Podcasts about recreate

The Trouble With Walking in the Dark Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 1:5-7 Episode Summary In part 3 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael uses a hilarious middle-of-the-night crash to illustrate a powerful spiritual truth: when we walk in darkness, we stumble. Through 1 John's teaching about light and darkness, we discover what it really means to walk with Jesus and why claiming faith without living it is spiritual dishonesty. Key Points - God is light with no darkness in Him - He is pure, holy, and true - Walking in darkness means claiming to follow Christ while living in contradiction to His teachings - Following Jesus means following all of Him, not cherry-picking what's convenient - Walking in the light brings fellowship with God, fellowship with others, and ongoing cleansing through Christ's sacrifice Main Takeaway You don't have to be foolish or careless to stumble - you just have to be walking in the dark. Walking with Jesus means letting His truth guide us, His love shape us, and His Spirit pick us up when we fall. Memorable Quotes - "In the darkness we stumble, in The Light we are stable." - "There is no such thing as believing it but refusing to live it." - "Walking in the Light doesn't mean you'll never stumble. It means you're walking in the right direction." - "Our confidence is not in our performance, but in Christ's Blood." - "If we try to live apart from Jesus, we are walking in the dark. It's not a matter of IF we will stumble, but WHEN." Reflection Question Are you walking in the dark or walking in the light? Are there corners of your life that have gotten shadowy? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's entertaining story about crashing into baskets at 4:45 AM and how it connects to one of the most important spiritual truths in the Christian life. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly  

Cork City defender Fiacre Kelleher, and striker Seani Maguire speaks to RedFM's Ruairi O'Hagan ahead of City's FAI Cup semi final meeting with St. Patrick's Athletic on Friday night at home in Turners Cross.The League of Ireland on Off The Ball with Rockshore 0.0

Testimony ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | September 21, 2025 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Today our worship leader John F. shares his personal testimony and talks about the ability people can have to change and how Christ can have such a strong impact on changing lives. John shares his personal experiences as to how Christ has impacted his own life and changed him as well.  

When the Crow is After You Speaker: Michael Shockley Scripture: 1 John 1:4; Psalm 42 Episode Summary In part 2 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael uses the metaphor of being chased by a crow to explore how we can have joy even when life feels overwhelming. Through King David's story of betrayal and exile, we discover that while circumstances may not be okay, we can still be okay through Jesus. Key Points - The “crow” represents life's troubles, discouragement, and painful circumstances - David's response to betrayal shows how to acknowledge pain without being destroyed by it - True joy comes from Jesus, not from positive circumstances - We can shake our fist at the darkness while still trusting God Main Takeaway Joy isn't something we manufacture or achieve - it's a gift from the Holy Spirit that sustains us through difficult seasons. When life isn't okay, we can still be okay because of our relationship with Jesus. Reflection Question What “crow” has been chasing you lately, and how can you practice saying “It's not okay, but I'm okay” in that situation? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's personal struggles with being an “Eeyore” and how the story of David crossing the Jordan River speaks to anyone feeling chased by life's troubles. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The Cleveland Browns and Andre Szmyt received great news as Szmyt was named AFC special teams player of the week after his game winning field goal against the Packers. The Browns are in deja vu spot from 2023 in regards to their offensive tackles. The rookie skill players on offense are responsible for fifty percent of the yardage total to this point. Fernando Mendoza appears to be the college football quarterback for Kevin Stefanski. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Keegan as he sits with legendary big wave surfer Mark Matthews. Braving the ferocious elements of nature, Mark shares fascinating tales of his surfing adventures, from growing up in Maroubra amidst a challenging environment to riding the colossal waves at Shipstern Bluff that launched his career. This episode unfolds Mark's journey in mastering fear and adversity, especially through his career-defining experiences and the impactful encounter with a hospital-bound young fan who inspired his comeback strategy post-injury.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than Hype ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | September 14, 2025 1 John Series, Part 1: More than Hype 1 John 1:1-4 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY In the opening message of a new series on 1 John, Michael Shockley introduces us to the incredible journey of John the Apostle - from a barefoot boy splashing in the Sea of Galilee to the last living eyewitness of Jesus Christ. Through the colorful backstory of "Johannan" (John's Aramaic name), discover how a hot-tempered fisherman's son became known as the "Apostle of Love." This message establishes that our faith isn't based on hype, legend, or secondhand stories, but on the real, tangible experiences of people who lived with Jesus daily for three years. John's opening verses in his first epistle emphasize what he personally heard, saw, looked upon, and touched - making the case that the Gospel is more than hype, more than history, but the very Life of Jesus living in believers today. Core Message: The Gospel is more than hype, more than history — it's The Life of Jesus in us. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Story of John the Apostle - Born as "Johannan" in Bethsaida, son of Zebedee and Salome - Growing up as a fisherman with calloused hands and stormy nights - Transformation through John the Baptist's preaching and baptism The Call to Follow Jesus - John the Baptist pointing to Jesus as "the Lamb of God" - The moment John's spiritual compass found "true North" - Jesus choosing both John and James as disciples despite their rough edges - The nickname "Boanerges" (Sons of Thunder) for their fiery tempers - Jesus' correction when they wanted to call down fire on Samaritans John's Special Relationship with Jesus - Being part of the inner circle with Peter and James - Witnessing the Transfiguration and Jesus' glory shining like the sun - Sitting beside Jesus at the Last Supper, asking bold questions - Being the only disciple to stand at the foot of the Cross - Receiving the personal mission to care for Mary, Jesus' mother From Death to Resurrection - John's heartbreak at Jesus' death, not understanding the promise of resurrection - Sprinting to the empty tomb on Easter morning - Seeing and touching the Risen Christ for forty days - Receiving the Great Commission to spread the news worldwide - Becoming "a man on fire for the mission" after Jesus' ascension A Life of Persecution and Ministry - Multiple arrests and beatings for preaching the Gospel - Watching his brother James become the first apostle martyred - All other apostles dying violent deaths for their faith - Moving to Ephesus to father the local churches - Writing the Gospel of John to record previously untold stories Exile and Final Years - Surviving execution by boiling oil through divine protection - Exile to the rocky island of Patmos for his continued witness - Receiving and recording the visions that became the Book of Revelation - Returning to Ephesus in frail old age but with powerful words - Writing three epistles recognized as Holy Spirit-breathed truth The Credibility of the New Testament - Written by eyewitnesses and those who interviewed eyewitnesses - Composed within decades of the actual events, not centuries later - Authors gained no earthly advantage - only persecution and death - Hundreds of people could have disputed fabricated details - The ultimate test: would you die for something you knew was false? The Reality of Jesus as "The Word of Life" - John's emphasis on tangible, physical experience with Jesus - Not debating an idea but introducing a Person he knew intimately - God becoming physical reality because humanity couldn't reach God - The Life and Salvation of Jesus "manifested" - made real and obvious - Jesus putting on humanity, sandals, and walking dusty roads The Purpose of John's Writing - To share what he literally saw and heard with his own senses - To bring others into fellowship with Jesus and the family of believers - To continue the declaration started by all the apostles - To help people connect with Jesus and avoid doing life alone - That readers' "joy may be full" - complete joy found in Jesus Modern Eyewitnesses and Testimonies - We may not have literally seen Jesus like John did - But we can testify to His miracles and power in our lives today - Brokenness made whole, addiction overcome, selfishness transformed - Bitterness replaced with forgiveness, anxiety with unexplainable peace - The biggest miracle: people coming out of darkness into Light Understanding Joy That Is Full - Joy isn't dependent on pleasant circumstances or material possessions - People with easier lives often complain more than those with struggles - Family and good things bring limited joy that can be broken - True joy cannot depend on what we have or what happens - Fullness of joy CAN be found in fellowship with Jesus ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "The Gospel is more than hype, more than history — it's The Life of Jesus in us." "The compass needle found true North." "Jesus wasn't like any Rabbi Johanan had ever known." "The Kingdom of God would be built with love, not vengeance." "Only the one who did not run from death escaped death." "The Son of Thunder became the Apostle of Love." "He outran Peter to the tomb, outlived all the others, and outlasted exile to bring you this message." "Joy cannot depend on what we have or what happens. It depends on Who Jesus Is." "Just like a healthy plant drops seeds that are able to sprout and grow new plants, a healthy believer spreads the seed of The Good News." "I have seen Jesus. I have heard Him. I have touched Him. And it changed me forever." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: 1 John 1:1-4 - Key Theme: Eyewitness testimony to the reality of Jesus Christ - Historical Context: John writing as the last living apostle - Emphasis: Physical, tangible experience with Jesus ("heard," "seen," "looked upon," "handled") - Purpose Statement: Fellowship with God and complete joy in believers - Connection: The Word of Life manifested in human form ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You Question Whether Jesus Really Existed: - Consider the historical evidence from multiple eyewitness accounts - Remember these weren't legends written centuries later - The apostles gained nothing earthly and died for their testimony - Ask yourself: would you die for something you knew was false? - Examine the transformation in the lives of the eyewitnesses If You Feel Like Your Faith Is Just Ideas or Rules: - Understand that Christianity is relationship with a Person, not a system - Know that Jesus became physically present because we couldn't reach God - Remember that faith is about knowing Jesus personally, not just knowing about Him - Allow the reality of who Jesus is to transform your daily experience - Let His life live in you rather than trying to follow external rules If You Feel Alone in Your Spiritual Journey: - Recognize that fellowship is a core purpose of John's message - Church isn't just a Sunday event but a family of believers - Connect with people who know your name and walk with you through struggles - Don't try to do life alone - God designed us for community - Find or create spaces where genuine spiritual fellowship can happen If Your Joy Feels Incomplete: - Understand that joy doesn't depend on pleasant circumstances - Remember that even good things like family have limitations - Don't base joy on what you have or what happens to you - Ground your joy in who Jesus is rather than temporary things - Seek the fullness of joy that comes through fellowship with Jesus If You Haven't Shared Your Faith Recently: - Ask yourself why you don't feel a nudge to share what you've experienced - Remember that healthy believers naturally spread the Good News - Consider what Jesus has done in your life that others need to hear - Be an eyewitness to His power and miracles in your own experience - Share your story of transformation and hope with others ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you've always thought of Jesus as just a historical figure, a good teacher, or even religious hype. But John's testimony calls us to something far greater - a personal encounter with the Living Christ. The same Jesus who walked dusty roads, ate with tax collectors, calmed storms, and rose from the dead is available to you today. Not as an idea to understand, but as a Person to know. Not as history to study, but as Life to experience. The little boy who splashed in Galilee became an old man who could say, "I have seen Jesus, heard Him, touched Him, and it changed me forever." Today, Jesus offers you the same life-changing encounter. Will you let His life live in you? ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- Have you moved beyond seeing Jesus as just a historical figure or religious concept to experiencing Him as a living Person? What testimony do you have of His work in your life that others need to hear? The Gospel is more than hype, more than history - it's the Life of Jesus available to live in you today.

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Hope for Hard Days ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | September 7, 2025 Esther Series, Part 9: Esther 9, 10 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY In the final episode of the Esther series, Michael Shockley explores how God works through our worst days to bring about His greatest victories. Through the creative story of Hayden and Morty (paralleling Haman and Mordecai), discover how what appears to be a day of destruction becomes a day of deliverance for God's people. As Esther chapters 9-10 unfold, watch the ironic reversal where the enemies of the Jews are defeated, leading to the establishment of the holiday Purim. From the cafeteria catastrophe to the Persian Empire's transformation, learn how God's unseen hand can flip any story - even turning the worst day in history (the Crucifixion) into humanity's brightest hope. This message reminds us that God doesn't cause our worst days, but He absolutely redeems them. Core Message: God works through our worst days. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Hayden and Morty Story Introduction - Creative allegory of middle school cafeteria drama - Hayden's quest for revenge against his spelling bee nemesis Morty - The setup for disaster with gravy, creamed asparagus, and chocolate milk - Parallel to the Haman and Mordecai conflict in the Book of Esther - Cliffhanger moment showing how quickly situations can change The Historical Context of Esther 9-10 - Recap of the escalated grudge that led to genocidal decree - Haman's plot against the Jews and his subsequent downfall - The irreversible nature of Persian law requiring a counter-decree - Nine months between the plot's discovery and the day of execution - The choice given to potential attackers to change sides The Day of Reversal (Esther 9:1-5) - The 13th of Adar: from planned destruction to actual deliverance - "The opposite occurred" - complete reversal of expectations - Fear of Mordecai and the Jews falling upon their enemies - Government officials helping the Jews due to Mordecai's prominence - The Jews defeating their enemies throughout the 127 provinces The Spiritual Parallel to God's Law - The Law of Righteousness exposing all people as condemned - God's refusal to lower His standards of perfection - The Law of Grace through faith in Jesus as the "second decree" - Substitution: Jesus taking our punishment on the Cross - Imputation: Christ's righteousness credited to our account The Battle Results and Aftermath - 500 enemies killed in the capital city of Shushan - 75,000 total defeated throughout the Persian Empire - The death of Haman's ten sons (grown men who supported the decree) - The Jews refusing to take spoils - focused on defense, not wealth - Two days of battle followed by peace and celebration The Establishment of Purim - Mordecai's letters establishing an annual holiday - The 14th and 15th of Adar becoming days of celebration - Feasting, joy, gift-giving to family and the needy - The meaning of "Purim" - referring to the lots (Pur) Haman cast - God directing even the roll of dice to accomplish His purposes The Unseen Hand of God - God's fingerprints everywhere despite His name never being mentioned - From orphan and intended victim to champions of peace - The transformation of superstition into recognition of divine favor - How apparent coincidences reveal providence in hindsight The Conclusion of Hayden and Morty - The backpack tear held together by failing duct tape - The pencil on the floor causing Hayden's spectacular fall - The complete reversal: Hayden covered in food, Morty triumphant - "You got served" - divine justice with a sense of humor - From cafeteria catastrophe to unexpected hero status God's Redemption of Our Worst Days - How God doesn't cause our worst days but redeems them - The parallel between Esther's story and the Cross - Turning the day of Crucifixion into humanity's brightest hope - Personal application for loss, failure, betrayal, and current struggles - The invitation to trust Jesus with all we dread ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "God works through our worst days." "The Unseen Hand of God turned the day of destruction into the day of deliverance." "He is our Substitute when it comes to the punishment, and His Righteousness is Imputed to us. Which is to say, He suffered through the test, and we got the passing grade." "Even the naming of the holiday shows that God directed even the roll of the dice to choose the day." "God's Name is never spoken, but God's fingerprints are everywhere." "God never wastes our pain. He doesn't cause our worst days, but He redeems them." "If God could turn the horrible day of Crucifixion into the brightest hope in history, He can redeem your story, too." "You got served." (Lunch Lady Loretta) "Got milk?" (Morty) ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 9:1-5, Chapters 9-10 complete - Key Theme: Divine reversal and redemption through apparent defeat - Historical Context: The 13th of Adar and the establishment of Purim - Theological Concepts: Substitution and imputation through Christ - Gospel Connection: How God redeems our worst days through the Cross - Literary Note: God's providence shown without direct divine mentions ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Experiencing Your Worst Day Right Now: - Remember that God specializes in flipping stories and reversing outcomes - Trust that what feels like destruction may be setting up deliverance - Know that God's unseen hand is working even when you can't see it - Understand that apparent coincidences often reveal divine providence If You're Dealing with Past Failures and Regrets: - Recognize that God doesn't waste pain but redeems it for purpose - Remember that your worst moments don't define your final story - Trust that the same God who redeemed the Cross can redeem your past - Allow time and perspective to reveal how God was working all along If You Feel Condemned by Your Imperfections: - Understand that God's law reveals our need, not our hopelessness - Know that perfection is required, but Christ provides it for us - Trust in substitution: Jesus took your punishment on the Cross - Believe in imputation: Christ's righteousness is credited to your account If You're Waiting for Justice: - Remember that God's timing often involves longer processes than we expect - Trust that divine justice is more complete than human revenge - Know that God can turn your enemies' attacks into your strengthening - Understand that true victory often looks different than expected If You Haven't Trusted Jesus Yet: - Consider how the Cross transformed history's worst day into its best news - Understand that salvation comes through faith, not perfect performance - Know that God can flip your story no matter how bad it seems - Trust Jesus with all you dread and receive His redemption today ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you're living through what feels like your worst day. Loss, failure, betrayal, diagnosis, job loss, or consequences from past mistakes. Perhaps you feel like Morty, about to be destroyed by forces beyond your control. Or maybe you feel like Hayden, watching your carefully laid plans collapse in spectacular failure. The good news of Esther - and the even greater news of the Gospel - is that God works through our worst days. He doesn't cause them, but He redeems them. The same God who turned a day of destruction into deliverance for the Jews, who turned the horror of Crucifixion into the hope of salvation, can flip your story too. Trust Him with all you dread. Trust Jesus for salvation. Your worst day may be setting up God's greatest work in your life. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- What worst day in your life needs God's redemptive touch? Are you trusting in your own ability to fix things, or surrendering to the God who specializes in impossible reversals? God works through our worst days - let Him work through yours.

The Law of Death vs The Word of Life ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | August 31, 2025 Esther Series, Part 8: Esther 8 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY What happens when victory feels incomplete and the threat still remains? Through Esther chapter 8, Michael Shockley explores how God's salvation works when evil laws can't simply be erased. Starting with a creative poetic recap of chapters 1-7, discover why Haman's death didn't solve everything - his genocidal decree was still legally binding in the Persian Empire. Watch as Mordecai rises from death row to Prime Minister, and learn how the king's solution - a counter-decree allowing Jews to defend themselves - points to a much greater story. From irrevocable Persian laws to God's perfect justice, explore how the Law of Death (God's righteous standards we can't meet) is overcome by the Word of Life (Jesus taking our place). Through humor, biblical insight, and practical application, understand the difference between justice, mercy, and grace, and why authentic faith matters more than religious identity. Core Message: The Law of Death is real, but The Word of Life is greater. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED Creative Story Recap - Poetic summary of Esther chapters 1-7 in rhyming verses - Queen Vashti's refusal and removal from the throne - Esther's rise through the beauty contest and divine positioning - Haman's genocidal plot and Mordecai's refusal to bow - The fasting, banquets, sleepless night, and ultimate justice - Setting up chapter 8 as the resolution to lingering problems The Incomplete Victory - Why Haman's death didn't solve everything immediately - The genocidal decree still legally binding throughout the empire - Esther's continued pleading with tears for her people's safety - The irreversible nature of Persian law - no decree could be repealed - How apparent victories can still leave underlying threats Mordecai's Incredible Reversal - From death row to Prime Minister in a single day - Receiving Haman's signet ring and estate as rewards - The waterboy-to-coach comparison for this promotion - Being dressed in royal robes and crowned by the king - The people of Shushan rejoicing over righteous leadership The Counter-Decree Strategy - King Ahasuerus explaining the legal limitations of Persian law - The solution: writing a new law to oppose the first one - Empowering Jews to band together and defend themselves - Allowing them to do to attackers what was planned against them - The king's revenge plot vs. God's heart for breaking cycles The Spreading Good News - Mordecai's first act: sending couriers to all 127 provinces - The message traveling from India to Ethiopia across the empire - Jewish families celebrating and coming together in unity - The birth of what would become the ongoing holiday of Purim - How good news transforms fear into celebration The Phenomenon of Conversion - Many people throughout the empire "becoming Jews" - Genuine spiritual conversion vs. political convenience - How demonstrated divine power attracts people to God's team - The advantage of being identified with those who have God's favor - Modern parallels of cultural Christianity without authentic faith The Danger of Identity-Only Faith - People claiming Christianity for social or political advantage - The difference between Christian identity and Christian reality - Family pressure vs. personal conviction in spiritual decisions - The importance of authentic, personal spiritual journeys - Warning against going through religious motions without heart change The Gospel Parallel - How Esther's story reflects the greater story of salvation - All people under condemnation from God's righteous law - The impossibility of meeting God's standard of perfect obedience - God's law revealing unrighteousness rather than righteousness - The need for a solution that upholds justice while providing mercy The Higher Law of Grace - God's inability to simply revoke or lower His standards - Jesus as the "counter-decree" who fulfills rather than cancels the law - The Cross as God's answer to the problem of justice and mercy - Christ taking the place of the unjust while upholding righteousness - Romans 8:1: "No condemnation for those in Christ Jesus" ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "The Law of Death is real, but The Word of Life is greater." "It's not coincidence, it's providence." "If somebody predicts His Death and Resurrection and pulls it off exactly how He Said, I want to be with that Guy!" "We are super excited to help you on your journey to Jesus and with Jesus, but it has got to be YOUR journey." "God's Law does not reveal us to be righteous, but unrighteous. All of us." "God issued a second Decree. This one is GRACE through Jesus." "Justice is getting what we deserve. Mercy is not getting what we deserve. Grace is getting what we do not deserve." "Justice writes the speeding ticket. Mercy tears it up. Grace fills your tank and sends you on your way." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 8:1-6 - Key Supporting Verse: "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1) - Old Testament Law Context: "There is none righteous, no not one" (Psalm 14:3; Romans 3:10) - Theme: Divine solution to irrevocable condemnation through a higher law - Historical Context: Persian legal system and the irreversible nature of royal decrees - Gospel Connection: How the Cross fulfills rather than cancels God's justice ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Dealing with Lingering Consequences: - Remember that God's solutions often work differently than human fixes - Trust that apparent victories may still require ongoing faith and action - Know that God can turn death sentences into promotion opportunities - Understand that His deliverance often empowers us rather than removing all challenges If You're Questioning Your Faith's Authenticity: - Examine whether your Christianity is identity-based or heart-based - Make sure your spiritual journey is genuinely yours, not just family expectation - Seek God personally rather than going through religious motions - Remember that authentic faith matters more than religious performance If You Feel Condemned by God's Standards: - Recognize that God's law reveals our need rather than our righteousness - Understand that perfection, not comparison to others, is God's standard - Know that the law's purpose is to point us to our need for a Savior - Trust that Jesus fulfilled the requirements we could never meet If You're Struggling with Justice and Mercy: - Justice: getting what we deserve (condemnation for sin) - Mercy: not getting what we deserve (being spared from hell)   - Grace: getting what we don't deserve (adoption, eternal life, joy in Christ) - See how all three work together perfectly at the Cross If You Haven't Put Your Faith in Jesus: - Consider what you're waiting for when the solution is available - Remember that salvation comes by grace through faith, not performance - Know that you don't have to understand every detail to experience transformation - Trust that the same God who orchestrated Esther's deliverance offers yours ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you feel like you're under an irrevocable sentence - condemned by past mistakes, current struggles, or the weight of not measuring up to God's perfect standards. Maybe you've tried to be good enough but realize you fall short of perfection. Maybe you've been going through the motions of faith without the heart reality. This much is true: the Law of Death is real - we all fall short of God's righteousness and deserve condemnation. But the Word of Life is greater. Jesus didn't come to lower God's standards or pretend our sin doesn't matter. He came to fulfill those standards perfectly and take our condemnation upon Himself. At the Cross, justice fell on Jesus who took our place. Through faith in Him, we receive mercy (escape from condemnation) and grace (adoption into God's family). The counter-decree has been written in His blood. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- Is your faith identity-only or heart-reality? Have you trusted in Jesus' counter-decree of grace, or are you still trying to escape condemnation through your own efforts? The Law of Death is real, but The Word of Life is greater - and that Word is available to you today.

To write his latest book Dinner with King Tut, Sam Kean joined a group of experimental archaeologists who learn by doing. These researchers aim to recreate the sites, sounds, smells and tastes of lost civilizations in order to solve mysteries about how people lived. In today's episode, Kean talks with NPR's Ayesha Rascoe about eating caterpillars, making acorn bread, and the tension between experimental archaeologists and their academic counterparts.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Justice At Last ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | August 24, 2025 Esther Series, Part 7: Esther 7 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Ever wonder why justice seems delayed while evil appears to prosper? Through the climactic chapter of Esther's story, Michael Shockley reveals how God's justice works - even when it seems absent. From childhood candy theft to global injustices, we all wrestle with why bad things happen to good people and why the guilty seem to escape consequences. But in Esther chapter 7, we witness the ultimate reversal as Queen Esther finally reveals Haman's genocidal plot at the second royal banquet. Watch as the master manipulator becomes terrified, accidentally breaks Persian law by falling near the queen, and ends up executed on the very gallows he built for Mordecai. Through humor, personal stories, and biblical insight, discover how our sense of justice actually reflects God's character and why we can trust that evil may run its mouth, but God's justice will have the last word. Core Message: Evil may run its mouth, but God's Justice has the last word. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Universal Desire for Justice - Childhood experiences with unfairness and sibling candy theft - Road rage when bad drivers don't get caught by police - The deeper pain when serious injustices go unpunished - How our anger at injustice reflects God's image in us - Why justice feels delayed in a microwave culture when God uses the "Crock Pot" Esther's Strategic Timing - The Persian custom of multiple banquets for major requests - Why Esther delayed her request through two separate meals - The power of three days of fasting and prayer for divine guidance - Building up to the revelation rather than making immediate accusations - How dedicated prayer changes situations and people The Second Banquet Revelation - The "banquet of wine" as the traditional time for big requests - The king's repeated offer: "up to half the kingdom" as generous hyperbole - Esther's careful approach: "give me my life and the lives of my people" - Her wisdom in mentioning the king's financial loss from genocide - The perfect timing after the king remembered Mordecai's loyalty The Great Unmasking - The king's rage at learning someone threatened his queen - Haman's shock at discovering Esther was Jewish - "The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman!" - The terror of the master schemer when his plot is exposed - How the trusted advisor's betrayal felt like a personal attack Divine Providence in Action - The king's strategic exit to process the shocking news - Haman's desperate pleading that led to breaking Persian law - Falling on the queen's couch while no man could approach within seven steps - The king's return at the perfect moment to misinterpret the scene - How apparent coincidences reveal God's orchestration Poetic Justice Fulfilled - The servant's reminder about the 75-foot gallows built for Mordecai - The irony of Haman being executed on his own construction - How the enemy literally constructed his own destruction - The public nature of his humiliation and death - God writing a story of justice no human author could script The Challenge of Living Justly - Micah 6:8: "do justly, love mercy, walk humbly with your God" - How we demand justice from others while avoiding personal responsibility - The call to live with integrity even when it costs us - Speaking truth and refusing to participate in wrongdoing - Trusting God's timing when justice seems delayed ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "Evil may run its mouth, but God's Justice has the last word." "Your ability to recognize injustice and your anger with injustice come from the incredible truth that you were created in the image of a Just God." "We want microwave answers, when God might be using the Crock Pot." "What looks like a coincidence is providence." "The enemy constructed his own destruction. The Unseen Hand of God wrote a story of justice no human author could script." "Just because we can't see justice, it doesn't mean justice isn't on the way." "The Justice of God may move slowly, it may be hidden, but when it arrives, it is undeniable and irresistible." "Don't forget that even injustice will eventually play into God's Plans." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 7:1-6 - Key Verse: "And Esther said, 'The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman!'" (Esther 7:6) - Supporting Verse: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8) - Theme: Divine justice working through human circumstances - Historical Context: The Persian banquet customs and royal protocol - Ultimate Justice: How the greatest injustice (the Cross) became our salvation ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Frustrated with Injustice: - Remember that your sense of justice reflects God's image in you - Trust that God sees every wrong and will address it in His timing - Don't lose heart when you see evil appearing to prosper - Know that the boom of God's justice will echo through eternity If You're Seeking God's Guidance: - Consider the power of dedicated fasting and prayer like Esther - Move beyond stress-talking to God toward focused, directed prayer - Trust that something will give - the situation, you, or both - Allow time for God to reveal His strategy and timing If You've Been Wronged: - Trust that the enemy often constructs their own destruction - Know that apparent coincidences may be divine providence at work - Remember that delayed justice doesn't mean denied justice - Find comfort that God will set all things right, if not now, then eternally If You Want to See Justice: - Start by living justly in your own life and relationships - Act with integrity even when it costs you personally - Speak truth and refuse to participate in wrongdoing - Treat people with kindness and respect regardless of their response If You're Tempted to Take Justice into Your Own Hands: - Trust God's timing rather than forcing your own solutions - Remember that vengeance belongs to the Lord - Focus on faithfulness rather than getting even - Let God orchestrate the reversals and revelations ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you've experienced betrayal, unfairness, or injustice that still stings today. Maybe you've watched the guilty prosper while the innocent suffer. Maybe you've wondered where God is in the midst of corruption and oppression. This much is true: the same God who orchestrated justice for Haman is still the God of justice today. Your anger at injustice isn't wrong - it reflects His image in you. But remember that the greatest injustice in history - the crucifixion of the only innocent man who ever lived - became the source of our salvation. Jesus took the injustice we deserved so we could receive the mercy we don't deserve. Trust in His justice, live justly yourself, and remember that evil may run its mouth, but God's justice will have the last word. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- Are you living justly in your own sphere of influence? Have you trusted in God's mercy through Jesus? Remember that while evil may seem to get away with everything now, the Judge of all the earth will do right, and His justice will be both perfect and final.

God Works the Graveyard Shift ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | August 17, 2025 Esther Series, Part 6: Esther 6 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Ever worked the night shift and wondered if anyone notices the important work being done in the dark? Through Esther chapter 6, Michael Shockley reveals how God operates during life's darkest, most confusing seasons when it seems nothing is happening. Using colorful analogies from his own graveyard shift experience at a glass factory (complete with zombies, werewolves, and vampires!), discover how one sleepless night changed everything for God's people. When King Ahasuerus can't sleep and decides to read the royal chronicles, a forgotten act of loyalty by Mordecai surfaces at the exact moment Haman arrives to request his execution. Watch as God orchestrates the enemy's humiliation through his own pride, turning what should have been Mordecai's death sentence into a royal parade of honor. Core Message: God works the graveyard shift. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Night Shift Analogy - Working the graveyard shift at the glass factory: zombies, werewolves, and vampires - How night shift work makes a difference in the day - Creating "portals of light" that others will enjoy in daylight - The unseen but crucial work done while others sleep - How God operates similarly during our dark seasons Mordecai's Forgotten Loyalty - His position "sitting in the king's gate" as a government worker - Overhearing the assassination plot against King Ahasuerus - Reporting the conspiracy through Esther to save the king's life - The overlooked reward that seemed like neglect but was divine timing - How good deeds are never truly forgotten by God The King's Sleepless Night - Divine insomnia sent upon the most powerful ruler on earth - "He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep" (Psalm 121:4) - Calling for the royal chronicles to be read as a sleep aid - The "coincidental" discovery of Mordecai's unrewarded loyalty - How God disrupts even basic human functions for His purposes Haman's Perfect Trap - Arriving at court to request Mordecai's execution - The king's question: "What should be done for someone I want to honor?" - Haman's prideful assumption that he was the one to be honored - Designing his own humiliation through royal robes, horse, and parade - The enemy writing the script for his own downfall The Great Reversal - Haman forced to honor the man he planned to kill - Leading Mordecai's parade through the city in royal regalia - The crowd's response and Haman's humiliation - His family's ominous warning about opposing the Jews' God - The first visible sign of God's intervention in the story God's Invisible Providence - How supposed "coincidences" align for divine purposes - The timing of sleeplessness, book reading, and Haman's arrival - Delay revealed as divine design rather than oversight - Pride setting its own snare for the prideful - The same God working in our dark seasons today ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "God works the graveyard shift." "The work done on the night shift makes a difference in the day." "Just because you can't see the gears turning doesn't mean the engine isn't running." "Your sleepless season might be God's setup for breakthrough." "What looks like delay or outright neglect was intentional timing." "All the world may be against you, but if God is for you, the enemy is outnumbered!" "God had the enemy write the script for his own humiliation." "Coincidence becomes providence." "God can cash old checks at just the right moment." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 6:1-5 - Key Verse: "That night the king could not sleep..." (Esther 6:1) - Supporting Verse: "Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep" (Psalm 121:4) - Theme: God's providence working through seeming coincidences - Historical Context: Mordecai's forgotten reward for saving the king's life - Parallel Examples: Israel's midnight deliverance from Egypt, Paul and Silas freed at midnight, Jesus's resurrection during the night shift ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're in a Dark Season: - Trust that God is working even when you can't see or hear Him - Remember that silence doesn't mean absence - He's assembling the pieces - Know that your sleepless nights might be God's setup for breakthrough - Keep doing good even when it seems nobody notices or cares If You Feel Forgotten or Unrewarded: - Understand that delay might actually be divine design - Trust that God can "cash old checks" at exactly the right moment - Remember that overlooked good deeds aren't forgotten by God - Know that the timing of recognition may be more important than immediate reward If You're Facing Prideful Opposition: - Trust that pride sets its own snare for the prideful - Watch for God to use the enemy's schemes against them - Remember that "all the world may be against you, but if God is for you, the enemy is outnumbered" - Know that God can have enemies write the script for their own humiliation If You're Working Behind the Scenes: - Remember that night shift work makes a difference in the day - Trust that the "portals of light" you create will bless others later - Know that unseen work is still valuable and noticed by God - Keep laboring faithfully even when your efforts seem invisible If You're Struggling with God's Timing: - Reframe silence as God working rather than God sleeping - Redeem waiting by trusting the unseen hand of providence - Find hope in darkness knowing that morning will come - Trust that coincidences might actually be divine appointments ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you're in a season of midnight - a time of darkness, confusion, or worry where it seems like God has gone to sleep on your situation. Maybe good things you've done have gone unnoticed and unrewarded. Maybe you're working faithfully behind the scenes while others get the credit. This much is true: God works the graveyard shift. The same God who kept King Ahasuerus awake to orchestrate Mordecai's rescue is awake and working in your life right now. He who keeps your soul will neither slumber nor sleep. The sun will eventually rise, and you will see what the Lord has built in the night. Just as Jesus did His most important work during the night shift - conquering death itself while the world slept - He is conquering your challenges in the darkness. Trust Him in the dark seasons. Keep doing what is right even when nobody seems to notice. God works the graveyard shift, and morning is coming. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- What are you facing in your own "graveyard shift" season? Sleepless nights, forgotten good deeds, or dark confusion? Trust that the same God who turned Haman's gallows into Mordecai's parade is working the night shift in your story too. Will you trust Him in the dark?

10:30am Hour 1 - Zach Jones and Derek Kramer talk about the stats that James Cook was able to produce last season and talk about the likelihood of him continuing that production next year and years to come.

Can you really overcome the shame and guilt tied to your religious upbringing and find your authentic, sexy self? Join us on this episode of Shameless Sex as we dive into the complex world of sex, shame, and spirituality with certified sex and relationship coach, Erica Lemke. With a background in community counseling, kinesiology, and dance instruction, Erica brings a unique, holistic approach to helping midlife women and couples reclaim their sensuality and confidence. Here's what you can expect to learn from this powerful conversation: • How Erica's own journey led her to become a sex coach and her experiences working with clients who've been impacted by purity culture • The challenges of overcoming sexual shame related to religion and Erica's expert tips for navigating this complex issue • The good, the bad, and the ugly of purity culture: can it ever be a positive force in someone's life? • The transformative power of saying yes to your desires and how it can help you break free from shame • How Erica's coaching practice can help you overcome shame and find your authentic, sexy self Erica's mission is to empower clients to explore their desires, deepen intimacy, and experience sexuality as a healing, joyful, and transformative force. With her radically affirming and grounded presence, she's the perfect guide to help you come home to yourself - sensual, sovereign, and shamelessly alive. So, if you're ready to break free from the shame and guilt holding you back, tune in to this episode and discover how you can start living your most authentic, sexy life. And as Erica says, "The power is in the yes"... but what does that really mean? Listen to find out, and be sure to check out her work at https://sexcoachslc.com, as well as her latest book Join us for our next Shameless Sex retreat in the Coachella Valley, CA September 11th-14th: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/49b9fx8b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get premium access to our behind the scenes episodes here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shamelesssex.supportingcast.fm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Do you love us? Do you REALLY love us? Then order ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ now! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shamelesssex.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to snag your copy Support Shameless Sex by sending us gifts via our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Wish List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other links: Get 10% off happy, healthy, soaking wet bits with code SHAMELESS at ⁠⁠vb.health⁠⁠ Get 10% off + free shipping with code SHAMELESS on Uberlube AKA our favorite lubricant at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://uberlube.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 10% off while learning the art of pleasure at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://OMGyes.com/shameless⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 15% off all of your sex toys with code SHAMELESSSEX at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://purepleasureshop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros welcome USMNT and MLS legend Marcelo Balboa to the show. They discuss his soccer journey, including his decision to return to the U.S. to help launch Major League Soccer in 1996. What were the hardships that came with it — and was it worth the sacrifice?Christian and Alexis then dive into Marcelo's USMNT journey, including his role in the 1994 World Cup team's magical run on home soil. Will the 2026 World Cup in the U.S. live up to 1994? How can this new squad elevate soccer in America to the next level?Later, Marcelo reflects on the honor of having his jersey retired by the Colorado Rapids. He also shares why he has a problem with former USMNT players — like Landon Donovan — being overly critical of the current squad, and why Christian Pulisic deserves a break. (2:30) – Marcelo Balboa joins The Cooligans(6:30) – Marcelo on why he helped launch MLS(29:00) – Marcelo's USMNT journey & thoughts on team's World Cup future(44:00) – What it meant to have his jersey retired by Colorado Rapids(48:00) – Marcelo on criticism from ex-USMNT players Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:

While We Are Waiting ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | July 10, 2025 Esther Series, Part 5: Esther 5 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Ever feel like you're waiting forever for God to answer your prayers or bring clarity to your situation? Through Esther chapter 5, Michael Shockley explores what happens in the gaps between our prayers and God's answers. Using the analogy of waiting for a Polaroid picture to develop, discover why our impatience often leads us to "shake" our circumstances instead of trusting God's perfect timing. When Queen Esther finally approaches the king uninvited, her unexpected delay in making her request teaches us that what looks like wasted waiting time might actually be God orchestrating the perfect setup for His plan. From Haman's overconfident scheming to the king's sleepless night that's coming, learn why delays aren't denials and how God works behind the scenes even when He seems silent. Core Message: While we are waiting, God is working. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Tension of Esther's Approach - Persian law requiring death for uninvited royal visits - The cultural context of absolute royal authority in ancient Persia - Esther's three days of fasting and prayer before approaching the king - The golden scepter as the sign of royal mercy and acceptance - Courage and faith required to risk everything for others The King's Generous Response - "What do you wish? Up to half the kingdom!" as royal hyperbole - God's behind-the-scenes work in moving the king's heart - The unexpected favor Esther receives despite the risk - How divine providence positioned her for this moment Esther's Puzzling Delay - The first banquet invitation instead of an immediate request - Missing the opportunity at the "banquet of wine" discussion time - The second banquet invitation when pressed again by the king - Possible reasons: fear, strategy, or divine timing - How delays can actually be part of God's perfect plan Haman's Overconfident Scheming - Bragging about wealth, power, and exclusive royal access - One man's refusal to bow ruining all his success - Mordecai's continued defiance at the palace gate - The 75-foot gallows constructed overnight for Mordecai - How the enemy always overplays his hand God's Invisible Hand at Work - The peculiarity of God never being directly mentioned in Esther - Divine orchestration behind seemingly random events - Setting up the perfect reversal while everyone waits - The coming sleepless night that will change everything - How God is never rushed and never outplanned The Waiting Room Experience - Our modern impatience with God's timing - "Shaking the Polaroid" instead of letting things develop properly - Why delays don't equal denials - Trusting the process when we can't see the outcome - The masterpiece in progress during waiting seasons ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "While we are waiting, God is working." "A delay is not necessarily a denial." "Just because we can't see God doesn't mean He isn't working." "The enemy always overplays his hand. God is never rushed. God is never outplanned." "Stop shaking the Polaroid and trust The One Who can bring things into focus." "A delayed answer does not equal a denied purpose." "What feels like wasted time of waiting might be a masterpiece in progress." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 5:3-4 - Key Verse: "What do you wish, Queen Esther? What is your request? It shall be given to you—up to half the kingdom!" - Supporting Context: Esther's approach to the king and the two banquet delays - Theme: Divine timing and God's behind-the-scenes orchestration - Parallel Examples: Noah's decades of building, Joseph's years in prison, Jesus's three days in the tomb --------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Waiting for Answers: - Stop "shaking the Polaroid" by trying to force faster results - Trust that God may be setting things in motion between your prayers - Remember that delayed answers don't mean denied purposes - Let things develop in God's perfect timing rather than your preferred schedule If You Feel Like Nothing Is Happening: - Recognize that God works behind the scenes even when invisible - Trust that apparent delays might be divine orchestration - Remember biblical examples where waiting preceded breakthrough - Focus on faithfulness during the waiting rather than demanding results If You're Tempted to Give Up: - Know that a masterpiece may be in progress during your waiting season - Trust the same God who came through for Esther, Noah, Joseph, and Jesus - Believe that your breakthrough may be closer than it appears - Keep praying and trusting even when you can't see movement If You're in a Position to Help Others: - Don't let comfort or fear keep you from taking necessary risks - Remember that your obedience may be key to someone else's rescue - Trust God's timing for when and how to act on others' behalf - Prepare through prayer and fasting before taking significant steps If You're Facing Overwhelming Opposition: - Remember that enemies often overplay their hand - Trust that God is never outplanned or outmaneuvered - Know that apparent victories for evil may be setting up divine reversals - Wait for God's perfect timing rather than rushing into battle ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you're in a waiting season that doesn't make sense. Maybe you've prayed, fasted, and taken steps of faith, but nothing seems to be happening. Maybe you're tempted to "shake" your circumstances to try to speed things up. This much is true: while you are waiting, God is working. The same God who orchestrated Esther's story behind the scenes is orchestrating yours. The answers you're waiting for may already be in motion. Trust The One Who can bring things into focus in His perfect time. And remember, the greatest wait in history - three days in a tomb - resulted in the greatest victory ever won when Jesus rose from the dead to give us eternal life. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- What are you waiting on today? A phone call, healing, direction, or breakthrough? Trust that while you're waiting, God is working. The next chapter of your story is being written, and the same God who came through for Esther will come through for you.

Artificial intelligence researchers in China say they've managed to create a synthetic brain that replicates one from a macaque monkey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MIC DROP MOMENT!So I have now come to question every situation I've been in because... what if every argument, every eye-roll, every “you're so unfair!” moment… isn't just something to survive, but an invitation to finally break old habits and RECREATE who you are in the face of stress and conflict? Stay with me...Today I'm sharing a powerful coaching strategy, a monumental shift that will change how you see fights/upset/arguments/ with your kids, your partner, and even strangers at the checkout. Inspired by a real-life parenting moment that brought this lesson home for me and my son last night, I'll show you exactly how emotional intelligence helps you move from control to connection, EVEN in the heat of the moment.You'll learn:Why conflict is never really about “winning” and the powerful quote that will transform the way you respondThe hidden truth every tough conversation reveals: the gap between who you want to be and what you're currently doing (hello, cognitive dissonance)What to say (and not say) when tensions rise, with four practical, honest scripts you can start using todayWhy you don't have to handle things perfectly, but you do need to do one important thing after a tense situationSimple ways to model emotionally intelligent conflict resolution for your kids — even if you're still figuring it out yourselfThis isn't just about staying calm. It's about becoming the kind of parent, partner, and person you truly want to be — one choice, one conversation at a time.Because in every moment, you get to decide: Will I escalate… or evolve?

For Such a Time as This ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | August 3, 2025 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Do you ever feel restless in your current situation, wishing you were somewhere else doing something more meaningful? Through the pivotal story of Esther chapter 4, Michael Shockley challenges us to see that God works where we are, not where we wish we were. From kindergarten naptime rebellion to marriage "pat-pat" signals, discover how our restlessness often blinds us to the holy ground beneath our feet. Learn why Esther's palace position wasn't about comfort but about purpose, and how Mordecai's grief outside the gates became a catalyst for rescue. When genocide threatened God's people, it took ordinary people in their ordinary circumstances to become heroes of redemptive history. Core Message: God works where we are, not where we wish we were. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Restless Heart - The struggle to believe our current place is holy ground - How God works in waiting rooms, long meetings, and painful seasons Mordecai's Public Mourning - Tearing clothes, wearing sackcloth, and sitting in ashes - Jewish customs of grief and distress in ancient culture - The genocide decree and its threat to all Jewish people - Mourning as an honest response to evil, not faithlessness - Making a public declaration that injustice is not right Esther's Sheltered Palace Life - Living in comfort while being out of touch with harsh reality - How good circumstances can reduce compassion for struggling people - The palace as a "fancy prison" with limited freedom - Having access and influence while feeling powerless - The unique connections and contacts we all possess The Law of Approaching the King - Death penalty for uninvited visits to the king - The golden scepter as the only exception to execution - Esther's month-long separation from the king - Being in God's will while still feeling scared and inadequate - How feelings of inadequacy don't disqualify us from making a difference Mordecai's Powerful Challenge - "Do not think you will escape in the king's palace" - God's deliverance will come from somewhere, but what about your role? - The pivotal question: "Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" - God's preference to work through people rather than around them - The closest the text comes to acknowledging God's hand Esther's Decision and Surrender - "Go, gather all the Jews and fast for me" - "I will go to the king, which is against the law" - "If I perish, I perish" - surrender, not fatalism - The community response of fasting and implied prayer - Being in a place of privilege that's actually a place of peril ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "Somewhere deep in my soul, I have a hard time believing that right here — this conversation, this place, this moment, this season of life — is where I'm supposed to be." "God works where we are, not where we wish we were." "Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" "If I perish, I perish!" ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 4:13-16 - Key Verse: "Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14) - Supporting Context: The genocide decree and threat to Jewish people - Theme: Divine purpose in human circumstances and positioning - Connection: Esther's courage preserving the lineage that led to Jesus ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You Feel Restless in Your Current Situation: - Stop giving God the "pat-pat" and trust His timing for your season - Recognize that right here, right now might be holy ground - Look for God's purpose in your present circumstances rather than future dreams - Remember that God works in ordinary places, not just extraordinary ones If You Feel Powerless to Make a Difference: - Consider your unique access and connections - you have influence you might not see - Remember that you may be exactly the right person for someone's rescue - Use whatever platform you have, even if it seems small - Trust that your voice and actions matter more than you realize If You're in a Place of Comfort: - Don't let privilege blind you to the needs around you - Use your access and resources to help those who are struggling - Remember that comfort can be a "fancy prison" if it keeps you from purpose - Stay connected to the harsh realities others face If You Feel Scared or Inadequate: - Know that you can be right where God wants you and still feel afraid - Understand that feelings of inadequacy don't disqualify you from making a difference - Trust that if the task is bigger than you, you'll need God to accomplish it - Move forward in obedience despite your fears If You're Facing a "Such a Time as This" Moment: - Recognize that you may have been positioned for this exact situation - Gather community support through prayer and fasting - Be willing to take risks for the sake of others - Surrender the outcome to God while taking faithful action ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you're in a season that doesn't make sense. Maybe life is quiet and predictable and it doesn't seem like you're meant to do anything important. Maybe you're in a place that feels random, broken, or too small to matter. This much is true: God works where you are, not where you wish you were. God has purpose for you right here, right now. Somebody needs your voice, your courage, your kindness. Don't let fear, comfort, or confusion talk you out of that. Your faithfulness in this moment can change lives. Like Esther, Jesus said, "If I perish, I perish." And He did. He died to save us. But death's victory didn't last. Jesus rose from the grave, and all those who trust in Him have everlasting life and a life of meaning. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- Remember: You may have come into that family, workplace, hospital room, neighborhood, or season for such a time as this. Your story is not over, and your obedience may be the turning point in someone else's story.

Dr. Katie Eastman, mentored by Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, has spent over 35 years helping individuals, leaders, and organizations navigate grief, loss, and major life transitions. As a psychotherapist, master grief coach, and author of Uplifting: Inspiring Stories of Loss, Change, and Growth, she integrates the Kübler-Ross Change Curve and her Re-Create model to transform loss into growth. Her work in the field of death and dying, alongside her coaching and consulting, empowers people to embrace change with resilience, compassion, and purpose. For more please visit her website.Please rate us on Apple and/or Spotify and subscribe for free at mikeyopp.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mikeyopp.substack.com/subscribe

In episode 209 of R Weekly Highlights we learn ways you can pinpoint just what is slowing down your R code, a novel framing for testing your next plumber API, and the adventures in recreating a NY Times chart entirely with ggplot2.Episode LinksThis week's curator: Jon Carroll - @jonocarroll@fosstodon.org (Mastodon) & @jonocarroll.fosstodon.org.ap.brid.gy (Bluesky) & @carroll_jono (X/Twitter)Speed Testing Code: Three LevelsTesting your Plumber APIs from RCopy the Pros: How to Recreate this NYTimes Chart in REntire issue available at rweekly.org/2025-W31Supplement ResourcesAdd links discussed in the episode (in place of this sentence)Eric and Mike's 2023 Shiny in Production workshop https://posit-conf-2023.github.io/shiny-r-prod/Jakub's R test gallery https://jakubsobolewski.com/r-tests-gallery/plumber2 - Easy and Powerful Webservers in R https://posit-dev.github.io/plumber2/Push straight to prod API development with R and Tensorflow at T-Mobile https://posit.co/resources/videos/push-straight-to-prod-api-development-with-r-and-tensorflow-at-tmobile/VCR R package by Scott Chamberlain https://github.com/ropensci/vcr/GitHub repository with Spencer's ggplot2 code https://github.com/Pecners/make_that_chartSupporting the showUse the contact page at https://serve.podhome.fm/custompage/r-weekly-highlights/contact to send us your feedbackR-Weekly Highlights on the Podcastindex.org - You can send a boost into the show directly in the Podcast Index. First, top-up with Alby, and then head over to the R-Weekly Highlights podcast entry on the index.A new way to think about value: https://value4value.infoGet in touch with us on social mediaEric Nantz: @rpodcast@podcastindex.social (Mastodon), @rpodcast.bsky.social (BlueSky) and @theRcast (X/Twitter) Mike Thomas: @mike_thomas@fosstodon.org (Mastodon), @mike-thomas.bsky.social (BlueSky), and @mike_ketchbrook (X/Twitter) Music credits powered by OCRemixDigital Saṃsāra - Genshin Impact - OceansAndrew - https://ocremix.org/remix/OCR04775Big Earl Funk - ToeJam & Earl - Zach Chapman, Ian Martyn, newmajoe, Ronin Op F, TheManPF - https://ocremix.org/remix/OCR04785

When Evil Arises ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | July 27, 2025---------- EPISODE SUMMARY What do you do when it feels like evil is winning and God is nowhere to be found? Through the dramatic story of Esther chapter 3, Michael Shockley introduces us to one of history's most dangerous villains - Haman the Agagite. From a 500-year-old blood feud to a genocidal plot that threatened to eliminate all Jewish people, discover how God works behind the scenes even when His name isn't mentioned. Learn from the inspiring story of Corrie ten Boom and her Nazi concentration camp experience that sometimes what looks like abandonment is actually God's protection. When darkness seems to triumph, remember this truth: the Cross looked like defeat, but Sunday was already on the schedule. Core Message: Evil may rise, but God is already writing the rescue. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED Opening Stories: Death and Faith - The loss of cultural icons from the 80s and 90s - Malcolm Jamal Warner's Christian faith and peaceful character - Hulk Hogan's recent baptism and testimony about Jesus - Ozzy Osborne's reported possible deathbed conversion to Christianity - How unexpected people can embrace the Gospel Meet the Villain: Haman the Agagite - Haman's promotion to Grand Vizier, the king's highest official - His possession of the king's signet ring and ultimate authority - The epitome of someone who clawed and connived for power - His demand for everyone to bow and pay homage to him Mordecai's Refusal to Bow - Religious convictions about not engaging in false worship - The danger of making idols out of people or political systems - Standing up to insufferable, grandstanding leadership - A quiet act of conscience rooted in faith in a Greater King The Ancient Blood Feud - Haman as descendant of Agag, king of the Amalekites - The Amalekites' history of unprovoked attacks against Israel - God's judgment through King Saul and the Prophet Samuel - King Saul's disobedience in sparing King Agag - Mordecai as a relative or likely descendant of King Saul from the tribe of Benjamin The Genocidal Plot - Haman's plan to exterminate all Jews in the Persian Empire - The empire's scope from India to Ethiopia, Greece to Caucasus Mountains - The financial incentive offered (equivalent to $200 million today) - The casting of lots (Pur) to determine the timing - How God influenced the lots to fall nearly a year later What It Looks Like vs. What's Really Happening - Evil rising vs. God writing the rescue - Haman in charge vs. God in control - Mordecai defiant vs. God faithful - Haman controlling calendar vs. God ordaining timing - King passive vs. King of Heaven active - God silent vs. God sovereign - Jews doomed vs. deliverers already in place The Corrie ten Boom Story - Dutch watchmaker's family hiding Jews during Holocaust - Arrest and imprisonment at Ravensbrück concentration camp - The flea-infested Barracks 28 that seemed like abandonment - How the fleas kept guards away, allowing Bible studies and worship - God using the very thing that seemed like punishment as protection ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "People get all bent out of shape when God doesn't do something to stop evil. And when God does something to stop evil, people get all bent out of shape." "Haman thought he was picking the best time for genocide. In truth, God picked the perfect time for rescue." "There is a big difference between what it looks like and what's really happening." "The Cross looked like defeat. The Tomb looked like the end. But Sunday was already on the schedule." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 3:1-6, 7, 15 - Supporting Texts: 1 Samuel 15 (Saul and the Amalekites), 1 Thessalonians 5:18 - Key Theme: God's sovereignty working through human evil for ultimate good - Historical Context: Ancient blood feud between Amalekites and Jews - Forward Connection: Preservation of Jesus' lineage through Jewish survival ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION When You Feel Evil Is Winning: - Remember there's a difference between what it looks like and what's really happening - Trust that God is writing the rescue even when you can't see it - Don't assume God is absent just because circumstances are difficult - Call on God and ask Him to show Himself strong When Wrong People Seem to Be in Power: - Avoid making idols out of political systems or leaders - Practice quiet acts of conscience rooted in faith - Remember that human authority is temporary, God's authority is eternal - Stand up for your convictions even when it's unpopular When You Face Systematic Evil or Persecution: - Trust that God can use even the worst circumstances for protection - Look for opportunities to minister and share faith even in dark places - Remember that what seems like abandonment might be God's provision - Hold onto hope that deliverance is coming even when you can't see how When You're Tempted to Compromise Your Faith: - Follow Mordecai's example of quiet resistance based on conviction - Don't bow to pressure when it conflicts with worship of the true God - Understand that standing for truth may bring persecution - Trust that God sees your faithfulness even when others don't When You Question God's Timing: - Remember that God ordains timing even when humans think they control it - Trust that delays in justice don't mean God isn't working - Understand that God may be positioning people and circumstances for rescue - Wait on God's perfect timing rather than demanding immediate action ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION On the surface, it may seem like evil is winning and God is on vacation. But underneath it all, God is at work, quietly putting the pieces together for a rescue nobody sees coming. The Cross looked like defeat. The Tomb looked like the end. But Sunday was already on the schedule. When evil rises, when darkness closes its grip, when life itches and bites and burns and stings, don't assume God is absent. Even fleas and wicked decrees become a part of His rescue. Do you see evil around you? Are you wondering where God is? Call on Him. Ask Him to show Himself strong. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- Remember: God's fingerprints are all over your story even when His name isn't mentioned. The Unseen Hand of God is at work, writing your rescue before evil even makes its move.

Just not all of them, including the one where you're naked at work

God Is Positioning You Esther 2 ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | July 20, 2025 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Ever feel stuck in a place you don't want to be, wondering why God hasn't moved you? Through the dramatic story of Esther chapter 2, Michael Shockley reveals how God orchestrates circumstances we never could have imagined. From a rigged beauty pageant to an assassination attempt, discover how God positioned an unknown peasant girl to become queen of the most powerful empire in the world - all to save His people and preserve the lineage of Jesus. Learn why your current circumstances, even the difficult ones, might be exactly where God needs you to be to make a difference in someone's life. Core Message: God puts the right people in the right place at the right time - and that includes YOU. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Historical Background: Greco-Persian Wars - King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) and his massive failed invasion of Greece - The battles of Marathon, Thermopylae, Salamis, and Plataea - How military defeat set the stage for needing a new queen - The connection between Esther 1 and 2 through historical context The Beauty Pageant That Wasn't - The reality behind the "beauty pageant" - women were taken, not volunteers - The 12-month preparation process and beauty treatments - How God doesn't endorse evil practices but brings good from them - The heartbreaking reality of forgotten women in the harem Meet the Main Characters - Mordecai: The Jewish exile working in the king's gate - Hadassah/Esther: The orphaned cousin raised as a daughter - The advice to hide her Jewish identity due to growing hostility God's Providence in Action - How Esther found favor with Hegai and received special treatment - The rigged nature of the selection process - divine intervention - Esther's immediate impact on King Ahasuerus - From unknown peasant girl to Queen of the Persian Empire The Assassination Plot - Mordecai overhearing the conspiracy against the king - His quick action to inform Esther, who told the king - The overlooked recognition that would matter later - Another example of being the right person in the right place God's Bigger Picture - How Esther's positioning would save the Jewish people from genocide - The connection to preserving Jesus' lineage 500 years later - God allowing human choice while directing outcomes for His purposes - The difference between God causing pain vs. bringing purpose from it The Joseph Figlock Illustration - The Detroit street sweeper during the Great Depression - The baby who fell from a fourth-floor window - twice - How ordinary people in ordinary places become extraordinary miracles - The importance of showing up even when frustrated with circumstances ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "King Ahasuerus was literally the wealthiest, most powerful person who had lived to that point, but he wasn't happy." "God's Providence doesn't erase our trauma or trouble, but it does encourage us that God is able to redeem the worst things we go through." "Jesus sees the forgotten. He calls the overlooked by name. Nobody is disposable to Him." "God took the selfish and exploitative actions of a pagan King and directed the outcome to position Esther in a place of influence." "You might be asking, 'Why am I still stuck here?' And the answer might be — you are the right person at the right place at the right time." "You might not get a baby dropped on your head, but you might be somebody's miracle." "You are not an accident. You are on assignment." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 2:1-4, 15 - Supporting Context: Esther Chapter 1 (Queen Vashti's removal) - Key Theme: Divine providence working through human circumstances - Historical Context: Persian Empire, Jewish exile, preservation of God's people - Forward Connection: Preservation of Jesus' lineage ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You Feel Stuck in Your Current Situation: - Remember that God might have you exactly where you need to be - Look for opportunities to make a difference where you are - Trust that God is telling a bigger story than you can see - Keep showing up faithfully even when circumstances are difficult If You're Going Through Unwanted Circumstances: - Know that God doesn't cause your pain but can bring purpose from it - Understand that human evil doesn't thwart God's ultimate plans - Trust that God can redeem even the worst situations - Remember that you might be positioned to help someone else If You Feel Forgotten or Overlooked: - Know that Jesus sees the forgotten and calls the overlooked by name - Understand that recognition may come at the perfect time, not immediately - Trust that your contribution matters even if it's not acknowledged - Remember that nobody is disposable to God If You're Waiting for God to Move You: - Consider that your current position might be strategic - Look for ways to be faithful in your present circumstances - Stay alert for opportunities to make a difference - Trust God's timing for change in your life If You Want to Make a Difference: - Recognize that ordinary people in ordinary places can be extraordinary miracles - Stay faithful in small things while God prepares you for bigger purposes - Be ready to act when opportunities arise - Trust that God positions people for His purposes ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION You might feel overlooked, forgotten, or stuck — but God hasn't lost track of you. Like Esther, Mordecai, and Joe the street sweeper, you are not an accident. You are on assignment. Just as God positioned Esther to save her people, He positioned Jesus to save you and me. Jesus was the Right Person in the right place at the right time. Trust Jesus, and trust that He's got you in the right place at the right time — even when you can't see it yet. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app ---------- Remember: God is always telling a bigger story than we can see. Your current circumstances might be exactly where God needs you to be to make a difference in someone's life.

Have You Lost Jesus In Your Life? Duncan Crook | July 13, 2025 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Have you ever lost track of a child for even a moment? That panic is nothing compared to losing fellowship with Jesus in your life. In this powerful message, Duncan Crook uses the story of 12-year-old Jesus being left behind in Jerusalem to reveal how even the most devoted believers can lose intimate fellowship with Christ. Through Luke 2:41-52, discover the difference between losing your relationship with Jesus (impossible) and losing fellowship with Him (all too common). Learn the warning signs, understand how it happens gradually, and most importantly, find the path back to restored intimacy with your Savior. Core Message: You can't lose your relationship with Jesus, but you can lose fellowship with Him - and there's a way back. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Reality of Lost Fellowship - The difference between losing relationship vs. losing fellowship with Jesus - Why even the closest believers can lose their sense of Jesus' presence - The story of the coworker who "found Jesus" then seemed to lose Him again The Biblical Foundation: Jesus Lost in Jerusalem - Jewish travel customs that explain how Mary and Joseph lost Jesus - The significance of Jesus' Bar Mitzvah and coming of age at 12 - Why both parents assumed Jesus was with the other group The Security of Salvation vs. Fellowship - Once saved, always saved - but not a license to sin - Marriage analogy: relationship vs. fellowship maintenance - Why true believers don't want to persist in sin Who Can Lose Fellowship with Jesus - The shocking truth: those closest to Him are most vulnerable - Former pastors, deacons, and church leaders who've fallen away - How you can attend church regularly and still lose fellowship The Gradual Nature of Spiritual Drift - Why losing Jesus doesn't happen overnight - The danger of small steps away from Christ - The Inuit wolf-hunting illustration about gradual spiritual destruction The Samson Syndrome - How Samson lost God's presence without realizing it - The tragedy of assuming God is still with you while living in sin - Recognition that spiritual strength comes from God, not ourselves The Path Back to Fellowship - Step 1: Acknowledge that you have left Him - Step 2: Diligently begin to seek Him with persistence - Step 3: Return to the place you left Him David's Example of Restoration - How "a man after God's own heart" lost fellowship through compromise - The progression from spiritual laziness to adultery and murder - Psalm 51 as a model for genuine repentance and restoration ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "Have you ever been somewhere with a small child and turn your back for a second- and the child has gone?" "How easy it is to sometimes seem to lose Jesus in our lives." "I have a good Greek word for that: Hogwash." "If you are born again, you don't want to sin! You are a new creature in Christ." "Has there ever been a time in your life when you were consistently closer to Jesus than you are right now? If the answer is yes, then you have lost Jesus." "Sometimes we stay so busy in church doing religious things that we miss Jesus." "Jesus didn't leave Mary and Joseph; they left Him." "You can't afford one day out of fellowship with Jesus." "He awoke from his sleep and thought, 'I'll go out as before and shake myself free.' But he did not know that the Lord had left him." "You will never reclaim fellowship with Jesus until you are honest enough to acknowledge that you have lost it." "You will need to take as many steps back to fellowship as you took walking away." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Luke 2:41-52 (Jesus in the Temple at age 12) - Supporting Texts: Judges 16:20 (Samson), Psalm 51:10-11 (David's repentance) - Key Theme: The difference between relationship and fellowship with Christ - Context: Jewish Passover customs and coming-of-age traditions ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Questioning Your Fellowship: - Ask yourself: "Has there ever been a time when I was consistently closer to Jesus than I am right now?" - Examine your heart honestly, not just your church attendance - Don't assume religious activity equals intimate fellowship If You've Recognized Lost Fellowship: - Acknowledge it honestly without making excuses or blaming others - Begin seeking Jesus diligently and persistently - it may take time - Return to the specific place or situation where you left Him If You're in Church Leadership: - Remember that being close to Jesus doesn't make you immune to losing fellowship - Don't let busyness in ministry substitute for personal intimacy with Christ - Be watchful for the gradual drift that can happen to anyone If You're Struggling with Sin: - Recognize that small steps away from Jesus become giant leaps - Don't deceive yourself that Jesus is okay with compromise - Remember that sin has an exponential, infectious nature If You're Helping Others: - Look for those who may have lost fellowship while maintaining appearances - Encourage persistence in seeking restoration - it's not always immediate - Point people back to where they left Jesus, not just to religious activity ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION God the Father is waiting for you to return to Him. When you do, He won't condemn, criticize, or punish you. He's going to welcome you with open arms, embrace you with His grace, enfold you with His love, and shower you with His mercy. You can be saved and going to heaven, but your fellowship and intimacy with Jesus can be spoiled. Will you admit it and start seeking the Lord persistently and diligently? Are you willing to return to where you left Him? ---------- Remember: Fellowship with Jesus requires the same diligence as any relationship - it must be maintained through consistent communion, honest acknowledgment of problems, and persistent effort to restore what's been lost.

Part 1One of our listeners decided his goal was to bring the magic of RomComs to his dating life...Now we need to help him finish his love story!Part 2The guy on the phone says one text before the date started changed their ENTIRE NIGHT—Find out what it was in your Second Date Update. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part 1One of our listeners decided his goal was to bring the magic of RomComs to his dating life...Now we need to help him finish his love story!Part 2The guy on the phone says one text before the date started changed their ENTIRE NIGHT—Find out what it was in your Second Date Update. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When I left the wrong relationship at age 34 (despite wanting to become a mother) I wanted a guarantee that I wouldn't attract or re-create the same lesson again. To state the obvious, I felt that time was running out.  In this episode I share with you:   How to learn from difficult experiences so that we don't continue the same pattern   The importance of giving your mind body the key that opens a new door   The focus that changed everything for me   The exact lessons I needed to embrace so that I attracted an aligned relationship Watch my free masterclass: Reprogramming Your Subconscious To Calm Your Nervous System here   Learn more about Reveal & Rise and how you can apply here   Connect with Gemma here daily on instagram, and for more resources head to gemmahanley.com

Unseen but Unstoppable ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley ------- EPISODE SUMMARY Are you wondering where God is in the midst of life's chaos? In this opening message of the Esther series, Pastor Michael Shockley reveals how God works behind the scenes even when He seems absent. Through Esther Chapter 1, discover how palace intrigue, royal scandals, and seemingly random events become part of God's greater plan for salvation. Learn to trust that even when God appears silent, He is orchestrating circumstances for your good and His glory. Core Message: God may be unseen, but He is never inactive - even the worst of human behavior can be woven into His redemptive plan. ------- KEY TOPICS COVERED Setting the Historical Scene - The Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) 500 years before Jesus - The Jewish diaspora and those who chose to stay in Persia - God's positioning of Esther's family for future deliverance The Six-Month Party and Seven-Day Banquet - King Ahasuerus's display of wealth and power across 127 provinces - The extravagant celebration open to all social classes - How rulers used lavish parties to demonstrate unlimited resources Queen Vashti's Courageous Stand - The king's inappropriate request while intoxicated - Vashti's refusal to be objectified before the party guests - The political and social implications of defying the king The Counselors' Reactionary Response - Memucan's exaggerated fears about women's rebellion - The decree establishing male dominance in households - The contrast between pagan leadership and biblical leadership Biblical Leadership vs. Worldly Power - The difference between forced submission and sacrificial love - Ephesians 5:25 and Christ's example to husbands - Leading through integrity rather than intimidation God's Hidden Hand in Human Events - How God uses even evil behavior to advance His purposes - The positioning of circumstances for Esther's future role - Divine orchestration behind apparent chaos and coincidence The Bigger Picture of Salvation - Connecting Esther's story to the preservation of the Jewish people - How these events ultimately protected the lineage of Jesus - God's long-term plan spanning centuries ------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "Even when He's not in the spotlight, the Unseen, Unstoppable God is still running the show." "God may be unseen, but He is never inactive." "What looks like chaos and coincidence is the opening act of a salvation story." "God can even take the worst characteristics of humanity and work them out to accomplish His Will in our lives." "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28 ------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 1 - Supporting Texts: Ephesians 5:25, Romans 8:28 - Key Theme: God's unseen but active work in human circumstances - Context: The beginning of events that would lead to Jewish preservation and ultimately the coming of Christ ------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Struggling to See God's Hand: - Remember that God often works behind the scenes - Trust that apparent chaos may be part of His greater plan - Look for His activity in unexpected places and circumstances If You're Facing Difficult People or Situations: - Recognize that God can use even challenging circumstances for good - Trust that difficult bosses, neighbors, or family members may be part of His plan - Remember that unexpected setbacks might be divine positioning If You're in a Leadership Role: - Follow Christ's example of sacrificial love, not worldly power - Lead through integrity and service rather than intimidation - Build up others rather than asserting dominance If You're Wondering About God's Timing: - Understand that God's plans often span years or decades - Trust that He is positioning you for future purposes - Remember that current circumstances may be preparation for unknown opportunities To Develop Trust in God's Hidden Work: - Study stories like Esther where God works behind the scenes - Practice looking for God's hand in everyday circumstances - Remember that His ultimate plan is always redemptive and good ------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Just as God used palace intrigue in ancient Persia to preserve the Jewish people and ultimately send Jesus as Savior, He can handle whatever you're going through today. Trust Him with the details of your life, knowing that He may be unseen but is never inactive. ------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ------- Remember: Even when God seems silent, He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Guest: Dr. Len Horowitz Prepper Tip: Work w/ your team, Recreate w/ your team, Pray w/ your team.

Guest: Dr. Leah Parker Prepper Tip: Work w/ your team, Recreate w/ your team, Pray w/ your team.

Guest: Marie Lasater Prepper Tip: Work w/ your team, Recreate w/ your team, Pray w/ your team.

Milk vs. Solid Food ReCreate Church | David Boudreaux ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Are you still drinking spiritual milk when God is calling you to solid food? In this challenging message, David Boudreaux explores what it means to mature in our faith journey. Through Hebrews 5:9-14, discover why some believers remain "dull of hearing" and how we can graduate from basic spiritual principles to deeper understanding and application. Learn the difference between head knowledge and heart transformation, and why God desires every believer to move from being fed to becoming feeders of others. Core Message: God wants us to graduate from spiritual milk to solid food - from being babes in Christ to mature disciples who can teach others. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Problem of Dull Hearing - Why the writer of Hebrews couldn't share deeper truths - Understanding "dull of hearing" as spiritual laziness, not physical impairment - How believers can become sluggish in their spiritual walk The Need for Spiritual Milk - Why new believers need foundational truths (1 Peter 2:1-3) - The importance of "first principles" in faith development - How spiritual milk provides necessary foundation for growth The Call to Spiritual Maturity - Moving from being taught to becoming teachers - The danger of remaining perpetually immature - Why some need to relearn basic principles they've already heard Head Knowledge vs. Heart Transformation - The difference between knowing facts and living truth - How information without application leads to spiritual ineffectiveness - Moving from "big head" syndrome to heart change Discerning Good from Evil - How mature believers develop spiritual discernment - The role of practice and habit in spiritual growth - Exercising our spiritual senses through consistent application False Doctrine and Spiritual Immaturity - Why immature believers are vulnerable to false teaching - The example of Jesus dying "once for all" vs. repeated sacrifice - How solid food equips us to recognize error The Journey from Introvert to Community - Personal testimony of reluctant fellowship - How God challenges our comfort zones for spiritual growth - The importance of community in maturation process ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn." "If it never gets from our head to our heart, we haven't gotten it." "God speaks to us every day. But in order to hear His voice, we must be tuned in to His frequency." "God doesn't want you to remain a 'babe' in Christ, but to mature, to graduate to solid food." "For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Hebrews 5:9-14 - Supporting Texts: 1 Peter 2:1-3, 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Ezra 7:10, Ephesians 4:14 - Key Theme: Spiritual maturation from milk to solid food - Context: The superiority of Christ's priesthood and the call to spiritual maturity ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're New in Your Faith: - Desire the pure milk of God's Word for foundational growth - Don't rush the process - milk is necessary for new believers - Focus on basic principles before moving to deeper truths If You've Been a Believer for Years: - Assess honestly whether you're still on spiritual milk - Move from being constantly taught to becoming a teacher - Practice what you've learned to develop spiritual discernment If You Struggle with False Teaching: - Develop skills to discern between good and evil - Study God's Word consistently to recognize error - Move beyond surface-level understanding to deeper truth If You're Reluctant About Fellowship: - Remember that God uses community for spiritual growth - Step out of your comfort zone for spiritual development - Engage with other believers for mutual encouragement To Develop Spiritual Maturity: - Make Bible study a daily habit, not just occasional reading - Practice applying what you learn in real-life situations - Tune in to God's frequency through consistent communication - Move from head knowledge to heart transformation ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION God doesn't want you to remain spiritually immature forever. He's calling you to graduate from milk to solid food, from being fed to feeding others, from basic principles to deeper understanding. Tune in to His frequency through His Word and consistent fellowship with other believers. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- Remember: Spiritual maturity comes through consistent practice and application of God's Word. Where are you in your journey from milk to solid food?

Female Teachers Who Sexually Assault Male Students: Understanding a Complex IssueBill Eddy and Megan Hunter explore the concerning pattern of sexual misconduct between female teachers and male students. This episode examines the psychological, interpersonal, and cultural factors that contribute to these situations, while providing insights for prevention and awareness.Understanding the DynamicsResearch indicates these cases often involve teachers targeting older adolescents (15-16 years old), with interactions occurring both inside and outside school settings. The motivations tend to be emotionally-driven rather than predatory. While federal data doesn't track gender-specific statistics, anecdotal evidence suggests increased visibility of these cases in recent years.The behavioral patterns in these cases often reveal complex emotional attachment issues, where professional boundaries become increasingly blurred. Teachers who demonstrate this conduct typically exploit their position of authority while developing inappropriate emotional connections with students. This process frequently involves grooming behaviors, where the adult gradually manipulates the relationship dynamic through special attention, emotional manipulation, and progressive boundary violations.Questions We Answer in This Episode:What psychological factors contribute to this behavior?How does grooming manifest in educational settings?What are the impacts on teenage male victims?What warning signs should parents and schools watch for?How can educational institutions prevent these situations?Key Takeaways:Clear boundaries and oversight are essential in educational settingsSchools need comprehensive policies and annual trainingParents should maintain open communication about boundariesEarly intervention and awareness can prevent escalationProfessional support should be available for at-risk teachersThis episode provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and administrators while examining the complex factors that contribute to these concerning situations. Understanding these dynamics helps create safer educational environments and better protection for students.Additional ResourcesWatch the Full New York Post video “Psychologist Explains Why Female Teachers Have Sex With Students”OrganizationsRAINN (Help for men and boys who have been sexually assaulted or abused)Article: Sexual Assault of Men and BoysNational Sexual Assault Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (U.S.)1in6.org (Support for men who have experienced sexual abuse or assault)501(c)(3) Zero Abuse ProjectExpert PublicationsLessons to Learn: Female Educators Who Sexually Abuse Their Students (Psychiatric Times)How Female Sexual Abusers Groom Their Victims (Psychology Today - Dr. Elizabeth L. Jeglic Ph.D.)Sexual assault has lasting effects on teenagers' mental health and education (National Institute for Health and Care Research)Professional & Personal DevelopmentConflictInfluencer.comConnect With UsVisit High Conflict Institute: highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and MeganBrowse our complete collection of books and resources in our online store—available in print and e-book formatsFind these show notes and all past episode notes on our websiteImportant NoticeOur discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area. (00:00) - Welcome to It's All Your Fault (01:33) - Female Teachers who Sexually Assault Young Male Students (02:01) - Background Research (04:18) - What They're Trying to Recreate (05:22) - Looking at the Individual Aspect (09:07) - Trying to Fill a Hole (11:16) - Looking at the Cultural Aspect (12:32) - More Research (15:27) - Impact on Student (17:42) - Attraction to the Extremes (20:29) - Teens with Signs of High Conflict Traits (22:11) - What to Be Aware of (25:03) - Raising Education Levels (27:29) - What Parents and Schools Can Do (33:02) - Reminders Learn more about our New Ways for Mediation Coaching Sessions. Get started today!

Are you craving a slower, simpler summer—the kind where screen time, to-do lists, or mom guilt don't run your days? If so, this episode is totally for you! We're bringing back the nostalgia in this episode and chatting about three ways to recreate a 90s summer —a time when summer was sacred, not stressful.   If you're a Christian mama who grew up in the 90s and now feels stretched thin trying to “do it all,” this is the summer reset your soul has been praying for!    I pray this episode blesses you, and if it does, be sure to leave a 5-star review!   God bless! Brianne   Connect with like-minded homemakers and grab free resources to help you with homemaking by joining the FREE Hearty Homemaker Community

The Ache & The Answer ReCreate Church | Pastor Michael Shockley ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Ever feel that unexplainable weight in your chest? That sense that something is missing even when life looks good on paper? In this powerful message, Pastor Michael explores the story of Benjamin, a man who had achieved everything yet still felt empty inside. Through the lens of Ephesians 2:8-9, you'll discover that the ache we all carry isn't just stress or circumstances - it's a soul separated from its source. Learn why grace, not performance, is the answer to life's deepest longing. Core Message: The ache is real. The answer is grace ... through faith in Jesus. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Universal Ache - The unexplainable weight we carry in our chest - Why success and achievements don't fill the void - The difference between surface-level stress and soul-deep emptiness Benjamin's Story: A Picture of the Human Condition - Working with his hands to quiet the noise inside - The weight of generational expectations and disappointment - How accomplishments become temporary fixes for permanent problems The Spiritual Diagnosis - Why the ache isn't just depression, anger, or burnout - Understanding sin as separation from God, not just rule-breaking - The soul crying out for its Maker Grace Through Faith (Ephesians 2:8-9) - Grace as God reaching toward us, not us reaching toward Him - Faith as surrender, not performance - Salvation as gift, not achievement The Futility of Self-Salvation - Why we can't hammer our way into peace - The temporary nature of worldly solutions - Understanding that we can't be our own heart surgeon The True Source of Modern Anxiety - Why successive generations experience more anxiety - The spiritual disconnection behind emotional exhaustion - Living without water and wondering why we're drying up ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "The ache is real. The answer is grace ... through faith in Jesus." "You can't hammer your way into peace. You can't do enough to fix the ache. You can't be your own heart surgeon." "Grace meets you with blood still on your hands and says, 'I love you anyway. Come home.'" "Faith is not convincing God you're good enough; it's being convinced Jesus Is Enough." "Sin isn't just breaking the rules. It's breaking the relationship with The One Who Made you." "Salvation isn't a prize for the worthy. It's a gift for the willing." "You don't need better answers. You need The Answer." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Ephesians 2:8-9 - Key Theme: Salvation by grace through faith - Context: Paul's letter explaining the spiritual transformation available in Christ - Central Truth: Peace comes through receiving God's gift, not earning it ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Struggling with That Unexplainable Ache: - Recognize it may be spiritual disconnection, not just stress - Stop trying to work, buy, or achieve your way to peace - Consider that your soul is crying out for its Maker If You've Been Performing to Prove Your Worth: - Understand that grace meets you where you are - Faith is surrender, not trying harder - Your value comes from God's love, not your achievements If You're Carrying Guilt and Shame: - Remember that Jesus came to rescue, not shame - Grace isn't earned - it's received as a gift - The work has already been finished by Christ If You've Never Truly Trusted Jesus: - Today can be the day you receive the gift of grace - It's not about being good enough - it's about accepting you're loved - Lay down the hammer of self-effort and pick up The Word ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Stop trying to fix what only Jesus can heal. The ache in your soul isn't a problem to solve through better performance - it's a longing that only your Creator can fill. Jesus offers the gift of grace. Receive it and live in the freedom it brings. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app ---------- Remember: Salvation isn't a competition or achievement. It is received as a gift, or not at all. What will you do with the grace that's being offered to you today?

If you've ever found yourself chasing partners who feel "exciting" only to end up heartbroken—or if stability feels boring and you're stuck in the same painful patterns—this is the relationship episode you didn't know you needed.This week, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Sarah Alsawy, founder of Relationship Success Lab, for a deep and raw conversation about trauma bonding, subconscious attraction patterns, attachment styles, and what real healing looks like. We explore how your nervous system shapes your relationships, why the spark you feel might be rooted in trauma, and how to finally break the cycle for good. Whether you're dating, in a relationship, or doing your inner work solo, this episode will shift the way you love—for life.What you'll get out of this episode… Why we confuse "chemistry" with chaos—and what your body is really trying to tell youHow your nervous system gets addicted to the high and low cycles of toxic loveWhat trauma bonding actually is (and how to know if you're in one)The surprising reason secure partners feel “boring” to trauma survivorsHow to break patterns that keep you dating the same person in a different bodyWhen talk therapy isn't enough—and what methods actually heal the nervous systemHow to show up for your partner when you're in different phases of growthWhat it really means to have a healthy love—and how to get thereConnect with Dr. SarahWEB / healtraumabonding.comWELLNESS RETREAT / relationshipsuccesslab.com IG / @dr.sarahalsawyYT / @Dr.SarahalsawyWant more?

Dad Tired - ReCreate Church, Sunday Service, July 15, 2025 Overflowing, Part 3: Dad Tired ReCreate Church | Pastor Michael Shockley | Father's Day ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY Feeling like your battery is constantly drained? Whether you're a dad, mom, student, or caregiver, we all know what it's like to run on empty. In this hilarious and encouraging Father's Day message, Pastor Michael explores the reality of being "Dad Tired" and discovers the secret to renewed energy through the powerful promise of Isaiah 40:30-31. From the dangers of "The Dad Chair" to the inspiring story of the prophet Elijah's burnout and recovery, you'll learn that true energy doesn't come from better sleep schedules or energy drinks—it comes from connecting with God's purpose for your life. Core Message: If you need energy, find purpose. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Reality of Dad Tired - Different levels of exhaustion: dog tired, dead tired, Dad tired - The power of "The Dad Chair" and unexpected naps - How responsibilities drain our batteries - The surprising ways kids can recharge us When Even the Strong Get Weary (Isaiah 40:30-31) - Why even young, athletic people run out of energy - The danger of exhaustion vs. evil - How victory can be as draining as defeat - Elijah's burnout after his greatest triumph The Meaning of "Waiting on the Lord" - The Hebrew word "qavah" - to bind or twist together - Moving from passive waiting to active connection - Weaving our weakness with God's strength - Binding our purposelessness to His purpose Elijah's Journey from Burnout to Purpose - Running away and wanting to die - The importance of rest, nutrition, and self-care - God's assignment: finding purpose in anointing kings - Discovering he wasn't alone - 7,000 faithful remain - Training the next generation with Elisha The Promise of Renewed Strength - Mount up with wings like eagles - Run and not be weary - Walk and not faint - Living on resurrection power, not battery power ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "One of the most dangerous pressures we face isn't evil, it's exhaustion." "To wait upon The Lord means to bind yourself to His Purpose. Nothing will energize you like the purpose of God for your life." "If you live disconnected from God, you are a single, fragile strand that will snap under pressure." "Energy flows from purpose." ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Isaiah 40:30-31 - Supporting Story: Elijah's burnout and restoration (1 Kings 19) - Key Hebrew Word: Qavah (H6960) - to wait, bind together, twist into rope - Historical Context: Isaiah's shift from judgment to comfort and hope ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION For Physical Energy: - Prioritize rest, nutrition, and self-care ("snack and a nap") - Maintain healthy sleep schedules and exercise - Recognize the biblical importance of basic needs For Spiritual Energy: - Connect daily with Jesus through prayer and Scripture - Remember your identity as God's beloved child - Bind your life to God's purposes through obedience - Move from passive waiting to active connection with God For Parents Specifically: - Find recharging moments in connecting with your children - Remember that your greatest purpose is following Jesus - Express that purpose through loving and teaching your kids - Your identity isn't "Good Dad" or "Bad Dad" but "Beloved child of God" For Everyone Running on Empty: - Stop trying to manufacture energy on your own - Plug into resurrection power instead of battery power - Weave your small story into God's great story - Trust that Jesus emptied Himself so you could be filled ---------- THE GOSPEL CONNECTION Jesus didn't just come to forgive sin but to give abundant life. When we feel like failures, the Gospel reminds us that our identity is rooted in being God's beloved children through Christ. We don't have to run on our own power—we can live on resurrection power. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app ---------- Remember: You might be dog tired, dead tired, or Dad tired, but in Christ you are alive. You have purpose. You have energy. Bind your life to His life and you can soar, you can run, you can walk.

Overflowing, Part 2: A Little is A Lot ReCreate Church | Pastor Michael Shockley EPISODE SUMMARY Ever feel like you don't have enough? Not enough money, time, energy, or resources to make it through? In this encouraging message, Pastor Michael explores the powerful story of a desperate widow in 2 Kings 4:1-7 who discovered that God can do incredible things with whatever little we have. Through humor, practical wisdom, and biblical truth, you'll learn how to shift your focus from scarcity to abundance and trust God with what's already in your hands. Core Message: A little is a lot when you trust it to God. ------------------------------------------------------------------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Power of "Struggle Meals" - Why comfort foods often start as necessity meals - Finding joy and contentment in simple things - Shifting perspective from what we lack to what we have The Widow's Desperate Situation (2 Kings 4:1-7) - A preacher's widow facing financial ruin - The threat of losing her children to slavery - Her cry for help to the prophet Elisha The Life-Changing Question - "What do you have in the house?" - Why God focuses on our assets, not our deficits - Moving from scarcity thinking to abundance preparation Acting in Faith Before Seeing Results - Gathering empty vessels while having almost nothing - The George Mueller orphanage story - Setting the table before God fills it The Miracle of Multiplication - How a small jar of oil filled countless vessels - God's provision matching our faith preparation - From survival to total transformation What Do You Have in Your House? - Resources (even a few dollars) - Opportunities (even small open doors) - Relationships (even a small circle) - Skills and abilities - Influence and energy - Time and health ------------------------------------------------------------------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "The world changes when you stop focusing on what you don't have and see what you can do with what you DO have." "Why do we wait until we see the miracle before we prepare for it? We say, 'God, send the rain,' but we don't carry an umbrella." "God's provision often comes AFTER we step out in faith, not before." "God multiplied her provision in proportion to her faith to prepare. BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: 2 Kings 4:1-7 - Historical Context: The ministry of prophets Elijah and Elisha in divided Israel - Key Characters: The prophet's widow, Elisha, and the "sons of the prophets"   ------------------------------------------------------------------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Struggling Financially: - Start planning a budget and stewarding what you have - Trust God with even small amounts If You Need Opportunities: - Develop skills now for future openings - Prepare before the door opens If You Want Better Relationships: - Invest in growth and connection today - Take steps toward healing and improvement If You're Praying for Miracles: - Set out your "vessels" in faith - Make room for God's abundance - Trust Him with whatever you currently have ------------------------------------------------------------------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Above all, offer Jesus the most important vessel - your heart. Even if it feels empty or broken, Jesus specializes in filling us with His forgiveness, love, presence, and power. ------------------------------------------------------------------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app ------------------------------------------------------------------- Remember: A little is a lot when you trust it to God. What vessels are you preparing today?

Can the magic of old-school Blizzard ever be recreated? Dreamhaven, a company started by Blizzard co-founder Mike Morhaime and a whole bunch of other Blizzard veterans, seems to be trying to make it happen. Jason, Maddy, and Kirk talk about Dreamhaven's first two games, Sunderfolk and Wildgate, and whether it's possible to recreate those old Blizzard feelings in 2025.One More Thing:Kirk: SinnersMaddy: Doom: The Dark AgesJason: Thunderbolts* (2025)LINKS:Triple Click LIVE in Portland, July 11: https://albertarosetheatre.com/event/triple-click-live/alberta-rose-theatre/portland-oregon/Support Triple Click: http://maximumfun.org/joinBuy Triple Click Merch: https://maxfunstore.com/search?q=triple+click&options%5Bprefix%5D=lastJoin the Triple Click Discord: http://discord.gg/tripleclickpodTriple Click Ethics Policy: https://maximumfun.org/triple-click-ethics-policy/

Recreate beloved Mexican dishes with a compassionate, plant-based twist, without sacrificing flavor, family connection, or culture. From pozole & tamales, tortillas and even enchiladas, today we dive into something close to our hearts, and stomachs, to see how authentic Mexican food is one of the most delicious and adaptable cuisines to make plant-based Episode Show Notes Newsletter Sign-Up Support Our Podcast on Patreon Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto (founder of Plant-Based on a Budget) & Michelle Cehn (founder of World of Vegan) Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subscribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters.  Resources Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Thrive Bundle The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans Connect with World of Vegan Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Newsletter

At our Blister Summit 2025, we had an all-star lineup of guests share their stories of times when things went wrong in the mountains, and also share some of their best advice and tips to respond to such moments — or, ideally, avoid them altogether. If you recreate in the mountains, please listen.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:New BLISTER+ Members (2:33)Dr. Gloria Beim Intro (4:54)Bjarne Salen Intro (8:48)Nick Russell Intro (10:29)Drew Petersen Intro (10:49)Stories: When Things Went Wrong (13:14)Injuries in Skiing & Snowboarding (33:26)Drew's Hand Injury (37:52)Insurance Craziness & BLISTER+ (43:41)Other Tips on Recreating Responsibility (48:21)Mental Health Toolkit (53:52)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED Bikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Social Proof Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Morgan, the CEO of Blavity Inc. and AfroTech. Morgan is a powerhouse and a genuinely nice person, which makes her success even more inspiring. We delved into her journey from starting Blavity in 2014 to growing it into a major corporation that builds products, services, and experiences for Black people and multicultural audiences.Morgan shared her background, growing up in St. Louis and living in various cities like Nashville, L.A., and the Bay Area. She started her career in Silicon Valley, which played a crucial role in shaping her entrepreneurial mindset. Blavity has made significant strides, including three acquisitions of Black businesses and becoming the largest Black publisher for our generation.