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Go to www.Blackriflecoffee.com (http://www.blackriflecoffee.com/) and get premium coffee! True Gold Republic put together a 2026 Precious Metals Kit exclusively for this audience. Go to http://goldwithgraham.com (http://goldwithgraham.com/) or call 800-628-GOLD to claim yours. Go get your NEVER WOKE merch at https://neverwokeapparel.com/ Follow Us on Social Media: • Twitter :https://twitter.com/GrahamAllen • Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/grahamallen1 •Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/GrahamAllenOfficial/ • TikTok :https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrahamallen • Rumble :https://rumble.com/user/GrahamAllenOfficial
Job 4–7 In Job 4–7, we encounter Eliphaz: one of Job's legalistic and judgmental friends. His penalizing words only amplify Job's suffering. Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he examines the condemnation and rebuke of a friend with hasty assumptions. Sometimes we pridefully think we understand everything that happens. In reality, God's ways are different from our own. Seek understanding and compassion instead!
Managing High Homocysteine with MTHFR Variants and the Role of Vitamin C in Brain Aging: Registered dietitian nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses MTHFR genetic variants (C677T and A1298C), their links to impaired methylation, homocysteine, SAMe, mood issues, migraines, vitamin deficiencies, and pregnancy complications, noting many people are asymptomatic and some feel worse on methylated B vitamins and do better on standard formulations. Responding to a listener with C677T, high homocysteine, and borderline methylmalonic acid, she reviews optimal homocysteine targets and outlines other causes of elevated homocysteine such as hypothyroidism/subclinical hypothyroidism, kidney failure, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, inactivity, and medications (atorvastatin, methotrexate, fenofibrate). She suggests checking these factors, considering absorption issues (intrinsic factor) for B12, and trialing SAMe and more trimethylglycine, with possible pharmacologic folate if needed. She then summarizes an observational Japanese study (n=2,044 adults >64) linking lower plasma vitamin C to reduced gray matter and weaker default mode network connectivity, and notes diet and blood sugar can affect vitamin C status.
Click on Fan Mail link and give me feedback. ThanksUnlocking Your Parenting Superpower: The Power of Words with Jody HillDiscover how your everyday words can shape your child's confidence, identity, and future. In this episode, parenting expert Jody Hill shares practical strategies rooted in science and faith to help parents influence their children positively through intentional communication.Key TopicsHow words impact a child's self-belief and confidenceThe importance of modeling respect and responsibilityPractical ways to establish healthy boundaries with childrenUsing affirmations and micro-moments to reinforce good behaviorNavigating the challenges of parenting preteens, teens, and young adultsThe significance of vulnerability and authenticity in parent-child relationshipsAddressing parental guilt and the never-too-late mentalityHow to foster resilience and responsibility in older children and adult childrenTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest, Jody Hill 00:12 - Jody's background and her work on parental influence 00:34 - The impact of words on children's confidence and identity 01:56 - How parents' words create beliefs and influence actions 03:26 - The power of affirmation and micro-moments in child development 04:37 - Handling bullying and building self-confidence 05:07 - The importance of standing up for oneself and others 06:27 - Real-life story: Overcoming a bully through confidence 07:35 - The “Parent's Secret Superpower”: Words for life or death 08:50 - The dangers of neglecting emotional safety in schools and buses 09:44 - Addressing school bus safety and bullying prevention 10:23 - Raising kids who stand up against bullying and injustice 11:18 - Teaching children the importance of justice and morality 12:25 - Challenging negative beliefs about adolescence ("terrible twos" and "terrible teens") 13:35 - How parental expectations shape children's behaviors and responses 14:23 - Responding calmly to children's mistakes to promote learning 15:54 - The importance of a safe environment for failure and growth 16:16 - How kindness and affirmation build self-esteem in children 17:46 - The impact of parenting styles from childhood to adulthood 18:45 - Giving kids space to make mistakes and learn independence 19:32 - Teaching boundaries and responsibility without shame 20:45 - Reinforcing that it's never too late to influence your adult children 21:16 - Practical strategies for healthy boundary-setting with preteens and teenagers 22:26 - The significance of honoring commitments and building trust 23:49 - Encouraging responsibility through respectful conversation 25:07 - Creating a safe place for children to grow and fail 26:12 - Building confidence in children through micro-moments and affirmations 27:12 - The importance of recognizing and affirming goodness in children 28:01 - Affirming kindness and protective behaviors in kids 29:00 - Celebrating children's uniqueness and individuality 29:57 - Shifting from outcome-based praise to behavior-based affirmation 30:28 - Healthy ways to reinforce positive actions and character 31:42 - Parenting adult children: respecting independence and offering support 32:40 - Reflections on mirroring and guiding older children 33:10 - Accepting imperfections and learning from mistakes 33:36 - The timeless nature of parenting; continual growth 34:23 - The enduring relationship as kids age into adulthood 36:01 - The importance of love, encouragement, and respect for adult children 37:24 - Owning up to parenting mistakes and fostering reconciliation 38:03 - Vulnerability and authenticity in mending parent-child relationships 39:38 - Managing reactions to children's choices and individuality 40:44 - Embracing children's authenticity and self-expression 41:50 - The importance of parents managing their own emotions 42:52 - Modeling emotional regulation for children 43:41 - Final thoughts on parenting with authenticity and love 44:12 - Introduction to Jody Hill's work and her book, Parents' Secret Superpower 44:39 - Practical tips for parents to start using their words intentionally 45:11 - Resources and ways to connect with Jody Hill 45:40 - Closing remarks on the power of words and encouragement for parentsResources & Links:Parents' Secret Superpower by Jody HillPodcast: The Power of Words in Parenting[Jody Hill - Instagram] | [Facebook]Science of Parenting & FaithConnect with Jody Hill:InstagramWebsiteRichard Jones. I am an RN with over 34 years of Nursing Experience, much of that experience working with young adults in the corrections system. Parenting Adult Children Call To Action Support the showSocial Media Links https://www.youtube.com/@abcparentingadultchildrenhttps://www.instagram.com/parentingadultchildren125/ https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefpropellerheadABC's of Parenting Adult Children Facebook Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581576308055 r/parentingadultchildrenFeel free to subscribe to these channels and share the links with your social media portals.
Job 4–7 In Job 4–7, we encounter Eliphaz: one of Job's legalistic and judgmental friends. His penalizing words only amplify Job's suffering. Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he examines the condemnation and rebuke of a friend with hasty assumptions. Sometimes we pridefully think we understand everything that happens. In reality, God's ways are different from our own. Seek understanding and compassion instead!
Many things take place that can cause us to question God's goodness over our lives. In this episode, Rabbi shows us that by divine, supernatural revelation, we can face the future with joy and confidence, even in the midst of such dark times. **** FIND JESUS - https://djj.show/YTAFindJesus **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com
Job 4–7 / August 12 - 14, 2026 Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he examines the condemnation and rebuke of a friend with hasty assumptions. From the Series: Job: A Man of Heroic Endurance read more
What motivates you to take action? A need you want to meet? A personal agenda or dream you want to accomplish? Responding to a call for help from someone you care about? Or maybe the financial or accolades benefit you anticipate? I left you yesterday with the apostle Paul, in the great city of Ephesus, in about 55ad. Paul had been there several months (Acts 19:10) and was seeing remarkable results in response to his proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in various settings. (Acts 19:20) You may recall we looked briefly, yesterday, at an event which shook the city of Ephesus at its social, moral and spiritual core. (Click here to see full text, images and links) Pastor Doug Anderson “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, with our eyes fixed on Jesus…” (Heb. 12:1,2)Have a comment or question about today's chapter? I'm ready to hear from you, contact me here. Interested in helping "Walking with Jesus" financially? Click here
In this episode, Dave and Aila Tasse explore one of the great missional challenges of the 21st century: how followers of Jesus engage with the growth of Islam. Drawing on his own journey from Islam to Christ and his experience across Africa, Aila shares remarkable stories of how God is drawing Muslims to Jesus through dreams, visions and ordinary disciple-makers. Responding to the Growth of Islam As Islam (as well as Hinduism and Buddhism) continue to grow and spread across national boundaries, what will it take for the good news of Jesus to reach people on a global scale? Dave and Aila discuss: The growth and global influence of Islam through population, migration, politics, business, education and community life. Why multiplication and disciple-making movements are needed to make a significant global impact. How some younger Muslims continue to identify culturally with Islam while privately questioning or disengaging from the religion. The important difference between Islam as a religious system and Muslims as people created and loved by God. Why we should respond with prayer, love and engagement rather than fear. Aila reminds us that behind the clothing, beliefs and religious identity are people—souls who need Jesus. He encourages focused prayer for Muslim communities, asking God to reveal people of peace, including those who may remain within their existing culture. The Lausanne Movement's State of the Great Commission Report highlights how church-planting movements are contributing to the growth of the global body of Christ. This offers hope that God is using movements to bring change where traditional churches are declining. Read more: Are we still fulfilling the Great Commission? Six key findings by the Lausanne Movement Stories of God at Work Aila also shares remarkable stories of God at work: A committed Muslim dreamed that Jesus told him to believe. Aila shares this personal story of how this man was later sent away for Islamic training and became a respected Sharia scholar and leader of imams—but he has never forgotten the dream. After years of resisting Aila's witness, his mother encountered Jesus in hospital. She was given a candle and told never to walk in darkness again, but to walk in the light. Her testimony later helped lead Aila's father and other family members to Jesus. A woman suffering from severe mental illness was healed after encountering “a man in white.” She later recognised Jesus through the message of local disciple-makers, received a song through her encounter and became a church planter. These stories remind us that God cannot be confined to our expectations. He is using dreams, visions and overlooked, ordinary people to reach families and communities and begin movements. As you listen, ask God: “What are you doing, and how do you want me to engage with Islam?”
Job 4–7 In Job 4–7, we encounter Eliphaz: one of Job's legalistic and judgmental friends. His penalizing words only amplify Job's suffering. Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he examines the condemnation and rebuke of a friend with hasty assumptions. Sometimes we pridefully think we understand everything that happens. In reality, God's ways are different from our own. Seek understanding and compassion instead!
Katy Faust of Them Before Us ‘No Child Has Two Moms' Is Controversial Only In An Anti-Child Society Pro-Child Politics: Why Every Cultural, Economic, and National Issue Is a Matter of Justice for Children Raising Conservative Kids in a Woke City Them Before Us Them Before Us: Why We Need a Global Children’s Rights Movement The Greater Than CampaignThe post Responding to Criticism of a Pro-Natural Family Billboard Campaign – Katy Faust, 8/12/26 (2241) first appeared on Issues, Etc..
Audio Open Lines The post Responding to Listener Email and the Issues, Etc. Comment Line, 8/12/26 (2243) first appeared on Issues, Etc..
Job 4–7 / August 12 - 14, 2026 Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he examines the condemnation and rebuke of a friend with hasty assumptions. From the Series: Job: A Man of Heroic Endurance read more
Job 4–7 / August 12 - 14, 2026 Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he examines the condemnation and rebuke of a friend with hasty assumptions. From the Series: Job: A Man of Heroic Endurance read more
It's so easy to go through life reacting to the circumstances that come our way, but is that really how God intended us to live? In this message, we're going to explore our propensity to live a life of reaction, and explain that God has called us to something much more fruitful and rewarding - responding to Him. This is going to be a powerful and practical message to help us better navigate all the things that come our direction.Visit us online at http://www.fathershouseportland.org
Fr. Mike takes us through the last chapter of Isaiah by explaining how our emotions can sometimes get in the way of us responding well to those around us. This means mourning with those who mourn, and rejoicing with those who rejoice, as Isaiah teaches us in preparation for the coming of Christ. Today's readings are Isaiah 66, Ezekiel 25-26, and Proverbs 14:1-4. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Disappointment is part of running a wedding photography or filmmaking business. No matter how experienced you are, there will be moments where a client is frustrated, expectations get crossed, or something doesn't go according to plan.The good news? Those moments don't have to define your business.In this episode of The Level Up Podcast, Kelley sits down with destination wedding photographer Eric Kelley to have an honest conversation about something we rarely talk about: how to handle difficult client situations with confidence, professionalism, and empathy.We dive into how to set better expectations from the very beginning, communicate proactively throughout the client experience, respond without letting emotions take over, and turn disappointing situations into opportunities to build even more trust.Whether you're a wedding photographer, wedding filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation will help you create a stronger client experience, avoid common communication mistakes, and build a business that's known for professionalism just as much as incredible work.If you've ever received a difficult email, worried about disappointing a client, or wondered how seasoned professionals navigate these situations, this episode is for you.Timestamps:00:00 - 02:23 | Meet Eric Kelley & Why Disappointment Matters02:24 - 09:53 | Managing Client Expectations & Preventing Miscommunication09:54 - 17:59 | Responding to Difficult Clients Without Reacting18:00 - 22:26 | Proactive Communication That Builds Trust22:27 - 25:15 | Turning Setbacks Into Long-Term SuccessConnect with Eric:https://www.instagram.com/erickelleyhttps://erickelley.com/The next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in Fall 2026! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 8 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind
Talk the Talk - a podcast about linguistics, the science of language.
How does it feel to be isolated from a language and a culture that could have been yours? There are many paths to language loss, but there are also many ways back. Language revitalisation is now happening for communities and individuals. We're talking about it with journalist and lingToker Sophia Smith Galer, author of How to Kill a Language: Power, Resistance, and the Race to Save Our Words. Timestamps 00:00 Start 00:34 Intros: How are you "going"? 05:54 News: A font that can poison data for GenAI 13:51 News: A lost Golden Age of language in the Holocene 27:33 News: New language support for Netflix, Disney+ 33:59 Related or Not: Theme from Gordon 34:37 Related or Not: ramshackle 41:39 Related or Not: nap 48:57 Related or Not: adder, deer, natter, otter, hydra 54:12 Chat with Sophia Smith Galer: Her language background 01:00:31 The pain of separation from one's own language 01:05:01 Attacks on multicuturalism 01:07:34 Is all language death language murder? 01:09:41 The role of parents in language transmission 01:16:52 Factors influencing language survival 01:26:50 Will GenAI help or harm minority languages? 01:35:33 Challenging monoglossic language ideology 01:40:36 Sophia encourages linguistic curiosity 01:43:11 Responding to a review: Is it okay if languages die? 01:53:21 Word of the Week: slop zombie 01:55:29 Word of the Week: eternity leave 01:56:24 Word of the Week: spherical bastard 01:58:10 Word of the Week: the butter's penthouse 02:01:47 Word of the Week: Jimothy 02:04:42 Comments: Ingressive speech 02:08:33 The Reads 02:15:40 Outtakes: Hedvig's plant
Send us Fan MailNavigating Politics and Public Service in Turbulent Times with Congressman Gabe AmoDiscover how Congressman Gabe Amo navigates legislative challenges, advocates for Rhode Islanders, and discusses the impact of national policies on local communities. This episode offers insights into bipartisan efforts, the importance of organizing outside government, and the complexities of managing public priorities amidst chaos.Key topics:The legislative landscape during a highly polarized political climateStrategies used by Congress members to oppose harmful policiesBipartisan success stories, including healthcare tax credits and war powers resolutionsThe fight for affordable housing, energy, and food security in Rhode IslandThe influence of global events on local economic conditionsThe importance of grassroots organizing and electoral mobilizationThe role of cultural festivals in fostering community and economic growthPersonal reflections on service, public engagement, and the significance of reaching milestone episodesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview00:20 - Congressman's efforts to counteract executive actions and legislate during chaos00:47 - Bipartisan successes and legislative challenges01:15 - Advocating amid partisan gridlock and foreign policy issues01:43 - Responding to misinformation and leadership accountability02:12 - Organizing outside government for electoral change02:54 - Addressing Rhode Island's unique affordability challenges03:33 - Energy and food insecurity at the state level04:30 - Housing crises and legislative initiatives in Rhode Island05:24 - Global conflicts and their economic ripple effects06:02 - National political climate and public outrage06:34 - Reflections on governance, accountability, and healthcare impacts07:29 - The importance of full legislative majority for change08:26 - Personal dedication and upcoming elections' significance08:55 - Milestones, including the episode number and reflections on service09:23 - Celebrating Rhode Island's cultural festivals and community engagement09:47 - The role of arts and culture in local identity and economy10:15 - Closing thoughts and the importance of informed citizenship Support the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube
What should you do when your treatment isn't working—or you're actually getting worse?In this Rheumatology 101 episode, Dr. Isabelle Amigues shares an important lesson from her clinical practice: when a treatment isn't working the way it should, sometimes the answer isn't simply increasing the medication. It's time to pause and reconsider what is really going on.Steroids such as prednisone can work quickly for many inflammatory conditions. But when symptoms don't improve as expected, or worsen despite treatment, that can be an important signal to stop and reassess.Dr. Isabelle explains why rheumatologists may need to consider whether:• The original diagnosis is correct • Another rheumatologic condition could be causing the symptoms • More than one condition is present • An infection could be contributing to symptoms • Another medical specialty should be involved • Increasing immunosuppression could potentially cause harmShe also discusses a patient whose symptoms were initially thought to be rheumatoid arthritis but were ultimately found to be related to coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection—highlighting why doctors need to remain open-minded when a patient's response doesn't match what is expected.Most importantly, Dr. Isabelle shares what patients can ask when their doctor says, "I'm not sure."You deserve an answer, or at least a clear next step.Don't continue down a path that isn't helping you. Pause. Ask questions. Reassess. And make sure you leave with a plan for what comes next.This video is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice.
Learn how to finish well (or begin well) in ministry as Dr. Danny Akin shares the 10 core convictions that guided his long career. Gain wisdom for your own path. After serving for 22 years as president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Danny Akin delivered a final chapel message that serves as a roadmap for anyone in Christian ministry. This message focuses on the essential principles needed to maintain faithfulness and integrity over a lifetime of service. If you are looking for practical guidance on what it means to finish well, these convictions offer a clear framework for your leadership journey. We explore how your personal theology directly impacts your daily behavior and decision-making. By examining these specific ministry convictions, you can better understand how to align your life with your beliefs and sustain your calling for the long haul. This discussion is essential for pastors, students, and church leaders aiming to build a lasting legacy rooted in biblical truth. This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation. Watch Part 1 to hear more about Dr. Akin's life and Great Commission legacy.
In this week's sermon we look at the difference in responding versus reacting to our anger and other emotions. By looking at Proverbs 26:4-5 we see how best to handle situations that could turn our anger into sin. We're glad that you made it to this sermon! We're also available on youtube. For more information on our worship services or church as a whole, visit fbcwest.com
Send me feedback!Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan of the I've Had It podcast are making the rounds for criticizing homeschooling. But I discuss why it was just a barely veiled episode of hate.Candidate BookingSUPPORT THE SHOWGet a 10% discount by using the code LibertyDad at Black Guns Matter shop.OR, use the referral linkFIND ME ELSEWHERELinktreeShow NotesI've Had It podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cW3sIDoihESupport the show
(0:00) Hour No. 2 opens with Felger, Mazz, and Murray breaking down the Red Sox's series loss to the Athletics over the weekend and evaluating Jarren Duran's recent performance.(15:47) The callers chime in on topics discussed in today's show.(24:56) The guys react to Enes Kanter Freedom officially declaring for the 2027 WNBA Draft.(32:45) Responding to Rob Parker's comments on the Red Sox, which poses the question: Will the Red Sox make the playoffs?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
(0:00) Hour No. 2 opens with Felger, Mazz, and Murray breaking down the Red Sox's series loss to the Athletics over the weekend and evaluating Jarren Duran's recent performance.(15:47) The callers chime in on topics discussed in today's show.(24:56) The guys react to Enes Kanter Freedom officially declaring for the 2027 WNBA Draft.(32:45) Responding to Rob Parker's comments on the Red Sox, which poses the question: Will the Red Sox make the playoffs?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Long-Game Parenting with Elizabeth Pehrson (Episode 295) Exodus 23:20 NLT “See, I am sending an angel before you to protect you on your journey and lead you safely to the place I have prepared for you.” *Transcription Below* Elizabeth Pehrson is a speaker, podcaster and founder of The Exchange. She's a yellow sanguine, who is full of energy and lives life wide-open! She loves Jesus and meaningful connections. Elizabeth is married to David and mother of EIGHT children, who range from high school to graduated from college. Follow her online: Instagram: @long_game_parenting or @octomama or @theexchangeus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.m.pehrson Thank you to our sponsor: Sam Leman Eureka Questions and Topics We Cover: What is our role, as parents, in making an effort to help our children have a positive relationship with their siblings? What are ways we can positively shape our children to have strong and healthy relationships with friends? How can we help our children uncover, articulate, and pursue their purpose in life? Other Savvy Sauce Episodes Mentioned: 74 Effective Parenting for Toddlers Through College with Wife, Mother to 8, and The Exchange Founder, Elizabeth Pehrson Part 1 75 Responding to God's Stirring with Elizabeth Pehrson, Founder of The Exchange, Part Two God-honoring Relationship Between a Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law with Author of The Mother-in-Law Dance, Annie Chapman Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“ Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“ Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” *Transcription* Music: (0:00 – 0:10) Laura Dugger: (0:11 - 1:54) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here. The principles of honesty and integrity that Sam Leman founded his business on continue today, over 55 years later, at Sam Leman Chevrolet Eureka. Owned and operated by the Bertschi family, Sam Leman and Eureka appreciates the support they've received from their customers all over central Illinois and beyond. Visit them today at lemangm.com. My returning guest for today is the very energetic, married mother of eight, and founder of The Exchange, Elizabeth Pearson. I highly recommend that, first of all, you find the link in the show notes to start with our first two episodes together that we did a while back. They focus primarily on raising younger children, but today we're going to focus on parenting teens and beyond in hopes of launching faithful and healthy adults someday. So, with that goal in mind, we're going to begin by discussing relationship-building strategies to foster a life of rightly ordered affections, where we're all loving God and loving others as ourselves. Then we're going to move into some more actionable ways to ensure our family delights in the abundant life in Christ. Here's our chat. Welcome back to The Savvy Sauce, Elizabeth. Elizabeth Pehrson: (1:55 - 1:57) Well, thank you so much for having me. What a joy. Laura Dugger: (1:58 - 2:23) Well, I'm just going to start with something that's a little tricky because we obviously cannot control the outcome, but we can be faithful to our calling as parents. So, Elizabeth, do you have any practical tips for helping our children rightly order their affections so that they'll hopefully grow up to love God? Elizabeth Pehrson: (2:23 - 4:52) Yes. I appreciate you asking with the disclaimers because I do think that that's an important thing because, first of all, I just want to say that I hope that every single woman listening can understand, believe, and trust that God loves our children way more than we do. And as much as we want to control the outcome or guarantee the outcome with our children, we can't. All we can do is just be faithful to the children that God's entrusted to us. And when it comes to ordering our children's affections, I would basically just say it can't be forced. It can't be image-driven. And I say that because, unfortunately, I see that a lot in Christian homes today, a lot. And I think one of the most helpful shifts for me in realizing that I cannot control anything when it comes to my children is that I can shape the environment where their loves are formed. That's one thing that is in my control. That is something that I can do. And a few practical ways that you can do this, and first I'm going to say this a lot, the most important things that we can offer our children are caught, they're not taught. And we have to model it more than we preach it because our children are incredible observers. And they notice what we prioritize. They notice what interrupts us. They notice what doesn't interrupt us. And if God's something we only talk about on Sundays, then they feel that. But if they see us turning to Him when we're anxious, when we're grateful, when we're confused, they start to associate God with real life, not just rules. And second, I would just say, I think it's super important to help our kids understand what's worthy of love, right? I mean, I think we should talk openly with our kids about sports, friends, achievements, you know, how those can be gifts, but they are terrible gods. And also, that they're very, very, very short-sighted. It's not typically, I would say, not typically the so-called bad things that are stealing our affections. It's usually the good things that are just not often the best things. And so that I would say, like when I watch my children, oftentimes it would be them loving a good thing too much, you know. Most importantly, I would just say that if our kids or your kids or the listeners' kids grow up knowing the heart of God rather than the rules of God, I think their affections will know where to turn. Laura Dugger: (4:53 - 5:04) Oh, that's so well said. And do you have any ideas for characteristics that will help foster a healthy parent-child relationship? Elizabeth Pehrson: (5:05 - 8:07) Oh, goodness. I would say, you know, so many things. I think children thrive when they feel safe, when the home feels predictable, when it feels secure, and especially when we listen more than we lecture. You know, when we can do that, they will feel understood and they won't feel constantly corrected. You know, I grew up in a home that I'm very grateful for, but in my home, love often felt transactional. If I did this, then that. But, you know, we all know that love isn't something that is earned. You know, it's freely given. And so, our love and affection should never be tied to performance or behavior. But again, unfortunately, what I see on a regular daily basis is that moms are more codependent on their children than ever before. And because of that, they see their children's behavior as a reflection of themselves. And so that love can become a little bit transactional. But I would say, practically speaking, I think there's lots of things that encourage a healthy parent-child relationship. And, you know, we could go through a whole list of these things. But the first thing I would say is not being their friend yet. Down the road, but not yet. You know, we'll have time for that later. But if we treat them as peers right now while they're in the home, authority isn't a value at all that is taught to be respected. It isn't. And, you know, another thing would be just basic consistent boundaries because structure is actually what creates freedom, right? Open communication, you know, where hard conversations can be had. And I'm going to tell you, this is something that we were not the best at, but we found ourselves consistently apologizing for, you know, avoiding that hard conversation and then having come back to it. That was a big one. You know, repair after conflict. That's huge because it is so important for our kids to see us model, you know, owning our mistakes, apologizing for it, you know, when we mess up because that teaches the kids that our relationships can bend without breaking. And the last thing I thought of when I thought about this question was respect for autonomy. And I say that because healthy relationships are ones where we allow our kids to grow and evolve. But a lot of times we want to keep them stuck in whatever that age, whatever that stage is. And children need to be allowed age-appropriate independence. They need to be allowed age-appropriate freedom, you know, constantly just letting that rope out little by little by little and, you know, knowing that parents eventually will just get to the place where they can guide mentor without instructing, you know, our, our goal for them is their own autonomy and their own independence. Laura Dugger: (8:09 - 8:28) That's so good. It makes me even think recently I was reading something about leave and cleave and leaving is breaking all dependencies. And I thought that's kind of the kindness of the Lord that we do that a little by little. Every year, probably of parenting. Elizabeth Pehrson: (8:29 - 9:51) Oh, it's, it's the truth. And it's interesting that you say that because one, we have an 18-year-old boy that's graduating. And my husband and I were just talking, we think it's the goodness of the Lord because what we've noticed, not disrespect, but just this pulling away as he's, you know, nearing graduation, really wanting more independence, not necessarily telling us where he's going to be just, you know, he's not going to be able to go to college. And then we're like, “Oh, I went to so-and-so's house.” And after the fact, and in, in a way when our first son started doing that, I was like, “You know what? He's not, he still lives in this, you know, in this home under this roof.” But it's like my husband said, “You know, it's almost like God's goodness that allows him to pull away a little bit, a little bit, a little bit. So that when he does leave in August, end of July, It makes it a little bit easier. You know?” And then that leave and cleave thing, you said, “I have a son that lives in Houston and he's the lead part just fine, independent, separate, but now he's cleaving to someone else as he's met a girl and that part has been hard for me.” It's like, whoa, like that's a whole, that's like next level, you know, where they no longer, you're no longer the one they call for advice. You're no longer the woman in their life, so to speak. And so, it's been a lot of growing pains, but it's all, again, it's exactly what God designed when we raise our kids. Laura Dugger:: (9:51 - 10:28) But you're right, it's both and it's beautiful, but it's hard and very difficult to go through. It makes me think one of my top 10 of all-time favorite episodes was with Annie Chapman and she wrote the mother-in-law dance. And so, I'll link to that episode as well in the show notes, but I think it was very helpful for even preparing now what that's going to look like someday. Yep. But as we come back to focusing on today, Elizabeth, what is our role as parents in making an effort to help our children have a positive relationship with their siblings? Elizabeth Pehrson: (10:29 - 14:01) Oh, goodness. Having eight children, you know, they have a lot of siblings and ever since our kids were little, David and I just have prayed over and over and over again, one, that they would know, love, and serve God, two, that they would stay close to each other, and then three, that they would seek joy in everything they do. And so, because one of our prayers is that they would stay close to each other, we did everything we could to shape environments that fostered connection with their siblings, with each other. And that could look like we moved their rooms a lot of times, like who they shared with at different seasons of their life. We mixed them up with different brothers or different sisters, outings or trips where we would take just a couple of them, not all of them, but we mixed that up. You know, we never, ever, ever put up with disrespect or mistreatment of each other. That one is a huge one, or their belongings for that matter. But that's so important not to allow your children to offer disrespect or display disrespect to their siblings. A lot of people think, oh, it's just their kid, you know, their siblings, they feel most comfortable with him. That's totally normal, but it really does start at home. Another thing I think of is that we talked as a whole, our family as a team, as a unit. You know, we were a family unit. It's not like one pitted against the other. We were on the same team. And although if my children were here, I am certain that one or more of them would say that they felt compared to at times, but we really did our best not to compare our children because comparison breeds rivalry faster than anything. It really, really does. And we also tried to think about each individual child, you know, like, hey, this is your unique gift. This is your strength. This is an asset, you know, an asset to the team, not just to you individually, but as a family as a whole. And the last thing I would say is everyone laughs because we had family A and then we had family B. And that's the first four kids and the second four kids. And we taught them to serve each other. You know, the older kids were paired with the younger child, a younger sibling, and they had to help them. Sometimes it wasn't even help serving them, but it was doing a chore together. We'll get to this later, I think. But chores are huge in our home. And when they turn nine, they have to mow the yard. And we had we lived on three and a half acres. And so, we had a riding lawnmower. And when my nine-year-old son, my third son turned nine, he wasn't quite heavy enough to keep the mower going, you know, because you have to be heavy enough. Otherwise, it shuts it off. And when he would lean to put his foot on the gas, it would shut it off. So, my three-year-old boy, his chore was to sit behind him and just hold on, you know, for the hour and a half it took him to mow the yard. And, you know, we paired them together a lot. But at the end of the day, we can require respect, but we just can't force friendship. I have two daughters that are only 15 months apart. When they were little, they were attached at the hip. I mean, where one went, the other one went. But now that they're older and they're both in college at the same college, their personalities are very different. Their interests are very different. And they aren't as close as they once were, but they love each other. They respect each other. And, you know, we just have to be OK with that, you know. Laura Dugger: (14:02 - 14:40) That makes sense because there's different seasons to everything. I think you can see that with siblings who pair up with each other. And I'm sure that changes throughout their whole life. Yeah, I want to go back. There's a few things that I want to follow up on. One of them was codependency with mothers and their children. And the other one is already escaping me now. So, I'll try and recall that one. But can you share a little bit more of either why you think it is that way more today or what that might look like if we're codependent with our children and maybe unaware of that? Elizabeth Pehrson: (14:41 - 16:35) All I can say is that I meet with women on a regular basis and 9.9 times out of ten there, they see their children as a reflection of themselves. So, when they make wise choices, they tend to tend to get puffed up. When they don't, they kind of bow back in shame or regret. Or I can't believe this. But the truth of the matter is they are independent, you know, separate from you. And most moms don't know where they end and where the child begins. We're entering graduation season. And I cannot tell you the number of moms that are like, “Oh, oh, this is so hard, this graduation thing.” And I'm like, but you're not graduating. Like, you know, the kids have the responsibility of all the different things they have to do. But you don't. They've already you know, you've already graduated. Let them enjoy this separate from you. But they can't do it. They're a part of every single aspect of their daughter or their son's life. And when that happens, you know, every home run is so important. Every grade they make is so important. And I am all about long, long term, you know, long term parenting. And it is not that it has nothing to do with a long-term person of character that they will become. So, if moms can see where they are separate, it is so beneficial for the child as well as the mom. You know, I met with a mom the other day and she's like, well, I'm not codependent, but my daughter is. And I said, “Well, tell me more about this.” And she said, “Well, she calls me. She's in college and she calls me 10 times a day.” And I said, “OK, well, let me ask you, how many times do you answer?” And she's kind of looked at me and she goes, “Well, she might need something.” And I said, “She can call back.” She can text 911. But when you're so readily available to your child, it just fosters that dependency, you know, of your child on you. And it's so unhealthy. Laura Dugger: (16:36 - 16:51) And I did hear a mom tell me one time when we, I think, had very little children. She said, “You want to ultimately work that dependency off of you and onto the Lord where they are first going to him, which is a lifelong job.” Elizabeth Pehrson: (16:51 - 18:23) It is a lifelong job. There's a funeral service. It's going to sound morbid, but I watched it because it was so impactful to me. I didn't even know this lady, but I watched it four times, this service that was online out of Florida. And the daughters were speaking and they said, “The best thing that they did, the very best thing that she did for them was to teach them their complete dependence on the Lord.” And she said, “She had cancer and she knew she was passing away.” And she said, “Girls, don't be sad for me. I am going to be with my heavenly father rejoicing, singing his praises.” And she said, “If I have taught you to rely solely on me, then I've done a really bad job.” I want your sole dependence to be on your heavenly father. But unfortunately, what I see again is just meeting with these women. We teach them that our presence is what keeps them safe or are, you know, being close proximity, especially with the cell phone. You know, there's a lot of researchers that call it the longest umbilical cord because it keeps us in contact with him 24 seven. It's so sad. I mean, I interviewed some teachers at a middle school because they don't no longer allow cell phones. You have to put it in the basket. Now there are some schools that are making you just not even bring it in. But I'm not even exaggerating when I tell you. They would tell me that the children have two cell phones. The parents would give them two; one so they could put it in the basket and two so that the parents could be able to reach them at a moment's notice. Wow. It's a real thing. I'm not making this up. Laura Dugger: (18:24 - 18:26) That is crazy. Elizabeth Pehrson: (18:26 - 18:59) Just to think in not that many years, how different that is from, you know, I ask moms all the time, would you have loved it if your mom had a low jack on you, like tracking your every move? I mean, because what happens is when you do that in middle school, high school, then they go off to college. I meet with moms every single day. They're like, oh, my goodness, I'm so tired. I didn't go to bed till three o'clock last night. And I'm like, why? Well, because I have like 360 on my child in college and she didn't get home till three, so I couldn't go to sleep. That's a normal everyday thing. Laura Dugger: (19:01 - 19:38) Wow. And OK, for those situations, what would you recommend instead of that? And I guess if I could throw this in, I just was at a reunion with some graduate school friends, and we are all therapists or that's what we studied. And we were just sharing how truly we've seen this play out. What we learned back in grad school was that if there's anxiety about something, avoidance never works. You have to even if it's micro dosing, you have to go through it rather than around it or avoid it. Elizabeth Pehrson: (19:38 - 20:32) Oh, yes. And I mean, I'm sure you've read the book, The Most Anxious Generation of All Time. I mean, that's where we are. And it stems, in my opinion, my humble opinion from the parents who are so anxious because they are codependent, because they are over involved in their children's life. And, you know, quite honestly, it's like the moms are so involved in their children's lives that when the last child leaves, you see the highest divorce rate is after the last emancipation of the last child. Once that child leaves, it's like, I have no life. I have no identity. I have no purpose. And I certainly don't have relationship with my husband because my focus has been with my children. And so, the moms that are anxious, the moms that are just so overbearing, over controlling are the ones that, in my opinion, are fostering those types of relationships with their children, the anxious ones. They can't do anything without their parents. Laura Dugger: (20:33 - 22:06) And now a brief message from our sponsor, Sam Leman Chevrolet Eureka has been owned and operated by the Bertschi family for over 25 years. A lot has changed in the car business since Sam and Stephen's grandfather, Sam Leman, opened his first Chevrolet dealership over 55 years ago. If you visit their dealership today, though, you'll find that not everything has changed. They still operate their dealership like their grandfather did with honesty and integrity. Sam and Stephen understand that you have many different choices in where you buy or service your vehicle. This is why they do everything they can to make the car buying process as easy and hassle free as possible. 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Most women that I meet with will recognize that they are. And then they're like, but you don't understand. Or but I just can't go to sleep or there's a, but you know why I can't. But I would say whatever that is, that has a hold on you, that you're still holding on to your 18, 19, 20, 21, 26-year-old child, whatever it is, they're adults. I mean, legally, they are adults at 18. But yet whatever that is, that's holding you, keeping you attached to them, whether it's causing you to lose sleep, whether it's causing anxiety. You absolutely have to make that separation in that area. And so, you know, for the one that's got the Life360, 24 seven. Hey, give it to your husband. You take it off your phone and they will be able to know how to figure out where your child is, should there be a need, you know, but you're hyper fixating on it, take that away. If it is a cell phone and you're calling your child every single day about everything, all that's doing is teaching your child that they can't do it on their own without you. And they have Google, you know, they have the Internet. I didn't have that when I went away and I didn't have a cell phone, but I figured it out. So, it's like whatever it is that has a hold on you. I would encourage the mom just to make that separation in that one area and then start there. Laura Dugger: (23:30 - 23:34) Love it. And I did think of the other thing that I wanted to circle back with. Elizabeth Pehrson: (23:35 - 23:35) What is this? Laura Dugger: (23:35 - 23:49) So, you had mentioned, yes, you taught your children respect one another in the home, but also respecting their belongings or property. Can you just share a little bit more of how you did that in your philosophy of why that was important? Elizabeth Pehrson: (23:50 - 25:40) Oh, absolutely. I would tell you that David, my husband, and I firmly believe that respect for siblings, for coaches, for teachers, for peers, for their parents is hands down the foundation of every other principle that you can instill in your children, because if you respect them, you know, I mean, there are certain cultures and generations that respect their elderly. We're not a culture that does that. And it's like if you respect them, you hold the door for them. You'll get up and give them your seat. You would never, you know, misuse their things, their belongings. So, with the second that we saw any amount of disrespect, whether it was to us, like, say, if one of my children said something to me that was disrespectful, whether it was a tone, it might not have been the words. It could be a tone. It could be the volume of his voice, whatever it might be. My husband would step in and say, “Hey, son. That's my wife. I don't allow anyone to speak like that to her.” And then therefore, there would be like a consequence for it. And so, I mean, it might be that or at the risk of being too TMI or too vulgar. I had one son that had the urge to go to the bathroom, pee wherever he wanted to. And one time he peed on his sister's blanket, her blankie, because he was mad at her. Let me tell you something. He will never forget it. I don't remember what the punishment was at the time, but he got one. He never went to the bathroom anywhere again other than the toilet. You know, it's like, no, no, no, you cannot do that. I mean, it's the foundation of the golden rule. You know, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. But children think they can get away with it. And then parents justify it by saying, “Oh, but they're only three. Oh, but they're only six. Oh, they didn't really mean it.” Well, you know what? That's where you've set the foundation right there. Three, five, six, whatever the age, so that when they grow up, they will respect their coaches, their employers, their teachers. Laura Dugger: (25:40 - 25:55) You know, so good. OK, so another relational question, then what are ways that we can help or support positively shaping our children to have strong and healthy relationships with their friends? Elizabeth Pehrson: (25:56 - 29:02) Yeah, I think that is such an important question. It was the very first verse we had our children memorize when they were itty bitty, you know, he who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm because research shows that we are the sum of the five people that we hang out with the most. So, who those five are in their circle, it is so important. You know, it in our opinion, it is essential to model for our children what healthy friendships look like, because, again, they learn that by watching us. It goes back to what's caught, you know, not the top principle. And I think it's essential to have them around other children their own age as often as possible, because I think we can use friendship with their peers, not their parents, not their grandparents, but with peers. Then we can use those examples and those situations to teach them to include others, to take turns, to read body language, to notice when something's wrong with one of your friends, right? To apologize. Ask for forgiveness too, hey, this one's doing something completely different than I would do, but let's celebrate that. And a big one is navigating disappointment and hurt. You know, I mean, that's going to inevitably happen with our children and their friendships. So those roles are so important because we can use those experiences to help train and equip them. You know, for us, our goal was never, ever, ever about popularity. Matter of fact, I don't even like the word. I don't like the you know what it stands for. But for us, it was really just to focus on their character and the heart issues. So, because of that, we would ask them, you know, not who are you friends with and who do you know, but things like who did you include at lunch today? Did you notice anyone sitting alone? Did you say anything to them? What kind friend or what kind of thing did you do for a friend today? And, you know, as far as like how we model that for our children and try to encourage that with them, it's going to cause a sacrifice on our end, right? I mean, when we're allowing and I mean, we might have to take time driving them to, you know, a good friend's house that lives far away or it might be hosting events. It might be goodness. I mean, every mom knows that we've had to wait on our children and wait and wait and wait and whatever that looks like. But, you know, just modeling that for our children and setting that environment and that groundwork so that they can have these friendships. It's going to be a sacrifice for every single mom. We can and we'll have to sacrifice our comfort. We'll have to sacrifice our convenience. Right. A louder house, extra groceries, wet towels, muddy shoes like the list could go on and on and on. But, you know, I know that there have been times when I would hope I would host things in my home, but I would rather be resting, you know, but I can't because I have a house full of 30 kids or staying home because there needs to be a parent there when I'd rather be out on a date with my husband. You know, there's lots of sacrifices that we're going to have to make. But I just think it's super, super important. That we do. Laura Dugger: (29:03 - 29:25) Well, and I love hearing that side of it. I'm assuming you're such a both and person, too. What did you make sure that you didn't sacrifice? Because I never hear you saying I only sacrificed for my kids so it could be better for them. But you were healthy all throughout raising them. So, does that make sense? How did you balance your own? Elizabeth Pehrson: (29:25 - 30:36) No, and I appreciate you saying that, but I'm certain that there were times when I was tired, when I was selfish and that I didn't do the wise thing. But I will say that that it is so important not to sacrifice yourself because, you know, you can hear it in the analogies of, you know, you can't you can't give what you don't have. You got to fill yourself up first. And it's all true. You know, the oxygen mask on the airplane before you give it to your children, it's so important. But I equally think it's important for your children to see. I'm not going to be at home at dinner tonight because you know what? I'm with my besties. I'm with my girlfriends tonight. That is important to me. Loving one another and being with one another is spoken of more in scripture than parenting, more than marriage. I mean, it is spoken of over and over and over again. So, I want them to see that, “Hey, tonight I'm going to sacrifice time at home and I'm going to go out, be with my girlfriends”. So, there's definitely some things you have to sacrifice. But I don't want a woman to be so depleted because she's constantly giving, giving, giving, giving, giving that again, when she when their children graduate and leave home, they don't even know who they are. They've lost sight of who God created them to be. Laura Dugger: (30:36 - 30:39) I appreciate your balance in that. Elizabeth Pehrson: (30:39 - 30:41) It's always and in both. Laura Dugger: (30:41 - 30:43) Yes, it really is. Elizabeth Pehrson: (30:43 - 30:43) It is. Laura Dugger: (30:44 - 30:53) How do you think we can help our kids uncover and articulate and pursue their purpose in life? Elizabeth Pehrson: (30:54 - 32:55) Purpose is huge for me. I'm sure you know that. It's the name of my podcast. It's why I started the exchange. But I have to tell you, I meet with women every single day, grown women, 40s, 50s, 60s, even 70s that still do not know their purpose. They don't know who they are. So realistically, for our children, I don't want to have anyone, you know, mom beat themselves up because it does take time to help them understand, you know, who they are, why God put them here, what their purpose is. And I will say some of my kids will grasp it before others. You know, I have a son that just graduated UGA, and he still is contemplating, you know, what does God have for my life? But as far as purpose goes, whether it's your young children, whether it's your high school children trying to figure out, do I go to college? Do I not go to college? You know, what do I major in? All of those things. But for anyone, I want to say that it's important that they know their purpose is not what they do. But the why behind what they do. And if someone is unsure of what that is or, you know, why they do something, I would encourage them to ask questions. That's my biggest thing. When I meet with women, when I talk with them, just ask questions, ask questions. I mean, we don't have the answers, but to ask questions. And so, I'll ask my children, you know, when they're contemplating some of these things, “Hey, what makes you come alive? What lights you up?” You know, who do you love to serve? What could you do for hours, hours, and hours and lose track of time? For an older woman, I would say, what did you love to do as a child? You know, maybe what do other people say to you? Man, you make that look effortless. You are so good at fill in the blank. What keeps you up at night? What breaks your heart? I think the answer to all of those questions lead us ultimately to what God uniquely put in our hearts to do and how he created us. You know, when he created each one of us, he gave us something that he wants us to offer to the world. And whatever that is, I would say will lead you to your purpose. Laura Dugger: (32:56 - 33:00) And do you have yours articulated that you want to share with us? Elizabeth Pehrson: (33:00 - 34:41) Oh, it took me a long time to go, God, who did you create me to be? And asking some of those questions, it's so interesting. So, you know, I speak, I speak, you know, at the exchange and in the last 10 years, I've started speaking more at churches and other places, and it's my absolute favorite thing to do. It lights me up. I find great joy in it. It comes natural to me. And one day when I was asking this woman, I'm like, let me ask you, what did you love to do as a child? Like, what could you just do for hours and hours? And she's like, well, I don't know. Can you give me some examples? And she said, what did you love to do? And it was like this light bulb went off. And my mom was very, very, very girly. And I had three older brothers. I was not. And my mom wanted me to be very girly. So, she would give me for every birthday, Christmas, Easter, Flag Day. It didn't matter what the holiday. I got a Madame Alexander doll. It's this doll that has it's like on a stand and it just sits there like you don't play with it. You don't you just look at it. I don't know the purpose of these dolls. I don't know why anyone would want one. But when I tell you I had 100 of them, I literally had 100 of them. And so, when I was thinking back to what did I love to do as a child instinctively, no one told me to do it. I would get home after school, and I would pull out all of these dolls and I would put them on my bed and I would line them up and I would talk to them. I would tell them all about my day, what I learned, what someone taught me, the injustices of being the only girl in the family, what I'm going to do when I'm older. And I literally that's what I did for hours. And it was like this light bulb went off. It's like God put that in me. I was encouraging my dolls. I was talking to them. I was, you know, hopefully motivating them, inspiring them. Obviously, they couldn't move. But that's what I do now. And encouraging women is my purpose. Laura Dugger: (34:42 - 35:27) I love that story so much. That's amazing. Do you love The Savvy Sauce? Do you gain anything when you listen? Did you know that the two ways we earn money to keep this podcast live is through generous contributions from listeners and from our paying sponsors? That means we can promote your business and you're still supporting The Savvy Sauce. It's a win-win. Please email us today at info@theSavvySauce.com to inquire about pricing for sponsoring each episode. Thank you for your consideration. Elizabeth, do you have any tips for how we can influence our children to become lifelong learners? Elizabeth Pehrson: (35:28 - 39:29) Yes, I think it's super important to encourage that in your children. But I also don't think there's a formula for it because some children are naturally more curious. Some are naturally more inquisitive. I do think it's super important to recognize that, you know, what it is that they want to learn. They want to study because it's going to be different for your children. So, you might not think that they're a learner or someone that's curious, but they're just not curious about what you're curious about. Right. My oldest son reads a biography of presidents and historical figures all the time. He tries to get through one a week. I couldn't think of more boring reading, but he loves, loves it. He just takes it all in. He knows all the facts and stats on presidents. But what's funny is when he was two years old, he could name all of the presidents in order at two years old. I couldn't even do it. I had to hold up the placemat to make sure, you know, that he was right. I have another son that studies history, loves it, just absolutely loves it. And I have a daughter who probably the one that's most like me. But I will tell you that she will be a lifelong learner of people the rest of her life. That is her passion. She's curious. She's inquisitive. She's always asking questions of people. And as long as we know that ultimately, it's just going to be up to them. Some are going to be great learners. Naturally, others won't be. But I would say if you wanted me to point to something again, it just comes back to modeling it, you know, for our children, because children copy what we love, not what we lecture. They copy what we love, not what we lecture every single time. And I remember when one time when my kids were little, they wanted me to plant a garden. And I don't know what the opposite of a green thumb is, but that's what I have. I'm like the opposite of that. And I had no idea. Like, you dig up the grass, you till the soil. Like, when do you plant? How do you even grow a vegetable? I had no idea. But I said, “You know what? I don't know how to do this, but let's figure it out together.” We'll figure it out together. And, you know, I suggest that moms would say things to their kids like, I just listened to this podcast, and it really challenged my thinking. I had never thought of it this way before. Or I don't know anything about that topic you want to talk about, but let's find out, let's dive in and look, go to the library or, you know, whatever it might be. And lastly, I would just say that it really comes down to praising effort, not performance, because if you're saying you're so smart, you know so much about that or you're so wise in that area. It really is. It doesn't do them anything other than teach them a performance based. Right. So, it's like I want to say the things the things to them. Like, I am so proud of you when you didn't know what you were doing. You stuck with it. You figured it out because I think that is a growth mindset instead of like instead of driving in performance anxiety. Like, I don't know how to do this. I didn't figure it out. I can't. You know, we really want them like, hey, I don't know what it is, but I'll figure it out. You know, and I just think when learning really becomes about grades, achievement, success, whatever it is, curiosity dies, does. So, it's like at the dinner table. I remember David and I would ask questions of the kids, and we would ask them things like, what did you fail at today? Like, what did you mess up today? Like, what surprised you today that you didn't know yesterday? And then David and I would share as well. Like, let me tell you what I learned. Let me tell you where I messed up at work. And it's just important to normalize not having all the answers. You know, one of our big parenting mantras is don't bail, let them fail. And I think it is so important because we don't want to rescue our children. You know, we want them to not know how to do something so that they can figure it out and then just learn as they go. You know, because that's really where confidence grows. It grows through problem solving and learning things the hard way. Laura Dugger: (39:30 - 40:01) Wow, there's so much there. I love I'll kind of summarize a few things. So being curious ourselves, modeling it, having our own interests and sharing those ideas, but I hear this theme of questions, asking our kids questions. I think that develops critical thinking. But then you helped identify with them what their interests were. And I think that will naturally lead to being a lifelong learner if we find what we're interested in. You said all of your kids might be different once they found that. They'll probably be lifelong learners in those areas. Elizabeth Pehrson: (40:01 - 40:32) For sure. And I guess what I meant by some or more so than others like my first born, he is a five on the Enneagram. And so, his he wants to know how everything works and studies it and researches it for hours before he makes a decision where I have some other children that are like, you know, instead of ready, set, go, it's more like go, set, ready, you know, and I'll figure it out later. I don't care. But he's just naturally more inquisitive to want to know how things work. What makes things tick? Why does the world work the way it works? You know, that kind of thing. Laura Dugger: (40:33 - 40:44) Well, I don't know if this goes together or if you would share something different. But do you think there are any ways that we can help our children recognize and utilize their spiritual gifts? Elizabeth Pehrson: (40:46 - 44:02) Yeah, when I think about spiritual gifts, I kind of think it goes back to the purpose question that we talked about earlier. You know, again, I know a lot of adults that don't know their spiritual gifts yet. They're still questioning. They're still I'm not really sure is it this or this or I don't know where to lean in. And it's hard for parents to help their children find their spiritual gifts when they don't know theirs, you know, or they don't know how God wired them or what he placed deep inside of them. But one thing that I would offer when you're trying to help your children with that is just as parents just notice things about your children, but notice them out loud. What God's already doing in your children, notice them out loud, speak them out loud, like pay attention. Which child comforts the crying sibling who organizes the game so that everybody feels included? Who asks deep questions about faith or which child senses when someone, you know, is left out? You know, those are all clues as to how God wired them and what's deep inside of them. And, you know, you can say things as simple as you know, you know, I noticed you have a gift for encouragement. You really are so good at that. Or, hey, you know what? You notice what other people miss. That's amazing. How do you do that? God is always giving you courage. You know, I have a son named Josh, and he's got this big Joshua one nine frame in his, you know, Bible verse in his room. It's like God has given you a spirit of fear and but of courage and of sound mind, you know, and it's like we try to speak that courage into him or, you know, I have one son that always keeps us organized and on track. And we used to call him the traffic cop because he was always like this. But then I was like, no, that doesn't really speak life into him. It's more of a judge. So, we were like, you know what? You are so organized. You keep us on track. And I think when kids hear out loud like their strengths name, they begin to see them as gifts rather than just like, oh, that's just how I am. That's a person that, you know, personality court. And as you're trying to speak those things out loud and let them see and notice things about themselves that maybe they didn't see. You can also give them opportunities to practice things like, hey, at the dinner table, you're going to pray out loud tonight for the family, for our meal, or, hey, I'd like you to help lead with our family dinner devotions or hey, you know what? I'm going to go serve this weekend at this project. And I really want you to come alongside me and go with me. Maybe, hey, you know what? I noticed this younger sibling really needs encouragement today. Could you just go and speak some encouragement to her? You know, handwritten notes. That's a big one in our family. You know, literally handwritten notes, not just by a card and signing it. Love, Josh, you know, but to write out. And I think that's something that we can instill in our kids because that's a lost art. But, you know, most importantly, more than any of that, I would say to remind your kids this gift, this spiritual gift that God has given you isn't for you. It's for someone else. Right. A person of purpose, a hero, whatever you want to call it, is a person who takes who they are with what they have for the benefit of someone else. That's it. It's just like who they are with what they have for the benefit of someone else. And when you do that, there's always a gift that you can offer somebody else. Laura Dugger: (44:04 - 44:15) Well, in another biblical topic, we know that it's a biblical command to be hospitable. So, were there any specific ways that you trained your children in hospitality? Elizabeth Pehrson: (44:16 - 46:33) Yeah. Hospitality was my mom's ultimate gift. It was probably the thing that she modeled the best for my brothers and for me. We hosted foreign exchange students for months at a time. Every single Sunday. People don't believe me when I tell them this, but it's true. Every single Sunday, we would invite a family home from church to have lunch with us that we did not know. It was never somebody that we knew. And so, on Saturday, we would prepare the house. We would prepare the yard. We would cook the food as a family. Everybody had a role in it. And then my dad would literally find a family that we did not know. And he would invite them home. And my parents always had their home open for Bible studies, for parties, for small groups, whatever, and whomever needed a space. They made our home available. And I've just tried to do that for my children in my own ways because it looks very differently than, you know, the way my mom did it. But I basically think hospitality is simply just making room. That's it. It's just making room, whether it's making room at your table, whether it's making room in your home. You know, a lot of moms are perfectionists, and they associate perfection with it. My home's not clean enough. My home's not pretty enough. It's not perfect enough. And so, then they don't want to do it. But I can just tell you honestly, with eight children, perfect wasn't an option, you know, anyway, but we did. We had an open-door policy for dinner. We even had a sign on our garage door. It said dinner's at 6:30. All are welcome. And so, anybody could come and show up to dinner any night of the week at 6:30. And all of our children, when we invited people over, everybody had to participate, not just those that were excited about it, but like the whole family, you know, whether it was setting the table, greeting the guests at the door, making eye contact and then asking them questions, clearing plates. I mean, just whatever it is. We wanted every single person to be a part of it. And really, we just tried to say, hey, you know, this is going to cost you something, because sometimes generosity does. You might have to squeeze in at the dinner table and sit like this because we're all squeezed in and that's OK. Or you might have three air mattresses on your floor tonight and you have to share your room. And I know you don't want to, but that's OK. I mean, it's like generosity is going to cost you something. And we wanted our kids to know that. Laura Dugger: (46:34 - 46:47) Oh, such great examples. And do you have any other additional tips for ways that all of our family can actually delight in the abundant life that Christ has, that he's offered each one of us? Elizabeth Pehrson: (46:49 - 48:59) Yeah, I mean, again, I certainly do not have all the answers, and we could have made service projects and serving others more of a priority in our home, for sure. But I just I think that the abundant life in Jesus it is about serving others. It is about offering others what he's given you. And, you know, we don't serve to earn love like we serve because we're already loved. I mean, that's really the bottom line. And that changes everything. And so, I would just encourage families to start serving together, not as a punishment, you know, not as a obligation, but just as a way of life. It's what we do. It's who we are. And so, because of that, the abundant life for us offering it to others looked like making meals, making cupcakes, making a cake and delivering it to people. We had elderly neighbors all in our street and we mowed their yards. We picked up pinecones. We went to the grocery store and picked up their medicine for them. You know, we made, again, handwritten notes and cards, just very small, easy, tangible, ordinary things that we could do to love on others. And I would say, let them see your joy in what you're doing, because they children do not like drudgery. They're just going to resist it. Right. It's like but if they see you delighting and feeling full, full after serving and then giving, they appreciate you know, they appreciate that they see the joy. And so, it's just it's important. I just think all the way around just there's Andy Stanley always says, you know, following God's principles will make your life better and it will make your life make you better at life. And so, when we follow these principles, when we serve, when we celebrate the kids serving other people with a joyful heart, you know, we celebrate their impact, not their performance, not how grand it was, not how big it was. But hey, you made someone feel loved today. That's a really big deal. That's a really big thing. You're eight years old. Not everybody can do that. And I am so grateful that you love Jesus so much that you would be willing to do that. So, I just think the abundant life comes from following God's principles. You know, it's not having more. It's just loving more. Laura Dugger: (49:00 - 49:14) Oh, love it. You have so much wisdom to share. So, before we press pause on this conversation, because we get to continue again next week, will you just let us know where we can go in the meantime to learn more from you? Elizabeth Pehrson: (49:15 - 49:38) Oh, sure. If someone would like to follow me, it's on Instagram. I have my own personal one. It's called @octomama. My kids made that long time ago. I also have the @theexchangeus. That is that's my Instagram handle there. And then a long game parenting, writing a parenting book. And so, I do have a handle for that where I post things. But it's called @long_game_parenting. So, yeah, wonderful. Laura Dugger: (49:38 - 49:56) We'll link to all of that in the show notes for today's episode. And Elizabeth, this is your third time on The Savvy Sauce. So, you already know we're called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge. And so is my final question for you today. What is your Savvy Sauce? Elizabeth Pehrson: (49:56 - 50:36) I would say in light of our conversation today and in light of what I talked about and shared, it's so simple. It's just 12 words. I say it all the time. Think what you want your kids to be and then be it. Think what you want your kids to be and then be it. And I don't mean this in terms of your career or your profession, you know, but I mean in terms of modeling for our children what we want to impress upon their heart, things of character, because the truth is, it goes back to that. We can only take our children as far as we've gone ourselves, or we can only help our children as far as we've done the work ourselves emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically. So, think what you want your kids to be and then be it. Laura Dugger: (50:37 - 50:46) What a beautiful way to close out our time together today. As always, Elizabeth, you are just effervescent and time flies by when we're having conversations together. Elizabeth Pehrson: (50:47 - 50:49) I talk fast, so thanks for saying that. Laura Dugger: (50:50 - 50:52) Well, thank you for being my guest. Elizabeth Pehrson: (50:52 - 50:55) Absolutely. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks, Laura. Laura Dugger: (50:56 - 54:10) One more thing before you go. Have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you. But it starts with the bad news. Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved. We need a savior. But God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him. That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life we could never live and died in our place for our sin. This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished if we choose to receive what he has done for us. Romans 10:9 says, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. So, would you pray with me now? Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you. Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me, so me for him. You get the opportunity to live your life for him. And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you ready to get started? First, tell someone. Say it out loud. Get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes & Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it. You can start by reading the book of John. Also, get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you. We want to celebrate with you too, so feel free to leave a comment for us here if you did make a decision to follow Christ. We also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process. And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, in the same way I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. The heavens are praising with you for your decision today. And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.
Episode Summary Missions do not begin only across an ocean; they begin wherever God has placed a believer. In this GoMission interview, retired police officer Bill Chaney tells Mark Gillmore how weekly soulwinning became a way of life and followed him into daily police work. His testimony of compassionate witness, workplace opposition, and trust under authority challenges every Christian to reject the fear of man and speak for Christ where they are. Topics Discussed Discipleship and weekly soulwinning Bringing the gospel into daily police work Showing compassion to vulnerable people Facing discipline after sharing a gospel tract Responding respectfully to authority while trusting God Support from fellow officers How God reopened a closed door for witness Key Takeaways Every workplace and daily setting can become a mission field. Consistent discipleship builds habits of faithful Christian service. Personal evangelism begins with seeing people and caring about their greatest need. Respect for authority and confidence in God are not opposites. No closed door is beyond the ability of God to reopen. Courage begins with the next faithful opportunity to speak for Christ. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.
ABOUT THE EPISODEListen in as David Schrock and Stephen Wellum interview Aaron Edwards on his testimony and COA Longform Essay "Soft Jihad: Multiculturalism, Islamic Conquest, and Christianity" Resources to Click“Soft Jihad: Multiculturalism, Islamic Conquest, and Christianity” – Aaron Edwards“Multiculturalism & Rootlessness” – Aaron Edwards“Multiculturalism, Nation, and Church” – Aaron Edwards“5 Reasons Christians Don't Like to Oppose Immigration” – Aaron Edwards“When the Church Shrinks Back” – Aaron Edwards“In Defence of Christian Britain” – Aaron Edwards“Theocracy, Theonomy, and Civil Society” – Aaron Edwards“Culture and the Kingdom of God” – Aaron Edwards“Episode 10 – How to Be A Christian Dissident” – Pod of the Gaps“Christian Preacher Vindicated After Arrest, Prosecution and ‘Non-Crime Hate Incident' Threat for Questioning Quran” – Christian Concern“People Crossing the English Channel in Small Boats” – The Migration Observatory“Mum Jailed over ‘Racist' Migrant Hotel Tweet after Southport Stabbings Is Denied Temporary Release to See Ailing Husband” – James TapsfieldDavid Atherton Tweet“Record number of rape offences recorded as minister promises ‘urgent action'” – Holly Bancroft & Ian Jones“Sexual Offences in England and Wales Overview: Year Ending March 2025” – Office for National Statistics“Rupert Lowe's 600k grooming gang inquiry hears shock claims of ‘Eid rapes' and police cover-ups: ‘Barbarians!'” – Gabrielle Wilde“National Audit on Group-based Child Sexual Expoitation and Abuse” – Baroness Louise Casey“'Imams promote grooming rings', Muslim Leader Claims” – Hayley Dixon“The Rape Gang Inquiry Report” – Rupert Lowe“British Muslims in Numbers: Census Summary Report 2025” – Muslim Council of Britain“UK Mosque Statistics/Masjid Statistics” – MuslimBritain.org“Sharia Law or “One Law For All?” – Denis Mac Eoin“The Truth about Sharia Law in Britain” – Hannah Baldock“Parents are pulling children from RE lessons – so they don't learn about Islam” – Paul Smalley“Watch: Boy Scout Refuses to Bow to Allah During Mosque Visit” – Doug Mainwaring“2021 Census: As UK Population Grows, So Do British Muslim Communities” – Muslim Council of BritainBob (@shariakill) TweetBen Zeisloft Tweet“When Islam Was Called the ‘Religion of Peace'” – Times of India“Is Islam a Religion of Peace?” – Mark Durie“Misunderstanding Islam Is Basically a Slow- Motion Suicide – An Interview with Raymond Ibrahim” – The Hungarian ConservativeMichael Foster TweetTheme of the Month: Unmasking IslamGive to Support the WorkBooks to ReadLive Not By Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents – Rod DreherThe Challenge of Islam: Understanding and Responding to Islam's Increasing Influence in the UK – Tim Dieppe
Send us Fan MailIn the conclusion of our conversation with Lee Moore and Blake, Technical Director at AIS Water, we examine what it takes to make saltwater chlorination work reliably in demanding commercial environments.Commercial pools cannot be managed by reacting to every change with another drum of chemicals. Like steering a cruise ship, water chemistry requires calculated adjustments, accurate information, and equipment sized for the facility's actual operating conditions.The conversation covers the difference between ORP and direct free-available-chlorine measurement, on/off versus proportional chlorinator control, and how properly sized systems respond to sudden increases in bather load. Lee and Blake also explain why some facilities retain liquid or granular chlorine as backup sanitation—even when onsite chlorine generation handles nearly the entire demand.We also challenge some persistent assumptions about saltwater pools. Modern commercial systems can operate at salt concentrations as low as approximately 950 ppm, opening the door for indoor pools, facilities with natural stone, and other applications where corrosion concerns have discouraged saltwater chlorination.Finally, we look behind the marketing of “mineral pools.” Magnesium and potassium salts may change how the water feels, but the sanitation still comes from chlorine produced through electrolysis. Minerals do not replace the sanitizer.Topics discussed include: Why commercial chlorination begins with accurate system sizing Accounting for sunlight, bather load, turnover, and unusual applications Why water stability is more important than constant chemical correction Direct free-chlorine probes versus traditional ORP control On/off and proportional 4–20 mA chlorinator control Responding automatically to sudden increases in bather load Cell operation, reversing cycles, and expected service life Using liquid or granular chlorine as secondary sanitation Reducing chemical handling without removing backup infrastructure Liquid chlorine degradation, declining strength, and chlorate concerns Commercial chlorination at approximately 950 ppm salt Saltwater systems for indoor pools and natural-stone environments What “mineral pool” marketing gets right—and what it leaves out The roles of magnesium and potassium in swimmer comfort and water appearance Why mineral pools are still chlorine pools If you operate, specify, design, or service commercial aquatic facilities, this episode offers a practical look at building a chlorination system around stability, predictable demand, and intelligent control—not chemical firefighting. Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com
In March 2026, Laurent was invited by Jan Rosenow at Oriel College, Oxford, for a public debate on the energy transition. Held in the College's historic library, the discussion brought together contrasting perspectives on one of today's defining challenges. Jan Rosenow, Professor of Energy and Climate Policy, is renowned for his work on energy efficiency, electrification, and the transition to net-zero energy systems.Laurent opened by introducing the "Aristotelian Triangle" of the energy debate—Ethos, Logos, and Pathos—arguing that values, evidence, and emotion all shape how people interpret energy issues. Responding to Jan's distinction between energy addition and energy transition, Laurent made two key points.First, history shows that energy forecasts have repeatedly underestimated transformative innovations, from shale gas and LEDs to solar, electric vehicles, batteries, and AI-driven data centres. His conclusion: humility is essential when predicting structural change.Second, Laurent presented his "Diocletian Tetrarchy of Energy," pairing Vaclav Smil with Clayton Christensen to represent continuity versus disruption, alongside Daniel Yergin and Michael Liebreich to illustrate the roles of markets, geopolitics, and industrial transformation. He described himself as roughly 70/30 in favour of technological disruption while acknowledging the inertia of existing energy systems.The discussion also examined the cost of ideology, arguing that opposition to technologies such as offshore wind or nuclear power can shape investment, electricity prices, and energy affordability. It concluded by exploring industrial policy, energy security, and how nations should balance resilience, competitiveness, and comparative advantage in a changing geopolitical landscape.Although the formal debate lasted just over an hour, the conversation continued long afterwards. This episode captures part of those fascinating exchanges.
What does it really mean to be all in with Jesus and His Church?In week one of our new All In series, Pastor Morgan looks at Acts 2 and the early church to show us what a devoted life actually looks like. Being all in isn't about checking boxes, adding more to your schedule, or trying to earn God's love. It's about intentionally arranging your life around Jesus and participating in the family He is building.Through the picture of the early church, we're reminded that healthy faith is built through faithful rhythms over a lifetime. We gather, grow, serve, belong, and take responsibility for the mission, not to earn grace, but because grace has already been given to us.The question isn't, “How can I do more?” It's simply: Jesus, what are You inviting me to step into next?Timestamps0:00 Welcome0:18 Introducing the All In Series0:38 The Apple Watch Illustration4:06 What Your Rhythms Reveal4:56 What Does It Mean to Be All In?6:23 Meaningful Engagement in the Church7:40 Jesus' Picture of the Church8:39 A Devoted Church9:08 Acts 2 and the Early Church12:01 “What Does This Mean for My Life?”13:36 How Strangers Became Family14:27 “They Devoted Themselves”16:01 What Devotion Really Means17:21 Attendance vs. Devotion18:10 The Greatest Threat Is Drift19:15 Healthy Churches Don't Happen by Accident21:18 Faithful Rhythms Over a Lifetime21:43 Direction, Not Perfection22:24 Keep Leaning Toward Jesus23:08 Arranging Your Life Around Jesus24:28 Grace Comes First, Devotion Comes Second25:15 Responding to God's Love26:54 What Is Shaping Your Life?27:13 Everyone Is Being Discipled by Something28:03 The All In Track29:28 What Devoted People Do30:17 A Picture of the Early Church31:13 What Koinonia Really Means31:51 Church Is a Family You Belong To32:35 The Five Rings32:58 Participate Weekly33:37 Join a Group or Class34:18 Serve on a Team35:00 Become an Owner35:44 Am I Fully Participating?36:35 Just Take One Step36:52 Which Ring Have You Stopped Closing?37:51 Thank You to Those Who Are All In38:20 Devotion Is a Daily Choice39:01 Which Ring Is Jesus Inviting You to Close?39:27 When the Church Participates, the World Notices39:51 Closing Prayer41:09 Next Steps42:37 Special Spokane Fire Relief Offering
Send Ken a Text Message about the PodcastEpisode 50: Four Years of Surviving Alzheimer's and What's Next" HOW DID I GET HERE ?"In the 50th episode of the Surviving Alzheimer's podcast, recorded August 9, 2026, the host marks four years since launching the show, noting 50 episodes, over 33,000 downloads, and strong listener feedback. He explains a recent slowdown in releases (only six episodes in 2025 and three so far in 2026), partly due to Shanna's slow progression and the emotional difficulty of revisiting past journal entries. During that time, he continued leading a Surviving Alzheimer's support group, attending another group, and providing one-on-one coaching. To reach more people, he plans to add an indexed, topic-based episode catalog to survalz.com, offer webinar-style classes for caregivers, and produce more frequent, likely shorter, educational episodes that share coaching guidance for common caregiving situations.00:00 50 Episodes Milestone02:03 Why Episodes Slowed03:39 Support Groups and Coaching04:27 Making Episodes Easier to Find06:39 Webinars and Group Teaching07:47 Shorter Coaching Style Episodes09:07 New Educational DirectionGet the FREE Guide to Responding to Repeated Questions Visit the Surviving Alzheimer's Podcast Website (survalz.com) to Register for the Support Group, Newsletter and more ...Visit the Podcast Facebook page
When disasters make headlines, we often see the numbers. But behind every statistic is a family, a home, and a life forever changed.In this exclusive TALRadio conversation, we speak with Gobin Taye—lawyer, educator, and founder of Namigos Foundation, Forest Man Foundation, and Tribe Earth Foundation—who is on the ground in Assam leading flood relief efforts. He shares a first-hand account of the devastation, the resilience of local communities, and the urgent challenges families continue to face long after the cameras leave.From delivering relief to remote villages to helping rebuild homes and restore hope, Gobin explains what recovery truly looks like and why emotional support, medicines, education, and long-term rehabilitation are just as critical as emergency aid.This episode is more than a conversation about a natural disaster. It's a reminder of the power of compassion, community, and collective action—and how each of us can make a meaningful difference.
Responding to questions from listeners about how much AI can be used in sermon preparation, what does the Bible say to someone who is losing their faith, and should a Christian go to their pastors before a psychiatrist. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!
Responding to listener emails about Summerslam including Chelsea Green's title win, what happens upon Rhea Ripley's return and much more.Go AD-FREE at Patreon.com/WWEPodcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wwe-podcast--2187791/support.
Lowering A1C in Prediabetes and Using Less Insulin on a Low-Carb Diet: Leyla Muedin, a registered dietitian nutritionist, answers listener questions about blood sugar and insulin. Responding to Rita, whose hemoglobin A1C rose from 5.6 to 5.8, Layla says “glucose hacks” to blunt carb absorption aren't appropriate at that level and recommends a strict very low-carb/keto approach (under 25 grams of total carbs per day), avoiding sugar, starchy vegetables, fruit (except avocado), sweetened beverages, and even alternative sweeteners and low-carb processed products; she suggests retesting A1C after three months and avoiding testing during illness or inflammation. She also addresses Joy, a type 1 diabetic, affirming low-carb eating to reduce insulin needs and weight gain, criticizing an insurance pricing structure that charges more when insulin is used more slowly, and expressing concern about doctors prescribing insulin too quickly for type 2 diabetes instead of dietary intervention.
What happens when online bravado meets real life?In this livestream from Miami, Marquett shares his perspective on internet culture, respect, accountability, and why he believes people should be willing to stand behind what they say offline—not just online.Throughout the stream, he discusses:* Internet “tough guy” culture* Respect and accountability* Why he believes words have consequences* Miami nightlife and street observations* Responding to critics* Modern masculinity and discipline* Why he says people should “keep that same energy”Whether you agree or disagree, this conversation dives into the growing gap between social media behavior and face-to-face interactions.What's your take? Has the internet made people bolder than they would be in person?⸻
This week the Good Years boys put your Wolves hot takes on trial with Tommy Doyle/Ruben Neves comparisons and even the Liquidator getting some stick! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Claire O'Brien, Partner, Brooks Pierce, and Terri Harris, Partner, Fox Rothschild, discuss key considerations and practical insights for health care providers responding to subpoenas and other legal demands. They cover why it may be risky for a health care provider to simply comply with a subpoena or other legal demand; factors that affect a provider response; and issues related to HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, state law requirements, patient-initiated litigation, and enforcement. Claire authored a Health Law Weekly article on this topic.Watch this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82myAlUXge4Read's Claire's Health Law Weekly article: https://www.americanhealthlaw.org/content-library/health-law-weekly/article/c7831188-db74-4192-bdeb-88e9192a9715/What-Health-Care-Providers-Should-Know-When-Respon Essential Legal Updates, Now in AudioAHLA's popular Health Law Daily email newsletter is now a daily podcast, exclusively for AHLA Comprehensive members. Get all your health law news from the major media outlets on this podcast! To subscribe and add this private podcast feed to your podcast app, go to americanhealthlaw.org/dailypodcast.Stay At the Forefront of Health Legal EducationLearn more about AHLA and the educational resources available to the health law community at https://www.americanhealthlaw.org/.
Can you become calm in just 90-seconds? What does calm mean? How does it feel? Why choose the power of the pause? We can't think out os stress. Disvoer the LAR-LAR method to calm, connection and kindness. Get her book: The Power of the Pause: 90 Seconds to Calm, Reset, and Reconnect LINKS AND RESOURCES Support the podcast by making a donation Contact Authentic Parenting Join the Authentic Parenting Community on Facebook Work with Anna Podcast Production by Aminur
As Dr. Nicole Plenty returns to the podcast, she acknowledges what so many families are feeling—life has become increasingly stressful. From rising healthcare costs and political uncertainty to the everyday pressures of pregnancy and parenting, anxiety can feel overwhelming. That's why she's kicking off the new season with an important discussion on protecting your mental health before, during, and after pregnancy. Joining Dr. Plenty is licensed professional counselor Stacy Kador, who shares practical guidance on recognizing the signs of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Together, they discuss how families can create true "safe spaces" for honest conversations, the critical role partners play in providing emotional support, and why checking in on both mothers and children is more important than ever. The conversation also tackles one of the most difficult decisions many expectant mothers face: whether to continue treatment for anxiety or depression during pregnancy. Responding to a heartfelt listener email, Dr. Plenty and Stacey explain why caring for a mother's mental health is also caring for her baby's health, offering reassurance that treatment decisions should be made alongside trusted medical and mental health professionals—not out of fear or guilt. Whether you're expecting your first child, growing your family, or supporting someone through pregnancy, this episode offers compassionate, evidence-based advice to help you recognize when it's time to ask for help—and reminds you that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app. Follow, rate, comment, and share!
Accountability Without Micromanaging: How Great Leaders Create Ownership Delegating work should free leaders to focus on strategy, relationships, and growth. Too often, however, delegation swings between two unhealthy extremes: micromanagement and abandonment. In this episode of The Customer Service Revolution Podcast, Denise Thompson and John DiJulius explore how leaders can build accountability without micromanaging. The solution is not less communication—it is greater clarity, consistent checkpoints, and genuine employee ownership. Why Delegation So Often Turns Into Micromanagement Most leaders do not intend to micromanage. They want to protect the quality of the work, meet an important deadline, or ensure a strong customer experience. But when leaders dictate every step, employees become hesitant to make decisions without approval. John explains that leaders must clearly define the desired outcome and then give capable employees room to determine how to achieve it. Employees need to own more than the execution; they need to feel ownership over the approach and and the result. That means leaders must avoid "dropping an anchor" by presenting their preferred solution before employees have had an opportunity to think through the challenge themselves. How to Build Accountability Without Micromanaging Define What Victory Looks Like Before delegating a project, leaders must establish a clear objective, deadline, priorities, decision-making authority, and definition of success. A vague assignment followed by constant corrections is not accountability. It is confusion disguised as supervision. Establish a Consistent Check-In Cadence Accountability should prevent surprises. Weekly reports, one-on-one conversations, or structured operating systems such as EOS and Scaling Up allow leaders to identify obstacles before a commitment is missed. Instead of waiting until the deadline to ask what happened, leaders can ask: Where does the project stand? Are we still on track? What obstacle could prevent success? What support do you need from me? Give Employees Ownership of the Method Leaders should remain firm about the outcome while allowing employees flexibility in how they achieve it. When employees can contribute their ideas and place their fingerprints on a project, they become more invested in its success. Giving up control of the method can also produce a better result. John shares how The Customer Service Revolution Conference improved when the team took ownership of many aspects he had previously managed himself. Adjust Oversight to the Employee and the Risk Not every employee or assignment requires the same level of autonomy. New employees, emerging leaders, employees without a proven track record, and high-risk projects may require more collaboration and support. Closer oversight should be explained as coaching—not as punishment or a lack of trust. As the employee demonstrates sound judgment and consistent performance, the leader should intentionally step back. Why Leaders Must Let Employees Struggle Leaders who immediately step in to solve every problem unintentionally train employees to wait for answers. Failure, when handled constructively, gives employees an opportunity to learn, develop judgment, and become more capable. Instead of immediately providing the answer, ask the employee what they think should happen next. They may arrive at the same answer—or develop a better one. The goal is not to leave employees unsupported. The goal is to provide enough guidance for them to grow without making them dependent on the leader. Key Takeaways Accountability begins with a clear definition of the desired outcome. Employees should own the approach, not merely execute the leader's instructions. Weekly checkpoints help leaders identify delays and obstacles before deadlines are missed. Leaders should avoid changing priorities without explaining what happens to earlier commitments. New or inexperienced employees require more coaching until they establish a track record. Leaders should ask questions before jumping in with solutions. Failure can build confidence and judgment when it is treated as a learning opportunity. A company becomes stronger when its success does not depend on one indispensable person. Leaders create ownership by providing clarity, authority, support, and room to act. Memorable Quotes "Hire really good people, create what the outcomes need to look like, and then get out of their way." — John DiJulius "Besides just the execution, they need to own it." — John DiJulius "Your business is worth nothing if you're the most important person in the short term." — John DiJulius "You should never be surprised if you have a weekly cadence." — John DiJulius "Accountability doesn't require hovering. It requires clear expectations, agreed-upon checkpoints, honest feedback, and consistent follow-through." — Denise Thompson "Great leaders don't create people who wait for instruction. They create people who can be trusted to move the work forward." — Denise Thompson Episode Chapters 00:46 — Accountability versus micromanagement 01:32 — Why leaders must stop doing everything themselves 04:24 — What separates healthy accountability from control 06:40 — Developing inexperienced employees and future leaders 10:56 — Why capable leaders become micromanagers 13:24 — Establishing priorities through rocks and must-do commitments 17:21 — Managing the outcome without dictating every step 21:32 — How employee ownership improves the final result 23:30 — Building stronger leadership and service systems 24:13 — When leaders want employees to remain dependent on them 25:05 — Responding when an employee misses a commitment 27:33 — When closer supervision is appropriate 28:41 — A practical accountability system leaders can use 30:50 — Developing employees who are afraid to take risks 33:32 — What to ask instead of "Are you done yet?" 34:29 — Creating employees who can move work forward Resources Mentioned Entrepreneurial Operating System—EOS Scaling Up The Soul of a Start-Up—Harvard Business Review Build a Culture of Accountability and Ownership If your organization wants greater accountability, stronger leadership, and a more consistent employee and customer experience, The DiJulius Group can help. We work with organizations to build practical leadership and service systems that turn expectations into repeatable behaviors. Visit TheDiJuliusGroup.com or schedule a call at https://tdg.click/call. Links: ROX Dashboard: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/rox-dashboard/ The DiJulius Group Methdology: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/x-commandment-methodology/ Company Service Aptitude Test: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/c-sat-forms/individual-c-sat/ Schedule a Complimentary Call with one of our advisors: tdg.click/claudia Ask John! Submit your questions for John, to be aired on future episode: tdg.click/ask Customer Experience Executive Academy: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Experience Revolution Membership: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Books: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/shop/ Contacts: Lindsey@thedijuliusgroup.com , Claudia@thedijuliusgroup.com If you want to learn how world-class organizations build cultures customers cannot live without, explore The Experience Revolution Membership. Inside the membership you'll gain access to livestream workshops, practical frameworks, and proven strategies used by organizations around the world. Learn more at https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Learn More If your organization is working to improve customer experience but struggling to connect it to measurable business outcomes, The DiJulius Group can help. Visit: https://thedijuliusgroup.com Listen to more episodes: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/the-customer-service-revolution-podcast/ Subscribe We talk about topics like this each week; be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.
Follow Him: A Come, Follow Me Podcast featuring Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Why does bad news land, over and over, on some of the most faithful people? Dr. Marcus Martins joins Hank and John to examine the Book of Job, and shows why Job's friends fail even as they try to comfort him, why presence matters more than explanations; some answers to suffering, they conclude only come with eternal perspective.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/jlUZPvX3GfgALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIM.coFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE:0:00 - Part 1 - Dr. Marcus Martins2:20 Job as Martins' personal companion through trials5:11 Dr. Martins' bio8:34 Martins' father's legacy and priesthood history11:26 Job's wealth, family, and sudden catastrophic loss14:25 Responding to loss with faith16:30 The hidden pain behind smiling faces19:58 Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail and the Job comparison22:18 The literary origins and genre of the Book of Job25:57 Job's health trial and his wife's response28:52 Why presence matters more than explanations31:59 The personal story of timely ministering34:54 Friendship as a healing power37:08 Being the person who notices and ministers39:52 President John Taylor on being tried “in all things”42:46 What trials teach us about ourselves45:21 Showing up for someone in grief47:38 Job's friends begin to offer explanations51:05 Wisdom and missteps53:16 The Law of Retribution and flawed logic56:10 Jesus and the man born blind59:33 The danger of manufacturing answer to suffering1:02:13 Living with unanswered questions1:05 Joseph Smith's promise and Job's testimony of the Redeemer1:09:22 End of Part 1 - Dr. Marcus MartinsThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com
Todd argues that Democrats are choosing socialism and transgender ideology as defining political causes, then focuses on the dispute over biological men competing in women's sports. Responding to criticism of Sophie Cunningham and claims that transgender participation is not a real WNBA issue, he points to a six-foot-three transgender player in France who has said a WNBA opportunity would be welcome. Todd sarcastically challenges the league and Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to sign the player if they truly believe transgender women should be treated exactly like biological women in sports. He says the resulting competitive consequences would expose the conflict between ideological slogans, biological reality, fairness, and the protection of women's athletics, while urging players who reject that direction to stop sitting on the fence.
(0:00) Felger, Mazz, and Murray open the show by revisiting their thoughts on the Red Sox's trade deadline moves, including the acquisitions of catcher Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles and Erik Miller from the San Francisco Giants.(15:34) Greg Bedard from the Boston Sports Journal joins the show to give his 3 Up and 3 Down from Patriots training camp this week.(28:09) The guys react to Bijan Robinson's new contract that makes him the highest-paid running back in history and how it relates to Christian Gonzalez's contract negotiations.(33:50) Responding to Craig Breslow's comments made after the trades made at the deadline.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Join Sr. Joseph Andrew Bogdanowicz and Kris McGregor as they discuss: 1. Responding to the Call 2. How is God Present? The post Ep 3 – Responding to the Call – And Mary’s ‘Yes’ Continues Afresh w/ Sr. Joseph Andrew Bogdanowicz – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
With Boomer out, Gio and Jerry break down the MLB trade deadline, assessing the Yankees' moves, return timelines for Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, and the Mets' deadline teardown. Gio addresses Craig Carton's take on Katie Nolan, vents about his wife's birthday gift routine, and obsess over a minor league raccoon promotion while C-Lo updates on Luis Garcia Jr.'s bittersweet Yankee debut, Trump on NIL, and the Yanks' loss to the Cardinals. Plus, Aaron Rodgers goes after Fauci, ESPN, and Tom Brady on Pat McAfee, prompting Gio to question ESPN's identity. Finally, the guys debate how the Brian Cashman era will eventually end, hit NFL camp updates from John Harbaugh and Klint Kubiak, and dissect 90s rock classics alongside "Hotel California."
Today on the show, the Iran war seems to be caught between sudden outbursts of fighting and fragile pauses for diplomacy. How are Iranians responding? Fareed asks Abdi Latif Dahir of The New York Times, who just spent 10 days in Iran after he was granted rare access to report on last month's funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Then, despite a June memorandum on hostilities, the US and Iran remain locked in a tit-for-tat conflict. Does Iran want a deal? Fareed speaks with Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East and North Africa program at Chatham House. Later, Black fourth-graders in Mississippi now score higher in reading, on average, than those in Massachusetts. For a state with historically weak educational rankings, how did they make such remarkable progress? Fareed talks with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nicholas Kristof. Finally, when Theo Baker enrolled at Stanford University he was passionate about coding and excited to be in Silicon Valley. But over time, he grew troubled by what he saw as the influence of big tech over the university. He has written a new book about this and more, called “How to Rule the World: An Education in Power at Stanford University.” GUESTS: Abdi Latif Dahir (@Lattif); Sanam Vakil (@SanamVakil); Nicholas Kristof (@NickKristof); Theo Baker (@tab_delete) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Society often celebrates a man's physical labor- his calloused hands and strong back- while instructing him to hide or feel ashamed of his emotional scars. In this episode of Friday Field Notes, host Ryan Michler breaks down why carrying a bruised heart is not evidence of weakness, but proof that you actually showed up and lived. Drawing from Theodore Roosevelt's famous "Man in the Arena" speech, Ryan reframes past failures, divorces, addictions, and losses as valuable badges of effort. Stop sitting on the sidelines in the cheap seats. Learn how to build calluses on your heart, stop disguising cowardice as wisdom, and take one actionable step back into the arena. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - The Marks of Physical Labor 02:15 - The Unseen Bruises of a Man's Heart 04:50 - Theodore Roosevelt's "Citizenship in a Republic" 06:15 - The Man in the Arena 08:00 - Why Wounds Are Proof of Effort, Not Weakness 10:40 - Responding to Haters and Cheap-Seat Critics 15:45 - What True Sacrifice Looks Like 18:25 - Building Calluses on the Heart Through Resistance 22:30 - Sovereignty: Getting Back in the Ring 29:20 - Wisdom vs. Cowardice: Protecting vs. Avoiding 31:45 - Weekly Challenge: Re-Engage With What Bruised You 33:50 - Iron Council War Room Announcement Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
"Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” Luke 12:51-53 Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how applicable these Bible verses are to us today. While addressing the controversy around his interview with Kim Zember, Fr. Mike also highlights the dangers of creating our own "version of Jesus" and how when we do that, division becomes easier and easier. In what ways have you been tempted to create a version of Jesus that fits your own preferences?