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We're all called to spread the Gospel, and Father Dave welcomes back Franciscan friar Father Casey Cole to discuss his new evangelization mission and book. Father Casey and two fellow young friars moved to Charlotte, NC to found SEARCH, which stands for Seek, Encounter, Accompany, Renew, Convert and Heal. He is also the author of the new book, "Sent: How to Evangelize Wherever You Are, Whoever You Are."
If the darker months tend to stir up cravings, low motivation, or the urge to numb out, this is your sign to plug into real support. For November only, you can try the Day Makers Community for two weeks for just $1. Get coaching, connection, and stability during the hardest season of the year. Join at www.nomorewasteddays.co/daymakers. Episode Summary Winter can be one of the most challenging seasons to stay alcohol free. Shorter days, less sunlight, gray skies, and changes in routine can mess with your mood and energy. In the Pacific Northwest, Sara calls it the Big Dark for a reason. In this episode, she breaks down why the winter blues happen, why they hit harder when you are alcohol free, and the practical strategies that help you stay grounded instead of slipping backward. Sara shares the story of her first winter living in a camper trailer on the land while building her house. The lack of natural light, heavy rain, and isolation hit stronger than expected, and it became the first time she truly understood how intense the winter blues can feel, even deep into sobriety. She now approaches every winter with intention and has built a winter-specific sober toolkit to stay emotionally steady. Through personal experience and research, this episode teaches you how to recognize winter blues, how to distinguish them from seasonal affective disorder, and how to protect your alcohol free identity during the months when cravings or old coping mechanisms may begin whispering again. You will leave with five winter-proof strategies that help you stay energized, connected, and proud of your choices, even when the season feels heavy. What You Will Learn 1. Why the Winter Blues Happen How reduced sunlight lowers serotonin. How longer darkness disrupts circadian rhythm, leading to fatigue, fog, and increased melatonin. Why people in northern latitudes are more susceptible. How environmental factors like rain, darkness, and isolation intensify the emotional dip. 2. How Winter Impacts Your Alcohol Free Journey Lower mood plus lower energy can increase cravings and relapse risk. Lack of motivation can sabotage routines that usually protect your sobriety. Social withdrawal and loneliness can make old patterns feel nostalgic or tempting. Winter can become a unique season in your recovery, requiring specialized tools and preparation. 3. How to Know Whether It Is the Winter Blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder Winter blues tend to be mild and temporary. SAD is more persistent, more intense, and repeats each winter. Sara stresses the importance of not minimizing clinical depression and reaching out for professional support when needed. 4. Five Strategies to Protect Your Sobriety This Winter Light exposure and environment Use a light therapy lamp. Increase brightness in your indoor spaces or embrace warm lighting if it brings comfort. Explore vitamin D supplementation. Get your face outside for whatever sunlight exists that day. Routine and structure Keep consistent wake times. Resist the urge to retreat into isolation. Anchor habits that reinforce your non-drinker identity. Maintain community engagement even when motivation dips. Movement, connection, and purpose Move daily even when it is dark or rainy. Bundle up, put on the rain gear, and get outside. Plan intentional social touchpoints. Reaffirm your personal why and your identity as a non-drinker. Ask for support when things feel off Speak up early. Share your experience with a partner or community. Build a winter strategy before you are struggling. Seek professional care if symptoms feel intense or prolonged. Mindset reframing See winter as a season of reinvention rather than defeat. Lean into coziness, warmth, and slow living. Remember that you no longer use alcohol to numb through winter. Identify at least one win each day that happens because you did not drink. Key Takeaway The winter blues are real, and they are rooted in biology and environment. But with preparation and intentional practice, you can navigate this season with confidence instead of slipping into old patterns. Winter can become a powerful part of your alcohol free story, a season of inner strengthening, and a time to build the resilient version of yourself who will step boldly into spring. Resources Mentioned The Happy Light (light therapy lamp) - Verilux HappyLight - https://a.co/d/blonUVy The Little Book of Hygge (Day Makers November book club pick) - https://a.co/d/0w06tQx Join the Day Makers Community If you want support through the darker months, this is the perfect time. For November only, you can try the Day Makers for two weeks for just $1. Join the coaching calls, connect inside the community, and learn the tools that make winter feel lighter. Start your trial at nomorewasteddays.co/daymakers. ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
In order to save and more importantly restore biodiversity we don't need biodiversity or carbon credits; we need biologists to find super profitable business models within the magical deeply complex world of nature. It's the case of Toby Parkes, founder and CEO of Rhizocore, with whom go deep into the third, mostly ignored, and much more complex kingdom: fungi. We talk numbers that matter to forest managers: commercial sites often lose 15–25% of trees in year one, native mixes 35–50%. Across 70+ sites, Rhizocore's locally sourced pellets consistently cut losses in half and add roughly 20% in height and girth, with outsized benefits under drought. We also explore the bigger vision: a frozen library of hundreds of strains that powers not only forestry but new lines like nutrient capture from farm runoff and wastewater. Think high-throughput screening for fungi that strip nitrates and phosphates fast, plus future prospects for enzymes and therapeutics- practical ways to put ecology on the balance sheet.More about this episode.==========================In Investing in Regenerative Agriculture and Food podcast show we talk to the pioneers in the regenerative food and agriculture space to learn more on how to put our money to work to regenerate soil, people, local communities and ecosystems while making an appropriate and fair return. Hosted by Koen van Seijen.==========================
In this insightful episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, hosts Sean V. Bradley and LA Williams delve into the art and science of crafting effective one-on-one sessions between managers and employees in the automotive industry. They discuss the critical role these meetings play in nurturing dealership success and building robust professional relationships. "People will forget what you did, they'll forget what you said, but they'll never forget how you made them feel." - LA Williams Tackling misconceptions and common mistakes, Bradley and Williams underline the transformative potential of well-strategized one-on-ones, emphasizing the responsibility of managers to provide the necessary resources and support to their teams! "In management, one of the number one things you can do is prepare." - LA Williams This episode serves as a guide for managers, offering a structured process to facilitate personal, professional, and team development! Using a variety of training models, Sean and LA advocate for a comprehensive approach to team building that transcends traditional methodologies. This episode is a rich resource packed with tips on achieving stellar performance through targeted motivation and strategic guidance! Key Takeaways: ✅ Understanding and implementing various types of training, skill path, professional, personal, and team building, are essential for a manager's toolkit. ✅ Effective one-on-one sessions require preparation, consistency, and an understanding of each team member's learning style and personal motivations. ✅ Managers must construct a "SWOT" analysis for each team member, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to maximize potential. ✅ Setting clear objectives through coordinated projections and forecasting can significantly improve individual and team performance in dealerships. ✅ Building strong, trust-based relationships within teams fosters a culture of interdependence, crucial for long-term success in the automotive industry. About Sean V. Bradley Sean V. Bradley is a renowned expert in the automotive sales industry, currently serving as the President of Dealer Synergy. With over 27 years of experience, Sean is also a certified CSP and a best-selling author of "Win the Game of Googleopoly." Known for his innovative strategies in lead management and CRM, Sean has been a key influence in transforming car dealerships across the nation, making him a sought-after consultant and trainer in automotive sales. About LA Williams LA Williams is the Vice President at Dealer Synergy and the co-creator of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast. Known as the "Blind Master" for his unique perspective and insights, LA has a history of excellence in leveraging technology and training methodologies to increase sales and efficiencies in car dealerships. Mastering One-on-Ones: The Ultimate Guide for Automotive Leaders Understanding the dynamics of effective leadership in the automotive industry can transform the way managers interact with their teams, improving productivity and nurturing employee satisfaction. This article delves into strategies managers can utilize to enhance one-on-one sessions with their subordinates. Here's how to develop managerial skills that inspire and empower. Key Takeaways Leadership is Service: Your role as a manager is not just to manage tasks but to support, inspire, and develop the team around you. Personalization and Preparation in One-on-Ones: Tailor your approach to each individual based on their unique strengths, learning styles, and motivational triggers. Continuous Feedback and Growth: Consistently evaluate and reconcile projections and actual performance to encourage ongoing development. Leadership as a Service to Your Team In today's fast-paced automotive landscape, the role of a leader transcends traditional boundaries of direction and oversight. It's about providing every conceivable resource for team success, from emotional to technical support. Sean V. Bradley insightfully points out that "a manager's job is literally defined in my opinion as…to provide all of the resources that my team is going to need." Transforming Managerial Role Managers often adopt an authoritarian style, dictating without understanding team dynamics. The transcript challenges this narrative, emphasizing the value of empathy and understanding in leadership. By adopting a servant-leadership mindset, managers can "coach, mentor, teach, inspire, lead, and train," fostering an environment where employees thrive. "You get to do this. You are a manager. You get the opportunity to coach, mentor, teach, inspire, lead, and train a human being," Bradley asserts. Impact on Team Culture Adopting such strategies transforms team cultures, enhancing how team members interact internally and with customers. A working environment characterized by high morale and effective communication will naturally yield better results. Moreover, it ensures higher retention rates, with employees feeling valued and understood—a crucial asset amidst the high turnover rates plaguing the industry. The Art of Personalization and Preparation in One-on-Ones Preparation marks the fine line between a productive one-on-one and a mundane meeting. It's not just about showing up with a checklist but about tailored engagement. Managers like Sean emphasize the importance of knowing your team members on a deeper level—what motivates and challenges them. Creating a Comprehensive Employee Profile A pivotal aspect of efficient one-on-ones is crafting personalized employee profiles. Sean advises, "Create a personalized profile. I want to know about my subordinates; I want to know your home situation, your hobbies, and what's important to you." Understanding personal motivations and struggles allows managers to customize their support and development strategies, enhancing engagement and improving performance. Tailoring Communication and Feedback Success lies in adaptation and personalization. For instance, adapting communication strategies based on individual team members' learning styles—whether they are kinesthetic or auditory learners—ensures that feedback and instruction resonate effectively. "Seek first to understand and then to be understood," Bradley suggests, highlighting the importance of communication tailored to personal needs. Continuous Feedback and Growth Through Iterative Projections Effective managers excel at steering their team towards continuous growth by understanding and evaluating performance iteratively. Sean notes that "there needs to be a tracking system. Your salespeople should be tracking…what type? Am I taking a walk-in up?" Such methodologies help in identifying trends and areas needing improvement. The Power of Projections and Reconciliation Forward-planning complemented by effective back-tracking is key to sustained progress. Managers need to emphasize clarity in projections and consistency in follow-through. "Help him establish his vision board…if your why is so important, what you have to do is not going to matter," Bradley explains, articulating the need for motivational alignment with practical goals. Bridging Gaps through Insightful Reconciliation Reconciliation between projected and actual outcomes ensures actionable feedback loops. This involves dissecting deviations, recognizing patterns, and recalibrating goals. A manager's ability to "reconcile with him…what their projected and forecast was basically with their actual results" empowers employees, encouraging accountability and learning. Realizing the Potential of Effective Management Equipped with insight and strategies, managers now have the tools to transform how they conduct one-on-ones. By adopting a leadership model focused on service, personalization, and continuous feedback, these interactions can meaningfully enhance team dynamics and productivity. Embrace these principles to inspire, nurture, and lead your automotive teams into a future defined by progress and innovation. This strategic alignment between leadership vision and practical execution fosters an environment where continual improvement is not simply encouraged, but truly becomes second nature, paving the way for sustained success and satisfaction across the board. Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Mastermind Group in the Automotive Industry with over 29,000 members worldwide. Collaborate with automotive professionals, learn the best industry practices, and connect with top mentors, managers, and sales leaders. Join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: The automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm. With over 20 years of proven success, Dealer Synergy has helped dealerships nationwide build high-performing Internet Departments and BDCs from the ground up. Our expertise includes phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, and management processes; all designed to maximize your people, processes, and technology! ➼ Bradley On Demand: The automotive industry's most powerful Interactive Training, Tracking, Testing, and Certification Platform. With LIVE virtual classes and access to a library of over 9,000 on-demand training modules, Bradley On Demand gives your dealership the tools to dominate every department: Sales, Internet, BDC, CRM, Phone, and Leadership. From sharpening individual skills to elevating entire teams, this platform ensures your people are trained, tested, and certified for maximum success. Equip your dealership to sell more cars, more often, and more profitably with Bradley On Demand!
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?Erin: Creativity and tinkering.Working mothers often face immense challenges balancing professional ambitions with the demands of nursing. Erin Martin, the Co-Founder and CEO of Pump for Joy, turned her personal struggles into a groundbreaking innovation designed to empower mothers in the workplace. In this interview, Erin shared her journey of transforming what she calls an “exclusive pumping” experience into a solution to make life easier for countless moms.Erin described her experience as a working mother pumping breast milk in 2021: “The cleaning between each pumping session would take a long time. Every time I was done, it felt like the next second I was doing another pumping session.” Realizing the lack of support for pumping moms, she envisioned a product that eliminates the hassle of cleaning pump parts while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.Pump for Joy's flagship product is a single-use, 100% biodegradable breast milk collection kit. Designed to simplify the lives of working mothers, the product eliminates the need for extensive cleaning while remaining environmentally friendly. “I cannot bring myself to make a single-use plastic product,” Erin explained. “If I'm creating a convenience product, the very last thing I want to do is hurt the environment.”Developing this innovation has required Erin and her team to navigate the complexities of creating a biodegradable design that meets strict medical device regulations. However, their efforts don't stop there. Erin is actively exploring cellulose-based materials and cutting-edge bioplastics, such as PHA, to push sustainability even further.To fund this mission, Pump for Joy is raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. This approach allows moms and supporters alike to invest in the company's success and become part of the effort to create a better future for working mothers and the planet.As a proud women-owned, minority-owned business, Pump for Joy exemplifies innovation, environmental stewardship, and social impact. Erin's commitment goes beyond solving a problem; it reflects a deep integrity. She put it best: “It's an unwavering commitment to create a better solution for moms and for the environment at the same time.”Those interested in supporting the company can explore its WeFunder campaign at s4g.biz/joy. Pump for Joy is making a real difference in the lives of mothers and contributing to a more sustainable world.tl;dr:Erin Martin created Pump for Joy to empower working moms with a biodegradable breast milk collection kit.The product eliminates cleaning for nursing mothers and prioritizes environmental sustainability with innovative materials.Erin and her co-founder Vanessa leverage their complementary skills to drive Pump for Joy's success.The company is raising capital on WeFunder, inviting the community to invest in its mission.Erin's superpower, creativity and tinkering, has been key to solving challenges and innovating sustainably.How to Develop Creativity and Tinkering As a SuperpowerErin's superpower lies in her ability to creatively tinker and iterate, transforming failure into opportunity. She explained, “I have not ever let go of this idea of constant learning and creativity. If there's a problem to be solved, my brain immediately starts thinking through how we might solve it.” Her passion for experimentation and improvement allows her to approach challenges with curiosity and determination, making her a natural innovator.When developing Pump for Joy's biodegradable breast milk collection kit, Erin faced a design challenge: creating a product that was both user-friendly and environmentally sustainable. Initially, the design was a single piece, but through relentless iteration, it evolved into a multi-part solution. Erin described how she explored everything from magnetic seals to twist mechanisms, testing each idea with prototypes from her 3D printer. Her persistence paid off, resulting in a design that balances functionality and sustainability, a testament to her creative problem-solving.Tips for Developing Creativity and Tinkering:Embrace Failure as a Learning Tool: Erin reminds us, “Failure is not final.” Use setbacks as opportunities to refine your approach.Stay Curious: Approach problems with a mindset of exploration and a willingness to try unconventional solutions.Iterate Relentlessly: Test, tweak, and repeat until you find the best solution.Learn New Skills: Erin's hobbies, like programming in Arduino and 3D printing, directly enhance her creative problem-solving.Adopt a Growth Mindset: Expect your first attempt to fall short and see improvement as part of the process.By following Erin's example and advice, you can make creativity and tinkering 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 ProfileErin Martin (she/her):Co-Founder & CEO, Pump For JoyAbout Pump For Joy: Pump for Joy makes single use breast milk collection kits for busy moms. Our kits are biodegradable, safe, and easy to use: no washing or sterilizing away from home. This way, busy moms can spend less time cleaning and more time making waves in the world.Website: pumpforjoy.comLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/pump-for-joy/Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557243352181#Instagram Handle: @pump.for.joy Other URL: wefunder.com/pumpforjoyBiographical Information: Seasoned product leader with 10+ years of experience launching 0→1 products to market. She's led cross-functional teams, driven go-to-market strategy, and built scalable solutions across various fintech and consumer sectors.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/erindevinemartinSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and Envirosult. 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.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch applications due by November 17. Apply to pitch at the Superpowers for Good live event on December 11, 2025. This is your chance to spark campaign momentum and present to expert investors who frequently invest in our winners. Applicants must have an active Regulation Crowdfunding offering live when applying that will still be live on the event date. Apply by November 17, 2025.SuperCrowdHour, November 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern — Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “Investing with a Self-Directed IRA.” In this session, Devin will explain how investors can use self-directed IRAs to participate in regulated investment crowdfunding while managing taxes and optimizing returns. He'll break down when this strategy makes sense, how to choose the right custodian, and what fees, rules, and risks to watch for. With his trademark clarity and real-world experience, Devin will help you understand how to balance simplicity with smart tax planning—so you can invest confidently, align your portfolio with your values, and make your money work harder for both impact and income.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.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
State Rep. Sandra Feist announced today that she'll leave the Legislature when her term runs out next year.And it's open enrollment season for many people who get health insurance through their employer. A recent survey found the average cost per employee will go up 7 percent.Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Elena See. Music by Gary Meister.
This week we're reading Jeremiah 29:1-14, a text so hopeful about the future that it is often found on t-shirts and graduation gifts. But while the passage is indeed hopeful—“I know the plans I have for you”—in the context of Jeremiah it is a certain kind of difficult hope: a hope that must first reckon with a tumultuous present reality that will not yield in your generation, or your children's generation, but only seventy years from now, when Babylon's time is up. So what then must we do in the meantime, until that hopeful day finally arrives? Build houses, plant gardens, have children. Seek the welfare of the community—the whole community, the Babylonian community—for only when it thrives can you survive until the day God's promises are finally realized.
In today's homily, Fr. David reminds us that the pro-life mission begins not only with defending the unborn, but with defending the truth about the human person. As the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith taught in Donum Vitae (1987), “Human life must be absolutely respected and protected from the moment of conception.” This foundational truth reveals why the Church insists that no one may claim the right to directly destroy an innocent human being—for life begins with the creative action of God and belongs entirely to Him.Yet Fr. David takes us deeper: physical life and death matter, but our spiritual life or death is even more decisive. St. John tells us, “Whoever does not love remains in death” (1 Jn 3:14). Spiritual death is the absence of charity; spiritual life is union with God, who is love (Jn 14:23). St. Faustina writes in Diary 1148 that “we resemble God most when we forgive our neighbors.” Without forgiveness, the heart withers. Without truth, charity collapses.Through the story of Anna Maria Schmidt, Fr. David shows the terrible cost of hatred and the supernatural power of forgiveness. Her journey—from rage to grace—reveals that only God can heal the heart so deeply that it can forgive even in the face of grave injustice. This is the same grace our nation desperately needs. More than 65 million children have been lost to abortion since 1973. This staggering reality exposes not only a crisis of truth, but a crisis of love.Scripture teaches, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (Jn 8:32). Love divorced from truth becomes sentimentality; truth without love becomes cruelty. But united, they become the path to holiness. Study the faith. Seek the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth. Pray for our nation. And ask God daily to enkindle in your heart the charity that defends life, forgives enemies, and transforms the world.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frdavid #catholictiktok #prolife #loveandtruth #holiness #gospeloflife #donumvitae #forgiveness #saintfaustina #mercy ★ Support this podcast ★
Carl Roberts is joined by Tom Lockyer, Joe Ledley and Rob Earnshaw to preview the crucial World Cup qualifier with North Macedonia, which will determine Wales' path in the play-offs.
Một phân tích mới từ nền tảng tuyển dụng SEEK đã chỉ ra 10 kỹ năng đang được các nhà tuyển dụng tại Úc ưu tiên nhất. Dù trí tuệ nhân tạo và tự động hóa đang ngày càng phát triển, các kỹ năng mang tính con người vẫn được đánh giá rất cao.
Speaker: Luke BrandonScripture: Hebrews 13:7-16Episode Overview:Hebrews 13:7–16 calls believers to a steadfast faith rooted in the unchanging person and work of Jesus Christ. In a world filled with shifting beliefs and persuasive distortions of truth, this passage reminds us that Jesus is our fixed heading, God's Word is our trustworthy path, and the eternal city to come is our true destination. Through these closing exhortations in Hebrews, we learn how to guard our hearts from false teaching, anchor ourselves in God's grace, and walk faithfully with Christ—even when doing so invites reproach. Steadfast faith looks to Jesus alone, lives by the truth He has given, and presses forward to the hope that awaits us.Key Highlights:• Jesus Is Our Heading (Hebrews 13:7–8):Believers are called to remember the leaders who finished their race in faith and to fix their eyes on the unchanging Christ—“the same yesterday, today, and forever.”• Truth Is Our Path (Hebrews 13:9–12):The author warns against novel and deceptive teachings. Christians are strengthened not by works or external rituals but by the grace that flows from Christ's once-for-all sacrifice.• Heaven Is Our Destination (Hebrews 13:13–16):Following Jesus means bearing reproach in a world that opposes His truth, yet we endure with hope because our lasting city is yet to come. In the meantime, we offer lives of praise, generosity, and obedience that reflect His redeeming work.Call to Action:Let this passage prompt you to realign your spiritual compass. Examine where your hope, confidence, and direction truly rest. Spend time this week in Scripture, allowing God's Word to recalibrate your heart toward Christ. Seek out mature believers who can help you discern truth, and look for opportunities to live out the gospel with integrity—through praise, service, and sacrificial love. Fix your hope on Jesus and walk the narrow path He has set before you, trusting that He will lead you all the way to the city that is to come.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org
Author's note: This is an adapted version of my recent talk at EA Global NYC (I'll add a link when it's available). The content has been adjusted to reflect things I learned from talking to people after my talk. If you saw the talk, you might still be interested in the “some objections” section at the end. Summary Wild animal welfare faces frequent tractability concerns, amounting to the idea that ecosystems are too complex to intervene in without causing harm. However, I suspect these concerns reflect inconsistent justification standards rather than unique intractability. To explore this idea: I provide some context about why people sometimes have tractability concerns about wild animal welfare, providing a concrete example using bird-window collisions. I then describe four approaches to handling uncertainty about indirect effects: spotlighting (focusing on target beneficiaries while ignoring broader impacts), ignoring cluelessness (acting on knowable effects only), assigning precise probabilities to all outcomes, and seeking ecologically inert interventions. I argue that, when applied consistently across cause areas, none of these approaches suggest wild animal welfare is distinctively intractable compared to global health or AI safety. Rather, the apparent difference most commonly stems from arbitrarily wide "spotlights" applied to [...] ---Outline:(00:31) Summary(02:15) Consequentialism + impartial altruism → hard to do good(03:43) The challenge: Deep uncertainty and backfire risk(04:41) Example: Bird-window collisions(05:22) We don't actually understand the welfare consequences of bird-window collisions on birds(06:08) We don't know how birds would die otherwise(07:06) The effects on other animals are even more uncertain(09:16) Four approaches to handling uncertainty(10:08) Spotlighting(15:31) Set aside that which you are clueless about(18:31) Assign precise probabilities(20:06) Seek ecologically inert interventions(22:04) Some objections & questions(22:17) The global health comparison: Spotlighting hasnt backfired (for humans)(23:22) Action-inaction distinctions(25:01) Why should justification standards be the same?(26:53) Conclusion --- First published: November 14th, 2025 Source: https://forum.effectivealtruism.org/posts/2YjqfYktNGcx6YNRy/if-wild-animal-welfare-is-intractable-everything-is --- Narrated by TYPE III AUDIO.
“The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook.” (1 Kings 17:6 NLT) When the Bible says that ravens brought Elijah food each morning and evening, it doesn’t mean that they took his order, flew through the local fast-food restaurant, and then delivered his meal. Ravens are scavengers. They brought little bits of meat and bread to Elijah. What’s more, the water in the brook from which he drank would have been somewhat polluted. So, Elijah didn’t enjoy an idyllic situation by any stretch of the imagination. How easily Elijah could have said, “Well, Lord, I don’t really want to be in this crummy little place, drinking river water. I kind of like being in front of people. I like the limelight.” But the Lord was preparing Elijah for something beyond his wildest dreams. Not long after his sojourn by the brook, Elijah found himself standing on Mount Carmel, engaged in a great showdown with the false prophets of Baal (see 1 Kings 18:20–40). Sometimes we don’t like where God has put us. We say, “Lord, I don’t like this situation. I don’t like where I am. I want to do something great for You. I want to make a difference in my world.” Maybe the Lord wants you to be effective right where you are. Maybe He wants you to take advantage of the opportunities in front of you and be faithful in the little things. Who knows what God has in store for you? One theme that works its way through Scripture is that God’s people are blessed when they trust in His timing and plan. The author of Proverbs advised, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take” (Proverbs 3:5–6 NLT). God Himself said, “Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:28–31 NLT). The apostle Paul offered this reminder: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28 NLT). And the author of Ecclesiastes wrote, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NLT). If God has you by some muddy little brook, so to speak, just hang in there. Make the most of the season you’re in. Be faithful, do what He has already told you, and wait on Him and His timing. God will do something wonderful for you or with you. Just be available and open to do what He would have you do. Reflection question: How can you thrive in the place you are right now? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's one of the most valuable things we have—and one of the easiest to waste. We've all heard the saying, “Time is money.” But if that's true, why do we spend it so carelessly? The truth is, time is worth far more than dollars and cents—it's the most limited resource God has given us. Learning to steward it well isn't just good productivity advice—it's an act of worship.If you've ever said, “I just need a little more time,” you're not alone. Many of us feel the pressure of time slipping through our fingers. Ironically, we often spend our days chasing money, status, or success—only to run out of the very thing we were trying to “buy back.”We treat time like a renewable resource when it's really more like a savings account that's constantly being drawn down. Every hour that passes is one you'll never get back. Yet our culture tempts us to equate our worth with how much we earn or produce.A Biblical View of TimeScripture offers a radically different view. In Psalm 90:12, Moses prays, “Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” He's not talking about counting hours on a clock but realizing that our time is limited—and therefore deeply valuable.From a biblical perspective, time isn't ours to manage however we wish. It's a gift from God, entrusted to us for His purposes. Just as money and talents belong to Him, so does our time.In Ephesians 5:15–16, Paul writes, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” The original Greek phrase for “making the best use” literally means “redeeming the time”—buying it back for God's glory. It's the same word Paul uses elsewhere to describe what Jesus did for us on the cross.Christ redeemed us from sin and emptiness, giving our lives eternal meaning. In the same way, we're called to redeem our time—to invest every moment, conversation, and decision in what will last forever.Here's the catch: if you don't decide what your time is worth, someone else will. Your job, your phone, your inbox, even social media—all have plans for your time. Unless you set boundaries, your days will fill up with things that seem urgent but aren't truly important.Jesus modeled something completely different. Even with the most important mission in history, He took time to rest, pray, eat with friends, and be fully present with people. He had the margin to be interrupted—to stop for the sick, listen to the hurting, and teach those who were searching. He never rushed, yet He always fulfilled the Father's will.How to Steward Your Time WellSo how can we live as if our time truly belongs to God?1. Reevaluate Your PrioritiesEvery decision is a trade. When you say yes to one thing, you say no to something else. Ask yourself, “What matters most in God's eyes—and am I giving that my best time?”2. Measure Time by Meaning, Not MoneyOur culture values time by dollars per hour, but God's economy works differently. A quiet afternoon encouraging a friend may not pay in cash—but it yields eternal dividends. As Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”3. Build Margin into Your LifeJust as financial margin creates freedom to give, time margin allows you to live generously. When you're not overscheduled, you can pause to listen, serve, or rest. Sabbath isn't wasted time—it's holy time that reminds us that God is in control.4. Steward Small MomentsEternal impact isn't found only in big events. It's in the five minutes you pray for someone, the ten minutes you spend in Scripture, or the conversation that points someone to Jesus. As Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Making Your Hours Count for EternityWhen you see your time through an eternal lens, every moment takes on new meaning. You stop chasing the clock and start cherishing what truly matters. Missionary C.T. Studd once wrote, “Only one life, 'twill soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last.”So what's your time really worth? It's worth exactly what you invest in eternity.Don't just count your hours—make your hours count. Live intentionally. Rest purposefully. Serve generously. And let every day remind you of the One who holds all time in His hands.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have two kids—a 14-year-old and a newborn—and just opened brokerage accounts for them. What are the best investment options, especially for my newborn with a longer time horizon? I'd like something more flexible than a college savings plan.I retired at 59 and receive Social Security disability. My home is paid off, I have no debt, and I have savings in retirement and trading accounts. I'm thinking about buying a new car with cash to avoid debt, but would it be wiser to finance or lease instead?I recently bought an RV with dealership financing at 7.9% for 20 years, though I don't plan to keep it that long. Does simple interest work the same across all banks, and is there a good calculator for figuring out principal payments on early payoff? Also, where could I refinance to get a lower rate?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Calculator.net | Credit Karma (Simple Loan Calculator) | Calculator SoupList of Faith-Based Investment FundsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. [NKV]
Jesus Followers Reach Out to God When Fear and Anxiety Seek to Take Hold of Life Because They Have a Personal Relationship with the Universe's Creator MESSAGE SUMMARY: Your problems are not too big for God because God is faithful and Sovereign. Your financial issues, your debt, your health issues, and your sins are not too big for God. God is faithful, and He is trustworthy. Why not take, to God, all those things in your life that are creating your anxiety? In Psalms 9:9-10, the Psalmist encourages you to put your trust in God: “The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.". Also, Jesus tells us, in Mathew. 6:33-34, that you can put our trust in Him and not be anxious about your problems: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”. Our God is a faithful God – reach out to God when fear and anxiety are taking a firm hold on your life. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Evil Ways. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Goodness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mathew. 6:25-34; Mathew. 10:19-20; 1 Corinthians 7:32-35; Psalms 48:1-14. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “My Grace is Sufficient” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Today, we take you inside a talk with Rutger Bregman at Princeton, cover US Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman's decision to not seek re-election, and finish out hearing about construction noise at Princeton with Iman Monfopa Kone.
Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Book your FREE 30 Minute Clarity Call with Jody now! https://jody.as.me/womensmeditationnetworkclaritysession What is a Clarity Call? This is the first step to giving you the IMMEDIATE relief you crave and will help you to become "unstuck" as you walk the path towards a life of happiness, inner peace and fulfillment. During this call, we're going to explore your ideal life and vision for living the life that you desire. We'll talk about some of the challenges that are getting in your way, and I'll provide you with some practical tools to help you close the gap from where you are now, to your desired destination. Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Let the tension in your body soften as you exhale. Feel the weight of your feet on the ground and the gentle rise and fall of your chest. PAUSE (5 SEC)... Life is a journey, And it's not always easy. Sometimes, we get so caught up in the destination that we forget to enjoy the ride. But joy isn't something that comes from achieving a goal or reaching a milestone. It's something that we can cultivate within ourselves, regardless of our circumstances. PAUSE (10 SEC)... So, as you walk along your path, I invite you to look for joy in the little things. Notice the warmth of the sun on your skin, The sound of birds singing in the trees, Or the sweet taste of your favorite food. Take time to appreciate the beauty around you and the simple pleasures of life. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,
What happens when the life you built suddenly falls apart? What do you do when your identity, success, and sense of purpose are shaken to the core? Too many leaders push through pressure, burnout, and quiet frustration—never stopping to ask the deeper questions: Who am I becoming? What truly matters? And how do I rebuild when everything feels uncertain?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Josh Kosnick, a true Bridge Builder—a leader forged through fire and guided by faith. As the founder of Kairos Coaching and an EOS Implementer, Josh has a rare gift: helping individuals and organizations align their vision with execution while turning adversity into a launching pad for deeper purpose. Having built and exited three successful businesses, Josh brings firsthand wisdom on resilience, identity, and transformation. Through his masterminds, retreats, and mentorship, he inspires others to embrace their calling, overcome setbacks, and build legacies rooted in authenticity, strength, and generosity of spirit.If you're navigating pressure, leadership challenges, personal transition, or the tug-of-war between ambition and purpose, Josh's story and insights will challenge you, steady you, and equip you for the next chapter.Quotes:"My hope is to catch people before they have a fall, to realign some priorities, and get right with God, their most key relationships, and their health.""The more I mature, the less I feel I actually know.""Jesus was never in a hurry. He was always purposeful. How much hurry do we have in our lives, and how much are we missing by not being present and intentional?"Actionable Takeaways:Schedule a "clarity break" each week—a dedicated, distraction-free hour away from your office and home to reflect on your priorities, challenges, and vision for growth.Evaluate your identity beyond your job title: Ask yourself, "Who am I beyond what I do? What relationships and values truly define me?"Prioritize and protect key relationships by intentionally blocking time on your calendar for family, faith, wellbeing, and important milestones—don't let busyness replace what matters most.Seek diverse perspectives and build a support network—including coaches, mentors, or team members who challenge and complement your strengths—instead of trying to achieve everything alone.ConclusionJosh's story reminds us that real leadership is forged in the moments we don't choose—the losses, the transitions, the unexpected breaks that force us to confront who we truly are. His journey is a powerful blueprint for anyone striving to lead with conviction, rebuild with clarity, and live with purpose. Whether you're a business owner, a parent, or a leader in the making, Josh challenges us to slow down, realign our priorities, and walk boldly toward the life God is calling us to build. This episode is an invitation to step into your own defining moment—your kairos moment—and become the kind of leader whose impact lasts long after the work is done.
In the latest installment of GMAC Zach's EA prep journey, Zach is joined by test prep expert Stacey Koprince for another candid conversation about tacking the exam. Fresh off completing the Foundations of Math book, Zach shares what surprised him, what clicked, and what still feels intimidating — from story problems that suddenly felt accessible to "age problems" that he hopes never appear on test day. Stacey breaks down the science of curiosity-driven learning, reveals which math topics appear more or less frequently on the EA, and offers practical strategies for prioritizing prep when time is short. The episode dives into one of Zach's biggest hurdles: memorizing fraction–decimal–percent conversions. Stacey walks him through how to derive conversions logically rather than rote-memorize long tables, giving Zach (and listeners) a more intuitive path forward. They also discuss leveraging AI carefully, using Foundations of Math as a reference tool, and maximizing the last few days before Zach's section practice exam — especially in Integrated Reasoning. About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student. Helpful links: Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep Takeaways: Curiosity enhances learning and retention. Practice tests help identify areas for improvement. Memorization of key math concepts is beneficial. Organization is crucial for solving complex problems. Focus on strengths rather than weaknesses before tests. Engaging with material through discussion aids understanding. Utilize study materials as references even after completion. Seek advice from test prep experts for common topics. Don't let external pressures affect test performance. Learning is a journey, and progress should be acknowledged. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Study Progress 03:02 Reflections on Learning and Curiosity 05:54 Challenges with Word Problems 08:35 Understanding Common Test Topics 09:52 Memorization Techniques for Math 17:49 Utilizing Study Materials Effectively 24:20 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
Fluent Fiction - French: Mysteries Beneath Ivy: The Secret Treasure of Paris School Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/fr/episode/2025-11-14-23-34-02-fr Story Transcript:Fr: L'automne avait peint l'école en rouge et or.En: The autumn had painted the school in red and gold.Fr: Le pensionnat, niché au cœur de Paris, était un lieu de mystère.En: The boarding school, nestled in the heart of Paris, was a place of mystery.Fr: Les murs couverts de lierre semblaient murmurer des secrets de temps anciens.En: The ivy-covered walls seemed to whisper secrets from ancient times.Fr: Étienne, un élève curieux, passait son temps libre dans la grande bibliothèque.En: Étienne, a curious student, spent his free time in the large library.Fr: Cet endroit était son refuge, un monde rempli d'histoires et d'aventures.En: This place was his refuge, a world filled with stories and adventures.Fr: Un jour, tandis qu'il explorait les rayonnages poussiéreux, Étienne découvrit un livre vieux et délaissé.En: One day, while he was exploring the dusty shelves, Étienne discovered an old and neglected book.Fr: En l'ouvrant, une feuille de papier glissa doucement sur le sol.En: Upon opening it, a piece of paper gently slid to the floor.Fr: Étienne ramassa le papier avec soin.En: Étienne carefully picked up the paper.Fr: Il y avait une note, écrite à la main, qui disait simplement : "Cherchez où la tour touche le ciel."En: There was a note, handwritten, which simply said: "Seek where the tower touches the sky."Fr: Étienne sentit un frisson d'excitation.En: Étienne felt a thrill of excitement.Fr: Il savait qu'il devait découvrir la vérité derrière ce message.En: He knew he had to discover the truth behind this message.Fr: Mais la bibliothèque était immense et le livre très ancien.En: But the library was immense and the book very ancient.Fr: Étienne réalisa qu'il avait besoin d'aide.En: Étienne realized he needed help.Fr: Il chercha Chloé, une camarade du club de débat, et Martin, son colocataire qui aimait les énigmes.En: He sought out Chloé, a fellow member of the debate club, and Martin, his roommate who loved puzzles.Fr: "Chloé, Martin, j'ai besoin de votre aide," dit-il, montrant le papier.En: "Chloé, Martin, I need your help," he said, showing the paper.Fr: Chloé lut la note et dit : "C'est intriguant.En: Chloé read the note and said, "This is intriguing.Fr: Ça ressemble à une énigme."En: It sounds like a riddle."Fr: Martin ajouta : "Oui, mais il est dangereux d'explorer des zones interdites de l'école."En: Martin added, "Yes, but it's dangerous to explore forbidden areas of the school."Fr: Malgré les règles strictes de l'école, le trio décida de mener l'enquête.En: Despite the strict rules of the school, the trio decided to conduct the investigation.Fr: Ils commencèrent à chercher des indices.En: They began to search for clues.Fr: La bibliothèque était vaste, pleine de recoins secrets.En: The library was vast, full of hidden corners.Fr: En cherchant, ils découvrirent une porte menant aux archives réservées de l'école.En: While searching, they discovered a door leading to the school's restricted archives.Fr: Avec prudence, ils pénétrèrent dans les archives.En: With caution, they entered the archives.Fr: L'endroit était sombre et poussiéreux.En: The place was dark and dusty.Fr: Là, ils trouvèrent un vieux document caché sous une pile de livres.En: There, they found an old document hidden beneath a pile of books.Fr: Le document révélait une histoire fascinante sur une ancienne chasse au trésor, organisée par un ancien directeur de l'école il y a plus de cent ans.En: The document revealed a fascinating story about an ancient treasure hunt organized by a former headmaster of the school over a hundred years ago.Fr: Étienne, Chloé et Martin réussirent à décoder le message final : le trésor était caché dans le jardin de l'école, près d'une tour ancienne.En: Étienne, Chloé, and Martin managed to decode the final message: the treasure was hidden in the school garden, near an old tower.Fr: Excités, ils se rendirent au jardin.En: Excited, they went to the garden.Fr: Après quelques recherches, ils découvrirent une boîte en métal, délicatement scellée sous une dalle de pierre.En: After some searching, they discovered a metal box, delicately sealed beneath a stone slab.Fr: L'intérieur contenait des objets précieux et une lettre du directeur.En: Inside were precious objects and a letter from the headmaster.Fr: Il expliquait que le trésor était destiné à ceux qui avaient la curiosité et le courage de chercher la vérité.En: It explained that the treasure was meant for those with the curiosity and courage to seek the truth.Fr: Étienne sentit sa confiance grandir.En: Étienne felt his confidence grow.Fr: Il avait non seulement résolu un mystère, mais aussi tissé des liens plus forts avec Chloé et Martin.En: He had not only solved a mystery but also strengthened his bonds with Chloé and Martin.Fr: L'aventure avait changé Étienne.En: The adventure had changed Étienne.Fr: Il était toujours le jeune curieux qu'il avait été, mais maintenant, il savait qu'avec de l'aide et de la persévérance, il pouvait accomplir l'impossible.En: He was still the curious young person he had been, but now he knew that with help and perseverance, he could accomplish the impossible.Fr: Le trésor était juste le début de leurs aventures à l'école.En: The treasure was just the beginning of their adventures at the school.Fr: Et les murs anciens murmuraient de nouvelles histoires à découvrir.En: And the ancient walls whispered of new stories to discover. Vocabulary Words:the autumn: l'automnethe boarding school: le pensionnatthe ivy: le lierrethe refuge: le refugedusty: poussiéreuxneglected: délaisséthe thrill: le frissonthe truth: la véritéthe fellow: le camaradethe riddle: l'énigmethe clues: les indicesthe restricted archives: les archives réservéesthe pile: la pilethe treasure hunt: la chasse au trésorthe headmaster: le directeurthe clue: l'indicesealed: scelléethe slab: la dallethe curiosity: la curiositéthe courage: le couragethe bond: le lienthe perseverance: la persévérancethe adventure: l'aventurethe puzzle: l'énigmethe excitement: l'excitationthe stone: la pierrethe secret: le secretthe ancient times: les temps anciensthe corner: le recointhe document: le document
Jevon Perra led a discussion on "Forgiveness as an Ally to Prayer," explaining that forgiveness is the release of judgments and perceptions, which, unlike prayer, is temporary because it ends when one realizes oneness and steps out of the belief in a separate, defined self. Leila Fung and kristen shared personal examples of projecting judgments, with Leila Fung describing an issue with her child's social interactions and kristen detailing frustration over a friend's spending habits, which Jevon Perra analyzed as stemming from underlying fears of personal outcomes. The participants, including Soo Kim, explored the conflicting desires for belonging and uniqueness, and Jevon Perra offered Leila Fung practical, open-hearted communication strategies, learned from Jevon Perra's godmothers Caroline and Denise, for dealing with an overwhelming individual, stressing the importance of authenticity over avoidance.Forgiveness as an Ally to Prayer (Part Two: Forgiveness Introduction): Jevon Perra read a passage stating that forgiveness gives wings to prayer, making its ascent easy and swift, and that without it, one cannot rise above the bottom step of prayer. The text describes forgiveness as prayer's ally and sister in the plan for salvation, both supporting the individual, keeping their feet secure, and their purpose steadfast. While prayer is timeless, forgiveness has an end and becomes unneeded once the rising up is complete. However, in the present, forgiveness has a crucial purpose, and accomplishing it leads to redemption, transformation, and saving the world.The Temporary Nature of Forgiveness and the Role of Judgment: Jevon Perra explained that forgiveness, unlike its sister prayer, has an end because it is the release of judgments and perceptions. These judgments are the way individuals perceive things, assigning meaning, and often boxing people into categories like "friend or foe," with perceptions frequently flipping between the two categories, even when no actual change in the other person has occurred.Releasing Perception and Embracing the Current Moment: Jevon Perra discussed that the "perception game" involves giving up one's beliefs, admitting uncertainty, and acknowledging that one may not know what one truly wants. If this is the case, Jevon Perra suggested that the present situation might be perfect, as a "bigger game plan" with God and the universe is giving the individual exactly what they want. If an individual dislikes their companion, their actions, themself, or the world, Jevon Perra stated that the only necessary change might be letting go of the judgment and perception of how things "has to be," which is the essence of forgiveness.The End of Forgiveness and Realizing Oneness: Jevon Perra stated that the process of forgiveness ends when an individual steps out of the belief that they are a body and that their thoughts define them, because at that point they realize the reality of being connected, that "everything is okay and beautiful," and that their desires are already within them. Jevon Perra likened this state to being in a theater with Jesus, watching the entertaining drama of one's own life.Leila Fung's Personal Example of Releasing Judgment about her Child's Social Interactions: Leila Fung shared a personal anecdote about a conversation with her mother regarding her child's social life. Leila Fung initially expressed a judgment, thinking her child felt taken for granted by friends, but her mother stopped her, stating that she did not know the truth of the situation. Leila Fung's child felt like a "last resort friend," being asked to hang out after others were asked, and then being upset when friends did not reply to her, especially after seeing the friends' stories online. Leila Fung explained that after talking with one of the parents, everything was clarified, and she realized she had created "a thousand stories" in her head instead of choosing to forgive, release judgment, and find out the truth. Jevon Perra noted that when it concerns "level one" issues (like one's children), it is easy to enter "attack mode" to protect "my people".Jevon Perra's Experience of High School Dynamics and Conflicting Desires at a Conference: Jevon Perra shared a personal story about a work trip to Vegas where they felt a "high school scene" dynamic at a conference due to a colleague named Aaron, who was handsome and popular, having a group of "groupies" around them. Jevon Perra described walking behind this group, feeling rejected and separate, and being torn between wanting to talk to people and simultaneously wanting to run away due to difficulty with small talk. Jevon Perra recognized this as a "crazy swirl of meaning" and acknowledged making up many worlds and conflicting desires, such as wanting to be in the conversation but immediately wanting to escape it once there.Misunderstanding Forgiveness and the Role of Guilt: Jevon Perra introduced the section "Forgiveness of yourself," reading that forgiveness has been profoundly misunderstood, often becoming a "scourge" or "curse" instead of a blessing, especially for those not engaging in the steps of prayer. Jevon Perra explained that forgiveness is initially obscure because salvation is not understood or sought, and what should heal is used to hurt. The discussion highlighted that guilt is often chosen over forgiveness because individuals view their "separate activities" as a means to push through suffering, with the ultimate guilt being the separation from God that creates the special, separate self they ultimately desire to preserve, fearing "complete annihilation" worse than death.The Origin of Guilt and the Cherishing of Separate Self: Jevon Perra stated that the initial guilt and darkness stem from the act of separating from God, which then leads to projecting that guilt onto other things, causing a constant search for badness. Overcoming this requires releasing one's identity as a separate self, which Jevon Perra noted is often portrayed as a horrifying concept in media, citing examples like the Borg in Star Trek and a show about a mind-joining alien virus where only a few individuals retain separate minds. Jevon Perra concluded that the separate self is cherished, even though it is the source of suffering and the initial guilt one tries to escape."Forgiveness to Destroy" and Holding onto Projected Meaning: Jevon Perra read a passage describing "forgiveness to destroy," which suits the world's purpose by overlooking "no sin, no crime, no guilt" that can be found and cherished. Jevon Perra differentiated between forgiveness (seeing others as the same as oneself) and "forgiveness to destroy," which twists the idea of forgiveness, perhaps by making someone feel judged while being forgiven (e.g., "I'm going to forgive you, but just know you did a bad thing") or by minimizing oneself to "put up with it". This destructive form of forgiveness values error, magnifying mistakes, picking out "all evil things," and viewing love as a "hateful thing of danger and of death".Contradictory Desires and the Ego's Promise: Jevon Perra discussed the conflicting desires inherent in the ego's world, such as wanting to be loved and accepted while remaining separate and special, or wanting one's children to be strong without experiencing suffering. Jevon Perra stated that these desires contradict each other, as struggle and difficulty are what build strength, and separation is inherently painful despite the desire to be unique. The ego promises that separation will work, encouraging one to "Seek but do not find".The Practice of Releasing Seriousness and Choosing the Face of Christ: Jevon Perra emphasized the importance of self-forgiveness by releasing one's own recurring difficulties and choosing peace by not seeing error and not making it real. Jevon Perra advised selecting the loving choice and forgiving sin by seeing "the face of Christ" instead. Jevon Perra noted that hating the son (others) is hating the father (God), because seeing the son is seeing oneself, and how one sees oneself determines how God is seen. Jevon Perra stressed not making things so "serious" because seriousness is linked to the belief that death is real. If death is not real, the seriousness can be removed, and the need to create an enemy can be released.The Illusion of Enemies and the Impact of Seriousness: Jevon Perra explained that the need for an enemy arises when seriousness, and thus the reality of death, enters the game, justifying attack, even toward loved ones, as an attempt to protect them (e.g., yelling at kids to stay away from the street). Jevon Perra connected the attack on loved ones to the belief in the reality of death and applied this logic to attacking strangers, which is enabled by the "belief that there is a stranger" in the first place, rather than seeing everyone as loved by God.kristen's Example of Projecting Financial Judgment: kristen shared an example of projecting judgment onto someone named China, expressing frustration over China's spending habits, lack of savings, and frequent trips and concerts. kristen admitted yelling at China because they fear China will "end up like me," indicating an underlying concern tied to personal experience. Jevon Perra acknowledged the situation, relating it to their own experiences with family members and money mismanagement. Jevon Perra analyzed that the anger stems from the projection that the family member's mismanagement will lead them to ask Jevon Perra for money, creating an unwelcome situation where Jevon Perra would feel compelled to either give money, which Jevon Perra dislikes, or reject them and feel guilty/angry.Shifting Perspective on Requests for Help: Jevon Perra suggested reframing the situation to see the request for money differently, such as feeling grateful that the family member views Jevon Perra as a safe person to ask for things, even if the answer remains "No".The Connection Between "Other" and "Enemy": Soo Kim questioned Jevon Perra's choice of the word "other" versus "enemy". Jevon Perra clarified that one must be an "other" to become an enemy, and explained the spectrum of oneness, from one's friend group to family, nation, and humanity, versus the instantaneous creation of an "other" who is unlike oneself and therefore acceptable to attack.The Conflict Between Belonging and Uniqueness: Soo Kim discussed with their therapist the "push pull" between wanting to belong and wanting to be unique or authentic. Jevon Perra affirmed that the solution is not to focus on one or the other, but to recognize that the conflict is "not real". Jevon Perra reiterated the importance of self-awareness by watching oneself, as illustrated by their conference experience of desiring popularity and then immediately wanting to escape the crowd when achieved.Leila Fung's Church Experience of Desiring and Escaping Popularity: Leila Fung shared a similar experience at her church, where she desired to be well-known and engage in conversations, but upon achieving it, realized that the conversations were unhealthy and the people seeking attention were primarily looking for someone to listen to their "horror story or their drama". Leila Fung concluded that the reality was not what they thought it was.The Dichotomy of Wanting and Escaping Fame/Popularity: Jevon Perra likened this dynamic to the desire for fame, where people eventually complain about lack of privacy and constant interruption. Jevon Perra admitted to having a "spiritual asshole" about activities they deem unworthy of their time, like talking about football. However, Jevon Perra noted that engaging in "openhearted intercourse with the supposed other" makes the "otherness" disappear, citing the example of the unity and openness found in a stadium of sports fans.The Conditional Nature of Oneness and Relationship Checklists: Jevon Perra discussed how the story of oneness (like the unity at a sports game) is often accompanied by rules and criteria that can lead to its demise when people add their own destructive storylines, such as breaking a TV when a team loses. Jevon Perra compared this to relationships, where people have a checklist of requirements, and if the partner breaks a rule, the relationship is instantly terminated, and the person is quickly deemed an enemy "worthy of attack".Leila Fung's Situation with a Talkative Person: Leila Fung asked for help regarding a situation with a "very nice person" who was overwhelming because she constantly shared stories of anger and complaining. Leila Fung found it difficult to breathe and had to excuse themself under false pretenses. The person's daughter was invited over, and Leila Fung was unsure how to interact with the person again, seeking a way to "benefit" or feel safe in the space.Jevon Perra's Strategy for Dealing with Judged Individuals: Jevon Perra acknowledged their own tendency to judge people as "unworthy to be with". Jevon Perra explained that they try to emulate their godmother, Caroline, who is an "open light," by advising people, but framing the advice so that it is about Jevon Perra's own behavior (e.g., "I found that in my life...") while secretly addressing the behavior that is being judged. This technique allows Jevon Perra to find the dynamic in themself, which lessens the annoyance, and often leads to profound conversations.A Direct Approach to Over-Talking: Leila Fung expressed that her difficulty with the person was due to the rapid, constantly jumping topics. Jevon Perra suggested a more direct approach learned from their godmother, Denise. Denise starts by asking, "Have you noticed that?" and then shares her observation (e.g., "Have you noticed that you don't stop enough to have other people share?"). Leila Fung liked this phrasing ("Other people can't participate") and felt it would be helpful because the person "scares a lot of people off".Choosing Authenticity Over Offense: Jevon Perra stressed that while the direct approach might offend, it is better to be authentic and open-hearted than to hate one's life or eventually explode in anger. Jevon Perra stated that one cannot control whether someone takes offense but can control their own intention.Truthfulness vs. Lying in Communication: Jevon Perra discussed the desire for truthfulness and asked, "How much truth do you want?". They pointed out that most people would say they want truth, but many implicitly desire a slight lie. Jevon Perra emphasized that if one wants others to be truthful, they should offer their own true feelings in return, but in a non-accusatory, open-hearted way. Accusatory language (e.g., "You are annoying," "You're a hypocrite") triggers defense and attack.Framing Observations as Personal Realizations: Jevon Perra suggested framing the feedback about over-talking by saying, "It's occurred to me, I don't know if you've noticed this, and maybe I'm off," and then using the metaphor of a story having periods and paragraphs (space). Jevon Perra suggested asking, "What's going on in your mind? Tell me about that. Why is there no space?". Jevon Perra explained that a lack of space to speak often stems from the speaker being afraid to hear what others will say, which can be directly asked.Practicing Healthy Communication and the "I Love You" Filler: Jevon Perra emphasized the need to be a "really strong person to have a soft, open heart and be that direct". Leila Fung noted that practicing this builds the muscle necessary for healthy communication, preventing bottling up feelings until one "blows up". Jevon Perra shared that their godmother Caroline uses "I love you so much" as a conversational filler, which recontextualizes the conversation and reminds the other person that Jevon Perra is a friend.Choosing Loving Conversation Over Avoidance: Leila Fung admitted they previously complained about the person to her spouse and used to cut people out. Jevon Perra questioned which action is kinder: avoiding the person or having an open-hearted, loving, and curious conversation. Jevon Perra argued that avoiding the person is "self-serving" and only has the appearance of being loving, which Jevon Perra termed "nice behavior" that is insincere and bothers them.The Benefits of Realness and Oneness: Leila Fung shared a success story of confronting another friend directly, which led to a positive and receptive response and an invitation to Thanksgiving. Leila Fung concluded that going directly to the problem and finding the truth allows for mutual seeing and a connection of oneness, recognizing that others are going through similar struggles.Forgiveness as a Vibrational State and Release of Separation: Jevon Perra read a concluding passage stating that just as prayer is for oneself, forgiveness is always given to oneself, and it is impossible to forgive another because one only sees their own sins in the "supposedly the other". Jevon Perra defined prayer as a "vibrational state" achieved when releasing judgments and beliefs of separation, which raises one's state and is akin to a state of gratitude. Jevon Perra explained that forgiving the other is actually releasing oneself from the belief of separation and the story of having an enemy. When one releases this idea, the whole world is freed because the "dynamic of bondage and enemy is just ideas that I have in my mind," freeing the individual to realize they have been safe with Jesus all along.
Explore a gentle practice for releasing resentment and finding freedom through forgiveness.How To Do This Practice: Prepare Your Space and Body: Find a quiet, safe place to sit and take slow, grounding breaths. Notice any tension in your body and gently release it with each exhale. Identify Who You're Ready to Forgive: Bring to mind two or three people who have hurt you, and start with the one whose actions feel least painful. Reflect on how this hurt still affects your emotions and body. Acknowledge the Hurt: Recognize what happened and how it impacted your life, trust, or well-being. Allow yourself to feel the pain without judgment. Seek to Understand (Without Excusing): Consider what struggles or past hurts might have influenced the other person's behavior. This step is about seeing their humanity, not condoning their actions. Make the Choice to Forgive: When you feel ready, make an inner decision to release resentment and let go of the burden it carries. Offer kindness, respect, or simply your intention to move forward. Reflect and Offer Yourself Compassion: Notice any small sense of softening or relief, and honor where you are in the process. End by thanking yourself for taking a step toward healing. Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.Today's Happiness Break Guide: DACHER KELTNER is the host of The Science of Happiness podcast and is a co-instructor of the Greater Good Science Center's popular online course of the same name. He's also a professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley.Related Happiness Break episodes:A Science-Backed Path to Self-Forgiveness: https://tinyurl.com/yh2a5urtA Note to Self on Forgiveness: https://tinyurl.com/y53tkn87Make Uncertainty Part of the Process: https://tinyurl.com/234u5ds7Related Science of Happiness episodes:Nine Steps to Forgiveness: https://tinyurl.com/vb7kk5kyThe Science of Letting Go: https://tinyurl.com/566t8udfThe Contagious Power of Compassion: https://tinyurl.com/3x7w2s5sThis episode was supported by a generous grant from the Templeton World Charity Foundation as part of a Greater Good Science Center project on "Putting the Science of Forgiveness into Practice."We'd love to hear about your experience with this practice! Share your thoughts at happinesspod@berkeley.edu or use the hashtag #happinesspod.Find us on Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aapHelp us share Happiness Break! Leave a 5-star review and share this link: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aapTranscription: https://tinyurl.com/trnz9x8n
Vaginal or vulvar itching usually points to one of five causes: yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, contact irritation or allergy, sexually transmitted infection, or a skin condition To calm irritation fast, stop using fragranced products and harsh soaps, avoid douching, and switch to gentle, pH-balanced care. Choose breathable cotton fabrics and avoid tight, non-ventilated clothing that traps heat and moisture Focus on restoring the skin barrier and microbiome — use plain water for cleansing, natural, fragrance-free moisturizers for protection, and steady nutrition to support hormonal and metabolic balance. Relief happens faster once irritants are removed and the body's natural defenses are allowed to reset Seek urgent care if severe pain, sores, fever, foul-smelling discharge, occurs. Pregnant, diabetic, or immunocompromised women also need extra care See a clinician if symptoms last longer than three days or keep recurring, since persistent itching often signals an infection, hormone imbalance, or skin disorder that requires professional treatment
Military service personnel have been seeking outside legal advice about some of the missions the Trump administration has assigned them. The strikes against alleged drug traffickers and deployments to U.S. cities have sparked a debate over their legality. Amna Nawaz discussed more with Frank Rosenblatt, president of the National Institute of Military Justice, which runs The Orders Project. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's game between the Vikings (4-5) and Bears (6-3), who have won six of their last seven games. Will the offense find cohesion with J.J. McCarthy at U.S. Bank Stadium? How do they match up against the Bears defense? When will center Ryan Kelly return? The Vikings defense appears to have found a groove after a rough five-day stretch in October. Are they going to get the upper hand again on Caleb Williams?
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?Hiten: Building high-performing teams.RISE Robotics is on a mission to transform the $600 billion hydraulics market. Under the leadership of CEO Hiten Sonpal, the company has developed a groundbreaking alternative to hydraulics called Beltdraulics, inspired by the efficiency of human muscles. This innovative technology replaces traditional hydraulics, which rely on fluids and compression, with electric systems that use belts to mimic the tension in muscle fibers.Hiten explained, “Hydraulics required pumps, reservoirs, and hoses. They were inefficient and leaked everywhere. So, [the founders of RISE Robotics] came up with an alternative technology that we now call Beltdraulics.” Beltdraulics offers remarkable advantages, being three times faster, three times more efficient, and three times more durable than traditional hydraulic systems.The company's work is more than just an engineering feat—it's a green revolution. RISE Robotics' technology is already helping industries like oil and gas reduce emissions and improve efficiency. For example, their equipment can cut battery size requirements in half, reducing costs and infrastructure demands while doubling productivity. “If there's anything we can do to clean up [polluting industries], it would be fantastic from a company mission perspective,” Hiten said.RISE Robotics is also making waves with government contracts, including partnerships with the Department of Defense and interest from sectors like maritime, forestry, and mining. The potential applications for their technology are nearly limitless, as hydraulics are used in everything from cranes to farm equipment.As part of its growth strategy, RISE Robotics is raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. Hiten emphasized that the campaign offers investors terms similar to those of institutional backers, making this an exciting opportunity for individuals to invest in a clean, green future.RISE Robotics is not just innovating; it's paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable industrial landscape.tl;dr:Hiten Sonpal introduced how RISE Robotics is replacing hydraulics with clean electric systems.Hiten explained the company's Beltdraulics technology, inspired by muscle fibers, that's faster and more efficient.RISE Robotics is disrupting industries, from oil and gas to defense, while reducing emissions and costs.Hiten shared his superpower: building high-performing teams through diversity, psychological safety, and collaboration.Investors can join RISE Robotics' mission by participating in its Wefunder crowdfunding campaign.How to Develop Building High-Performing Teams As a SuperpowerHiten's superpower lies in his ability to build and lead high-performing teams. He explained, “To have a high-performing team, you need diversity—diversity of experiences, ideas, passions, and interests.” He also emphasized the importance of fostering “a culture of healthy conflict” where team members feel psychologically safe to voice their ideas and concerns. This environment enables teams to collaborate effectively, expand possibilities, and achieve more than they would individually.One powerful example of Hiten's superpower in action came during his time at iRobot. After a challenging trip to China, one of his team members called him out during a retrospective for not providing enough central coordination. Instead of reacting defensively, Hiten saw this as a success—a reflection of the psychological safety he'd created within the team. This openness allowed the team to improve and ultimately succeed.To develop this superpower, Hiten suggests creating a culture where feedback is welcomed and encouraged, even when it's directed at leadership. He also advises reducing complexity for teams by narrowing focus and cutting scope on projects, enabling them to move forward effectively.By following Hiten's example and advice, you can make building high-performing teams 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 ProfileHiten Sonpal (he/him):CEO, RISE® RoboticsAbout RISE® Robotics: RISE Robotics is enabling the electification and automation of heavy machinery using Beltdraulics, it's propreitary fluid-free low-maintenance alternative to hydraulics that is 3x faster, 3x more efficient and 100% digital. Website: riserobotics.comLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/rise-roboticsCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/riseroboticsincInstagram Handle: @riserobotics Twitter Handle: @RiseRobotics Biographical Information: Hiten Sonpal is the CEO of RISE® Robotics, a venture-backed company revolutionizing industrial motion with its patented Beltdraulic™ actuator technology—offering a clean, efficient alternative to hydraulics that accelerates the electrification and autonomy of heavy machinery. With over 25 years of experience in robotics, product development, and organizational leadership, Hiten has a proven record of bringing complex technologies to market faster through creative, cross-functional execution. Before leading RISE®, he served in senior executive and advisory roles across high-impact robotics startups—including Electric Sheep Robotics, Mowbot, and Graze Robotics—where he drove innovation in autonomous systems, sustainability, and AI-driven engineering.Previously, Hiten spent nearly 16 years at iRobot, where he led multi-disciplinary global teams in mechanical, electrical, and industrial design, contributing to over $2B in revenue and millions of units shipped. He holds degrees in Computer Engineering from the University of Evansville, executive certifications from MIT Sloan School of Management and Harvard, and ongoing graduate studies in Machine Learning at Georgia Tech. A mentor and advisor to several deep tech ventures, Hiten is passionate about building high-performing teams and scaling technologies that create real-world impact across automation, AI, and clean energy.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/hiten-sonpalSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Artisan Tropic and Envirosult. 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 | 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.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch applications due by November 17. Apply to pitch at the Superpowers for Good live event on December 11, 2025. This is your chance to spark campaign momentum and present to expert investors who frequently invest in our winners. Applicants must have an active Regulation Crowdfunding offering live when applying that will still be live on the event date. Apply by November 17, 2025.SuperCrowdHour, November 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern — Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “Investing with a Self-Directed IRA.” In this session, Devin will explain how investors can use self-directed IRAs to participate in regulated investment crowdfunding while managing taxes and optimizing returns. He'll break down when this strategy makes sense, how to choose the right custodian, and what fees, rules, and risks to watch for. With his trademark clarity and real-world experience, Devin will help you understand how to balance simplicity with smart tax planning—so you can invest confidently, align your portfolio with your values, and make your money work harder for both impact and income.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.From Vision to Impact: The Stories Behind CfPA's Summit Awardees, November 12, 2025 at 2:00 Eastern.Exclusive Investor Webinar for Artisan Tropic. Thursday, November 13 at 1ET/10PT. Register 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
STRONGER BONES LIFESTYLE: REVERSING THE COURSE OF OSTEOPOROSIS NATURALLY
What if chronic inflammation, mold exposure, or unresolved emotional stress were silently accelerating osteoporosis or osteopenia?In this eye-opening episode, functional bone health expert Debi Robinson sits down with Dr. Kelly McCann, a leading functional MD and environmental medicine specialist, to uncover the hidden triggers behind bone loss that most women never hear about.Dr. McCann explains how mast cell activation (MCAS), mold toxicity, and environmental chemicals can weaken bones, disrupt hormones, and fuel chronic inflammation. Together, she and Debi explore the deeper terrain of bone health—how your immune system, nervous system, and even emotional experiences shape your risk for osteoporosis and osteopenia.This episode goes far beyond calcium and vitamin D. It's about understanding the environmental, biochemical, and emotional roots of bone loss so you can build strong, resilient bones for life.What You'll LearnHow mast cell activation (MCAS) contributes to inflammation that accelerates bone lossThe link between mold exposure, toxins, and the development of osteoporosis or osteopeniaWhy your symptoms may be communication, not malfunction, especially when it comes to bone healthHow emotional stress, trauma, and dysregulation of the nervous system can weaken bonesPractical, actionable ways to reduce toxic load and support bone densityHow to create balance physically, emotionally, and energetically to strengthen your bones from the inside outAction Steps Audit your environment: Look for hidden mold, water damage, or chemical exposures that may be fueling inflammation and bone loss.Clean up your kitchen: Swap non-stick pans for stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic to reduce toxin exposure that affects bone health.Hydrate and nourish: Drink filtered water and build meals around whole, anti-inflammatory foods to support osteoporosis and osteopenia.Reduce daily toxic load: Avoid synthetic fragrances, plastic bottles, and harsh cleaners that may disrupt hormones and bone density.Calm your stress response: Use breathwork, meditation, or gentle yoga to regulate your nervous system and protect your bones.Seek functional support: Work with a practitioner if you suspect mold toxicity, MCAS, or chronic inflammation impacting your bones.Resources & LinksLearn more about Dr. Kelly McCann: The Spring CenterListen to more episodes of the Stronger Bones Lifestyle PodcastStrengthen from the inside out: Healthy Gut, Healthy Bones ProgramVisit debirobinson.com for resources and upcoming eventsDebi's TakeawayBone health is about much more than nutrients—it's about your environment, your stress levels, and how your body communicates with you.As Dr. McCann reminds us, inflammation, toxins, and emotional stress can erode bone strength just as powerfully as nutritional deficiencies. When you listen to your body, address hidden triggers, and create safety in your inner world, your bones can finally begin to rebuild.Your body isn't failing—it's speaking. The more you listen, the stronger your bones can become.
Military service personnel have been seeking outside legal advice about some of the missions the Trump administration has assigned them. The strikes against alleged drug traffickers and deployments to U.S. cities have sparked a debate over their legality. Amna Nawaz discussed more with Frank Rosenblatt, president of the National Institute of Military Justice, which runs The Orders Project. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
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Thriving Adoptees - Inspiration For Adoptive Parents & Adoptees
Change is hard. Until an insight happens. Whether that's about how we feel, what causes those feelings, our behaviour or anything else. So changing is a seeing thing. Listen in as Steve shares some of the insights that have done the heavy lifting. We hope this interview catalyses some changes for you.Steve joins the team at Hand in Hand with a background in non-profit organizations, the healthcare industry and higher education. He holds a B.A. in Public Relations, a Master of Divinity, and an M.A. in Psychology, all of which have allowed him to do what he is most passionate about: making a positive difference in the lives of others. Steve heads up operations for Hand In Hand and his outgoing personality makes him a fantastic spokesperson for introducing Hand In Hand to new families and organizations that we partner with. Steve and his spouse have five adopted children. Steve is always excited to share his family's experience with others to show them the incredible ways that adoption can transform lives. He is an avid sports fan, enjoys going to games and can normally be found adventuring with his kiddos throughout California. Steve is not afraid to go outside of his comfort zone and has even run a marathon in Italy to raise funds for charity! He loves being a father, first and foremost, and enjoys being able to give that experience to other families through his work with Hand in Hand.Find out more at:https://www.hihiadopt.org/https://www.instagram.com/hand_in_hand_intl_adoptions/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/HandInHandInternationalAdoptions/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.
Meet the Need are teaming up with Metallica’s charitable foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH) to deliver a unique volunteer food packing event that will put the spotlight on one of the country’s fastest-growing challenges – food insecurity. This unique, one-off event will bring together 50 Metallica fans to pack food parcels for Kiwi families in need On Wednesday, 19 November Fifty Metallica fans will roll up their sleeves alongside volunteers from Meet the Need and be packing food parcels for Kiwi families, bringing to life a shared mission: that no one in Aotearoa should go hungry. They have also secured 2 double passes (Seek and Destroy packages - valued @ $525 each) that they are going to be giving away to anyone that donates as well. Text "meet" to 3520 to donate and go in the draw https://meettheneed.org.nz/meet-the-need-joins-forces-with-metallica-fans-to-tackle-food-insecurity-in-new-zealand/
When life feels mundane or unfulfilling, it’s easy to seek joy and satisfaction in circumstances, possessions, or people. But as our daily prayer and reflection on Psalm 37:4 reminds us, true joy is found not in what we have, but in who we have — the Lord Himself. In this reflective devotional, Emily Rose Massey explores what it really means to “delight” in the Lord. The original Hebrew conveys the idea of being soft, pliable, and dependent — a heart that takes pleasure in God alone and trusts His ways above all else. To delight in the Lord is not a suggestion, but a command — one that calls us to find our ultimate satisfaction in Him. As we do, something beautiful happens: our desires begin to change. The more we enjoy and depend on God, the more our hearts align with His. Our ambitions, affections, and prayers begin to reflect His will instead of our own. When we take joy in God for who He is — not just what He can do for us — He fills our lives with peace, contentment, and purpose. Even in seasons of waiting or monotony, delighting in the Lord draws us into deeper intimacy with Him and reshapes our hearts to desire what truly matters. Today's Bible Reading:“Delight yourself also in the Lord,and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4, NKJV
Daily Study Are you living from paycheck to paycheck? No matter how much money you make, is it still not enough? If so, you may be living under the curse: working merely to survive but never having enough. This should not be because Jesus has paid the price to free us from the curse, so that we may live under God's blessing. Genesis 3:17-19 KJV [17] And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; [18] Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; [19] In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art , and unto dust shalt thou return. Genesis 1:28-30 NLT [28] Then God blessed them and said, "Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground." [29] Then God said, "Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food. [30] And I have given every green plant as food for all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, and the small animals that scurry along the ground-everything that has life." And that is what happened. Romans 5:12,17-19 NLT [12] When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. [17] For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. [18] Yes, Adam's one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ's one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone. [19] Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous. Matthew 16:6-11 KJV [6] Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [7] And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. [8] Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? [9] Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [10] Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [11] How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Mark 6:7-10 KJV [7] And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; [8] And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: [9] But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats. [10] And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place. Matthew 6:31-33 NLT [31] "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' [32] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. [33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Ecclesiastes 10:7 KJV [7] I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as servants upon the earth. Luke 15:29-31 KJV [29] And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: [30] But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. [31] And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com
SummaryIn this episode of A Cup of Joe podcast, Joe Morton discusses the importance of taking control of one's health and wellness. He emphasizes the need to explore natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals, the significance of understanding the root causes of health issues, and the value of consulting with healthcare professionals. Joe shares personal experiences and insights on managing health challenges, particularly regarding medication use and sleep solutions, encouraging listeners to ask questions and seek comprehensive solutions for their well-being. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joemorton88.substack.com
Thriving Adoptees - Inspiration For Adoptive Parents & Adoptees
From rainbows and unicorns to adoption is trauma. Pendulums swing too far before they settle into balance. Listen in as we find a more balanced approach that's closer to the truth.Ryan Hanlon became President and CEO of NCFA in May 2022 after serving as the Vice President of Education, Research, and Constituent Services since August 2017. Prior to joining NCFA, he served as the Executive Director of an accredited adoption agency that provided domestic and international adoption services.Ryan is a frequent conference speaker, podcast guest, and go-to source for national and regional media on a range of adoption issues. He has expertise in accreditation and regulatory issues, state licensing matters, and adoption-related policy topics. Passionate about research and education, Ryan seeks to ensure that all those impacted by adoption have the resources and support they need to thrive in their families and communities.See Ryan's April 2023 appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal.Ryan holds four advanced degrees including an M.A. in Liberal Arts, an M.S. in Nonprofit Management, and an M.S. and a Ph.D. in Social Work. He has served as a social work field instructor and an adjunct professor of social work to both undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.In 2022, Ryan received the Angel in Adoption award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. Ryan lives in Northern Virginia with his wife and their four children including a son adopted internationally.Here's the article we mention.https://ifstudies.org/blog/beyond-hashtags-what-the-anti-adoption-movement-gets-wrongFind out more about Ryan here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-hanlon-/https://adoptioncouncil.org/https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionCouncil/https://www.instagram.com/adoptioncouncil/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.
Thriving Adoptees - Inspiration For Adoptive Parents & Adoptees
It takes courage to tackle the tough stuff in adoption. It takes courage to love our kids when that love isn't reciprocated. Listen in as Melody talks about courage, support from others and much more. Melody has five kids including one from adoption.Melody Marshall is the Co-Executive Director of My Village Ministries, a local initiative focused on family preservation, and the Co-Executive Director of Upstream Collaborative, a nationwide network of family preservation ministries. After receiving a B.S. in Human Development and Family Science, Melody has pursued work that aligns with God's calling to serve vulnerable families.Melody's professional journey has spanned various roles, from house parent for at-risk teens to paraprofessional for children with special needs. Her experiences have shaped her unwavering dedication to the marginalized, the orphan, and the widow. Guided by a deep faith, Melody has seen God's hand at work in her life, leading her to a clear calling to mobilize the Church to preserve socially isolated families in crisis, helping them build sustainable support systems and pathways to healing.https://www.linkedin.com/in/melody-marshall-1b19712ab/https://myvillageministries.com/https://www.facebook.com/myvillageministrieshttps://www.instagram.com/my.village.ministries/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.
As a runner of marathons and ultramarathons, author and advocate Mirna Valerio knows a thing or two about finding reserves of power within herself. When she makes the decision to leave her job as an educator and build a new career around inclusivity in the running world, she must find a different kind of strength to take action and learns that it's always there for her, even when her fear doesn't go away.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Read OnlineJesus said in reply, “Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?” Then he said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has saved you.” Luke 17:17–19This reply from our Lord came in response to the one leper who returned to Jesus to thank Him. Ten lepers had come to Jesus, stood at a distance, cried out, “Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!” And with that, Jesus healed them all. But the heart of this healing is not as much the healing itself as it is the gratitude expressed by only one of the ten.This Gospel relates to us that this one leper did five things to profoundly express his gratitude. He returned, glorified God, did so in a loud voice, fell at the feet of Jesus, and thanked him. What a wonderful witness for us all!By analogy, children often take the loving care of their parents for granted. That's why many good parents regularly remind their children to say “thank you.” In our relationship with God, we can also easily take God's saving actions for granted. We can easily see all the grace we receive as something we deserve rather than as an infinitely merciful gift. When that happens, we become more like the other nine who failed to properly express their gratitude to Jesus. First of all, it must be noted that expressing gratitude to God is not done because God needs these accolades. He does not depend upon our gratitude to affirm His self-worth. This is obvious. God is God, and He does not need our praise in any way. However, giving profound praise and glory to God is essential. It is essential because we need this virtue of gratitude so as to daily be reminded that all we receive from God is an unmerited gift. We cannot earn His love and grace. We do not deserve it. But He chooses to bestow it anyway out of mercy. And the only appropriate response to mercy is gratitude. Profound gratitude.Gratitude is essential because it is the truth. We should always return to our Lord after He has graced us. We should glorify Him with much fervor, crying out to Him with passion. We should, literally and interiorly, fall on our face before Him, at His feet, and thank Him, over and over and over again. Doing so will always help us to remember the truth that everything we have and everything we are is a gift from God. An unmerited and undeserved gift of grace.Reflect, today, upon the depth of gratitude in your own heart. Do you often act more like a spoiled and selfish child, or do you regularly perceive the graciousness of God? If you lack in any way this fullness of gratitude, then ponder this one leper. His gratitude, expressed with the fullness of passion, is the most important part of this story. In the end, he was graced far more than the other nine because his healing produced faith; and it was that faith that saved not only his body but his soul. Seek to save your soul by imitating the faith of this one holy and healed leper. My gracious Lord, You bestow Your mercy upon me in superabundance. Without You, Jesus, I have nothing; but with You, I receive everything. May I always know and understand my need for Your grace. And as I am gifted with it, may I respond with the deepest gratitude, thus, saving my soul through faith. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Niels Larsen Stevns, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
Far too many people are living with misdiagnosed Graves' or ignored hyperthyroidism and they don't even know it yet.I've heard and read countless cases of people who were told their fatigue, anxiety, or rapid heartbeat were ‘just stress', only to later learn that their thyroid was the real issue. Too often, hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease are missed because doctors rely on limited testing or dismiss subtle symptoms. In this episode, I explain why these oversights happen, what red flags to watch for, and how to ask for the right labs. You'll also hear how small clues like heart palpitations or low cholesterol can point to a bigger thyroid problem. My goal is to help you recognize the signs early and feel confident advocating for your health.Tune in to uncover how Graves' and hyperthyroidism are so often misdiagnosed and what you can do right now to avoid becoming one of those stories.Episode Timeline: 00:00 – Episode Preview01:16 – Podcast Intro01:41 – Friend's Case: High TPO Antibodies03:30 – Possible Graves vs Hashimoto's Confusion05:12 – Hyperthyroidism Often Overlooked06:00 – Case Study: Thyroid Storm Misdiagnosed08:40 – How Symptoms Mimic Panic Attacks10:10 – Limited Treatment Options for Graves'12:05 – Why Graves' Therapies Haven't Advanced13:00 – Recognizing Misdiagnosis Red Flags14:25 – Full Thyroid Panel Importance15:55 – Role of Antibody Testing17:00 – Advocate for Imaging and Follow-Up17:40 – Mid-Episode Resources and Books18:30 – When to Seek a Second Opinion21:45 – Working with Experienced Practitioners23:10 – Why Second Opinions Matter24:35 – Introducing the Healing Graves Community25:40 – Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways26:27 – Podcast Outro Mentioned in this episode: Graves' thyroid storm misdiagnosed as panic attack - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34044861/ Skool Community - savemythyroid.com/healgravesdisease Free resources for your thyroid health Get your FREE Thyroid and Immune Health Restoration Action Points Checklist at SaveMyThyroidChecklist.com High-Quality Nutritional Supplements For Hyperthyroidism and Hashimoto' s Have you checked out my new ThyroSave supplement line? These high-quality supplements can benefit those with hyperthyroidism and Hashimoto's, and you can receive special offers, along with 10% off your first order, by signing up for emails and text messages when you visit ThyroSave.com. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Get free access to hundreds of articles and blog posts: https://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/all-other-articles Watch Dr. Eric's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/NaturalThyroidDoctor/videos Join Dr. Eric's Graves' disease and Hashimoto's group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroid Take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz: https://quiz.savemythyroidquiz.com/sf/237dc308 ...
Meet Julia Kasper, cofounder and CEO of Zukunftmoor, a company rewetting drained peatlands and growing sphagnum moss to transform how we think about agriculture. Their powerful approach reduces greenhouse gas emissions and makes climate-friendly farming possible in peatland regions.Peatlands, peatlands, peatlands: the biggest climate opportunity in agriculture isn't cover crops or even silvopasture, but rewetting the humble peatlands. They cover only 3% of the global land surface, yet hold immense amounts of CO2. And when they're drained- as many are- they release it, not just once, but year after year after year. Like a bathtub with the plug out and the shower still on.These lands, at least in Europe, are often farmed and not very profitable. But before these farmers risk their livelihoods, we need concrete alternatives to transition. That's what Julia works on: how to grow something that can replace current agricultural methods on peatlands while rewetting them. And it seems they've found a big part of the puzzle: rewetting peatlands and growing sphagnum moss. Currently, when you buy a plant in a shop or when plants are grown in greenhouses, the growing medium contains a lot of extracted peat, which comes with huge emissions and will soon be illegal in Europe. Sphagnum moss can replace this 1-to-1. More about this episode.==========================In Investing in Regenerative Agriculture and Food podcast show we talk to the pioneers in the regenerative food and agriculture space to learn more on how to put our money to work to regenerate soil, people, local communities and ecosystems while making an appropriate and fair return. Hosted by Koen van Seijen.==========================
In this episode of the Jesus Everyday Podcast, Ethan Callison, Josh Horne, and Andrew McPheron dive into John 7:25–36, a passage filled with tension, misunderstanding, and urgency.As Jesus teaches in the temple during the Feast of Booths, confusion swirls among the people and the religious leaders. Some think He's the Messiah. Others think He can't be. And Jesus' words cut through their speculation:“You will seek Me, and you will not find Me. Where I am, you cannot come.”
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 Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Amanda: My superpower is just diving in!The non-alcoholic beverage movement is taking the country by storm. While many expect trends to start in big coastal cities, this time something special is happening in the heart of Ohio. Amanda Ortega, founder and CEO of Beyond Bottleshop, is leading the charge to make intentional, alcohol-free drinking accessible to everyone.Amanda's shop in downtown Springfield, Ohio, offers a colorful selection of non-alcoholic and functional beverages — drinks that not only taste good but also help people feel energized, relaxed, or uplifted. She explained, “A lot of the non-alcoholic industry kind of exploded during COVID. A lot of the products that I carry were founded during that time. So we're not too far behind, and I'm just excited to be an industry leader in the Midwest.”Beyond Bottleshop started small, inside a local gift shop. As Amanda put it, “It was an opportunity for me to have a small space with not too much overhead and start selling these non-alcoholic beverages.” What began as a local experiment quickly grew into something much bigger. Customers now drive an hour or more to visit the store, and Amanda has launched an online shop to reach more people across the country.Her next goal is to expand into distribution, helping restaurants and bars create high-quality, non-alcoholic cocktails. “I'm really passionate about getting into the hospitality industry and bridging the gap between what's happening for people personally and what they can get when they're out,” she said. “I'm excited to bridge that gap with other businesses.”Amanda is also raising capital for Beyond Bottleshop through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Honeycomb Credit. The campaign allows community members to invest as little as $100 to help her business grow. “There are a lot of people who feel passionate about what I do,” she said. “What a cool opportunity that they can give a hundred dollars, a thousand dollars, or whatever is in their range to help a small business grow that's local.”Her passion for intentional drinking came from her own journey. After years of running a wine shop and working in hospitality with her husband, a chef, Amanda began to seek healthier, more mindful options. “I just became really passionate about intentional drinking,” she said. “It just felt like enough time has been spent in my life in and around alcohol. It was time for something different.”Through Beyond Bottleshop, Amanda is creating not only a business but also a movement — one that's reshaping how communities in the Midwest and beyond think about what's in their glass.tl;dr:* In this episode, I talk with Amanda Ortega, founder of Beyond Bottleshop, about the booming non-alcoholic beverage movement.* Amanda shares how her Springfield, Ohio, shop became a local hub for functional, alcohol-free drinks with national reach.* She explains her decision to raise capital through Honeycomb Credit, inviting community investors to fuel her growth.* Amanda reveals her superpower: fearless connection — diving in, building trust, and uniting people for shared success.* Together, we explore how authentic relationships and collaboration can drive business growth and positive social change.How to Develop Fearless Connection As a SuperpowerAmanda Ortega's superpower is fearless connection—the ability to dive in, take risks, and build authentic relationships that move ideas forward. As she explained, “My superpower is just diving in. I see a need, and it feels natural to make it happen if it's related to something I'm passionate about.” She combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a genuine love for people, creating trust and collaboration wherever she goes. Amanda's energy comes from her drive to connect with others who share her vision. “It just lights me up,” she said, “talking to other entrepreneurs and business owners about how we can move forward together—how we can change the world together.”One powerful example of Amanda's superpower in action comes from her work connecting local businesses. She described bringing together a sound bath practitioner, a yoga instructor, and her own non-alcoholic beverages to create an experience that nourished the body, mind, and spirit. “I said, Hey, I can bring drinks, you do this, and you do that, and it brings all our customers together for an even better experience,” she recalled. “That's how I see the world—bringing people together in that way and just building and bringing all our superpowers together.”Throughout this episode, Amanda offered practical insight into how others can develop their own gift for connection:* Start small. Attend local networking events or farmers markets to meet people with shared interests.* Ask thoughtful questions. Focus on understanding others' stories before sharing your own.* Build one-on-one trust. Find common ground and let authentic relationships grow naturally.* Encourage collaboration. Look for ways to align skills, goals, or audiences to create mutual benefit.* Stay fearless. Take risks by reaching out, offering ideas, and trying new partnerships.By following Amanda Ortega's example and advice, you can make fearless connection 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 ProfileAmanda Ortega (she/her):Founder/ CEO, Beyond Bottleshop, LLCAbout Beyond Bottleshop, LLC: Beyond Bottleshop is Central Ohio's first curated hub for non-alcoholic and functional beverages, founded by Amanda Ortega to lead a cultural shift toward intentional, wellness-centered drinking. More than a retail space, Beyond Bottleshop is a movement-driven experience that blends strategic brand storytelling with compliance expertise, community engagement, and emotionally resonant rituals. From kava and adaptogenic elixirs to sparkling teas and mood-enhancing tonics, it offers a thoughtfully selected inventory backed by educational resources, experiential campaigns, and hospitality partnerships. With a growing eCommerce presence and plans to expand into wholesale and regional distribution, Beyond Bottleshop is building the infrastructure to scale its impact and become the trusted leader in mindful beverage experiences across the Midwest.Website:beyondbottleshop.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/beyondbottleshopOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Beyond-BottleshopBiographical Information: Amanda Ortega is the founder and owner of Beyond Bottleshop, Central Ohio's first curated hub for non-alcoholic and functional beverages. A visionary leader and strategic storyteller, Amanda blends deep compliance expertise with emotionally resonant branding to pioneer a cultural shift toward intentional, wellness-centered drinking. Her career spans over a decade in hospitality, from supporting her husband's food truck and opening a small restaurant to owning a wine shop and earning her Level 1 sommelier certification. As a former SBDC business coach and private consultant, she's empowered other hospitality start-ups with operational clarity and creative direction. At Beyond Bottleshop, Amanda leads experiential marketing, community engagement, and educational initiatives that spark curiosity and connection. With a growing eCommerce presence and plans to expand into wholesale and regional distribution, she's building a movement—not just a business—centered on mindful drinking, partnership, and purpose.Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/amanda-ortegaInstagram Handle: @beyondbottleshopSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Crowdfunding Made Simple, SuperGreen Live and Envirosult. 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. | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | 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.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch applications due by November 17. Apply to pitch at the Superpowers for Good live event on December 11, 2025. This is your chance to spark campaign momentum and present to expert investors who frequently invest in our winners. Applicants must have an active Regulation Crowdfunding offering live when applying that will still be live on the event date. Apply by November 17, 2025.* SuperCrowdHour, November 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern — Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “Investing with a Self-Directed IRA.” In this session, Devin will explain how investors can use self-directed IRAs to participate in regulated investment crowdfunding while managing taxes and optimizing returns. He'll break down when this strategy makes sense, how to choose the right custodian, and what fees, rules, and risks to watch for. With his trademark clarity and real-world experience, Devin will help you understand how to balance simplicity with smart tax planning—so you can invest confidently, align your portfolio with your values, and make your money work harder for both impact and income.* 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 Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.* From Vision to Impact: The Stories Behind CfPA's Summit Awardees, November 12, 2025, at 2:00 Eastern.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.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
from Matthew 7:7-12 Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5-7, we know as The Sermon on the Mount…but it is so much more than just a collection of wisdom and challenge and instruction from Jesus. It is at the heart of it, an invitation from Jesus to consider that there is another way, that there is a better way. To … Continue reading "(November 9, 2025) “Sermon on the Mount: Ask, Seek, Knock”"
Blending a family takes grace—and so does blending your finances.When couples merge families, they're also merging priorities, habits, and sometimes, financial baggage. Ron Deal joins us today to show us that with honesty and a shared vision, what begins as a challenge can become a source of strength for blended families navigating both money and marriage.Ron Deal is a bestselling author, licensed marriage & family therapist, podcaster, and popular conference speaker who specializes in marriage enrichment and stepfamily education and is the co-author of The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family. Why Honest Money Conversations MatterThere once was a man who, when his girlfriend thought he was about to propose, surprised her by asking for her credit report instead. It's a funny story—but one that reveals a serious truth. Beneath money conversations are usually heart conversations.For couples forming blended families, this truth runs even deeper. Life has already taught them that marriage isn't guaranteed, whether because of death or a divorce. That experience creates an understandable sense of caution: How deeply do I invest again? Can I trust this new relationship?Money becomes the testing ground for those questions. That's why avoiding financial conversations doesn't protect your relationship—it weakens it. Only about one in four dating or engaged couples forming a blended family ever have a serious talk about finances before they marry. The rest often underestimate what needs to be uncovered.Finances are never just about dollars and cents. They're about values, power, and security. Beneath a discussion about budgets might be an unspoken fear: Will your children be treated equally with mine? Beneath a talk about wills might be a hidden worry: Will you care for my kids if I'm gone?There was once a woman who had been remarried for 25 years—two and a half decades of life together—and she still wondered whether her husband would provide equally for her children after she passed away. The question had never been resolved. It lingered from the past, quietly shaping their relationship.When those unspoken fears remain unaddressed, they create invisible walls. Healthy couples have the courage to name them and work through them together.The Challenge of Inheritance and TrustConsider the story of Sandra and Dave, a couple who married later in life. Sandra, a divorced mother of two adult children, was asked by her new husband, Dave, to change her will and make him her sole beneficiary. To Dave, who had no children of his own, the request seemed simple and loving: We're one now—just leave everything to me, and I'll take care of your family.But Sandra hesitated. Her adult children hadn't had time to form a close bond with Dave. For her, the request stirred deep questions: How do I know that what she's set aside for her children will be honored after she's gone?This is where trust, loyalty, and belonging intersect. Financial peace in a blended family isn't achieved through documents—it's achieved through relational clarity. You can't solve financial questions until you've addressed the relational ones.Moving from Prenuptial to TogethernessSo what's the alternative? In the book, The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family, Ron Deal, Greg Pettis, and David Edwards, introduce what they call a “Togetherness Agreement.”Think of it as a redeemed version of a prenuptial agreement. A traditional prenup is something you do to your spouse—it outlines what they won't receive if the marriage fails. But a Togetherness Agreement is something you do for your spouse. It outlines how you will lovingly and intentionally provide for one another and your families.In a Togetherness Agreement, couples prayerfully decide together:How do they care for children from prior relationshipsHow inherited or premarital assets will be handledHow responsibilities to other households or parents will be honoredAnd how they'll support one another financially in love and unityIt's not about dividing assets—it's about uniting hearts. This process builds emotional safety, which in turn builds trust. When couples feel safe, they can finally exhale, knowing they are truly invested in each other.Taking Inventory—Emotionally and FinanciallyBefore crafting any agreement, couples need to take inventory. That means both emotional and financial reflection.Ask questions like:What financial baggage or debts are we bringing in?What past wounds or fears still shape the way we view money?What are our goals—for our family, our faith, and our future?Blended families are always born out of loss—whether death, divorce, or something else. That history doesn't have to define the new relationship, but it does need to be acknowledged. Honest reflection helps couples avoid repeating old patterns and build a healthier foundation together.Every couple's situation is different, but here are key topics that should be covered in a Togetherness Agreement:Joint and separate accountsDebt and financial obligations from prior marriagesChild or spousal support payments to other householdsRetirement, insurance, and investmentsCollege, cars, and other child-related expensesCovering these topics doesn't weaken love—it strengthens it. It replaces assumptions with clarity and fear with peace.If all of this feels overwhelming, take heart. You don't have to figure it out alone. Seek wise counsel—a trusted financial planner, pastor, or Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) can help you find creative and God-honoring ways to care for your family.And above all, remember this: God's grace is sufficient for your blended family. Submit your plans to Him. Let Him guide the process. As you do, He will grow you—not only in financial wisdom, but in love, unity, and faith.When couples move from mine and yours to ours, they begin to reflect the very heart of God, who makes two one, and who calls us to love generously, even in the way we handle money.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been struggling with $26,000 in credit card debt that I recently disclosed to my husband. A credit consolidation company says they can negotiate it down, so I'd pay $400 every two weeks and be debt-free in four years. It sounds good, but is this a trustworthy option—or are there drawbacks I should watch out for?I have UTMA accounts for my two sons, but I am considering switching to 529 plans. I'm mainly concerned that with the UTMA, they'll gain full control of the money once they come of age. Would a 529 plan be a wiser choice?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family by Ron L. Deal. Greg S. Pettys and David O. EdwardsChristian Credit CounselorsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. 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