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Lisa is joined by Bonnie McDaniel, author of Farm Girl In The City: Of Food and Love. Bonnie McDaniel is a contributing food and gardening writer for online news organization Patch.com. She is the author of two books, In the Eye of the Storm: The Celebration of Family and the Real Purpose of Home and Queen Bee and the former editor-in-chief and publisher of recipes for Good Living online magazine. She is a lifestyle radio and television contributor, having contributed to ABC, CNN, Fox and CBS and WGTS 91.9FM Radio. She is the former host of a weekly lifestyle talk show on the ION Television Network. In previous roles she was a radio talk show host, syndicated newspaper columnist, an editor for Family Digest Magazine and an award winning restaurateur, winning the prestigious Wine Spectator Award for having one of the best food and wine menus in the world. Of Food and Love is the first in a 5-book cookbook series.Using flavorful ingredients that you can pluck from your garden or neighborhood farmer's market, Bonnie McDaniel has created a collection of delicious traditional recipes your family and friends will absolutely love. If you are craving the taste of good, farm-fresh, garden to table flavor, this collection of recipes will have you serving up down-home meals in no time at all. -Barbara Jacksier, Contributing Writer, Prairie Style and Modern Country magazines
Didn't Ask to be a Hero Podcast: Ordinary Women Living Extraordinary Lives
We're called to be the hands and feet of Jesus. But what about His voice, His cadence, His life? Conversing with Brandi was like sitting on the sofa, with a warm mug of tea and honey, in a warmly lit room, being filled with inspiration, hope and lots and lots of Jesus. Don't take our word for it. Listen for yourself and may you be filled with God's love and grace just as we have been!And to checkout all things Brandi connect with her on:Listen M-Sat 7pm-midnight - https://www.ktsy.org/evenings-with-brandi-lanai/ Listen WGTS - https://www.wgts919.com/on-air/personality/brandi-lanai Share your story - (833)-7-BRANDI - (833) 727-2634 Website - https://www.brandilanai.com/ FB - https://www.facebook.com/BrandiLanai/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/brandilanai You're gonna love her! Promise!Also, please join Annie and I on our WEIGHT Loss Program as we strive together to lose the effects of:Worry (Fear, Anxiety)Ego (Pride, Self)Ideas (negative thoughts and attitudes)Gift of Gab (our words and messaging)Hurry (hustle and busyness)Trauma (conflict, disorder)To support your journey of renewing your mind, engage in 30 Days of Meditation to Transform Your Mind.Finally, your reviews mean the world to us, and they also assist us in spreading God's message of hope and victory across the globe! So please leave us a review where you listen to our podcast or on our Podcast Webpage .You can also leave a VOICE REVIEW here! Tell us what you think of this episode, of this podcast and we'd also love to hear your story!Thanks for listening! From our hearts to yours!!Annie and Davenia
Love covers. When God gave us his Son Jesus, who gave his life to pay for our sins, He covered us. It's the opposite of exposing and shaming. Sadly, it seems to be the opposite of what people often do. And yet this is what God has called us to do for others, in small ways and big ones. Join me for a special conversation with my wonderful husband Pastor Gary Coiro as we talk about the difference between cancel culture and cover culture. “Above all, love each other deeply because love covers a multitude of sins.” - 1 Peter 4:8
Passion City Church has birthed some special artists and music that have been a light to my path. I'm so grateful for them. One of my favorites is Kristian Stanfill. He's a gifted worship leader, singer/song-writer and he‘s been a part of my regular playlist for years now. But Kristian has been in a personal battle, that until November of last year, was a private one. How do you heal from a personal addiction to alcohol, when you're a public worship leader? Kristian joins me for an encouraging, honest conversation about real life and a real God who helps us in our darkness. He has been sober for 2 ½ years now, but he has learned some important things along the way about healing and the love of God. I am so honored to share this important conversation with you and I hope, as I know Kristian does as well, that it helps others who are struggling too. You can make it out alive... and if you trust the process, God will bring healing and joy back into your life.
Stacey Loveless has a passion to help people and she's convinced of the healing power of God's love to restore lives. She knows because she's been there. On this special episode of the podcast, I am honored to introduce you to my friend Stacey Loveless who is the Director of Love Wins House, a place for women struggling with addiction to find community, hope, and healing. Stacey is on the front lines of this battle that is raging in our country and she shares her wisdom with us. If someone you love is battling addiction or in recovery, or, you're burdened for all who are fighting this battle, this conversation will give you insight and real hope on how we can help.
Pat Linnell is a man on a mission... Equipping people to do intentional acts of kindness that implicate Jesus as the source. He's been at this for a few years and Grace Bomb-the Movement is spreading worldwide. If you've ever wondered how to share your faith in Christ in a tangible way, or you feel slightly intimidated by talking to your neighbors, Grace Bomb is designed to help you build those connections in a way that's fun and fruitful. I LOVE this concept, I love Pat and his passion for Jesus! He is full of stories that he shares with us in this fun and inspiring conversation about how God is working through people just like us... who are willing to be intentional about the source of their kindness.
Nikki Healy died one year ago today on June 14, 2022. In 2021 Nikki and David Paul talked every month as she was undergoing treatment for cancer. Those conversations formed the foundation of Season Three of Long Story Short. The following season, Nikki's husband, Steve, walked us through Nikki's final days and the months following her death. One week before this one-year anniversary, Steve provided Long Story Short an update on how he and his children are doing since Season Four ended in early December. Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
The one and only Lauren Daigle joins me on the podcast! Lauren is such a lover of people. Even the title song of her latest record, Kaleidoscope Jesus, is about how beautifully God has made people, with different colors and cultures and she loves to see how God reveals Himself through all of his creation. The question Lauren loves to pray every day is... Jesus, would you show me something special in someone today? Would you help me to see people through your eyes? Join me for this delightful conversation with the free-spirited, kind, and authentic, Lauren Daigle. Oh, how I love her!
When Sandy Hartranft's youngest son Ben was 3 years old, she walked into the dining room and could hardly believe what she saw. Ben had climbed up on the table and was literally swinging from the chandelier! With incredible humor, faith, and wisdom, Sandy shares her story of discovering her son had autism. How this amazing family has navigated the force of energy that is Ben, is inspiring. Ben is now a young man with hopes and dreams and an irresistible joy, and he's even become a public speaker/advocate for people with autism. But the journey began with a mom who had to let go of what her idea of her family might be and learn to trust God with something even better. In this warm and wonderful conversation, Sandy shares her story and her advice to other families on this journey too. I love this family so much and I know you will too. You can find joy in the journey of autism. You just might need some help from someone who's been there.
Tracey Tiernan was making really good money playing in a band on weekends. She was having lots of fun and pursuing her life-long dream of being a professional singer. And, then Tracey reconnected with Jesus. She returned to church and started leading worship. Tracey also began to feel like she was leading a dual life because of her band job. She knew she had to quit, but she also needed the money. Faith is hard because we can't see what's on the other side. Isaiah 40:31 tells us that those who hope in the Lord with renew their strength. In this episode, you'll hear the story of how God gave Tracey the strength for the faith needed to make a really hard decision. Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
Christy Nockels is one of my favorite singers ever. Period. I fell in love with her voice from her days with Watermark, the popular duo with her husband Nathan. It was in the late 90's/early 2000's and I was just beginning to really get into Christian music. Christy had this elegant and humble way of inviting me into a sacred space. She never over-sang. She just seemed to know what to do with every song she sang. To connect you to God seemed to be her agenda and for me, it just clicked. That gentle, honest, gorgeous voice has been singing over my life for decades. Christy has recorded many solo albums, been a founding member of Passion City Church, and sang with so many artists- you know her voice. You just might know her name. How did she do that? I am convinced it's that unique ability she has to lead people in worship and almost disappear from the spotlight herself. There aren't many like her... Her latest project, “This is the Hour”, is the most beautiful worship album I've heard in a long time and is one of my all-time favorite albums. For real. I can't believe I get the honor of talking to Christy... and I get to share this conversation with you! I will try not to fan-girl too much because clearly, Christy is not about that.
In January 2021, John Lawhon learned his marriage vows were broken. He worked hard to save the marriage, but when John discovered even more, he knew it was over. John is the Director of Content for BRIGHT-FM. He leads a team on a mission to make the hope of Jesus loud for others. You'll hear how John continues moving forward after his life felt broken. It's an ongoing story of how God is making hope louder for John. “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31) Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
Does a white man have a voice in the conversation around racial reconciliation? How can I be a bridge-builder if I don't live near people who look different from me? What is God calling ME to do to help bring unity and healing to our world? 20 years ago, Dr. David Anderson introduced the world to the concept of “Gracism-the Art of Inclusion.” Because how we talk about race has changed since 2007, the revised and expanded “Gracism”, has just been released. A mentee of Dr. Anderson, my friend David Heiliger has been learning and joining in this important work around the world. Join me and my special guest David Heiliger, Pastor of Multi-Cultural Bridge Building at Bridgeway Community Church for an honest conversation about the racial divide in our world and Jesus's heart to heal it. We all have a part to play.
One afternoon in 2013, Tiffanie Knight thought she was having a heart attack. She wasn't. But, what happened that day still impacts Tiffanie today… and may for the rest of her life. Tiffanie is part of the BRIGHT-FM team making hope louder for others. How do you do that when you're in the midst of a personal storm or storm clouds are always lingering nearby? Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength (Isaiah 40:31) You'll hear how God gave Tiffanie the courage to do a hard thing and ask for help after that afternoon in 2013. It's a decision that will also impact Tiffanie today…and will for the rest of her life. Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
...And I hope that failure comes your way And shows you there's a limit to your own strength. Til you can't help but offer other people grace, Yeah, I hope that failure comes That's what I wish for you What I hope you find May it all come true Knowing sometimes good things come from suffering Yeah, sometimes good things can come from suffering..." Jason Gray's lyrics for a song he wrote for his kids may make you flinch at first - but he knows the treasures God can bring through our failures. From the complex relationship with his own father to his painful divorce, Jason has found forgiveness and faith coming alive again and the healing that comes when we tend to our wounds. Join me for an honest conversation with one of my favorite songwriters. Jason has been through a hard season and God is just showing him more of what love and grace really are.
Molly Chambers felt like an imposter. After joining Jack Larkin on the BRIGHT-FM afternoon show, Molly assumed it was only a matter of time before everyone else figured out the truth. Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength (Isaiah 40:31)You'll hear how God provided the tangible encouragement Molly needed to make hope louder for others!Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
If you saw the movie "Jesus Revolution" chronicling the life stories of Greg Laurie and Chuck Smith, you'll be fascinated to hear how Kathy Gilbert's story intersects. Growing up in a conservative Catholic family in Maryland in the late 60's, Kathy was searching for answers to life's deepest questions. She thought the hippies had the answers and she left home to join a commune. Traveling across the country as a teenager, Kathy hitchhiked, experimented with drugs, and stayed at different communes trying to find what her heart was longing for. After a few close calls with danger, Kathy landed at a place called Shiloh in Oregon. It was there the Jesus revolution met her face-to-face and changed her life. I can't wait for you to meet this amazing woman! Kathy Gilbert has quite a story to tell of this tumultuous time in our country but also an amazing move of the Holy Spirit to draw young people to Christ.
On April 26, 2015, Todd got a phone call that changed his life. Forever. In this episode, you'll hear the story of how Todd Gaddy learned to live with joy when tomorrow is not guaranteed. Of course, it's not guaranteed for any of us, but Todd's filter for this “non-guarantee” changed after that call.Todd Gaddy is the Assistant Program Director and Chaplain for BRIGHT-FM, a ministry that makes hope loud. This is not just something Todd does for others. It's also something he needs himself. We all do.“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31)Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
Helen Smallbone is the mother of 7 kids, some of who have become quite famous. Rebecca St. James, her oldest, and Luke and Joel of For King and Country have experienced and are experiencing success in the spotlight. But Helen Smallbone is a mom who has more fear of success than failure. Join me for a conversation with a very wise woman who has navigated an unconventional life of faith with her extraordinary family. From times when the family didn't know how they'd have a roof over their head, food on the table, or how they'd get around, Helen has many lessons to share about trusting God to be our Provider. I was absolutely riveted by her memoir, “Behind the Lights” but forever impacted by her faith. I can't wait for you to meet her!
Erin still gets emotional remembering the moment she knew her dream was over…that it would not happen the way she thought it would. It was a loss that Erin Branham needed to grieve.In this episode, you'll hear the story of a new dream that eventually emerged for Erin, but not before she walked through a difficult season of unrealized expectations.Erin Branham is part of a BRIGHT-FM team that makes hope loud for others. This is also something she needs as well. We all do.“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31)Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
Tasha Layton is passionate about using her voice to give others hope. She knows what it's like to struggle with depression and she has a heart for those who have experienced trauma and brokenness. In this special episode of Your Day Brighter, Tasha shares some of her spiritual practices that keep her mind and spirit healthy, and she tells an incredible story of following the nudge of the Holy Spirit and the life that was forever changed because of it. I love her music but I love her heart even more.
Before the concert ended, Mike Alley knew his concert promotion business would not survive. For Mike, this was the second hit to what he believed God was calling him to do. Even though it felt like a dead end to Mike, it certainly wasn't for God.Today, Mike is part of a ministry with a mission to make hope loud! It's something Mike experienced himself in the midst of failure.“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31) Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
I host the morning show on BRIGHT-FM and I get to play so much great music. But this song “Build a Boat” by Colton Dixon, is the one I get the most emails and texts about. It has struck a deep chord with our listeners and with me personally. The wonderfully gracious and humble Colton Dixon joins me on the podcast this week! We talk about life, being a dad to twin girls, and his music career that God directed in a new way, after a heartbreaking season of disappointment. There are those times in our lives when we need the faith and radical obedience of Noah, the kind of crazy faith that makes us build boats when it never rains. Maybe you're in one too? Join me for this encouraging conversation with Colton Dixon. He's been there too.
Christina James was not expecting what the doctor told her. The shocking diagnosis led to an immediate lifestyle change requiring intense discipline. Now years later, Christina wonders if she can rediscover that same discipline.Isaiah 40:31 tells us that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.Christina James is on BRIGHT-FM every day between 10a-3p. Even though Christina is part of a ministry that makes hope louder for others, she needs the same hope made louder every day too.We all do.Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
Meet my friend Eric Buarque. Eric never thought about acting as something he'd want to do until people started mistaking him for a very famous actor. And he wondered, is there something to this connection? Could I leverage how I look to break into the movie business? Thirteen films and twenty commercials later, Eric had a long, wonderful run in the industry with the most unique role: Bruce Willis's body double. He shares his fascinating story of what he calls God's favor... For years, Eric traveled around the world and experienced the thrill of being in big-budget films, acting, and occasionally doing stunts, all as Bruce Willis's body double. With Bruce's illness recently announced, Eric has nothing but sincere gratitude and prayers for Bruce and his family as they navigate this difficult journey. Join me for this fascinating conversation with a man who might look a lot like Bruce Willis on the outside, but on the inside, I think Eric looks like Jesus.
November 29, 2000, was the day everything changed for Jack Larkin. Before that memorable Sunday morning, Jack says feeding his drug and alcohol addiction was a full-time job. After that day, it wasn't. This is the story of how Jack Larkin went from active addiction to recovering addict in a single moment that he was not expecting. Jack Larkin is on BRIGHT-FM every afternoon with the Jack and Molly Show. Even though Jack is part of a ministry that makes hope louder for others, this story is a reminder he also needs hope made louder himself every day. We all do. Season Five of Long Story Short is presented by J29inc and the Nikki Healy Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit families impacted by the devastation of cancer. You can learn more about the fund, apply, and donate at https://j29inc.com/nikki-healy/
Meet Nicole Sherry. She's only 1 of 2 women in the entire history of major league baseball who has had the title and responsibility of being the Head Groundskeeper. Nicole didn't set out to be a trailblazer but that's what she is. With the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards for 20 years, Nicole knows every inch of that beautiful field and she knows what it takes to keep it thriving. I'm a lifelong Orioles fan and now I have a newfound respect for the knowledge of science and detailed work involved in keeping the most beautiful ballpark in the country healthy. Yep. I said it. Camden Yards is the best. And Nicole is the keeper of the Yard. Join me for a fascinating conversation with an amazing woman who found her special calling right where her passion for baseball and agriculture came together. God is in the details.
Ever had a panic attack? Jeremy Camp knows what it's like. His new song “Anxious Heart” starts like this: Locked up and I'm so in my head Heart starts racing and I can't slow it down Hands shaking and l'm losing my breath Paralyzed with a mind spinning out My strength has grown weak No words left to speak I fell to my knees Cause I know what I need. It happened on a trip to Israel when Jeremy felt those feelings. He felt like he was dying. What was going on? He had a lot of questions and thankfully, he knew where to take them. The Lord showed Jeremy how he had been hiding fears on the inside that were manifesting in this anxiousness of heart. Having dealt with anxiety in my own life, those lyrics hit so close to home. Can you relate? Join me for an unforgettable conversation with singer/songwriter Jeremy Camp who shares how the Lord showed up for him...not with judgment, frustration, or disappointment, but in love.
Divorce. It's the last thing any married person wants to hear or consider. Yet, it's sometimes inevitable. The other party sometimes just loses interest in the other person, loses sight of the vision they once had for their marriage. What are you to do? Amanda Carroll's former husband told her one night he was leaving her and their three children. Her response? "We're out of milk." Survival mode kicked into high gear; her first and only thought was the welfare of her children - and they were out of milk. Suddenly the unthinkable was reality: starting over with the shame of divorce hanging over her head, all the while finding success in one of the top media markets in the U.S.But rather than being judged and shamed by her superiors, she found grace and willingness to help. Amanda reframed her thinking. Rather than being "that woman" who is salvaging an identity from a failed marriage, she was given the opportunity to start fresh with her life - right when most of her peers are in the middle of theirs, sometimes in their own unhappy marriages.We hope that in listening to our conversation with Amanda Carroll, you'll come away encouraged and energized, ready to "Brave Life" and kick those sorrows in the teeth!In this episode, you'll learn:-Amanda's early faith journey and getting involved in faith-based media...06:00-The providential leap to prominence in the #4 media market in the U.S...11:00-"We're out of milk": survival mode in the midst of personal crisis...14:45-Grace, not judgment, is shown at the darkest hour...19:12-Reorienting during an unexpected "pit stop" in life...22:30-"This is God." Landing the dream job by a miracle...28:45-How women can "get their brave on" by improving 1% each day...32:15-Putting God into your life even, no especially when you don't know how things will work out...38:00-How to connect with Amanda's Brave community...40:23-And much more!Resources mentioned:Brave Single MomsSpecial offer: Free Brave Life PlannerMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklGuest's bio and social handles:Single Mom Club TikTokInstagramFacebookAmanda Carroll is an entrepreneur and founder of the Brave Podcast Network. She created her own platform, Get Your Brave On, to inspire women to live a strong and courageous life. She accomplishes that through her podcast, website, online community, online courses, and growing TikTok following @bravesinglemoms with 35,000 followers. She is formerly a nationally syndicated radio host. Throughout her career she has walked through the doors of major Christian radio stations and networks such as K-LOVE, 89.3 KSBJ-Houston, and WGTS 91.9 in Washington, DC. Amanda adopted the phrase "Get Your Brave On" ten years ago when she became a single mother of 3. At the time her children were 4, 2, and 8 weeks old. A year later her personal hashtag propelled her forward, and she was able to rebuild her life, move across the country, and start her dream job...all before her oldest started kindergarten. She also loves to lift heavy at the gym, cycle, and has a side gig as a "professional spectator" cheering on her athletic teenagers from the sidelines. Call to...
Andrew Ripp is not an overnight sensation. He's been at this songwriting thing for years now, achieving success in 2005 by co-writing the hit “Shine On” for Ryan Cabrera, and collaborating/ writing for Cory Asbury, The Wait and Ben Rector, The Judds, and others. But success came at a cost. A personal battle with addiction cost Andrew almost everything that mattered to him. But God... Andrew gave his life to Jesus and his story is just getting started. Celebrating 15 years of sobriety, Andrew has found a new kind of freedom, success, and sweetness in life in this season. His songs like “Fill My Cup” and “Jericho” have become anthems for those of us who have fallen in love with Jesus and are amazed by how He changes everything. I am so excited for you to meet Andrew Ripp! He's my guest on the podcast and he has an amazing story of God's intervention in his life.
She had a greatest hits album at 21 years old! Rachael Lampa is 38 years old now and after taking a break from a flourishing career years ago, she's making music again that speaks to our souls. “Perfectly Loved” came from things she shared in her life group about what God was teaching her through her work at a prison ministry. I can't wait for you to hear this warm and inspiring conversation with my new friend, Rachael Lampa. We talk about life, music, being a mom, and how God often directs us to do things that other people do not understand or approve of. Rachael is a woman who is tuned in to that still small voice of Jesus and a bright light in this world.
Princess adores her husband of 31 years, Phillip. And she has gone from fighting with him to fighting for him. I love this lady and her authenticity. Join me for a refreshingly candid conversation about marriage and how to see yours from God's point of view. Princess is a marriage coach and mentor and she's on a mission to save marriages. She shares her personal journey of discovering it wasn't all his fault after all. With the wisdom that comes from making mistakes, Princess's new book, “Embracing My Calling: Viewing my Marriage through an Eternal Perspective,” is a must-read for anyone who wants their marriage to be aligned with God's purposes. This is such good, challenging stuff and comes with a warning: This may change your life. If you're married or even thinking about marriage, there is treasure here. Have a listen and share with someone who needs some encouragement.
Season 5 of Long Story Short is coming soon!Intentionality today reduces regret tomorrow. Long Story Short is a uniquely personal podcast where David Paul presents stories about people, circumstances, and events that help us live our faith a little more intentionally.Subscribe now so you don't miss anything!
Esther Brant has been a dedicated nurse for over 30 years and she just glows from the inside! A woman of tremendous faith and joy, with a giggle that bubbles up so easily and often, you'd never guess how much loss she's suffered or how humble her beginnings were. When a crippling disease devastated multiple members of her family, Esther grieved and discovered God had a purpose for her amid her family's suffering. She knew she had to help. She knew God was calling her to be a nurse. Growing up in a poor undeveloped village in the Bahamas, the odds were stacked against her but Esther prayed... “and I began thinking about all the people in the world I would help”. For anyone who has grieved hard and wondered how to hold on to their faith, Esther's story is a master class in trusting God. I can't wait for you to meet her on Your Day Brighter™.
For every parent, there will come moments where you wonder...do I have what it takes to raise these little humans? You might even feel like you have no idea what you're doing. And then... they start growing up and facing life challenges and your heart could just burst from everything you want for them. You're in good company! Join me for a conversation with my very wise and winsome friend, Todd Gaddy. He knows that feeling so well as a father to two lovely young ladies and he's written a little gem of a book to encourage you called “We're Going to Make it”. Parenting is not easy and this just might be that little burst of encouragement that you need right now!
Have you ever said these words.. “One day, I'd like to write a book.” And you've been saying those words for years. Or how about this one- “I am sure I have a book in me!” Or, “I really want to write a book but I don't have time”, etc... Think of all the stories that can only be told by you because you're the one who lived it, or the one who has the idea. Yet so many of these stories will never see the light of day because we do NOTHING about it. Well, it's time. Welcome to Season 5 of Your Day Brighter and I am kicking it off with a little kick in the booty for all of us who have dreamed of writing a book. Writing coach, college professor, mentor, and author Yvonne Marie joins me for an unforgettable conversation to get us would-be writers going. And she's not playing. She coaches, encourages and inspires and when you're done listening to this, you might have just that spark you need. I know I do!
Every December, I've made it a regular practice to go back through my journals and prayerfully consider what God has been teaching me in this past year. I want to learn from my life; my mistakes and wins, my fears, and the state of my relationships. I want to keep growing and never stop. You too? Join me for a rich conversation with one of my besties- culture coach and artist, Nikki Lerner. Nikki is a journal-er and lifelong learner too. We had so much fun processing with one another some of the things God has been teaching us in this season. It's amazing how patient He is with us and how some lessons have to come back around for us to own them. In this final episode of season 4, we'll unpack some learnings that have been significant to us and talk about some ways to develop your own journaling practice for 2023. If you want to never stop learning from your life, have a listen and let's learn together.
Joy was leaking from my life. Maybe you can relate? Last week in episode 14, I define what biblical joy really is and identify some of the joy-stealers we've all been battling. But here in episode 15, I'm excited to share with you some very practical ways to get it back! The Lord has been teaching me so much from the Word and from how He shows up in my life. I am so hopeful for us. While we can't make ourselves feel anything, there are things we can do to posture ourselves to receive the joy God has given to us in Jesus. Get ready to take some action and let's get our joy back!
Joy... Isn't it something that I “should” have as a Jesus follower? So why does JOY feel so elusive, even slippery at times, like we can't quite get our hands on it? If you have wondered who stole your joy lately and you'd like to get it back, I want to help! Join me for this special episode where I give you a new definition of joy to ponder and identify some of those joy-stealers in our lives. Together let's learn how to take back this gift God has given to us!
On October 24, Steve Healy and his three children sat in the sand at Sandy Point State Park for a new family photo. It had been 132 days since Nikki died.In this final episode of Season Four, you'll hear about Steve's first sermon at Lighthouse Church since April, a significant perspective shift about grief, and how Steve is preparing for some hard days on the calendar that are fast approachingYou'll also hear some final thoughts about standing firm and an important, but unasked question from Season Three.
What's your relationship status with food? Is it complicated? Love/Hate? A battle? The struggle is real! Join me for an insightful, helpful, and downright empowering conversation with Dietician and Nutritionist Lindy Ford. Her own health crisis years ago led her to discover nutrition and lifestyle changes that saved her life! Lindy is passionate about helping others to find freedom, fight disease and create their best health through functional nutrition. It's not too late to learn some new things and feel better! You're gonna want to take notes on this one.
What's the best thing to say and do when someone we know is suffering? During Nikki Healy's three-year battle with cancer, she and her family were the recipients of a lot of words and actions from people who were concerned. Much of it was helpful. Some of it was not. In this episode, you'll hear from their experience about things you might want to consider carefully before saying and also what truly was encouraging.
God is moving in the city of Baltimore! Join me for an inspiring and hope-filled conversation with Pam Wilkerson. Pam is the Director of the Center for Women and Children at Helping Up Mission and she is on fire with a passion to serve the most vulnerable among us. Pam believes God is doing a new thing in Baltimore, setting people free of addiction and homelessness to discover their unique purpose on this earth. I believe it too. I can't wait to introduce you to this amazing woman of God and the incredible work that HUM is doing.Healing lives isn't just possible- it's here.
On July 2, Steve Healy heads home from the beach towards a life that feels anything but normal after Nikki's death. In this episode, you'll hear how Steve begins working towards that and what he set aside an entire month to do. Steve also talks about his return to work in August and something pretty important he now does at the end of each day with his son Everett. How do you stand firm in your faith when there are more questions than answers? That verse in 1 Corinthians 15:58 also provides something very practical we can do when our world gets rocked.
Jodi and Chris of Love and the Outcome have been through the hardest season of their lives. First, their record label was sold. Then COVID shut the word down and like other musicians, Jodi and her husband Chris had no way to do shows and provide income for their family. Then their house flooded and was basically destroyed. They were displaced for over a year and a half. Then their trailer was stolen containing all their music gear and some things they managed to save from the flood. All gone. It was literally, one crisis after another, and no way they could fix it themselves. But God. Join me for this amazing story and conversation with the irrepressible Jodi King and hear how God showed up in the everyday miracles of people being good humans. Jodi says it's seasons like this, that you really learn WHO God is. There is so much wisdom to glean in this conversation you may want to take notes and have the Kleenex nearby.
Three days after Nikki Healy's funeral her family went to the beach. In this episode, you'll hear about the letter Nikki wrote to her husband telling him to go. You'll also hear how Steve Healy used that time sitting by the ocean to begin processing his wife's death, the moment their daughter learned some surprising news about her parents, and a funny exchange Steve had with his son towards the end of the week.
Singer Tauren Wells doesn't just have one of the most amazing voices in music today. He also has a deep passion and love for the Word of God. When you put these obvious giftings together, you have a treasure. That treasure was almost buried because of some discouraging words that a professor spoke to him in Bible college. He even wondered if he had anything worthwhile to say and stopped speaking and preaching for a few years. It wasn't until a counselor spoke new words to override the negative ones, that Tauren faced his fears and decided he had to share what God was teaching him. Join me for an unforgettable conversation with the incredibly gifted musician and yes, preacher, Tauren Wells. His humility is even more compelling than his voice.
June 21 would have been Nikki Healy's 40th birthday. Instead, it was her funeral. And, it was led by her husband who is a pastor.In this episode, you'll hear how Steve Healy prepared himself for the emotions of that day, a lighthearted moment early in the funeral, and how Steve used Nikki's death to point people to Jesus.
No one knew she could sing like that. After the sudden tragic loss of her brother, Anne Wilson knew she needed to worship and spend time in the presence of God. She went to the piano in her family's home and sang her heart out to Jesus. It was this private moment that was overheard by her stunned mom who said, “Anne... I had no idea you could sing like that”. No one knew. Even Anne herself didn't realize the tremendous gift God has given her in music because she had other plans for her life. But moments like these can be God's way of leading us down the path He had for us all along. Join me for an unforgettable conversation with an unforgettable person, singer-songwriter, and new author, Anne Wilson. Her story is amazing but not as amazing as the God she's singing for.
When Nikki Healy died on June 14, a lot of people were crushed because they had been praying, hoping, and even expecting she would be healed. Five days later, Pastor Sammy Foster of Lighthouse Church in Glen Burnie, Maryland addressed the confusion, disappointment, and even anger. In this episode, you'll hear the questions his children were asking and how they were a catalyst for what Sammy would preach. You'll also hear some of that powerful sermon and then Steve Healy takes us backstage for Nikki's viewing held the following day.