Podcasts about find freedom

In This Episode Many leaders believe freedom comes from avoiding structure. Amy Kemp believes the exact opposite is true. In this episode, Adi Klevit interviews Amy Kemp, CEO of Amy Kemp, Inc., about the relationship between mindset, boundaries, structure, and business growth. Amy shares her journey from educator to sales leader to entrepreneur, explaining how a simple desire to connect high-achieving women eventually evolved into a thriving coaching and leadership business. Adi and Amy discuss one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face: resisting structure. Amy explains that many leaders naturally question rules, systems, and processes because their entrepreneurial thinking drives them to improve and challenge the status quo. However, that same tendency can cause them to resist the very structures that create consistency, scalability, and freedom. The conversation explores Amy's philosophy that structure is not restrictive—it is liberating. Using examples from health, finances, relationships, and business, she demonstrates how embracing the right systems creates the foundation for growth, creativity, and flexibility. Without structure, leaders often find themselves reacting to problems rather than proactively creating the outcomes they want. Amy also shares practical insights about accountability, self-awareness, and sustainable habits. Rather than striving for perfection, she encourages leaders to consistently return to the systems that support them while recognizing the emotional patterns that cause resistance in the first place.  

The inner critic doesn't just disappear with more success. Academy Award-winning actor, writer, and artist Riz Ahmed shares why success, recognition, and achievement can never replace self-worth. He opens up about identity, shame, the inner critic, and the pressure to perform, revealing how life can start to feel like one long audition when your value depends on other people’s approval. Through a deeply personal health crisis and years of chasing validation, Riz discovered the power of vulnerability, gratitude, and self-acceptance. This conversation is a powerful reminder that true freedom begins when you stop proving yourself to the world and start defining your worth for yourself. In this episode you'll learn: How to Stop Seeking Constant Validation How to Quiet Your Inner Critic How to Find Flow Instead of Chasing Success How to Let Go of Who Others Expect You to Be How to Stay Grounded Through Life’s Highs and Lows How to Build Self-Worth Beyond Achievement How to Find Freedom in Vulnerability How to Live More Fully in the Present Moment Growth isn’t about becoming someone else; it’s about having the courage to be fully yourself. Keep showing up, keep learning, and trust that who you are is already enough. With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty JAY’S DAILY WISDOM DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Join 900,000+ readers discovering how small daily shifts create big life change with my free newsletter. Subscribe https://news.jayshetty.me/subscribe Check out our Apple subscription to unlock bonus content of On Purpose! https://lnk.to/JayShettyPodcast What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro 01:33 Rooting for Others Without Comparison 04:01 The Danger of Seeking External Validation 07:02 A Childhood Memory That Shaped Everything 11:42 The Secret to Finding Flow 18:29 Life Feels Like One Big Audition 22:31 The Gap Between Who You Are and Who You Present 25:05 Finding Freedom in the Imperfection 27:49 One Story Does Not Define You 32:07 When Life Falls Apart Overnight 39:15 Facing Your Darkest Moments Alone 46:44 Breaking Free from the Alpha Male Myth 50:08 When Your Inner Critic Becomes Your Identity 52:56 Managing the Voice Inside Your Head 56:21 Why Does Time Go By Faster as We Grow Older? 58:42 Home Is the People You Love 01:01:55 Setting Boundaries to Protect Your Creativity 01:04:29 Finding Where You Truly Belong 01:10:04 Growing Up in Northwest London 01:12:32 Riz on Final Five Episode Resources: YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/rizahmed Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/RizAhmed/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/rizahmedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with Katelynn Stone, founder of EverRoot Academy, a new K-8 hybrid learning community set to launch in August 2026 in Crestview, Florida. After nearly two decades working across public and private education settings—including classrooms, leadership roles, and specialized learning environments—Katelynn is now building her own learner-centered educational model. EverRoot Academy combines virtual and place-based learning, multi-age groupings, community projects, and a flexible learning week designed to meet students where they are. Katelynn shares the challenges and excitement of launching a microschool, from navigating legal and insurance requirements to developing systems and building enrollment. She also discusses how her tutoring business became a bridge to school founding, why relationships are at the heart of educational entrepreneurship, and her long-term vision for creating a globally connected learning community. Whether you're an educator considering entrepreneurship, a parent exploring alternative learning options, or simply curious about the future of education, this conversation offers an inspiring look at what it takes to build something new. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 4039: Chris Reining explains how childhood experiences can shape the fears and anxieties we carry into adulthood, quietly influencing our careers, relationships, and confidence. Through honest reflection and a personal story about overcoming public speaking anxiety, he shows how confronting fear directly can lead to growth, resilience, and a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisreining.com/fear-how-to-face-it-conquer-it-find-freedom/ Quotes to ponder: "Here's the thing, fear and anxiety will never go away. If we are growing, we should feel uncomfortable, and we should feel some fear." "Successful people handle fear with confidence, and they think whatever happens, they will handle it." "Even though as adults we may be responsible and competent people, a functioning part of society, everyday we live with needless fear and anxiety that paralyzes and controls us." Episode references: Toastmasters International: https://www.toastmasters.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 4039: Chris Reining explains how childhood experiences can shape the fears and anxieties we carry into adulthood, quietly influencing our careers, relationships, and confidence. Through honest reflection and a personal story about overcoming public speaking anxiety, he shows how confronting fear directly can lead to growth, resilience, and a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisreining.com/fear-how-to-face-it-conquer-it-find-freedom/ Quotes to ponder: "Here's the thing, fear and anxiety will never go away. If we are growing, we should feel uncomfortable, and we should feel some fear." "Successful people handle fear with confidence, and they think whatever happens, they will handle it." "Even though as adults we may be responsible and competent people, a functioning part of society, everyday we live with needless fear and anxiety that paralyzes and controls us." Episode references: Toastmasters International: https://www.toastmasters.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 4039: Chris Reining explains how childhood experiences can shape the fears and anxieties we carry into adulthood, quietly influencing our careers, relationships, and confidence. Through honest reflection and a personal story about overcoming public speaking anxiety, he shows how confronting fear directly can lead to growth, resilience, and a more fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisreining.com/fear-how-to-face-it-conquer-it-find-freedom/ Quotes to ponder: "Here's the thing, fear and anxiety will never go away. If we are growing, we should feel uncomfortable, and we should feel some fear." "Successful people handle fear with confidence, and they think whatever happens, they will handle it." "Even though as adults we may be responsible and competent people, a functioning part of society, everyday we live with needless fear and anxiety that paralyzes and controls us." Episode references: Toastmasters International: https://www.toastmasters.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of LiberatED, LaRae Hulsey tells host Kerry McDonald about her remarkable journey from enrolling her children in a Prenda microschool in rural Apache County, Arizona to launching her own program, LaRae's Learning Lab. Along the way, her family faced extraordinary challenges, including her husband's leukemia diagnosis, which required relocating for medical treatment. LaRae explains how the flexibility and personal connections of microschooling provided stability during crisis, why she eventually stepped into a leadership role herself, and how her microschool now serves a dozen students in a community where alternative education options are rapidly expanding. She also offers encouragement and practical advice for aspiring founders who may doubt their ability to start something of their own. In a conversation about resilience, purpose, and the power of personalized learning, LaRae's story highlights how education entrepreneurship often begins with a parent's desire to help their own children thrive. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

An Accusing MemoryDo you find it hard to forgive yourself? Stop punishing yourself! Step forward in freedom!

When addiction steps in, your family may be turned upside down. Pastor Victor Torres shares his dramatic story of growing up as a gang member and a heroin addict and how God changed his life. He'll identify some signs of substance abuse and offer first steps toward hope and healing for your addicted loved one.

This week on the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald talks with Serena Wilkie Gifford and Kate Walker of the Birches School, a nature-based K–8 independent school in the Boston area that began in 2012 with just five students and now serves about 75 learners. Serena and Kate share the school's founding story, its progressive educational philosophy, and how nature is woven throughout the curriculum—from math lessons outdoors to history explorations in the woods. They discuss the benefits of outdoor learning for children's well-being, curiosity, and engagement, while also emphasizing strong academics, close relationships, and child-centered learning. Kerry and her guests also explore why more families are seeking alternatives to conventional schooling, the growing interest in nature-based education, and how small, mission-driven schools like Birches are creating learning environments where children thrive. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Kerry McDonald talks with Mary Wells, co-founder and senior partner at Bellwether, a national nonprofit focused on expanding educational opportunity and innovation. Mary shares the story behind Bellwether's founding and discusses the rapid growth of private school choice programs, microschools, and other emerging learning models. They explore the opportunities and challenges facing education entrepreneurs, including questions around accountability, sustainability, and scaling innovation. Mary also offers her perspective on the promise—and risks—of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of designing tools that truly support student learning. The conversation also touches on Bellwether's work in student funding formulas, postsecondary pathways, and the evolving future of education. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Welcome to today's Guided Prayer, where we invite you to find a quiet space to still your mind and body.  Guided Prayers are a daily 5–10 minute, intentionally created moment to slow down and meet with God—through scripture, reflection, and honest prayer.It's not a program you attend.It's a pathway you practice.A guided space where people can stop, breathe, and connect with Jesus—every single day.

What happens when homeschooling families want more connection, collaboration, and hands-on learning? In this episode, Kerry McDonald talks with Danika Dunn and Kelly Clearkin of Bramblewood Learning Community, a project-based hybrid homeschool program in Pennsylvania serving around 60 students. Danika shares how she launched Bramblewood in 2020 after searching for project-based learning resources designed specifically for homeschoolers, while Kelly explains how her "Forest Fridays" community grew to more than 2,000 members during the homeschooling surge of the pandemic years. Together, they discuss building intentional culture, supporting homeschool families through conferences and mentorship, and why community-centered, project-based learning is resonating with so many families today. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!  

In this special episode, we look back at Jim's top moments from over 1,000 episodes. From the early  audio-only days to the more recent video shows, we revisit the amazing journey it's been.  God's been faithful every step of the way, keeping  Men in the Arena  standing strong at 1,000 episodes. Check out the full interviews here! James Ramos, Darby Ramos, Colton Ramos Wild Awakening: How a Raging Grizzly Healed My Wounded Heart w/ Greg Matthews EP 305 How to Connect with Your Daughter: 15 Tools for Girl Dads - Part 1 w/ Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield EP 633 Great Husbands Do Radical Things w/ Regi Campbell EP 362 Forgiving the Unforgivable: 7 Steps to Overcome Your Bitterness and Find Freedom w/ Bruce Hebel EP 586 Living the Best Version of Your Marriage w/ Don Minter EP 178 Taming Your Thoughts w/ Max Lucado: 3 Practical Tools to Combat Negative Thinking from a Giant of the Faith EP 890 Is Your Wife Crazy? Love and Respect w/ Emerson Eggerichs EP 203 1 Hour to Fix Your Marriage w/ Drs. Paul and Virginia Friesen EP  736 Overcoming the Invisible Marriage-Killer: How to Fix the Elephant in Your Marriage w/ Jason Karampatsos EP 626   11. BONUS: Quit or Finish Strong? The ONE Deciding Factor EP 612 Want to protect your marriage? Get our free ebook: 7 Guardrails to Protect Your Marriage Before It's Too Late. (https://tinyurl.com/7Guardrails) You can start a ministry to father the fatherless in your church! Learn how with our sponsor, Kids Outdoor Zone at https://kidsoutdoorzone.com/arena.  

In this episode, Kerry McDonald talks with Caroline Allen, Chief Program Officer at the Center for Education Reform and Founding Director of the Yass Prize, about how this prize recognizes and celebrates K-12 education innovation and impact across the US. Caroline shared her journey from public school teacher to philanthropy, and explained the Yass Prize's four core criteria: sustainability, transformation, outstanding performance, and permissionless operation (S.T.O.P.). She offered practical advice for applicants ahead of this years's June 1 deadline, encouraging educators to clearly articulate what makes their model distinct and in high demand. The conversation also highlighted the diversity of past winners—from microschools to established networks—and the prize's role in connecting innovators while amplifying their work. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!  

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter sits down with Ashley Jameson of Pure Desire to talk about one of the most overlooked conversations in the church today—how these struggles are impacting women, marriages, and entire congregations. While many still view this as a men's issue, the reality is far more complex and far more widespread.Ashley shares from years of experience walking alongside individuals and churches, highlighting both the challenges and the hope she has seen firsthand. From powerful stories of freedom to the ongoing gaps in resources, she explains why this is one of the greatest discipleship opportunities facing the church right now. When people feel safe enough to bring their stories into the light, real healing can begin.The conversation also explores the unique challenges women face, including shame, betrayal, trauma, and confusion around identity and worth. Ashley offers practical insight for churches, leaders, and individuals who want to take the next step—reminding listeners that healing is not instant, but it is possible with the right support, community, and commitment to the process.Episode Topics Discussed• Ashley Davidson's role at Pure Desire and ministry background• The vision and impact of Pure Desire's counseling and group programs• Her book Girl Talk and resources for moms and daughters• The growing need for continued care beyond initial recovery• Why this issue is a major discipleship opportunity for the church• Current statistics and the gap in church resources• How small churches can implement support systems• The importance of testimonies and creating safe spaces• Challenges women face, including shame, betrayal, and insecurity• Why repeated struggles often point to deeper work that needs to be done• The realities facing younger generations today• Trauma, betrayal, and how it impacts the mind, body, and relationships• Signs of unresolved trauma and unhealthy relational patterns• How churches can better support individuals and spouses• Encouragement for those feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or aloneResources MentionedPure Desire Ministries – https://puredesire.orgPure Desire Online Groups and Church Partnerships- https://puredesire.org/groups Girl Talk by Ashley Jameson- https://puredesire.org/shop/girl-talkTimestamps00:00 – Why This Conversation Matters00:32 – Introduction to Ashley Davidson00:37 – Pure Desire's Impact and Ministry Overview03:15 – Girl Talk and New Resource Development06:44 – How to Connect with Pure Desire07:28 – The Reality in Churches Today11:30 – Supporting Small Churches and Leaders14:10 – Addressing Hidden Struggles in the Church16:39 – Unique Challenges Women Face19:38 – The Younger Generation and Growing Needs23:06 – Trauma, Betrayal, and Its Impact25:59 – Signs of Unresolved Trauma28:31 – How Churches Can Better Support Spouses31:32 – Final Encouragement: You Are Not AloneSend us your feedback!Try Covenant Eyes for FREE today!Use Promo Code: FreePodcast © 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

Our sermon series, Upside Down. concludes with Make a Difference. We have come to Know God, we have found freedom and discovered our purpose. We make a diference when we walk as Christ walked bringing others to Know God, Find Freedom, Discover their Purpose and they too Make a DIfference.

Kerry McDonald talks with Kelsy Achtenberg, founding teacher and Executive Director of The Innovation School, a private K-8 school in Bismarck, North Dakota. They discuss the school's Reggio Emilia-inspired model, its focus on passion, play, and projects, and the recent launch of a hybrid homeschool program to meet growing demand. Kelsy shares the challenges of running a small private school, the importance of family alignment, and how graduates thrive when transitioning to traditional high schools. Kelsy is also a new Senior Contributor at FEE's Education Entrepreneurship Lab! Read her articles at edentrepreneur.org. Also, check out Kerry's latest Forbes.com article, featuring The Innovation School and its new hybrid homeschool program. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Do you ever feel like you're living a double life? You look like the "perfect Christian girl" on the outside, but on the inside, you're carrying a weight you don't think anyone would understand. In today's episode, Coach Jamie is dropping the excuses and picking up the roadmap to freedom. Whether it's an addiction, a relationship that doesn't honor God, or a secret struggle with people-pleasing, you are NOT too far gone. It's time to stop fighting for victory and start fighting from a position of victory. In this video, you'll learn: The difference between conviction (from God) and condemnation (from the enemy). 8 practical steps to move from "struggling" to "overcomer." Change isn't change until you decide to make a change. Transformation happens from the inside out.  You are a daughter of the Most High King, and you were never meant to carry your burdens in silence. Join Coach Jamie as she shares her own journey from darkness to light and gives you the tools to help you (and your friends!) walk in total freedom. Ready to grow deeper? Join the UncommonTEEN Collective or the SOAR Collective for group coaching and a community of sisters who have your back:

Here's why Mr. Twenty Twenty believes in the Science of MiraclesRead at your own risk.....My pants were full of poop... And I couldn't move my arms.... And my hands were numb.... Blood was trickling down my throat and that's when I decided....."I won!"That's when I imagined - being free! Hiking in the woods, making babies, swimming naked in that lovely waterfall....."I won...."Meanwhile....My body died....And I was revised....And I still, couldn't move my arms....And blood was now caked in my mouth.....And I took a moment to imagine....What implied I still had all my teeth.....(I like my teeth....)Now....About six more hours went by....Where I was moved by my captors from one cell block to another - for my protection from the other inmates.....And it was getting close to morning, and I knew.... This is when, hostages DIE.And here I was, a prison guard taken hostage in one of the worst prison riots in United States history. Knowing that if I lived for 60 more minutes, I'd be fine....."I won...."That's when I imagined AGAIN - being free! Hiking in the woods, making babies, swimming naked in that lovely waterfall.....When the Pennsylvania State Police and the Hostage Rescue Team attacked the cell block I was being held in, all the inmates ran to the back of the block.....I was in a cell near the front doors, I made a good shield....They left me behind in the panic.... "for some reason".I wiggled my head out of the pillow case it was trapped inside for hours.... and saw the main doors to the cell block being closed.....FUCK.....I'm gonna get locked in here with these fucking animals, if I don't RUN NOW!I found my body slamming against the cell block doors, they burst open, and there they were.....The GOOD guys.....And one of them shoved a 12 gauge shotgun into my belly....."I won...."Any millisecond now.... I'm either walking out with a little help from my friends.....Or I am gonna be a blood splatter on the cell block doors..... GAME OVER...Better luck next time.... That's when I imagined AGAIN - being free! Hiking in the woods, making babies, swimming naked in that lovely waterfall....And that's when a buddy of mine identified me as a GOOD GUY.....And I jogged out of the prison.... And into freedom.....So don't tell me this doesn't work.I don't want to hear your excuses.I want you to be free.And you don't need to go to the depths of hell like I did.....to BUY THE PEARL - to USE THE TOOLS.You can in this moment - FIND FREEDOM.But don't tell ME that it's gonna be difficult....Because I'm just gonna sit here, and smile.....

Kerry McDonald speaks with Marc Porter Magee, CEO and founder of 50CAN, about the organization's nationwide efforts to expand education choice and empower families. Drawing on a new survey of 23,000 parents, Marc shares insights on growing demand for tutoring and flexible learning options and key differences between homeschooling and microschooling families. They explore how policy and advocacy can open access to educational opportunities once reserved for the wealthy—helping more families find the right fit for their children. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

We have been granted freedom through the work of Jesus Christ.

Have you ever felt like your brain just won't stop thinking about food? What to eat, how much you ate, whether you made the right choice — the constant mental chatter that never seems to quiet down? The medical world calls it "food noise," and they've even created a billion-dollar drug to silence it. But nobody is talking about what Scripture says about it. Until now. In episode 155 of the Overweighted podcast, we're breaking down food noise from a Biblical perspective — what it actually is, where it really comes from, and why diet culture may have made it worse. We'll explore what God's Word says about our thought life, the renewing of our mind, and what it looks like to finally find peace around food — not through a prescription, but through the truth of Scripture. In this episode we cover: What "food noise" is and why it's trending in the medical and wellness world How diet culture created and fueled the problem What the Bible says about obsessive thoughts, the mind, and where our focus belongs 3 practical, faith-based steps to begin silencing food noise for good How to respond to the objection that this is purely a medical issue If you are a Christian woman who is tired of dieting, exhausted by the mental weight of food obsession, and ready to trust God's Word over diet culture's rules — this episode is for you.

On today's episode, I visit a friend in Bali who has found the light after spending years of her life in darkness. She has endured so much hardship since she was 4 years old. I'm inspired by the story she continues to write with the Lord, and I'm certain that you will find value in our short conversation. You've come so far already. Keep going.God is with you, my friend.Follow us on social media!

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with Lexi Hanson and Kayla Phipps, two "superguides" at Prenda, a national microschooling network founded in 2018 by Kelly Smith that has since served roughly 10,000 students in hundreds of tiny schools across the US. Lexi and Kayla share their journeys from traditional education settings to launching and guiding their own Prenda microschools. They discuss how the Prenda model—serving K–8 learners in small, mixed-age environments of less than a dozen students—fosters autonomy, personalized learning, and meaningful connections. The conversation explores how demand for microschools surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and why interest in these flexible learning environments continues today. As Super Guides, Lexi and Kayla mentor new microschool founders, offering feedback and support to ensure high-quality learning experiences. They also describe what a typical day looks like in a Prenda microschool, including core academic time and community-building activities that balance structure with independence. Whether you're an educator considering a new path or a parent exploring alternative education options, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights into the growing microschool movement. Their advice to prospective guides and families is simple: Just do it! *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald speaks with Frish Waller, founder of Brainforest Academy, a Montessori microschool in Florida designed to serve both neurodiverse and neurotypical learners. Frish shares her unconventional journey toward entrepreneurship—from teaching internationally to serving in the military—and how her personal experiences as a parent of a child with special needs led her to create a more inclusive, child-centered learning environment. She discusses the challenges of launching a microschool, from finding space to building enrollment, as well as the growing demand for flexible education options. The conversation highlights the power of community, the role of school choice policies in expanding access, and why microschools are becoming an increasingly attractive option for families seeking something different. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

What if the thing you're holding onto is the very thing keeping you stuck?This Easter message cuts through the noise and gets real about why so many of us feel trapped by our past, our pain, or our patterns. Using a simple farming story, we see a deeper truth: nothing grows unless something first dies. Jesus didn't just talk about it, He lived it. He stepped into suffering, faced separation, and chose the cross so you wouldn't have to carry your sin alone.Everything changes when you trust what He did for you.Jesus went first. He let His life fall like a seed into the ground, trusting God would bring new life. And He did. Now that same invitation is on the table for you. Let go of what's killing you. Bury the anger, the shame, the control. On the other side is freedom, forgiveness, and a new kind of life that actually feels alive.

Connor Beaton is the founder of "ManTalks", an international men's mental health organization, the host of "ManTalks", and the author of the best-selling book "Men's Work: A Practical Guide to Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, and Find Freedom".Through his 1:1 work, his courses, and the Alliance, his private men's community, Connor has spent over a decade helping men face the hidden parts of themselves that quietly run their lives.But Connor didn't come to this work through theory...For years, he performed the man he thought he needed to be: charming, capable, put together on the outside. On the inside, he was running.Eventually, it all collapsed...He found himself sleeping in his car, alone with everything he'd been hiding, and realized he had two options:Keep silently suffering, or start talking.He chose to talk. And that choice eventually became "ManTalks"...In my own journey of masculine development, Connor has been one of the most influential voices. Having him here on "Heart of Man" has truly been a dream since the very beginning of this show.One of the central themes of this conversation is self-worth...We explore how self-esteem is performance based. It rises and falls with what you do and how well you do it.Self-worth is something deeper. It is the understanding that you have value simply because you exist. Not because you earned it or proved it, but because it was never conditional in the first place.And yet for so many men, this knowing is missing...In its place is what Connor calls dark motivation: using shame, self-loathing, and fear as fuel to keep pushing forward. You build the business. You reach the top. And you feel nothing. Because the internal foundation was never built on genuine worth.In this conversation, Connor and I dive into:The critical difference between self-esteem and self-worth, and why so many men confuse the twoHow a man's sense of value becomes tied to his ability to perform, and what happens when that performance faltersWhy both the high-achieving man driven by shame and the collapsed man consumed by it are carrying the same woundHow shame functions as a compliance mechanism, and what that reveals about how men learned to manage themselves as boysThe two distinct paths that build a destructive inner critic, and how to trace yours back to its originHow to separate personhood from behavior, so failure is no longer experienced as evidence of being brokenHow to repurpose the inner critic from hostile attacker into a loyal soldier with a new missionThe role of self-compassion in building genuine self-worth, and why most men resist itWhy facing fear in isolation is dangerous, and what it truly means to have other men beside you as you walk into itThis episode is for any man who has spent years achieving while quietly feeling that none of it is ever enough. And for any man ready to stop using shame as the engine, and start building from something more honest and lasting.—Connect with Alex Lehmann:

Feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like you've somehow lost yourself in the noise of life? In this powerful episode, Wendy sits down with Christine Platt, author of LESS IS LIBERATION, to explore what it truly means to declutter—not just your home, but your mind, your habits, and your life. Together, they dive into the deeper roots of overwhelm, from people-pleasing and limiting beliefs to emotional clutter and self-abandonment. This honest and soulful conversation is your invitation to choose less—less pressure, less noise, less “doing”—so you can experience more freedom, alignment, and a life that feels like you again.  

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald speaks with Ken Trautwein, founder of Current Education Center, a secular, self-directed learning community outside Philadelphia. After 25 years in conventional education, Ken set out to create a more flexible, human-centered environment where young people can follow their interests while being supported by intentional mentorship. Opened in early 2025, Current serves teens through a part-time, self-directed model that blends structure with freedom. Ken describes his "riverbank" philosophy of education, where learning flows naturally within a supportive framework, and reflects on the challenges of launching a new center, building community, and rethinking what education can look like. If you're curious about self-directed learning, microschooling, or what it takes to create something new in education, this conversation offers both inspiration and insight. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

This sermon teaches that although Christians often fall back into the same sins and struggles, God calls them to break that cycle and live in freedom. It reminds believers that the struggle with sin is real, but through Jesus they are made new and no longer defined by their past. The message gives practical steps—knowing God, being transformed, living differently, staying accountable, and depending on His grace—to help people walk in victory and move forward.      

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with Marta MacBan, founder of Sonoran Learning Collective, a hybrid microschool in Cave Creek, Arizona, that's reimagining how and when students learn. Launched in 2024 with just six students—including her own children—the program now serves a growing community of families seeking flexibility, personalization, and strong academic foundations. Marta shares how her journey from corporate media to education entrepreneurship was sparked by her daughter's struggles during pandemic-era schooling—and how that led her to build a two-day-a-week microschool focused on core academics and critical thinking for grades 4–8. Kerry and Marta discuss the power of Arizona's ESA program in making alternative education accessible, the benefits of midyear enrollment flexibility, and the importance of community partnerships. Marta also offers candid insights on the challenges of launching a microschool—from finding space to navigating regulations—and why connecting with other founders can make all the difference. For families exploring new learning models and aspiring founders ready to take the leap, this conversation highlights how small, flexible schools are opening big, new possibilities in education. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

On this week's episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald talks with Cory Henwood, innovation coordinator for Utah's Iron County School District and founder of Launch High School, a new public high school focused on personalized learning. Cory shares his journey from public school math teacher to district innovation leader, and explains how Launch High School blends competency-based learning, personalized schedules, and real-world entrepreneurship. Students spend much of their time building projects and businesses while progressing through academics at their own pace—an approach that has led to some of the strongest academic outcomes in the district. Kerry and Cory also explore how school districts can respond to the growing landscape of school choice, ESAs, charter schools, and customized learning options. Cory discusses his work supporting new innovative programs across Utah, including emerging models that allow families to combine multiple educational experiences tailored to their children. They close with a look ahead at the future of education—and why Cory believes that greater family choice, flexibility, and personalization will continue shaping schooling in the years to come. ***  Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with May Jewell, founder of Jewell School in Queen Creek, Arizona. Since launching in 2021 with just 18 students, the Waldorf- and Montessori-inspired Christian school has grown to more than 100 students. May shares how she built the program, the challenges and rewards of being a new school founder, the regulatory burdens constraining her growth, and why families are increasingly seeking out alternative learning environments. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!  

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with Rebecca Thomas, founder of Victory Alliance, a K–12 hybrid homeschool program in Traverse City, Michigan. Rebecca shares how she transitioned from an educator in traditional public, charter, and Christian schools to homeschooling her own child—and eventually launching a microschool during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. What began as a tutoring pod in one family's basement has grown to serve 50 students with six teachers, and prioritizes small class sizes, academic rigor, and flexibility for families. Rebecca explains why she has intentionally capped enrollment to preserve quality, how her first graduates earned multiple college acceptances, and why aspiring education entrepreneurs should begin small, build trust, and let growth happen organically. This is a conversation about courage, community, and the power of starting before you feel ready. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

1 Cor 10 – Find Freedom Without Failure is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul surrendered his rights for the sake of the gospel. In 1 Corinthians 10, he gives a warning: spiritual privilege does not guarantee spiritual success. Israel saw miracles. They experienced God's presence. Yet many still fell. Why? Because experiences don't replace obedience. In this episode, we talk about: Why freedom requires humility The real danger of idolatry and pride How temptation works—and what the “way of escape” truly means (v.13) Why everyday choices reveal spiritual allegiance You can't live at the Lord's Table and the table of demons. Freedom in Christ is real but it demands watchfulness. Listen now and learn how to live in freedom without drifting into failure.

What does it take to build the first private online school in the United States—before most families even had internet access? In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with Alyssa Tormala, Head of School at Laurel Springs School, to explore the school's remarkable evolution from a small distance-learning program in 1991 to a global, accredited K–12 institution that has served more than 6,000 students across 100+ countries. With a proven track record of high-quality online learning, including selective college admissions, Laurel Springs School continues to lead the way in virtual education. For families exploring alternatives to conventional schooling, this episode offers a compelling look at how private online education can combine personalization, rigor, and worldwide community. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

What if the first miracle God ever did for His people wasn't parting the Red Sea — but simply letting them know He knew them? In this first message of our new series The Four Cups, Pastor Stephen Mizell unpacks the ancient Passover tradition rooted in Exodus 6:6-7 and shows how God's four promises — "I will bring you out, I will free you, I will redeem you, I will take you as my own" — are a roadmap for every believer's journey with Him. Before God changes your habits, He changes your identity. Before He fixes your behavior, He establishes who you belong to. That's the Cup of Sanctification — and it all begins with knowing God. Key Takeaways: Salvation is the starting line, not the finish line — God wants to restore you, not just rescue you Sanctification means set apart, not perfect — it's about position, not performance God introduces Himself before He changes your circumstances You can't know your purpose until you know your Purpose Giver Knowing God isn't a one-time event — it's a growing, circular journey Scripture References: Exodus 6:6–7 Acts 17 (God's purpose for the nations) Psalm 139 (You saw me before I was born) Ephesians 1:17–18 Romans 12:1–2 Open Door Church exists to help people Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference.  

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with virtual learning pioneer Julie Young, author of Virtual Schools, Actual Learning: Digital Education in America, published by the Pioneer Institute. Julie shares the inside story of launching Florida Virtual School in the 1990s, building one of the first and most successful statewide online programs in the country, to then spearheading the growth of ASU Prep Digital and consulting with education leaders on the future of online education. For anyone interested in education entrepreneurship, edtech innovation, or the future of K-12 schooling in an AI-powered world, this conversation offers both a historical lens and a forward-looking roadmap. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this message, you'll learn: Why the "conflict-free" assumption leads to bitterness and isolation. How to stop "sweeping things under the rug" and start growing through disagreements. The difference between chasing happiness and experiencing it as a byproduct of a healthy, God-centered marriage. Whether you are married, dating, or single, this message offers practical and biblical wisdom for navigating the inevitable conflicts of life and building relationships that last. At 12Stone Church, learn how to Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose and Make a Difference. Visit our website at 12Stone.com for more information or connect with us at https://12stone.com/connect/

Ohio has long been at the forefront of the school choice movement—and today tens of thousands of students participate in one of the state's five scholarship programs. In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with Rabbi Eric "Yitz" Frank, President of School Choice Ohio, and Ann Riddle, Director of Provider School Outreach at School Choice Ohio, to explore how Ohio became a national leader in education freedom. They trace the evolution of the state's first Cleveland Scholarship Program in 1995 to today's increasingly robust voucher programs. But as demand for choice continues to grow, a new challenge has emerged: supply. From facilities constraints to regulatory considerations, what does it take to expand schooling options at scale? The conversation also turns to the new federal education freedom tax credit program and how Ohio is uniquely positioned to benefit—potentially expanding choice to even more families. If you're interested in the intersection of policy, advocacy, and education entrepreneurship, this episode offers a compelling look at how one state is leading the school choice movement. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

What does it look like to build a school around student voice, joyful learning, and real affordability? In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald speaks with Elizabeth Dean, Head of Learning at The Village School, a learner-centered school in Arlington, Virginia serving about 70 students. Elizabeth shares her journey from public school teacher and instructional coach to school leader—and how her own negative schooling experiences sparked a commitment to creating more human, joyful learning environments. Elizabeth explains how the Village School emphasizes hands-on projects, real-world challenges, and two hours of unstructured play every day—while still seeing students perform above grade level on standardized tests. She also discusses the school's deliberate choice to keep tuition below half the cost of most traditional private schools in Northern Virginia, supported by a robust financial aid program that prioritizes access over luxury amenities. The conversation explores the school's three-way partnership among learners, guides, and parents, the importance of social capital and personal development, and plans to launch a high school program in 2028. This episode is a powerful example of how learner-centered schools can remain financially sustainable, academically strong, and deeply human. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald speaks with Kalecia Simmons, founder of The Black Homeschools, about how one parent's search for support grew into a thriving homeschooling community serving more than 1,100 Black families across the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area—and beyond. Kalecia shares her personal journey homeschooling her eight children, the early challenges that motivated her to create a space specifically for African American homeschoolers, and the persistence it took to build trust and momentum—from park meetups with no attendees to massive field trips and events. She explains how The Black Homeschools has evolved into a resource hub offering curriculum guidance, coaching, enrichment classes, NCAA athletics support, and college preparation, all rooted in community and cultural connection. The conversation also explores the broader rise in Black homeschooling, shifting perceptions of homeschooling as a viable and respected educational path, and Kalecia's ambitious vision for the future—including expansion. This episode is an inspiring look at what's possible when parents trust themselves and build the communities their children—and others—need. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald is joined by Heike Larson, Vice President of Programs at the Roots of Progress Institute, and Dr. Laura Mazer, a surgeon and curriculum lead for the Institute's new summer program, Progress in Medicine 2026. Together, they explore a bold new model for summer teen learning that blends medical history, future innovation, mentorship, and personal development. Designed for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, Progress in Medicine 2026 combines five weeks of live virtual seminars with a multi-day in-person experience at Stanford University. Students examine landmark moments in medical progress, grapple with today's healthcare challenges, and explore diverse career pathways—from medicine and biotech to research, policy, and entrepreneurship. Heike shares the vision behind the Roots of Progress Institute and its mission to foster a culture of human progress in the 21st century. Laura reflects on her own journey from surgeon to education innovator and discusses how her Montessori-inspired work shapes the summer program's inquiry-driven, student-centered approach. This episode offers an inspiring look at how summer learning can help teens connect their interests to real-world impact—and begin imagining ans building lives of purpose. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

On this episode of LiberatED, host Kerry McDonald sits down with Emily Barnitz, founder of Zoe Learning House, a fast-growing hybrid homeschool program in New Orleans, Louisiana. Emily shares her journey from being homeschooled herself to becoming a public school teacher—and ultimately launching Zoe Learning House in fall 2024 with just 10 students in her living room. Eighteen months later, the program now serves 50 students across kindergarten through fourth grade, with plans to expand to fifth grade while maintaining small class sizes and an 8:1 student-teacher ratio. The conversation explores Zoe's Charlotte Mason–inspired, hands-on learning model; flexible enrollment options for families; and the intentional decision to prioritize educational quality over rapid scaling. Emily also offers practical insights for aspiring education entrepreneurs—on starting small, building visibility through word-of-mouth and SEO, navigating state homeschool regulations, and staying grounded in your "why" as your program grows. This episode is a must-listen for educators, homeschoolers, and founders interested in hybrid learning models that are both sustainable and deeply student-centered. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Most of us treat our spiritual walk like a solo project, believing we can reach our full potential through personal study or by watching a service from a distance. We try to handle our struggles in private, only to find ourselves stuck in a cycle of resetting the same old habits without ever addressing the root cause. But real growth isn't designed to happen in isolation; it requires a specific environment to actually take root. True spiritual maturity is a team sport, not a solo pursuit. There are blind spots in our character, our marriages, and our careers that we simply cannot see or fix on our own. We need a biblical community that loves us enough to call us up to a higher standard and carry us through the heavy seasons when we feel overwhelmed. You might be just one honest, biblical relationship away from the breakthrough you've been praying for. Community isn't just an optional resource or a social club; it is the fundamental context where our faith becomes practical. God designed us to be sharpened by others so that we don't have to drown in our own secrets. It's time to stop trying to "one another" without others and invite the right people into your journey. Step out of isolation and let the real work of growth begin within the body of Christ. At 12Stone Church, learn how to Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose and Make a Difference. Visit our website at 12Stone.com for more information or connect with us at https://12stone.com/connect/

Why are Venezuelans celebrating the collapse of socialism while American leaders are selling it as “compassion”?    In this Live Free episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham pull the curtain back on Mamdani's “warmth of collectivism,” to expose the real-world cost of a socialist ideology. They contrast empty political promises with the only freedom that actually delivers, Jesus' declaration from the cross, “It IS finished.” This is a raw, unfiltered conversation about power, control, false hope, and why Christians must think biblically when culture reframes broken ideas as virtue.

Is Jesus “progressive,” or is that a modern political remix of an ancient faith? In this LIVE FREE Bonus Episode, Pastor Josh Howerton respond to a viral Daily Show clip and unpack how Scripture is often twisted in election seasons to serve ideologies rather than truth. He breaks down progressive Christianity, expose common misuses of Matthew 25 and Romans 13, clarify the biblical roles of the family, church, and state, and explain why Christian compassion and government authority are not the same thing. If you've ever felt confused by political Bible talk, or want to be equipped to test every claim like the Bereans, this episode will sharpen your discernment fast.

This is a special State of the Podcast episode of LIVE FREE. What started as a simple experiment turned into something we never expected: millions of views, listeners from around the world, and real lives being changed through discipleship. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the growth, share the data behind what's happening, explain the philosophy driving LIVE FREE, and talk honestly about why this is resonating, especially with men. We also unpack what's coming next, including a new APP designed to move people from consuming content to living it out. This isn't about views or virality. It's about helping people think clearly, live faithfully, and walk free.