Podcasts about life principles

The walls didn't fall from a fight. They fell from praise — and the praise came first, not after the win. Click here to read the sermon “Until the Walls Fall Down” Joshua 6:1–21 Oh, thank you, Brother Watson. That was so, so good. Friends, we are in the third and final week of this three-week series we have been in called Onward: Moving Toward the Uncharted. In this series, we have been looking at the story of Joshua's leadership of the people of Israel as they step into new ground, as they step into a brand new season, as they cross over the Jordan River into new lands the Lord has given them but of which they have not yet taken possession. There is a promise God has made to His people, but the people have not yet fully stepped into the promise. Two weeks ago, we saw this picture: that God had confirmed this promise, but it wasn't just a promise — it was a principle. And a principle is a promise that is user dependent, meaning the promise God makes to Joshua is, “I have given you every place the sole of your foot treads” (cf. Josh 1:3, HCSB) [see “A New Dawn, A New Day,” July 12, 2026]. Now that's a beautiful promise, but it also means that if Joshua and the people of Israel stay where they are on the eastern side of the Jordan River, that's all they get. But if they take steps of obedience, if they take steps of faith into a new land, if they follow a new journey and a new path to this new destination, God will be true to His promise to them. So we see it's not just a promise, but a principle — a user dependent promise. And last week, we saw this picture: how the people, after forty years wandering in the wilderness, had finally crossed the Jordan River (cf. Josh 3–4) [see “Walk This Way,” July 19, 2026]. They finally had crossed, and the Jordan River is not a huge river, but the Jordan River was an obstacle in the way of the promise. It was an obstacle in the way of stepping into the fullness of who God had called them to be. And so He gave very specific instructions as to how they were to cross the river, so that God would be praised and the generations to come would know that God is mighty, and He would be teaching the people to walk in wisdom. And so as we conclude today, we're going to do so with a message I have titled “Until the Walls Fall Down.” Until the walls fall down. Shock of all shocks, we're going to be looking at Joshua chapter six and the Battle of Jericho. Now, how many of you grew up in VBS, and you know the Joshua and the Battle of Jericho song? Come on: “Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho. Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, and the walls came tumbling down.” [Congregation sings along.] I want to write each and every one of your names up on the chalkboard and give check marks next to you. I don't think that means anything in heaven, but that's how proud of you I am that you all knew that song so well. Now, here's the thing. Many of us have heard the story of the Battle of Jericho in Sunday school and VBS growing up. But here are some of the things we may not have thought about when we were children hearing this story. Jericho is not a big city. Jericho was actually a relatively small town during this period of time. What Jericho had was two very important things, and in order to demonstrate those things, I need all of my youth in Passport shirts to come back up. I need all of your help. So youth and adults — if you're an adult here in a Passport shirt, I need you too. You are my wall. I need you all right here, right across the front. And by the way, I do want to see that special high five y'all worked on together. All right, so here we go — I've got my Passport teens and adults. This is my wall. Now, here's what's true about having a wall in front of you: I feel a whole lot braver with them in front of me, right? Because you can't get me — I've got the wall in front of me. Now, a wall is really great, but here's the problem: if I've got the wall in front of me and you are the encroaching army, you outnumber me, but I've got a wall, so I can just wait you out. But in order for me to wait you out — the same problem siege warfare has had for thousands of years is this: if you are the larger army and we've got a big wall, you don't have to tear down the wall. You just have to prevent anything I need from coming into the city. So the longer you surround the city, the more trouble I'm in. But Jericho had one thing going for it: Jericho had a spring in the middle of the city. So Jericho had fresh water and a wall. And if you've got fresh water and a wall, you don't need much else, because you can't get past my wall. And as long as I've got some animals and maybe some farming and fresh water, you can just keep hanging out out there — you don't bother me one bit. So, how many of you — raise your hands real quick, and then I'm going to dismiss the wall — how many of you have seen The Odyssey already? How many of you went to the theaters and saw the new Odyssey? Yes, excellent, you get it. So of course it's a bunch of men — Nolan made a new movie — that's how it goes. So here's the beauty of The Odyssey: The Odyssey is what happens after Homer's The Iliad, right? It's what happens after the Battle of Troy. And Troy was a walled city with a spring inside.1 So Troy could just wait out the opposing army — which is where the story comes from of the Trojan horse, because that was the only way you had to get someone to bring something into the city of their own accord. Otherwise, the people would just continue to wait and wait and wait — years waiting — because there was a spring and a wall. Y'all give it up for my wall! We're going to go ahead and let the wall fall down. Y'all can head back. “Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, and the walls came tumbling down.” But anytime you have siege warfare, the goal is to wait out the people inside. In fact, there are a lot of stories of siege warfare throughout history where no battle was ever actually fought — the people inside the city simply ran out of resources and ultimately died without a battle ever occurring. Jericho was not a large city. Jericho was a well-defended city. So we're going to read in Joshua chapter six, verses one and two — we'll go back, please: Now Jericho was strongly fortified because of the Israelites — no one leaving or entering. And the LORD said to Joshua, “Look, I have handed Jericho, its king, and its fighting men over to you.” (Josh 6:1–2, HCSB) Now, they've always had a big wall, but it's “fortified,” meaning they are in a defensive posture. And the reason they're in defensive posture is that suddenly that eighty thousand to a quarter million people — the Israelites who crossed the river — suddenly that group is now surrounding them. So the people of Jericho are shut up inside. No one's entering, no one's leaving. And the Lord said to Joshua, “Look, I have handed Jericho, its king and its fighting men over to you.” And if you're Joshua in that moment, you're thinking, “Not really — they seem to be doing just fine inside their walled city. They seem to be doing okay, God. You say You've delivered them to us, but here we are just hanging out outside. It doesn't look like we've been delivered much.” But this is why it's so important to remember that Jericho was not a big or powerful city — it was just well fortified. It's not a big or powerful city. It's just well fortified. And so this is our first point today that I want you to grab hold of: often in life, our obstacles are not large — they just appear insurmountable. Often our obstacles are not large. Often the obstacles you are facing are not crazy, they're not scary — you've just accepted that you can't do anything about them. Maybe that's where we are today as the church. It's easy to be the church in the world right now and look around and go, “Man, every church is declining.” It's easy to go, “It's not looking good.” And we're not quitting — but we've kind of thrown in the towel on going further. We're still going to show up, we're still going to be faithful, but if we're honest, we've lost a little bit of hope that there's more to come. We've lost a little bit of hope that the best is yet to come. We've lost a little bit of hope that the next generation is going to go further than we ever thought possible. It's not because it's big or scary — we're just looking around at the trends, and it feels insurmountable. But this is why what God says to Joshua next is so important. If we continue reading, we read these words: March around the city with all the men of war, circling the city one time. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry seven ram's-horn trumpets in front of the ark. But on the seventh day, march around the city seven times while the priests blow the trumpets. (Josh 6:3–4, HCSB) You know, I should have asked about this before — I don't think we have a trumpet here, do we? We have the players, but not the horns. If there are any trumpet players in the room, I want to give you a moment to practice. Will you give me the sound you'd need to create the trumpet sound? Let me hear it — all the trumpet players in the room, any horn players in the room, let me hear it. There we go — it sounds a little bit like an elephant, doesn't it? Sounds a little bit like an elephant. Now here's the thing: I want you to imagine seven of those going off nonstop as an entire army marches around a city seven times. That's big, and it's loud, and it's scary. We continue reading: When there is a prolonged blast of the horn and you hear it sound, have all the people give a mighty shout. (Josh 6:5, HCSB) Let's practice our mighty shout. Here we go — three, two, one. [Congregation shouts.] You scared me! Let's try it again — three, two, one. [Congregation shouts again.] Okay, okay, all right. Now imagine that you are somewhere between fifty thousand and a hundred fifty thousand strong. Imagine that sound. Now, I'm from Florida — we have really great college football teams in Florida, and so that fifty to a hundred fifty thousand people screaming, I've heard a lot of that. Now here in Durham, I imagine we have to associate it more with college basketball — but imagine you're inside Cameron during Duke-UNC. It's tied with three seconds left. Can you imagine what it sounds like in that building? Can you imagine how loud it sounds? There's power in that. But here's what's interesting in God's command here in Joshua 6:3–5: nowhere is there a command to grab a weapon. Nowhere. God doesn't say, “Here's what I want you to do — I want you to spend some time, I want you to build the trebuchet, we're going to take that wall down.” He doesn't say, “I want you to get all the horses you can find, or the chariots you can find” — there's nothing military-related to what we're hearing. It's: walk around the city once a day for six days, and on the seventh day, walk around the city seven times. And what's going to happen? They're going to blow horns. Now, for the people of Israel, blowing horns was part of a celebration — it was part of praise to God. In fact, if you go through the books of Deuteronomy and Leviticus, you're going to find specific instructions for the horns that are supposed to be played during different parts of the worship service and the tabernacle. You're going to find different examples of how you are to worship and praise God.2 God does not command the people of Israel to pick up weapons of violence. He has them pick up weapons of praise. So we're going to skip ahead to verse twelve, and we're going to find out what Joshua does in response to God's command. “Joshua got up early the next morning” (Josh 6:12, HCSB). By the way, notice this in your Bible — whenever you're reading, especially in the Old Testament, you're going to find a continual pattern: when God gives a command to one of His people, the people who are our models of obedience tend to do this — they get up early the next morning. They get up early the next morning. Now, I don't know about you, but I like sleep. I really do — I love sleep. But on days when I'm really excited about something, on days when I know something good is going to happen, I'm that person who can't even stay asleep through my alarm. I'm up an hour earlier. There's so much energy, so much excitement — I'm so ready for what's about to happen. And we see this continually in Scripture: when people are excited about obedience, when they're excited about what God is about to do in their life, they get up early the next morning. They are preparing themselves to experience all that God intends. So Joshua got up early the next morning; the priests took the ark of the LORD, and the seven priests carrying seven trumpets marched in front of the ark of the LORD. And while the trumpets were blowing, the armed troops went in front of them, and the rear guard went behind the ark of the LORD (cf. Josh 6:13, HCSB). On the second day, they marched around the city once and returned to the camp, and they did this for six days. Now imagine — you're the people of Israel. Joshua's received this command from God, Joshua has relayed this command to you, the people. And here you are, day after day, just going for a walk around the city. And you know God has commanded this, but let's be honest — you don't really understand it. And I can't be the only person in the room who has been led by God to do something that didn't really make sense to me. I can't be the only person in the room who has found themselves in a situation where obedience to God seems ridiculous in the face of whatever's going on in your life. And if we're honest, if we're real with one another, I think many of us have come face to face with that struggle. God is asking for obedience, and you're looking at the situation — you're looking at your bank account, you're looking at your relationships, you're looking at your marriage, you're looking at your kids — and you're going, “God, that doesn't seem to make a lot of sense. God, I know You're calling me to be obedient here, but I'm struggling to get it.” And this whole series, this whole three weeks, has really been about the idea that God is calling us into a new land. God is calling us into a new territory. God is calling us into something we did not think was possible before. And so, in order for us to reach that new land, in order for us to reach that new destination, it's going to require some different things from us. And I think, first and foremost, it's going to require a different kind of faith — maybe than we've had before. It's going to require a faith that is deeper, a faith that trusts more. And another way to say that would be a faith that risks more — the kind of faith that says, “If You don't show up here, then I don't have any other options. You've called me into the kind of faith, God, where either You are who You say You are, or I've got nothing.” And if we want to reach a new destination, if we want to be a people who are following a new path, it will require of us a new kind of faith — because following a new path will require a new kind of faith. We've got to trust God enough to continue down a new path toward a new destination, even when it doesn't always make sense to us. In those moments, we've got to trust: God, You know what You're doing. God, You know what You're doing. Because if we're real — and I'm just being honest — I've been in ministry for twenty years, and I'm just telling you what I have experienced: most of the time, my faith looks like one foot in and one foot out. Most of the time, my faith looks like, “God, I'm really hoping You're going to come through, but I've also got a backup plan. God, I'm really trusting that You're going to come through, but please don't ask me to risk too much, or give too much, or do too much. God, don't ask me to take on a position that is outside of my comfort zone. God, don't lead me to volunteer for a ministry where I don't really know what I'm doing.” For most of us, faith looks like, “God, I really, really believe You about sixty percent of the time.” And that's not — please, please don't hear a judgment in that. Please don't hear me say you've only got sixty percent faith. I'm saying I'm there with you. I'm a pastor, and I'm there with you. But what I also know from my own testimony, what I also know from your life, is that the moments your faith has deepened the most have been the moments where you have trusted God in such a way that there was no Plan B. There was no backup. It's “God, I am one hundred percent all in with You. God, I'm not holding anything back. I'm not being careful about what I'm going to do if this doesn't work out. God, I am believing that Your way is the best way. So I'm going to live in such a way that the whole world will know: he really believes that God is faithful.” That's not what my life looks like most of the time. But I know that when God has moved the most powerfully, those are the moments I have trusted Him fully. There's a pastor who passed a few years ago — I mean, we could talk about his influence on my entire generation of Christians. His name was Dr. Charles Stanley. And Dr. Charles Stanley said these words, and I love them: God will take full responsibility of the life fully entrusted to Him.3 And I know in my life, those rare moments — those rare moments where I've had a new kind of faith, those rare moments where I say, “God, I am trusting You fully” — I have seen Him take full responsibility and do more than I ever thought was possible. Church, if we want to reach a new destination, if we want to follow a new path, it will require from us a new kind of faith. As we continue reading, we're going to read verses fifteen and sixteen, and then we're going to skip to twenty: Early on the seventh day, they started at dawn and marched around the city seven times in the same way. That was the only day they marched around the city seven times. After the seventh time, the priest blew the trumpets, and Joshua said to the people, “Shout, for the LORD has given you the city.” (Josh 6:15–16, HCSB) So, church — one more time. We've made our way around this city seven times. The priests have blown the trumpets. Let me be Joshua for a moment, and you be the people of Israel: “Shout, for the LORD has given you the city!” [Congregation responds.] The Lord has given you the fortified city. Let's try it again: “Shout, for the LORD has given you the city!” [Congregation shouts.] So the people shouted, and the trumpets sounded. When they heard the blast of the trumpet, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. The people advanced into the city, each man straight ahead, and they captured the city. (Josh 6:20, HCSB) Now: seven times around the city, trumpet blasts, the people shout. Trumpet blast, the people shout — and then what happens? “Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho. Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, and the walls came tumbling down.” Now here — Joshua fought the Battle of Jericho? The walls didn't come down because of a fight. The walls came down because of praise. You see, praise — the praise preceded the victory. The praise preceded the victory. And let's be honest — come on — how many of us are waiting for the victory to give the praise? How many of us, time and time again, in every circumstance and situation we face in life, we're waiting for the victory? “God, once You bring me the victory, I'll give You the praise. God, once we have won, I'll give You the praise.” That's not how the Battle of Jericho goes. Praise precedes the victory. Praise precedes the victory. What would your life look like if you brought to mind the biggest obstacle you're facing — if you brought to mind the biggest battle that's ahead of you, if you brought to mind the biggest fear, the biggest anxiety, the biggest worry you have — bring that to the forefront of your mind. And what would happen if right now, here in this place, you said, “God, I'm not waiting for the victory to give You praise. I'm not waiting for the win to declare Your glory. God, I'm not waiting until this church is overflowing with people and we're doing four services — I'm not waiting for that to give You praise right now.” Let's be honest, church, I know where you're at. How about, “God, I'm not waiting until we have it all figured out and all the answers to give You praise.” What would it look like? What would it look like for you to say here and now, “God, You get every bit of my praise. You get every bit of my praise, You get it here and now. I'm not waiting for the victory to give You praise.” Because here's what's true — here's what's true. No matter what battle you are facing in this life, no matter what circumstance you are coming up against, what is true is that death has already been defeated. Sin has already been defeated. The blood of Jesus has already purified you from all unrighteousness. You are covered in the grace of God before a bit of victory has been given in the circumstance you're facing in this moment. You've already got more victory than you could ever ask or imagine. You have already won. So yeah — you might be facing some confusion about what comes next for you as a church. You may be facing some tough decisions in your personal life regarding your finances. You may be battling — I mean, man, at this point, you can be battling just by ordering a salad. It's bad out there, y'all. Whatever battle you are facing — you've already won. Church, hear me when I say this: you've already won. You've already got the victory. Yes, there are situations in your life that you're afraid of. Yes, there are situations in your life you're nervous about. There are circumstances going on in your friends and in your family that you are worried about. But I want to let you know: in the middle of that anxiety, in the middle of that worry, in the middle of the unknowns for what comes next, we can praise God right now — because praise precedes the victory. Praise precedes the victory. And here's what the enemy wants for you: the enemy wants you to forget that you've already won. The enemy wants you to forget you've already been victorious. The enemy wants you to forget what God has already done for you — and to get you so wrapped up with the thing that is five feet in front of you that you become blinded to everything else. That's all the enemy wants. But church — what would happen? What would happen in your life if you said, “I've already won. I am praising God”? And victory may or may not come in this situation, but I'm praising God either way, because I'm already victorious. Church, are you willing? Are you willing to give your praise before the victory? Are you willing to give your praise before the victory? And here's the thing that I don't understand — there's so much in Scripture that I don't get. I don't understand how, in God's economy, ninety percent goes further than a hundred percent. I don't understand how, in God's economy, six days goes further than seven. I don't understand how it is that in God's economy, sometimes when we praise, victory follows. It's backwards to the way the world works. Church, God has called you to be a different kind of people, following a different kind of path, with a different kind of faith. Church, are you willing to give your praise before the victory? Because I believe — I believe for Yates Baptist Church, and I believe for every man, woman, and child in this room right now — I believe if you will give your praise, you have no idea what God will do next. If you will give your praise, I believe there is a victory headed your way, church. I don't want you to miss it. I don't want you to miss it. I don't want you to miss out on the destination. I don't want you to miss out on the new lands. I don't want you to miss out on the life that is ahead of you if you're willing to give your praise first. If you're willing to be a people of praise, no matter the situation, no matter the circumstance, I believe that victory comes quickly on its heels. Let me pray for us. Heavenly Father, Jesus — we give You praise in this place. We give You honor and glory in this place. God, we're going to hear music in this place. God, we're going to sing songs of praise in this place. And so, God, we're not holding back. God, we're going to give You praise today like victory is dependent upon it. We're going to give You praise today as a people who have already won. We're going to give You praise today like a people who know that if we praise until the walls fall down, we will see Your victory. We will experience Your grace and Your mercy and Your goodness. Jesus, we want a taste of Your victory, and so we give You praise here and now. We don't know what the future holds, but You do. We don't know what the next step is, God, but You do. So God, would You give us the kind of faith that praises You before the victory? Would You give us the kind of faith that is obedient in such a way that if You don't come through, God, we have no hope? Would You give us the kind of faith that fully entrusts our lives to You, believing that You will take full responsibility of that life? Jesus, we pray this in Your name. Amen. Endnotes 1 The image of “a spring in the middle of the city” draws loosely on Homer's description of twin springs feeding the Scamander near Troy's walls (Iliad 22.147–152: “κρουνὼ δ' ἵκανον καλλιρρόω· ἔνθα δὲ πηγαὶ / δοιαὶ ἀναΐσσουσι Σκαμάνδρου δινήεντος,” “they came to the two fair-flowing fountains, where well up the two springs that feed eddying Scamander”). Homer locates these springs outside the city walls, on the plain, not within the citadel, and describes two springs (one warm, one cold) rather than one. Archaeological excavation at Hisarlık, the site identified with ancient Troy, has not confirmed a spring inside the fortified citadel matching this Homeric image. Excavated water features there consist chiefly of cisterns and a rock-cut channel rather than a documented intramural spring. 2 The trumpet/horn vocabulary sits in three Pentateuchal locations: Numbers 10:1–10, where the instrument is חֲצוֹצְרָה (chatzotzerah, “[silver] trumpet”) and the war-signal is תְּרוּעָה (teru'ah, “shout, alarm-blast,” Num 10:9); and Leviticus 23:24 and 25:9, where the instrument is שׁוֹפָר (shofar, “ram's horn”), again paired with teru'ah. Joshua 6 itself uses shofar for the priests' horns (שׁוֹפְרוֹת הַיּוֹבְלִים, shofrot ha-yovlim, “ram's-horn trumpets,” 6:4) and teru'ah for the people's shout (תְּרוּעָה גְדוֹלָה, teru'ah gedolah, “a great shout,” 6:5, 20). This is Leviticus's pairing, and the same shofar/teru'ah pairing recurs as a holy-war type-scene in Judges: Ehud sounds the shofar to muster Israel (וַיִּתְקַע בַּשּׁוֹפָר, Judg 3:27); Gideon does the same to summon his army (Judg 6:34), and; At the battle against Midian the shofar blast and accompanying cry again precede the enemy's collapse rather than follow it (Judg 7:16–22) The repeated formula forms the same liturgical praise-before-victory pattern the preacher interprets from Jericho. 3 The challenging line, “God will take full responsibility of the life fully entrusted to Him,” conflates language from two sources rather than quoting either: Andrew Murray (“God is ready to assume full responsibility for the life wholly yielded to Him”), commonly attributed to Murray in devotional compilations though without a confirmed primary-text citation, and Charles Stanley's Life Principle 11 (“God assumes full responsibility for our needs when we obey Him”), as taught through In Touch Ministries. A third variant, “God takes full responsibility for the life wholly devoted to Him,” also circulates under Stanley's name in popular quotation collections. Rendered in the body as the preacher's own synthesis of these related sayings. Works Cited AZQuotes. “God Takes Full Responsibility for the Life Wholly Devoted to Him.” AZQuotes, https://www.azquotes.com/quote/735429. Accessed 26 July 2026. Bible Apologetics. “Andrew Murray – Quotes for a Deeper Walk with Jesus.” Bible Apologetics, 23 Sept. 2024, https://bibleapologetics.org/andrew-murray-quotes-for-a-deeper-walk-with-jesus/. Accessed 26 July 2026. The Holy Bible: Holman Christian Standard Bible. Holman Bible Publishers, 2004. Homer. The Iliad. Translated by A. T. Murray, Loeb Classical Library, Harvard University Press, 1924. The Odyssey. Directed by Christopher Nolan, Universal Pictures, 2026. Stanley, Charles F. “Life Principle 11: His Promise to Provide.” In Touch Ministries, https://www.intouch.org/watch/sermons/life-principle-11-his-promise-to-provide. Accessed 26 July 2026. “Troy: New Data from Old Excavations.” Archaeological Institute of America, 9 Nov. 2023, https://www.archaeological.org/troy-new-data-from-old-excavations/. Accessed 26 July 2026. © 2026 Rob Stone. All rights reserved.

In this episode of the Inside Out Podcast, Brent delivers a follow up from his sermon on John 9, as promised! Plus, Emily discovers a new word!

Why do some people seem to win again and again while others stay stuck, frustrated, and confused? In this episode of The Impossible Life Podcast, Nick Surface and Garrett Unclebach revisit one of the most important concepts they have ever taught: principles. This conversation is about understanding the hidden forces that govern outcomes in life, business, relationships, health, leadership, and spiritual growth. For Christian men who want to live with purpose and faith, learning how principles work is essential.Garrett explains that God created an orderly world. Life is not random. Outcomes are governed by principles. Just like gravity, lift, thrust, weight, and drag determine whether a plane can fly, there are principles that determine whether your marriage grows, your business works, your health improves, your leadership develops, and your relationships become fruitful.Nick uses the story of Mookie Betts breaking out of a playoff slump to show how principles work in real life. When Mookie was not getting the results he wanted, he did not collapse emotionally or assume he had lost his ability. He went back to the cage, took hundreds of reps, worked with his coach, studied the feedback, and found the mechanical principle he was missing. Once he corrected it, the results changed.That is the power of a principles mindset. Instead of taking failure personally, you begin asking better questions. What am I missing? What principle am I violating? What pattern is showing up? What can I adjust? This mindset gives men confidence because it reminds them that there is always an answer to discover.Garrett defines principles as the forces that govern outcomes. They do not guarantee that everything will always go perfectly, because God is sovereign and life still includes uncontrollable variables. But principles allow you to use what you can control to influence what you cannot control. When you understand principles, you can become so good with the controllables that success becomes far more likely.This episode also explains why principles give men certainty and confidence. When you know that the world is governed by order, you stop living like every setback is random. You stop blaming God, blaming people, or blaming circumstances. Instead, you learn how to observe, adjust, and keep moving forward in faith.Nick and Garrett also unpack what makes principles hard to discover. Negative emotions, anger, frustration, fear, and a lack of identity can all blind men to the answer. Garrett says that when you are angry, you are often the dumbest version of yourself because you stop gathering data and start taking the outcome personally. When you take things personally, you miss the opportunity to grow.The solution is observation, pattern recognition, and consistency. Principles hide in patterns. You discover them by paying attention over time, repeating the right actions, and removing variables until you can see what is actually producing the outcome. Garrett summarizes it with a simple formula: principles + consistency = results.The episode then applies this framework to relationships. A great relationship is one where both people are better together than they are apart. Whether in marriage, friendship, brotherhood, business, or ministry, the same truth applies: healthy relationships are built on principles. They do not become great by accident.For Christian men who want strong faith, clear purpose, and better results in every area of life, this episode is a call to stop living emotionally and start living principally. God is not random. His world is not random. Your results are not random. If you are stuck, there is a principle you have not yet discovered.If you are frustrated, there is a pattern you need to observe. If you are inconsistent, you may hit the result once, but you will not know how to reproduce it. But when you understand principles, stay consistent, and trust that God created an orderly world, you become the kind of man who can figure things out. You stop hoping life works. You learn how it works.Get With NuWave Home Lenders By Clicking HereGet a Free 7 Day Trial On The Tailored Training App By Clicking HereJoin a group of likeminded Impossible Life listeners in our FREE Skool community by clicking here.Get the Purpose Playbook by clicking hereGet the FREE Basic Discipline Training 30 Day Program by clicking hereJoin us in Mindset Mastery by clicking hereLevel up your nutrition with IDLife by clicking hereGET IN TOUCHSocial Media - @theimpossiblelifeEmail - info@theimpossible.life

Everything in life is a seed. From the words we speak and the thoughts we meditate on to the faith we walk in, every choice we make is planting something that will eventually manifest. In this timely message, Pastor Brenda teaches you how to sow intentionally so you can step into the abundant life Jesus promised. If you are looking for encouragement, refreshing, and a boost to your faith, this service is for you!

Kelvin Chin is an author and Life After Life Expert. His first book “Overcoming the Fear of Death: Through Each of the 4 Main Belief Systems” is a nonreligious approach to overcoming the fear of death. His second book, “Marcus Aurelius Updated: 21st Century Meditations On Living Life” is a collection of 67 essays ranging from Emotions, Life Principles, Meditation, and the Spiritual. And his third book, which will be out soon in 2023, will describe in detail how his past life memories that reach back 6,000 years have resurfaced over the past 45 years, and what they have taught him about himself and how our minds continue from lifetime to lifetime.Kelvin is Executive Director & Founder of the “Turning Within” Meditation and Overcoming the Fear of Death Foundations, and is an internationally-recognized meditation teacher featured in Business Insider, Newsweek, Kaiser Health News, and has taught meditation at West Point and in the U.S. Army, including on the DMZ in Korea. Kelvin has been meditating for over 50 years, and has taught meditation for 49 years to thousands of people in over 60 countries. He is a graduate of Dartmouth, Yale and Boston College Law, and has lived in 7 countries.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/next-level-soul-podcast-with-alex-ferrari--4858435/support.Take your spiritual journey to the next level with Next Level Soul TV — our dedicated streaming home for conscious storytelling and soulful transformation.Experience exclusive programs, original series, movies, tv shows, workshops, audiobooks, meditations, and a growing library of inspiring content created to elevate, heal, and awaken. Begin your membership or explore our free titles here: https://www.nextlevelsoul.tv

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Key Passage: 1 Corinthians 13:1-7

In a world that constantly tells us we need more, God calls us to something deeper—contentment. True contentment isn't found in possessions, comfort, or circumstances, but in Christ alone. In this episode, we explore what Scripture teaches about being satisfied in God, trusting His provision, and finding peace whether in abundance or in need. Contentment is not complacency—it's confidence that Christ is enough. When we learn to abide in Him, we discover the secret Paul spoke of: strength, peace, and joy in every season.

Bible Reading: Acts 1:1-11 Key Passage: Acts 1:8; James 1:19-20

Bible Reading & Key Passage: Psalm 98:1-9

Setting Life Principles - Part two

Setting Life Principles - Part one

Most of life isn't shaped by one big decision, it's shaped by what we choose to focus on every single day.In this message, “Three Life Principles,” we explore a simple but powerful framework from Philippians 4 that has the potential to transform your spiritual health, mental clarity, emotional stability, and even how you handle stress and disappointment.The gospel prepares us for heaven, but the principles of Jesus prepare us for life here and now.

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAKnowing your Core Values is just the beginning. The Recognize–Reflect–Respond rhythm is how you lead with intention instead of instinct—especially when things feel fast, loud, or reactive.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISPause before responding—ask: “What value is at stake here?”Buy time with: “I need a moment to think about how I want to respond.”Check: Am I reacting from urgency—or responding from clarity?3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere am I most reactive right now?What does that reveal about what matters to me?What would shift if I used this rhythm?ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPSEpisodes mentioned: Need a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional OptimismPodcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1282826/15174376YouTube: https://youtu.be/KJCAydSnRKo  Get your Free Core Values Blueprint: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseGet your Free What Is Intentional Optimism?: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/what-is-intentional-optimism Invest in Core Values Coaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-beta Join Andrea LIVE at THRIVE in ‘25 Live2Lead!Secure your seat in Charlottesville or Lynchburg, VA—two powerhouse events where purpose-driven leaders come to recharge, refocus, and rise.CHARLOTTESVILLE: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-charlottesville-2025 LYNCHBURG: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-lynchburg-2025 LET'S CONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONDM Andrea on Instagram or LinkedIn: @theintentionaloptimistLet's chat: andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comSHARE THIS EPISODEIf this episode helped you reframe your leadership growth, send it to another strategic woman leader who's ready to refine how she leads.Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OvK0xi2OIBg Listen & Subscribe: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcast Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAClear thinking isn't a personality trait—it's a leadership practice. And most people were never taught how to do it. In this episode, we unpack the six tenets of Intentional Optimism and how they offer powerful lenses for leadership—helping you see what's really going on, stay grounded in your values, and respond with clarity and courage even in the middle of pressure, conflict, or confusion.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISIdentify the tenet of Intentional Optimism you naturally lean on—and the one that feels most unfamiliar or underused.Choose one situation this week and practice leading from that “missing” tenet—on purpose.Download the free Intentional Optimism guide (linked in the show notes) and use it as a lens to evaluate how you show up in challenging or high-stakes moments.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhen I'm at my best as a leader, which tenet of Intentional Optimism shows up most easily—and how do others experience it in me?In moments of pressure, conflict, or self-doubt, which tenet do I tend to suppress or dismiss—and what might that reveal about my assumptions or conditioning?What's one upcoming situation where I could intentionally lead from that underused tenet—and what would it look like to respond through that lens?ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPSEpisodes mentioned: Need a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional OptimismPodcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1282826/15174376YouTube: https://youtu.be/KJCAydSnRKo  Get your Free Core Values Blueprint: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseGet your Free What Is Intentional Optimism?: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/what-is-intentional-optimism Invest in Core Values Coaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-beta Join Andrea LIVE at THRIVE in ‘25 Live2Lead!Secure your seat in Charlottesville or Lynchburg, VA—two powerhouse events where purpose-driven leaders come to recharge, refocus, and rise.CHARLOTTESVILLE: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-charlottesville-2025 LYNCHBURG: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-lynchburg-2025 LET'S CONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONDM Andrea on Instagram or LinkedIn: @theintentionaloptimistLet's chat: andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comSHARE THIS EPISODEIf this episode helped you reframe your leadership growth, send it to another strategic woman leader who's readSkillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Do not borrow money

This is the Silver Lake Mennonite Church Sunday morning sermon by Robbie Yoder.Visit our website for more info about our church: https://silverlakemennonitechurch.com

The media may have obsessed over the extravagant Jeff Bezos wedding in Venice last weekend, but most regular people with jobs and a family probably couldn't care less. But in this week's episode, David takes note of who does seem to care about such things, and what principles can be learned from the whole affair that impact our understanding of economics in the 21st century. This is a seriously contrarian episode of the Capital Record!

In this message, Thadd teaches from Matthew 7:7-12 and three actions that carry a promise. 

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson welcomes Dustin Peters from FLP Counseling. They discuss the importance of mental health, the various therapeutic approaches offered at FLP, and Dustin's personal journey into counseling. The conversation covers topics such as addiction recovery, marriage counseling, and the significance of family dynamics. Dustin shares insights on the stigma surrounding therapy, the role of diet and exercise in mental health, and the future goals for FLP Counseling. Listeners are encouraged to seek help and connect with counseling services in their community.TakeawaysDustin Peters is the CEO of FLP Counseling, which stands for Foundations for Life Principles.FLP Counseling offers a variety of therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, and marriage counseling.Dustin's journey into counseling was influenced by personal experiences with his wife's mental health struggles.The importance of intentional family time is emphasized as a way to strengthen family dynamics.Therapy can be beneficial even when there are no major issues; it can help build stronger relationships.Addiction recovery is a long process that requires ongoing support and strategies for maintaining sobriety.Dustin believes that expressing emotions is crucial for mental health and can prevent emotional overflow.FLP Counseling works with DCS to provide services for children and families in need.Diet and exercise play a significant role in mental health and can aid in recovery from mental health issues.Dustin encourages aspiring counselors to be prepared for the challenges and rewards of the profession.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Johnson City Living Podcast09:21 Therapeutic Approaches at FLP Counseling17:29 The Importance of Marriage Counseling23:41 The Power of Expressing Emotions31:23 Breaking Generational Cycles of Abuse38:54 The Impact of Diet on Mental Health44:34 Advice for Aspiring Counselors

Discover how God's Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm (Life Principle #3).

Send us a textAs The Word Cafe celebrates its fourth anniversary, host Amachree Isoboye takes a reflective turn to share the foundational principles that have guided his journey through life and success. Drawing from decades of experience and spiritual insight, he reveals the wisdom that has sustained him through challenges and victories alike.The episode opens with a powerful statement: "Two things define us - our patience when we have nothing and our humility when we have everything." This sets the stage for a candid exploration of values that transcend mere motivational speaking, offering instead a blueprint for authentic living.Amachree's refreshing perspective on money—"meant to be spent, but spent wisely"—presents a liberating alternative to both miserliness and extravagance. He shares how this approach has freed him from unhealthy attachments while still maintaining reverence for good stewardship. Equally transformative is his stance on trust: "I don't trust in people because the arm of flesh will fail." Instead, he places his confidence in God, allowing him to maintain open relationships without vulnerability to betrayal.Other principles explored include his "never borrow, never lend" policy that preserves relationships, his technique for managing anger by remembering his identity, and his belief that wisdom comes not with age but with exposure to truth. His approach to possibilities—focusing on whether something can be done rather than its difficulty—has empowered him to persevere where others might quit.Whether you're navigating personal challenges, building a career, or seeking spiritual growth, these time-tested principles offer practical guidance for living with purpose and wisdom. Subscribe to The Word Cafe to continue exploring conversations that nurture both mind and spirit.Support the showYou can support this show via the link below;https://www.buzzsprout.com/1718587/supporters/new

Discover how God's Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm (Life Principle #3).

Discover how God's Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm (Life Principle #3).

Want an inside look into the way a multiple 6-figure business owner and full-time traveler thinks and acts? In this week's episode, I share the 5 most important principles I live and run my business by. These have served me and my clients time and time again, helping us dream bigger, reach new heights, and live happy, fulfilled lives.  

In this rewind episode, Chris shares the 34 life principles that have shaped his success in business, wealth-building, family, and personal growth. From mastering mindset and competition to building strong relationships and taking massive imperfect action, these principles will help you break through barriers and create lasting success.You'll Learn:Why everything is "figureoutable"—and how to overcome obstacles The power of massive imperfect action in business and life How to surround yourself with A-players and level up The secret to delayed gratification and long-term wealth Why your network is your net worth—and how to build itConnect with Chris:Instagram: @craddrockFacebook: Chris CraddockInterested in working with Chris? Join Our Team! Resources

The Economy of Ease (& Why It's Making Us Miserable) with Caroline Chubb CalderonIn this episode of The WorkWell Podcast, Jen Fisher speaks with Caroline Chubb Calderon, futurist, humanist, and founder and CEO of Hello Humanity, a company dedicated to reimagining humanity in the age of machines. Caroline works with leaders worldwide to create a future where technology enhances rather than diminishes our human experience. Episode Highlights:How to unlock human flourishing in the age of artificial intelligenceWhy our current economic model leads to mental health issues and disconnectionThe difference between an "economy of ease" and an "ecology of meaning"Why synthetic relationships through AI can never replace real human connectionThe dangers of deploying AI for mental health support versus clinical analysisHow courage and vulnerability are essential for transforming our systemsThe eight principles of life that can guide our relationship with technologyPractical steps organizations can take to prioritize human intelligence alongside AIQuotable Moments:"We've been creating a world of ease where we live in an economy where everything is driven to improving the ease of life. What would it look like to move from an ease economy to a regenerative and meaning ecology?" - Caroline Chubb Calderon Resources:Learn more about Caroline's work at Hello HumanityWatch Caroline's TEDx Talk  This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

The Economy of Ease (& Why It's Making Us Miserable) with Caroline Chubb CalderonIn this episode of The WorkWell Podcast, Jen Fisher speaks with Caroline Chubb Calderon, futurist, humanist, and founder and CEO of Hello Humanity, a company dedicated to reimagining humanity in the age of machines. Caroline works with leaders worldwide to create a future where technology enhances rather than diminishes our human experience. Episode Highlights:How to unlock human flourishing in the age of artificial intelligenceWhy our current economic model leads to mental health issues and disconnectionThe difference between an "economy of ease" and an "ecology of meaning"Why synthetic relationships through AI can never replace real human connectionThe dangers of deploying AI for mental health support versus clinical analysisHow courage and vulnerability are essential for transforming our systemsThe eight principles of life that can guide our relationship with technologyPractical steps organizations can take to prioritize human intelligence alongside AIQuotable Moments:"We've been creating a world of ease where we live in an economy where everything is driven to improving the ease of life. What would it look like to move from an ease economy to a regenerative and meaning ecology?" - Caroline Chubb Calderon Resources:Learn more about Caroline's work at Hello HumanityWatch Caroline's TEDx Talk  This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 Big Idea:Authentic leadership is about who you are, not just what you do.5 Ways You Can Apply This:Clarify Your Strengths - Recognize natural leadership abilities and take assessments like Strengthsfinder or DISC.Identify Gaps - Reflect on areas for growth in knowledge, communication, experience, and motivation.Align with Purpose - Define your leadership purpose and ensure it honors your Core Values.Integrate Life Principles - Apply aspirational traits like Intentional Optimism to improve leadership.Address Challenges - Use Core Values and DISC insights to navigate leadership challenges effectively.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What are your top three leadership strengths?Which skills do you want to develop this year?How do your Life Principles guide your leadership decisions?Special Resource:Download the Leadership Self-Assessment to reflect on your strengths, gaps, and Core Values. Set actionable steps for growth over the next 30 days.Download the Self-Assessment Here https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/leadershipassessment Podcast Episodes Mentioned:Embrace Your Working Genius: Unleash Your Best Self with Charity MedinaDiscovering Your Unique Strengths: Navigating CliftonStrengths with Allegra SteinNeed a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional OptimismOther Resources MentionedGallup Clifton Strengths 34 - $59.99, but the best strengths assessment I know.DISC Products PageThe One-Minute Manager, by Ken Blanchard and Spencer JohnsonLive2Lead LeaderPass: Access inspirational content from world-renowned speakers. Live2Lead Lynchburg: January 31, Lynchburg, VACore Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/j00ssr6pzkw For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com.Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Turning the Microphone Around: A Deep Dive into Rocky Lalvani's Life Principles with Tyler Jefcoat   This special episode of Richer Soul flips the script as Tyler Jeffcoat, a close friend of Rocky's, takes the hosting reins to interview him. Tyler delves into Rocky's eight core guiding principles and how his perspectives have evolved over 400 episodes of sharing personal growth and financial wisdom. This intimate conversation provides a deeper understanding of the host and the principles that guide his life.   Key Takeaways:  Evolving Life Purpose: Rocky emphasizes the importance of revisiting and updating his life plan regularly, noting how it has evolved as he transitioned from corporate work to entrepreneurship. This shift has brought growth and freedom, aligning with his overarching life goals​. The Role of Childhood Lessons in Money Mastery: Instilling financial discipline early, Rocky shared how his upbringing shaped his relationship with money. His children, exposed to these teachings from a young age, now thrive financially by applying the principles he imparted​. The Power of Adaptation: Tyler and Rocky discuss adapting to life's phases, referring to studies like the Harvard Grant Study, which highlights how individuals change every decade. Rocky's reflections reveal how adaptability fosters long-term fulfillment and alignment with one's evolving goals​. Practical Application of Principles: As a practitioner of what he preaches, Rocky applies the concepts shared in the podcast to his own life, demonstrating authenticity and commitment. This consistency builds trust and inspires listeners to implement these principles themselves.   Money Learning: Rocky shares insights into fostering financial independence among younger generations. His kids learned the value of money from an early age, practicing saving, budgeting, and investing. By observing how others handle money, they recognized the benefits of disciplined financial behavior and now enjoy financial success themselves​.   Bio: Tyler Jeffcoat: Entrepreneur, mentor, and close friend of Rocky Lalvani, Tyler has built and sold businesses, gaining valuable insights into leadership and life. In this episode, he steps in as a guest host to shed light on Rocky's journey, celebrating over 400 episodes of Richer Soul.   Key Discussion Points:  The Transition to Entrepreneurship: Rocky reflects on the growth and freedom that come with owning a business, contrasting it with the constraints of corporate life​. The Evolution of Financial Wisdom: Through life experiences and teaching his kids, Rocky showcases how financial literacy can transform lives​. Consistency in Life Goals: Revisiting life plans ensures alignment with current priorities and fosters personal and professional growth​. Authenticity in Practice: By embodying the principles shared on the podcast, Rocky builds credibility and sets a powerful example for his audience.   Conclusion: This episode highlights the authentic and intentional approach Rocky Lalvani brings to Richer Soul. By turning the lens inward, Tyler Jeffcoat helps us explore how Rocky applies his teachings in real life, inspiring listeners to take proactive steps toward aligning their life goals, financial strategies, and personal growth.   Links:   Watch the full episode on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@richersoul Richer Soul Life Beyond Money. You got rich, now what? Let's talk about your journey to more a purposeful, intentional, amazing life. Where are you going to go and how are you going to get there? Let's figure that out together. At the core is the financial well being to be able to do what you want, when you want, how you want. It's about personal freedom!   Thanks for listening!   Show Sponsor: http://profitcomesfirst.com/   Schedule your free no obligation call: https://bookme.name/rockyl/lite/intro-appointment-15-minutes   If you like the show please leave a review on iTunes: http://bit.do/richersoul   https://www.facebook.com/richersoul http://richersoul.com/ rocky@richersoul.com   Some music provided by Junan from Junan Podcast   Any financial advice is for educational purposes only and you should consult with an expert for your specific needs.

Join me for one of my show's most inspiring interviews yet with the incredible Ali Ingersoll, whose life took a dramatic turn after a diving accident left her a C6 quadriplegic. Ali shares her adventurous pre-accident life, her harrowing recovery journey, and her inspiring work as a disability rights advocate. Most importantly though, she shares why victimhood is a choice and how we can use the power of perspective and taking responsibility for ourselves as the key to changing our lives for the better - no matter the adversity that we face. Get ready to laugh, tear up and be beyond inspired by the incredible, Ali Ingersoll.  Learn more about Ali and connect with her here: https://aliingersoll.com/  CLICK HERE to ORDER Kate's book "Okay. Now What?" - How to Be Resilient When Life Gets Tough. Want to download a free chapter of my book to give it a read first? CLICK HERE. Want to Kate to speak at your event or workplace? Visit https:https://www.kategladdin.com/ Check out Kate's personalised life coaching programs: https://www.kategladdin.com/coaching    Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)   Kate Gladdin introduces episode 18 and welcomes guest Ali Ingersoll. Ali's Colorful Background (00:01:06)   Ali shares her unique upbringing and experiences traveling around the world. Moving to China (00:03:37)   Ali discusses her spontaneous move to China and experiences there. Life-Changing Accident (00:06:53)   Ali recounts the shallow water diving accident that left her paralyzed. Initial Recovery Challenges (00:07:50)   Ali describes her recovery journey, including medical challenges and surgeries. Struggles and Resilience (00:08:36)   She shares her ongoing struggles, including health issues and mental health challenges. Connecting with the Disability Community (00:11:17)   Ali explains how connecting with the disability community changed her life. Advocacy Work (00:12:13)   Ali discusses her advocacy efforts for health equity and disability rights. Navigating Personal Life (00:12:27)   Ali talks about her dating life and the intersection of personal experiences with advocacy. Combining Advocacy and Business (00:13:56)   Ali shares her journey to becoming a disability strategy consultant and speaker.  Conclusion of Ali's Journey (00:15:14)   Kate reflects on Ali's inspiring journey and the lessons learned along the way. Ali's Surgery Experience (00:16:45)   Ali describes a failed surgery and the emotional impact of her recovery journey. Finding Community (00:17:44)   Ali shares how connecting with others on Facebook helped her feel less isolated during recovery. The Importance of Support (00:18:27)   Ali emphasizes the need for community support and understanding from those who have shared similar experiences. Choosing Empowerment (00:19:10)   They discuss the significance of choosing to empower oneself instead of adopting a victim mentality. Belief Systems and Life's Challenges (00:19:25)   Ali reflects on whether everything happens for a reason, emphasizing personal interpretation of life's events. Mentorship and Listening (00:21:00)   Ali talks about mentoring women with similar experiences and the importance of listening to their needs. Processing Grief and Loss (00:22:09)   The speakers discuss the complexities of grief and how personal experiences shape their perspectives. Life's Unexpected Paths (00:24:11)   Ali considers how her life would have been different without her accident but finds meaning in her current path. Redefining Happiness (00:24:39)   Ali's TED talk focuses on the concept of "happy enough" and the societal pressures surrounding happiness. Taking Responsibility (00:25:33)   Discussion on taking 100% responsibility for one's life and the impact of mindset on personal growth. Emotional Hostage Situations (00:28:24)   Ali describes how negative thoughts can trap individuals in their own lives, hindering progress. Humor in Difficult Times (00:31:22)   The importance of humor and light-heartedness in coping with serious life challenges is highlighted. Legacy and Impact (00:32:32)   Ali expresses her desire to leave a legacy that positively impacts others rather than focusing solely on personal achievements. Social Media and Doomscrolling (00:33:06)   Ali discusses her use of social media, including a phase of doomscrolling. Happiness vs. Purpose (00:33:27)   Kate reflects on the difference between external validation and finding internal peace after loss. Hope Among Holocaust Survivors (00:34:24)   Ali shares insights from studies on Holocaust survivors and the power of hope during adversity. Altruism and Selfishness (00:35:11)   The speakers debate whether altruism is selfish if it benefits both the giver and receiver. Finding Meaning in Grief (00:36:07)   Kate explains how her sister's death led her to seek underlying problems and create a charity. Risk Assessment in Adventure (00:37:40)   Ali describes her approach to risky activities, emphasizing research and acceptance of consequences. Cultural Differences in Grief (00:38:01)   The conversation touches on varying beliefs about death and how they influence behavior. The Power of Perspective (00:40:19)   Kate shares a story about a farmer illustrating the unpredictability of life events and responses. Curiosity as a Life Principle (00:41:06)   Ali encourages being insatiably curious and learning from diverse experiences and conversations. Friendship Dynamics (00:41:47)   The speakers discuss the unrealistic expectation of finding everything in one friend. The Importance of Resilience (00:42:31)   Kate emphasizes the choice between being a victim of circumstances and maintaining resilience. Connecting with Ali Online (00:43:19)   Ali shares her blog and website for listeners to connect with her and her work.

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!As the year winds down, it's natural to reflect on where we've been and where we're headed. In this episode, we're diving into a powerful and often misunderstood concept: Deconstruction—not just as a personal growth tool but as a vital process for uncovering and honoring your Core Values.If you've ever felt stuck, unsure where to start, or hesitant to face the hard work of self-discovery, you're not alone. I'll unpack common fears and misconceptions about deconstruction, show how it's intertwined with identifying your Core Values, and explain why it's essential for authentic leadership and personal growth.You'll learn: ▶️ How deconstruction reveals the motivations behind your actions and beliefs. ▶️ Why your Core Values are key to building confidence, clarity, and resilience. ▶️ Practical insights into disentangling assumptions, beliefs, and conditioning to embrace your authentic self.Plus, hear about ongoing opportunities like Live2Lead on LeaderPass—a must for anyone looking to elevate their leadership and growth journey—and an exclusive chance to join my Core Values Coaching Beta Program with special year-end pricing.The world needs leaders who are curious, welcoming, and wise. That includes YOU. Let's uncover what makes you uniquely equipped to lead with purpose and integrity.It's time to Stand Tall & Own It—embrace the work that makes 2025 your most impactful year yet!Mentioned in this Episode:Live2Lead LeaderPass Core Values Coaching BetaDemystifying Deconstruction, The Hidden Gem of Personal GrowthNeed a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional OptimismCore Values ExerciseWhat Is Intentional Optimism?Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a46yErlm7c0 For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com.Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

God assumes full responsibility for our needs when we obey Him.

Pastor Danny concludes his series on Dr. Charles Stanley's Life Principles, wrapping up his discussion of the final principle: #30: Anticipating the Lord's Return.

Pastor Danny continues his series exploring Dr. Charles Stanley's Life Principles. Today he dives into the final principle: #30: Anticipating the Lord's Return.

The dangers of feeling entitled to a calling, how to think “Who Not How” in prayers for your work, and a simple way of thinking about “sowing eternity into the world.”Links Mentioned:Justin Matthews on LinkedInPwC‘Strategy in Life Principle #2: Purpose unlocks fulfillment'Quarter-Life CallingEvery Good EndeavorWho Not HowSoul CareThe Gotham FellowshipJena Viviano Dunay (Founder of Recruit the Employer)Fan Fave Flashback: Skye Jethani (Co-host of the Holy Post Podcast)Master of OneThe Royal in YouThe Sacredness of Secular WorkRedeeming Your TimeContact JordanJordan Raynor

In this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, we welcome Dr. Gary Josephson, a distinguished pediatric otolaryngologist and accomplished author. Throughout our conversation, Gary shares invaluable insights from his 26-year career in medicine and his journey towards becoming a successful speaker and author. His book, "Ordinary to Extraordinary: Seven Principles for Life Success," encapsulates his wisdom and experience, offering practical guidance for anyone seeking a more fulfilling life.   Gary's approach to healthy living is holistic and deeply rooted in daily practice, bridging physical well-being with spiritual enrichment. He candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining an exercise routine and the importance of proper nutrition, sleep, and ongoing education. His emphasis on hydration, balanced diet, and sufficient rest is not just theoretical but practiced in his own life daily.   One of the most profound aspects of our discussion is Gary's emphasis on having a spiritual core. He speaks to the strength and connectedness he finds through his diverse religious experiences, aligning with my belief in the importance of nurturing the soul to maintain a positive attitude. We delve into the philosophy of the subconscious mind and how it relates to the soul, exploring how a robust spiritual foundation can anchor us in times of adversity.   Gary also opens up about his principles on benevolence and connectedness. He shares moving anecdotes, including how a friend utilized his writing skills to offer resume workshops, demonstrating the ripple effect of personal acts of kindness. His reflections on Maslow's hierarchy of needs and the aspiration towards self-transcendence will inspire you to think about personal growth in new, service-oriented ways.   We discuss the significance of relationships, with Gary underscoring the importance of choosing the right life partner and maintaining strong connections for enduring happiness. His financial management advice also offers practical tips for sustainable wealth, reinforcing the importance of planning and balancing needs and wants. Gary's commitment to lifelong learning and education shines through, as he encourages us to blend knowledge with wisdom. This episode is a treasure trove of motivational insights and practical advice aimed at helping you unlock extraordinary potential in your everyday life. Join us for an enlightening conversation that spans health, spirituality, education, relationships, and personal growth. Let Gary Josephson's journey and principles inspire you to elevate each day from ordinary to extraordinary.   About Gary, Dr. Gary Josephson is a surgeon, researcher, educator, innovator, and author.  His recently released self-help book “Ordinary to Extraordinary: Seven Principles for Life Success” was a top 5 title sales by publication date as noted by Morgan James Publishing.  Dr. Josephson is a pediatric otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon, experienced healthcare executive, and has held academic rank of Professor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and the University of South Florida College of Medicine. He has been named in “Jacksonville's Best Surgeons in the City” and listed in “Castle Connelly” and “Best Doctors in America”.  He was the medical correspondent for a local newspaper when he lived in Manhattan. His column included health and wellness tips and facts to improve well-being. On a personal note, Dr. Josephson enjoys nature, outdoor activities, and staying physically fit. His greatest passion is spending time with his wife, Patricia, a practicing pediatrician, and their two children, Samantha and Grayson.   Here are a few additional resources for you… Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my IN PERSON Day of Development! You'll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You'll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It's time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

Pastor Danny continues his series exploring Dr. Charles Stanley's Life Principles. Today he dives into Principle #29: The Valley Experiences in Life.

Pastor Danny wraps up his discussion of Dr. Charles Stanley's 29th Life Principle: The Valley Experiences in Life.

The wicked are the bewitched and means anyone who thinks negatively and destructively. Life holds no grudge against any living being in the world. God is Life, and this Life-Principle is moving in you now animating, sustaining, and strengthening you. If you are wondering where God is, the Life-Principle in you is God. You are alive with the life of God. Life is forever forgiving us. We must let the scales of superstition fall from our eyes and become aware of simple truths which were always known. Truth has been distorted, twisted, and prostituted beyond recognition. This is why guilt is universal. In all ages people have been told to banish this sense of guilt, and they employed various ceremonies and rituals for this purpose. In olden days they sacrificed their bullocks and doves to propitiate the gods of wrath. When storms came, crops ruined, or a great drought prevailed, the people believed the gods were angry. The jungle priest had to give the people an answer. If he did not give the people an explanation, they killed him. Therefore, the jungle priests gave answers which satisfied the superstitious imaginings of these people. 

Pastor Danny continues his series exploring Dr. Charles Stanley's Life Principles. Today he dives into Principle #28: Together in Christian Life.

In this episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss sits down with Bret Davis, a leader who has seen it all—from the world of professional sports to rising through the ranks in the medical field. Bret shares how growing up as the son of an NFL coach shaped his unique perspective on leadership, motivation, and handling pressure. From observing legendary figures like Don Shula and Bill Cowher, to developing his own leadership style, Bret's experiences culminated in his Amazon #1 best-selling self-help book, Bretisms. Throughout the episode, Bret and Chuck explore how leadership is not just about victories, but about dealing with adversity and how vulnerability can actually be a sign of strength. Bret shares his “Bretisms”—insights drawn from a lifetime of experience in high-stress environments, designed to help people reduce anxiety and build confidence in everyday life. Key Takeaways from Bret's Journey: Growing up in an NFL family taught Bret invaluable lessons about leadership, adaptability, and handling pressure. Moving every couple of years for his dad's career exposed him to different cultures, teaching him how to fit in and stand out as a leader. One of Bret's key leadership principles is “Take the blame, shed the credit”. Great leaders, he notes, are quick to give credit to others while taking responsibility for failures. Bret also emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in leadership. In high-pressure environments, it's crucial to open up and lean on your support system rather than trying to be “bulletproof.” Bretisms and Their Impact Bret's book, Bretisms, outlines 30 life principles that can help reduce anxiety and build confidence. One of his most impactful sayings is, “You can't trip over what's behind you”—a reminder to let go of past failures and focus on moving forward. Through real-life examples from his childhood in the NFL, Bret demonstrates how letting go of perfectionism and embracing failure can lead to personal and professional growth. What's Coming Next? Chuck reflects on how Bret's perspective on failure has inspired him to rethink his own approach to perfectionism. He challenges listeners to adopt the mindset that failure is okay, as long as you're learning and growing from it. Bret's stories of watching NFL players handle adversity off the field provide listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the mental toughness it takes to succeed in high-pressure environments—whether in sports, business, or everyday life. Connect with Bret and Get the Book If you're ready to dive deeper into Bret's lessons on leadership and life, check out his book, Bretisms, available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. You can also visit his website Bretisms.com to learn more and find additional resources to help you build confidence and reduce anxiety. Listen to the full episode for more insights from Bret Davis, and remember to share this episode with someone who could benefit from the wisdom of a leader who has seen it all. If you're ready to embrace failure, boost your confidence, and reduce anxiety, this episode is for you! As always, connect with Chuck and learn more about coaching opportunities or speaking engagements by visiting Warriors Unmasked. Let's continue the journey together! GUEST LINKS: The Power of Bretisms: How Positive Sayings Can Transform Your Life: https://medium.com/@writersnauthors/the-power-of-bretisms-how-positive-sayings-can-transform-your-life-246e18fc76a1  Building Confidence and Reducing Anxiety: Insights from Bretisms - Non-Fiction Interviews and Book Reviews | Non-Fiction Author: https://nonfictioninterviews.com/building-confidence-and-reducing-anxiety-insights-from-bretisms/ LINKS: www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck's Text Community: 251-418-7966 Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 – Introduction and Welcome to Bret Davis 02:13 – Bret's Journey: Growing Up in an NFL Family and Moving Around the Country 06:45 – Leadership Lessons from Legendary NFL Coaches and Players 09:32 – The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership 13:00 – Bretisms: How Bret Turns Leadership Lessons into Life Principles 15:45 – “Take the Blame, Shed the Credit” – A Key Leadership Philosophy 18:20 – Handling Pressure: From the NFL to Executive Roles in the Business World 22:00 – Why Failure is Necessary: “You Can't Trip Over What's Behind You” 25:40 – Perfectionism vs. Progress: How to Reduce Anxiety and Build Confidence 29:10 – Bret's Best Leadership Advice and Favorite Bretisms 34:15 – Where to Find Bret's Book and Final Thoughts from Bret and Chuck

This is the greatest discovery of modern times—that every man can call upon this "Life Principle" at will, that it is as much the servant of his mind as was ever Aladdin's fabled "Genie-of-the-lamp" of old; that he has but to understand it and work in harmony with it to get from it anything he may need—health or happiness, riches or success. 

Every person in the world wants to succeed. You are born to win, to conquer and to lead the triumphant life. Success itself is a powerful incentive, for the Life Principle in you is always seeking expression through you at higher levels. You are successful when you lead a full and happy life, when you are expressing yourself at your highest level and contributing your talents to the world. In a successful undertaking you rise as high as you can, and your enterprise is of benefit to humanity. It brings you material reward and its production is a pleasure to you. Success is many-sided, however, and what is deemed success by one may be regarded as failure by another. 

Get inspired to become a more active member of your church to maintain a growing relationship with Christ.

Every person in the world wants to succeed. You are born to win, to conquer and to lead the triumphant life. You should be a wonderful success in your prayer life, your chosen work, your relationship with people and in all other phases of your life. Success itself is a powerful incentive, for the Life Principle in you is always seeking expression through you at higher levels. You are successful when you lead a full and happy life, when you are expressing yourself at your highest level and contributing your talents to the world. In a successful undertaking you rise as high as you can, and your enterprise is of benefit to humanity. It brings you material reward and its production is a pleasure to you. Success is many-sided, however, and what is deemed success by one may be regarded as failure by another.

Learn from the example of King David how to be victorious by seeking encouragement from God.

Listening to God is essential to walking with God.