Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth
Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth is a podcast hosted by Jen Sakowski that dives deep into the intersection of faith, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Each episode is packed with real-life stories, practical strategies, and inspiring conversations designed to help you find balance, success, and fulfillment in both your personal and professional life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a person of faith, or simply looking to grow, this podcast offers valuable insights to guide you on your journey.
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Treading Is Not Transformation
01/20/2026
Treading Is Not Transformation
Welcome to 2026. We’re not floating into this year. We’re fighting for what matters. In the first episode of the year, Jen delivers a wake-up call to every entrepreneur, creative, and leader who’s been feeling stuck in survival mode... doing “just enough” to stay afloat, but nowhere near what it takes to transform. This episode is a bold reminder that treading might keep you alive… but it won’t move you forward. 🔥 Inside This Episode: Why treading water keeps you stuck in spiritual and strategic stagnation What Revelation teaches us about lukewarm leadership The 3 key questions to ask if you're ready for real momentum this year How to shift from survival to strategy with faith + fire Jen’s challenge to decide what you're fighting for in 2026 — and go all in 🔗 Links & Resources: Book your Clarity Session → DM Jen your 2026 declaration → @jen.sakowski Join the Sunday CEO newsletter → 💬 Let’s Connect Screenshot this episode and tag @jen.sakowski with your 2026 declaration. 📣 What are you fighting for this year? 📣 What are you done treading around? Let’s hold each other accountable — and go all in. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Stay Connected: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website:
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Unavailable for Chaos — Even During the Holidays
12/02/2025
Unavailable for Chaos — Even During the Holidays
December doesn’t have to be chaotic. It can be sacred. In this first episode of the month, Jen shares what it looks like to set boundaries, choose peace, and stay grounded—even when the world (and your calendar) is trying to pull you into the holiday hustle. Inside this episode of Optimized Living, you’ll learn how to reclaim your power, protect your peace, and stay rooted in what matters most. ✨ What You’ll Hear: How to protect your energy and peace this month Why “being unavailable for chaos” is the most powerful boundary you can set What to do when opinions, expectations, or family drama try to steal your joy The difference between sacred and stressful — and how to choose the former A December mindset shift that’ll carry you into the new year strong and centered 🔗 Links & Resources: Book a Clarity Session → DM Jen on Instagram → @jen.sakowski Join the Optimized Living Weekly newsletter → 💬 Let’s Connect Feeling this episode? Screenshot and tag @jen.sakowski with your personal “I’m unavailable for ___ this month” declaration. Let’s make peace the default, not the reward. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website .
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Eyes on Your Own Lane
11/25/2025
Eyes on Your Own Lane
It’s easy to get caught up in someone else’s success and suddenly feel behind in your own race. But here’s the truth: God’s timeline > Instagram’s highlight reel. If you’ve been questioning your pace, your progress, or your purpose—this episode is your reminder to shift your focus, shake off the shame, and get back in your own lane. 👟 Inside this episode: Why comparison is quietly stealing your momentum How to stop measuring your growth by someone else’s highlight reel The 3 things comparison takes from you (and how to take them back) What it actually looks like to run your race with faith and focus A few gritty but grace-filled ways to stay locked into your calling 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Book a Clarity Session → DM Jen on Instagram → Join the newsletter → Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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It’s the Final Quarter — But You’re Not Out of Time
11/19/2025
It’s the Final Quarter — But You’re Not Out of Time
If you’re staring down the last few months of the year thinking, “Ugh… I should be further along,” this one’s for you. In this gritty, grace-filled episode of Optimized Living, Jen brings the truth: You’re not behind. But it’s time to stop drifting. Let’s get clear. Let’s get focused. Let’s finish strong. Inside this episode, you’ll hear: Why Q4 isn’t just about catching up — it’s about recommitting 3 reasons you may not be where you wanted to be (with zero shame) Jen’s gritty framework to make the next 90 days count A powerful reminder that God’s not done with this year yet — and neither are you How to choose one focus and build a real rhythm to finish strong If you’re ready to shake off the fog and make these last months matter — this episode is your call to rise. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Book a Clarity Session → DM me your Q4 commitment → Join the Optimized Living Weekly newsletter → 💬 Let’s Connect Screenshot this episode, tag me on IG , and share the ONE thing you’re committed to in Q4. Let’s finish the year with grit, grace, and growth.
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Let’s Talk About the Hard Stuff: When You Don’t Feel Like Showing Up
10/30/2025
Let’s Talk About the Hard Stuff: When You Don’t Feel Like Showing Up
Episode Summary: We all hit those moments—when you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or just plain tired of showing up. You’re not broken. You’re not lazy. And you’re definitely not alone. In this episode of Optimized Living, Jen gets real about what it looks like when the fire goes dim, the to-do list feels impossible, and you find yourself wanting to ghost your business (and maybe your purpose too). Inside, you’ll hear: Why feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re failing What Jen does personally when she hits the “I don’t wanna” wall A gentle reminder that calling doesn’t cancel out hard Four practical ways to reset, realign, and show up without forcing it A faith-led perspective on fatigue, momentum, and grace Whether you’re in a dry season or just craving someone to get it, this episode will speak straight to your heart. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Book a Clarity Session → DM Jen on Instagram → Join the Optimized Living Weekly Newsletter → Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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You Don’t Need More Time — You Need More Clarity
10/03/2025
You Don’t Need More Time — You Need More Clarity
If you’ve ever said, “I just need more time,” this episode is your wake-up call (in love, of course 💁♀️). Because the real issue? Lack of clarity. In this episode of Optimized Living, Jen breaks down the real reason you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or like nothing’s moving fast enough in your business. She walks you through: Why more time won’t solve unclear goals The cycle of indecision → delay → overwhelm (and how to break it) Her personal go-to methods for regaining clarity fast The Clarity Triangle: Vision → Goals → Tasks How faith and action unlock the clarity you’re praying for Whether you’re spinning your wheels or just tired of busy work, this episode will help you cut through the fog and focus on what actually matters. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Book a Clarity Session → DM me on Instagram → Grab the newsletter → Thank you to our Sponsor Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . 🫶 Let’s Connect! If this message hit home, screenshot the episode and tag — or send it to a friend who’s stuck in the spin. Let’s chase clarity together.
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The Bottleneck is You (And That’s Okay… For Now)
09/23/2025
The Bottleneck is You (And That’s Okay… For Now)
Ever feel like everything in your business is stuck waiting on… you? If you're the one juggling the emails, the approvals, the client onboarding, and the content calendar—it’s not because you're doing it wrong. It's because you're doing it all. In this episode of Optimized Living, I’m sharing the truth I had to face in my own business: I was the bottleneck. And the freedom came when I finally owned it, faced it, and started creating systems to change it. We’ll dive into: What it really means to be the bottleneck (without shame) How to recognize the signs that you’re the one holding things up 3 simple, powerful steps to start delegating and scaling Real stories from my business (JS, RDD, RDC) where I had to let go to grow The mindset shift that turns “I’m in the way” into “I’m clearing the path” If you’ve been running on burnout and can’t seem to get ahead, this is the wake-up call (with a whole lotta grace) you didn’t know you needed. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Book a Clarity Session → DM me on IG → Free newsletter → 🫶 Let’s Connect! If this episode resonated, send me a DM or screenshot it and tag me — let’s break through the bottlenecks together. Thank you to our Sponsor! Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website .
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Systems Aren’t Sexy… But They’ll Save Your Sanity
09/16/2025
Systems Aren’t Sexy… But They’ll Save Your Sanity
Let’s be real — systems rarely get the spotlight in business circles. They’re not glamorous. They don’t come with confetti. And yet… they might be the exact thing you need to stop spinning your wheels and finally breathe in your business. In this episode, I’m breaking down: Why systems aren’t restrictive—they’re freeing The 3 must-have systems every business owner needs (and how to start simple) How building structure actually creates peace, purpose, and space for God to move Real talk on how systems help you lead well—even when life gets lifey If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or like you can’t scale without losing your mind—this one’s for you. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: If this episode hit home, screenshot it and tag me — or send it to that biz bestie who needs to get their backend together. 💻🔥 Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website:
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Back-to-School, Back-to-Business: Leading Yourself First
09/05/2025
Back-to-School, Back-to-Business: Leading Yourself First
As the school buses roll out and the routines kick back in, it’s not just the kids heading back—you are too. Back to business. Back to structure. Back to the vision God gave you. But before you dive into your to-do list or load up your calendar, this episode is your reminder that you have to lead yourself first. In this episode, I’m walking you through: Why self-leadership is the foundation of growth How to build your Ideal Week with purpose and margin Where to set boundaries that support your business and your peace What rhythms help you stay aligned with your faith and goals If you’re craving a reset and ready to walk into this next season with clarity and intention—press play. You don’t have to run on fumes. You get to run with purpose. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Mid-Year Reset: It’s Not Too Late
08/26/2025
Mid-Year Reset: It’s Not Too Late
Stuck? Feeling behind on your goals? In this episode, Jen shares how to give yourself permission to evolve, reset your goals, and get realigned with what matters most. It’s not too late to finish strong—you’ve got 5 months left, and a whole lot of growth already behind you. You’ll Learn: Why feeling “off track” is actually a sign of growth How to reassess and realign your goals mid-year The mindset shift that helps you reset without guilt Jen’s personal reset moment (and how you can do it too) A 7-step Mid-Year Reset Checklist you can follow today This is your reset moment—don’t let it pass you by. and let’s get crystal clear on where you’re headed and what needs to shift to make it happen! Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth! Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Systems That Stick: How to Create SOPs That Actually Work
08/19/2025
Systems That Stick: How to Create SOPs That Actually Work
Tired of repeating yourself or digging through messy folders? In this episode, Jen breaks down how to create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that actually help your business run smoother. She shares the must-have components of a solid SOP, gives a real-life example of how her team at Raney Day Design uses one to keep projects organized, and reminds you that structure isn’t stifling—it’s spiritual. Whether you’re solo or scaling a team, you’ll walk away with the tools and confidence to create your first (or next) SOP. Key Takeaways: Why SOPs save your sanity (and your business) The 7 core components every SOP should include A peek inside our RDD folder structure SOP How to document a process in a way your team can follow—and actually use Why creating systems is a form of stewardship, not control Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth! Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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The CEO Shift: From Doing All the Things to Delegating Like a Boss
08/12/2025
The CEO Shift: From Doing All the Things to Delegating Like a Boss
Ever feel like you're doing everything in your business—and somehow still falling behind? In this episode, we’re talking about the power of delegation and why stepping into your CEO role means letting go of the need to do it all. Jen breaks down the mindset blocks that keep us stuck, how to build your dream team (even if it starts with one person), and why delegation is more than strategy—it’s a biblical leadership move. Whether you're running solo or already have a team, this episode will challenge and encourage you to lead with peace, purpose, and trust. Key Takeaways: Why we struggle to delegate (and the sneaky lies we tell ourselves) The cost of doing it all yourself—time, energy, and opportunity How to build a team that supports your vision without burning your budget 5 practical steps to start delegating like a boss How delegation reflects biblical leadership and trust in action Scripture/Spiritual Integration: Moses was told “you can’t do this alone” (Exodus 18) Jesus didn’t do ministry solo—He built a team and empowered others Delegation is stewardship, not laziness—it’s trust in people and in God Your Challenge: Pick one thing to delegate this week. Just one. Record that SOP. Ask for help. Let go—imperfectly. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth! Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Faith Isn’t Plan B: How to Build a Business That Relies on God, Not Just Grit
05/13/2025
Faith Isn’t Plan B: How to Build a Business That Relies on God, Not Just Grit
Are you building your business in your own strength? Or are you inviting God into the process from the start? In this episode, Jen unpacks what it really means to build with faith as the foundation—not the backup plan. You’ll hear personal stories, Biblical truths, and real-talk reflections on what happens when we trade control for trust. Whether you’re leading a business, launching a new idea, or navigating a season of uncertainty, this episode will remind you: You don’t have to carry it all. Faith isn’t weakness—it’s strategy. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why faith needs to be more than a fallback How to invite God into the practical parts of your business The power of surrender and rest in a hustle-heavy world Reframing faith as your leadership advantage—not your last resort 4 practical ways to shift from grit to God-led strategy Take this with you: You’re not just called to build—you’re called to build with Him. Faith isn’t Plan B. It’s the blueprint. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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You’re Not Behind—You’re in Process
05/06/2025
You’re Not Behind—You’re in Process
Feeling stuck? Like you're running behind while everyone else is speeding ahead? In this heartfelt episode, Jen reminds us that slow isn’t wrong—it’s sacred. She shares why what feels like a delay might actually be divine development and how embracing your current season is key to personal and business growth. If you’ve been questioning your pace, doubting your progress, or wondering if you missed your shot—this is your gentle reset. In this episode, we talk about: The pressure to "keep up" in business and life Why God's timing doesn't match hustle culture How to reframe your season of process as preparation Encouragement for entrepreneurs and faith-driven women walking through slow or uncertain seasons Let this episode be your reminder: You’re not behind. You’re becoming. 🌱 Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss future episodes! Make sure to subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth! Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Mastering the Mundane
04/01/2025
Mastering the Mundane
Most of life happens in the ordinary—laundry, emails, errands, routines. But what if the mundane isn’t something to escape… but the very space where real growth takes root? In this episode, Jen dives deep into the concept of mastering the mundane and how showing up consistently in the “unseen” moments can transform your faith, business, and personal growth journey. As we step into Q2, Jen invites you to reflect back on where you may have drifted or gotten distracted—and how embracing the boring (yes, boring) can actually be your breakthrough. In This Episode You’ll Learn: What it actually means to “master the mundane” Why ordinary routines are the foundation of long-term growth How consistency builds the muscle of discipline (and why that matters) Ways to shift your mindset and find purpose in everyday tasks How to reflect on Q1 and realign for Q2 with grace and intention Reflection Questions: Where did I get distracted or discouraged in Q1? What routines or habits have I avoided because they feel boring? What simple, repeatable actions can I recommit to this season? Resources & Links: 💻 Visit to explore coaching, resources, and tools to help you stay rooted in faith and aligned in business. 📬 Want more weekly encouragement like this? for real talk, tips, and tools every Sunday. 🎧 Listen to past episodes of Optimized Living wherever you get your podcasts. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Small Actions That Spark Big Change
02/04/2025
Small Actions That Spark Big Change
In this episode of Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth, Jen dives into the transformative power of small, intentional actions. So often, we set big goals but lose momentum when things feel hard or overwhelming. But what if success starts with just one small step? Jen shares personal stories, practical tips, and biblical encouragement to remind you that every action matters. Whether it’s reigniting your motivation or pushing past hesitation, today’s episode is a reminder that you’re just one decision away from building momentum and creating meaningful change. Key Points in this Episode: How You Do One Thing is How You Do Everything: Small actions reflect how you show up in every area of your life. Momentum Starts Small: Like learning to walk as a child, every small step builds strength and progress. Taking Action When Motivation Fades: Overcome hesitation with tools like the 5-second rule (5, 4, 3, 2, 1, GO). Why Actions Matter: Your consistent efforts reflect your faithfulness and align with God’s call for you. Practical Steps to Build Momentum: Start small with one action today. Commit to the next right step. Override hesitation with intentionality. Celebrate small wins along the way. Scriptures Mentioned: Galatians 6:9 (NIV): “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . ------ Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Faith Over Feelings
12/17/2024
Faith Over Feelings
In this episode of Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth, we explore the tension between our emotions and our faith. While feelings are valid and real, they were never meant to lead our decisions. Drawing on biblical truth and practical strategies, Jen shares how to pause, pray, and proceed with faith—even when emotions run high. Discover how choosing faith over feelings can bring clarity, peace, and a deeper trust in God’s perfect plan for your life. Key Points in this Episode: Feelings Aren’t Facts: Emotions can guide us temporarily, but they shouldn’t dictate our long-term direction. Jesus as the Example: In Matthew 26:38-39 (NIV), Jesus felt deep sorrow yet chose the Father’s will over His own feelings. Faith as a Daily Choice: Living by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7, NIV) means trusting God’s wisdom over momentary emotions. Practical Tools: Pause, Pray, Proceed: A simple method to slow down and seek God’s guidance before reacting. Journaling & Scripture: Writing down feelings and memorizing verses like Proverbs 3:5-6 helps align emotions with God’s truth. Community Support: Leaning on trusted friends or mentors can reinforce faith-centered choices. God’s Sovereignty: Revelation 22:13 (NIV) reminds us that God is the beginning and the end, ensuring we can trust Him through every emotional storm. Scriptures Mentioned: Matthew 26:38-39 (NIV) – Jesus choosing God’s will over His own feelings. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) – Trusting the Lord rather than our own understanding. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV) – Living by faith, not by sight. Revelation 22:13 (NIV) – God as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Practical Takeaways: Recognize when emotions threaten to lead and choose faith instead. Use prayer and Scripture to realign your perspective. Remember that God has already secured the victory, and your trust in Him anchors your responses. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who could use a reminder to choose faith over feelings. Don’t forget to subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth so you won’t miss future episodes designed to help you live with purpose, faith, and resilience. Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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Leveling Up in Faith & Expecting Opposition
10/15/2024
Leveling Up in Faith & Expecting Opposition
In this episode, we dive into the reality of spiritual warfare and how, as we grow in faith and purpose, we will inevitably face new opposition. Have you ever felt like just as you start moving forward, things get harder, heavier, or even fall apart? That’s often a sign of spiritual warfare. Today, I want to encourage you to stay strong in the fight by putting on the full armor of God, staying vigilant in prayer, and recognizing that while the enemy may come against you, God has already claimed victory. Key Points in this Episode: New Level, New Devil: Each new level of growth and faith brings new opposition, often in the form of spiritual battles. The Spiritual Battle: Our fight isn't against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12). Everything we face in the physical world is connected to this spiritual battle. The Full Armor of God: God equips us for these battles through the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11). While we are not immune to attacks, we have the tools to stand firm in the face of them. How to Stay Vigilant: Prayer: Strengthens us and connects us directly to God. Awareness: Recognize where the enemy is likely to attack. Community: Surround yourself with believers who can support you. Put on the Whole Armor of God: Each piece of the armor is essential, and prayer seals it all. God Has Already Won: Through our faith, we have direct access to the One who has already claimed victory. Revelation 22:13 reminds us that God is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. Scripture References: Ephesians 6:11-12 (NIV) – “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Revelation 22:13 (NIV) – “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Action Steps: Spend time in prayer asking God for strength and guidance as you face spiritual challenges. Reflect on the areas of your life where you might be under attack and ask for God’s protection. Put on the armor of God daily to stand firm in your faith. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage and uplift you in the journey. Resources Mentioned: *Armor of God Study - Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Connect with Jen: If today’s episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, or personal experiences with spiritual warfare and how you’ve overcome it. Subscribe & Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business & Growth. Share this with someone who needs encouragement, and leave a review—it helps others find the show and join our journey of faith and growth! *amazon affiliate link
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Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life
10/02/2024
Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life
In this episode of Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth, Jen dives deep into the power of attitude and how it shapes our daily experiences. Using a personal story about frustration and a missed opportunity, Jen reveals how our mindset directly impacts how we show up in life and how gratitude can be the key to transforming even the toughest days. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, staying grounded in faith, and making intentional choices about how we respond to life's challenges. By shifting our perspective and focusing on gratitude, we can start to change our internal world, even when external circumstances are tough. Key Points in this Episode: The Power of Attitude: How our mindset shapes our experiences and impacts our ability to grow and succeed. Personal Story: Jen shares a personal example of how a negative attitude led to unnecessary frustration and missed opportunities. Gratitude as the Foundation: Why starting each day with gratitude can reset your mindset and help you see life's challenges in a different light. Self-Awareness and Choice: Encouragement to stay self-aware and choose how we respond to life's difficulties rather than react emotionally. Faith and Grace: A reminder that God gives us free will to choose how we show up, and that small, intentional changes can lead to significant personal growth. Practical Takeaways: Shift your mindset to gratitude when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Recognize that you have the power to change your internal world, regardless of what's happening externally. Give yourself grace as you practice new habits—big change comes with small steps. Commit to self-awareness and mindfulness in how you respond to life’s challenges. Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Mentioned in This Episode: Mark Levander Productions – Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Share the love: If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend who might need some encouragement. Don’t forget to subscribe and join Jen next week for more conversations on faith, business, and growth.
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Welcome to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth
09/17/2024
Welcome to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth
In this very first episode, host Jen Sakowski introduces you to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth—a podcast dedicated to helping you find harmony between your faith, entrepreneurial journey, and personal development. Jen shares her vision for the podcast, explains what you can expect from future episodes, and gives insight into how faith, business, and personal growth intersect. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, deepen your faith, or enhance your personal development, this podcast is for you. Stay connected with me here: Shoutout to Our Sponsor:Special thanks to Mark Levander, who handles the editing and production of this podcast. If you're thinking of starting a podcast and want professional help, be sure to visit Mark's website . Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to Optimized Living: Faith, Business, & Growth. Join the Conversation: Follow Jen on social media and stay in touch with the Optimized Living community: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: Share the Love: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more listeners.
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