” Heather discusses how people-pleasing is not true peacekeeping or biblical peacemaking and how it can even impact our ability to follow God’s call if the opinions of others control us. Where Does This Come From?Heather highlights how these tendencies usually aren’t intentional—they’re often formed in childhood, at school, or through life experiences that taught us we’d be safer if we kept everyone happy or never made mistakes. How It Affects Others:Unchecked, perfectionism and people-pleasing can also lead us to have unrealistic expectations of others, continuing the cycle for those around us. The Gospel’s Answer:True freedom is found not in earning love and acceptance from people (or God), but in embracing grace. Heather reminds us that Jesus took on ultimate rejection so we can be fully accepted by God, no matter how we perform. A Challenge to Listeners:Heather encourages us to check our motives—are we striving for approval from people or resting in God’s approval? She challenges listeners to shift their perspective from a “people-big, God-small” view to a “God-big, people-small” mindset for greater confidence and peace. Memorable Quotes: “Perfectionism is a fear of inadequacy dressed up as excellence.” “People pleasing is not biblical peacemaking—it’s a form of self-protection.” “You can never be perfect or please everyone, but you are already fully accepted in Jesus.” “Freedom comes when you realize you can’t earn grace—it's a gift.” Resources & Next Steps: Visit heathercreekmore.com for free resources, courses, coaching, and Heather’s books Sign up for the free 10-day encouragement email series! Learn more about the In His Image Conference in Dallas, TX (November 15th) — details in show notes If you struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, or fear of rejection, this episode is for you. Learn how to find freedom and confidence in who God says you are—not in what you do or how others respond. Thanks for listening to Compared to Who? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Believers Voice of Victory Audio Broadcast for 10/14/2025. Are you in need of some direction? Watch Kenneth Copeland and Professor Greg Stephens on Believer's Voice of Victory as they encourage you to ask God and find out His plan for your life. Discover the clarity that comes from seeking and inquiring of The LORD!

In this heart-to-heart episode, we sit down and reflect on the wisdom we wish we could pass on to our younger selves. From learning how to set healthy boundaries to fully savoring time with the people we love, we open up about the lessons that have shaped us. Together, we talk about:

Send us a textSometimes motherhood feels like a thankless job. You put in so much effort every day, but it's rare that someone stops to tell you, “You're doing a great job.” In this episode, I want to pause and give you the encouragement you deserve—because I see you, and I know you're doing better than you think. This episode is your reminder that you are enough, you are loved, and you are a good mom.Mentioned in this episode:

In this episode of The Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Roger Allmand, former manager of Allmand Brothers, Inc, and current co-founder of Legacy Purpose LLC. Roger shares his journey from working on the metal lab floor in the early 1960s to managing a company that thrived on encouragement. After selling the family business in 2014, Roger and his wife Marlis founded Legacy Purpose LLC to support entrepreneurs, ministries, and individuals in realizing purposeful and valuable lives. They discuss the importance of encouragement, purpose, respecting relationships, and the impact of mentorship. Roger shares insights from his book, 'Good Stuff,' and the ways he instills purpose in his grandchildren through meaningful engagements.   Find the show notes here:   https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/374   Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work.

Today's episode is a loving reminder that for as loud and as convincing as your inner dreamsh*tter can be, it really truly is a liar.Sign up for my weekly Letters of Rebellion! ✉️ | A transcript of this episode is available here.About Meg & The Daily Pep!I'm Meg and I'm the host of The Daily Pep! and The Couragemakers Podcast and founder of The Rebel Rousers. I'm a coach, writer and all-round rebel-rouser for creative and multi-passionate women to do the things only they can do and build a wholehearted life. When I'm not recording episodes, writing bullshit-free Letters of Rebellion to my wonderful Couragemakers community or hosting workshops/group programmes, I'm usually covered in paint or walking my wonderfully weird cockapoo Merlin.Website | Instagram | The Couragemakers Podcast | Letters of Rebellion | Rebel Creators

Are you tired of planners that leave you feeling more behind than encouraged? In this episode of the Finding Freedom Co Podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain on the heart behind the Finding Freedom Planner and why it's different from anything else out there.Rooted in John 8:36 and Matthew 6:33, this planner was designed to keep Christ at the center of your daily life while also helping you manage the practical rhythms of motherhood, home, and personal goals. I'll share my personal story of why I created it, the features that make it unique, and how it can help you build a life of faith, peace, and freedom.Here's what you'll hear in today's episode:Why true freedom doesn't come from productivity, but from Christ.The story of how this planner was born out of my own need for faith + function in one tool.Key features that make it unlike any other planner (Scripture anchors, rhythms over rigidity, grace for real moms).Encouragement to seek God first, even in your schedule and to-do list.This isn't just about paper. It's about freedom. If you're ready to step into 2026 with intention, joy, and God at the center of every decision, this episode will encourage and equip you.✨ Don't miss it—join the waitlist and be the first to grab your Finding Freedom Planner when the shop reopens!PS: Loving the podcast?Take a few minutes and let us know by leaving a rating or review so we can keep providing free content to help you.Episode Resources: ⁠Get on the 2026 Product Launch Waitlist⁠⁠The Finding Freedom Co. Shop⁠⁠Learn More About The Finding Freedom Co. Bible Study Membership Community⁠⁠Other Free Resources⁠ ⁠Email Us⁠: ⁠thefindingfreedomco@gmail.com⁠Let's connect on social media: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Finding Freedom Instagram⁠⁠

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests 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.

Find Dr. Dan Schneider's books from TAN here: https://tanbooks.com/search?tanbooks%5Bquery%5D=dan%20schneider^^Use code NATHAN15 for 15% off your order at TAN books^^Discover exclusive Seeking Excellence content as a Locals member!https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/In this episode of the Seeking Excellence Podcast, Nathan Crankfield interviews Dr. Dan Schneider, a military veteran and expert in spiritual warfare. They discuss Dr. Schneider's journey from military service to his role in the Catholic Church, emphasizing the importance of authority, masculinity, and virtue in both spiritual and familial contexts. The conversation highlights the critical role of the laity in the Church and the necessity of spiritual fitness for men. Dr. Schneider shares insights on the power of the priesthood and the need for order in family life, concluding with a call to action for men to embrace their responsibilities as leaders and protectors.Chapters08:43 The Call to Spiritual Combat: Understanding Exorcism14:04 Conversion Experiences: The Path to Faith19:58 Spiritual Warfare: The Rules of Engagement25:47 The Masculine Call: Embracing the Warrior Spirit38:08 The Importance of Spiritual Fitness45:54 Understanding Masculinity and Fatherhood50:23 The Role of the Laity in Evangelization57:21 The Power of the Priesthood01:01:17 The Importance of Family and Order01:11:44 Introduction to Spiritual Warfare and Community Engagement01:13:08 Encouragement for Personal Growth and ExcellenceIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_

ABOUT THE EPISODEListen in as Trent Hunter and Brad Green interview Colin Smothers on his Christ Over All Longform Essay, "Biblical Theology and Theological Interpretation of Scripture".Timestamps00:22 – Intro02:00 – Orientation, History, & Defining Terms for Biblical Theology12:35 – Geerhardus Vos' Contribution18:40 – How Does Biblical Theology Change After Vos?23:00 – What is New About Theological Interpretation of Scripture?25:10 – The Space Between the Text and the Reformation30:41 – Why Did TIS Become Important in the Evangelical World?39:11 – Encouragements for Readers40:36 – OutroResources to Click“Biblical Theology and Theological Interpretation of Scripture” – Colin SmothersThe Chicago Statement of Inerrancy (1978)“Inauguration of the Rev. Geerhardus Vos as Professor of Biblical Theology” – Princeton Theological SeminaryTheme of the Month: Essential Not Optional: Retrieving Biblical TheologyGive to Support the WorkBooks to ReadBiblical Theology of the Old and New Testaments: Theological Reflection on the Christian Bible – Brevard S. ChildsAgainst Heresies in Ante-Nicene Fathers: Vol. 1 – eds. Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson & A. Cleveland Coxe“Exegesis and Hermeneutics,” by Kevin Vanhoozer inNew Dictionary of Biblical Theology, – T. Desmond Alexander, Brian S. Rosner, D. A. Carson, and Graeme GoldsworthyThe Eclipse of the Biblical Narrative: A Study in Eighteenth and Nineteenth Century Hermeneutics – Hans W. Frei“An Oration on the Proper Distinction Between Biblical and Dogmatic Theology and the Specific Objectives of Each” by Johann Philipp Gabler, in Old Testament Theology: Flowering and Future – ed. and trans. Ben C. OllenburgerBiblical Theology in Crisis – Brevard S. ChildsUnderstanding Biblical Theology: A Comparison of Theory and Practice – Edward W. Klink III and Darian R. LockettBrazos Theological Commentaries – ed. Daniel TrierReformed Catholicity: The Promise of Retrieval for Theology and Biblical Interpretation – Michael Allen & Scott R. SwainCovenant and Eschatology: The Divine Drama – Michael Horton

While we're so busy just surviving, it can sometimes feel impossible to look a bit further ahead down the road at what we need. So today's episode is a gentle nudge to pause, and plan ahead.Sign up for my weekly Letters of Rebellion! ✉️ | A transcript of this episode is available here.About Meg & The Daily Pep!I'm Meg and I'm the host of The Daily Pep! and The Couragemakers Podcast and founder of The Rebel Rousers. I'm a coach, writer and all-round rebel-rouser for creative and multi-passionate women to do the things only they can do and build a wholehearted life. When I'm not recording episodes, writing bullshit-free Letters of Rebellion to my wonderful Couragemakers community or hosting workshops/group programmes, I'm usually covered in paint or walking my wonderfully weird cockapoo Merlin.Website | Instagram | The Couragemakers Podcast | Letters of Rebellion | Rebel Creators

So many of us trust God in one area but struggle to trust Him in another. In this episode, we'll unpack why doubts often feel louder than God's promises and how you can finally silence them.Resources: ★ Journal Mastery Academy - Coachyourwaytowealth.com/Journalmasteryacademy★ Start Your Own Podcast Course - https://www.skillshare.com/en/classes/How-To-Start-A-Podcast-For-Beginners/1142543427?teacherRef=958930354&via=teacher-referral&utm_campaign=teacher-referral-1142543427&utm_source=Skillshare&utm_medium=class-teacher-referral-email★ The Royal Faith Journal - https://prosperingwithchrist.systeme.io/theroyalfaithjournalFolow Us On YouTube, Tiktok, Instagram, and Facebook: @ProsperingWithChrist

“Encouragement does not cost us anything, yet it is one of the most priceless gifts we can give another person.”  Debi RoncaDon't underestimate the power of your words.We need to believe our words matter.When we speak life, we can change a life. In today's episode, Debi Ronca shares:How our words will either lift someone or tear them downHow encouragement brings back the song in people's hearts Why encouragement adds value and worth to a person's lifeWhy do we need to challenge ourselves more to encourage others To read more about the story Debi shared from her book, The Family Letter, you can purchase her book on Amazon. The Family Letter by Debi Ronca – International Best Sellerhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SSJFXBDCONNECT WITH DEBIDo you feel stuck?  Do you sense it's time for a change, but are unsure where to start or how to move forward? Schedule a clarity call!Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/debironca/free-clarity-callWebsite – https://www.debironca.comInstagram - @debironcaEmail – info@debironca.com Check out my online course!Your Story's Changing, Finding Purpose in Life's Transitionshttps://course.sequoiatransitioncoaching.com/8-week-program

Approach God with persistence and boldness—He will hear you! Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These stories are just a taste of the stories you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app.  Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter

The story behind Ashtavakrasana, or Eight-Angled Pose, is as powerful as the pose itself. I share the tale of Sage Ashtavakra—born bent in eight places and mocked by many—whose wisdom and self-realization transformed both body and spirit. Discover how his journey teaches us to find strength in awkwardness, grace in imperfection, and alignment beyond the body.Episode Highlights:Announcements about upcoming online and in-studio programs at Aham YogaIntroduction to the monthly “Mythical Stories Behind Poses” seriesStory of Ashtavakra: born deformed due to a father's curse, yet destined for greatnessHow Ashtavakra's intellect and wisdom outshone physical limitationsThe debate between young Ashtavakra and scholar Vandin in King Janaka's courtAshtavakra's victory and miraculous transformation through the power of truthConnection between Ashtavakra's journey and the yoga pose AshtavakrasanaSymbolism of the pose: steadiness through asymmetry, strength through surrenderLessons for modern practitioners: transcending ego, judgment, and appearanceReminder that real alignment comes from within, not from physical perfectionReflection questions for practice: Where am I resisting? What can I soften or “straighten” within?Encouragement to share these stories and teachings to keep yoga's roots aliveWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

The  term "occupy" in the Bible is often associated with stewardship, responsibility, and the active engagement in the tasks or roles assigned by God. It is our duty to advance God's will and purpose on Earth until Christ's second coming.Support the showhttp://www.gwafgbc.org http://www.gwafgbc.org/storehttp://www.gwafgbc.org/givehttps://vimeo.com/manage/videos

Engage. Excitement. Excellence. Example. Encouragement.

SummaryIn this episode of the Text Driven Podcast, Timothy Pigg and Carter Jurkovich discuss the importance of shifting focus from church programs to building meaningful relationships within the congregation. They emphasize the role of pastors in modeling a people-focused ministry, encouraging leaders to engage with their members outside of structured events. The conversation highlights the balance between administrative duties and pastoral care, urging all staff to prioritize relationships over programs. The episode concludes with practical advice for pastors to enhance their connection with their congregations.TakeawaysFocus on building relationships over planning programs.Pastors should model being with their people.Engagement outside the office is crucial for pastoral care.Every pastor should prioritize spending time with people.Administrative tasks should not overshadow pastoral responsibilities.Church events can detract from meaningful interactions.Pastors need to be present in their community.Discipleship happens in everyday interactions, not just events.Eliminating events can lead to deeper connections.Pastoral credibility is built through genuine relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Text Driven Podcast01:40 Shifting Focus from Programs to People06:46 The Role of Pastors in Building Relationships10:43 Balancing Administration and Pastoral Care14:38 Encouragement for Pastors to Prioritize People17:14 Conclusion and Call to Action

Mastering High-Stakes Business Interviews in English: Essential Phrases and StrategiesThis episode shares a riveting story of Marcus, a Brazilian software engineer, navigating the high-pressure environment of a major tech job interview. Rob highlights the critical moments and strategic phrases that Marcus used to regain control and leave a lasting impression on the interview panel. The episode is packed with practical tips and techniques for handling interviews, negotiations, and high-stakes meetings, especially when English is not your first language. By mastering these tools and maintaining composure, you can turn potential disasters into career-defining successes.00:00 The Nerve-Wracking Interview Setup02:32 Marcus Faces the Panel05:08 Secret Weapon Phrases Revealed06:49 Ellie's Story: Handling Pressure08:53 Tactical Phrases for Interview Success13:57 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them15:05 Marcus's Triumph and Your Next Challenge16:56 Final Tips and Encouragement

Community Prayer and Encouragement

Community Prayer and Encouragement

In this impactful episode of "Winners Find a Way," host Trent Clark delivers a candid rant packed with personal anecdotes, real-world leadership lessons, and actionable strategies for organizations seeking to deliver excellence and high performance. Broadcasting from the serene lakeside of West Michigan, Trent shares recent frustrations with customer service—from losing his wallet at TSA to awkward coffee shop encounters—and draws powerful parallels between these challenges and organizational leadership. Key themes and topics: Overcoming setbacks: Trent's personal story of lost items highlights resilience and proactive problem-solving. The state of customer service: Why "sorry" isn't enough and how taking true responsibility fosters loyalty. The importance of clarity: How lack of communication in organizations breeds confusion, inefficiency, and mediocrity. Sports as a metaphor for business: Immediate accountability, the cost of letting up, and learning from mistakes in real time. Empowering employees: Lessons from the Ritz Carlton playbook on enabling staff to solve problems—fast. Building high-performance teams: The exponential impact of clear daily huddles, weekly alignment, and rewarding contribution over empty apologies. Mediocrity vs. excellence: Insights on what happens when high performers and mediocre performers collide within organizations. Encouragement for entrepreneurs: Recognizing the uphill battle and spotlighting the rare achievements of businesses that break through to seven figures. Notable Quote: “Mediocre people don't like high performers, and high performers don't like mediocre performers.” — Nick Saban Action Items & Takeaways: Start 10-minute daily team huddles to align on goals and priorities Implement weekly leadership meetings for big-picture problem-solving Empower teams to take ownership and actively remedy challenges Foster a culture of accountability—reward execution, not just apologies Are you ready to build a team that wins—and keeps on winning? Reach out to Trent Clark for coaching, facilitation, or to double the value of your organization. Connect with Trent: Email: trent@leadershipity.com Book a call Tune in every Thursday at 10am Eastern/7am Pacific for fresh episodes of “Winners Find a Way”—your weekly roadmap to elevating leadership, sharpening execution, and unleashing championship teamwork.

In this episode, Diana  is joined by guest Ken Keys, PhD, President of CRG and an expert on leadership, wellness, and life purpose. They discuss Ken's difficult upbringing, including the trauma experienced by his parents and his own battles with depression and suicidal thoughts. Ken shares his journey to discovering his purpose, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the impact of finding forgivingness and letting go of past trauma. The episode also highlights actionable steps for personal growth and emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and positive influences. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:47 Welcome to the Podcast 01:20 Diana's Personal Update 02:06 Practicing Gratitude 03:40 Introducing Today's Guest: Ken Keys 04:48 Ken Keys' Background and Career Journey 05:53 Ken's Family and Upbringing 08:42 Challenges and Lessons from Dairy Farming 16:20 Ken's Struggles with Depression and Wellness Journey 19:46 Traumatic Experience and Forgiveness 28:20 Family Dynamics and Emotional Growth 30:52 The Decline of Reverence for God 31:13 The Impact of Media on Society 31:54 Personal Reflections on Family and Intimacy 32:36 Journey Back to Faith 33:49 Discovering a New Christian Community 35:01 Embracing Ministry and Leadership 36:37 The Importance of Personal Style in Ministry 38:57 Overcoming Family Expectations 41:27 Judgment and Acceptance in Christian Life 46:27 The Influence of Associations 55:23 Final Thoughts and Actionable Steps www.kenkeis.com/faithful for your free gift   Website: https://dswministries.org Subscribe to the podcast: https://dswministries.org/subscribe-to-podcast/ Social media links: Join our Private Wounds of the Faithful FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1603903730020136 Twitter: https://twitter.com/DswMinistries YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxgIpWVQCmjqog0PMK4khDw/playlists Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dswministries/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSW-Ministries-230135337033879 Keep in touch with me! Email subscribe to get my handpicked list of the best resources for abuse survivors! https://thoughtful-composer-4268.ck.page #abuse #trauma Affiliate links: Our Sponsor: 753 Academy: https://www.753academy.com/ Can't travel to The Holy Land right now? The next best thing is Walking The Bible Lands! Get a free video sample of the Bible lands here! https://www.walkingthebiblelands.com/a/18410/hN8u6LQP An easy way to help my ministry: https://dswministries.org/product/buy-me-a-cup-of-tea/ A donation link: https://dswministries.org/donate/ EP 7 Guest Ken Keis Living On Purpose [00:00:00] Special thanks to 7 5 3 Academy for sponsoring this episode. No matter where you are in your fitness and health journey, they've got you covered. They specialize in helping you exceed your health and fitness goals, whether that is losing body fat, gaining muscle, or nutritional coaching to match your fitness levels. They do it all with a written guarantee for results so you don't waste time and money on a program that doesn't exceed your goals. There are martial arts programs. Specialize in anti-bullying programs for kids to combat proven Filipino martial arts. They take a holistic, fun, and innovative approach that simply works. Sign up for your free class now. It's 7 5 3 academy.com. Find the link in the show notes. Welcome to the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast, brought to you by DSW Ministries. Your host is singer songwriter, speaker and domestic violence advocate, [00:01:00] Diana . She is passionate about helping survivors in the church heal from domestic violence and abuse and trauma. This podcast is not a substitute for professional counseling or qualified medical help. Now here is Diana. Hi everybody. How are you guys doing today? I hope you are well. It is a beautiful day outside. Fall isn't even here yet it seems. But my garden. We got to harvest some of our food. We ate some green beans and snap peas and ate some strawberries from my garden. We're just waiting for the tomatoes to ripen. But it's really exciting when you start eating from your own garden, you didn't even think it was going to survive. And with the change of seasons [00:02:00] here, and Thanksgiving is coming up, holidays are coming up. I didn't really do a Thanksgiving podcast, but we want to be thankful. It's hard to be thankful this year, isn't it? Was a huge dumpster fire, and it's probably not all gonna go away you know, January 1st , I'm sure isn't gonna magically disappear, but, um, we have to practice the art of being thankful and grateful for what we have. Make a list, and I know it's hard, just the littlest things that you see during the day. Hey, I have the song on the radio I heard, and it was such a blessing to me. Or like, me, I had a harvest this week. Or, oh, the weather is so beautiful or. My kid got an A on his spelling. Just the little things, just make a [00:03:00] list and go back to those lists. And I'm not one of those positive thinker people. I'm not, I have to work at being positive. I like being around positive people because that lifts me up. My husband is naturally positive and he lifts me up. Right now. He's going through a hard time with his medical stuff and I have to lift him up when I'm having a bad day, he has to lift me up. But we try and practice gratefulness even in the little things. So I hope that encourages you during this holiday. I'm not gonna do a big holiday podcast. Today I have a guest with me today and he's going to talk about, when you feel like, your life doesn't feel like it has meeting you don't have any fulfillment, you're trying to get outta the hole you're in. Maybe you got outta a domestic violence situation and you don't know how to fulfill your [00:04:00] dreams. You don't know how to take that step and work towards your ideal life. Well, this next guest is going to help you do that, to leave the drama behind and find out, which parts of your personality you were born with, which ones you probably need to get rid of, or which ones you can develop further. How you're able to adapt to other people's behavior. Approach your interactions with confidence instead of fear. Find out what makes other people tick. How to handle misunderstandings and defensiveness. How do you handle your triggers? Hey, we've all got drama that we need to leave behind. We wanna move forward, right? So I'm going to read his bio here. Ken Keys PhD President of CRG is a global expert on leadership, wellness, behavioral assessments, and life purpose. [00:05:00] In 28 years, he has conducted over 3000 presentations and invested 10,000 hours. In consulting and coaching. Ken Keys is considered a foremost global authority on the way assessment strategies and processes. Increase and multiply success rates. He's co-created CRGs proprietary development models and has written over 4 million words of content for 40 business training programs and 400 plus articles. His latest book, the Quest for Purpose, a Self-Discovery Process to Find It and Live It. So please welcome Ken Keys. Thanks so much, Ken Keith, for coming on the show. Appreciate it. Well, well it's great to be hanging out with you. Tell us about your self, your upbringing, and your family. Did you come from a [00:06:00] successful family? Well, um, I am a third generation, uh, in Canada. So my grandparents, all four came from Hungary between the first and second World War as immigrants. And then they settled here. I'm about an hour east of Vancouver, Canada, so that's where I make my home. And so I actually grew up on a dairy farm. After uh, high school I went to agricultural college, came back to work on the farm, but pretty well a few months in dad and I were ready to beat each other into a pulp. 'cause we really didn't get along. Both of us wanted to be in charge and dad was kind of of the European mindset, just do what I say. I'll only tell you and criticize you. When you screw up. I'm never going to affirm you or. Do something positive 'cause that might go to your head. Aw. And so I, you know, after a couple of years I left the farm, I went and worked in agricultural fields as first, uh, for the Department of Agriculture. Then as a [00:07:00] feed sales rep, uh, for agriculture company. My diploma is a nutrition and genetics, so I was really a nutritionist to dairy cattle farmers. And then I actually started my own farm across the street. Which was fine, I could do my own thing. And then the late eighties, I got into this industry as a sales trainer. So I bought a franchise in the sales training. I said, what a na natural transition, uh, closed down my dairy farm. And then that was the beginning of this. Now when we're recording this, 32 years later, I said, where did that go? Uh, and, you know, three or four books, the author of 12 psychological assessments presented 3000 times somewhere around the world. Uh, authored 4 million words of content. You know, it's an interesting story and journey. And of course, I'll link in my, uh, face story here in a minute as well. So now this, it is. 32 years doing what I'm doing. And the company that I own was founded in 1979 by a professor at a Christian university. He wanted to create a, uh, create an assessment that was [00:08:00] different, better, more improved than Disc Myers-Briggs true colors, way back in 1979. And so he created the tool, the personal style indicator. I got connected to that company in 1990 and then bought it nearly 20 years ago. So we're now, you know, doing business in 12 languages, 30 countries around the world. And all our tools are built on a Christian worldview view, but we equally serve, you know, like Boeing mm-hmm. Or companies of that nature, or Ford or Chrysler as we do Ministries. And we just say, we're just here to help develop people. And then my purpose in life is to help others to live, lead, and work on purpose and to help them to realize their potential. So that's really been our focus for the last three decades. Well, you talk about the cows and I don't think I've ever milked a cow and well, it is 24 7, and I think that was one of the things that happened. I think, and here's my. Encouragement and challenge for those people that are listening, watching this show today [00:09:00] is I got up one morning with my dairy herd and I asked myself this question, if I was doing this same thing 20 years from now, would that be okay? And I said, no, no, no, no, no. I can't be doing that. And I always knew I was to be a speaker. Even when I was 16, I was speaking in front of groups, MCing groups asked to do that kinda work. Uh, I never thought I would be an author because my grade nine teacher said, well, I wouldn't amount to anything because I couldn't read or write. And it was discovered when I did my master's degree that I was dyslexic. So the invention of the computer when I went to school, I'm young, just to let you know, but when I went to school, there weren't, there weren't computers. The program word wasn't there to help me understand or see the words, uh, words that I was misspelling. And the reality is, is that, so I have mispronounced some words, so what doesn't matter, you know, get over it. And that led me to being a writer, which no way you [00:10:00] would've ever convinced me that was gonna be something that I would do almost more of than any single item in my lifetime. So here we are. And now just really trying to, you know, live his purpose and to help encourage other people to live theirs and to be anchored in that. Wow. Research shows. Diana is that when you're out there and engaging in nature, it actually feeds your soul. It does. So, even the research of kids that live in the countryside are healthier than those mm-hmm. That live in sterile environments in a condo, you know, in a 50 story building. I'm not here to judge you because you live in a condo. I'm just saying the reality is the health stats show that when you're out and about and you're just kind of in nature, your immunity strengthens, but so does your core soul because you're out there with nature and hey, that was designed that way. Absolutely. I think it's kept me sane. I liked being outside. I liked going out there and fussing over [00:11:00] my plants. Well, it's in, it's always interesting me to quote unquote live off the grid. And what I mean by that is just being a property that doesn't require utilities from third parties and things like that. But I'd live close to the town or city. There is a lot of effort and work, and one of the reasons that I did stop dairy farming was the 24 7 obligation, 365 days a year. I mean, you never have a day off in a dairy farmer's environment. Now, I appreciate the values that I learned, tenacity, persistence it doesn't matter what the weather's doing. I remember one time where it was very cold. One February. It was rare for where we live, but all the pipes and everything were frozen. Well, it took me four hours of fighting just to thaw all the pipes out so I could milk my cows. And just going back in the house and watching TV wasn't an option. It had to be done. So no matter, you know, what your personality or personal style is or anything like that, those character [00:12:00] traits were entrenched in me or developed in me in that persistence, uh, growing up. So that, you know, that's part of what I bring into it. I'm not. Mm-hmm. Uh, I was thankful for growing up in that environment, but it wasn't something that I was meant to do going forward. So you mentioned your father, but you also said that your mom, had some abuse in her childhood Hmm. Would you, be willing to elaborate on that? Sure. You know, it's interesting. I grew up in quote unquote a Christian home. Mm-hmm. But it wasn't really because my grandparents were Presbyterian in their background. No judgment. Anybody has that background. I grew up in the Presbyterian church. My brother and I were the youth, so that was, they were the only ones that were attending. But what I didn't see in my family was really the relationship with Christ. Mm. It was a cognitive thing, it was a cerebral thing. It was a duty, but it wasn't really an experience. It wasn't a relationship whatsoever. And of course, later on, I sort of [00:13:00] left the church. I can tell you my spiritual story here in a bit. But as a result of that, my dad was 16 years of age when his dad died of an unknown causes. He was on the farm, so he was forced to quit school in grade eight or nine to take over the farm with his mother. Now, his eldest brother was working off the farm, but also was helping on the farm, and a year later died of an unknown. As well. So here his father dies and then, you know, the next year before he is almost 17, his eldest brother that he looked up to died as well. Oh. And then my grandmother, where I was one of the, I wasn't the eldest male, but in that culture, you know, males just seemed to be, that was important to grandma. So I was the first born in Elst male farm. Grandma was pretty good with me, but she had a critical spirit. And so that spirit then led into my dad. My dad's way of dealing with that trauma was [00:14:00] to say nothing, just really be quiet. Mm-hmm. And the culture, the Hungarian culture also was one of non-emotional. I mean, you didn't share your feelings, you didn't share what was going on. You didn't share your heart. And even though my dad was on the board of the church, an elder. I never saw him pray. I never really see him have this relationship. He believes in God, you know, is he saved? I don't know. I mean, it's hard to know just for the viewers. I'm an ordained pastor now, so, this is kind of a full circle for me. And then my mom, grew up in as an, as a teenager with a father who was abusive when he was drinking. So an adult child of an alcoholic is kind of the process. So he, later on, , he straightened up. However, there was one night, my understanding from the story, I wasn't around yet where grandpa came home and then, was, beating on the kids and grandma got a knife and says, you touch him again, I'll kill you. Mm. And so that was kind of the environment that my mom grew up in. Now, grandpa, [00:15:00] later on when I knew him, I never knew that part of him. He was able to get his binge drinking under control. His English was broken, but we had a great relationship. He passed away sooner, and then grandma was left. Grandma was a critical spirits to my mom. So my mom now as we record, this is 86, going on 87 soon, and, I think she worries for the entire planet. I think her self-worth as far as she still has not processed this value set. So she plays the victim card extensively. And then as far as my environment for my dad, giving compliments, providing compliments just never happened. So he is 88 at the time of recording this and I'm 60. And I do not recall ever him telling me that he loves me. Aw. I just not now, does he? Yes, he does. But to verbally say that I love you just doesn't happen. I could go to his place though. And say, [00:16:00] dad, I need to borrow your truck. I need to borrow tools. Always, yes. Never says no to being helpful, but to be able to have that emotional connection and to articulate it is not something he learned. I think he did the best that he could with what he knew. So same with my mom. So I don't, I'm not bitter with them now. I'm obviously disappointed. But what it led to for me in my teenage years, when I came back from college, so I was 19 years of age, I think when I finished college, I started when I was younger is, I was suicidal. Hmm. So I sat there on the farm, here I'm arguing with my dad. I want to take it over, but he won't include me in any decisions. This is the, it's my way of the highway. There was no relationship per se, it was just a dictatorship. Mm-hmm. And then talking about deeper things that never happened, at home, when I got in some trouble with a girl, in my younger years, I wanted to share that with my mom, and she just started to criticize me. So it told me [00:17:00] never share anything with my mother that I'm dealing with as far as those pieces. So I sat there and I really said, is life really worth it? And for those of you that have been through trauma or whatever, suicide is really calling out, suicide is a hopelessness. It's a mm-hmm. Where you believe in that moment that not being here would be far less painful than being here. And first of all, it's alive, the enemy. So if we think about John 10, 10 is that the enemy comes to, kill, steal, and destroy or whatever that order is, and. And so he wants you to, take your own life because then you know what, your impact for the ministry is not gonna be there. Your impact for others is not gonna be there. Well, obviously I didn't take my life, but I thought about it and I had those components or considerations Later on in life, about a decade later, I was diagnosed asmatic depressive. And so I went on an antidepressant called Lithium, and it was my friend of mine, [00:18:00] actually out of Dallas, Texas. And she was a psychologist and she said, Ken, you're not a depressed person. There's something else biologically going on with you. And so we, I, at my insistence, did a glucose tolerance test, found out I was hypoglycemic. I wasn't depressed at all. Yeah. So what that had to do was around my blood sugar levels. So one of my passions now in life is I love to develop the whole person. And we have 12 assessments in our company from personality, but we also have an assessment on wellness and stress. And as a, I consider myself, a wellness expert. Mm-hmm. Because I don't believe that we need to rely on external people for my health. And so a lot of times people get into trouble where they don't take care of themselves. So mm-hmm. It's very difficult to be alive and functional and be a spiritual, , lion when you are fatigued, when you have no [00:19:00] energy. So, uh, I say fatigue makes cowards of us all. I wasn't the person who said I was another person who had started that. So I started to look at how can I take care of myself? Make sure you get the sleep, make sure for the most part you eat right, that you do things right. A lot of times as individuals, we don't take care of ourselves, and then we wonder why we're lethargic or we can't focus or we can't concentrate. And we do that with our kids. So I, you know, this body is a temple. We have a responsibility to take care of it. So that's why we've been working in all these different areas. And then one other. And then we're talking about trauma. And I haven't, I've only shared this very few times on podcasts and I don't, not that it's a secret. I actually share this story in my book, the Quest for Purpose. Mm-hmm. Which I am actually going to give everybody a copy of this at the end of the show. Right. Wow. So we are gonna be able to give you a free download of that book. But in the book, in 1982, I was actually [00:20:00] dating my high school sweetheart. So it was the person that I took to my prom. She was a couple years younger than me. And on December 13th, 1982 the police officer showed up at my home and said, we'd like to interview Ken. Now I happen to be out in town with my brother at that time, and there wasn't cell phones that we personally had. So when I got that, they said it's very urgent that Ken come to the station as soon as he gets home. I'm curious. I don't know what this is about. I am also nervous. I'm a little bit fearful. I'm having nervous energy and trying to crack jokes when I get to the police department. Yeah. So I get into one of these interview rooms that are just like, the TV says steel chairs, bricks, security, glass. One person in the room, TV cameras recording you. And I say, you know, what's this about? And the officer says, we have a reason to believe that you are, dating or a boyfriend of Carol Ann Repel. And I said, yeah, well that's true. And he said, well, she was murdered last [00:21:00] night. Oh. And so, what are you talking about? And I was one of the second last people to talk to her, and I had been chatting with her on the phone. She was a individual who was gifted and skilled and wanted to be the first female fighter pilot in the Canadian forces. So she was late at night at her employer's location, which was at the airport, and the janitor made a sexual advance to her that went wrong and then beat her to death. Oh, so that's, I'm being interviewed for this. They're asking about it and it came to learn. They didn't know who did it. It was a mystery for months, but they had their suspicions, but they had no proof. And eventually they, charged somebody who I knew, he had been hired as a security guard for some youth group work that we had done. At that moment, that day, I went to work. I said, I'm like, I was complete denial. Just [00:22:00] what is going on on this thing? She was 22 years of age, Diana. Mm-hmm. Maybe going on to 23. So we've all had our situations or stories. It took me years later where I did a process, called emotional freedom Technique. You can agree with it or not, but it was a Christian who created it. I was drenched in sweat, just processing all the. Emotional sort of luggage and baggage that came out of that stuff through the process we did. It was, you just call it very, very intense counseling, if you wanna call it that. And, so we, but I still needed to kind of move forward. I was thankful for the relationship with her. I was angry, upset, but certainly in denial for not months but years, because of that event and when it occurred. There. And then being a person of interest is, has its own dynamics. Oh, so they thought it might have been you? Well, there was that consideration. Now I had a, alibi. I was actually with my parents that night when this [00:23:00] occurred. So that, I mean, I lived alone. I was a single guy, so it was just happenstance, the Holy Spirit protecting me mm-hmm. From any kinda suspicions. But really they were trying to figure out who did it. And I was a witness to, that by being one of the last people to talk to her alive. Hmm. And now, you know, when we're recording, this is many, many years later, almost 40 years later, uh, but still it has sort of an emotional tag that goes with that. So all of us have had things that happen. My encouragement is, is no matter what, because I mean, you're in your podcast trying to help people go through trauma. You always have a choice about what you're gonna do with it. And as a trained counselor. A lot of times in the past, counseling was always about processing your past. I disagree with that. Is that we need to look to our future. Mm-hmm. You know, Carolyn Lee's research on, you know, you know who turned on, who switch off your brain and switch on your brain. Her [00:24:00] books really talks about what you focus on. Gets more on more of it. So if I go in counseling and just relive the event and relive the event and relive the event, well I haven't moved you forward. Forward. So I'm not denying its issues or what's going on or that it happened, I'm just denying it's hold in your future. So this is around forgiveness. I had to forgive the guy who killed her. Mm-hmm. Because, uh, you know, the old story, everybody has heard this, if you've been in any front of any servant, is that unforgiveness is like you taking the poison and wanting the other person to live. Right. We've all heard that. Yes. Well, we just need to be reminded of that to, I wasn't obviously agreeing with the heinous act. He did, but I had to forgive him so that I would be free in that his heinous act wouldn't be affecting me, plus my family and everybody else around me as well. So, uh, I don't think you knew that story was coming, Diana. Actually, I did. I [00:25:00] read your blog. Oh, you did? You did. Oh, well, you're one of the few. So, uh, and when I do my normal podcast, I don't mention this for very often, but you know, the Holy Spirit has lifted me up, been there beside me in that. It's not him who did this. You know, I can rely on him to be able to kind of build me up. And in fact, I have to, I mean, if we're going through life, we're just gonna have stuff happen. Mm-hmm. It's just part of the dynamic of living in a broken world. Yeah. It definitely is a fallen world. Yeah. I'll swing around back to what you said about forgiveness. Did the, murderer, go to prison or did he think of that? Yeah, he was eventually caught. What they did is they knew who he was, but they didn't, you know, DNA was kind of, just in its infancy stages then in 1982. So, what they did is they set up a sting operation and then they had somebody, you know, where people wear wire and they're recording what's being [00:26:00] said. There was some, someone in his life that he had semi revealed that he was involved with this. And so they knew that, but they couldn't prove anything. So then they set up this sting and then it went from there. And then once he sort of confessed in this, sting operation with this person, then it went to downhill from there. Yes, he was, I think his time, I think he's like in life, in prison for life. So was it easier to forgive that you saw some justice for your girlfriend, or did that not really matter? It's so long ago. I'm not sure if I recall if I was thinking either way, but mm-hmm. But I think finding the person who did it was important just for safety matters. Mm-hmm. And curiosity and just, you know, who was it that did this? I, knowing the person to a certain degree, I mean, because we had hired him and had interactions with him. He wasn't a hundred [00:27:00] percent there, if you know what I mean. Oh, okay. Just so, I don't wanna use the word simple, but I use the word just not a hundred percent. You know, the elevator didn't go a hundred percent to the top. And I think it was not planned. I believe that it was just a sexual advance go bad, and he went to a point of no return, that she's gonna say something, I'm gonna get into trouble. And the only way to stop this is to end her life. Mm-hmm. And I believe that's what occurred and what happened. So he was single, he was in his thirties. Mm-hmm. Uh, and you know, a lot of sexual predators are kind of in that category. I don't know if he was or wasn't. I don't know. And there was no other charges in other parts of his life. But that's kind of how that unfolded. Ian, you know, at this point, I'm obviously very, very sad. She was an amazing girl. And being my grad prom date had sort of a. Not sort of had a significance sort of in my history, in my life as well, but I was just thankful that justice was [00:28:00] done and those things were discovered. And I'm just saying to those people at watch who are listening, that, you know, no matter what happens, we have these choices to be able to move to the next level. I mean, I'm thankful Diana, for your ministry and Ministries like you that help people to kind of bridge that gap from where they are to where they need to do or some of the work that we do as well. So, you know, example is my parents, my mom mm-hmm. Still has not processed this adult child of alcoholic. Her behavior is around it. Mm-hmm. In interesting enough, my sister who is in her fifties, and I hopefully she doesn't watch this, is you know, some of the tendencies are there too. Like, I know my parents won't watch it. But you know, if one of my family members watch it, is that, that worry side, that anxiety side that gets passed down? Yes. Now and obviously my depression side came out of that family dynamic. Mm-hmm. And then with my dad, never saying, never having a compliment. I think he just emotionally was unable to do it. Mm-hmm. Now, what's [00:29:00] really fun is my kids are 25 and 24 now, and they're very developed and skilled individuals. My wife Brenda, is a school teacher, so we're both in the professional development fields. Mm-hmm. And for their age. The kids are amazing. Of course, parents are biased about this, but they really mess with grandpa and grandma now. Oh. So my daughter will go in there, grandpa, we really, really, really love you. We really do. Just waiting to see if he'll say anything. And then he'll go, so he'll mumble and then he'll kind of be embarrassed. He'll look down. And it's not that he doesn't have any emotions, but the kids kind of know that. And they just, because grandparents can't mess with their grandkids that way. And then my son will do the same thing with them. And so from that point of view, we've just loved on them, accepting them for where they're at. I feel badly for them that they haven't been able to brace everything that they could. You know, when we're in the stressful situation, we are in the world right now. They have just taken the [00:30:00] worry of the whole world upon their shoulders. Right? You know, God's very clear in his word. Fear is from the enemy. Mm-hmm. You know, it doesn't mean stupid, but there's not one scripture that I'm aware of unless you want to correct me, Diana, that says, you know what? Being fearful a little bit's. Okay. Everything is fear. Not Well, you know, God says, he gives you fear so you don't jump off the edge of a cliff or, bungee jump off of Well, I have bungee jump, but I hear what you're saying is that, that fight or flight, yeah. That's a healthy fear. It keeps you from doing something really stupid. Mm-hmm. But, and then when we get into the scripture, you know, fear fear of the Lord is really a reverence for 'em if you get into the Greek and the Hebrew. Mm-hmm. Is that it's reverence for them and it's honoring of them. And in that's part of the problem in the global society right now. There's no fear of him. There's no reverence for God anymore. No. And so it's a godless society in many ways. That's why people are acting out when you take [00:31:00] God out, then you get these situations where people are spiritualists and they really are acting on their own. And the enemy is controlling them. Mm-hmm. Exactly. And their flesh. Yeah. Well, for sure. And if it's not modeled for you and we teach that in our development factors model that as an observer, as a child of the relationships around you, that's all you know to do. Yeah. And of course we think that life is around social media, that it's around podcasts like this, but there was none of that. Mm-hmm. Back 50, 60 years ago. And in fact, the TV was just even coming in and some of the examples there, and most of the examples were way more wholesome. Yeah. And loving back then. I think the. The most amount of violence was on gun smoke. Uh, I love that show. Of course. I mean, those of us that are older, remember that one? That was great. So part of what, you know, I wanna encourage the listeners [00:32:00] is, people do the best that they can with what they know. My mom has told me that she loves me, but it's kind of an awkward thing. It's a thing that she does there. If I say that I love her, then she would say, well, me too. Um, but not everybody is that way. And then you talk about intimacy. We used to joke with my parents that said, how do we exist? You guys never touch each other. Like, how did it even happen? Like, was it an accident while you were sleeping or something? So we used to just, we joked about that because there was zero. Intimacy between them. And but I think that again, was cultural and that was part of it. Now, when we think about ministry and spiritual life, and again, the, hopefully this reaches people and it touches your heart for the I went to a church that really nice people, but the services were equivalent to a funeral. Oh yeah. And then the other one is, is when you have the theology and the mindset that you do in that group, they were one of the, some of the most miserable people [00:33:00] that I knew, and this was the Christian Church. I said, well, why would I wanna be part of this? Right. 16, 17, 18, 19, I really fell off and I was crazy, wild and everything. Went to college found out that, uh, man, I could buy four cases of beer for 20 bucks back there in the province of Alberta. And the drinking age was 18 and that's what I was. And so it was a crazy time for me. But then when I got into my later years of my twenties, 26, 27, I was invited to a Bible study by a friend of mine and I said, I don't know. Like I always knew God was there. Mm-hmm. But I really didn't wanna have anything to do with him. I wasn't vile. There was some people that were violent. I was just disinterested in Christian people. Mm-hmm. The number one reason that I left the church were Christians. Yep. At least in my head. But I was around 25, 26 and I went to this Bible study and that this friend of mine, he had, it was a business owner and he had it one Saturday a month. And I walked in this room and [00:34:00] here are these Christians telling jokes and having fun. And it says those two things don't coexist with being a Christian. So he is having fun, he is telling jokes, he's enjoying himself. It wasn't a legalistic pet. And abyss. I said, what? And so all of a sudden my eyes were started to open up and then the spirit, oh no man, the spirit's gonna come. I might even cry. But he came to me because he had me tagged for this kinda work, right? Is he says, Ken, it's not about you and them, it's about you and me. Mm-hmm. So when we have issues with other people, it's always about going vertical. People will always disappoint you. And then his other, his next word to me was clear. He says, and Ken, when were you? Perfect. So none of us are perfect. And so, you know, some of the most judgmental people I've ever met were, have been in the Christian environment, right. That legalistic kind of side. And I said, okay, fine. [00:35:00] Now moving towards it. And that's when I was baptized in a friend's pool, I think it was 28 years of age, and started to go on this journey. And then later on started doing more work for Ministries and said, you know what? I really want to hone my, ministry side and decided to. Take additional biblical studies. Mm-hmm. And then be ordained actually through a friend of mine who, he has a pastor of a church, but he also is one of our associates. 'cause we license other people, around the world to use our tools to serve their community. So this pastor was using it to serve his team and all his team members were going through it. And he also was doing community outreach. And he says, no, we'll, Andor and you. Ordain you under our, CEEC banner. So there's probably about 4,000 kind of interdenominational groups that are under this banner, and that's why I'm ordained under that. I think, I don't know if I mentioned this in the podcast we were together yesterday, or the session yesterday, is I don't ever see myself being quote unquote a pastor of [00:36:00] a church, but doing extended ministry, helping people in ministry and leadership. I've, done a lot of retreats for leadership mm-hmm. For denominations because I can bring the expertise as a leadership in professional development consultants and well as a consultant to bear with the ministry context. And so it's just adding, and that's where I love actually doing the work. We have a local church, one of the larger ones, and the youth minister is a friend of mine. He also does apologetics. And so what we started to do is do his leadership group on our personality. I have a book called, why Aren't You More Like Me? Mm-hmm. And every once or twice a year, we would do retreats for those youth leaders that were 18 to 30 years of age. And in that moment I said, you know what? God has created us uniquely, but also perfectly for the assignments that he has for us in life. It's our responsibility to figure out [00:37:00] what that is. So, Dr. Pastor Randy, would get up front and he would say, next to accepting Christ. He says, I think this is one of the most important things you could learn, because every single person on this planet has a personal style. Other people call it a personality. Mm-hmm. And you are gonna bring that to bear in everything you do, every relationship you touch, every work piece, and responsibility you do. And it's not right, it's not wrong. You are uniquely created for the purposes that he has for you and the plan he has for you and the assignments he has for you and every. Personality or personal style has related strengths and stuff. Challenges, I guess. So I need to be responsible for that. I have, if I didn't have the strengths and tenacity that I was naturally born with, no way, I would've had the fortitude or resilience to overcome some of the things that this company's been through and some of the things that have been in front of me in my life. Wow. On the other hand, you don't want me to [00:38:00] be the auditor of your ministry books 'cause I'll just say it close enough because I absolutely. I might have an MBA, but I really dislike the minute details. I'm really an idea person, even though I've written 4 million words. The words are through ideas to influence people to improve their lives. Mm-hmm. To write a textbook on trigonometry is, I need him to come here and I'm gonna go to heaven quicker. I'm never gonna write. So part of those of you that are watching our ability to say no is equally important as our ability to say yes. Mm-hmm. So our responsibility as individuals, as believers say, everybody says, okay, the're great commission to share his word with other people. Okay. But where doing what for you? So that is the bigger question for us individually, to say, where does he want you to go? What does he want you to do? And you know, if I would've followed the [00:39:00] cultural pressures, I'd still be on the dairy farm. Mm-hmm. With my. Two brothers. And so my youngest brother has taken over the dairy farm and now his son is looking at taking over and his son has got a son. So now you're talking five or six generations. That's great. That's fine. But that's not what I am called to do. So my encouragement is, if you're watching this, there's two things. First of all, don't let the pressures of the past and other people's expectation drive you. Really only a Holy Spirit can lead you. Mm-hmm. And some close advisors that have wisdom and insights or even a word of knowledge for you that you wouldn't know that's driven from the Holy Spirit, not from here. The second one is that is true for you and you're a parent, or you're a significant other, or you're a partner. Why wouldn't you honor that uniqueness of the people around them as well? A friend of mine who's a believer, who was part owner of the company that I now own a hundred percent and I, but I've known him for 40 years. He, when we first got involved with this, he says, [00:40:00] Ken, my son's really. He's not gonna amount to anything. He's the laziest kid I've ever met. But what he was saying, because my friend is a driven entrepreneur like this guy at 70 works 12 hours a day, six days a week, even now, and you can't stop him. And that's just who he is. It's the fabric of who he is. He was a dairy farmer as well, so you, he's already got that in his gene. His son, who was not really lazy, was just extremely easygoing. So his style was just Dad, no chill. Just chill. Dad, whatever. You know what he is now? Pediatric doctor. Aw. So, sometimes we go there and we judge people and we say, you're not gonna melt to anything. You're lazy. You shouldn't be doing this. And in fact, God had a calling for, his name is John. To be a doctor and think about his nature. He's caring for kids, he has a heart for kids, he has the temperament for kids, he loves on them as a doctor. And then [00:41:00] gifted on that, what a better place to be now. The relationship between father and son have never been better as part of it. You know, as you think about this, how can we create a space, a safe space for individuals like you or me to go on this journey of discovery with me, not because of what I say or don't say, but together so that I can help you realize your potential. And one of the things that is, um, I do still kind of get a little miffed at how Christians can put other people down for certain reasons. Absolutely. Or just people in general. I had a point, and now it's gone. It'll come back to me here in a moment. But part of this is that. We don't want to be judging people about their direction and putting them down for certain directions. Mm-hmm. Because now what we're doing is we're spilling our fear into their space. The reality is the enemy will bring people around you to discount you. We even talked about that yesterday in [00:42:00] the, Christian business owners call. Mm-hmm. Is that the enemy wants to discount your worth. Yes. If I go, I have zero people says, Ken, you still get nervous speaking in front of groups. I says, never. Never. If it's a thousand people, 2000 people, 3000 people, I love it. I'm energized. You ever get nervous? Getting on a show? Never does not happen. However, if I'm asked to preach in front of a church, then the worthiness, the enemy comes after me and says, Ken, do you know who you are? What gives you the right to speak about Christ's righteousness in front of these people? And so my, so I want to call it wisdom mm-hmm. To individuals, is that the enemy wants to discount that, there's a big difference between confidence and arrogance is that we wanna be confident in who he is. And yes, he has asked me to share his word with others in the context, and I've done preaching for people online and in services at churches, [00:43:00] and then also led, you know, Ministries through our work and leadership and personality and wellness and all these things. But I'm still working on this thing where the enemy wants to attack this. Who do you think you are? Hmm. When he called out Moses, when Moses says, well, I'm not equipped for this. We use the, scripture from Gideon. I'm the weakest of my clan. Why? Why choose my me? And I started to think about that. Think about all the people that God chose. To lead and be in front. Half of them are murderers. I mean, I'm being demonstrative, but Right. So, hello. That didn't exclude them. Then you have this Pharisee who is killing Christians on the weekend, who wrote nearly half of the New Testament. Absolutely. What are you talking about? Because he's trying to demonstrate to you, me and everybody watching the transformational nature of his spirit and that there is nothing that's not [00:44:00] possible if you're in his will and following it. I will never, in spite of all, like you were talking off air about these, I'll call it new age kind of positive thinking stuff. Mm-hmm. I will never be a basketball player. It's just not gonna Me neither. At five nine. It is not gonna happen. It's just, I can have all the goals in the world. I can visualize all I want. It's just not going to happen. But if it's in the context of his will, and here's the other responsibility. As believers, it's your responsibility to find out what that will is. Where does he want you to go? And again, to be really careful, be really cautious to only get feedback from those people who are trusted advisors that know the spirit. Oh, I know what I was gonna say earlier is my family, when I decided to leave my sales job to start my own sales training, even then my parents said, my dad said to me, why would you leave a company that gives you a free [00:45:00] car? And then they give you lunches. Two, what a what an idiot you are to leave that job, to start this training business. Well, that company, by the way, three or four years later, went bankrupt. So that was kind of a little get back at your dad moment there. And they sort of fine. But that's how people are thinking. They're well-meaning they're trying to protect you. But don't absorb their fear. Don't let their doubt come into your space. Sometimes you have to be extremely guarded about I'll call it the unbelief of others around you. When Jesus didn't chastise the disciples very often, but he chastised them about fear in the boat and the water. Mm-hmm. But he also chastised their unbelief when they couldn't heal the crippled individual who was come on, help me with the word Diana. Possessed. And they said, what? Why couldn't we cast out the devil? They said, because of your unbelief. So [00:46:00] sometimes we need to make sure that we guard ourselves and be around those people that really are there with us, Diana, on that side, I'm getting a little preachy now instead of just a podcast on those. I love it. I love it. But my, and we talk a lot about boundaries that you have to have boundaries, physical boundaries, as well as mental boundaries. Who are you hanging out with? Who are you allowing to influence you? That's super important. Oh, and in fact, I was talking about this on another, podcast just this morning that I was on, is that, the research is clear who you associate with matters, and the proof is, is that your five closest associates will be the highest level of influence. In other words, if we look at your five closest friends, I can almost predict. With certainty what you are going to be like, how you're gonna think, how you're going to act, because you're constantly influencing each other. Now I remember, and I know you're almost getting close to the end of the show, but one of my [00:47:00] colleagues, not a believer, but very wise guy, Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, one of the top coaches in the world, wrote the book Triggers and What Got you here won't get you there. And I was at an invite only event in New York with him and 20 or 30 other people in the coaching industry. And one of the things he stated, and this is so true, especially people with trauma and they have family, is that a lot of times you want to go to a new level. So Diana, you're going to a new level, you're doing the podcast, you're doing this ministry, you're growing, I'm growing. Your past, the people that you grew up in high school or the people that know you or your family, they wanna keep you where you were. They don't want to you to go where you're going. So an example is when I got my doctorate degree, we had a family dinner and it was kind of a celebration. And one of my family members said to me with almost with the stain, we are never calling you doctor. Hmm. And part of it is that they knew me for who I was 30 years ago. [00:48:00] And then of course I left the farm. I went on my own started to develop relationships and connections with amazing people around the world. Is that some, not that I'm better than them, but I am different. And so I don't really share what I do with my family members. And that's what Marshall was teaching in his group is that sometimes who you become doesn't fit the people that you used to hang out with. It doesn't mean you don't hang out with them. You just limit that you are being with your family. Diana, what are you doing? He says, well, I'm doing ministry work and I'm running a podcast and just really helping people to overcome trauma. And that's it. That's all it's done. We don't talk about the great people we met or 'cause what happens is you're seen as being arrogant and who do you think you are rather than colleagues where you're just sharing your excitement about this growth. Oh yeah. I had relatives come up to me 'cause they heard me, I was a guest on somebody else's podcast. Oh, she can't do that. You know, she's gonna hurt somebody. She's not a licensed counselor. She's not this, she's not that. [00:49:00] And I have had training. I get considerable training. I'm not a licensed counselor, but the program that I follow, was written by a trauma counselor and a theology professor. So that's called Mending the Soul, by the way. Mm-hmm. Anyway, yeah, they're definitely, we're all already people telling me, well, you shouldn't be doing that. Who are you? You're not some, super professional girl. You're just Diana, you're just an abuse survivor. That's all you are kind of thing. So, yeah. Well, what happens a lot of times is envy can come in, jealousy can come in. They wanna still contain you and me to who we were, but it's also still their perception is true with, one of my family members where, they go on, oh, you, you're always this person that talks too much. That's what my dad said to me when I was a teenager. And of course he was putting me down for my style and what I do. And it was interesting because even though he [00:50:00] says, Ken, you talk too much and put me down for my style. I was the person that asked to be m Mc of banquets when I was 16 and 17 years of age because I would be quick on my feet, I'd be able to have a responsiveness. And I also took. The responsibility of being an mc of a banquet. Seriously, because have you ever been to these banquets that's run by volunteers where you have just a terrible mc and they ruin the night? Oh yeah. Well, the opposite. I said, no. I take this as a profession. Mm-hmm. And recently, interesting enough, in spite of sort of the history, my dad has a group called The Pioneers, which are elderly people have been in our community for, 60, 70, 80, 90 years. And they asked me to be the mc. And so then I've done it for two years. They won't hold it this year. And people come and said, how are you able to do that? Because the people that were doing it before were on the board. They were, dementia was already setting in and they were trying to lead this banquet and it was just a [00:51:00] disaster, nice people. But they were way out of their element and they shouldn't have been MCing it. Here's a family trying to contain, you said, who do you think you are? Put you down for talking yet. It's my profession. It's what I do. I've been paid or have conducted 3000 presentations around the world in the last 32 years. Hello? What? Like, help me out here and just like your family, my dad is, just really unsure about what I really do. If I say I'm doing some speaking or training for like Chrysler, well, he gets that, but producing psychological tools and assessments and all the other work, like we were talking around purpose. No, they, they wouldn't get it. So part of, you know, all of that story from both of us for the viewers and listeners is that it's okay to move on, but also you don't have to share your new life with your old life. Yeah. And that you can be that person for them, but guard your [00:52:00] future sort of, expounding about what you're gonna do and writing these books and creating these e-course and all that kind of stuff, they don't care. They're not there. So it's interesting because my wife and I, when we go to family events we talk about emotional intelligence and we talk about interpersonal intelligence and we talk about self-awareness. But one of the things we do at family events, we, we have a game. We say, could we go all night with 20 people in the room with three hours a time? We're not a single person will ask us a question about us and we can do it multiple times. So we go to an event and Diana, how are you doing and what's new at the ministry? And, how's the family doing? And I heard you went on this trip, a gifted conversationalist is a person who asks questions, right? But what we note is that nobody asks myself or my wife a question. Now, there's the odd occasion where it does occur. It does happen, but it's extremely [00:53:00] rare. So people like to talk about themselves. So we might say, well listen, we're thinking about going to Hawaii. Oh, we went to Hawaii two years ago and we're over here. And all of a sudden they're telling a story, which is all about being self-centered about their trip to Hawaii two years ago. And we just shared what, where we're going to Hawaii. They didn't ask about where you're going, when you're going, who's going? No. They went on to their own. This is a conversational skillset that most of the population does not have. And by the way, for those of you watching play the game. Go out there and, don't talk about yourself. If somebody talks about something, make sure you respond to it, but then transition back to a question and see if you can go all night without anybody asking a question about yourself. And then here's the other one. Don't be offended by it. Give it up. Offense is a choice. You know, we talked about trauma and we talked about forgiveness, but being offended is also a choice. Mm-hmm. Dr. David's Burn's work around, trauma, if you've ever read his book feel good [00:54:00] is, I mean, it's got about 500 pages at four point font. Is that my response is always a choice. Yes. And even Dr. Gottman in his work around relationships is that once I get over 100 beats per minute non-athletic, I'm no longer rational. Well, that's where we have trauma. We have abuse, we have crazy things that happen. One of our number one constituents, we serve as law enforcement. So, Dr. Anderson, who founded the company, was a criminology professor. And then one of my co-authors, Dr. Mitch dti, teaches law enforcement officers emotional intelligence. What's the most dangerous situation for law enforcement to go into domestic dispute? Yes. Why? Because people are irrational. Mm-hmm. So I've let myself get ramped up. I'm now biologically I'm no longer in control of my emotions. Mm-hmm. And now I will say and do things that will regret. Now I'm completely [00:55:00] outta control. I mean, there was this situation that happened in Palm Springs a couple, two, three years ago where there was abusive situation carrying on. The officers broke up, the couple started to contain him, and then she got a gun out and killed both officers. Oh. So that's why officers in these environments, they said you have to watch your back because it's completely. Unpredictable as part of it. So I mean, there's obviously lots of things that we've covered today in the show and we've gone for our 55 minutes. Anything else, Diana, that you wanted to maybe poke your head into before we close? Well, we could go down a whole bunch of rabbit trails on a lot of things that you said. You said so many great nuggets. But maybe for our listeners, perhaps. Give like a list of actionable things that they can do right now. Now just before I do it, so that we don't miss you, I have a gift for everybody. Yes. And [00:56:00] so I'm gonna give you access to the e-copy, Of my the Quest for Purpose book in the get that is go to my speaker site, which is Ken Keys, K-E-N-K-E-I s.com/faithful. You'll in that hidden URL and of course you'll be able to put it in the show notes, Diana as well. Mm-hmm. Is that you'll be able to go there and then download the e version of the book. What I am sometimes shocked at is that I give away this book is that the amount of people who don't. Opt in to get the book. It is a roadmap, a step-by-step process to get clear about who and what and where, and what you should be doing in your life and all components. And now it's gonna take work, it's gonna take time, but where are you gonna be in six months if you don't do it? So, uh, it's there. I spent six months going through this process with my coach, Mike McManus, you know, driving three hours each way when it wasn't pertinent. So when I think about actionable steps, [00:57:00] and you think about people's lives, first of all, if you don't have a purpose in life, then your purpose is to find your purpose. And so that becomes the focus, rather than trying to say, I better be doing this, or I just take a breath. Allow yourself time and space. I've noticed that the Holy Spirit is never frantic. He is on time and he is moving forward, but he is never Fran frantic. And so, chaos is not from him. So just be peaceful, be quiet, and start paying attention and asking yourself this question, if you are doing what you're doing right now in all contexts of your life 20 years from now, is that okay? And if you say no, then that obviously infers change. So what is it that you're gonna move towards? Don't freak out. Don't try to do it all. I mean, if I'm trying to be a marathon runner this morning and then I said, I'm gonna run and do a marathon tonight, I'm gonna be dead. Just, I gotta [00:58:00] train for it. Yep. So life is the same way. The other one is for us and our resources, is that there's all different ways to get to clarity. So we have assessments and they're all learning assessments. So a values assessment, a self-worth assessment, a personality assessment we have a self-worth one I might have mentioned that already. And so all of those become puzzle pieces to create the clarity. The other one, Diana, is, is get a group that's gonna support you, look around and don't judge the five closest friend, but say are the five closest friends in a space that are gonna help you to go where you need to go. And sometimes one of my mentors used to say, you know what, Ken? Sometimes you need to fire clients. He says, why? He says, you've outgrown them. The client that you're serving now is not the client that you started with five years ago. So you know, like my fees and what I do is completely different than what it was 15 years ago. So [00:59:00] now start paying attention to that. And then the other thing is, is that life takes effort. If you get finish watching the show and do nothing and do no action steps, then you're gonna have the same thing tomorrow. So what are the steps that you can take? Start moving towards it, download the book. It's got a complete roadmap. And the other thing we'll make sure that my contact information is there, Diana, is that if people have questions, reach out, I'll respond as, as best as I can in the time that's allotted there. But I'll respond to you to be able to say, Hey, how can we help you or call you and your ministry? Mm-hmm. And some of the coaching that is available there. So that'll get you started. And again, don't try to do it all overnight. Just take one step at a time. The research shows is that if you try to three things at wants to change it, you have about a 15% likelihood of implementing it and a 75% success rate if it's just one thing. So one thing at a time, progress forward and keep listening to Diana's podcast. [01:00:00] And that should be the other step that they do too. Right. Wow, this was so awesome. I cannot wait to read that book and I hope that our listeners will download the book and get busy reading it and putting those things into practice. We will probably have to have you back again in the future because I can just tell you have so much more to share with us to help anytime to be able to serve and support and, you know, go granular in some of these other areas that we can talk about. For sure, anytime, Diana, So today, just choose one thing, one small thing to get you closer to your healing goals. God bless. Thank you for listening to the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast. If this episode has been helpful to you, please hit the subscribe button and tell a friend. You could connect with us at DSW Ministries dot org [01:01:00] where you'll find our blog, along with our Facebook, Twitter, and our YouTube channel links. Hope to see you next week.

Community Prayer and Encouragement

Host Ben Sudderth, Jr. & Irene Sudderth discusses the importance of embodying unified & shared decision making power in marriage (surrounding faith and family) vs having a power struggle.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sudds-r-us-podcast--4574394/support.

"Witnesses, Not Experts," is a sermon by Dr. Bobby Allen that contrasts the roles of a religious expert versus a spiritual witness by asserting that the Christian mandate is based on personal experience rather than academic knowledge. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus called ordinary people to be witnesses, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit rather than human eloquence or credentials. According to the source, a witness speaks of what they have personally seen, heard, and felt concerning God's actions in their life, arguing that this testimony is a powerful weapon against the enemy's lies. The central purpose of this witness is to share their story globally, reaching from one's immediate community to the ends of the earth, thereby inspiring others and glorifying God. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to overcome fear and insecurity to testify to God's goodness without attempting to convince or debate.

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In this episode, Janice Lundy discusses finding your true self in a distracted world, which is that part of you that isn't weighed down by fear, busyness, or the endless demands of modern life. She calls this place “my deepest me” – the inner space that already knows we're whole, even when everything around us insists otherwise. Jan explores what it means to return to that wiser, truer self, how to trust the quiet voice within, and why stillness, gentleness, and presence are the real pathways to peace.Feeling overwhelmed, even by the good things in your life? Check out Overwhelm is Optional — a 4-week email course that helps you feel calmer and more grounded without needing to do less. In under 10 minutes a day, you'll learn simple mindset shifts (called “Still Points”) you can use right inside the life you already have. Sign up here for only $29!Key Takeaways:Exploration of the concept of the "good wolf" and "bad wolf" as representations of positive and negative forces within individuals.Examination of the "over culture" and its impact on personal identity and spiritual expression.Definition and exploration of spirituality as a deeply human quality and its connection to meaning and connection.The importance of recognizing and trusting one's unique spiritual path or "thumbprint."Challenges of spiritual practice in the context of modern distractions and societal pressures.The balance between spiritual exploration and depth in practice.The role of self-compassion and patience in spiritual journeys.The significance of cultivating presence and openness in spiritual practices.Encouragement to engage with fundamental existential questions and the pursuit of inner peace.If you enjoyed this conversation with Jan Lundy check out these other episodes:How to Find Clarity, Courage, and Compassion with Koshin Paley EllisonBeing Heart Minded with Sarah BlondinFor full show notes, click here!Connect with the show:Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPodSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on InstagramThis episode is sponsored by:Smalls – Smalls cat food is protein-packed recipes made with preservative-free ingredients you'd find in your fridge… and it's delivered right to your door. For a limited time, get 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to Smalls.com/FEED! No more picking between random brands at the store. Smalls has the right food to satisfy any cat's cravings.NOCD If you're struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: https://learn.nocd.com/FEEDGrow Therapy - Whatever challenges you're facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Sessions average about $21 with insurance, and some pay as little as $0, depending on their plan. (Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plans. Visit growtherapy.com/feed today!Persona Nutrition delivers science-backed, personalized vitamin packs that make daily wellness simple and convenient. In just minutes, you get a plan tailored to your health goals. No clutter, no guesswork. Just grab-and-go packs designed by experts. Go to PersonaNutrition.com/FEED today to take the free assessment and get your personalized daily vitamin packs for an exclusive offer — get 40% off your first order.LinkedIn: Post your job for free at linkedin.com/1youfeed. Terms and conditions apply.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today our guest is Zac Bauermaster the Principal at Providence Elementary School in New Providence, PA. Zac went viral after a hallway video of his daily high fives and fist bumps reached millions, but what's even more powerful is the culture behind it. We talk to Zac about how he's creating a school where students and staff want to be, not have to be. He shares how simple daily rituals like “Fist Bump Fridays” (every day), greeting at arrival and dismissal, quick classroom hellos, hallway presence, and cafeteria time, build trust, connection, and belonging. Zac also explains his “yellow light leadership” approach, how he organizes his day using green, yellow, and red zones, and why proactive visibility beats reactive follow up. He highlights a powerful ripple-effect story from a quick doorway interaction and a schoolwide win: 100% of students can name a trusted adult. His reminder? Prioritize PEOPLE: Prioritize, Empathize, Observe, be Purposeful, Love, and Encourage, every single day. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Zac Bauermaster is an educational leader, speaker, and author who lives by the word encourage. As a school principal, he leads teachers, staff, families, and the next generation, but his greatest joy is helping people of all ages discover their gifts, use their talents, and live encouraged in their daily lives. With a people-first approach to leadership, Zac strives to see, value, and build others up before anything else. Before his current role as an elementary school principal, Zac served public education in various K–12 roles, such as a high school assistant principal, district administrator of online learning, teacher, and coach. In addition to his role as principal, Zac is the author of four books: Leading with a Humble Heart, Leading with People, and Lemon-Aid: Spreading Kindness One Cup at a Time, which he co-authored with his daughter, Olivia. Most recently, his fourth book, Day by Day: 180 Days of Hope and Encouragement, was released in July. Most importantly, Zac is a husband to his wife, Carly, and father to three kids. One of his favorite leadership roles is coaching his children alongside other youth in the community in baseball, basketball, and softball. He's a firm believer in leading his family first.

In this episode of Encouraging the Encouragers, we sit down for a jam session with Heather O'Brien - a powerhouse encourager who's part coach, part minister, and all heart. Heather is the host of the Heal with God podcast, a top 2.5% show globally (come on!) and she's on a mission to help people hear God's voice, find emotional healing, and live a life aligned with love and purpose.From battling anxiety and addiction to walking in more confidence and clarity, Heather brings the real, the raw, and the ridiculously practical. Whether you're coaching, creating, speaking, or simply trying to find 10 minutes to yourself… Heather's insights on rhythms, prayer, and productivity will hit home.If you've ever wrestled with routine, questioned your hustle, or wanted to invite God into your business life in a deeper way… this one's for you._________________

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/

Every awakening begins with an awareness of your need for God. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These moments are just a taste of what you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app.  Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Rob Hoxton, founder of Hoxton Planning & Management and host of the Last Paycheck podcast. Rob shares his journey from aspiring minister to financial planner, exploring how life experiences shaped his unique approach to wealth management. They examine the evolving role of financial advisors, the impact of AI, and how to define a meaningful retirement. The conversation offers a compelling look at purpose-driven financial planning, multi-generational firm growth, and Rob's vision for making a difference in underserved communities. Topics covered: ● Rob Hoxton's path from ministry to financial planning ● The philosophy behind Grow Greener and Think Ahead ● Defining “live rich vs. die rich” in financial planning ● Experience at Goldman Sachs and returning to independence ● Working with his son and building a multi-generational firm ● The future of financial planning with AI and technology ● Using AI tools to enhance human connection in advising ● Childhood money memories and their impact on financial behavior ● Helping clients uncover what matters most through money mind exercises ● Reframing retirement as a purpose-driven next act ● Rob's “why” and the mission to serve more families ● Launching Shepherd University's financial planning program ● Looking forward: Rob's excitement for family, business, and mentorship ● Encouragement for listeners seeking the right financial advisor Useful Links: Rob Hoxton on LinkedIn Hoxton Planning & Management Last Paycheck Podcast Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

In this short episode of the Raising Confident Girls podcast, host Melissa Jones kicks off her new series, Parent Pep Talk, with a powerful reminder: parenting isn't about getting it perfect—it's about staying connected.Through personal stories and honest reflections, Melissa shares how being present and truly listening can do more for your daughter's confidence than having all the answers.In this episode, you'll learn:Why emotional safety matters more than perfect parentingThe power of listening without jumping in to fixHow asking the right questions builds trust and resilienceSimple ways to show up with presence and vulnerabilityIf you've ever felt the pressure to do it all “right,” this episode will encourage you to slow down, connect, and trust that being there is more than enough.If you know a parent who could benefit from this conversation, share this episode with them! Let's work together to raise the next generation of confident girls.Melissa's Links:• Website • Instagram • Facebook• TikTok• LinkedIn

Blending a family isn't just about making schedules work or learning each other's habits. It's about entering into an already-formed culture — one that existed before you. For the stepparent, that often means grieving what you imagined family life would look like, while choosing to restrain yourself from immediately reshaping the environment into “yours.”In this episode, Jason and Lauren Vallotton talk candidly about:Why grief is a normal and healthy part of the step-parenting journeyThe tension between honoring the existing family culture and slowly helping build a new oneThe unspoken expectations that every stepparent carries — and what to do with themWhy building a new “normal” takes years (Ron Deal says seven, and it often feels true!)Encouragement for couples to stay connected in the long process of blendingIf you're in the thick of a blended family dynamic, you are not crazy and you are not alone. Healing, belonging, and love can grow in the middle of the mess — but it takes time, patience, and a lot of grace.PatreonIf you've enjoyed this podcast, would you consider financially supporting the show? Every donation, big and small, helps the Vallottons continue to prioritize making this content for you. Click this link to support! Thank you!For information on the Marriage Intensive and other resources, go to jasonandlaurenvallotton.com !Connect with Lauren:InstagramFacebookConnect with Jason:Jay's InstagramJay's FacebookBraveCo Instagramwww.braveco.org

Hey Friends~  Have you ever wondered what it takes for a homeschooling family to thrive? Today we're diving into  it—flexibility, intentionality, and the courage to learn differently. Research shows homeschooling is growing across America, and more parents are discovering that when learning fits the child, confidence blooms.   In this episode, we talk about the parent who feels not qualified, flexibility that brings freedom, blending academics into everyday life, and how learning together builds connection. We'll also dig into the role of play—what it can look like in a homeschool setting, and how play helps you keep joy right at the center of it all - whether or not you are homeschooling.  Listen in to find insight and encouragement for anyone helping a child to learn.  Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com   ABOUT THE GUEST:   Kristina and Herbert met in college and soon became inseparable.  Kristina followed her passion into teaching and Herb followed his into business and entrepreneurship.  After 33 years of marriage and raising two sons they have combined their experience, passion and knowledge to found Vibrant Family Education and the  Bringing Education Home podcast.  Helping families strengthen relationships by reimagining the education of their children and guiding them along the way to create Happy, Healthy and Successful children for better communities and a better world. CONTACT THE GUEST:    URL: https://www.vibrantfamilyeducation.com  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/kristina.heaghavritt Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-heagh-avritt  YouTube: Vibrant Family Education - YouTube Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kristinaheaghavritt/ Podcast: https://bringingeducationhome.com        A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!   The Center for Play & Exploration: Click here to set up a conversation with Director Dave Bindewald to help you generate new ideas and practices in your parenting, work, and life. Get unstuck and recover some delight on the way! Mention the Language of Play and get a 20% discount. https://www.playandexploration.com/contact LighteningAdminVA:  Helping you handle tech, business, and other electronic issues to make your life easier.  Email Cindy Howard at  Lightening Admin VA here: cindy@lightningadminva.com   YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 Sign up for the Newsletter:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup To discuss working together:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 68 Do You Know How to Practice Early Reading Skills? Shannon Ali Shares How to Easily Incorporate Play and Practice 117 April Rehrig: On Being The Best Advocate For Your Child In The Special Education Process. What You Need To Know! 169 Karen DeLoach: Worried You Are Ruining Your Children? Homeschooling and How Art May Help Your Child With ADHD! 179 Lois Letchford: Dyslexia? Put Away What Is Not Working And Make Learning Fun 184 Do Your Habits Reduce Your Child's Need To Speak? 4 Strategies To Build Opportunities For Communication Growth   Hear Kristina &Herb interview Dinalynn on Bringing Education Home podcast on YouTube:  Bonus 17: 4 Ways Play Improves Your Parenting & Family Relationships with Dinalynn Rosenbush Bonus EP11: Transforming Parent-Child Connections Through Communication with Dinalynn Rosenbush   Have a Question? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

John is enamored with his car's technology and patiently awaits Nashville's new tunnel system. Meanwhile, Jonnie does a show for people in recovery and tells the tale of a woman who rode a bicycle an unreasonable distance. Plus, a conversation about affirmation, encouragement and how we never really stop becoming something. Today's episode is NOT sponsored by Hammocks: "Are you relaxed, or trapped?” FOLLOW Jonnie W: https://jonniew.com FOLLOW John Driver: https://johndriver.com LISTEN, SUBSCRIBE, SEND MESSAGE, OR SUPPORT at http://talkaboutthatpodcast.com WATCH/SUBSCRIBE on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwjExy_jWIdNvGd28XgF2Dg Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Send Dr. Li a text here. Please leave your email address if you would like a reply, thanks.In this episode of Make Time for Success, Dr. Christine Li shares her latest productivity technique: the "continuous to-do list." She explains how this analog journaling method reduces stress, prevents tasks from being forgotten, and helps boost creativity and enjoyment alongside productivity. Dr. Li also offers practical tips for working with any to-do list, such as leaving emotions out of routine tasks, aiming for speed, focusing on end results, being kind to yourself, celebrating progress, and making sure your list covers all areas of life. Listeners are encouraged to try out the continuous to-do list and can grab a free worksheet to get started.Timestamps:00:01:43 – Blending productivity and fun; importance of releasing pressure for better results.00:03:19 – Introduction to the continuous to-do list technique and journaling approach.00:04:19 – Why the continuous to-do list works and how it reduces stress and increases flow.00:06:29 – Invitation to try the technique and share feedback.00:07:14 – General tips for better to-do lists:Don't put feelings into routine tasksAim for speedFocus on end resultsDon't self-criticize for unfinished itemsCelebrate completed tasksRemember all life areas on your list00:13:55 – Encouragement to take small steps and use the free worksheet download.To get the free download that accompanies this episode, go to https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/todoTo sign up for the Waitlist for the Simply Productive Program, go to https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/SPFor more information on the Make Time for Success podcast, visit: https://www.maketimeforsuccesspodcast.comGain Access to Dr. Christine Li's Free Resource Library -- 12 downloadable tools and templates to help you bypass the impulse to procrastinate: https://procrastinationcoach.mykajabi.com/freelibraryTo work with Dr. Li on a weekly basis in her coaching and accountability program, register for The Success Lab here: https://www.procrastinationcoach.com/labConnect with Us!Dr. Christine LiWebsite: https://www.procrastinationcoach.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procrastinationcoachInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/procrastinationcoach/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@procrastinationcoachThe Success Lab: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/lab                        Simply Productive: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/SP

If you've ever discounted something you've done because you did it too fast, this one's for you!Sign up for my weekly Letters of Rebellion! ✉️ | A transcript of this episode is available here.About Meg & The Daily Pep!I'm Meg and I'm the host of The Daily Pep! and The Couragemakers Podcast and founder of The Rebel Rousers. I'm a coach, writer and all-round rebel-rouser for creative and multi-passionate women to do the things only they can do and build a wholehearted life. When I'm not recording episodes, writing bullshit-free Letters of Rebellion to my wonderful Couragemakers community or hosting workshops/group programmes, I'm usually covered in paint or walking my wonderfully weird cockapoo Merlin.Website | Instagram | The Couragemakers Podcast | Letters of Rebellion | Rebel Creators

Sensory processing isn't always easy to spot, but it affects how kids experience the world in a big way. From clothing struggles to party meltdowns, what looks like “behavior” can often be a child's nervous system asking for help. That's why I sat down with occupational therapist Laura Petix, who specializes in sensory processing and works with families online to support kids with unique sensory needs. We talk about what sensory processing really means, sensory processing differences, how parents can recognize differences, and why shifting from “disorder” to “differences” matters for kids' self-esteem and support. Laura shares her own parenting experiences as a neurodivergent mom raising a neurodivergent child, and we break down myths that leave parents feeling judged or confused. We cover: What sensory processing is and how it shapes daily life for kids The difference between typical toddler behavior and sensory differences Red flags that suggest a child might need more support The “sensory cup” analogy for understanding overstimulation and meltdowns Why discipline doesn't fix sensory needs, and what actually helps Practical ways parents can validate, regulate, and advocate for their kids To connect with Laura Petix check out all her resources at https://theotbutterfly.com/.  Follow her on Instagram at @theotbutterfly. 00:00 Intro & Dr. Mona's Story 03:15 Meet The OT Butterfly (Laura Petix) 06:45 What Sensory Processing Really Means 10:40 Typical vs. Sensory-Driven Behavior 16:00 From Disorder to Difference 20:00 Early Signs in Babies and Toddlers 23:40 Parent Stories & The Sensory Cup Analogy 31:00 Supporting Kids (and Yourself) 34:00 Myths and Misunderstandings 41:00 When to Seek Help & Encouragement for Parents We'd like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you! Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠! And don't forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to Happy & Healthy! I didn't post an episode two weeks ago, and when I asked y'all what you wanted, so many of you just said “we wanna hear what's going on in your life!” So here it is!I cover a lot in this one — from feeling like I'm in a wilderness season, to navigating postpartum life, finding a church in Oklahoma, and struggling to hear God's voice — this episode is in a real way, my heart poured out. If you've ever felt lonely, confused about where God is leading, or just overwhelmed by change, I hope my vulnerability encourages you wherever you're at today.