Podcasts about finding comfort

" It felt like the spirit was like- 'You have been trying to do this by yourself for so long, and I've been here the whole time, whether or not you choose to utilize it, I'm here the whole time and I'm here now and I'm not going anywhere. We're gonna get through this together.' And I needed that so bad because I had no idea how bad it was going to get."September 5th & 6th COME BACK TO CHRIST EVENT Tickets can be purchased at https://www.comebackpodcast.org/come-back-to-christ-event-september-5-6-utah-valley-convention-center-provo-ut-2/Cozy Earth code COMEBACK for 40% off https://cozyearth.com/Serve Clothing code COMEBACK for 15% offhttps://serveclothing.com/00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Anger and Betrayal00:46 Exciting Event Announcement02:44 Meet Emma: The Incredible Nanny06:43 Emma's Background and Family08:41 Emma's Marriage and Faith Crisis28:05 Finding Comfort in Faith31:11 Understanding Agency and Divine Plan43:06 Advice for the Divorced and Struggling45:20 Overcoming Judgment and AnxietyIf you have a story to share please contact ashly.comebackpodcast@gmail.comFor business inquiries contact info.comebackpodcast@gmail.comCome Back Team:Director, Founder, & Host: Ashly StoneEditor: Cara ReedOutreach Manager: Jenna CarlsonAssistant Editor: Michelle BergerAssistant Editor: Britt SmallzeArt Director: Jeremy GarciaProduction Director: Trent Wardwell

Liner Notes In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the innovative recording techniques utilized in David Bowie's Lodger album. Explore the fascinating musical evolution of David Bowie and its impact on his diverse discography. Delve into the profound influence of Brian Eno on David Bowie's experimental and boundary-pushing music. Discover the unique recording methods that revolutionized rock music production. Understand the significant impact of world music on Western artists, including David Bowie's artistic journey. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:01 - Unconventional Sound of "Lodger"  00:07:13 - Bowie's Musical Evolution  00:11:23 - Eno's Influence on "Lodger"  00:14:39 - Bowie's Anti-Brand Statement  00:16:18 - Musical Experimentation  00:17:28 - Interpreting Roles  00:19:35 - Theme of Wanderlust  00:23:16 - Diverse Fan Reactions  00:31:45 - Purposeful Unbalance  00:32:24 - Audio Troubles  00:33:32 - Embracing Accidents  00:35:24 - Unintended Uses of Toilet Paper  00:39:32 - Collaborating with Brian Eno  00:47:28 - Fantastic Voyage  00:48:44 - Analyzing Bowie's Final Episode  00:49:25 - Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences  00:50:40 - The Weight of Global Issues  00:51:52 - Coping with Shared Burdens  01:04:06 - The complexity of the lyrics  01:05:09 - Reversed chord structure in the song  01:07:18 - Cultural appropriation and mockery  01:11:26 - Analyzing the song's haiku-like lines  01:18:39 - Identity theft experience  01:21:32 - Honest Communication  01:22:04 - Data Security Concerns  01:22:50 - Empathetic Customer Service  01:23:33 - Resilience and Moving Forward  01:34:56 - Analyzing Music  01:38:08 - The chilling performance of the song  01:40:25 - The disturbing nature of the song  01:44:55 - Tonal shift and tension  01:49:29 - Bowie's forecast and transition  01:54:24 - The significance of the album  01:54:36 - Bowie's Refusal to Explain Himself  01:55:11 - Questions to Ponder While Re-listening to Lodger  01:56:35 - Reflection on Lodger and Bowie's Artistry  01:58:23 - Anticipation for Scary Monsters  02:01:59 - Closing Thoughts and Miscellaneous Tips  This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Performative Expectations vs. Honoring Your Neurodivergent (AuDHD) Needs     In this conversation, Patricia discusses the challenges of navigating personal truths, autonomy, and performative expectations, particularly as an AuDHDer. Patricia reflects on her struggles with body image, the importance of self-trust, the need for autonomy (PDA), honoring her needs as a neurodivergent human, and prioritizing her comfort. She also addresses social anxiety, the joy of spontaneity, and the balance between assertiveness and sensitivity in relationships. Ultimately, Patricia emphasizes personal growth and the acceptance of one's unique identity through the planning and execution of her son's wedding.   HIGHLIGHTS   ·       Navigating personal truths is essential for autonomy, and working with PDA (pervasive or persistent drive for autonomy) ·       Performative expectations can override the needs of the human. ·       Body image issues are apt to come up when asked to wear clothes one doesn't normally wear. ·       Self-trust is crucial in making personal choices. ·       Finding comfort in clothing is important for self-regulation, and feeling authentic. ·       Fear of overwhelm and dysregulation can be mitigated with preparation. ·       Embracing spontaneity can enhance connections with others. ·       Assertiveness is necessary in family dynamics. ·       Personal growth often comes from challenging experiences. ·       Sensitivity is a strength, not a weakness.   SOUND BITES "This is not about getting married." "I felt so present." "I really wanted to honor the bride." "I was very disheartened." "I fell in love with it."   SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You have a right to trust that you are exactly where you need to be. There's not anything you need to do. Your value and worth does not come from being productive. You can be stimmy. You can be joyful. You can be quiet.   You can be assertive. You can be moving your body. You can be still. You can want to touch all of the dogs in the world, and all of the horses. You can want to be left alone. You can enjoy being with people not being with people. Every single part of you is okay exactly the way you are.   CHAPTERS   00:00 Navigating Personal Truths and Autonomy 03:01 The Impact of Performative Expectations 05:55 Body Image and Self-Trust 09:11 Finding Comfort in Personal Choices 12:11 Overcoming Social Anxiety and Overstimulation 14:52 Embracing Spontaneity and Connection 18:08 Balancing Assertiveness and Sensitivity 20:46 Reflections on Personal Growth and Relationships   PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS   Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/   Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4   To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review”   Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Finding Comfort: The Gift of Presence Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-07-03-22-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De zon scheen fel op een warme zomerdag.En: The sun shone brightly on a warm summer day.Nl: Bram stond voor de felgekleurde entree van het ziekenhuis.En: Bram stood before the brightly colored entrance of the hospital.Nl: Gedachten raasden door zijn hoofd.En: Thoughts raced through his mind.Nl: Hij wilde een speciaal cadeau vinden voor zijn oma.En: He wanted to find a special gift for his grandma.Nl: Ze lag in het ziekenhuis na een operatie.En: She was in the hospital after an operation.Nl: Bram voelde zich schuldig dat hij haar niet vaker bezocht.En: Bram felt guilty for not visiting her more often.Nl: Binnen in het ziekenhuis rook het anders.En: Inside the hospital, it smelled different.Nl: Het was steriel en een beetje streng.En: It was sterile and somewhat strict.Nl: De gang was helder verlicht, met dokters en verpleegsters die gehaast heen en weer liepen.En: The hallway was brightly lit, with doctors and nurses hurriedly walking back and forth.Nl: Bram liep naar de cadeauwinkel bij de ingang.En: Bram walked to the gift shop by the entrance.Nl: In de winkel waren kleine tafels vol met knuffelberen, bloemen en ballonnen.En: In the shop, there were small tables full of teddy bears, flowers, and balloons.Nl: Dit voelde als een vrolijke plek, zelfs in het ziekenhuis.En: This felt like a cheerful place, even in the hospital.Nl: Bram wist niet wat hij moest kiezen.En: Bram didn't know what to choose.Nl: Hij wilde dat zijn oma zich beter voelde.En: He wanted his grandma to feel better.Nl: Iets praktisch, zoals warme pantoffels?En: Something practical, like warm slippers?Nl: Of iets sentimenteels, zoals een ingelijste foto?En: Or something sentimental, like a framed photo?Nl: Jasmijn, een vriendelijke verpleegster die langs liep, zag zijn vertwijfeling.En: Jasmijn, a friendly nurse walking by, saw his hesitation.Nl: "Kan ik je helpen?"En: "Can I help you?"Nl: vroeg ze.En: she asked.Nl: "Ik zoek een cadeau voor mijn oma," zei Bram.En: "I'm looking for a gift for my grandma," said Bram.Nl: "Iets dat haar blij maakt."En: "Something to make her happy."Nl: "Wat dacht je van een mooi fotolijstje?En: "What do you think of a nice photo frame?Nl: Of misschien iets om te lezen?"En: Or maybe something to read?"Nl: stelde Jasmijn voor.En: Jasmijn suggested.Nl: "Bedankt," zei Bram, maar hij liep verder, nog steeds twijfelend.En: "Thank you," said Bram, but he moved on, still unsure.Nl: Lotte, een andere bezoeker, liep langs met een grote ballon.En: Lotte, another visitor, walked by with a large balloon.Nl: Ze zag Bram en glimlachte.En: She saw Bram and smiled.Nl: "Je hoeft niet te stressen.En: "You don't have to stress.Nl: Het is het gebaar dat telt," zei ze.En: It's the gesture that counts," she said.Nl: Bram knikte, toch bleef de druk op zijn schouders.En: Bram nodded, yet the pressure on his shoulders remained.Nl: Hij stond op het punt om de winkel te verlaten toen hij iets zag.En: He was about to leave the store when he saw something.Nl: Op een plank lag een groot, zacht plaid.En: On a shelf lay a large, soft plaid.Nl: Het had dezelfde kleur als de deken die zijn oma vroeger op de bank had liggen.En: It was the same color as the blanket his grandma used to have on the couch.Nl: Het herinnerde hem aan de zondagen samen, thee drinkend en verhalen vertellend onder die warme deken.En: It reminded him of Sundays together, drinking tea and telling stories under that warm blanket.Nl: Bram wist het zeker.En: Bram knew for sure.Nl: Dit was perfect.En: This was perfect.Nl: Hij kocht het plaid en ging direct naar de kamer van zijn oma.En: He bought the plaid and went straight to his grandma's room.Nl: Oma lag in bed en glimlachte breed toen Bram binnenkwam.En: Grandma lay in bed and smiled widely when Bram entered.Nl: "Bram!En: "Bram!Nl: Wat ben ik blij je te zien."En: How happy I am to see you."Nl: Bram gaf haar het plaid.En: Bram gave her the plaid.Nl: "Voor jou, oma.En: "For you, grandma.Nl: Voor onze zondagen samen."En: For our Sundays together."Nl: Ze wikkelde zich in het cadeau en haar ogen vulden zich met tranen van geluk.En: She wrapped herself in the gift, and her eyes filled with tears of happiness.Nl: "Dit is precies wat ik nodig had," zei ze zacht.En: "This is exactly what I needed," she said softly.Nl: Ze spraken urenlang, herinneringen ophalend.En: They talked for hours, reminiscing.Nl: Bram realiseerde zich dat zijn bezoek op zichzelf al belangrijk was geweest.En: Bram realized that his visit alone had already been important.Nl: Zijn schuldgevoel verminderde.En: His guilt began to fade.Nl: Hij wist nu dat liefde ook tijd en aanwezigheid betekent.En: He now knew that love also means time and presence.Nl: Het ziekenhuis voelde minder klinisch toen Bram later wegging.En: The hospital felt less clinical when Bram left later.Nl: Hij voelde zich lichter, met een hernieuwde en diepere band met zijn oma.En: He felt lighter, with a renewed and deeper bond with his grandma.Nl: Het plaid was een prachtig cadeau, maar zijn aanwezigheid was net zo waardevol.En: The plaid was a wonderful gift, but his presence was just as valuable. Vocabulary Words:entrance: entreethoughts: gedachtenoperation: operatieguilty: schuldigsterile: sterielstrict: strenghurriedly: gehaastpractical: praktischsentimental: sentimenteelhesitation: vertwijfelinggesture: gebaarpressure: druklarge: grootplaid: plaidreminded: herinnerdereminiscing: herinneringen ophalendfade: verminderenrenewed: hernieuwdevaluable: waardevolhospital: ziekenhuissmelled: rooklit: verlichtgift shop: cadeauwinkelframed: ingelijsteballoon: ballonshoulders: schoudersshelf: plankcouch: bankwrapped: wikkeldeclinical: klinisch

Welcome back to 'Don't Cut Your Own Bangs!'    In this lively and heartfelt episode, Danielle Ireland chats with Ashlyn Thompson from the Parent Empowerment Network. Ashlyn shares her journey from growing her nonprofit organization to the emotional rollercoaster of her daughter's complex medical journey.    Get ready to explore how pain can be an unexpected teacher, the magic of community support, and why tapping into creativity can be your secret weapon against anxiety. Filled with laughs, valuable insights, and touching moments, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and joy. Tune in and enjoy the ride!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:20 Ashlyn Thompson's Journey and Nonprofit Growth 01:10 The Importance of Community and Support 01:37 Embracing Big Feelings and Finding Joy 02:52 Welcoming Ashlyn Back and Discussing Growth 05:44 Navigating Pain and Empowerment 09:51 The Power of Perspective and Decision Making 14:27 Balancing Life and Nonprofit Work 21:21 The Role of Pain as a Teacher 30:48 Finding Comfort in Movement and Nature 33:09 Returning to Basics 33:35 Reflecting on Past Decisions 35:20 The Role of Pain and Fear 38:20 Parent Empowerment Network 44:25 Creativity as a Lifeline 49:21 Embracing Emotions 53:07 Don't Cut Your Own Bangs Moment 01:01:20 Conclusion and Resources   Ashlyn Thompson interview links Ashlyn Thompson, a passionate advocate and storyteller, is co-founder of the Parent Empowerment Network, a nonprofit providing emotional and mental health support to parents navigating pediatric medical complexities. She also co-hosts theEmpowered by Hope podcast, which equips parents with practical tools, resources, and a strong sense of community—delivered with a heavy dose of humor and hope to empower them as their child's best advocate. Ashlyn's fire for advocacy was ignited by her daughter Emery, who was born with bladder exstrophy. After Emery nearly died following a major surgery at just seven weeks old, Ashlyn became a fierce voice for patient safety. Unwilling to accept the limitations of domestic medical care, she discovered a surgical option in the U.K. that wasn't available in the U.S. at the time. In early 2023, Emery became the first American to undergo this procedure—and thanks to Ashlyn's relentless advocacy, that surgery is now available in America. When she's not advocating or recording podcasts, Ashlyn moonlights as a budding driveway chalk artist, chaos coordinator for her spirited family, and an avid nature lover. Chocolate is her daily vitamin, ADHD is her superpower, spiders and small talk are her sworn enemies, and she firmly believes laughter and boldness are two of a parent's greatest tools.   Parent Empowerment Network:  The Parent Empowerment Network exists to support, encourage, and educate parents of children with medical complexities—empowering them with community, knowledge, and confidence to be their child's fiercest advocate. www.ParentEmpowermentNetwork.org Empowered by Hope podcast on all major podcast streaming platforms: https://parentempowermentnetwork.org/podcast/   Social Media:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Parent-Empowerment-Network/100083218456295/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentempowermentnetwork/   She is Charlotte book by co-founder, Emily Whiting:https://parentempowermentnetwork.org/she-is-charlotte-book/ DANIELLE IRELAND, LCSW I greatly appreciate your support and engagement as part of the Don't Cut Your Own Bangs community. Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or anything you'd like to share. You can connect with me at any of the links below.   Website: https://danielleireland.com/   The Treasured Journal: https://danielleireland.com/journal   Substack: https://danielleireland.substack.com/   Blog: https://danielleireland.com/blog/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielleireland_lcsw   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danielleireland.LCSW   Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@danielleireland8218/featured “Don't Cut Your Own Bangs” is about creating a community around, and familiarity with, the messy middle—that uncertain and often chaotic and uncomfortable time in the middle of a process or journey. The messy middle is replete with ambiguity and challenges, but it's also where the hard and rewarding work happens.   Transcript [00:00:00] Danielle: Hello. Hello, this is Danielle Ireland and you are watching or listening to Don't Cut Your Own Bangs. I am so excited to be back in the interview seat. We've done some solo cast. It's been a blast. But Ashlyn Thompson is here with me today, and we just wrapped an incredible conversation. Ashlyn came on as a guest to talk about her work with Charlotte's Hope Foundation a couple of years ago. [00:00:26] She was about ready to embark right in the interview we were, she was. Days away from embarking on a trip to the UK for her daughter having a surgery with the only surgeon in the world who performed the specific type of surgery that her daughter needed. Her daughter's made a full recovery. It's a beautiful story we're gonna get into in this episode, but what I'm truly, if you could imagine even beyond that beautiful story, what I'm so excited to introduce to you and to that I was so grateful to witness and learn from. [00:00:53] Is that Ashlyn has grown her nonprofit organization, not no money in organization, but yes, a nonprofit organization that at the time, two years ago when we last checked in with her, was called Charlotte's Hope Foundation. It has grown. It's expanded, and it's evolved, and it's now the Parent Empowerment Network. [00:01:10] She and her co-founder also have a podcast for that same work, and what I love about the work that they do. They create community connection space and resources for parents and families raising children or any provider helping a child navigate medical complexities. And that sounds like such a hard and heavy and challenging topic. [00:01:33] And it is. But what Ashlyn embodies is. The work that I really wanted to bring to this season and this new phase of don't cut your own bangs, which I want big feelings to feel less scary. I want approaching them to feel possible. And then with that in mind, wherever possible, as much as possible, finding lightness, levity, and joy. [00:01:54] However we can do it. And I'm telling you, in this episode we did that. We accomplished that. We talk about important things, we talk about heavy things, and Ashland is vulnerable in a way that is inviting. But also something we can all learn from. And through the specificity of her life experience and what she's learned, there are universal nuggets that we can all find value in. [00:02:17] I know I did, and this was such a beautiful place to share, and we laughed. We had joy, we smiled . I hope that this topic invites you and encourages you to lean in and tune in because there are so many great nuggets of this. Thank you for being here, and I can't wait for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy. [00:02:38] Ashlyn Thompson [00:02:39] Hi. Yes, I know. Big jumps for both of us. I know. I feel like we're, it does feel like a lifetime ago. It I mean, in many ways it is. It's like we're, I mean, I'm still, me and all the key players are still playing. Right. But it does feel like a different life in a way. And I, with that in mind, I just wanna officially welcome you back. [00:02:55] Yes. Welcome. Ashlyn Thompson. Oh, thank. Don't cut your own bangs. I am so excited that you're here for many reasons, but the thing I'm most excited about is I think that. Building something or starting something creates a certain amount of effort and energy. Sustaining something, growing with it, breathing new life into it, that's a different part of a different element of a creative process. [00:03:17] And that's something I think specifically I'm really excited to talk to you about because you're parent Empowerment Network, which has it, it exists to support, encourage and educate parents and caregivers of children with medical complexities. And that was, it already was in existence when we, right, when we recorded the first time. [00:03:34] But it has grown. Grown. I went to a gala, people, she's throwing a gala fundraiser for her for her network. And so, I mean, I wanna hear about all the twists and all the developments of that, but more specifically the context I wanna provide for us and for this conversation. The thing that I'm really excited about, , and why I feel really passionate about bringing this to video. [00:03:57] Is that I want to help make big feelings feel less scary. Yeah. And I want to make, approaching them feel possible. And then with that in mind as much and as often as possible, laugh as much as possible. Amen. And so, right? So like, you are swimming in the trenches with people and even in your own life with people who are holding and making space for heavy things. [00:04:23] Yes. And yet there is a bright smile on your face. There's a twinkle in your eye. You laugh and you smile. And I wanna, and I don't know how to articulate what that is, but I want to, I wanna, that's something I wanna make space for in this conversation too. So it's important and it's big and it's emotional for sure, but also like, let's allow levity too. [00:04:42] Absolutely. I am so excited to be continuing our conversation, and I'm also really happy to know that. The person who's sitting here with you today is very much a different person from two years ago. And I feel like I have gone through multiple versions of myself just in the past two years. And that's one of the things that I truly celebrate about, not just the journey of parent empowerment network, but I think just growing and evolving as a human spirit, experiencing this life is recognizing that I say this phrase to only certain people, but I act, I feel compelled to share it now. [00:05:26] I feel like I have died a thousand times. And greeted so many versions of myself. But every time I rise into that extroversion and realize who I am, I like that person more and more. And. I feel like one of my greatest accomplishments just this past year has been truly settling into a, knowing a deep belief that life is meant to grow through, not go through. [00:05:58] And that change, that pivot of how I see the next big thing that comes up has been such a grounding force for me and has really helped me feel like I'm actually sitting in the driver's seat of my car. I don't know what I'm going to pass as I'm on this highway. In life. And sometimes life yanks me off on an exit I didn't plan. [00:06:23] And those exit ramps are typically the next lesson. But I'm grateful to be at a point where I can now see the next really hard thing emerging and not wanna hit reverse. Wow. Wow. Not that I like it all the time. No, God. But I can appreciate that this isn't out to crush me. This isn't here to take me down like I used to feel. [00:06:53] , Wow. There's a lot to unpack there for. Thank you so much for sharing that, but also not going in reverse. I wanna make a mental note, not going in reverse. The next version of me, I like better, and this is not here to crush me. Right. The, there's something, I got chills. I got full body chills when you, the la with the last thing that you said, because when I'm working with clients, there is this element and this is something. [00:07:18] I promise I'll come back to that original point there. There's an element of the work that I do where, and I'm sure you get this in your own way too, with like hearing stories from families who are holding really hard and heavy things. I think when I meet people for the first time, a common response is, wow, I don't know how you do what you do, or I don't know how you listen to that all day. [00:07:36] Or Oh man, and I think, yes, sure. There, there are certainly days and clients or moments where those stories are making space for people's big, heavy, painful experiences. Right. Is can be a lot at times. Far less anymore. But I think more than anything the va like, I feel so lucky to have the experience a hundred maybe even thousands of times over hurt people's pain. [00:08:03] And I know what pain sounds like. Yes. And there are different types and one thing that I absolutely believe to be true is that our pain is not personal. Our story is personal, right? But pain is not personal. And the events of our life, even things that happen to us, it's, there's it's almost shifting out of a, and I hope I can say this within the context that, that is heard with love. [00:08:27] But shifting out of a victim mentality right into it. Because being victimized or being stricken with grief or holding something hard like that is absolutely real. And also knowing that this is happening to me, but this is not gosh, what are the words I'm trying to find. It, what I'm hearing is you recognize how hard this is. [00:08:51] Whatever that insert blank. I recognize how hard this is, and I'm not going to make this pain so precious that I don't also see it as temporary. Yes, exactly. But there's something, so I think there's something really powerful and there's so much nuance to that because I certainly don't want to, people can be victimized, but the victim mentality is one of, in my professional experience it's one of the more challenging headspace to, for someone to walk out of. [00:09:21] Agree. It's really hard. Exactly. It shrinks your world. So, so much. That's well said. And we experience that very often. We really fo I mean we say all the time, you know, we are non diagnosis specific, non prognosis specific with the families that we work with, and we focus on the parents or the parent role, which could be performed by a sibling, a grandparent, a friend, an adopt, a lot of different people, but. [00:09:51] What we really found early in our journey and what helped us evolve into parent empowerment network was that recognition that, like you pointed out, pain is not it's not customized to your experience. The feeling, the emotional and physical experience relationship with pain is common through all of us, and it actually is a way that we can connect with each other when we recognize that. [00:10:18] When we stop comparing one another's pains. Now, don't get me wrong, if your kid got a bump on the head versus your kid needs a, you know, brain surgery. Right. Those are different. Yes. Very different. Yes. But most of the time we're not dealing with that. And what we have found is that when somebody is in that victim mentality, which is understandable, I think that's a, very important aspect to acknowledge when you're feeling like a victim, why is this happening to me? Or why is this happening to my child? Because I'll be the first to say, it's never okay when your child is hurting or sick or in harm's way or worse. I will never be okay with it. But when we say stuck in a victim mentality, our ability to problem solve goes from about here to here. [00:11:08] Yeah. And then your child is really the one who suffers. And I hate, it's a hard truth. But we have to face that truth because when we can help a parent start to find glimmers of hope, start to see that there's a way to build on quality of life rather than cure. Then you start to see this new version emerge where they are truly, you know, empowered advocates for their child. [00:11:45] There's something that I heard in what you said too, that a lot of times when I'm working with clients who are maybe knee deep in anxiety or depression, for example. I think why can be a powerful question, but I think a misplaced why is a really exactly damaging question. Like, why me? Why them? [00:12:02] Why this, why now? Because those are questions you can't answer that only lead to a defeating answer. Exactly. And usually another question or shame, but what I'm hearing a lot in when you. When you can kind of broaden your focus and sort of release that constriction from why you then can open yourself up to a different type of question. [00:12:23] How can I, exactly. How can I get through today? How can I get through this moment? What is needed most of me now? What do I need now? Right. And those types of the what and the how. Who do I need to show up for? Is it me? Right. Is it them? Who do I need to ask for help? Who has information that I need? [00:12:43] Those types of questions don't eliminate the pain, but it broadens the scope Yes. Of, of your field of vision. And I know that though, like, 'cause you are here in many ways. Oh, I hope it's okay to use this term. But I hope that you're here as an expert and you're also the executive Hope director of of the power impairment network. [00:13:05] And I think a lot of times. What we would imagine as the worst possible case scenario. Like the worst thing we could imagine would be something happening to our kids. This has been your lived experience. This has been your business partner's lived experience. And for, even though you have a podcast as well, where you really create a space and content and a community that helps people with that very specific set of circumstances, that Right. [00:13:33] I would imagine it's like. The best and worst club to be a part of. So we always say, we're so sorry you're in this club. Yes. But we're so glad you found us. Yes. Like it's the yes, we're really sorry, but at the same time, like, welcome home, welcome. And so I think a lot of the, a lot of the people who tune in to don't cut your own bang, I don't know how many would have this specific life experience. [00:13:57] Right. And if you do, oh my gosh, what a gorgeous resource you have in Ashlyn. Oh, thank you. And the Parent empowerment network and their podcast. But I do think that even in something like this, in within the specificity of everything you're saying, there is such a broad truth that I think we can all access and find value in. [00:14:16] And, yeah. So just thank you for all of that. And I want to, okay. I wanna shift a little bit to the growth of the parent Empowerment network. Right. Because, so when I originally started this podcast, what I was, what I really motivated me, one was I was terrified of becoming a therapist and having worked as a creative, and I just wanted to surround myself with other people who, who were building things, right? So that I could sort of sneak in my own needy questions. Like, how did you do it? How did you figure it out? What happened when you were scared? Like, what happened when your computer crashed? Oh my gosh. And you went from newly building something to, you have really grown. [00:14:53] Yes. You have really grown. And I wanna know having experienced the, you know, the gala that Right. That you that you threw that was so lovely. I wanna know . What led to the growth over the last two years? Because you're still momming, you're still life. Yeah. Your daughter is still being you. [00:15:08] I mean, like your life is still life and Yes. Life is still lifeing. How, in the midst of your lifeing, how have you also continued to grow this? And I really wanna know like what fueled your fire. And just tell me more about that story please. Yes, absolutely. So at the beginning of this, you know, when we started talking, you were very talking about how I'm sitting here smiling and I mean, I am fully, I am genuinely full of joy in this moment. [00:15:35] And I think I know actually that comes from being in something like we have with Parent Empowerment Network, which has been truly its own huge like business, right? We are called a nonprofit, but let me tell you, I mean, it is straight up business. [00:15:57] Is what it is in a lot of ways, and. That's the worst possible name for a tax category. It totally is. Because it's so confusing. Nonprofit doesn't mean no money. Right. Exactly. It's so confusing. We do not exist for free. Is great an idea as that sounds. I want that to be the slogan for every nonprofit. [00:16:16] I just, 'cause we don't exist for free. Right. You know the whole, you get what you pay for. It's, yeah. That's a whole other conversation. We're not gonna spend too much time there today. We should have a part two then. There we go. I'm okay with that. All right. So for that, what I think the biggest lesson that has. [00:16:33] Emerged from this journey just since we were, you know, you and I were talking a couple years ago when we were actually still called Charlotte's Hope Foundation. Yes. Which was our initial name. Yes. Because we had an idea for something that was this big at the beginning. And the name Charlotte's Hope Foundation fit that in theory. [00:16:52] But the thing I'm most proud of my, of Emily Whiting, who's my co-founder, fellow mom, fellow sister, fellow savior, at times the best thing we have done is allowed ourselves permission to grow and shrink as needed. And that's what we've done throughout this journey. It has not been a step process. [00:17:15] There have been countless times where we have grown two or three steps, been bigger, you know, working with international teams of surgeons, pulling together collaborations that have never been done, and then. There have been times where we have pulled back and we haven't released an episode for six weeks. [00:17:33] We have had maybe two or three social posts because our lives were on fire or just demanded all our attention, but it didn't mean we had to stop. I need to, oh my gosh. I don't know how many of you listening or watching can relate to that. I, there is a relationship I have with the expansion and contraction of output where if I'm not putting something out, producing something, making something that it really does a number on my sense of self worth. Right. And self esteem. And that is something that I'm still actively healing and repairing, because I definitely know the facts. I know. The really bumper stickery, self helpy sounding talk. [00:18:26] And I believe it. It's not that I, I don't hear it and think like, yeah. Right. It's just that there's a more practiced version of me, right. That has just had more at bats operating in a certain way. And then life in many ways rewards you for that. In theory. In theory. And I don't mean the like the laurels, like you get the the kudos pat on the back accolades but there is a cost, right? [00:18:47] There is a cost. And I think, in the I this past year I wrote a children's book called Wrestling a Walrus. And this the act of writing this book was something that I didn't realize that in the contraction, or even like in the I love the visual of the caterpillar becoming the butterfly. [00:19:09] 'Cause there's a two week process where the caterpillar is literally, we talk about the messy middle in this podcast and think, thank you Brene Brown, wherever you are for creating language and context for us for this very conversation. 'cause so much of this is inspired by that, but that gooey, mushy middle where it's not a butterfly, it's literally goo and it's Exactly, and it, and, but in that place, there is magic happening there. [00:19:33] Even if it, even though it looks like a pile of shit, right. Like, it's, there's magic happening there. I'll say the impetus or the inspiration, the. It was tough moments with my daughter, moments where I didn't feel like I was doing anything. Right. It like hitting the wrecking ball of, you know, being a parent of a toddler and a parent of an infant like that was, there's not enough grace in any space to help you go through that without serious, you know, support. [00:20:02] There were, I had some victim mentality at that point in time, even, and all things can be true at once. But all of that was what I experienced before I had the idea to write the book. And had I not had that experience, I wouldn't have been able to do that. Exactly. I don't think it would've been the same. [00:20:16] And [00:20:16] , and I promise this whole podcast isn't an ad for the book, but like, I really believe in this damn book and I love it so much. And I love that you talk about that expansion and contraction for yourself. And that you doesn't, it doesn't mean you have to stop. 'cause I think a big reason why I maybe avoided picking up the torch again and doing this podcast like I left it for so long, or I abandoned it for so long, or can I still do it right? [00:20:41] Like all of that stuff. And then yeah it. Yeah. Doubt doesn't mean you're done. No. And taking a pause doesn't mean you're stopping forever. But yeah. I mean, you can't just exhale forever. You can't just output like you eventually have to breathe in. Exactly. And that relationship is very necessary. [00:21:00] And so, I mean, everything you're saying is exactly what I need. Thank you. Thank you. You're welcome. You're welcome. And it, that lesson doesn't come easily. Nope. But I think another element of that, you know, building off of what you were just talking about, pain and discomfort and naturally shying away from it. [00:21:21] I challenge anybody in life to just take a moment to consider pain as a potential teacher, as a professor, rather than pain as an enemy, or pain as a destroyer. Right. If you ask yourself. Why does this feel painful? Because how many times do we all experience in our life something that really gets under our skin, but whether it's a spouse or it's a friend or a coworker and they seem totally unfazed by it, [00:21:56] and that used to be something that bothered me. I was kinda like what's, am I ever sensitive? Or like, what is my thing? And I grew up always hearing, not necessarily even from my parents, but I feel like. Teacher schools and saved by the bell commercials about find what you love in life and you'll never work a day in your life. [00:22:16] And that was great in theory, but I'm a very eclectic person. Yep. I love a lot. And all I was getting was a lot of burnout. That's also like saying like, love your kids and you'll never have a hard day with them in your life. You're like, no bs. No. I love my kids. But like, you know, oh my gosh, kids are the greatest, hardest thing of life. [00:22:33] Right. Right. But I think the same is true. Like , I never stopped loving this. Right. But I don't always have control over the life around. Right. But it's a, I think allowing things to be a part of you, not all of you, is really important. Yeah. And I think it's so easy to define ourselves by that output. [00:22:53] For me and Emily, the word is often it's impact. Are we actually making an impact? And the thing that helped us. Become okay with hitting the pause button when we needed to, and not officially throwing in the towel. Don't get me wrong, there were conversations about it, but we were always very honest with each other and we held each other accountable that if you are feeling like this is not jiving with your life, if it's not jiving with you personally, or it's not good for your family at this moment, let's hit the pause button and talk about it. [00:23:26] But realizing that if we only help each other while working on this, Emily and I, that's helping our kids, that's helping our families. And there's a domino effect from that goes from that. And if that's all we ever do, what's bad about that? You said something that I, it still stuck with me and it will probably be the title of this episode. [00:23:49] Pain is a Professor. Yes, it is. And I wanna go back to that because something that I talk about in my sessions a lot is that your emotions never lie to you. Now your thoughts are very different. Yes. Your thoughts can go a, now granted, we need to think critical thinking is important. [00:24:04] We probably need more critical thinking, but thoughts happen to us all day, every day, constantly. Right. I don't remember what the statistic is. I think we have roughly like eight thoughts a minute, something like that. I'm surprised it's not . Maybe that's just a DH adhd. And that could be too, like, yeah, there, maybe there's a spectrum. [00:24:18] Maybe it's eight to 80 thoughts a minute. Give or take. Give or take a hundred. But so thoughts happen to us now. We can certainly consciously choose what to focus on and what we think. But thinking happens, the emotions are in response to what we're thinking and believing. Exactly. And they never lie. [00:24:35] Right. And I But something you said like pain as a professor. And I like the thought that emotions are energy in motion. Yes. And they always have something for you to learn. There's something for every emotion. There is something it wants you to know. Right. And when you're not feeling good are we have more pain receptors in our body, unfortunately. [00:24:55] We have more pain receptors in our body than we do pleasure receptors. Like, and so when pain is activated, it just has a firmer grip. There's something that Martha Beck talks about that I love. It's called the, I think she calls it the Viper in the box of puppies. So if you were to imagine like, and enough said, right. [00:25:10] Done. You get it. But you hand, if I handed you a box full of like 15 adorable, gorgeous little puppies, I mean, it's, they're the most abundant, silly, loving, fuzzy source of love, safety, pleasure. I could really go for that right now. I mean, would it, that should be a, I'm hoping there's one hiding around somewhere. [00:25:28] We have a surprise for you, but if I were to then put a Viper in or a cobra in your box of puppies. All you're gonna see is the threat. Exactly. All you're gonna see is the threat. And I think in life, it's like we pop mo most of us more often than not, are probably living in lives with a lot of puppies. [00:25:48] But the viper, the threat is what consumes Oh yeah. So much energy and attention and shifting your focus from one to the other is easier said than done. And I wanna talk to you specifically about how you have found meaning or, and I, when I say success, I don't mean it in like a bullet point sense, but right. [00:26:12] Where you have found access to, you know, the viper, you know, or the cobra, you know, the box of puppies. Right. How you access that. I can certainly share how I have, but my emotions, I. I've learned in time. I don't always know exactly what they're telling me in the beginning, but I trust them enough to know that it's something. [00:26:36] And so the first place I try to access, if I'm not dissociating or avoiding, is to sit with it. Yeah. So usually it's like, I'm I'll just dissociate in my fantasy book or rewatching parks and recreation for the MPH teeth bajillion time. You know, it's just always a Sure bet. Yeah. It's just, it's hard for, life can only be so hard with Leslie Nope and little Sebastian, you know? [00:26:57] So anyway. But I wanna know where you find yourself in that shift. Yeah. Yeah. So you've got my head's like turning, I'm also still picturing puppies to be honest. That's okay. So I actually, I feel like I wanna give an example of something that I experienced last year, so two years ago. [00:27:11] It's crazy to think two years ago I went on this crazy journey to England. I went to London to take my daughter, who was not quite two years old yet to have a surgery over there for her ultra rare condition that was not available in the States. And I had talked to everybody in the States, of course, that had any knowledge about it and all they could tell me was, we don't really know anything about it. [00:27:35] We don't do it here. Kind of you're on your own, go for it. Or don't, we can't say that we would support you. All that matters is I went for it. And fortunately it did end up being the right decision, but I also knew that it could not be the right decision. And what I found on that experience was that I was originally desperate for picking the right way in life to move forward, that I could not make a decision. [00:28:06] I could not possibly move forward unless I was a hundred percent sure. But guess what? Life isn't real big on giving you a guarantee. Yeah. Guarantees with anything. And I think where I, that's where I started to learn that I don't have to have the answers to move forward. I can be looking at that box and I can see, oh my gosh, this could go terribly wrong. [00:28:34] But I think living with a hopeful mindset is something that allows me to keep my eye on that viper and then still interact with the puppies over here. My eye is still trained on it, but what I found is a peace in making my decision. And it was a, that feeling, that gut feeling. You know, it, I, it doesn't matter what you've gone through in life. [00:28:58] I can't believe that there's anybody out there who hasn't just had that. I call it just that knowing in your gut, it's a physical experience and that is something. That has helped me move forward in life. Because here's the thing, guys, nobody can ever stay truly still. And that's where a lot of our pain and discomfort comes from, is fighting moving forward without certainty. [00:29:23] Oh, let's pause right there. Oh my gosh. So there's something that Dr. Becky Kennedy who she has the good, she wrote the book Good Inside, and she's got her own beautiful podcast and work and content. She does. She really she focuses on kids, but she's really working on parents relationship with their inner child and by extension their parenting. [00:29:43] But she talks about something called, I've called it the Gap, but she calls it the learning space. So with kids, most of their frustration, tension and meltdowns happen between meeting a moment or. A moment arising and knowing how to meet the moment. And that learning space is usually the gap in knowing or understanding of this is what's arisen and I don't know how to meet this moment. [00:30:04] Right? And then if their context or their ability to meet it, if the moment exceeds their ability that's usually when there's a lot of pain or big feelings. Right. And I think with adults, that's usually where I see self-doubt, rumination anxiety, self-destructive tendencies. [00:30:23] Come in and you're right. You're, I love that you said we're never really still, I mean, one that's just true based on science and physics. We're never still that's actually one of the, like, there's like two necessary components, maybe three to being a living, being or a living entity. [00:30:36] I think, what is it? Movement, cell division, reproduction, and, I don't know, something else. Hey, anyone here pop off in the comments if you're a science boss, please gold star for you. Please. But but yeah, we're never truly still. And so even when you feel stagnant and stuck and even hearing you say that I'm actually processing in real time, one of the things that I have done that I, I discovered by accident, but probably because my body knew better than my mind did. [00:31:04] I would, it often does. I would take my feelings on walks. I would, I talked about that movement is essential if you are literally feeling stuck. I tell, that's what I tell everybody. Anytime they're spiraling. Which it's understandable. Go for a walk. Even if it is five minutes, walk up and down your stairs. [00:31:22] Or at the least one of my favorite things thank you Instagram reels for sucking up so much of my life at times in the hospital, but sometimes, but it's, sometimes it's, it is the perfect escape. It's okay to let the pressure off of ourselves. But there was this one that I saw it was this therapist who was like in her seventies and she was in Ireland and she's walking around in like this, you know, the quintessential Ireland landscape. [00:31:47] And she said, I tell all of my clients when you have a problem or a worry or something that's making you feel like you need to hurry, walk outside where you can see the sky and look up. Because the moment you remove a ceiling from your view, from your your line of sight, your mind opens with it. [00:32:08] And possibilities grow. And I have experienced that so often. And you think about it where you, when you're in a confined space. It only adds to those feelings of I'm stuck or I'm out of options, or I can't deal with this. But when you go outside and the world is just showing you how big it is and how small you are, there's actually a ton of comfort in that. [00:32:35] There's, I've also read and heard that there's something about the way that our eyes sort of gently move and follow and track side to side. Yeah. The movement around us that activates a similar calming sensation that our body experiences in REM sleep. Because if you're tracking a bird or tracking a squirrel, or just simply seeing like the trees and movement, track your kids. [00:32:55] Right. That'll keep you, your eyes all over the place. Girl. But like, 'cause right now we're facing a computer screen and we're in, we're under lights. Like, it's a very I mean, it's a lovely container, but it's a sterile container by comparison of being outside. And I Right. I do think that sometimes, like, like Lifeing. [00:33:11] It can be hard, and I never wanna oversimplify holding the challenges and moving through the challenges. Right. And yet I think sometimes when something feels overly, when something feels complex and impossible, it's almo. I, my instinct is to abandon the basics. And that is always the place to start. [00:33:32] That's always the place to start, is to go back to the basics. [00:33:35] Knowing what you know now what. Do you think the version of you, I wrote down three years ago, but I wanna go back to two years ago bef, like as you were navigating all the travel plans and the decision to go to the UK for your daughter's surgery, what do you think that version of Ashlyn needed to hear or needed to know? [00:33:55] And then the follow up question to that, after you answers, do you think she would've believed you? [00:33:59] It's really funny that you're asking this question because I actually had a conversation yesterday with a neighbor's daughter who is a film student, and this question has actually been going through my mind a lot lately about, I wonder where my life would be if I'd known this in my early thirties, if I'd known, or if I had known this in my twenties. [00:34:23] And I kept kind of going backwards like, I didn't know this then. Oh maybe if I'd known this. And I kept just, like I said, looking back and then what I realized is. It's so important that I didn't know those things because I had to experience them with the challenges. I had to climb the mountains for the first time to really understand the importance of gaining those skills for myself. So I actually think that Ashlyn, a couple years ago, I may have wanted to hear, I, what I wanted to hear was, you're making the right decision. I wanted to be validated by doctors, by people who I typically refer to as the ones who have the alphabet after their name. [00:35:06] Can somebody please just tell me, check, you know, you're making the right choice. Or this is what I would do if it were my child. And I wanted it so desperately that I, it did almost prevent me from going. But I am blessed that because of other experiences before that, right where pain had started to evolve into a guide for my life, a way of understanding what is most important to me. [00:35:37] It clarifies a lot. Exactly. Because often, you know, pain and fear are often about things we can't control, right? And what it showed me was that I don't need guaranteed outcomes to be able to sleep at night. I know that if I don't give it everything, including the kitchen sink, I won't be able to sleep at night. [00:36:03] I won't be able to look at Emery when she's an adult and tell her. We tried absolutely everything we could to give you the best quality of life, and that's what I needed to be able to give her. In order for me to feel good about the mom I am. And that's what was most important to me at that time. [00:36:23] So it sounds like maybe you trust in your ability to meet the moment enough that you don't think you would've gone back and told yourself anything? No, I think, and that's something that, like I said, I'd been thinking about a lot, like how many times if I'd only known this, if I if I'd only held my boundaries or if, or you know, these standards or, you know, all the things I could have done differently. [00:36:48] But as I said at the beginning of this, I feel like I have lived a thousand lives and become. A thousand new versions of myself, but you don't become your next self without going through something that carves away at you to reveal it. We don't grow through the easy no we stay stagnant. And besides small talk, my biggest fear in life is staying stagnant. [00:37:20] God, can we just let go of small talk? Oh my gosh. We all have a weather app and we all know the traffic patterns at this point. Like, do you know what's so funny about the weather app? I'm gonna use it every day. I treat my husband like the weather app, and we have an Alexa, like in, literally, like, I'll ask him what the temperature is and he'll be like. [00:37:41] Alexa. I just, oh my goodness. It's like those basic the basic like things of moving through life. I don't know why. It's like I've, I have this like faux that's of publicist. I'm like, I don't know what I'm, so what's the weather? I can't look out the window. I can't ask my own Alexa. [00:37:56] I always think, I think it's, I think it's more like, I think it's fair to acknowledge those as high. There's higher priorities that take up front of mind space. That's right. That's right. Things' so focused on the big things. Right? Yes. It's okay. We're not meant to like, you know, and I think that's another, that's one point I feel really compelled to bring up in this conversation based on all these things we've talked about, you know? [00:38:20] Yes. thank you for the chance to share what Parent Empowerment Network does, and the Empowered By Hope podcast is about addressing the real hard, the messy like, because as far as we're concerned, like once you get the news, your child is not okay. You're living in the messy middle from there on out. [00:38:36] And it can make you, or it can break you. And we're there to tell everybody, we promise this will make you. Even with worst case scenario, and that's a bold statement, but, you know, but it's one you've lived and I exactly. And I've seen countless others live, right? But I think it's so important that everybody, you know, I guess my dream would be if everybody could just realize we are not meant to carry pain and hardship and struggle by ourselves. [00:39:07] That's really what Parent Empowerment Network does. That's really what our podcast does, is it directly says to everybody who gets a chance to interact with us or who we have the honor to meet with. It just says, Hey, you are not expected to hold this alone. You know, put some of that on our plate. [00:39:24] Let's hold it together because it'll be better for everybody. It's not just you is like, again, that's what frees you from a victim mentality. You are not the only one who's ever experienced this. Right. You are not the only one who has suffered this way. And in by no means it's not to minimize. [00:39:40] Right. Exactly. It's not belittling it, it's not, it's definitely not dismissing it. But it's meant to serve as a lighthouse. Right. Our stories are unique. Yes, of course. And so that's, and I think that's what is endlessly, I will never be bored having an in-depth. Not small talk with the love of God, but like, I will never I will be endlessly fascinated by other people. [00:40:01] Because the stories are unique. Yeah. But there is a common thread that we can all see ourselves in or relate to. That, it's so enriching. Yeah. It's almost like, maybe because it's spring and, but I'm thinking it's like the pain is like the compost. Yeah. Something has to die in rotten decay in order to nurture something new. To grow. Yep. Exactly. And I, and that pain serves as fur. It's fertilizing the new, the next round of growth. Right. Yeah. It's not making anything vanish or destroying it, it's just, but it has to break down to build back up. I think that's why mosaics are my favorite type of art. [00:40:39] Yeah. I have such a strong connection to any piece that I see that's made up of a mosaic. And I remember that coming true for me when my dad had his massive stroke and. You know, he was completely debilitated, couldn't speak for himself, couldn't move his own body. He lived like that almost two years. But I remember getting really close to a couple key therapists in his life. [00:41:04] And I remember just after he passed, I got them both a small gift. It was these little mosaic art pieces for them. And I said, when I saw those, I knew that this was the right thing because you didn't see my dad as a destroyed person. You saw him as for the broken pieces. He was that to be put back, to be put together into something that was new and beautiful on its own. [00:41:33] And that's what I feel like pain has the ability to do for all of us. It's okay. And I to acknowledge that you are broken. But it's also just as important to acknowledge that you can be remade into something. You, the old you is gone. You know, when we go through something awful hard, unimaginable it's really easy to think that I will feel this way forever. There is a finality that we attach to painful experiences and it takes often somebody from the outside to gently help us realize that's not reality. I often, when I'm in that transition and I'm not aware or I'm just not ready to admit there are either, there's usually it's I there's usually things I wanna carry along with me. [00:42:28] Yep. It's like. Like an old dingy snugly blanket or like a stuffed animal that like has like holes worn in and like an eyes popped off. It's just but I when I've gone through those transitions, it's saying goodbye to maybe friendships that aren't serving me. [00:42:42] Yep. Or titles, roles levels of output expectations, stories, ways of being and the way, and to go back to pain as a professor, which is going to be the title. That it's only when I try to take the old way of being or the old relationship that is no longer serving into my new now reality. [00:43:04] When it feels anything other than good. Yeah. That's information exactly that it's showing me something and. That curiosity over constriction can also for me look like curiosity over criticism. And because that criticism is usually either dialed inward, what's wrong with me? Right. Or what's wrong with them? [00:43:25] Versus , what is happening Exactly. What's going on? What is this showing me? And I would say probably saying goodbye to relationships or friendships has probably been the hardest. Yeah. The hard, because there is this idea that I'm like if I like it, and it's like in a possessive way. [00:43:42] It's, if I like you forever. And I, and of course that is true. I mean, it, there's nobody who's been in my life that's added value that I don't appreciate. Right. But but I think that the shedding. Yeah. It's like I, I want the next thing, but I also don't wanna let the old thing go. [00:43:56] Right. And so it's, I think I've spent a lot of time and energy trying to like, pull that thing with me. Whatever it is and whatever that stage. But I think that there's when you can fully embrace, 'cause what I'm hearing from you is when you can fully embrace I am different now. [00:44:11] Yep. This is different. This mosaic. I'm not, I may not be able to carry water like I was as a vase. Right. But I'm gonna look really great as this. Yeah. And the other thing I wanna shift to before, before I get to your, don't cut your own bangs question. What I wanna ask you, you've mentioned art a couple of different times. [00:44:28] And this is to, to reference Dr. Martha Beck again. She has done a lot of incredible work in the last couple years where a way to. Step out of anxiety is not to try to access calm. 'cause we talked about going for a walk, right? So, because as much as I love these big conversations, it can be sometimes like, what is something tangible I can actually hold onto? [00:44:53] So walking with something we talked about community and connection with something else we talked about, but Art, I wanna talk about that for a moment because that is what my book was for me. Yeah. It was I created something that only that felt like it was to serve me. The process of interacting with that idea was so delightful and so delicious and so fun that I was like, I feel like I'm just the luckiest person that like this is, oh wow, I get to play with this thing. [00:45:21] Yeah. And it wants to play with me. And I don't feel that all the time. Like sometimes it's origami or doodling or coloring with my daughter. But to go back to Dr. Martha Beck's work that the opposite of anxiety is not calm, it's creativity. Oh, I love that. And you have by default really spoken through, like just healing through creating. [00:45:43] Oh, absolutely. And also there's something about, 'cause calm, there's something about calm that like, we must be still, and granted I love meditation, but like, I must be still, I must be calm. But when you are holding something that is buzzing and shaking or heavy or hot, like just some emotions are hot, like you, it's like you wanna move it through your hands or your words or your body and make something, right. [00:46:06] And you made me, she made me this bracelet before we started this episode. So like, it feels like you have a relationship with creativity too. A hundred percent. Creativity is a lifeline. And I feel like, and the most chaotic moments of my life have been the least I'm my least creative and I think it's a really. [00:46:29] Valuable, tangible thing for anybody to take from this conversation is if you are feeling out of control, lean into something as simple as I'm obsessed with those adult, you know, like the coloring books. Yes. You know, for adults to have like tons of different like lines all over the place that you have to be like really specific to keep the marker in there. [00:46:51] It can't, I do get a little bugged when it like bleeds over to the next section, but, , it's okay. I know I'm working through my, , my stressors at that moment. But yes, giving yourself a creative outlet, it's like taking a big drink of water after you've been exercising and you are so parched. [00:47:07] And I also agree that , calm sounds great in theory, but for me I feel like the more important, like the word that's become more important or I'm better able to. Absorb is the idea of am I grounded? Are my feet touching the ground? I can still have a lot going on, but when I'm like rising higher, you know, off the ground, 'cause like, I'm like a bird at this point, just flapping my arms so fast, right. [00:47:35] That I'm actually taking flight. I'm not in my best head space, but when I can just take a moment to literally just ground myself, make sure that my feet are, whether it's in the grass or sit down like this. And a conversation with a friend, somebody who really knows you is a great moment for that. [00:47:53] It's a great way to remind you who you are is somebody else. Sometimes I talk all the time about the value of when you can connect with somebody who feels with you, not just for you. Oh my gosh. It makes the world so much lighter and goodness. I mean, huh. That's probably if I could have answered the question I asked you a little bit ago, what's something that you could have if I could have told my former therapist self, like when I very when I first started, you're there to hold space for people to feel and feel with them. [00:48:23] Right. Exactly. You're not there. It's sacred. Yeah. It's there's nothing, one, it's like, there's nothing I can tell someone who's deeply in pain that they're actually gonna No. , That's, the words are just like, right. It's just noise. Yeah. And not to take anything. I'm sure I have clients who have been impacted by words. [00:48:40] But having a safe space to feel your feelings free of judgment. Is one of the reasons why I love journaling so much, but also doing that in communion Yeah. With another human right who expects nothing of you. I love Elizabeth Gilbert has language I love, like there's no precious outcome. [00:48:57] Like I can, that I can sit and have space with you or I can make plans with you or be, and there's no precious outcome. You don't have to perform for me. Right. You don't have to be anything for me. Like we can just be that is what a gift. Yes, that is. I just want to, this conversation has inspired way too many thoughts, but in the best way. [00:49:15] But something that hit me and then I think we could absolutely move on to Yeah. This the cut your bangs question. But what I've realized even in our conversation is that logic is not loud . our emotions are loud and they get louder and louder. The more we. Push them back the more we ignore them. [00:49:36] Think of your kids until they, when they need your attention. Because they deserve your attention. They do. The best thing we can do is acknowledge those emotions and just, even if it's as simple as, it's totally understandable. I feel this way right now. That is such a freeing sentence. Of course, I feel this way right now. [00:49:58] That was some serious shit that I just went through. Yeah . of course, I feel, and it doesn't have to make sense when those feelings hit the timing a lot of times feelings for me, I've found won't hit until I'm in a safe space much further down the road. Yes. And it's like being T-boned, like yes, totally out of the blue. [00:50:19] But that's also what happens to kids when they have tantrums. Ah, yeah. They'll hold. And then when they're finally either home at the end of the day or something, when the container is so full and they're finally in a place where they feel safe, they'll erupt over an orange peel not being peeled correctly. [00:50:32] Or , or a banana not being peeled correctly. Oh gosh. And it's not that, don't even start me on string cheese. God. Oh God. Parenting is fun. The best, but No, but you're right. Sometimes, I think that's probably why I cry almost with like every movie and TV show I watch. [00:50:47] Yeah. Because the emotions are just always right there and I just need a place to let it trickle out. Right. And that's okay. And I think, but just not judging ourselves for feelings. And then I think once we give that space or the feelings, the sooner we can do that, the sooner that logic, you know, like you, you mentioned multiple times, I know this, then you give logic. [00:51:13] The space that it needs to speak to you in a calm and quiet manner that you can actually trust. And that's where I think that those gut feelings truly come from. Those inner knowings are, when you've allowed space for the emotions first, given them their due. So then the logic can start to talk to you because it's never going to yell for your attention. [00:51:35] No. And I think we want it to, but that's not the way it works. And that's okay. A lot of times things make sense in hindsight, oh gosh, hindsight's 2020. Always. South Park has a great episode. If people if you have just like a dark sense of humor and you wanna laugh at, there's a character called Captain Hindsight and it's really funny. [00:51:54] . So yeah, a lot of times things don't make sense until we're. A little bit more removed from them. Yep. And some what I have found to be helpful, I've noticed you using your hands. Yeah. And I find when I am, when my mind is really active and I need it to stop or slow down or I just i'll sometimes even throw my hands up. Yeah. And I'll say, and even saying. I'm feeling something and just to myself in my kitchen. 'cause I'm almost always , because I work from home, I'm either like in my office or in my kitchen, like I'm feeling something. As soon as you did that, it's gonna show on video. [00:52:25] I like saw from the corner of my eye myself, naturally going, whew. Yeah. Just sound like inhale. Exhale. Yes. It's like something is being felt. Something's happening. I don't know what it is, but something's happening. And I think, in a lot of ways too, like that's how we have these internal smoke signals. [00:52:42] Yeah. And it's the same way, like your smoke detector in your house doesn't know the difference between burnt toast and something on fire, right? But it will beep when it senses. Yeah. When it senses something. And so my body is like sensing something. Is this a threat? [00:52:56] Are we safe? Yes, we're safe. Oh, we're likely. We just needed water. We're just dehydrated. Uhhuh. Or we just, yeah. So any number of things. But that was so good. Thank you. And yes, I would love, love, love to know your don't cut your own bang moment. And for anybody who is new to the podcast, 'cause I think there are some new people here. [00:53:15] Thank you for being here. Don't cut Your own bang moment is a moment where you went all in on something like cutting your own bangs, you grabbed some scissors, you watched a YouTube video, you're like, I got this. And you go, and then, oh no, this wasn't what I thought it would be. But the value in a don't Cut Your own Bang moment is not only that we can share in the silliness of humanity and mistakes, but also like maybe we learn something from it. [00:53:42] So, Ashlyn? Yes. I would love to hear your Don't cut your own bang moment. Oh my goodness. I think that there's probably a plethora of them. Oh, of course. And, let's see here. I'm even, I tried to have one prepared, and then I got excited about the rest of our conversation. Oh my gosh. Don't worry. So, okay I'll share one. [00:53:58] So what's a good, don't a good, oh. I invited my husband to record a podcast with me because I thought it would just be, , fun to bring him back on. And what I realized was I didn't prepare him for it at all. I just set up lights and set up a camera and asked him to sit. And he was so, visibly like he was trying, he was sitting, he was trying. [00:54:23] But I could just tell, again, something's happening. And I could tell he was a little uncomfortable and a little stiff. And I kept, because our eyes look out. My first assumption is, what's wrong out there? And I was like, what are you okay? What's wrong? And he he was , I don't really know what I'm supposed to be doing. [00:54:41] And then I was like. Oh, no, it was snip the bangs. I didn't provide any context. I didn't give him any preparation for what we'd be talking about, why we'd be talking like he had no context. And the whole setup is different, uhhuh. And it was such a humbling, settling moment of context. [00:55:04] It's I'm writing something right now about this idea of play. I'm a freedom loving, freedom seeking play hungry, greedy person right now. I want more play. I could never get enough. But what makes play feel fun and safe is to understand the context. Yeah. , There's rules in a game. [00:55:20] Otherwise, what is it? And I, my first instinct is to buck. Rules. I don't like ingredient lists. I don't like recipes. I just wanna feel my way through it. But, if you wanna make a beautiful croissant, you can't just feel your way through that. There's a very exacting way to do it. And so, it, it was such a one, I'm endlessly grateful for him and his patients with me. [00:55:40] I'm grateful that , our dynamics not new, so he probably knew what was going on, but just did yeah he's pretty sweet that way. But I, it was such a refresher that , if I wanna create a space and container to play safely with people Yeah. I need to give them the context. Absolutely. And it doesn't matter how long I've known someone, how well I know someone. [00:55:59] I laughed at myself because I, the part of the reason why it feels funny to me, but in like a humbling way. I thought the problem was him for like the first 15 minutes. I was like, what dude? Relax. I was like, what? Is he doing it right? [00:56:12] Yeah. like come on. And I was like. Oh no. Context. Zero. Oh my goodness. So that was a great one. Thank you. Okay, I'm gonna do mine in like short seconds because this one just hap this that inspired me perfectly. So my 8-year-old son and I are both going to the same therapist right now. [00:56:30] I'm a believer everybody should have at least an annual checkup with a therapist, but that's a great endorsement. Everyone should have an you annual checkup. You welcome, reach out to Danielle, she's fantastic. If you live in Indiana, by all means. If not, we'll help you find someone. Yes. And also order the book. [00:56:44] Yes, order the book. Get resting the wall risk. Get treasured. Yes. But go on please. So anyway one, one of the things that my I, the reason I love the person we're working with is because she's the first therapist I've worked with when it comes to, with my kids, she actually tells me what I can work on rather than just , you're doing the best you can and like you just love 'em. [00:57:03] And like, yes, I know, but that is not helping me. And so one of the things that got pointed out to me. Was so Cole , has very low frustration tolerance, like more so than is necessarily healthy for an 8-year-old. And of course with all the trauma with our his sister, our journey, it's understandable. [00:57:22] So we're working on that. What she kindly pointed out to me was, okay, we could work on his, but do you also realize that your tolerance for acceptable emotions is about this big? Oh, she's , therapist, be therapist Uhhuh. She's , but there's like a whole lot more emo like, she's , it's like a whole rainbow. [00:57:42] We need a whole arc for acceptable emotions. She's so you need to stop making it your responsibility to control which emotions he experiences. And it's up to you to provide the solid ground for him no matter which emotion comes up for him. And I will say that has changed my parenting in the last week. [00:58:04] More than maybe anything has like faster than anything. Because all of a sudden I'm like, of course it's acceptable that his sister just made him extremely mad. Of course it's understandable that he's jealous or sad or excited or whatever the feeling is, but it also doesn't define him as right or wrong, what emotions he's experiencing in that moment. [00:58:28] And the big thing was the realization that every emotion he experiences is not a direct reflection of who I am as a parent. No. Because that was what I needed to let go of that any emotion that is considered negative that my child has doesn't mean. That I'm doing a bad job as a parent. Oh my God. [00:58:49] That is one. What a beautiful. Don't cut. Thank you. With Dr. Sarah. Yes. Thank you, Dr. Sarah. You'd be therapizing all up in that session. That was so good. And it's the, that to me is a great example that hard truths can always be delivered with kindness. Yeah. But I think the big important thing there is you had the right context. [00:59:12] Exactly. You went to her for that information. Right. It wasn't like someone on the street. But the thing that we can't give someone what we don't have. Exactly. And I actually think that what you just said, if there was ever an endorsement for what. Self-care actually is not the commoditized, right. [00:59:29] Faux sense of, I'm gonna create a problem and I'm going to prescribe collagen. Did you know that the reason why, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah is these things that you need to buy and, oh, my program for blah, blah, blah, blah. And I'm gonna, I have all that stuff. I'm not I'm wanna, I wanna keep it in perspective. [00:59:45] I am drinking the same Kool-Aid 'cause I'm getting sent the same algorithm ads that we're all getting sent. Like I'm doing colostrum now. I don't even know. Like, I just, because I was like, my gut might grow up I own, but anyway but I think self-care and the best possible context is when you nurture. [01:00:03] And heal yourself. It becomes the medicine. Yes. Yes. And the offering for the other people in your life that you love most. It's like as you increase your own palette of what you're able to allow yourself to experience, you're then also able to see it in your son and give it to him. That is so beautiful and it's hard. [01:00:26] Sometimes, but it's some God that a well timed, articulated loving truth like that can change your life. Yeah. That is amazing. Thank you. I don't know, we can't top that. That was good. We're good. That was real good. Ashlyn Thompson, thank you so much for coming back and we're going to have you back. [01:00:43] You have to come back. Yes. And you're coming over to Empowered by Hope very soon. I would love that so much. And Yes. And so all of the ways, if you or anyone you know in your life has been impacted by a little one with complex me complex medical issues and you want some support, you want some information, you want some resources. [01:01:01] The link in the show notes will have every way that you can connect with Ashlyn, her business partner, and what was formally Charlotte's Hope Foundation, what is now the Parent Empowerment Network. Pick up all the books, all the resources, everything I talked about too for my stuff is also in there. [01:01:16] But , it's all linked for you there. So I hope that you get what you need and. Thanks so much, . Oh my gosh. [01:01:21] If you've ever wanted to pick up journaling,

Today on Day by Day with Dr. Clif Johnson he talks about, God sees and acts: Finding Comfort in Psalm 10 during injustice. "Interested in learning to become a devoted follower of Christ?" Go to follow.lifeword.org #daybydaylw

In this episode of the Goats of Growth podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Candidate 8, a sales professional with a unique background in ministry. We discussed his transition from being a pastor to building a career in technology and cybersecurity, and the vital role that empathy and relationship-building play in sales. Candidate 8 shared powerful insights on personal growth through adversity, the value of in-person communication, and his aspirations for future leadership roles. We also touched on work ethic, life lessons, and the journey of redefining oneself in a new career path. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Goats of Growth Podcast 01:16 From Ministry to Technology: A Unique Career Path 03:40 Building Relationships and Empathy in Sales 07:54 Learning from Challenges: Growth in Sales 12:39 Finding Comfort in the Sales Process 16:16 Future Aspirations: Leadership and Growth 19:09 Mantras and Life Lessons 22:55 Redefining Oneself: Skills and Growth

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Finding Comfort: A Brother's Quest for the Perfect Teddy Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-06-01-22-34-02-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 제주도 테디 베어 박물관은 특별했습니다.En: The Jeju Island Teddy Bear Museum was special.Ko: 공기가 차가운 5월 아침, 지호는 부모님과 함께 박물관에 갔습니다.En: On a cold May morning, Jiho went to the museum with his parents.Ko: 오늘은 어린이날이었고, 그들의 마지막 가족 여행이었습니다.En: It was Children's Day and their last family trip.Ko: 지호는 떠나는 것이 두려웠습니다.En: Jiho was afraid of leaving.Ko: 인형을 보고 또 보면서 한국을 떠나는 것이 실감이 났습니다.En: Seeing the dolls again and again made the reality of leaving Korea sink in.Ko: 효리 애비뉴에서 시작된 박물관 투어.En: The museum tour started at Hyori Avenue.Ko: 지호의 눈빛은 반짝였습니다.En: Jiho's eyes sparkled.Ko: 곰인형들이 제주도를 주제로 한 전통의상, 한복을 입고 있었습니다.En: The teddy bears were dressed in traditional Korean costumes, hanbok, themed around Jeju Island.Ko: 지호는 너무 좋아서 손을 꼭 쥐었습니다.En: Jiho held his hands tightly because he was so delighted.Ko: "너의 곰인형 친구를 발견해야 해," 은희는 조용히 속삭였습니다.En: "You need to find your teddy bear friend," Eunhee quietly whispered.Ko: 그녀도 불안한 마음을 감추며 위로했습니다.En: She consoled him while hiding her own unease.Ko: 친구들과의 이별이 속상했습니다. 하지만 그녀는 강해져야 했습니다. 특히 동생을 위해서.En: She was upset about saying goodbye to her friends, but she knew she had to be strong, especially for her younger brother.Ko: 몇 시간 후, 지호는 마음이 무거웠습니다.En: A few hours later, Jiho felt heavy-hearted.Ko: 많은 곰인형을 보았지만, 마음에 딱 드는 인형이 없었습니다.En: He had seen many teddy bears, but none that he really loved.Ko: 부모님이 잠시 한눈을 판 사이, 지호는 결심했습니다.En: While his parents were momentarily distracted, Jiho made a decision.Ko: "내가 직접 찾아야 해," 지호는 속으로 다짐했습니다.En: "I have to find it myself," Jiho resolved internally.Ko: 은희는 동생이 사라진 것을 알아차렸습니다.En: Eunhee noticed her brother had disappeared.Ko: 그녀는 걱정하면서도 지호의 결심을 이해했습니다.En: Despite her worry, she understood Jiho's determination.Ko: 몰래 뒤따라가기로 했습니다.En: She decided to follow him secretly.Ko: 지호는 박물관 가장 뒤쪽, 숨겨진 문을 발견했습니다.En: Jiho discovered a hidden door at the very back of the museum.Ko: 문을 열자, 작은 방이 있었습니다. 그곳은 특별한 곰인형들로 가득했습니다.En: When he opened it, there was a small room filled with special teddy bears.Ko: 지호는 놀라서 발걸음을 멈췄습니다.En: He was so amazed that he stopped in his tracks.Ko: 곰인형 한 마리가 눈에 띄었습니다.En: One teddy bear caught his eye.Ko: 그 곰은 할머니가 자주 이야기하던 제주도의 옛날 이야기를 떠올리게 했습니다.En: It reminded him of the old tales of Jeju Island that his grandmother used to tell.Ko: 지호는 그 인형을 보고 웃음을 지었습니다.En: Jiho smiled as he looked at the bear.Ko: "이게 바로 내가 찾던 거야."En: "This is exactly what I was looking for."Ko: 은희가 다가와 옆에 섰습니다.En: Eunhee came over and stood beside him.Ko: "좋은 선택이야," 그녀는 부드럽게 말했습니다.En: "Good choice," she said softly.Ko: 지호는 인형을 꽉 안았습니다.En: Jiho hugged the bear tightly.Ko: 인형은 그에게 안정감을 주었습니다.En: It gave him a sense of security.Ko: 박물관을 떠나면서 지호는 마음이 한결 가벼워졌습니다.En: As they left the museum, Jiho felt much lighter.Ko: 한국을 떠나는 것이 더 이상 무섭지 않았습니다.En: Leaving Korea was no longer as frightening.Ko: 그가 떠나는 곳에서도 한국의 기억을 간직할 수 있을 것입니다.En: He realized he could carry the memories of Korea with him wherever he went.Ko: 지호는 자신의 곰인형을 그의 심장의 가장 가까이 두었습니다.En: Jiho held his teddy bear close to his heart.Ko: 은희도 웃음을 지었습니다.En: Eunhee also smiled.Ko: 그들은 비록 새로운 곳으로 떠나지만, 그들과 함께하는 기억들은 변하지 않을 것입니다.En: Although they were heading to a new place, the memories they shared would remain unchanged.Ko: 가족은 변치 않으니까요.En: Because family never changes. Vocabulary Words:special: 특별했습니다cold: 차가운afraid: 두려웠습니다reality: 실감sparkled: 반짝였습니다delighted: 좋아서whispered: 속삭였습니다consoled: 위로했습니다unease: 불안한 마음goodbye: 이별momentarily: 잠시distracted: 한눈을 판determination: 결심disappeared: 사라진secretly: 몰래hidden: 숨겨진amazed: 놀라서caught: 눈에 띄었습니다tales: 이야기hugged: 안았습니다security: 안정감frightening: 무섭지memories: 기억remain: 변하지consoled: 위로했습니다strong: 강해져야determination: 결심lighthearted: 마음이 가벼워졌습니다choice: 선택realized: 알아차렸습니다

Dave shares his incredible journey through ministry, personal loss, health battles, and unwavering faith. From life in Western Australia to the challenges of grief and cancer, this conversation is a deep reminder of God's sustaining grace through life's hardest moments.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction02:57 – Life in Western Australia & Meeting the “Snow Geese”05:00 – Return to Sydney & Work at St. John's08:18 – Reflections on Ministry & Christian Life12:42 – Tragic Death of Family Member Judy13:04 – Coping with Grief & Finding Comfort in Faith14:03 – Supporting Judy's Son & Family Response20:44 – Career Shift & Onset of Heart Problems25:54 – Heart Procedure: Stents & Medical Costs26:37 – Ongoing Health Monitoring & Medicare Challenges27:31 – Cancer Diagnoses & Esophageal Treatment36:41 – Jane's Cancer Battle: Surgery & Radiation38:37 – Community Support Through Treatment39:24 – Trusting God Through Life's Challenges41:23 – The Taproot Analogy: Staying Connected to Jesus42:06 – Scripture, Trust, and Spiritual Strength52:11 – Living Under God's Grace52:26 – Reflections on the Conversation & Encouragement52:42 – Closing Remarks & Listener Appreciation

Finding Comfort in Our Mourning Matthew 5:4 Bro. Tyler Fox May 25, 2025 Salem First Baptist Church Salem, Arkansas

Open and honest, warm and approachable. Father O'Brien gives priests a great name. He has made such a positive imprint on our community, and we are sad to see him move on to his next assignment, as is the dedicated life of a priest. Listen as this Bloomington native turned nomadic priest talks rectory life, choosing to attend seminary and the low rate of graduates, what his parents thought of his life choice, keeping a line between being the "cool" priest and reverence, the new pope and the excitement that brings to the country and the faith, relying on a greater power to inform all decisions and finding peace in that. What an honor to interview someone so open to any and all questions regarding a calling that is often stigmatized. Father O'Brien was a pleasure, thoughtful and a great example of practicing what you preach.I'd like to thank this episode's sponsor Illini Pella Windows & Doors of Champaign. At 1001 N Country Fair in Champaign you'll find the brand synonymous with quality in windows and doors. Pella is one of America's most trusted names for replacement windows, entry doors and sliding patio doors. Visit their showroom on Country Fair Drive or call (217) 356-6474. Pellaofchampaign.com has all the information you need for planning. Thank you so much for listening! However your podcast host of choice allows, please positively: rate, review, comment and give all the stars! Don't forget to follow, subscribe, share and ring that notification bell so you know when the next episode drops! Also, search and follow hyperlocalscu on all social media. If I forgot anything or you need me, visit my website at HyperLocalsCU.com. Byee.

Have you ever experienced grief or an unbearable season of loss? Whether it's the loss of someone you love, a relationship, or an unfulfilled dream, God wants to bring you peace and comfort and walk through this season with you. In this episode, Julie Davies, Licensed Counselor, and your co-host, Christie Myers, talk about finding God's comfort amidst grief and loss. They share personal stories of grief, the stages of grief, and the importance of community and connection in healing. This episode highlights how important faith is in coping with loss, finding joy in difficult seasons, and the promises of God that provide hope during difficult times. Psalm 34:18 says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."   Takeaways Finding comfort in God is essential during grief. It's okay to feel sad about loss and brokenness. Jesus wept, showing us it's normal to grieve. God wants to bring us peace and comfort. Grief can manifest in various stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. It's important to let yourself experience grief fully. Depression can be a normal response to grief, but it should be monitored. Community support is crucial during times of loss. Joy can coexist with suffering and can be found in small moments. God's promises provide hope and strength in difficult times.   Chapters 00:00 Finding Comfort in Grief and Loss 02:51 Personal Stories of Grief and Healing 06:10 Understanding the Stages of Grief 08:49 Coping Mechanisms for Grief 12:08 The Role of Community in Healing 14:58 Joy Amidst Suffering 17:47 God's Promises in Times of Grief 20:47 The Gospel and Finding Hope   Visit our website. Get Allie's book “Social Media Reset” Get Allie's book “Wonderfully Made” Join our Love Her A'Latte campaign — make our podcast possible.    

Stillness isn't stagnation. It's integration. Topics Discussed The chaos addiction blocking your fertility Nervous system dysregulation and fertility struggles How trauma patterns show up after you get pregnant Epigenetics, motherhood, and the cost of overdoing Why your body can't receive in a high-alert state The energetic upgrade from hustle to healing How to actually trust the pause without spiraling You can chase in chaos, but you can't receive in chaos. Show Notes Summary Hello Beautiful Souls, the voice of Monica here... This one's raw, real, and honestly a little uncomfortable, in the best way. I skipped a podcast episode for the first time in five years. Not because I forgot. Not because I didn't care. But because I'm practicing what I preach: stepping out of chaos and into calm. This episode is a full-on permission slip to stop running yourself into the ground in the name of fertility. The endless doing, fixing, tweaking, chasing—it might feel productive, but it's actually the very frequency that's keeping your body in survival. Stillness, on the other hand, is scary because it's unfamiliar. But that's exactly where your intuition gets loud and your nervous system learns to receive. I get into how these patterns don't magically disappear once you get pregnant, and why so many mamas find themselves overwhelmed, triggered, and exhausted postpartum. If your chaos feels safer than peace, this episode is your invitation to shift. Press play. Let it land. And ask yourself: what if letting go is what moves you forward? You're not falling behind. You're finally tuning in. Timestamps 00:00 Why chaos is more comfortable than calm 03:25 The illusion of productivity in your fertility journey 04:52 Pregnancy and motherhood don't erase your patterns 07:50 The chaos comfort zone and your nervous system 08:51 Why peace can feel like panic and how to shift 12:54 Stillness as the gateway to intuition and coherence 14:50 How to gently rewire your frequency without overwhelm 16:18 Stillness doesn't mean failure. It means possibility 20:04 Preview of next week's grounding and clearing practice Read Mable's Truth # 10: Finding Comfort in Chaos During Infertility & IVF: https://www.findingfertility.co/blog/truth-10-finding-comfort-in-chaos-during-infertility-ivf Full Transcript on the Blog: https://www.findingfertility.co/blog/the-hidden-reason-you-re-addicted-to-doing-on-your-ttc-infertility-ivf-journey Let's Do This Together

Send us a textWelcome to the Country Proud Living Podcast! I'm your host LoriLynn. In Episode 58 of the Country Proud Living Podcast, we explore how to stay grounded and give yourself grace when life doesn't go as planned. The episode originally intended to discuss a spring home refresh, but life threw a curveball when the a family situation came up requiring immediate family support and a shift in priorities. Key strategies are discussed to help listeners manage overwhelming situations, including breathing techniques, creating a calming home environment, accepting and adjusting to changes, practicing self-compassion, and embracing grace over grit. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, the episode offers a comforting and empathetic guide for maintaining mental and emotional well-being during life's unexpected challenges.00:40 Life's Unexpected Curveball03:19 Public Service Announcement: Make your health a priority!04:57 Balancing Work and Personal Life08:55 Tips for Staying Grounded17:03 Finding Comfort in Small Moments20:05 Conclusion and EncouragementWelcome to the Country Proud Living Podcast, I'm your host LoriLynn. Thanks for stopping by today! Please subscribe to the podcast by clicking plus follow at the upper right. Click those three little dots at the top right & copy the link to share the show with your friends and family. Please leave me a review. This is truly one of the only ways to help my podcast grow. I just want you to know what it means to me that you're here today. I know everyone's time is valuable and it means a lot. Thank you. Love and light, Lori Lynn.Please share this podcast with your like minded friends and family and subscribe to never miss an episode! If you have questions, ideas of topics you would like to learn more about, you want to work with me, or you have feedback both good and bad is welcome it can be sent to lorilynn@countryproudliving.comSHARING ADDITIONAL LINKS TO CONNECT WITH ME: : )IG: www.instagram.com/lorilynn_countryproudlivingPODCAST:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/country-proud-living-nurturing-home-empowered-self/id1715855014?i=1000645120377OR for Spotify, iHeart, the pod can be found most anywhere you choose to listen:https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2247458.rssLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olafsonloriMY ART GALLERY: https://lorilynn-o-uter.pixels.com/PINTEREST: https://pin.it/3mX6xMNcR

Send us a textSelf-affirmation has become a buzzword in this day and age, but its power isn't debatable. When you are consistently affirming yourself, words from others won't affect you as much. We talk about that in this episode of Dem Bois Podcast. Today I sit down with Monroe, a model, author, and influencer, and we discuss challenges of name changes, gender expression, and the evolving landscape of social media. Monroe also shares his journey of self-discovery, including his transition, the importance of self-care, and the significance of visibility in the trans community. We talk:05:07 The importance of self-care during transition15:13 Understanding gender expression 24:38 The power of digital reach31:36 Mental health and social media42:16 Creating for the communityEpisode References:Beyond the Veil Tarot Read more about Monroe in his bio below:Monroe Banuelos is a transgender man, best known for his influence on Instagram and TikTok. Aside from that, Monroe is also known for modeling, his ebook for trans men, and his clothing brand 'Lucky Ba$tard'.Instagram.com/monroe.banuelos TikTok.com/monroe.banuelosDonate today to support Transmasc Gender Affirming Grants and Community Wellness Packages for Trans Men of Color! The Visibility = Possibility™️ Merch is here! Introducing a groundbreaking collaboration crafted by Emilio Perdomo (featured on episode 37). This isn't just merch--it's a movement! We're empowering trans men of color with creative freedom to design their interpretation of Visibility = Possibility™. Think of it like major brands collaborating with athletes, but this time, our community takes center stage. Every purchase supports our vital programs! Craving more Connection? Dem Bois Community Voices Facebook Group is a safe, moderated sanctuary where trans men of color can connect authentically, discuss podcast episodes, share powerful experiences, and build support networks. Dem Bois YouTube Channel! - @demboisinc Exclusive content you won't find anywhere else: Behind-the-scenes magic, engaging YouTube shorts, and insider perspectives.

Yes, we have to talk about tariffs again. Be ready to have this marked in the same manner as 'new normal' or 'unprecedented times' back in 2020. Tariff back-and-forths are causing a lot of chaos in all sectors including the CI channel. What can integrators do to maintain some order amidst the chaos? Apropos of that, CEDIA went to the US Capitol for their second Smart Home on Capitol Hill event. How organizations like CEDIA are providing for the industry. BIG AV (that's a company, not a boogeyman like Big Pharma) talks about aspirations for the industry, including the future of the workforce. What can we do to foster the next generation of AV integrators?The video version of this podcast can be found here.Every week we find the biggest stories for the residential side of the AV industry. We discuss what integrators need to know with a panel of experts in our space. Joining us this week is Katye McGregor-Bennett from KMB Communications and Bob Archer of CE Pro.Host: Tim AlbrightGuests:Bob Archer – CE ProKatye McGregor-Bennett – KMB CommunicationsLinks to sources:Residential Systems – Crestron's Statement on TariffsResidential Tech Today – CEDIA's Second Annual Day At Capitol HillCE Pro – BIG AV's Aspirations for AV industrySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Easter weekend five years ago, at the start of the pandemic we played a recording made by Ella McSweeney at the farmhouse kitchen table of the Kentucky farmer and poet Wendell Berry.  It was of his poem about finding comfort in nature in uncertain times. 

How to respond to wars and rumors of wars

We're all for new experiences while traveling, and that includes food, but sometimes you need to find some comfort food or grab something to eat that is quick and easy, which is why many of us head to chain restaurants like Subway and McDonalds!Support the Travel Mug Podcast by buying us a coffee! You'll make our day & you'll get access to fun stuff like bloopers and extra content.We have Merch! Shop the Travel Mug Podcast Store Check out our fav items here: Our Favourite Travel ProductsGRAB OUR MASTER PACKING LIST HERE*****************************************We are travel enthusiasts who do not claim to be professionals! Instead, we are two Halifax, NS natives with travel blogs who somehow found one another on the internet, and now, we have a podcast!!Join us every week as we talk about our favourite destinations, travel tips, travel fails, and all things travel!We have a big passion for travelling and talking about travel so we hope you will listen and join the conversation.You can find us here:Our WebsiteFacebookInstagramJenn's Travel Blog Jenn's YouTube channelMeggan and husband Peter's YouTubeDisclaimer - all episodes are our opinions/experiences, always do your research and make travel plans based on your budget and comfort levels.Support the show

"I am my mother's only daughter," explains Bergstein. Both of Rachelle's parents eventually remarried. Her father has two daughters from a subsequent marriage. And Rachelle's mom, has remarried twice. Rachelle's parents were very much in love and married right out of college. At around the  age of five years old, her parent's split up and Rachelle lived with her mother though there was joint custody between her parents.  Rachelle admits that they did a pretty  good job of not pushing and pulling her into their disagreements up until just prior to her wedding!Pauline eventually went to graduate school and became a psychologist and Rachelle says "she'll work into her eighties, she loves it so much." "She had a lot of drive and intelligence that was sort of sitting somewhere and not used. Eventually she learned how to use it." says my guest. There were humble beginning after the divorce, but Pauline eventually found her calling and nothing can stop her now.Getting support from her mom regarding her writing and being able to have honest open conversations was always helpful, yet Pauline didn't like it "when I dressed sexy. I could pierce my ears, dye my hair, no tattoos till 18. My mother also has a really loud laugh" recalls Rachelle. So loud that Rachelle will sometimes ask her mother to not laugh so loud if they're out in a restaurant.Some of Rachelle's favorite Judy Blume books include, "Are You There God, It's Me Margaret," "Blubber," "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing" and so many more. But it was Ms. Blume's natural writing style that enthralled not only Rachelle but teens and young adults around the world, even today. There was a period in the 1980's that Judy Blume was one of the most banned author in America. She wrote about somewhat sensitive topics that her audience was looking to learn more about, but not from their parents. Topics such as menstruation, puberty, parental divorce, sexuality, women's lib/feminism and so much more.One of many things that Rachelle is grateful for is that her mother was very open about speaking with her about a woman's body and sexuality. Again, it was reflective for Rachelle to write this latest book "The Genius of Judy Blume-How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us." She clearly saw many similarities in both her mother and Ms. Blume's life. Though the transition of being a young divorcee with children was challenging, once these women hit their stride, they found themselves unstoppable.Send all Social Media Links:FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rachellebergstein/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rachellewb/LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelle-bergstein/OTHER: https://banneryear.substack.com/WEBSITE:www.rachellebergstein.com  "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo's “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it's clear why it's a 2023 People's Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers' actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.Gina Kunadian"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed many fascinating people including musicians, celebrities, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, politicians and more.A big thank you goes to Ricky Soto, NYC based Graphic Designer, who created the logo for "Should Have Listened To My Mother".Check out our website for more background information: https://www.jackietantillo.com/Or more demos of what's to come at https://soundcloud.com/jackie-tantilloLink to website and show notes: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/Or Find SHLTMM Website here: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/Listen wherever you find podcasts: https://www.facebook.com/ShouldHaveListenedToMyMotherhttps://www.facebook.com/jackietantilloInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/shouldhavelistenedtomymother/https://www.instagram.com/jackietantillo7/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-tantillo/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@ShouldHaveListenedToMyMother

Episode 522 - Julie Strong - The Tudor Prophecy, An epic, literary tale blending Game of Thrones and Little WomenJulie Strong is a soon-to-be-retired family physician in Halifax, Nova Scotia; she has an ongoing shamanic practice where she addresses the spiritual causes of illness. Julie was born in Manchester, England, grew up in Wales, Australia, and Ireland, and emigrated to Canada in 1980. Her medical degree is from Trinity College, Dublin University, Ireland, and she holds a BA in Classics from Dalhousie University, Halifax. Her shamanism training is from the Foundation for Shamanic Studies in Marin County, California. Dr. Strong has given presentations in Canada, the US, and Europe on the subject of insanity in ancient Greek literature. She presented a three-part series on Greek mythology at Halifax Central Library in spring 2018 and also “Finding Comfort in Difficult Times,” an overview of shamanism, in fall 2021. She is a lecturer with the Senior College Association of Nova Scotia (SCANS) and delivered a six-week course, The Goddess in Antiquity, in spring 2024, which emphasized humanity's need to reconnect with Nature and the Divine Feminine. Book: The Tudor ProphecyEngland, 1541. An ailing Henry VIII reigns from a contested throne. In parallel story lines, The Tudor Prophecy follows two young women, Lady Alice Grantmire and Hester Vaughan, cousins who each suffer greatly from the King's unjust decrees. Lady Alice and her mother are evicted from their estate and take residence in a cottage where they earn a subsistence selling herbal remedies--until they are accused of witchcraft. After being molested by the King, Hester is summoned to her estranged father's home in Wales. There she becomes betrothed to a Welsh bard whose mentor has visions foretelling the ascendancy of Henry's second daughter, Elizabeth. When Hester encounters the eight-year-old Lady Elizabeth, the two forge a relationship whereby Hester can persuade the future queen to temper her own rule with mercy. This epic, literary tale—a Game of Thrones meets Little Women—is also for readers who loved the Wolf Hall trilogy by Booker-Prize winner Hilary Mantelhttps://ocpublishing.ca/julie-strongSupport the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

What does the book of Psalms have to do with modern life?Join me for an inspiring and vulnerable conversation with Tata about turning to an ancient prayer book during life's hardest moments. You don't want to miss this one!Resources and LinksDane Ortlund's beautiful Psalms commentary, In the Lord I Take RefugeMy book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, I've Seen the End of YouBe sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose!Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here!Our featured partner for this episode is Zuma Nutrition. Click this link, and checkout with the promo code DRLEEWARREN to get 15% off. (00:08) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (00:49) - Spring Awakening (02:10) - Embracing the Psalms (15:13) - Finding Comfort in Struggles (16:52) - Recognizing Our Mortality (18:49) - The Need for Divine Help (19:55) - The Lord is Our Refuge (21:15) - Creating Hope Through Action (30:44) - Commitment to Reading Psalms (34:57) - Engaging with Our Community

In this episode of 'Steps to Trusting,' host Erin Michele is joined by speaker and podcaster Teresa Whiting to discuss the fundamental human desire to be seen, known, and understood. They delve into the unhealthy and healthy ways of meeting this need, highlighting the biblical perspective of turning towards God for validation. Teresa shares her personal struggle with feeling insignificant and how reading Isaiah 40 provided comfort and shifted her focus to God's greatness. The conversation covers topics such as social media's impact, people-pleasing, and the importance of reflecting God's image rather than our own. Practical steps to focus on God and integrate His presence into daily life are discussed, emphasizing the benefits of spending time in scripture and practicing Sabbath. The episode concludes with a reminder of God's abiding love and presence, encouraging listeners to find their identity and worth in Him.We would love to hear from you.  Connect with Erin Michele Smith at www.erinmichele.net      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stepstotrusting/ Connect with Teresa Whiting at: teresa@teresawhiting.com      Website: https://teresawhiting.com/      Bible Study: DisGraced: How God Redeems and Restores the Broken      Podcast: Find Hope Here 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:33 The Desire to Be Seen and Known00:52 Personal Stories and Struggles02:58 Biblical Perspective on Being Seen and Known04:53 Cultural Impacts and Social Media09:50 Finding Comfort in God27:57 Practical Steps to Shift Focus30:34 Conclusion and Prayer34:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell

By Nathan Albright - When people are suffering from trials and difficulties, other believers often cite Romans 8:28 as a way of providing comfort and encouragement, though it often does not feel as comfortable to hear this verse as what is meant through saying it. Therefore, this message examines how in light of the

What if the end of life wasn't something to fear, but an opportunity for deep healing and connection? In this powerful episode, death doula Gretchen Jones shares how spiritual experiences around death can bring comfort to families and help us embrace life more fully. From seeing deceased loved ones before passing to the importance of closure and forgiveness, Gretchen offers compassionate insights into navigating the end-of-life journey with peace and purpose.

Join me as I talk with songwriter Mark Hervey about art as mushrooms, universal vibrations, and building up connections. Also, we talk about what it means to us to be Christlike. His new album, Shine, is out now!https://open.spotify.com/album/4l5HFWH5BK9dxy3A0ph5Xy?si=jk4AQhR6RqiyS-l2AY-DhQSongs: Love Now, Baptize MeFind me at http://www.thesonginside.me

In this week's episode I sat down with Melanie Waldman. Melanie is a multi-award-winning filmmaker with the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, a member of SAG-AFTRA, an on-air talent member at QVC, host of the Disability Reality Podcast (which, yours truly, will be making an appearance on very soon talking all things on Bravo), and she STILL somehow finds time to teach adaptive yoga to the disability community & beyond! We discuss disability as a collective and the healing power of connection within, turning adversity into joy, the opportunities that arise from authenticity and much, much more. Relief For Disabled People Impacted By The Los Angeles Fires: Richard Devylder Disaster Relief Fund: https://disabilitydisasteraccess.org/rd-relief-fund/ United Spinal Disaster Relief Grant: https://unitedspinal.org/disaster-relief-grant/ Inevitable Foundation Emergency Relief Fund: https://www.inevitable.foundation/erf Follow Melanie: Instagram: @whereswaldman TikTok: @whereswaldman Listen to Disability Reality Podcast: Spotify Apple Podcasts Follow Me: Instagram: @jill_ilana , @alwayslookingup.podcast TikTok: @jillian_ilana Website: https://www.jillianilana.com Email: alwayslookingup227@gmail.com Read With Me: Goodreads The StoryGraph This episode was edited and produced by Ben Curwin

Divorce blend the earnestness of country & folk with off-kilter headiness of indie rock. On their debut record 'Drive to Goldenhammer', they reflect on life on the road, long-distance relationships, queer identity, & the ways we care for others. Be sure to listen to 'Drive to Goldenhammer' wherever you stream or buy your music! Find Divorce on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0YMVzWF9HWGbV4DZHfCyKo?si=Uu14n-51Q_GZdZUJs48fhg On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/divorce/1608076649 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehq/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divorcehq Subscribe: https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listen Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.beforethechorus.com/ Follow on Instagram: @beforethechoruspodcast & @soundslikesofia About the podcast: Welcome to Before the Chorus, where we go beyond the sounds of our favourite songs to hear the stories of the artists who wrote them. Before a song is released, a record is produced, or a chorus is written, the musicians that write them think. A lot. They live. A lot. And they feel. A LOT. Hosted by award-winning interviewer Sofia Loporcaro, Before the Chorus explores the genuine human experiences behind the music. Sofia's deep knowledge of music and personal journey with mental health help her connect with artists on a meaningful level. This is a space where fans connect with artists, and listeners from all walks of life feel seen through the stories that shape the music we love. About the host: Sofia Loporcaro is an award-winning interviewer and radio host who's spent over 8 years helping musicians share their stories. She's hosted shows for Amazing Radio, and Transmission Roundhouse. Now on Before the Chorus, she's had the chance to host guests like Glass Animals, Feist, Madison Cunningham, Mick Jenkins, & Ru Paul's Drag Race winner Shea Couleé. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beat Migs! And we go Straight to the Comments about True Crime shows. Plus we check in with What's Trending, including someone at the Oscars who might have been a little drunk during his acceptance speech!

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 4 Episode 41: Finding Comfort in the Miraculous Conversion of an Unlikely Saint: Luke 19:1-10 #morningreflections #salvation #spiritualsight #grace

Send us a textThis episode reflects on personal loss and the power of community. As we reconnect with our listeners, we emphasize the important role of running in navigating grief and honoring loved ones.  • Desire to return to the podcast after bereavement • Reflection on memories of loved ones and running friends• Importance of community support in times of loss • Upcoming topics for episodes • Inviting you to share your runcation recap stories • Focus on managing grief through running and training  Support the showTHAT'S A WRAP! Thank you for listening! Because of your support, we are in our eighth year of the podcast! Don't forget to follow us and tell us where to find you next on our website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Also, check out our store on the website and get some swag, thanks to Pure Creative Apparel. Thanks to www.PodcastMusic.com for providing the music for this episode, too!

Tickets for Unity Concert in Monsey (March 2nd): https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thepowerofyourstory/1560379?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYgEkUb9O3nlnD67gNQFZgHDtoh1mJfIIWMzaHGs9JOsMc7iW60ccOQaC0_aem_ww_6TYeR66qgCL5ChBA5tw     In this emotional episode of the Franciska Show, Francisca dedicates the beginning moments to acknowledge the horrifying news from Israel involving the Bibas children and Shiri, expressing heartfelt condolences to the affected families. She announces her performance at the upcoming Unity Concert in Monsey, aiming to uplift spirits through music during such dark times. The main segment features an interview with Miriam Haber, who shares the tragic tale of her son Zechariah Haber's death. Miriam, originally American, recounts her family's journey to Israel, Zechariah's illustrious life as a brilliant scientist and devout scholar, and the devastating impact of his death on January 16th during his military service. They discuss the personal and national grief intertwined with Zechariah's loss, his heroism, and how the family is coping and striving to honor his legacy through various initiatives. The episode dives deep into the raw emotions and challenges faced by bereaved families, highlighting the profound and ongoing impact of such a loss.     00:00 Introduction and Recent Events 01:00 Upcoming Performance Announcement 01:46 Interview with Miriam Haber Begins 03:02 Miriam's Background and Family 04:31 Story of Zechariah 14:06 Zechariah's Heroism and Final Days 26:07 Coping with Loss and Family Support 30:22 Coping with Grief as a Family 33:08 The Constant Presence of Loss 37:20 Finding Comfort in Small Things 39:14 Honoring Zechariah's Legacy 44:14 Personal Grief vs. National Grief 45:45 Struggles with Faith and Community 50:15 The Impact of Zechariah's Life 56:02 Processing National Tragedies 01:02:09 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Lindsay Jill Roth, award winning television producer, shares her new book, “Romances & Practicalities: A Love Story (Maybe Yours) In 250 Questions”, how these questions and ultimately the communication they foster can determine the trajectory of a relationship. Then our Dear Damona question this week is: Is it time for a talk? My man keeps updating his online profile. Get the book: “Romances & Practicalities: A Love Story (Maybe Yours) In 250 Questions” and follow Lindsay on Instagram @LindsayJillRoth  Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com TIMESTAMPS Introduction to Relationship Questions (00:00:00)   Host Introduction (00:00:13)   Lyndsey's Background (00:02:29)   Creating the System (00:03:51)   Importance of Communication (00:06:08)   Finding Comfort in Asking Questions (00:07:43)   Starting Points for Conversations (00:08:29)   Timing for Relationship Discussions (00:10:35)   Therapy Before Problems Arise (00:11:17)   International Romance Story (00:11:44)   Pivotal Moment in the Relationship (00:13:37)   Creating the System from Experience (00:15:09)   Vulnerability in Relationships (00:16:35)   The Challenge of Modern Dating (00:17:06)   Initial Connection Over Text (00:18:44)   The Disappointment of Zero Chemistry (00:19:20)   Researching a Potential Partner (00:20:04)   Deliberate Communication Choices (00:21:12)   Importance of Getting Offline (00:22:00)   Book Structure and Relationship Progression (00:23:06)   The Role of Money in Relationships (00:25:03)   Communication as a Foundation (00:27:12)   Understanding Conflict Styles (00:28:37)   Self-Discovery Through Relationships (00:31:20)   Future Aspirations and Relationship Impact (00:32:51)   The Importance of Structure in Relationships (34:05)   Defining Spirituality in Dating (34:41)   The Value of Self-Reflection (35:51)   Using Books as Relationship Tools (37:11)   Revisiting Conversations in Long-Term Relationships (38:05)   The Evolution of Relationship Conversations (39:00)   Permission to Not Have All the Answers (39:30)   Unpopular Opinions on Dating (41:10)   The Need for Open Communication (41:39)   Listener Question on Relationship Insecurities (43:21)   Navigating Undefined Relationship Spaces (46:05)   Taking the Initiative in Relationship Conversations (48:40)   Exploring Serious Relationships (00:50:59)   The Power of Vulnerability (00:52:07)   Episode Wrap-Up and Resources (00:52:15)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send Ken a Text Message about the PodcastEP 43 Wondering Aloud - Lessons from LossKen discusses coping strategies amid the loss of three fellow residents, reassures caregivers on managing personal guilt, and emphasizes the importance of supporting others. He offers practical advice on self-care, finding joy, and using diverse activities to break monotony. The episode aims to educate and inspire caregivers to balance their responsibilities while finding personal relief and fulfillment.00:00 Introduction: Overwhelmed by Caregiving01:15 Shanna's Restless Leg Syndrome Update02:00 Coping with Loss in the Caregiving Community08:37 Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences10:09 Balancing Caregiving and Self-Care14:18 Practical Tips for Caregivers15:58 Conclusion: Finding Relief and Support Get the FREE Guide to Responding to Repeated Questions Visit the NEW Surviving Alzheimer's Podcast Website (survalz.com) to Register for the Support Group, Newsletter and more ... Visit the Podcast Facebook page

Amy & Kat get into how Lion’s Mane (a fluffy mushroom) is becoming a go-to for brain health and ADHD support. Is it really "nature’s Adderall"? Maybe. Maybe not. They also go over several do-able ADHD hacks that might help you in your everyday life and Amy reads a heartfelt email from a listener in Albuquerque who found comfort in laughter after losing a friend. It’s a reminder that even the most random, ridiculous conversations can bring joy when we need it most. Here's the Ryze Mushroom Coffee that Amy mentioned! QUOTE: “Being a child is great. You get upset and everyone decides it’s best you take a nap. THE DREAM.” -Dustin Nickerson (comedian) Email: 4ThingsWithAmyBrown@gmail.com HOSTS: Amy Brown // RadioAmy.com // @RadioAmy Kat Vanburen // @KatVanburen // @YouNeedTherapyPodcast // YouNeedTherapyPodcast.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Series: N/AService: Sun PM WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Caleb Daniels

Comfortable long rides are key to enjoying the journey and finding the ever elusive Peace of Mind we seek. This episode covers how to select the right gear, the importance of hydration, and maintaining a positive mindset while riding.

In this episode of Charleston's Retirement Coach, Brandon Bowen discusses the importance of understanding personal expenses in retirement planning, the need for effective investment strategies, and the significance of having a well-structured retirement game plan. He emphasizes the balance between growth and protection in investments, the impact of AI on the market, and the necessity of making a big switch in portfolio management as one approaches retirement. Like what you hear? Get a second opinion today: bowenwealth.com Follow us on social media: YouTube | Facebook | LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer talks with Dr. Michelle Keener, author of Comfort in the Ashes: Explorations in the Book of Job to Support Trauma Survivors. Together, they discuss how the book of Job provides a framework for understanding trauma, processing suffering, and restoring faith. Michelle shares insights from trauma studies, the therapeutic power of narrative, and how the church can better support those in pain. Whether you're a pastor, counselor, or someone seeking hope amid hardship, this episode offers practical and theological guidance. Don’t miss the link in the show notes for a special 20% discount on Michelle’s book from IVP Press! To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or sign up for a course at usefultogod.com/learn. You can purchase Comfort in the Ashes at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of The Speed of Culture Podcast, Matt Britton speaks with Julian Jacobs, Head of UTA NY and Co-Head of Entertainment Marketing at United Talent Agency. Julian shares insights on how UTA bridges the gap between brands and culture, fosters meaningful partnerships with entertainment properties like Barbie and White Lotus, and navigates the evolving creator economy.Follow Suzy on Twitter: @AskSuzyBizFollow Julian Jacobs on LinkedInSubscribe to The Speed of Culture on your favorite podcast platform.And if you have a question or suggestions for the show, send us an email at suzy@suzy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the unknown can be intimidating, but it's also where God grows our faith. Join us as we explore how to stand firm in Christ while discerning what to adapt to and what to avoid. Learn how to embrace the right kind of comfort and build a life rooted in God's unchanging truth.Support the showPlease feel free to join the facebook group and interact with this amazing community!Find me on Instagram @thefindinghopepodcast or @kaylabundyofficialFind me on Youtube @kayla_bundyFind me on TikTok @kayla_bundy Disclaimer: The Finding Hope Podcast and content posted by Kayla Bundy is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Welcome to How to Win with Mike Moore!

In this episode, Kiran Chawla sits down with Judy and Tony Lynn, a mother and daughter grappling with the profound loss of Blake Zito, who tragically died in a motorcycle wreck at just 20 years old. They recount the agony of that day, from celebrating his birthday to the heartbreaking moment they learned of the collision caused by an undocumented immigrant who fled the scene. As they share their relentless pursuit for justice, the emotional toll of navigating a the legal system becomes evident, highlighting the frustrations and barriers they face. Through cherished memories of Blake's vibrant spirit, Judy and Tony Lynn illuminate the deep void left in their lives, emphasizing their commitment to advocating for accountability in his honor. Their story is a powerful reminder of the personal impact behind headlines and the importance of community support in the fight for justice.Timestamps03:01 The Day Everything Changed08:44 The Moment of Impact10:18 The Call No Parent Wants to Receive12:09 The Aftermath of Loss16:52 Memories of a Bright Soul 20:48 A Sibling's Unbreakable Bond26:28 The Search for Justice30:56 Understanding the Crime38:01 The Investigation that Fell Short40:46 A Mother's Fight for Justice46:15 Living with Unforgiveness49:43 A Call to Action58:05 Finding Comfort in Dreams58:37 A Plea for InformationLocal Sponsors:     Neighbors Federal Credit Union:   Neighbors FCU is a community chartered Baton Rouge credit union that has served the community for over 60 years. For more information visit them by Clicking Here      Another Chance Bail Bonds   Their goal at Another Chance Bail Bonds is to reunite families and reconnect friends.  They accomplish this goal by providing many services which aide in the bonding process. You can learn more by visiting them Here        Video, Sound and Editing for this podcast by the podcast experts at Envision Podcast Studios in Denham Springs, LA.

In this episode of Inside the Epicenter titled "Finding Hope in Isaiah 40", Joel Rosenberg and guest speaker Tommy Fretwell explore the profound spiritual insights and promises in Isaiah 40. Joel expresses gratitude and delves into themes of God’s kindness, servanthood, and future promises for Israel and the world, emphasizing God’s desire to win back His people tenderly. Tommy Fretwell shares a significant meeting between an orthodox Jewish Prime Minister and the Joshua Fund, highlighting the importance of trust, mercy, and aligning with God’s prophetic plan during challenging times. The discussion of Isaiah 40 covers its historical context, including the fall of the northern kingdom to Assyria and Hezekiah’s reign. Tommy explains Isaiah’s shift from judgment to comfort and messianic blessings. Joel explores the concept of "double" in Isaiah, which signifies fulfillment and exactness and relates this to the promise of joy and restoration. They examine verses 3-5, which call for preparing a way for the Lord, tying it to John the Baptist’s role and future global recognition of the Messiah. Verses 6-8 emphasize the transience of human life compared to the enduring nature of God’s word, offering lasting hope and comfort. Joel discusses the dual nature of prophecies, the first and second comings of the Messiah, and reads Isaiah 40:1-2, highlighting themes of comfort and peace for Jerusalem. He ties Isaiah 53 into the discussion, presenting the servant’s role in fulfilling promises of comfort and forgiveness. The episode concludes with a reminder of God's enduring word as the foundation of faith, its living and transformative power, and the unbreakable promise connecting salvation to Israel’s prophecies. It ends with a call to focus on these eternal truths. 04:49 Prayed Psalm 119:18 for guidance and awe. 07:47 Hezekiah's actions led to Babylonian prophecy fulfillment. 11:56 God allures, comforts, and loves to restore people. 16:04 Double judgment reflects Israel's firstborn status. 19:15 John prepared for Jesus; full prophecy awaits. 24:39 Trust God's Word; trials are temporary. 25:27 The foundation of faith: the word of God. 30:00 Salvation's security ensures Israel's promises endure. 33:36 Exploration of scripture, feedback, and connection encouraged. Learn more about The Joshua Fund: JoshuaFund.comMake a tax-deductible donation: Donate | The Joshua FundStock Media provided by DimmySad / Pond5 Bible Verse Psalm 119:18 is the verse of the day: "Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law." Verse of the Day Pray for comfort for Israel and for the families affected by the Hamas attack on October 7th. Asks for peace and healing during these difficult times and the importance of seeking God's strength and guidance. Related Episodes:Response Fund Impact and Volunteer Efforts #219A Pastor's Tale of Faith and Service #207How to Show Love and Support for Israel and Her Neighbors #182Christians Blessing Israel: How and Why? #170 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Whitney Owens Hemsath (Watch on YouTube) shares of finding comfort in Christ amidst life's struggles. Whitney shares a poignant personal story from her college days, where she felt lost and directionless until she received spiritual guidance. She discusses the heartbreak and sorrow she endured when her best friend and boyfriend, Dustin, began dating someone else, and how she found solace through hymns and a deeper connection with Christ. Eventually, Dustin realized he loved her, and they became engaged while Whitney was on her mission. The episode delves into themes of grief, comfort, and finding Jesus in every aspect of life, using Christmas symbols to draw parallels to Christ's love and sacrifice. The conversation aims to inspire listeners to seek and recognize Christ's presence and comfort, even in difficult times.Whitney's Book: https://amzn.to/4gNyZLa00:00 Introduction and Christmas Greetings00:20 Whitney's Story: Finding Comfort in Faith03:28 The Power of Christ's Comfort07:46 Christ has Empathy in Our Grief14:24 Whitney's Book: Finding Christ in Daily Life19:18 Connecting Snow as a Symbol for Christ23:56 Symbolism of Christmas Trees as it Relates to Christ29:59 Encouragement and Farewell

Take advantage of our Boxing Week Sale! Get personalized courses, live webinars & Q&As, and more for FREE for 7 days! https://attachment.personaldevelopmentschool.com/dream-life?utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=boxing-week-7-day-trial&utm_medium=organic&utm_content=mg-12-07-24&el=podcast In this episode of The Thais Gibson Podcast, Thais Gibson and cohost, Mike DiZio, dive deep into the world of fearful avoidant attachment styles. Together, they explore the triggers that often arise in relationships for those with this attachment style, such as trust violations, unmet expectations, and feelings of emotional overwhelm. Thais, a former fearful avoidant turned secure, shares invaluable insights from her personal journey and professional expertise. Listeners will gain a better understanding of: The internal world of a fearful avoidant. Why small incongruities can feel like major trust breaches. How childhood experiences shape hypervigilance and relational patterns. Practical strategies to foster trust and communication in relationships. Whether you're navigating these challenges yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers compassionate guidance and actionable tips to create healthier, more secure connections. Tune in for a candid conversation filled with relatable stories, expert advice, and the tools to transform attachment patterns. Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 01:58 - FA Triggers: When Trust is Broken 03:57 - Developing Hypervigilance as a Coping Mechanism 11:20 - Sharing Phone Access with Your Partner 22:00 - 14-Day Free Trial: All Access Membership Pass 24:28 - FA Triggers: People Having Expectations for Them 28:41 - Finding Comfort in Chaos 34:52 - Feeling Seen and Less Alone 39:44 - FAs and Rights of Passage Fears 43:26 - Reassuring the FA When They're Feeling Afraid 47:26 - FA Triggers: Feeling Unimportant or Like They Don't Matter 52:35 - Conclusion  Let's connect! https://www.youtube.com/@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool https://www.tiktok.com/@thaisgibson https://www.instagram.com/thepersonaldevelopmentschool/ https://www.facebook.com/ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool/ #TheThaisGibsonPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode invites listeners to explore how sound can provide comfort during challenging times. Eve offers guidance on using sound as a therapeutic tool to process emotions and find peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices