Pastor Carl Joseph dives into the heart of Christianity in this episode, challenging the all-too-common passive mindset of believers. He emphasizes that we’ve got a role to play in our faith—if we sit back expecting everything to happen according to God's will, we might just miss the mark. Carl's book, "Lionheart: Unleash the Warrior Within," is a rallying cry for Christians to engage actively with their faith, pushing past complacency. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of stepping up and acting, even when it feels uncomfortable. So, if you’re tired of the whole “que sera sera” approach to faith, this conversation is packed with insights to help you unleash your inner warrior and take charge of your spiritual journey. In this compelling dialogue, Pastor Carl Joseph unpacks the essence of his book *Lionheart: Unleash the Warrior Within*, tackling the pressing issue of spiritual passivity plaguing the modern church. He argues that there’s a troubling trend among Christians today—one where a ‘whatever will be will be’ attitude reigns supreme, overshadowing the active faith that Jesus calls us to embody. Carl’s tone is direct and unapologetic as he challenges us to recognize that we are not mere spectators in the divine play; we are participants with a mission. He insists that our inaction can have eternal consequences, and it’s time for believers to step up and recognize our part in God’s grand design. As he shares personal stories and biblical references, Carl draws parallels between today’s Christians and the early church, particularly the fervor displayed in the Book of Acts. He highlights the relentless perseverance of Paul, who faced persecution yet continued to push forward, embodying the warrior mentality. Carl’s message is clear: we need to engage actively in our faith, not just for our own benefit but for the souls that could be lost without our intervention. His insights provide a much-needed wake-up call, urging listeners to evaluate their own spiritual commitments and take actionable steps to fulfill their God-given purpose. The episode also provides a glimpse into Carl’s transformative journey from a skeptical engineer to a passionate pastor. He recounts how his understanding of faith evolved dramatically after moving to the U.S., where he experienced a vibrant, dynamic relationship with God that he had never known before. His candid reflections serve as both an encouragement and a challenge for listeners to embrace their identities in Christ fully. By the end of the conversation, it’s evident that Carl’s mission extends beyond mere words; it’s a heartfelt desire to ignite a spiritual revolution that encourages believers to unleash their inner warriors and engage the world with the life-changing power of the Gospel.

Takeaways:

1. Pastor Carl emphasizes the importance of stepping up in faith, arguing that passivity in Christianity can lead to dire consequences for ourselves and others.
2. Engagement with the community is crucial; if we don't act, those around us may miss out on salvation, highlighting our responsibility as believers.
3. Carl Joseph shares his transformative journey from a passive mindset to embracing the warrior within, urging listeners to actively pursue their faith and purpose.
4. The book 'Lionheart' challenges the notion of a passive Christianity, advocating for a bold and active faith that mirrors the early church's engagement with the world.
5. Joseph discusses the impact of modern translations on biblical literacy, raising concerns about the omission of key verses in newer versions compared to traditional texts.
6. The episode underscores the necessity of knowing scripture deeply, as it equips believers to stand firm against temptations and misunderstandings about their faith.

Bryon Easterling is back in town, and he’s got a trio of books that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about storytelling and spirituality. In this laid-back chat, we dive into his latest works: 'Falling Through the Stars', 'Out from the Shadows: A Spiritual Allegory', and 'Curious Tales of a Common Man: A Legacy Journal'. It’s like a literary buffet, and trust me, you’re gonna want to dig in. We kick things off with Bryon sharing the backstory behind these books—how friends and family practically twisted his arm to get his stories out there. You can practically hear the reluctant sighs and eye rolls as he admits he was just waiting for the right push to finish them up. Spoiler alert: he finally got that nudge, and the results are nothing short of inspirational.

Bryon’s approach to writing is refreshingly honest. He reflects on his own struggles with fiction versus nonfiction, questioning the value of storytelling—because, let’s face it, who hasn’t wondered if their creative pursuits are just a fancy way of procrastinating? His walk-and-talk with the divine leads to a revelation that fiction has a place in the kingdom of God. He shares poignant anecdotes about his life experiences, including his time on the Senior PGA Tour, where he encountered God in a way that made him recognize the joy in pursuing what he loves. Bryon’s narrative style is like sitting around a campfire, trading stories with a friend who just happens to have a few divine insights to share.

As we delve deeper into his books, each one unfolds a unique narrative tapestry that blends personal revelations with universal truths. 'Falling Through the Stars' introduces us to a Muslim man on a profound journey, exploring the intersections of faith and culture. Bryon shares the significance of his characters' experiences, emphasizing the power of dreams and divine encounters in the lives of people from all walks of life. It's a timely reminder that faith isn’t confined to one tradition, and that God is indeed working in mysterious ways, often beyond our understanding. Meanwhile, 'Out from the Shadows' serves as a launching pad for a series that tackles what it means to be a beacon of light in today's world. And don’t sleep on 'Curious Tales of a Common Man', where Bryon recounts his life’s adventures in a way that feels intimate and relatable.

In a nutshell, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and humor, with Bryon Easterling shining a light on the sometimes absurd yet beautiful journey of writing and spirituality. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just someone who enjoys a good story, you’ll find inspiration in his words. So grab a cup of coffee, kick back, and let Bryon take you on a journey that challenges your perspective on faith, storytelling, and the everyday adventures we all face.

Bryon Easterling is back on the mic, and let me tell you, he’s been busy! Three new books are hot off the press: 'Falling Through the Stars', 'Out from the Shadows: A Spiritual Allegory', and 'Curious Tales of a Common Man: A Legacy Journal'. We dive into the nitty-gritty of these works and how Bryon wrestled with his own creative process along the way. It’s like watching someone try to assemble IKEA furniture—lots of confusion, a few broken pieces, but in the end, something beautiful emerges.

Bryon starts off by sharing how the push from friends and family got him off the procrastination train and onto the writing express. You can almost hear the exasperated sighs of loved ones saying, “Come on, Bryon, just finish something already!” But once he got going, he realized that writing fiction is not just a hobby; it’s a vital expression of his faith and experiences. It’s like he had an epiphany while walking—because, let’s be real, that’s where all the best ideas seem to strike. His personal journey through writing reflects how he learned to embrace the absurdity of life and how that shapes our narratives.

We then jump into the juicy details of his books. 'Falling Through the Stars' features a Muslim protagonist who navigates his faith and encounters God in unexpected ways. Bryon sheds light on how many Muslims are coming to Christ through dreams, which is a refreshing angle you don’t often hear about. Then there's 'Out from the Shadows', setting the stage for a series that provides insights into being an influencer in the kingdom of God. And don't forget 'Curious Tales of a Common Man', where Bryon shares 12 to 15 stories from his life that are both humorous and poignant. Each story serves as a reflection on faith, life lessons, and how we can learn from our everyday experiences.

This episode is a delightful mix of humor, sarcasm, and heartfelt moments that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the tug to share their own stories. Bryon Easterling’s journey from procrastination to published author is not just inspiring; it’s a reminder that our stories—no matter how common they might seem—can have profound impacts. So grab your favorite snack, kick back, and enjoy this candid conversation about faith, writing, and the joy of storytelling. You won't be disappointed.

Takeaways:

• Byron Easterling discusses the inspiration behind his new books and the journey of completing them amidst life's distractions.
• The conversation highlights the unique blend of fiction and spirituality in Byron's writing, emphasizing the significance of storytelling.
• Byron shares his personal experiences of faith and the transformative power of writing, especially in relation to God's presence.
• The episode emphasizes the importance of mentorship and passing down stories across generations, showcasing how shared experiences shape our understanding of faith.

Links referenced in this episode:

• byroneasterling.com
• amazon.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• C.S. Lewis
• Amazon
• Byron Easterling

Seth Gruber's latest guest spot on the Black Sheep Christian Podcast is a wild ride through the rabbit hole of cultural insanity and its roots in the abortion movement. Right off the bat, we dive into the main dish: the absurd history of Planned Parenthood, which he explores in his book, "The 1916 Project: The Lyin', The Witch and the War We're In." You won’t believe the connections he lays out, tying the eugenics movement to the modern-day abortion industry and how they’ve rebranded themselves under the guise of healthcare. Get ready to have your mind blown as we unpack how these so-called “progressive” movements are anything but, and how they’ve infiltrated our schools with a twisted agenda. So buckle up, because this conversation is not just educational; it’s a wake-up call for anyone still believing in the fairy tale of “choice.”

Seth Gruber swings by the Black Sheep Christian Podcast to dive deep into the murky waters of abortion, eugenics, and Planned Parenthood. Now, if you thought this was going to be a light, breezy chat about cupcakes and rainbows, you clearly haven’t been paying attention. Gruber, the mastermind behind The 1916 Project, lays it all out: abortion isn’t just a medical procedure; it’s intricately tied to a historical tapestry of eugenics and social engineering that’s as old as sliced bread. He starts by recounting how his ministry launched right after Roe v. Wade was overturned, igniting a nationwide church tour that saw him preaching in conservative Christian spaces about the insidious roots of modern woke culture. You might think these folks would be aware of the historical connections between abortion and the sexual revolution, but nope—Gruber's preaching left them slack-jawed and wide-eyed, wondering how they’d missed this chapter in their Sunday school lessons.

He doesn’t just stop there. Gruber digs into the origins of Planned Parenthood, tracing back to its founder, Margaret Sanger, who—spoiler alert—was not the saintly figure many think she is. He calls her out for her eugenicist views, citing her disdain for certain populations that she deemed 'unfit'. Gruber connects the dots between the 1619 Project’s historical revisionism and the violent protests of 2020, exposing how the left’s cancel culture even turned against Planned Parenthood due to its founder’s problematic legacy. I mean, who would’ve thought that the champions of abortion rights would end up throwing Sanger under the bus? It’s a wild ride through history that reveals just how interconnected these societal issues really are. Gruber’s narrative is a sobering reminder that understanding our history is crucial if we want to navigate today’s cultural wars.

Takeaways:

• Seth Gruber's book, The 1916 Project, explores the disturbing origins of Planned Parenthood and its founder, Margaret Sanger, connecting her to eugenics and racism.
• The podcast dives into how the modern abortion movement is linked to historical cultural Marxism, revealing the absurdity of our current societal norms.
• Gruber discusses the irony of the radical left now criticizing Planned Parenthood's founder while simultaneously supporting the organization that has deep-rooted ties to her eugenic philosophies.
• The episode emphasizes that abortion is not medically necessary to save a mother's life, instead advocating for delivering the baby in life-threatening situations.
• The conversation critiques comprehensive sexuality education in schools, suggesting it's more about indoctrination than actual health education, aiming to sexualize children.
• Listeners are urged to recognize the historical context behind current cultural issues and the importance of understanding the origins of ideas that affect today's society.

Links referenced in this episode:

• 1916project.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Planned Parenthood
• Daily Wire
• 1916 Project
• White Rose Resistance
• Sikas
• Sexuality Information Education Council of the United States
• Hugh Hefner
• Alfred Kinsey

Tessa Dunn, behind the children's book "The Angel Feather," joins us to unpack her journey of bringing a long-held story to life. At its core, this tale is a heartfelt exploration of faith and embracing the unseen, a message that's not just for kids but for all of us trying to navigate this wild ride called life. Tessa shares her inspiration from a real-life encounter with a former princess turned nun, revealing how that moment sparked a passion for storytelling that's been simmering for decades. As we dive into her creative process, we discover how her book aims to instill hope and a sense of divine protection in both children and adults alike. So, grab a comfy seat and tune in; this conversation about faith, angels, and the magic of storytelling is one you won't want to miss!

The Angel Feather is more than just a children’s book; it’s a heartfelt exploration of faith, belief, and the sometimes-overlooked presence of angels in our lives. In this episode, Tessa Dunn shares the compelling backstory of her book, rooted in her childhood meeting with Mother Alexandra, a fascinating figure with a royal heritage who later became a nun. Tessa’s journey from a hesitant storyteller to a published author is both relatable and inspiring, as she recounts the encouragement from her husband and friends that finally pushed her to put her thoughts on paper.

As we chat, Tessa elaborates on the themes of her book, emphasizing the importance of faith in the unseen. She draws parallels between the imaginative beliefs of childhood—like the existence of Santa Claus—and the belief in angels, pointing out how adults often dismiss the latter despite their significance in many religious teachings. This ironical take on our selective beliefs opens up a discussion about how we perceive spiritual entities in our modern lives. Tessa's insights into the Eastern Orthodox perspective on angels add depth to the conversation, illustrating how these beings are revered and acknowledged as protectors and intercessors. Her hope is that both children and adults will find reassurance and encouragement in her story, reminding us that we are surrounded by a heavenly host, even when we can’t see them.

The episode is peppered with humor and warmth, making it an enjoyable listen. Tessa's candidness about her writing process, the challenges she faced, and the collaborative effort with her illustrator adds a layer of authenticity to her journey. The discussion culminates in a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, not just in a religious context, but as a guiding force in our everyday lives. For anyone looking for a little inspiration or a rekindling of their childhood wonder, Tessa Dunn’s The Angel Feather offers a beautiful narrative that resonates across generations.

Takeaways:

• Tessa Dunn shares her long-time dream of writing a children's book inspired by personal experiences and a remarkable figure from her past.
• The book 'The Angel Feather' teaches children about faith, hope, and the unseen forces surrounding them, aiming to connect with both kids and adults alike.
• Tessa emphasizes the importance of listening to our inner voices and faith, especially when navigating life's challenges and uncertainties.
• The discussion highlights the contrasting perceptions of angels across different Christian backgrounds, revealing a lack of awareness in some communities.
• Tessa's journey shows that despite initial hesitations, pursuing creative passions can lead to unexpected support and validation from friends and strangers alike.
• The podcast explores how storytelling, especially in children's literature, can instill hope and positivity amidst the negativity pervasive in today's world.

Links referenced in this episode:

• evangelospress.com
• amazon.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Amazon
• Evangelos Press

Today, we're diving deep into the world of relationships with the incredible Peyton Leonard, who’s not just a musician and author but also a relationship coach. The main dish on today’s menu? Helping single women find contentment and wholeness in their lives before they even think about dating. We’re all about breaking down that absurd pressure to rush into relationships—seriously, who decided that being single is a bad thing anyway? Peyton's here to chat about how to embrace your singlehood, trust the process, and maybe even get cozy with the idea that being alone doesn’t mean you’re lonely. So, grab your comfiest blanket, because we’re about to get real about love, life, and everything in between!

Peyton Leonard joins me for a relaxed yet eye-opening discussion about singlehood, relationships, and the often absurd expectations that come with them. As a musician and relationship coach, Peyton brings a refreshing perspective to the table, reminding us that being single is not just a waiting period for a relationship—it’s an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. We kick things off with some laughs as we acknowledge the societal pressures that can make single women feel like they’re in a race against time to find a partner, especially within faith communities where marriage is often seen as the ultimate goal.

Through our banter, we dive deep into the importance of understanding one’s worth outside of romantic relationships. Peyton emphasizes the concept of 'abundance'—the idea that your happiness and fulfillment don’t hinge on being in a relationship. She shares relatable stories that illustrate how women can often feel like they’re just waiting for the right guy to come along, but she encourages a shift in mindset. Instead of feeling like a lonely puppy waiting to be adopted, women should focus on blooming where they’re planted. We explore the misconceptions surrounding love and the need to be whole before sharing your life with someone else, making for some pretty insightful moments that might just change how you view your single life.

As we wrap up, Peyton offers practical advice on how to navigate the dating scene with confidence and grace, without feeling desperate or insecure. She reminds us that relationships are great, but they’re not the end-all-be-all of our existence. With the holidays around the corner, we also touch on the emotional rollercoaster that can come with being single during this season, reminding listeners that God sees them and loves them unconditionally. This episode is a blend of humor, sincerity, and a heartfelt message that resonates with anyone looking to better understand themselves and their journey in love.

Takeaways:

• Peyton Leonard emphasizes that being whole and fulfilled in singleness is essential before entering a relationship, which really makes you think about how much we rush into dating without self-awareness.
• The podcast highlights the absurdity of romanticizing relationships, pointing out that they come with their own challenges, not just fairytale endings like Disney movies suggest.
• A key takeaway is the importance of community and seeking support from others while dating, which can often feel isolating in today's fast-paced digital world.
• Peyton shares that learning to be still and waiting patiently on God is a vital lesson for single women, which ironically seems to contradict our culture of instant gratification.

Links referenced in this episode:

Links referenced in this episode:

• https://open.spotify.com/playlist/39CmjSuarWYhKCIuyjMwzG?si=6a90368d417b4201&nd=1&dlsi=b4410d9a81f64696
• relationships.peytonnaomileonard.com

• peytonomylenard.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Spotify
• International Churches of Christ
• Disciples Today

Dr. Laurette Willis joins us today to spill some seriously uplifting gems about the power of laughter and faith in our fitness journeys. Right off the bat, we dive into how laughter isn't just a good time—it's a healing force, both physically and spiritually. You’ll hear about her unique approach with Praise Moves, a Christian alternative to yoga that emphasizes stretching and scripture, proving that it's perfectly fine to have your cake and eat it too… just maybe not every day. We chat about her personal journey from emotional eating to finding joy in fitness and faith, and trust me, it’s a wild ride. So grab your favorite snack—maybe a carrot cake if you’re feeling cheeky—and let’s get into how we can all embrace a little more joy and a lot less guilt in our lives.

Dr. Laurette Willis brings a refreshing dose of joy and laughter into the often serious conversation about health and fitness. Her approach, which she terms 'Praise Moves,' is a unique blend of physical exercise intertwined with spiritual growth. Throughout the episode, we get a glimpse into her personal journey—a journey that began with emotional eating at a young age as a way to cope with her surroundings. She shares her early experiences of growing up in a seemingly perfect family that was marred by alcoholism and emotional turmoil, leading her to seek solace in food. But that was just the beginning. Dr. Willis recounts her transformative moment when she surrendered her life to Christ, turning her struggles into a ministry aimed at helping others find their way. The conversation flows into the importance of laughter as a healing tool, with Dr. Willis emphasizing that 'a merry heart doeth good like a medicine.' Her insights are not just theoretical; they are backed by her personal experiences and supported by scripture, making for a compelling and relatable narrative. For anyone grappling with their relationship to food, fitness, or faith, this episode offers a blend of encouragement, humor, and actionable insights to help navigate the complexities of life, especially during the food-filled holiday season.

Takeaways:

• Dr. Laurette Willis emphasizes the importance of joy and laughter as healing tools, particularly in fitness and spiritual contexts.
• Praise Moves is introduced as a Christian alternative to yoga, highlighting the incorporation of scripture during physical activity.
• The podcast discusses the dangers of emotional eating and how food can become a coping mechanism for deeper emotional issues.
• Listeners are encouraged to renew their minds with the Word of God as a way to overcome struggles with food and emotional addictions.

Links referenced in this episode:

• praisemoves.com
• christianweightlosskit.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Praise Moves
• Christian weight loss
• cancer treatment centers of America

Jeff Click, the host of the Love Without Asterisks podcast, joins Ashley to dive deep into the complexities of navigating faith and family in the context of LGBTQ+ identities. Right off the bat, Jeff’s journey, sparked by his daughter’s coming out, turns into an inspiring story of transformation and love that challenges the rigid frameworks many grow up with. We chat about the absurd expectations placed on parents, the hilariously misguided beliefs about ‘lifestyle choices,’ and how crucial it is to create a safe space for open conversations. Jeff’s insights will not only make you rethink your own perspectives but also highlight the beauty that unfolds when we choose love over judgment. So, grab your headphones and get ready to laugh and learn as we navigate this heartwarming yet hilariously ridiculous journey together!

Navigating the complexities of faith and family can be a real rollercoaster, right? Jeff Cliff, the host of the Love Without Asterisks podcast, dives deep into this emotional terrain as he shares his journey of coming to terms with his daughter's identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. What starts as a typical family story quickly morphs into a profound exploration of love, acceptance, and the renovation of one’s beliefs. Jeff recounts how a conversation with his daughter turned their world upside down, challenging the deeply ingrained ideals he held from his conservative upbringing. As he reflects on the journey from a rule-based mindset to one rooted in love, listeners are invited to consider the importance of empathy and understanding in these often fraught discussions. Jeff’s narrative isn’t just about accepting a child’s identity; it's about reshaping family dynamics and prioritizing love over fear. This episode serves as a beacon for anyone grappling with similar issues, providing insights, humor, and a reminder that at the end of the day, love is the ultimate goal.

The conversation takes a candid turn as Jeff and Ashley discuss the stark realities many families face when a child comes out. The statistics surrounding mental health and LGBTQ+ youth are alarming, and Jeff emphasizes the critical role parents play in providing a supportive environment. He shares how his wife's shift to specializing in mental health for LGBTQ+ individuals stemmed from their family's experiences, highlighting the transformation that can occur when love takes precedence over judgment. They explore the idea that love is an action, not just a sentiment, and how families can navigate this sensitive terrain with compassion and curiosity. The episode is not just a personal story; it’s a call to action for parents and communities to foster environments where everyone feels safe and accepted. Jeff's insights shed light on the struggles and triumphs of raising an LGBTQ+ child, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of these vital issues.

As the discussion unfolds, Jeff and Ashley tackle the uncomfortable truths about societal perceptions of LGBTQ+ identities, especially within conservative circles. Jeff reflects on the dichotomy of loving a child versus adhering to traditional beliefs and how these conflicts often manifest in families. He emphasizes that it’s not about supporting a 'lifestyle,' but about recognizing and affirming a child's identity and humanity. The episode touches on the transformative encounters that can reshape our understanding and acceptance of others. Listeners will find themselves laughing, nodding along, and perhaps even shedding a tear as the conversation flows from lighthearted anecdotes to serious reflections on faith, acceptance, and unconditional love. Jeff's journey illustrates that while the path may be fraught with challenges, there's immense beauty on the other side when we choose love and understanding over fear and judgment. This episode is not just informative; it’s a heartfelt exploration of what it means to truly love without asterisks.

Takeaways:

• Jeff Click's podcast, Love Without Asterisks, focuses on bridging the gap between faith and LGBTQ+ identities.
• Navigating the complexities of a child's coming out is a journey filled with beauty and challenges.
• The importance of unconditional love in family dynamics cannot be overstated, especially for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Curiosity and open conversations are vital for understanding and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in our lives.

Links referenced in this episode:

• love without asterisks
• lovewa.com
• trevorproject

Michelle Steiner, the founder of Michelle's Mission, is on a heartfelt journey to empower and educate both people with and without disabilities. In our conversation, we dive deep into her personal experience living with dyscalculia and how it shaped her mission to advocate for those facing similar challenges. She shares insights into the struggles of navigating the education system and the importance of early diagnosis and support. We also touch on the beauty and empathy that can arise from living with a disability, reminding us that while there are thorns in every rose, the blooms are worth celebrating. So grab a comfy seat, and let’s explore how Michelle is using her voice and art to encourage others on their paths.

Michelle Steiner, the force behind Michelle's Mission, takes us on a journey through her personal experiences with learning disabilities. From the early days of struggling with dyscalculia and the challenges of navigating a school system that often failed to understand her needs, Michelle shares her story with a blend of humor and heartfelt sincerity. As she recounts her childhood, she emphasizes the significance of early diagnosis and the support of her parents, who instilled in her a strong faith and resilience. Through her blog and artwork, Michelle empowers others, both with and without disabilities, to embrace their uniqueness and advocate for themselves. It's not just about overcoming challenges; it's about celebrating the beauty found in our differences and using our experiences to uplift others. Her mission is clear: to educate, encourage, and inspire individuals to find their voice and pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.

Throughout the podcast, Michelle opens up about the misconceptions surrounding learning disabilities and the stigma that often accompanies them. She highlights the irony of how society tends to box individuals into categories based on their abilities, forgetting that everyone learns differently. With a touch of sarcasm, she mocks the absurdity of those who assume that having a disability equates to being incapable. Instead, she insists that having a learning disability can be a source of strength and empathy, allowing individuals to connect with others on a deeper level. As she reflects on her own journey, Michelle encourages listeners to recognize their potential and embrace their stories, reminding us all that our experiences, however challenging, can lead to beautiful outcomes.

In a world that often overlooks the nuances of learning disabilities, Michelle's Mission stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment. The podcast serves not just as a platform for sharing personal anecdotes but as a call to action for listeners to become advocates for themselves and others. Michelle's approach is relatable, and her insights are invaluable, making this conversation one that resonates with anyone who has ever felt marginalized or misunderstood. As she navigates through the complexities of her journey, Michelle reminds us that while the path may be fraught with challenges, it is also filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and prepare to be inspired by a story that is as much about overcoming adversity as it is about celebrating the journey of being uniquely you.

Takeaways:

• Michelle Steiner's journey illustrates the importance of early diagnosis in learning disabilities, highlighting how it can change lives.
• The conversation emphasizes that having a learning disability does not define a person's abilities or potential, as many can thrive with proper support.
• Michelle's Mission aims to empower individuals with disabilities by encouraging self-advocacy and providing necessary resources for success.
• The episode reveals the stark contrast in perceptions of learning disabilities, stressing the need for empathy and understanding in educational environments.
• An important takeaway is that societal expectations can disable individuals more than their actual disabilities, emphasizing the need for acceptance of diverse learning styles.
• Michelle's personal experiences underscore the idea that beauty and pain coexist in life, especially for those navigating disabilities.

Links referenced in this episode:

• michellesmission.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Michelle's mission

Michelle Pippin joins us today to talk about the intersection of faith and entrepreneurship. She’s all about empowering women to step into their power and build businesses that align with their values, all while keeping faith at the forefront. We dive into the importance of putting God first, not just in our personal lives but in our business ventures too. Michelle breaks down how the right order of priorities can make everything click into place, and let’s be real, it’s a game-changer. Plus, she shares her amazing platform, Women Who Wow, and how it’s helping women amplify their voices and accelerate their success. So, grab your headphones, kick back, and let’s get into it—this convo.

Michelle Pippin joins us to unpack the intricate dance between faith and entrepreneurship, and trust me, she’s got insights that will knock your socks off! Starting off, she lays down her core philosophy: faith, family, then finances. Michelle really dives into how this prioritization is not merely a suggestion but essential for true success. She hilariously points out that if we don’t put ‘first things first,’ it’s like trying to bake a cake without the flour. It’s a recipe for disaster! Her perspective on how we often overcomplicate things and forget to keep God in the loop is both refreshing and empowering.

Michelle also addresses the absurdity of traditional women’s business advice that focuses on “power poses” and “confidence colors.” She sarcastically critiques these surface-level tips. Instead, she advocates for a deeper understanding of grace and how it ties into our business endeavors. It’s all about doing the work and aligning our actions with our faith, which makes this episode a powerful reminder that we’re not just hustling for ourselves but for something greater.

Michelle shares her entrepreneurial journey that led her to found Women Who Wow, an empowering platform for women in business. She recounts her frustrations with the fluff that often fills women’s networking groups and how she sought to create something real and impactful. Through her stories, she emphasizes that true empowerment comes from authenticity and community, not from conforming to outdated norms. The episode wraps up with Michelle’s wisdom on leveraging media and visibility in a world inundated with noise, encouraging us all to step into our power and own our narratives. It’s an inspiring, sarcastic, and deeply relatable conversation that resonates with anyone navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.

Takeaways:

• Michelle Pippin emphasizes that faith, family, and finances should have a clear priority order in life.
• Putting things in their proper order helps us see how God blesses our actions, not just our plans.
• The importance of God's grace is often overlooked, but it's key to understanding our personal and business growth.
• Women entrepreneurs should seek empowerment through business, as financial independence is crucial for true empowerment.
• Authenticity in business means avoiding the temptation to conform to others' expectations or trends that don't fit you.
• Success in business often requires taking off the 'armor' of borrowed strategies that don't fit your personal style.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bmichellepippin.com/Bible
• changingcourse.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Black Sheep Christian Podcast
• Michelle Pippin
• Women Who Wow
• Faith Filled Feminists

Wesley Farnsworth drops some serious wisdom in this chat. He dives into the main point of his book, *The Blueprint of Becoming*, which is all about how faith and failure can actually lead us to discover our true purpose. We dig into how our past doesn’t have to define our future—like, who knew we could actually change our stars? Wesley's raw honesty about his struggles with addiction and the journey to healing is a gut punch, but in the best way possible. So, if you’re ready to kick fear to the curb and embrace your blueprint, stick around and soak it all in—it's a wild ride!

Wesley Farnsworth, the mastermind behind the enlightening read 'The Blueprint of Becoming: A Practical Guide to Faith, Failure, and Finding Your Way Forward,' joins us for a riveting chat that feels like catching up with an old friend who's got life all figured out—spoiler alert: he doesn't, and that's the beauty of it! We dive deep into the nitty-gritty of what it really means to change your stars, a theme that resonates throughout his work. Wesley shares how a chance encounter at a Celebrate Recovery meeting lit a fire in him, leading to the creation of his book—a guide not just for the lost but for anyone who’s ever felt like they’ve hit a dead end. There's a sort of magic in how he connects personal anecdotes with biblical truths, illustrating that faith isn't about having it all together; it's about the journey of becoming who you were meant to be.

As we meander through the conversation, Wesley's candidness about his struggles—be it addiction, fear of rejection, or the perils of seeking approval—makes you nod along in understanding (or maybe even cringe a little at your own past). He uses the metaphor of a peasant boy yearning to change his stars, emphasizing that your background doesn’t have to dictate your future. With a hefty dose of sarcasm and humor, he highlights the absurdity of letting negativity gatekeep our potential. The dialogue touches on how society often throws shade on our dreams, yet Wesley insists that the power of community and the right mindset can help anyone rise above the noise.

In a world where we often feel lost in the shuffle, Wesley's insights serve as a compass guiding us toward self-acceptance and growth. His book is more than just words on a page; it's a lifeline for those grappling with life's challenges. So, if you're tired of feeling like a ship adrift at sea, this episode is your beacon. Tune in, grab a pen, and get ready to take notes on how to navigate your own blueprint of becoming.

Takeaways:

• Wesley's journey reveals that embracing vulnerability is essential for true healing and growth.
• The idea of changing your stars highlights God's ability to redefine our purpose despite our past mistakes.
• Community plays a crucial role in overcoming personal struggles; we can't do this alone, folks!
• Wesley's experience with addiction shows that admitting our weaknesses is the first step towards recovery.
• Faith isn't just about knowing; it's about making it your own and living it out daily.
• The Blueprint of Becoming offers practical tools for navigating life's challenges and finding direction.

Links referenced in this episode:

• blueprintofbecoming.com
• amazon.com