Thrive Through the Fire

In today’s episode of Thrive Through the Fire, I’m talking about something we all wrestle with at some point: when life just doesn’t feel fair. From childhood moments to deep adult pain—"unfair" is a thread that runs through many of our stories. I’ll walk through that feeling with you, share personal moments from my journey with cancer, and open the Word to show that even in Scripture, we’re not alone in this tension.

We’ll look at biblical examples of unfairness—Cain and Abel, Leah and Rachel, Joseph, David, Asaph, even Peter—and how each of their stories reminds us that God is still working even when things don’t make sense. I’ll also offer some practical encouragement on how to reframe our pain through a Kingdom lens, including how to worship instead of worry and fix our eyes on the eternal.

If you’ve ever asked, “Why them and not me?” or “Where is God in all of this?”—this episode is for you.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why the feeling of “unfair” starts young and follows us into adulthood
• How seemingly small comparisons turn into deeper wounds when real life gets hard
• Raw, personal stories from my own walk through health battles and unanswered prayers
• Biblical stories that prove we aren’t the first to struggle with “unfair”
• The danger of comparison and the freedom that comes when we trust God’s story for us
• Practical encouragement for what to do when life just doesn’t make sense
• Why worship is stronger than worry
• How to fix your eyes on what’s eternal—even when what’s visible hurts

Key Scriptures from This Episode:

• Psalm 73:4,13 – “They have no struggles… Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure.”
• John 21:22 – “What is that to you? You follow Me.”
• Romans 8:28 – “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him…”
• 2 Corinthians 4:17–18 – “…our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory…”
• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
• Philippians 4:6–7 – “The peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds…”

Takeaways:

• Fairness isn’t the foundation of faith—dependence is.
• Comparison may be human, but trust is holy.
• God doesn’t waste your pain—even when the process feels cruel.
• Worship shifts your heart to remember who God is when the “what” feels heavy.
• You’re allowed to be honest with God. He can handle your questions.

Let’s Stay Connected:

If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to share it or leave a review? And if you haven’t already, follow me on Instagram so we can keep walking through this faith journey together. Your story matters, and you’re never walking alone. Check me out HERE

In this episode, I sit down with Bob and Linda Lotich, authors of Simple Money, Rich Life, to talk about something so many of us struggle with: money. But we don’t just talk dollars and cents. We talk about faith. About trusting God when your bank account is empty. About surrendering control when things feel impossible. And about what happens when we invite God into every area of our finances.

Bob shares his powerful testimony of hitting financial rock bottom and how that desperation led him to cry out to God, and hear Him clearly. Linda opens up about her own financial challenges and how God brought the two of them together not only in marriage, but in mission.

Together, Bob and Linda walk us through the heart behind Simple Money, Rich Life and how God's plan for our money is far less complicated, and far more freeing than we often realize. We talk about practical financial tools grounded in biblical truth, and they share what it’s like to be 7-figure givers who don’t chase wealth but chase God’s will.

This conversation dives into:

• What it means to be a good steward without falling into legalism or guilt
• How surrendering our finances brings peace and clarity
• The difference between the poverty gospel, prosperity gospel, and biblical balance
• Why generosity isn’t just about tithing, it’s about trusting

We also talk about the lies many of us believe when it comes to money, worthiness, and God’s involvement in our everyday lives. Bob reminds us that we’re not too far gone, not too messy, and not too late to bring God into our money story. And to close the episode, he offers a heartfelt prayer over everyone walking through financial uncertainty.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your financial situation or unsure of how to honor God with your money, this episode will speak to your heart.

Want a copy of Bob’s book? Visit seedtime.com/free to grab Simple Money, Rich Life. The book is Free for a limited time, all you have to do is cover the cost of shipping. Find Bob and Linda on Instagram and check out their Podcast Seedtime Money, anywhere you listen to podcasts.

In this episode, I’m diving deep into something we all need, especially in a season of recovery—peace. And more importantly, how to protect that peace with healthy, God-honoring boundaries.

As a cancer survivor, I know firsthand what it’s like to come out of a life-altering experience and feel overwhelmed by the world’s demands. After treatment, everyone wanted my time again—but I wasn’t ready. I had to learn to protect what God was restoring in me. That’s what this episode is all about.

I share what the Bible says about peace, how Jesus modeled boundaries, and how we can set our own without guilt or shame. Whether you’re recovering from illness, grief, burnout, or just trying to keep your head above water—you are not alone, and your peace matters.

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• Why peace is more than just quiet—it’s a promise and a practice
• How Jesus modeled healthy boundaries, even in ministry
• The difference between biblical boundaries and culture’s version
• How to set boundaries in a way that honors God and others
• Practical steps for protecting your energy, time, and healing
• Encouragement to let go of guilt and stop apologizing for rest
• Stories from my own journey with cancer, including how I learned (sometimes the hard way) to say no

I also explore biblical examples like Nehemiah and Moses, and reference Rick Warren’s powerful reminder: You have just enough time to do God’s will.

If you’ve ever struggled to say no… if you’ve ever felt guilty for needing space… if you’re in a season of rebuilding—this one is for you.

Takeaway Question:

What’s one boundary you can set this week to protect your peace?

Scripture References:

• Galatians 5:22–23
• Philippians 4:7
• John 14:27
• Luke 5:16
• John 5:19
• Mark 6:31
• Nehemiah 6:3
• Exodus 18
• Psalm 23:2
• Romans 12:2
• Ephesians 4:2
• Philippians 2:3–4

Healing isn’t just about getting better—it’s about getting whole. God is not rushing you. Rest is holy. Boundaries are biblical. And peace is your inheritance.

Tune in now, and let’s walk this road of recovery together—with wisdom, grace, and the peace of Christ guarding every step.

Subscribe to my devotional or email list to stay connected.

Today’s episode of Thrive Through the Fire is one that’s close to my heart, because it’s something that changed my own life—especially during cancer and the tough unknowns that followed.

I’m diving into the power of our words—specifically the ones we say to ourselves.

We all know how important it is to use kind words with others. But how often do we forget to speak kind words to ourselves? Words carry weight. They create. They shape our mindset, our health, and our hope.

In this episode, I’m sharing:

• What Scripture says about the power of life and death in the tongue
• How our thoughts and self-talk impact our faith and even our physical bodies
• My personal story of navigating cancer and the panic-inducing “what if” thoughts
• How to identify the lies we speak over ourselves and replace them with truth
• Biblical examples of people who spoke life in hard seasons
• Five practical ways you can begin speaking life over yourself today

I’ll walk you through how I used Scripture like Jeremiah 29:11 to anchor my soul during a season of fear and uncertainty—and how I still go back to those promises when the enemy whispers lies.

If you’ve ever struggled with negative self-talk, fear, or feeling like you're not enough—this episode is especially for you. My prayer is that by the end of it, you’ll be equipped to speak God’s truth over your life with boldness and peace.

This isn’t just encouragement—it’s a mindset shift rooted in Scripture.

Let’s speak life, even in the fire. Especially in the fire.

Scriptures mentioned:

• Proverbs 18:21
• Genesis 1
• Jeremiah 29:11
• Romans 12:2
• Psalm 42:11
• Luke 8:43–48
• Matthew 4
• 2 Corinthians 12:9
• Psalm 139:14
• Philippians 4:13
• Ephesians 1:4–7
• Isaiah 41:10
• Romans 8:28
• Psalm 138:8
• Proverbs 3:5–6
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• 1 Corinthians 2:16
• Romans 8:37

Resources + Next Steps:

• Write out your scripture affirmations on post it notes and put them around your house.
• Want to connect or share your story? DM me on Instagram @Thrive_through_the_fire
• Check out my website for more resources and tools, CLICK HERE.

Thanks for being here. Let’s keep walking through the fire—together.

Whether you're walking through joy or pain, chaos or calm, we all need something consistent to hold onto. In this episode, I’ll walk you through why spiritual habits matter more than hype, how Jesus modeled a daily rhythm with the Father, and practical ways you can start connecting with God in meaningful, life-giving ways—even if you only have 15 minutes.

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present.

And if you’re feeling dry, distracted, or disconnected—I see you, and I’ve been there.

In This Episode, We’ll Cover:

• Why your soul needs a sacred rhythm in today’s fast-paced world
• What the Bible says about daily connection with God
• How Jesus consistently pulled away for time with the Father
• A simple 4-step daily routine you can adapt to your own life
• What my personal morning quiet time looks like—and how it’s kept me grounded through illness, uncertainty, and healing
• Encouragement if you’re just starting out or struggling to stay consistent

Key Scriptures Referenced:

• Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
• Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”
• Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
• Mark 1:35 – “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up… and prayed.”
• Matthew 4:4 – “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
• Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything…”
• Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

Resources I Mentioned:

• Bible Verse Mapping (journals & guides available online)
• ACTS Prayer Model (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication)
• Rick Warren’s Daily Hope Devotional Podcast
• The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

Practical Faith Routine Outline (Start With 15 Minutes):

1. Stillness – Quiet your mind and welcome God into your day
2. Scripture – Read a short passage and reflect on its meaning
3. Prayer – Talk to God honestly and simply
4. Worship or Listen – Play a worship song or short devotional

My Encouragement to You:

Don’t wait for a crisis to create your rhythm. Build your spiritual foundation now so when the fire comes, you’re already rooted in God’s presence.

God doesn’t want your perfection—He wants your attention.

Call to Action:

This week, create your own 15-minute daily routine. Write it down, keep it somewhere visible, and start tomorrow.

If you need help figuring out what that looks like or want someone to pray with you, I’m just a message away. You don’t have to walk through this alone.

In this powerful episode, I sat down with my friend Paula—a licensed professional counselor with a heart for helping others through the lens of faith. Paula shared her deeply personal journey from struggling with depression as a teenager to discovering her purpose through Christian counseling. She opened up about her experiences with postpartum depression, a spiritual crisis moment during the pandemic, and how God radically intervened in her life.

We talked about what it looks like to bring Jesus into mental health spaces, the power of sharing your story, and how biblical truth can ground us in seasons of emotional and spiritual struggle. If you've ever felt alone in your pain or unsure of how to support someone walking through it—this conversation will encourage you, equip you, and point you back to the Healer.

• Paula’s personal testimony: from religion to relationship with Jesus
• Her teenage battle with depression and the surprising gift of music as healing
• The supernatural encounter that changed everything during the pandemic
• Why Christian counseling matters—and how to find one
• Practical ways to support someone in emotional distress
• Using Scripture to combat shame, isolation, and fear
• How to integrate faith, psychology, and spiritual disciplines
• Paula’s recommended resources for biblical counseling and soul care

• 2 Timothy 3:16–17 – On using God’s Word to equip and counsel
• Job’s story – A reminder that presence often matters more than solutions
• Philippians 4:7 – The peace of God that surpasses understanding

• Boundaries for the Soul by Dr. Alison Cook
• Theology, Spirituality, and Psychology by Dr. Stephen P. Greggo
• Jackie Hill Perry's Bible teaching
• Faith-based podcasts and worship playlists
• Meditation on Scripture and the Holy Spirit (not just secular mindfulness)

You don’t need to have it all together to seek help. Paula reminds us that Jesus meets us in the mess and uses our pain for purpose. If you’re in a season of struggle, don’t stay silent. You’re not alone—and healing is possible.

Need someone to talk to? Reach out. DM me, or use the links below to find a Christian counselor near you.

• Psychology Today Profile
• Website: [Coming Soon]

Make sure you’re subscribed to Thrive Through the Fire for more episodes that blend real-life struggles with biblical hope.

Leave a review if this episode blessed you—it helps others find the show.

In this episode, I’m opening up about something we don’t talk about enough—vulnerability. So many of us have been taught to hold it all together, to smile through the pain, and to act like everything’s fine. But vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s one of the strongest, most Christ-like things we can embody.

Together, we explore what the Bible says about vulnerability, how Jesus modeled it, and why embracing our own brokenness opens the door to real connection and healing. I share a personal story about my cancer journey and how learning to be vulnerable transformed not only my faith but the way I connect with others.

• What vulnerability really means through a biblical lens
• How Jesus modeled honest emotion and deep humanity
• Why showing up honestly creates deeper healing and connection
• The power of your testimony and why your story matters
• Practical ways to be vulnerable without oversharing
• How God can use your pain for His purpose
• A few personal stories from my own walk through faith, fear, and finding my voice

• 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – “My power is made perfect in weakness…”
• John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”
• Matthew 27:46 – “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”
• Revelation 12:11 – “They overcame… by the word of their testimony.”
• Psalm 62:8 – “Pour out your hearts to Him…”

1. Start with God – Be honest in your prayer life. He can handle your fears, doubts, and questions.
2. Find Safe People – Share with those who will point you back to truth and not shame.
3. Share From Scars, Not Open Wounds – Process privately first when needed, then share as you're led.

Tell the truth to one person about something that’s been heavy on your heart. It doesn’t have to be dramatic. It just has to be real. And if you don’t have someone safe to talk to, DM me. I’m here to pray with you.

If this episode spoke to you, would you share it with a friend? It might be exactly what they need today.

You can also find me on Instagram or at Tools 2 Thrive for encouragement, resources, and more ways to live out your faith through the fire.

If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to Thrive Through the Fire so you never miss an episode. And if this one encouraged you, I’d love it if you’d leave a quick rating or review—it helps this message reach more people.

Let me know if you’d like these show notes formatted for a blog post, email newsletter, or even as social media captions to help you promote this episode!

In this episode of Thrive Through the Fire, I’m diving into one of the most powerful things we can do with our faith—share our story. I know firsthand how scary it can be to speak up, especially when you feel like your story isn’t dramatic enough or you’re still walking through it. But here's the truth: your testimony carries weight, and someone out there needs to hear it.

I’ll walk through:

• Why your story matters—even if you think it doesn’t
• What Scripture says about the power of your testimony
• How to share your story with confidence, not fear
• My own journey with opening up about my cancer diagnosis and how God met me in the middle of it
• A few practical tips to help you start telling your story today

We’ll also look at some amazing biblical examples—from the woman at the well to the man born blind—who simply shared what Jesus had done in their lives, and lives were changed because of it.

If you’ve been feeling like your voice doesn’t matter, or like you don’t have the words to explain what you’ve gone through, this episode will encourage you to speak anyway. Your story could be the bridge that helps someone meet Jesus. And if you’re still in the middle of your journey, that’s okay too—because testimonies aren’t about having it all together. They’re about pointing to the One who holds it all together.

Plus, I’ll tell you more about the testimony journal I created to help you write out your story, organize your thoughts, and find clarity and confidence in sharing what God has done in your life. Check the show notes for the link.

Scriptures we explore in this episode:

• Revelation 12:11
• John 4:39
• John 9:25
• 2 Corinthians 1:3–4
• Romans 10:17

If this episode encouraged you or you’re ready to share your story, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out and let’s talk. And if you know someone who needs this message, send it their way.

God doesn’t waste anything—not your pain, not your past, not even your process.

If your looking for a tool to help you write your testimony, CLICK HERE for my recommendation.

Let’s thrive through the fire together.

In this episode of Thrive Through the Fire, I’m pulling back the curtain on radiation therapy—what it actually is, what it feels like, and how to prepare for it—mentally, emotionally, and physically.

When I started my own cancer journey, I was overwhelmed and scared. Radiation felt like a mystery, and I couldn’t find anyone who could walk me through it from a patient’s perspective. So that’s what I’m doing for you today.

Whether you’re facing radiation yourself, caring for someone who is, or just want to understand more—this episode is packed with real talk, practical tips, and encouragement to help you through.

In this episode, I share:

• What radiation therapy is and how it works (in simple, relatable terms)
• The different types of radiation treatment and which one I received
• A step-by-step overview of what to expect during treatment
• Common side effects like fatigue, skin irritation, and emotional exhaustion—and what helped me manage them
• My personal experience going through 25 radiation treatments for colorectal cancer
• A few natural tips I used (always check with your doctor)
• Encouragement and scripture that anchored me through the process

Key Scriptures:

• Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
• Deuteronomy 31:8 – “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

My heart behind this episode:

You are not alone. And no matter how intimidating this process feels, I want you to know that God walks with you into every waiting room and onto every treatment table. I’ve been there. I’ve cried. I’ve prayed. And I’ve come out stronger, more grounded in faith, and more certain than ever that we don’t walk through the fire alone.

If this episode encourages you, I’d love for you to share it with someone who might be walking through something similar.

Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

And if your looking for resources to help with through your cancer journey, check out my Ebook.

Let’s keep walking through the fire together—with courage, honesty, and hope.

In this episode, I talk about something we all need to learn—how to show up well for someone who’s walking through a hard season.

Let’s be real. Most people have no idea what to do when a friend or loved one is struggling. We want to help, but we freeze. We overthink. We say things we didn’t mean or say nothing at all. And often, we do more harm than good—even when we’re trying our best.

As someone who went through cancer and experienced both amazing support and some awkward moments, I want to help you avoid the common mistakes and start loving people better.

Here’s what I walk through in this episode:

• What to say—and not say—when someone you care about is suffering
• What actually helped me in my darkest moments (and what made me cringe)
• Biblical examples of friends who showed up well—and those who didn’t
• Real-life tips that will help you support someone through grief, illness, depression, divorce, or any difficult time
• Why presence matters more than perfection—and how to be the hands and feet of Jesus

You don’t have to fix anything. You don’t need the perfect words. You just need to show up.

I also talk about:

• Why “let me know if you need anything” isn’t as helpful as you think
• How Job’s friends started strong but totally blew it later
• Why Ruth is the ultimate example of loyalty in suffering
• Practical ways to love someone in pain without making it weird

This episode is for anyone who’s ever thought:

• I want to help, but I don’t want to make it worse
• I wish I knew what to say
• I feel awkward around people who are grieving or going through something serious

By the end, you’ll feel more equipped, more confident, and more intentional in how you love people through their hardest seasons.

If you’re the one going through the fire right now—I see you. God sees you. You’re not alone.

Let’s carry each other’s burdens and reflect Jesus in the way we show up for one another.

You’ll also hear:

• My personal story of people bringing meals, leaving coffee on my porch, and just showing up with no expectations
• The power of laughing, normalcy, and treating someone like themselves—not their illness
• A prayer for those in pain and for those standing in the gap to help

Referenced Scripture:

• Galatians 6:2
• Job 2:13
• Ruth 1:16
• Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who might need it—whether they’re in the fire or trying to support someone who is. And if you’ve got your own story of someone showing up well, message me or CLICK HERE—I’d love to hear it.

Follow me on Instagram or learn more about me HERE.