The Road Home To You
Real conversations about faith and mental health.
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When Home Isn't Sweet
06/03/2020
When Home Isn't Sweet
Today, I have the privilege of sharing an episode from Vanessa Harris, host of the podcast, Motherhood Unmasked. It's a show all about the challenges of motherhood and having the courage to face them. Please take a listen to more episodes over on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. You can also find valuable information at: I'd like to thank Vanessa for allowing me to share her show. Keep listening to voices of color. They deserve to be heard. This recording is the property of Vanessa Harris and Unmasked Motherhood. Copyright 2020.
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Cult to Christ: A Journey of Healing
05/22/2020
Cult to Christ: A Journey of Healing
When Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch was just a young girl, her family was swept up in what seemed like nothing less than a friendly church group. But what looked so good on the outside, quickly turned to control and abuse. This week, we'll hear from Mischelle as she shares her story of overcoming hurt and betrayal and how she learned to trust again. Mischelle is the founder and CEO of Altered Stories Ministry, a place where women learn the power of telling their stories of God's redemption and healing. To learn more, go to She also hosts a podcast , by the same name, where women share their stories. You can find it wherever podcasts can be found, as well as on her website. For more information about cults: To hear more episodes of The Road Home to You: Contact Brandy: Social Media: // Special thanks to the Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" for our intro and outro. This episode was recorded, edited, and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Falling Forward: Responding to Trauma and Crisis
05/20/2020
Falling Forward: Responding to Trauma and Crisis
We've all experienced it: Fight, Flight, or Freeze. Those are the ways we respond in times of trauma or crisis. But what if there's another response? Tune in this week to hear from Brandy as she takes a look at what it means to Fall. Listen to Previous Episodes: You can also Subscribe wherever podcasts are played - Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, Apple Podcast, etc. Contact Brandy: Social Media: // Special thanks to The Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" as our intro and outro.
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Good Friday: Hope is on the Way!
04/10/2020
Good Friday: Hope is on the Way!
This Good Friday, I've collaborated with a handful of other podcasters to bring you messages of hope. Coming from all different walks of life, with shows that have a variety of themes, one thing is certain: hope is needed now, more than ever, and the One constant hope is Jesus Christ. Enjoy hearing these mini messages from: Jenna Erlandson - Tina Chambers Smith - Meg Glesener - Debbi Roberston - t Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch - Other CPA Podcasts to check out: Tim Winders - Tara Ross - Paula Chamberlain - Monika Hardy - Teresa Blaes - Find other Road Home to You Episodes: Or anywhere you can download a podcast...everywhere! Contact Brandy: Special thanks to The Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" for the outro music. This episode was recorded in collaboration with Christian Podcasters Association. All works are individually owned by the creators. This episode was edited and produced by Brandy J. Goebel in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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A New Rhythm
03/31/2020
A New Rhythm
The rhythms of life that we've all grown so accustomed to have found themselves turned upside-down. What does it look like to find a new rhythm? Join me for a quick look at what it means for us, so far as well as what to expect in the near future. Scripture Read: Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message) To Listen to Other Episodes: Contact Brandy: // Special thanks to The Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" as our intro and outro. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.
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Stomping out Anxiety: Interview with Caris Snider
03/24/2020
Stomping out Anxiety: Interview with Caris Snider
In a time when everything feels a little less than certain, it's easy to become overwhelmed by anxiety. Today, I sit down and talk with Caris Snider, author of "Anxiety Elephants: A 31-Day Devotional to Help Stomp Out Your Anxiety." As a business owner, speaker, worship leader, wife, and mom, Caris looked like she had it all together. But like so many, she found herself at the end of the road, realizing she had two options: Give up or look up. Fortunately, Caris bravely faced the unknown with the help of her doctors, family, and friends and learned how to contend with her anxiety. It was an honor to have a conversation with Caris about her own journey through anxiety, especially as the entire world is facing with these topsy-turvy times in the midst of a global pandemic. Caris' story offers hope and encouragement as she learned what it means to carry one another's burdens and rest in God. More About Caris: To Purchase "Anxiety Elephants" More Episodes: Contact Brandy: // Special thanks to The Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" as our intro and outro. This episode was recorded remotely, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 33 and 34
03/19/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 33 and 34
In these uncertain times, it's more important than ever to rest in God's word. This week, we find ourselves in Psalm 33 and 34 with verses such as these: "Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart rejoices in Him, because we trust in His holy name. Let Your lovingkindness, O Lord, be upon us, according as we have hoped in You." (Ps. 33:20-22) "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Ps. 34:18) Friends, our God is bigger than any virus. This did not take him by surprise. We can be assured that God is still God and He is still good, even as we face these weird days of uncertainty. One thing remains: God is faithful to accomplish all that He's established. For More Episodes: Contact Brandy: Special thanks to the 126ers for the use of their song, "Rainy Sundays" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is used by permission from the Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Quarantivities for the Soul
03/17/2020
Quarantivities for the Soul
Anxiety, fear, grief, anger...these and so many more are the emotions that so many are feeling during these uncertain Corona Virus times. Today, Matt and I have a long-distance conversation about some of the ways we can not only take comfort in the promises of God during this time, but also very specific activities (or, as our daughter has dubbed them "quarantivities") to fill our time wisely and with fun! It must be said that in the less than 24 hours since recording this, things have changed here in the US and also with me, Brandy. While much of our conversation is focused on dealing with anxiety, I rather ironically, have been feeling my fair share of it. That being said, I remembered this conversation and took a dose of my own advice ("listen to music" and "turn off the news for a minute") and am feeling markedly better. This isn't just lip service. This advice is practical and beneficial. I hope you take it and share it with people you love. Self-Care and Activities During Quarantine: 1. Pray 2. Read the Bible: Psalms are great - try Psalm 23 3. Journal 4. Write letters and send them to loved ones 5. Listen to music you love 6. Spend time with your kids: Conversations, shooting hoops, video games, reading books, crafts, etc... 7. Go for a walk: fresh air + Vitamin D = good for ya! 8. Jigsaw puzzles 9. Complete your To-Do List: or at least knock it down - all those projects that you're saving for "someday" 10. Work on a dream project: write the book, learn the instrument, read the series... Things to Avoid: 1. Steady stream of news: Stay informed, but don't only feed on a media diet of the news 2. Hours of Social Media: See above... 3. Binging on Netflix for the entire time: Give yourself limits and keep your body and brain active Your mental health is just as important as your physical health during this time, so don't neglect it! If you're struggling with depression or thoughts of self-harm, please contact the Suicide Hotline: For More Episodes: Contact Brandy: // Special thanks to the Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" as our intro and outro. This episode was recorded remotely and edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 31 and 32
03/12/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 31 and 32
How often does it feel like the whole world is not only against you but reveling in your defeat? The psalmist, David, understood those feelings but also knew and declared the truth of who God is and who God says we are meant to be. Listen to this week's Psalms and find encouragement, all you who hope in the Lord. To listen to regular episodes or more Psalms: Contact Brandy: Social Media: // Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, "Rainy Sundays" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. The episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Sexuality and Women's Empowerment: an Interview with Brandi Voth
03/10/2020
Sexuality and Women's Empowerment: an Interview with Brandi Voth
This year's Super Bowl halftime show was nothing if not controversial! People from all walks of life, backgrounds in faith, genders and sexual identities fell on both sides of the fence when it came to answering the question: was this performance empowering or degrading to women? Enter Brandi Voth, the woman behind The Power Project who is working to bring empowerment to women and men alike. She is a podcaster, author, and volunteer working with people in after-care who have been sexually exploited and trafficked. In this episode, Brandi and I sit down and talk about what the commercial sex trade industry looks like, who is targeted for sex trafficking, how the church can better come alongside those who've been exploited, and what women's empowerment looks like. Brandi dropped some hard truths about what drives the sex industry and opened my eyes to the prevalence it has not only in our nation but even in our small towns. Table of Contents: :05 2:55 Welcome Brandi Voth; The Power Project - empowering people to live purposeful lives 5:00 Awareness to sex trafficking industry in Melbourne, Australia 9:10 A21 "Walk for Freedom" 10:40 What sex trafficking really looks like and where it is 13:54 The grooming process happens in social media apps and chat rooms 15:15 bark.us app and Tik Tok 17:10 Be where your kids and their friends are spending time online 18:20 Predators in public places 20:00 Red flags that someone is endangered 23:59 The Church's response to help the exploited 28:10 Testimony from after-care client 31:59 Seeing the hurting and being the hands and feet of Jesus 32:57 Super Bowl halftime show re-cap and conflict 36:07 Female empowerment and the messages sent to boys/men 37:40 Empowerment vs. Sexual Objectification 39:15 Strip club and pornography - exploitation and consumption 40:39 Super Bowl is the single largest event for sex trafficking 41:35 Take a stand against the demand 43:00 The message sent to girls/women 45:28 Early exposure to pornography and the cycle of addiction 48:00 Defining empowerment 48:43 Finding your voice and using it 52:05 Signs you're not in a safe relationship 53:19 Resources and Hotlines 53:52 Bottom line - You're worth it 54:37 Thank you, Brandy 55:15 Brandi's information: The Power Project and Power Hat Co. Brandi Voth: Resources and Hotlines: The Road Home to You "Offering hope and faith in Jesus to those wounded by others, stuck in addiction or afflicted by the storms of life." Upcoming Episodes Join Brandy next week for a discussion with guest, Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch and the impact of growing up in a cult. Future topics will also include infidelity, Biblical meditation, alcohol recovery, and so much more! Listen to More Episodes You can find The Road Home to You anywhere you can download podcasts, including Google Play, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, etc. You can also find previous shows here: Additional Resources and Articles Connect with Brandy // // Special Thanks Thanks to the Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" as our intro and outro. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 29 and 30
03/06/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 29 and 30
God is good. All the time. How often do we forget His faithfulness, though? Join Brandy for a quick rest stop where we'll reflect on God's glory as we hear the heart of David cry out and give praise. Don't forget to check out this week's all-new episode on recovery. We'll be dropping full episodes every Tuesday full of great content about mental health in the context of faith. We'll continue our rest stops every Friday, as we set the activities of the week aside and spend some time unwinding from the busyness of life. Full Catalog of Shows: Contact Brandy: Social Media: // Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, "Rainy Sundays" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited, and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Recovery: Why It Matters and Who It's For (clue...everyone)
03/03/2020
Recovery: Why It Matters and Who It's For (clue...everyone)
Welcome to the New & Improved The Road Home to You! We're going to start off this re-launch with Matt and Brandy in the studio talking about changes you can expect to see as the show moves forward as well as what's been happening as they've been leading Genesis for Change Groups. Table of Contents :50 Intro to Relaunching The Road Home to You 3:05 Why you should listen to TRHTY 5:45 Talking about mental health is important 6:50 Mental health in the context of faith 10:25 Authentic conversations with real people need to happen 11:41 Name Your Monster 13:00 Structure of show - what to expect moving forward 13:52 Call to Action - Be A Guest! 14:20 Recovery - Genesis Groups 16:25 What is Genesis? 21:10 What is the Limbic System? 23:35 Recovery means being honest & taking risks 26:10 Vulnerability in men and leaders 35:29 Progress of Recovery 45:04 Call to Action - Join a Genesis group 47:41 Upcoming Guests 48:55 Call to Action - Subscribe and Share! 50:10 Thank You's 51:05 Blooper The Road Home to You "Offering hope and faith in Jesus to those wounded by others, stuck in addiction or afflicted by the storms of life." Genesis Groups The Genesis Process for Change Groups are meant to happen in the context of relationship. You may gain some insight simply by going through the work on your own, but true recovery comes as learn to trust again, which can only happen as we interact with other people. You may be able to find a Genesis group at a local church. If not, feel free to contact Brandy for further information. Upcoming Episodes Join Brandy next week for a discussion with guest, Brandi Voth, as we talk about this year's Super Bowl halftime show, women's empowerment, and human sex trafficking. Future topics will also include infidelity, Biblical meditation, alcohol recovery, and so much more! Listen to More Episodes You can find The Road Home to You anywhere you can download podcasts, including Google Play, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, etc. You can also find previous shows here: Additional Resources and Articles Connect with Brandy // // Special Thanks Thanks to the Jingle Punks for the use of their song, "Dusty Road" as our intro and outro. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 27 and 28
02/25/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 27 and 28
Joy in the midst of suffering. That's what David, as the Psalmist, shows us time and time again. When all is going well, David sings his praises to the Lord. When he is feeling pressed by his enemies, He cries out to God reminding himself of God's promises and His faithfulness to deliver. Whether you are on the mountain-top of life or feeling crushed by the weight of the world, you have a great defender, a God who will respond to your cries and be glorified in your praise. Full Catalog of Episodes: You can also Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, or any other podplaying app! Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, "Rainy Sundays" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited, and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 25 and 26
02/18/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 25 and 26
Sit down. Rest your feet. Take a deep breath and quiet your heart. When was the last time you cried out to God with the awareness of your own shortcomings and sins? Have you ever just let it all out? God knows your heart, he knows your deeds, but have YOU actually owned up to your own transgressions? Follow David's example. Time and again, David acknowledges his own sins and time and again, he asks for forgiveness and courage to live with integrity. The only way we move closer to God is by renouncing our sin and setting our sights on the grace of Jesus at the cross, where all those sins were washed away in one final sacrificial gift. God doesn't want to hold your sin over your head to condemn you. He wants you to address it so that he can transform your heart into one that beats in rhythm with his. Full Catalog of Episodes: Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126'ers for the use of their song, Rainy Sundays as our intro and outro. The New America Standard Bible is used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 25 and 26
02/18/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 25 and 26
Sit down. Rest your feet. Take a deep breath and quiet your heart. When was the last time you cried out to God with the awareness of your own shortcomings and sins? Have you ever just let it all out? God knows your heart, he knows your deeds, but have YOU actually owned up to your own transgressions? Follow David's example. Time and again, David acknowledges his own sins and time and again, he asks for forgiveness and courage to live with integrity. The only way we move closer to God is by renouncing our sin and setting our sights on the grace of Jesus at the cross, where all those sins were washed away in one final sacrificial gift. God doesn't want to hold your sin over your head to condemn you. He wants you to address it so that he can transform your heart into one that beats in rhythm with his. Full Catalog of Episodes: Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126'ers for the use of their song, Rainy Sundays as our intro and outro. The New America Standard Bible is used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 23 and 24
02/11/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 23 and 24
King David knew a thing or two about fear and finding security and comfort God. Even as a young shepherd boy he had to protect his flock from predators. Listen in this week as David shares one of his most beloved poems, speaking from a place of personal understanding. Be encouraged by the promise of God that He has you safely guarded and will love you tenderly through the trials. Full Catalog of Shows: You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever podcasts can be found! Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, "Rainy Sundays" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible was used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 21 & 22
02/04/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 21 & 22
Feeling discouraged, downtrodden, conspired against? Even kings feel that way. Listen in as King David, the man after God's own heart shares his heart with God. Listen to the prophetic song that David writes in Psalm 22 and take courage that God is for you. The battles may seem overwhelming, but the war has been won. Get Our Catalog of Full Episodes: Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, Rainy Days as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is used with permission by The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited, and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 19 and 20
01/28/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 19 and 20
Two Psalms, a blessing from David, and a prayer from me...that's what this rest stop has to offer you as a balm this week. Search our entire catalog for full episodes and guest interviews: You can subscribe on Google Play, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find podcasts. Contact us: Special thanks to the 126ers for the use of their song, "Rainy Days" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is used by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 17 and 18
01/21/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 17 and 18
It's time to take a few minutes to rest and reflect on God's provision. Even in the storms of life, when we are hard-pressed, feel alone and defeated, we have a Refuge in Jesus. He is an immovable force, unshakable and unbreakable. He is for His people and passionate about pursuing our hearts, even into the darkest corners. Wherever you are right now, take a moment to hear His heart for you. Soak up the promises that belong to you as a child of God. You are deeply, fiercely loved. Listen to our entire catalog: Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, Rainy Days. The New American Standard Bible was read by permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 15 and 16
01/14/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 15 and 16
God is faithful to His people. All the time. His heart is for us and on Him alone, we can trust. Find comfort and rest this week as David declares his trust in the God of refuge. Our Entire Catalog of Shows: Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126er's for the use of their song, "Rainy Days" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is read with permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Rest Stop: Psalm 13 and 14
01/07/2020
Rest Stop: Psalm 13 and 14
The holidays are over. The new year looms ahead. With your goals and resolutions set, are you already finding yourself falling off the bandwagon? Are the post-holiday blues still keeping you in a fog of sadness and adrenaline let down? Let's take a minute to stop, take a deep breath and hear what the psalmist, David, has to say to God. Do you ear your own heart's cry? Call upon the Lord and he will hear you. Cry out to him, and he will be your guide. Remember, The Road Home to You is going through some construction work right now so we'll be staying in the Psalms for the next month or so. There is work happening behind the scenes and we are excited to bring you new content with new guests. Please keep downloading the weekly Psalms. Complete Catalog of Shows: Contact Us: Special thanks to the 126'ers for the use of their song, "Rainy Days" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible used in permission with The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy Oregon. 2020. All rights reserved.
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Goodbye 19, Hello 20
12/31/2019
Goodbye 19, Hello 20
We are mere moments away from ringing in not just a new year, but 2020!!! Can you believe that? It's the perfect time to reflect on the year we've had and plan for the one to come. Matt and Brandy share their favorite episodes of the year, some lessons they've learned, what they're looking forward to in 2020 and some changes that are coming to the show. To get links to the episodes we mentioned and additional resources, . Our Entire Catalog of Shows: Contact Us: Special thanks to James Swanson and James Page for their contribution to our theme song, The Long Road Home, written by Brandy J. Goebel. Copyright 2018. Elevator music by Kevin Macleod from This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2019. All rights reserved.
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A Visit from St. Nicholas
12/24/2019
A Visit from St. Nicholas
This Christmas Eve, let's tuck into a little classic and my own personal favorite, "A Visit from St. Nicholas" otherwise known as "T'was the Night Before Christmas."
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The Greatest Christmas Story Ever Told
12/23/2019
The Greatest Christmas Story Ever Told
Join us one more time by the fire as Matt reads the greatest Christmas story ever told!
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Christmas with Spiritual Life and Leadership
12/20/2019
Christmas with Spiritual Life and Leadership
Here's a Christmas gift from the podcast, Spiritual Life and Leadership with Markus Watson. Be sure to check out more episodes by subscribing to Spiritual Life and Leadership wherever you download your podcasts!
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Christmas with Raising Kids on Your Knees
12/19/2019
Christmas with Raising Kids on Your Knees
A quick little Christmas morsel from Tina Smith at Raising Kids on Your Knees. Be sure to check out all her episodes by Subscribing to Raising Kids on Your Knees wherever you download your podcasts!
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A Christmas Drama by Biblical Chili Podcast
12/18/2019
A Christmas Drama by Biblical Chili Podcast
A little Christmas treat for you! A drama presented by the team at Biblical Chili Podcast! Be sure to check out their other episodes by subscribing to Biblical Chili wherever you download your podcasts!
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Rest Stop: Psalm 11 & 12
12/17/2019
Rest Stop: Psalm 11 & 12
Take a moment in all the holiday hustle and bustle to sit down and listen to the Psalms and songs of those who came before us. Today, we're reading Psalms 11 and 12. Complete Catalog of Episodes: Or wherever you download podcasts! Contact Us: Social Media: Special thanks to the 126ers for the use of their song, "Rainy Days" as our intro and outro. The New American Standard Bible is read with permission from The Lockman Foundation. This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2019. All rights reserved.
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Christmas with Truce Podcast and Chris Staron
12/16/2019
Christmas with Truce Podcast and Chris Staron
Enjoy this little mini morsel from Truce Podcast, hosted by Chris Staron. Chris is a filmmaker and storyteller. Be sure to check out his podcast, Truce, wherever podcasts are downloaded. You can also check him out at
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The 12 Days of Self Care for Christmas
12/13/2019
The 12 Days of Self Care for Christmas
Christmas may be the hap-happiest time of the year, but it can also be the saddest. Tune in for this brief look at 12 things you can do this holiday season to help you stay grounded, focus on what matters, and enjoy Christmas even in the midst of pain. On the 1st Day of Christmas - Let Go of Expectations We all have an idea in our mind about "how" Christmas ought to look. We've all seen the magazines and Hallmark movies. We know there ought to be decorations galore, fresh baked cookies piled high, and perfectly wrapped gifts spilling out from under the tree. But the simple truth is, that's just not realistic. And if that is someone's reality, they are definitely the exception to the rule. Most of us just don't have the time, money, or energy to have that kind of idyllic vision of Christmas, but somehow we still manage to be disappointed when we don't deliver the kind of holiday glow we envision. This year, let it go. Especially if you're in a new season due to the death of a loved one, a recent divorce, a newly empty nest, or any of the other hundred things that might have you feeling anything but merry and bright. It just doesn't have to look the way you think it "should." Do what you can - and want - and know that it will be enough. On the 2nd Day of Christmas - Meditate on Scripture Read John 1:1-9 and reflect on what it means that Jesus came as a light into this world. What about the world was dark? Why did we need light? What kind of light did He provide? What is the quality of His light? And finally, how does His light influence your grief or pain? On the 3rd Day of Christmas - Set Boundaries "No" isn't a word any of us like to hear, and quite honestly it's a word most of us have a hard time saying. But it's time to work out your "no" muscles. Only you can determine what is actually reasonable for you to do this holiday season. Maybe hosting everyone you've ever known feels overwhelming this year. Maybe baking cookies with your favorite 5-year old exhausts you before you even get out the first mixing bowl. Figure out what will drain and deplete you and then say no to it. I promise everyone will survive, as much of a shock to the system it may be to hear you say it. Who knows? It might even encourage someone else to step into a role that they're quite gifted and enthusiastic about. Or not...and that's okay, too. On the 4th Day of Christmas - Write Down Your To-Do List But don't stop there. Write down everything you want to accomplish this holiday season. Put up lights, trim the tree, bake all the cookies, make snow angels, feed the homeless, start a diet, wrap the presents... You know the list. It's a mile long and just seems to grow. Once everything is written down, I want you to evaluate it and cross off 3 things. There. You're done. You don't have to do those 3 things. Give yourself permission to let them go. Ask someone else to fill in for you if it's something that MUST be accomplished, otherwise...your list is now a little bit lighter and Christmas will still be just fine. On the 5th Day of Christmas - Turn Off Social Media Pinterest. Instagram. Facebook. Twitter. TURN THEM OFF. For one day this holiday season, just do it. Stop comparing your experience with everyone else. I promise they are also having anxiety, stress, sadness, and feelings of isolation and inadequacy. They might be hiding it behind a filter, but it's there. Today, don't get caught up in the madness. Turn it off and just enjoy where you are, who you're with, and what you're doing without turning it into a social event for the world to see. Likewise, when you do look at social media this holiday, remember that the people you're viewing are only giving you what they want you to see. It's only a piece of the bigger picture. On the 6th Day of Christmas - Find Ways to Serve Others One of the best, and quickest, ways to get out of an emotional funk is by serving other people. It seems counterintuitive, but it's a fact. When we take our eyes off our own troubles, as real and as big as they may be, and we serve people around us, we recognize that we truly aren't alone in our suffering. It turns out, everyone has pain. By working to encourage another person, whether it's through charitable work or by simply opening a door for someone, we see humanity all around us and realize that we're all in this together. This won't solve all your problems. It might not even dull the ache for very long, but it will take you outside of yourself for just a moment and maybe in that moment you'll see there is room for hope. On the 7th Day of Christmas - Light A Candle Find yourself a quiet little corner of the world and light a candle. Then, reflect back on the passage in John 1:1-9. You've had a few days now...how have your answers changed? Are you beginning to feel The Light stir inside your heart? On the 8th Day of Christmas - Allow Yourself to Be and Feel Sometimes, when we're in the midst of grief, it seems impossible to let out emotions out. Laughing feels disrespectful to the enormity of our pain and crying feels so useless and unproductive. But the truth is, God has given us our emotions. They are a good thing. Today, just let yourself feel. If there's something that tickles your funny bone, go ahead and laugh! Laughter really is great medicine for the soul. But maybe you just can't take another Christmas carol and the sight of others with their joy and glee is sapping you of any energy you have left. That's okay. Just be there with your emotions. You're not going to let them control you or take over your life. You're going to honor them today by feeling them and acknowledging them and letting them co-exist with you. On the 9th Day of Christmas - Journal Your Gratitude Even in our darkest days, there are still things to be thankful for. They may be hard to find, but I want you to dig deep and find 3 things you are thankful for. Write them down and write down why you're thankful. It seems like it's good enough to just do this in your head, after all, it's not like anyone's going to be checking your work, but you will benefit more by actually taking the time to write them down. And hey, if you get done with that and want to keep writing whatever is on your heart, go for it! On the 10th Day of Christmas - Take a Walk in Nature Now, for you city folk, this might be a bit harder. But...find somewhere you can go today that is as far away from the noise and the hustle and bustle. Then close your eyes, breathe deeply, and just listen. What do you hear? What is God saying to you right now? Take some time to get quiet and see the trees and birds and leaves. Really look at nature. Examine the details. What do they tell you about God? On the 11th Day of Christmas - Create a New Tradition A new season in life often means we're leaving behind something that we valued and grew accustomed to. Things are different now. But that doesn't mean they have to be bad. This year, find something new to incorporate into your celebration. Maybe it's as simple as driving around and looking at Christmas lights, or maybe it's serving in a shelter for abused women. You could do something fun and silly like eat only desserts for an entire day or have a crafting day. Whatever it is, find something that makes you happy and start doing it this year! On the 12th Day of Christmas - Take A Nap! Whatever emotional roller coaster you've been on the past few days, weeks, months, or years, emotions are exhausting! Even laughter leaves us all tuckered out. So today, find a cozy corner with your favorite blanket and let your eyes and soul rest. You've done a really big thing: you've made it through what's arguably the hardest holiday season. You've faced your emotions and felt them, you've worked on managing your expectations, you've tuned out toxic (albeit addictive) social media...You've done a lot. You deserve a rest. May God bless you this holiday. Merry Christmas, friends! - Brandy and Matt Goebel Contact Us: Our Complete Catalog of Shows: Special thanks to Dee Yan-Key for the use of their Christmas music, "Pleasant Anticipation." This episode was recorded, edited and produced at 4G's Studios in Sandy, Oregon. 2019. All rights reserved.
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