Podcasts about Guilt

Many moms start the year already feeling behind—before January is even halfway over. Guilt from unmet expectations, comparison, and the pressure to “have it all together” can quietly weigh us down, leaving us stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. In this episode, Lindsay Walker explores why the new year brings guilt for moms and how leaning into God's grace can give you a gentle way to release it and start fresh. You'll learn: The difference between conviction and guilt, and why it matters for your heart How to release last year's unmet expectations, comparison-driven goals, and the belief that you “should be further along” A simple surrender moment to let go of what God never asked you to carry Why starting again doesn't mean failure—it means you are still responding to God Plus, I share how the Faithfully Balanced course can help you: Identify your foundational priorities Create faith-filled, sustainable weekly rhythms Set healthy boundaries without guilt or overwhelm Restore your heart and perspective so starting again feels peaceful, not heavy

Welcome back to another episode of the unSeminary podcast. We're talking with Andrew Hopper, Lead Pastor of Mercy Hill Church in North Carolina. Planted in 2012 with just 30 people, Mercy Hill has grown into a multi-campus, fast-growing church known for its gospel clarity and sending culture. In this conversation, Andrew shares why adoption and foster care have become central expressions of Mercy Hill's mission—and how those practices flow directly out of the gospel. He also unpacks the heart behind his book, Chosen: Building Your Family the Way God Builds His. Is your church unsure how to engage big social needs without drifting from the gospel? Are you looking for a way to mobilize people beyond church walls while keeping discipleship front and center? Andrew offers a clear framework for doing both. Doing good as a sign of the kingdom. // Andrew addresses a common tension churches feel between community engagement and disciple-making. Mercy Hill refuses to treat these as competing priorities. Acts of service—whether foster care, adoption, or family restoration—are not the kingdom itself but signposts pointing to it. Meeting tangible needs creates openings for gospel conversations. These ministries don't replace evangelism; they amplify it by demonstrating the heart of God in visible ways. A church’s collective heartbeat. // Mercy Hill's deep involvement in adoption, foster care, and family restoration didn't start as a top-down strategy but emerged organically from the gifts and passions within the church. Many leaders and members have adopted children themselves, shaping the church's collective heartbeat. Rather than attempting to address every social issue, Mercy Hill chose to focus deeply on a few—believing churches are most effective when they lean into the specific good works God has prepared for them. This focus has mobilized hundreds of families and created a powerful witness in their community. Rope-holding and shared responsibility. // Not everyone is called to adopt or foster, but everyone can hold the rope. Drawing from the William Carey analogy, Mercy Hill equips members to support families on the front lines through prayer, childcare, meals, financial help, and presence. Over time, they've learned that rope-holding works best when built on existing relationships rather than formal assignments. The goal is to ensure no family fights alone in what Andrew describes as intense spiritual warfare. Big vision with baby steps. // Mercy Hill isn't afraid to cast a bold vision—whether for global missions, adoption, or church planting—but they pair that vision with accessible next steps. Prayer nights, giving opportunities, short-term service, and relational support allow people to grow into greater obedience over time. High challenge without guilt creates healthy discipleship. Why Andrew wrote Chosen. // Andrew wrote Chosen: Building Your Family the Way God Builds His not to promote a program, but to give churches a theological foundation for engaging adoption and foster care. The book weaves together Andrew's family story, Mercy Hill's journey, and a deeply gospel-centered motivation rooted in Scripture. Designed to be used individually or in groups, Chosen includes discussion questions and practical guidance for churches or small groups wanting to explore this calling in community. Andrew's prayer is that the book would catalyze thousands of Christian families to participate meaningfully in caring for vulnerable children and families. Gospel-driven motivation. // Underneath everything is Andrew's conviction that gospel motivation outlasts guilt. Behavior rooted in grace goes further than behavior driven by pressure. Adopted people adopt people. Chosen people choose people. That theological clarity fuels Mercy Hill's sending culture, their community impact, and their ongoing growth. To explore Andrew's resources on adoption, foster care, and grab his book, Chosen, visit andrewphopper.com/chosen or follow him on Instagram @andrewphopper. You can learn more about Mercy Hill Church at mercyhillchurch.com. Thank You for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, but you chose unSeminary, and I'm grateful for that. If you enjoyed today's show, please share it by using the social media buttons you see at the left hand side of this page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they're extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally! Lastly, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live! Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: Portable Church Your church is doing really well right now, and your leadership team is looking for solutions to keep momentum going! It could be time to start a new location. Maybe you have hesitated in the past few years, but you know it's time to step out in faith again and launch that next location. Portable Church has assembled a bundle of resources to help you leverage your growing momentum into a new location by sending a part of your congregation back to their neighborhood on Mission. This bundle of resources will give you a step-by-step plan to launch that new or next location, and a 5 minute readiness tool that will help you know your church is ready to do it! Click here to watch the free webinar “Launch a New Location in 150 Days or Less” and grab the bundle of resources for your church! Episode Transcript Rich Birch — Hey friends, welcome to the unSeminary podcast. We have got a multi-time guest on, and you know what that means. That means that I really respect, deeply admire, and want you to listen up, and today is no exception. Excited to have Andrew Hopper with us. He is the lead pastor of a church that they should be following, that you should be following. He’s a lead pastor of Mercy Hill Church with five locations, if I’m counting correctly, in North Carolina, and is repeatedly one of the fastest growing churches in the country. I love this church on many levels. They’re centered on the gospel and have a radical commitment to sending people to the nations. They have a desire to make disciples and multiply churches. Andrew, welcome to the show. So glad you’re here.Andrew Hopper — Man, I’m so pumped to be here. Love the podcast. Really appreciate it, man.Rich Birch — Yeah, I’m honored that you would come back. For folks that that don’t know Mercy Hill, give me a bit of a kind of an update. Tell us a little bit about the church.Andrew Hopper — Yeah.Rich Birch — Maybe update us from last time you were on.Andrew Hopper — Yeah, man. So just real quick, planted in 2012. We had 30 people, all you know kind of young professional age, and man, just really believe that God could do something incredible ah through, you know just through our our open hands, and he did.Andrew Hopper — And so it’s been 13 years. It’s crazy. We’ve been sort of pushing the same boulder up the same mountain for 13 years, just flywheel kind of concept and keep pushing. And ah the Lord has done an incredible thing, like you said, five campuses. And man, just moved into a new home and hub. That was from last time we had a chance. That’s been really great. Andrew Hopper — We were in a rented location for a long time as our main like broadcast campus. We’re a video-based multi-site. And so um it’s ah it was a three or four-year journey to raise the money and build this new facility. But we’re in, and the Lord has really blessed that with tons of new people, highest baptisms, sent ones, first time guest numbers, all everything that we’ve done. This has been a, you know, we’ve gone been on a ride – praise God for that. It’s it’s, um, it’s for his sake and his renown, but this year has been unlike the others. So it’s been…Rich Birch — Yeah, you were saying beforehand, it’s like 30 or something like 30 some percent year over year growth. That’s insane to keep up with.Andrew Hopper — It is man. And the, and the giving does not, uh, you know, the giving doesn’t happen.Rich Birch — Reflect that yet.Andrew Hopper — So it’s, it’s like, we’re trying to do ministry on a budget of a church that’s 3000, but a church that’s running 4,500. And it’s like, how do you do that effectively without killing everybody?Rich Birch — Nice.Andrew Hopper — All your staff, I mean, so, but we’re, we’re learning, man, we’re figuring it out. It’s fun. We got, we just planted our sixth church. So that’s apart from the campuses. This is first time, Rich, we’ve planted a church in our own city.Rich Birch — Oh, nice. That’s cool.Andrew Hopper — It’s been really, a really cool dynamic and it’s been fun. He’s doing great. Man, it was a college student that we met when he was 19 years old at North Carolina AT&T 10 years later. He’s an elder here. He’s done a lot of different things. And man, he goes and plants a new church in Greensboro about five minutes from one of our campuses and they’re doing great.Rich Birch — Wow. Yeah, that’s so good. Well, the thing, there’s lots I love about Mercy Hill, but one of the things that I’ve loved about your church from the you know the chance we’ve had to journey a little bit over the years about it is you just have real clarity around the mission, this idea of making disciples, multiplying churches. It’s like that has been rock solid from the beginning. When you think about we want churches to have discipleship at its core, this idea of a church that actually grows people up in their relationship with Christ. What matters most at the foundation? How are you keeping that so foundational to you know what’s happening at Mercy Hill?Andrew Hopper — Yeah, I think um I think that we always sort of bought into kind of what we see in Acts 2 as a little bit of a flywheel. We call it gather, group, give, go. A lot of churches have something like that.Andrew Hopper — The the difference, I think, at Mercy Hill a little bit than what I see ah in in in a lot of churches that we help mentor and coach is that 2020 hit and everybody was like, man, what is a church? What is discipleship? What are we going to do now? And and people were kind of… And I do think it was and it wasn’t, you know, it wasn’t just me. I mean, our, you know, our executive pastor Bobby, he was really integral in this. We sort of really doubled down on no, I kind of think the church is going to come back. Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — And I kind of think what we were doing is sort of what our church is set up to do. It kind of a brand thing. We are sort of a big box sending brand. And that, you know, for us, when we look at Acts 2, we’re like, dude, the gathering, there’s no more there’s no more important hour for discipleship and evangelism. And I know there’s a lot of things written against that. And people are kind of almost like downplaying it. Andrew Hopper — We’re just like, man, we just don’t believe it. We believe people need to be in a group. You know, we they need generosity is lead step in discipleship, give. And we got to teach people that there’s a mission bigger than themselves. And if we do that, it’s going to funnel more people into the gathering. Andrew Hopper — So I think fundamentally what I would say, we need to get, you know, we could talk about our value, you know we can talk about values to gospel and [inaudible] identity, but I think landing on you know, it’s very hard now to, to not get a word salad book form or thing. When you ask somebody, how are you making disciples? It can just be like…Rich Birch — Right. Very vacuous. Who knows what that means? Yeah.Andrew Hopper — For us, it’s just been a very clear, simple process.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — Like, man, we believe if someone is in the gathering, if they’re in relationship, if they’re being pushed on generosity, and if they’re living for a mission bigger than themselves, that’s a current of maturity that will move them. They just get in the stream, they’ll move.Rich Birch — Yes. Yeah. Yeah. It’s so good.Andrew Hopper — that’s kind of So you know for us, I think that’s as, you know we’ve we’ve tried to simplify things there.Rich Birch — Yeah. And, and your last episode, I’ve pointed a ton of people to it, uh, to really, and we really unpack a lot of what you talked about there in more detail.Andrew Hopper — Right. Yeah.Rich Birch — You’re going to want to go back and, uh, and listen to that. You’ve reached as a church, you’ve reached a lot of people who don’t grow up in church that it’s like, there’s a lot of people who are there. You know, we used to say we ain’t your mama’s church, but mama didn’t go to church, you know? So, you know, and it’s been a long time that people were there. What challenges have you seen, you know, helping move people from curiosity into real ongoing discipleship? So like, I think there are, we’re seeing a swell of attendance across the country. People are like, oh, I’m kind of interested in this, but we got to move them from just, oh, this is something interesting to like, oh, I’m actually want to grow my relationship with Jesus.Andrew Hopper — Yeah, I mean, and it’s it’s funny too, Rich, you probably have a better bird’s eye view of this than I do. But I feel like churches that have been faithfully growing for like the last 10 years, they’re not really doing a lot different now. Or even though there’s this big swell happening, what I do think is that some churches have sort of decided like, oh, clarity does matter.Rich Birch — Yes. Yeah, that’s true.Andrew Hopper — And don’t try to be friends with the culture. We’re going to speak in and be prophetic. And, you know, even even to the you know Proverbs 25:26 says, you know, there’s there there’s no there’s no benefit in a muddied spring. You know, it’s like you got to be sort of you got to figure out if we’re going to be clear.Andrew Hopper — So, I you know, for me, I think like and you’re right, we do reach most of the people that we reach that are in the camp that you’re talking about our college age. We reach a lot of people, though, ah that are, you know, they’re they’re coming back to the faith because they’re a southerner.Rich Birch — Sure.Andrew Hopper — You know, they they kind of they kind of were, you know, they they did have some church in their background. They’re coming back. Their kids are not only born, but they’re realizing they’re sinners and they don’t have answers. They’re trying to figure that out.Rich Birch — Right. Right.Andrew Hopper — They’re coming back to church.Andrew Hopper — And, you know, I think the biggest thing that moves people from like interest into a decision point is just being very clear on this is what the gospel is. This is the life it compels you to. Are you going to be in or out?Andrew Hopper — One of the things we say at Mercy Hill a lot is like, man, if you’re if you’re just intrigued, you know, if you’re interested, you’re not going to stay at Mercy Hill because we’re never going to let you, you’re going to get pushed every week. And it’s like, man, people are not really in or like that. I’m not going to do that. You know, they’re just like, no I’m not going to sit here and get like pushed every single week on something I don’t really… And the flip side is when people say, all right, you know what? Stake in the ground. I’m in.Rich Birch — Yeah, we’re doing this, yep.Andrew Hopper — I wanna look like this, I want to build my life on this. It’s like, well, now, you know, it’s it’s man, I’m hopefully, you know, putting tools in the belt every single week to live that life.Rich Birch — Yeah. Yeah, it’s good. I do think there was a time where people wandered into our churches where I don’t think that happens as much anymore. I think people, when they arrive, they come with questions, with live active questions that they’re trying to wrestle with, kind of regardless of where they’re they’re at in their journey.Andrew Hopper — Yeah.Rich Birch — And they’re what you to your point around, you know, there’s no benefit in a muddy stream. People aren’t looking for anything that sounds like, well, what do you think? Because the reason why they’re there is because they’re asking questions. And so, you know, they’re they’re looking for clarity, like I think you’re saying. Rich Birch — Well one of the things I love about your church is there’s a high commitment to, you’re you’re you’re tearing down what I think is a false dichotomy. Sometimes I think when churches come to this idea of outreach or making a difference in their community, there’s this there can be this gap or false dichotomy between doing good in our communities and making disciples. Like we gave that up at some point. We were like, you can’t, you know, we can’t do both of those things for some reason. Why, why did we do that? Why did we, as churches say, we can’t both make a difference in our communities and also make disciples?Andrew Hopper — Yeah, I think it’s, I actually have a lot of sympathy for the fundamentalist leaning. I know it sounds a little bit weird. Rich Birch — No, that’s fine.Andrew Hopper — Churches that led from the, you know, from the good do good in your city kind of thing. I don’t think they’re right, but I do have sympathy for that because I understand how quickly that sort of, you know, is so hijacked by liberal, by theological liberalism to where it’s finally man we’re digging wells and wherever but we’re not talking about who the true source of living water is. Like we don’t want to be offensive we just want to do good without speaking the whole you know you know live your life as a Christian only use words if necessary, whatever, you know. And and I so I understand why people kind of fled and have fled that.Andrew Hopper — Like, you know, I’ve even had our church before when I when I talk about adoption or we we have a ministry, and a ministry called No More Spectators. We’re like moving people towards community ministry. And we had people kind of going on like, oh, my gosh, this seems like a sign of like churches start going this way and then they lose the gospel.Andrew Hopper — And I’m like, well, the reason you’re kind of feeling like that is because a lot of churches have done that. You know, you’re not [inaudible] like that just out of nowhere. Now, of course, I think it’s a little bit immature and we’ve got to push through. The way we talk about it, Rich, is, man, we want to do good in our community as signs of the kingdom coming.Andrew Hopper — They are not building the kingdom. You know, if we go repaint a house or house a homeless person, one day that person would parted with that house, whether they, you know, get messed up and leave or whether they do great and then would die one day, you know.Andrew Hopper — Or, if we have, ah you know, if we go and, and you know, we’re going to, for example, we have ah ah a family in our church that they need a ramp built because, man, the the brother is struggling with MS and he’s, they’re they’re fighting it like Christians do. We’re going to go do that. You know, we’re going to go build that ramp. That ramp’s going to rot and die one, you know, rot and rot away one day. And, you know, whether it’s 100 years from now or whatever.Andrew Hopper — Like it’s not literally the kingdom. But when the outside world sees us engage and, you know, our church will talk about this primarily when we think about community ministry, we think about it in terms of adoption, foster care and families count, which I can talk to you about. I think it’s bringing a sign of the kingdom that is to the community around us to say, hey, this is not the gospel. But it sure points to the gospel. Rich Birch — Right, right.Andrew Hopper — You know, it’s a pretty good signpost of like, yeah, there’s a kingdom coming where kids aren’t separated from their parents, you know. And and so that’s kind of the way that we think about, it’s not, you know, it’s not the kingdom. It’s a sign of the kingdom that is coming.Rich Birch — Yeah, let’s let’s dive in. So adoptions, foster care, families count. These are not small issues. Like you started with like putting a ramp on, painting somebody – those are like, okay, I can organize my head around that. And then we jump to what I think are obviously significant. How, it can be easy, I think, for church leaders it can be easy where, you know, we got a lot of fish to fry in our own backyard. When you see big problems like that, help us unpack that. Why do you as a lead pastor, why are you passionate about these issues? Why are these the things that you’ve chosen?Andrew Hopper — I think it’s, man, I think it’s great. I mean if you can’t if you don’t mind I’ll go back and give you a little bit of context. I’m a context [inaudible]… Rich Birch — Yeah, absolutely. Let’s do it. Yeah. Andrew Hopper — …number one so I always want to frame it in where we’ve been. But the short answer to the question is I think that every church because it is made up of individual believers that have individual gift matrix, you know they’re they’re gifted the church is gifted in a unique way because the people which are the church are gifted in a unique way, right? Andrew Hopper — And so to me, you know, slapping, you know, a top down every single church has to to manifest signs of the kingdom in X way, which, for for example, I’m not to pick on it, but like, you know, the whole diversity church kind of movement. I love you know, if that’s your brand, that’s awesome. That’s great. Go, go bring signs of the kingdom in that area. But you know what people do is they take their thing and then slap it on every single church. You know, this is the sign of the kingdom that you have to manifest.Andrew Hopper — I don’t think that. It takes every kind of church to reach a city because there’s all you know, there’s every kind of people in the city. Right? For us, though, and I think for a lot of churches that that maybe are are made up a little bit like we are, I think there is a lot of meat on the bone for adoption, foster care, families count ministry. And I think churches could be greatly helped by latching on to maybe, you know, something in particular, maybe this, maybe this specifically. How we got there, Rich, was we had we had, you know, huge movement in our church in 2019. I was very convicted.Andrew Hopper — Some of the exponential stuff was coming out, you know, mobilizing people outside the walls of the church. And I really was, man, I was just really affected by that. And I don’t want the dichotomy, you know, I don’t want, well, you your people serve in the church and not outside the church. It’s like, no, most people serve outside the church. If you watch them, they are serving inside the church as well. It’s it’s like a it’s like, man, you know, just just because serving inside the church is not the finish line, don’t demonize it because it is a starting place.Rich Birch — That’s good.Andrew Hopper — So it’s like, I don’t like that kind of whole thing. But but it did affect me to say, OK, what are we doing to push to the outside? So we we we did a thing. You would have loved this, man. But it except for the fact that it didn’t really work that good. OK, it was awesome.Andrew Hopper — It was, we still have the domain name – nomorespectators.com – I had the tagline: Jesus didn’t die to create spectators. He died to create servants, not spectators, workers, not watchers. We, man, you could go to nomorespectators.com and, you know, it was like, it was like a funnel for all of these community ministry opportunities in our city. So it was, you know, people from the housing, you know, authority type stuff would post things. And it was, it was all this kind of, it had a bunch of stuff in it. Andrew Hopper — In the end of the day, great idea. It was a little too complex. Our people latched on to the foster care, pregnancy network, you know, ended up being families count, Guardian ad Litem and adoption. So our guy that was over all that at the time our sending director, which is hard for me to have a good idea that ends up dying hard, okay that’s just tough for me.Rich Birch — You had a great sticky statement and everything. Come on.Andrew Hopper — I’m the king of sunken cost bias. Okay. Like, I’m like, dude. And so finally around 2020, he came to me and he said, bro, I know this is hard for you. Cause it was like a two year initiative. He’s like, this is hard. He said, No More Spectators needs to just turn into Chosen. And it needs to be like, you had this idea for 30 different things. It just, this needs to be our niche, man. You know, we we don’t do a lot of these other things, but we do this really well.Andrew Hopper — And it was hard for me. Ultimately, it was great wisdom by them, not me. And we started going down that road. And partly, I think it’s because, Rich, is heart is near to my heart. I have an adopted daughter. A lot of our staff have adopted kids. We just have a guy right now. Our associate director of first impressions at the Rich campus is in Texas right now, you know, bringing their daughter home.Andrew Hopper — I mean, so it’s just, and so it’s sort of started to morph into, and the the the big thing I’ll say, and I, you know, I’ve been talking a lot here, but the big thing I’ll say is, if you think about the way I just ah described all that, it doesn’t start with the need in the community. It starts with the gift matrix of the church. The poor we will always have with us. Like there there is no there’s no scenario until Jesus comes back that there’s no kids that need to be adopted, you know.Rich Birch — Right, right.Andrew Hopper — And it’s just the reality of it. And so there’s always going to be need in the community. It’s more about, okay, what are the Ephesians 2:10 works that your church, because the church is made up of people who are individually called, what are the you know what are those works that God has set out for your church? Rich Birch — That’s good.Andrew Hopper — And, you know, so for us, we just felt like, dude, this is a a heartbeat thing. Our people got more, they get more fired up. The greatest thing I’ve ever been able to mobilize our people for prayer for is go to the abortion clinic and pray. I mean, a thousand people on their face in the pavement. It’s like, it just strikes a chord with our church and who we are. So we wanna run after that.Rich Birch — Yeah. Well, I love that. And we’re going to dig out a bunch of this, but let’s think about it first from a perspective of somebody who’s maybe attended your church. They just started. They’re they’re relatively new, you know. The idea of something as weighty as adoption or foster care, that’s a big ask. And you know when you yeah how do I experience that as someone who’s just new? What are some ways that I could get plugged in? What does that look like? That, that, cause I, I’m hard, it’s hard to imagine that I go from zero to, to, you know, adoption, you know, how do I end up or flying to Texas to, you know, pick up a kid. That’s a lot. Help me understand. How are you, cause I know you guys are so good at moving people along from kind of where they are to where you’re hoping to – what’s that look like? What’s the kind of, how do you bring people along in this?Andrew Hopper — Man, totally. I think you’re right. I think it’s a combination of big vision on one end and then baby steps on the other. But the big vision matters.Rich Birch — That’s good.Andrew Hopper — Like we don’t want to be scared of the big vision. So, you know, for example, our weekender process, which I know you talked about some, you know, that weekender process, you know, people literally for years, we would give them a passport application in the weekender process. Because we’re like you’re at this church you’re probably going to be overseas at some point on a mission trip. And so to me it’s like people are like dude that probably scares the crap out of people. And it’s like well, I mean we want to make sure they know what they’re getting into, you know. We’re not telling them they got to do that tomorrow… Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — …but that is the, and then and then there’s all these baby steps, right? Like hey come to you know, every February we do Sent weekend. Come to the prayer night. Like that’s a baby step. That’s not you getting on a plane to go to Nepal. But you know hey we’re doing this missions offering at the end of the year, like maybe get you know. So there’s all these I would say that our the way we think about Chosen ministry, which again: adoption, foster care, families count, and rope holding, which is a big part of this discussion… Rich Birch — Okay. Andrew Hopper —…is that way. It’s big vision on the front end so we’re never going to tell somebody, hey you know, I know you could never do this. Like I’ll never…I think people can do it and they should. Or or you know more Christians than are should. At the same time we’re also not guilting anybody. Like so I’m I you know the the first thing I’ll tell people is like, hey, you know we start talking about adoption. I always say always say, hey, we have not lined up a bunch of little kids in the lobby for you to take one home today, okay. And then I’ll tell them, that’s next week.Rich Birch — That’s great.Andrew Hopper — Okay, so yeah but and we we try hard to like put some levity in it. Man, we’re not everybody’s not going to do that. In fact, a minority, of a small minority is going to do it. But everyone can be involved and there are baby steps.Andrew Hopper — So we try to highlight giving, man. Like if you someone adopts from Mercy Hill, we pay 25% of their adoption. Okay.Rich Birch — Wow. Yep.Andrew Hopper — If they’re a member and they’re in a community group, they get 25%. All right, well, you know, we’re going to connect that. Like, man, you you are never going to adopt. You feel like that’s, but it’s like, well, I give $100 a month to the church. Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — Well, hey, what? You know, you’re you are you are supporting.Rich Birch — We’re making a difference.Andrew Hopper — We do parents night out, you know, for all of our foster and adoptive parents. We do it quarterly. It’s like, hey, those are opportunities to come and serve, man. You can serve the meal you can do. We do rope holding, which I know we’ll probably talk about. But but the the idea of rope holding is just like, man, I’m not going to do this, but I can be in the corner for somebody. They’re in my community group. I want to be their first call if they need a babysitter or they need, you know, a gift card, or whatever they need.Andrew Hopper — So I think, man, we try to do big vision. You know, we’re going we’re going to set a huge vision, you know, for 2030 for 2030. Actually, we just hit our vision for 2025, which is 200 adoptive or foster families. There’s a lot of ways people can be involved with it.Rich Birch — So good. There’s, I think thing I would encourage friends who are listening in, you really should be following Mercy Hill, Andrew, because I do think you’re a very unique communicator where you, and you just described it. And I think to you, it’s just like, that’s just what you do. But this idea of like, you’re calling people to a high bar, but you’re not leveraging shame, guilt. you know, it’s, and I think so many times our language can kind of lean in that direction. Or we can, if we really are trying to push people towards something, or we can just undersell the vision. You know We can be like, oh, it’s not that it’s not that big of a deal. You know It’s not for everybody. So I would encourage people to listen in.Rich Birch — Talk to me about rope holding. How is that, what’s that look like? Unpack what that looks like a little bit.Andrew Hopper — Yeah, so rope so the the the rope-holding analogy, which a lot of your listeners probably gonna already know this, but you know William Carey, Andrew Fuller, William Carey, father of modern missions, he’s he he he makes the statement, “I’ll dangle at the end of the rope in the pit, if you’ll hold the rope,” talking to Fuller. And Fuller held the rope for him. Like, you know, Carey the mission field, Fuller’s raising money, preaching sermons, organizing mission boards. So that’s kind of the picture. Right.Andrew Hopper — So we say, all right, not everybody is going to go down into the pit of foster care adoption, even even families count. I mean, these are these are massive spiritual warfare battlegrounds you know um which is one of the reasons why our church wants to be involved so much. I mean you if you want to talk about getting to the you can do all the rhetoric in the world, brother, you want to get to the very bottom of societal issues, you you be involved in somebody’s story that’s trying that’s trying to get their kids back from the foster care system. You’re trying to help them with that. I mean, every you could fatherlessness, poverty, drug abuse. I mean, everything you can think, you know.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — So this this is just spiritual war. So what we tell people is like, hey, man. If we got people that are mobilizing for for adoption and foster care, we better have people in their corne,r because the enemy is going to bring his war machine.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — And we see it all the time. I mean, you’re going to see, you know, a family steps in to adopt and you’re going to start seeing them, you know, there can be sickness. They can have marital problems. They can have financial things that come up. They can begin to believe lies, frustrations. I mean, There’s just so they can become, you know, their their heart can start getting hard toward the system. I mean, there’s so many things that come at them. And so what we say is we need people in their corner, right. Andrew Hopper — Now, it’s funny because like the way our church has operated was at first we said, all right, we’re going to we’re going to do, you know, the the community group is going hold the rope for the people. And and that that was fine. The problem is when we really kicked off this ministry, so many people got involved that it became overwhelming to the group. So we said we got to start this… Rich Birch — Right. Andrew Hopper — …rope holding ministry. The rope holder ministry is good. It’s like, what does a rope holder do? They kind of do whatever the person needs them to do. Rich Birch — Right. Andrew Hopper — So there are examples of the rope holding ministry going really well, where it’s like, hey, man, they’re they’re helping with ah child care with the other kids when they’re going to foster care appointments in court. And or, hey, we’re we’re helping you do some things around the house whenever you’re overseas doing your adoption, which is going to put you three weeks in country. You know, there are some good examples like that. Andrew Hopper — But the other thing that we’ve learned is, you know, foster care and adoption families that are that are walking through this, they’re going through a very trying time. And to just pair them with somebody they don’t know and say, hey, look, here’s your supporter, it can be a little bit like, oh, that’s awesome, and then they never reach out to them.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — They never reach out – the rope holder’s ready.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — But it’s just like, dude, I don’t I don’t know you. And this is a hard time.Rich Birch — Who are you? Yeah, yeah.Andrew Hopper — And so what we’re trying to figure out now as we reboot that rope holder idea is, you know, how how do you kind of integrate relationships they’ve already had? Almost like, hey, do you have this massive pool of people called rope holders? Or when an adoptive family comes up, you say to them, hey, who can we shoulder tap, rope holder for you.Rich Birch — That’s good.Andrew Hopper — And then we’ll train them.Rich Birch — Oh, that’s cool. Yeah.Andrew Hopper — But not have this pool, but say for you, we’ll put them in. So that’s kind of what we’re, so as part of our reboot for 2030, you know, that’s sort of what’s in our mind right now.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s cool.Andrew Hopper — We have a whole playbook for the way we’ve done it, which anybody, you know, if anybody wants any of those things, they can go to AndrewPHopper.com/chosen. And I can send you any of that stuff we have, but on the rope holder side, you know, just full transparency, we’re still, you know, kind of, of you know, and I’m sure it’ll always be that way that we make an improvement.Rich Birch — Yeah, always trying to make it better. Yeah. And I want to, yeah, at some point in this journey, you decided, hey, we’ve got to put this vision and framework into writing, like we and you actually ended up writing a book, and friends who are listening in, I want to encourage you to pick up a copy of this book. Listen, we’re almost half an hour in. I know you’re interested in this. This is the kind of thing you, Andrew’s a trusted leader. He’s, I’ve had a chance to take a peek at the book. This will be super helpful for you. But, but that’s a lot of effort to put this together into a book. What pushed you from just leading this ministry to ultimately saying, hey, I want to capture this into a resource that could help other people?Andrew Hopper — Well, you know, Rich, I never really saw myself as like a writer, just like a practitioner, man. Let’s just keep keep working on the thing and going.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — And truthfully, I got approached. Hey, would you have any interest in writing? You know, New Growth Press is the one that’s editing this book and putting it out. And it was funny, though, because the second I was asked, I was like, man, I know what we should do [inaudible] that should be what we should do. It’s it’s our it’s it’s my story’s family story with our special needs child that we’ve adopted. It’s our church’s journey. But more important than either of those two things, it’s a grounding in the gospel-centered motivation. Because I think that is what is so important. We don’t do guilt motivation. And you know, cute kids and sad, cute kids and and sad stories are good reasons, but they you need a great reason, because it’s hard. Rich Birch — That’s good. Yep.Andrew Hopper — You know, and the great reason is of course, adopted people adopt people. And so we delve way into the helplessness of our spiritual condition, how God adopted us and then how, you know, that provides a deep motivation for us to go and do the same for others.Rich Birch — Can you unpack that a little bit more? Because I think this is, ah to me, a core part of the book that I think is really helpful. Even if you’re maybe listening in, you’re thinking, okay, I’m not sure adoption or foster care is necessarily the thing, but you unpack this idea of gospel rather than guilt. And can you talk us through, you know, how, yeah, just talk us through that part, that concept a bit more. Just double click on that a little bit.Andrew Hopper — Yeah. So, you know, when we think about behaviors that flow from the Christian life, there’s really only two ways to think about it, right? Like one of them is we try to do things in order that God would approve of us, you know, that he would, you know, he would, ah he would, he would let us in his family, you know, those those types of things. And we, you know, this is for a lot of Baptistic world, which I am, this was kind of like, wow, this is really revolutionary, but that was 20 years ago – Keller and all that. You know, we just started understanding what more of a gospel center motivation. Andrew Hopper — Of course, the other way to think about Christian behaviors is you are part of the family because of what Christ has done for you. And the family has a culture. The family works a certain way. There’s fruit that will pop out in your life, not so that you can gain entrance into the vine. That’s not how it works. Like, ah you know, you don’t you don’t produce fruit to get in the vine. You produce fruit because you’re in the vine. Andrew Hopper — And so, you know, when we think about like like Titus 2, for example, we think about how the grace of God appears to all men, teaching us not just salvation, but teaching us to obey his commands. So there’s something about salvation that and is inherent to the gospel-centered motivation of of of going out, living the Christian life. You know, it’s it’s kind of the John Bunyan idea when they said, man, if you, you know, if you keep preaching this gospel message, people are going to do whatever they want to do. And he said, no, if I keep preaching this gospel message, people are going to do whatever God wants them to do. Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — You know, and so I think what we’ve done in this book is just say, hey, that that is true universally in our Christian life. Like if I’m not tithing and I’m stingy, I can do motivation in two ways. Number one, how dare you, you piece of trash that you never, you know why would you never give? Look what God, you know, blah blah blah, blah, blah, guilt, guilt, shame, shame. Right. Andrew Hopper — Of course, the other way to say is like, man, what kind of riches has God given you in the gospel? And what kind of inheritance do you now have as a son of the king? It’s like, all right, that’s powerful, you know, and it will it will take us places that guilt never can. Guilt will work for a while. You can put fire under somebody and it’ll move them. But if you put it in them, they’ll run through a wall, you know. Rich Birch — So true.Andrew Hopper — And so it’s like it’s like, hey, OK, so you could do it with all these different things. We’ve tried to take this book and do that with adoption to say, all right.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — We know James 1:27, we need to care for the fatherless and the orphan. We understand. I mean, dude, there ain’t, when you talk about metaphors, there’s two big ones, marriage and adoption, you know? And so if you want to do adoption well, we can do it from two motivations. One motivation is look how many kids need. That’s all and that’s all true. That moves my heart. You know, look, can you believe this story of this kid? And that’s fine.Andrew Hopper — Of course, you could do guilt, too. Like, how dare you, you know, have this nice, happy family and not go adopt a little poor orphan kid. You know, you could do guilt. All those things will be fine. They’ll put fire under you a little bit. But if you want to put the fire in someone that is going to carry them through the long haul of all this stuff, I think it’s better to start with: All right. There’s kids that need to be chosen. Were you chosen?Andrew Hopper — You know, so like one of the you know, one I’ll give you an example. We know of a family here in the tribe. They’ve got an awesome son that is 20-something years old, kids got Down syndrome, and they adopted him from Ecuador. And his story was one day a carpenter was working on this building and he heard cries coming out of a dump, like a trash heap. This child had just been born and been left you know with his deformities had just been left for the dumpster. Andrew Hopper — And they brought him to the orphanage. And next thing you know, you know about three or four years later, he got adopted by this family that we know. And that family’s father, he said, Eddie’s story is my story. I was pulled from a trash heap by a carpenter. And if you it’s like that is powerful. Rich Birch — Right. Yes.Andrew Hopper — You know, when you start thinking about, man, in my sin, I was one who had no part and parcel in the kingdom of God. I was headlong in rebellion. I had rejected. I was not a son. And God lavished his love upon me, that I would be called his child. And if if that has happened to me spiritually, how could I not want to do that? Or at least help those. you know I’m not saying that’s a call for everybody, but be involved in others that are doing that as well.Andrew Hopper — And so that’s what we say. Adopted people, adopt people, chosen people, choose people. And hey, I didn’t answer your last question. Rich Birch — That’s fine.Andrew Hopper — Okay. Your last question was, why did we write the book? Very simply, I think more people just need to think about what I just said. You know, and I think churches do. And I think that if, you know, a lot of churches have adoption-minded people and a little bit of of fuel in that fire might create some really cool ministry in that church. And this book lays really well for being like, man, make it a small group resource for eight weeks. You know, it’s got questions at the end of each chapter.Andrew Hopper — Like my my prayer is that this book would catalyze tens of thousands of Christian adoptions. Rich Birch — Wow. Andrew Hopper — And that’s why we wrote the book.Rich Birch — Yeah. It’s and I thought the same thing as I was looking through it, that this would be a great resource for a small group, a great resource as a staff training thing. Because again, I think there’s two things happening on two levels. From my perspective, there’s what you’re actually talking about – adoption, but then there’s how you talk about it. And I think even both of those, I think could be interesting as a as a staff team to kind of unpack and think about. How do we ensure that what we’re doing is so gospel-infused. That’s part of why i love you as a communicator. I think you do such a good job on that. It’s just fantastic. So I would strongly encourage people to pick it up.Rich Birch — Help me understand the connection. So Mercy Hill is known for, or at least from my perspective, known as a sending church. You know, the thing, one of the and I’ve told again, I told you this before, you’re the first church leader I’ve ever bumped into that has connected new here guests to number of missionaries sent. This like idea of like this funnel of how do we move people all the way along to that? I think that’s incredible. How does that kind of sending culture and adoption, how does that fit together? How does that help kind of fuel the flywheel of what’s happening at Mercy Hill?Andrew Hopper — Well, you you helped me think about this when you came and did our one day for our for our Breaking Barriers group, you know, for the pastoral trainings that we do. Because in your church growth book, you talk about how, ah you know, community ministry is used as an evangelism tool. I’m not, I’m probably butchering the way you talk about it.Rich Birch — Yep. Yep. Oh, that’s good. Yep. That’s great.Andrew Hopper — That was like a big light bulb for me because because we we definitely do that, but we have not leveraged the communications of that.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — And so, um you know, for us now, what we’re trying to really think about is how does our adoption of foster care ministry and rope holding and families count ministry, how does that create open? We call them open doors, right? Rich Birch — Yep.Andrew Hopper — Like, how does it create open doors, questions in the community, where people come in? And we’ve seen it. You know, so like when we’re talking about the sending culture, that pipeline starts when new people get interested in faith, they get interested in church.Andrew Hopper — And, you know, like, for example, we we had a guy, we just did a historic video. Man, he’s saved, baptized, serving now, ah or, you know, family, young family, prototypical Mercy Hill guy, like, man, just you know blue collar heart, white collar job, just that. I mean, just everything we talk about. Right. He’s our he’s kind of our guy. And the way he got connected was his boss had signed up to be a rope holder. And it just blew his mind. Like, why would a guy take limited time and go help these families? I mean, he of course, he thought it was a good thing. But it really intrigued them. Andrew Hopper — And so we’ve tried to we’re trying to leverage more of the communication side. It’s tricky. You don’t want to be like, hey, look at us you know in the community. At the same time, I’m like, man, this year, you know when we’re going to do a pretty significant upgrade to some of the there our foster care system has, there’s a house that has a backyard and the backyard is where families come to play with kids, play with their kids they’re trying to get back from the foster care.Rich Birch — Right. Yep.Andrew Hopper — And we’ve said like, you know what, man, if these parents are putting in, that needs to be like the best, the best backyard, and you know?Rich Birch — Right. Yeah, absolutely. 100%.Andrew Hopper — And so, you know, we’re, we’re going to do a significant investment in some, you know, whatever…Rich Birch — Play structures and yeah. Andrew Hopper — …like a, you know, whatever, like a pergola type thing. They’re going put a shed out there. All going to connect it, pavers, all that stuff is what we want to do. And, you know, we’re, we’re looking at that and I’m going like, yeah, I mean, I get it. Like you don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, but at the same time, that’s not for us. That’s for people that are interested to say like, why would a church do that? You know, like why do they care so much?Andrew Hopper — And it’s because, Hey, sign of the kingdom. We want to build families through adoption. We want to restore families through foster care and families count. This is part of that. So we’ve tried to we’ve tried to use it as a way. And I would really encourage church leaders to think about that. Like, hey, is your community ministry actually an evangelism strategy?Rich Birch — Right. Yeah, that’s good. Love that. And yeah, I would encourage you continue to encourage you to think through those things because I do think that there’s, we’ve seen that there’s huge opportunity for folks who don’t normally attend church. They’re interested the way I’ve said in other contexts is they see it as a good thing. We see it as a God thing. We’re not going to fight them over the semantics of it at the front end. Because like you say it’s it’s the kingdom puncturing through that grabs their attention and you’re like oh what what you know what’s going on there? It’s a first step – how do we encourage those people? Rich Birch — Like on that backyard project, I no doubt if you’re rallying a bunch of guys to go work there, I know that there are guys in your church who have friends who they could invite who don’t attend church who maybe would never walk in your church who’d say, hey, will you come and work for a Saturday for a couple hours and swing a hammer and help us do this thing? Let me explain what this is about.They absolutely would show up, right? 100% they’d show up and and they’ll get intrigued by that. And they’ll be like, oh, what’s going on there? That’s that’s fantastic. Rich Birch — Well, friends, unabashedly, I want you to pick up copies of, not just a copy, copies of this book. So where do we want to send people to pick up copies, that sort of thing?Andrew Hopper — Yeah, man, they can just go to andrewphopper.com/chosen. Rich Birch — Perfect. Yep.Andrew Hopper — The book’s out so they can pick up a copy. I mean, it’s also just like on Amazon or whatever, but that link will take you straight to New Growth Press.Rich Birch — Right.Andrew Hopper — So, yeah, man, would love it. Would love to hear from anybody who’s using it well in a church context um to catalyze Christian adoption.Rich Birch — Love it. Anything else you want to share just as we close and how can people track, go to the website, other places we want to send them as we close up today.Andrew Hopper — Also on Instagram, we have a lot of stuff on Instagram, andrewphopper on Instagram. Yeah, the last thing I would say as a closing thought, Rich, is you know, the Christian adoption boom has sort of happened 20 years ago. People started talking about this a lot more. And now you can feel in some of the podcast world and all that, there’s a bit of a backlash, not not to don’t do it, but also like, hey, no one told us how hard this was going to be. Andrew Hopper — You’re dealing with traumatic situations, kids that have been brought, you know, I mean, it’s, it’s crazy. One thing I try to do in this book is I try to say, Hey, that’s not a good reason to take our ball and go home, you know.Rich Birch — That’s good.Andrew Hopper — Instead we just need to try to shoot as straight as we can. And I do that in this book, man. It is hard. It’s you’re on the front lines of spiritual war. I mean, it’s almost like, dude, the, the, the greatest transfer of faith from one generation to another happens in the home. We love it when adults get saved. I get that. But let’s be honest. Statistically, where does it normally happen? Right. Rich Birch — Yeah. Kids. Andrew Hopper — And so if you got a home that’s broken apart, that Christians are trying to put back together, what did we think Satan was going to do? You know, and so instead of taking our ball and going home, let’s just call it what it is, and then ask the Lord to steel our spine… Rich Birch — That’s good. Andrew Hopper — …and to move forward with the mission. So, yeah, man, I’d love for people to pick it up. And I appreciate the time to talk about it today.Rich Birch — Andrew, thanks so much. Appreciate you. Just want to honor you for the work you do. You’re a great leader. And I love how God’s using you and your church to make a difference. Thanks for being on the show today.Andrew Hopper — Thanks, brother.

Find YouTube link to watch here:  https://youtu.be/uh99t38qgxw   Shownotes Welcome to the first Programmatic Digest episode of 2026 with Ellen Parker and Manuela Cortez. This is a quick check-in, plus a trader-friendly breakdown of the biggest 2025 shifts and what to watch in 2026. We cover five trends from 2025 (AI everywhere, privacy and cookieless reality, CTV growth, RMNs going more programmatic, and supply quality/transparency). Then we close with three 2026 predictions: curation becoming "default infrastructure," AI as a co-pilot (not autopilot), and multi-identity strategies becoming standard. This episode also includes the 2026 community focus: subscribe to YouTube + the newsletter, confirm your subscription, and reach out if you want to contribute (writing, audio, or guest spots).   Here's What You'll Learn What "AI everywhere" means for traders: less manual tuning, more strategy and interpretation Why privacy-first is still a day-to-day skill, even if cookies hang around longer than expected Why CTV is no longer "experimental" and how measurement expectations are changing Why more RMNs going programmatic changes how you think about signals and audiences What "supply quality + transparency" should actually include (fees, paths, reporting depth) 2026 prediction: curation becomes the baseline (SSP curation vs curation houses vs curation desks) 2026 prediction: AI moves from rules-based automation to agent-style workflows (co-pilot mindset) Why you still need foundations first (know how to do it manually before you let AI help) Subscribe to the Programmatic Digest Podcast on your favorite platform (including Spotify) https://www.heleneparker.com/programmatic-digest-podcast/  Subscribe to the Programmatic Digest YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@programmaticdigest  Join the newsletter and confirm your subscription: https://www.heleneparker.com/newsletter/ Access the Programmatic Training here: https://www.heleneparker.com/library/ No String Attached - MediaMath DSP (including Agent AI Connector): helene.parker@infillion.com Timestamps • 00:00 – Intro: Welcome to the first Programmatic Digest of 2026. • 01:15 – Channel Updates: YouTube growth and the importance of the weekly newsletter. • 03:30 – Hands-on Support: Tips, hacks, and activation-focused support in the newsletter. • 05:45 – Calling for Contributors: Opportunities to host, write, and build industry authority. • 08:20 – The Programmatic Training Library: Combining six years of workshops and courses. • 11:00 – Micro-Workshops: Real-world DSP setup support and "programmatic ninja" coaching. • 13:15 – 2025 Trend #1: AI Everywhere—Automated bidding, optimization, and predictive modeling. • 16:00 – AI for Productivity: Using tools like ChatGPT to simplify industry jargon and workflows. • 19:45 – 2025 Trend #2: Privacy-First & Cookieless—The multiple identity approach. • 22:10 – 2025 Trend #3: CTV and Audio—Moving from experimental to action-driven channels. • 25:30 – 2025 Trend #4: Retail Media Networks (RMN)—New players like Loves Media and Go Puff. • 28:45 – The Value of Diversification: How audience insights drive revenue for traders. • 31:15 – 2025 Trend #5: Supply Quality & Transparency—Demanding log-level data and fee clarity. • 34:00 – 2026 Prediction #1: Curation as Default—SSP curation, Curation Houses, and Desks. • 38:15 – 2026 Prediction #2: AI as Co-Pilot—Moving from "automated" to "agentic" intelligence. • 41:30 – Media Math Agent Connector: Managing campaigns via AI prompts without UI clicks. • 45:00 – The "Rice Cooker" Analogy: Why you must understand manual foundations before using AI. • 48:15 – Advanced Reporting: Tying campaign data to real-world consumer behavior and brand impact. • 51:45 – 2026 Prediction #3: Dual Identity Strategies—Using the Media Math X Graph. • 54:30 – Under the Hood: Investigating "proprietary" tech and demanding the "Carfax" for AdTech. • 57:00 – Final Takeaways: "Grace over Guilt" and putting your 2026 plans into action. • 1:00:15 – Closing Encouragement: Mental and spiritual health for the year ahead   Meet The Team: Hélène Parker - Chief Programmatic Coach https://www.heleneparker.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/helene-parker   Manuela Cortes - Co-Host  Programmatic Digest In Espanol:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuela-cortes-   Learn Programmatic As a TEAM: https://www.heleneparker.com/workshop/ As a Programmatic Ninja: https://www.heleneparker.com/course/ Programmatic Coaching Newsletter:https://www.heleneparker.com/newsletter/   Programmatic Digest https://www.linkedin.com/company/programmatic-digest-podcast https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBGMMRsZkw0IIUbQIJmMBxw Looking for programmatic training/coaching?  Sign up to our Accelerator Program: A 6-week structured program with live coaching, hands-on within DSP(s) exercises, and real-time feedback—perfect for those who thrive on accountability and community, and looking to grow their technical skillset https://reachandfrequencycourse.thinkific.com/courses/program   Self-Paced Course: Full access to course content anytime, allowing independent learners to study at their own speed with complete flexibility. https://reachandfrequencycourse.thinkific.com/bundles/the-reach-frequency-full-course   Sign up to this FREE workshop: https://programmaticdigest14822.ac-page.com/sell-side-workshop    YouTube Keywords programmatic advertising, The Trade Desk, TTD update, OpenPath, SSP, reseller definition, IAB, transaction ID, TxnID, header bidding, prebid, SPO, DPO, supply path optimization, demand path optimization, PMP, curation, publisher ad stack, viewability, ad density, ad quality, InfoLinks, Magnite, AppNexus, Gamera, Programmatic Digest Podcast, Hélène Parker

 Ever been accused of something you absolutely didn't do?

EP 162.  Sarah Panus sits down with Liz Hernandez, Head of Marketing at Faye, to unpack how the brand is helping moms ask for help without guilt. Liz shares how Faye is reimagining personal assistance for families, what tasks busy moms are most eager to outsource, and the surprising mindset barriers that keep many from seeking support. You'll also hear how Faye builds trust in a deeply personal category, sparks authentic word-of-mouth and organic influencer partnerships without massive budgets, and communicates value in a way that feels empowering instead of pressure-filled. A must-listen for marketers who want to serve moms with empathy while driving real growth.   SHOWNOTES BLOG:  https://www.podpage.com/marketing-with-empathy/blog/faye-helps-moms-ask-for-help-without-guilt-liz-hernandez-episode-162/      SCHEDULE FREE 30-MIN. DISCOVERY CALL WITH SARAH PANUS to discuss your content strategy goals and challenges: ⁠⁠https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule/a0d08759/?appointmentTypeIds[]=25950382⁠⁠        WATCH ON YOUTUBE: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@iamsarahpanus⁠     FREE QUIZ: Which of Sarah's Services Can Help Your Brand in 60-Seconds Feeling stuck or stretched too thin? In 60 seconds, this quick quiz will match you with the right messaging or content support options from Sarah Panus—based on your goals, budget, and timeline—so you can get clearer messaging, a smarter content plan, and results that actually convert. ⁠https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/687925666cfb770015362513⁠  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Generosity is often framed as something we should do - but rarely as something that can become emotionally heavy. If you've ever felt stretched thin, guilty saying no, or unsure whether your giving is actually aligned with your life right now, this conversation offers a softer way forward.In this episode of Money Simplified, Aimee is joined by generosity strategist Alison Patterson to explore how generosity can move from obligation to intention. Together, they talk about the emotional side of giving, how boundaries can support - not diminish - impact, and what it looks like to create generosity that feels sustainable, grounded, and true to your values.This isn't about giving more. It's about giving with clarity.Money Mindset Playbook: https://aimeecerka.com/mindsetFor the full transcript and all links mentioned, see the blog post: https://aimeecerka.com/239Ready To Take Action: https://aimeecerka.com/podcastlinks

In XYBM 147, I sit down with Jason Phillips, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, for a raw and honest conversation about what it truly means to be a Black man in today's world.We unpack the emotional weight many Black men carry — from understanding and expressing emotions, to healing from past trauma and relationships. We also challenge common misconceptions around rest, productivity, and success, while offering practical guidance for Black men navigating depression, low confidence, and burnout. This episode is for any brother trying to heal, grow, and give himself permission to slow down without guilt. Tune in on all podcast streaming platforms, including YouTube. Leave a 5-star review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ if you found value in this episode or a previous episode!BOOK US FOR SPEAKING + BRAND DEALS:————————————Explore our diverse collaboration opportunities as the leading and fastest-growing Black men's mental health platform on social media. Let's create something dope for your brand/company.Take the first step by filling out the form on our website: https://www.expressyourselfblackman.com/speaking-brand-dealsHOW TO FIND A DOPE, BLACK THERAPIST: ————————————We are teaching a FREE webinar on how to find a dope, Black therapist – sign up for the next session here: https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/black-therapistAll webinar attendees will have the opportunity to be paired with a Black mental health professional in Safe Haven. We have had 5K+ people sign up for this webinar in the past. Don't miss out. Slots are limited. SAFE HAVEN:————————————Safe Haven is a holistic healing platform built for Black men by Black men. In Safe Haven, you will be connected with a Black mental health professional, so you can finally heal from the things you find it difficult to talk about AND you will receive support from like-minded Black men that are all on their healing journey, so you don't have to heal alone.Join Safe Haven Now: https://www.expressyourselfblackman.com/safe-haven SUPPORT THE PLATFORM: ————————————Safe Haven: https://www.expressyourselfblackman.com/safe-havenMonthly Donation: https://buy.stripe.com/eVa5o0fhw1q3guYaEE Merchandise: https://shop.expressyourselfblackman.com FOLLOW US:————————————TikTok: @expressyourselfblackman (https://www.tiktok.com/@expressyourselfblackman) Instagram:Host: @expressyourselfblackman(https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfblackman)Guest: @jphillipsmsw (https://www.instagram.com/jphillipsmsw/)YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ExpressYourselfBlackManFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/expressyourselfblackman

This week on the podcast we kick off Series 1 of Cosmic Crit 2.0 with a fully fleshed out set of rules for drafting player characters (Ancestries, Background and Classes) in Starfinder 2nd Edition. 
To avoid folks fighting over what class they will play, and to make it less likely to choose character options that they made in Seasons 1-5, we are drafting characters this time around. We recorded this behind the scenes episode 0 and if you don't want to be spoiled then SKIP THIS EPISODE as we will reveal the base elements of their characters!

Everyone uses the word "sin," but what does it actually mean? Pastor Heath Lambert kicks off 2026 by answering this fundamental question using Romans 3:23-24, revealing why sin is more than just breaking rules - it's falling short of God's glory, and why that matters for the gospel.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: First episode of 20260:49 - The question: What is sin?1:15 - We use words we don't really understand1:52 - Disagreement about what sins are2:45 - Romans 3:23: Falling short of God's glory3:51 - The standard: God's perfect holiness4:46 - Sin as falling short of the standard5:11 - Practical reality 1: God defines sin, not us5:50 - Don't add to God's list of sins6:06 - Example: Is eating pizza a sin?6:30 - Don't cross off sins from God's list6:53 - God's glory as the standard in His Word7:07 - The result: Guilt and punishment7:25 - Romans 3:24: Justified by grace through redemption7:56 - Redemption as economic transaction8:46 - Final answer: Sin, guilt, and gospel hopeKey Topics CoveredThe Universal Word - How everyone uses "sin" but with different meaningsCommon Misconceptions - The property example and sexual behavior debatesRomans 3:23 Definition - Falling short of the glory of GodThe Divine Standard - God's infinite righteousness, glory, and holinessTwo Dangerous Errors - Adding sins God didn't name and removing sins He didThe Pizza Illustration - Why we can't make up our own list of sinsCultural Pushback - When society rejects biblical definitions of sinGod's Word as Authority - Why Scripture alone defines what sin isSin as Debt - The financial metaphor for our spiritual conditionThe Gospel Solution - Romans 3:24 and redemption through ChristJustified by Grace - How Christ's righteousness covers our sin debtScripture ReferencesRomans 3:23 - All have sinned and fall short of the glory of GodRomans 3:24 - Justified by grace through redemption in Christ JesusAbout The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" is now available. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.Order now and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsLike this episode? Subscribe for more biblical teaching from Marked by Grace. Share your thoughts in the comments below about how understanding sin as falling short of God's glory changes your perspective. Happy New Year!Have a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

In this honest and wide-ranging episode, Katie and Amy sit down for a candid conversation about what it really looks like to be a mum, a partner, and a businesswoman with big ambition. From choosing the right partner to the pressure of buying a house, to navigating guilt, comparison, and imposter syndrome, nothing is off limits.If you've ever felt torn between being a present parent and a driven entrepreneur… if you've ever questioned whether your relationship can withstand your growth… or if you've ever felt “not enough” thanks to social media, this episode will make you feel understood, grounded, and empowered again.The truth about balancing motherhood and business (and why guilt is so universal)Why choosing the right partner is one of the biggest business decisions you'll ever makeTraditional vs modern relationship roles, and how to make them work todayRenting vs buying: why freedom may matter more than a mortgageThe story of nearly buying a house before lockdown, and how it would've caused bankruptcyImposter syndrome, social media pressure, and protecting your energyWhy you must curate your circle and surround yourself with the right peopleHow to build a life based on happiness, not society's expectationsThis is the real conversation every ambitious woman needs, honest, unfiltered, and full of permission to build life yourway. FREE Goal Planner: Create your yearly and 5-year goals and break them into a clear plan

Looking back at the year and thinking, “Wow… that did not go as planned”? In this reflective episode of “You, Me, and Jesus,” Keenya walks through how she reviews her year with God—not as a performance review, but as a grace-filled conversation. She shares her own missed goals, surprises, and plot twists, and how she's learned to see God's faithfulness even in the “unfinished” areas.In our “What Would Jesus Actually Do?” segment, we explore how Jesus might talk to someone who feels like they failed spiritually this year—offering love, perspective, and fresh mercy instead of disappointment. If you're tempted to beat yourself up instead of praise God for progress, this episode will help you close the year with grace.If you felt empowered by this episode, take a screenshot for your stories and tag Keenya on Instagram @keenyakelly. I would be honored to hear your takeaways and re-post your share!Important Links from the showUnderstanding your spiritual gifts is definitely one of the foundational things that every single Christian needs to know. If you'd like a quick and free spiritual quiz assessment to understand why and how God gifted you what you have in life click here https://keenyakelly.com/ministry/!Subscribe to our new YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@youmeandjesusConnect with Keenya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keenyakelly/Connect with Keenya on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@keenyakellyConnect with Keenya on Twitter: https://twitter.com/keenyakellyFor more information on courses and resources: https://keenyakelly.com/Are you building a business and you want to know what God is saying to you about your business? Looking for strategy on what to do next with your business or market your business in a way that's Christ focused? Click the following link to book a creative consulting session to get a strategy together for your business that is faith focused: https://keenyakelly.com/creativeconsulting/

Watch the YouTube version of this episode HEREAre you a law firm owner looking to learn more about how to be a good leader? In this solo episode of the Guild Live Show, Tyson reflects on work-life balance, leadership, and the guilt many law firm owners feel about stepping away from the office. Sharing his own experiences, Tyson explores the psychological challenges of letting go, the importance of trusting your team, and why true leadership is measured by outcomes and freedom.Tyson shares some insights on feelings of guilt law firm owners have when being away from the office. A lot of firm owners tend to tie their value to their presence, which is where this guilt can stem from. There can be thoughts of things going wrong in the office or fires not being put out. To move away from this mindset, it is important to ensure you can trust your team to handle things while you are away. Whether it's delegating work to specific people or asking for updates on a recurring basis, these things can help you feel more at ease and allow that guilt to disappear.Tyson talks about visible versus meaningful effort. For leaders, being present in the office doing things does not mean anything unless you are working on the right things. You have to show up and work with intention to ensure your firm is successful. If you know there are improvements that need to be made, show up and outline steps to get that done. This shows you are serious about making sure your firm grows and succeeds.Take a listen to learn more!4:00 The Guilt of Being Away6:52 The Danger of Identity Tied to Work11:07 Visible vs. Meaningful Effort14:42 Trusting Your Team and Letting Go18:33 Leadership Is About Outcomes19:25 Freedom as a Metric for Success Tune in to today's episode and checkout the full show notes here. 

In this first episode of 2026, I'm inviting you into a deeply important conversation about self worth, rest, and the pressure to always be doing. As we enter a new year, many of us naturally reflect on our lives, our habits, and where we want to grow. In this episode, I explore the often hidden belief that our value is tied to productivity. I share personal reflections about guilt around rest, the pressure to constantly be doing, and how these patterns are often passed down through family conditioning and collective expectations. This episode is an invitation to pause and ask yourself: Do I believe I am worthy even when I am not producing? Am I allowing myself to rest, create, and simply be? What would change if I released the belief that my value comes from doing? We talk about how over-functioning and constant busyness disconnect us from our joy, our creativity, and our natural rhythms. I also share why modeling rest and self-care is especially important for our children, and how healing this pattern in ourselves helps shift it for future generations. If you are feeling burned out, restless, or guilty when you slow down, this episode is for you. You are not meant to be a machine. You are here to experience, create, and enjoy your life. ✨ Topics explored in this episode: Why productivity addiction is so common How guilt around rest gets programmed into us The difference between doing and being Reclaiming rest as a spiritual practice Giving yourself permission to enjoy your life Healing generational patterns around worth and overworking   Take a breath. Let yourself receive. And remember, you are worthy simply because you exist.  

What if balance is a lie and self-care does not look anything like Instagram told you it would?  In this powerful and refreshingly honest episode of Whinypaluza, host Rebecca Greene sits down with writer, speaker, activist, and mom of eight Elisha Beach for a real conversation about motherhood, burnout, and why the idea of “having it all” is complete nonsense. Elisha shares the moments that broke her open, including a very public mommy meltdown, clinical burnout, and the pressure to put everyone else first. Together, Rebecca and Elisha unpack what self-care actually looks like in real life, how guilt sneaks in, why villages matter more than ever, and how moms can reclaim control without adding another impossible to-do list item. This is the episode every overwhelmed parent did not know they needed.Six Key Takeaways→ Balance is not real, and that is not your failureElisha explains why the idea of perfect balance sets moms up to feel like they are always falling short → Burnout does not mean weakness Clinical burnout is real and often comes from prioritizing everyone else for too long →Self-care must fit your season of life What works for one mom may not work for another, and that is exactly the point → Guilt can exist without running the show You can feel guilt without letting it dictate how you treat yourself → Your village is bigger than you think Support can include people, systems, services, and small choices that reduce mental load → You are the expert in your own life. Trusting yourself is the most important form of self-care there isMemorable Quote“Balance does not exist. You just choose what you are going to focus on and let the rest fall off for a bit.”About the GuestElisha Beach is an experienced speaker, writer, and professional mom of eight. She went viral in 2015 after sharing a raw photo of breastfeeding her daughter while on the toilet and has been unapologetically telling the truth about motherhood ever since. A former staff writer for Scary Mommy and founder of The Mom Forum, Elisha is a Certified Strategic Planner who helps moms create realistic self-care practices without guilt. She is the author of The Mom Selfcare Planner and the upcoming book Balance Is Bullsht The Truth About Motherhood and Self Care* releasing November 11, 2025. If this episode made you feel seen, heard, or even a little less alone, share it with another parent who needs permission to stop chasing perfection. Subscribe, leave a review, and remember what Rebecca reminds us every day. Laugh. Learn. Love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This podcast shows you how to fully recover from OCD.Each episode breaks down the exact techniques and nuances that stop rumination, reduce compulsions, and help you retrain your brain out of the OCD cycle. We cover every major OCD theme, including:Pure-O OCDRelationship OCDHarm OCDReal Event OCDSO-OCD / Sexuality OCDReligious / Scrupulosity OCDCleaning & Contamination OCDPhysical CompulsionsAll other OCD subtypesMy goal is simple: clear guidance that actually works, explained in a way that is calm, direct, and easy to apply immediately.You can fully recover from OCD. Don't give up — you're not stuck, and your brain can change.

Most people think money fixes everything. It doesn't. It just exposes what you never defined in the first place. My recent conversation with Sharran Srivatsaa (Acquisition.com President) starts with a quiet tension: building something big while trying not to lose the people who matter most. Fatherhood. Money. Ambition. Guilt. All colliding at once. The truth is this: More income without a framework doesn't buy freedom. It buys anxiety with better branding. In this episode, we go deep on what actually works: • Why freezing your lifestyle is the real cheat code • The exact definition of financial freedom (no vibes, just math) • How to run a family P&L like a real business • Why most entrepreneurs are chasing income instead of equity • The parenting framework that removes guilt without quitting the mission • How to stop "working harder" and start diagnosing what's broken • The difference between growth and scale (and why confusing them keeps you stuck) Not with SMART goals. Not with KPIs. Not with OKRs or any of that MBA bullshit. But with simple rules, clear scoreboards, and decisions you can actually live with. One line hit hard: "If you don't know what 'enough' is, you'll never feel like you're winning." This isn't theory. It's lived experience. Five exits. 20+ years. Millions made (and millions lost). And a framework that now runs: the business the money and the family (without everything bleeding into everything else). If you're building fast but feeling off… If money keeps increasing but peace doesn't… If you're winning on paper but questioning the cost… This episode is for you. Watch it slowly, and take notes. Then decide what enough actually means for you.

New Year promises are easy; systems that run while you live your life are rare. We dig into why so many financial resolutions fail—vague aims, overreach, and zero follow‑through—and replace them with small, automatic moves that compound into real progress. Instead of chasing motivation, we show how to set a single automated decision that saves, invests, or pays debt without daily willpower, then pair it with one leak you'll cut for good.We start by reframing the goal: don't say “save more,” schedule a 1 percent increase in your savings rate or 401(k) deferral by your next paycheck. Anchor to paycheck-sized actions like $400 per pay period, not big annual numbers that never get traction. From there, we cover the safety layer—why an emergency fund and targeted debt payoff matter most when your job feels uncertain—and how that buffer protects you from high-interest setbacks. The theme is consistency over heroics, automation over intention.Then we talk joy. Vacations and experiences belong inside a smart financial plan, not in the “maybe later” pile. Price the trip, automate the transfers, and enjoy the feeling of a fully paid getaway without the credit card hangover. We even share a story about advising a high-achiever to plan a vacation to prevent burnout, plus a practical way to include a friend by aligning costs up front. Guilt-free spending is earned through planning, not luck, and it's a powerful motivator to keep your system running.By the end, you'll have a simple playbook: set one automated increase, cut one leak, build your safety net, and fund joy on purpose. While you're busy working, playing, and resting, your money will be moving in the right direction by default. If this helped you rethink your approach to money, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review so more listeners can build systems that stick. Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Idaho Case: Kohberger's Motive & The Evidence That Sealed It  Truth or trial by error, was Kohberger in fact guilty? Was the evidence against Kohberger overwhelming? Would a jury have voted to convict after trial? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Alex Murdaugh case is entering one of its most explosive phases yet. South Carolina prosecutors have filed a massive 182-page brief urging the state supreme court to deny Murdaugh's push for a new trial — even as jury-tampering allegations against former court clerk Becky Hill continue to shake public confidence. In this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski breaks down how the State is framing Hill's alleged misconduct as “foolish and fleeting,” not something that could overturn a double-murder conviction. The prosecution argues that the evidence — the kennel video, the timeline, the lies — was so overwhelming that nothing Hill said could have changed the verdict. But the courtroom battle is only half the story. Tony, Stacy Cole, and Todd Michaels take listeners deep into Murdaugh's original trial performance, analyzing the psychological theater behind his testimony. From his emphatic denial — “I did not shoot my wife and son” — to the unconscious body language that contradicted him, Murdaugh's time on the stand revealed a man waging a desperate internal war. Nodding while denying guilt. Shifting explanations. A sudden admission he lied about being at the kennels. His “snot-cry” apology to Buster. His attempt to reframe decades of manipulation as addiction-driven paranoia. Was this grief? Guilt? Or the collapse of a lifelong pattern of control? We examine how his financial crimes, betrayals, and compulsive deceit shaped juror perception — and why prosecutors now insist that even if Hill crossed a line, Murdaugh crossed many more. With oral arguments expected this fall and a ruling likely in 2026, the South Carolina Supreme Court must now decide: was Hill's comment a harmless slip… or a judicial crack big enough to break the foundation of a historic conviction? #AlexMurdaugh #MurdaughTrial #MurdaughAppeal #JuryTampering #CourtroomDrama #TrueCrimeAnalysis #HiddenKillers #LegalUpdate #ForensicPsychology  Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

The Alex Murdaugh case is entering one of its most explosive phases yet. South Carolina prosecutors have filed a massive 182-page brief urging the state supreme court to deny Murdaugh's push for a new trial — even as jury-tampering allegations against former court clerk Becky Hill continue to shake public confidence. In this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski breaks down how the State is framing Hill's alleged misconduct as “foolish and fleeting,” not something that could overturn a double-murder conviction. The prosecution argues that the evidence — the kennel video, the timeline, the lies — was so overwhelming that nothing Hill said could have changed the verdict. But the courtroom battle is only half the story. Tony, Stacy Cole, and Todd Michaels take listeners deep into Murdaugh's original trial performance, analyzing the psychological theater behind his testimony. From his emphatic denial — “I did not shoot my wife and son” — to the unconscious body language that contradicted him, Murdaugh's time on the stand revealed a man waging a desperate internal war. Nodding while denying guilt. Shifting explanations. A sudden admission he lied about being at the kennels. His “snot-cry” apology to Buster. His attempt to reframe decades of manipulation as addiction-driven paranoia. Was this grief? Guilt? Or the collapse of a lifelong pattern of control? We examine how his financial crimes, betrayals, and compulsive deceit shaped juror perception — and why prosecutors now insist that even if Hill crossed a line, Murdaugh crossed many more. With oral arguments expected this fall and a ruling likely in 2026, the South Carolina Supreme Court must now decide: was Hill's comment a harmless slip… or a judicial crack big enough to break the foundation of a historic conviction? #AlexMurdaugh #MurdaughTrial #MurdaughAppeal #JuryTampering #CourtroomDrama #TrueCrimeAnalysis #HiddenKillers #LegalUpdate #ForensicPsychology  Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

For many mothers, plastic surgery isn't just a medical decision — it's a moral one.In this deeply honest and emotionally grounded episode of Plastic Surgery Uncensored, Dr. Rady Rahban sits down with a mother who never imagined she would consider surgery… let alone go through with it. She wasn't chasing perfection. She wasn't influenced by social media. She wasn't unhappy with her life. She was simply living in a body that no longer functioned the way it once did — after pregnancy, childbirth, and years of self-sacrifice.This episode explores the quiet guilt many women carry after becoming mothers:Am I selfish for wanting this? What will my husband think? My children? My community? My church?  Shouldn't gratitude be enough?Through the lens of severe diastasis recti and tummy tuck surgery, this conversation gently dismantles the idea that caring for your body somehow diminishes your worth as a mother, wife, or woman of faith. Instead, it reframes plastic surgery as something far more nuanced: a personal decision rooted in function, self-respect, and honesty. You'll hear about:Living for years with a body that looks “fine” on paper, but doesn't feel rightExhausting non-surgical fixes that don't work — and the disappointment that followsThe fear of being judged, even when no one is judging youWhy guilt often comes from our own inner voice, not our familiesHow choosing surgery didn't take anything away — but gave her life backThis episode isn't about vanity.It's about permission. Permission to want relief.Permission to want confidence.Permission to be a devoted mother and a woman who feels whole in her body. If you've ever felt torn between gratitude and longing…If you've delayed a decision because guilt felt louder than your needs…If you've wondered whether choosing yourself could actually make you a better, more present mother… This conversation is for you.✨ If you enjoyed this episode of Plastic Surgery Uncensored:✔️ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.✔️ Rate & Review—your feedback helps more people find us.✔️ Follow Dr. Rady Rahban across all platforms for daily insights, behind-the-scenes, and patient education:Instagram: @drradyrahbanTikTok: @radyrahbanMDYouTube: @Rady RahbanFacebook: @Rady Rahban✔️ Share this episode with someone considering plastic surgery—the right knowledge can save a life.

The Alex Murdaugh case is entering one of its most explosive phases yet. South Carolina prosecutors have filed a massive 182-page brief urging the state supreme court to deny Murdaugh's push for a new trial — even as jury-tampering allegations against former court clerk Becky Hill continue to shake public confidence. In this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski breaks down how the State is framing Hill's alleged misconduct as “foolish and fleeting,” not something that could overturn a double-murder conviction. The prosecution argues that the evidence — the kennel video, the timeline, the lies — was so overwhelming that nothing Hill said could have changed the verdict. But the courtroom battle is only half the story. Tony, Stacy Cole, and Todd Michaels take listeners deep into Murdaugh's original trial performance, analyzing the psychological theater behind his testimony. From his emphatic denial — “I did not shoot my wife and son” — to the unconscious body language that contradicted him, Murdaugh's time on the stand revealed a man waging a desperate internal war. Nodding while denying guilt. Shifting explanations. A sudden admission he lied about being at the kennels. His “snot-cry” apology to Buster. His attempt to reframe decades of manipulation as addiction-driven paranoia. Was this grief? Guilt? Or the collapse of a lifelong pattern of control? We examine how his financial crimes, betrayals, and compulsive deceit shaped juror perception — and why prosecutors now insist that even if Hill crossed a line, Murdaugh crossed many more. With oral arguments expected this fall and a ruling likely in 2026, the South Carolina Supreme Court must now decide: was Hill's comment a harmless slip… or a judicial crack big enough to break the foundation of a historic conviction? #AlexMurdaugh #MurdaughTrial #MurdaughAppeal #JuryTampering #CourtroomDrama #TrueCrimeAnalysis #HiddenKillers #LegalUpdate #ForensicPsychology  Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

The Alex Murdaugh case is entering one of its most explosive phases yet. South Carolina prosecutors have filed a massive 182-page brief urging the state supreme court to deny Murdaugh's push for a new trial — even as jury-tampering allegations against former court clerk Becky Hill continue to shake public confidence. In this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski breaks down how the State is framing Hill's alleged misconduct as “foolish and fleeting,” not something that could overturn a double-murder conviction. The prosecution argues that the evidence — the kennel video, the timeline, the lies — was so overwhelming that nothing Hill said could have changed the verdict. But the courtroom battle is only half the story. Tony, Stacy Cole, and Todd Michaels take listeners deep into Murdaugh's original trial performance, analyzing the psychological theater behind his testimony. From his emphatic denial — “I did not shoot my wife and son” — to the unconscious body language that contradicted him, Murdaugh's time on the stand revealed a man waging a desperate internal war. Nodding while denying guilt. Shifting explanations. A sudden admission he lied about being at the kennels. His “snot-cry” apology to Buster. His attempt to reframe decades of manipulation as addiction-driven paranoia. Was this grief? Guilt? Or the collapse of a lifelong pattern of control? We examine how his financial crimes, betrayals, and compulsive deceit shaped juror perception — and why prosecutors now insist that even if Hill crossed a line, Murdaugh crossed many more. With oral arguments expected this fall and a ruling likely in 2026, the South Carolina Supreme Court must now decide: was Hill's comment a harmless slip… or a judicial crack big enough to break the foundation of a historic conviction? #AlexMurdaugh #MurdaughTrial #MurdaughAppeal #JuryTampering #CourtroomDrama #TrueCrimeAnalysis #HiddenKillers #LegalUpdate #ForensicPsychology  Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

What happens when your soul knows the plan, but your mind wants certainty? In this episode, I sit down with Heather Posey-Ware to explore healing across lifetimes, guilt, abandonment wounds, and why we test love when we do not feel worthy of receiving it. Together, we talk about listening to the soul's voice, choosing yourself even when it is uncomfortable, and understanding that your struggles are not failures but powerful invitations to grow. This episode is a reminder that healing asks for honesty, self compassion, and the courage to trust what your heart already knows. Subscribe to the Heart AF Podcast for more heart led conversations on healing, boundaries, and creating a life with more joy, ease, and freedom. Key Take-aways Your soul knows the plan even when your mind wants control Guilt and conditional love shape how we give and receive love You cannot escape soul lessons Healing requires self compassion and honesty Choosing yourself creates deeper freedom and alignment About the Guest Heather Posey-Ware Website: https://www.heatherposeyware.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/go2heather YouTube: https://youtube.com/@heatherposeyware Email Heather Posey-Ware: go2heather@icloud.com Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelsea.vanbuskirk Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chelsea.vanbuskirk

You just went about your life." Now, I'm not trying to condemn you, but I am trying to bring you into reality. A little guilt is good. Guilt comes from the Holy Spirit, condemnation comes from Satan. I don't want you to be condemned but I do want you to help us.

In today's episode, Rachel breaks down one of the most common struggles high-achieving women face on their fitness journey: guilt after falling off the plan. Whether it's missed macros, skipped workouts, or a week of holiday chaos — the enemy loves to trap us in shame and spiral. But God offers a better way: grace-fueled correction, not condemnation. This episode will empower you to break the guilt loop and choose the GRACE RESET — a practical, faith-forward strategy to get back on track with clarity, confidence, and conviction. What You'll Learn: The difference between conviction (God) and condemnation (the enemy) Why guilt often leads to paralysis — and how to escape it The mindset reframe: “I'm not starting over — I'm picking back up” Rachel's personal story about holiday setbacks and how she reset The spiritual truth that frees you from performance-based pressure What to do TODAY if you feel behind, ashamed, or off track Scripture Reference: ➤ Romans 8:1 — "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." ➤ Isaiah 30:21 — “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” Take Action: ✔️ Name the guilt. ✔️ Rebuke the lie. ✔️ Receive grace. ✔️ Restart the system. You don't need to punish yourself to be worthy of progress. You just need to walk back into alignment. Resources Mentioned: → Join the GRIT & GRACE Competition Team: www.rachelrampton.com → Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrampton_ → Listen to more episodes: The Rachel Rampton Show Connect + Share: Loved this episode?

Megan chats with Chanda Coston about building real success without burnout and why hustle culture is not worth the price. Chanda Coston is a U.S. Navy Veteran, Business Strategist, and Founder of Chanda Co., where she helps entrepreneurs build profitable, purpose-driven businesses without sacrificing peace or passion. With over 20 years of leadership experience and a background in project management, she teaches systems, mindset, and strategy that enable creative professionals, like food bloggers, to grow sustainably, delegate effectively, and avoid burnout. Her coaching blends structure and soul, because clarity and calm are the ultimate success tools. Burnout is not a badge of honor. In this episode, Chanda breaks down what sustainable success actually looks like and why systems, boundaries, and self trust matter more than working harder. This conversation is a reset for anyone who feels overwhelmed, reactive, or constantly behind. Key Topics Discussed: Burnout is a warning, not a requirement: If your business only works when you are exhausted, something is broken and it is not you. Mindset comes before strategy: No system will stick if you believe rest equals failure or productivity defines your worth. Self awareness changes everything: Learning your personal burnout cues helps you intervene before things spiral. CEO themed days create clarity: Structuring your week around focus areas removes daily decision fatigue. Boundaries protect your energy: Time blocks only work when you are willing to turn things off and say no. Delegation is not optional for growth: If you are the single point of failure, your business cannot scale. Guilt is not a good decision maker: Especially for moms, choosing yourself now creates a better future for everyone. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 642: Strategies for Sustainable Content Creation – How to Avoid Burnout as a Creator and Business Owner Connect with Chanda Coston Website | Instagram Ready to crush your biggest goals? Get Chanda's free ebook!

The negative emotions that can accompany motherhood take many women by surprise. In this episode of the Awaken Your Wise Woman podcast, host Elizabeth Cush and Jess Althoff talk about how highly sensitive women can manage the overwhelm. “We are breathing all the time, but most of us aren't breathing correctly, and most of us aren't using our breath in ways that are beneficial to us.”  — Jess AlthoffExhaustion. Frustration. Overwhelm. Self-doubt. Anxiety. Guilt. Irritability. Even rage. No matter how much you wanted to be a mother, you may have been blindsided by the negative emotions that nobody warned you about. In this episode of Awaken Your Wise Woman, host Biz Cush, LCPC, a licensed professional therapist, founder of Progression Counseling in Maryland and Delaware, and soul guide for highly sensitive women, welcomes Jess Althoff, author of the blog “Raising Slow,” for a talk about postpartum anxiety and rage, and the importance of self-care techniques like meditation and breathwork in managing mental health. They also share their own experiences, as well as practical tips and techniques that can help mothers and other highly sensitive women get in touch with their bodies, reduce irritability, You can find the full show notes and resources here.Support the showI hope you enjoyed the show! You can also follow me here: Instagram YouTube Facebook

In this episode of the Coach Cody Podcast (Stress Series), we break down what “rest” actually means — because most people aren't resting, they're just checking out.You'll learn the difference between fake rest (doom scrolling, numbing out, lying down while your brain is still sprinting) and real rest (downshifting your nervous system so you actually feel restored). We talk about why rest feels so hard when your identity is tied to being productive, how fear of falling behind keeps you stuck, and why “stay hard” motivation can be the worst thing for anxious, high-achieving people.We also give simple, realistic takeaways you can use this week:how to define rest for youhow to set a non-negotiable rest blockhow to choose a “no productivity allowed” activitya simple rule for when your body is clearly wreckedIf you've been running on fumes and calling it discipline… this one's for you.If you would like to hire me as your coach apply here! www.codyharman.com

Watch the full episode with Aaron Abke here: https://youtu.be/R2EMh58j5_0Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/inspiredevolution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to my Morning Monologue: I'm sharing my take on pressing issues, enlightening research on human behavior, answering questions I get by email, and my favorite, most instructive interactions with callers. Everything you'll hear is designed to help you become a better spouse, parent, family member, co-worker, friend, and human being. It's the free therapy you need! Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Renee Swanson discusses the challenges of navigating holidays with a covert narcissist, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on family members. She explores the concept of survival in these relationships, the importance of self-care, and encourages listeners to shift from merely surviving to thriving in their lives. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and understanding of emotional manipulation, and the significance of prioritizing one's own well-being. Takeaways: The holidays with a covert narcissist feel like survival, not joy. Emotional preparation is necessary for family gatherings. The cost of not trying to manage the environment is too high. Self-care is essential and not selfish. Surviving the holidays does not equate to feeling fulfilled. Emotional containment is an invisible burden. A calm holiday does not mean peace in the heart. Self-care allows for better relationships with others. Guilt often stems from external blame, not personal failure. Moving from survival to thriving is a vital journey. DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY RENEE SWANSON, COVERT NARCISSISM PODCAST, AND CNG LIFE COACHING IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE USED FOR DIAGNOSIS PURPOSES AND NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR CLINICAL CARE. PLEASE CONSULT A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. THIS MATERIAL DISCUSSES NARCISSISM IN GENERAL. RENEE SHARES STORIES FROM HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCES AS WELL AS FROM THOSE SHE HAS TALKED WITH FOR SEVERAL YEARS. HER MATERIAL DOES NOT CLAIM THAT ANY SPECIFIC PERSON HAS NARCISSISM AND SHOULD NOT BE USED TO REFER TO ANY SPECIFIC PERSON AS HAVING NARCISSISM. PERMISSION IS NOT GRANTED TO LINK TO OR REPOST THIS MATERIAL TO SUPPORT AN ALLEGATION OR SUPPORT A CLAIM THAT ANY SPECIFIC PERSON IS A NARCISSIST. THAT WOULD BE AN UNAUTHORIZED MISUSE OF THE MATERIAL AND INFORMATION PROVIDED. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For our year-end discussion of 2025 books, we're joined by Locus reviewers Ian Mond and Alex Pierce, and distinguished critic and novelist James Bradley. As usual, we mention a lot of authors and titles, and probably forget to mention many deserving others. But you'll no doubt find some suggestions you hadn't thought of, and some of our usual digressions about familiar questions of genre, literary ambition, and books that at least some of us think have been overlooked. Alex's list Adrian Tchaikovsky, Shroud Claire North, Slow Gods Darkly Lem, Transmentation | Transgression EJ Swift, When There Are Wolves Again Alastair Reynolds, Halcyon Years Emily Tesh, The Incandescent The Isle in the Silver Sea, Tasha Surii Ian's list Mark Danielewski, Tom's Crossing Alex Pheby, Waterblack Isaac Fellman, Notes from a Regicide Nnedi Okorafor, Death of the Author Nick Mamatas, Kalivas! James's list Claire North, Slow Gods EJ Swift, When There Are Wolves Again Laila Lalami, The Dream Hotel Nina Allan, A Granite Silence Sarah Hall, Helm Catherine Chidgey, The Book of Guilt. Gary's list Alix Harrow, The Everlasting Laila Lalami, The Dream Hotel Natalia Theodoridou, Sour Cherry R.F. Kuang, Katabasis Silvia Moreno-Garcia, The Bewitching Jonathan's list Alix E. Harrow, The Everlasting EJ Swift, When There Are Wolves Again Emily Tesh, The Incandescent Nina Allan, A Granite Silence Silvia Park, Luminous After a very busy end of the year, that's the final episode for 2025. See you all in early 2026 with something new! And thank you to Alex, Ian, and James for making time to talk to us. We hope you enjoy the episode.  

Ah, there you are, my dear. Unknown Broadcast returns with old-time radio horror stories, classic OTR ghost tales, and radio suspense for these last nights before New Year's Eve—when clocks get louder and promises come due. Sit close to the speaker and let the tubes warm. Inside tonight's program:

In this episode, host Marianne Sciucco and acquisitions editor Sheila Luna sit down with Shari Ross, a senior healthcare professional and author of “Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E.: A Real World Guide for Navigating Senior Care for Your Loved One.” Shari's expertise spans her professional experience in senior living communities and her personal connection to dementia through family. This conversation explores the emotional, practical, and logistical challenges families face when transitioning loved ones to senior living, with a focus on memory care, language barriers, and advocacy. In this episode: Shari discusses her background as a senior healthcare specialist, working in senior living communities, and her personal caregiving experience with her grandmother.She provides an overview of her new guide, “Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E.,” and how it can help make senior living transitions easier for all.The book's conversational, relatable, and honest approach to guiding families through the overwhelming senior care landscape is discussedShari's “S.I.M.P.L.E.” framework is explained: Support, Information, Matching, Preparation, Letting Go, Engagement.In addition, Shari reframes the “new” memory Care CommunitiesThe importance of language—using terms like “community” and “neighborhood” to foster warmth and reduce stigma.Shari provides pointers on transitioning to Community LivingWhy adult children and spouses often find themselves overwhelmed and unsure where to start, and how to approach those milestones.The need to tour and “feel the vibe,” prioritize care and community over aesthetics.The power of social engagement, good nutrition, and routine in enhancing quality of life. Aging in Place vs. Senior Living The hidden burdens and risks of managing aging at home—care coordination, safety concerns, and social isolation.Shari's research: Most homes aren't designed for aging adults; successful “aging in place” requires massive support.Community living can provide more safety, social interaction, and peace of mind for both loved ones and families. Buy Shari's book here Learn more about Shari Ross and her resources and services at seniorlivingmadesimple.com. Key Quotes: “Memory care is not a punishment; it's a lifeline.”“Independence without a support net is just a slow-motion disaster.”“Be observant, be vocal, and trust your gut.” Connect with AlzAuthors: Subscribe to the PodcastJoin the NewsletterFollow on YouTube About the Moderator Marianne Sciucco About the Podcast  AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don't miss a word. If our authors' stories move you, please leave a review. And don't forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer's and other dementias.  Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here. Thanks for listening. We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org Want to be on the podcast? Here's what you need to know    We've got merch! Shop our Store

Join the New Year Reset! We start January 5th: https://mindin-my-wellness.captivate.fm/reset26You don't need a “new year, new you” moment to lean out and feel confident going into 2026. If you've made it through the busiest, messiest months of the year and you're still here showing up, this coaching chat is your pause button. I'm walking you through how I would personally enter 2026 if my goal was to lean out without pressure, guilt, or starting over. This is about reflecting differently, noticing what actually worked, and using those small wins as your momentum instead of fixating on what wasn't perfect.In this final episode of the Holiday Eating Series, I guide you through three simple but powerful reflection questions that help you close out the year feeling proud instead of panicked. We talk about what habits felt easy and sustainable, what you can carry forward into the new year, and what you can finally leave behind in 2025, like guilt, perfectionism, and the constant pressure to do it all right.By the end, you'll feel calm, clear, and deeply reassured that you never stopped making progress and that the foundation you built this season is exactly what will carry you into your strongest year yet. Hit play and let's finish this year on purpose.And, if this resonated and you're ready to enjoy the holidays without sacrificing your body goals, download your FREE Holiday Eating Roadmap here: https://mindin-my-wellness.captivate.fm/roadmap1:15 – The Downside of “All or Nothing” Thinking After the Holidays1:55 – Why Small, Sustainable Habits Matter More Than Perfection6:02 – The Simple Reflection Questions That Help You Build Momentum5:19 – Why You Should Celebrate Tiny Wins Not Just Big Ones7:59 – How Letting Go of Guilt and Perfectionism Sets You Up for Success10:00 – You Don't Need a “New Year, New You”—Consistency Is Built on What's Already WorkingOther Episodes You'll Love:Episode 128: HOT TAKE: Should You Be Adding Salt or Electrolytes to Your Water?Episode 139: Why Starting Over in January Keeps You Stuck (Do THIS simple reset to stay consistent all season!) | HOLIDAY EATING SERIESEpisode 140: How to Create a Flexible Holiday Eating Routine So You Can Enjoy the Season Without Stressing About Weight Gain | HOLIDAY EATING SERIESEpisode 141: How to Quickly Stop the I'll Start Over on January 1st Mentality (Try THIS Before You Spiral!) | HOLIDAY EATING SERIESEpisode 142: The Two Ingredients That Make Holiday Eating So Much Easier | HOLIDAY EATING SERIES

Let's sit down and sift through the evidence in the murder of Scott Macklem. We will also read some communications we recently received from Temujin Kensu. Find discounts for Murder Sheet listeners here: https://murdersheetpodcast.com/discountsCheck out our upcoming book events and get links to buy tickets here: https://murdersheetpodcast.com/eventsOrder our book on Delphi here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/shadow-of-the-bridge-the-delphi-murders-and-the-dark-side-of-the-american-heartland-aine-cain/21866881?ean=9781639369232Or here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Shadow-of-the-Bridge/Aine-Cain/9781639369232Or here: https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Bridge-Murders-American-Heartland/dp/1639369236Join our Patreon here! https://www.patreon.com/c/murdersheetSupport The Murder Sheet by buying a t-shirt here: https://www.murdersheetshop.com/Check out more inclusive sizing and t-shirt and merchandising options here: https://themurdersheet.dashery.com/Send tips to murdersheet@gmail.com.The Murder Sheet is a production of Mystery Sheet LLC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode lands on December twenty fifth for a reason. When the world is loud and crowded we introverts often feel surrounded by it as though it's out there rather than in here. We crave quiet yet feel guilty for needing it. I want to be clear that our need for solitude is not a flaw or indulgence. It is a physiological and neurological requirement. When we ignore it we do not just feel tired we lose ourselves. This episode is your permission slip to step back without apology. Solitude is not optional maintenance. It is sacred fuel that allows us to live and lead as who we truly are.   ** Key Points ** Solitude is essential fuel Guilt is conditioning Quiet restores clarity   #SacredSolitude #Introverts #FlourishingIntroverts   *** Resources *** Visit https://hub.flourishingintroverts.com/resourcesp for tools and resources mentioned during the podcast.

Website: https://bit.ly/3iTrTHQ Apply for a Free Porn Addiction Evaluation Call: https://bit.ly/3gCemT1 Free Ebook:  https://bit.ly/3OQrOoF Free 7-Day Challenge:  https://bit.ly/ER7DayChallenge

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hJO4ofx6VU Podcast audio: In this episode of The Ayn Rand Institute Podcast, originally released on December 23, 2024, Ben Bayer and Agustina Vergara Cid explore the true meaning of Christmas by examining the history and philosophical significance of our holiday practices. Among the topics covered: The secular meaning of Christmas; A proper view of Christmas's commercial aspects;   Why some people are antagonistic towards the Christmas spirit;   How the doctrine of original sin undermines Christmas joy. Mentioned in this podcast are Ben Bayer's articles “Give the Gift of a Guilt-Free Christmas” and “The Meaningful Delights of a Worldly Christmas"  and Onkar Ghate's essay “An Atheist's Tribute to Christmas”. This podcast was recorded on December 18, 2024 and released on December 23, 2024. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Watch archived podcasts here.

Send us a textThe holidays don't have to be a choice between joy and well-being. We invite you into a cozy Christmas Eve conversation that blends candlelight traditions with clear, doable strategies for eating well, staying energized, and sleeping better. From a nourishing breakfast to a colorful plate at dinner, you'll learn how to slow down and savor your favorites.We also share a one-minute breathing reset to melt stress and a warm, cinnamon baked apples recipe that makes your home smell like the season while keeping nutrition front and center.If you're ready for a holiday that feels lighter, kinder, and more intentional, press play and join us by the tree lights.Support the show

Jill Ford never expected to find herself in prison. Entrepreneurial from a young age, she built a successful business fueled by ambition and growth — but overspending and financial pressure during the pandemic led her to fraudulently use pandemic relief loans, ultimately resulting in federal charges and prison time in Texas. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, Jill opens up about the decisions that changed her life, what federal prison was really like, and how incarceration forced a complete reset. She also shares firsthand insight into serving time alongside Elizabeth Holmes and Jen Shah, offering a raw, cautionary story about ambition, consequences, and rebuilding after prison. _____________________________________________ #TrueCrime #FederalPrison #Fraud #PrisonStory #CrimeAndPunishment #ExCon #PrisonLife #truecrimestory _____________________________________________ Thank you to FRONTLINE HEALING FOUNDATION for sponsoring this episode: Visit https://frontlinehealingfoundation.org/ to donate or share their mission. Connect with Jill Ford: Tik Tok: BitcoinJill Instagram: BitcoinJill X: BitcoinJill Youtube: orangeisthenewjill Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ Shop Locked In Merch: http://www.ianbick.com/shop _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 The Moment Everything Changed 03:38 Inside a Women's Federal Prison Camp 07:20 Starting a Podcast After Prison 10:10 Federal Restitution, Debt & Financial Consequences 15:40 Family Background & Work Ethic Growing Up 20:49 High School, College & Early Ambition 25:18 Marriage, Career Beginnings & Becoming a Mother 27:55 Building a Successful Online Apparel Business 30:43 Business Mistakes, Debt & Financial Collapse 36:34 COVID Loans, Desperation & Criminal Decisions 41:01 Bankruptcy, Legal Pressure & Losing Everything 49:36 Federal Investigation & Realizing Prison Was Coming 55:00 Guilt, Family Impact & Facing Federal Charges 01:00:38 Entering Bitcoin & Trying to Start Over 01:04:42 Indictment, Pretrial Release & Plea Deal 01:10:07 Sentencing Day: Shock, Fear & Reality 01:13:52 Divorce, Family Breakdown & Rebuilding Trust 01:16:11 Self-Surrender & First Days in Federal Prison 01:20:00 Daily Life Inside Prison Camp 01:27:00 Notable Inmates & Unexpected Prison Encounters 01:34:13 Prison vs. Halfway House: Release Explained 01:39:02 Probation, Supervised Release & Life After Prison 01:42:20 Healing, Accountability & Advice for the Future Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Weekly Energy Boost, we explore a powerful spiritual reframe: our mistakes are not interruptions to our growth, but an essential part of it. Drawing on timeless teachings, we uncover how moments of falling short, missteps, and perceived failures are divinely woven into our soul's journey—designed to awaken deeper awareness, humility, and strength.This conversation offers practical and inspiring guidance on how to heal past failures not by reliving them, but by transforming our behavior in the present. We discuss how self-judgment keeps us stuck, while conscious action opens the door to repair, clarity, and renewed purpose.If you've been carrying regret, self-blame, or the feeling that you've gone “off track,” this episode is an invitation to release the inner critic and reconnect with a life that feels guided, supported, and infused with the Light of the Creator. Your past does not define you—your next choice does. Join us for the next episode of Weekly Energy Boost with @ElishevaBalas and @EitanYardeni. Watch LIVE Sundays at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET on The Kabbalah Centre YouTube or catch the latest episode wherever you listen to podcasts. Find out more about our work, dig into our archives, and send us a message at: www.weeklyenergyboost.com.You can also help make Weekly Energy Boost possible by making a tax-deductible contribution at www.weeklyenergyboost.com/donate-today.

After spending hours and hours wrapping gifts this weekend, Amy and T.J. have an honest conversation about the amount pf presents under the tree this year. Turns out “guilt giving” is a fairly common response with divorced and blended families, parents trying to make up for the loss of a sense of normalcy for their children. We have the red flags you should watch out for and an incredibly helpful guide on how to navigate the holidays with what’s called “The 5 Gift Rule.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After spending hours and hours wrapping gifts this weekend, Amy and T.J. have an honest conversation about the amount pf presents under the tree this year. Turns out “guilt giving” is a fairly common response with divorced and blended families, parents trying to make up for the loss of a sense of normalcy for their children. We have the red flags you should watch out for and an incredibly helpful guide on how to navigate the holidays with what’s called “The 5 Gift Rule.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After spending hours and hours wrapping gifts this weekend, Amy and T.J. have an honest conversation about the amount pf presents under the tree this year. Turns out “guilt giving” is a fairly common response with divorced and blended families, parents trying to make up for the loss of a sense of normalcy for their children. We have the red flags you should watch out for and an incredibly helpful guide on how to navigate the holidays with what’s called “The 5 Gift Rule.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to my Morning Monologue: I'm sharing my take on pressing issues, enlightening research on human behavior, answering questions I get by email, and my favorite, most instructive interactions with callers. Everything you'll hear is designed to help you become a better spouse, parent, family member, co-worker, friend, and human being. It's the free therapy you need! Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Holiday sprint mode is in full effect: Dani's juggling a Fredericksburg wedding weekend, then flying straight to Nashville for a school tour in actual cold weather, plus a last minute “festive casual” movie premiere invite that sent her into a spiral. Then it turns into a full Holiday Hotline on parenting guilt: what to do when your kid starts questioning Santa, why Elf on the Shelf pressure makes moms feel like they're failing, and how the “Santa's watching” Q4 threats might be doing more harm than good. We scored some great deals with a few of our favorite brands for our listeners: Own your health for $365 a year. That's a dollar a day. Learn more and join using our/my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/DANI or use gift code DAN/25 for a $25 credit towards your membership. Visit evlofitness.com and use code DANI for 6 weeks free. You get a free two week trial, plus your first month at $0 For 55% off your order + FREE shipping, head to NurtureLife.com/DEINFLUENCED and use code DEINFLUENCED Modern-day makeup that's clean, strategic, and multifunctional for effortless routines. For a limited time our listeners are getting a free Cool Gloss on their first purchase when they use code DANI at checkout. Just head to Jonesroadbeauty.com and use code DANI at checkout Don't let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code DANI at monarchmoney.com in your browser for half off your first year. Go to https://OmahaSteaks.com to get 50% off site wide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And use code DEINFLUENCED at checkout for an extra $35 off. Minimum purchase may apply. See site for details. A big thanks to our advertiser, Omaha Steaks! Make sure you're subscribed to our official channel on YouTube, @deinfluencedpodcast, and follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your De-Influenced fix! Stay connected with us on Instagram and TikTok @deinfluencedpodcast, and as always thank you for being a part of this journey. Produced by Dear Media

Turkel reveals he was born in a re-education camp during the Cultural Revolution, where his mother faced abuse for "guilt by association." He draws parallels between that era and today, explaining how intellectualism and foreign connections are still criminalized to justify the mass internment of Uyghurs. 1900 BOXERS