There is a lot of pain in the world right now - outside and inside of us. It can feel overwhelming. The right and only thing to do is grieve. Feel. That's how we are reminded that we are not alone and we don’t have to be afraid of our sorrow. In fact, it's our sadness that deepens our capacity for compassion and brings wholeness to the human experience. 

On this episode, I bring together Courtney Beaver and Jennie Baker to share authentically about what grief has looked like for them in the wake of losing their loved ones. In the third segment, we will talk to Dr. Chip Bennett about how grief and lament are critical for developing a mature faith.

The heart of this episode is to give you permission to vocalize your pain and wrestle with your sorrow as a means of healing and growth. May we also seek to become intentional and avoid trite answers or quick solutions when we see others hurting, so we can progressively move towards deeper trust and safety with each other. 

Be sure to share your takeaways from the episode on the Inspire.Empower.Be. social platforms and FOLLOW to stay up to date about new episodes each month.

Have you ever thought about the safety of the LGBTQ+ people in your community? 

In this episode, college friend and LGBTQ+ advocacy educator, Chase Glenn shares a few of the ways we can lean in and show compassion for each other in the midst of everything facing LGBTQ+ people today. During our conversation we break down some terms, provide historical context around gender expression and sexual orientation, discuss how inclusion and equity are a threat to the status quo, plus Chase shares what feels hopeful right now. Overall, this is a conversation that will take you to school and then lovingly walk you back home again.

Share your thoughts and takeaways from this conversation via the Inspire.Empower.Be. social platforms (Facebook and Instagram). Also, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to stay in the know about future episodes. 

Are sexuality and spirituality connected? Listen to my conversation with Dr. Joy Skarka as we discuss ways society and The Church has gotten sex wrong and what we can do going forward to bring healing and wholeness to this most vulnerable issue.

Dr. Joy Skarka is passionate about creating spaces to free women from sexual shame. Joy is the Director of Discipleship for Authentic Intimacy, where she leads online small groups for women with unwanted sexual behavior. She coaches and teaches Christian leaders how to help women find freedom from sexual shame and pornography. Joy has a published chapter in Sanctified Sexuality: Valuing Sex in an Oversexed World. She has also written numerous online articles, appeared on many podcasts, led workshops, and currently leads online recovery groups.

It's true... a friend holds the key to different doors of our personality. But did you know that having a few, close and consistent friendships is actually critical to your health and wellbeing? On this episode, I will be diving into the science behind friendship and the personal expressions and experiences of it. I am joined by three of my good friends Brittany Gerren, Elisha Byerly, and Jennifer Butler as we share the heart of what has made our connection work so well, for so long. Whether you feel like you are surrounded by a thriving community or making your way through life solo, this conversation is for you. 

Originally aired in May 2020

After spending 7 years in Sierra Leone West Africa, Rachel and her 5 daughters are state side. Listen as we talk about the difficulties of re-adjusting to Westernized culture and Christianity as well as the misconceptions around missions and Africa in general. We also discussed "one anotherness" and how so many are missing out on the true meaning of doing life in community. 

Originally aired in February 2020

Meet Donna Elcock child loss survivor, LGBTQ+ mother, and Indigenous woman proudly hailing from the Boomer generation. Listen in as she shares vulnerably about her many trials and triumphs along the way and how her relationship with God has evolved over the years. 

Originally aired in January 2020

Laura and I talk about the birth of Leora Ministry and how young, pregnant girls in Uganda are realizing their dreams through support and resources.

Originally aired November 2019

Anglican Priest from Franklin, TN Chad Jarnagin is author of "Learning To Be: Reconstructing Peace and Spiritual Health." Listen in as we discuss the art of slowing down and listening well so that we can experience the gift of Shalom. 

Originally aired in Oct 2019

People Choice Award winner, former recording artist, author and professional speaker Carlos Whittaker is on the mic talking about parenting, influence, and mental health within the context of faith.

Originally aired in July 2019

Let's talk all things Enneagram and self awareness with Coach Kristi Rowles.