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What would your life look like if you could take control of your happiness and choose joy daily? My guest today, Dannie De Novo, has explored this question and shares her journey in her book, *Get in a Good Mood & Stay There.* After battling a deep spiritual depression and facing numerous setbacks, Dannie refused to let life happen to her. Instead, she developed a systematic approach to reclaim her mindset, overcome adversity, and design the fulfilling life she had always envisioned. Thi…
Have you ever allowed yourself to dream? Picture this: a genie appears, offering you three wishes. But there are conditions—no asking for love, no bringing back the dead, and no wishing for more wishes. It makes you wonder. What three things would you choose if you had three chances to get something special into your life? Now and then, life gives us moments that feel like a wish fulfilled—an experience so surreal, it’s like magic. For me, that moment came on November 11, 2023, at the North …
When was the last time you remodeled a room? My guest today is Dr. Merry C. Linn PhD. Imagine you're remodeling a room in your house—a space where old paint, cluttered shelves, and outdated furniture no longer feel like "you." The process begins by stripping away layers, revealing what lies beneath them. Similarly, in life, finding our true selves isn't just about adding layers; it's about "unbecoming" what we believed we had to be to feel accepted and love…
What does this election season mean to you? On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, Americans across the nation will head to the polls amidst a backdrop that feels as fractured as ever. Tensions run high as pressing issues reveal deep divisions, shaping an election season that underscores a United States that feels, in many ways, like a house divided. Questions about our collective values, the nation's future, and the fundamental direction we're heading are high, and every vote is vital. My …
When was the last time you were humbled? This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Rick Romano, whose heart for serving others has taken him and his family to the Dominican Republic, where they are building sustainable communities in the northern region of El Cibao. Rick’s mission, rooted in the teachings of Christ and inspired by Matthew 25:35-36, calls on us to love those in need. He’s dedicated himself to this by providing struggling communities clean water, food, healthcare, and …
When was the last time you opened a box? What was inside? Marriage is like unpacking boxes in life—each box represents a different aspect of the journey, filled with experiences, challenges, and opportunities for growth. My guest today is Tammy Cox. Tammy is here to share with us why marriage can be difficult. However, it doesn't have to be. Just as we carefully unpack a box, revealing its contents piece by piece, in a healthy marriage, we uncover layers of ourselves, our emotions, and …
When was the last time you had to check the "other" box during a survey? Social Identity Theory, developed by Henri Tajfel in the 1970s, explains how people define themselves through group memberships like nationality or religion. This often leads to favoritism toward one’s in-group and distancing from out-groups, fostering stereotypes and discrimination. When we "Other" people—seeing them as outsiders—we lose compassion and focus on differences instead of shared humanity…
Did you ever do this? I remember when my daughter, Adia, was younger, my wife and I would stand her up against a wall at GGma’s house—my wife’s grandmother—and measure her height. As we sold the house, I wondered what the new owners would think of those marks. My guest today is Mark Collins, and he reflects on how those marks, much like childhood height measurements, serve as symbols of growth. For many men, masculinity can feel like an elusive mark, always shifting just beyond reach, as tho…
Lauren Burns was only seven years old when her world was turned upside down—her father took her from home, leaving her feeling lost and uncertain. But it was her mother’s unwavering faith that shone brightest during this dark time. Armed with a deep trust in God’s plan and an unshakable love for her daughter, Lauren’s mother embarked on a courageous mission to bring her home. With the help of some amazing men who stepped in at crucial moments, the rescue was nothing short of heroic. Through …
The journey of a singer-songwriter is often filled with challenges that go beyond the glamorous image portrayed by reality TV shows like *The Voice*, *American Idol*, and *America's Got Talent*. While these platforms promise fame and fortune, the reality is that they often don't deliver lasting success. True artistry and recognition take years of dedication, perseverance, and frequently, the road less traveled. My guest today, Wilkes, has navigated this complex world, finding his v…
What does it mean to find yourself truly? For many, it's about coming home to who you are and finding peace in your own skin. This journey of self-discovery is invaluable, allowing you to live authentically and confidently, free from external pressures. A trusted confidant can be a key part of this process, whether it’s a loyal dog, a cherished stuffed animal, or even a journal. These companions provide comfort and a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions. Today’s guest, Barba…
PLEASE TAKE DISCRETION IN LISTENING TODAY, IF RAPE AND MURDER ARE IN YOUR BACKGROUND. What would happen if you were wrongly accused of something? Has that ever happened? My guest today is Jeff Deskovic was wrongfully imprisoned for 16 years, from the age of 17 to 32, for a rape and murder he did not commit. The injustice of losing his youth to a crime he never committed had a profound impact on his life. His wrongful conviction not only stripped him of his freedom during the critical years o…
SEASON FINALE OF DEAR...
When was the last time you attended a funeral or a celebration of life service? Over the years, I've found myself in those seats many times. I wish I could say it gets easier each time, but unfortunately, it doesn’t. During these moments, I often reflect on what I could have or should have said. I know I’m not alone in feeling this way.
At one of these services, the pastor shared words of encouragement that stayed with me, and I hope they resonat…
Think about marriage for a moment. Who is a could that you know that has been married the longest. Three days ago my wife Elizabeth and I just celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary. My guest today is Kyle Jetsel. Kyle shares losing his wife of 30 years felt like the world stopped spinning for Kyle—a void that seemed impossible to fill. The silence in the house was deafening, the weight of her absence almost unbearable. Yet, in the depths of that pain, Kyle knew he had to find a way forward…
Grief is profoundly challenging to cope with because it encompasses a wide range of intense emotions, from deep sorrow and anger to confusion and guilt. This emotional turbulence often arises from the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or an unfulfilled dream, leading to a sense of emptiness and helplessness. The process of grieving disrupts our daily lives, impacting our mental and physical health. To navigate through grief, it is essential to allow oneself to feel and express …
Where were you on July 20, 1984? That was the day The movie "The NeverEnding Story" was released in the United States. My guest today is Nancy Bruscher. Nancy believes wholeheartedly in the fact that there is power in your story. The power of remembering and sharing your story lies in the profound connection it fosters between individuals and generations. Each person's life is a tapestry woven with experiences, lessons, and values that are uniquely theirs. These stories are no…
Do you love the story of Winnie the Pooh? My favorite part is the image of Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin walking with an umbrella is a powerful depiction of companionship and support. My guest today is Noah Asher. Noah talks about how as they stroll together, the umbrella shields them from the unpredictable elements, symbolizing the protective presence of friendship. Just as the umbrella guards them against the rain, having someone by our side can help us navigate the chaos of life. …
When was the last time you heard the phrase "I know how you feel" My guest today is Cate Purvis. Cate is here to share how she found the strength to get through her miscarriages. Miscarriage is a profoundly difficult experience for women to navigate alone due to the intense emotional, physical, and psychological toll it takes. The grief and sense of loss can be overwhelming, compounded by feelings of guilt, shame, or inadequacy, even though these feelings are unfounded. Physically…
Take a moment and think about your worst day. Perhaps it was the day you dumped coffee all over yourself right before you walked into work? Maybe it was the day your baby pooped all over your brand-new pants? Or maybe it was a very sad day when a loved one died? All these examples seem dire and even awful. Did your worst day involve your job? I believe one of the hardest jobs is law enforcement. My guest today is Jared Altic. Jared has dedicated his life's work to helping law enforcemen…
When is it okay to be angry at God? Is there ever a time you have found yourself in that spot? My guest today is Julie Sunne. You would like by Julie's name that never rains or Julie has never had a bad day. We all know that is completely preposterous. Recovering from five miscarriages and four live births involves a multifaceted approach addressing both emotional and physical well-being. Emotionally, it is essential to seek support from loved ones, therapists, or support groups to navi…
Who is the hardest person to believe and trust? My guest today is Tim Stearns. I am guessing his name isn't jumping out to you? Oh wait, wasn't he in that movie "My Blue Heaven" that great 1990 film? Fun fact he was. Sort of...Tim is here to read his letter to Bob his Step-Father that became so much more. Having an earthly father provides invaluable guidance, support, and love, serving as a foundational pillar in one's life. A father shapes a child's understandi…
How do you create a safe space for young people in your life? My guest today is Keri Cooper, LCSW NBCCH. Keri specializes in Holistic Therapy for Teens and Adolescents. Most of us know this right? Teenagers today often struggle to find a safe space to express their thoughts and feelings, a challenge exacerbated by societal pressures, social media scrutiny, and academic stress. Without a supportive environment where they can openly share their emotions without fear of judgment or ridicule, ma…
What do you think about having a brother? The great value in having a brother lies in the unique and irreplaceable bond that offers a blend of companionship, support and shared history. My guest today is David Hollenbach. David shares, a brother often serves as a lifelong friend, confidant, and ally, providing a sense of security and belonging. This relationship is marked by mutual understanding and loyalty, cultivated through shared experiences and memories. A brother's presence means …
What do you do when facing something hard? Do you run from it or charge after the challenge ahead of you? Today my guest is Erin Whalen. Erin shares a very vulnerable letter and the thought process behind writing it. Writing a letter to someone when it's tough can feel like navigating a maze of emotions, each turn laden with the weight of unspoken words and unresolved feelings. The act demands courage and honesty, as you grapple with the vulnerability of exposing your inner thoughts. Ye…