Pivotal People

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What if the biggest opportunity of your life lay hidden in the shadow of your biggest setback? This is the transformative journey our esteemed guest, Maina Mwaura, an ordained minister, public speaker, journalist, and author, embarked upon after losing his job at the age of forty. In this vibrant discussion, Maina not only shares his inspiring personal story of resilience but also takes us on an intimate exploration of the life and teachings of Howard Hendricks, a renowned professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, captured in Maina's latest book, "The Influential Mentor."

Unveiling Hendricks' passion for evangelism, his close friendship with Billy Graham, and the challenges he faced in a divided society, Maina underlines the indelible impact Hendricks has had on the Christian community. His influence echoed through the lives of countless leaders, Tony Evans and Andy Stanley included, illustrating the power of mentorship. Beyond the historical and spiritual insights, this episode also delves into the discovery of Hendricks' book, graced with a rare forward by Billy Graham, uncovering the hidden gems within.

But this isn't just an episode about past legends and their relevance today. It's a masterclass in personal transformation and the power of influence. Maina shares his journey of starting anew, the life-altering power of stepping out of your comfort zone, and how God's divine plan can supersede our own in times of adversity. Finally, we emphasize the invaluable role of being an influential mentor - impacting lives without seeking credit or recognition. So, buckle up for a journey of inspiration, wisdom, and transformation, because it's never too late to start anew, and you never know where your influence might lead.

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Are you familiar with the power of love and the strength of hope in the midst of grief and trauma? Picture this: author, speaker, and podcaster Jessye Wilden and her family find themselves unexpectedly caring for two children left orphaned by their best friends. As they navigate this new and challenging journey, an unexpected addition to their family sparks a light of joy and hope, reshaping Jessie's perspective on life and the power of love.

Think for a moment about the challenges your own family has faced. Have you ever wondered how you'd cope with a significant loss? Jessye  shares their personal experience of pulling together as a family and underscores the importance of prioritizing the needs of others. She paints a vivid picture of their journey through grief, the absence of support groups for families in similar situations, and her dream of starting a grief group to help others.

Now, imagine the strength it takes to choose love and empathy over judgment in the face of a personal tragedy. This episode features a compelling story of a woman who experienced the tragic loss of her son and daughter-in-law to murder-suicide. Her mother-in-law's act of painting her son's name in color every morning serves as a profound testament to the power of love. Tune in to this moving and uplifting conversation that will inspire you, make you think, and perhaps transform your perspective on life. Jessye Wilden's story is one you won't want to miss.

Follow Jessye on Instagram @jessye_wilden
Order Jessye's book and memoir, "We Wrote Your Name in Color"
Connect with her at https://www.jessyewilden.com/ 

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In this episode I chatted with Kori Reed, author of Men in the Middle: Conversations to Gain Momentum with Gender Equity's Silent Majority. Drawing from her personal experiences as the only female in her family, Kori shares  insights about the pivotal role men, who aren't on the extreme ends of behavior, play in driving change. Kori explains the intricate tangle of gender dynamics, highlighting the importance of connection and understanding in creating a more equitable society.

Kori helped me understand the complexity of equity, and the role emotions often play in overshadowing data-driven decision making. She also underscored the significance of women empowering each other in the workplace, helping to normalize these vital conversations.

Kori explains the often unspoken challenges men face in their journey towards gender equity. She  elaborates on the need for people to start a different conversation, one that fosters understanding and empathy.  She explains how balancing career success with personal sacrifices is an issue for both men and women (rather than being considered a women's issue only) so we explore how to create a space where everyone thrives. 

Kori's book helped me recognize and appreciate the importance of 'men in the middle' in creating a more equitable society. Tune in for an enlightening dialogue that promises to broaden your perspective on gender equity.

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How often do you come across someone who's made a shift from a life of commercial fishing to leading a congregation? Meet Steve Jamison, the lead pastor of Eastridge Church in Seattle. Steve's inspiring journey from casting nets for fish to spreading the gospel has been beautifully penned down in his book, "The Most Valuable Catch: Risking it All for What Matters the Most." We get a glimpse into his unique take on leadership, integrity, and authentic living through our enlightening conversation.

It's not every day that we are nudged by God to carry out an act of generosity. Well, Steve was, and he responded with open arms and an open heart. You'd be intrigued to know the story of how a simple food court in Puerto Rico led him to provide shoes for a pastor and his family residing in Cuba. But Steve's desire to spread the gospel doesn't stop there. His evangelistic outreach ministry, Jammin' Against the Darkness, has attracted sports figures who share their faith and inspire many.

Legacy, mentorship, and encouragement are powerful tools. As Steve shares his thoughts on these, you can reflect on how your life, irrespective of the stage, can be a tool for God's glory. Drawing from the life of Barnabas, Steve shows how starting small can lead to a significant impact. By the end of our chat, you'd appreciate the vision behind Steve's book and how it can transform lives. So grab a cup of coffee, tune in, and let Steve's passion, wisdom, and dedication inspire you to serve God and people.

Order Steve's book and additional study tools and extra bonuses at the website:
http://www.themostvaluablecatch.com

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Ever wonder how a simple task like couponing could turn into an unexpected journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and ultimately, the power to make a difference in people's lives? Join me as I recount the extraordinary 20-year journey that began with a simple idea sparked by an inspiring talk by author Becky Tirabassi. Hear how this idea evolved into a group of women coming together to understand the art of couponing, and how a bridge was built between those who mastered this art and those who were in need. 

As we unravel this amazing story, you'll discover how faith, trust and an unshaken belief in God’s plan played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of this journey. I share how a friend's assistance led me to national television, reaching millions of viewers and showcasing the incredible power of couponing when combined with charity. We'll explore the significance of owning your dreams, the importance of persistence in the face of challenges, and most importantly, the beauty of believing in your unique path.

The final segment of our story reveals the unexpected leap of coupon moms into the national spotlight, from appearances on Good Morning America to my coupon system demonstration on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Hear about the growth and evolution of the website, the rise of other coupon moms, and how this unexpected development surprisingly propelled the business to new heights. As we wrap up the episode, we delve into the critical importance of authenticity and steadfastness in holding onto your dreams. This episode is a celebration of believing in oneself, trusting the process, and the incredible power each one of us holds to effect change.

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Order Stephanie's book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential 

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What happens when you disconnect from the digital world for a year? This happened to Ciara Laine Myers, award-winning entrepreneur and author of the book, "Glasses Off: Seeking God When Your Vision Is Gone." Imagine the courage it takes to step back from your digital presence, not for a digital detox, but a spiritual one. Join us as we have a powerful conversation with Ciara about her year-long journey of faith and discovery.

Through her book, Ciara shares how that period of disconnection allowed her to discern God's voice better, and in the process, she discovered and embraced a new vision for her life. But it wasn't easy. Ciara recounts a pivotal moment when, in a fit of frustration and anger, she received the title of her book during prayer. Ciara takes us through an exploration of the Bible beyond the pure gathering of information, the importance of daily communion with God, and how being a visionary differs from being a dreamer. Learn from Ciara's seven practical steps on how to embrace and fulfill God's vision for your life.

Ciara's desire to provide value for others led her on a transformative path, and she shares this and more, including her journey into public speaking, with us. With Ciara's journey as a guide, discover how you too can unlock the power of pursuing God's vision for your life.

Order book from Amazon

Connect with Ciara:

Website: https://www.ciaralainemyers.com/

Monthly Newsletter: https://ciaralainemyers.substack.com/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.pt/ciaralainemyers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciaralainemyers/

Counseling Services: https://intentional-counseling.com

Counseling YouTube Channel (featuring Paul Myers): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQBREwLFoj0BS0Ta0YT0PHA

Ciara's personal blog:  https://veiledfree.com/

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Order Stephanie's book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential 

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This episode of the Pivotal People podcast is a riveting journey of faith and resilience featuring our special guest, Nick Nilson. Nick's story is one that takes us from his small hometown in Wisconsin to his remarkable transformation into an Associate Pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston with pastor Joel Osteen , serving a congregation of 30 to 40,000 people weekly.  Nick's life is a testament to the healing power of faith and the potential each one of us has in our  lives.

Nick's new book has made the USA Today Bestseller list and it's a great read. It's title is based on Nick's personal experience: "You Can Live the Dream: Trading Disappointment and Discontentment for Peace, Joy and Fulfillment,"

Diving into the heart of his narrative, Nick shares the profound shift from his football dreams to becoming an influential pastor. He underscores the importance of having faith even in the face of adversity. His powerful message of hope encourages listeners not to resist the challenges life throws at them. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of seeing these closed doors as opportunities for greater things. Nick's inspiring words are a beacon of light that guides us towards finding our own purpose amidst the chaos.

In the latter part of our conversation, Nick speaks about the undeniable power of serving others. He believes that each one of us has been given influence and it's our prerogative on how to use it. Nick encourages us to use this influence to uplift others and spread positivity. He also underscores the significance of community outreach, and the role we all can play in making a difference. Join us for this episode, filled with insights that will make you reflect on your life, your struggles and the incredible potential you hold to make a difference.

Connect with Nick at https://www.nicknilson.com/

You can order his book from Amazon HERE

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Order Stephanie's book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential 

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We're inviting you to journey with us, alongside our guest Rebecca Rothman, director of donor relations at Faith Bridge Foster Care, as she unpacks her incredibly inspiring life story. Abandoned at birth, adopted, and now a beacon of hope in the foster care system, Rebecca's tale is not one to miss. Through sharing her personal experience, she illuminates the hardships and triumphs of fostering and adoption, and how they shaped her faith and purpose in life. Her upcoming book, "Abandoned for God", promises to be an intimate chronicle of her journey to healing and finding her divine calling.

The second part of our discussion takes a deeper look into the pressing issues and challenges within the foster care system. With her first-hand insight, Rebecca paints a vivid picture of the potential trauma children in the system face and how we can actively contribute to changing their lives for the better. We conclude this enlightening conversation by delving into Faith Bridge Foster Care's innovative programs and introducing their newest initiative — the Youth Opportunities Program. A must-listen episode filled with touching stories, life-changing insights, and how you can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Let's embark on this journey together.

Contact Rebecca here:
https://faithbridgefostercare.org/

https://www.instagram.com/rtrinklerothman/

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Order Stephanie's book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential 

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Can leadership truly be found within each of us? Let's uncover the answer in our engaging conversation with Tim Lupinacci, the CEO and Chair of the Baker Donelson law firm, one of the largest firms in the country. Not just a successful business leader, Tim is a self-proclaimed leadership junkie, actively transforming his car into a leadership university and practicing 'dinner table diplomacy' to better understand and inspire those around him. As the founder of the nonprofit Everybody Leads, he's dedicated to fostering leadership skills and confidence in underserved communities. 

Our discussion with Tim Lupinacci takes you on a journey exploring the power of words and mindful communication, from impactful quotes to a simple phrase from his nephew that holds immense significance. He shares with us how one sentence altered his career path, reinforcing how words can shape our lives. As we delve deeper into his leadership journey, we explore how he invests in relationships, practices active listening, and creates a conducive environment for ideas and feedback in his firm. Here's an episode that reminds us that leadership is not confined to titles or roles but is a potential within us all. So, let's tune in and uncover the leader in each of us!

Connect with Tim for more information:
CEO of Baker Donelson law firm: https://www.bakerdonelson.com/

Founder of nonprofit "Everybody Leads":  https://everybodyleads.org/

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Order Stephanie's book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential 

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Amanda Opelt, author of "Holy Unhappiness: God, Goodness and the Myth of the Blessed Life"  invites readers to challenge the false beliefs many in the church hold about “the good life” and what it means to walk in communion with God. Amanda examines some of the historic, religious, and cultural influences that led to the idolization of positive feelings and the marginalization of negative feelings.  

Amanda acknowledges the value of pursuing happiness but advocates for embracing a broader range of emotions within the Christian experience. She urges for the normalization of feelings like sadness, anger, grief and disappointment, highlighting their potential for growth in your faith journey. 

Amanda is available for interviews and can speak on how to find holiness in the midst of unhappiness and uncomfortable emotions, how being blessed is often misunderstood or misinterpreted or the importance of normalizing feelings such as sadness, anger, grief, and disappointment is a part of the Christian experience.

Learn more  and Order from Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Unhappiness-Goodness-Myth-Blessed/dp/1546001921/ref=sr_1_1?

Connect with Amanda:
https://amandaheldopelt.com/
https://www.instagram.com/amandaheldopelt/

Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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Order Stephanie's book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential