The Speakeasy

Former US Federal law enforcement officer John Benjamin Jones shares his wealth of experience in both military and local law enforcement. Working in high-pressure professions can take a significant toll on individuals' mental health and John shares his own experiences with stress, emphasizing that the support of loved ones, such as his wife, has been instrumental in his well-being. Listen in as we discuss his insights on the challenges faced by first responders and how they can navigate their roles as necessary peacemakers in society.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Delve into the distinct pressures and demands experienced by those in law enforcement and military careers.

• Grasp the importance of ongoing training in addressing stress and fostering successful conflict resolution.

• Understand how first responders contribute to societal harmony as indispensable peacemakers.

John is the author of The Higher Calling – available Summer 2023!

To connect with John:

Instagram: @johnbenjaminjonesauthor

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In the midst of an ongoing and complex immigration debate, it is essential to approach the topic with nuance and open-mindedness. Immigration policies, their implications, and their impact on nations have long been subjects of controversy and heated discussions. Recognizing the need for a more productive conversation, this text aims to delve into the multifaceted nature of immigration, specifically focusing on the situation at the United States-Mexico border.

Before delving into the details, it is important to acknowledge that pointing fingers and assigning blame will not lead to meaningful solutions. While various administrations, including those of Biden and Trump, have played their part in shaping immigration policies, it is crucial to understand that this issue extends beyond the actions of any single individual or administration. The United States has grappled with immigration challenges for decades, highlighting the necessity of a comprehensive and bipartisan approach.

The purpose of this podcast episode is to move beyond finger-pointing and engage in a conversation that considers historical context, acknowledges the complexities of the situation, and explores potential solutions. While it is essential to hold leaders accountable and discuss areas where improvement is needed, it is equally important to set realistic expectations and explore the role of the church and wider society in shaping the dialogue.

By examining the humanitarian crisis at the border, the consequences of open borders, and the impact on both migrants and the American population, we aim to shed light on the urgency of addressing immigration challenges. This text does not aim to provide definitive answers or endorse specific political positions, but rather to foster a deeper understanding of the issue and encourage individuals, especially those within the Christian community, to contribute to the dialogue.

Understanding the complexities of immigration requires empathy, a commitment to justice, and a deep sense of mercy. It is through a combination of these values, along with humility and a comprehensive examination of the issue, that we can work towards solutions that prioritize the well-being of all individuals involved.

As we embark on this journey of exploration, let us set aside preconceived notions, engage in respectful dialogue, and collectively strive towards a more informed and compassionate understanding of immigration.

After listening to this episode of the Speakeasy, please feel free to leave a comment and let Blake know your thoughts.

Important Links: Website: https://crappychristianco.com/ • Book • Facebook • Pinterest • Instagram

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Dietitian Kristen Bunger reveals the powerful and restorative process of uncovering emotional needs and healing the spiritual aspect of disordered eating, offering a solution for those who have done all the things and still hate their bodies.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Embrace a comprehensive approach to healing that accounts for physical cues and emotional demands.

• Examine personal history and societal influences to foster a positive connection with food and body.

• Discern between detrimental messages and useful practices to fortify mental health.

• Experience the power of vulnerability and seek out encouraging connections in the Christian community for personal development.

Kristen is the author of Feed My Soul – available everywhere now!

To connect with Kristen:

Website: bodyandsoulnutritioncounseling.com

Instagram: @kristenbunger.rd

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Speaker and author Joel Malm joins Blake to talk about trusting in God's sovereignty through the ups and downs of life. In his book, he talks about how he has experienced firsthand the power of surrendering to God's plan and understanding the struggle to slow down and trust in God's timing. Listen in as they talk about how God always knows what is ahead and His grace will always come at the perfect moment in the perfect amount that we need.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover hidden connections among life's challenging experiences.

• Explore the power of trusting in God's guidance during tough times.

• Delve into the potential of embracing discontentment for personal growth.

• Overcome fear by placing faith in the power of divine grace.

• Utilize past experiences as insightful lessons for future success.

Joel is the author of Connecting the Dots – available everywhere now!

To connect with Joel:

Website: joelmalm.com

Instagram: @joelrmalm

Facebook: @joelmalm

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Growing up in a religiously conservative home, Austin Noll had been conditioned to believe certain truths were absolute. But when he began to question these teachings, he discovered something unexpected: a greater understanding of faith, and a space to share his story with others. What he didn't expect was the ripple effect of healing and growth it would create.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the intricacies of growing up in the church and examine how individuals can question faith and ideologies.

• Delve into the harmful dynamics present in Christian dating and relationships.

• Uncover the impact of purity culture on feelings of shame and guilt.

• Recognize the significance of critical thinking in shaping personal faith.

• Immerse yourself in understanding the Holy Spirit's supernatural role within Christianity.

Austin is the author of A Jumble of Crumbled Papers – available everywhere now!

To connect with Austin:

Instagram: @austin_noll

Podcast: @crumbledpaperspodcast

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Abby Roth joins Blake to talk about the idea of being classic: Becoming the best version of yourself in every possible way; constantly improving and constantly trying to accept reality for what it actually is. Listen in as they talk about rediscovering womanhood and femininity in today's day and age and what it looks like when we listen to what God calls us to prioritize instead of the world.

Abby is the host of The Classically Abby Podcast – listen everywhere now!

To connect with Abby:

Website: classicallyabby.com

Instagram | Twitter | YouTube: @classicallyabby

Podcast: classicallyabby.substack.com/s/the-classically-abby-podcast

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Writer, spiritual director, and award-winning musician Strahan Coleman joins Blake to talk about how his journey of pain, depression, and anxiety moved his working relationship with God to a deep friendship. In his book, he invites readers into a richer life of prayer by giving up consumer Christianity for a beautiful life of seeing and being seen by God. Listen in as they talk about why prayer is a way of being with God in the every day through our minds and bodies.

Strahan is the author of Beholding – available everywhere now!

To connect with Strahan:

Website: commonerscommunion.com

Instagram: @commoners_communion | @strahanmusic

Spotify: Strahan

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Do you feel heavy, restless, and less safe? Do you know of people in your life who have started to experience panic attacks despite never having them before? After discussing this with friends and followers on Instagram, we need to consider that this could be related to the spiritual realm. The upcoming episode of the Speakeasy will delve into the two spectrums of the unseen realms. Do you know where you stand when it comes to discussing and understanding the effects of the unseen realms?

After listening to this episode of the Speakeasy, please feel free to leave a comment and let Blake know your thoughts.

Important Links: Website: https://crappychristianco.com/ • Book • Facebook • Pinterest • Instagram

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Social researcher and relationship expert Shaunti Feldhan joins Blake to talk about one of the most common marriage issues: Sex. In her book, she provides insight into what helps couples maintain a healthy relationship in both physical intimacy and the larger context of general marital intimacy overall. Listen in as they talk about how we can get on the same page and create a thriving intimate life that is equally satisfying for both partners and how we can move from disconnection to delight.

Shaunti is the co-author of Secrets of Sex & Marriage – available everywhere now!

To connect with Shaunti:

Website: shaunti.com | secretsofsexandmarriage.com

Instagram & Twitter: @shauntifeldhahn

Facebook: facebook.com/ShauntiFeldhahnOfficial

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Author and co-founder of Dwellings Kathryn Maack joins Blake to talk about integrating what we're learning about God into our lives and closing the gap between our head and our heart. In her book, she talks about how we can surrender our entire selves to God in order to become abundantly alive, bearing His glory in the world every single day. Listen in as they talk about what it means to be spiritually alive; recognizing which parts of ourselves we're holding back in order for us to grow closer to Him.

Kathryn is the author of Whole – available everywhere now!

To connect with Kathryn:

Website: dwellings.info

Instagram: @kat_maack | @dwllngs

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