MercyCast

Perfect is pretend. Take a moment and re-read that slowly.

Welcome to another episode of MercyCast. This week, I’m sitting down with Dr. Mikayla Albertson to discuss the often-overlooked complexities of midlife. This conversation explores the challenges of aging, the journey of healing, and the importance of embracing vulnerability. Mikayla, who’s walked this road herself, shares invaluable insights on navigating this season with grace, self-acceptance, and, most importantly, radical love for ourselves.

Our chat explores how midlife often feels like a maze—unpredictable and without a clear roadmap. But it’s not all hardship. Mikayla highlights how midlife can be a time of growth, reflection, and healing. With her new book as a guide, we talk about the importance of having reliable information for women in midlife and the need to prioritize self-care and let go of unrealistic expectations.

We also explore radical acceptance, a powerful mindset that allows us to embrace life’s challenges without letting them define or break us. Mikayla shares how perfectionism can fuel self-loathing, make us feel disconnected from our true selves, and how shifting our mindset toward wellness can open the door to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

What I love most about this episode is its message of hope: Healing is not a linear process, and you are already enough. Whether caring for your body or embracing the beauty in the ordinary moments of life, there’s so much to love about the journey, imperfections and all.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Midlife can be a challenging season without a clear playbook.
• Vulnerability connects us all—it's a shared human experience.
• Healing is a lifelong journey, and radical acceptance is a key part.
• Perfectionism can lead to self-loathing and unrealistic expectations.
• Embracing imperfection allows for a more authentic and peaceful life.
• Walking, or simple self-care practices, can significantly improve mental and physical health.
• A mindset shift toward wellness can make all the difference in how we approach life.
• It's okay not to have it all figured out—healing often comes from facing adversity.
• Understanding our relationship with food is crucial for emotional and physical well-being.
• Social pressures distort self-image—remember: You are beloved and valued.

You can learn more about Dr. Mikala Albertson at her website, mikalaalbertsonmd.com.Buy her new book, Everything I Wish I Could Tell You about Midlife.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected]. For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

Happy New Year! Listen to this week's episode before you nail down your resolutions or buy that gym Membership.

In this episode of Mercycast, my friend Matt Popovits, author of the new book Junk Drawer Jesus, and I discuss the challenges of New Year's resolutions, the clutter in our spiritual lives, and the dangers of viewing work and personal happiness as central to our identity. We explore how to identify and discard spiritual junk that weighs us down, emphasizing the importance of grace and the finished work of Jesus in our lives. In this conversation, we investigate the themes of comfort, pain, spiritual clutter, and the essence of faith, discussing the importance of recognizing discomfort as a part of growth, the role of repentance in a believer's life, and the freedom found in Christ's love. The dialogue emphasizes that true fulfillment comes not from personal performance but from understanding and accepting God's grace.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• New Year's resolutions often lead to guilt and shame.
• Spiritual clutter can hinder our relationship with God.
• Identifying spiritual junk requires honest reflection.
• Work can become a functional savior, leading to burnout.
• Happiness should not be the ultimate goal of life.
• The true message of Christianity is about what is done, not what we do.
• Recognizing our spiritual hoarding is the first step to healing.
• Cultural influences can distort our understanding of faith.
• Personal fulfillment should not come from professional success.
• God's purpose for us is deeper than mere happiness. We often sacrifice growth for comfort.
• Pain can lead to a deeper understanding of our faith.
• Repentance is a continual process of turning back to Christ.
• Self-awareness is crucial in our spiritual journey.
• The goal is not spiritual purity but a relationship with Jesus.
• Confession allows us to acknowledge our struggles with God.
• We are free to pursue spiritual practices without guilt.
• Our worth is not based on our performance but on Christ's love.
• The essence of faith is resting in the finished work of Jesus.

You can find Matt’s book, Junk Drawer Jesus, here! Find more at makeitsimple.org.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram. Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

It’s Christmas time!

In this very short episode of MercyCast, I want to discuss holiday traditions. I explore a few Christmas traditions from around the world (some you have heard of and some you haven't). Every tradition exists in some way to bring people together and refocus them on what truly matters. With this in mind, what would happen if we decided to create new traditions that foster healing and community, which remind each of us that we are loved and seen, especially during difficult times?

Highlights and takeaways:

• The holidays can be a challenging time for many.
• It's important to acknowledge our struggles during the festive season.
• Traditions can help us refocus on what truly matters.
• Exploring global Christmas traditions can enrich our understanding.
• Creating new traditions can foster healing and connection.
• Community and connection are vital during difficult times.
• Serving others can be a healing experience for ourselves.
• Letting go of the pressure to create the perfect holiday is okay.
• Reflecting on gratitude can enhance our holiday experience.
• We are all on this journey together, and support is essential.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram. For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

Can't find community? Create it. This week's guest reminds us that the Apostle Paul belonged to the communities he created.

We are taking a break from Christmas episodes this week. In this critical episode of Mercycast, my good friend Lewie Clark joins me as we dive into an often-overlooked topic: singles' unique and vital role in ministry and church leadership. In the church, there's often an implicit assumption that marriage is the "default" position for leadership, but we believe that single people have a crucial and powerful kingdom purpose.

Lewie and I unpack the biases singles face within the church—sometimes unspoken but often profoundly felt. We also explore how these biases distort our thinking about discipleship, community, and belonging. We share the importance of embracing suffering in our walk with Jesus and how it can deepen our relationships and sense of calling.

The conversation doesn't shy away from loneliness, whether in marriage or singleness. We talk about how both states can lead to feelings of isolation and how these experiences, while painful, can be transformative when we allow God to enter them. Through love, hospitality, friendship, and invitation, discipleship becomes a space where we welcome each other's humanity, including the genuine longing for connection.

Whether single or married, join us for a robust conversation on the intersections of singleness, ministry, and discipleship and how we can better love one another amid our joys and sufferings.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Singles often face biases in church leadership roles.
• Singles primarily wrote the New Testament.
• Community is essential for both single and married individuals.
• Discipleship is rooted in love and friendship.
• Suffering can be a powerful tool for growth in discipleship.
• Church planting does not guarantee disciple-making.
• Discipleship requires laying down one's life for others.
• Singles should be recognized as valuable members of the church community.
• Hospitality is crucial for creating a sense of belonging.
• Belonging is rooted in sacrificial love and community.
• Healthy relationships require limits and intentionality.
• Everyone, regardless of marital status, longs for deep connections.

You can find Lewie's first book, Imitating Jesus, here! Here is the link for his new book, Single-Minded Service, where he unpacks the ideas discussed in this episode.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram. Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected]. For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

It’s a Chris White Christmas, everyone!

In this episode of Mercycast, I am joined by my friend, Chris White, director of Electric Jesus, to dive deep into the themes and storytelling of Christmas movies. We explore how these films reflect vulnerability, redemption, and the human experience during the holiday season. From classic films like A Christmas Carol to the overwhelming popularity of Hallmark Christmas movies, we unpack the power of nostalgia, the law, and the Gospel in the movie Gremlins, the holiday spirit, and the importance of family during this special time of year.

The conversation also takes a closer look at the unexpected yet widely debated Christmas movie Die Hard. Chris makes a compelling case for why Die Hard fits into the holiday traditions and celebrates themes of compassion, vulnerability, and love, as seen through characters like Argyle.

Throughout this episode, Chris White and I analyze both classic cinema and unique films that highlight the balance of light and dark, offering insight into how these themes in film contribute to our understanding of family, love, and the holiday spirit.

Whether discussing the innocence of holiday films or the emotional weight of human connection, this conversation reminds us how Christmas movies—old and new—help shape our understanding of love, redemption, and the human experience. Please tune in for a lively discussion on why these films continue to resonate with audiences and enrich our holiday traditions.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Christmas movies remind us of vulnerability and redemption.
• Hallmark movies serve as comfort food during the holidays.
• 'Die Hard' embodies themes of family and sacrifice.
• Argyle represents the spirit of Christmas in 'Die Hard.'
• Christmas is a time for reflection on our past and future.
• The characters in Christmas movies often mirror our own struggles.
• Nostalgia plays a significant role in our holiday movie choices.
• Christmas movies can help us process grief and loss.
• The holiday season brings a longing for connection and belonging.
• Film can be a powerful medium for exploring human emotions. Long December is a beautiful indie Christmas movie.
• The Miracle of Morgan Creek is a classic screwball comedy.
• It's a Wonderful Life explores deep themes of worth and connection.
• Christmas movies often reflect the duality of joy and chaos.
• Gremlins illustrates the failure of law and the triumph of love.
• National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation highlights the unpredictability of family gatherings.
• Home Alone teaches us about the importance of relationships over materialism.
• The Grinch embodies the power of innocence and redemption.
• Christmas films often convey messages of hope and love.
• Engaging with different Christmas movies can enrich our holiday experience.

You have heard from Chris White. Check out one of his recent projects starring Danielson and Fred Armisen. Also, don’t miss the movie Long December.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

Do you have an Advent Calendar this year? If not, maybe you should consider getting one.

In this episode of Mercycast, join Jared C. Wilson, author of Gifts of Grace: 25 Advent Devotions, as he explores the themes of Advent, Christmas, and the deeper meaning of the holiday season. Jared, a pastor and professor, explores the powerful connection between vulnerability, hope, and grace during this time of Christmas anticipation. He reflects on how these elements are woven into the gospel message, encouraging listeners to embrace the true spirit of faith, compassion, and grace as we prepare for Christmas.

Tune in for thoughtful insights on how to make the most of this season, rooted in the transformative message of the Advent journey. Whether you’re seeking spiritual inspiration or practical guidance, Jared C. Wilson’s reflections provide a fresh perspective on cultivating hope and vulnerability as we celebrate  Christmas.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Advent is a season of expectation and waiting.
• Slowing down during Advent helps us appreciate the moment.
• Each day of Advent can reveal a different gift of grace.
• Vulnerability is central to the Advent story.
• Christmas can be bittersweet for many people.
• Hope exists even in hardship during the holidays.
• The true meaning of Christmas goes beyond the holiday itself.
• Celebrating Christmas should extend beyond December 25th.
• Law and gospel play a role in our expectations during Christmas.
• Daily scripture reading can help refocus our hearts during Advent.
• "Advent helps me slow down."
• "He came for sinners."
• "His voice changes us."

You have heard from Jared C. Wilson. We mentioned his book Gifts of Grace: 25 Advent Devotions. You can find other of his books and learn more about his work here.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram. Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected]. For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

Sometimes, we find faith in the most challenging places.

In this episode of MercyCast, I sit down with Cody Wilde, Senior Vice President of Correctional Programs at Prison Fellowship, to discuss his influential work in prison ministry and the profound impact of compassion and vulnerability in the lives of those incarcerated. Cody shares how the gospel is a beacon of hope amid adversity, fostering spiritual growth and healing for individuals facing immense challenges.

Through his experiences at Prison Fellowship, Cody reveals how faith and service are vital in transforming lives, creating a sense of community and offering a path to redemption. This episode explores the intersection of prison ministry, faith, and spiritual growth, highlighting the importance of bringing the message of healing and hope to those who need it most.

Join us for a conversation exploring the power of compassion, the strength found in vulnerability, and the ways the gospel can bring true transformation and freedom inside and beyond prison walls.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Cody's journey into prison ministry began with a personal calling.
• Ministering to vulnerable populations exposes our vulnerabilities.
• The gospel is most impactful in broken places.
• Adversity can be an invitation for personal growth.
• Proximity to those we serve is essential for understanding.
• The complexity of good and evil exists in every human heart.
• Facing our brokenness is part of the healing process.
• Transparency in ministry leads to freedom.
• The call to remember is a call to engage with humanity.
• Ministry is an overflow of our relationship with God.

Want to Learn More About Prison Fellowship?

Discover more about Cody and his work by visiting the official website at Prisonfellowship.org.

Stay Connected with MercyCast!

Follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for the latest episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive updates. Join the conversation and be part of our growing community!

Connect with Raleigh

Want more of Raleigh's insights and updates? Follow him on Twitter and Instagram for a closer look at his work, thoughts, and upcoming projects. Don't miss out on the latest news and exciting content!

For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

Parenting teenagers is not always easy. That’s probably the understatement of the year.

In this insightful episode, Amy Betters-Midtvedt, author of You’ll Make It (And They Will Too), offers expert advice on parenting teenagers and understanding the complexities of family dynamics. With over 25 years of experience working with adolescents and families and as a contributing writer for Today Parenting, Amy has impacted over a million readers with her compassionate approach to adolescent behavior, emotional growth, and mental health.

Amy explores essential topics such as establishing boundaries, maintaining strong family communication, and fostering connection in an age when social media and technology often disrupt meaningful relationships. She discusses how vulnerability and compassion can strengthen family bonds and help parents guide their children through the challenges of growing up, particularly during times of holiday stress or social pressure.

Listeners will learn practical tips on navigating the ups and downs of teenagers' evolving identity and emotional needs and improving communication skills to better understand adolescent behavior. Amy also explores the impact of social media on both parents and teens, offering strategies for balancing screen time while still nurturing human connection and mental health.

Whether you're looking to reduce stress around the holidays or improve communication with your teenager, this episode offers valuable insights into creating a healthy family dynamic.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• The holiday season can intensify family dynamics and emotional challenges.
• Parents often feel lost and overwhelmed, especially with teenagers.
• It's normal for teenagers to push boundaries as they seek independence.
• Maintaining a connection with children is crucial for healthy relationships.
• Setting boundaries is essential, but they should be communicated with love.
• Technology and social media present unique challenges for parents today.
• Teaching communication skills is vital in a technology-driven world.
• Parents should not take their teenagers' behavior personally.
• Understanding adolescent brain development can help parents navigate challenges.
• Community support among parents can strengthen boundaries and decisions. Human connection is essential for emotional development.
• Navigating technology requires intentional parenting strategies.
• Teaching kids to connect with others is crucial.
• Parenting is a learning experience for both parents and children.
• Vulnerability can strengthen parent-child relationships.
• Identity shifts occur as children grow and change.
• Grieving the loss of the 'little' version of our kids is normal.
• Parents can benefit from therapy and support.
• Celebrating small victories fosters positive growth in children.

Want to Learn More About Amy Betters-Midtvedt?

Discover more about Amy and her inspiring work by visiting her official website at amybettersmidtvedt.com. While you're there, grab a copy of her empowering book, You’ll Make It (And They Will Too) — a must-read for anyone navigating personal and professional growth. Don't miss exclusive updates, insights, and more — follow Amy on Facebook for the latest news and inspiration!

Stay Connected with MercyCast!

Follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for the latest episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive updates. Join the conversation and be part of our growing community!

Connect with Raleigh

Want more of Raleigh’s insights and updates? Follow him on Twitter and Instagram for a closer look at his work, thoughts, and upcoming projects. Don't miss out on the latest news and exciting content!

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected]. For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

There are over 400,000 children in the Foster care system. Roughly 125,000 are available for adoption, and 25,000 age out a year. What does compassion say do?

In this episode of Mercycast, Dr. Kimberly Offutt discusses the transformative power of compassion, community support, and advocacy in the foster care system. As an expert in child welfare, Dr. Offutt highlights the importance of vulnerability in fostering meaningful relationships with children and families in need.

We explore the challenges and rewards of foster care, adoption, and mentoring while emphasizing the need for holistic support and institutional care that centers on the well-being of youth. Dr. Offutt shares her insights on how kindness and compassion can create lasting change and why family and community support are essential in ensuring children and young people thrive.

Whether you are a current or potential foster parent, mentor, or advocate, this episode provides valuable insights into the power of relationships and the role of community in building a more compassionate world for vulnerable children.

Tune in for a deep dive into fostering compassion, family dynamics, and creating sustainable solutions in child welfare. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on how we can all make a difference in the lives of those in foster care.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Compassion requires us to reflect on our own experiences.
• Vulnerability is often a shared human experience.
• Community support is crucial for families in need.
• Many children in foster care come from poverty-related issues.
• We need to shift our perspective on how we view those in need.
• Love and compassion should guide our actions towards others.
• Institutions are not a substitute for family support.
• Children in foster care long for unconditional love.
• We all have a role to play in supporting vulnerable families.
• Recognizing our shared humanity can lead to meaningful change. Building relationships with foster children is essential.
• Family support is needed beyond the age of 18.
• Personal stories highlight the importance of connection.
• Community support can take many forms.
• Compassion can be shown through simple acts of kindness.
• Everyone can contribute to supporting foster care.
• It's essential to see the human stories behind statistics.
• Engaging with vulnerable neighbors can start small.
• Prayer and intentionality are key in community support.
• What would you need if you were in their situation?
• "We all have a little bit of dysfunction."
• "What does love say do in situations?"
• "Compassion said, help them."
• "Systems are not designed to care for kids."
• "Love our neighbor, love our friends."
• "We need families, not institutions."
• "Kids are longing for family."
• "Who in your path needs family?"
• "Be family to somebody."

You have heard from Dr. Kimberly Offutt. Check out Bethany Christian Services. Dr. Offutt mentioned her book, They Need You Now: A Mother's Plea for the Church to Embrace Adoption. In the episode, we refer to a special event Dr. Offutt participated in. Watch it here.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram. Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected]. For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

How do you find your way back after the unthinkable?

After experiencing deep pain, we can lose a step. We may feel like we have lost our sense of purpose.

In this conversation, Raleigh Sadler and Esther Garrett explore finding passion and purpose after experiencing trauma and burnout. Esther, the founder and CEO of Safety Compass, shares her personal story of advocacy, the challenges she faced, and how her experiences shaped her ability to connect with others. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, gratitude, and redefining success through kindness and service to others. By 'redefining success, 'they mean shifting the focus from personal achievements to the impact we make on others. The conversation emphasizes that our stories, no matter how painful, can equip us to help others and that God's presence is constant, guiding us through our journeys.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Finding passion may require rediscovering what once inspired us.
• Personal experiences can deeply connect us to those we serve.
• Vulnerability fosters genuine connections with others.
• Burnout can lead to a reevaluation of purpose and direction.
• Gratitude can transform our perspective on pain and suffering.
• Success is not defined by accolades but by kindness and service.
• Our stories of pain can equip us to help others.
• God's presence is constant, even in our darkest moments.
• We are called to love and serve others, regardless of our circumstances.
• Healing often comes through connection and shared experiences.
• "How can we re-tap into that thing?"
• "I felt really exhausted by the circumstances."
• "I needed a lot along the way to sustain me."

You have heard from Esther Garrett. Check out her organization, Safety Compass.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.