Podcasts about finding comfort

In this episode, we sit down with LifeStance therapist Victoria Benfer to explore the growing trend of reborn dolls—remarkably lifelike, artist-crafted baby dolls that have captured increasing public interest. Victoria discusses the many roles these dolls play, from offering comfort to those coping with infant loss or loneliness, to supporting connection and calm for older adults in memory care settings, to serving as a creative outlet for dedicated collectors. She also addresses the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries, noting potential risks such as emotional overdependence or blurred lines between fantasy and reality. This thoughtful conversation offers an empathetic, balanced look at the rise of reborn dolls and the complex emotional needs they can help meet.

USE CODE PODCAST10 TO GET 10% OFF TICKETS TO MY WORKSHOP HERE: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/pages/upcoming-workshop In this week's episode of A Millennial Mind, I sit down with Savannah Sachdev, who bravely shares her journey with food, body image, and self-worth. Savannah opens up about her struggles with body image, the impact of society's judgment, and her transformative decision to undergo breast reduction surgery. We delve into how her relationship with exercise and food evolved, the importance of self-reflection, and the power of setting boundaries. Savannah also touches on the challenges and joys of becoming a stepmom and how that has shaped her self-acceptance process. This episode is a must-watch for anyone dealing with similar issues, offering a profound look at the complexities of self-worth and the importance of healing from within. Savannah's story will inspire you to take actionable steps toward a healthier and happier life. Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and have your notepad ready for this enlightening conversation. 00:00 Introduction: The Complex Relationship with Food 00:07 Personal Struggles and Body Image 00:15 The Turning Point: Seeking Validation 00:21 Addiction and Self-Worth 00:31 The Impact of Judgment and Boundaries 00:57 The Longest Relationship: With Yourself 01:16 Guest Introduction: Savannah Sev 02:01 Savannah's Journey: From Struggle to Healing 02:56 The Influence of Body Image on Self-Perception 03:44 The Role of Confidence and Authenticity 11:38 The Impact of Breast Reduction Surgery 26:00 Changing Relationship with Food and Exercise 29:56 Discovering Self-Worth Beyond Appearance 30:13 The Turning Point: Embracing Fitness and New Identities 33:22 Overcoming Insecurities and Finding Comfort in Your Own Skin 35:29 The Role of Friends in Personal Growth 38:36 The Impact of Relationships on Self-Perception 40:23 Finding Solace in Running and Routine 45:38 Navigating Cultural Expectations and Personal Choices 55:12 Balancing Personal Happiness and Relationship Dynamics 59:07 Balancing Career and Personal Life 01:00:07 Navigating Relationship Dynamics 01:01:14 Becoming a Stepmom 01:02:24 Journey to Content Creation 01:03:18 Managing Multiple Jobs 01:09:03 Dealing with Disordered Eating 01:12:53 Finding Balance and Happiness 01:14:53 Advice for Overcoming Challenges 01:22:50 Concluding Thoughts on Growth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2820: Dr. Margaret Rutherford shares a deeply personal account of losing both her parents during the holiday season, revealing the raw emotions and unexpected details that come with grief. Through vivid memories and honest reflection, she invites us to create our own healing rituals and approach the holidays with compassion, for ourselves and for others navigating loss. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drmargaretrutherford.com/when-the-holidays-bring-the-memory-of-loss/ Quotes to ponder: "Are we allowing ourselves to feel the way we need to?" "Treat yourself as well as you can next time you're in a place of loss." "If you have lost someone you love this year, or if it's the anniversary of their death, you can celebrate their life by creating a ritual that is meaningful for you."

Kiana Danial (@InvestDiva) believes there are still plenty of opportunities to discover in crypto amid heavy volatility in the space. She notes that the cryptocurrency's drop in 2018 was significantly larger than the one happening now, telling investors to find patterns in price activity for potential pullback opportunities. Kiana also explains her "triple compounding" process through her new book, "Triple Compounding for Dummies." ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – / schwabnetwork Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given November 2, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 We all have to reckon with mortality--other's and our own. If we zoom back from that finality, we recognize that every moment is already a mini death and rebirth. How do we cope with so many changes? What do we continue and what inevitably has to change? Where do we find comfort in the midst of all that grief? Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For November 2025, Chaplains On The Way will share half the plate. Founded in 2010, Chaplains On The Way is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that offers spiritual support to people experiencing homelessness in Waltham, MA. We believe that no person living in homelessness should feel they have to walk alone. We live out our mission by building trusting relations with people in Waltham, MA who are experiencing homelessness and struggling with mental health and/or substance use issues. They offer compassion and companionship through life's struggles and triumphs, welcoming all into relationship and loving community. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Job 41-42; 2 Corinthians 1-2 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! In this November 15th, 2025 episode, your host Hunter invites us into day 320 of our Scripture journey, guiding us through the closing chapters of Job and the beginning of Second Corinthians. We'll witness Job's remarkable transformation from grief to restoration, his humility before God, and the generous blessings that follow as he prays for his friends. Then, in Paul's heartfelt letter to the Corinthians, we explore themes of divine comfort, forgiveness, and the call to embody grace for others. Along the way, Hunter reflects on where we turn in times of need and encourages us to become sources of comfort and forgiveness in our own lives. The episode closes with a thoughtful time of prayer and a reminder: we are deeply loved and called to share that love with the world. So whether you're tired, seeking comfort, or simply looking for a fresh word of encouragement, join us for a rich, hope-filled encounter with Scripture and prayer. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Where do you go when you need forgiveness? Where do you turn when guilt and shame threaten to overwhelm your heart? It's an important question, and Hunter draws our attention to it today. Not only do we need a place for comfort and forgiveness, but so do the people in our lives. Are we known—are you known—as someone who offers grace, kindness, a listening ear when someone has stumbled or is hurting? The invitation in today's scriptures is clear: where you go for comfort and forgiveness will help determine where those around you go when they're in need. If you turn to your gracious Father, receive comfort from the Spirit, and drink deeply of forgiveness from Christ, then others—those who may be carrying heavy burdens of sorrow or failure—will know they can come to you. When your life is rooted in grace, it becomes a place of sanctuary for those seeking mercy. Hunter urges us: go to the cross, go to Christ, go to your loving Savior. He forgives freely and does not treat us as our sins deserve. As the psalm says, "He does not repay us according to our iniquities." If you're daily receiving grace and mercy, you'll become someone others trust to receive it from too. Paul asks, "Who is adequate for such a task as this?"—the task of comforting, restoring, forgiving. There's only one who is truly able: Christ alone. Yet Jesus invites us to participate with Him in sharing His comfort and grace. When we go to Him, we're empowered to offer the real comfort and real forgiveness the world aches for. That's a prayer Hunter has for his own soul, for his family, and for all of us. May we become people who are known as vessels of Christ's comfort and forgiveness—not just for our sake but for the sake of a world in need. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

On this episode of The Jubal Show: To Catch a Cheater, Kim suspects her husband Michael of eight years is hiding a secret… but it’s not what she thinks! From mysterious Wednesday nights to suspicious texts, Kim fears the worst, only to discover a surprising twist that changes everything. Tune in to hear the shocking truth, how misunderstandings can spiral, and the heartfelt moment that proves sometimes, reality is stranger (and sweeter) than suspicion. Think your partner might be up to something shady? The Jubal Show has you covered. In this explosive segment, The Jubal Show helps suspicious lovers uncover the truth by setting up the ultimate loyalty test. We call their significant other, posing as a grocery store’s floral department offering a free bouquet. You know.. a War of the Roses. The catch? Who they choose to send the flowers to—and what they write on the card—could reveal everything. Will it be a romantic gesture for their partner or a shocking betrayal? Get ready for twists, surprises, and jaw-dropping confrontations as we help our listeners get the answers they deserve. Subscribe to The Jubal Show's To Catch A Cheater / War of the Roses.➡︎ Get on The Jubal Show with your story - https://thejubalshow.com This is just a tiny piece of The Jubal Show. You can find every podcast we have, including the full show every weekday right here…➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com/podcasts The Jubal Show is everywhere, and also these places: Website ➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com Instagram ➡︎ https://instagram.com/thejubalshow X/Twitter ➡︎ https://twitter.com/thejubalshow Tiktok ➡︎ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.jubal.show Facebook ➡︎ https://facebook.com/thejubalshow YouTube ➡︎ https://www.youtube.com/@JubalFresh Support the show: https://the-jubal-show.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Jubal Show: To Catch a Cheater, Kim suspects her husband Michael of eight years is hiding a secret… but it’s not what she thinks! From mysterious Wednesday nights to suspicious texts, Kim fears the worst, only to discover a surprising twist that changes everything. Tune in to hear the shocking truth, how misunderstandings can spiral, and the heartfelt moment that proves sometimes, reality is stranger (and sweeter) than suspicion. Think your partner might be up to something shady? The Jubal Show has you covered. In this explosive segment, The Jubal Show helps suspicious lovers uncover the truth by setting up the ultimate loyalty test. We call their significant other, posing as a grocery store’s floral department offering a free bouquet. You know.. a War of the Roses. The catch? Who they choose to send the flowers to—and what they write on the card—could reveal everything. Will it be a romantic gesture for their partner or a shocking betrayal? Get ready for twists, surprises, and jaw-dropping confrontations as we help our listeners get the answers they deserve. Subscribe to The Jubal Show's To Catch A Cheater / War of the Roses.➡︎ Get on The Jubal Show with your story - https://thejubalshow.com This is just a tiny piece of The Jubal Show. You can find every podcast we have, including the full show every weekday right here…➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com/podcasts The Jubal Show is everywhere, and also these places: Website ➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com Instagram ➡︎ https://instagram.com/thejubalshow X/Twitter ➡︎ https://twitter.com/thejubalshow Tiktok ➡︎ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.jubal.show Facebook ➡︎ https://facebook.com/thejubalshow YouTube ➡︎ https://www.youtube.com/@JubalFresh Support the show: https://the-jubal-show.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What comfort can believers find in the book of Revelation? The Rev. David Fleming (Associate Pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church and School in Grand Rapids, MI, and Executive Director for Spiritual Care with Doxology: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why someone might invest time in reading the book of Revelation this time of year, where we find the real presence of God in Revelation, how we can prepare to read Revelation, themes to look for and helpful ways to approach the figurative language that is used, common pitfalls to avoid when reading Revelation, and how Revelation brings comfort to believers in Christ. Resources mentioned in this episode: Companion to Revelation (Martin Franzmann), ebook: cph.org/the-revelation-to-john-ebook-edition Concordia Commentary (Louis Brighton) on Revelation: cph.org/revelation-concordia-commentary As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

At the start of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus follows up his call for those who want to follow him to be "poor in spirit" to promise for those who mourn that they will be comforted. It is easy to read this as meaning "mourn" in a sense of our emotional response to facing death, sickness or tragedy, and there are plenty of those promises in the New Testament, but that is not what he is talking about here. In verse 4 of Chapter 5, he is talking about a different type of mourning. A type of mourning that is the emotional response to the intellectual reality of verse 3 - a mourning over sin. All sin and its consequences - the sin in our world, our nation, in the lives of those we love and most importantly in our own lives. We can never expect to live in the second mile if we are not heartbroken over the things that break God's heart. Listen to discover what that might look like in our everyday lives and learn the promise that comes to those who are broken hearted over sin. From Matthew 5:4Thank you for listening to our podcast and we would love for you to subscribe to our page and share with others. Join us for our weekly worship online at www.firstbaptistblowingrock.com or our Youtube page. Contact us at office@firstbaptistblowingrock.com or by phone @ 828-295-7715

Send us a textOn November 5th there is a Taurus Full Moon at 13 degrees. Where it falls in your chart is where you want to bring some comfort. I discuss this money/beauty/comfort giving Moon and how you can grasp the energy and make it work for you. I also discuss this disgraceful shut down of the government we have going nowhere in the USA. Thanks for listening. Support the showAstrology:http://www.kitchensari.comJewelry:https://www.Etsy.com/shop/parkermcpDonations Via PayPal:https://paypal.me/parkermcphinney1?country.x=US&locale.x=en_USBuy me a chai/coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/parkercI am on RUMBLE.COM now- with short videos of: Astro/Art/Naturehttps://rumble.com/c/c-1989012 All content © 2020-2025 Stardust Stereo .

In this heartfelt video, I share the personal news of my father's passing and how it has impacted me and the channel. I reflect on the comfort I've received from your prayers and stories, especially those related to near-death experiences and grief. Thank you for your support during this difficult time. I'll be back with new content soon, including possible small clips inspired by scripture. Your continued love and prayers mean the world to me. God bless.   00:00 Personal News and Channel Update 00:25 Gratitude for Support and Prayers 00:47 Comfort in Shared Stories 01:50 Grief and Moving Forward 02:09 Future Plans for the Channel 02:38 Final Thoughts and Appreciation "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." - Revelation 21:4

In this Halloween edition of The Hot Topic, Jordan James and Simon Scott delve into why many autistic and ADHD individuals are drawn to horror — from jump scares and haunted houses to true crime and the works of Stephen King.They unpack the neuroscience and psychology behind the connection between fear, curiosity, and regulation, and why being safely scared can be surprisingly calming for neurodivergent minds. Drawing on personal stories and pop culture, Jordan and Simon discuss how horror offers a sense of control, catharsis, and community — and why dark stories can feel oddly comforting.Together, they explore:Why the autistic and ADHD brain may find “safe fear” regulatingThe dopamine and sensory connection behind horror fascinationHow pattern recognition and empathy draw neurodivergent people to dark storiesHorror as a mirror for survival, belonging, and identityWhy horror icons and underdogs often resonate with neurodivergent audiencesWith humour and honesty, this episode celebrates spooky season through a neurodivergent lens — proving that sometimes, what scares us most can also make us feel most alive.Our Sponsors:

What does it take to become one of the most successful, self-made women in the world? In this powerful episode, Anastasia Soare — founder of Anastasia Beverly Hills — shares the untold story of her rise from esthetician to eyebrow mogul. You'll learn how she pioneered the Golden Ratio for brow shaping, overcame countless rejections, and created a global cosmetics empire that's inspired millions. Anastasia Soare is the founder, CEO, and driving force behind Anastasia Beverly Hills—one of the fastest-growing brands in the beauty industry—and author of the new book Raising Brows. Often called the "Queen of Eyebrows," she's built an iconic global empire from scratch and helped reshape the beauty standards for generations. Her products and techniques are trusted by Oprah, Kim Kardashian, Michelle Obama, and millions more. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 – How Anastasia Escaped Communism With Nothing 08:57 – The One Choice That Changed Her Entire Life 11:43 – Finding Comfort in the Queen of Daytime TV 17:51 – How Eyebrows Turned Into a Billion-Dollar Idea 24:03 – Why Mastery Beats Hype (Even In The Age of AI) 26:53 – The Oprah Moment! 32:59 – The Billionaire Work Ethic You Won't See on Instagram 35:45 – Anastasia's Message to Every Woman Who Feels "Too Late" Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified.

After a year marketed by rising prices, food safety confusion and supply chain fears, ADM predicts consumers in 2026 will gravitate toward nostalgic, sensory-rich foods and beverages that help restore their resilience

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Paul Wendland, a Lutheran theologian, about the pressing issues surrounding gender and sexuality in today's culture. They explore the cultural shifts that have led to a redefinition of gender identity, the church's role in addressing these issues, and the importance of compassion and empathy in conversations with those struggling with their identity. Dr. Wendland emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the significance of grounding one's identity in Christ amidst the challenges of modern society.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Mission02:17 Understanding the Cultural Landscape of Gender and Sexuality12:11 The Rise of LGBTQ Awareness and Identity17:45 Navigating Truth in a Confused Culture30:35 Compassion vs. Integrity in Conversations about LGBTQ Issues36:31 Navigating Truth and Relationships42:46 Long-Term Witness and Compassion44:29 Social Interactions and Christian Witness48:09 Conscience and Public Stance52:11 Creating Open Family Environments57:16 Support for Struggling Individuals01:01:58 Finding Comfort in StruggleDr. Wendland's Links:https://madeknown.net/http://essays.wisluthsem.org:8080/bitstream/handle/123456789/4507/WendlandTransgender.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=yGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this Make A Difference Minute, Danah Flanagan shares how her creativity became a source of comfort and balance while working in hospice and palliative care. Through her business, Danah's Custom Creations, she uses art and inspiration to renew her spirit and bring hope to others. Danah reminds us that even in life's most difficult moments, creating something meaningful can heal both the giver and the receiver. Sponsor: J. Calvert Farms

October 12, 2025Finding Comfort in the Absolute Freedom of ChristMatthew 17:24-27Michael Cole preachingClick here to listen

By Pastor Mike VanderpoolOn Sept 28, 2025

In this episode of 'You Are Beautiful' hosted by LZ, Chrissy Metz, famed for her role in 'This Is Us,' dives deep into a heartfelt conversation. Chrissy discusses emotional and physical self-worth, personal struggles with body image, and the search for grace amid challenges. The dialogue covers profound themes of vulnerability, personal healing, and societal perceptions of beauty. Touching on topics like anxiety, addiction, and the impact of COVID-19, the conversation is both raw and inspirational. Highlights include Metz's experiences on set, her views on self-care, and the importance of gratitude and self-love. The episode is illuminating, providing solace and validation to listeners navigating their own journeys.Menu:00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:53 Special Guest: Chrissy Metz02:10 Life in Nashville04:58 The Power of Self-Love09:03 Struggles with Food and Addiction15:05 Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences18:21 The Importance of Self-Compassion23:37 The Comfort of the Familiar24:07 A Candid Conversation24:34 The Impact of Kate Pearson25:16 Behind the Scenes of Filming25:46 Body Image and Representation27:15 Unexpected Encounters29:03 The Cast's Bond35:08 Portraying Single Moms37:28 Accents and Authenticity41:51 Real Stories, Real Impact43:46 Children's Books and Big Feelings47:58 Final Thoughts and Reflections

9-21-25 AM - Finding Comfort in Times of Chaos by Clays Mill Baptist

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Lena's Autumn Quest: Finding Comfort in Memories Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-10-06-07-38-20-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Lena strosar genom de smala gränderna i Gamla Stan.En: Lena strolls through the narrow alleys of Gamla Stan.Sv: Det är en vacker höstdag.En: It's a beautiful autumn day.Sv: Löven på träden skiftar i gult och rött.En: The leaves on the trees are changing to yellow and red.Sv: Det är kyligt, och en svag doft av kanel sprider sig från kaféerna.En: It's chilly, and a faint scent of cinnamon wafts from the cafés.Sv: Lena är på jakt efter nya höstkläder.En: Lena is on the hunt for new autumn clothes.Sv: Hon går sida vid sida med sina vänner, Sven och Elin.En: She walks side by side with her friends, Sven and Elin.Sv: Sven pekar på en modern butik.En: Sven points at a modern store.Sv: "Titta, Lena!En: "Look, Lena!"Sv: ", säger han uppmuntrande.En: he says encouragingly.Sv: Men Lena stannar inte.En: But Lena doesn't stop.Sv: Hon söker efter något speciellt, ett plagg som kan erbjuda tröst och värme.En: She is searching for something special, a garment that can offer comfort and warmth.Sv: Butikerna är fulla av folk och priserna är höga.En: The stores are full of people and the prices are high.Sv: Det är svårt att hitta något passande.En: It's difficult to find something suitable.Sv: Lena blir frustrerad.En: Lena becomes frustrated.Sv: Hon känner en längtan efter de enklare tiderna i sitt liv.En: She feels a longing for the simpler times in her life.Sv: Plötsligt minns hon en gammal liten butik i närheten.En: Suddenly, she remembers an old little store nearby.Sv: "Jag ska gå in där", säger Lena och pekar mot en liten mysig butik i en av gränderna.En: "I'm going in there," says Lena and points towards a small cozy shop in one of the alleys.Sv: Butiken påminner henne om utflykter med sin mormor.En: The store reminds her of outings with her grandmother.Sv: De brukade stanna där när hon var liten.En: They used to stop there when she was little.Sv: Inne i butiken är det lugnt och fridfullt.En: Inside the store, it's calm and peaceful.Sv: Atmosfären känns hemtrevlig.En: The atmosphere feels homely.Sv: Lena drar handen över en rad med mjuka tröjor.En: Lena runs her hand over a row of soft sweaters.Sv: Plötsligt får hon syn på en som tar andan ur henne.En: Suddenly, she spots one that takes her breath away.Sv: Den är nästan identisk med den tröja hennes mormor stickade åt henne som barn.En: It is almost identical to the sweater her grandmother knitted for her as a child.Sv: Tröjan är varm, med en vacker stickad mönster som Lena känner igen.En: The sweater is warm, with a beautiful knitted pattern that Lena recognizes.Sv: Lena ler.En: Lena smiles.Sv: Hon känner en våg av minnen skölja över sig.En: She feels a wave of memories wash over her.Sv: Hon ser sin mormors leende ansikte framför sig och känner värmen i sitt hjärta.En: She sees her grandmother's smiling face in front of her and feels warmth in her heart.Sv: Utan att tveka köper hon tröjan.En: Without hesitation, she buys the sweater.Sv: När de återvänder ut på gatan igen, känner Lena sig mer bunden till sina minnen.En: When they return to the street again, Lena feels more connected to her memories.Sv: Trots att tiden har gått, inser hon att hennes förflutna alltid kommer att vara en del av henne.En: Even though time has passed, she realizes that her past will always be part of her.Sv: Hon håller tröjan tätt intill sig, känner tyget mot sin hud och ett leende sprider sig över hennes läppar.En: She holds the sweater close to her, feeling the fabric against her skin, and a smile spreads across her lips.Sv: "Lena, hittade du det du letade efter?"En: "Lena, did you find what you were looking for?"Sv: frågar Elin.En: asks Elin.Sv: "Ja", svarar Lena, "jag hittade precis det jag behövde."En: "Yes," replies Lena, "I found exactly what I needed."Sv: Hon känner sig lugn.En: She feels calm.Sv: Höstvindarna känns inte lika kalla längre.En: The autumn winds don't feel as cold anymore.Sv: Med sina vänner vid sin sida och tröjan i sin väska vet hon att det finns tröst i minnena och att de alltid kan ge henne värme i hjärtat.En: With her friends by her side and the sweater in her bag, she knows there is comfort in memories and that they can always give her warmth in her heart. Vocabulary Words:strolls: strosarnarrow: smalaalleys: grändernachilly: kyligtfaint: svaghunt: jaktgarment: plaggfrustrated: frustreradlonging: längtanoutings: utflykterpeaceful: fridfullthomely: hemtrevligsweaters: tröjorbreath away: andan ur henneidentical: identiskknitted: stickadepattern: mönstermemories: minnenhesitation: tvekaconnected: bundenfabric: tygetspreads: sprider sigcalm: lugnautumn winds: höstvindarnascent: doftspecial: specielltsuitable: passanderecognizes: känner igenwarmth: värmewave: våg

This episode touches on the psychology behind why we gravitate towards shows we've already seen.https://pghdreamerproductions.com/2025/10/06/finding-comfort-in-the-known-question-16-why-do-we-enjoy-rewatching-the-same-shows/

Leadership doesn't come with instructions, it's created piece by piece. In this episode, Chastity Lord, President & CEO of the Jeremiah Program, reveals how she has built a career by embracing uncertainty, dismantling inequities, and leading with courage. From her early years as a first-generation college graduate raised by a single mom, to leadership roles at The Posse Foundation, Achievement First, and Color of Change, Chastity has shaped opportunity at every level. Today, she leads Jeremiah Program, one of the most impactful organizations for single mothers and their children, growing it by more than 300% in just five years. Tune in to learn how to lead when no roadmap exists, why storytelling is a powerful lever for systems change, and what it takes to design leadership that thrives in a world without blueprints. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [01:17] Chastity Lord's Leadership Journey [04:02] Early Life and Education [07:14] Career Beginnings and Mentorship [12:31] Joining the Jeremiah Program [14:38] Navigating Uncertainty and Leadership [25:10] Finding Comfort in Discomfort [26:07] Parenting and Leadership [26:46] Feedback and Public Leadership [28:34] Navigating Messy Leadership Moments [39:10] The Power of Community [40:00] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

Send us a textIn this episode of Bonjhola, hosts Aimee and Rebecca share their adventures of moving from the United States to Europe.  Aimee discusses her recent extensive travel and the challenge of adapting to different regional essentials. They delve into how scents, foods, and fashion preferences change with different environments, touching on experiences from Alaska to Iceland. The conversation highlights the interplay of comfort and surroundings, exploring how both hosts adapt their ways of living and nostalgic connections to their new European homes. They also offer practical tips for travelers looking to blend in and bring back meaningful mementos from their journeys.Where to find Aimee: Instagram: @vibrancenutrition Nutrition Coaching: vibrancenutrition.com Podcast on Nutrition: Blasphemous Nutrition Substack on Nomadic Life: NomadicNomMom Where to find Rebecca: Instagram and her life in Paris: @beseriouslyhappy Podcast for Interior Design-preneurs: Stuff Interior Designers Need to Know Biz Coaching for Interior Designers: seriouslyhappy.com Book on Interior Design Psychology: Happy Starts at Home

Welcome to the Gnar Couch Podshow. This week, we have a special guest: up-and-coming Rampage wild card Finley Kirschenmann. We'll dig into how a kid from Sandy, Utah gets gnarly enough for Rampage, plus we get the inside scoop on desert lines, digging skills, and whether dual-crown tailwhips are actually possible. Other topics rolling around in this episode: BMX as the secret sauce for bike control, the never-ending baggy pants discussion, and the existential question of whether style or spin-rate should win Rampag. True to form, Rob manages to jack up the intro twice, which is just another may-may in the rearview, and by the time we start talking about bike park Uber rides or hugging etiquette, you'll wonder why any of us are allowed unsupervised on microphones. So if you want high-level training advice or nutrition wisdom, keep scrolling. But if you like rowdy bike stories, dumb jokes, and hearing us mess things up repeatedly, you've found your new favorite terrible podcast. Guest info: Finley Kirschenmann Check out our store for sick shirts. Got to our Patreon and give us money. We've added old episodes, downloadable songs, and give you early access to raw, uncut shows for only $4.20/month. Get 30% off BLIZ sunglasses and more with the code "sponchesmom". 00:00 Rob's Impact Underestimated on Show 10:38 Tyson's Impact and Growth 11:37 BMX Foundations and Favorite Parks 17:12 "Finding Comfort in Monumental Events" 22:22 High-Level Riding Appreciation 28:18 Moto Style Freeride Passion 35:36 "Rebuild or Create Anew?" 40:13 Dirt Bike Crash Landing 45:26 Distinct Whip Styles in Riding 53:11 TBS's Iconic Front Flip Moment 56:32 "Fast-Action Skateboard Revival" 01:02:49 "Genre Doesn't Matter" 01:12:41 Tasmanian Devil Leads Red Bull Ramble 01:13:17 "Red Bull Rampage: Spin Obsession"

The Beatitudes were the most powerful sermon given by Christ as he outlined the characteristics of a Christian. Join the Louhs as they go into the deep end of our faith, discussing the second Beatitude and how it applies in our lives today.

The Beatitudes were the most powerful sermon given by Christ as he outlined the characteristics of a Christian. Join the Louhs as they go into the deep end of our faith, discussing the second Beatitude and how it applies in our lives today.

Finding Comfort in God's Love: A Tribute to Charlie KirkShirah Chante, a Relationship Coach and artist, welcomes teenagers, parents, youth directors, and anyone invested in teens' God-given destinies to her poetry podcast. She discusses how drawing near to God can help solve life's issues. This episode pays tribute to the late Charlie Kirk, with discussions on his controversial views on affirmative action and race, while emphasizing his commitment to family values and opposition to abortion. The importance of focusing on shared beliefs and loving others, regardless of differences, is highlighted. Shirah Chante also shares her personal experience with Jesus Christ and encourages listeners to formulate their own belief systems based on the word of God. Download the Relationship Rescue Plan to help formulate your belief system.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:26 Host Introduction and Purpose01:10 Drawing Near to God03:15 Tribute to Charlie Kirk06:03 Addressing Controversies11:40 Jesus' Lineage and Appearance14:33 Closing Remarks and Resources

We're back! On this hostful episode, Lauren, Emily, and Dave dig into their approach to comfort reads. They also discuss engaging ideas in nonfiction and the need for intermissions in long movies and TV episodes. In the Last Chapter they spill some tea: What's a book you did not finish and what made you dump that book? Overdueing It is a project funded by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and is produced by library staff around the Ocean State. We are proud to be a resident partner of theRhode Island Center for the Book. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent those of the Overdueing It podcast, its sponsor organizations, or any participants' place of employment. The content of Overdueing It episodes are the property of the individual creators, with permission for Overdueing It to share the content on their podcast feed in perpetuity. Any of the content from the Overdueing It podcast can not be reproduced without express written permission. Our logo was designed by Sarah Bouvier and our theme music is by Neura-Flow. Books My Friends by Fredrik Backman The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler Parable of the Talents by Octavia Butler I Want to Burn This Place Down by Maris Kreizman Democracy's Data by Dan Bouk The Search for WondLa by Tony DiTerlizzi Browse books by Sarah Dessen The Dallergut Dream Department Store by Mi-ye Yi The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai Monk and Robot by Becky Chambers Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie  All Systems Red by Martha Wells Set My Heart to Five by Simon Stephenson Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz East of Eden by John Steinbeck A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman Media The Naked Gun (2025) Mickey 17 (2025) Anne with an E (2017-19) WondLa (2024- )

We're back! On this hostful episode, Lauren, Emily, and Dave dig into their approach to comfort reads. They also discuss engaging ideas in nonfiction and the need for intermissions in long movies and TV episodes. In the Last Chapter they spill some tea: What's a book you did not finish and what made you dump that book? Overdueing It is a project funded by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and is produced by library staff around the Ocean State. We are proud to be a resident partner of theRhode Island Center for the Book. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent those of the Overdueing It podcast, its sponsor organizations, or any participants' place of employment. The content of Overdueing It episodes are the property of the individual creators, with permission for Overdueing It to share the content on their podcast feed in perpetuity. Any of the content from the Overdueing It podcast can not be reproduced without express written permission. Our logo was designed by Sarah Bouvier and our theme music is by Neura-Flow. Books My Friends by Fredrik Backman The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler Parable of the Talents by Octavia Butler I Want to Burn This Place Down by Maris Kreizman Democracy's Data by Dan Bouk The Search for WondLa by Tony DiTerlizzi Browse books by Sarah Dessen The Dallergut Dream Department Store by Mi-ye Yi The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai Monk and Robot by Becky Chambers Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie  All Systems Red by Martha Wells Set My Heart to Five by Simon Stephenson Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz East of Eden by John Steinbeck A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman Media The Naked Gun (2025) Mickey 17 (2025) Anne with an E (2017-19) WondLa (2024- )

Fluent Fiction - Danish: Finding Comfort in Courage: Freja's Team-Building Treasure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2025-09-08-22-34-02-da Story Transcript:Da: Det var en kølig efterårsdag ved Skagen, hvor havet bryggede på en storm, og himlen var en grå dyne over de vindblæste klitter.En: It was a cool autumn day in Skagen, where the sea was brewing a storm, and the sky was a gray blanket over the wind-blown dunes.Da: Mange ville kalde vejret trist, men for Freja havde efteråret sin egen charme.En: Many would call the weather gloomy, but for Freja, autumn had its own charm.Da: Den lille strandhytte hun befandt sig i, med dens skrabe tæpper og varm te, føltes hyggelig.En: The little beach hut she found herself in, with its rough blankets and warm tea, felt cozy.Da: Det var her, hun skulle tilbringe nogle dage med kollegaerne – en årlig team-building tur.En: It was here she would spend some days with her colleagues – an annual team-building trip.Da: Et ord, som fik hendes hjerte til at banke nervøst.En: A phrase that made her heart beat nervously.Da: Freja kiggede rundt i stuen.En: Freja looked around the living room.Da: Den vellidte Lars og den energiske Mikkel sad og talte om vind og vejr, men også om deres strategi for den kommende periode på arbejde.En: The well-liked Lars and the energetic Mikkel sat talking about wind and weather, but also about their strategy for the coming period at work.Da: Freja ønskede at være en del af samtalen, men hendes ord føltes som små mutede klodser, der aldrig helt passede ind.En: Freja wanted to be part of the conversation, but her words felt like small muted blocks that never quite fit in.Da: Hun ønskede at føle sig hjemme blandt sine kolleger, men frygten for akavede samtaler og misforståelser holdt hende tilbage.En: She wanted to feel at home among her colleagues, but the fear of awkward conversations and misunderstandings held her back.Da: "Vi har brug for en aktivitet," sagde Mikkel pludselig.En: "We need an activity," said Mikkel suddenly.Da: Freja hørte knap, hvad der blev foreslået, men følte skubbelsen fra noget dybt inde.En: Freja barely heard what was suggested but felt the push from something deep inside.Da: "Jeg kan klare det," hørte hun sig selv sige.En: "I can handle it," she heard herself say.Da: Ordene havde fundet vej ud, før hun havde nået at overveje dem.En: The words had found their way out before she had time to consider them.Da: Der var et skud af frygt, men også en lille gnist af håb.En: There was a shot of fear, but also a small spark of hope.Da: Planen var enkel: en skattejagt omkring hytten.En: The plan was simple: a treasure hunt around the cabin.Da: Deltagerne skulle finde ledetråde, som Freja havde omhyggeligt lagt ud.En: The participants were to find clues that Freja had carefully laid out.Da: Klitterne skulle være deres scene, den kolde blæst en allieret i skattejagten.En: The dunes were to be their stage, the cold wind an ally in the treasure hunt.Da: Det var enkelt og sjovt.En: It was simple and fun.Da: Men midt i legen opstod en misforståelse.En: But in the middle of the game, a misunderstanding arose.Da: Lars havde læst det sidste ledetråd forkert og førte holdet i den forkerte retning.En: Lars had read the last clue incorrectly and led the team in the wrong direction.Da: Freja mærkede nervøsiteten røre på sig.En: Freja felt the nervousness stir.Da: Hendes tanker løb; hvad nu hvis de blev frustrerede?En: Her thoughts raced: what if they got frustrated?Da: Men så, uden at tvivle, skyndte hun sig hen til Lars og forklarede smilende fejlen.En: But then, without hesitation, she hurried over to Lars and explained the mistake with a smile.Da: "Ah, selvfølgelig!En: "Ah, of course!Da: Jeg må have læst det forkert," lo Lars med et smil, og Mikkel klappede Freja på skulderen, som om det hele var en del af det planlagte sjov.En: I must have read it wrong," laughed Lars with a smile, and Mikkel patted Freja on the shoulder, as if it was all part of the planned fun.Da: Det var i det øjeblik, Freja indså, at det ikke handlede om at være perfekt.En: It was in that moment that Freja realized that it wasn't about being perfect.Da: Det handlede om at være ægte, og der var plads til fejl og læring.En: It was about being genuine, and there was room for mistakes and learning.Da: De afsluttede jagten med grin og billeder af vindblæste hår og kolde næser.En: They finished the hunt with laughter and pictures of wind-blown hair and cold noses.Da: Freja kiggede på sine kolleger – venner nu – og følte en lethed, hun ikke havde troet mulig.En: Freja looked at her colleagues – friends now – and felt a lightness she hadn't thought possible.Da: Hun havde overvundet sig selv, og det var denne sejr, der betød mest.En: She had overcome herself, and it was this victory that meant the most.Da: Til sidst sad de alle i stuen, varm kakao i kopperne, mens vinden hylede sit eget melodi udenfor.En: Finally, they all sat in the living room, warm cocoa in their cups, while the wind howled its own melody outside.Da: Freja følte sig, for første gang i lang tid, som en del af noget større.En: Freja felt, for the first time in a long while, like part of something bigger.Da: Trods frygt og tvivl fandt hun styrken til at tage et skridt ud af komfortzonen.En: Despite fear and doubt, she found the strength to take a step out of her comfort zone.Da: Den skulle vise sig at være hendes egen skat – et skridt mod et stærkere fællesskab.En: It would prove to be her own treasure – a step towards a stronger community.Da: Og dér, foran den knitrende pejs, følte Freja sig hjemme.En: And there, in front of the crackling fireplace, Freja felt at home. Vocabulary Words:brewing: bryggedegloomy: tristdunes: klittercozy: hyggeligcolleagues: kollegaerannual: årligstrategy: strategimuted: mutedeawkward: akavedemisunderstanding: misforståelseactivity: aktivitetsuggested: foreslåetspark: gnisttreasure: skatclues: ledetrådestage: sceneally: allieretlaugh: grinwind-blown: vindblæsteovercome: overvundetcommunity: fællesskabgenuine: ægtemistakes: fejlnervousness: nervøsitetenfear: frygtdoubt: tvivlstrength: styrkencomfort zone: komfortzonenprove: visefireplace: pejs

Steve Klein -- Finding Comfort in Prayer

The weekly adult Sunday School class at OAG taught by long time teacher, Mrs. Jeanie Davis..** Edited to remove personal information shared in the class and extended pauses **Title: The Rapture, the Second Coming, and Living Ready for Christ's ReturnSummary: This message explains the biblical distinction between the rapture and the second coming, urging believers to live with joy, readiness, and boldness in sharing Christ as His return draws near.Lesson Outline:00:00 - Welcoming Home and Finding Comfort in God03:15 - Remembering Loved Ones and the Hope of Heaven06:40 - The Trinity and the Narrow Way of Salvation10:20 - The Rapture and the Second Coming Explained14:05 - Scriptures on the Rapture in Thessalonians19:00 - Encouragement and Assurance of Salvation23:10 - End-Time Signs and Technology Advancements28:20 - Different Views on the Timing of the Rapture32:15 - Scriptures on the Second Coming of Christ35:00 - Living Ready and Boldly Sharing the Gospel

In this devotional, Keri Eichberger reminds us that the deepest connection our hearts long for can only be found in Jesus. Drawing from John 15:5, she shares a personal story of longing for closeness with her husband, only to be reminded that lasting comfort, peace, and joy flow from remaining connected to Christ. When we stay close to the Vine, we bear spiritual fruit that no relationship, friendship, or earthly connection can replace. Highlights The Longing for Connection: Why our hearts crave closeness, affirmation, and love from others. The True Source of Fulfillment: How Jesus, the Vine, offers the deepest connection our souls desire (John 15:5). Spiritual Fruits of the Soul: Discover the blessings of peace, joy, comfort, and security that come from staying connected to Christ. Practical Encouragement: Remaining in Jesus looks like daily communion—talking to Him, listening for His guidance, and leaning on His presence throughout your day. Finding Comfort in Christ: Earthly connections are beautiful, but only Jesus offers the unshakable peace our hearts are searching for. Join the Conversation When have you experienced a moment where Jesus reminded you that He is your truest source of connection and comfort? Share your story with us by tagging @LifeAudioNetwork and using #ConnectedInChrist. Your testimony could encourage someone longing for the same peace and closeness today.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.  PAUSE Notice how your body feels in this moment. And see if you can imagine that every exhale releases all that's heavy,  Softens you, And pulls you deeper inside.  LONG PAUSE Let yourself be held in the stillness. Comforted by the pools of peace inside.  Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

When you feel alone and weighed down, do this.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/todayssinglechristianSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld as he guides us through the world and major works of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, and Jewish philosophy, shedding light on the inner life of the soul. To learn more, visit InwardTorah.org

Embracing Transformation with Caramie BakerIn this episode of The Samantha Parker Show, Samantha Parker sits down with her long-time friend Caramie Baker, who has been on a transformational journey of self-discovery.They discuss Caramie's work in helping individuals develop a healthy relationship with money, the significance of overcoming mental obstacles, and the importance of staying true to oneself.The conversation also touches on personal stories, family dynamics, and the power of faith and spiritual growth. Caramie shares insights into her event, the Freedom Formula, which aims to inspire and equip individuals with tools to achieve freedom in various aspects of their lives.00:00 Welcome to the Samantha Parker Show00:22 Podcast Beginnings and Upgrades01:40 Introducing Caramie and Her Transformation Journey02:14 Overcoming Doubt and Embracing Change05:22 Spiritual Growth and Trust in God14:30 Financial Mindset and Money Management20:47 Personal Growth and Support Systems24:41 The Turning Point: Making a Life-Changing Decision25:37 Finding Comfort in Small Pleasures25:56 Family Connections and New Beginnings26:37 Embracing Personal Growth and Breakthroughs28:16 The Power of Voice and Expression30:30 Overcoming Mental Struggles39:58 Family Meetings: Celebrating Wins and Failures44:26 Future Plans and Flexibility46:00 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsStep into Your Sober Era! Are you ready to embrace a life of clarity and empowerment? Let's embark on this transformative journey together! [Subscribe Now ➔] Sam's Sober Stack | Samantha Parker | Substack Want to Work with The Samantha Parker for Content Management CLICK HERE Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthaparkershow YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@thesamanthaparker Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesamanthaparker/

Pastor Patrick Carmichael & occasional guest speakers deliver God's Word at Christ Bible Church's weekly Sunday services. Mission Hills, California.

Catholics in Ukraine seek comfort from God as the war continues. Pat Ryan is joined by Fr. Viktor a Greek Catholic Priest in Ukraine who shares the struggle of war and holding on to faith.Father Viktor's Catholic radio station Radio 7 https://radio7.com.ua/. Corvallis Sister Cities Association https://sistercities.corvallis.or.us/Subscribe to the Morning Blend on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.The Morning Blend is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

In this powerful Funky Friday episode, Brittney Griner sits down with Cam to share her incredible journey—from growing up in Houston and dominating the basketball world to surviving detainment in Russia and reclaiming her peace. Nothing is off the table as she opens up about identity, family, the WNBA, overseas challenges, and what healing looks like after trauma. Whether you're here for sports, raw honesty, or inspiration, this conversation will leave a lasting impact.00:00 Introduction to the Show01:12 Introducing Brittany Griner02:59 Growing Up in Houston03:40 High School and Early Basketball Days04:22 Family Dynamics and Personal Struggles06:41 Finding Comfort in Being Different11:01 Advice for Parents and Teachers17:27 Embracing Individuality in High School20:15 Hobbies and Interests Beyond Basketball34:51 Choosing Baylor University38:00 Almost Choosing Texas A&M38:35 Culture Shock in Texas40:01 Facing Racism in College Station43:06 NCAA Achievements and Humility45:29 Draft Class and Early Career47:21 Transition to Professional Basketball50:31 Challenges in the WNBA01:08:50 Fan Interactions and Personal Boundaries01:13:57 Balancing Career and Family01:15:44 Future of the WNBA01:18:49 Competitive Spirit in Sports01:19:51 Misconceptions About Brittany Griner01:21:45 WNBA Pay Disparities01:22:57 Safety Concerns in the League01:28:21 Overseas Basketball Experience01:34:14 Detainment in Russia01:38:36 Life in Russian Detention02:02:28 Support from Family and Community02:05:19 Reflections on the Experience02:11:09 Transferred to Moscow Prison02:11:31 Humiliating Check-In Process02:12:01 Transport to Abu Dhabi02:13:41 Exchange and Return Home02:14:59 Adjusting to Life Back Home02:16:41 Therapy and Coping Mechanisms02:24:55 Parenthood and New Perspectives02:31:07 LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Personal Journey02:44:05 NBA Aspirations and Playing Experience02:50:23 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

This week, our hearts are heavy as we continue to grieve the lives of the seven girls our community has lost. In the midst of this heartbreak, I'm honored to welcome someone from our community who deeply understands what so many families are feeling right now — Marissa Mullens.Marissa lost her daughter Molly in a tragic car accident just over a year ago. Since then, she's shared her grief journey with courage and vulnerability, started a foundation in Molly's honor, and worked to change laws to make our roads safer.In this special episode, Marissa opens up about the early days of loss, how friends and neighbors helped in meaningful ways, and what she's learned about grief, healing, and the power of community. Whether you're mourning, supporting someone who is, or simply trying to process this pain, this conversation offers a space for comfort, honesty, and hope.This episode is a reminder that healing doesn't happen alone—it happens in community.

" 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

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,

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

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.