Welcome to another inspiring episode of Finding Hope! In this episode, host Laura Bell sits down with the incredible Tiffany Joe Baker to delve into the multifaceted world of surrogacy and spiritual well-being. 

In this episode, we explore the emotional and hormonal complexities that surrogates face, amplified by the demanding process of fertility treatments. Tiffany opens up about her personal motivations, often rooted in witnessing the pain of infertility and medical challenges among her friends and loved ones. Her steadfast decision against selective reduction highlights her commitment to what she views as a life-giving mission.

Highlights of the episode: 

- Role in Surrogacy 

- Emotional and Hormonal Challenges

- Biblical Perspective

- Joy and Identity

- Health Tips

We'll also discuss the vital need for a supportive community, and Tiffany shares valuable insights about finding joy amidst the struggles of life by combating joy killers such as comparison and resentment. Laura joins in with a touching story about her mother's practice of gratitude, especially during tough financial times.

Journey with us as we explore Tiffany’s surrogacy experiences, her approach to joy and forgiveness, and even some fun health tips!

We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new episode of "Finding Hope" featuring a truly inspiring guest, Jenn Schultz! In this episode, your hosts Jenn Shultz and Laura Bell dive deep into the comparison trap that often ensnares us, exploring how jealousy and feelings of inadequacy can be overcome through faith, vulnerability, and meaningful connections.

Key Highlights of the Episode:

- Comparison Trap

- Overcoming Jealousy

- Vulnerability

- Social Media Struggles

- Personal Journeys

- Book Insights

This episode is packed with heartfelt stories and invaluable lessons that will inspire and uplift you. Tune in now and take a step toward finding hope and conquering the comparison trap.

In this episode of Finding Hope, host Laura Bell welcomes special guest Lane Taylor, a devoted follower of Christ, husband, father, and dynamic entrepreneur who transitioned from a corporate career to purposeful entrepreneurship and podcasting.

Together, Laura and Lane dive deep into the transformative impact of social media on mindset and the often overwhelming pressure of follower counts. Lane shares invaluable insights on the importance of focusing on the quality and impact of your audience, regardless of its size, while Laura offers her own realizations about audience reach and the hidden value of smaller followings.

They reminisce on traditional business-building methods while illuminating the modern-day importance of podcasting in business. Lane underscores the necessity of a clear definition and understanding of podcasting as a powerful tool, incorporating AI-driven content creation for greater outreach.

Lane's personal narrative highlights the significance of intentionality, writing dreams down, and witnessing them come to fruition through faith and alignment with God's plan. From overcoming mental roadblocks to celebrating small victories, Lane’s journey is a testament to the power of prayer and dedication.

Laura shares an inspiring moment of clarity and discusses the joy of being present and mindful, drawing strength from Lane's story. The episode wraps up with Lane offering practical advice on creating engaging content, spotlighting a unique client example, and emphasizing the role of faith in entrepreneurial success.

Tune in to gain insights into Lane's podcasts "Built for More" and "Equipped," and discover how impactful even a single life can be when you align with a higher purpose. Join Laura Bell and Lane Taylor for an episode brimming with hope, faith, and actionable wisdom in finding and walking in alignment with your purpose.

Highlights + Timestamps

00:00 - 04:00: Introduction

- Laura Bell introduces Lane Taylor, highlighting his experience and transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship.

- Brief overview of Lane’s podcast “Built for More” and his mission to align with God’s plan.

04:01 - 08:00: Impact of Social Media on Mindset

- The pressure of followers on social media.

- Lane’s encouragement to focus on the impact, not the numbers.

- Laura’s realization about the significance of a smaller following.

08:01 - 12:00: Building a Business and Utilizing Podcasting

- Discussion on traditional approaches to building a business.

- The role and importance of podcasting in business.

- Lane's emphasis on defining podcasting within one's business context.

12:01 - 16:00: Creating Content and Using AI

- Lane’s approach to making clients appear as if they are on a podcast.

- Using clips for newsletters, email blasts, and blog posts.

- An example of a scrap yard client using video podcasts.

16:01 - 20:00: Lane’s Entrepreneurial Journey

- Lane’s personal journey: moving from corporate to entrepreneurship.

- Overcoming mental roadblocks with prayer and faith.

- The importance of writing down dreams and Habakkuk 2:2.

20:01 - 24:00: Alignment and Faithfulness

- Lane’s thoughts on being intentional and aligning with God’s plan.

- Sharing his successes with close friends and working with people he wants to.

- Laura’s moment of clarity and encouragement from Lane’s story.

24:01 - 28:00: Where to Find Lane and Closing Remarks

- Lane’s active presence on Instagram and LinkedIn.

- Mention of his podcasts "Built for More" and "Equipped."

- Closing on a positive note: Lane expressing gratitude and support for Laura Bell.

In this heartwarming episode of "Finding Hope," Laura Bell welcomes Rachael Adams and they dive into the often overlooked yet profound significance found in the smaller, simpler aspects of life. Laura shares her personal journey of battling the societal pressures of achieving 'more' and highlights a touching story about a stay-at-home mom who struggled with feeling 'enough.'

Rachel Adams, author, speaker, and podcast host, opens up about her transition from a performance-driven corporate career to finding her true identity and purpose in the mundane routines of motherhood. As she discusses the impact of her upbringing in a business-minded family and the challenges of seeking validation, Rachel brings forth an inspiring message that resonates deeply with women striving to find meaning in their everyday lives.

Listeners will be captivated by Laura's candid recount of her emotional and physical journey post-hysterectomy, battling guilt, and rediscovering her inherent worth in God's eyes. Laura and Rachel underscore the importance of valuing small actions, believing that God's love and significance in our lives aren't tied to our achievements but rather to our faithfulness in the little things.

This episode is not just a testament to the power of small beginnings but also a gentle reminder to cherish the simple moments that reflect God's love and purpose. Join us as we embark on this inspiring exploration of finding hope and significance in the everyday.

Main Highlights:

- Laura Bell's insights on the illusion of a significant life.

- Rachel Adams' journey from corporate life to stay-at-home motherhood.

- The spiritual and emotional struggles faced and overcome.

- Encouraging women to take small steps in faith without comparison.

- Biblical perspectives on not despising small beginnings.

- Personal anecdotes and shared experiences that inspire hope.

Stay tuned to the end for Rachel’s favorite ways to connect with her audience and her fresh perspective on faith and everyday living!

You can follow Rachel Adams on her social media handles and visit her website for more insightful resources. Don't miss this episode if you're seeking a life filled with purpose and hope.

00:00 Origin and growth of women's ministry.

06:04 Struggling with identity and need for validation.

07:10 Reflecting on life, finding meaning in simplicity.

11:44 Desiring simplicity in a world of excess.

13:46 Created for good works, avoid laziness, avoid materialism.

16:55 Encouraging families to spend a thousand hours outside.

20:07 Trust in God's sovereignty and embrace moments.

24:00 Isaiah verse, finding direction, and starting blog.

28:15 Enthusiastic foodie takes on 90-day Bible challenge.

30:43 Grateful for time and hopeful for future.

Join us on this episode of the Finding Hope Podcast, where host Laura Bell sits down with Tara Sun, a multifaceted author, speaker, and ministry leader. Dive deep into Tara’s transformative journey as outlined in her latest book, "Surrender Your Story." Discover how she navigates life’s challenges—from health struggles to pivotal life decisions—with grace and faith. Tara shares her insights on letting go of control and finding freedom in trusting God, offering a message of hope and resilience that resonates with anyone facing their own life's uncertainties. Whether you're wrestling with personal control or seeking a deeper understanding of spiritual surrender, Tara’s story will inspire you to embrace the beauty of trusting a path laid out by a higher power.

Annika Nikole is a dedicated health and wellness coach who has been serving clients with zeal and fervor over the past four to five years. Her philosophy is rooted in the belief that the realm of nutrition has become far too complex and alienated from the divine simplicity intended for women's well-being. Through her work, Annika cultivates a return to the basic, yet profound principles of eating and living harmoniously, aligning with the innate design bestowed upon women.

Driven by her passion for guiding women towards food freedom and authentic femininity, she has embraced her role wholeheartedly, celebrating the simplicity and purity in restoring one's health according to divine intentions. Annika's journey in coaching reflects her commitment to helping women rediscover the joy and ease of healthful living, deeply grounded in faith and the natural order. With gratitude and love for her vocation, Annika continues to be a beacon of hope and clarity in a field often muddled by complexity and misinformation.

On today's episode of the Finding Hope Podcast, we're bravely tackling a topic that touches the lives of many yet often remains shrouded in silence—infidelity in marriage. Join us as our guest, Leslie Burris, shares her intimate experience dealing with the shockwaves that result when vows are broken.

Leslie gives a raw account of her journey through the pain of her husband's affair with a coworker, the identity crisis that ensued, and the struggle to find footing as a stay-at-home mom amidst marital chaos. Despite the turmoil of "pressure cooker" confessions and the arduous process of deciding whether to stay, rebuild, or leave, Leslie found the courage to draft a game plan for the future.

Leslie doesn't shy away from the hard-hitting questions and the essential need for support, whether that means counseling to help navigate the emotional labyrinth or planning ahead for financial independence. Importantly, she emphasizes the necessity of applying grace under fire during these trying times and not sacrificing personal peace for anyone or anything.

Stay tuned for a powerful dialogue on maintaining your sense of self and peace through one of life's most difficult trials. This episode isn't just a story; it's a testament to resilience, the power of hope, and the importance of faith in the darkest of times.

Welcome to the Finding Hope podcast with Laura Jean Bell. In today's episode, Laura dives deep into the truth about infertility, addressing the lies that women are often told about their reproductive health. She shares insights into how the body communicates its needs and offers practical advice on nutrition, movement, and self-care to support fertility and hormone balance. With personal experiences and valuable recommendations, Laura empowers listeners to take control of their health and find hope in their journey. Tune in to hear the inspiring message of hope and healing as Laura sheds light on the reality of women's reproductive health and the path to wellness.

We're diving deep into Laura's personal battle with the often-misunderstood condition of endometriosis—a journey marked by severe cramps, migraines, and a whirlwind of medical opinions. After years of being misdiagnosed and suggested to simply mask her symptoms with birth control, Laura's resilience led her to a diagnosis of stage three endometriosis with complications that cast doubt on her ability to conceive.

In this eye-opening episode, Laura unfurls the lies ingrained in the narrative of infertility. She calls into question the methods of traditional medicine that often leave women feeling defective. She urges us to look beyond and reconsider the impact of our lifestyles—our stress, diet, and environmental toxins—on hormonal health and fertility.

We'll hear how Laura ditched synthetic hormones in favor of a nutrient-rich diet, avoided toxic personal care products, and took a holistic approach to address her hormonal imbalances. She'll debunk the myths surrounding birth control pills and their link to weight gain, thyroid issues, and various cancers, while spotlighting the historical negligence towards women's health research in medicine.

This episode isn't just Laura's story; it's a call to action for empowerment over our health, healing, and well-being. She doesn't claim to be a medical expert. Still, her research, her lived experience, and her commitment to sharing and helping others navigate these waters make her voice a beacon for those seeking alternative paths to wellness and fertility.

So settle in, get comfortable, and let’s journey together with Laura Bell, as she unravels the tangled truths about infertility and invites us all to forge our paths toward hope, balance, and vitality.

LINKS

Hormone Healing EBOOK:

Welcome to the Finding Hope podcast. I'm your host, Laura Bell, and today's episode, "Lizzie Ens FINAL," features the extraordinary journey of Lizzie Ens, a courageous woman who sought freedom and self-discovery beyond the life she knew in an Amish community. Lizzie, one of 18 siblings, grew up without indoor plumbing or electricity and faced the daunting challenge of leaving her strict Amish community—a community seemingly frozen in the 1860s without a choice to return once someone left.

Despite the risks, Lizzie crafted a secret escape plan, which she'll share with us, including the heart-pounding moments from leaving a note for her family to the ultimate leap of faith off a roof, guided by nothing more than hope and the desire for a different future.

Lizzie's story doesn't stop at her departure from the Amish life; she has gone on to become the CEO and co-founder of Miss Commando, a non-toxic beauty company. She also runs an online telehealth coaching business, focusing on hormones, thyroid health, and gut healing.

Throughout the episode, Lizzie and I will delve into the value of simplicity in cooking, the impact of societal misconceptions about health, and the importance of self-love and compassion in our personal journeys. Whether discussing the way we nurture our bodies or how we view wellness, Lizzie's insights are rooted in her unique experiences and her drive to empower others.

Her story encompasses the struggles she faced, including her diagnosis with Hashimoto's, and how embracing her Amish heritage's principles of self-sufficiency and natural living helped her face these challenges head-on. We'll also explore the importance of non-toxic living, the significance of self-care post-divorce, and the beautiful reunion that mended the bond between Lizzie and her mother.

Join us for this incredible conversation about breaking free from constraints, the power of natural healing, and the pursuit of wellness in the modern world. This is an episode you won't want to miss, so let's dive in.