Few people have moved me more powerfully than Helen Arrowood. I often describe her as a pillar of faith, simply because she’s exemplified what it means to hold on to hope in times of great hardship. She’s essentially watched me grow up in church and has encouraged me the entire way. She’a s survivor, she’s got a heart of gold, and she’s someone who I think sees the bigger picture of life. Join me in soaking up her wisdom as it pours out through her life stories and faith. This is Helen Arrowood.

This episode was recorded in Helen's living room, which is full of pictures of her family. Before recording, her neighbor stopped by with pie. Becky Halcomb serves as a guest in the audience. 

Father to 6 kids in a blended family, disciplined blogger, and champion of positivity, I’m privileged to call Jeff my friend. It’s not uncommon to see Jeff and I endlessly sipping coffee together and starting conversations with “So, I was listening to a podcast…” Jeff checks in on my life, shows up in big ways when I need it, and makes me want to pursue my greatest potential. When he’s not blasting Springsteen in his on his way to pick up the kids, he’s doing his best to encourage all of us to #SmileOnTogether. This is my friend, Jeff Wickerham.

In this episode, Jeff and I invite you in to one of our regular talks over coffee. Jeff talks about commitment and friendship, divorce and marriage, being a step-parent and the dynamics of a blended family, and how I helped him floss his teeth. He also shares heartfelt stories about the birth of Dempsey and how she got her name, and the impact of a dog in one's life and family.

This episode was recorded on Monday, January 28, 2019 (my birthday!) in Jeff's family living room before a live audience of his family dog, Teeny.

Paige Jackson may only be a high school senior, but she's a trailblazer. She has a strong sense of who she is and what she wants out of life. She places high value on education and diversity, and seeks out experiences to grow her knowledge and understanding. Soon she’ll be furthering her education at the University of Cincinnati. I’m stoked to introduce you to one of the most fascinating and inspiring young people I’ve ever met: Paige Jackson.

In this episode, Paige shares her thoughts on education, diversity and quitting things. She also discusses her experience of being the pioneering female on her school's robotics team, coping with social anxiety by solving Rubik's cubes, and preparing for graduation and the next chapter of her life. I have no doubt that Paige will both impress you and move you as you listen to her speak on these things and more. 

Lacey is FASCINATING. I am continually inspired by the way she approaches, shares, and embraces life. She is intelligent, funny, and sassy and her heart is as wide as he soul is deep. Lacey and I have shared many a laugh, a lunch, and a big tea beverage while in grad school at the University of Cincinnati, where she now serves as an academic advisor and guiding light to students. When we recorded this episode, Lacey and her husband, Joe, were on the eve of bringing their first child into this world. At the time of this episode dropping, they are now very happy parents to little Isaac! Meet my friend, encourager, and major inspiration for this very podcast: Lacey Tomlinson.

In this episode, Lacey lightheartedly and vulnerably shares about the anticipation and fears she's experienced in her pregnancy, which has been quite a ride. Originally, she was told she'd be having a baby girl. Then, 8 1/2 months into her pregnancy, she was told she'd be having a baby boy!

Lacey also shares some wonderful reflective exercises she's used like the list of 100 Things That Make Her Happy and Letters to self past, present, and future. She also shares excellent advice on Kindness, How to be Strategically Lazy and How to Look Like You Have Your Life Together. You're gonna love her stories, her humor, and her heart. Lacey is 30 years old and makes her home in Cincinnati. 

This episode was recorded in late December 2018 in Lacey and Joe's cozy living room amidst Christmas decorations and their two dogs, Indy and Luna. 

Originally from Plainfield, Indiana, Codie pointer is a minister to teens in Union, Missouri. In his life, Codie has experienced homelessness, racism, and crazy life transitions. He’s an avid D&D player, an embracer of chaos, a regular at some local restaurant, and the kind of guy who leaves a lasting impression on your life. We share a love of Cincinnati and Hershey Sunday Pies and for a season, we shared my 1 bedroom apartment, where many of these stories and conversation topics were first had. I’m excited to introduce you to my friend, my brother: Codie Pointer.

Codie is a HILARIOUS storyteller. In this episode, you'll hear about the time he led a riot and the time he drove to Canada on a bet! We also discuss his experiences with racism, his hopeful outlook for the next generation, and his personal values and life philosophy. Codie is 24 years old and you can connect with him on Twitter and Instagram at @Codie5894

This episode was recorded in a hotel room in Northern Kentucky in mid-December 2018 as Codie and I were both in Cincinnati for the night.