In this powerful episode of EVOLVE thru God, Angela Goodman sits down with Sonya to share her testimony of resilience, faith, and transformation. Sonya opens up about her journey through seasons of loss, self-discovery, and rebuilding — revealing how God met her in the middle of her hardest moments and called her into a deeper purpose.

From overcoming personal setbacks to learning to walk confidently in her God-given identity, Sonya’s story is a masterclass in trusting God’s timing and provision. She speaks candidly about the messy middle of transformation — when nothing makes sense, yet everything is being aligned for good.

Your identity isn’t defined by your circumstances — it’s rooted in Christ.

God’s timing is never late — even when it feels like you’re waiting forever.

Obedience opens doors you could never force open on your own.

The wilderness is preparation — not punishment.

Your story can be the survival guide someone else is praying for.

✨ You are never too far gone for God to restore, redeem, and repurpose your life for His glory.

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WHO IS SONYA HOPSON?

Sonya Hopson, the lady with the pink hard hat,  is the CEO & Founder of HIRE Strategies, a talent placement agency with a focus on commercial construction located in Raleigh, NC. Sonya Hopson's multifaceted journey embodies the resilience and tenacity of the human spirit. As a writer, motivational speaker, and mental health advocate, she draws from her diverse experiences to empower and inspire others. Her path to success is a testament to her strength and determination. Sonya affectionately calls herself an Accidental Entrepreneur. She entered the entrepreneurship space out of necessity and a desire to support her daughters, but it quickly transformed into a passion for her as she embraced leadership. Starting as a one-woman show, Sonya defied expectations and shattered barriers in a male-dominated industry. Her rise to prominence as a leader culminated in recognition by Forbes and Triangle Business Journal.

But Sonya's impact extends far beyond the realm of entrepreneurship. Sonya's influence reaches across various platforms, including most recently completing her manuscript for her first book, Chasing Peace. Her story serves as a inspiration for those chasing their peace, reminding them that no obstacle is insurmountable and that true fulfillment lies in the pursuit of inner peace.

Social media: thesonyahopson

EPISODE TITLE:

DESCRIPTION:

They discuss the spiritual and practical tools leaders need to create spaces where employees feel seen, supported, and safe. Together, they ask: What if our faith didn’t just guide our Sundays… but our Mondays, too?

What You'll Learn:

The Gift You'll Take Away:

🎧 Listen now on all major platforms.

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WHO IS Dr. CARYLYNN LARSON?

Dr. Carylynn Kemp Larson is a dynamic professional who brings research,

real-world experience, and personal insight to every stage. With a unique

combination of leadership and mental health experience, Dr. Larson

bridges two critical but often separate worlds — organizational

success and human well-being.

Dr. Larson holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from

George Mason University, and is an ICF Professional Certified Coach with

thousands of hours of coaching experience. She has serving on the faculty

of renowned universities including The George Washington University and

The American University. From small Silicon Valley startups to massive

government agencies and global companies, Dr. Larson has spent her

career helping leaders and teams thrive through change and uncertainty.

In 2008, Dr. Larson founded Rock Recovery, a national nonprofit dedicated

to bridging mental health treatment gaps, designing innovative

community-based recovery programs, and fostering healing through

education and empowerment. Over the past 17 years, she has led the

organization in multiple roles, including Executive Director, President, and

Board Member.

A recognized expert on leadership, team dynamics, coaching, and mental

health, she has delivered dozens of speeches at corporate events,

leadership summits, and professional conferences, inspiring audiences to

rethink workplace well-being and build cultures of resilience and

connection. 

In this raw and redemptive episode of Evolve thru God, Angela Goodman welcomes her longtime friend Dawn Thompson, who shares her courageous testimony of healing through Christ after a life marked by addiction, codependency, abortion, disordered eating, and open-heart surgery.

This is Dawn’s first podcast appearance since her surgery — and it's a sacred return to voice, mission, and divine identity. From her work in the personal development world with Tony Robbins and NSA to the moment she trademarked the phrase “You're Enough,” Dawn now lives to remind others that they are already worthy through Jesus.

Lessons You'll Learn:

Codependency is not love — it's a cry for self-worth healed only through God's love.

You are not what you’ve done — your past does not define your destiny.

Healing is messy, but holy — and often begins in the places we least expect.

Don’t waste good days thinking you're not enough — you are Sure Enough.

God buries your brokenness as a seed — what blooms can bless others.

The Gift You’ll Take Away:

🎧 Tune in now on all major platforms.

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WHO IS DAWN THOMPSON?

Dawn Thompson, is living proof that you can change your life to achieve and enjoy your personal and professional goals. Dawn is full of Southern sass and charm. She is raw, real, and relatable; she will move you with her vivacious personality. She is a Christian, mom, award-winning business owner, author, self-discovery coach and speaker. She has been in business for over 30 years in the beauty industry, owning and operating Spa Bella Inc. in Wichita Falls, Texas. She has a nonprofit organization, Operation Spa Kids Adopt A Box. This organization provides haircut, clothing, hygiene products, mentoring and other tools for children, teens and their family to get on the right path. 

Dawn is passionate about serving and helping others be the best version of themselves. 

In Dawn’s speeches, she shares her own struggles and adversities both in her business and personal life.

She helps others realize where their problem areas are and to understand that you are more than your circumstances and negative thoughts. She empowers you to take control of your own life, and let go of old stories, emotional baggage, and patterns, that are holding you back from, your maximum potential in your personal and professional life. She is passionate about helping you find your joy, love and connecting with yourself, and others. She believes that you can be fulfilled with life, and enjoy it by learning to have inner peace and start living life to the fullest.

In the words of Dawn, God has been preparing me for a lifetime of brokenness, to go boldly worldwide to share my message... 

“That through Him, You’re Enough®️

Welcome to EVOLVE thru God, Episode 34 – The Continuation with Michael C. Bryan: Writing, Revelation & Unconditional Love

Description:

In this continuation episode of Evolve Thru God, Angela Goodman brings back the wildly insightful and unfiltered Michael C. Bryan for another soul-expanding conversation.

Michael opens up about his transformation from spiritual resistance to divine relationship—sharing how God broke through his panic, pain, and pride with messages of love in the most unexpected ways. From a therapist’s perfectly timed text to a young man’s post-surgery revelation, Michael recounts the moments that deepened his faith and redefined his understanding of Jesus, purpose, and what it means to be truly seen.

This episode is a masterclass in how to surrender, how to write with God, and how to love yourself the way God already does.

💡 Lessons Learned:

God speaks your language.

Writing is a sacred act.

Resistance reveals what needs healing.

You don’t need to be healed to be loved.

Unconditional love begins with you.

🎁 One Gift to Take Away:

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WHO IS MICHAEL C. BRYAN?

Michael is a professional coach, mentor, writer and performer and has spent more than 25 years working with the heads of network, media and entertainment organizations as well as numerous investment banking firms and private education companies. He has spoken at off-sites for many global companies and worked with professionals worldwide, specializing in high-achieving individuals and companies seeking balance and equilibrium as they continue to create and expand their already-accelerating careers and organizations.

As an executive coach, Michael helps executives connect with their emotional lives so then can lead with compassion and clarity. He helps leaders understand that environments are now more dynamic and fluid than ever, and he guides them through the need to shift from a ‘reactive’ to ‘responsive’ approach to effectively engage and lead their teams. Michael shows professionals there is no one, correct path and supports their individual journeys to find personal and professional balance.

Noted Accomplishments

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Visual and Performing Arts from New York University

Additional Information

Studied extensively with The Hoffman Institute and the Carl Jung Foundation, as well as with graduate-level programs in human psychology at Columbia University. Leader volunteer at New York Cares.

Follow Michael on Instagram @wakeupwithmichael

In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Angela Goodman welcomes author, speaker, and life coach Michael C. Bryan to share his extraordinary journey of resilience, healing, and spiritual awakening. With honesty and humor, Michael opens up about his early life in Washington State, where he faced significant emotional challenges and instability within his family. Raised in a home marked by dysfunction and a lack of emotional safety, Michael learned early on to navigate life independently.

After being rejected by his family as a teenager, Michael found himself in survival mode, facing life on the streets. It was during this darkest season that he heard a quiet but unmistakable voice within — one that told him, “You’re going to be okay.” That moment marked the beginning of his spiritual journey and a lifelong connection with God that would guide him forward.

The complexity of growing up in a turbulent home environment

How creativity, storytelling, and music offered escape and expression

The long journey from pain and shame to healing and self-worth

Michael’s rediscovery of faith and the voice of God at pivotal moments

The importance of using past experiences to help others heal

Today, Michael works with clients across the country, offering deep insight, empathy, and encouragement. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how broken things may seem, hope, healing, and purpose are always possible.

With warmth, grace, and authenticity, Angela and Michael’s conversation highlights the truth that God’s love meets us exactly where we are — not just in our triumphs, but in our trials.

Listening for God in life’s hardest moments

Letting go of shame and embracing healing

Turning personal struggles into service to others

Reimagining faith as relationship rather than ritual

Finding light through truth, love, and perseverance

This is Part 1 of Michael’s inspiring story. In Part 2, he shares the more recent spiritual revelations that have shaped his current work and deepened his connection with God.

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WHO IS MICHAEL C. BRYAN?

Michael is a professional coach, mentor, writer and performer and has spent more than 25 years working with the heads of network, media and entertainment organizations as well as numerous investment banking firms and private education companies. He has spoken at off-sites for many global companies and worked with professionals worldwide, specializing in high-achieving individuals and companies seeking balance and equilibrium as they continue to create and expand their already-accelerating careers and organizations.

As an executive coach, Michael helps executives connect with their emotional lives so then can lead with compassion and clarity. He helps leaders understand that environments are now more dynamic and fluid than ever, and he guides them through the need to shift from a ‘reactive’ to ‘responsive’ approach to effectively engage and lead their teams. Michael shows professionals there is no one, correct path and supports their individual journeys to find personal and professional balance.

Noted Accomplishments

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Visual and Performing Arts from New York University

Additional Information

Studied extensively with The Hoffman Institute and the Carl Jung Foundation, as well as with graduate-level programs in human psychology at Columbia University. Leader volunteer at New York Cares.

Follow Michael on Instagram @wakeupwithmichael

In this powerful episode of Evolve Thru God, host Angela Goodman welcomes the radiant and inspiring Chasity Pritchett—a devoted woman of faith, entrepreneur, and newly emerging gospel artist. Chasity shares her beautiful and raw testimony of encountering God in a deeply personal way that forever changed her life and set her soul on fire.

From humble beginnings and spiritual struggle to launching a multimillion-dollar olive oil business and releasing her first worship single, Chasity walks us through what it means to live a life led by faith. Her story is one of obedience, purpose, resilience, and unwavering trust in God—even when the path is uncomfortable or unclear.

Whether you're new to your walk or years into your faith journey, this episode will remind you of God’s faithfulness, the power of prayer, and the strength that comes from full surrender.

How Chasity’s faith transitioned from knowledge to intimate relationship

The miraculous moment she physically felt God’s presence

How she built a faith-centered olive oil brand from just $200

The spiritual meaning behind her business and its connection to biblical oil

How she overcame doubt to release her first gospel single, Faithful

Her go-to scriptures and strategies for navigating trials and spiritual warfare

What it looks like to fully walk in obedience—even when it's scary

🎵 Single: Faithful by Chasity the Worshipper – Available on iTunes and Spotify

📖 Books:

More Than a Hobby by David Green (CEO of Hobby Lobby)

God and Money – [Author to be added]

🛒 Chasity’s Faith-Based Olive Oil Brand: 

“There is power in the things that we say out loud. Speak what God says about you—life, health, abundance. You are a child of a King.”

Instagram: @ChasityTheWorshipper

Business IG: @HerOliveOilBrand

Website: www.chasitypritchard.com (example – update as needed)

If this episode blessed you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs a faith boost today!

🎧 Evolve Thru God is available on all major platforms.

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WHO IS CHASITY PRITCHETT?

Welcome to EVOLVE Thru God!  I would love it if you would spread the word - like, follow, share, and introduce EVOLVE thru God to people you know who are seeking in their own journey!

In this deeply moving episode of Evolve Through God, Angela welcomes her partner, Matthew Berthot, for a powerful conversation about faith, shame, grace, and what it truly means to live in communion with God.

From his early years in a Lutheran church to a life of teaching, performance, and spiritual mentorship, Matt shares how his relationship with God evolved beyond discipline and doctrine into deep, intimate connection. Through candid stories and vulnerable reflections, he explores how confession, surrender, and spiritual identity shaped his journey.

Matt also reveals how his gift of voice—first as a singer and now as a coach—has become a sacred tool in his ministry. This episode is both a testimony and a teaching moment for anyone ready to shed shame, reclaim purpose, and recognize the divine within.

Key Themes:

✨ Lessons from Matt

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Matt Berthot, a small-town native from the Midwest, discovered his love for music and performance at an early age. A proud father of two amazing boys, Max and Leo, Matt began his professional journey as a public school choir teacher, where he used the transformative power of music to instill confidence, connection, and creativity in his students. His commitment to helping others unlock their potential eventually led him to expand his classroom to the world.

Today, Matt is a dynamic voice coach, speaker, emcee, and performer, dedicated to helping people find, keep, share, and connect with their authentic voice. Through his signature coaching system, Voice by Matt, Matt guides individuals and groups to master their craft (voice technique), artistry (storytelling), and performance magic (eliciting emotions and creating unforgettable moments). His unique ability to combine these elements inspires others to let their soul come out and say hello to the world.

Matt's passion for the voice and its energy is evident in his podcast, Voice by Matt, as well as his workshops, speaking engagements, and events like Unmute—immersive adventures for business professionals focused on self-expression and communication. He has introduced high-profile figures such as Ed Mylett, James Lawrence (the Iron Cowboy), and Jen Gottlieb, showcasing his talent for creating meaningful connections with audiences.

With a Master's degree in Vocal Performance, certification as an Estill Master Trainer Candidate, and over 4,600 consecutive days of running for health and discipline, Matt embodies a relentless commitment to personal growth and transformation. He has presented internationally, including at King's College in London for the World Estill Voice Symposium, and has been recognized as Master Teacher of the Year for his dedication to education.

Matt blends his supernatural gifts for healing and understanding people's spiritual gifts with his expertise in voice and performance, helping clients tap into the frequency and energy of their true selves. Whether coaching entrepreneurs to deliver impactful speeches or guiding performers to captivate their audiences, Matt’s mission is clear: to empower people to connect, communicate, and shine in ways they never thought possible.

Welcome to EVOLVE Thru God!  I would love it if you would spread the word - like, follow, share, and introduce EVOLVE thru God to people you know who are seeking in their own journey!

In this powerful episode of Evolve Thru God, Angela sits down with Liz Szporn—a businesswoman, mother, and survivor—who shares the deeply personal story of how her early faith was shattered by sexual abuse at a Christian camp and how, decades later, she found her way back to God.

Liz opens up about the betrayal she experienced as a teenager at the hands of a camp director, the institutional cover-up that followed, and the long legal battle her family fought to expose the truth. But this is not a story of victimhood—it’s one of radical healing, spiritual reclamation, and courageous advocacy.

Through tears, laughter, and raw honesty, Liz recounts the winding road that led her to reconnect with God—not in church pews, but in nature, music, and daily prayer with a trusted circle of women. Her story is a profound reminder that even in our darkest seasons, redemption is possible—and that God never stops reaching for us.

If you or someone you know is a survivor, this episode will serve as both a balm and a beacon.

🌱 Lessons We Learn from Liz

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Liz Szporn is a Sr. Guide at Profit First Professionals. She supports the transformation of accounting, bookkeeping and coaching firms. She particularly loves increasing profitability in these firms by working on increasing confidence in advisory services, marketing content and strategy to increase client engagement starting at the beginning of the sales cycle. 

Liz has 20+ years of experience as an executive and entrepreneur with a track record of financial success and strong leadership skills. In addition to being a Guide, Liz is a co-host on the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, with Mike Michalowicz and Ron Saharyan. 

She also founded Your Business Matters, a business consulting and advisory firm and co-founded Leaderally, a professional development firm for educators, where she produced and delivered curriculum, workshops and presentations focused on communication, management and strategy.  Liz lives in New Jersey with her husband, three children, and two dogs.

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethszporn/

Welcome to EVOLVE Thru God!  I would love it if you would spread the word - like, follow, share, and introduce EVOLVE thru God to people you know who are seeking in their own journey!

In Episode 29, we met Jory Evans.  Jory reflected on the theme of surrender in his life, particularly during challenging times. He recounted the significant moment of his and his wife's baptism as a public declaration of their faith, which marked the beginning of a deeper spiritual calling. He emphasized that surrender is essential for effective leadership and guiding others toward God, while Angela supported this notion by referencing Michael Singer's "The Surrender Experiment." They both acknowledged that many leaders struggle with surrender, yet it is crucial for achieving peace and fulfillment.

The discussion also covered the importance of vulnerability and mutual support in the workplace. Jory advocated for compassion and understanding among colleagues, suggesting that businesses should prioritize individual needs over strict fairness. He shared how his organization incorporates faith through practices like prayer meetings and community lunches, fostering a supportive culture.

Angela resonated with these themes, particularly in helping clients overcome financial barriers. They concluded by discussing the significance of being attentive to divine guidance and the importance of maintaining a strong connection with God through daily practices, which Jory illustrated with personal anecdotes.

Jory Evans, Husband, Father, Entrepreneur and follower of Christ, is the CEO of three family owned businesses, Evans Trucking, Evans HD and EvansPro Developments.

Their company missions are to create awesome jobs for excellent people, setting them up for success and integrating them into a positive, thriving community.

He also hosts a Business and Leadership podcast "Built To Lead", to help other entrepreneurs with business and leadership development.

Jory is dedicated to leading with faith, empowering others to reach their full potential and building God's Kingdom in the process.

Welcome to EVOLVE Thru God!  I would love it if you would spread the word - like, follow, share, and introduce EVOLVE thru God to people you know who are seeking in their own journey!

In Episode 28, David Carbajal demonstrates his most important gift, calm. David reflected on his upbringing in a Catholic household, influenced by his grandparents, particularly his Nana, who instilled in him the practice of prayer. He described his early religious experiences as routine and lacking personal connection, contrasting them with the experiences of public school students. David acknowledged a pivotal moment in his life following a DUI, which prompted him to mature and seek a serious relationship with his high school girlfriend, Kayla. As he transitioned from college to a career in construction, he began exploring personal development through audiobooks, which significantly influenced his growth.

David recounted his career shift from general contracting to working for a hotel developer, highlighting the challenges he faced in managing complex hotel projects in Santa Monica. He noted the skills he developed in problem-solving and leadership through these experiences. Additionally, he spoke about the profound impact of his late brother-in-law, Seven Figure Sam, who served as a mentor and inspired David to join Arete for personal and professional growth. David's spiritual journey evolved through his introduction to a more vibrant Christian church, leading him to reassess his work-life balance and prioritize his family and faith.

You can follow me on instagram ‪@EVOLVEThruGod‬@EVOLVEthruGod @msangelagoodman

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Developer | Builder | Visionary | Founder of CalmaStay + SteelRock Development

David Carbajal is a visionary real estate developer, builder, and founder of CalmaStay—an award-winning, luxury retreat designed to restore peace and realign people with God’s design.

With over 20 years of construction experience and a portfolio that includes managing $50–100M hotel developments, David now leads SteelRock Development, Inc., where he builds high-design, high-impact spaces rooted in excellence, stewardship, and Kingdom purpose.

His personal journey—from grinding in the field as a teenager to self-funding and building his first luxury retreat from dirt to doors—has shaped a deep conviction: we are most powerful when we build from overflow, not hustle.

Through CalmaStay, his upcoming Refined movement, and the homes he develops, David is helping others slow down, return to presence, and evolve through God—one space at a time.