Chef Shuai Wang was the runner-up on the 22nd season of Bravo’s Top Chef and is the force behind two standout restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina—Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ—where he brings together the flavors of his childhood in Beijing and the spirit of the South in some pretty unforgettable ways. He grew up just a short walk from Tiananmen Square, in a tiny home with no electricity or running water, where his grandmother often cooked over charcoal. Later, in Queens, New York, his mom taught herself to cook—her first dishes were a little salty, but they were always made with love. And somewhere along the way, Shuai learned that cooking wasn’t just about food—it was about taking care of people. After years working in New York kitchens, he made his way to Charleston and started building something that feels entirely his own. Today, we’re talking about how all those experiences come together on the plate, the family stories behind his cooking, and what it’s been like to share that journey on national TV. For more info visit: southernliving.com/biscuitsandjam Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Rick DellaRatta is here to drop some serious wisdom on how music can be a total game changer for peace and connection. This dude's not just any ol' jazz artist; he’s the founder of Jazz for Peace and a real-life peace expert. We dive into his wild journey from sneaking peeks at Santa to accidentally becoming a musician, and trust me, the stories are as good as they sound. He talks about how music transcends borders and brings folks together in ways that words just can’t. So, if you’re ready for a blend of jazz, heartfelt anecdotes, and a sprinkle of sarcasm, buckle up because this episode’s about to hit all the right notes! This episode features Rick DellaRatta, a dynamic jazz artist and founder of Jazz for Peace, as he chats with Ashley on the Black Sheep Christian Podcast. Rick opens up about his childhood, recounting how he first stumbled upon a piano on Christmas Eve, a moment that set the stage for his lifelong love of music. It’s a classic tale of curiosity leading to unexpected adventures, and he reflects on the importance of family influence, particularly how his parents instilled a love for music that resonated throughout his life. The conversation soon shifts gears as Rick discusses the role of music in promoting peace and understanding among different cultures. He passionately argues that music serves as a universal connector, capable of breaking down barriers and fostering empathy. With humor and sarcasm, he highlights the absurdity of how society sometimes undervalues the arts, particularly in education. The two delve into the idea that music not only enriches lives but is crucial for developing critical thinking and emotional intelligence in children. As the episode draws to a close, Rick shares a captivating story about how he founded Jazz for Peace in the aftermath of 9/11, driven by a desire to unite people through the power of music. His hilarious and insightful anecdotes illuminate the journey of creating an impactful organization that has hosted numerous benefit concerts and provided support for essential causes. Wrapping up, Rick leaves listeners with a thought-provoking parable about perspective and the unpredictable nature of life, reminding us all to embrace the chaos with a sense of humor and creativity. Takeaways: Rick DellaRatta's wild journey into music began when he caught a glimpse of Santa bringing in a piano on Christmas Eve; talk about a holiday miracle! The importance of music in education can't be overstated; it's not just about notes, it's about raising human consciousness! Jazz for Peace is not just a catchy name; it's a movement where music is used to bridge gaps and promote peace—who knew jazz could be so revolutionary? You think you know what good news is? Well, the old man and his horse story teaches us that sometimes what seems bad can actually save your life; life is a rollercoaster of ironies! DellaRatta believes that if you have the will to pursue music or any passion, you're already halfway there—so let’s all get off our couches and jam! The podcast beautifully highlights that music transcends cultures and languages, making it a universal tool for connection—so why aren't we all playing more music? Links referenced in this episode: jazzforpeace.org jazzforpeace.wordpress.com/about Companies mentioned in this episode: Toys R Us Club Med Jazz for Peace…
Tonya Peck, a personal coach from motionandmindset.com, joins us to dive into the messy, sticky world of self-doubt, shame, and the ridiculous lengths we go to in search of acceptance. Seriously, if you’ve ever felt trapped by those pesky feelings of insecurity, you’re not alone—Tonya’s been there, done that, and has the emotional scars to prove it. We’re chatting about how our childhood experiences shape our adult lives, often leading us to question our worth and purpose. Spoiler alert: it’s all about understanding those primal needs that drive us, and how recognizing them can help us break free from that toxic cycle of negativity. So grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let’s unpack this emotional baggage together because, honestly, who doesn’t love a good therapy session wrapped in sarcasm? Takeaways: Tonya Peck emphasizes that self-doubt and shame can trap us, but sharing our stories can lead to healing. Navigating personal growth involves understanding our primal needs, which can help us break cycles of insecurity. It's wild how childhood experiences shape us; Tanya's journey shows how we can rise above our past. The importance of open communication in relationships can’t be overstated; it’s key to avoiding misunderstandings. Links referenced in this episode: motionandmindset.com Companies mentioned in this episode: motionandmindset.com…
Ender Bowen from Godjots.com swings by to chat about his new book on forgiveness, and let me tell you, he’s got some thoughts! Right off the bat, we dive into why forgiveness is like the secret sauce for healing relationships and easing all that societal tension we seem to be swimming in. Seriously, whether you’re holding a grudge or just annoyed at the cashier who messed up your order, this convo hits home. And trust me, it ain't just about letting things slide; it’s about taking that first step to offer forgiveness and see what happens next. Ender brings a fresh perspective on how we can approach forgiveness—not like some high-and-mighty spiritual exercise, but as a real, messy, human experience that could totally change the game. So, grab your earbuds and get ready to rethink how you handle all that baggage we carry around. Links referenced in this episode: forgivenessbook.godjots.com godjots.com…
So, today we're diving into some real talk about parenting with Josh Poteet, the lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of "Parenting Against the Current." Let’s be real—parenting is a wild ride, and Josh highlights that if we just float along, we’re gonna get swept away in the chaos of modern life. He argues that we need to be intentional in how we shepherd our kids, creating that all-important "village" we often hear about but forget to build. We share some laughs, some awkward stories, and a few hard truths about the struggles of being a parent. So buckle up, because if you thought you had it all figured out, spoiler alert: you probably don’t, and that’s totally okay! Josh Poteet, the lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of 'Parenting Against the Current', takes us on a wild ride through the unfiltered chaos of modern parenting. No sugar-coating here, folks! He dives into the challenges of raising kids in a world that's constantly changing, where the parenting playbook seems to be rewritten daily. He shares his personal anecdotes, reflecting on his own childhood and the stark differences in how parenting happens in today’s society versus his upbringing. The podcast reveals how crucial it is to build a supportive community—a ‘village’ if you will—to help shepherd our kids' hearts. The convo gets real as Josh talks about the absurdity of trying to navigate this parenting jungle alone, all while maintaining a sense of humor about the inevitable meltdowns, tantrums, and the ultimate test of patience that kids can dish out. Spoiler alert: It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being present and intentional, even when you feel like you're drowning in the chaos. As the discussion unfolds, Josh and Ashley tackle the idea of being intentional in parenting, stressing the importance of having a clear destination in mind. They humorously lament the modern-day mantra of “don’t tell me how to parent” and how it can backfire. Instead, they advocate for an open-minded approach where parents lean on each other for support and guidance. The episode emphasizes that parenting isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving in the messiness of it all. The laughs continue as they share stories of their own parenting fails and victories, reminding us that every misstep is just another opportunity to learn and grow alongside our kids. The episode wraps up with some solid takeaways: prioritize your family, find that community, and don’t shy away from vulnerability. Josh’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that while parenting against the current is tough, it’s also a journey filled with grace, laughter, and the occasional facepalm moment. So grab your coffee, kick back, and enjoy this candid conversation about parenting in a world that often feels upside down. In a world where parenting feels like an extreme sport, Josh Poteet joins Ashley to share some real talk about the trials and tribulations of raising kids today. He kicks things off by reflecting on his own upbringing, contrasting it with the experiences of parents now who often feel isolated in their parenting journeys. The duo gets deep into the nitty-gritty of what it means to intentionally shepherd your kids' hearts in a society where distractions are a dime a dozen. They discuss the critical need for community support and how it takes a village—not just for kids, but for parents too. This episode isn’t just about the struggles, though; it’s packed with relatable humor and the kind of candidness that makes you feel like you’re chatting with friends over coffee. As Josh shares insights from his book, 'Parenting Against the Current', he dives into the importance of having a clear vision for your family. He challenges the notion that parenting can be approached with a ‘wing it’ mentality. Instead, he emphasizes the need for a destination—something parents can aim toward. Whether it's instilling values or creating a loving home, the conversation highlights that intentionality is key. Expect some hearty laughs as they exchange tales of parenting fails, from embarrassing moments in public to the epic meltdowns that come with the territory. It’s clear that while parenting can be a rollercoaster, the shared experiences and community support make the ride a little less daunting. The episode culminates in a powerful reminder that even amidst the chaos, there’s beauty in vulnerability. Josh encourages parents to lean on each other and to remember that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. They wrap up with practical advice on how to build a supportive community, reminding listeners that they’re not alone in this wild journey. So, tune in for a mix of laughter, wisdom, and a whole lot of realness about the art of parenting against the current! Takeaways: Parenting is a wild ride, and it's crucial to create a village for support. Discipling our kids intentionally is a challenge, but it's necessary to avoid putting it on the back burner. It's essential to have a clear destination for parenting, such as loving God and each other. Vulnerability in parenting can deepen relationships and build credibility with our kids.…
Dan Parr, the genius behind the Easy to Understand Read Bible (EUR), joins us for a chat about, you guessed it, making the Bible less of a brain-buster. Seriously, who knew a book could come with such a heavy instruction manual? We dive into the absurdity of trying to read ancient texts in today's world and how Dan turned his voiceover skills into a translation that doesn’t require a PhD to understand. He shares the wild journey of crafting a version that’s relatable and, dare I say, actually enjoyable for modern readers. Plus, we get into the whole "which translation is best" debate—because, let’s face it, that’s as heated as pineapple on pizza. So, if you’ve ever felt lost trying to decipher biblical language, this episode's for you. Buckle up, it’s gonna be a fun ride! Takeaways: Dan Parr, the narrator of the Easy to Understand Read Bible, shares his wild journey through various Bible translations, from King James to his own version. In this episode, we dive deep into the absurdity of Bible translations and how language evolves, making it even harder for us to get the original intent. Dan's dedication to making the Bible accessible shines through as he discusses the challenges of translating complex texts into everyday language. The podcast highlights the hilarious moments of mispronouncing biblical names and the struggles of translating ancient texts into modern vernacular. Listeners will appreciate the behind-the-scenes look at Dan's four-year journey creating a Bible that speaks to today's readers without losing its essence. We tackle the importance of audio versions of the Bible, making God's word accessible in a way that fits into our busy lives. Links referenced in this episode: amazon.com audible.com spotify.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon NIV King James New King James Amplified World English Bible Christ Christian Standard Bible Gen Z…
Dr. Bob Thiel dives into some mind-bending ideas about salvation and prophecy in this episode, challenging the notion that only a select few get the golden ticket to heaven. Like, seriously, who decided that? He breaks down his book, "Universal Offer of Salvation," arguing that God's plan isn’t just a cruel game of chance where most folks are left in the dark. Instead, he suggests that there's a legit chance for everyone to get a shot at salvation, even those who’ve been overlooked by traditional teachings. We go deep into the absurdities of religious doctrines, how humans have put their own spins on divine messages, and why asking questions isn’t just okay—it’s encouraged! Buckle up for a wild ride through theology, tradition, and a sprinkle of sarcasm! Dr. Bob Thiel, the mastermind behind *Universal Offer of Salvation*, drops some serious knowledge on us in this episode. We kick things off with a casual chit-chat about his extensive background in prophecy and how his books are like prophetic weather reports—he's been predicting world events with a biblical twist since before 2012 was a thing. Seriously, he even told folks to chill out about the world ending in 2012, and spoiler alert: he was right. But here's where it gets juicy: we're not just talking about biblical prophecies here. Dr. Thiel dives into the wild world of non-biblical prophecies too, which he claims can sometimes reveal Satan's tricks. I mean, who knew demons could have a hint of truth in their lies? It’s like a twisted game of prophecy roulette. As the convo rolls on, we get into the nitty-gritty of salvation and how it’s not just a one-size-fits-all deal. Dr. Thiel explains how he believes that God's plan is actually way more inclusive than most traditional teachings suggest. He challenges the idea that only a select few get to waltz through heaven's pearly gates, arguing instead that many will have the chance to accept salvation, even after death. This isn't your grandma's theology; it’s more like a divine second chance for humanity, which sounds a lot more loving than the whole “only a few are saved” narrative. By the end, we’re left pondering the absurdity of how humanity interprets divine plans, and honestly, it’s a refreshing take on a topic that often feels cloaked in doom and gloom. Takeaways: Dr. Thiel argues that many biblical prophecies align with current world events, which is kinda wild when you think about it. The concept of universal salvation is explored, but it's not the same as universalism; there's a catch, folks! We dive into the absurdity of traditional beliefs, like the idea that most humans will just fry in hell forever—thanks but no thanks! Dr. Thiel critiques the notion that demons only lie, suggesting they can sometimes throw out some truth too, which is just bizarre. The early church had some surprising beliefs about salvation that most modern Christians just don’t talk about, like, hello? The podcast wraps up with a reminder that questioning beliefs isn’t just okay—it’s encouraged! We're not supposed to just take everything at face value.…
Today, we’re diving into the wild world of mental wellness with Patrick Eilers, who’s basically a walking, talking therapist and a coach all rolled into one. He’s here to spill the tea on why we all need a bit of counseling—seriously, even counselors need counselors. We get to chat about his Bloomworks concepts and coaching, which is like a 12-week crash course in figuring out your feelings, finding your purpose, and learning to communicate like a pro. It’s not just for the therapy-seeking folks; honestly, anyone can benefit from leveling up their mental game. So, if you’ve ever felt lost in life or just want to sharpen those emotional skills, stick around because Patrick’s got the goods to help us all bloom into our best selves. Takeaways: In today's episode, we dive deep into the importance of having a counselor in our lives, because honestly, who doesn't need a little help sorting through their emotional baggage? Patrick shares how even counselors need counseling—because surprise, we're all just figuring it out as we go along, and sometimes a support group is essential for sanity! We explore the fine line between therapy and coaching, emphasizing that while therapy looks at past wounds, coaching is all about kick-starting your forward momentum—no pressure, right? The Bloom Protocol is all about helping folks uncover their purpose, emotions, and communication skills, so they can actually express what's going on inside their heads without resorting to interpretive dance! Life's too short to float aimlessly; finding your why is crucial, or else you'll just end up doom scrolling and wondering where your time went—truly, what a tragedy! In the end, personal growth is about more than just fixing problems—it's about thriving and being the best version of yourself, even if that means unearthing some weird quirks along the way. Links referenced in this episode: patreon.com/bloomworks Companies mentioned in this episode: Bloomworks Concepts and Coaching…
Beatty Carmichael drops some serious knowledge bombs today about how to pray for real freedom, and trust me, it’s not your typical “Dear God, please help me” kind of chat. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of his book, *The Prayer of Freedom*, which reveals how to kick those pesky spiritual burdens to the curb. He’s all about that 90% healing rate, showing us how when we pray the right way, God actually shows up and does His thing. Spoiler alert: it turns out that how we pray matters way more than we think, and sometimes we gotta own up to our own messiness first. So, grab your headphones and get ready for a wild ride through prayer, healing, and maybe a little bit of sarcasm on the side! Takeaways: Beatty Carmichael emphasizes that prayer is not just about asking, it's about how you pray and your relationship with God. The concept of repentance is crucial; it's not just a one-time act, but an ongoing process of seeking forgiveness and healing. God's answers to prayer often depend on our obedience and our alignment with His will, which can sometimes mean we don't get what we ask for. Beatty shares personal experiences showing that when people follow God's structured process for healing, miraculous results often occur. The 'Prayer of Freedom' book provides practical steps on how to pray effectively for healing and freedom from spiritual bondage. Understanding the spiritual roots of our issues can lead to significant breakthroughs in healing and personal freedom. Links referenced in this episode: theprayerfreedombook.com…
Robert Wallace is dropping some serious wisdom bombs today as we dive into his book, *A Prism of Song: Seeing the Old Testament through the Psalms*. Right off the bat, we're tackling the wild idea that the Old Testament isn't just a dusty old collection of stories, but a vibrant tapestry that connects to the heart of our faith through the Psalms. We all know that reading the Old Testament can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded, but Robert's here to help us see it through a new lens. He’s flipping the script on how we view God in the Old Testament, challenging the notion that the God of the Old Testament is some grumpy dude compared to the cool, chill Jesus we know in the New Testament. Seriously, if you think the Psalms are just all about feel-good vibes and David dancing around, think again! We're diving deep into complaints, laments, and everything in between because, spoiler alert, real talk with God is what it’s all about. So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and let’s get ready to expand our minds! Ever wondered why the Psalms are so crucial to understanding the Old Testament? Well, Robert Wallace is here to enlighten us, and trust me, it's not just about pretty words on a page. In this episode, we dig into his book, *A Prism of Song*, where he argues that the Psalms are a lens through which we can truly grasp the complex narratives of the Old Testament. Robert shares his insights on the cultural contexts that often cloud our understanding and how the Psalms can help us navigate through the chaos. We touch on some juicy topics—like how complaining to God is basically an art form in the Psalms (seriously, have you read Psalm 88?). This episode isn't just for the Bible scholars; it's for anyone who's ever felt lost in the weeds of Scripture. With a sprinkle of sarcasm and a whole lot of heart, we explore how these ancient prayers still resonate today, reminding us that doubt and frustration are part of the journey. So join us as we peel back the layers of Scripture and find the humanity woven throughout! Takeaways: Robert Wallace's book, 'A Prism of Song,' sheds light on the Old Testament through Psalms, making complex themes more relatable. The podcast dives into the misconception that the Old Testament God is different from the New Testament God, emphasizing their unity in character. We often miss the richness of the Psalms because we only dip into a few verses, neglecting the depth of complaints and real-life struggles expressed. It's hilarious how we sanitize our worship, forgetting that many Psalms are filled with complaints and cries for help, which are just as valid.…
JR Rennie from Brushfire Ministries is here to drop some truth bombs about discovering your God-given design—because apparently, we’re all supposed to be doing something epic with our lives, not just scrolling through TikTok. He’s all about helping folks realize their purpose and actually, you know, *do* something meaningful instead of just warming a pew on Sundays. We dive into the whole "disciple vs. Christian" debate—spoiler alert: being a disciple means actually following the teachings and not just showing up for the free coffee. JR shares some wild stories, including how God speaks through dreams and how we need to be ready for some serious spiritual warfare. So, if you’re tired of the same ol' social club vibe at church and want to actually get your hands dirty in the good fight, this convo is for you! JR Rennie from Brushfire Ministries joins us to chat about discovering your God-given design, and wow, do we go deep. We're diving into the nitty-gritty of what it means to be a disciple versus just a casual 'Christian.' Spoiler alert: it’s not just about showing up on Sundays and calling it a day. We get into the fact that ‘Christian’ is only mentioned twice in the Bible, while ‘disciple’ pops up over 260 times. So what gives? JR challenges us to think about our accountability and what that really looks like in our daily lives. This isn’t just a social club, folks, and if you’re treating it like one, you might wanna rethink your life choices. We explore how the church has effectively become a kind of social gathering instead of a force for real change, and JR throws down some serious truth bombs about addressing issues like homelessness and addiction instead of just talking about them. Seriously, if the church isn’t stepping up, what are we even doing? Buckle up, because this conversation is going to challenge your perspective and might just light a fire in you to get out there and make a difference. Get ready to rethink your role in the church and in the world! Takeaways: JR Rennie emphasizes the importance of discipleship over mere belief, highlighting that the term 'Christian' is used sparingly in the Bible compared to 'disciple'. We need to leave behind the anxiety of faith and embrace the surprises God has in store for us, because who doesn't love a good plot twist? Brushfire Ministries aims to help individuals discover their God-given purpose, encouraging believers to step up and take action in their communities, not just sit in pews. Rennie argues that the church has become a social club rather than a place of active discipleship, leading many to miss the point of their faith altogether. Both speakers stress the necessity of being prepared for spiritual warfare, as the challenges of life can often feel like a fight with unseen forces. The conversation wraps up with a call to action, reminding listeners that they are tools in God's hands, meant to be wielded for His purpose, so get out there and make a difference! Links referenced in this episode: brushfires-digital.com…
Today’s chat with Ikeyaira is all about finding God in the chaos of life. We're diving deep into the idea that salvation isn’t a one-and-done deal; it’s more like a lifelong renovation project where we get refined through trials. I mean, who knew that facing struggles could actually be a good thing? It’s like, each challenge is just another opportunity for God to strip away our imperfections—talk about a divine makeover! Plus, we’re sharing some personal stories about how connecting with others over our faith can light the way when things get tough. So if you’re feeling a bit lost or overwhelmed, grab a snack and settle in, because we’re here to remind you that you’re not alone in this wild ride! Ever wondered how two girls in pink can tackle the deep stuff? Well, welcome to our chit-chat where we serve you a generous slice of life, faith, and a side of sass. Today, I’m vibing with my sister in Christ, Ikeara, from the Godly Girlies podcast. We kick things off talking about how we met - spoiler alert: it involved some serious Bible admiration and possibly a lot of giggles over who wore pink better. But it’s not just about the color coordination; we dive into how our faith journeys have intertwined over the years. From sharing our struggles and triumphs to how we’ve both grappled with being open about our faith in a world that sometimes feels like a hostile witness stand, we throw around some real talk. We reminisce about those moments when we’ve felt the pressure to conform, and how standing firm in our belief can sometimes make us feel like the odd one out. It’s all about the little nudges from God, those moments that inspire us to keep pushing through the noise and focus on what really matters - our relationship with Him. And yes, we throw in a few sarcastic jabs about how parents think they’re the coolest when they try to speak our language. As we wrap it up, we share a nugget of wisdom that we hope resonates with you. Life’s trials? They’re just part of the refining process, turning us into the gold God wants us to be. So stick around, grab your pink gear, and let’s get into this wild ride of faith and friendship. You won’t want to miss how we tie all this back to the essence of Christ’s love and purpose for us. Trust me, it’s a ride worth taking!…
Get ready to dive into a convo that’s all about owning your journey and finding your purpose, folks! Today, I'm chatting with Daniel Kringsel from the Big Balls Brotherhood, a wild movement that’s all about calling men to rise up in strength, wealth, and divine purpose. Yeah, that’s right—no more weak sauce here! Daniel’s story is a rollercoaster of success, crashing down to rock bottom, and then rising back up with a solid connection to God. It’s a classic tale of redemption, and let me tell you, if you think you know the path to manhood, you might just want to rethink that after hearing his take. So buckle up, because we’re about to tackle some real talk about faith, community, and what it means to be a man in today’s world. Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of God and a little bit of sarcasm! Takeaways: Men need to connect with God daily to really know their purpose and mission in life, otherwise they're just wandering aimlessly like a lost puppy without a leash. The Big Balls Brotherhood is all about helping men step up their game in strength, wealth, discipline, and finding their divine purpose, which honestly sounds like a motivational poster, but way cooler. If you're a guy, and you're not being the strong leader in your household, then good luck getting your wife to listen to you; it’s like trying to sell ice to an Eskimo. Finding your gifts and talents is key, and it’s not just about making money; it's about using those gifts to serve God and change the world, which is such a grand mission, right? Links referenced in this episode: bigballsbrotherhood.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Big Balls Brotherhood…
Today, we're diving deep into the wild world of mental health and past trauma recovery with Richard Tierney, an author who's got the AA seal of approval—like, who wouldn't want that, right? We’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill chit-chat about feelings; we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of healing those gnarly wounds we all carry around. Richard’s got some mind-blowing insights, especially about how trauma can mess with our heads and how the 12-step program is more than just a list—it's a total game changer. Spoiler alert: it involves giving your younger self back all that baggage you've been dragging around. So, if you’re ready to stop letting the past control your present and maybe even find a little peace, buckle up and join us for this rollercoaster of a convo! In a riveting episode of the Black Sheep Christian podcast, Ashley and guest Richard Tierney tackle the often-taboo subjects of mental health and past trauma. Richard's journey is marked by personal tragedies, including the suicide of a close friend, which profoundly impacted his faith and worldview. He recounts how his disillusionment with traditional Catholicism led him on a quest for spiritual understanding, ultimately finding solace in a more personal relationship with God, far removed from the rigidity of institutional religion. The conversation navigates the complexities of trauma, emphasizing that the effects of past experiences often overshadow the actual events themselves. Richard passionately argues that society's perception of mental health can be misleading, as it tends to treat the symptoms rather than the root causes of trauma. He introduces the concept of the ‘hole in the soul,’ a metaphor that resonates with anyone who has experienced deep emotional pain. Through humor and sarcasm, he critiques the absurdity of religious denominations, questioning how one can find clarity in the midst of so many conflicting beliefs and practices. As the episode unfolds, Richard shares his insights on healing, particularly through the lens of the 12-step recovery program. He discusses the profound impact of visualizing one's younger self and the importance of giving back the burdens of past trauma to that younger version. This transformative practice not only promotes healing but also encourages forgiveness—both of oneself and of others. The episode culminates in a powerful reminder that healing is a journey, and with faith and personal agency, anyone can reclaim their life from the shadows of their past. Takeaways: Talking about mental health and trauma recovery ain't just for therapists; it's for everyone, so let's dive in! Richard shares his wild journey of moving from Ireland to Thailand in search of faith and healing, because why not? The 12-step program isn't just about sobriety; it's about taking responsibility for your own life and perceptions. Crazy, right? Forgiveness is actually for YOU, not the jerk who hurt you, and it can be your golden ticket to freedom! We often confuse the symptoms of our trauma with the root cause, leading to a lifelong battle with mental disorders. Who knew? Finding God isn’t about fitting into a box; it’s about a personal relationship that can totally change your life.…
We're diving deep into the juicy topic of the LGBTQ community in the church and how we can all vibe with God's purpose, no matter who we love. Rommel Parks joins me to unravel those awkward conversations about faith, sexuality, and the baffling ways religion can trip us up. We’re tackling everything from the absurdities of outdated beliefs to the real struggles folks face just trying to exist in faith spaces that don’t always welcome them. It’s all about understanding that different perspectives can coexist, and how love should always be the bottom line. So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let’s get ready to rethink some stuff together! Ready to shake things up? This episode serves up a hearty discussion on the intersection of LGBTQ+ identities and the church, featuring yours truly and the fabulous Rommel Parks Weekly. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of how people of faith can live authentically without having to check their identities at the door. There’s a lot of ground to cover, from the absurdity of outdated beliefs about sexuality to the hypocrisy of condemning same-sex relationships while ignoring the myriad ways the Bible has been misinterpreted over the years. We kick things off with some real talk about how orientation isn’t a ‘choice’—because if it were, wouldn’t we all just choose the path of least resistance? Rommel shares his experience navigating the complexities of being a gay man in the church, and trust me, it’s both eye-opening and humorous. We laugh about the ridiculousness of societal norms that allow straight couples to live together outside of marriage while casting judgment on same-sex couples just trying to exist in love. It’s a wild ride through the absurdity of our cultural biases and a call to action for Christians to embrace a more loving and inclusive approach. As we meander through these discussions, we touch on the importance of understanding the cultural context of biblical texts and how often they’ve been weaponized against marginalized communities. We’re not just here to poke fun at the church; we’re here to advocate for a transformation of mindset that aligns more closely with the core message of Christianity—love, acceptance, and community. By the end of our chat, you’ll find yourself pondering the deeper questions about faith and identity, and how we can all live together in harmony, no matter who we love. So, buckle up for an episode that’s both challenging and uplifting, and get ready to rethink what it means to live in God’s purpose. Takeaways: Embracing LGBTQ individuals within the church means acknowledging the complex relationship between faith and identity. The conversation around homosexuality in the church often involves a lot of misunderstandings and cultural biases that need addressing. Understanding that scripture was written in a specific cultural context can change how we interpret its teachings today. True love in faith means allowing room for disagreement without judgment, focusing on mutual respect and understanding.…
Women are stepping up and reclaiming their identities, and let me tell you, it’s about time! In a world where Christianity throws mixed signals about being submissive while also knowing your purpose, we're diving into the chaos of it all. This episode is all about unraveling those jumbled messages and figuring out how to embrace who we truly are, minus the guilt trip. We chat about how many women get lost in the shuffle of life’s expectations—sacrificing their dreams for others, only to wake up one day wondering where they went. So grab a seat and join us as we navigate this wild ride of self-discovery and empowerment, because honestly, who needs to fit into a mold when you can break it? Takeaways: Women in Christianity are often torn between being submissive and finding their true purpose, which is pretty ironic, right? The journey of reclaiming identity is a messy one, filled with societal pressures and mixed messages, like a bad breakup. It's all about recognizing that the discomfort of change means you're actually growing, not just falling apart—who knew? Coaching isn't just about telling people what to do; it's about asking the right questions to help them discover their own answers. Our past experiences and upbringing can trap us into identities that aren't even ours—time to break free from that nonsense! Fear can be a real pain, but it's also a sign that you’re on the verge of something big—so embrace it and move forward!…
Perfection? Yeah, we’re diving deep into that absurd concept today and honestly, it's about time we called it out for the hot mess it is. I’m Ashley, and let me tell you, trying to fit into the perfect Christian mold is like trying to shove a square peg in a round hole—it's exhausting and frankly, ridiculous. In this episode, we’re tackling how the church's obsession with perfection is a plague that just keeps on giving, leaving folks like me feeling judged and worn out. Spoiler alert: Jesus doesn’t want your accolades or your checklist; He just wants you to show up as your messy, imperfect self. So grab your coffee (or whatever), because we’re about to get real about why you don’t need to be perfect to share God’s love—trust me, it’s a lot more relatable than you think! Perfection is a myth, and honestly, who even cares? In this episode, we dive into the exhausting game of trying to be the perfect Christian, which, spoiler alert, is totally impossible. Ashley opens up about her struggles with the ridiculous expectations placed on her, like how to dress or what to say, and let’s be real, it’s just exhausting. She’s done with the church’s obsession with perfection, where every minor flaw gets you a side-eye. She’s heard it all—stop church hopping, stop volunteering, and don’t even get her started on the critiques about her appearance. But she’s like, why is it that we can’t just be real? The Bible is full of stories about imperfect people doing amazing things, so why can’t we acknowledge our own imperfections while still trying to spread the good word? Ashley’s rant is relatable and full of sass, urging listeners to embrace their flaws instead of feeling ashamed. Let's ditch the fake perfection act and focus on the real stuff, shall we? Takeaways: Trying to be a perfect Christian is totally exhausting and frankly, ridiculous. Perfection in the church is like a plague, and it’s driving me nuts, honestly. God doesn't care about how perfect you are; He just wants you, flaws and all. If the Bible is your guide, you'll see when folks are twisting it for their own gain. People like Abraham, Moses, and Paul were far from perfect, yet they were used by God. Stop stressing over perfection—just read your Bible and let God handle the rest. Links referenced in this episode: bibles.com biblegateway.com…
"God I can't hear you, can you speak louder." Hearing God can be on of the most confusing and difficult skill to grasp. In this episode we will talk about the simple skill of listening.
Finding your voice in this world is a journey of self-discovery, where you learn to embrace your true thoughts, feelings, and desires without fear of judgment. It's about listening to your inner self, recognizing your uniqueness, and expressing it authentically. As you navigate through the noise and expectations of others, finding your voice means standing firm in who you are, even if it feels like a challenge. Ultimately, it's about owning your story and confidently sharing it with the world. RJx9QuA8cavf6JVCHZh2…
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