Podcasts about Hampton Roads

Garrett sits down with 18-year-old real estate professional Grayson James—son of industry leader Jared James—for a powerful conversation about growing up in a real estate family, developing hunger without hardship, and building a business that aligns with faith, purpose, and legacy.Grayson shares how intentional parenting, biblical values, and connection to his father's mission shaped his mindset. From his ISA experience at 17 to launching his business in a brand-new market, Grayson offers practical advice for agents seeking to grow with both grit and grace.What You'll Learn:• How to raise entrepreneurial, faith-filled kids as a busy real estate parent• The power of showing up for “the little moments” with your family• What motivates Gen Z agents to get into real estate—and how they're thinking differently• Why cold calling still works (and how to start from zero)• How to respond to objections like “Aren't you too young to be my agent?”• Why every strategy is just a funnel to relationships—and relationships are what convert• What it means to connect your work to your calling as a Christian agentRate & Review:Enjoyed the show? Tap 5 stars and leave a review so more Christian agents can build their businesses with eternal impact.

Another View celebrated Juneteenth, the federal holiday that pays tribute to the day that the last enslaved persons in Texas finally got the news that they were free! To celebrate, we invited our listeners to join us as we broadcast live from our studio and the parking lot! We had food trucks, Juneteenth stories by acclaimed storyteller Amy Johnson, a historian, and Another View producer Lisa Godley spoke with Dr. Derrick Lanois, who shared some interesting facts about Juneteenth and its history!

The real estate industry has conditioned us to tie our worth to production. We chase closings, crave recognition, and ride the emotional rollercoaster of the next lead. But here's the truth: you are not your numbers. You're not your commission. You're not your latest scoreboard. You are a child of God. Your identity was secure long before you ever sold a house. Real estate is what you do—not who you are.EPISODE: Why You're Still Hustling Like It's 2016Resources & Opportunities:

At Chesapeake's event, hundreds of protesters fed up with President Donald Trump made their voices heard.

The groups worry the Corps' pending approval of a project in Prince George County could upend the legal mechanism that protects wetlands in Hampton Roads.

Garrett challenges the myth that success in real estate requires following someone else's formula. Instead, he empowers Christian agents to embrace the unique way God designed them to work, serve, and succeed.Garrett unpacks the concept of your “opportunity zone”—where your past wins, natural wiring, and God-given gifts align—and encourages agents to focus on purpose over performance. This episode is a reminder that you were never meant to fit the mold—you were made to reflect His design.Whether you're new to the industry or feeling burned out by comparison, this message will refocus you on what truly matters: living out your calling with clarity, excellence, and community support.

June 19, or Juneteenth, is still a federal holiday, yet some states are scaling back, or even canceling, celebratory events out of concern that they may defy the Trump administration's ban on diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI. How will this impact the Black community in particular, and our society as a whole? Another View Round Table pundits Daun Hester, Gaylene Kanoyton, Allison Moore, and Bill Curtis weigh in on this and other current events.

Title: Languaging in Hampton RoadsEpisode 17: Third Culture KidsHosts: Jill Winkowski and Prue SalaskyDate: June 13, 2025Length: 26:10In this episode of Languaging in Hampton Roads, co-hosts Jill Winkowski and Prue Salasky talk with Molly Dye (Williamsburg/Richmond), Jody Conibear Tangredi (Virginia Beach), and Sina Whitley (Newport News) about their experiences growing up globally as Third Culture Kids. The term third culture kid (TCK) was coined by sociologist Ruth Useem in the 1950s, while she was studying the lives of Americans living and working in post-colonial India. While Useem was studying the cultural intersection of the professional lives of Indians and Americans, she noticed the unique situations of the children accompanying parents abroad. Third culture kid experiences vary but, commonly, they grow up outside of their parents' passport countries. Molly's father worked for the U.S. State Department and her family lived in Switzerland and Spain; Sina's parents taught for U.S. Department of Defense schools and her family lived in Cuba, Spain, England, and Japan; Jody's father worked for the oil industry, and she lived in Iran, Indonesia, Australia, and Singapore. Living in multiple countries as a child offers adventure and excitement. It also provides a way to experience different cultures and viewpoints during important formative years. Third culture kids can become very adaptable and commonly learn to understand many points of view. Jody, who not only is a third culture kid, but has also studied them, describes how TCK adaptability and ability to understand others' viewpoints makes them highly suitable for international careers. While growing up as a TCK has its up sides, the loss that TCKs experience over the years often goes unacknowledged. Moving from place to place, repeatedly saying goodbye to friends and having to make new ones and having to readjust to new languages, cultures, and systems can add up. TCKs don't always have permission or time to grieve their losses. Here in Hampton Roads, with one of the largest military communities in the United States and with multiple international organizations and industries, including an international port, the third culture kid childhood likely hits home. Third culture experiences aren't exclusive to moving from country to country. Children who move state to state with their parents' jobs also have to adjust to new cultural systems and to different ways of interacting and speaking. In this episode, we refer to a book: Third Culture Kids: Growing Up Among Worlds, by Ruth D van Reken, David C. Pollock, and Michael V. Pollock, Published: Nicholas Brealey America, 2009.  Send feedback, questions, ideas for topics to languaginghr@gmail.comWe are grateful to Carlene Klein-Bennett, who researched the topic and developed a questionnaire for and reachedout to local TCKs. Welcome to our summer interns: Sarah Phillips from ODU andKaitlyn Asato from CNU. Original music is by Skye Zentz; Our Languaging logo is byPatty McDonald. Languaging in Hampton Roads is written and produced by Prue Salasky and Jill Winkowski.

"Evidence: Coal Dust in Hampton Roads” will be on display at the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center through July 9.

Marie-Claire Evans is a singer/songwriter based in Roanoke, VA. Originally from Hampton Roads, she comes from a musical background of classical piano and vocal training but found a love for writing and performing indie/folk/rock music. Known for her wide vocal range and smoky lower register, her songs incorporate intimate lyrics and wistful melodies to produce a simultaneously powerful yet easy-listening experience for any audience to enjoy. When she isn't writing and performing, Marie-Claire spends her time coaching field hockey teams and reading as much as possible.

Explore how the StoryBrand framework can transform your real estate business. In Garrett's Skool call he unpacks how storytelling connects with clients, how to position yourself as a guide—not the hero—and why clarity in your messaging is critical for both impact and growth.From identifying your ideal client to crafting a clear action plan, Garrett shares real-life insights on how to serve first responder families and niche markets with empathy, authority, and Gospel-centered purpose.Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, this episode will help you simplify your marketing, clarify your message, and lead clients with confidence.

On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I'm joined by Rodney French for an in-depth look at the incredible freshwater fishing opportunities around the Norfolk and Virginia Beach area! From his early fishing roots to his passion for exploring untapped waters, Rodney shares his journey and breaks down some of the best fisheries in the region.We cover a wide range of hotspots including the Chowan River, Albemarle Sound, Back Bay, James River, Western Branch Reservoir, Lake Burnt Mills, Lake Lawson, Lake Smith, and more! Whether you're a local angler or planning a trip to southeastern Virginia, this episode is packed with local knowledge and tips you won't want to miss!

Dr. Kizart explains which biases most affect educators and why, identifies scenarios where bias governs decisions or behaviors, and offers strategies, tools and tips on how to manage and counteract educational bias. Plus, we pay tribute to the Honorable Judge Jerrauld Jones, a brilliant jurist and dedicated public servant, who passed away on May 31st.

The Navy is expanding well testing for so-called “forever chemicals” in Hampton Roads. WHRO Military Reporter Steve Walsh has the story.

Check the episode transcript hereABOUT CHRIS WILLIAMSChris A. Williams is a 25-year-old Owner of The Assets Real Estate Team/ Owner of 1st Class Real Estate Equity Group/ Real Estate Investor & Entrepreneur. He leads a top-ranked team responsible for representing buyers and sellers of distinguished properties throughout the Hampton Roads area. After years of being a Top Agent in his market, Chris started the Assets Real Estate Team. His goal is to train and empower others, regardless of appearance or background, to be dominant forces in the Real Estate industry and the biggest Asset to their clients. Today, Chris now specializes as a Real Estate Investor and teaches Real Estate Agents and new Real Estate Investors how to make their money.  THIS TOPIC IN A NUTSHELL: From Football Dreams to Real Estate HustleBreaking In During the COVID EraWorking hard vs. working smartBecoming a Team LeaderTraining and replicating success in new agentsTurning a stale listing into a successful dealCreative deal structuringStrategic Investment PhilosophyEvaluating each property's best useBuilding wealth with commission dollarsGiving Back Through EducationConnect with Chris  KEY QUOTE: “If I can replicate success with one person, I can replicate it with many.”  ABOUT THE WESTSIDE INVESTORS NETWORK   The Westside Investors Network is your community for investing knowledge for growth. For real estate professionals by real estate professionals. This show is focused on the next step in your career... investing, for those starting with nothing to multifamily syndication.     The Westside Investors Network strives to bring knowledge and education to real estate professionals that is seeking to gain more freedom in their life. The host AJ and Chris Shepard, are committed to sharing the wealth of knowledge that they have gained throughout the years to allow others the opportunity to learn and grow in their investing. They own Uptown Properties, a successful Property Management, and Brokerage Company. If you are interested in Property Management in the Portland Metro or Bend Metro Areas, please visit www.uptownpm.com. If you are interested in investing in multifamily syndication, please visit www.uptownsyndication.com.   #RealEstateInvesting #CreativeFinancing #SubjectToDeals #RealEstateAgentLife #BuyAndHold #RealEstateTeam #YoungInvestors #EntrepreneurMindset #FinancialFreedom #BuildingWealth #PassiveIncome #HouseHacking #FixAndFlip #WholesaleRealEstate #RealEstateCoach #RealEstateMentorship #SalesLeadership #LeadGeneration #RealEstateStrategies #AssetBuilding #RealEstateSuccess #ScalingRealEstate #REIBusiness #RealEstateBroker #LongTermWealth #InvestSmarter #StartYoung #CashFlowRealEstate #RealEstateKnowledge #PassiveIncome CONNECT WITH CHRIS:Website: https://www.iamchrisawilliams.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iamchrisawilliamsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamchrisawilliamsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamchrisawilliams    CONNECT WITH US   For more information about investing with AJ and Chris:  ·    Uptown Syndication | https://www.uptownsyndication.com/  ·    LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/71673294/admin/   For information on Portland Property Management:  ·    Uptown Properties | http://www.uptownpm.com  ·    Youtube | @UptownProperties     Westside Investors Network  ·    Website | https://www.westsideinvestorsnetwork.com/  ·    Twitter | https://twitter.com/WIN_pdx  ·    Instagram | @westsideinvestorsnetwork  ·    LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13949165/  ·    Facebook | @WestsideInvestorsNetwork  ·    Tiktok| @WestsideInvestorsNetwork  ·    Youtube | @WestsideInvestorsNetwork  

The grants would have funded work such as flood resilience at Historic Jamestown and dam improvements in Portsmouth.

Podcast: This week on the show we feature a pre-recorded conversation with Neil Douglas-Klotz about his latest book, The Aramaic Jesus Book of Days – 40 Days of Contemplation and Revelation, published this year by Hampton Roads. This latest volume offers new translations from Jesus' native language in the form of a meditation a day, an oracle, or a guide for a 40-day retreat. Through expansions of Aramaic's multiple meanings as well as guided contemplations, The Aramaic Jesus Book of Days provides a guide to transformation through the way of the prophet. It shows how the deepest teachings of Jesus address contemporary challenges, such as our relationships with nature and each other, as well as the purpose of life itself. In short chapters, the book takes up life themes you're facing and offers meditations to address them. Each chapter is introduced with a short saying and keyword of Jesus, heard with “Aramaic ears,” and then proceeds to show how this applies to a life issue today. This book offers a unique perspective on Jesus's teachings that can help you to connect with them on a deeper level and live a more authentic, fulfilling, and compassionate life. Neil Douglas-Klotz is an internationally known scholar in the fields connecting religious studies (comparative Semitic hermeneutics) and psychology as well as a poet and musician. He is the author of Revelations of the Aramaic Jesus, Prayers of the Cosmos, and The Hidden Gospel and coauthor of The Tent of Abraham with Sister Joan Chittister and Rabbi Arthur Waskow. He is the past chair of the Mysticism Group of the American Academy of Religion. More information about Neil Douglas-Klotz's work can be found at: The Abwoon Network website: abwoon.org, Dances of Universal Peace website: dancesofuniversalpeace.org, Neil Douglas-Klotz on Facebook: www.facebook.com, Neil Douglas-Klots on The Mystical Positivist - 2022: mysticalpositivist.blogspot.com, Neil Douglas-Klots on The Mystical Positivist - 2019: mysticalpositivist.blogspot.com.

Sunshine, surf and favorite eating spots bring more than just tourists to Hampton Roads from April through September.  That's when nesting, state-threatened and migratory birds are active in and around the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel.  For five years, bird monitors have been on duty to make sure the birds and the commonwealth's largest construction project can peacefully co-exist. Learn more about the monitors' work in the latest edition of HRBT TUNNEL TALK.

Dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI)—a tool that's revolutionizing real estate—but not without spiritual implications. In this timely episode of Garrett Maroon and Bianka Downs unpack this challenging topic.Together, they explore how Christian agents can engage with AI through the lens of faith, wisdom, and purpose. Bianca introduces her Soul Framework—Stewardship, Obedience, Understanding, and Love—as a biblical compass for integrating technology into business while staying anchored in Christ.If you've felt unsure about AI, this conversation will equip you with discernment, strategy, and peace as you explore the intersection of technology and theology.

In light of proposed changes to Medicaid and possibly other health care coverage, there is uncertainty about being able to afford medical treatment. Dr. Keith Newby reminds us that self-care is more important than ever, and shares tips on how we can take care of our health.

Nolly Swan is a recent graduate of the Clemson University Master's of Science in Historic Preservation program at the Clemson Design Center in Charleston, South Carolina. She is originally from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. This May, she published her graduate thesis titled "A Comparative Analysis of Cultural Preservation Focused Land-Use Regulations within the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor of South Carolina."Below is a link to her thesis statement:https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/4473/

New details are being released about a massive air strike by USS Truman as the strike group prepares to arrive in Hampton Roads. WHRO Military Reporter Steve Walsh has the story.

FOREVER (Netflix) : 5 Black Empowerment LessonsSeko Varner, the publisher of the Hampton Roads Greenbook, discusses the Netflix series Forever, stating he loved every moment of it despite not typically enjoying love stories. He strongly recommends watching it. Seko highlights five key aspects of black empowerment that he found within the show:•Timeliness and Standards: Seko relates a saying heard at Hampton University, "early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable," which is used in the film. He connects this to the standard empowered people rise to, emphasizing punctuality is important, especially "on your way up."•Imagery: He was deeply impressed by the artwork and decor in the male character's home, seeing it as an example of black excellence and a message about surrounding oneself with images of high achievement and self-expression.•Intimacy: While personally disliking scenes with actors depicted as teenagers, Seko found it significant that a character began taking intimacy "a lot more seriously" after a negative experience. He stresses that intimacy should be taken seriously for black empowerment in various relationships.•Education: Seko notes that Forever values education, not just traditional schooling but also learning trades, skills, and knowledge like music or athletics. He argues that taking education and learning seriously leads to "stronger empowerment" and "more opportunities."•Honesty: He observes that the main characters struggled with sharing deep concerns but found "freedom that came from being truthful and honest." Seko emphasizes that honesty, though difficult, is crucial for empowerment, bringing "freedom and... power."Beyond the film, Seko Varner is the publisher of the Hampton Roads Greenbook. He describes it as an online directory, website, and app created to spotlight black-owned businesses, organizations, and professionals in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, including cities like Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Newport News, Hampton, and also Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Franklin. Seko encourages viewers to share other empowerment messages they found in Forever.Empower Consciousness: Note - The Get On Code: Our Black Empowerment channel hosts content that may not represent the views, opinions, and positions of the platform owners, participants, or partners. Get On Code, share the code, teach the code, become the code. Our code is empowerment. Focused on #Empowerment, and passionate about #BlackEmpowerment, the Get On Code : Our Black Empowerment platform, is built on the #EmpowermentAgenda .

How can Christian entrepreneurs can eliminate distractions, escape comparison, and focus on what truly matters? Garrett is joined today by Matt Farnham and together, they challenge the hustle narrative by encouraging listeners to work from approval, not for it, and to focus their energy on what brings purpose, significance, and eternal value.From the tension between work and family to the trap of perfectionism and the power of divine appointments, this episode is a roadmap to purpose-driven living in business and beyond. Garrett and Matt also introduce the launch of the One Life Podcast, created to help Christians live intentionally and fully aligned with their calling.Key Takeaways:✅ Distraction is one of the enemy's greatest tools—eliminate it to refocus on what's eternal✅ Comparison culture robs contentment and clarity✅ Harmony, not balance, is the key to integrating work and family✅ You are already approved in Christ—work from that truth✅ Focus on things that make tomorrow better than today✅ Spiritual warfare often looks like busyness and perfectionism✅ Your God-given talents point to your unique calling✅ Delegation and simplicity can free you to focus on significance✅ Presence > proximity when it comes to family✅ Faith should anchor both personal and professional decisions✅ Divine appointments often require slowing down to notice✅ You don't retire from a life of purpose—you lean deeper into itEpisode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – Introduction to the One Life Journey

Renowned poets Tim Seibles and Steven Leyva are award winning poets. They share poems from their latest books, and discuss how this art expression can serve as both protest and comfort during these trying times!

Lynnhaven River Now has been working on a grant-funded effort to survey and remove derelict vessels in coastal Virginia.

Residential land prices in the southeast were twice as expensive as most of the rest of the United States last year.

Can you succeed in real estate and stay present for your family? In this episode of The Christian Agent Podcast, Garrett Maroon shares how to build a business that aligns with your faith, family, and priorities—without sacrificing success.Garrett unpacks core principles like the Hierarchy of Attention, the Rule of Eights, and how to choose lead generation strategies that align with who you are. With practical wisdom and biblical insight, this episode is a powerful reminder that you can win at work without losing what matters most.Key Takeaways:✅ True success doesn't require sacrificing family time✅ The Hierarchy of Attention helps prioritize God, spouse, and children✅ Quality of attention matters more than quantity✅ The Rule of Eights can guide rhythm and focus throughout your day✅ Stick to a few lead gen methods and master them with excellence✅ Authenticity attracts the right clients and builds lasting relationships✅ Know your numbers—track, measure, and lead with clarity✅ Create a daily rhythm that balances work and life✅ Rest is biblical—you can take time off when you've done the work✅ God's calling includes both your business and your homeEpisode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – Winning at Work Without Losing at Life

According to the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, one-in-nine Virginians experience food insecurity, meaning they are without adequate access to food, and many have no idea where their next meal is coming from. The same report says one-in-seven Virginia children live in food insecure households, and Black and Hispanic households are more than twice as likely to face food insecurity thanwhite households. Many people who need food turn to local food banks, but now the food banks are struggling to keep the shelves stacked. The reasons are many, including the influx of families needing services in light of federal job losses along with federal grant cuts by the Trump administration. It begs the question, “How are we going to feed those who are hungry?” We dive deeper into the issue and talk about solutions.

The Hampton Roads Lacrosse League's girls all-star game will be coached by an all-women staff for the first time on Saturday.

Norfolk is considered a national hotspot for sea level rise. Virginia researchers say cities further south are starting to catch up.

Three years after a cluster of suicides in Hampton Roads, the Inspector General found many Navy commands still don't have crisis plans in place. WHRO Military Reporter Steve Walsh has the story.

The tax credits reward homeowners and businesses for investments including electric cars, solar panels and energy efficiency upgrades.

Challenging the belief that real estate agents have to be stuck in the grind of selling homes forever, Garrett pushes against the industry normal. Instead, he casts vision for a better way to do business—one that prioritizes legacy, collaboration, wealth-building, and Kingdom impact.Garrett explores the importance of having a clear exit strategy, why the traditional brokerage model often limits agents, and how new opportunities like revenue share, stock ownership, and agent collaboration can free you to live more purposefully. With a strong faith foundation, this episode equips Christian agents to think beyond the next deal and toward building something eternal through mentoring and serving others.Key Takeaways:✅ You don't have to sell homes forever—create an exit strategy✅ Most agents don't plan for the long-term or legacy✅ Traditional models often benefit brokers more than agents✅ Revenue share and stock options offer new paths to freedom✅ Collaboration > competition in this new model of business✅ You can build wealth while serving others in your industry✅ Ask: What is the Lord calling you to build?✅ Legacy is built through mentoring and multiplying✅ Real estate should be a vehicle, not a trap✅ There is a better way to grow in real estateEpisode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – Why Every Agent Needs an Exit Strategy

On May 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled "Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Biased Media," which calls for the Corporation of Public Broadcasting to "cease direct funding to NPR and PBS, consistent with my Administration's policy to ensure that Federal funding does not support biased and partisan news coverage. The CPB Board shall cancel existing direct funding to the maximum extent allowed by law and shall decline to provide future funding." The order also directs federal agencies to review and eliminate any existing grants or contracts that provide funding to NPR and PBS. What will be the impact to WHRO Public Media and other local PBS and NPR stations in Virginia and across the nation? Top leadership at WHRO provide insight, perspective and answers to your questions.

Summary: * Leslie Brennan shares her personal journey of faith and resilience, focusing on her experiences with loss and uncertainty. * She discusses her family dynamics, including blending families and dealing with her husband's past drug addiction. * Leslie recounts the initial shock and self-blame she felt upon discovering her husband's addiction. * She describes the challenges of handling financial instability and maintaining family life during her husband's addiction and subsequent recovery. * Leslie emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, and support from her family and community in overcoming life's challenges. * She details the process of moving from questioning God's plans to embracing His purpose for her struggles. * Leslie's story includes significant health challenges her family faced, including her husband's motorcycle accident leading to amputation and a subsequent stroke. * She explains how these experiences have strengthened her faith and relationship with God, highlighting moments of divine intervention and grace. * Leslie shares her journey through therapy and healing, discovering her self-worth and identity in Christ. * She is now focused on sharing her story to help others, writing a book, and engaging in public speaking to inspire and encourage those facing similar challenges. PODCAST INTRO: In the face of life's most challenging storms, it's often the faith journeys of resilience that inspire us to keep moving forward. Leslie Brennan's journey, as shared on this podcast episode, paints a vivid picture of how faith in the God of the Holy Bible, His grace, and our perseverance/our faith can transform even the darkest moments into a testament of hope and healing. A faith journey that transformed Leslie's heart, her perspective and her future as she transitioned from, “Why God!” to “How can You use this God?” Embracing the Unexpected Leslie's story begins with the revelation of her husband's drug addiction, a discovery that initially left her questioning her own role in the unfolding chaos. The initial blame, filtered through past trauma, led her to believe she was somehow responsible for the turmoil. However, it was through this painful revelation that Leslie began to see the bigger picture: a journey of faith that would lead her from self-blame to a deeper understanding of God's purpose and His extravagant love. A Journey of Faith and Healing Leslie emphasizes the importance of not abandoning faith, even when life's challenges seem insurmountable. Her husband's addiction, his process to overcome his addiction…and later, separate from any addiction issues, his motorcycle accident that resulted in the loss of his leg, these were pivotal moments that tested their marriage and her faith. Then two years after the motorcycle accident her husband suffers a debilitating stroke brought on by an undetected fragmented bone that prohibited blood flow. Yet, it was through these trials that Leslie witnessed what she describes as "God's extravagant grace." The Power of Vulnerability and Sharing One of the most powerful aspects of Leslie's story is her willingness to be vulnerable and share her journey with others and her story serves as a reminder that our past mistakes and current struggles do not define us; rather, they become a part of the larger narrative of redemption and grace as God brings us inner healing, clarity and purpose to our lives.  A Testament to God's Grace Despite the challenges and heartaches, Leslie has emerged with a stronger faith and a renewed sense of identity. Her journey from questioning "why" to embracing "how" God will use her experiences for good exemplifies a profound shift in perspective that many of us strive for. As she continues to navigate life's uncertainties, Leslie's faith remains her anchor. Her story encourages us all to seek God's presence in our own trials and trust that He is writing an overarching love story with us, one of redemption, healing, purpose and hope. In sharing her journey, Leslie invites us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can find grace and strength in the midst of our personal storms.  Listen in and discover Leslies' message that God uses every painful moment because no matter how dark the night, in God's hands there's always a breakthrough—a new beginning filled with the promise of God's unwavering love and grace.  Live Loved and Thrive! Sherrie Pilk Additional Blogs and/or Podcasts That Are Similar to This Topic: Navigating the Journey to Spiritual Maturity, with Dr. Sheila Jackson: https://alifeofthrive.com/2024/09/11/navigating-the-journey-to-spiritual-maturity-with-dr-sheila-jackson/ Healing is a Journey and You're Worth the Trip, with Taleah Pletzer: https://alifeofthrive.com/2024/12/18/healing-is-a-journey-and-youre-worth-the-trip-taleah-pletzer/ Spiritual Disciplines Can Heal and Transform, with Healey Ikerd: https://alifeofthrive.com/2024/06/19/spiritual-disciplines/ Turning Chaos Into Purpose, With Noah Asher: https://alifeofthrive.com/2024/03/13/turning-chaos-into-purpose-with-noah-asher/ Connect with Leslie: Website: https://lnk.bio/lesliebrennanspeaks Email: leslie@targethomegroup.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gracetogrowcircle/ Bio: Leslie Brennan is a passionate speaker, author, and Realtor® dedicated to helping others break free from past mistakes and step boldly into their God-given purpose. With raw authenticity and a powerful personal testimony, Leslie inspires audiences to embrace their true identity, overcome life's obstacles, and walk confidently in faith. As a trusted Realtor® in Hampton Roads, Virginia, Leslie helps families find the homes where their next chapter begins—serving with compassion, integrity, and a heart for healing. Whether from the stage, in her writing, or across the closing table, her mission is the same: to bring healing, hope, and lasting transformation to those ready to rewrite their story.

What happens when you stop striving and start surrendering? In this powerful episode of The Christian Agent Podcast, Garrett Maroon interviews Jess Munsterman, who shares her deeply personal journey of releasing control, embracing faith, and watching her real estate business grow as a result of surrender to God.Jess opens up about the misalignment she felt between her faith and her business, and how prayer, obedience, and intentional action changed everything. Together, they unpack what it means to lead with integrity, live out your beliefs in business, and trust God with both the process and the outcome. Jess also introduces her course, “Surrender to Scale,”created to help Christian agents bridge the gap between faith and business while scaling with purpose.Key Takeaways:✅ Surrender to scale is not a tactic—it's a lifestyle of faith and obedience.✅ Misalignment between your faith and work creates inner conflict.✅ Letting go of control and expectations opens the door to God's provision.✅ Prayer changed everything for Jess's business and mindset.✅ Obedience is active—surrender doesn't mean sitting still.✅ Your faith must be visible—people won't know unless you live it out.✅ Integrity means consistency—being the same person at work, home, and church.✅ God brings the right people when you stop striving and start trusting.✅ Excellence in business is a way to honor God and serve others well.✅ Surrender isn't weakness—it's the key to peace, growth, and impact.Episode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – Jess's Story: When Faith and Business Don't Align

African Americans donate approximately $11 billion annually to nonprofit organizations and charities — yet the person asking for the donation is most often not Black. According to the Association of Fundraising Professionals, 89% of fundraising professionals are white, while only 4% are Black. That picture may be changing in Hampton Roads! We introduce you to three Black women who are changing attitudes on inclusion in philanthropy. Stephanie Cuffee, Christy Hunt, and Vivian Oden are engaging major donors and raising funds for their organizations. They'll share their personal journeys, their passion for fundraising and why representation matters in this field.

The life they taught her to build almost took her with it. For decades, Katina Barnes poured into families, mentored girls, launched programs, led ministries, and moved mountains with two-person teams. The world clapped. But no one asked what it cost. In this National Black Girl Month™ feature, Katina joins Felicia Ford and co-host Dr. Rikesha Fry Brown to name what many Black women are only starting to admit: that being “strong” is often a trap. That sometimes it takes collapsing in your own bed to realize what was never sustainable. That no matter how much good you're doing—you still deserve to live. This conversation is not a warning. It's a reckoning. If you've been performing strength while privately unraveling, If you've been told to push through while your body says no, If you've outgrown the expectations that once defined your worth— this episode is where you lay it down. You'll hear: How burnout disguises itself as achievement Why letting go of control isn't failure—it's survival What real boundaries sound like when they're held, not explained How to model wellness for the next generation without apology Why “being needed” can no longer be the measure of your value This is not about doing less. It's about doing what's yours to carry—and no more.

What if the real estate industry has sold us a lie about success? In this episode of The Christian Agent Podcast, Garrett Maroon exposes the flawed definition of success that celebrates hustle, money, and accolades—while often neglecting faith, family, and fulfillment.Garrett challenges Christian agents to rethink success from a Kingdom perspective, reminding listeners that God's definition of success includes obedience, relationships, and spiritual well-being—not just production and praise. This powerful conversation calls agents to pursue purpose over profit and to build a community where faith and people matter more than numbers.Key Takeaways:✅ The real estate industry promotes a damaging definition of success.✅ Success is often measured by sales and income, not joy or fulfillment.✅ God's way of living contrasts the grind culture of the industry.✅ True success includes faith, family, and spiritual health.✅ Pursuing recognition without purpose leads to vanity and burnout.✅ We must redefine success through God's Word, not the world's standards.✅ Material gain often comes at the cost of personal peace.✅ Building relationships matters more than racking up awards.✅ Christian agents have the opportunity to create a better community.✅ Faith must come first—success should be a byproduct of obedience.Episode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – The Lie the Industry Tells About Success

A recently obtained memo by the Washington Post shows plans for deep cuts to the budget for the Department of Health and Human Services as the Trump administration prepares its 2026 fiscal year budget request to Congress. The memo calls for reshaping federal health agencies that oversee food and drug safety, manage the nation's response to infectious disease threats and drive biomedical research. According to the memo, public health programs that prevent childhood lead poisoning, work on heart disease, obesity, diabetes and smoking cessation would all be eliminated. In addition, rural healthcare would be hard hit with the elimination of funding for hospital flexibility grants, state offices of rural health, the rural residency development program and at-risk rural hospitals program grants.

Garrett challenges the idea that success in real estate means fitting the mold of a “top producer.” Instead, he invites agents to lean into their God-given design, emphasizing that you're not broken—you're built differently, on purpose.Through personal stories, biblical truth, and practical wisdom, Garrett encourages Christian agents to embrace their uniqueness, stop striving to be someone they're not, and build a business based on relationships over transactions. If you've ever felt out of place in this industry or questioned your approach to success, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:✅ You're not broken—you're built by God with purpose and intention.✅ Success in real estate doesn't require becoming someone you're not.✅ Understanding how God made you unlocks your full potential.✅ You don't have to do what you hate to succeed—lean into your strengths.✅ Authenticity is magnetic—the right clients will be drawn to the real you.✅ Relationships over transactions is a proven and fulfilling business model.✅ Your identity should be found in Christ—not commissions or closings.✅ The industry's version of success isn't the only path—you can forge your own, faithful way.✅ Excellence comes from focusing on what you're naturally gifted at.✅ Embrace your uniqueness as your superpower in business and life.Episode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – Welcome & Personal Anecdotes from the Field

Hundreds of lawsuits have been filed against Trump administration initiatives including civil servant firings, immigration, DOGE, budget freezes, birthright citizenship, public health data, and the list goes on. One high profile case, the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, has reached the Supreme Court. Another federal court case is the exclusion of the Associated Press from the White House Press Pool. In both of these cases, the Trump administration has openly defied the courts' ruling. What happens when the Executive branch of government defies the law of the land? What is the recourse? Are we facing a constitutional crisis? Political and legal analyst Dr. Eric Claville answers these and other questions on Another View.

John Quarstein and Robert Worden join Dr. Stephen Phillips to discuss their book, From Ironclads to Admiral: John Lorimer Worden and Naval Leadership. This important work is a detailed biography with emphasis on Worden's service on USS Monitor and other ironclads during the Civil War. Equally interesting is Worden's time as Superintendent at the U.S. Naval Academy and as a founding member, with membership number 1, of the U.S. Naval Institute.

Ladies from our community gathered on Friday, April 11 for our Spring 2025 Harbor gathering to fellowship, praise, and uplift one another. The theme of this event was "Planted" from the verse Psalm 92:13. Rhonda Ruckel, a master gardener, first gave us a crash course on what plants need in order to actually succeed in growth. Then Harbor Director Kristi Ruckel helped us see the spiritual elements found in what it means to be "planted" in the house of God.Harbor is a corporate gathering of the women of Big House Church and Hampton Roads to connect in worship, protect one another through prayer, and grow together in the word and the sharing of stories.Learn more at www.bighousechurch.com/harbor and if you'd like to get planted in a community, we'd love to have you at Big House Church! You're welcome to try us out and see if we're the garden you can put roots into.

Ladies from our community gathered on Friday, April 11 for our Spring 2025 Harbor gathering to fellowship, praise, and uplift one another. The theme of this event was "Planted" from the verse Psalm 92:13. Rhonda Ruckel, a master gardener, first gave us a crash course on what plants need in order to actually succeed in growth. Then Harbor Director Kristi Ruckel helped us see the spiritual elements found in what it means to be "planted" in the house of God.Harbor is a corporate gathering of the women of Big House Church and Hampton Roads to connect in worship, protect one another through prayer, and grow together in the word and the sharing of stories.Learn more at www.bighousechurch.com/harbor and if you'd like to get planted in a community, we'd love to have you at Big House Church! You're welcome to try us out and see if we're the garden you can put roots into.

Garrett Maroon shares a raw and honest reflection on the toxic hustle culture that dominates the real estate industry. He opens up about his own experience with the pressure to perform, the addiction to sales, and the emptiness that comes from tying identity to production numbers.Garrett challenges Christian real estate agents to redefine success through a biblical lens, root their confidence in Christ, and step off the hamster wheel of constant hustle. If you've ever felt burned out, inadequate, or stuck in the comparison trap, this episode offers hope, truth, and practical encouragement to find lasting peace and purpose in your business journey.Key Takeaways:✅ Hustle culture promotes an unhealthy obsession with performance.✅ Your identity is in Christ, not your closings or commissions.✅ The industry often celebrates success at the expense of relationships and health.✅ Redefining success through faith leads to true fulfillment.✅ Comparison fuels burnout and steals your joy.✅ Confidence and rest should come from your relationship with God, not sales stats.✅ The cycle of hustle is celebrated but often leads to emptiness.✅ Work-life balance is not a luxury—it's a necessity for long-term health and impact.✅ Garrett offers a free guide to help you reclaim your identity in Christ as a real estate agent.✅ Your calling is greater than your closings.Episode Chapters:⏳ 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Hustle Culture in Real Estate

Rob Pekarek joins us to talk about what to look for in business partners, advice he would give to new investors, and his journey into multifamily real estate.--Continue the conversation with Brian on LinkedInJoin our multifamily investing community with like-minded apartment investors at the Tribe of TitansThis episode originally aired on April 4, 2025----Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcsYmSLMxQCA9hgt_PciN3g?sub_confirmation=1 Listen to us on your favorite podcast app:Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/AppleDiaryPodcast Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/SpotDiaryPodcast Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/GoogleDiaryPodcast Follow us on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diary_of_an_apartment_investor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiaryAptInv/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Diary_Apt_Inv ----Your host, Brian Briscoe, has owned over twenty apartment complexes worth hundreds of millions of dollars and is dedicated to helping aspiring apartment investors learn how to do the same. He founded the Tribe of Titans as his platform to educate aspiring apartment investors and is continually creating new content for the subscribers and coaching clients.He is the founder of Streamline Capital based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is probably working on closing another apartment complex in the greater SLC area. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps in 2021 after 20 years of service.Connect with him on LinkedIn----Rob PekarekRob Pekarek is an Active Duty Air Force Officer and multifamily investor based in Hampton Roads, Virginia. His team acquired and manages a 24-unit property purchased in summer 2024. As the capital raiser, Rob secured nearly half of the $1.1 million in investor capital needed for the deal.He earned a bachelor's degree in Operations Research from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2021 and later received a fully funded fellowship to complete a master's degree in Industrial Engineering at Purdue University in 2023.Rob enjoys meeting new people and learning from others. He facilitates a small group of young entrepreneurs who exchange ideas to grow their businesses and achieve their life goals.Learn more about him at: https://www.instagram.com/robthepek/ or 443-738-4929 or https://www.linkedin.com/in/robthepek/