Podcasts about rooted

211: Dance Therapy — Heal with Movement How are dance and health connected?  Is movement a form of medicine? Kiki is live on location at a Hawaiian luau. Today's Lexi:  Χορός – Choros – Dance In Today's Episode: In this immersive episode, Kefi Life goes on location for a joyful luau where movement becomes medicine. Rooted in cultural expression we look at the powerful science behind dance therapy.  Harvard research shows how dance improves cognitive function, reduces stress and supports overall health. Today you learn that dance isn't just art – it's a proven path to healing. Credits: Music: Spiro Dussias Vocals: Zabrina Hay Graphic Designer: Manos Koumparakis  

Why are so many young adults trusting social media over doctors, and what does that mean for how kids form wisdom? In this Facing the Dark episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy examine new global research revealing Gen Z's growing reliance on peer-driven and influencer-based information. Together, they explore the difference between knowledge and wisdom, why algorithms reward immediacy over discernment, and how parents can teach kids to seek truth deeply rather than settle for the first answer. Rooted in Scripture and practical mentoring, this conversation equips families to help kids hunger for understanding, cultivate discernment, and pursue a truly flourishing life grounded in Christ—not clicks.

Whitney Sanger isn't just a nonprofit founder — she's a mother of seven, a Dubuque native, a communications and storytelling pro, and the kind of woman who sees a gap and refuses to accept "that's just how it is" as an answer. In this conversation, Whitney shares the very personal journey that shaped her relationship with food, and how that journey eventually turned into Project Rooted — a nonprofit built on the belief that nutrition isn't only about what's on the plate… it's also about connection, dignity, community, and hope. We talk about the moment that sparked her curiosity (a simple school birthday lunch), the pushback she faced when she started asking bigger questions, and what it looked like to launch a nonprofit in early 2020 — and then pivot fast as the pandemic hit. You'll also hear how Project Rooted has evolved over the last five years, including their incredible Rooted Box program that's helping first graders build a relationship with fresh, local food in a way that's joyful, empowering, and deeply human. If you've ever felt a nudge to do something meaningful in your community — but you weren't sure where to start — Whitney's story will light something up in you. What You'll Hear in This Episode Whitney's early relationship with food — and how healing changed everything Why curiosity is often the beginning of meaningful work The birthday lunch that sparked the idea for Project Rooted How she found the right co-founder and built an aligned board What it looked like to launch in 2020… and pivot into immediate community impact The "Notes of Hope" that continue to anchor every program How the Rooted Box program works (and why kids LOVE "Rooted Box Day") Whitney's advice for anyone with a big idea that feels scary to say out loud What Whitney has found about herself: confidence + empathy Resources & Links Project Rooted Volunteer opportunities in Dubuque: volunteerdbq.com

As the year winds down, the noise of the past year gets louder. We see what we failed at and all that we've achieved. And then as January approaches, the world shouts at us to set our New Year resolutions, to chase fresh starts, to reinvent ourselves, to do more, be better, and try harder. But what if what your soul actually needs isn't a fresh start, but rest and obedience? Jesus doesn't heal through pressure, He heals through presence.  In this episode, Lindsey Maestas shares a gentle, Jesus-centered reflection for the holiday season and end of the year. She challenges herself, and her listeners, to live faithfully this year instead of doing everything to be hotter, richer, more, more, more.  Instead of pushing self-improvement or hustle spirituality, this episode invites you to slow down, breathe, and return to the heart of the gospel: Jesus is faithful, and he doesn't call us to live a burnt out life. Rooted in Scripture and lived experience, this episode speaks directly to women who feel quietly exhausted, emotionally spent, or spiritually worn down—especially those navigating marriage struggles, burnout, anxiety, or disappointment with how the year turned out. Have you already ordered my new book?! Don't Burn Your Own House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself for a Deeper Connection is available for pre-order NOW!  Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes like this! 

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Nikki: My superpower is focusing on what I can do. I can figure out a way.Momentum Coffee is more than just a place to grab your morning latte. Co-founded by Nikki Bravo, the Chicago-based coffee shop chain is building something bigger than beverages—it's creating intentional spaces for connection, growth, and community impact in underserved neighborhoods.As Nikki explains, “Momentum Coffee isn't just about business. Mission is at the core. We wouldn't be doing this just to make money. This really is about the communities and how we serve them.” From offering high-quality coffee and tea to creating jobs that keep dollars circulating locally, every decision at Momentum Coffee is rooted in purpose.What sets Momentum apart is its deliberate focus on under-resourced areas. Nikki and her husband, Tracy Powell, are careful about where they open locations and how they engage with the community. “Spaces in under-resourced areas need places where people can convene and be together,” Nikki says. “Momentum Coffee is able to do all of those things.”Beyond the café experience, Momentum Coffee is actively shaping people's lives. Nikki shared the story of an employee—a single mother of two—who, after working at Momentum for two years, became a first-time homeowner. “What we see here, what we're growing here at Momentum Coffee, is a lot of possibility,” Nikki says.In addition to its community-driven mission, Momentum Coffee recently launched a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign through Honeycomb Credit. This initiative invites supporters from across the country to invest in the company, helping it expand its impact while offering a financial return. “Through crowdfunding, it allows us not only to grow so that we impact more people, but have more people do that with us,” Nikki explains.Momentum Coffee's power-button logo symbolizes action and empowerment, perfectly reflecting its mission. With four locations and counting, Nikki and Tracy are proving that a coffee shop can do far more than serve drinks—it can create opportunities, empower individuals, and build stronger communities.By supporting their crowdfunding campaign, investors can help Momentum Coffee continue its inspiring work while becoming part of the journey.tl;dr:Momentum Coffee builds community in underserved neighborhoods by creating intentional spaces for connection.Nikki Bravo's team uses crowdfunding to expand while engaging and empowering their community.The coffee shop chain provides jobs that help employees achieve life-changing milestones like homeownership.Nikki's superpower—focusing on actionable solutions—enabled Momentum Coffee to thrive during the pandemic.This episode highlights how mission-driven businesses can create impact while remaining financially sustainable.How to Develop Focusing on What You Can Do As a SuperpowerNikki's superpower is their ability to focus on actionable solutions, no matter the challenge. As Nikki explains, “My superpower is focusing on what I can do. I can figure out a way.” This mindset has been key to navigating obstacles as a business owner, community leader, and parent. Nikki describes this strength as the ability to recognize the situation at hand and then take steps toward a solution.When Nikki and her husband opened a new Momentum Coffee location in early 2020, the pandemic forced the city to shut down just as they were ready to launch. Instead of giving up, Nikki pivoted. “We got an online solution and served coffee and pastries at the front door,” Nikki recalls. This step-by-step approach allowed Momentum to survive the early days of the pandemic and later thrive as a full-service café.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Start by identifying what is within your control and focus your energy there.Break challenges into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.Encourage others to take ownership of problems by asking, “What can you do?”Celebrate small wins to build confidence and momentum.Approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset rather than dwelling on barriers.By following Nikki's example and advice, you can make focusing on what you can do a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileNikki Bravo (she/her):Co-Founder and CEO, Momentum CoffeeAbout Momentum Coffee: Momentum Coffee is a Chicago-based coffee brand that pairs high-quality coffee service with deep community impact. Co-founded by Nikki Bravo and Tracy Powell, Momentum serves coffee, tea, pastries, and sandwiches across multiple locations in under-resourced neighborhoods, while also roasting its own beans and offering catering, wholesale, and a small business food incubator. Guided by its mission, “Rooted in Community, Powered by Coffee,” Momentum is committed to local hiring, workforce development, and partnerships that uplift entrepreneurs. More than a café, Momentum is a community anchor—creating welcoming spaces, training opportunities, and real economic mobility—while expanding its roasting and distribution program into a scalable, impact-driven coffee brand positioned for growth.Website: momentumcoffee.orgCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/momentumcoffeeandcoworking/aboutOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/momentum-coffeeBiographical Information: Nikki Bravo is a seasoned entrepreneur, community builder, and business leader dedicated to advancing equity, access, and economic opportunity. She is the Founder of Momentum Coffee and Coworking, a mission-driven social enterprise addressing inequities in the coffee shop and coworking space by creating welcoming, community-centered environments across Chicago. A Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses alum, Nikki brings deep expertise in finance, administration, and operations, with a proven ability to launch, scale, and sustain ventures that blend profitability with social impact.In addition to Momentum Coffee, Nikki serves as Executive Director of Ignite Technology and Innovation, a nonprofit developing affordable, technology-enabled workspaces in underserved communities worldwide. Her career also includes senior leadership roles with the City of Chicago and the Public Building Commission, where she oversaw complex operations across finance, human resources, and workforce development. Known for her collaborative leadership style and cross-functional expertise, Nikki is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, supporting local economies, and building inclusive ecosystems where communities can thrive.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/nikkibravoPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/nikkirbravoInstagram Handle: @bravo_nikki Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.CfPA President-elect's Vision for 2026 with Brian Belley, December 17 at 2:00 PM ET – reserve your spot now!If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

What does it mean to be an artist for the people? In this episode of Rising for Our Motherlands, we talk with muralists and cultural workers Cece Carpio and Chris “C” Gazaleh about making art in movement spaces — from the Philippines and Palestine to the murals that filled downtown Oakland after the George Floyd uprisings.Cece Carpio uses acrylic, ink, aerosol, and installations to tell stories of immigration, ancestry, resistance, and resilience. Her bold portraits blend folkloric forms with urban art techniques, honoring everyday people and their thriving presence. Cece has created and exhibited work across the world and currently serves as Galleries Manager for the San Francisco Arts Commission and Public Art Advisor for the City of Oakland.More: CeceCarpio.com | @CeceCarpioChris “C” Gazaleh is a San Francisco–born visual artist, musician, writer, organizer, and educator whose work uplifts Palestinian history, culture, and the struggle for freedom. Rooted in hip hop and graffiti, he developed his style early on and deepened his connection to his heritage while learning Arabic in Detroit. After returning home, he joined General Union of Palestine Students (GUPS) at San Francisco State University, helped create the Edward Said mural, and began painting murals throughout the community, working with youth to spread knowledge, love, and cultural pride.More: CGazaleh.com | @CGazalehTogether, we explore how art becomes a language for our families, nurtures collaboration, and uplifts community voices — and what it means to create under capitalist and imperialist systems.Special thanks to Women's Audio Mission and DJ Ari for hosting the recording of this episode.Featuring Music by Excentrik & Chris Gazaleh, Ruby Ibarra, Abe Batshon, Kimmortal, Public Enemy, Anderson Paak, & GingeeA huge thank you to Salma Taleb, Hesham Jarmakani, Francesca Juico, Chris Wanis, and Carmelo Ibanez for our beautiful theme music and to our co-conspirator & We Rise producer Cat Petru for weaving our voices and songs together.Podcast art created by nicole gervacio.

In this Advent message, we explore the powerful, often misunderstood nature of biblical hope through 1 Corinthians 13, Romans 8, and Romans 5. Scripture shows us that hope is both eternal and temporal: it endures beyond this life, yet it sustains us right now as we wait in the tension between promise and fulfillment. This teaching unpacks: • The difference between cultural "wishful thinking" and biblical hope (elpis) • Why faith, hope, and love remain — even when other things pass away • How hope operates in seasons of suffering and waiting • Why hope does not disappoint, even when life is painful • How the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and anchors us in God's love If you're weary, waiting, or struggling to hold on to hope in the middle of suffering, this message will remind you that God is faithful, His promises are sure, and the glory to come far outweighs the trials of this present age. Be encouraged. Keep hoping. God is not finished yet.

Sarah Stenson and Lars Olson teach us in today's episode that the temptation with this text is to tone down just how crazy this story is into something tame, understandable, and familiar. But, as you'll hear, this story is truly out of this world. Joseph thought his righteousness came from the law and his gentle demeanor toward Mary. Instead of stoning her, he was divorcing her quietly. Isn't he a good guy? But God's word came to Joseph in a dream and changed him forevermore. God is with us. You are out of time to save yourself. Now it's up to God's mercy through His Son, Jesus. CHALLENGE GRANTA Luther House of Study donor is sponsoring a challenge grant. If you sponsor one podcast episode by the end of the year, another podcast episode will be sponsored on your behalf. If you'd like to have your donation doubled, email Sarah Stenson at sarah@lhos.org or go to lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONLutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel.Care of Souls - AddictionSING TO THE LORD Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." To understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church, Lars Olson and Mason Van Essen sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. 

As winter deepens and the light continues to recede, the natural world invites us to slow down, rest, and turn inward. Many of us feel pressure to do the opposite; to keep producing, pushing, and performing as if it's always spring. In this episode of Insightful Adventuring, Heather explores the wisdom of darkness and what it means to root into winter rest; both seasonally and within the body. This conversation gently weaves together earth-based rhythms and the lived experience of perimenopause, reframing this time of life not as a breakdown, but as a meaningful threshold. Like winter, perimenopause often asks for deeper rest, clearer boundaries, and a return to inner knowing. Rather than resisting these signals, we explore what becomes possible when we listen. If living in rhythm with the seasons and listening more closely to your body feels supportive, I share quiet reflections, seasonal prompts, and nature-based practices in my Wild & Rooted newsletter. You're welcome to join if it feels like a fit. Visit www.heatherwebsterwellness.com to learn more

In this episode, Kelly sits down with Chelsea Blackwell from Love Is Blind to explore her transformative journey on and off the show. From navigating undeniable connections and imperfect timing to discovering herself in the spotlight and embracing her personal glow-up, Chelsea's candidness, charm, and heartfelt insights, along with her honest revelations about Love Is Blind, make this episode an unmissable journey for anyone curious about love, personal growth, and embracing their own glow-up. [1:12] Love is Blind Takeaway "It's been such an awesome experience. You know, I didn't get a husband, but I got a lot of good connections from it" [10:46] Undeniable Connection "So not only were we really connected with our hearts and our souls, and our minds, but it obviously was not a secret." [15:57] Imperfect Timing "He says that if we met out at a bar, we could have made it work, but it was just the way we met and how loud and intense and crazy it was." [25:05] The Big Blowout "We're having a good time meeting my parents, and all of a sudden my producer goes, 'So now is a really good time to tell Jimmy everything he did that pissed you off this week.'" [33:14] Self-Discovery in the Spotlight "I think the biggest blessing that came from Love Is Blind is that I looked at myself in a whole different light." [41:02] Ozempic Journey "I've struggled with weight my entire life and I finally feel incredible and it's just a part of my story." [48:23] Connection Without Commitment "I love having conversations and hearing people's stories. I think right now, mentally, I'm not looking for anything serious." [53:00] Rooted in Purpose "I'm connecting with my divine energy and it's just such a good feeling. So once we're there, I'm able to really help my community and my followers get to where I am as well." [1:03:12] Invisible Effort "People don't understand how hard it is to create content." [1:08:13] Bittersweet  "It sucked, you know, it was awful, but I had such a good experience. I had a great relationship with Jimmy. I didn't care how it was portrayed." Follow Chelsea Blackwell on Instagram @chelseadblackwell - https://www.instagram.com/chelseadblackwell?igsh=MThnZTR4aW5ydm9paQ== Follow Chelsea Blackwell on Tiktok @chelseadblackwell - https://www.tiktok.com/@chelseadblackwell?_r=1&_t=ZS-92B5uJbNiqK Connect with Kelly here: Follow Me on Instagram at @chaselifewithkelly - https://www.instagram.com/chaselifewithkelly/ Follow Me on TikTok at @iamkellychase - https://www.tiktok.com/@iamkellychase _t=8WCIP546ma6&_r=1 Subscribe to My YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNqhN0CXWVATKfUjwrm65-g Work with Me: Private 1:1 Business & Mindset Coaching- More Details- https://www.chaselifewithkelly.com/private-coaching  Rejection to Redemption - More Details: https://www.chaselifewithkelly.com/rejection-to-redemption  Online Business Accelerator- More Details: https://www.chaselifewithkelly.com/online-business-accelerator  Money Magnet - More Details: https://www.chaselifewithkelly.com/money-magnet  Goddess Magic Course Bundle - More Details - https://www.chaselifewithkelly.com/goddess-magic Kelly's Favorites  https://linktr.ee/chaselifewithkelly Visit Our Website!  https://www.chaselifewithkelly.com   

We live in a world of extremes. Everything feels like it has to be one way or the other—even when it comes to love. Is love all grace—“be nice, don't rock the boat”? Or all truth—“facts don't care about your feelings”? In this message, we look at how Jesus refuses the false choice between grace or truth. Scripture tells us that Jesus is full of grace and full of truth—not a balance, not a blend, but the fullness of both. Rooted in John 1, this sermon explores: How Jesus is the Word made flesh Why grace and truth arrive together in Christ What it looks like when Jesus embodies both (John 8, Luke 23) How the cross tells the full story of God's love What it means to live this out in our relationships and as a church At Christmas, we don't just celebrate a baby in a manger—we celebrate that grace and truth stepped into the world. Whether you lean more toward grace or truth, this message invites us to follow Jesus into a better way: loving well, speaking truth with kindness, and becoming a community that reflects His heart.

Our Women's Minister, Libby Hutchinson, and our Women's Podcast Coordinator, Amy Carr, break down the next two steps in using the Rooted Bible study method.

From Restless to Rooted: Joshua Williams on Calling, Repentance, and a Faith That Endures.What happens when the map you drew for your life no longer fits the road God is actually giving you? In this continuation of our conversation with Joshua Williams, we trace a candid journey through disappointment, redirection, and the quiet practices that turn belief into a way of life. This isn't highlight-reel faith; it's the daily, hidden work of following Jesus when the feelings fade and the next step isn't obvious.In this episode you'll hear about:Calling vs. career: how God reshapes ambition into service and steadies the heart when doors close.Repentance as renewal: not shame, but the rhythm that keeps love honest and hope alive.Prayer that holds in storms: learning to pray Scripture when words run out.Community and accountability: why “just me and Jesus” isn't enough when you're tired, tempted, or unsure.Sacrament and Scripture together: how worship and the Word form a faith that lasts beyond trends.Suffering without cynicism: carrying grief to Christ and finding courage to begin again.Why listen: If you're in a season of waiting, change, or quiet rebuilding, Joshua's story offers both clarity and comfort—practical ways to keep moving with Jesus when you're short on answers but rich in questions.If this conversation encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs steadying grace, and leave a quick review with the one practice—prayer, repentance, or community—you're committing to this week.**********What if the road to Jesus runs through a guru? We sit down with Joshua to trace his unlikely path from a Romanian “enlightenment” school to Orthodox Christianity, and we ask the questions seekers rarely say aloud: Do mystical experiences prove truth, or do they force us to ask which spirit we're listening to?Joshua describes leaving the U.S. to “throw himself into the arms of the universe,” clinging to ideas like reincarnation and religious unity while resisting the moral claims of Christ. Inside a syncretic school that blended Hindu and Buddhist concepts, he encountered a compelling teacher, apparent clairvoyance, and a vision of reality where Brahman reigns as impersonal essence. That promise of unity felt expansive—until it demanded he treat personhood, love, and moral responsibility as illusions. We contrast that with the Orthodox claim that God is personal and tri-personal: the Trinity as eternal communion, love that exists before creation, and a God who is everywhere present yet distinct from creation. Rather than absorbing us into a faceless One, God calls us by name and invites real relationship.Across the conversation, we map the turning points: irritation at the name of Jesus giving way to self-awareness, recognition of authentic Christian witness, and a rethinking of “science versus faith” that leaves shallow slogans behind. We explore discernment of spirits, why power isn't proof, and how an impersonal metaphysics drifts toward quiet nihilism. Then we look at the Orthodox vision of personhood that grounds meaning: if we're made in God's image, our capacity for love is not a cosmic trick—it's the point.If you've chased enlightenment and still long for a face behind the light, this story will meet you where you are. Listen, share with a friend who's wrestling with pantheism or syncretism, and leave a review to help others find the show. Subscribe for more conversations that take faith, reason, and experience seriously.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, XPlease leave a comment with your thoughts!

Alli and Melisa chat about how the seemingly innocent move of talking about friends can grow into hurtful gossip and setting the intentions of how to be more mindful about friendships. We also share the 9 habits of people who protect their energy ... Along with this powerful message about perimenopause from Rooted to WellnessEditor's Note: Melisa mistakenly says koalas are "allergic" to eucalyptus. While eucalyptus is toxic, their digestive system is able to tolerate it. However, the leaves take a long time to digest which is what causes their lethargic nature. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lesbian-chronicles-coming-out-later-in-life--5601514/support.

Use promo code: FREEMONTH to get the first month free until the end of 2025.⁠⁠https://taking-the-land.supercast.com/?coupon=FREEMONTHSermon #6 from Tuesday Morning of the 2025 International Prescott Summer Bible Conference“Strengthen my inner man.”That was the Apostle Paul's desperate prayer—not for better circumstances, but for a stronger soul. In this unforgettable sermon, Pastor Brown pulls back the curtain on what's really holding many believers back: wounded hearts, broken beams, and fear of intimacy.Preached with raw conviction and real-life illustrations—from a stroke survivor niece to a crumbling century-old house—this message exposes the hidden rooms in our hearts that we've locked away from Christ. But the good news is: Jesus wants to dwell there too. Not just in your salvation, but in every part of your soul.This sermon will move you, challenge you, and most of all, heal you.

BGMania B-Sides #38 of BGMania: A Video Game Music Podcast. Today on the show, Bedroth steps into a softly glowing winter dream with Christmas Wonderland 3, a cozy hidden-object adventure that trades adrenaline for ambiance, inviting players to slow down and soak in the season's magic. Rooted in warmth, nostalgia, and gentle holiday cheer, Christmas Wonderland 3's soundtrack wraps familiar festive motifs in tender arrangements and calm, melodic phrasing. Twinkling melodies, soothing instrumentation, and a relaxed pace create an atmosphere that feels less like a crackling fireplace on a snowy evening, perfectly capturing the quiet joy and comforting traditions that define the holiday season. Email the show at bgmaniapodcast@gmail.com with requests for upcoming episodes, questions, feedback, comments, concerns, or any other thoughts you'd like to share! Special thanks to our Executive Producers: Jexak, Xancu, Jeff & Mike. EPISODE PLAYLIST AND CREDITS Merry Christmas from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Mini Game 1 from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Mini Game 3 from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Music 1 from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Music 2 from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Music 3 from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Music 4 from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Silent Night from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Three Kings from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] Wonderland from Christmas Wonderland 3 [Unknown, 2012] LINKS Patreon: https://patreon.com/bgmania Website: https://bgmania.podbean.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/cC73Heu Facebook: BGManiaPodcast X: BGManiaPodcast Instagram: BGManiaPodcast TikTok: BGManiaPodcast YouTube: BGManiaPodcast Twitch: BGManiaPodcast PODCAST NETWORK Very Good Music: A VGM Podcast Listening Religiously

This is the final episode of Rooted in Retail 2025, where Crystal Vilkaitis, the Wolf of Main Street, reflects on the year and shares exactly what retailers should bring into 2026—and what to leave behind. From elevating in-store experiences to mastering live selling, paid ads, and AI, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help your retail business thrive in the new year.Crystal breaks down practical strategies to make 2026 your most successful year yet![2:18] - Events are exploding as people crave connection.[5:28] - Consistency in customer experience starts with employee support & training[9:04] - Organic reach isn't enough; strategic ads grow visibility, foot traffic, and email lists.[17:21] - A fast-growing retail channel; plan ahead with product themes, pre-ads, and post-event marketing.[19:20] - Posting imperfect content builds trust, connection, and consistency.[24:46] - AI is here to stay—tools for automation, customer insights, and efficiency.Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation Join our newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch!

Series: 2025 - Rooted in Christ: A Study of Colossians and PhilemonService: Sunday WorshipType: Bible MessageSpeaker: Phillip W. Martin

The sermon centers on the profound theological truth that salvation is not earned by human worthiness but is a divine gift extended to the humble and unworthy, illustrated through the story of shepherds who, despite their lowly status, were chosen to witness Christ's birth. It emphasizes that God's grace is sovereign—He qualifies the undeserving, gives clear direction through Scripture, and calls believers to immediate obedience, as the shepherds did when they rushed to find the infant Messiah. The message calls Christians to live with boldness and joy, sharing the gospel with urgency, as the shepherds did, because the good news of Jesus Christ is both life-altering and worth proclaiming. Rooted in passages like Romans 3 and Ephesians 2, it affirms that salvation is by grace through faith, not works, and urges believers to embrace simplicity, trust, and testimony in their walk with God.

In a world searching for truth, God sent a witness to point beyond himself to the true Light. Rooted in John 1:6–13, this message explores John the Baptist's faithful testimony to Christ, challenges believers to live as bold witnesses through evangelism, and proclaims the powerful truth that salvation is a work of God alone—granted to all who receive and believe in Jesus.

The sermon centers on the profound theological truth that salvation is not earned by human worthiness but is a divine gift extended to the humble and unworthy, illustrated through the story of shepherds who, despite their lowly status, were chosen to witness Christ's birth. It emphasizes that God's grace is sovereign—He qualifies the undeserving, gives clear direction through Scripture, and calls believers to immediate obedience, as the shepherds did when they rushed to find the infant Messiah. The message calls Christians to live with boldness and joy, sharing the gospel with urgency, as the shepherds did, because the good news of Jesus Christ is both life-altering and worth proclaiming. Rooted in passages like Romans 3 and Ephesians 2, it affirms that salvation is by grace through faith, not works, and urges believers to embrace simplicity, trust, and testimony in their walk with God.

Audio stories from Marwen's Middle School community. Young people interview, research, and collaborate to tell their story in a podcast format. students from the Podcast Program at Marwen engage in conversation with professionals that shape Chicago's vibrant life. Marwen exists to educate and inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Rooted in the core values of creative youth development (youth voice, racial and social justice, collective action) our programs aim to cultivate youth-centered, supportive, and collaborative environments and communities to facilitate relevant visual arts programming with Chicago's young people since 1987. This episode is fully sponsored by Marwen's Young Voices: Podcast Stories (Pathways). Music Tracks by Beat by Beat.

Audio stories from Marwen's Middle School community. Young people interview, research, and collaborate to tell their story in a podcast format. students from the Podcast Program at Marwen engage in conversation with professionals that shape Chicago's vibrant life. Marwen exists to educate and inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Rooted in the core values of creative youth development (youth voice, racial and social justice, collective action) our programs aim to cultivate youth-centered, supportive, and collaborative environments and communities to facilitate relevant visual arts programming with Chicago's young people since 1987. This episode is fully sponsored by Marwen's Young Voices: Podcast Stories (Pathways). Music Tracks by Beat by Beat.

Audio stories from Marwen's Middle School community. Young people interview, research, and collaborate to tell their story in a podcast format. students from the Podcast Program at Marwen engage in conversation with professionals that shape Chicago's vibrant life. Marwen exists to educate and inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Rooted in the core values of creative youth development (youth voice, racial and social justice, collective action) our programs aim to cultivate youth-centered, supportive, and collaborative environments and communities to facilitate relevant visual arts programming with Chicago's young people since 1987. This episode is fully sponsored by Marwen's Young Voices: Podcast Stories (Pathways). Music Tracks by Beat by Beat.

Description:Peace can feel elusive — globally, socially, personally. So what does it look like to reclaim it? And how do we rise when everything feels beyond dead? In this encore episode, we look back on one of our most galvanizing conversations from our For the Love of Peace series with Father James Martin — Jesuit priest, bestselling author, and one of the most trusted spiritual voices in America. Together, Jen and Father Martin explore what a centuries-old story still teaches us today. Rooted in the raising of Lazarus, their discussion unfolds into a modern invitation: What are we willing to let die so that we can live? Drawing on grief, mystery, advocacy, and the disruptive tenderness of Jesus, this conversation reaches for peace in the places that feel buried — in the church, in our communities, in ourselves. They talk candidly about: why Jesus still disorients us (and why that's good) the comfort and challenge of real resurrection why faith should push us toward the margins, not away from them and how letting old patterns die brings us closer to peace If you're hungry for spiritual clarity, exhausted by harmful religion, or longing for a God who feels like a deep breath — this episode is a balm. Father Martin's humanity and integrity remind us what faith can still be: hopeful, liberating, trustworthy. May this encore meet you where you are — in grief, confusion, curiosity, or longing — and call you to come forth into peace, presence, and new life. Thought-provoking Quotes: “We're called to reach out to people who feel—and who are—marginalized and excluded. That's pretty clear in the gospels. For Jesus there's no ‘us and them,' there's just ‘us.' He's about making the community into an us.” — Father James Martin “Jesus is fully human and fully divine. And it's the fully human part that a lot of people have a hard time with. He weeps, he gets frustrated, he gets tired — and we have to keep those two things in tension, because if we lose sight of either one we risk not really understanding who he is.”— Father James Martin “What are the things in my life — patterns, behaviors, resentments — that I have to let die? What do I want to leave in the tomb? And can I trust that God is calling me to something new?” — Father James Martin “So much of the Christian message is forgiveness — letting resentment, bitterness, and grudges die. That does lead to peace. ‘Peace be with you' isn't just comfort — it's invitation, it's transformation, it's listening to God and letting things go.”— Father James Martin Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again by Rachel Held Evans - https://amzn.to/494t9Uo The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything: A Spirituality for Real Life by Father James Martin - https://amzn.to/3Kn8KAI Learning to Pray: A Guide for Everyone by Father James Martin – https://amzn.to/44nfAwK Transgender People Can Be Baptized Catholic  Reuters Article – https://www.reuters.com/world/transsexuals-can-be-baptized-catholic-serve-godparents-vatican-says-2023-11-08/ Come Forth: The Promise of Jesus's Greatest Miracle by Father James Martin – https://amzn.to/3KS1c9a Mary Karr – https://www.marykarr.com/   The Seven Storey Mountain byThomas Merton – https://amzn.to/44TmdXL Dorothy Day — https://www.dorothydayguild.org/dorothy-day7ce4a03b Guest's Links: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamesmartinsj/?hl=en Twitter - https://x.com/JamesMartinSJ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FrJamesMartin/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesmartinsj?lang=en Connect with Jen!Jen's Website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen's Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmakerJen's Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen's Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmakerJen's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is presented by Audacy.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor McNamara joins Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball to talk travel, football and language. Ian & Conor give their take on Salah after the drama unfolded with them at Elland Road. They look ahead to the Wear-Tyne derby, it's Ali vs Ian in Clash of the Commentators, there are yet more unintended pub names, and which commentary phrases will end up in our Great Glossary? Suggestions welcome on WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk00:35 Why we all love San Siro 04:10 The Bruges or Brugge debate returns 07:15 Salah story unfolds with Ian & Conor 09:20 Has Salah played his last game for Liverpool? 16:25 John Murray's message from Madrid 20:45 Wear-Tyne derby among Premier League commentaries 27:05 Unintended pub names 40:20 Clash of the Commentators 46:35 Great Glossary of Football Commentary5 Live / BBC Sounds Premier League commentaries: Sat 1500 Liverpool v Brighton, Sat 1500 Chelsea v Everton on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Burnley v Fulham, Sun 1400 Sunderland v Newcastle, Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Man City on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Tottenham on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1400 West Ham v Aston Villa on Sports Extra 3, Sun 1630 Brentford v Leeds.Glossary so far (in alphabetical order):DIVISION ONE Bosman, Couldn't sort their feet out, Cruyff Turn, Dead-ball specialist, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Perfect hat-trick, Points to the spot, Rabona, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Tiki-taka, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO Ball stays hit, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Good leave, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Nutmeg, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Steal a march, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, That's great… (football), Thunderous strike, Walk it in. UNSORTED 2-0 is a dangerous score, After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator's curse, Coupon buster, Cultured/Educated left foot, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalkeepers' Union, Goalmouth scramble, Good touch for a big man, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, Park the bus, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Put it in the mixer, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stinging the palms, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Throw their cap on it, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Towering header, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, We've got a cup tie on our hands, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.

"…that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17b–19  

Send us a textIn this episode of The Fresh Bunch, we dive into the remarkable journey of the Sassen family—whose story began on a small carnation farm in the Netherlands in the 1960s and blossomed into one of the world's most renowned floral brands.Marc Sassen, destined to be a grower from childhood, reflects on working alongside his mother and siblings and how those early days shaped the family's boutique, art-driven approach to flowers. Though the brand has far outgrown the original farm, the Sassens continue to operate with the same hands-on craftsmanship and creative passion that set them apart.We unpack the origins of the VIP name, the evolution of the brand, and the deep family history behind it. Marc also shares how the next generation of Sassens is stepping in to carry the legacy forward.Plus, we explore the powerful partnership with Jet Fresh Growers—from the exclusive VIP Choco Roses to new innovations in VIP breeding. This episode is filled with insights on positivity, patience, creativity, and what it truly takes to bring something special to the floral world.

What if success was less about status and more about gratitude, service, and love? In this Unstoppable Mindset conversation, I talk with strategist and social media influencer Cynthia Washington about climbing and then stepping away from the corporate ladder, choosing a “socio economic experiment” that stripped life back to the basics, and discovering what really matters. You'll hear how growing up in Pasadena, studying at Cal Poly Pomona and Columbia Business School, and working with brands like Enterprise and Zions Bank all led Cynthia to a life centered on emotional intelligence, mentoring young women in tech, and leading with heart. I believe you'll come away seeing gratitude, leadership, and your own potential to be unstoppable in a very different light. Highlights: 00:09 – Explore how early life experiences influence the values that guide personal and professional growth.02:59 – Learn how changing direction can uncover the strengths that shape long-term leadership.05:29 – See how pivotal transitions help define a clearer sense of purpose.10:07 – Discover what stepping away from convention reveals about identity and success.20:05 – Reflect on how redefining success can shift your entire approach to work and life.22:13 – Learn how a grounded mindset practice strengthens resilience and clarity.34:25 – Explore how personal evolution can grow into a mission to empower the next generation.59:11 – Gain a new perspective on how we perceive ability, inclusion, and human potential. About the Guest: Cynthia Washington: Bridging Societal Gaps Through Leadership, Influence, and Love Cynthia Washington is an accomplished business professional, an award-winning leader, and international influencer whose life and career embodies resilience, vision, and compassion.  While studying at Columbia University, she embarked on a socio-economic experiment, which became her reality, highlighting her journey across her social media platforms in hope of sharing her deep commitment to bridge societal gaps and create a better world—one love style, one courageous step at a time.  A proud Park City local of more than twenty years, Cynthia's story begins in Southern California, where she grew up between the San Gabriel Mountains and the beaches of Malibu.  Her cousins called her “Malibu Barbie,” and her stepbrother called her “Love.”  Rooted in her values and guided by her heart, Cynthia's story is not only one of success but of transformation—a legacy driven by her belief that we deserve better. Cynthia leads with integrity and authenticity. She continues to expand her global network of leadership, uniting hearts and minds to inspire lasting, positive change on the right side of history with a framework of faith, family and fun that is built on a foundation of love, kindness, compassion and a hope for peace. One Love, Bob Marley style. Professionally, Cynthia Washington stands at the intersection of strategy, leadership, and emotional intelligence. An agile and results-driven leader, she has distinguished herself through her ability to combine quantitative intuition with deep empathy—qualities that make her both a visionary and a unifier. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she excels in developing teams, leading organizational change, and driving sales performance across diverse industries. Her strategic mindset and exceptional communication skills have made her a trusted partner to executives and innovators alike. Cynthia's work fosters meaningful engagement between employees and senior leaders, helping organizations align vision with values. Through her global portfolio of projects, she has sharpened her expertise in marketing, leadership development, and brand transformation, helping companies from Park City to Silicon Slopes and across international markets thrive. Her career is a testament to excellence, purpose, and adaptability—qualities that have earned her numerous accolades and the respect of peers worldwide. Among her many achievements, Cynthia was honored as a SheTech Champion Impact Award Recipient at the Women Tech Awards, celebrating her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to empowering young women in technology. For more than five years, she has stood alongside thousands of high school students—mentoring, volunteering, and serving as a role model for the next generation of innovators. Motivated by her desire to create a better world for her daughter, she embarked on what she lovingly calls her “mom mission”—a service journey dedicated to making her community and the world around her better. During her sabbatical from Silicon Valley into this transformative period, Cynthia launched LVL UP with CW, her brand, leveraging her expertise to help local and global businesses grow, evolve, and thrive. As an international social media influencer, she has used her platform not for fame or recognition, but for global impact, sharing messages of resilience, hope, and empowerment. This work is a lesson of intersectionality and bridges the worlds of fashion, sports, philanthropy, business, money, technology, spirituality, global preservation, health and wellness in hopes of leveling up and shifting the societal norms. She has partnered with brands across industries to elevate visibility, deepen engagement, and build authentic customer connections. Through brand ambassador relationships, social media management, and content creation, Cynthia has amplified voices, strengthened communities, and showcased how influence, when rooted in integrity, is a force for good. That same belief shines through in Cynthia Washington's powerful memoir, Mind Matters: The Story of My Life. Written during her sabbatical, the respectfully honest memoir captures her life's “grind with grit” story. The cover, graced by her daughter's original artwork, wraps her book with a big thank you hug, encapsulating the power of love that anchors Cynthia's bold voyage.  Mind Matters explores her corporate climb and fall, her studies at Columbia University, her travels across the United States with her daughter, the Aloha spirit of Hawaii, and her experiences in Hollywood and the music industry. Interwoven through these chapters are stories of friendship, including her personal connections with cultural icons like Eminem and Kobe Bryant, whose wisdom and creativity shaped what Cynthia calls The Trifecta - a guiding philosophy built on Kobe's Mamba Mentality, the music of Eminem, and her own life's work. Three forces that together drive her vision and her ability to live her socio-economic experiment proving money is a tool and the real power is in the mind. “You can do anything you set your mind to, man” - Eminem Mind Matters: The Story of My Life is available on Amazon and other major online retailers and can also be ordered through local bookstores. The memoir has been nominated for The Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence in Independent Publishing, a recognition of both its literary merit and its heartfelt message of perseverance. Yet, true to her character, Cynthia did not embark on this journey for fame or recognition—she wrote it to give back, to inspire, and to remind readers everywhere that no matter where you come from, with a healthy positive mindset you too can change the trajectory of your life. Beyond her work as an author and international leader, Cynthia lives a simple life.  She is a mom, a trailblazer, and an advocate, representing many initiatives that level up society and bridge societal gaps. She turned her pain into her strength and used that as fuel to ignite a movement.  Her heart is full of gratitude for all the bands and their aid, as they played a meaningful role in inspiring the Band Aid, a global movement for unity and peace that emerged during a time when the world needed hope most. A true Band Aid. Ways to connect with Cynthia**:** Instagram https://www.instagram.com/misscdub Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-washington-1b13a265 Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Matters-Story-My-Life/dp/B0DJRPQTY2 About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us. Hi everyone. Welcome to another episode of unstoppable mindset. We're glad you're with us today, wherever you happen to be, hope you're having a good day, and hope that we can inspire you and make this a fun time for you as well. Our guest today is Cynthia Washington. Cynthia describes herself as standing at the intersection of strategy, leadership and an emotional intelligence, and I know that she's going to talk more about that and what what brought her to come to that conclusion, but I've been looking at her information. I think she's got a lot of interesting stuff to talk to us about, and we'll get to it. But for now, Cynthia, welcome to unstoppable mindset. We're glad you're here. Cynthia Washington  02:05 Oh, thank you, Michael. I appreciate being here and spending this time with you today, and I'm looking forward to our conversation. Michael Hingson  02:13 Well, I am as well. Well, why don't we start? I love to start this way with the the early Cynthia, if you will. Cynthia Washington  02:20 Of course, yes, the early Cynthia. I grew up in Pasadena, California, that Southern California, near the Rose Bowl in the San Gabriel Mountains. I attended an all girls private Catholic school for my seventh to 12th grades. I attended also Cal Poly Pomona, where I studied international business and marketing. And I love everything Southern California. I've always had this dream of living in Park City, and I ended up coming here in when was it 2004 so I've been here almost 21 years. Michael Hingson  03:04 So when you were at Cal Poly, did you help build the Rose Parade Float? Cynthia Washington  03:09 I did not build the Rose Parade Float, even though both Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona do a collaborative effort to build one every year since I grew up with the Rose Parade in my backyard, I had my own special moments with that. I always wanted to be on the Rose Parade court, and so my mom put me into a many different pageants, which helped prepare me and built my confidence so that I could be the person I am today. And I'm forever grateful for that experience like sports, it teaches you about competition, failure and set you up for success. Michael Hingson  04:05 Yes. And again, what did you study at Cal Poly, Cynthia Washington  04:10 international business and marketing? Okay, I originally started in microbiology. I had finished with the intention to become a doctor, and realized I could not stomach blood or needles, and so I quickly changed my major once I made that realization, and I changed my major to English, because I love reading Shakespeare Books. Everything is just so fascinating, fascinating about the English language and its literature. So I studied that for a little while, my father told me that I needed to do something different, and therefore I changed my major to international business and marketing. Michael Hingson  05:00 Hmm, that was different than English by any standard. Yeah. Cynthia Washington  05:06 So it was definitely different. Well, he is a businessman, a banker, and I think you know, for him, it was important for me to kind of follow in those footsteps, which I have, ironically, and I'm forever grateful for him for pushing me in a different direction, I use all three though, the science, the technology, the English and the international business skills in my current role, so, or roles, Michael Hingson  05:37 well, so you graduated. Did you go on and get any advanced degrees or just a bachelor's? Cynthia Washington  05:43 Oh, well, I did. It took me a while, too, though. I recently, in 2022 applied to Columbia University, actually Columbia Business School, and I completed their chief marketing officer executive education program with a Certificate in Business Excellence from Columbia Business School. So yes, I did eventually go back to school. However, I had a few careers in and amongst that along my path and my journey, which helped me have a more well rounded knowledge, yeah, to enter into that up advanced learning. Michael Hingson  06:35 So what did you do after you graduated from Cal Poly? Cynthia Washington  06:40 After I graduated from Cal Poly, I took a gap year, to be honest, and in that gap year, I learned so much about myself. I intersected with Hollywood for a brief moment in time, developed some really great, lasting friendships that have surpassed time. In addition to that, I skied, I snowboard, I learned to surf, and did all the things that I just needed to do as a California girl, yes, it was quite fun and bolted me into the person I am today. With that being said, I once again, had my father reminding me that it was time to get a job, and so I ventured into the management trainee program with enterprise run a car, climbed that corporate ladder, eventually having a territory from Santa Barbara to San Diego that I managed and oversaw a team inside one of our insurance partners headquarters, Which was really amazing opportunity. Then that took me, with a relocation package to Utah with my husband and our newborn baby to come and plant roots. Here he they enterprise was ahead of times in the fact that they wanted to harvest talent from different parts of the United States to strengthen the team they were building in Utah. My husband and I at the time, were part of that strategy, which was really an amazing opportunity, because I was one of a handful women managers that were brought on to the Utah team, and we were able to establish ourselves as influencers and leaders to help grow the women leadership network within Utah and Idaho for enterprise. Michael Hingson  09:14 You said, early I'm sorry. Go ahead. Go ahead. You said early on that you always wanted to go to Park City. Why was that? Sounds like, you know, you got to live your dream. But why was that? Yes. Cynthia Washington  09:26 Well, my father worked a lot, and for him to disconnect from work, we would come and visit Park City or travel to Hawaii. Well, we summer it every summer in Kauai for the month of July. So to contrast that we had time in Park City, Utah before it was what it has become, which was really fascinating. And I loved having the exposure to the Four Seasons and just the. Um, simple life that park city offered was really refreshing, coming from the hustle and bustle of Downtown LA and being in the city, it was just something I dreamt of, and I'm so grateful to have lived that dream, to be here and have to and to have raised my daughter here as well Michael Hingson  10:27 makes sense. And as I said, you now get to live your dream. You're living where you wanted to, and you've been there now for, like, 21 years, and you sound like you haven't changed your mind, you're very happy with it. Cynthia Washington  10:43 Yes, you know, my daughter's graduating college soon, and perhaps maybe I'll think of another location to move to. But for now, this is what I call home. This is where I've planted my my seeds and my roots for our little single mom family. So yeah, it's been great. Michael Hingson  11:06 Well, so you you say that you lived a social, socio economic experiment. Tell me more about what that means. Yes. Cynthia Washington  11:19 So while at Columbia University, I opted to live a socio economic experience to contrast the life that I grew up with. So as I mentioned, I attended Cal Poly, worked with enterprise, had a great career with them. When I came to Utah, I kept that career. After my divorce, I began another career at America first credit union. I saw, I saw that I needed to take a step back from the career world, and so I took a 20 hour teller position as I was figuring out my relationship with my husband and determining our next steps. And so once that was dissolved, I had this great team who saw my leadership skills and helped me climb another corporate ladder. After a few years one of my previous colleagues came to me and asked me to venture into Silicon Valley, doing business in Utah with a team, a Medicare sales team that I managed, and that was quite fascinating, talk about baptism by fire. I learned all things Medicare on the fly, and had a really amazing opportunity with that. And so I have steadily over time, climbed three different corporate ladders, made excellent income, six figures, generously raising my daughter here in Utah, and it has always been in the back of my mind to understand life from a different lens, to understand it with a different perspective. And so as a result, when I was in the Columbia application process, I had become really, really, really sick, deathly sick, I like to say I was on my death bed when I applied to Colombia because I was surviving on water and pressed juices for a little over a month, because I was having some difficulties internally. And so while I had that downtime, I had a lot of time to think, and it was important to me to apply at Columbia. Well, I originally applied to Northwestern and they recommended me to Columbia. And so when I did my Columbia application, it was important for me not to just take the northwestern recommendation, but to also set myself apart. And I thought, well, the socio economic experiment would be great at something I've been thinking about, you know, living life through a different lens. I had the savings built up so that I could do so. And I thought, Yes, I can do this. I can You can do anything you set your mind to. Quote. Eminem, I did. I did that. I lived it. I abandoned my ego, I abandoned all the luxurious items that I had, and lived this truly simple life. And it was quite fascinating, because the more I trusted that process, the more I grew and became still and trusted God's guidance in this journey that I was creating. Fast forward through the social media aspect of everything, I was reminded of some Hollywood friends that I had forgotten about, to be honest. And I don't know how you forget about them, but I did, because I never really spoke about those tender moments I had, and cherish them within my heart and my soul. But I was overcoming this really traumatic experience, a bad, bad relationship that put me into hiding, yet with being at Columbia, living the socio economic experiment and sharing my life through my social media influencer role, my Hollywood friends found me in a time of need, and through this reintroduction, I was reminded of a night I like to coin as dream night, and I call it dream night because that's the night I met Marshall Mathers, who the world knows as Eminem, and he and I were from completely different aspects of life, with completely different perspectives on life, and yet, when we met, we intersected. I was leaving Hollywood, he was coming into it, and we spent together, as silly as it sounds, playing beer pong, thinking through all of the world's problems. And in that conversation, I had mentioned that one day I was going to go to Columbia, and one day I was going to live the socio economic experiment so that I could help the world. And you know, he envisioned his dream of becoming this rap star, and together, we would reunite our forces for good to help elevate the world. And I forgot about this moment in time, to be quite honest, I just continued on a path that I naturally was creating when I was younger, because before meeting Marshall, I had met Kobe Bryant while I was a student graduating Cal Poly, and he was new, upcoming rising superstar into basketball. He had his eye on Vanessa. Her group of friends were very smart, and he knew he needed to knowledge up to get his girl. And so here I was this book smart girl, kind of hanging out in Hollywood. I had worked a job at Staples Center, because I love the Lakers, and it was really cool. I, you know, had me more court side than it did have me working because I gave away more of my tables, and I did actually work to spend time building these relationships with Kobe and the Lakers, which I'm so forever grateful for, and because Kobe recognized my book smart, his spotlight and together, we would have these Kobe talks, which ultimately built the framework for Mama mentality and my only ask of him as I exited Hollywood and that era of my life was that he named mob and mentality, mob and mentality, which he did. And so I, you know, I had. Had Mamba mentality. This up and comer rap star Eminem, who, honestly, I didn't even know was Eminem. For me, he was this guy from Detroit that I met through my friend Travis Barker, who happened to be the drummer blink, 182 but I was so unaware of all these people and who they were. They were, to me, were just people I knew and friends that I had. And, you know, fast forward to where we're at now. It's like we're all living our dreams, and it's really super cool. But the socio economic experiment came from that dream night with Marshall and this whole concept of who and how we wanted to be in this future version of ourselves and I wanted to be this socio economic experiment to understand life through a different lens, especially after meeting him that One night and hearing his life experience, my life experience that you know, it was fascinating to me, like I want, I I want to help people, but to truly help people and bridge those societal gaps that exist, Cynthia Washington  21:16 one has To have a full scope of life through all perspectives, and this opportunity through Columbia, with this experiment, positioned me to really embrace that, and now I am very happy because I think it has helped me appreciate the quality, true quality of life. You know, it's not about the money, it's not about the fame, it's not about the recognition. It's about love and family and caring and nurturing one another Michael Hingson  21:59 with and I would presume that you would say that that's what you learned from the experiment, Cynthia Washington  22:05 yes, yes, absolutely. That's what I learned. You know, here, as I was climbing all these different corporate ladders, I always thought it was about having more you know, having more money, having more things, having a bigger house, a nicer car and all this stuff, but truly abandoning all that stuff allowed me to live more because I appreciated the true moment as A gift, especially from being on my deathbed, you know, to being able to live each day to its fullest, that in and amongst itself, was a gift to me, and learning to be present for my daughter was a present for Me. And so these were all things that socio economic experiment taught me about appreciating life. Michael Hingson  23:07 So where do concepts like gratitude come into all of that? And how is gratitude help keep you centered and kind of moving forward? Cynthia Washington  23:18 Great question through this journey I've been on, I've learned to live each day with a grateful heart. I wake up daily appreciative of the moment, to be alive, regardless of what I have or what accomplishments I've achieved. I truly am thankful for the gift of life. And with that being said, I live in a spirit of Thanksgiving, not because Thanksgiving is on the horizon and the holidays grow near, but because having that gratitude rooted in my soul has helped me Stay focused on my Why stay firm in my beliefs and trust the process every step of the way, living with gratitude has just opened my Heart to the possibilities, and it's been a phenomenal growth experience. The more I give thanks, the more I give, the more I serve, the better I lead, the stronger I am, and the more abundant the blessings are. Are, and it's just truly remarkable to be this vessel for good living life with the spirit of Thanksgiving. Michael Hingson  25:12 If somebody were to ask you, how can you teach me how to really have gratitude and make it a part of my life, what? What kind of advice or what kind of guidance can you give someone to help them learn to be a person who's more grateful or have more gratitude? Wow, um, Cynthia Washington  25:33 if someone is looking to have more gratitude and develops a process in establishing more gratitude. I think it would just be to reframe your focus instead of, oh, I don't have these things, right? That's when I let go of my Louis vuittons my fancy car, and, you know, sold all my really nice clothes that you know, just to have some extra cash to accomplish more of my goals, I let go of all Those materialistic things. And instead of having the mindset of like, Oh, I'm getting rid of these things, I was I saw it as an opportunity. So I guess what I'm saying is to reframe, instead of it being like, I don't have these things, or the woe is me attitude reframe that too. I am blessed with a family, I am blessed with food, I am blessed with shelter, I am blessed with a job that provides me with stability. I am blessed with the person in the mirror who has awoken for this moment in time, awoken, awaked it has. How do you say that? Awakened, that's fine. Awakened, yeah, has awakened in this moment, you know, for another beautiful day, and then after that, reframing of the mindset, focus on the positives and count your blessings. I know that sounds so cliche, but be grateful for this. Yes, be grateful for the things that you do have, the people who love you love is the most durable power that there is, you know, and having that focus on those good things with a positive mindset reframed from the negative, you can easily shape yourself into a person who lives with gratitude and then reciprocate it. You know, as you, as you go about your day, give that gratitude to someone else with a nice smile or a thank you. And people can feel a thank you. People can feel a smile. People can feel that authentic, genuine sense of gratitude in any capacity of life. And that is far more reaching than that negative I don't have I don't have enough. I don't I'm not qualified for this type of negative mindset that weighs people down. Instead, when you live with gratitude, you feel lighter, you feel more alive, and you feel unstoppable. Michael Hingson  29:09 Have you ever read a book by a gentleman named Henry Drummond called Love the greatest thing in the world? Cynthia Washington  29:18 No, but it sounds like something I would enjoy reading. It's Michael Hingson  29:21 more, it's very short, but he he talks all about the fact that love is, in fact, the greatest thing in the most powerful thing in the world, and that that it is something that we all ought to express and deal with a whole lot more than than we do. Was written in, in, I think, the late 1800s I believe. But it is, it is well worth reading. As I said, it's very short. I've read the audio version, and it only takes an hour, so it's not very long book. But it doesn't need Cynthia Washington  29:59 to be well. I will definitely add that to my reading list, because my step brother called me love and it's my nickname, and all the work I have done while on my mom mission after Columbia and over the past few years to help bridge societal gaps, to make the world better for my daughter, her friends and our children and the world ultimately stems from love and gratitude and love are to my focuses. There you go. Michael Hingson  30:46 And as makes a lot of sense, as they should be well. So what have you been doing? Well, so you worked for enterprise, and then you went on, I guess, to do some other things. But what have you been doing since Columbia? Cynthia Washington  31:02 Well, since Columbia, my last class at Columbia was in finance. I studied finance, macro economics. And one more thing I forgot, that's okay. So anyway, well, my last class at Columbia was in finance and Oh, corporate governance, yes. So at Columbia, I studied corporate governance, macroeconomics and finance, while also completing my chief marketing officer executive education requirements and my last class being in finance aligned with Zions Bank, 150 year anniversary of being in business. I thought, wow, this is quite timely. Zions Bank is highly reputable, very respected organization in Utah. And I wanted to work with them while I finished Columbia, and initially I took a role to just kind of understand money real time, working on the front lines across a variety of different branches, and now I still work with them. I am in their retail banking administration department. I work with a great team. I am close to the SVPs, EBPs, and with the branches, our clients. I work on multiple different projects, doing different things, which is so fascinating because I'm in the heartbeat of the business, and it satisfies my my desire to stay relevant and use all my skill sets for good, because I have that ability to touch so many different people and projects in the work that I do at science bank, it allows me the flexibility to maintain my social media influencer status, and both give me the stability to be a good single mom for my daughter who's finishing Up in college. So I'm very grateful for that opportunity, and Colombia opens so many doors. As far as the social media marketing piece of the work I've done since Columbia, I sit on a handful of boards, Big Brothers, Big Sisters. I am on the boulder way forward legislative committee as a chair, and I continue to just do a bunch of philanthropic work, which I. I'm able to promote and highlight within the social media work that I do, so the two work beautifully together, and I am happy just to give back in the capacity I can using my skill sets at a maximized level, Michael Hingson  35:24 okay, well, you also formed your own company, didn't you? Cynthia Washington  35:29 Yes, I did form my own company. It's called level up with C dub, and that business has allowed me to work with amazing brands throughout Park Cities, silicon slopes and globally. It started, yeah, go ahead. No, go ahead. It started because I wanted to level up my community and bridge some gaps that I saw, and then it has grown into something bigger and better in the fact that the work that I'm doing is not only helping local businesses, but it's helping level up our youth, and creating an opportunity for our youth to follow a yellow brick road, so to speak, with my work that I have put forth so that they are more resilient, emotionally intelligent, and have the mental strength To endure this ever changing world. So it's been quite interesting to see how it's shifted from helping businesses mentoring individuals into this new space. Michael Hingson  37:14 And so what does the company do today? What? What you talk about helping youth and so on? Tell me a little bit more about what what you do and how you do it, and is it just you, or do you have other people in the company? Cynthia Washington  37:27 No, it's just me. Just now, just me. Yes, I don't have enough time to invest in it because Zions is my nine to five. I work at a local boutique in town to stay in the heartbeat of town, you know. And then I have the social media stuff that I do. So my calendar is quite full. The level up with C dub work has been word of mouth, and people like you have sought me through various platforms, and I like that. I'm not ready to scale it yet, even though it is scalable, but I like being able to control the the the incoming work and produce high quality products with my brand name attached to it. So right now, it's something that exists. Um, it's something it's a labor of love, and so I'm not quite ready to bring on a team, because it's multi faceted. There's a lot of mentoring, there's a lot of coaching, there's a lot of brand building, and these are all things that I just like to do on my own. Michael Hingson  39:20 So what kind of things do you do you do from a mentoring standpoint, what? What exactly does the company do? Cynthia Washington  39:28 Well, from a mentoring standpoint, I mentor across different platforms. I just received an Impact Award for mentoring girls in the tech realm of silicon slopes, over 1000 Utah high schoolers, actually, 1000s of high school girls have been mentored through this program called she tech, of which I am a part of and. Um, in addition to that, I have middle level professionals who want to level up within their career, who utilize me and my services to help coach them to their next corporate move. And so there's some one on one time. People hire me. I fit them into my schedule. We work together. They call me, you know, hey, I have this moment at work that's happening and I need some guidance. How do I navigate it? You know, sometimes it's easier to talk through that situation with a coach than it is to talk through it with your peer or manager, because you don't want to take away the integrity of the the momentum you've created at work. So I act as at sounding board for a handful of other executive, young executives who are up and coming, rising into their career, and so it's it's multifaceted. Everything's been word of mouth, and I don't have a website. I started with one, I perhaps might go back to creating one. But for now, everything is pretty manageable. I just wear a lot of different hats and work through a lot of different projects, helping many different people across different platforms. Michael Hingson  41:48 How do you keep it all together? Cynthia Washington  41:53 Great question. I use a calendar. I write a lot of notes down. I have a very systematic approach to everything that I have going on. I've learned to say no and to prioritize what's most important. I had an executive coach when I was in Silicon Valley and working in the Medicare realm of business and my executive coach brought so much value into being that sounding board for me and Springboarding My career that giving back in that same capacity is so rewarding for me. I find enjoyment out of it, and the busier I am, the more full I feel my life is. And so right now, I manage it all by writing it down and keeping it organized. You know, in my calendars, thankfully, there's flexibility with all that I do, which allows me to be very agile and giving back in the level up with C dub work that I do. Michael Hingson  43:21 Well, it sounds like when you had access to an executive coach, you were very observant about what they did, so that you could do that same sort of thing and pass it on. Because it sounds like you you took to heart the lessons you learned from that coach. Absolutely. Cynthia Washington  43:40 I had the best executive coach. And you know, when I was on my deathbed, she reached out to me and cared for me even though I was no longer her client. You know, we had become friends through that relationship, and I want to be that person for someone else, and that's why right now, I don't have anyone on my team with me, and I don't have an intention of scaling it At this point in time, because I try to, I to take on the workload with intention and purpose so that I can authentically lead and give back to help others grow and thrive within their realm of life, right? Michael Hingson  44:46 Well, you have written a book. Tell us about that and what what it is, and anything you want to talk about, Cynthia Washington  44:54 yeah, this is a book right here for those who. You are able to see Michael Hingson  45:04 it, and it's called Mind Matters. Cynthia Washington  45:07 Yes, sir, Mind Matters. It's the story of my life. It's a memoir encompasses everything and an easy to read book. It encompasses my travels, my corporate climb and fall, my Columbia education and studies, how I overcame some big hurdles with a grind, with grit, mindset and mentality. My time in Hollywood, what I like to call the trifecta me, Eminem and Kobe, and my work, the music of Eminem and Mama mentality with those three things, you can achieve anything. And what else does it include? Oh, it just has some really fun tales of growing up in California. I and some principles, guiding principles I learned from Columbia University that I wanted to encapsulate into this book and share again to give back to others. It's modestly priced on Amazon. You can buy it wherever books are sold. It's I didn't write it for fame or recognition. I respectfully share stories about my friends in Hollywood. Good and, yeah, it's a fun a fun story. I released it a year ago, October 10, and did my first book launch release party, November 15. And so it's really fun to see it become what it has, and to see its ripple effects throughout society. Michael Hingson  47:32 What did you learn about you from writing the book? Cynthia Washington  47:39 Oh, well, writing a book requires a lot of self discipline. I learned that I have lived a story rich with abundant blessings, and I learned that I have accomplished so much with having That spirit of gratitude. I grind it with grit, resilience, that has catapulted me into the space that I am living in now. However, it was also a very humbling experience as I wrote the book, I it healed me in some ways, because I had been in hiding for a year, and as much As I was sharing my life on social media, I was still afraid to live my life because I was in hiding, and so it helped me heal from that trauma, which is why I have it modestly priced, because if I can help someone else overcome something as traumatic that I have lived by sharing my story and giving hope through my story, then I want to put it out there. I'm not in it for money. I'm in it so I can help our society through this humanitarian effort, you know, and sharing a little bit about me might help someone in their time of need. So, yes, I love. Learned. I learned to heal, I learned to trust the process, and I learned who I am. Michael Hingson  50:08 It makes a lot of sense. And I asked the question, having written three books and learning from all three of them, various things about me, but also just learning to have the discipline and to go into that place where you can create something that hopefully people in the world will appreciate. I think that's that's a really cool thing, and clearly you've done that. Cynthia Washington  50:38 Yes, thank you, and you definitely can understand that, you know, you put your heart and soul into this book of creative mindfulness, and it's truly rewarding to share it with other people. And I like to say my books wrapped with my daughter's big thank you hug, because it's wrapped in her artwork that she drew, that I have framed, and I thought it was a perfect cover for it. And it's it's really a blessing to have gone through the trauma, live through it, and for her to see this work of art, share my story and help others and her. Thank you. Hug around it is even a bigger form of love Michael Hingson  51:44 you have won, and you mentioned it earlier, a she Peck she tech champion Impact Award. Tell us about that award, what it is, and a little bit more about why you won one and so on. Cynthia Washington  51:58 Yes, so while at Columbia, I did the level up with CW work, I worked with Zions Bank, had the social media influencer role, and I aligned with a lot of great women and businesses throughout Park City, Salt Lake and silicon slopes, those women became friends and she Tech was founded by one of my friends, and I became involved in that about five years ago, as a mentor, a role model, an influencer, helping young girls learn that there is opportunity in The tech space. Technology space for women and girls learning and their worth, their their value and creating opportunities for them. And so through the social media aspect, I have been able to share to share the great work of she tech and women tech Council and some other brands that I've aligned with to help young girls see other women leaders actively working and living in these different capacities. So all of the work that I do goes hand in hand with this mentoring space and helping our youth see their potential. Chi Tech, I was one of 30 who received that award this year, I was humbly honored to be a recipient of the award. I knew the work I was doing was focused on my love to change the world for my daughter and make the world a better place for her, her friends and ultimately, all children. I just didn't realize how far reaching my impact was until I received the email notifying me of this. Impact Award, and when I stood on stage with all these other champions, champions, champion champions, championing change and this trajectory of our world. It just reinforced all of the work I have done and the profound impact it's having on our youth today, and it's remarkable to like. I can't, I can't express the depth it has, because it's so far reaching, and it's something beyond my wildest dreams that I've created through my work, through all these different intersections of strategic marketing and social media brand work and leading by Cynthia Washington  56:16 good and using my influence for good. And it's just truly amazing to see that I've helped 1000s of teenage girls understand their potential, their value and their worth, knowing that there's so many different possibilities in the tech space for them to learn, grow and do Michael Hingson  56:47 well, congratulations on winning the award. That's a that's a cool thing, and obviously you're making a big difference. Cynthia Washington  56:57 Thank you so much. I'm still so humbled, and I keep having to ground myself because I never expected to be in this moment. I simply was a mom on a mission to change the trajectory for my daughter, and receiving this award was something I never expected, and I keep ground, grounding myself, because I just I'm so humbly honored to have received it, and to have come to this, this elevated level of where I'm at in my current life, by giving up everything, I became something so much bigger and better than I ever expected or or planned for myself, and it's profound to me, and I just have to constantly ground myself and remind myself like that it's it's okay to be here. Michael Hingson  58:17 That's what gratitude can do, and that's what gratitude obviously does for you, because you you clearly exhibit a lot of gratitude in in all that you say and all that you do. And I think that's extremely important. People really should think a little bit more about gratitude than they then they typically do. But you know, it is something that that clearly you have put in the forefront of of your being. You do a lot with social media. And tell me a little bit more about about that as we move forward here and get close to wrapping up. Cynthia Washington  58:57 Well, yes, I do do a lot on social media, but before I answer that question, you found me through social media, and I want you to share a little bit about how you discovered me knowing that you're unable to see a lot of the content I create. So how were you able to find me? And then I'll answer that question. Tell me what intrigued you Michael Hingson  59:31 when you say not see the content, like, What do you mean? Cynthia Washington  59:36 Well, you have a blindness, vision impairment, correct, Michael Hingson  59:46 not an impairment, but that's okay, but, but what is it that I don't see exactly? Cynthia Washington  59:52 How do you see my social media content for you to be able to find. Michael Hingson  1:00:00 I use a piece of software that verbalizes whatever comes across the computer screen, so hearing the the text, listening to what your profile on LinkedIn says about you and so on, is all just as straightforward for me as it is for you, and to describe that in great detail would be like me asking you how you do what you do. It's what we grow up learning. The reality is, blindness isn't the problem. That's why I said it's not an impairment, because people always think about blindness as a visual impairment. Well, visually, I'm not different because I'm blind and I'm not impaired because I am blind, if, if the reality is impairment has nothing to do with it, and we really need to get away from thinking that someone is less than someone else because they may not have the same senses that that we do. And while I don't necessarily have eyesight, I have other gifts that I've learned to maximize, and probably the greatest gift of all, is that I don't happen to be light dependent like you are. The reality is that for you, when there's a power failure or something that causes all the lights and everything to go out, you scramble looking for an iPhone or a smartphone or a flashlight or something to bring light in, because we spent a lot of time bringing light on demand. To you ever since the light bulb was invented, I don't have that problem. The power goes out, doesn't bother me a bit. The reality is we've got to get away from this idea of thing that somebody is impaired because they don't have some things that we do. There are a lot of ways to get information, and eyesight is only one of them. Cynthia Washington  1:01:48 I love that, and that's exactly why I wanted you to explain that, because I think that's super important as we discuss unstoppable mindset. I think that's a critical necessity for society to learn and to know, and because you were able to find me using these great resources that you have and the work I'm putting forth intrigued you to bring me into this meeting with you. So I am, again, so grateful that we have this opportunity to collaborate in this space, bringing both our good works together to Oh, help level up awareness that there are no limits. We are unstoppable. Glasses shattering everywhere because of people like you and me who are doing this good work to change the trajectory of the world, and social media for me, has given me the opportunity to do what you do in this podcast. Michael Hingson  1:03:14 If you want people to be able to reach out to you and interact with you, how best can they do that Cynthia Washington  1:03:22 the like you did through LinkedIn is great. That's how I do receive most of my work is through LinkedIn. People find me there and will message me through then, LinkedIn, what? Michael Hingson  1:03:43 What's your LinkedIn name or your house? Cynthia Washington  1:03:47 Cynthia Washington. Okay, that's easy, yes. Cynthia Washington, Park City, Salt Lake City, will get you to me. Another outlet is through Instagram. I'm little bit more hesitant to reply to the direct messages on Instagram. I do try to filter a lot of my content and screen things. So I do trust LinkedIn a little bit more. As far as the messaging component is concerned, also, I have provided you with my email which you're happy I'm happy for you to share. Okay, so any of those three means will get you connected to me. I do not have a website. As I said, everything is organic, authentic and word of mouth. My Plate is really full, and so I like to be selective of the projects I bring on in hopes that they give back to society in one way or another. Lacher, I'm not doing it to chase every deal or get a bunch of free product. I do it with a very intentional Spirit giving back with gratitude that karmic effect goes a long way well. Michael Hingson  1:05:18 I hope people will reach out. You clearly have a lot to offer, and I think you've you've given us a lot to think about today, which I appreciate a great deal. So thank you very much for that. I want to thank all of you who are listening or watching our podcast today, or maybe you're doing both listening and watching. That's okay too. I want to thank you for being here with us. Love to get your thoughts. If you have any messages or our ideas you want to pass along. Love it if you'd reach out to me. Michael, H, I m, I C, H, A, E, L, H i at accessibe, A, C, C, E, S, S, I B, e.com, you can and I would appreciate it if you would, wherever you're listening or watching this podcast, give us a five star rating, and please give us a review. We really value your reviews highly, and I would appreciate it if you would do that. If you know of anyone Cynthia, you as well, who you think ought to be a guest on unstoppable mindset, please let us know. Introduce us. We're always looking for people to come on to help show everyone that we're all more unstoppable than we think we are. But again, Cynthia, I want to thank you for being here. This has been absolutely wonderful. Can you believe we've been doing this over an hour already? Cynthia Washington  1:06:37 Oh no, not at all. Oh yeah. Well, I am so forever grateful again, and as we head into the holidays, just remind everyone to live with a spirit of gratitude, be kind to others. And there are no limits. It's time to shatter those limits that we have created as barriers and Live limitless with an unstoppable mindset. Michael Hingson  1:07:09 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes a panel of passionate Extension Master Gardeners—Carole Belkin, Barbara Bosserman, and Joanne Royaltey—to share the excitement surrounding two beloved community events: the Indoor Plant Clinic at Bowman Library and the annual Seed Exchange at the Clarke County Fairgrounds. As winter settles in, these events offer residents a chance to connect, learn, and grow—both literally and figuratively. Hands-On Learning at the Indoor Plant Clinic Kicking off the conversation, Carole describes the much-anticipated Indoor Plant Clinic, scheduled for January 31st at Bowman Library. This one-day event transforms the library's front room into a vibrant hub of horticultural activity. Attendees can browse tables brimming with houseplant cuttings, receive expert advice from Extension Master Gardeners, and even pot their new plants with guidance on selecting the right soil and containers. The clinic isn't just for adults; children are invited to participate in hands-on activities designed to spark their curiosity about plants and gardening. Carole emphasizes the event's welcoming atmosphere, noting that many visitors return year after year, eager to share stories and photos of thriving plants they received at previous clinics. Sowing the Seeds of Community at the Seed Exchange Next, Barbara introduces the annual Seed Exchange, set for February 7th at the newly renovated Clarke County Fairgrounds. This free event invites the public to bring seeds to share—or simply to pick up new varieties for their gardens. With tables dedicated to vegetables, herbs, perennials, and even native plant seeds, the exchange fosters a spirit of generosity and learning. Master Gardeners are on hand to answer questions about planting, soil, and seasonal care, while local organizations like the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and Clarke County 4-H add to the festive, educational atmosphere. Children are encouraged to participate through a fun stamp-collecting activity, ensuring that the next generation of gardeners feels right at home. Expert Advice and Lasting Connections Throughout the conversation, the guests highlight the invaluable role Extension Master Gardeners play in the community. Joanne, also an Associate Extension Agent, explains how these volunteers provide research-based information, answer questions year-round, and help residents navigate the challenges of gardening in the Valley's unique climate. The conversation also touches on the importance of avoiding invasive plant species, the joy of sharing gardening successes, and the sense of camaraderie that blossoms at events like the plant clinic and seed exchange. Looking Ahead: Growing Together As the discussion draws to a close, the panelists reflect on the power of gardening to bring people together. Whether it's repotting a 20-year-old snake plant, teaching children how to propagate cuttings, or simply exchanging seeds and stories, these events nurture both plants and relationships. The Extension Master Gardeners invite everyone—novices and seasoned green thumbs alike—to join them in cultivating a more connected, resilient, and verdant community. For more information about upcoming events, resources, and how to become an Extension Master Gardener, visit your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office listed below or visit the NSV Master Gardener website: https://nsvmga.org/  Frederick County/City of Winchester: https://frederick.ext.vt.edu/ Clarke County: https://clarke.ext.vt.edu/ Shenandoah County: https://shenandoah.ext.vt.edu/ Page County: https://page.ext.vt.edu/ Warren County: https://warren.ext.vt.edu/

In this special Christmas episode of the Rooted Parent Podcast, father and veteran youth pastor Syler Thomas join Cameron and Anna to discuss about the misadventures of Kevin McAllister and his family. They talk about parenting failures, regrets, and redemption, and how, because of Christ, we are not condemned for our shortcomings as moms and dads.  Home Alone: We are All Kevins by Matt Brown The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt Follow us @rootedministry!Subscribe to the Rooted Parent Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Romans 8:31-37Psalm 61:1-4 Romans 8 for ParentsWhy Teenagers Need to Know that God is For Us by Steve Eatmon Mom and Dad, Nothing Can Separate You from the Love of Christ by Dan Hallock Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago

In this engaging episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Zach Clinton and available on Pray.com, we delve into the meaningful concept of reciprocity within our spiritual community. Along our spiritual odyssey, there are instances when cultivating reciprocity and experiencing the divine give-and-take becomes a central yearning. These moments not only deepen our faith but also rejuvenate our connections, propelling us towards our individual dreams. The steadfast truth endures: guided by the Lord, we inherently possess the capacity to manifest these aspirations, uncovering renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Rooted in sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those seeking guidance in fostering reciprocity on their faith journey, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply anchored in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the remarkable potential for reciprocity within us, discovering boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. Join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of cultivating reciprocity in our spiritual aspirations, uncovering the extraordinary sense of fulfillment that resides within each one of us. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com's Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Kyra is joined by Nature-Inspired Mentor and Certified Life Coach Tigrilla Gardenia for a deeply grounding conversation about slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and learning from the wisdom of the natural world. Living in the spiritual eco-community of Damanhur, Italy, Tigrilla brings a beautiful blend of science, spirituality, and plant intelligence to her work, guiding women to rediscover clarity, creativity, and inner alignment. Together, they explore how constant busyness disconnects women from their intuition, how plant allies can help us return to presence, and why nature remains one of the most powerful teachers for resilience and emotional well-being. Tigrilla shares stories from her mentorship work, lessons from years of studying plant behavior, and simple practices that help women slow down and listen more intentionally to themselves and the world around them. In this episode: ✨ What plants teach us about growth, alignment, and resilience ✨ How slowing down helps women reconnect with their intuition ✨ The science and spirituality of plant communication ✨ Nature-based practices for clarity and emotional grounding ✨ How to find connection even in busy or urban environments If you have been feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or out of rhythm with yourself, this episode offers a gentle reminder that nature is always waiting to guide you home. Connect with Tigrilla: Website: tigrillagardenia.com Instagram: @tigrillagardenia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Mindy Pelz is a New York Times bestselling author, leading voice in women's health, and host of the hit podcast "The Resetter Podcast" with Dr. Mindy. Dr. Friedman sits down with Dr. Pelz to explore the latest insights from her new book, "Age Like a Girl." This revolutionary book redefines what it means to grow older as a woman. Rooted in the latest science and rich in personal stories, Dr. Pelz challenges outdated narratives about menopause and aging, offering instead a roadmap for renewed awakening. Age Like a Girl is available NOW!  https://www.discover.hayhouse.com/agelikeagirl/?[%E2%80%A6]gn=booklaunch_pelz_alag_202512_preorder&utm_content=9994&utm_medium=pelz_social&utm_source=partner  

This special episode of Choosing to Stay marks a heartfelt transition and an important moment for our community. Hali and Stephanie sit down for one final conversation as co-hosts to reflect on what this podcast has become, how it has supported so many navigating betrayal trauma and relational healing, and what the future now holds. In this episode, Stephanie gently announces that she is stepping away from hosting as she moves into a new season of life and work. This change flows from clarity, alignment, and care. The friendship is strong, the mission remains, and there is no rupture — only a shift. Stephanie expresses continued belief in the podcast's purpose and offers her blessing as Hali continues forward.Together, they revisit the early days of the podcast — how it began without a detailed roadmap, how meaningful and vulnerable conversations naturally emerged, and how listeners' stories have shaped the heart of the show. Hali expresses deep gratitude for the wisdom, grounding, and compassion Stephanie has brought to every episode. Stephanie shares her favorite moments, lessons learned, and the profound impact of hearing how women and couples have grown along their healing journeys.Hali then shares what's ahead: the podcast is continuing. The mission stays the same. New guests, expanded conversations, and a refreshed energy will unfold in the new year. This episode is a celebration of what has been built, an honoring of Stephanie's contribution, and an invitation into a new season of growth.If you are a woman experiencing betrayal trauma, you can find Hali on her new podcast Rooted and Rising Healing After Betrayal.Thank you for tuning in!We're here to support couples healing from infidelity and betrayal, offering encouragement, practical skills, and expertise each week. As certified relational recovery coaches, we are passionate about guiding you toward hope, empathy, and lasting healing.Stay connected with us and access all the resources we offer—coaching sessions, groups, and more—by visiting this link.Your Hosts:Hali Roderick TICC, ACC, APSATS CPC, ERCEM-C, Brainspotting PractitionerRead Hali's BioStephanie HambyCertified Relational Recovery Coach MCLC, ACC, APSATS CPC, ERCEM-CRead Stephanie's BioWe look forward to journeying with you!Stay Connected with Hali:Download my free:⁠⁠ Mini Guide to Mindful Healing After Betrayal⁠⁠Download my free ebook:⁠ ⁠Your First Steps to Rising From Betrayal⁠⁠⁠⁠RootedAndRisingHealing.com⁠⁠Connect on Instagram:⁠ ⁠@rootedandrising.healing⁠⁠Follow on Facebook:⁠ ⁠Rooted and Rising Healing with Hali Roderick⁠⁠Contact: ⁠rootedandrisinghealing@gmail.com⁠

What if the holidays become a time to return to your natural rhythm instead of something you have to recover from? In Part 2 of the holiday solos, I answer your top questions about how to stay grounded, nourished, and supported through a season that often disrupts our routines. I share how I support my gut when travel and schedule changes show up, how I reduce bloating with simple daily rituals, and how I keep my energy steady using a blend of Ayurvedic wisdom and functional science. We explore mindful ways to enjoy nostalgic holiday foods without guilt, how to regulate your nervous system when emotions feel heightened, and the grounding rituals warm morning tonics, herbal teas, mindful chewing, breathwork, and post meal walks that help you feel balanced even when life feels full. I also share realistic tools for traveling well and navigating family dynamics with intention. This episode is an invitation to choose nourishment over pressure and stay rooted in what helps your body feel safe, calm, and well. What's Discussed: (00:00) Welcome Back to Rooted in Wellness (00:20) How Holidays Disrupt Your Rhythm and Energy (01:40) Your Top Holiday Wellness Questions (02:50) How to Support Your Gut When Routines Break (08:10) Travel and Microbiome Support That Actually Helps (13:45) Staying Nourished During Holiday Eating (20:10) Tools for Indulgent Meals Without Guilt (23:45) A Rooted Closing for a Season of Ease Learn more about Mona Sharma: Download Your FREE Guide - 12 Wellness Tips to Unlock Your Best Health Now: Ready to reclaim your vitality? Download Mona's 12 Wellness Tips and take actionable steps to transform your health, energy, and mindset. Get started now at https://monasharma.com/12tips.  Visit Mona's website: https://monasharma.com – Unlock powerful tools and wisdom rooted in wellness to elevate your health, energy, and clarity. Mona blends ancient healing practices with modern science to help you achieve lasting transformation. Follow Mona on Instagram: Stay connected with Mona for daily inspiration, holistic health tips, and personal growth. Join the conversation on Instagram at https://instagram.com/monasharma.

“ Beaumier is a story that began truly 10 years ago if we go back to the beginning of the portfolio. But this story of implementing soulful luxury properties and beautiful environments, really rooted in the local culture—it's less than five years old. We're a very young brand, I would say.”We're in great company with Anna Fedou, Brand & Marketing Director of Beaumier Hotels, a curated collection of ten soulful luxury properties woven across Europe's most enchanting landscapes—from Provence and the Riviera to the Alpine peaks and Ibiza. Beaumier is built on a philosophy of "the art of living differently"—a belief that true hospitality begins not with grand gestures, but with listening—to the landscape, to the people who call it home, to the history woven into its walls. Rather than imposing a predetermined style, each property emerges as an act of discovery, honoring its surroundings while breathing new life into them with the spirit of a curious explorer and the care of a devoted steward.In this winter episode, Anna shares how her own multicultural upbringing—shaped by movement between cultures and meaningful family moments—informs Beaumier's approach to creating spaces where guests feel genuinely at home, offering us timely lessons in slowing down, belonging, and the kind of intentional living we all crave as the holidays approach.Top Takeaways[1:50] How Anna's childhood spent traveling between France, Portugal, Spain, and London—punctuated by magical family holidays discovering the world together—became the compass that would eventually guide her career in creating meaningful, connected experiences for others.[6:40] What began as a small collection of Alpine ski hotels transformed into a spirit of adventure named Beaumier—seeking out hidden architectural treasures and breathing new life into them with intention and reverence.[19:40] At Beaumier, guests reconnect with nature and themselves through thoughtfully curated spaces where design, storytelling, and “happy accidents” become conversation starters that spark joy regardless of cultural background. [24:15] Winter Properties: L'Alpaga in Megève, Les 3 Vallées in Courchevel, Le Val Thorens and Le Fitz Roy in Val Thorens—all provide distinctive perspectives and experiences of the French Alps—while the Grand Hotel Belvedere in Wengen is a historic hideaway in the Swiss Alps.[26:00] Summer Properties: Capelongue, Le Moulin and Le Galinier  show different sides of Provence—while Les Roches Rouges sits peacefully overlooking the Côte d'Azur, and Petunia dispels the myth of Ibiza.[30:55] What ties together ten distinct properties across Europe isn't a playbook—it's a commitment to locally sourced cuisine, genuine human connection, and a deeply personal approach to wellbeing that honors what each guest truly needs to feel whole.[35:50] A first glimpse into Wengen's revival through Grand Hotel Belvedere—a revitalized property breathing new life into a sleeping beauty destination that's been beautifully unchanged for decades, inspiring the entire community to awaken alongside it.Visit For YourselfBeaumier Website | @beaumierhotels Bon Voyage by Beaumier

 What an amazing conversation we had with Cole Quest of Cole Quest and the City Pickers.  We talked about their latest album “Home Grown,” how Cole serves as the band leader and band member, and their performance on the famous Mountain Stage!  Rooted in tradition yet driven by a restless New York energy, Cole Quest and The City Pickers are carrying bluegrass forward with wit, warmth, and originality. Led by dobro player, songwriter, and vocalist Cole Quest — grandson of folk icon Woody Guthrie —the band has carved out a singular place in today's roots music landscape.    Their latest album, Homegrown (Jalopy Records, 2025), produced by Grammy Award–winning engineer Steve Rosenthal, brings the band's journey into full focus. The record weaves four new originals with reimagined takes on songs by John Hartford, Peter Rowan, and Woody Guthriehimself, linking Cole's own creative voice with his grandfather's enduring legacy. No Depression hailed it as “an album that deftly moves the legacy of Woody Guthrie along in all the right ways.” Critics like Songlines (UK), Glide Magazine, and the Berkshire Eagle have noted how the bandhonors its lineage while commanding its own path. Their broad recognition includes a Bluegrass Standard cover (August 2025) and a feature in Bluegrass Unlimited.   Formed by friends with a shared love of bluegrass, Quest first pulled the Pickers together in 2017 to record their debut self-titled project at the legendary Magic Shop studio. They went on to release their acclaimed EP Self [En]Titled on Omnivore Records in 2021. Over the years, they've won the Podunk Bluegrass Festival band competition, toured Germany multiple times, and shared stages with artists like Billy Strings, Sierra Hull, and Tony Trischka.  Be sure to check Cole and the city pickers out here:   Website: colequest.com  Band Camp: Cole Quest and the City Pickers  FB: Cole Quest and the City Pickers  IG: citypickers  YouTube: Citypickers  

In this captivating episode of Beyond the Art Podcast, host Joe sits down with Pyet, a dynamic chef known for her innovative fusion of Native American and Mexican cuisines. Pyet takes listeners on a journey through her rich culinary heritage, beginning with her family's taquerias and leading to her current roles as an executive producer and actress. Her story is one of resilience and creativity, as she shares how her multicultural upbringing has shaped her unique approach to food and storytelling.Pyet delves into the philosophy of food as medicine, emphasizing the deep connections between culinary traditions and cultural identity. She discusses her experiences on national television, including her transformative win on 'Next Level Chef,' and how these platforms have allowed her to advocate for greater representation in media. Her book, "Rooted in Fire," serves as a testament to her commitment to food sovereignty and the power of storytelling through cuisine.Throughout the conversation, Pyet highlights the importance of community and mentorship in her journey. She credits influential figures like Sean Sherman and Claudia Cerrado for inspiring her path and underscores the significance of defining success through community impact rather than material wealth. This episode is a rich tapestry of cultural insights, personal anecdotes, and a celebration of culinary diversity.

“I am going to be stubborn about my vision, but I'm going to be flexible about the way I'm going to get to it.”

What if the quickest path to career clarity is hidden in your inbox?

Your Energy Is Killing Your Dating Life. Why? Because men confuse being calm with being attractive. If you are over 30, recently divorced, or struggling in dating or marriage, it is likely you are killing your chances without even realizing it. You can be anything to a woman, funny, serious, loud, quiet, but you cannot be boring. This stream unpacks why your energy, presence, and animation matter far more than your perfect behavior. Rooted in the Think and Grow Rich principle of emotionalized desire and applied through the lens of attraction and modern dating, you will see why chemistry dies quietly and how to bring your aliveness back.

The holidays promise joy and togetherness but for many couples, they also bring stress, busyness, and mismatched expectations. In this episode, we're helping you slow down, reconnect, and approach the season with intention. We talk honestly about why couples often drift spiritually and emotionally in December and offer simple, realistic ways to stay grounded in Christ and connected to each other. From aligning holiday expectations to creating meaningful traditions, you'll walk away with practical tools to cultivate peace, gratitude, and unity in your marriage. Whether this season feels exciting or overwhelming, this conversation will help you not just survive the holidays—but truly thrive together.   Episode Highlights: The holidays can magnify an already existing disconnect. When Christ isn't the center of the holidays and your marriage, both will suffer. True joy doesn't come from a full schedule. Quotes from Today's Episode: When we take our eyes off the true reason for Christmas—Christ—we get caught up in the world's chaos.  Don't abandon what nourishes your soul just because life gets hectic. The habits that sustain you all year are even more vital during the holidays. Keep your year-round rhythms strong—pray together, make time to communicate, and carve out quiet moments as a couple amid the December rush. Acts of generosity spark joy and deepen your connection. Intentionality is everything—if you aren't purposeful, the busyness will steal your time and memories.  Release the pressure to do it all—focus on what brings true joy to your family. Give yourself permission to let go of traditions that drain you, making room for new ones—or simply space to rest, bake cookies, and enjoy music by the tree.   Couple's Conversation Guide: 1. Which part of the holidays tends to be most stressful for each of us, and why? 2. Is there a simple spiritual practice we could commit to together this December?   3. Where do our expectations differ when it comes to gifts, gatherings, travel, or downtime? 4. What new tradition could we create this year that fits who we are as a couple right now? Mentioned in this Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram. It's not too late to start our Very Married Christmas Couple's Advent Calendar. Our Annual Marriage Check Up Guide is the perfect way to assess what's working and set new goals for what's not. We gathered all 665 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so wives can better meet their husband's needs. 10 Things Husbands Want Their Wives to Understand Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. How do we take a season that is often filled with stress and anxiety and turn things around? An Awesome Marriage Christmas goes over four things you can do as a couple to reduce the stress and anxiety of the season and help you focus on Jesus. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at Dr. AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Speaking of being intentional! Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Husbands Want.  

If you're a high-achieving woman who's working harder than ever but not seeing that effort reflected in your revenue, clarity, or creativity, this episode will feel like a deep exhale.Most founders assume the bottleneck is strategy: the content plan, the funnel, the algorithm, the offer. But today, we're looking at the real constraint — the one no one talks about — your body's ability to hold what you're building.Because you can't scale a business your body can't sustain.In this episode, we dig into the patterns from 2025 that drained your capacity, why next year can only look different if your internal state does, and the first steps to rebuilding the energy, clarity, and resilience your business requires.And when you're ready, download the 2026 Body & Business Capacity Planner — a one-page reflection designed to help you get honest about what this year took from you and what your body needs to lead differently in 2026. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARNWhy your business isn't growing even though you're doing “everything right”How depletion quietly shuts down creativity, visibility, and strategic thinkingThe real reason you avoid marketing, content, and lead generation when you're exhaustedHow skipped meals, blood sugar crashes, and chronic stress turn into hormonal shifts that stall your businessThe difference between strategy capacity and body capacityWhat changes when you shift your state (being) before you shift your habits (doing)How to identify your 2025 energy leaks so you can rebuild for 2026RESOURCES MENTIONED

This Week at Genesis | Advent Week 1 — The Joy of Christ This Sunday we hosted an Apprentice Sunday where we give opportunities to rising young leaders a chance to lead in our Sunday space, this week Judah and Tyler from Biola gave a wonderful sermon on Joy. Judah and Tyler opened our Advent season by leading us into the deep joy found in Christ. As part of our Apprentice Sunday, we created space for the youth of our church to step into their gifts, offering them the opportunity to learn, serve, and lead. Together, they guided us into the heart of Advent—beginning where Scripture begins: with good news of great joy. Rooted in Luke 2:8–14, they reminded us that joy is not grounded in circumstance but in the unchanging character of God. Joy comes from the safety, freedom, and hope found in a Savior who stepped into our world and into our story. Judah and Tyler walked us through: 1. The history and meaning of Advent—a season of waiting, hope, and preparation. 2. The good news of great joy—announced to shepherds and offered to all people. 3. The joyful anticipation of His second coming—living in the tension of “already and not yet.” They also shared three practices that help us cultivate joy in everyday life: Walk by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16–25) Choose joy (Phil. 4:4) Suffer well (James 1:2–4) As we step into this season, we begin with joy—the kind that anchors us, strengthens us, and draws us deeper into the story of Jesus.

This media-maven turned curandera shares her experience of self-transformation, the loss that defined her early life, and practices you can use to find yourself. It's all part of her new book: Get Rooted: Reclaim Your Soul, Serenity, and Sisterhood Through the Healing Medicine of the Grandmothers.Find ways to order Get Rooted here. Robyn Moreno is on Instagram @robynnmoreno. If you liked this episode, listen to Mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado Knows the Highest Mountain is the One Within and Why Kat Armas Believes Your Abuela Has the Answers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Even John the Baptist, the prophet who points his long, bony finger to Jesus, is left to question, "Are you the one who is to come?” Lars Olson teaches us that John, just like all of us, expects Jesus to make the world a better place according to our expectations. But that's what Advent is all about: the dawn of a new creation. A new kingdom found in the promise of Christ. CHALLENGE GRANTA Luther House of Study donor is sponsoring a challenge grant. If you sponsor one podcast episode by the end of the year, another podcast episode will be sponsored on your behalf. If you'd like to have your donation doubled, email Sarah Stenson at sarah@lhos.org or go to lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - AddictionSING TO THE LORD Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." To understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church, Lars Olson and Mason Van Essen sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. 

In this Advent message, Pastor Jessica invites us to slow our pace and enter the season with openness, longing, and hope. Rooted in Isaiah 11, she reflects on the image of a new shoot rising from a stump, a powerful reminder that God brings life where things feel cut back, weary, or broken. Through honest storytelling and thoughtful exploration of Scripture, we are invited to name the pain we see in our world while also holding fast to the promise of shalom. True peace is not something we manufacture through traditions or effort. It is a gift from the promised King who brings justice, restoration, and wholeness. This sermon offers a steady invitation to wait with hope and trust the God who is always at work making all things new.