Run to the Hard Podcast
In grief, we all have hidden in the shadows. We have darted from conversations. We shop alone. We eat alone. We go to church alone. We unwillingly have joined a club that we never intended to be apart of. We have an unspoken language but we understand each other. If you have experienced the grief of trauma, this podcast is for you. If you’ve experienced the grief of divorce, this podcast is for you. If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, parent, a spouse, a child, this podcast is for you. If you wanna know how to help people right in the middle of their grief, this podcast is for you. Embark on a deeply personal journey of resilience, hope, and healing with Curtis Christopher and co-host Chris Farrell on the "Run to the Hard" podcast. In the wake of sudden tragedy and profound grief, Curtis vulnerably shares his experiences of navigating life's toughest moments after losing his beloved wife Michal to a sudden and aggressive battle to cancer. Michal lived by the mantra, "Run to the hard, run to the hurt because it's in the greatest hard that God's gonna do the greatest work" Joining a community is as easy as hitting play.
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A Whole New Level of Grief
07/29/2025
A Whole New Level of Grief
This is the epic conclusion to our 3 part series with Curtis and Crystal, walking through the absolute "shipwreck" of their lives right now. They're grieving their spouses deaths... Curtis' step-children's dad passes away... Their wedding was canceled... Old grief is being brought to the surface as they navigate death, grief, the legal system... Their ways of managing the overwhelm have them feeling disconnected... There's no way you could make up something like this. It's just too much. And yet... By God's grace, they are here and they keep going. Join me in this final instalment, and please...pray for them. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 1:40 New grandbaby! 5:51 A whole new level of grief 16:18 Grieving your husband when your fiancé is weighed down by grief 28:58 Temptations while navigating such immense grief and intensity 37:50 Everything burns down 43:14 Doing vs resting in the waiting 48:37 The children are our joy 52:15 Where is the rest and recovery? 1:00:50 How to make sure rest doesn't become destructive 1:02:38 What grieving kids need 1:12:58 The future vision 1:16:07 Crystal's vision MENTIONED Part 1: Part 2:
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When Grief Breaks a Relationship… and God Holds It Together
07/15/2025
When Grief Breaks a Relationship… and God Holds It Together
Welcome to part 2 of this unbelievable saga. The life of Curtis Christopher, Michal's kids, and Crystal and her kids continues to plunge further into the chaos of unexpected death, compounding grief, triggers, postponed marriage, court dates, and just life with so many moving parts. Today they dive into the difficulty of deciding to postpone a wedding, just days after their court date, blending such a unique family, sacrificial love, obedience to the Lord, and inter-family dynamics. This is a story that would be hard to make up, because it sounds so unbelievable. But by God's grace, Curtis and Crystal continue along the path to build a safe, stable, loving home for these kids while they continue to wait on God's timing and trust Jesus to bring everything to fruition, in His time. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 0:42 Sudden death, grief triggers, and about to get married 8:36 When grief shuts you down emotionally 19:41 The rollercoaster of postponing our wedding 32:32 Blending families in a very unique situation 37:09 Sacrificial love 43:03 Another layer of grief impacting relationships 50:30 Obedience and the wilderness 57:42 The enemy is trying to split us up
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Five Kids Lose Their Dad Overnight & The Aftermath of Grief
07/01/2025
Five Kids Lose Their Dad Overnight & The Aftermath of Grief
If you've heard our story and think things have been crazy lately, you haven't heard anything yet. In this episode we walk you through the absolute whirlwind of grief and tragedy we've been walking through the last couple of months, to make things all the more complicated after the last couple of years of grief. From sudden death, to planning a funeral, to postponing our wedding, to lawyers and court dates, to deathversaries making it all the worse. Not much of this story makes sense from our limited human perspective, but God is faithful and we hope sharing this both encourages and strengthens your own walk. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 0:37 The insanity of the last couple of months with grief upon grief 6:58 What's going to happen to the kids? 9:46 Sudden death...AND a death anniversary...at the same time 26:04 The kids’ relationship with their passed dad 35:54 The funeral 42:20 Chaos of normal life with so much grief 48:44 Kids going back to school 55:50 A 10 year old did WHAT? 1:00:20 How could you do this without Jesus?
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Finding Purpose in Grief: JoBeth Evans' Story
06/04/2025
Finding Purpose in Grief: JoBeth Evans' Story
From the grief of being unable to have children, to the joys of adopting and building a picture-perfect life together... Straight into the depths of losing her husband to brain cancer... JoBeth Evan's story is a roller coaster, and she tells it - and lives it - with so much grace and peace. Today's episode is extra impactful because not only does JoBeth have lived experience of deep grief, BUT, she's turned that experience into a way to serve others as a certified grief recovery specialist. She helps others navigate deep grief in a way that keeps them moving forward and honoring the memory of those who are being grieved. Seeing things from the experiential AND the professional side of things allows JoBeth to offer an incredible testimony to the goodness of God, and how to walk through grief well. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 0:46 God's Plans 9:28 Adoption 14:30 Things Change Drastically 21:25 Brain Cancer 23:45 The Practical Reality of Losing Your Spouse 28:15 How Much To Share 34:42 "Selfish" Grieving? 39:57 Do NOT Say This To Grieving People 41:56 Kids Grieving 49:14 Response To Dying 58:07 Grief Recovery Coaching 1:03:38 Run To The Hard - Buffalo Style MENTIONED Facebook: Instagram: NWA Grief Specialists:
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Ep 32: The Weight of Parenting 9 Kids While Grieving Your Wife
05/20/2025
Ep 32: The Weight of Parenting 9 Kids While Grieving Your Wife
You will NOT believe the compounded grief that's just been added to our story. This episode was recorded right before another tragedy, so when we sat down to talk about the overwhelm of 2.5 years of grieving, trying to get your life back on track, guiding and raising 9 children from multiple families, and being weighed down by it all while learning to trust God in the process...we couldn't imagine it could get more complicated. Listen in and be encouraged, because despite everything that's happening, we know God is good, and He is redeeming everything. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 5:28 Overwhelm: 2.5 years of grief 11:12 Pressure 16:14 Does grief stunt growth? 22:01 How to lead without letting guilt make the decisions 26:21 Blending two grieving families 34:26 Raising boys 41:40 The 4 types of grievers 47:20 Encouragement from Megan, who lost both parents at 14 58:42 How God uses His people to accomplish His purposes MENTIONED Finding Motivation After Grief: 2 Years After Grief: Crystal Episode: Lonnie Potts episode:
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Ep 31: Trusting God After Losing Your Parents, Marriage, and Ministry with Lonnie Potts
05/06/2025
Ep 31: Trusting God After Losing Your Parents, Marriage, and Ministry with Lonnie Potts
Lonnie Potts is my favorite preacher. He played an instrumental role in my life as a young father, husband, and professional. I'm thrilled to have him on the podcast today, to honor him, number one, but also to give you hope that when all seems lost...God gives a way forward. Lonnie shares what it's like to experience crushing failure as a Christian, and to turn to God for redemption and healing. Within a very short time, Lonnie lost both parents, his marriage, and the ministry he'd worked so hard to build. But God is good, and failure does NOT define you. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 4:04 The Joy (and Challenges) of Church Growth 17:17 Tell Stones vs Tomb Stones 23:33 Starting a Church School 28:14 Lonnie Quotes 32:49 Divorce, Losing Both Parents Within Weeks of Each Other 47:28 Inspiring Stories of Failure and Faith in The Bible
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Ep 30: Hope For The Abandoned, Betrayed, and Forgotten
04/22/2025
Ep 30: Hope For The Abandoned, Betrayed, and Forgotten
Feeling abandoned, betrayed, or forgotten? I know the feeling. And so did Joseph in the Bible. But the story of Joseph, my story, and yes, your story, too, is NOT over no matter how bad things are. God RESTORES. He USES the hard parts of your life. Joseph kept going through all of it and ended up saving not only all of Egypt, but his own family. His household. Keep going, because God hasn't finished your story, yet. (This is a talk Curtis Christopher gave to the students of Ohio Christian University in April 2025.) --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 5:11 Curtis's Unexpected Ministry 5:50 Joseph Runs Into The Hard 8:09 Abandoned 12:07 Betrayal 15:14 Forgotten 16:08 Heartbreaking Diagnosis and Grief 21:10 She Said THIS On Her Deathbed... 23:59 The Birth of a Podcast 28:00 From Podcast Listener To Wife 31:52 God's Not Done Writing Your Story
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Ep 29: How to Grieve Your Health After 100 Surgeries
04/08/2025
Ep 29: How to Grieve Your Health After 100 Surgeries
100 surgeries. Her body is breaking down, making things like work, driving, even turning her head to the side impossible. Yet LeeAnnw is one of the most loving, caring, positive people I've ever met. She's literally my hero because of how much she's gone through...with a smile on her face! LeeAnne's story of grief is not about losing a person, but about losing a future she thought she'd have. Losing mobility, independence...even losing a pain-free life, which most of us just take for granted. Whether you just got bad health news, or you're a caregiver to someone who has, this is an episode where we hope you'll be inspired and come to lean ever more on the Lord. --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". MENTIONED Podcast with LeeAnne's husband Josh Ep 28:
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Ep: 28 How I Healed After Dad Took His Own Life
03/11/2025
Ep: 28 How I Healed After Dad Took His Own Life
Josh's dad took his own life when he was only 6 years old. This leaves a mark on a young boy, and it showed in Josh's life as he pursued partying and drinking. But God is faithful. Even before Josh was a Christian, He put good men in Josh's life. One of which eventually became his father in law! Not to leave a story unfinished, Josh and his wife Leanne moved into a neighborhood FULL of Christians, where Josh went to church for the first time and eventually gave his life to the Lord! This is a story of God's fatherly provision and God's redemption! CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 3:30 The Neighborhood Where Josh Found Jesus 8:00 Childhood Tragedy 13:35 The Miracle Job 16:03 Suicide 21:47 How Josh and Leanne Met 28:02 The Power of One Man Paying Attention --- DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: https://www.runtothehard.com/give Rate The Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/rtth Become a Sponsor: https://www.runtothehard.com/sponsors Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together".
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Ep 27: Healing After The Loss of Your Spouse
02/24/2025
Ep 27: Healing After The Loss of Your Spouse
Curtis and Crystal both traumatically lost their spouses roughly 2 years ago. Their lives were turned upside down. They experienced grief like they didn't know existed. Suddenly everything needed to be rebuilt. Along his grieving journey, Curtis started this podcast to support other grievers. Crystal was one of those early listeners, and felt like Curtis truly saw her in her grief. She reached out. They got talking and developed a friendship. Now? They're getting married! Join Curtis, Crystal, and Chris for this incredibly deep and vulnerable episode, and learn how Curtis and Crystal are planning to rebuild - together, now - as they each continue their personal grieving journeys. DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION to Help Families Stuck in Grief. Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Watch The Video Where Curtis Proposes! Watch Crystal's Full Story: Watch Curtis' Full Story:
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Ep 26: Widowed Overnight | Losing My Husband Suddenly at 32
02/03/2025
Ep 26: Widowed Overnight | Losing My Husband Suddenly at 32
If you have experienced the sudden and tragic loss of a spouse, this episode is for you. In this powerful conversation, Cortney Kendrick shares her heartbreaking yet hope-filled journey after losing her husband Don to sudden violence. We dive into the raw emotions of grief, questioning God, and the battle against the enemy’s lies. Cortney opens up about life before the tragedy, navigating sorrow, how God has redeemed her story and what it truly means to Run to the Hard when life feels unbearable. CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 2:53 Life Leading Up To Tragedy 11:32 Questioning God? 18:09 How Should You Comfort A Griever? 21:54 Suffering Loss 28:39 Savior Complex 32:18 Fighting The Enemy's Lies During Grief 36:40 Life After Loss 45:44 What Does Run To The Hard Mean to Cortney? DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION to Help Families Stuck in Grief. Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Cortney's Facebook Profile:
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Ep 25: Losing Mom at 18 Years Old
01/21/2025
Ep 25: Losing Mom at 18 Years Old
What do you do when you lose your mom at 18, only a month after you found out she was sick? You've heard Curtis and Michal's story on this podcast many times. It's a story of love, grief, perseverance, faith, and God's loving kindness. But today, we are blessed to hear the story from a very special source. Michal's daughter Ellah joins us on the podcast today to talk about her experience of losing her mother at only 18 years old, and how she's grieved while running to the hard over the past 2 years since her mother's death. DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION: Rate The Podcast: Become a Sponsor: Share The Episode...Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together". CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 2:27 Why People Isolate In Grief 4:44 What It's Like To Learn Your Mom Has 1 Week To Live 13:15 Being The Eldest Sibling After Mom Passes Away 16:02 The Dumbest Things People Say To Grievers 20:54 Anger Against God? 32:15 Self-Help...or Jesus? 35:39 The Truth About Curtis Christopher 43:57 A Caveat To All Of This... 45:37 Healing Through Writing 49:26 One Last Piece of Encouragement
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Ep 24: Losing BOTH Aging Parents Weeks Apart
12/17/2024
Ep 24: Losing BOTH Aging Parents Weeks Apart
In This episode, Curtis is joined by his long-time friends Steph and Dale Schaeffer. They discuss the challenges of caring for aging parents, the importance of having difficult conversations about health and care, and the emotional toll of being part of the sandwich generation. Steph and Dale reflect on the impact of COVID-19 on caregiving, the necessity of community support, and the moments of joy found amidst the hardship Steph losing both of her parents weeks apart. DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION- Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode- Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" CHAPTERS 1:45 Sick Parents and Grieving Their Loss 6:10 Having Hard Conversations About Caring For Aging Parents 11:45 When Mom goes to a Nursing Home and Dad is in Hospital 15:03 Dealing With Home Life When Your Spouse is Away Helping Ailing Parents 23:44 Strain on the Marriage 28:46 How To Help When It's Hard 31:50 Ministry Before Tragedy Versus Ministry After 36:15 A New Boldness 39:12 Unpacking Matthew 8
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Ep 23: Thankful Looks Different After Grief
12/16/2024
Ep 23: Thankful Looks Different After Grief
In this powerful episode, Curtis invites his girlfriend Crystal to speak live at Sunbury Nazarene Church in Sunbury, Ohio to answer the question, what does Thanksgiving and gratitude look like right in the middle of devastation and pain? Stay until the end for a huge surprise! DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION- Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode- Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Chapters 02:58 Curtis' Introduction of Crystal 08:56 The Journey of Healing and Restoration 11:55 The Role of Faith in Suffering 14:59 Embracing New Beginnings 17:56 The Importance of Gratitude 21:08 Lessons from the Valley of the Shadow of Death 23:57 Choosing to See God's Goodness 26:49 The Transformative Power of Scripture 29:59 A New Chapter of Life 32:57 Celebrating Love and New Beginnings
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Ep 22: Grief & The Search For Hope
11/08/2024
Ep 22: Grief & The Search For Hope
In this powerful episode of Run to the Hard, host Curtis sits down again with longtime friend and pastor Tristan Borland to delve deeper into the journey of grief and the search for hope. Both Curtis and Tristan have endured profound personal losses, and their discussion centers on how faith, community, and finding purpose can help navigate the dark seasons of life. Tristan shares his experiences as a pastor counseling grieving families, how his own loss of his daughter,Maria brought him to a new understanding of boundaries, and the ways his congregation ministered to him in his time of need. DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION- Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode- Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Buy Tristan and Jill's Book- Tristan's other 01:30 Tristan's Pastoral Story 03:17 Managing Grief and Boundaries 05:12 The Role of Community in Healing 07:40 The Weight of Grief 11:24 Helping Others Through Grief 24:27 The Theology of a Three-Year-Old 29:52 Jesus Loves Me 34:46 Two Different Lives 39:15 Love as a Multiplying Force 43:32 Pain into Purpose 49:08 The Cosmic Story of Redemption 51:25 Amen
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Ep 21: Life After The Loss of A Child
10/28/2024
Ep 21: Life After The Loss of A Child
This audio podcast is for grievers who have experienced loss of a child and the devastating impact of grief on a young family. DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION- Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode- Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Buy Tristan and Jill's Book- Tristan's other CHAPTER 01:00 Tristan & Curtis's Connection 04:39 A Grief Conversation with a Friend 07:55 Experiencing Sudden Loss of a Child 13:00 Therapy Writing that Turned to a Book 18:25 Forced to Postpone Daughter's Funeral 19:30 Welcoming a New Baby With No Joy 23:08 A Profound Metaphor Describing Grief 26:45 The Awkwardness of Grieving 32:28 Theology of Suffering 37:22 The Reality of Doubt 40:32 The Messiness of Grief 42:00 Responding To Weird Comments 46:36 The Risk of Loving Again 49:06 Sacred Relics 59:10 Redeeming Pain 01:02:59 Everything is Uncomfortable 01:06:35 Giving Hope Through Tristan's Book 01:10:00 Joy in Sorrow 01:12:10 Closing
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Ep 20: Finding Motivation After Loss
10/22/2024
Ep 20: Finding Motivation After Loss
In this episode, Chris and Curtis delve into the profound journey of grief, exploring how to find motivation amidst loss. DONATE TO THE MICHAL FOUNDATION- 1. Rate The Podcast https://ratethispodcast.com/rtth 2. Become a 3. Share The Episode- Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" CHAPTERS 00:60When Did Curtis Find Motivation in Grief? 03:40 Was There a Turning Point? 06:49 What is God's Purpose For Us? 11:33 Why You Shouldn't Alienate Others 17:51 Griever's Responsibility in Healing 20:48 Celebrity Stories 21:13 Deion Sanders 22:20 Darryl Strawberry 22:56 Hulk Hogan's Story 23:41 The Common Denominator 27:01 The Message of the Gospel 28:10 What is Spiritual Laziness? 33:55 Laziness Vs Brokeness and Living to Our Full Potential 36:25 Why Can't I Find Motivation in Grief? 39:59 A Prayer for the Grieving
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Ep 19: Grief Lessons Two Years After My Wife Died
10/15/2024
Ep 19: Grief Lessons Two Years After My Wife Died
In this episode, Chris interviews Curtis, particularly focusing on the transition from the first to the second year after the loss of his wife and the lessons he has learned. Needs of This Ministry & Those Stuck In Grief- Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Email us! ) Here are 4 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Subscribe on Youtube- Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" TIME STAMPS 01:20 Navigating Grief: Year One vs. Year Two 08:40 Taking Charge of Grief 13:40 Building Supportive Friendships 19:54 Setting Boundaries in Grief 26:43 Gaining Perspective Through Loss 30:26 Finding Purpose in Tragedy 31:18 A Heart for Helping Others 35:42 Living Out Our Purpose 39:33 Living with Eternal Perspective 42:28 Responsibilities of the Church and Community 52:24 How To Find Support 56:15 The Michal Foundation: A Legacy of Love 58:32 Concluding Thoughts and Prayers
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Ep 18: Curtis Guests on Tragedy Into Triumph Podcast
10/08/2024
Ep 18: Curtis Guests on Tragedy Into Triumph Podcast
This episode is from Curtis's interview on Wendell Browns podcast This interview is a great recap of Curtis & Michal's story from the perspective of a pastor who saw them through many tragedies and triumphs of their own. Tragedy Into Triumph Ministry: THE MICHAL FOUNDATION- Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Episode- Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Time Stamps: 03:00 The Facade of the Perfect Family 09:00 The Hard of Divorce & Singleness at Fifty 12:00 A Season of Deep Spiritual Growth 14:00 "Who You Marry Matters" 23:00 Comparing Your Old Marriage 27:00 An Unexpected Tragedy 37:00 Michal's Response to Hard Things In Life 40:00 "Am I Dying Well"? 45:00 Michal's Last Words To The World 50:00 Where is The Hope In This Tragedy? 52:00 Run To Hard In Other People's Lives 57:00 The Run To The Hard Podcast Origin Story 01:01:00 Support The Grief Foundation
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Ep 17: Love After Losing Your Spouse
10/01/2024
Ep 17: Love After Losing Your Spouse
In this heartfelt conversation, Chris walks Crystal and her new love after loss through their current experiences as they date after losing their spouses. They explore the complexities of navigating the emotional roller coaster that comes with healing and how their kids are reacting to the news. P.S if you missed the last episode, start there first! - Needs of This Ministry & Those Stuck In Grief- Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Email us! ) Here are 4 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Subscribe on Youtube- Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Time Stamps 01:29 Love After Loss For Crystal 14:17 "I'm Interested, But Still Grieving" 20:19 The Blessing To Move on 30:45 Easier to Stay Single? 32:49 Michal Foundation 33:57 What Do The Kids Think About Your Relationship? 44:51 Practical Challenges In a New Relationship 47:25 Preparing Others For Love After Loss? 52:58 Setting Physical Boundaries With a New Relationship 55:05 What Draws You To Each Other? 01:01:53 What Do You Tell The Skeptic? 01:05:48 Final Prayer
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Ep 16: Coping With Seasons of Continuous Suffering
09/24/2024
Ep 16: Coping With Seasons of Continuous Suffering
In this conversation, Curtis leads podcast listener, Crystal through an incredible journey through loss, abandonment, and the challenges of navigating life after loss of her husband. Throughout the episode, the emphasis is on running to the hard places of life and allowing God to work through those experiences for healing and growth. This conversation explores the profound journey of Crystal as she navigates through significant health challenges, the impact of a life-altering diagnosis, and the resilience required to support her family. Needs of This Ministry & Those Stuck In Grief- Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Email us! ) Here are 4 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Subscribe on Youtube- Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together" Time Stamps First Marriage Ending in Divorce 06:00 The Impact of PTSD on a Marriage 09:00 Honoring Vows Through Abandonment in Marriage 11:00 God's Release From The Marriage 17:00 The Pain & Healing From Divorce 23:00 Meeting Brandon 28:00 Second Marriage, Was it Easy? 32:00 Chronically ill After Pregnancy 34:00 Creating a New Normal 35:00 Lupus Support () 37:00 Crystal Almost Dies in 2020 45:00 The Cancer Call 52:00 A Support Village 56:00 Isolation in The Hospital from Dad 58:00 Brandon's Death 01:06:00 What's The Curtis & Crystal Connection
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Ep 15: Navigating a Late Miscarriage
09/17/2024
Ep 15: Navigating a Late Miscarriage
In this conversation, Co host Chris, invites his wife Johnna on the podcast to breathe out their personal and fresh journey of walking through a late miscarriage in January 2024. They share a new perspective on their hospital experience as well as the awful timing of the loss, the lies the enemy attacked Johnna with and the questions of why God allowed them to walk through this hard after they prayed for God's will in family expansion. 04:00 Terrible Timing For a Miscarriage 07:00 "The Baby Has No Heartbeat" 12:00 Deciding Between Induction or a D&C 18:00 The Unexpected Hospital Perspective 24:00 Answered Prayers For Mercy 31:00 More Than a Clump of Cells 39:00 Learning it Was a Boy 41:00 Emotions Leaving The Hospital 41:00 Emotions Leaving The Hospital 49:00 Practical Challenges of Loss & Support 54:00 Chaos and No Time To Grieve 1:01:00 The Lies The Enemy Attacks Women With 1:09:00 Questioning God's Timing of Another Pregancy 01:14:00 How to Support Those Grieving a Baby Loss 01:21:00 How Can Men Support In Times of Trial? 01:30:00 Does God Waste Loss? Needs of This Ministry & Those Stuck In Grief- Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 4 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Subscribe on Youtube- Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 14: Dealing With a Deadbeat Dad
09/10/2024
Ep 14: Dealing With a Deadbeat Dad
In this conversation, Chris helps Curtis breathe out his personal experience with his absent and neglectful father. They explore the impact of neglect, and the importance of taking responsibility as a parent. They also touch on the role of the Holy Spirit in being a good father and the dangers of selfishness in parenting. The conversation highlights the need for restitution and accountability in repairing broken relationships and emphasizes the importance of living a purposeful and selfless life as a father. 05:00 Early Life With a Deadbeat Dad 10:00 Restitution For The Neglect 13:30 How to Respond to "I Want a Better Relationship With You? 18:00 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Overcoming Hardships 21:00 Can I Be A Good Man Without Jesus? 21:13 24:00 The Modern Man's Responsibility 33:00 Advice for Moms with Deadbeat Husbands 40:30 Is It My Responsibility That Dad Finds The Lord? 46:30 The Mystery of Last Minute Salvations 49:00 Final Thoughts and Prayer Needs of This Ministry & Those Stuck In Grief- Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 4 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Subscribe on Youtube- Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 13: Grieving a Dad Who Did Not Believe In God
09/03/2024
Ep 13: Grieving a Dad Who Did Not Believe In God
In this heartfelt kickoff to Season Two of the Run to the Hard podcast, Chris dives deep into the raw emotions and difficult questions surrounding the loss his best friend and Coach Curti's former player, Josh Delph. Josh shares his challenging relationship with his father, He opens up about the complex feelings of grief, not just for his father’s passing but for the relationship that never was and the forgiveness and regrets he has now that the window is closed on Dad. 02:22 A Dad That Valued Friends Over Family 03:58 Incapable of What a True Dad Could Be 05:10 How Did You React When You Found Out Your Dad Died? 07:50 Dad is Answering To God Now.. 10:01 Battling With Yourself to be Bold 12:13 The Power of Presence 15:26 What if I feel like I've blown it in represneting my faith 17:24 In Hindsight, Would You Have Changed Your Approach? 20:45 Our Prayer Life For The Unsaved 21:52 How do you reconcile with God for time running out on dad even though you prayed? 24:10 What Does God Say About Our Efforrts in Boldness? 26:05 Chris's Recent Story of Sharing Jesus at Chipotle 33:28 The Power of Distraction From What Matters Most 36:18 God Still Has A Plan For Everyone 38:30 The Dangers of Believing in No Authority Above Ourselves 40:42 How do you reconcile the idea that the window is closed and you won't see your dad again? 45:58 How Have You Become A Better Dad? 47:19 Dad's Reaction When You Became A Christian? 52:54 When is The Right Time to Bring Up God to Family? 55:07 Celebrating Dad & Struggling Through Respecting His Wishes 01:00:11 The Sad Fact of Not Finding Many Pictures With Dad 01:04:17 Dealing With Bitterness Towards Dad 01:06:23 What Would You Say To A Father Like Yours To Wake Them Up? 01:09:52 How Do You Grieve A Broken Relationship And an Unbelieving Father ? 01:12:24 Where Is The Hope As You Move Forward? Challenges and Needs of This Ministry Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 12: SEASON FINALE: Michal's Last Words To The World
07/22/2024
Ep 12: SEASON FINALE: Michal's Last Words To The World
In this conversation, Curtis and Chris discuss the importance of running to the hard things in life and finding joy in the midst of pain. They reflect on Curtis's late wife Michal's last words. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the hope of heaven and the need for a relationship with Jesus. TIME STAMPS: Michal's Last Words The Origin of Her Last Words Michal's Prayer For Eternal Perspective Joy Vs. Sadness, Which One Is Winning? Michal's Dying Wishes And Lessons For Grief The Harder The Pain The Bigger The Task What Are you Doing With The Rest Of Your Life? All Christians Shoud Run To The Hard Lesson From The Letter About Running To The Hard The Importance of Time and Attention in Relationships The Roundtown Article Story The Hope For Eternity God is a God of Relationships Challenges and Needs of This Ministry Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 11: Questioning God After Loss
07/15/2024
Ep 11: Questioning God After Loss
In this conversation, Chris and Curtis battle with the harsh questions of who God is after loss and the questions they both have as they try to understand why God allows the hurt and the hard. The duo discuss the personal experiences of loss and grief in their lives, as well as what Michal taught us with her story of questioning God after the loss of her child. TIME STAMPS: 01:00 - Baby Jasper’s story 02:30 - Questioning God 03:00 - Pointing people to Christ in the Dark Seasons 04:00 - Chris Reflecting on Losing His Son, Lawson. 09:00 - Numbness after loss 09:30 - Spiritual high during the hope for a miracle 11:00 - Hard Questions about God’s presence in loss. 13:00 - Preparing for a loss vs. the shock of a sudden loss 14:00 - The physical and mental effects of shock after loss 15:30 - Creating a defense mechanism to not feel the grief 18:00 - When it feels like God is off-script 19:00 - Baby Ronnie’s story 22:30 - Going to the hard dark places 23:00 - Finding God for yourself 28:00 - Is God more concerned with bringing us to Him than gaining glory from healing? 30:00 - Eternal perspective 33:00 - How do you see God’s presence in the hard seasons? 34:00 - God is at work even when we don’t feel it 38:30 - Empathizing and understanding others in their grief 40:00 - The discipline of staying in the word in grief 42:00 - Recalling to mind the goodness of God in your past - He’s the same God 47:30 - How do you reconstruct rather than deconstruct your faith after the hard? 49:00 - The untruthful, unscriptural path people can lead you down after death - mediums, guardian angels, tarot cards 52:00 - The crossroads of why we really desire heaven 56:30 - What to do when God's plan doesn't make sense to us. 01:01:00 - Facing that we are fallen humans 01:03:00 - Realizing who you are In Christ 01:04:00 - When we assume God’s plan is our plan 01:07:00 - The harder the things, the harder the task God is calling you to 01:09:30 - The Facebook post that provides spiritual perspective. 01:14:00 - Saying “Your Will be done” even when we don’t feel it 01:14:45 - Why would we ever want to rob our loved ones of heaven? 01:15:30 - Closing prayer Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 10: Who Was Michal? | Clumsy, Crunchy & Connective
07/08/2024
Ep 10: Who Was Michal? | Clumsy, Crunchy & Connective
In this conversation, Curtis and Chris take an off the cuff approach where Curtis shares who Michal was, the hilarious things she did, the fierce mother she was and the impactful lessons she has left us all. TIME STAMPS: 00:60 - Tell me who Michal was? 01:30 - Brutally Honest 03:00 - MLM Life - Working up the Courage 06:00 - Dorky Homeschool Mom 07:00 - Cute & Clumsy 10:00 - Strict Homeschool Life 11:00 - Shockingly Self-Conscious 12:00 - How to Keep the Walls Down 14:00 - Crunchy Mom Life 22:00 - Not a Morning Person 23:00 - Music for the Soul 24:00 - Enneagram Obsession 27:00 - Humorously Naive 27:30 - What Would Michal Want People to Know 28:30 - Living Below the Surface in Relationships 30:00 - A Mom Who Taught 32:30 - Cracking the Code in every Relationship Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Show Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 9: Grief Affects More Than Just You
07/01/2024
Ep 9: Grief Affects More Than Just You
In this conversation, Curtis and Chris discuss the impact of grief on others. They discuss the lessons Curtis is learning from grief while exploring the deep levels of grief experienced by those who knew her. The conversation concludes with the friends close to us who are our ride or die who experience the worst with us and finally an eternal perspective of grief and the importance of finding community. TIME STAMPS: 1:00 - Perspective of Grief for a Child from Afar 2:00 - Personal Lessons from Grief - Fumbling Through 3:30 - Running to the Hard Convos with Kids 7:00 - How Grief Reshapes Our View of Life 9:00 - Supporting the Friends of Your Lost Loved One 12:00 - Being Proud of the Way Your Loved One Impacted Others 17:00 - The Grief from Divorce 18:00 - The First Deep Loss/The Eternal Perspective of Loss 21:00 - Grieving Over the Souls of Others as Christians 25:00 - Shocking Statistics on Death & Loss 28:00 - Culture’s Skewed View on Death & Eternity 30:00 - Carrying Each Other’s Burdens - Grieving for Friends Losses 33:00 - Grief SHOULD Call Christians to Action 34:00 - Running to the Hard for Others Who Are Grieving 37:00 - Every Person Grieves Differently 39:00 - Learning to Listen 41:00 - Allowing for the Space for Those Grieving to Talk About Their Person 42:00 - How Grief Has Affected Friendships 49:00 - Grief Causes Awkwardness 51:00 - How Do We Act Around Our Grieving Friends? 55:00 - Growth Through Grief 01:00 - Identity After Loss 01:01 - How Far Should We Go Into Someone Else’s Grief? 01:02 - Who Are Your Ride or Die People? 01:07 - Find Your Community Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast https://ratethispodcast.com/rtth 2. Become a 3. Share The Show! Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 8: Navigating Waves of Grief: Responding with Compassion
06/24/2024
Ep 8: Navigating Waves of Grief: Responding with Compassion
In this episode, Curtis and Chris delve into the complex language of grief, exploring how it impacts one's sense of purpose and the unspoken communication it entails. They discuss how outsiders react to grief, the process of turning pain into purpose, and the significance of reminders and analogies, such as 'waves of grief,' in understanding and communicating the grieving process. The conversation also touches on the profound impact of grief on children, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and supporting those who are mourning. Additionally, they explore the role of faith in finding comfort and peace during times of loss. Join us for a heartfelt discussion that sheds light on navigating grief and supporting others through their journey. TIME STAMPS: 5:00 - Finding Purpose in Your Pain During Grief 14:00 - Revealing Grief Questions No One Wants to Answer 16:00 - Sharing Grief Experiences and Swapping Stories 18:00 - What to Say to Someone Who Has Lost a Loved One 20:30 - Grief is Love with No Place to Go: Understanding the Concept 23:00 - Hard but Purposeful Moments in the Grieving Process 25:30 - Waves of Grief: An Analogy for Understanding Loss 29:00 - Are We Naturally Equipped to Know How to Grieve? 32:00 - Leading Children Through Grief While You Also Grieve 36:00 - Navigating Holidays Without a Loved One 38:30 - Dealing with the Unfairness of Loss: Lessons from Michal 41:00 - The Surreal Feeling of Losing a Loved One 42:00 - Recapping How Grief Comes in Waves 44:30 - "What Do You Want Me to Know About Your Loved One?": How to Ask 52:00 - Grief Will Affect Us All: Preparing for the Inevitable 53:00 - Closing Scripture on Grief - Psalm 34:18 Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast https://ratethispodcast.com/rtth 2. Become a 3. Share The Show! Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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Ep 7: The Lonely & Tempting Side of Grief
06/17/2024
Ep 7: The Lonely & Tempting Side of Grief
In this conversation, Chris and Curtis discuss the topics of loneliness and feeling incomplete. They talk about the heavy weight of loneliness and the awkwardness that comes with being single, whether due to divorce or the loss of a loved one. Curtis shares his personal experiences of feeling lonely and incomplete after the death of his late wife, Michal. They also touch on the temptation to seek fulfillment in unhealthy ways and the challenges of navigating relationships after loss. TIME STAMPS 0:00- Intro-"Tell Me Something Good" 3:00-Loneliness in Grief 7:00- The Loss of Loving Touch 9:00- The Confusing Feelings After The Loss of A Spouse 11:00- How Long Until The Wedding Comes Off? 19:30- Can You Feel Complete In Your Grief? 25:00- Hope & Purpose For Your Lonely Season 28:00- Faith Vs Feelings & Embracing The Truth of Scripture 31:00- Does My Grief Give Me License to Sin? 33:00- The Numbness of Grief & Lack of Empathy 39:00- What Does God Want to Do With Your Grief? 44:00- What Life Would Have Been Like Having Never Met Michal 50:00- Motivating Friends After Life-Altering Events 53:00- Curtis's Practical Advice on Doing The Little Things Each Day 56:00- Curtis's Closing Prayer Over Those Stuck In Grief Love the Run To The Hard Podcast? Here are 3 Ways to support us! Rate The Podcast Become a Share The Show! Remember, "Running to the hard is better, when we run together"
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