Podcasts about Loneliness

#675: Welcome to Greatest Hits Week – five days, five episodes from our vault, spelling out F-I-I-R-E. Today's letter E stands for Entrepreneurship. This episode originally aired in September 2018, at a moment when startup culture was loud, venture capital was abundant, and entrepreneurship was often framed as something that involves outside investors and rapid growth. ____ In this episode, we rewind the clock to 2018. Remember what entrepreneurship was supposed to look like back then? Build a startup. Raise capital. Scale fast. Get rich. That was the dominant story. But our guest, Rand Fishkin, told a different story – a story about founder burnout, debt, and the downside of startup culture. Rand, the founder of Moz, shares how he and his mother accumulated nearly half a million dollars in debt while running an early services business. He talks about what it felt like to face creditors, negotiate settlements, and keep going under intense financial pressure. From there, we move into one of the most misunderstood ideas in entrepreneurship: the difference between service businesses and product businesses. Rand breaks down the trade-offs. Services generate income faster. Product businesses rely on outside capital. And founders often earn far less than people expect. That leads to a deeper conversation about incentives. Once venture capital enters the picture, priorities shift. Profits matter less. Growth matters more — and it affects both the business and your personal finances. High revenue does not automatically translate into personal wealth. We also talk about the side of entrepreneurship that rarely makes the highlight reels: Loneliness. Anxiety. Depression. And the relief that comes from realizing that even the most successful founders often feel lost while they're building. This conversation feels less like startup advice and more like a long-term framework for thinking clearly about risk, money, and meaning. If you've ever questioned whether entrepreneurship automatically leads to financial freedom, this episode offers a grounded and very honest answer. Timestamps Note: Timestamps will vary on individual listening devices based on dynamic advertising run times. The provided timestamps are approximate and may be several minutes off due to changing ad lengths. (00:00) Facing creditors and repayment negotiations (08:50) How a services business really works (11:40) From consulting to software (15:00) Services vs. product businesses (12:20) Why high revenue doesn't mean personal wealth (25:05) Venture capital incentives (27:50) Founder salaries and financial reality (30:40) Startup mythology vs. lived experience (33:20) Loneliness and mental health (36:15) Founder strengths and weaknesses (39:50) Feedback and self-awareness (42:30) Designing a business that fits your life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Christmas Day 2025, Stefan Molyneux addresses loneliness during the holidays, drawing from his own experiences and using the image of a ring marked "this too shall pass." He sets the empty routines of a "dead city" against the process of finding oneself, encouraging people to value their own views. In talks with callers, he shows understanding for loss and difficulties, closing with a note to pursue real bonds and accept who you are amid the celebrations.SUBSCRIBE TO ME ON X! https://x.com/StefanMolyneuxFollow me on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@freedomain1GET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

America is suffering from a loneliness epidemic. Some groups have suggested religious communities may be key to solving it. Could it help? Those arguing “yes” say it gives people regular social contact, support systems, and a sense of purpose that could combat isolation. Those arguing “no” say that secular options would provide better, broad-based solutions. Now we debate: Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?    Arguing Yes:   Harold Koenig, Director of Duke University's Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health   Chris Murphy, Senator from Connecticut     Arguing No:  Ruth Whippman, Author of "America the Anxious: How Our Pursuit of Happiness Is Creating a Nation of Nervous Wrecks" and "BOYMOM: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity."  Dan Barker, Co-President of the Freedom from Religion Foundation  Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to State of the Culture Pt 2 (Continuation)

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251226dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 He Has Spoken by His Son When people want to know God’s will, they often search for a voice. Some look for signs in nature, others for whispers in their hearts. Some chase after visions or dramatic experiences. But the writer to the Hebrews reminds us that we don't need to guess where God speaks. We already have his clear Word. Long ago, God spoke through prophets like Moses and Isaiah. Their words were true, and they pointed forward to something greater. All those voices prepared the way for the day when God would speak through his Son. And that day has come. In Jesus, God has spoken once for all. Do you want to know how God feels about you? Look at his Son. See Jesus reaching out to touch the untouchable leper. Hear his voice calming the fearful. Watch him carrying your sins to the cross. Listen as he cries out, “It is finished!” That is God's message to you. No uncertainty. No guesswork. God loves you, forgives you, and calls you his child. Notice also how Jesus is described. He is the heir of all things, the One through whom the universe was made. This is no ordinary messenger. When he speaks, it is not merely advice or suggestion. It is the voice of the eternal Son of God. And that means you can trust his promises with complete confidence. So, when doubts arise, when your heart longs for assurance, you don't need to wait for a special sign from heaven. You already have the greatest sign: God has spoken by his Son. Open the Scriptures. Hear him there. His Word is living and active, still speaking forgiveness and peace into your life today. Prayer: Lord Jesus, you are the final and full Word of God. When I am tempted to look elsewhere for assurance, turn me back to you. Let me rest in your promises, for in you I hear God's love loud and clear. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Welcome to Sweet Mind!

Christmas after divorce can hit your body before your mind ever catches up.You can know logically that other people's celebrations have nothing to do with you—and still feel the ache, the comparison, the quiet grief in your chest when you wake up.Today's episode is different.This is a short quantum healing track designed to help your nervous system release the emotional charge that gets activated when you imagine other families celebrating—and then turn back toward your own reality.Quantum healing works by bringing awareness to how your body responds to emotional contrast, then gently clearing the stored stress response without forcing positivity or bypassing grief.By the end of this track, many women notice: – less heaviness in the chest – a softening of comparison and loneliness – a calmer, more grounded nervous system – more space to meet Christmas Day as it actually isNo fixing. No reframing. Just relief.Press play when you're somewhere quiet and let your body do what it already knows how to do.Join Dear Divorce Diary Premium to access the full 12 Days of Divorce Christmas.Capacity builds in connection. Hugs ❤️Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyCoachDawnInstagram: (@dawnwiggins)Instagram: (@coachtiffini)On the Web: https://www.mycoachdawn.comA podcast exploring the journey of life after divorce, delving into topics like divorce grief, loneliness, anxiety, manifesting, the impact of different attachment styles and codependency, setting healthy boundaries, energy healing with homeopathy, managing the nervous system during divorce depression, understanding the stages of divorce grief, and using the Law of Attraction and EMDR therapy in the process of building your confidence, forgiveness and letting go.Support the show✨Join the Cocoon Community - your people are waiting! ✨

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251225dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 Give Glory to God How do you know what God is really like? Some imagine him as distant, powerful but far removed from daily life. Others picture him as a stern judge, always ready to condemn. Still others think of him as a vague spiritual force, too abstract to know personally. But John tells us something remarkable: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” The eternal Son of God didn't stay far away. He didn’t just send messages through prophets or appear in visions. He came down to live with us, fully human, yet still fully God. That changes everything. In Jesus, we see exactly what God is like. He is not cold or distant. He is not waiting for us to climb up to him. Instead, he comes down to us. He steps into our weakness, our suffering, even our death. He takes on flesh so that he can carry our sins to the cross and give us his righteousness in return. John says we have seen his glory. But notice how that glory shines. It is not in earthly splendor or political power, but in humble service, in compassion for the broken, in sacrifice for sinners. The manger, the cross, and the empty tomb reveal God's glory most clearly. There, we see a God full of grace and truth. Grace, because in Jesus, we receive forgiveness we could never earn. Truth, because in Jesus, we see God's faithfulness to every promise. This means you don’t have to wonder whether God loves you. You don’t need to search for hidden signs of his presence. The Word became flesh. He lived among us. He still comes to us today through his Word and sacraments. And he will dwell with us forever in heaven. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for becoming flesh and making your dwelling among us. Help me to see your glory in your life, death, and resurrection. Fill me with confidence in your grace and truth. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Catch up with Lou, Karen and Jesse as we unravel the latest twists and turns of "Pluribus" Episode 8! From comunical sleeping arrangements, to new dry erase markers, to emotional reunions and finding a muse.  Grab your deck of cards so we can play spit together and join us in our discussion of insights and theories you won't want to miss. Subscribe and listen today!

Send us your feedback — we're listeningPsalm 34:18 — Healing for Loneliness, Missing Loved Ones, and the Empty Chair at Christmas From New York to Nairobi, from Sydney to Belfast, from Rio to Warsaw — a global 12 P.M. Christmas Day prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Cycle. Psalm 34:18 — “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Revelation 21:4 — “He will wipe every tear from their eyes… there will be nmore death or mourning or crying or pain.” intro paragraph (38 words) Christmas noon intensifies memories, grief, and the ache of the empty chair. Global searches show deep longing for comfort, connection, and healing from loneliness. Today's prayer speaks into the emotional weight millions feel as they miss loved ones profoundly. prayer (129 words) Father, in Jesus' name, draw close to every listener carrying grief today. For the one who feels the empty chair, fill that space with Your presence and tender love. Heal hearts that ache with memories, silence, and longing. Let Your comfort wash through every room, softening the sting of absence and lifting the heaviness of loneliness. Lord, remind us that You see every tear, You understand every sigh, and You hold every broken moment. Surround each person with peace that steadies the soul and hope that breathes gently into the day. May joy return in small, surprising ways. Restore confidence, restore warmth, restore connection. And let the promise of Revelation 21:4 anchor us: You will wipe every tear, and pain will not have the final word. prayer points prayer for comfort today, prayer for healing grief, prayer for lonely hearts, prayer for God's closeness, prayer for emotional restoration, prayer for renewed hope, prayer for peace over memories life application  Reach out to one person today—send a message, make a call, or offer a moment of kindness. Healing often begins with one courageous connection.declaration I declare that Christ is near, comforting my heart and filling every empty space with His healing love. call to action Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources. 24-hour arc connectorPrevious: 9 A.M. Family Peace and HarmonyThis Episode: 12 P.M. Healing for Loneliness and the Empty ChairNext: 6 P.M. Light in the Darkness — Hope for a Weary Worldsupport this listener-funded ministry for £3 a monthhttps://buymeacoffee.com/reverenSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJohn 1:5 — Light in the Darkness, Hope for a Weary World This ChristmasFrom London to Seoul, from Toronto to Mumbai, from Cape Town to Buenos Aires — a global 6 P.M. Christmas prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Cycle. John 1:5 — “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Isaiah 9:2 — “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light…” By Christmas evening, global searches show rising emotional fatigue, heaviness, and the desire for renewed hope. Many feel spiritually drained, carrying private battles beneath the celebrations. Today's prayer speaks strength into a weary world longing for light, clarity, and divine reassurance. prayer  Father, in the name of Jesus, shine Your light into every shadow we carry tonight. For the weary, breathe fresh strength. For the anxious, release calm. For those overwhelmed by silence, noise, fear, or expectations, let Your presence break through like dawn after a long night. Lord, You are the Light that darkness cannot overcome—steady our minds, lift our spirits, and renew every faint heart. Bring clarity where confusion sits, courage where fear whispers, and joy where heaviness presses. Let households feel Your peace settling like a warm mantle. Illuminate paths that seem hidden, restore souls that feel empty, and remind us that Your light still leads, heals, and prevails. Tonight, let hope rise again—quiet, strong, unshakeable. prayer points prayer for renewed hope, prayer for inner strength, prayer for God's light, prayer for weary hearts, prayer for emotional clarity, prayer for restored joy, prayer for peace in every homelife application Step outside for one quiet minute tonight. Breathe deeply and ask God to shine light on one area where you need renewed hope and direction. declaration I declare that the light of Christ breaks every darkness and fills my life with unshakeable hope. call to action Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources. 24-hour arc connectorPrevious: 12 P.M. Healing for Loneliness and the Empty ChairThis Episode: 6 P.M. Light in the Darkness — Hope for a Weary WorldNext: 8 P.M. Calm for the Evening — support this listener-funded ministry for £3 a monthhttps://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooperjohn 1:5 prayer, isaiah 9:2 christmas hope, light in darkness prayer, christmas encouragement,Support the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Why do Scripture-engaged people report lower loneliness, anxiety, and despair? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack new research from the American Bible Society and explore why biblical truth forms a deeper, more secure identity than modern ideologies. Together, they examine how Scripture, identity, security, and the work of the Holy Spirit bring lasting belonging, resilience, and hope—for adults and for kids

Christmas is one of the most triggering times of the year, bringing both celebration and danger. This episode summarizes the core strategies from the 5-part "Christmas Clean" series, providing five top, practical tips to ensure you stay clean through the holidays and launch into the New Year with momentum. The key goal is to avoid the common pattern of accruing significant "debt" (relapses/slips) over Christmas, which can be so large that even the New Year's momentum isn't enough to overcome it. By staying clean now, you can enter a "surplus" in January, allowing you to build something meaningful and sustainable.   Know more about Sathiya's work: Join Deep Clean Inner Circle - The Brotherhood You Neeed (+ get coached by Sathiya) For Less Than $2/day Submit Your Questions (Anonymously) To Be Answered On The Podcast Get A Free Copy of The Last Relapse, Your Blueprint For Recovery Watch Sathiya on Youtube For More Content Like This   Chapters: (00:14) Introduction: Christmas—Triggering Time with Dangers. (00:48)The Goal: Stay Clean and Enter the New Year with Momentum. (01:14)This is a Summary of the 5-Part Christmas Clean Series. (02:14) Resource Plug: The Last Relapse Book. (03:19)Tip 1: You Must Know Your Holiday Triggers and Have a Plan. (04:50)Tip 2: Maintain the Routines That Mean the Most (Late Nights are Dangerous). (05:40)The Red Zone: 10 PM to Midnight. (06:00)Tip 3: Participate in Something Bigger Than You (Christmas is Not About You). (07:12)Story: The Grandkids Who Cried (The Power of Service Over Consumerism). (08:08)Tip 4: Beware the BLT (Boredom, Loneliness, Tiredness). (09:07)Tip 5: Have a Spiritual Anchor—Connect with God Every Day. (09:36)The Debt vs. Momentum Analogy: Why Staying Clean NOW Matters Most. (10:50)Course Correcting Now to Launch Yourself into a Surplus in January. (11:57)Final Encouragement and Book Offer.

We're calling BS on the idea that “health” is only pills, trackers, and willpower. In this conversation with journalist and TEDx speaker Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure, we dig into social prescribing—evidence-based referrals to movement, nature, art, service, and belonging—that can lower stress, boost mood, and make our lives feel human again.  Edgy truth: we've replaced community with convenience. The remedy? Re-connect to what matters to you and let your nervous system exhale. Julia advises Social Prescribing USA and Walk with a Doc, collaborates with the Solutions Journalism Network, and teaches in medical schools—turning research on connection into care that actually changes lives. We cover: What social prescribing actually is (no, your doctor isn't forcing you to make friends) and why up to 80% of health is socially determined—think stress, access to green space, and community, not just clinic time. The five social-Rx categories: Movement, Nature, Art, Service, Belonging—and how most prescriptions blend at least two. A nature-based case study: how a 10-week outdoors program reduced insomnia, rumination, and stress—plus why time in nature can feel like it gives you time back. From “shoulds” to want to: questions that surface your personal Rx (awe/flow/glimmers, what lit you up as a kid, and where you'd spend two extra hours a week). Turning workouts into joy: travel-style discovery walks at home, walking groups, or pickup games that deliver cardio and connection. Blue-zones energy without the gym membership: everyday movement, long chats, shared meals, and community as longevity multipliers. The U.S. landscape: why social prescriptions can complement meds (not replace them), and how orgs like Social Prescribing USA and Walk with a Doc are moving this forward. So whether your version of medicine looks like a morning hike, a pottery class, or finally joining that book club, the point isn't perfection—it's participation. Because when we choose connection over isolation and curiosity over compliance, we're not just improving our health—we're reclaiming our humanity. Thank you to our sponsors! Get 20% off your first order at curehydration.com/WOMANSWORK with code WOMANSWORK — and if you get a post-purchase survey, mention you heard about Cure here to help support the show!  Visit beducate.me/womanswork69 and use code womanswork69 for 65% off the annual pass.  Black Friday has come early at Cozy Earth! Right now, you can stack my code WOMANSWORK on top of their sitewide sale — giving you up to 40% off in savings. Connect with Julia: Website: https://www.hotzthoughts.com/  Social Prescribing: https://www.socialprescribing.co/  Book:https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Connection-Cure/Julia-Hotz/9781668030349?utm_source=chatgpt.com  Related Podcast Episodes: Loneliness And The Value Of Connection with Kasley Killam | 218  The Power of Conscious Connection with Talia Fox | 263  The Power Of Connection with Tory Archbold | 105  Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

After the success of “Uncut Gems,” director Josh Safdie is back with “Marty Supreme” — his first film without his creative partner and brother, Benny. The film is already generating significant buzz, particularly for Timothée Chalamet's performance as a charismatic but arrogant table tennis prodigy. Josh joins guest host Talia Schlanger to talk about the film and what made Timothée perfect for the role. Plus, he reflects on the loneliness he felt while making “Uncut Gems,” what it really means to pursue your dreams, and whether the sacrifice is worth it. If you like this interview, check out Tom Power's conversation with Benny Safdie about his film “The Smashing Machine.”

JOIN "THE REBUILT MAN" ON SKOOL - ▶️ www.skool.com/rebootyourlife   Most men don't relapse because they're weak. They relapse because they're alone.   In this episode of The Rebuilt Man Podcast, Coach Frank Rich exposes the growing loneliness and isolation crisis facing modern men and why it's one of the biggest drivers behind porn addiction today.   Drawing from real client experiences, cultural data, and years of coaching men through recovery, Frank breaks down 7 reasons isolation fuels porn addiction, revealing how secrecy, shame, emotional pressure, and loss of identity quietly keep men trapped.   This episode isn't just about quitting porn. It's about reclaiming identity, brotherhood, and purpose—and why real freedom is never found alone.   What You'll Learn In This Episode Why porn addiction thrives in isolation—not weakness   How loneliness is quietly destroying men's standards, identity, and direction   The emotional pressures that drive relapse beneath the surface   Why shame grows stronger the more men fight alone   How porn becomes a counterfeit form of connection   Why purpose collapses without brotherhood   The missing piece most men overlook in recovery 7 Reasons Isolation Fuels Porn Addiction Isolation removes accountability Without brotherhood, standards collapse and discipline fades. Isolation multiplies emotional pressure Stress, anxiety, boredom, and resentment seek escape. Isolation erodes identity Men begin believing lies about who they are and what's possible. Isolation lowers standards Survival replaces growth when no one is calling you higher. Isolation amplifies shame Secrecy fuels the addiction loop. Isolation turns porn into a "relationship" Porn becomes comfort, control, and counterfeit intimacy. Isolation kills purpose and momentum Disconnected men drift—and porn fills the vacuum.     Join the Brotherhood   If you're ready to stop fighting alone and step into a container built for growth, support, and freedom:   ➡ Join The Rebuilt Man Skool Community — Free 7-Day Trial www.TheRebuiltMan.com/7dayreset   Inside you'll gain access to: Daily accountability Weekly coaching The 7-Day Reset The 12-Week "Reboot Your Life" Framework And a brotherhood of men who refuse to quit   – Follow Coach Frank: IG - https://www.instagram.com/coachfrankrich   YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@CoachFrankRich   Website - https://www.rebuiltrecovery.com/homepage

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251224dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:8-12 A Savior Has Been Born to You The shepherds weren’t expecting anything that night. They were just doing their jobs. They watched their flocks, kept predators away, and tried to stay warm in the darkness. Then suddenly, the night sky blazed with God’s glory, and an angel stood before them. Terror filled their hearts. Who could stand in the presence of God’s holiness? But the first words they heard were not words of judgment. They were words of comfort: “Do not be afraid.” Why not? Because God had not come to condemn. He had come to save. “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.” Notice the angel’s message. This Savior is for you. Not just for kings or priests. Not just for the powerful or important. For shepherds, for sinners, for all people. And the sign? Not a mighty warrior or dazzling throne, but a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. God’s Son came in humility so that no one would be too lowly to approach him. On this holy night, the same message comes to you: Do not be afraid. Whatever guilt weighs on your conscience, whatever darkness troubles your heart, your Savior has been born. Rejoice! The good news of great joy is for you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for coming into this world for me. Drive away my fears and fill my heart with your peace and joy this Christmas Eve. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

As Australians prepare to celebrate Christmas, charities across the country are stepping in to support those most at risk of loneliness and isolation during the holiday season. Wesley Mission is hosting a free Christmas Day lunch to bring together people from all walks of life, while disability and community services work to ensure vulnerable Australians are not left without care or connection over the end of year shutdown.

Loneliness is a big challenge teens face today — and it's far more common (and more normal) than most teens recognize. In this episode, Leslie talks with licensed psychologist and author Dr. Kathy Wu about why so many teens feel disconnected, what loneliness does to the teen brain, and how it affects self-confidence, motivation, and mental health.   What you'll hear: How the brain's reward system and stress response make loneliness worse The link between belonging, self-talk, self-compassion, and connection What to do when you want to reach out… but fear rejection How to make friendships in small, real-life steps Why loneliness can show up even when you're surrounded by people Practical ways to reconnect, build confidence, and reshape your social habits This episode gives relatable insights + actionable steps teens can use today to break the loneliness cycle and feel more connected again. Book: Self-Regulation Handbook for Teens and Young Adults by Dr. Kathy Wu   Like this episode? Hit follow and leave a review -- your voice matters!   Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here to help your teen/young adult build self-esteem while resolving body image, unhealthy eating and and weight concerns.  Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen  

Why are you unhappy, even when everything in your life looks “fine” from the outside?In this episode, happiness expert and bestselling author Gretchen Rubin breaks down the real reasons people feel unhappy, unfulfilled, or stuck, and why traditional advice about happiness often fails. We talk about the hidden causes of unhappiness, the habits that quietly drain joy, and the practical changes that actually lead to lasting happiness.You'll learn why happiness is not a personality trait, why chasing happiness can make you feel worse, and how to build a happier life in a realistic, sustainable way, without toxic positivity or pressure to “just be grateful.”If you've ever asked yourself “Why am I unhappy?” or “Why don't I feel happy even though my life is good?”, this conversation will change how you think about happiness.In this episode:Why people feel unhappy even when life is going wellCommon happiness myths that make people feel worseThe habits that quietly reduce happinessHow to increase happiness in everyday lifePractical advice from Gretchen Rubin's researchAbout Gretchen Rubin:Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author, Founder of The Happiness Project, and one of today's leading experts on happiness, habits, and human nature. Her books include The Happiness Project, Better Than Before, The Four Tendencies and Outer Order, Inner Calm and more.Gretchen's links:Happier with Gretchen Rubin PodcastWebsiteNewsletterQuizzes(00:01:02) Welcome Gretchen Rubin to the podcast.(00:05:00) Gretchen's beginnings and journey from law student to happiness expert.(00:09:27) What IS happiness anyways? Can we define it?(00:14:50) Can you control our own happiness? What if bad stuff happens?(00:19:40) Gretchen bestsellers: “Better Than Before” and “The Four Tendencies” (00:27:10) Why you shouldn't fight your fundamental natural tendency.(00:36:27) Why we need to know ourselves for better communication and how not to judge others but see them.(00:42:25) Change is hard. And what to do when lonely.(00:51:38) Is being unhappy a default human setting?(00:59:39) Do we need hobbies to be happy?(01:08:06) Where to find and hear more from Gretchen Rubin.Want to leave the TTSL Podcast a voicemail? We love your questions and adore hearing from you. https://www.speakpipe.com/TheThickThighsSaveLivesPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The CVG Nation app, for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iPhone⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The CVG Nation app, for Android⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fitness FB Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thick Thighs Save Lives Workout Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Constantly Varied Gear's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Workout Leggings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

On this episode of Trending with Timmerie. Episode Guide 70% of abortion businesses operating in 1991 have closed, over 1,500 shut down (2:02) Loneliness, peace, and joy (19:53) The Holy Family’s journey to Bethlehem (39:41) “He has come to His people and set them free.” The Canticle of Zechariah (46:10) Resources mentioned: 70% of Abortion Businesses Operating in 1991 Have Closed, Over 1,500 Shut Down https://www.lifenews.com/2025/12/16/70-of-abortion-businesses-operating-in-1991-have-closed-over-1500-shut-down/ Support After Abortion https://supportafterabortion.com/ Efforts to reconnect Americans face challenges in a lonely time https://apnews.com/article/loneliness-social-disconnection-community-building-23edcca171347383787170cc5072f85a

In the final installment of the five-part Christmas Clean series, we anchor all the practical strategies discussed previously by focusing on the spiritual meaning of Christmas. Christmas, as a Christian holiday, is meant to be about Christ, but this meaning often gets lost in the busyness, consumerism, and chaos of the season. The host ties together all the parts of the series—holiday triggers, routines, the power of service (It's Not About You), and combating the BLT (Boredom, Loneliness, Tiredness)—by emphasizing that connecting with Jesus is the anchor that makes all other recovery efforts effective.   Know more about Sathiya's work: Join Deep Clean Inner Circle - The Brotherhood You Neeed (+ get coached by Sathiya) For Less Than $2/day Submit Your Questions (Anonymously) To Be Answered On The Podcast Get A Free Copy of The Last Relapse, Your Blueprint For Recovery Watch Sathiya on Youtube For More Content Like This   Chapters: (00:01) Why Christmas Is the Most Triggering Time of the Year (01:20) The “Holiday Debt” Analogy & Why Most Guys Relapse in December (02:24) Step 1: Identify Your Holiday Triggers (03:45) Common Holiday Triggers Explained (04:48) Why Christmas Triggers Repeat Every Year (06:20) Creating Your Personal Trigger Plan (07:25) Real Example: How One Client Prevented a Thanksgiving Relapse (08:20) Setting Boundaries on Sleep, Food, Alcohol, and Social Behavior (09:18) Closing Advice: Don't “Wing It” This Christmas

You can be surrounded by people and still feel deeply alone. Laurel, Hạ, and Austen unpack how loneliness shows up in medical training and practice—not as physical isolation, but as emotional and social disconnection. They reflect on when loneliness hits hardest, when it eases, and what helps them feel seen in high-pressure environments. The conversation also explores how disconnection among clinicians shapes the care we give and the relationships we build with patients.

What if one of the greatest challenges in leadership isn't decision-making or pressure but loneliness? In this Unfiltered Series conversation, leadership experts Amy Riley and Daphna Horowitz get real about the isolation that often hides behind confidence and success. Even the most connected leaders can feel unseen when everyone's looking to them for answers. Amy and Daphna explore how this quiet loneliness shows up at every level of leadership and why it's not a flaw but a signal—a call to pause, reflect, and reconnect. They share how to build your personal “A-Team,” drop the mask selectively, and find spaces where you can be supported as much as you support others. True leadership, they remind us, isn't about standing alone at the top—it's about finding the courage to lead with openness and connection. Key Takeaways: 1. How to Recognize When Leadership Feels Lonely - Learn the subtle signs of isolation that most leaders overlook—and why noticing them matters. 2. Why Loneliness Can Be a Teacher, Not a Threat - Discover how reframing loneliness helps you grow instead of hiding behind busyness or success. 3. The Secret to Building Real Support as a Leader- Hear how to design genuine circles of trust that remind you you're not meant to do it all alone. 4. What It Means to Drop the Mask Safely - Find out how to be open and authentic without losing credibility or composure. 5. Turning Loneliness into Leadership Strength – How connection and vulnerability can become your greatest sources of influence. Connect with Your Co-Hosts  Daphna Horowitz  www.daphnahorowitz.com   https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/   https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions   https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leadership-live/id1524072573     Amy L. Riley  http://www.courageofaleader.com   https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley   https://courageofaleader.com/podcast/   Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,...

What if one of the greatest challenges in leadership isn't decision-making or managing stress but loneliness?    In this Unfiltered Series conversation, leadership experts Amy Riley and Daphna Horowitz get real about the isolation that often hides behind confidence and success. Even the most connected leaders can feel unseen when everyone's looking to them for answers.   Amy and Daphna explore how this quiet loneliness shows up at every level of leadership and why it's not a flaw but a signal—a call to pause, reflect, and reconnect. They share how to build your personal "A-Team," drop the mask selectively, and find spaces where you can be supported as much as you support others. True leadership, they remind us, isn't about standing alone at the top—it's about finding the courage to lead with openness and connection. To deepen this reflection, the Life Clarity Quiz helps you quickly assess where you feel aligned, where you're stretched thin and where you may need your own "A-Team" around you. https://daphnahorowitz.com/life-clarity     Connect with Your Co-Hosts    Daphna Horowitz  www.daphnahorowitz.com   https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/   https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions   https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leadership-live/id1524072573       Amy L. Riley  http://www.courageofaleader.com   https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley   https://courageofaleader.com/podcast/       Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!     Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.     Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.    Timestamps 00:00:26 – The loneliness of leadership 00:06:21 – Vulnerability, connection, and the leadership paradox 00:09:45 – The leadership persona and the mask of composure 00:11:07 – How to identify indicators of loneliness 00:12:54 – The emotional weight of leadership isolation 00:15:55 – Belonging, distance and the leadership gap 00:18:35 – Building your A-team and finding meaningful support 00:24:08 – Reframing loneliness as a signal, not a flaw 00:26:41 – Stillness: What is this feeling asking of me?

We hear from both sides of the hunting divide about the Government's plan to ban trail hunting in England and Wales. Trail hunting was introduced after hunting foxes, and other animals, with hounds was banned under the 2004 Hunting Act. It involves hounds following an animal scent based trail. The Government and anti-hunting campaigners argue that the practice is being used by some as a smokescreen for intentional, illegal, hunting of foxes. They say the current law needs to be changed urgently. The Countryside Alliance says there's no evidence that the Hunting Act is unenforceable and that those who hunt illegally are prosecuted.We drop in at a lunch organised to combat social isolation at Christmas for older people in the Highlands. And, how much trickier has Christmas tree production been due to this year's summer drought?Presenter: Anna Hill Producer: Sarah Swadling

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251223dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:20-21 Give Him the Name Jesus Joseph’s world had been turned upside down. The woman he loved was expecting a child, and Joseph knew he wasn’t the father. In his hurt and confusion, he planned to end the engagement quietly. But before he could act, God intervened. Through an angel, the Lord gave Joseph the comfort he needed: “Do not be afraid.” Mary’s child was no scandal. He was the Savior, conceived by the Holy Spirit. This was not Joseph’s plan, but it was God’s, and it was perfect. The angel even told Joseph the baby’s name: Jesus. That name means “The Lord saves.” His purpose was clear. He will save his people from their sins. Not from Roman rulers. Not from poverty or sickness. But from the deeper problem that haunts every heart—sin. What a message of hope! We too face fear and confusion when life does not go as planned. We wrestle with guilt over choices we made, with uncertainty about the future, with the pain of brokenness in our world. Yet in our turmoil, God still speaks: “Do not be afraid.” Why not? Because Jesus has come. He has come to save us from our sins. He has lived the perfect life we could not, carried our guilt to the cross, and risen victorious from the grave. His name is still our comfort today: Jesus. The Lord saves. Like Joseph, we may not always understand God’s plan. But we can trust his promise. In Christ, we are forgiven. In Christ, we are safe. And in Christ, we have every reason to live without fear. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to save me from my sins. When fear and doubt rise in my heart, remind me of your name and your promise: The Lord saves. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

In this heartfelt Christmas episode, I offer gentle Ayurvedic guidance for navigating one of the most emotionally charged times of the year. Whether you're feeling lonely, overwhelmed, triggered by family dynamics, grieving, overstimulated or simply tender-hearted — this episode is here to hold you with warmth, compassion and a soft touch of humour.We explore: • why emotions intensify at Christmas • how your doshas influence your reactions • simple boundaries that protect your energy • how to soothe loneliness, stress and overstimulation • how to support grief or old family patterns with love • one small, powerful action step for emotional balanceThis is a cosy, supportive episode to help you stay grounded and connected to yourself — no matter how Christmas unfolds.✨ If you're feeling called to receive personalised Ayurvedic support, you can book a free 15-minute connection call with me: https://tidycal.com/ithrive/connection-call

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode, we explore a theme that quietly weighs on many people during this time of year: navigating the holidays alone. While the holiday season is often portrayed as a time of togetherness, joy, and celebration, it can also amplify feelings of loneliness, pressure, and comparison. The Stoics approached these moments differently, not by denying the difficulty, but by understanding it through reason, acceptance, and self-knowledge.At the heart of this episode is the Stoic distinction between loneliness and solitude. Loneliness arises when our desires and expectations clash with reality, when we believe something essential is missing. Solitude, by contrast, is a state of inner steadiness, a calm connection with oneself that does not depend on external circumstances.Seneca captures this beautifully when he writes:“…we say the wise man is self-content; he is so in the sense that he is able to do without friends, not that he desires to do without them.”Seneca, Letters from a Stoic, Letter 9For the Stoics, this wasn't about rejecting relationships or becoming emotionally distant, but about grounding our well-being in what truly belongs to us: our judgments, values, and character. When Seneca speaks of self-contentment, he isn't praising isolation, but reminding us that inner stability is the foundation for meaningful connection, not its opposite.Here are a few Stoic practices from this episode you can explore in your own life:Examining desires – Notice where your expectations about the holidays come from, and whether they are reasonable or imposed by social pressure.Reframing impressions – When thoughts of “I shouldn't be alone” arise, pause and question the judgment behind them.Practicing solitude – Use time alone for reflection, rest, and reconnection with your values, rather than distraction.Voluntary withdrawal from comparison – Step back from social media when it fuels restlessness or self-judgment.This episode gently reframes the holidays as an opportunity for honesty and presence. By applying the Stoic view, moments of solitude can become moments of clarity, grounding, and even quiet joy. Stoicism shows us that peace does not come from having life look a certain way, but from learning to meet life as it is, with reason and kindness toward ourselves.Listen to the full episode now and discover how navigating the holidays alone can transform the way you think, act, and relate to yourself.Support the show

It's that time of year when Leah, Melissa, and Kate put on their influencer hats and recommend the things that made their days a little brighter in 2025. This year, they're joined by two special guests: rockstar Strict Scrutiny intern Jordan Thomas to share some of his picks, and former Chair of the Federal Election Commission Ellen Weintraub to discuss two of democracy's favorite things—independent agencies and the regulation of money in politics. Favorite things: WANTLeah: Cozy Earth Bubble Cuddle Blanket, Jones Road Just Enough Tinted MoisturizerKate: Aventura electric scooter, Grüns Superfood Greens GummiesMelissa: True Botanicals, e.l.f. Camo Liquid BlushJordan: Tea Tree Leave-In Conditioner, Pink Oil Moisturizer,  NEEDLeah: Peloton stretching classes, Farmhounds dog treats; Badlands Ranch dog foodKate: custom bobbleheads & action figures, Lilly Allen's tour, Strict Scrutiny's upcoming West Coast tourMelissa: Caddis readers, Blackwing Matte pencils, As Ever RoséJordan: 2026 Evanescence and Korn tours, these headphones WEARLeah: Forme Power Bra, Argent, TheRealRealKate: Strict Scrutiny onesies, Cozy Earth Studio Wide Leg PantMelissa: Quince yak wool sweaters, Uniqlo White T-Shirt, Clearly Collective Collegiate Scarves, WaySoft Cashmere BeanieJordan: Crooked Con Merch, Mavi jeans READLeah: The Wedding People, Alison Espach; Julie Anne Long's Pennyroyal Green series; Lisa Kleypas' Wallflowers series; These Summer Storms, Sarah MacLean; Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil, V. E. Schwab; The God of the Woods, Liz Moore; Book of the MonthKate: The Power Broker, Robert Caro; Who Is Government? Michael Lewis; Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter, Kate Conger & Ryan Mac; The Radical Fund, John Fabian Witt; Isola, Allegra Goodman; Heart the Lover, Lily King; Martyr! Kaveh Akbar; The History of Sound, Ben ShattuckMelissa: Matriarch, Tina Knowles; Black in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People, Imani Perry; Jane Austen's Bookshelf, Rebecca Romney; Atmosphere, Taylor Jenkins Reid; The Book Club for Troublesome Women, Marie Bostwick; The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny, Kiran DesaiJordan: Lawless, Leah Litman; The Sirens' Call, Chris Hayes; Bad Law, Elie Mystal; Charles Sumner: Conscience of a Nation, Zaakir Tameez; Just Shine! How to Be a Better You, Sonia SotomayorEllen: Deanna Raybourn's Veronica Speedwell Mysteries; Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, Benjamin Stevenson; The Black Wolf, Louise Penny; Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent, Judi Dench; This Is Happiness, Niall Williams; Elizabeth Strout; Amor Towles Get tickets for STRICT SCRUTINY LIVE – The Bad Decisions Tour 2025! 3/6/26 – San Francisco3/7/26 – Los AngelesLearn more: http://crooked.com/eventsOrder your copy of Leah's book, Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad VibesFollow us on Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

So you wanna get back with your ex. It's a pretty universal experience and you told us heaps of reasons why you tried to rekindle the relationship - whether it's emotional dependency, needing closure or the whole “it'll be different this time!”. We hear your stories from when it's worked, when it hasn't, and if there's a formula to getting it right. SHOW NOTES:Should You Get Back With Your Ex or Move On?: https://www.abc.net.au/triplej/programs/the-hook-up/getting-back-together-with-ex-break-up-move-on-liz-neal/105749268DM us your thoughts, questions, topics, or to just vent at @triplejthehookup on IG or email us: thehookup@abc.net.auThe Hook Up is an ABC podcast, produced by triple j. It is recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay our respects to elders past and present. We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the land where we live, work, and learn.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251222dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 Look to the Sign We live in a world that constantly demands signs. Politicians promise change, and we look for signs that things will improve. Doctors give us a diagnosis, and we want signs that treatments will work. Even in our spiritual lives, we sometimes find ourselves asking God for signs as proof that he is with us, proof that he hears us and will help us. King Ahaz, the king of Judah, was in a difficult spot when Isaiah spoke the words of our Bible reading for today. Powerful armies threatened him. God offered him a sign of his faithfulness, but Ahaz doubted God. God’s promise did not depend on Ahaz’s faith. The Lord himself gave the sign: a virgin would conceive and give birth to a son, and his name would be Immanuel, “God with us.” Centuries later, Matthew's gospel revealed how wonderfully God kept that promise. The virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus, and in him God truly was with us, not just in spirit, not only in power, but in the flesh. He came to stand in our place, to live the perfect life we could not, and to die the death our sins deserved. The ultimate sign of God’s faithfulness is the cross and the empty tomb. What does this mean for us? It means we never need to doubt whether God is with us. Whatever troubles surround us—health concerns, family struggles, financial stress, or guilt from our sins—God has already given us the sign. In Jesus, he is with us. And if he is with us, then who can be against us? So, when doubts creep in, return to the sign God has given. Look to the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb. There you see Immanuel, God with us, God with you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to be my Immanuel. When I am afraid or tempted to doubt, turn my eyes back to you and the sign of your love. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

I've got something special for you. This episode gets into the root cause of why we can feel dissatisfied, overwhelmed, and avoidant in our lives while introducing TRUE NORTH - a 3 month mastermind to combat that. It's a safe space for intelligent men to tap into their power, potency, and purpose across all domains of life.If you want to start 2026 experiencing big momentum, if you're ready to expand and transform then TRUE NORTH is calling. Listen in to learn about how this mastermind experience can be a game-changer for your self-development and whether you're a good fit.We start in January with early bird special pricing live through Christmas Day. This is very intimate space with limited spots.APPLY HERE: https://app.youform.com/forms/u299chuhRead more about it here: https://anyashakh.com/true-north-the-...TIMESTAMPS:00:00 — Intro & The Search for Freedom 00:50 — Announcement: Special Program for Men01:15 — The Pain of Not Being Seen 02:02 — Understanding Overwhelm & Loneliness 03:55 — Accessing Your Highest Potential 04:23 — The Five Essential Human Needs 05:16 — Introduction to the Mastermind Concept 06:13 — Defining True North: Program Goals 07:02 — The Ubuntu Philosophy & Tribal Wisdom 08:04 — Breaking Negative Reinforcement Patterns 08:42 — The Art of Receiving & Integration 09:14 — Finding Your "True North" 10:01 — Healing Through Relationship Dynamics 11:22 — Integrity & Intimate Group Spaces 11:59 — Curating a Space for Transformation 12:53 — Quantum Leaps: The Hero's Journey 14:05 — From "Mr. Fix-It" to Self-Prioritization 15:16 — Action-Oriented Coaching vs. Therapy 16:11 — Attachment Theory & Somatic Work 17:45 — Why This Approach Works for Men 19:12 — Direct Feedback & Hotseat Coaching 21:28 — Setting Three-Month Transformation Goals 24:35 — Program Logistics & Commitment 26:17 — Final Call to Action & Conclusion29:21 — Final thoughts & outro___________________________If you found some value today then help me spread the word! Share this episode with a friend or leave a review. This helps the podcast grow.You can also watch the episodes on youtube hereFollow me on Instagram @anyashakhYou can book a discovery call at https://anyashakh.com/mentorship

Series:  How To Have Peace On Earth When There's War At Home Passage: Genesis 16:1-9, 13 December 21, 2025 www.clearcreekcoc.org

Loneliness doesn't stop at city limits or country borders. In this episode of Europe Talks Back,we explore how isolation takes root in both Europe's bustling cities and its quiet rural towns. With insights from sociologist Jasper de Witte, we unpack why loneliness isn't just about being alone but about social ties, inequality, and the structures that shape our lives. From young people in fast-paced capitals to older adults in remote villages, millions across Europe are affected. We look at what makes loneliness different in rural and urban contexts, why it matters for public health and democracy, and what solutions from better transport to community spaces might help people feel less cut off and more connected. And today, we're diving into what loneliness means in rural and urban Europe, why it happens, why it matters, and what can actually make a difference.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow us on:LinkedInInstagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Andrea Wigfield, is director of the Centre for Loneliness Studies at Sheffield Hallam University.

Loneliness during holidays gets weaponized by shame in highly sensitive people, turning togetherness expectations into daggers stabbing at your worth. That fullness of isolation doesn't mean you're alone - billions are yearning for connection just like you. The dangerous pattern happens when loneliness runs to your head and creates cutting stories: "You must be the only person alone on Christmas." Society has zero positive templates for loners, confusing solitude with dysfunction. The shift requires forcefully changing gears - actively looking for places you fit instead of cataloging everywhere you don't. Real connection might be two actions away. Affiliates and Sponsors: Brain FM Resources: PATTERNSCAPES DECK: https://getpatternscapes.com/ WORK WITH NIKKI 1:1: EmotionalBadass.com/coaching 30 Days to Peace Course EmotionalBadass.com/peace THE BI-WEEKLY WELLNESS NEWSLETTER EmotionalBadass.com/newsletter SUPPORT US ON PATREON Patreon.com/emotionalbadass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3394: Rosalyn Palmer shines a compassionate light on the hidden epidemic of modern loneliness, revealing its devastating physical and emotional toll across all ages and backgrounds. By exploring the role of social media, home design, and meaningful human connection, she offers practical insights to help us reimagine how we live and support one another in an increasingly disconnected world. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://rosalynpalmer.com/tackling-loneliness/ Quotes to ponder: "Loneliness, living alone and poor social connections are as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day." "We are basically tribal people who want to connect and belong, yet this needs to be balanced by the need for each individual to have the ability to some privacy." "Being Ms. Popularity on social media doesn't protect you from loneliness." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textYou can be home for Christmas and still not be at peace. Because peace isn't about proximity — it's about emotional safety.Some of you will sit next to people this holiday and feel completely alone. Not because you don't love them… but because you can't reach them anymore.The truth is, peace is the gift most people never receive — because it can't be wrapped, bought, or faked. It's built with honesty, safety, and love that feels like home.Listen to: “Home for the Holidays—But Not at Peace: The Loneliness No One Talks About” Because sometimes, pretending everything's merry is what's keeping you miserable.Support the show

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251221dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God—the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures regarding his Son, who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David, and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name's sake. And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. Romans 1:1-6 Family Matters For many people, these are days of preparation and travel to be with family for Christmas. Most will describe this as an essential and very enjoyable part of the Christmas celebration. Similarly, the reason Jesus was born in Bethlehem was a family matter. His parents had traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem because “they were of the house and line of David” (Luke 2:4). In the very town that hundreds of years earlier David was anointed the king of Israel, came the one who would fulfill that promise. Jesus had a family. The apostle Paul wrote, “As to his human nature (he) was a descendant of David.” He “became flesh” (John 1:14). He became true man so he could live and experience life like one of us. He also “through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God” (Romans 1:4). Jesus wasn’t just another human member of David's family tree; he is God himself. The result? We also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. We have another family to celebrate with this Christmas—all those who realized their need for a Savior, and in whose hearts God’s Spirit has worked a conviction that Jesus is their Savior and Lord. While we enjoy time with our families this Christmas, may we also rejoice that we can trace our spiritual roots back to the Babe of Bethlehem and celebrate with the family of believers our joy in Jesus, who came into this world to be our Savior. Prayer: Dear Jesus, bless my Christmas worship this year and my time together with family as we come together to celebrate your birth. Fill me with the awe of your miraculous birth and the joy that comes from believing that you are my God and Savior. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3394: Rosalyn Palmer shines a compassionate light on the hidden epidemic of modern loneliness, revealing its devastating physical and emotional toll across all ages and backgrounds. By exploring the role of social media, home design, and meaningful human connection, she offers practical insights to help us reimagine how we live and support one another in an increasingly disconnected world. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://rosalynpalmer.com/tackling-loneliness/ Quotes to ponder: "Loneliness, living alone and poor social connections are as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day." "We are basically tribal people who want to connect and belong, yet this needs to be balanced by the need for each individual to have the ability to some privacy." "Being Ms. Popularity on social media doesn't protect you from loneliness." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Henry David Thoreau described a city as a place where many people are “lonesome together.” Those words have the ring of truth. In my youth, songs like “Mr. Lonely,” “Only the Lonely,” and “Eleanor Rigby” focused on isolation and loneliness. In recent years the pandemic was one of the most isolating seasons the world has known. And social media can feed that loneliness, giving us connection without relationship. Perhaps loneliness is the new pandemic. As Matthew shared the story of the birth of Jesus (1:18-25), he told us, “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet [Isaiah]: ‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ (which means ‘God with us’” (vv. 22-23). Ponder that for a moment. God with us! As believers in Jesus, we’re never alone. We’ve been born again into the family of Christ, a family that spans the globe and the ages. The apostle Paul said, “You are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household” (Ephesians 2:19). We’re loved by the ever-present God, who said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whatever you’re facing today, your heavenly Father is present with you. Allow Him to help you as you step into life’s uncertainties and challenges. He’s with you.

Why does it feel like everyone's marketing their products and services as the solution for loneliness?The Loneliness Epidemic became a mainstream conversation in 2023 after then-Surgeon General Vivek Murthy made loneliness his top public health priority. And while that led to many helpful changes, it was also a moment that products, services, and tech companies began to exploit.In this episode, Danielle Bayard Jackson teaches three things you should know to help you understand loneliness more deeply so that you can begin to differentiate between the things are genuinely help and those that are... not.-------------------------------THANK YOU!Thank you to the organizations who most recently hired Danielle Bayard Jackson to partner with them either as a keynote speaker or a partner in designing their programming and curriculum: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, The Loveland Foundation with Rachel Cargle, Hoda Kotb's new Joy 101 app, and various sororities across the country. We appreciate you.If you'd like to book Danielle to speak at your event or hire her to for consulting or curriculum design, please contact us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.OFFICE HOURSThe conversation doesn't end when the podcast is over. Become a member of our "Office Hours" community and get access to bonus episodes, resources, and virtual events. Sign-up any time at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.2026 GROUP COACHINGWe're launching the sixth cohort of Friendship Elevated in February 2026. Those on the waitlist will gain access to "early bird" pricing. Join now at betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20251220dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. James 5:8 Be Patient ‘I can’t wait!’ That’s a common cry this time of year. Children have been adding items to their Christmas lists for weeks. Waiting another week to see what they may get seems unbearable. It’s just as hard for students to wait for the Christmas break. It’s equally difficult to wait when you are holding a ticket to visit relatives over the Christmas holiday. It doesn’t matter how long you stare at the calendar; there are no shortcuts. Waiting requires patience. The Bible acknowledges that patience isn’t a natural virtue in any of us. It’s especially true when life isn’t going right. When you are afflicted with sickness or are being mistreated, waiting for relief is just about the hardest thing to do. It would be much more natural to grumble and complain when your health is poor. When you aren’t being treated fairly, it’s much easier to lash out or criticize someone else to make them feel as lousy as you feel. So, the Bible tells you to be patient. That’s how God wants you to handle your frustrations and challenges in life. Sometimes you can’t overcome that sickness or get rid of that mistreatment. Yet you can still place your trust in God during those difficult times and wait for God to do his job. God did his biggest job when he sent Jesus to this earth on that first Christmas. Jesus took on himself all the abuse and mistreatment he never deserved. Jesus suffered for all the world’s spiritual sickness. Jesus took away the punishment for all our complaining, grumbling, and stinging criticisms of others. The results of Jesus’ work mean peace and forgiveness for believing hearts. ‘I can’t wait!’ can be your motto for the return of Jesus. You don’t have to count down the days on the calendar. You can wait with patience because Jesus brings more than presents, a brief visit, or a break from school. You can stand firm and eagerly wait for the blessings Jesus has in store for you when he comes back to take you home to heaven. Prayer: Lord Jesus, fill my life with your love and forgiveness so I can patiently endure earthly struggles while I wait for you to come back and bring me your eternal blessings. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

A mindful "Coffee Break for the Soul" when the festive season feels overwhelming.By the 19th of December, the world outside can feel incredibly loud. There is a pressure to be busy and a pressure to "perform happiness" that can feel heavy on the soul.In this special "Coffee Break for the Soul," Martin offers you a sanctuary. Whether you are feeling the weight of solitude this year or simply the exhaustion of the season, this is your place to feel safe and just be.In this 10-minute session, we will:Release the Pressure: Put down the to-do lists and the expectations of the holidays.Somatic Body Scan: Unclench the jaw where we hold "unspoken words" and melt stress away from the shoulders.Heal the Heart Space: Breathe into feelings of grief or longing without needing to "fix" them.Reframe Solitude: Discover how to turn loneliness into a peaceful sanctuary.Affirmations: Powerful reminders that "It is okay to have a quiet Christmas" and that you are enough, exactly as you are.Remember, even if you are physically alone this week, you are part of this community. You are not invisible.Time Chapters:0:00 - Introduction: The pressure to perform happiness 0:59 - Finding your safe space & deep breathing 2:07 - Body Scan: Releasing "unspoken words" from the jaw 3:34 - Heart Space: Holding grief and longing with kindness 4:53 - Reframing: Solitude as a sanctuary 5:37 - Affirmations: "It is okay to have a quiet Christmas" 8:40 - Community Reminder: You are not invisible09:28 - Conclusion & Call to Action

In this part 4 of a part 5 series, Sathiya discusses the challenges men face during the holiday season, particularly regarding triggers for pornography use. He emphasizes the importance of guarding against boredom, loneliness, and tiredness, which are common issues that can lead to relapses. Sathiya provides practical solutions to combat these feelings, encouraging listeners to engage in meaningful activities, foster connections, and prioritize self-care. The conversation aims to equip listeners with strategies to navigate the holiday season clean and spiritually grounded.   Know more about Sathiya's work: Join Deep Clean Inner Circle - The Brotherhood You Neeed (+ get coached by Sathiya) For Less Than $2/day Submit Your Questions (Anonymously) To Be Answered On The Podcast Get A Free Copy of The Last Relapse, Your Blueprint For Recovery Watch Sathiya on Youtube For More Content Like This   Chapters: (00:00) Navigating Holiday Triggers (00:42) Understanding Boredom, Loneliness, and Tiredness (04:03) Root Causes of Relapse (06:03) Finding Purpose During the Holidays (07:30) Combatting Loneliness Effectively (09:17) Addressing Fatigue and Self-Care (11:12) Proactive Strategies for a Clean Christmas

Loneliness has become a serious epidemic with nearly 60% of American adults saying they were lonely. We know that this can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental and physical problems. But how does spending less time with others actually affect our brains? In our next episode, Dr. Ben Rein, a social neuroscientist, will reveal how social interaction supports our mental health, strengthens our immune system, and even causes our brains to synchronize with our loved ones.  These and other fascinating details are explored in his new book "Why Brains Need Friends." He will also provide some easy ways to feel better and perhaps even live longer by simply putting down our phones and adding a conversation or a hug to our daily lives.  For more information, transcripts, and all episodes, please visit https://thisisyourbrain.com  For more about Weill Cornell Medicine Neurological Surgery, please visit https://neurosurgery.weillcornell.org