In this episode of The Journey, I share a reflection sparked by the first meaningful snowfall of the season in central Wisconsin. After Thanksgiving, the world around me slowed under a fresh blanket of snow—a moment of solitude, beauty, and quiet that invited me to breathe, listen, and reconnect with nature and with God. I talk about the importance of embracing these pauses in our lives, especially during the winter months, and I encourage you to take a little time to step outside, bundle up, and appreciate the stillness this season offers.

In this episode of The Journey, I sit down with my friend Mike White to talk about his life, his work, and the powerful story of his son, Connor.

Mike shares how he transformed his pain into action by creating Connor’s Second Chance, an endowment supporting at-risk youth through Youth for Christ. His commitment to honoring his son by helping others is a powerful reminder of resilience, gratitude, and choosing goodness—even in the hardest moments.

If you’d like to support Connor’s Second Chance, visit the Community Foundation or Youth for Christ.

This is a meaningful, heartfelt episode and I’m grateful Mike chose to share his journey with all of us.

During this reflection, I talk about recent experience speaking at Rock Valley College regarding International Suicide Survivor Day on November 22nd . We never know what others are experiencing, so it best to choose to be kind and seek opportunities to be available to others.

In this reflection episode of The Journey, I take some time to pause and share thoughts on the Gifts of Autumn, the beauty, change, and stillness that this season brings. As the world around us slows down and shifts, we’re reminded to do the same: to be mindful, to stay present, and to notice the gifts that surround us each day.

This episode is an invitation to embrace the transitions in life with gratitude and awareness, finding peace and purpose in the rhythm of the changing seasons.

This week on The Journey, I’m joined by Nikki Myers, licensed clinical professional counselor, to discuss her 15-year journey with endometriosis and her mission to raise awareness and support others facing this condition.

Nikki shares her powerful story of perseverance, from years of misdiagnoses and pain to finding answers through surgery and self-advocacy. She opens up about the physical and emotional challenges that come with endometriosis, a condition that affects 1 in 10 women worldwide, and highlights the need for greater understanding, research, and compassionate care.

We also explore Nikki’s professional path as a trauma counselor, how her personal experiences shaped her approach to helping others heal, and the importance of recognizing how trauma and chronic illness intersect. Nikki offers valuable insights for those navigating similar journeys, emphasizing the importance of listening to your body, advocating for yourself, and finding trustworthy support and community.

It’s a deeply personal and informative conversation about pain, resilience, and hope, and a reminder that awareness leads to empowerment.

This week on The Journey, I’m joined by Ashley Phillips for an important and deeply honest conversation about domestic violence, what it looks like, how it impacts victims, and what it takes to break free.

Ashley shares her personal experiences and professional insights, shedding light on the many forms of abuse that often go unnoticed, including psychological, emotional, sexual, and financial control. We talk about how abusers use manipulation, isolation, and gaslighting to maintain power, and how victims often begin to question their own reality while being accused of overreacting.

Together, we explore what it means to rebuild confidence, find courage, and seek support. Ashley discusses the critical role of family, friends, and professional resources in helping victims recognize abuse and take steps toward safety. We also highlight local organizations like Remedies and the Family Peace Center, that provide shelter, legal support, and counseling for those in need.

This episode is a powerful reminder that abuse is never the victim’s fault, and healing begins with awareness, documentation, and community. Freedom comes when we find the courage to face the unknown and accept help.

This week on The Journey, I’m joined by Mary Votava, educator, yoga instructor, and behavior intervention specialist for Rockford Public Schools. Mary shares her journey from teaching English and ESL to her current work supporting students through mindfulness, movement, and social-emotional learning.

We talk about how her yoga and breathwork practice has shaped her approach to student interventions and how these methods are being used through programs at Rockford Barbell and local partnerships like Nicholas Conservatory and Anderson Japanese Gardens. Mary also shares her personal love for the outdoors and her goal of hiking to the highest point in every state with her husband, Nick, a practice that reflects her commitment to being present, grounded, and intentional in both life and work.

It’s a meaningful conversation about mindfulness, education, and how connection, whether through movement, nature, or community, can create lasting impact.

This week on The Journey, I’m joined by Michelle McCabe-Shafer, a licensed marriage and family therapist, to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Michelle shares her powerful story—from her early career aspirations to her unexpected breast cancer diagnosis at age 36. She opens up about the challenges of treatment and recovery, the emotional toll of cancer, and the lessons she’s learned about self-advocacy and trusting your instincts.

Our conversation explores the mental and emotional side of healing, the role of positivity, and the importance of listening to your body. Michelle’s story is one of courage, resilience, and hope—a reminder to never ignore what your body is trying to tell you.

This week on The Journey, I’m joined by Nick Votava, co-founder of Rockford Barbell. Nick and I dive into the story of how Rockford Barbell began and how it has grown into a community space where movement, weightlifting, and yoga help children develop crucial social and emotional skills. We talk about the rise in anxiety among youth since the pandemic and how physical activity and community can be powerful tools for connection and growth.

Nick also shares his own experiences with group workouts, wrestling, and football, and how embracing physical challenges has shaped his ability to manage stress and build resilience. Together, we reflect on the importance of pushing through reluctance, the role of experiential learning in coaching, and why facing challenges head-on is essential for personal development.

Finally, Nick discusses Rockford Barbell’s expanding programs, including in-school classes, after-school youth fitness, and their annual weightlifting meet, which connects young athletes to a lifelong community. It’s a conversation about perseverance, creativity, and the power of movement to change lives.

Vanester Scott shared her journey of following God’s prompting and direction for her life. In this episode she shared the story of how she met her husband, started her prayer ministry and upcoming community event for unity. Enjoy!