Speak Life with Taylor Nichols
Speak Life with Taylor Nichols is a podcast committed to keeping it REAL and RAW- real people, real stories, and real life. The most powerful conversations are the ones where people are vulnerable and raw about how hard life can be sometimes. So, buckle up for a barrel of laughs and bucket of tears as we go into the dark, not so pretty, and uncomfortable spaces that occupy all of our crazy messy stories!
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NASH THE COOL BUS with Dave & Taylor Nichols - COVID Reflections (Part IV)
11/24/2020
NASH THE COOL BUS with Dave & Taylor Nichols - COVID Reflections (Part IV)
With everything going on in the world today, many of us can be scared to hope or even think about the future. Today we want to encourage you to push past your fear, find the courage to dream as you hold onto hope, even in the midst of so much unknown! As we close out season 4 today, Dave and I talk about leaning in, moving forward, and taking Speak Life on the road in our new schoolie NASH_THECOOLBUS
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Lindsey Nobles - From 'burnout to balancing responsibility'
11/17/2020
Lindsey Nobles - From 'burnout to balancing responsibility'
There are so many times that we fail to reach out and connect because of fear. On today’s episode, helps us understand the value of stepping outside of our comfort zone, especially when it’s toward people in a different season of life in order to develop more meaningful connections. We talk about singleness, professional burnout, emotional growth, mental health, life transformation, and the importance of connection - even in the middle of COVID. She really taps into the heart of what Speak Life is all about, encouraging us to find beauty amidst the unexpected and to be willing to embrace the “gray” areas in our lives.
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Dave & Taylor Nichols - COVID Reflections (Part III)
11/10/2020
Dave & Taylor Nichols - COVID Reflections (Part III)
Dave and I are picking back up with a discussion on marriage as part of our COVID Reflections mini-season. It's been 16 years of REAL LIFE together. If I'm honest, I thought those years would have better prepared us to handle 2020 with more grace. Instead, the pandemic has highlighted the beautifully messy parts of our relationship and paved the way to continued growth as we evolve both collectively and individually. We hope you find encouragement and hope in knowing that we're in the trenches of married life with many of you. Join us as we talk about how quarantine, working from home, and being together 24/7 has impacted our relationship for better and for worse sharing some of the lessons and tips we've learned along the way. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Rondell Treviño - From 'political polarization to passionate participation'
11/03/2020
Rondell Treviño - From 'political polarization to passionate participation'
As many of us hit the polls today, I wanted to do a special episode that highlights the need for unity in such a time as this. Although this is not a political or a religious podcast, it is one dedicated to learning from one another as we navigate tensions in our lives. With that in mind, I felt a heart tug to speak with about the ways we can come together after one of the most divisive elections of our time, as Christians and non-believers alike. Founder and Director of Rondell shares with us his hope and goal to help people from different sides of the aisle come alongside one another through human kindness, shared connection and truth grounded firmly in love. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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39: Anita Lakshman - From 'access' to 'acceptance'
10/20/2020
39: Anita Lakshman - From 'access' to 'acceptance'
We have talked a lot about the tension many have felt in the wake of COVID-19 and today we take that conversation a step further, talking with Anita Lacksman as she shares her family's firsthand experience of contracting COVID-19 at the very beginning of the pandemic. Married to a Doctor, having access to information and resources to support their family, it is a humbling reality to hear just how difficult it was on their family walking through this illness. We also talk about what's been like for Anita, as a woman of color, navigating the social climate that we find ourselves in. We also talk about the role faith plays in either dividing or healing when it comes to racial reconciliation. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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38: Dave & Taylor Nichols - COVID reflections (Part II)
10/13/2020
38: Dave & Taylor Nichols - COVID reflections (Part II)
Our children’s education has been one of the biggest discussion points for Dave and me amidst COVID. Both of us come from a homeschool background, but we never thought we'd actually homeschool our own kids... And we definitely didn't see ourselves purchasing a school bus! In this conversation, Dave and I talk about our fears, our hopes, and the ultimate decision of taking our children's education into our own hands in order to create the space for needed connection within our family unit. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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37: Morgan Menichini - From 'educating' to 'effecting change'
10/06/2020
37: Morgan Menichini - From 'educating' to 'effecting change'
Having had the opportunity to witness Morgan Menichini teach, especially in this unique time of virtual learning, I can speak first hand the many ways she loves and encourages everyone around her. Her voice radiates hope and life, as she brings thought and care to everything that she engages. In the midst of a pandemic, political turmoil, and racial injustice, Morgan and I talk about the desperate need for connection during this time, not just for our children, but also for one another.
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36: Dave and Taylor Nichols - COVID reflections
09/28/2020
36: Dave and Taylor Nichols - COVID reflections
Humbling, scary, and downright hard, yet still combined with a mix of tender moments - 2020 has definitely been one for the books. Being that Speak Life is a podcast committed to keeping it “‘real and raw’ it only felt right to “‘go there” with our family's personal COVID experience before asking others to do the same. So, that's exactly how we are kicking off season 4! Reflecting on the lessons, the unexpected gifts, and the chaos surrounding our family’s quarantine experience and beyond!
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35: Tova Sido - From 'fear' to 'forgiveness'
05/26/2020
35: Tova Sido - From 'fear' to 'forgiveness'
Intentional, Beautiful, Forgiving and FULL of LOVE, that is my friend Tova Sido. Ever time I hear her story I am humbled by the ways she chooses forgiveness over bitterness and resentment. We talk about the heart behind her book 'Borrowed Courage' as she takes us through her journey of forgiveness following childhood abuse, the loss of four children, and an emotional divorce. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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34: Jessica Honegger - From 'feeling stuck' to 'going scared'
05/19/2020
34: Jessica Honegger - From 'feeling stuck' to 'going scared'
My friend Jessica Honegger hits close to home as she talks about how we moms can sometimes feel like we're on the side lines of life. As author of Imperfect Courage and Founder of the socially conscious fashion brand Noonday Collection, Jessica and I talk about motherhood, marriage, and finding purpose as we navigate everyday life. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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33. ALAN GRAHAM - From 'house' to 'home'
05/12/2020
33. ALAN GRAHAM - From 'house' to 'home'
Today's guest is all about relationships and shared connection - a topic that I could talk about all day. Alan Graham is the founder of MobileLoaves & Fishes and has been committed to loving the homeless well through this ministry. He has become a nationally renowned voice in helping bring awareness and tangible solutions to meeting the needs of those battling homelessness. He shares with me the his journey to faith, his mission, and the true meaning of 'home'. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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32. Cheryl Luke - From 'knowing people' to 'knowing God'
05/05/2020
32. Cheryl Luke - From 'knowing people' to 'knowing God'
Cheryl Luke is the kind of friend that you can talk to for hours. I always find safety in our conversations as she holds space to navigate hard conversations. In this episode she shares how her foundation in faith, family, and close friendships have kept her grounded, especially when navigating the more complicated part of this journey we call life. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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31. Brooke Warnock - From ‘resentment’ to ‘restoration’
04/28/2020
31. Brooke Warnock - From ‘resentment’ to ‘restoration’
Have you ever had that friend that’s the hostess with the mostest...? That’s my friend Brooke Warnock, a soul that embodies what it means to make others feel welcomed and loved. When Brooke and I recorded this episode, I had no idea we would find ourselves stuck in our homes. It’s amazing how this conversation is speaking life into the season we’ve found ourselves in. Homeschool mom of five and co-lead of Lost Valley Ranch, Brooke shares how a life of seclusion led to self-discovery, restoration, and a complete shift in her perspective. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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30. Jonny May - From ‘fearful reaction’ to ‘informed connection’
04/21/2020
30. Jonny May - From ‘fearful reaction’ to ‘informed connection’
I am filled with so much hope after my talk with Jonny May. I invited him on the show to share his expertise as a licensed counselor in the midst of COVID 19. He provides a different perspective that highlights the choices we have outside of the demands to 'work' or 'rest'. Tune in as we tackle the reality of fear, isolation, relational tension and grief in such a confusing time. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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29. Lindsey Wheeler - From ‘homebound’ to ‘hopeful’
04/14/2020
29. Lindsey Wheeler - From ‘homebound’ to ‘hopeful’
Have you disqualified yourself from the race? It's questions like these that my friend Lindsey Wheeler says force us to grow beyond our circumstances. In fact, it led her to start her business Bottle of Tears: A Thoughtful Gift of Hope for the Brokenhearted. Lindsey will be the first to tell you that her story still has it's ups and down, battling chronic pain and navigating the effects of trauma with her daughter. From years spent in isolation, exhaustion and one loss after another, Lindsey shares her story of endurance and her continual journey to find purpose and joy. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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28. Jenn Jett Barrett - ‘Finding the next right step”
04/07/2020
28. Jenn Jett Barrett - ‘Finding the next right step”
If you are a regular listener of the show, you've heard the name Jenn Jett Barrett. I believe during this time of social distancing and uncertainty we can learn from Jenn's Camp Well philosophy - 'just take the next right step.' She shares how simplicity, stillness, and self discover helped her get through the most challenging times in her life. Get ready for a conversation filled with laughter, tears, and truth... I believe many of you will walk away feeling encouraged. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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27. Cassie Carrigan - From ‘unimaginable sorrow’ to ‘undeniable truth’
03/31/2020
27. Cassie Carrigan - From ‘unimaginable sorrow’ to ‘undeniable truth’
Prepare your hearts as we dive deep with Cassie Carrigan into her story of love, loss and acceptance. Cassie, her husband, and two children are currently picking up the pieces after the devastating loss of her daughter Radiance and her son Caleb. I'm astounded by Cassie’s continual faith. She shares how she navigates her grief process, what she’s chosen to believe, and her hopes for a new found joy.
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26. Pete Enns - From “her pain” to “his healing”
03/24/2020
26. Pete Enns - From “her pain” to “his healing”
This episode of Speak Life is a follow up discussion to Elizabeth Petter’s interview. No one could have prepared me for this powerful conversation with Elizabeth’s dad, Pete Enns. If you’ve read any of his work or have listened to his podcast “The Bible for Normal People”, then you know this is a conversation filled with powerful wisdom. Pete and I talk through his relationship with Elizabeth, how it ultimately led to his own healing, and what he wished he had known as a young parent. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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25. Elizabeth Petters - From ‘anxiously existing’ to ‘lovingly living’
03/17/2020
25. Elizabeth Petters - From ‘anxiously existing’ to ‘lovingly living’
I absolutely love the vulnerability and openness that Elizabeth Petters brings to this episode. She opens up about navigating a childhood filled with anxiety, her journey with mental illness and struggle to find forgiveness. I loved hearing how she’s learned to balance the tension of it all as she is now striving to parent with a new perspective. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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24. Taylor Nichols - From ‘curiosity’ to ‘connection’
03/10/2020
24. Taylor Nichols - From ‘curiosity’ to ‘connection’
I’m in the hot seat! We’re kicking off season 3 with a special episode. My dear friend, Jenn Jett Barrett, takes over as this week’s host to discover the heart and mission behind the Speak Life Podcast. We talk about my childhood, my faith, current struggles, and how my community has loved me well. Jenn even spills the beans on my REAL name! It doesn’t get more real an raw than this! Get All The Links From Today’s Show Here Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Season 3 Trailer
03/03/2020
Season 3 Trailer
Can you believe we’ve made it to season 3?! I can’t either. I’m the first one in the hot seat, so make sure you tune in as we kick off a great season full of REAL conversations, REAL people, and REAL stories.
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Episode 23 - Nick Runyon
12/03/2019
Episode 23 - Nick Runyon
My dear friend, , joins me on the show today! He is married to Whitney and they are the founders of and have adopted three beautiful children from the Congo! Today, you'll hear about his retirement as an airline pilot to becoming a humanitarian videographer traveling around the world sharing inspiring stories of adoption and the orphan crisis. We also talk about he and his wife, Whitney's adoption story. You will walk away wanting to learn more about adoption and orphans all over the world. Can't wait for y'all to hear this! Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Happy Thanksgiving!
11/26/2019
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving, y'all, wherever you are, whatever you're doing, whoever you're with. I hope you will take a moment and just celebrate what 2019 has given you, honor what it has taken, and look for ways to anticipate what 2020 will bring.
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Episode 22 - Tori Petersen
11/19/2019
Episode 22 - Tori Petersen
This weeks guest is my new friend . She currently resides in a small town in Minnesota, with her husband and their new baby boy. Tori grew up in the foster care system starting at the age of 4, and today she shares her story and gives insight into how that experience affected her childhood and her new life as a Mama and wife. Tori recounts the first time she was taken away from her Mom when she was only four years old and the imagery she still carries with her from that critical moment in her life. She went back to her biological Mom's home for a period of time before being placed in 12 more foster homes between the ages of 12 and 18, never staying in one placement longer than 9 months at a time. Tori went back to her biological Mom's home for a period of time before being placed in 12 more foster homes between the ages of 12 and 18, never staying in one placement longer than 9 months at a time. As an adult, she wants to break the misconceptions around the foster care system, and is writing a memoir that will be out soon! Follow along her for updates and a sweet snippet into her life! Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Episode 21 - Laura Kelley
11/12/2019
Episode 21 - Laura Kelley
Today on the show, we have ! She is Mama to seven, artist, lover of color and meaningful words. Laura is a deep and creative soul who says she is “doing her best and hanging on tight” everyday. We talk about journaling, adoption, trusting your spouse, autism, and what she thinks every parent can do to help change the narrative when it comes to befriending children with special needs. I will forever cherish the love and pain Laura so beautifully relives in our conversation as we talk about her son Everett and his short, yet absolutely life changing time in their family. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Episode 20 - Ryan "The Birdman" Parrott
11/05/2019
Episode 20 - Ryan "The Birdman" Parrott
This weeks conversation is with, . Ryan served 8 years as a U.S. Navy SEAL attached to Team SEVEN. He shares his experience while serving in Iraq and the IED accident he and his team were involved in. This led him to establish in 2012 to help burn victims and their families receive the care they deserve. He shares how others can help support their mission and other veterans who are just transitioning back into society after being in the military. Ryan's an author, public speaker, and founder of two non-profits benefiting Veterans and First Responders, and you're going to love my conversation with him today! Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Episode 19 - Vivian Mabuni
10/29/2019
Episode 19 - Vivian Mabuni
Today’s conversation is with my dear friend Vivian Mabuni. She is a national speaker and author of "Warrior In Pink" and "Open Hands, Willing Heart." She recently launched a new podcast called "Someday Is Here, dedicated to sharing stories of leadership, culture and heritage within the lives of Asian American women today. Vivian and I connected over a short but sweet conversation that we shared about the importance of interior design and the creative power of working in a space that is quiet, inviting and harmonious. Our conversation started there, but ended with so much more about life, love and learning to understand the perspectives and values of others. Vivian taught me so much during our conversation, leaving me empowered to keep learning more about what role I play in the conversation around culture and inclusion today. She shares what it looks like to live as a minority in western culture, how the idea of “collective over individual” is part of her Asian DNA and even breaks down the elements of her birth name and what role they play in her life today. Vivian does an amazing job of helping us understand how we can come together and honor the unique and beautiful differences that are apart of all of our cultures of origin while encouraging us to lean in and learn from people who see the world through a different set of values or beliefs. My hope is that you will also walk away from our conversation feeling inspired and encouraged to engage more conversations like this one in your own life! Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Episode 18 - Nicole Zasowski
10/22/2019
Episode 18 - Nicole Zasowski
In today’s episode of Speak Life, I’m talking with my friend Nicole Zasowski who I met through the internet! Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist, writer, and speaker based in the state of Connecticut where she lives with her husband and son (with another baby boy on the way!). As an old soul who wears her heart proudly on her sleeve, Nicole loves using her words to help others find enduring peace and joy outside of circumstance. In addition to her private practice in Greenwich, CT, she serves as a therapist at the Hideaway Experience - a 4-day marriage intensive experience. Nicole is also excited to announce that her new book, From Lost to Found: Giving up what you think you want for what will set you free will be published in January 2020 and is now available for pre-order! Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Episode 17 - Kelly Stuckey
10/15/2019
Episode 17 - Kelly Stuckey
Today’s episode is with, . She and I met through and I have had the privilege of watching and learning from her as she advocates for her son, Everett, who was born with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism. Our conversation is packed with wisdom about what it means to love others and walk alongside people with differences. Kelly shares the ways she has learned to advocate for her son and educate others on the importance of seeing each person’s unique beauty while viewing them through the eyes of their creator. She talks in detail about how seeing Everett through God’s eyes has reshaped her relationship with Him and expanded her heart in life-changing ways. Kelly lives in NW Arkansas with her precious 3-year-old son Everett. Kelly owns and operates , a full-service salon and spa she and her husband Zac founded together 6 years ago. Her love for God’s Word and her church community play a huge role in her everyday life; Kelly says both have been daily source of strength and comfort as she navigates life after the unexpected loss of her husband Zac in July of this year. Kelly says she consistently holds to that same faith as she advocates for Dwarfism Awareness. Connect with Taylor: | | |
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Episode 16 - Cristi Dozier
10/08/2019
Episode 16 - Cristi Dozier
In this conversation, and I talk about a season of her life when the bottom of her marriage fell out and the choices she and made to restore their relationship. Cristi also shares about what lead them to Pagosa Springs, CO and how a one-year work project in a town that literally translates as “healing waters” would be the beginning of a complete life change just a few years later. Cristi shares vulnerably and bravely about her mom’s battle with cancer, the movement that was born during that and her experience of caring for her mom, not only during her battle but also in the last moments of her life. She also shares about how caring for her dad has served to heal and restore their relationship over the last few years. Cristi was born and raised in Austin but now lives in Pagosa Springs, CO with her husband of 19 years and 4 kids. In 2005 she and her husband started, from their living room which has led them down some incredible roads from Texas to Colorado, or as they like to say "anywhere fun!" Their most recent personal projects include the opening of on the San Juan River in Pagosa Springs and the soft launch of a small batch custom apparel company, . Cristi is a dreamer who is learning to take more action on those dreams. You don’t want to miss hearing her inspiring story. Tune in and share with a friend️! Connect with Taylor: | | |
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