Podcasts about rejecting

In this compelling episode, hosts Ray Powell and Jim Carouso interview Shannon Brandao – attorney, Mandarin speaker, and founder of the China Boss Substack – to explore China's expanding influence even as America appears to turn inward. Broadcasting from Europe, Brandao delivers her unique insights on Chinese Communist Party strategy, economic challenges, and geopolitical ambitions.Brandao emphasizes that perception easily becomes reality, in that when America appears to withdraw, China seizes opportunities to expand influence through economic leverage and promises of stability. This directly impacts Indo-Pacific supply chains controlling critical minerals, batteries, and essential products that Americans depend on daily.Rejecting claims that China seeks only regional stability, Brandao explains that the Chinese Communist Party operates from a paranoia that requires control to ensure regime survival. Under Xi Jinping, ruling "red aristocrats" fear vulnerability to external powers, and even successful Chinese entrepreneurs like Jack Ma, leading to enterprise nationalization and tight party control over innovation.While China faces economic headwinds, including debt, demographic challenges, and declining GDP, Xi Jinping has successfully modernized the military. Still, China's unreliable economic statistics mask systemic problems, with Communist Party interference undermining potential innovation, even despite a tremendous national talent base.China exercises strength in strategic sectors—solar panels, batteries, electric vehicles, shipbuilding, and artificial intelligence—through massive subsidies, but this creates a chronic overcapacity problem. Local government subsidies benefit politically connected firms like Huawei, creating quasi-monopolies across industries: steel, aluminum, cement, telecom gear, plastics, fertilizers, construction equipment, etc. Endemic corruption further dilutes programs, with billions disappearing from AI innovation funds.Companies attempting to leave China face complex challenges. When signaling departure, employees report to Party and government officials, triggering shakedowns through exit bans and extortionate demands. Recent surveys show companies staying but withholding investment and hedging elsewhere. For firms that do leave, repatriating profits and protecting intellectual property depends entirely on relationships with local government officials.Asked for what advice she would give to President Trump before meeting Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC Summit, Brandao warns that Xi will use flattery while masking the geopolitical reality, and that failing to press American interests in the Indo-Pacific creates vacuums China eagerly fills.

Amy speaks to Tiffany North RN, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and Creator of the Attachment Food Model. In this discussion we talk about:How to cultivate trust with your body Rejecting diet culture Applying attachment theory to food and body Healing your relationship with food and your body How social justice relates to food and body image You can learn more about Tiffany at her website: https://www.coachtiffanyrn.com/You can also follow her on instagram @coachtiffanyrnIf you'd like to purchase her book you can do so here: https://www.coachtiffanyrn.com/book.html

In Part Two of our Rejecting Dawn Staley episode, Staley is informed of her shortcomings, it's play abroad or die trying – and a dusty VCR tape changes her life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Radical lesbian activist Oak Chezar spent three years protesting nuclear war at Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp, and another five living on lesbian women's lands. Some of Oak's stories were aired on our original Greenham Common episode with Sue Say and, due to popular demand, we bring you Sarah's full conversation with her here today. Tune in for never-before-seen tales of creative actions, annoying law enforcement, living outside of the dominant culture, and finding love at the lesbian peace camp. If you missed our Sue Say episode, or forgot its contents: Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp was an anti-nuke encampment outside of a US military base in England. There, women (and loads of lesbians) occupied from 1981 all the way through 2000. Every day at Greenham was exciting - for better or for worse. The women were evicted from their camps and terrorized by police every morning, they rebuilt every day, and by the end of the night found new creative ways to peacefully disrupt the military base next to them. Tune in for Oak's never-before-seen tales of creative actions, annoying law enforcement, living outside of the dominant culture, and finding love at the lesbian peace camp. Find out more about Oak and her work at oakchezar.com Thank you for listening to Cruising Podcast! -Reviews help other listeners find Cruising! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and leave us a 5-star review! -For more Cruising adventures, follow us @cruisingpod on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -Check out ⁠Cruising's Substack⁠ for deep dives and companion pieces to our episodes! -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support Cruising here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Cruising is an independent podcast. That means we're entirely funded by sponsors and listeners like you! -Cruising is reported and produced by a small but mighty team of three: Sarah Gabrielli (host/story producer/audio engineer), Rachel Karp (story producer/social media manager), and Jen McGinity (line producer/resident road-trip driver). Theme song is by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Joey Freeman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Cover art is by Nikki Ligos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beethoven pushed the symphonic form in a new direction with this heroic work that sounds larger than the sum of its parts. John Banther and Evan Keely show you what to listen for, how it pushed boundaries in 19th-century music, the famous Napoleon dedication, and more!Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves has ruled out a UK wealth tax, while also giving one of her strongest commitments yet to abide by campaign pledges not to raise the level of several key taxes. Reeves also discussed youth guarantees, the two-child benefit cap, and child poverty with Bloomberg's Lizzy Burden at the Labour Conference in Liverpool.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in an unprecedented time where incredible amounts of information are readily at our fingertips, and at the same time we are starving for wisdom. We know that information is not the same as wisdom, but the keen observer will also recognize that human wisdom will only take us so far. In fact, the whole mess the human race is in, according to the Bible, stems from humanity grasping for knowledge and forsaking the wisdom of Creator God.Still – God offers us his wisdom, again and again, all through the biblical narrative.Our response to God's wisdom will effect the way life plays out, and never more so than when it comes to the wisdom revealed in Christ. How we respond to God's kingdom closing in on this world will have varying results in accordance with our response. That is something Jesus will highlight in the section of Matthew we'll be reading this Sunday, Matthew 11:20-30.Jesus gives some of his harshest rebukes outside of the religious leaders in v20-24. What is the repeated reason for their looming judgement? Do you think Jesus is angry with these people? What do you believe is motivating his words? What appears to be the result of rejecting God's kingdom?In v25-27 we see that everyone didn't reject Jesus' presentation of the kingdom. Who does it say it was revealed to? What do you think is significant in the contrast between the “childlike” and the “wise and clever” ones? What implicit attitudinal response seems necessary for recognizing and embracing God's wisdom revealed in Christ?Some of Jesus' most beautiful words are spoken in v28-30. Here's the thing – read them. Read them again. Read them from the Message version. Read those words out loud and hear them coming from Jesus to you, personally. Tell me how those words make you feel. What is the result of surrendering to Jesus and the wisdom of God?I can't wait to dig into this passage together! Hope to see you Sunday!Click here for a pdf of the teaching slideshow.

In times of national tragedy, can we resist the urge to turn our grief into political ammo? Sadly, our current leaders can't seem to find their better angels. So who's gonna do the right thing?

From the very beginning, passivity has been man's greatest temptation. Adam's first failure in the garden wasn't eating the fruit—it was standing silent while the serpent deceived his wife. And that same temptation still stalks men today. It whispers, “Stay quiet. Don't rock the boat. Don't get involved.” But passivity leaves gaps the enemy loves to exploit. God is calling His men to reject passivity, to step up, and to lead with courage even when it feels uncomfortable.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13 (ESV)Passivity shows up in all kinds of ways. Sometimes it's staying silent when your family needs your voice. Sometimes it's ignoring sin instead of confronting it. Other times, it's choosing the easy road of comfort instead of stepping into the hard work of responsibility.But the call of God on a man's life is the exact opposite. Paul's words here are active, not passive: Be watchful. Stand firm. Act like men. Be strong. These are battle commands. They're reminders that following Christ means taking action when others shrink back.Rejecting passivity doesn't mean being loud or aggressive. It means being alert, engaged, and willing to take responsibility. It means initiating prayer in your home, stepping into leadership in your church, and protecting your family spiritually when the enemy comes knocking.Brother, passivity may feel safe, but it always costs more in the end. Silence today can turn into bondage tomorrow. When men refuse to lead, the enemy gladly will. But when you stand firm in faith, speak truth in love, and act with strength, you slam the door in the enemy's face.The world says, “Do nothing and keep the peace.” God says, “Stand up and fight for what matters.”Question of the Day:Where are you tempted to stay passive right now—and how is God calling you to step in with strength?Mini Call to Action:Take one step of initiative today. Lead a prayer, start a conversation, or confront a compromise you've been avoiding.Prayer:Lord, forgive me for the times I've chosen silence over courage. Teach me to be watchful, to stand firm, and to step up when You call. Make me a man who rejects passivity and embraces responsibility.Let's Get To Work!Passivity builds weakness. Responsibility builds warriors. Step up, Brother—the world needs men who will not stand silent.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

What happens when you sell a 100-employee company at 28 and decide freedom matters more than settling down? Lauren Fernandez didn't just dream about working from anywhere—she made it a reality. But this isn't a glossy “digital nomad” story. It's the unfiltered truth about building a recruiting business while navigating serious health challenges, redefining success, and realizing your best life might look nothing like others expect. Lauren is the founder of Palm Coast Staffing, a legal recruiting practice she built while traveling the U.S. in an RV. After selling her first company with 100+ employees across three states, she and her husband skipped the mortgage and bought an RV instead. In this episode, Lauren reveals her three-section daily system that creates freedom through discipline, why she believes relationships beat cold calls, and how she structured her firm to keep running through unexpected crises. Episode Outline and Highlights [2:51] From selling rocks as a kid to building and selling a 100-employee company by age 28. [8:17] Hiring over 1,000 people—and what it taught her about matching success to the individual. [13:07] Rejecting the house for an RV and a new staffing business. [15:10] The unglamorous reality behind digital nomad life. [18:23] Her three-bucket daily planning system (no tech required). [23:19] An anti-cold calling philosophy: “find people where they are.” [27:59] Why returning to the same conferences builds long-term credibility. [34:42] Combating recruiting industry distrust through authentic relationships. [38:25] Running a business while navigating her husband's serious health diagnosis. [44:52] Why entrepreneurial lows aren't as devastating as you think—and highs aren't as high. On Building a Business That Serves Your Life After selling her first company, Lauren chose differently. When her husband was later diagnosed with myositis and developed stage three heart failure, their flexible model proved its worth. In her words: “Success looks different for different people at different times. Maybe right now you're in the building phase and you can work 12 hours a day, seven days a week. But maybe in a few years you've got kids and success is having freedom to spend time with them while they're young.” She asks every agency owner to reflect: “Is your company the tool to get you success, or is your company the success? Is it the means to the end or is it the end?” Her System for Freedom Through Discipline Lauren's three-section daily planning system is simple but effective. Using a paper planner, she breaks down daily into business development, recruiting, and operations. The buckets are interchangeable, so one disruption doesn't derail the whole day. “When you run your own business, there's a lot in the ‘other' section,” Lauren says. This system helped her keep placing candidates and winning clients—even during week-long hospital stays. Her insight: discipline in planning is what creates the freedom to adapt. Lauren Fernandez Bio Lauren Fernandez is the founder of Palm Coast Staffing, specializing in legal recruitment nationwide. She previously co-founded and scaled a sales and marketing company to 100+ employees before selling it at 28. After agency experience in Florida, she and her husband launched Palm Coast Staffing in 2022 with a unique twist—building the business from an RV while traveling the country. Lauren has personally hired over 1,000 people, giving her deep insight into aligning opportunities with candidates' life priorities. She's passionate about rebuilding trust in recruiting through authentic relationships, not spammy outreach. Currently based in Florida, she continues to build Palm Coast Staffing while supporting her husband through ongoing health challenges. Their next adventure? An RV trip from Florida to Alaska. People and Resources Mentioned Atomic Habits by James Clear Hug Your Customers by Jack Mitchell "If—" poem by Rudyard Kipling Starlink Internet Airtable Recruit CRM ChatGPT Connect with Lauren and Mark Lauren on LinkedIn Palm Coast Staffing website Get your FREE 30-minute strategy call: RecruitmentCoach.com/strategy-session Mark on LinkedIn Mark on Twitter Mark on Facebook Mark on Instagram

Listen to today's podcast... “You can't do anything right”. “This is your fault – It's always your fault”. Those who are emotionally abusive, are just as dangerous as those who are physically abusive. People can be emotionally abusive by: Rejecting the person by undermining self-esteem, criticizing, humiliating, blaming, or ridiculing They can withhold affection or threaten to take away possessions Abuse my also be restricting access to people or money, or exposing the person to inappropriate situations Emotional Abuse can lead to many emotional, physical, cognitive, and behavioural issues. It can impact social development, future success, and relationships outside of the abusive relationship. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Bringing Awareness To Emotional Abuse: People who are the target of emotional abuse are made to feel insignificant and incapable. Often, having an advocate or a person that they can confide in, can help them to see the abuse is not their fault. If you are being emotionally abused, talk to someone – find someone you can trust – a family member, friend, co-worker, EAP, supervisor, spiritual leader, community advisor or health professional. These resources can help you to examine all of your options so that you can decide what is best for you. Emotional abuse is a serious issue faced by many, but help is available. Recognition is the key. If you like today's wellness tips, let me know. You can leave me a review on amazon or through your #alexa app. Looking for more ways to build your resiliency? Take my free on-line resiliency test at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab. #mentalhealth #hr

US President Donald Trump recently made the claim that London wanted to 'go to sharia law' under its 'terrible mayor', Sadiq Khan - a claim the mayor's office has quickly dismissed. The US President made this claim in an address to the UN general assembly earlier today. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says Sadiq Khan's team claimed they refused to dignify Trump's comments with a response. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie Kirk was Assassinated one week ago today... and now we are seeing the ramifications both evil and good coming from it. Join us as we unpack how to move forward as believers after the fact. There is a lot of noise out there - let's sift through it together.  https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1ZAHCzAQYh/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FT31hbpHi/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FPhZxwtM6/ https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16v9YvhXXP/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19nNLxC4Fk/ https://www.facebook.com/share/r/15RsDES83t/ https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Cd4JnufkM/ https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOoi-7rEtO9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOl8bGUgfdb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOopaACj9nB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOqqs82DjVW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOjY500AVCr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOoEySRjkGY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOrYoExD8ty/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOgoFXfjbW5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOrcxhJEfS7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOmBlz8DfoS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Elias Torres has been building AI systems since 1999, from chatbots at IBM to co-founding Drift and now Agency. He believes businesses are caught in an expectation mismatch—demanding AI while rejecting it due to imperfection anxiety. Drawing from his experience scaling HubSpot, Elias explains why human-led customer experience doesn't scale and how Agency is building AI-first solutions that work autonomously. His contrarian approach focuses on the back-end customer experience rather than front-end AI SDRs, aiming to “deprogram the entire business world” from inefficient human-dependent processes. Hosted by: Sonya Huang and Pat Grady, Sequoia Capital Mentioned in the episode: Lookery: David Cancel's first startup that Elias joined after IBM; shut down in 2009 Performable: Elias and David's second startup, acquired by HubSpot in 2011 Drift: Elias and David Cancel's third startup, merged with Salesloft in 2024 Klaviyo: B2C CRM company started by Andrew Bialecki after working with Elias at HubSpot Secret: Short-lived anonymous messaging app that inspired one of Drift's early iterations Tatajuba: Kitesurfing destination in Jericoacoara, Brazil where Elias (briefly) considered retirement 00:00 Introduction 01:50 AI and Customer Expectations 03:36 Managing Emails with AI 07:21 Elias' Personal Journey 11:27 Early Career 14:28 Joining HubSpot and Scaling Challenges 16:31 Hiring Exceptional Talent 18:53 Founding Drift 20:27 Pivoting to Success with Drift 21:41 Drift's Chatbot Innovation 22:09 Challenges and Limitations of Drift 22:37 The Struggle with Customer Knowledge 23:09 Scaling Challenges and Lessons Learned 25:58 Rediscovering Purpose Post-Drift 28:55 The Birth of Agency 29:42 AI's Role in Customer Experience 35:13 Building a Sustainable Business Model 37:06 The Vision for Agency 38:22 Challenges and Opportunities with AI 41:22 Deprogramming and Embracing Change 43:23 Optimism for the AI Future 44:15 Closing Thoughts

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2738: Heather Gray highlights how honoring a partner's needs strengthens intimacy and builds emotional security. By choosing acceptance over resistance, couples foster respect, reduce power struggles, and create lasting connection. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/why-you-need-to-accept-your-partners-needs/ Quotes to ponder: "Accepting your partner's needs is a way of showing respect for them and the relationship." "When both partners are willing to accept influence, they are more likely to find win-win solutions." "Rejecting influence is essentially rejecting your partner." Episode references: Eight Dates: Essential Conversations for a Lifetime of Love: https://www.amazon.com/Eight-Dates-Essential-Conversations-Lifetime/dp/1523504463 The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Principles-Making-Marriage-Work/dp/0553447718 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's talk about the Senate rejecting both plans for a government funding stopgap....

On this episode of Millennial Millionaire with Steven Cohen, we sit down with Andrew “Ace” Pacheco — Vegas nightlife OG, entrepreneur, investor, and devoted father. From grinding in Boston fine dining to becoming one of the most respected VIP hosts in Las Vegas, Ace reveals the lessons learned from building relationships with billionaires, navigating the chaos of the party scene, and turning setbacks into massive opportunities. He shares how faith, accountability, and relentless work ethic helped him transition from nightlife into successful ventures in lending, real estate, and luxury goods — all while raising his two sons and building a legacy beyond the clubs. This conversation is packed with insights on networking, resilience, and the mindset shifts needed to go from survival mode to thriving in business and life. Chapter Markers: 02:30 – Staying focused in a city built on distractions 04:01 – Miami vs. Vegas: status, money, and access 09:12 – Childhood struggles, fatherhood, and building drive 12:02 – Networking strategies that set him apart 21:33 – From nightlife to entrepreneurship 23:47 – Faith, adversity, and betting on himself 27:13 – Brotherhood, mentorship, and accountability 30:25 – Superpower: refusing to conform 35:15 – Thriving in chaos as an entrepreneur 41:20 – Fatherhood, balance, and legacy 47:07 – Rejecting victim mentality 49:22 – Humility and stoicism through highs and lows 50:25 – Who you know vs. what you know 51:07 – Advice for building networks and taking the first step If this episode with Ace Pacheco brought you value, support Millennial Millionaire with Steven Cohen by subscribing for more conversations on wealth, mindset, and entrepreneurship. Don't forget to rate & review, share it with a friend ready to level up, and follow Steven on social media for strategies and behind-the-scenes content. Connect with Ace Pacheco:  https://www.instagram.com/acepacheco/ #MillennialMillionaire #StevenCohenPodcast #AcePacheco #VegasNightlife #Entrepreneurship #Networking #WealthMindset #BusinessGrowth #LuxuryLifestyle #SalesAndSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #Resilience

As promised, here is the post-breakfast video with Matt and Lee talking about some of the practical elements they didn't get to at the September breakfast.

Welcome to the COTM Brotherhood Podcast. Join us in hearing Matt Sullivan's message from our September breakfast. Brotherhood Breakfasts occur on the first Friday of each month. If you would like to attend search for COTM Brotherhood Breakfast on www.eventbrite.com to see our upcoming events. To learn more about the Brotherhood go to www.cotmbrotherhood.com or follow us on social media facebook: /cotmbrotherhood instagram: @cotmbrotherhood https://linktr.ee/cotmbrotherhood To learn more about Church on the Move go to www.churchonthemove.com

Neoborn Caveman reflects on recent societal challenges, emphasizing the importance of community, connection, and meaningful dialogue. NC talks about the impact of modern challenges on personal freedom and the need for action to create a better world. Neoborn advocates for building relationships and rejecting generalizations, urging listeners to engage with one another authentically and respectfully.Key takeawaysWe are facing significant societal challenges that require our attention.Community and connection are essential for healing and progress.Action is necessary; talking to each other can lead to change.Modern society often seeks to control individuals through various means.Building meaningful relationships can nurture a sense of belonging.Rejecting generalizations is crucial for understanding diversity.Every individual deserves respect and acceptance, regardless of differences.Learning from history can help us avoid repeating mistakes.Empowerment comes from recognizing our ability to create change.We have the power to build a better world through our actions.Chapters00:00 The Impact of Recent Events on Society02:55 The Role of Community and Connection05:53 The Importance of Action and Dialogue08:23 Navigating Modern Challenges and Control11:09 Building Meaningful Relationships13:53 Rejecting Generalizations and Embracing DiversitySound bites"We don't live in heaven, we don't.""Evil is not the complimentary part of the goodness.""America is different for a reason.""You can't tolerate evil.""It's all about the new Babylon.""Liberate our soul and mind.""Meet up and coexist.""Don't generalize, that's the evil.""Learn history, study from history.""Never listen to the naysayers."keywordscommunity, connection, action, dialogue, modern challenges, relationships, diversity, societal issues, empowerment, personal growthHumanity centered satirical takes on the world & news + music - with a marble mouthed host.Free speech marinated in comedy.Supporting Purple Rabbits. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Empowered Homes Podcast, hosts Bobby Cooley and Meghan Landi sit down with pastor and author Shane Pruitt to talk about his latest Bible study, Not My Jesus: Reclaiming the Truth, Rejecting the Idols. Shane shares about his family, ministry, and the heart behind writing this timely study designed to help believers of all ages recognize and reject distorted versions of Jesus shaped by culture and personal preference. From “Genie Jesus” to “Mascot Jesus” to “Distant Jesus,” Shane walks through a few of the eight counterfeit versions of Christ outlined in the study, revealing the subtle lies they present and the real danger they pose to our faith and families. The conversation also turns practical as Shane offers wisdom for parents on how to disciple their kids through these cultural distortions and anchor them in the truth of who Jesus really is. Plus, we get a glimpse into what family discipleship looks like in the Pruitt home. If you're a parent, leader, or anyone looking to strengthen your faith and help others do the same, this episode will challenge and encourage you to rediscover the real Jesus: holy, gracious, and powerfully personal. Get the book hereAbout Shane Shane Pruitt serves as the National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board (NAMB). He and his wife, Kasi, reside in Texas, with their five children. He has been in ministry for over 20 years as a church planter, lead pastor, and student pastor. Shane is also a traveling communicator, evangelist, and Bible teacher. Every year, he speaks to over a hundred thousand people about the good news of Jesus Christ. He is the author of “Not My Jesus, “9 Common Lies Christians Believe: And Why God's Truth Is Infinitely Better,” “Calling Out the Called: Discipling Those Called to Ministry Leadership,” and “Revival Generation: Awakening to a Movement of God.” He is also one of the hosts of “The Gensend Podcast.” Thanks for tuning in to discover simple ways to grow faith in the everyday! About Empowered Homes Who we are? The primary purpose of Empowered Homes is to connect church and home by equipping families, leaders and ministries to grow in the areas of marriage, parenting, personal growth. discipleship strategy, family ministry, and leadership development. We value the family as the first institution designed by God for spiritual formation, relationships, and reflecting His image. We seek to ensure that every element of church life supports and equips that essential role. What we do? Empowered Homes Ministry provides practical, gospel-based resources to connect church and home. The majority of our resources are offered online through our website empoweredhomes.org. We also partner with churches and ministries to provide conferences, equipping events & ministry coaching.Empowered Homes Podcast Show us some Love! Do you appreciate The Empowered Homes Podcast? Like, subscribe, comment, share. Every bit of your engagement helps us be open-handed in sharing resources to grow strong families, leaders and ministries. Thanks for your help in Empowering Homes for the gospel! FB : https://www.facebook.com/EmpoweredHomesResources Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredhomesresources/ Youtube: ...

Artificial Intelligence and the Classroom: Embracing, Regulating, or Rejecting?This week, our co-hosts (one a teacher, one a technologist) revisit ongoing discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in schools and classrooms with a focus on how institutions of higher education are addressing AI tools at a policy level.  From Ohio State University's push for AI fluency to staunch opposition from other institutions over academic integrity concerns, we examine the varied approaches schools are adopting. The hosts also explore the personal impacts of these technologies within classrooms and the ethical considerations raised (think privacy, mental health, and the development of critical thinking skills in young learners) as AI expands its reach into academia and the workplace.00:00 - Intro & Announcements03:00 - 2025 AI Use Trends and Examples, Higher Education; Some Schools Enthusiastically Embrace AI Tools09:00 - Skeptical Embrace: AI in College Admissions, Student Services, and Campus Safety15:00 - Chat Tools and Mental Health Concerns17:00 - Some Schools Reject AI Over Academic Integrity Concerns20:00 Teacher Perspectives on AI: From Higher Ed Policy to Classroom Practice30:00 Classroom Activities Using AI; The Educator's Role in AI Use Policy Discussions Discussions37:20 What We LearnedFor a full list of episode sources and resources, visit our website.

In this episode, Kristen welcomes Michelle Renee, co-owner of Cuddlist, to explore the power of healthy, consensual touch and how cuddle therapy can support trauma recovery and emotional well-being. cuddlist.com   When you purchase Michelle Renee's recommended books through these Amazon affiliate links, you're helping support the podcast at no extra cost to you:  Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving: A Guide and Map for Recovering from Childhood Trauma: https://amzn.to/4mZftyK Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents: https://amzn.to/3JNREv8   Subscribe and get a free 5-day journal at www.kristendboice.com to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment.  For my full Disclaimer please go to www.kristendboice.com. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.

Dawn Staley graduated high school National Player of the Year. She went on to become a two-time National College Player of the Year. She is a five-time WNBA All-Star, a three-time Olympic gold medallist and was the United States flag bearer at the 2004 Games. As a coach, she has won three NCAA titles, four National Coach of the Year titles, and the hall-of-famer coached Team USA to Olympic gold in 2020. Yet, Dawn Staley was told basketball was for boys. Hope you'll join us.The major source behind this episode is: "Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three" by Dawn Staley. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Byron Patrick about how AI is reshaping accounting education, professional development, and even everyday problem-solving. Byron shares insights from co-founding TB Academy, which offers hands-on courses in AI foundations and case studies for accountants, and highlights favorite AI tools like Gamma.app and Google's Notebook LM. About Byron PatrickByron K. Patrick, CPA, is an innovator who thrives at the intersection of accounting and technology. Rejecting traditional accounting roles early on, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs. He expanded his impact at Botkeeper, leading the charge in adopting AI to revolutionize bookkeeping. And moved on to transform how accounting firms handle quality assurance through automated technology as CEO of VERIFYiQ. For decades, Byron has been a respected national speaker and writer, translating complex accounting technology topics into practical guidance. As co-founder of TB Academy, Byron equips accountants with generative AI skills, empowering them to become tech-enabled industry leaders. He frequently shares his insights nationwide, making advanced technology approachable and practical for finance professionals. Outside the accounting-tech scene, Byron lives on a horse farm, balancing family, dogs, horses, and a passion for helping accountants redefine their profession. Learn more about Byron at: TB Academy LinkedIn X (formerly Twitter) Instagram Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast

“Happiness can be found neither in ourselves nor in external things, but in God and in ourselves as united to him.”
 - Blaise PascalEcclesiastes 1“I would rather have questions that can't be answered than answers that can't be questioned.” - Richard Feynman

Rejecting the “both sides” argument on political violenceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Lana Pribic, ICF Professional Coach, co-founder of Kanna Wellness, and host of the Modern Psychedelics Podcast. Lana shares her deep reverence for African medicines—iboga and kanna—and why she resists quick-fix narratives in psychedelic culture. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-321/?ref=278  She opens up about her ceremonies in Baja, the long arc of iboga integration, and the role of preparation, intention, and patience in this work. The conversation also explores kanna as a gentle daily ally and the cultural roots of both medicines. Lana Pribic, M.Sc., is an ICF Professional Coach, co-founder of Kanna Wellness, and producer & host of the Modern Psychedelics Podcast. With over 230 hours of professional training and four coaching certifications, Lana specializes in psychedelically-informed coaching, guiding individuals through profound inner transformation. Based in Ontario, she merges the power of psychedelics, consciousness, and self-discovery to facilitate deeply impactful experiences. When she's not immersed in her work, you'll likely find her dancing to electronic beats, creating art in the kitchen, practicing patience with her cat, curating her dream wardrobe, or diving into a book. Highlights: How iboga differs from classic psychedelics Preparation as the overlooked key to safe journeys How to craft meaningful questions for iboga Rejecting the quick-fix narrative in psychedelic work Facing shadow material in ceremony The long arc of iboga integration Kanna as a subtle, supportive ally Safety concerns around microdosing iboga The cultural inseparability of iboga and Bwiti Balancing medicalization with ancestral reverence Episode Links: Modern Psychedelics Podcast  Kanna Wellness – Use code THIRDWAVE for 10% off Episode Sponsors: Psychedelic Coacing Institute's Intensive for Psychedelic Professionals in Costa Rica - a transformative retreat for personal and professional growth. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

Welcome back to Barn Talk, where what happens at the barn doesn't always stay in the barn. Today's episode is a somber one, as Tork and Sawyer come together to reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk in Utah. With heavy hearts, the hosts share their thoughts and prayers for Charlie's family and friends, acknowledging the deep impact of his loss on the country, especially among the younger generation.After a brief market update, Tork and Sawyer dive into a candid conversation about the repercussions of political violence, the dangerous state of public discourse, and the significance of free speech in America. They discuss Charlie Kirk's influence—as a thought leader who challenged the status quo and encouraged critical thinking among young people—and examine how his untimely death exposes deeper issues within our society.The hosts also touch on the reaction to Charlie's death, the dangers of losing healthy debate, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity. Amidst all the turmoil, they find hope in the legacy that Charlie leaves behind: a reminder for all of us to build strong communities, seek truth, and never shy away from difficult conversations.Pour yourself a cup of coffee—or a glass of whiskey, as the guys do in honor of Charlie—and join us for this heartfelt and unfiltered episode of Barn Talk.Shop Farmer Grade

Parents of high schoolers are navigating rolling strikes this week - with different year groups off on different days. Single parent of two high school students Anna Ponnampalam spoke to Corin Dann.

Rejecting everything but Jesus as my source of significance and joy

In this live episode of Processa Talks, Kiara Cristina Ventura sits down with artist Emmanuel Massillon for a deep conversation on art, culture, and process. Together, they explore Emmanuel's practice, the stories behind his work, and how his identity and experiences shape his vision as an artist. Later in the episode, they are joined by artist Allen Golder-Carpenter to reflect on the Massillon's performance piece "Cell 72: The Cost of Confinement" at Harlesden High Street Gallery in London, where Allen inhabited the role of an inmate for three days in June 2025.Recorded live at Studio Processa as part of the Processa Social Club series, this conversation unfolds with honesty, laughter, and insight into the realities of navigating the art world as a young Black conceptual artist.About Emmanuel:Emmanuel Massillon (b. 1998, Washington D.C.) is a conceptual artist whose practice spans painting, sculpture, performance, and sound. His work critically examines race, identity, and culture—especially as they relate to people of African descent—drawing from his upbringing in inner-city D.C., his Haitian heritage, and lived experience. Rejecting strictly polished aesthetics, Emmanuel often works with raw, tactile materials — found objects, hand-carved wood, cultural memorabilia, even food products — to evoke history, memory, and material storytelling. His visual language channels influences like Jazz, R&B, Rap, folk art, and street vernacular, creating layered narratives that blur formal boundaries. Emmanuel has exhibited internationally, and his work is held in significant collections including the Baltimore Museum of Art, C21 Museum, The Flint Institute of Arts, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Connect with Emmanuel: https://www.emmanuel-massillon.com | @massi___------This episode is part of PROCESSA TALKS, a podcast and curatorial series by Processa—a roving platform founded by Kiara Ventura that supports experimental exhibitions, conversations, and collaborations with Black and Brown artists.Learn more and check out our programs at: processa.artSupport the podcast and our physical space: processa.art/donateIntro & outro beat credit. (non-profit): less is more by Mpsta & El J

A new MP3 sermon from Frontline Fellowship is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Rejecting Celebrities and Trivialities Subtitle: Devotions 2025 Speaker: Peter Hammond Broadcaster: Frontline Fellowship Event: Devotional Date: 9/11/2025 Length: 31 min.

What if rural progress isn't about government intervention but about the self-reliance and ingenuity of peasants themselves?  The Laissez-Faire Peasant: Post-Socialist Rural Development in Serbia (UCL Press, 2025) subverts conventional wisdom on rural development by shifting the focus from state-led planning to the agency of peasants themselves. Rejecting the notion that rural populations are passive victims of top-down policies, Jovana Dikovic presents a compelling ethnographic study of three Serbian villages, where autonomy and local cooperation drive economic and social resilience. She introduces the concept of the “laissez-faire peasant”—a figure who thrives outside rigid government schemes, shaping rural development on their own terms. By examining the friction between state policies and the everyday strategies of rural communities, Dikovic uncovers how peasant autonomy not only resists external intervention but fosters sustainable and self-sufficient growth.The first in-depth study of contemporary Serbian peasantry, this book reframes rural life as a site of innovation rather than stagnation. An area of interest for scholars of post-socialist transitions, rural development, and economic anthropology, The Laissez-Faire Peasant provides a new lens on how rural communities survive and adapt in a rapidly changing world. The Laissez-Faire Peasant: Post-Socialist Rural Development in Serbia was published in the UK by UCL Press (2025), and in the United States by University of Chicago Press (2025). The Laissez-Faire Peasant is also available online open-access through UCL Press. Guest: Jovana Dikovic (she/her), is an economic anthropologist, publicist, and head of Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth at the Center for Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, School of Management, Fribourg. Host: Jenna Pittman (she/her) is a Ph.D. student in the Department of History at Duke University. She studies modern European history, political economy, and Germany from 1945-1990. Scholars@Duke here Linktree here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Shady Grove Church – Study in Romans The book of Romans is one of the richest, most powerful, and most theologically profound letters in all of Scripture. Written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 56, Romans provides a clear and orderly presentation of the gospel message—showing that both Jews and Gentiles alike are in need of salvation, and that justification comes by faith alone in Jesus Christ. In this video, Pastor Andrew walks through Romans chapter 2 and the beginning of chapter 3, where Paul addresses both Jews and Gentiles, showing that all are accountable before God. Having the Law is not enough—what matters is true righteousness, which comes only through faith in Christ. Together, we'll explore: God's impartial judgment of Jews and Gentiles alike (Romans 2:1–29) Why outward religion or heritage cannot save us How all humanity is guilty before God (Romans 3:1–12) The good news that justification is by faith, not by works We'll also draw personal application from Paul's message, including: ✅ Trusting Christ alone for salvation ✅ Rejecting self-righteousness ✅ Understanding God's righteous judgment ✅ Rejoicing in the gospel that saves both Jew and Gentile Romans is more than theology—it's the gospel applied to everyday life. Join us as we dive deep into this life-changing book and discover the righteousness of God revealed through faith in Christ.

What if rural progress isn't about government intervention but about the self-reliance and ingenuity of peasants themselves?  The Laissez-Faire Peasant: Post-Socialist Rural Development in Serbia (UCL Press, 2025) subverts conventional wisdom on rural development by shifting the focus from state-led planning to the agency of peasants themselves. Rejecting the notion that rural populations are passive victims of top-down policies, Jovana Dikovic presents a compelling ethnographic study of three Serbian villages, where autonomy and local cooperation drive economic and social resilience. She introduces the concept of the “laissez-faire peasant”—a figure who thrives outside rigid government schemes, shaping rural development on their own terms. By examining the friction between state policies and the everyday strategies of rural communities, Dikovic uncovers how peasant autonomy not only resists external intervention but fosters sustainable and self-sufficient growth.The first in-depth study of contemporary Serbian peasantry, this book reframes rural life as a site of innovation rather than stagnation. An area of interest for scholars of post-socialist transitions, rural development, and economic anthropology, The Laissez-Faire Peasant provides a new lens on how rural communities survive and adapt in a rapidly changing world. The Laissez-Faire Peasant: Post-Socialist Rural Development in Serbia was published in the UK by UCL Press (2025), and in the United States by University of Chicago Press (2025). The Laissez-Faire Peasant is also available online open-access through UCL Press. Guest: Jovana Dikovic (she/her), is an economic anthropologist, publicist, and head of Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth at the Center for Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, School of Management, Fribourg. Host: Jenna Pittman (she/her) is a Ph.D. student in the Department of History at Duke University. She studies modern European history, political economy, and Germany from 1945-1990. Scholars@Duke here Linktree here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/anthropology

What if rural progress isn't about government intervention but about the self-reliance and ingenuity of peasants themselves?  The Laissez-Faire Peasant: Post-Socialist Rural Development in Serbia (UCL Press, 2025) subverts conventional wisdom on rural development by shifting the focus from state-led planning to the agency of peasants themselves. Rejecting the notion that rural populations are passive victims of top-down policies, Jovana Dikovic presents a compelling ethnographic study of three Serbian villages, where autonomy and local cooperation drive economic and social resilience. She introduces the concept of the “laissez-faire peasant”—a figure who thrives outside rigid government schemes, shaping rural development on their own terms. By examining the friction between state policies and the everyday strategies of rural communities, Dikovic uncovers how peasant autonomy not only resists external intervention but fosters sustainable and self-sufficient growth.The first in-depth study of contemporary Serbian peasantry, this book reframes rural life as a site of innovation rather than stagnation. An area of interest for scholars of post-socialist transitions, rural development, and economic anthropology, The Laissez-Faire Peasant provides a new lens on how rural communities survive and adapt in a rapidly changing world. The Laissez-Faire Peasant: Post-Socialist Rural Development in Serbia was published in the UK by UCL Press (2025), and in the United States by University of Chicago Press (2025). The Laissez-Faire Peasant is also available online open-access through UCL Press. Guest: Jovana Dikovic (she/her), is an economic anthropologist, publicist, and head of Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth at the Center for Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, School of Management, Fribourg. Host: Jenna Pittman (she/her) is a Ph.D. student in the Department of History at Duke University. She studies modern European history, political economy, and Germany from 1945-1990. Scholars@Duke here Linktree here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/eastern-european-studies

Austin-based interior designer Viki Chupik brings the city's unique spirit into every project she touches. From its rolling hills and cultural quirks to its understated expressions of wealth, Chupik sees Austin as a place where authenticity and individuality still matter. In this conversation, she explains how to design for a city in flux. Like most of the cities people flooded to during and post-pandemic—balancing creativity, cultural heritage, and the realities of today's economic pressures. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!  - Where service meets excellence TimberTech - Real wood beauty without the upkeep LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully. Viki Chupik of Chupik Design unpacks Austin's evolving design landscape, from post-pandemic migration and rising costs to the homogenizing pull of social media trends. She shares how she navigates client expectations, resists algorithm-fed aesthetics, and champions designs that are rooted in nature, personal stories, and lasting quality. Along the way, Chupik explores functional planning, economic design strategies, and her vision for the future of the American home. The Austin Effect How Austin's natural beauty and geography shape lifestyle and client priorities. The city's evolution from “hippie government town” to tech-creative hub. Why “Keep Austin Weird” is about individuality and local culture, not just quirky aesthetics. Understated expressions of wealth versus flash seen in other Texas cities. Design Influenced by Lifestyle Incorporating travel, life experiences, and personal artifacts into home design. Creating spaces that reflect a client's narrative rather than a preset style. Prioritizing true customization over formulaic trends. Austin's Cultural Capital Influence of UT, major festivals, and historic districts on the city's identity. Embracing quirks—bats, music, history—in design and urban character. Post-pandemic migration: challenges and benefits of new creative influx. Viki Chupik's Design Fingerprint Calm, collected, nature-inspired aesthetic. Timeless design choices: earthy palettes, organic materials, and visual serenity. Rejecting trend-chasing in favor of enduring appeal. Design vs. Trends Critique of social media–driven “trendification” and AI-generated design content. Seeking out artisans, unique finds, and unexpected pairings. Why individuality in design is harder—and more important—than ever. The Budget Reality Impact of rising costs from tariffs, materials, and labor. Emphasis on quality investments over disposable design. Importance of involving designers early in architectural planning. Functional Design in Changing Times Rethinking square footage for smarter, more livable spaces. Evaluating the real utility of specialty rooms and features. Applying the “Are you going to use it?” test to every decision. Portable Kitchens & the Future of Home Considering modular, moveable kitchens inspired by European models. How rising land values could shift the role of the house toward adaptability. The tension between permanence and flexibility in residential design. Thank you, Viki. Amazing. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you'd like to see the show.

Send us a textForget the war stories from guys who graduated 20 years ago—this is the raw, unfiltered prototype of today's Air Force Special Warfare candidate. At just 22, this dude has maxed every test, trained like a psycho, lived in a recreated basic training bay, and even did medic work in Ukraine… all before stepping foot in selection. He trashes Indoc, calls the Air Force “too weak,” admits he manipulates weak teammates, and brags about 26 pull-ups after a PT test. Love him or hate him, you can't ignore him. This is what obsession looks like.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Why attributes, not push-ups, decide who makes it 01:00 – Introducing the “Number One Candidate” 03:00 – Why old war stories don't help today's pipeline 05:00 – Indoc was trash, science wins 07:30 – Why he thinks the Air Force is “weak” 09:30 – Maxing the ASVAB and threatening recruiters 11:00 – Built different since 8th grade 12:30 – Why he chose Air Force over Army or Navy 16:00 – Ukraine medic work and drone warfare obsession 20:00 – Two-way street with instructors: “Earn my attention” 22:00 – Why his fellow candidates are “all weak” 24:00 – Training with masks to cut off oxygen 27:00 – Airsoft as FMP prep and JP 3-09.3 study sessions 29:00 – Spotting weakness in 60 seconds 31:00 – Giving bad advice to sabotage others 34:00 – Sleeping in a recreated BMT bay and rucking with 110 lbs 37:00 – Branding yourself to cadre = career draft pick 42:00 – Why he's not afraid of pipeline changes 44:00 – TacP as a contract “negotiation” 47:00 – Eyeing Weapons School as a “doctorate” 49:00 – On 72 IFT failures: “clowns” 53:00 – Weak parents, strong cadre as father figures 55:00 – Military influencers he actually respects 58:00 – Rejecting “one beret” Swiss-Army-knife idea 59:30 – His advice: “Mean it. Or quit.”

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Let me know what you think of this weeks topic?  The Tightrope Walk: Christian Masculinity in 2025 As a Christian man in 2025, navigating masculinity can feel like walking a tightrope between cultural pressures and biblical truth. Society's expectations and changing norms create unique stigmas, challenging how men express strength, manage emotions, and live out their faith. The real struggle lies in defining a "strong man"—is it the stoic image promoted by culture, or the Christ-like example of servant leadership?   Breaking the "Man Code" Modern culture often prescribes a restrictive "man code" that demands emotional suppression and self-sufficiency. Being a Christian man can clash with this code, leading to stigmatizing judgments from both inside and outside the church.   "Too soft": The biblical call to be gentle, compassionate, and loving can be mislabeled as "soft" or weak by a culture that equates masculinity with aggression and dominance. Christian men can face pressure to be "harder" in their interactions, conflicting with Christ's example of humility and grace. Stoicism vs. emotion: Stoicism, with its emphasis on emotional control, can be an attractive but unbiblical model for men pressured to hide their feelings. However, biblical examples show that genuine strength includes vulnerability and righteous emotion. Jesus, for instance, wept openly and expressed deep sorrow. True strength is found not in suppressing emotions, but in engaging with them in a godly way.   The embarrassment of being counter-cultural As society becomes increasingly secular, Christian men may feel embarrassed or hesitant to openly share their faith. Growing secularism: The pressure to conform to secular values can make Christian beliefs seem outdated or irrelevant. Topics like traditional marriage, gender roles, and biblical authority are often viewed as controversial, making open discussion challenging.   Standing firm vs. fitting in: This tension can lead to a quiet, private faith rather than a bold public witness. The Bible, however, warns against being ashamed of Christ's testimony. Courage is needed to be counter-cultural while remaining gracious and loving. The evolving landscape of roles   Changing cultural norms regarding gender roles also impact how Christian men are perceived in the family, church, and workplace. Balancing roles: Christian men must balance traditional biblical commands with modern societal shifts. For example, a man might need to support his wife's career while still serving as the spiritual leader in the home—a collaborative effort grounded in love and biblical principles.   Leadership and servanthood: The biblical model of leadership is not dominance, but Christ-like servanthood. A Christian man is called to protect, provide, and guide his family with humility, mirroring Christ's sacrificial love for the church.   What is a strong Christian man? Ultimately, a strong Christian man isn't defined by cultural "man codes" but by his commitment to biblical principles. Rooted in Christ: True strength comes from relying on God's power, not one's own. Biblical manhood is Christ-likeness, not a human-made ideal. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14: The Apostle Paul's words offer a powerful summary of biblical masculinity: "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love". This call is not to cultural machismo, but to a courageous faith lived out with integrity and love.   Servanthood and humility: A strong Christian man rejects worldly measures of success and instead prioritizes serving others with humility, just as Jesus did. In 2025, Christian men are called to reject cultural distortions of manhood and embrace the biblical vision: a masculinity defined by Christ, marked by humility, and expressed through courageous, loving action.     would Jesus be considered soft today?   That's a complex question because "soft" is a culturally loaded term that has changed over time. While Jesus's gentle and compassionate nature might be labeled "soft" by some today, the full picture of his ministry shows a powerful, assertive, and challenging figure who would not neatly fit modern categories of masculinity.   Here's a breakdown of how different aspects of Jesus's character would be perceived in today's world: Aspects that might be perceived as "soft"   Compassion for the outcast: Jesus consistently associated with those on the margins of society—tax collectors, prostitutes, the sick, and the poor. In a world that often prizes social status and separates people, this counter-cultural acceptance could be perceived as weak by those who favor exclusivity.   Emotional vulnerability: The Gospels describe Jesus weeping, such as at the death of Lazarus (John 11:35). In some modern contexts, where men are pressured to suppress emotion, this vulnerability might be misunderstood as "soft" or unmanly.   Teachings on humility and non-retaliation: Jesus's sermon on the mount, which teaches turning the other cheek and being meek, directly opposes worldly aggression and pride.   This would clash with modern "man codes" that emphasize a dominant, "alpha male" persona. Servant leadership: By washing his disciples' feet (John 13:1-17), Jesus demonstrated that true leadership is rooted in service and humility. A society that rewards and idolizes power might find this model of leadership to be "soft" or naive.         Confronting hypocrisy: Jesus was not afraid to call out the religious and political leaders of his day for their hypocrisy, pride, and greed. His public rebukes of the Pharisees would still be seen as a bold and unsparing challenge to authority today.   Cleansing the Temple: This is one of the most famously assertive moments in Jesus's ministry. He physically drove out merchants and money changers who were exploiting the faithful. His anger, often called "righteous indignation," was a fierce defense of God's house and an act of holy confrontation.   Authority over spiritual forces: The Gospels describe Jesus casting out demons and commanding unclean spirits with a power that left people amazed. In any era, this kind of supernatural authority would be seen as a display of immense strength, not weakness.   Clear and uncompromising message: Jesus was unwavering in his message about repentance, salvation, and the Kingdom of God. He wasn't a people-pleaser, and his "hard sayings" often caused followers to turn away. His uncompromising nature would be seen as rigid and polarizing in a modern culture that prioritizes relativism and tolerance above all else.   Ultimately, the idea of Jesus being "soft" is a fallacy rooted in a limited or sanitized view of his life. His character was a dynamic blend of radical compassion and unwavering strength. He was gentle and humble, but also fierce and challenging. He was a paradoxical figure who defies simple labels, especially a superficial one like "soft".   what is alpha male The term "alpha male" describes a man who is traditionally viewed as dominant, confident, and a natural leader. However, the concept is highly controversial and is not based on sound scientific or psychological principles. Characteristics associated with the "alpha male" Historically, the alpha male archetype draws on simplistic ideas of animal pack hierarchies and includes traits such as: Dominance: Taking charge in social situations and having a commanding presence. Confidence: Possessing high self-assurance and not being easily swayed by others. Assertiveness: Clearly expressing one's opinions and standing firm in arguments. Competitiveness: Being driven to win and succeed in both personal and professional contexts. Traditional masculinity: Prioritizing traits like physical strength, emotional control, and career ambition. The problematic origins and critiques of the term The entire concept of the "alpha male" is largely debunked and criticized for its flawed origins and harmful impact. Flawed animal research: The term originated from an outdated and mistaken mid-20th-century study of captive wolves. The researcher who coined the term, L. David Mech, later recanted his findings, explaining that the aggressive dominance hierarchy observed was a result of housing unrelated wolves together in an artificial environment, not natural behavior. Wild wolf packs are led by a breeding pair, which are simply the parents of the other wolves in a family unit. Oversimplifies human behavior: Applying this concept to humans forces complex human personalities into rigid, oversimplified boxes like "alpha" and "beta." In reality, people's traits and social positions vary based on context and individual personalities, not a fixed hierarchy. Promotes toxic masculinity: The stereotype encourages men to suppress emotions, avoid vulnerability, and prioritize dominance over empathy. This can lead to anxiety, stress, and relationship issues, while discouraging qualities like emotional intelligence, kindness, and collaboration. Reinforces harmful stereotypes: The idea can be used to excuse negative behavior, such as controlling, aggressive, or dismissive attitudes. It creates a false hierarchy that makes men who don't fit the mold feel inadequate, even though qualities like empathy and kindness are highly valued in both personal and professional settings. The modern perspective Many contemporary discussions of masculinity aim to move beyond the simplistic "alpha male" archetype. Modern leadership and personal development trends emphasize a more balanced approach that combines traditional strengths with a high degree of emotional intelligence, empathy, and humility. A truly effective and respectable leader is often characterized by their integrity, respect for others, and genuine self-worth, rather than their ability to dominate.   what is toxic mascalinity "Toxic masculinity" refers to a set of traditional attitudes and behaviors associated with manhood that are harmful to men themselves, to women, and to society in general. The term does not suggest that all masculinity is inherently bad, but rather that certain narrow, regressive, and extreme aspects of it can be dangerous. Core traits and behaviors Common traits and behaviors associated with toxic masculinity include: Emotional suppression: The belief that men should be stoic and not show emotions like sadness, fear, or vulnerability. The only emotion typically deemed acceptable is anger. Aggression and dominance: Valuing physical aggression, dominance, and a controlling nature as essential indicators of power. Anti-femininity: Rejecting anything perceived as feminine, including certain hobbies, behaviors, or even acknowledging the value of women. This often leads to misogyny and the devaluation of women. Hyper-independence: A refusal to accept help or seek support, viewing reliance on others as a sign of weakness. Sexual aggression and entitlement: Viewing women as sexual conquests and promoting objectification, which can contribute to harassment, sexual assault, and rape culture. Risk-taking behavior: Taking unnecessary risks, often to prove one's toughness or masculinity, which can lead to substance abuse, reckless driving, or dangerous physical activities. The harm of toxic masculinity Toxic masculinity has significant negative effects on everyone it touches, both directly and indirectly. Harm to men Mental and physical health: The suppression of emotions and reluctance to seek help for issues like depression, anxiety, or illness can lead to serious health problems and even contribute to higher rates of suicide among men. Unhealthy relationships: A focus on dominance and emotional insensitivity can prevent men from forming deep, meaningful relationships with partners, friends, and family. Limited personal growth: Adherence to rigid gender roles can hold men back from exploring interests, hobbies, or career paths that are not traditionally masculine. Harm to others Violence: The connection between toxic masculinity and aggression is well-documented, contributing to interpersonal violence, domestic abuse, and broader societal issues of violence. Gender inequality: By valuing dominance and devaluing femininity, toxic masculinity reinforces a patriarchal system that disadvantages women and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Reinforcing prejudice: It promotes homophobia and discrimination against anyone who doesn't conform to rigid gender norms, creating a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ people. Distinguishing toxic masculinity from healthy masculinity It's crucial to understand that toxic masculinity is not the same as masculinity itself. Positive, healthy masculine traits are often the opposite of toxic ones and can include: Leadership Courage Compassion Integrity A strong work ethic Taking responsibility The concept of toxic masculinity encourages people to acknowledge and address the harmful behaviors that stem from a restrictive and unhealthy view of what it means to be a man, while still celebrating positive masculine attributes.     Redefining Strength: Biblical Manhood in a Shifting Cultural Landscape Navigating the tightrope of Christian masculinity in 2025 As a Christian man, it often feels like you're walking a tightrope. On one side are the expectations of modern culture—the shifting social norms, the pressure to conform, and the constant redefinition of what it means to be a man. On the other side is biblical truth—a timeless vision of manhood that is often misunderstood or outright rejected today. The real struggle is in defining what a "strong man" truly is. Is he the stoic, emotionally repressed image promoted by cultural "man codes"? Or is he a humble, compassionate, and courageous servant leader, modeled after Christ? Breaking the unwritten "man code" Today's culture often pushes a rigid "man code" that demands emotional suppression and self-sufficiency. For a Christian man, this creates an uncomfortable and often painful clash. "Too soft": The biblical call to be gentle, compassionate, and loving is often mislabeled as weak. In a culture that equates masculinity with aggression and dominance, living out Christ's humility and grace can leave a man feeling judged as "soft." Stoicism vs. Godly emotion: The stoic ideal of emotional control is an unbiblical one. The Bible shows that genuine strength includes vulnerability and righteous emotion. Jesus, for instance, wept openly and expressed deep sorrow. True strength isn't found in suppressing emotions, but in engaging with them in a way that honors God. The pressure to be counter-cultural As society becomes more secular, Christian men can feel a growing sense of embarrassment or hesitation when it comes to openly living out their faith. Fitting in vs. standing firm: The pressure to conform to secular values can make Christian beliefs feel outdated. Issues like traditional marriage or biblical authority are often viewed as controversial, and this can push men to a quiet, private faith rather than a bold public witness. Courage in love: However, the Bible warns against being ashamed of Christ's testimony. It takes courage to be counter-cultural while remaining gracious and loving, but that is precisely the calling. Would Jesus be considered "soft" today? To understand biblical manhood, we must look to the ultimate example: Jesus. Would the world today call him "soft"? The answer is complex, because Jesus defies simplistic labels. Aspects that might be perceived as "soft": Compassion for the outcast: Jesus consistently associated with those on the margins of society—tax collectors, the sick, the poor—a counter-cultural acceptance that some might perceive as weak. Emotional vulnerability: He wept at the death of Lazarus (John 11:35), displaying a vulnerability that clashes with the modern standard of emotional suppression. Servant leadership: By washing his disciples' feet (John 13:1-17), Jesus demonstrated that true leadership is rooted in service and humility, a model a power-hungry society might call naive. Aspects that would be perceived as powerful: Confronting hypocrisy: Jesus boldly and unapologetically called out the hypocrisy of religious leaders. Cleansing the Temple: This assertive moment shows his righteous indignation and fierce defense of God's honor. Authority over spiritual forces: He cast out demons and commanded spiritual forces, demonstrating immense strength. An uncompromising message: Jesus was unwavering in his message about repentance and the Kingdom of God, an uncompromising stance that would be seen as rigid and polarizing today. Ultimately, Jesus was a paradoxical figure who combined radical compassion with unwavering strength. He was gentle and humble, yet fierce and challenging. He defies the superficial label of "soft." A vision beyond the "alpha male" The concept of the "alpha male" is a highly flawed and damaging model. Rooted in flawed animal research and oversimplified human behavior, it promotes aggression, dominance, and emotional suppression. This is not the standard for Christian men. Instead, a strong Christian man isn't defined by worldly codes but by his commitment to biblical principles: Rooted in Christ: True strength comes from relying on God's power, not one's own. Biblical manhood is not a human ideal; it is Christ-likeness. A balanced perspective: A Christian man leads with Christ-like servanthood, protecting and guiding his family with humility. He rejects the toxic parts of masculinity while embracing positive traits like courage, integrity, and responsibility. Courage and love: The Apostle Paul's words offer a powerful guide: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love" (1 Corinthians 16:13-14). This is a call to a courageous faith lived out with love. A call to courageous servanthood In 2025, Christian men are called to reject the cultural distortions of manhood and embrace the biblical vision: a masculinity defined by Christ, marked by humility, and expressed through courageous, loving action. This is not the easiest path, but it is the one that leads to true strength and a life that honors God.

In this episode, we discuss The Science of Happiness, Control Your Attention, Rejecting Negative Comparisons, and Altering Your Ego Bruce Hood is an Academic, Writer, Researcher, & SpeakerYou can buy Bruce's Book 'The Science of Happiness Here: https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/books/The-Science-of-Happiness/Bruce-Hood/9781398526372If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation, then please email us: unquestionablepod@gmail.comFind us here:Twitter: @unquestionpodInstagram: @unquestionablepodTik Tok: @unquestionablepodFacebook: @unquestionablepodcastYoutube: @unquestionablepod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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After three decades of battling psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, depression, and suicidal thoughts, Stephen Lashbrook—aka Lash the Lion—walked out of his doctor's office for the last time. Refusing immune-suppressing injections with suicidal side effects, he turned to faith, fasting, and fatty meat. What followed was nothing short of miraculous.In this deeply moving episode, Lash shares how discovering Michaela Peterson's story led him to the Lion Diet and a complete transformation:

⁠⁠Abu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ begin their coverage of the Frank Herbert Papers collection at Cal State Fullerton, bringing you Leo's in-the-moment reactions along with a thorough look at Dune's road to publication through the lens of the many rejection letters Frank and his literary agent received. This episode contains LIGHT SPOILERS for Dune, Dune Messiah and Children of Dune. Get ad-free episodes and bonus content: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/GomJabbar⁠⁠ Say thank you with a tip: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://buymeacoffee.com/gomjabbar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch video versions of select episodes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@loreparty⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get yourself some custom-designed Dune swag: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.gomjabbarshop.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For our first episode back, we bring you the stories of two bad guys. Breaking Bad guys – Bryan Cranston aka Walter White and Giancarlo Esposito aka Gus Fring. Both spent decades bouncing around Hollywood. Both faced major rejection. Both the least suspecting drug overlords of all time. ICYMI, Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan has a rejection story of his own. The pilot for Breaking Bad was rejected by Showtime, FX, TNT & HBO. Find our "Rejecting Breaking Bad" episode here.Hope you'll join us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Ambitious Podcast, I take a look at what success truly means beyond social media's influence. Reflecting on my personal struggles and experiences, I reveal how societal and online standards can obscure our genuine values and definitions of success. Tune in to discover how to recognize your own version of success, why it's essential to stay true to yourself, and how to celebrate personal milestones like family achievements and impactful experiences. This episode is a reminder to reassess your goals, values, and what genuinely brings you fulfillment in both business and life.00:29 Introduction02:07 Personal Journey and Realizations03:26 Early Influences and Upbringing06:21 Entrepreneurial Beginnings07:34 Chasing Social Media Success13:57 The Reality of Hitting Seven Figures20:08 Redefining Success and Personal Fulfillment23:52 The Pressure of Social Media Expectations29:42 Rejecting the Internet's Definition of Success31:51 Defining Personal Success and Values40:24 Reflecting on Personal Definitions of SuccessTo join the Ambitious Network for free, click HERE. To connect with Kate on Instagram, click ⁠HERE⁠. To apply for ITI, click ⁠HERE⁠.To submit a question to be answered on the podcast, click HERE.

“No regrets” is an American slogan along with “No Fear” and “Just Do It.” Yet more often than not we don't “just do it,” having no fear is psychopathic, and having no regrets means you have no sorrow for ever hurting anyone or making a mistake. Regret is simply recognizing sadness or disappointment about something we did we wish we hadn't, or we didn't do and wish we had, and Dan Pink's research showcases it's a massive power if we'll recognize it and learn from it. Not as he says, reject it or wallow in it. The following conversation was my second time having Dan on the show. Dan Pink is a multi-best selling author, and when I say best selling, I don't mean one day on an obscure Amazon book category like Amish Romance, but the actual New York Times bestseller list. You'll likely recognize his books such as A Whole New Mind, To Sell Is Human, and When. His books have sold millions of copies, have been translated into forty-two languages. He also has a TED talk titled “The Puzzle of Motivation” which has somewhere north of 30 million views. I recently saw him being interviewed by Oprah Winfrey. Dan is an author like Brene' Brown who leads with research, and he's now turned his focus to regrets with his new book, The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward. I asked him back on the show the moment I saw the book title and you're about to hear me dig in with him on how we can harness regret for our progress, not suffer or run from it. Find The Power of Regret anywhere you get books and connect with Dan at danpink.com Sign up for your $1/month trial period at shopify.com/kevin Go to shipstation.com and use code KEVIN to start your free trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Helping Teens Connect at Home If you've ever felt like your teens are drifting toward their rooms, screens, or independence a little faster than you'd like, you're not alone. In this episode, Chris and Melissa open up about the rhythms, struggles, and small wins of keeping their three teenagers connected and interactive with family life. They share the real-time lessons they're learning as parents—from literally pulling kids out of their rooms to setting boundaries around phones at the dinner table. You'll hear how mealtimes (even if it's just one-on-one breakfasts), family check-ins, and weekly rhythms can create the space for deeper conversations you might otherwise miss. Chris and Melissa also dive into the importance of one-on-one time—what they call “kid dates”—and how even something simple like ice cream or a walk can help teens open up. They talk about managing screen time with curiosity rather than control, and why it's worth finding activities (like movies, bowling, or camping) that everyone in the family can enjoy, from eight to eighteen. Most importantly, they remind us that our words matter. Shaping a positive narrative around teens—rather than joking about how “awful” those years are—creates a home where kids feel safe to share their ideas, opinions, and hearts without judgment. If you're looking for encouragement and practical ways to keep your family connected, especially during the teenage years, this conversation will give you fresh perspective, hope, and a handful of actionable ideas you can start this week.   LINKS: 1. familybrand.com/quiz 2.  familybrand.com/retreats.  All Links Family Brand!  stan.store/familybrand   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 – Settling into new rhythms as school starts 02:30 – Why teens drift to their rooms (and how to pull them back) 05:30 – The power of mealtimes and making “no phones” a family rule 09:30 – No one eats alone: small moments that spark big conversations 11:30 – Family meetings and one-on-one check-ins 13:30 – The magic of kid dates and individual time 15:00 – Screen time: helping teens regulate with awareness 17:30 – Finding activities everyone can enjoy together 19:30 – The gift of camping, bowling, and going where phones don't work 20:00 – Fostering open conversations without judgment 23:00 – Why listening is more powerful than teaching 26:30 – Rejecting the negative narrative about teens 28:00 – Final encouragement for creating deeper family connection