Podcasts about From Darkness

From Darkness to Deliverance - Part 2 Full research and sermon notes available at: https://a.co/d/dUWkEbA From Darkness to Deliverance: Overcoming Pornography Through Christ is a powerful, Scripture-anchored Bible study for anyone seeking freedom from the grip of sexual sin. Blending biblical truth, neuroscience, and practical discipleship, this series exposes the deceptive nature of pornography, the spiritual and psychological damage it creates, and the path to genuine transformation through Jesus Christ. It is our desire to provide practical, biblical advice to individuals, families and churches affected by the plague of pornography. Please reach out to bj@cbcgb.co.uk with any questions or prayer requests!

In this episode of 'From Darkness to Life,' Brandi returns from Season 4 Episode 29 to share her ongoing journey of recovery from addiction to relapse and back. She opens up about her relapse, the lessons learned, and how she rekindled her commitment to recovery. Brandi discusses the importance of humility, vulnerability, and building supportive relationships. She also highlights the lack of recovery resources in Fort McMurray and her efforts in advocating for better support systems in remote northern communities. Her story underscores the complexity and resilience required in the recovery process, illustrating that with patience and support, profound personal transformation is possible. For more on this episode and others, visit the OCJ podcast website at https://ourcollectivejourney.ca/podcast.#Relapse #Recovery #Addiction #MentalHealth #Support #OCJ #FDTL #FromDarknessToLife

From Darkness to Deliverance - Part 1 Full research and sermon notes available at: https://a.co/d/dUWkEbA From Darkness to Deliverance: Overcoming Pornography Through Christ is a powerful, Scripture-anchored Bible study for anyone seeking freedom from the grip of sexual sin. Blending biblical truth, neuroscience, and practical discipleship, this series exposes the deceptive nature of pornography, the spiritual and psychological damage it creates, and the path to genuine transformation through Jesus Christ. It is our desire to provide practical, biblical advice to individuals, families and churches affected by the plague of pornography. Please reach out to bj@cbcgb.co.uk with any questions or prayer requests!

Last time we spoke about the beginning of the battle of lake Khasan. On a frost-bitten dawn by the Chaun and Tumen, two empires, Soviet and Japanese, stared at Changkufeng, each certain the ridge would decide their fate. Diplomats urged restraint, but Tokyo's generals plotted a bold gamble: seize the hill with a surprise strike and bargain afterward. In the Japanese camp, a flurry of trains, orders, and plans moved in the night. Officers like Sato and Suetaka debated danger and responsibility, balancing "dokudan senko", independent action with disciplined restraint. As rain hammered the earth, they contemplated a night assault: cross the Tumen, occupy Hill 52, and strike Changkufeng with coordinated dawn and night attacks. Engineers, artillery, and infantry rehearsed their movements in near-poetic precision, while the 19th Engineers stitched crossings and bridges into a fragile path forward. Across the river, Soviet scouts and border guards held their nerve, counting enemy shadows and watching for a break in the line. The clash at Shachaofeng became a lightning rod: a small force crossed into Manchurian soil in the restless dark, provoking a broader crisis just as diplomacy teetered.   #179 From Darkness to Crest: The Changkufeng Battle Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. As remarked in the 19th division's war journal "With sunset on the 30th, the numbers of enemy soldiers increased steadily. Many motor vehicles, and even tanks, appear to have moved up. The whole front has become tense. Hostile patrols came across the border frequently, even in front of Chiangchunfeng. Tank-supported infantry units were apparently performing offensive deployment on the high ground south of Shachaofeng." Situation maps from the evening indicated Soviet patrol activity approaching the staging area of Nakano's unit near the Tumen, moving toward Noguchi's company to the left of Chiangchunfeng, and advancing toward Matsunobe's unit southwest of Shachaofeng. Russian vessels were depicted ferrying across Khasan, directly behind Changkufeng, while tanks moved south from Shachaofeng along the western shores of the lake. The 19th division's war journal states "Then it was ascertained that these attack forces had gone into action. All of our own units quietly commenced counteraction from late that night, as scheduled, after having systematically completed preparations since nightfall." Meanwhile, to the north, the Hunchun garrison reinforced the border with a battalion and tightened security. All evidence supported the view that Suetaka "in concept" and Sato"(in tactics" played the main part in the night-attack planning and decisions. Sato was the only infantry regimental commander at the front on 30 July. One division staff officer went so far as to say that Suetaka alone exerted the major influence, that Sato merely worked out details, including the type of attack and the timing. Intertwined with the decision to attack Changkufeng was the choice of an infantry regiment. The 76th Regiment was responsible for the defense of the sector through its Border Garrison Unit; but the latter had no more than two companies to guard a 40-mile border extending almost to Hunchun, and Okido's regimental headquarters was 75 miles to the rear at Nanam. T. Sato's 73rd Regiment was also at Nanam, while Cho's 74th Regiment was stationed another 175 miles southwest at Hamhung. Thus, the regiment nearest to Changkufeng was K. Sato's 75th, 50 miles away at Hoeryong. Although Suetaka had had time to shuffle units if he desired, Sasai suggested that troop movements from Nanam could not be concealed; from Hoeryong they might be termed maneuvers. Suetaka undoubtedly had favorites in terms of units as well as chiefs. K. Sato had served longest as regimental commander, since October 1937; Okido's date of rank preceded K. Sato's, but Okido had not taken command until 1938. He and Cho were able enough, but they were unknown quantities; T. Sato and Cho were brand-new colonels.  Thus, K. Sato was best known to Suetaka and was familiar with the terrain. While he did not regard his regiment as the equal of units in the Kwantung Army or in the homeland, K. Sato's training program was progressing well and his men were rugged natives of Nagano and Tochigi prefectures. From the combat soldier's standpoint, the Changkufeng Incident was waged between picked regulars on both sides. The matter of quantitative regimental strength could have played no part in Suetaka's choice. The 74th, 75th, and 76th regiments each possessed 1,500 men; the 73rd, 1,200. Even in ordinary times, every unit conducted night-attack training, attended by Suetaka, but there was nothing special in July, even after the general inspected the 75th Regiment on the 11th. It had been said that the most efficient battalions were selected for the action. Although, of course, Sato claimed that all of his battalions were good, from the outset he bore the 1st Battalion in mind for the night attack and had it reconnoiter the Changkufeng area. Some discerned no special reasons; it was probably a matter of numerical sequence, 1st-2nd-3rd Battalions. Others called the choice a happy coincidence because of the 1st Battalion's 'splendid unity' and the aggressive training conducted by Major Ichimoto, who had reluctantly departed recently for regimental headquarters. Coming from the 75th Regiment headquarters to take over the 1st Battalion was the 40-year-old aide Major Nakano. By all accounts, he was quiet, serious, and hard-working, a man of noble character, gentle and sincere. More the administrative than commander type, Nakano lacked experience in commanding battalions and never had sufficient time to get to know his new unit (or they, him) before the night assault. He could hardly be expected to have stressed anything particular in training. Since there was no battalion-level training, the most valid unit of comparison in the regiment was the company, the smallest infantry component trained and equipped to conduct combat missions independently. Sato valued combat experience among subordinates; Nakano's 1st Battalion was considered a veteran force by virtue of its old-timer company commanders. All but one had come up through the ranks; the exception, young Lieutenant Nakajima, the darling of Sato, was a military academy graduate. For assault actions synchronized with those of the 1st Battalion, Sato selected Ito, the one line captain commanding the 6th Company of the 2nd Battalion, and Takeshita, 10th Company commander, one of the two line captains of the 3rd Battalion. In short, Sato had designated five veteran captains and a promising lieutenant to conduct the night-attack operations of 30-31 July, the first Japanese experience of battle against the modern Red Army. During the last two weeks of July, numerous spurious farmers had gambled along the lower reaches of the Tumen, reconnoitered the terrain, and prepared for a crossing and assault. Scouts had operated on both the Manchurian and Korean sides of the river. Major Nakano had conducted frequent personal reconnaissance and had dispatched platoon and patrol leaders, all heavy-weapons observation teams, and even the battalion doctor to Sozan Hill, to Chiangchunfeng, and close to enemy positions. In Korean garb and often leading oxen, the scouts had threaded their way through the Changkufeng sector, sometimes holing up for the night to observe Soviet movements, soil and topography, and levels of illumination. From this data, Nakano had prepared reference materials necessary for an assault. Hirahara, then located at Kucheng BGU Headquarters, had established three observation posts on high ground to the rear. After Chiangchunfeng had been occupied, Hirahara had set up security positions and routes there. Regarding Changkufeng, he had sought to ensure that even the lowest private studied the layout. Formation commanders such as Takeshita had volunteered frequently. Sato had also utilized engineers. Since the order to leave his station on 17 July, Lieutenant Colonel Kobayashi had had his regiment engage in scouting routes, bridges, and potential fords. Sato's 1st Company commander had prepared a sketch during 3% hours of reconnaissance across from Hill 52 during the afternoon of 18 July. Captain Yamada's intelligence had contributed to the tactical decisions and to knowledge of Russian strength and preparations. The most important information had been his evaluation of attack approaches, suggesting an offensive from the western side, preferably against the right flank or frontally. This concept had been the one applied by the regiment in its night assault two weeks later; Yamada had died on the green slopes he had scanned. Cloudy Saturday, 30 July, had drawn to a close. The moment had been at hand for the 75th Regiment to storm the Russians atop Changkufeng. Setting out from Fangchuanting at 22:30, Nakano's battalion, about 350 strong, had assembled at a fork one kilometer southwest of Changkufeng. The roads had been knee-deep in mud due to intermittent rain and downpours on 29–30 July. Now the rain had subsided, but clouds had blotted out the sky after the waning moon had set at 22:30. Led by Sakata's 1st Platoon leader, the men had marched silently toward the southern foot of Changkufeng; the murk had deepened and the soldiers could see no more than ten meters ahead. It had taken Sakata's men less than an hour to push forward the last 1,000 meters to the jump-off point, where they had waited another two hours before X-hour arrived. Scouts had advanced toward the first row of wire, 200–300 meters away. Platoon Leader Amagasa had infiltrated the positions alone and had reconnoitered the southeastern side of the heights. Sakata had heard from the patrols about the entanglements and their distance and makeup. While awaiting paths to be cut by engineer teams, the infantry had moved up as far as possible, 150 meters from the enemy, by 23:30. Although records described Changkufeng as quite steep, it had not been hard to climb until the main Russian positions were reached, even though there were cliffs. But as the craggy peak had been neared, the enemy defenses, which had taken advantage of rocks and dips, could not have been rushed in a bound. It had been 500 meters to the crest from the gently sloping base. The incline near the top had been steep at about 40 degrees and studded with boulders. Farther down were more soil and gravel. Grass had carpeted the foot. Japanese Army radio communications had been in their infancy; wire as well as runners had served as the main means of linking regimental headquarters with the front-line infantry, crossing-point engineers, and supporting guns across the Tumen in Korea. From Chiangchunfeng to the 1st Battalion, lines had been installed from the morning of 29 July. Combat communications had been operated by the small regimental signal unit, 27 officers and men. In general, signal traffic had been smooth and reception was good. Engineer support had been rendered by one platoon, primarily to assist with wire-cutting operations. Nakano had ordered his 1st Company to complete clearing the wire by 02:00. At 23:30 the cutters had begun their work on the right with three teams under 1st Lieutenant Inagaki. Since the proposed breach had been far from the enemy positions and there were no outposts nearby, Inagaki had pressed the work of forced clearing. The first entanglements had been breached fairly quickly, then the second. At about midnight, a dim light had etched the darkness, signaling success. There had been two gaps on the right. On the left side, Sakata's company had hoped to pierce the barbed wire in secrecy rather than by forced clearing. Only one broad belt of entanglements, actually the first and third lines, had been reconnoitered along the south and southeastern slopes. Sakata had assigned one team of infantry, with a covering squad led by Master Sergeant Amagasa, to the engineer unit under 2nd Lieutenant Nagayama. Covert clearing of a pair of gaps had begun. The Russian stakes had been a meter apart and the teams cut at the center of each section, making breaches wide enough for a soldier to wriggle through. To the rear, the infantry had crouched expectantly, while from the direction of Khasan the rumble of Soviet armor could be heard. At 00:10, when the first line of wire had been penetrated and the cutters were moving forward, the silence had been broken by the furious barking of Russian sentry dogs, and pale blue flares had burst over the slopes. As recalled by an engineer "It had been as bright as day. If only fog would cover us or it would start to rain!" At the unanticipated second line, the advancing clearing elements had drawn gunfire and grenades. But the Russians had been taken by surprise, Sakata said, and their machine guns had been firing high. Two engineers had been wounded; the security patrol on the left flank may have drawn the fire. Sakata had crawled up to Lieutenant Nagayama's cutting teams. One party had been hiding behind a rock, with a man sticking out his hand, grasping for the stake and feeling for electrified wire. Another soldier lay nearby, ready to snip the wire. The enemy had seemed to have discerned the Japanese, for the lieutenant could hear low voices. Although the cutters had been told to continue clearing in secrecy, they had by now encountered a line of low barbed wire and the work had not progressed as expected. Forced clearing had begun, which meant that the men had to stand or kneel, ignoring hostile fire and devoting primary consideration to speed. The infantrymen, unable to delay, had crawled through the wire as soon as the cutters tore a gap. Ten meters behind the small breaches, as well as in front of the Soviet positions, the Japanese had been troubled by fine low strands. They had resembled piano-wire traps, a foot or so off the ground. The wires had been invisible in the grass at night. As one soldier recalled "You couldn't disengage easily. When you tried to get out, you'd be sniped at. The wires themselves could cut a bit, too." Sakata had kept up with the clearing teams and urged them on. On his own initiative, Amagasa had his men break the first and third lines of wire by 01:50. Meanwhile, at 01:20, Nakano had phoned Sato, reporting that his forces had broken through the lines with little resistance, and had recommended that the attack be launched earlier than 2:00. Perhaps the premature alerting of the Russians had entered into Nakano's considerations. Sato had explained matters carefully, that is, rejected the suggestion, saying Changkufeng must not be taken too early, lest the enemy at Shachaofeng be alerted. The entire battalion, redeployed, had been massed for the charge up the slope. In an interval of good visibility, the troops could see as far as 40 meters ahead. A little before 02:00, Nakano had sent runners to deliver the order to advance. When the final obstructions had been cut, Nagayama had flashed a light. Then a white flag had moved in the darkness and the infantry had moved forward. Sakata's company, heading directly for Changkufeng crest, had less ground to traverse than Yamada's, and the point through which they penetrated the wire had been at the fork, where there appeared to have been only two lines to cut. The soldiers had crawled on their knees and one hand and had taken cover as soon as they got through. It had been 02:15 when the battalion traversed the barbed wire and began the offensive. The Japanese Army manual had stated that unaimed fire was seldom effective at night and that it had been imperative to avoid confusion resulting from wild shooting. At Changkufeng, the use of firearms had been forbidden by regimental order. Until the troops had penetrated the wire, bayonets had not been fixed because of the danger to friendly forces. Once through the entanglements, the men had attached bayonets, but, although their rifles had been loaded, they still had not been allowed to fire. The men had been traveling light. Instead of the 65 pounds the individual rifleman might ordinarily carry, knapsack, weapons and ammunition, tools, supplies, and clothing, each helmeted soldier had only 60 cartridges, none on his back, a haversack containing two grenades, a canteen, and a gas mask. To prevent noise, the regulations had prescribed wrapping metal parts of bayonets, canteens, sabers, mess kits, shovels, picks, and hobnails with cloth or straw. The wooden and metal parts of the shovel had been separated, the canteen filled, ammunition pouches stuffed with paper, and the bayonet sheath wrapped with cloth. Instead of boots, the men had worn web-toed, rubbersoled ground socks to muffle sound. Although their footgear had been bound with straw ropes, the soldiers occasionally had slipped in the wet grass. Considerations of security had forbidden relief of tension by talking, coughing, or smoking. Company commanders and platoon leaders had carried small white flags for hand signaling. In Sakata's company, the platoons had been distinguished by white patches of cloth hung over the gas masks on the men's backs, triangular pieces for the 1st Platoon, square for the second. Squad leaders had worn white headbands under their helmets. The company commanders had strapped on a white cross-belt; the platoon leaders, a single band. Officer casualties had proven particularly severe because the identification belts had been too conspicuous; even when the officers had lay flat, Soviet illuminating shells had made their bodies visible. On the left, the 2nd Company, 70–80 strong, had moved up with platoons abreast and scouts ahead. About 10 meters had separated the individual platoons advancing in four files; in the center were Sakata and his command team. The same setup had been used for Yamada's company and his two infantry platoons on the right. To the center and rear of the lead companies were battalion headquarters, a platoon of Nakajima's 3rd Company, and the Kitahara Machine-Gun Company, 20 meters from Nakano. The machine-gun company had differed from the infantry companies in that it had three platoons of two squads each. The machine-gun platoons had gone through the center breach in the entanglements with the battalion commander. Thereafter, they had bunched up, shoulder to shoulder and with the machine guns close to each other. Kitahara had led, two platoons forward, one back. The night had been so dark that the individual soldiers had hardly been able to tell who had been leading and who had been on the flanks. The 2nd Company had consolidated after getting through the last entanglements and had walked straight for Changkufeng crest. From positions above the Japanese, Soviet machine guns covering the wire had blazed away at a range of 50 meters. Tracers had ripped the night, but the Russians' aim had seemed high. Soviet illuminating shells, by revealing the location of dead angles among the rocks, had facilitated the Japanese approach. Fifty meters past the barbed wire, Sakata had run into the second Soviet position. From behind a big rock, four or five soldiers had been throwing masher grenades. Sakata and his command team had dashed to the rear and cut down the Russians. The captain had sabered one soldier who had been about to throw a grenade. Then Master Sergeant Onuki and the others had rushed up and overran the Russian defenses. The Japanese had not yet fired or sustained casualties. There had been no machine guns in the first position Sakata had jumped into; the trenches had been two feet deep and masked by rocks. To the right, a tent could be seen. Blind enemy firing had reached a crescendo around 02:30. The Russians had resisted with rifles, light and heavy machine guns, hand grenades, rifle grenades, flares, rapid-fire guns, and a tank cannon. "The hill had shaken, but our assault unit had advanced, disregarding the heavy resistance and relying only on the bayonet." The battalion commander, Major Nakano, had been the first officer to be hit. Moving to the left of Sakata's right-hand platoon, he had rushed up, brandishing his sword, amid ear-splitting fire and day-like flashes. He had felled an enemy soldier and then another who had been about to get him from behind. But a grenade had exploded and he had dropped, with his right arm hanging grotesquely and many fragments embedded in his chest and left arm. After regaining consciousness, Nakano had yelled at soldiers rushing to help him: "You fools! Charge on! Never mind me." Staggering to his feet, he had leaned on his sword with his left hand and pushed up the slope after the assault waves, while "everybody had been dashing around like mad." Sakata had encountered progressive defenses and more severe fire. The main body of the company had lost contact with other elements after getting through the entanglements. Sakata had thought that he had already occupied an edge of Changkufeng, but about 30 meters ahead stood a sharp-faced boulder, two or three meters high, from which enormous numbers of grenades had been lobbed. The Japanese, still walking, had come across another Soviet position, manned by four or five grenadiers. Sword in hand, Sakata had led Sergeant Onuki and his command team in a rush : "The enemy was about to take off as we jumped them. One Russian jabbed the muzzle of his rifle into my stomach at the moment I had my sword raised overhead. He pulled the trigger but the rifle did not go off. I cut him down before he could get me. The others ran away, but behind them they left grenades with pins pulled. Many of my men fell here and I was hit in the thighs".  Onuki had felled two or three Russians behind Sakata, then disposed of an enemy who had been aiming at Sakata from the side. It had been around 03:00. On the right, the 1st Company had made relatively faster progress along the western slopes after having breached two widely separated belts of barbed wire. Once through the second wire, the troops had found a third line, 150 meters behind, and enemy machine guns had opened fire. Thereupon, a left-platoon private first class had taken a "do or die" forced clearing team, rushed 15 meters ahead of the infantry, and tore a path for the unit. At 03:00, Yamada had taken his men in a dash far up the right foot of the hill, overran the unexpected position, and captured two rapid-fire guns. The company's casualties had been mounting. Yamada had been hit in the chest but had continued to cheer his troops on. At 03:30, he had led a rush against the main objective, tents up the hill, behind the antitank guns. Yamada had cut down several bewildered soldiers in the tents, but had been shot again in the chest, gasping "Tenno Heika Banzai!" "Long Live the Emperor!", and had fallen dead. His citation had noted that he had "disrupted the enemy's rear after capturing the forwardmost positions and thus furnished the key to the ultimate rout of the whole enemy line." Sergeant Shioda, though wounded badly, and several of the men had picked up their commander's body and moved over to join Lieutenant Inagaki. On the left, Kadowaki had charged into the tents with his platoon and had played his part in interfering with the Russian rear. After this rush, the unit had been pinned down by fire from machine-gun emplacements, and Kadowaki had been wounded seriously. His platoon had veered left while watching for an opportunity to charge. Eventual contact had been made with Sakata's company.   The assault on the right flank had been failing. With the death of Yamada, command of the company had been assumed temporarily by Inagaki. He and his right-flank platoon had managed to smash their way through the entanglements; Inagaki had sought to rush forward, sword in hand. Furious firing by Soviet machine guns, coupled with hand grenades, had checked the charge. Losses had mounted. Still another effort had bogged down in the face of enemy reinforcements, supported not only by covered but by tank-mounted machine guns. Russian tanks and trucks had appeared to be operating behind Changkufeng. Sergeant Shioda had been trying to keep the attack moving. Again and again, he had pushed toward the Soviet position with five of his surviving men, to no avail. The left-flank platoon had sought to evade the fierce fire by taking advantage of rock cover and hurling grenades. Finally, a private first class had lobbed in a grenade, rushed the machine gun, and silenced the weapon. By now, precious time and lives had been lost. Either instinctively or by order, the 1st Company had been shifting to the left, away from the core of the enemy fire-net. Inagaki had decided to veer left in a wide arc to outflank Changkufeng from the same side where the 2nd Company and most of the battalion were at-tacking. There would be no further attempts to plunge between the lake and the heights or to head for the crest from the rear. Military maps had indicated tersely that remnants of the 1st Company had displaced to the 2nd Company area at 04:00, sometime after the last charge on the right by Yamada. On the left front, in the sector facing the main defenses on Changkufeng crest, Sakata had fallen after being hit by a grenade. A machine gunner had improvised a sling. "I had lost a lot of blood," Sakata had said, "and there were no medics. Onuki, my command team chief who had been acting platoon leader, had been killed around here. I had ordered Warrant Officer Kuriyama to take the company and push on until I could catch up." As Sakata lay on the ground, he had seen the battalion commander and the Nakajima company move past him in the darkness. Nakano had said not a word; Sakata had not known the major had been maimed. "I still hadn't felt intense pain," Sakata had recalled. "I had rested after the first bad feelings. In about 15 minutes I had felt well enough to move up the hill and resume command of my company." With both Nakano and Sakata wounded, individual officers or noncoms had kept the assault moving. The 1st Platoon leader, Kuriyama, had been securing the first position after overrunning it but had become worried about the main force. On his own initiative, he had brought his men up the hill to join the rest of the company, while the battalion aide, 2nd Lieutenant Nishimura, had made arrangements to deploy the heavy machine guns and reserve infantry in support. Before 4 A.M., these troops under Kitahara and Nakajima had caught up with the remnants of the 2nd Company, which had pressed beyond the third position to points near the Soviet Crestline.   By the time Sakata had regained his feet and moved toward the peak, somewhere between 03:30 and 04:00, the Japanese had been pinned down. Most of the losses had been incurred at this point. "Iron fragments, rock, sand, blood, and flesh had been flying around," Akaishizawa had written. Grenades had caused the preponderance of wounds after the men had penetrated the barbed wire. Deaths had been inflicted mainly by the Soviet "hurricane" of small arms and machine-gun fire and by ricochets ripping from man to man. Six Russian heavy weapons had kept up a relentless fire from three emplacements, and milk-bottle-shaped grenades had continued to thud down on the Japanese. The grenades had hindered the advance greatly. Mainly at the crest, but at every firing position as well, the Russians had used rifle grenades, primarily to eliminate dead angles in front of positions. There had been low piano wire between firing points, and yellow explosive had been planted amidst rock outcroppings and in front of the emplacements. "The Russians had relied exclusively on fire power; there had been no instance of a brave enemy charge employing cold steel." Only 20 meters from the entrenchments atop Changkufeng, Kitahara had been striving to regain the initiative and to hearten the scattered, reeling troops. One Japanese Army motto had concerned the mental attitude of commanders: "When surprised by the enemy, pause for a smoke." Kitahara had stood behind a rock, without a helmet, puffing calmly on a cigarette—a sight which had cheered the men. Sakata could not forget the scene. "It really happened," he had said, respectfully. As soon as Sakata had reached the forward lines, he had joined Kitahara (the senior officer and de facto battalion commander till then) and three enlisted men. All had been pinned behind the large boulder, the only possible cover, which had jutted in front of the Soviet crestline positions. Fire and flame had drenched the slopes, grenades from the peak, machine guns from the flank. The eastern skies had been brightening and faces could be discerned. Troubled by the stalemate yet not feeling failure, Sakata had said nothing about his own wounds but had told Kitahara he would lead his 2nd Company in a last charge up the left side of Changkufeng if only the machine gun company could do something about the enemy fire, especially some Soviet tanks which had been shooting from the right. "The enemy must have learned by now," the regimental records had observed, "that our forces were scanty, for the Soviets exposed the upper portions of their bodies over the breastworks, sniped incessantly, and lobbed illuminating shells at us." Agreeing with Sakata that the "blind" Japanese would have to take some kind of countermeasure to allow his two available heavy machine guns to go into concerted action, Kitahara had ordered illuminating rounds fired by the grenade dischargers. He had clambered atop the boulder and squatted there amidst the furious crossfire to spot for his guns, still only 20 meters from the Russian lines. Perhaps it had been the golden spark of Kitahara's cigarette, perhaps it had been the luminescence of his cross-bands, but hardly a moment later, at 04:03 am, a sniper's bullet had caught the captain between the eyes and he had toppled to his death. Nakajima had wanted to support Sakata's stricken company as well. The lieutenant had seen the advantage of outflanking the emplacements from the far left of Changkufeng where the fire of two Soviet heavy machine guns had been particularly devastating. Nakajima had swung his reserve unit around the crest to the southwest side, pressed forward through deadly grenade attacks, and had managed to reach a point ten meters from the Russian positions. Perched on the cliff's edge, he had prepared to continue: "Nakajima, who had been calming his men and looking for a chance to advance, leaped up and shouted, "Right now! Charge!" Sword in hand, he led his forces to the front on the left and edged up against the crest emplacements. But the enemy did not recoil; grenades and machine gun fusillades burst from above on all sides. Men fell, one after another. [During this final phase, a platoon leader and most of the key noncoms were killed.] A runner standing near Nakajima was hit in the head by a grenade and collapsed. Nakajima picked up the soldier's rifle, took cover behind a boulder, and tried to draw a bead on a Russian sniper whom he could see dimly 20 meters away through the lifting mist. But a bullet hit him in the left temple and he pitched forward, weakly calling, "Long Live the Emperor!" A PFC held the lieutenant up and pleaded with him to hang on, but the company commander's breath grew fainter and his end was at hand. The time was 4:10 am". Nakajima's orderly said of the event "Lieutenant Nakajima charged against the highest key point on Changkufeng, leading the reserve unit, and ensured the seizure of the hill. The lieutenant was wearing the boots which I had always kept polished but which he had never worn till this day." Akaishizawa added that Nakajima had purified himself in the waters of the Tumen before entering combat, in traditional fashion. Lieutenant Yanagihara had penned a tribute to his young fellow officer, the resolute samurai "Lt. Nakajima must have been expecting a day like today. He was wearing brand-new white underclothes and had wrapped his body with white cloth and the thousand-stitch stomach band which his mother had made for him. .. . Was not the lieutenant's end the same as we find in an old tanka verse? "Should you ask what is the Yamato spirit, the soul of Japan: It is wild cherry blossoms glowing in the rising sun."  On this main attack front, Soviet heavy machine guns and tanks had continued to deliver withering fire against the Japanese remnants, while Russian snipers and grenadiers had taken an increasing toll. Shortly after 04:00, enemy reinforcements had appeared at the northeast edge. Of the company commanders, only Sakata had still been alive; the other three officers had died between 03:30 and 04:30. A machine gunner who had been pinned down near the crest had commented: "It must have been worse than Hill 203" (of bloody Russo-Japanese War fame). Between a half and two-thirds of each company had been dead or wounded by then. Sakata had still been thinking of ways to rush the main positions. After Kitahara had been shot down, he had moved around to investigate. A colleague had added: "The agony of the captain's wounds had been increasing. He rested several times to appease the pain while watching intently for some chance to charge once more." Now, Sakata had been wounded again by grenade fragments tearing into the right side of his face. "It hadn't been serious," Sakata had insisted. As he had limped about, he could see his platoon leader, Kuriyama, sniping at a Russian grenadier.   Much would depend on the effectiveness of supporting firepower. With the death of Kitahara, control of the machine-gun company had been assumed by Master Sergeant Harayama. There had been almost no time to coordinate matters before Kitahara had fallen, but Harayama as well as Sakata had known that the infantry could not break loose until the Soviet heavy weapons had been suppressed. Working with another sergeant, Harayama had ordered his gunners to displace forward and rush the positions 20 meters away. The one heavy machine gun set up for action had been the first to fire for the Japanese side at Changkufeng, after its crew had manhandled it the last few meters to the first Soviet trench below the crest. The trench had been empty. Thereupon, the gunner had opened up against tents which could be seen 20 meters to the rear. Other friendly machine guns had begun to chatter. Kuriyama had dashed up and secured the southeast edge of the heights. Enemy resistance had begun to slacken. What appeared to be two small Soviet tanks, actually a tank and a tractor had been laying down fire near the tents in an apparent effort to cover a pullback. The two vehicles had advanced toward the Japanese and sought to neutralize the heavy machine guns. A squad leader had engaged the tractor, set it afire, and shot down the crewmen when they had tried to flee. Next, the tank had been stopped. The Japanese lead gun had consumed all of its armor-piercing (AP) ammunition—three clips, or 90 rounds—in 10 or 15 seconds. No more AP ammunition had been available; one box had been with the last of the six squads struggling up the heights. "More AP!" had yelled the 1st Squad leader, signaling with his hand—which had at that moment been hit by a Russian slug. A tank machine-gun bullet had also torn through the thumb and into the shoulder of the squad's machine gunner, whereupon the 21-year-old loader had taken over the piece. Similar replacements had occurred under fire in all squads, sometimes more than once in the same unit. "It had been a fantastic scene," Sakata had commented. "Just like grasshoppers! But they had finally neutralized the heavy weapons." The knocked-out Russian vehicles had begun to blaze while the eastern skies had lightened. New enemy tanks (some said many, others merely three) had lumbered up the slopes, but the Japanese heavy machine guns had continued to fire on them, and the tanks had stopped. If the machine guns had gone into action minutes later, the Russian armor might have continued to the top, from which they could have ripped up the surviving Japanese infantrymen: "So we gunners fired and fired. I could see my tracers bouncing off the armor, for there was still no AP. We also shot at machine guns and infantry. Since we carried little ammo for the night attack, my gun ran out, but by then the enemy had been ousted. We had originally expected that we might have to fire in support of the infantry after they took the crest. We lost none of our own heavy machine guns that night, overran four Maxims and captured mountains of hand grenades. By dawn, however, our machine gun company had lost more than half of its personnel—about 40 men".  The light-machine-gun squad leader had been wounded in the hand by a grenade near the site where Sakata had been hit. Nevertheless, the superior private had clambered up the slope with his men. After 04:00, when he and his squad had been pinned down with the infantry below the crest, he had heard Japanese heavy machine guns firing toward the foe on the right: "Our units were in confusion, bunched up under terrific fire in a small area. Getting orders was impossible, so I had my light machine gun open up in the same direction at which the heavies were firing. We could identify no targets but tried to neutralize the enemy located somewhere on the crest. Although Soviet flares were going off, we never could glimpse the enemy clearly. But we heard the Russians yelling "Hurrah!" That ought to have been the signal for a charge; here it meant a retreat".  But, of the ten men in this Japanese machine-gun squad, only four had been in action when dawn had come. The turning point had arrived when the machine-guns belonging to Sakata, and the reserves of the late Nakajima, had torn into the Russian emplacements, tanks, and tents behind. Others had said the key had been the fire of grenade dischargers belonging to the same units. A high-angle weapon, the grenade discharger, had been light, effective, and ideal for getting at dead space. In terms of ammunition, it had been especially useful, for it could fire hand grenades available to the foot soldier. Undoubtedly, the combined action of the grenade dischargers and machine guns (heavy and light) had paved the way for a last charge by the infantry. The four light machine guns of the 2nd and 4th companies had played their part by pouring flank fire against the Russians, who had clung to the position although Kuriyama's platoon had made an initial penetration. At about 04:30, Japanese assault forces could be seen dimly, in the light of dawn, exchanging fire with the Russians only a few meters away on the southern edge of Changkufeng Hill. At the same time, on the northern slopes, enemy reinforcements numbering 50 men with trucks and tanks had been scaling the hill. Around 04:45, Japanese grenades began to burst over the heads of the last enemy atop Changkufeng; the Russians had wavered. After the heavy weapons had finally begun to soften up the Soviet positions, Sakata had judged that there were not many Russians left. He had jumped into the first trench, ahead of his only surviving platoon leader, Kuriyama, and several soldiers. Two or three Russians had been disposed of; the rest had fled. By then the 2nd Company had been chopped down to a platoon; about 40 men still lived. There had been no cheer of banzai, as journalists had written; it would have drawn fire to stand up and raise one's arms. But Sakata had remained proud of the assertion by Sato that, from Chiangchunfeng, he had observed the last rush and knew the "real story," that "Sakata was the first to charge the peak." The regimental eulogist had written that Sakata's earnestness "cut through iron, penetrated mountains, and conquered bodily pain." As for Inagaki, about 15 or 20 minutes after the badly wounded Sakata had managed to reach the point where Kitahara and Nakajima had been pinned down near the Crestline, the lieutenant had arrived with the remnants of Yamada's company, probably by 04:20. The records would have us believe that Sakata had been able to coordinate the next actions with Inagaki despite the storm of fire: "The acting battalion commander [Sakata] resumed the charge with a brand-new deployment—his 2nd Company on the right wing and the 1st Company on the left." Actually, all Sakata could think of had been to charge; it had been too confused a time to issue anything like normal orders as acting battalion commander: "About all I remember asking Inagaki was: "What are you doing over here? What happened to your company commander?" I think he told me that Yamada had been killed and resistance on the right flank had been severe. Undoubtedly, he acted on his own initiative in redeploying. Nor was there any particular liaison between my company and Inagaki's force." To the left of Sakata's survivors were the vestiges of Nakajima's platoon, and further to the left, the outflanking troops brought up by Inagaki. These forces gradually edged up to the rear of the foe, in almost mass formation, on the western slope just below the top. "The enemy soldiers who had been climbing up the northern incline suddenly began to retreat, and Inagaki led a charge, fighting dauntlessly hand-to-hand." As a result of the more or less concerted Japanese assaults, "the desperately resisting enemy was finally crushed and Changkufeng peak was retaken completely by 05:15," three hours after the night attackers had jumped off. Akaishizawa had said that the troops "pushed across the peak through a river of blood and a mountain of corpses. Who could withstand our demons?" Sato's regimental attack order had called for the firing of a green star shell to signal success. At 05:15, according to the records, "the signal flared high above Changkufeng, showering green light upon the hill; the deeply stirring Japanese national flag floated on the top." Sakata thought that this must have been 10 or 20 minutes after the hill was taken, but he remembered no flare. "After the last charge I had no time to watch the sky!" The flare had probably been fired from a grenade launcher by the battalion aide or a headquarters soldier. After the final close-quarter fighting, Sakata had pressed forward while the survivors came up. The captain had deployed his men against possible counterattack. Later he had heard that Soviet tanks had lumbered up to reinforce the peak or to counterattack but that, when they observed the Japanese in possession of the crest, they had turned back. Only after his men had secured the peak had Sakata talked to Inagaki about sharing defensive responsibility. The records described Sakata's deployments at 05:20, but there had been painfully few men to match the tidy after-action maps. Did Sakata and his men push across the peak? "Not downhill a bit," he had answered. "We advanced only to the highest spot, the second, or right-hand peak, where we could command a view of the hostile slope." He had merely reconnoitered to deploy his troops. The senior surviving Japanese officer atop Changkufeng heights had been Sakata. What had happened to Major Nakano, who had been wounded shortly after jump-off? Although his right arm had been shattered, he had dragged himself to his feet, once he had regained consciousness, and kept climbing to catch up. His men had pleaded with him to look after his terrible wounds, but he had insisted on advancing, leaning on his sword and relying on spiritual strength. "Left! Move left!" he had been heard to shout, for the faltering Japanese had apparently been of the opinion that they were at the enemy's rear. Instead, they had pressed against the Russians' western wing, directly in front of the enemy works, from which murderous fire had been directed, especially from machine-gun nests ripping at their flanks. With sword brandished in his uninjured hand, high above his head, Nakano had stood at the corner of the positions. The explosion of an enemy grenade had illuminated him "like the god of fire," and he had been seen to crumple. He had died a little before 0500, to the left of where young Nakajima had fallen at 0430. His citation had said: "The battalion commander captured Changkufeng, thanks to his proper combat guidance and deployments. He provided the incentive to victory in the Changkufeng Incident." A eulogist had called Nakano a "human-bullet demon-unit commander": "All who observed this scene were amazed, for it was beyond mortal strength. One could see how high blazed the flame of his faith in certain victory and what a powerful sense of responsibility he had as unit commander. Major Nakano was a model soldier." When Nakano had pitched forward, badly wounded PFC Imamura had tried to protect the commander's corpse. Imamura had killed a soldier who appeared from behind a boulder, had lunged at another two or three, but had toppled off the cliff. Two other Japanese privates—a battalion runner and PFC Iwata—had been lying nearby, hurt seriously; but when they saw Imamura fall to his death, leaving the major's body undefended, they had dragged themselves to the corpse, four meters from the foe. Iwata, crippled and mute, had hugged Nakano's corpse until other soldiers managed to retrieve it. While death had come to Nakano, Sakata had been fighting with no knowledge of what was going on to his left. Pinned behind a boulder, he had had no way of checking on the battalion commander. Only after Sakata had charged onto the crest and asked for the major had he been told by somebody that Nakano had been killed. He had not even been sure where the commander had fallen. Such had been the time of blood and fury when battalion chief, company commanders, and platoon leaders had fought and died like common soldiers, pressing on with saber or pistol or sniping rifle under relentless cross-fire. Pretty patterns of textbook control had meant nothing. Life—and victory—depended on training, initiative, raw courage, and the will to win. The result of this combination of wills could not be ascertained, on 31 July 1938, until dawn brightened the bleeding earth on Changkufeng Hill. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Tokyo gambled on a night strike to seize Changkufeng, while diplomacy urged restraint. Amid mud, smoke, and moonless skies, Nakano led the 1st Battalion, supported by Nakajima, Sakata, Yamada, and others. One by one, officers fell, wounds multiplying, but resolve held. By 05:15, shattered units regrouped atop the peak, the flag rising as dawn bled into a costly, hard-won victory.

This Advent season, we continue our series “From Darkness to Dawn” in John 1:6–13.As we slow down and remember the coming of Christ, we're reminded that the Light has entered our darkness—revealing who God is, who we are, and our desperate need for new birth. In this message, Pastor John explores what happens when the True Light shines into the world:• The mission of those who follow Jesus• The truth about our Savior• The tragedy of rejecting the Light• The miracle of becoming children of GodJesus is the True Light—undeceiving, real, original, and superior.And to all who receive Him, He gives the right to become children of God.Join us as we behold the Light who came … and the Light who will come again.Mission Church — www.missionlasvegas.com

From Darkness to Dawn (Dave Sloop+; 12/7/2025) by Church of the Holy Spirit - Roanoke

From Darkness to Advocacy — Celeste Edmunds is living proof that the human spirit can rise from the most devastating beginnings. Taken from her home at age 7, moved through more than 30 cities, and carrying her belongings in garbage bags, her childhood was a cycle of abuse, instability, and survival.   But a few caring people stepped in… and those moments saved her life.   Today, Celeste is using her voice, her strength, and her story to help vulnerable children who are still navigating a system that too often fails them. Her mission is simple and powerful: give kids the opportunities she never had.   Celeste, your courage and advocacy are changing the world. Thank you. We love you!  

As we begin the Advent season, we slow down to remember the first coming of Jesus—and to prepare our hearts for His return. In this message from John 1:1–5, we look beyond the manger to see Jesus as He truly is: the eternal Word, the Creator of all things, and the Life-Giving Light who shines into our darkness.From the long wait of God's people in the Old Testament to the ache we feel in our world today, Scripture reminds us that we are all waiting for the Light to break through. Jesus doesn't ignore the darkness—He enters it. He doesn't expose to shame—He shines to heal. And His light cannot be overcome.Join us as we launch our Advent series, “From Darkness to Dawn,” and discover the hope, life, and healing found in Jesus Christ.Mission Church — www.missionlasvegas.com

From Darkness to Glory - The Power of Thankfulness by Carl Albrecht

From the moment Brigham Young emerged from the waters of baptism in 1832, a fire burned within him to preach the restored gospel: "I wanted to thunder and roar out the Gospel to the nations. It burned in my bones like fire pent up…." That same passion drove him to keep detailed records of his labors and later his service as a Church leader and prophet. In this episode, professor of Church history and doctrine Gerrit Dirkmaat discusses his work on The Brigham Young Journals: Volume 1: April 1832–February 1846. Dr. Dirkmaat shares the behind-the-scenes insights into the editorial process, explores the significance of Brigham Young's pre-Utah writings, and explains what these documents teach us about his remarkable journey from convert to prophet. Whether you're a student of Church history or simply curious about the making of a leader, this conversation offers a rare and riveting look into the testimony, labors, and special witness of the second latter-day prophet. Publications: The Brigham Young Journals: Volume 1: April 1832–February 1846 (Religious Studies Center, 2023) "The Prophets Have Spoken, but What Did They Say?: Examining the Difference between George D. Watt's Original Shorthand Notes and the Sermons Published in the Journal of Discourses," BYU Studies Quarterly, 54.4 (BYU Studies, 2015) From Darkness unto Light: Joseph Smith's Translation and Publication of the Book of Mormon (Religious Studies Center, 2015) "'Too Long Trampled on to Be Celebrated': The Latter-day Saint Protest of Independence Day 1845," in Religious Liberty and Latter-day Saints: Historical and Global Perspectives (Religious Studies Center, 2023) "Firsthand Witness Accounts of the Translation Process," in The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon: A Marvelous Work and a Wonder (Religious Studies Center, 2015)   Click here to learn more about Gerrit Dirkmaat

In this episode of 'From Darkness to Life,' guest Kori Lee shares her inspirational story of overcoming addiction and rebuilding her life. Kori, a globally ranked podcast host, business coach, spiritual mentor, and sobriety warrior, discusses her journey from hitting rock bottom in 2016 to finding sobriety, faith, and helping millions around the world. Kori emphasizes the importance of habit stacking, daily spiritual practices, and fitness in maintaining sobriety. She shares her top non-negotiables for a powerful life and how she has given her daughter a gift by raising her in a sober environment. The episode highlights the importance of faith, self-care, and prioritizing recovery in creating a fulfilling life. Listeners are encouraged to connect with Kori through her website, Korileigh.com, and Instagram, @KoriLeigh. For more resources on mental health and addiction recovery, visit ourcollectivejourney.caNOTE: Guest's audio has been digitally enhanced for clarity.#RecoveryJourney #Inspiration #Sobriety #MentalHealthAwareness #FaithInRecovery #Transformation #FromDarknessToLife#FDTL #OurCollectiveJourney #OCJ

From Darkness to Discovery: Josh Butler reveals how personal trials led him to find hidden treasures in John's Gospel, rediscovering the goodness of God!Join Joshua Lewis on Remnant Radio as he explores the transformative power of the Gospel of John with Josh Butler, author of God Is on Your Side. We'll hear Josh's personal journey—from his daughter's psychotic break to his own battle with blindness—and then dive deep into iconic scenes like the wedding at Cana and the Samaritan woman at the well. Discover how these stories reveal God's unwavering goodness, offering hope, healing, and restoration to all who seek Him.0:00 – Introduction 6:00 – Typology in the Gospel of John11:00 – Wedding at Cana: Abundance Symbolism21:00 – Parallels to Moses and Restoration Themes29:00 – Living Parables and Healing Miracles41:00 – Grace vs. Law and Woman at the Well57:00 – Chiasm Structure and Broader Implications1:03:00 – Conclusion and Final ThoughtsABOUT THE GUEST:

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma, which some viewers may find distressing.In this powerful episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, Matthew Morton — better known as the BKB Spider — opens up about his journey from childhood trauma and addiction to rebuilding his life through faith, recovery, and bare-knuckle boxing.Matthew shares the raw truth about battling inner demons, finding purpose through pain, and how community and conversation helped him change direction. He speaks honestly about mental health in men, the strength it takes to open up, and how the sport of bare-knuckle boxing gave him a second chance at life.This one's emotional, honest, and full of lessons about resilience, healing, and the power of never giving up.Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsor - Brewers Decorators Centres Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage01:58 The Journey of the BKB Spider04:55 Childhood and Family Dynamics07:51 The Impact of Abuse and Addiction11:03 The Struggles of Adolescence13:56 Turning Point: Speaking Out16:59 Consequences and Legal Battles20:00 The Path to Recovery23:52 Finding Purpose and Healing26:48 Reflections on Mental Health and Substance Abuse28:38 The Journey of Growth and Discipline30:00 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Purpose32:07 The Impact of Trauma and Forgiveness34:13 Transforming Pain into Strength36:15 Building a New Life Through Faith and Community38:26 The Value of Sharing Trauma39:58 From Darkness to Light: A New Path42:07 The Evolution of Bare Knuckle Fighting46:38 Training and Discipline in Fighting50:12 Living a Purposeful Life and Helping Others55:26 The Decline of Community and Connection57:48 The Impact of Social Media on Relationships01:00:47 Adapting to a Changing World01:02:18 The Journey of a Fighter01:06:09 The Respect Among Fighters01:11:56 Finding Passion and Purpose01:13:05 Life Beyond Fighting

In part 2 of this moving series (and the kickoff to Season 6) of From Darkness to Life, new host Poncho Parker continues the conversation with Ryan Oscar. Ryan shares his harrowing experience of reaching rock bottom, struggling with substance abuse, and a failed suicide. A pivotal intervention from his uncle and a dedicated counselor helped him find the path to recovery. Ryan reflects on his time in treatment, the importance of honesty, open-mindedness, and accountability, and how these principles have transformed his life. Now a coordinator of an addictions counseling program at Medicine Hat College, Ryan is committed to helping others overcome their struggles and find hope.#MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration #RecoveryJourney #FromDarknessToLife #OCJ #Podcast

In this 2-part gripping episode of #FromDarknessToLife, After 5 and a half seasons, Ryan takes the hot seat to finally share his harrowing journey from the depths of addiction and a near-fatal suicide attempt to his inspiring recovery and new mission in life. He recounts the pivotal moments that led him to substance abuse, the devastating loss of his father, and the intense struggle for control. This raw and powerful story illustrates the catastrophic impact of addiction and the redemptive power of honesty, intervention, and professional help. This episode marks the return of From Darkness to Life after a hiatus and the hand-off of the show from former host Ryan to our new podcast host, Poncho Parker. #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #Inspiration #OurCollectiveJourney #FromDarknessToLifePodcast #ComebackStory

✨ NEW EPISODE ALERT! ✨Welcome to the #PenPOSSE Podcast, your go-to space for real conversations about the art of writing, the path to publishing, and the strategy behind book marketing. Special Guest Authors: Tamara Morgan, Author of Done in the Dark; Cecily Shelton, Author of The Language of Grief and Living Through the Pain, and Natalie Murphy, Author of Dear Butterfly, Make Room for Romance, and September to SummerHost: Michelle Jackson, Author of From Darkness to Night, The Heart of a Man, and Poppi Makes Cajun Popcorn MagicFind these books on www.direct2author.comJoin us as we share creative insights, author journeys, and industry know-how to help you build your brand and bring your story to life. Whether you're drafting your debut or promoting your latest release, this podcast is your writing tribe.

In this episode I talk with Danielle Anderson, author of From Darkness to Light and we discuss her book and the impact it has made on her life and others. Join me on this episode of Table Talks!  Here is where to find Danielle's Book:  Amazon  Goodreads  Barnes & Noble   Thank you for listening! If you like the show, please consider sharing and following/subscribing wherever you like to listen to podcasts!  For more positivity, good news, and uplifting messages, visit 

Welcome to The Waffle ShopJoining me in the studio this week is the brilliant MatreyaYou may recognise Matreya from his time on the X-Factor when he identified as Mason Noise. Following on from a series of traumatic events and a lot of inner work, Mason has now reinvented himself on so many levelsWe have a waffle about all things music, mental health and his upcoming interview series From Darkness to Light that is taken his brand new single 'I See The Light' to a whole new level.Maitreya also opens up about the highs and lows of fame, stepping away from his public persona, and embracing life as an independent artist. We deep dive into the healing power of creativity, the mental health tools that helped him rebuild, and how he found purpose beyond performance.This episode is a deep dive into identity, evolution, and the magic that happens when you stop performing for others and start showing up for yourself.If you want to find out more, head to the below links:MatreyaThe Waffle Shop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let us know what you think! Text us!In this powerful episode of Security Halt!, Green Beret veteran Chris Cathers shares his inspiring journey from a troubled childhood to serving at the highest levels of Special Forces. Chris opens up about the emotional toll of combat, the deep scars left by moral injury, and his personal battle with cancer—all while navigating the often-overlooked struggles of transitioning to civilian life.He dives into the mental health challenges faced by many veterans, the silent burden of grief and survivor's guilt, and how advocacy and community support helped him find hope. Chris also discusses the mission behind his nonprofit work, focusing on empowering veterans to reclaim their purpose and heal from invisible wounds. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in veteran resilience, mental health awareness, and the fight to support those who served. 

Book 2: Tyrants and Savages. Chapter 23: Legion of Horribles, Chapter 24: A Good Horse, Chapter 25: From Darkness to Light, Chapter 26: Come and Take It, Chapter 27: Victory or Death, Chapter 28: Six Jolly Cowboys, Chapter 29: The Mountain, and Chapter 30: Sparks of Hope

In this conversation, we connect with Dr. Ming Wang, a world-class cataract and LASIK eye surgeon, philanthropist, and community activist based in Nashville, TN. He is the founding director of the internationally renowned Wang Vision Institute and the co-founder of the non-profit organization the Common Ground Network. Dr. Wang is on a mission to help others find common ground and solutions to problems – empowering them to achieve greater success and fulfillment in their lives. Coming from a difficult past, he used his resilience and determination to obtain his Ph.D. in laser physics and MD from Harvard Medical School… Join the conversation now to uncover: What the Chinese cultural revolution was, and why it occurred. How Dr. Wang's challenging past inspired resilience and success. How laser surgery is being used in medical environments. Dr. Wang has a film coming out on May 24th called Sight, based on his autobiographical book, From Darkness to Sight. Tickets are now available for a theater near you at angel.com/sight. To learn more about Dr. Wang and his work, click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9

Episode #560! All video discussion! After a long hiatus, we are back with an all video discussion. Scott talks about two documentaries he has recently watched. Pee-Wee As Himself is the new doc about Paul Reubens' life as Pee-Wee Herman. From Darkness to Light explores the unreleased Jerry Lewis Nazi concentration camp film The Day The Clown Cried. Also this episode DL talks Star Wars with Andor/Rogue One and with the animated Clone Wars and the prequel films. Scott brings Kelly's Heroes and Coogan's Bluff starring Clint Eastwood to the podcast. Check it out!   

A Violent Sex Crime Broke Her, Retired Sheriff Recovering From PTSD. When Trauma Breaks the Strongest: A Retired Florida Sheriff's Deputy Shares Her Journey From Violent Crime Scenes to PTSD Recovery. In the heart of Orange County, Florida, where the sun and theme parks often mask the darker truths of urban life, violent crime remains an ongoing concern. With a violent crime rate of 836 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, significantly higher than the national average, law enforcement officers in the area are exposed to deeply traumatic scenes on a regular basis. It is also promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other platforms. Donna Michaels knows this firsthand. A retired Orange County Sheriff's Deputy, Michaels spent years responding to violent sex crimes, tragic accidents, and gut-wrenching child deaths. One case still haunts her to this day, a brutal gang sexual assault involving a teenage girl, discovered wandering the streets in a drug-induced haze, her body covered in graffiti. The injuries were severe. "She didn't just survive the attack, she survived the betrayal," Donna recalls. “One of the suspects in the attack was her own brother. And to make it worse, her own mother actively obstructed the investigation.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. The trauma of that investigation didn't fade when the case stalled. It followed Donna. “We were up against walls that no amount of law enforcement training prepares you for,” she said during a recent interview on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show, available on Apple and Spotify podcast platforms. A Violent Sex Crime Broke Her, Retired Sheriff Recovering From PTSD. For Donna, the trauma didn't stop when she hung up the badge. It lingered, a constant companion that took the form of cumulative PTSD, a condition many officers suffer in silence. “Every time I thought I had moved past it, the memories came back,” she says. “We don't talk enough about what happens after the uniform comes off.” Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . From the Front Lines to Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn Donna took her story public. She began sharing her experiences across social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, hoping that openness might help others who were silently battling similar demons. Her vulnerability struck a chord. It was through this transparency that her book, Courageously Broken: A Memoir About Overcoming Adversity and Conquering the Battle Scars of Life, came to life. In it, Donna recounts her journey from a small town and an abusive home to the Navy, and eventually, to law enforcement. She tells of skydiving with Navy SEALs and investigating child drownings, moments of courage and collapse alike. “I didn't write it because I had all the answers,” she says. “I wrote it because people need to know they're not alone.” A Violent Sex Crime Broke Her, Retired Sheriff Recovering From PTSD. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. The Birth of Heroes United To Heal Inspired by the overwhelming response to her story, Donna founded Heroes United To Heal, a nonprofit aimed at eradicating “Hero Suicide.” The organization raises awareness about PTSD and works to eliminate the stigma surrounding it, especially among veterans and first responders. “Too many of us are suffering in silence,” Donna said. “The same people who are willing to charge into burning buildings or confront armed suspects often won't admit when they're struggling emotionally. That needs to change.” Heroes United To Heal doesn't just talk about the problem, it funds real solutions. The organization provides financial support for therapies not covered by the VA or insurance, including equine therapy, EMDR, and group retreats. “We want to make sure that no hero is left behind, especially not because of bureaucracy,” Donna added. You can listen to his stories and interview on our website for free in addition to platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and other major podcast platforms. The Sheriff's Legacy and the Shadows of Trauma The Orange County Sheriff's Office, one of the largest in Florida, with a $300 million budget and more than 2,700 employees, has a long and proud history dating back to 1845. Today, it serves more than 1.4 million residents and millions of tourists annually. Yet, for all its resources, Donna believes more needs to be done to support those who serve within it. A Violent Sex Crime Broke Her, Retired Sheriff Recovering From PTSD. "Leadership matters,” Donna says. “But so does listening, really listening, to what your deputies are carrying with them every day.” From Darkness to Light Donna is still recovering from PTSD. “I don't know that I'll ever be fully healed,” she says. “But I've come a long way from where I was. I've gone from feeling broken to feeling brave enough to tell the truth.” Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Medium and most all social media platforms. She continues to share her journey through speaking engagements, podcasts, and social media. Her message remains simple yet powerful: “We are not weak. We are not thin-skinned. We are warriors.” In a world where news often focuses on the dramatic moments, the arrests, the car chases, the headlines, Donna's story serves as a crucial reminder that the aftermath matters, too. Not every scar is visible. Not every crime ends with an arrest. And not every hero finishes the fight in uniform. A Violent Sex Crime Broke Her, Retired Sheriff Recovering From PTSD. But with courage, community, and honest conversations, healing is possible. The interview is available as a free podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast website, also available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most major podcast outlets. Learn useful tips and strategies to increase your Facebook Success with John Jay Wiley. Both free and paid content are available on this Patreon page . Time is running out to secure the Medicare coverage you deserve! Whether you're enrolling for the first time or looking for a better plan, our experts help you compare options to get more benefits, lower costs, and keep your doctors, all for free! Visit LetHealthy.com , that's LetHealthy.com or call (866) 427-1225, (866) 427-1222 to learn more. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Your golden years are supposed to be easy and worry free, at least in regards to finances. If you are over 70, you can turn your life insurance policy into cash. Visit LetSavings.com , LetSavings.com or call (866) 480-4252, (866) 480-4252, again that's (866) 480 4252 to see if you qualify. Be sure to follow us on MeWe , X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . Get the latest news articles, without all the bias and spin, from the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Medium , which is free. Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . A Violent Sex Crime Broke Her, Retired Sheriff Recovering From PTSD. Attributions Amazon.com Heroes United To Heal Foundation Wikipedia Orange County Florida Sheriff's Office  

In the podcast episode titled "From Darkness to Light: A Journey with OCD," host Teresa Blaes welcomes guest Marin Canaday, an author who specializes in mental illness and particularly in dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Marin opens up about her personal journey with OCD, explaining how her struggles began in junior high when she started to obsess over germs, fearing that she would inadvertently harm someone. Marin shares that she grew up in a church environment where her father's role as an elder heightened her sense of needing to be perfect, leading to obsessive behaviors focused on making the right choices. She reveals how, as a child, she constantly confessed her mistakes and felt a weight of expectation that contributed to her fears of not being accepted by God. As her journey progresses, Marin discusses how she battled various obsessive thoughts throughout her adolescence and into adulthood, including a particularly challenging time after the birth of her children. She experienced debilitating fears about potentially harming her children and grappled with the intrusive thoughts that came with OCD, leading her to seek therapy and medication for help. Marin recounts a critical moment during a hospitalization where she called out to God for peace, leading to a sense of calm that allowed her to sleep for the first time in a long while. She explains how, over time and with God's guidance, she began to realize that her obsessive fears did not define her. Teresa and Marin discuss the importance of opening up about mental health struggles in the church and how Marin found support from her pastor when sharing her story. Marin highlights how she was ultimately able to write two children's books about her experiences with OCD and mental illness, using her journey to encourage others. Throughout the conversation, Marin emphasizes the importance of faith in God and the lessons learned from her battles with OCD. She stresses the importance of seeking help and emphasizes that it is okay to have struggles while trusting that God has a plan. To conclude, the episode encourages listeners to seek help if they are struggling with OCD or mental health issues and reminds them that God provides comfort and can help them through their darkest moments. Marin's two books are mentioned as resources available for those dealing with similar challenges.

Recorded - 5/18/2025On Episode 322 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we review a new film featuring The Weeknd that someone called the worst movie he's seen in years. Then we deep dive a Zach favorite celebrating 20 years this year. Did the film hold up for Zach as well as he hoped? Here are the highlights:What We've Been Watching(9:15) "Hardhat and Legs" & "Final Destination: Bloodlines" - Todd Reviews(19:20) "A War" - Terry Oscar Anniversary Review(26:30) "From Darkness to Light" & "Thunderbolts*" - Zach Reviews(37:10) "Hurry Up Tomorrow" - Featured ReviewTHE UPSIDE OF ANGER 20TH ANNIVERSARY DEEP DIVE(51:.00) Deep Dive Trivia(1:06:00) First Impressions(1:37:00) Mt. Rushmore: Worst Intergenerational Romantic Relationships(1:51:00) Recasting "The Upside of Anger"(2:07:51) Highest WAR, Worst Performance, Minor Character Triumvirate(2:18:20) Tripod of Depravity, Best Scene, Gripes and Conspiracies(2:32:10) LVP, MVP, Quote of the DayFind AlmostSideways everywhere!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠almostsideways.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AlmostSideways Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @almostsideways⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Terry's Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @almostsideterry⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zach's Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @pro_zach36Todd: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Too Cool for Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Adam's Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @adamsideways⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

What if Easter is more than colored eggs, chocolate, and bunny rabbits? What if it is much, much more? What if it's a true story about the life and death of a man named Jesus who really did rise from the dead? What if Jesus is indeed alive right now? This Easter, we'll look at four compelling proofs that Jesus really rose from the dead. The truth about His radiant Resurrection might just change your life. Part Two “The Radiance of Resurrection” From Darkness to Light: Easter's Promise Pastor Bill Young April 19 & 20, 2025 Draper

Before we can fully grasp the joy of Easter, we must first look up from the shadow of the cross and consider the profound suffering Jesus endured for us. In this message, we will follow Jesus to the cross, seeing first-hand the depth of His love and sacrifice that makes the hope of the resurrection so powerful. Part One From Darkness to Light: Easter's Promise "The Shadow of the Cross" Pastor Bryan D. Edwards April 12 & 13, 2025

In this episode of From Darkness to Life, Ryan welcomes Sanar Alixandyr, an Empowerment Coach and best-selling author of "Becoming Sanar - From Shadow to Light: A Journey of Self-Discovery." With over 35 years of experience in the Healing Arts, Sanar shares her profound journey of overcoming PTSD, depression, and eating disorders.Sanar's story is one of resilience and empowerment. She discusses the impact of near-death experiences on her life, the function and healing possibilities of PTSD, and how she helps others step into their true selves and authentic power. Her unique perspective on personal transformation and holistic healing offers invaluable insights for anyone on a journey of self-discovery.Tune in for an enlightening discussion that delves into the profound challenges of trauma and the transformative journey of healing. Sanar's wisdom and experience offer a unique perspective for those looking to transform their lives.*Please note: Due to some of Sanar's lived experiences, this episode contains graphic mentions of abuse that may be difficult for some listeners.#HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #Empowerment #SelfDiscovery #HolisticHealing #SpiritualGrowth #PersonalTransformation #HealingArts #PTSDRecovery #QuantumHealing #EmotionalHealing #TraumaSurvivor #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney #EmpowermentCoach #SelfEmpowerment #MindBodySpirit #HealingTrauma #PersonalGrowth #TransformYourLife

A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 26: From Darkness to Sight: Mercy that Heals Reader: Scripture Reading: John 9:1-7, 13-17, 34-38 As Jesus passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that ... Read more The post Day 26: From Darkness to Sight: Mercy that Heals – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

In this conversation, Ray interviews Dustin Stout, the founder of Magai, an all-in-one AI platform. They discuss the concept of building in public, the importance of transparency in growth metrics, and the challenges faced during the creation of Magai. Dustin shares insights on the advantages of universal AI tools over niche products, the features of Magai, and how it can be used for learning and research. They also explore the future of AI, the role of education, and the evolution of AI agents and multimodality in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Building in Public: The Journey Begins 06:29 The Power of AI: A New Era for Tools 11:43 From Darkness to Light: The Birth of Magi 17:47 The Importance of Feedback in Product Development 23:49 Magi: The All-in-One AI Solution 29:38 Unlocking Potential: Learning and Research with Magi 35:19 The Future of AI: Agents and Multimodality Links http://magai.co/ Watch on YouTube Click for Video How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.

In this conversation, Ray interviews Dustin Stout, the founder of Magai, an all-in-one AI platform. They discuss the concept of building in public, the importance of transparency in growth metrics, and the challenges faced during the creation of Magai. Dustin shares insights on the advantages of universal AI tools over niche products, the features of Magai, and how it can be used for learning and research. They also explore the future of AI, the role of education, and the evolution of AI agents and multimodality in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Building in Public: The Journey Begins 06:29 The Power of AI: A New Era for Tools 11:43 From Darkness to Light: The Birth of Magi 17:47 The Importance of Feedback in Product Development 23:49 Magi: The All-in-One AI Solution 29:38 Unlocking Potential: Learning and Research with Magi 35:19 The Future of AI: Agents and Multimodality Links http://magai.co/ Watch on YouTube Click for Video How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.  

From the grind of the NFL to life's most brutal curveballs, Buck Rasmussen has been through it all. A former New England Patriot, Buck opens up about his football career, devastating injuries, and the battle off the field that truly tested him—his wife's cancer diagnosis while pregnant, his daughter's type 1 diabetes, and his own spiral into a dark place.We go deep into resilience, rebuilding, and finding purpose beyond the game. From selling real estate to dominating the roofing industry and stepping into motivational speaking, Buck shares his hard-earned wisdom on overcoming adversity, setting personal standards, and creating a vision for life—one that actually means something.This episode is raw, real, and packed with lessons that'll hit you hard. If you've ever felt stuck, lost, or like you're up against impossible odds—this one's for you.Chapters:00:00 - Intro & Welcome00:40 - The Real Reason Behind This Podcast01:36 - Buck's Time in the NFL & The Reality of the Practice Squad04:20 - Playing for the Patriots & Learning from Bill Belichick07:30 - The Brutal End to His NFL Career – Injuries & Setbacks10:40 - Life After Football – From Real Estate to Roofing14:15 - The Personal Battle That Changed Everything – Wife's Cancer & Daughter's Diagnosis19:55 - Survival Mode & The Breaking Point25:30 - From Darkness to Purpose – How Therapy Changed His Life30:15 - Building A Speaking Career – The Epic Journey Begins35:40 - Self-Limiting Beliefs & Why Most People Stay Stuck40:50 - How To Set a Personal Standard & Live By It44:30 - The Power of Writing & Why It's a Game-Changer48:15 - The Role of Coaching & Mastermind Groups in Growth52:00 - Why People Need to Unshackle Their Identities & Think For Themselves55:45 - The “Get to Do” Mindset Shift & Overcoming Victim Mentality1:01:00 - Final Thoughts – The Path to Success is Built on OvercomingListen to this episode on other podcast platforms: Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/BeAuthenticSpotifyGoogle Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/BeAuthenticGooglePodcastApple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/BeAuthenticApplePodcastAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/BeAuthenticAmazonMusic Connect with "Be Authentic or GTFO" on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beauthenticorGTFOInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beauthenticorGTFOWebsite: https://beauthenticorgtfo.com Follow Podcast Host Eric Oberembt on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.oberembtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/oberembt

Show Notes – Witnesses Podcast   Guest: Tanya Prince – Discovering Purpose and Hearing God's Voice   In this powerful episode of Witnesses, Ambassador Elisha welcomes Tanya Prince, an author, speaker, and trainer dedicated to helping people discover and live out their purpose.   Tanya shares her personal journey of transformation, from experiencing divorce and career loss to rediscovering her faith and stepping into her God-given purpose.   What You'll Learn in This Episode:   ✅ The Power of Investing in Yourself – Why your personal growth attracts opportunities.   ✅ A Mango Tree's Lesson on Purpose – A powerful analogy that will change how you see seasons of struggle.   ✅ From Darkness to Light – How Tanya found her way back to God after a season of disconnection.   ✅Where Purpose Comes From – Understanding why purpose is divinely designed.   ✅ Hearing God's Voice – How to tune out the noise and recognize God's guidance in your life.   ✅ Personal Growth vs. Spiritual Growth – The difference between self-improvement and true transformation.   About Tanya Prince:   Tanya is the author of Designed for Purpose, a reflective journal designed to help people slow down, listen, and align with God's calling.   Through her work, she equips individuals with the tools to navigate life's transitions and embrace their divine assignment.   Why This Episode Matters:   We live in an age of overwhelming information, but wisdom and true direction come from divine revelation. If you're searching for clarity on your journey, this conversation is a must-listen.  

In this powerful episode of From Darkness to Life, Ryan sits down with Stacey Bleemaster, a mental health advocate, author, and licensed professional counselor. Stacey shares her deeply personal journey through bipolar disorder, clinical depression, and the struggle of living with an “as if” personality—where she felt like she was constantly performing rather than truly being herself.Through conventional treatment and unconventional healing methods, including Emotions Anonymous (a 12-step program for emotional wellness), Stacey found a path to authenticity and resilience. She opens up about reframing her experiences, embracing spirituality, and shedding the mask she once wore to fit in.Tune in for an insightful conversation on self-discovery, mental health, and the transformative power of peer support.

In a world that constantly pulls us toward immediate gratification and worldly success, we often forget a profound biblical truth: for those who love God, the best is yet to come.A Wisdom the World Doesn't UnderstandRecently, I was reflecting on Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 2:8-9:"None of the rulers of this age knew this wisdom because if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But it is written: What no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has conceived—God has prepared these things for those who love him."This passage reveals something extraordinary about how God works. The rulers who crucified Jesus—Tiberius, Pontius Pilate, Herod Antipas, and the religious leaders—acted in complete ignorance of God's wisdom. Had they understood what their actions would ultimately accomplish, they would have stopped immediately.They had no idea that by crucifying Jesus, they were signing their own death warrant. They couldn't foresee how this seemingly small religious execution would lead to the rise of Christianity and eventually the end of the Roman Empire as followers of Christ lived as loyal citizens under Rome while giving their ultimate allegiance to God.Living Differently: The Example of DanielThis pattern of God working in ways that exceed human imagination appears throughout scripture. Consider Daniel, who served in the highest levels of government yet remained uncompromisingly devoted to God.When faced with a law forbidding prayer to anyone but the king, Daniel didn't hesitate or hide. Daniel 6:10 tells us: "When Daniel learned about the document that had been signed, he went to his house... three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before."Daniel changed nothing when threatened with the lions' den. Why? Because his life was already aligned with God's purposes. He already loved God and lived differently, so when pressure came, consistency—not change—was his response.For those living in alignment with God's will, the key isn't radical change but faithful consistency. For those not living in obedience to God, significant changes may be necessary. But for Daniel, obedience meant simply continuing what he was already doing.What No Eye Has SeenThroughout his life, Daniel repeatedly experienced things he could never have imagined:* Surviving the lions' den* Sleeping to the sound of purring lions* Seeing Judaism become elevated throughout the Persian Empire because of his faithfulness* Witnessing the king decree that everyone should worship Daniel's GodThese experiences beautifully illustrate Paul's promise that "what no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human heart has conceived, God has prepared for those who love him."The Greater DanielJesus is the greater Daniel. Just as Daniel emerged from the lions' den unharmed with no broken bones, Jesus emerged from death itself without a single bone broken—fulfilling the prophecy of Psalm 34:20.What enabled Jesus to endure the cross? Hebrews 12:2 tells us it was "for the joy set before him." That joy was knowing that for His children, the best was yet to come. His love for the Father and His love for us carried Him through.From Darkness to LightWhen I was eight years old, I was exposed to inappropriate content at a friend's house. That experience began a journey into darkness I couldn't have imagined at the time. Yet, more than twenty years later, God has completely reversed that trajectory.Never would I have dreamed that God would take that broken child and transform him into someone who influences others for good. What seemed irreversible—the shame and darkness—God turned completely around.The Power of the CrossThis is why I can't stop talking about the cross. It's not just that God redeemed us there; He reversed everything sin did in our lives. The cross gives us power to let go of anything we're holding onto too tightly—those things we think define us—because we know the best is yet to come.How Does This Change Us?So I leave you with this question: How does believing the best is yet to come encourage you today?Whatever you're facing—however dark, lonely, or impossible your situation seems—if you hold onto the hope of the cross and resurrection, you can live differently. You can endure. You can overcome.Because for those who love God, the best truly is yet to come.amenpodcast.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

In a world that constantly pulls us toward immediate gratification and worldly success, we often forget a profound biblical truth: for those who love God, the best is yet to come.A Wisdom the World Doesn't UnderstandRecently, I was reflecting on Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 2:8-9:"None of the rulers of this age knew this wisdom because if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But it is written: What no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has conceived—God has prepared these things for those who love him."This passage reveals something extraordinary about how God works. The rulers who crucified Jesus—Tiberius, Pontius Pilate, Herod Antipas, and the religious leaders—acted in complete ignorance of God's wisdom. Had they understood what their actions would ultimately accomplish, they would have stopped immediately.They had no idea that by crucifying Jesus, they were signing their own death warrant. They couldn't foresee how this seemingly small religious execution would lead to the rise of Christianity and eventually the end of the Roman Empire as followers of Christ lived as loyal citizens under Rome while giving their ultimate allegiance to God.Living Differently: The Example of DanielThis pattern of God working in ways that exceed human imagination appears throughout scripture. Consider Daniel, who served in the highest levels of government yet remained uncompromisingly devoted to God.When faced with a law forbidding prayer to anyone but the king, Daniel didn't hesitate or hide. Daniel 6:10 tells us: "When Daniel learned about the document that had been signed, he went to his house... three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before."Daniel changed nothing when threatened with the lions' den. Why? Because his life was already aligned with God's purposes. He already loved God and lived differently, so when pressure came, consistency—not change—was his response.For those living in alignment with God's will, the key isn't radical change but faithful consistency. For those not living in obedience to God, significant changes may be necessary. But for Daniel, obedience meant simply continuing what he was already doing.What No Eye Has SeenThroughout his life, Daniel repeatedly experienced things he could never have imagined:* Surviving the lions' den* Sleeping to the sound of purring lions* Seeing Judaism become elevated throughout the Persian Empire because of his faithfulness* Witnessing the king decree that everyone should worship Daniel's GodThese experiences beautifully illustrate Paul's promise that "what no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human heart has conceived, God has prepared for those who love him."The Greater DanielJesus is the greater Daniel. Just as Daniel emerged from the lions' den unharmed with no broken bones, Jesus emerged from death itself without a single bone broken—fulfilling the prophecy of Psalm 34:20.What enabled Jesus to endure the cross? Hebrews 12:2 tells us it was "for the joy set before him." That joy was knowing that for His children, the best was yet to come. His love for the Father and His love for us carried Him through.From Darkness to LightWhen I was eight years old, I was exposed to inappropriate content at a friend's house. That experience began a journey into darkness I couldn't have imagined at the time. Yet, more than twenty years later, God has completely reversed that trajectory.Never would I have dreamed that God would take that broken child and transform him into someone who influences others for good. What seemed irreversible—the shame and darkness—God turned completely around.The Power of the CrossThis is why I can't stop talking about the cross. It's not just that God redeemed us there; He reversed everything sin did in our lives. The cross gives us power to let go of anything we're holding onto too tightly—those things we think define us—because we know the best is yet to come.How Does This Change Us?So I leave you with this question: How does believing the best is yet to come encourage you today?Whatever you're facing—however dark, lonely, or impossible your situation seems—if you hold onto the hope of the cross and resurrection, you can live differently. You can endure. You can overcome.Because for those who love God, the best truly is yet to come.amenpodcast.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

In this conversation, Sathiya Sam and Ryan Michler delve into the personal journey of overcoming a painful divorce, the struggles with alcoholism, and the importance of accountability and communication in relationships. They discuss the impact of societal expectations on personal behavior and the journey towards self-improvement and empathy. The conversation emphasizes the significance of staying present, making conscious choices, and the power of saying no in both personal and professional contexts.   Ryan's Website Find Out More About My DeepClean Recovery Program Here Get A Free Copy of The Last Relapse, A Blueprint For Recovery Watch Sathiya on Youtube For More Content Like This Chapters 00:00 From Darkness to Light: Ryan's Journey 02:54 Facing the Backlash: Public Perception and Personal Struggles 05:55 Understanding Hypocrisy: The Struggle Between Belief and Action 08:46 The Role of Alcoholism: A Deep Dive into Addiction 11:54 Communication Breakdown: The Dynamics of Relationships 14:59 Acceptance and Moving Forward: The Path to Recovery 17:55 Empathy and Growth: Lessons Learned Post-Divorce 20:51 Living in the Present: The Importance of Now 24:05 Saying No: Boundaries and Prioritization in Life 27:12 Building a Support System: The Value of Brotherhood 30:02 Business Growth: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges 33:24 Empowering Others in Business 35:05 Transitioning from Self-Employed to Business Owner 37:14 Motivation Through Personal Challenges 39:45 Measuring Success in Business and Life 41:36 Transformative Success Stories 44:53 Building Meaningful Relationships 46:55 Navigating New Relationships 51:10 Establishing Healthy Boundaries 55:25 The Shift in Masculinity and Cultural Norms

In this powerful episode, we sit down with the multi-talented Danielle Anderson, author of the #1 Amazon Bestselling book,From Darkness to Light, which has touched countless lives, as her story is a testament to the power of faith and resilience.Throughout our conversation, Danielle opens up about the defining moment that led her to share her story, the challenges she faced in the entertainment industry, and how writing became her healing outlet.This episode is a reminder that no matter how dark life gets, faith and perseverance can lead us into the light. Don't miss this uplifting and insightful conversation!What we talked about:How to leave an abusive relationshipThe turning point that deepened her faithBreaking free from toxic cyclesHow writing became her healing outletEpisode Resources:⁠⁠⁠⁠Danielle ⁠BookDanielle ⁠Facebook

Dive into the heart of resilience, hope, and transformation with award-winning author Mark Sullivan. In this compelling podcast series, we uncover the incredible stories behind his best-selling novels and the life-changing experiences that led him to write them.Highlights of the Series:From Darkness to Purpose: Mark shares the deeply personal moment that brought him to the brink and the serendipitous journey that led him to uncover Pino Lella's extraordinary WWII story in Beneath a Scarlet Sky.10 Years in the Making: Discover the challenges Mark faced while piecing together Pino's story, honoring the memories of a war hero while staying true to the facts.Life After the Book: Hear how writing Pino's story reshaped Mark's perspective and ignited a passion to inspire others with tales of courage and love.Unyielding Spirit in Uganda: Mark discusses his latest novel, All the Glimmering Stars, based on the real-life journeys of Anthony and Florence, two Ugandan teens who survived abduction by a warlord through lessons of hope and love passed down by their parents.Anthony's Wisdom: Navigating the stars and living with kindness, as taught by his father.Florence's Legacy: Belief in the transformative power of unconditional love, instilled by her mother.What You'll Gain:Insights into the power of storytelling to heal, inspire, and create change.First-hand accounts of resilience from individuals who rose above unimaginable circumstances.Practical lessons on navigating life's darkest moments through hope, love, and determination.Why Listen?Mark Sullivan's books and the stories within them have touched millions. This podcast takes you behind the pages to reveal the triumphs and trials of their creation. If you're drawn to narratives of human endurance and the profound impact of love, this is a series you don't want to miss.Let Mark's journey—and the lives of those he's written about—show you the extraordinary within the ordinary and the enduring strength of the human spirit.Connect and Learn More with Mark: Mark Sullivan – Author of All The Glimmering Stars and #1 Bestseller Beneath a Scarlet SkyConnect and Learn More with Sarah: The SandBoxx offers Nonprofit business consulting and coaching for leaders.#Resilience #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingAdversity #Storytelling Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Darkness to Light: Alex Fredrickson's Inspiring Journey

From Kundalini to Christ, Part 12 - From Darkness to Light, presented by Jessica Kramasz, Bob DeWaay, and Amy Russell. Amy Russell shares how God brought her from the darkness of the New Age to the light of Christ. We also discuss providence as it relates to salvation. God can use many things but what He has ordained is the preaching of the gospel. (duration 00:29:59) Click here to play

In this enlightening episode of Healthy Waves, Avik Chakraborty dives deep into the connections between physical health, emotional resilience, and thriving relationships with two incredible guests. Mark Hicks, an author and relationship expert, shares insights from his upcoming book on how love is a skill that can be learned and nurtured. Tracy Brinkmann, a business coach and podcast host, recounts his journey from personal loss to entrepreneurial success, emphasizing the vital role of mindset and physical health in overcoming life's challenges. Together, they explore how holistic health and intentional love can transform lives.   About the Guests: Mark Hicks: An author, counselor, and relationship specialist, Mark is passionate about teaching that love is a learnable skill set. He draws from personal and professional experiences to help others build healthier, lasting relationships. Tracy Brinkmann: Host of the Dark Horse Entrepreneur podcast and a success coach, Tracy has turned personal tragedies into stepping stones for success. His powerful story of resilience and growth inspires entrepreneurs to embrace mindset and physical health as keys to thriving. Key Takeaways: Holistic Health is Key: Physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being are interconnected. Improving one aspect uplifts the others. Love is a Learned Skill: Mark highlights the five components of love, including the often-overlooked importance of grief in healing and building connections. Movement Transforms Mindset: Tracy emphasizes the transformative power of physical activity in boosting mental and emotional resilience. Small Steps Lead to Big Changes: Simple actions, like a daily walk or improving sleep, can significantly impact mental clarity and emotional strength. From Darkness to Light: Both guests demonstrate that life's hardest challenges can become the foundation for a brighter, more fulfilling future. Don't miss this episode to gain practical tools for strengthening your relationships, improving your health, and building resilience in all areas of life.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

From Darkness to Dawn: The Mystery of Grace Unfolding: Reflections on St. John of the Cross When this weary world approached the shadows of night, . . . . . . the ancient hymn reminds us, the Lord came—not in regal splendor or majestic power, but as a humble child born to Mary, the pure and gentle mother. The saint we honor today, John of the Cross, profoundly shaped the Church's understanding of the “dark night of the soul.” He gave us language for that profound spiritual experience: the deep longing for God's presence, met with an aching silence. This “dark night” is marked by yearning and emptiness—the pain of seeking the One our hearts desire, only to find the heavens seemingly unresponsive. It is an essential part of the spiritual journey. Authentic spirituality acknowledges this reality. A faith that claims unbroken intimacy with God is, ultimately, self-deception. Even Mary, the Blessed Mother, experienced the anguish of losing sight of her Son for three days. If she endured such a trial, we should not expect to be exempt. An Essential Part of the Spiritual Journey Advent, too, is a season of longing, echoing this experience. Nightfall carries layers of meaning. It is cold, dark, and often restless. For those unable to sleep, the night stretches endlessly, intensifying loneliness and fatigue. In the hymn, night arrives as the culmination of the day's struggles. It is the image of a world grown weary—of hearts burdened by prolonged labor and unfulfilled promises. Initially, the promise of a Savior sparks eager anticipation. Yet, as years stretch on, waiting becomes harder. The human spirit, though not inherently faithless, grows tired. It seeks solace in lesser things and forgets where to direct its gaze. It's not that the heart no longer yearns for God; it simply lacks the strength to keep seeking. St. John of the Cross' “Dark Night” This weariness is something we recognize from our own restless nights, where worries bubble to the surface. St. John of the Cross intimately understood this “dark night.” Betrayed by those who should have supported him, his path was marked by criticism, hostility, and isolation. Even God, to whom he turned for solace, seemed eerily silent. Yet John's response was extraordinary. His desire for God burned brighter amidst the silence. His heart grew bolder in its pursuit of the distant Lord. And when the dark night eventually gave way to dawn, the light of God's presence filled him more completely than ever before. The years of longing and emptiness were not wasted. They expanded John's heart, making it capable of receiving greater grace. What appeared to be emptiness was, in truth, growth. The “dark night” prepared him to be filled more fully with God's light and love. This pattern resonates in the season of Advent. In the darkness of longing and weariness, God is quietly at work, preparing us. The dark night has purpose. It stretches and strengthens the heart so that when God's presence returns, it can shine more brightly and fill more completely. The waiting, the calling out, the apparent silence—all of it contributes to the mystery of grace unfolding in our lives. In the end, the night is not the end. It is preparation for the dawn. Hear more and understand the impact of the Dark Night within our own Spiritual Journey. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: From Darkness to Dawn: The Mystery of Grace Unfolding: Reflections on St. John of the Cross ------------------------------- Image: The Vision of St. John of the Cross: French Painter: Charles de la Fosse: 1600s This is a depiction of St. John of the Cross' drawing of Our Lord. St. John is a Doctor of the Church and is known for his writings. In 1575, he also drew a vision of Christ on the Cross. This image illustrates Our Lord and St. John of the Cross. ------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew: 7:9-13 First Reading: Sir 48:1-4, 9-11

00:00 From Darkness to Light: Coach JV's Journey06:01 The Power of Transformation: Overcoming Addiction11:58 Manifestation and the Law of Attraction17:58 The Awakening: Leaving the Corporate World23:57 Understanding the System: Banking and Economics30:08 Financial Literacy: Building Wealth in a Changing Economy35:51 Investing in Precious Metals and Cryptocurrency42:09 Creating Generational Wealth: Strategies for Success47:54 Living Authentically: Making a Positive Impact54:00 Defining Success: The Pursuit of Freedom

In this Episode, I feature special guest, Lona Beemer from the KC area. Lona is the Board VP for Found & Woven in Lee's Summit, Missouri. She is a dedicated real estate agent with a heart for Jesus. a love for people and is the wife to the dreamiest guy, and Gigi to six wonderful grandkids. In our authentic conversation. Lona shares her courageous “From Darkness to Destiny” God story of overcoming adversity and her path to healing and redemption from the trauma of abuse and abortion. Lona also shares encouraging and ministering words to help those who may be experiencing pain from their past to help them fuel a life of purpose and joy.    This Episode also features a mental health tip from our  ministry partner and licensed mental health counselor, Sherrie Pucket.

We all love heroes. We all want to be heroes, but are we willing to enter the heroes journey? Are we willing to endure the sacrifice a hero has to undergo to become that torch of hope?This week's guest helps us look to the overall idea of narrative and, specifically, Dante's Divine Comedy. By doing so, we begin to see how a hero develops and what it means to ascend the mountain of life into paradise. The Journey of the Soul0:00 - Who is Fr. Torres?6:00 - Falling in Love With Dante12:20 - The Power of Beauty16:00 - The Cosmic View of Dante19:20 - From Darkness to Light25:20 - The Journey of the Hero39:10 - Dante and Other Things45:30 - Why Divine Comedy?49:40 - The Mastery of Dante's Poetics54:00 - Literature Demands Faith 1:00:00 - Dante's Inferno1:07:00 - The Politics of Dante1:10:00 - The Nature of Beauty1:12:00 - Purgatory, Paradise, and Desire1:21:00 - Practical Tips for Reading Dante1:23:00 - The Release of Blinding Dawn Support the show

A Life-Changing Choice at 21 At 21, Jessica was a single mother of two young boys, pursuing her education and trying to get off welfare when she discovered she was pregnant. With the baby's father in prison and her own path toward stability just beginning, she made the brave decision to explore adoption.   An Unlikely Match Made in Perfect Timing After months of struggling to match with a family due to concerns about her medical history, Jessica finally connected with Connie and Matt. The twist? They were already expecting a baby through embryo adoption, due just ten weeks before Jessica's delivery. Rather than deterring her, this unique situation drew Jessica to them even more, especially when they discussed raising the girls as sisters.   From Darkness to Light: 16 Years Later Today, 16 years after placement, Jessica's story has come full circle. She went on to complete her education, marry, and have another daughter. The open adoption has allowed her to maintain a connection with her daughter and the adoptive family, with annual visits that have helped heal generational wounds - including her own father's adoption experience. Her journey from a struggling young mother demonstrates the power of choosing hope in the midst of difficult circumstances.  

From Darkness to Light by Fr. Josh Waltz

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff chats with Tony Weaver Jr., an award-winning author and educator dedicated to mental health advocacy and better representation in media. Tony shares his personal journey from feeling like an outcast in his teenage years, including a suicide attempt, to becoming a force for positivity and change. He discusses how his upbringing in Atlanta and breakthroughs like hearing Fall Out Boy's music shaped his path to self-acceptance and creative expression. Tony also delves into the importance of representation in media, recounting his experiences creating the webcomic 'The Uncommons' and his upcoming autobiographical graphic novel 'Weirdo.' Furthermore, he offers practical advice for children and parents navigating the challenges of embracing individuality in a conformist world. Tune in to hear his inspiring story, candid reflections on the role of conflict in growth, and his passionate stand on bettering cultural narratives through inclusive storytelling.   Links! Weirdo: https://rep.club/products/weirdo The Uncommons: https://www.webtoons.com/en/action/the-uncommons/list?title_no=4520 Tony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyweaverjr/   Chapters:   00:00 Introduction: Feeling Like the Odd One Out 00:24 Meet Tony Weaver Jr.: From Darkness to Advocacy 01:13 Tony's Creative Journey and Representation 01:38 Interview with Tony Weaver Jr. 02:52 Tony's Upbringing and Early Influences 04:45 The Struggles of Embracing Otherness 09:05 The Creation of 'Weirdo' 13:05 Mental Health and Personal Growth 26:36 Inner Child Work and Reparenting 27:13 Parents' Reactions to the Book 27:33 A Life-Changing Car Accident 28:40 Reflecting on Childhood and Authority 30:17 The Importance of Conflict and Support 35:21 Representation in Media 37:01 The Impact of Representation on Society 43:40 Challenges in Hollywood and Progress 49:40 Promoting the Book 'Weirdo' 52:35 Final Thoughts and Where to Follow