🎧 The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 150 – “American Sniper Widow: How Fame and Loss Collide” (Part 1)
Guest: Taya Kyle
📅 April 14, 2025
 

🎙️ Overview

🇺🇸 When Heroism Meets Heartbreak: Taya Kyle’s Journey Beyond the Headlines

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Taya Kyle joins Rachael Flick to reflect on life, love, and the layered grief that followed the tragic death of her husband, Chris Kyle—the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history and the inspiration behind American Sniper.

Taya shares their love story, the fast-paced start to their marriage, and the unique pressures of life as a Navy SEAL family. But the conversation takes a powerful turn as she opens up about what happened after Chris's death in 2013—not just the shock of losing him, but the high-profile media attention, the criminal trial of his killer, and the emotional weight of defending his legacy while raising two children on her own.

Through it all, Taya reveals how faith, family, and fierce resilience carried her through seasons of both unimaginable pain and powerful purpose.

🔎 In This Episode:

• What it was like to marry into the Navy SEAL community
• How the Kyle family navigated rapid deployment, fame, and fear
• The truth about the man who murdered Chris Kyle
• Raising children in the aftermath of national loss
• Where Taya found hope when everything fell apart

• 📚 More from Taya Kyle:
  ✍️ Books by Taya Kyle:
  • American Wife: A Memoir of Love, War, Faith, and Renewal
    ➤ Available on Amazon
  • American Spirit: Profiles in Resilience, Courage, and Faith
    ➤ Available on Amazon
  • Prayers for Bears: Bailey the Grateful Bear (children’s book)
    ➤ Available on Amazon
• 🎙️ Connect with Taya:
  • 🌐 Website: TayaKyle.com
  • 📸 Instagram: @TayaKyle
  • 🐦 Twitter: @TayaKyle
• 🎬 About Chris Kyle:
  • Book: American Sniper by Chris Kyle
    ➤ Buy on Amazon
  • Film: American Sniper (2014) starring Bradley Cooper
    ➤ Watch on Prime Video

💛 Support the Legacy:

• TACK-F supporting military and first responder marriage
  ➤ Visit tackf.org – Empowering veterans, first responders & their families

🔔 Don’t Miss Part 2!

Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for Part 2 of this powerful conversation with Taya Kyle—coming soon on The Hopecast with Rachael Flick.

Hashtags: #RachaelFlick #TayaKyle #TheHopeCast #AmericanWife #AmericanSniper #Grief #Widow #Podcast #PodcastCommunity #Podcasting #PFCAudioVideo

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🎙️ The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 149 – “Iditarod Dreams: When Life’s Greatest Achievements Leave Us Empty and Searching For More”
Guest: Karl Clauson
📅 March 10, 2025

❄️ From the Iditarod to Inner Transformation

What happens when you chase the dream, reach the summit—and still feel empty?

In this episode, Rachael sits down with Karl Clauson, a man who conquered one of the world’s toughest races—the 1,100-mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race—at just 18 years old. But Karl’s true race wasn’t on the ice—it was within. After a supernatural encounter with God everything changed.

Karl shares his journey from athlete to pastor, from striving to surrender, and how the most important finish line isn’t one you cross with your feet—but with your heart.

🏁 In This Episode:

• The incredible story of Karl completing the Iditarod as a teenager
• How peak accomplishments can still leave us searching for something deeper
• The moment that changed Karl’s life forever
• Why our culture’s version of success often misses the mark
• What it really means to run the race of faith

📘 About the Guest:

Karl Clauson is a pastor, speaker, and author who brings raw honesty and spiritual depth to every conversation. He currently serves as:

• 🕊️ Pastor of Vision and Leadership at 180 Chicago
• 🎙️ Host of Karl and Crew Mornings on Moody Radio — heard across 50+ markets nationwide

📚 He is also the author of:
 The 7 Resolutions: Where Self-Help Ends and God’s Power Begins
➡️ Order on Amazon

🔗 Connect with Karl:

🌐 Website: www.karlclauson.com
📸 Instagram: @karlclauson
🐦 Twitter: @karlclauson
📘 Facebook: Karl Clauson

✨ Why You Should Listen:

This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who has ever checked all the boxes and still felt unfulfilled. Karl’s story will challenge you to examine what you’re really chasing—and invite you into the race that leads to true victory.

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🔔 Get weekly encouragement from The Hopecast with Rachael Flick—real conversations, raw stories, and redemptive hope.

#IditarodFaith #KarlClauson #7Resolutions #TheHopecast #ChristianPodcast #RunYourRace #HopeBeyondSuccess

www.killsin.com

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​In Episode 148 of The Hopecast with Rachael Flick, titled "The Resilient Widow," host Rachael Flick engages in a heartfelt conversation with guest Kristen Johnson. This episode delves into themes of loss, resilience, and the journey toward healing after the death of a spouse.​

Episode Highlights:

• Personal Journeys of Grief and Resilience: Both Rachael and Kristen share their experiences of losing their husbands and discuss the profound impact of such loss. They explore the paths they've taken toward healing, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.​
• Kristen's Battle with Cancer: Kristen opens up about her personal health challenges, including her experiences with cancer. She candidly discusses the impact of these diagnoses on her life and how she navigated the complexities of treatment and recovery.​
• Building Support Systems: The conversation highlights the crucial role of community, faith, and personal support networks in the healing process. Both guests emphasize how these systems have been instrumental in their journeys.​
• Empowerment Through Sharing: By openly discussing their stories, Rachael and Kristen aim to provide hope and encouragement to others experiencing similar challenges. They underscore the power of vulnerability and the strength found in shared experiences.​

Connect with Kristen Johnson:

• Instagram: @theresilientwidow

Connect with Rachael Flick:

• Website: rachaelflick.com
• Twitter: @rachael_flick
• Facebook: @therachaelflick
• Instagram: @rachael.flick
• TikTok: @rachael.flick

Send us a text

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🎙️ The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 147 – “Restored: Reconnecting Life's Broken Pieces” (Part 2)
Guest: Cindy Brinker Simmons
📅 December 23, 2024

💎 Finding Treasures in the Dark

In Part 2 of this profound and hope-filled conversation, Rachael continues her dialogue with author and speaker Cindy Brinker Simmons as they delve deeper into the sacred beauty found within life’s darkest moments.

This episode explores the powerful concept of “treasures in the darkness”—the hidden blessings, revelations, and strengths that often emerge from pain and loss. Rachael shares a vivid and symbolic dream she experienced before the loss of her husband Micah, where a devastating storm gave way to breathtaking jewels scattered across the ground—representing divine gifts born out of grief.

Cindy and Rachael talk candidly about how grief can not only crush, but also cultivate. Through stories, scripture, and soul-deep reflection, they remind us that even the fire of suffering can yield diamonds of strength, clarity, and purpose.

🌿 In This Episode:

• Rachael’s powerful dream and the symbolism of beauty birthed from destruction
• Cindy’s insight on her chapter, “Treasures in the Darkness”
• Learning how to carry both joy and sorrow with grace
• Why our pain might just be the soil for God’s greatest gifts
• Encouragement for anyone walking through a valley season

📘 About the Guest:

Cindy Brinker Simmons is the author of the inspirational book:
Restored: Reconnecting Life’s Broken Pieces
➡️ Order on Amazon

She brings wisdom, authenticity, and deep faith to those searching for healing, hope, and wholeness.

🔗 Connect with Cindy:

🌐 Website: www.cindybrinkersimmons.com
📘 Facebook: @CindyBrinkerSimmonsAuthor
📸 Instagram: @cindybrinkersimmons
🕊️ LinkedIn: Cindy Brinker Simmons

✨ Why You Should Listen:

This episode is for anyone who has ever asked, “Can anything good come out of this pain?” With tenderness and truth, Rachael and Cindy offer a resounding yes—and gently invite you to start uncovering your own treasures in the darkness.

Catch up on Part 1:
🎧 Listen to Episode 146 – Restored (Part 1)

Follow & Subscribe
🔔 Never miss a conversation—subscribe to The Hopecast with Rachael Flick for weekly doses of hope and healing.

#TreasuresInTheDarkness #RestoredBook #GriefHealing #CindyBrinkerSimmons #TheHopecast #BeautyFromAshes #FaithInTheStorm

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🎙️ The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 146 – “Restored: Reconnecting Life's Broken Pieces” (Part 1)
Guest: Cindy Brinker Simmons
📅 December 9, 2024
 

💔 When Life Breaks, How Do You Heal?

In this deeply moving episode, Rachael sits down with author, speaker, and hope-bearer Cindy Brinker Simmons to explore the sacred tension between grief and joy, loss and resilience, and the redemptive power of faith in seasons of suffering.

Cindy shares the heartbreaking moment that changed everything: the loss of her mother at the tender age of 12. In vivid detail, she recounts sitting beside her grieving family on a hard church pew, trying to make sense of a world without her mother’s light. Her story is raw, honest, and laced with the powerful reminder that pain doesn't have to define us—it can refine us.

🛠️ In This Episode:

• Cindy’s personal story of loss and the moment she questioned God’s love
• How brokenness can be the beginning of restoration
• The difference between being a victor or a victim in the face of suffering
• The role of faith, family, and healing in reconnecting life’s broken pieces

📘 About the Guest:

Cindy Brinker Simmons is the author of the inspiring book:
Restored: Reconnecting Life’s Broken Pieces
➡️ Order on Amazon

She is also the founder of Brinker Group LLC, a passionate communicator, and a beacon of hope for those navigating grief and hardship.

🔗 Connect with Cindy:

🌐 Website: www.cindybrinkersimmons.com
📘 Facebook: @CindyBrinkerSimmonsAuthor
📸 Instagram: @cindybrinkersimmons
🕊️ LinkedIn: Cindy Brinker Simmons

✨ Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve experienced grief, are walking through a tough season, or need a reminder that hope still exists in the ruins, this episode is for you. Cindy’s testimony is both heart-wrenching and hope-filled—a true testament to God’s redemptive grace.

🕊️ This is Part 1 of a powerful two-part conversation. Stay tuned for more insights and encouragement in the next episode.

Follow & Subscribe
🔔 Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to The Hopecast with Rachael Flick for weekly encouragement and real stories of hope.

#GriefAndGrace #FaithThroughLoss #RestoredBook #CindyBrinkerSimmons #TheHopecast #HopeInHardship #ChristianInspiration

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🎧 The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 145 – “Seasons of Uncertainty: The Strength and Courage to Keep Going in the Meanwhile (Part 2)”
Guest: Rachael Flick
📅 November 25, 2024
 

🎙️ Overview

In Part 2 of this candid and powerful conversation, Rachael Flick opens up about the devastating loss of her husband, Micah, and the profound grief that followed. As she navigated the aftermath of his death, Rachael turned to her faith, powerful scripture, and practical tools to help her move through the dark season of grief and uncertainty.

Rachael reflects on a moment in 2018 that left her feeling as though her hope and future died with Micah when he was tragically shot while performing a job he’d done for over ten years. Her vulnerability and honesty in sharing this deeply painful moment show the raw emotions of grief, yet also highlight the way God's grace was present, even in the hardest of times.

In this episode, Rachael shares how, even in her deepest moments of despair, she found the strength to keep going through scripture like Romans 8:28, which reminded her that God works all things together for good. She talks about the practical tools—such as daily affirmations and trusting God’s plan—that helped her rebuild her life and step forward into healing.

🔎 Key Takeaways:

• Romans 8:28 as a foundation: Trusting that God works all things for good, even when life feels unbearable
• Practical tools for surviving grief: How Rachael used affirmations, prayers, and gratitude to move through intense grief
• Surviving the enemy’s attack on hope: Rachael shares how she navigated the feeling of abandonment and found a way to keep faith alive
• God’s grace in grief: Finding hope and strength in the midst of the darkest seasons of life
• Healing through faith: Trusting in God’s restoration, even when the future feels uncertain

✨ Connect with Rachael:

• 🌐 Website: RachaelFlick.com
• 📸 Instagram: @RachaelFlick
• 🐦 Twitter: @RachaelFlick
• 💻 Facebook: Rachael Flick
• 🎤 Speaking Engagements: Rachael speaks at events around the country, sharing her powerful message of hope, healing, and courage through the hardest seasons of life. Inquire here for speaking opportunities.

Send us a text

www.rachaelflick.com
Twitter@ rachael_flick
Facebook @therachaelflick
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🎧 The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 144 – “Seasons of Uncertainty: The Strength and Courage to Keep Going in the Meanwhile”
Guest: Rachael Flick
📅 November 18, 2024
 

🎙️ Overview

In this raw and empowering episode, Rachael Flick shares her personal journey of overcoming trauma, uncertainty, and the challenges of motherhood—a story that she shared at a women’s event to inspire others to keep going, even in the hardest of seasons.

Growing up in a home fraught with mental illness, addiction, and trauma, Rachael took on the role of caretaker from a very young age. By the time she met her husband, Micah, and started their life together, she had already built walls around her heart, guarding herself from the very future she was being called to—motherhood.

Despite her fears and resistance, God’s calling to become a mother was undeniable. Through a life of obedience, faith, and trust in God, Rachael embraced the season of uncertainty and stepping into the unknown. Her story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, faith, and perseverance in the face of hardship.

In this episode, Rachael opens up about the difficult journey of reconciling her past traumas with her present calling and the courage to keep going, even when it feels impossible.

🔎 Key Takeaways:

• Growing up as a caretaker in a home with mental illness, addiction, and trauma
• The deep fears and resistance to motherhood after a childhood filled with responsibility
• Trusting God's calling, even when it leads to uncertain and uncomfortable seasons
• The strength found in embracing vulnerability and faith through hardship
• Practical ways to keep going through seasons of trauma, pain, and uncertainty

✨ Connect with Rachael:

• 🌐 Website: RachaelFlick.com
• 📸 Instagram: @RachaelFlick
• 🐦 Twitter: @RachaelFlick
• 💻 Facebook: Rachael Flick
• 🎤 Speaking Engagements: Rachael speaks at women’s events around the country, sharing her powerful message of hope, healing, and courage through the hardest seasons of life. Inquire here for speaking opportunities.

Send us a text

www.rachaelflick.com
Twitter@ rachael_flick
Facebook @therachaelflick
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🎧 The Hopecast with Rachael Flick

Episode 143 – “Losing Baby Collin: A Father Shares How His Son's Short Life Changed Him Forever”
Guest: Chad Otruba
📅 October 21, 2024

🎙️ Overview

In this heart-wrenching and deeply vulnerable episode, Chad Otruba shares the story of his newborn son Collin, who was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a rare, congential condition. As a father and active-duty service member, Chad walks us through the unimaginable pain of watching his child be rushed to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, the helplessness of not being able to fix what was broken, and the moment he knew his son’s life would be far too short.

What follows is a raw and moving conversation about grief, anger, faith, and the fight to hold onto hope when everything seems lost. Chad speaks honestly about the questions he wrestled with, including why God would allow this kind of suffering and what it means to still trust God in the darkest valley.

🔎 Key Takeaways:

• Facing anger toward God: Chad candidly shares how he wrestled with rage, doubt, and sorrow—and how that struggle became part of his healing process.
• How grief changes your identity: The loss of his son forced Chad to reexamine who he was as a father, a man, and a believer.
• Clinging to faith through pain: Even in his deepest moments of doubt, Chad found flickers of hope and comfort in God’s presence and the prayers of others.
• The power of presence and community: Chad talks about what it meant to have people simply show up—and how powerful compassion without answers can be.
• Letting Collin’s life leave a legacy: Though short, Collin’s life profoundly impacted Chad’s heart and reshaped how he views love, parenting, and eternity.

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Chad was 21, newly married and deployed overseas when he learned that the baby his wife was carrying had a congenital heart defect. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). Chad returned home to be with his family. Collin was born early, by c-section and in distress. Chad tells the powerful story of the small, but mighty impact that Collin left in his 4 months earth side. The life with a medically fragile infant. Catching the precious moments as they came between surgeries and crises. Learning to grieve well and what he has to offer other parents of loss from the gems of his story. Today Chad is a Firefighter and a father to two daughters and a granddaughter. 

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Rachel Dozier Powell lost her husband, Andre, to suicide, leaving her as a solo mom to four children. In her interview, Rachel discusses how the relationship with the church was complicated by their constant urging of her submission. Even when Andre's mental health continued to decline, she was isolated and set adrift under the guise of biblical womanhood. Listen to Rachel tell her compelling story of walking through loss in the complicated grief of death by suicide. 

https://www.hopespeaker.com/

https://www.facebook.com/HopeSpeakerRachelPowell

https://www.instagram.com/hope_speaker/

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