The Heartlifter Way

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Have you ever considered the stories etched into your skin and heart as sacred testimonies? Dr. Michelle Bengtson joins us to explore the concept of "sacred scars," emphasizing how they reflect our healing journey and God's grace. Through personal anecdotes and poignant reflections, we examine how physical and emotional wounds remind us of resilience and divine love. Dr. Bengtson invites listeners to embrace these scars, viewing them not as mere remnants of past pain but as symbols of transformation and strength found through faith.

Visit Dr. Michell's website: Sacred Scars

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Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

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Imagine a life where each moment is a gift, not a task to check off. Discover the freedom of time through the inspiring insights of Jen Pollock Michel as we discuss her latest book, "In Good Time: Eight Habits for Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace." If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the relentless march of time, Jen's perspective will offer you a refreshing new outlook. She challenges the conventional obsession with busyness and control, urging us to see time as a divine gift to be embraced rather than a resource to be mastered. With the pandemic backdrop, we explore how disruption can lead to profound growth and transformation.

Visit Jen's website and order her book, In Good Time
Visit Jen's Substack, A Habit Called Faith
Learn more about Jen's Rule of Life Intensive

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

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What if trustworthiness was the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of faith? Join us as we engage with Dr. Ben Shaw, the author of "Trustworthy: 13 Arguments for the Reliability of the New Testament," who shares his fascinating journey from a curious child passionate about ice hockey to a devoted follower of Christ. Through Ben's unique path, we uncover the profound connection between faith and scholarship, and his insights will inspire patience and hope for those navigating their spiritual journeys. This episode highlights Ben's dedication to making complex theological ideas accessible and relevant to everyone, emphasizing the cultivation of an informed spirituality.

Our conversation traverses the landscape of faith, curiosity, and understanding life's bigger questions. We discuss the challenges and reflections that come with aging, the role of curiosity in personal growth, and the significance of questioning in the pursuit of truth. Ben shares his academic journey, including his work with Dr. Habermas, shedding light on how to balance a career in business and teaching while effectively communicating religious beliefs. We also delve into the historical and cultural significance of ancient creeds, emphasizing their importance in preserving early Christian traditions.

Everyday believers play a crucial role in this narrative. We explore the importance of apologetics and discipleship in providing a strong foundation for faith, addressing the gap in spiritual education within some churches. Through compelling stories and practical advice, we discuss the necessity of engaging deeply with scripture and fostering environments where believers can grow in understanding and confidently articulate their faith. Whether you're rekindling your passion for daily Bible study or seeking meaningful, thought-provoking content, this episode provides the tools and inspiration for a vibrant spiritual journey.

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

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What happens when we truly listen to the signals our bodies send us? Dr. Chuck DeGroat joins us for a transformative conversation on healing, self-awareness, and spiritual connection, inspired by his latest book, "Healing What's Within: Coming Home to Yourself When You're Wounded, Weary, and Wandering." Together, we explore the powerful metaphor of an inner dashboard and how it can guide us toward the self-care we often neglect.

We discuss everyday practices for finding peace and fostering a sense of home within ourselves, even in the face of life's pressures. Through personal stories and practical techniques, we encourage you to engage in ongoing self-care and to create a grounded state of being, making this dialogue a resonant call to nurture inner peace and heal hidden wounds.

Order Chuck's New Book: Healing What's Within

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

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What if you could transform your grief into a reservoir of strength and joy? Join us as we sit down with LaTan Roland Murphy, author of "His Strength, Her Joy," to explore the profound theme of repositioning our lives for greater impact and fulfillment. LaTan shares her personal journey of leaning into a deeper faith experience in order to be a voice in her spheres of influence.

Order LaTan's new book: His Strength, Her Joy

A Note from Janell: Today is my 65th birthday! Would you consider gifting the podcast with: 

1. A lovely review of the podcast over on Apple or Spotify.
2. A tax-deductible donation of any size at Heartlift International.
3. Become a paid subscriber to Heartlift Central on Substack.

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

Send us a text

What happens when life's unexpected trials leave us feeling drained and unmotivated? Join us as author LaTan Roland Murphy shares her insights from her latest book, "His Strength, Her Joy: Finding God-Powered Fulfillment." Discover how LaTan draws from personal experiences and scripture, illustrating the profound impact of seeking Divine strength when our own energy is depleted. Through heartfelt dialogue, LaTan nudges Janell to share an emotionally vulnerable story in hopes of imaging how God repositions us for greater impact and fulfillment.

Order LaTan's newest book: His Strength Her Joy

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

Send us a text

"Caring for another person is like the hero's journey, a transformative experience. Except unlike in the common formula, one does not need to leave the home" (Elissa Strauss, "When You Care").

Imagine balancing a thriving journalism career while navigating the uncharted waters of motherhood. That’s precisely what Elissa Strauss, our guest for this episode, has done. Elissa is the author of "When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others." In her new book, Elissa shares her compelling transition from reporting on the structural inadequacies caregivers face to uncovering the deep-rooted cultural issues that undervalue care. She unveils the profound transformation she experienced upon becoming a mother and the intense challenge of reconciling her professional identity with her new, crucial role as a caregiver.

Elissa delves into maternal instincts and the essential role of caregiving in shaping both individuals and society. By challenging societal expectations and the stigma that caregiving is somehow less intellectually fulfilling, Elissa brings a fresh perspective on how deeply estranged maternal relationships can impact society at large.

This episode examines the urgent need for policy changes and societal shifts to honor and support caregivers. Tune in to celebrate the sacred role of care and discover the immense value and dignity inherent in these everyday acts.

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

Send us a text

What if your life's purpose is not something to be achieved but something to be discovered through love and faithfulness? Join us in a compelling conversation with Trevor Hudson, the acclaimed author of "In Search of God's Will: Discerning a Life of Faithfulness and Purpose." We explore how perceiving God's unconditional love can transform our sense of purpose, guiding us through life's challenges with a deep sense of worth and safety.

Discover how aligning your heart with God through relational intimacy—and not perfectionism—can lead to a life of faithful, meaningful purpose. This episode is an enriching exploration into the beauty of discernment and the irreplaceable gift of walking with God in every moment.

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

Send us a text

Ever wondered how to truly discern God's will for your life? Join Janell as she sits down with Trevor Hudson, esteemed author and spiritual mentor, who offers an enlightening roadmap in his latest book, "In Search of God's Will: Discerning a Life of Faithfulness and Purpose." Trevor distills wisdom from spiritual giants like Dallas Willard and Saint Ignatius, helping us align our hearts with God and understand our spiritual identity. 

Trevor's journey to internalize God's love, especially amidst life-altering experiences like his shocking imprisonment during South Africa's apartheid, reveals the ongoing process of moving from intellectual understanding to heartfelt acceptance. This episode underscores the importance of faith-based counseling in overcoming the misconception that divine love must be earned. By sharing these pivotal life moments, Trevor illuminates how our picture of God reshapes our inner lives and spiritual journeys.

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

Send us a text

As we transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn, we're reminded of the cyclical nature of life—how endings inevitably lead to new beginnings. This episode invites you to contemplate these shifts, using the changing seasons as a metaphor. We reflect on the poignant insights from John O'Donohue's essay "Beyond Endings." By embracing the impermanence of life, we uncover the hope that even the slightest brightening can bring to our hearts and minds. This journey of imagination invites you to see beyond your immediate struggles and discover a fertile ground of potential and creativity within you.

This episode emphasizes personal growth, healthier behavior patterns, and stronger communication skills. I extend an invitation to you to join the conversation on Heartlift Central, creating a community of mutual support. Always remember your intrinsic value, worth, and dignity, and know that your heavenly Father profoundly loves you. 

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Support the show: Your Donation Matters
2. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
3. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
4. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
5. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt
6. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon