As a younger woman, Elizabeth Smith has found success in modelling and beauty pageants. Despite that, she responded to God’s call and left that career behind to become a nurse practitioner. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, you will learn from her on how we can live a life that God set before us with courage and hope. SUBSCRIBE for more! 👉http://bit.ly/SUBSCRIBEtoFST 👈 | SOCIAL | Facebook: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday Instagram: http://instagram.com/faithstrongtoday Twitter: http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong Website: http://faithstrongtoday.com | HASHTAGS | #YourStorywithMelinda #FaithStrongToday

On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, we have Kay Wyma back to talk about a very interesting 12-month experiment to teach her children about entitlement and help them learn the value of work, as well as the lesson she learned about being part of the problem.

Kay Wyma wears many hats. She was as an international banker and a staffer at the White House. Currently, she’s an author, blogger, entrepreneur, speaker, vodcaster – and most importantly – a wife and a mom to five kids! Like me, I know you want to find out how is she not overwhelmed by all these and what she does to stay on top of it all. She gives us the answers on this episode of Your Story with Melinda!

Growing up in the mission field in Kenya and Congo, Ruth Thorogood has seen the best and worst of humanity. Now a successful racer and businesswoman, she said her experiences living in Africa and then having to start from scratch upon moving back to Canada have redefined her identity through Jesus. Come along with us as Ruth shares her adventures and how she lived God’s purpose in every adventure she took on this episode of Your Story with Melinda.

Registered psychotherapist Colleen Blake-Miller joins us on this episode of #YourStorywithMelinda to share her advice on how to create more empowering thoughts with the help of God’s truth to create better realities. In This Episode: • Finding opportunities to rebuild every day • Advice to those who are struggling to fight negativity • Colleen’s very personal story of rising up through adversity • Advice to parents on how they can respond with love when their child commits mistakes Connect with Colleen Blake-Miller: You can find more info on Colleen and read her blog at www.colleenblakemiller.com.

Why are so many young people leaving the church? Let's ask one! On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, Alyssa Esparaz of Compassion Canada shares why her journey and explains how to inspire her generation to find a relationship with God. What’s In This Episode? - The church as a social movement - Engaging the youth to work for justice and poverty alleviation - Bringing the poor and the privileged together - The gift of lament

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/YOUR_STORY_WITH_MELINDA_P/media/YS-S03E10_Ratzlaff_Family_jul27-18.mp3 Sisters Berkeley and Dylan Ratzlaff started their dancing and acting careers at a very young age. They have worked in LA, lived in Toronto on their own, and there's a lot more to accomplish. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, Berkeley and Dylan join the show with their mother Pam to share their journey as a family, talk about their television careers, and how praying for the right roles and mentors became integral to their success. What’s In This Episode? * Importance of praying for the right roles and right mentors * How their parents support their passion for dancing and acting * The best part of following Jesus * Becoming salt and light wherever fame takes them Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

 Today’s world offers so many options. We spend a lot of energy on all the little choices we have to make daily just so we can be or get the best. Unfortunately, this distracts us from our God-given purpose and eventually leads us to apathy. Author and podcaster Danielle Strickland has worked with the marginalized for over 20 years. She talks to me on this episode of Your Story with Melinda on how working on the margins have humbled her and opened her eyes to what’s truly essential. What’s In This Episode? * Society’s struggle of wanting what’s “it” * How God makes the ordinary sacred * Apathy and our “sleepy” culture * How embracing discomfort can change your life Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

 Ask and you shall receive! This week we're gathering up your questions from social media and answering them in a very special episode of Your Story with Melinda. From career advice to fashion, dating to purposeful living, and so much more, this show is all about connecting with you. What’s In This Episode? * Advice to pre-teens and giving grace to your parents * Discerning about culture and media * Living your best life with passion and purpose to find true love * Being confident with who you are in Christ * Answers to questions you’re curious about Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

 This week we're exploring what true and authentic love really means. Bethany Baird and Kristen Clark are sisters and co-authors of Love Defined, a book that offers a Biblical approach to finding true love and having a godly marriage. It’s not as easy and romantic as you see in the movies, but the insight and wisdom they will be sharing on this episode of Your Story with Melinda will certainly help you achieve a lasting one. What’s In This Episode? * What the Bible says about true love * Agape, the sacrificial kind of love * Having contentment and purpose in your singlehood * Looking for godliness in a man * Working towards intentional relationships and a godly marriage Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

 Today’s generation of Christian deals with overwhelming information and content on a daily basis. The question is how can young people separate the noise from the truth of God? Young entrepreneur and digital marketing consultant Isaac Hanekamp joins Your Story with Melinda to discuss how we can play an active role in sharing God with others and deepen our faith in Him on or off social media. What’s In This Episode? * How 22-year old Isaac Hanekamp built his business * Finding and sharing truthfulness in social media * His advice to parents and older generations on how to inspire millennials * Being an active consumer and creating for God Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

 Best-selling author and Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker Suzanne Eller grew up in an abusive home, but after her friend decided to invite her to church, her life turned around. Suzie developed a relationship with God and she allowed the Holy Spirit to envelope her life, which gave her the strength to continue her walk with God despite the chaos that surrounded her. Suzie talks more about the Holy Spirit and how to trust it with all your heart on this newest episode of Your Story with Melinda. What’s In This Episode? * Knowing when the Holy Spirit is calling you * Understanding that we have help * Soaking in the message of the Book of Acts * Daring to live a Spirit-led life * Being a reflection of God’s love Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YS-S03E04_KatelynBeaty_may25-18.mp3 Katelyn Beaty has a successful career as a writer and a leader. She has written for the New York Times and the Washington Post and is also the youngest and first female Managing Editor of Christianity Today. But like many women, Katelyn also experienced struggles and challenges as a woman in leadership. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, she shares a few takeaways from her book A Woman’s Place that will empower you to go after God’s calling with confidence, whether it’s in the workplace, the home, the church, or the world. What’s In This Episode? * Katelyn’s struggles as a young woman in leadership * Men and women working together makes a better society * Getting to know the Proverbs 31 woman * The importance of support groups for women * Being brave in every decision we make and every role we play Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YS-S03E04_Kevin_and_Wendy_Pauls_may18-18.mp3 TV hosts Wendy and Kevin Pauls have been married for 30 years, and they will tell you it has not been a walk in the park. Both of them have seen many of their friends’ marriages fail despite being raised with Christian values and knowing how it’s "supposed to work." On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, the Pauls offer their advice on how to keep your relationship with your spouse intact and healthy, despite the challenges that come along the different seasons of married life. What’s In This Episode? * The different seasons of married life * Top 3 issues that cause disagreements * Tips for young couples who are about to get married * Why communication is key * Thinking of your spouse before yourself every day Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

 What happens if God's calling pushes us outside our comfort zones and fear, shame, and anxiety get the best of us? Elizabeth Thompson, author of the book When God Says Go, shares with us how we can rise to challenges and go where we are being asked with confidence, courage, and faith on this episode of Your Story with Melinda! What’s In This Episode? * Defining what God’s calling means * What God really wants us to do * Not all calling is big, grandiose, and glamorous * How to know when God is saying “go” * 3 things that will help us discern God’s calling Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Sharing this incredible and inspiring story - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

Religion seems to have a bad reputation in today’s society. Greg Paul, the founding pastor of Sanctuary Toronto and author of the book Resurrecting Religion: Finding Our Way Back to the Good News, admits that there is a lot of bad religion out there and that’s causing people to avoid it. Walking in Jesus’s path is more than just going to church or reading the Gospel. As Christians, we are called to something bigger – to think the way Jesus thinks and let it reflect in our actions. Greg talks about how we can live God’s Word for others to see and resurrect true religion on this latest episode of Your Story with Melinda. What’s In This Episode? * Bad religion vs. good religion * Defining what true religion is * Discovering the Beatitudes * Working together as a community to uphold justice Share Your Faith Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stories of faith, trust, and love with @melindamaria and her guest - an amazing episode of #YourStorywithMelinda @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet

Even if you don't know her name, you probably know Melba Pattillo Beals. She is a member of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African-American students who were the first to integrate Central High in Little Rock, Arkansas. Because of this, Melba faced telephone threats, brigades of attacking mothers, rogue police, fireball and acid-throwing attacks, economic blackmail, and even a price upon her head. But that journey saw Melba Beals emerged with indestructible faith, courage, strength, and hope. She opens up about it all on this episode of  Your Story with Melinda. Episode Links Connect with Melba: http://melbapattillobeals.com Buy March Forward Girl: http://amzn.to/2F3s7es Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts

It's a special Christmas episode of Your Story with Melinda, featuring author and speaker, Sherry Stahl, and co-host of the Why Me Project podcast, Hollie Taylor! It's a conversation with girlfriends about family traditions, favorite memories, and things we love about the season. But we also chat about some tough stuff like why it can e so hard to happy and joyful at Christmas. Episode Links Connect with Sherry Stahl: http://sherrystahl.com http://twitter.com/sherry_stahl Connect with Hollie Taylor: http://faithstrongtoday.com/whymeproject http://twitter.com/hollieonshine Learn about WIMM Canada: http://wimmcanada.ca

It's always fun to sit down with another Faith Strong Today family member! Kevin Makins, whose videos discussing faith and life are shared weekly on FaithStrongToday.com, sits down to share his story this week, as well as talk about his recent one-man-show, Holy Shift. Kevin is all about bridging the gap between the secular and the sacred and you're going to love his perspective on how we can effectively create conversations about faith.  Episode Links Connect with Kevin: http://kevinmakins.com http://facebook.com/kevinmakins http://instagram.com/kevinmakins http://twitter.com/kevinmakins Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts

 Last week, Pam Sykes spoke honestly about the hardships of marriage in an inspiring episode of Your Story with Melinda. If you missed it, definitely go back and check it out. But our conversation continued afterward, unpacking more of her story and what helped her along the way. We quickly realized that Pam's story needed a part two, and it's just as honest and inspiring as the last. Join us as we chat about creating a healthy support system and the important part church and girlfriends play in that. You don't want to miss this show. Episode Links Connect with Pam: http://cleanlifehappywife.com http://www.facebook.com/Greg.and.Pam.Sykes http://twitter.com/cleanlifewife Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts

This week's story is from Pam Sykes, a wife, mom, and clean living blogger at CleanLifeHappyWife. She blogs about a lot of things like parenting, crafts, baking, and marriage, but ut it's that last one that we're really focusing in on this episode of Your Story. Pam opens up about her own marriage to singer-songwriter Greg Sykes, as well as some of the hardships they've faced as a couple. You'll learn three things that will help you and your spouse work through issues and how to come back from the brink divorce to find love again in your marriage. https://youtu.be/92fgyeOM84Q Episode Links Connect with Pam: http://cleanlifehappywife.com http://www.facebook.com/Greg.and.Pam.Sykes http://twitter.com/cleanlifewife Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

This week's story is from Mike Gordon, a passionate speaker who has ministered to tens of thousands of people over the years with a message of hope. His personal steps to Chris wasn't exactly an easy path, experiencing family issues, drugs, alcohol, and crime throughout his early life. Imagine those beginnings with his life today, sharing the stage with the likes of Nick Vujicic, Francis Chan, Hillsong United, and Lecrae. It's a powerful testimony that helps him share Jesus' love and bring people together young and old. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIEftVIH7vk Episode Links Connect with Mike Gordon: http://mike-gordon.ca Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

Have you ever struggled with an apology? Well, Andrew Blackwood, aka Coach Drew, is here to help. This episode of Your Story with Melinda is all about three things: learning, healing, and growing. Coach Drew is a Registered Psychotherapist and his own personal journey has brought him to The Art of A Genuine Apology, a new book that highlights where unhelpful interactions start and describes how to address hurtful situations with confidence. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M20lYptHAUk Episode Links Connect with Andrew: http://coachdrew.ca http://twitter.com/coachdrewcan http://facebook.com/coachdrewcan http://instagram.com/coachdrewcan Get a copy of The Art of A Genuine Apology: http://amzn.to/2hmZVcu Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

As a former professional actor who made a career being someone else, Allison Allen knows a thing or two about playing a character. But we can all understand the pressures to act like someone we're not. On this episode, Allison shares her journey from actor to Bible-teacher and helps us shine in the role God made for us for. https://youtu.be/NBCp_Pw4Xk8 Episode Links Connect with Allison: http://allisonallen.net http://twitter.com/AllisonAllen http://www.facebook.com/AllisonAllenspeaks http://instagram.com/allisonallen Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

This week's story is rather special because it comes from my dad, Paul Estabrooks. Beyond adopting me, he has led an incredible life in ministry and broadcasting, which clearly inspired my own journey. Of course, we talk about my adoption and share a few family stories, but this episode of Your Story with Melinda is more about his testimony and how we can look back on a life well lived. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_My3dmLd5yo What we talk about: * His story and a life in ministry * Travelling in the Philippines * My adoption from his perspective * Working 38 years before retiring * His book and real-life drama of Project Pearl * Looking back at life and what surprises him Episode Links Get a copy of Night of a Million Miracles: http://amzn.to/2yCF1fc Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

Can we be comfortable with uncertainty? It is a notion our guest this week, Nate Petersen, has embraced fully in what he calls the Pilgrim's Process. Nate has been hitchhiking across Canada and he joins us on this podcast to discuss his encounters with people who have loved him even in their differences. https://youtu.be/9eVk_BpztiU Episode Links Connect with Nate: http://pilgrimsprocessorg.wordpress.com http://facebook.com/pilgrimsprocessu http://instagram.com/pilgrims_process/ Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

There is never a night or a problem that could defeat sunrise or hope, and there's no better proof than that than our story this week. Elizabeth Correia has been through a lot: teen pregnancy, an abusive relationship, and depression for starters. However, she has not only survived but thrived, coming out on the other side with an inspiring purpose. You'll hear all about it on this week's episode of Your Story. https://youtu.be/OkBZuaGI7PM What we talk about: * Elizabeth's story * Getting pregnant at 16 years old * If Jesus always protects us * Feeling broken in an abusive relationship * Battling depression * Finding her faith and being saved Episode Links Connect with Elizabeth: http://elizabethcorreia.com http://twitter.com/devainyou http://instagram.com/msselizabethcorreia Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

With his incredible testimony last week, Clayton King shared what he's learned from his 30-years in ministry. Now his story continues as we dive deep into his new book Overcome and how our false beliefs can hold us back from the things God wants for us. On this episode of Your Story, learn how failure can turn into shame, but love and forgiveness can set us on the path to truth. https://youtu.be/6vRRqRp1tYM Episode Links Connect with Clayton King: http://claytonking.com http://twitter.com/Clayton_king Get his new book Overcome: http://amzn.to/2eRitwI Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

At the base of every broken life is a lie, and at the root of every lie is fear. With over 30 years of ministry, Clayton King knows this better than most. Now in the first of a two part interview, Clayton is sharing his inspiring story with us and helping us overcome what is holding us back from an enriched, spiritual life. You'll learn how he became the pastor and leader he is today, as well as what it takes to feel alive in that good place. https://youtu.be/G3yfVGxkr9I Episode Links Connect with Clayton King: http://claytonking.com http://twitter.com/Clayton_king Get his new book Overcome: http://amzn.to/2eRitwI Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

This week's story is from Jen Lawrence, an author and blogger who writes about style, books, being forty-something, and returning to faith. But diving deeper into her personal journey reveals that above else Jen is a survivor having faced postpartum depression, divorce, and abuse in her life. Perhaps most inspiring is that she doesn't view these tribulations as a burden, rather a gift to help embrace the next season in her life. https://youtu.be/KgAOSCaPWL0 Episode Links Connect with Jen Lawrence: http://dwellonthesethings.com http://twitter.com/readjenlawrence http://facebook.com/jenlawrencewriter Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

How can we as Christians effectively share the Gospel? It's a question Peter Marshall looks to God to answer every day as President of The Gideons International In Canada and ShareWord Global. But his path to personal evangelism and Scripture distribution might not be what you expect. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, Peter opens up about his encounter with God, a story and testimony that would radically change his life. https://youtu.be/QDq17zPcxpQ Episode Links Connect with Peter Marshall: http://twitter.com/Peter_JMarshall http://gideons.ca http://sharewordglobal.com Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

Whether you are star-eyed in love or struggling to make it work, this episode of Your Story will show you how to keep your marriage healthy, strong, and fulfilling. We are joined by Kevin Thompson, a pastor and writer, who knows that great marriages don't just happen - they're made intentionally. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2T0PIExULo What we talk about: * what it takes to make your marriage work * walking side by side on a foundation of friendship * what a real partner looks like in a relationship * how do you know when things are going right * respect and when intimacy shouldn't happen * why most marriages won't make it * the role of Jesus and faith in marriage Episode Links Connect with Kevin Thompson http://kevinathompson.com http://twitter.com/kevinathompson Get a copy of 'Friends, Partners, and Lovers: What It Takes to Make Your Marriage Work' http://amzn.to/2vaYZNq Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

After a series of traumatic losses, Pastor John Westfall realized that when everything feels like it's ending, sometimes God is starting something new. Hear his dramatic story on this episode and learn why you don't have to wait until life is perfect to follow God into a new adventure. https://youtu.be/7QS85sGmHZU What we talk about: * his story and what made him carry on * why some people keep others at arm's length * the advantages of taking risks in life * learning to let go of your past and how to move forward * his book "I Didn't Sign Up for This" * surviving the storms of life and setting healthy expectations * why it's good to share your story Episode Links Connect with John Westfall: http://johnfwestfall.com http://twitter.com/johnwestfall1 Get his book: http://amzn.to/2eKTpKQ Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

http://youtu.be/zUyUQkRYDww It's so easy (and common) to put others at arm's length and put up walls, but author Deidra Riggs calls us to put our focus on self-preservation aside and, like Jesus, make the first move toward reconciliation. Her story helps us understand that we are secure in God's inexhaustible love, making us free to love others lavishly. Episode Links Connect with Deidra Riggs: http://deidrariggs.com http://twitter.com/deidrariggs Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

http://youtu.be/GotOHyMJe1I From working in a leper colony in Madagascar to teaching in South Korea and China, Mei-Lyn Freeman has thrown herself into new experiences with curiosity and wonder. Her view of the world is so inspiring that you are sure to walk away from this story with a desire to connect with others and explore new cultures. Mei-Lyn talks about: + her nearly 30-year friendship with Melinda + growing up and being a third world adult + living in Madagascar and how it changed her outlook + the positive effects of experiencing different cultures + traveling, moving, and teaching in other countries + parenting and family life while living abroad Episode Links Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://youtu.be/nUFKJjSCmOM We often overlook the mountaintops and valleys endured by those who help others. For Mark Petersen, CEO of Stronger Philanthropy, those high-impact grants and dead-end disasters parallel a physical pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago. Learn from his journey the real reason we need to give back and work together. Mark talks about: * what the Camino is and why he chose to walk it * how long it takes and the interesting people you meet along the way * if we've lost the faith and hope that God will provide * what we can do to give back in our everyday lives * his book and what a philanthropist is * how he and his family became givers themselves * why philanthropy and pilgrimage work together * taking things slowly and fathering people along the way "But you can move beyond [giving being a transactional experience], to letting giving become a transformational event in your life." Episode Links Connect with Mark Petersen: http://strongerphilanthropy.ca http://twitter.com/lovegivingwell Get a copy of 'Love Giving Well: The Pilgrimage of Philanthropy' book: http://amzn.to/2sPdtS3 Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Join the Faith Strong Community: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNUI6b0iJf4 "Why did you bring me out to the desert to die?" is just the start of Lynne Hartke's journey. Under the Desert Sky is her powerful testimony about redefining hope and beauty. You won't want to miss this episode as she tells all about her battles with cancer and how God manifests Himself in the darkest of times. Lynne talks about: * her background, early life, and getting into ministry * moving to the desert and pastoring with her husband * being diagnosed and how cancer stole her words * both her parents being diagnosed with cancer as well * the "whys" of life and what she never got answered * how God manifests Himself with compassion and power * getting through each day during such a difficult time * her hope for those reading 'Under a Desert Sky' * good advice for those supporting someone with cancer * how she feels today and her next chapter Episode Links Connect with Lynne Hartke: http://lynnehartke.com http://twitter.com/lynnehartke Get Under A Desert Sky: http://amzn.to/2tdXKYQ Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Join the Faith Strong Community: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVeaaRHuZik This week's story comes Kay Warren, co-founder of Saddleback Church with her husband, Rick, as well as an international speaker and best-selling author, who shares deeply personal stories and wisdom gleaned from decades of experience as a pastor's wife. Kay talks about: * growing up and living in a ministry home * being molested as a child and battling with depression * how she met Rick and getting engaged after one date * why her emotional past set her marriage up for failure * her "fairy tale" marriage actually being "marital hell" * looking at your future and making the best choices to get there * deep struggles with God and rebuilding from those struggles * her book 'Sacred Privilege' and helping others in ministry Episode Links Connect with Kay Warren: http://kaywarren.com Get a copy of 'Sacred Privilege': http://amzn.to/2rWROag Learn about Saddleback Church: http://saddleback.com Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Join the Faith Strong Community: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://youtu.be/E0HgOF5dOt4 This week's story comes from David Anderson, Director of Brooksdale Environmental Centre in Surrey, British Columbia. His experience in outdoor recreation, biology, church ministry and teaching comes together at A Rocha, an organization that helps ecosystems across Canada thrive through environmental stewardship. David talks about: * growing up and what brought him to A Rocha * what A Rocha is all about and aspires to do * practical first steps to help the environment * getting kids outside and utilizing technology * the Girls in Action program and helping at-risk youth * why we need to take care of God's creation Episode Links Get involved with A Rocha: http://arocha.ca Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_i3wg19aY4 This week's story comes from Elizabeth Pierce, a clinical social worker who is helping others discover the deep, soulful places where God’s presence can be known. You'll learn why these places are important and how embracing His love will have you living a free life filled with hope, joy, and faith. What we talk about: * her story and growing up in a blended family * how parents can help their kids build a relationship with Jesus * reacting with your kids when they are dealing with things * building better connections with our loved ones and God * the benefit of opening yourself up to God * her journey writing her book and dealing with fear * being tangled by lies from the enemy and how to help each other * the meaning behind and importance of 'Deep, Soulful Places' * abuse and what the Bible actually says about a woman's role * the fear of aging and women struggling with their identity "Your story in someone else's life is more powerful than preaching at them about some Biblical tenets or philosophical ideas that you might have." Episode Links Connect with Elizabeth Pierce: http://elizabethjpierce.com Get her book: http://a.co/fpme3PF Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLPbqFy2KCA This week's story is from best-selling author and motivational speaker, Jay Payleitner. You'll walk away from this episode with some quick tips and easy ways to better connect with your kids, as well as some sneaky strategies to engage your kids when you're super busy. Jay has written more than 20 books that have sold over half a million copies all about parenting, family life, and connecting with God through it all. What we talk about: * his backstory and how he got started * what children really need in life * sneaky strategies to raise great kids * how to more effectively enter their world * the importance of setting limits and why it helps * what children want most from their parents * making your kids your hobby * more quick tips and parenting hacks "Moms and Dads, you think your kids don't want to spend time with you. But with the right tools and right opportunities they do." Episode Links Connect with Jay Payleitner: http://jaypayleitner.com http://twitter.com/JayPayleitner Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

Your Story with Melinda #48 https://youtu.be/ZsHUyXFRiR0 This week's story comes from Barry Chalifoux, a Crisis & Mental Wellness Contractor in Loon Lake, Saskatchewan. His work with First Nations People, combined with his education and training, has given Barry an understanding of the need in communities challenged with addictions, suicide crises, and mental health concerns. But it was his own battles with feeling rejected, as well as God saving him after a failed suicide attempt, that brought Barry to helping others. What we talk about: * his story and when he started his faith journey * growing up in a First Nations Community * attempting suicide and what changed in him afterward * how his personal story guided him to helping others * why God can always provide hope and bring us together Episode Links Connect with Barry: http://barrychalifoux.com http://www.facebook.com/Barry.Chalifoux http://twitter.com/BarryChalifoux Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

https://youtu.be/LKncruBAAgc This week’s story is from Paul Morris and Matt Hill, two former pastors and now leadership consultants. They join me in-studii to discuss mentoring and the importance of community, as well as share their own stories of what lead them to be experts in their field. Paul and Matt talk about: * their lives and how they got to where they are now * their first real significant mentoring moments * how they met each other * working as leadership consultants * the importance of seeking mentorship * why people are afraid of being judged * why mentoring is important in a community * Melinda's appreciation to Paul as her mentor * some profound words that you need to hear Episode links: Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

This week's story is from author and blogger Sarah Bessey, who joins Melinda Estabrooks to talk about making peace with an evolving faith. She shares thoughts from her books 'Out of Sorts' and 'Jesus Feminist,' as well as her personal journey, marriage, preaching, and more. Sarah talks about: * the differences between Canada and the US * what a "Jesus Feminist" is and feminism in our faith * a love/hate relationship with the Apostle Paul * what's the role of women and men in the church * experiencing God through "narrative theology" * how to rebrand your life professionally and personally "We think we have everything kind of sorted out, and we know how we're going to fit. We know how we're going to move through our lives. And then, often times, something happens to throw us off that plan." - Sarah Bessey https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dU1fhQeCclI Episode links: Connect with Sarah Bessey on Twitter: http://twitter.com/sarahbessey Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/ Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong

Your Story with Melinda #45 Sharing their story this week is Hollie Sackett-Reid. For the past decade, Hollie has worked in the Canadian Christian radio and music industries. Notably, she is the co-host of The Morning Spin on 105.9 Shine FM, as well as the founder of promotion company Ten16 Entertainment. On top of all that, Hollie is also one of the directors of WIMM Canada, an association of Christian women in music media. A busy and passionate woman to say the least. But Hollie sits down on this podcast to discuss her journey through it all and shares her hope for Christian women in media and broadcasting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v-DOd1Uu9E

Your Story with Melinda #44 Sharing their story this week is Alana Walker Carpenter, CEO of Intriciti, an organization that helps leaders incorporate faith and business. Their hope is effect unconventional change within a global context. But Alana starts with her own journey to this role before discussing how she got into integrating ministry and business. Furthermore, she offers an easy, four-point plan to make 2017 your best year yet. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JP5GkR1rN2o

Your Story #43 It's a Full Circle reunion as Ann Mainse shares her story with Melinda Estabrooks on the first episode of the New Year! Of course, you'll know Ann from her Faith Strong Today podcast Sincerely Yours, which has been topping the Christian iTunes charts here in Canada. But there's a lot more to her testimony that lead her to this season of her life. You'll hear it all in this in-depth conversation between the two "Sofa Sisters." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFwCG2cGJC8

Your Story #42 With Christmas upon us, there is no better time to be thoughtful and generous. So sharing their story this week is the President and CEO of Yonge Street Mission, Angie Draskovic. This episode is all about giving and how we should come to Christmas with an open heart. Angie offers a unique perspective to that coming from a Telecommunications background and the social profit sector. You'll hear all about her own faith journey and how it lead her to the work she does now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixT47jmBFuc

Your Story #41 Sharing their story this week is author Shelly Miller, who joins Melinda via Skype from her home in London, England. Shelly is originally from St. Louis, Missouri and has spent the past 26 years with her husband and kids doing ministry work. She lives a busy life, something most of us can relate to, but that's why she's so passionate about finding the Rhythms of Rest. That's the name of her new book, which aims to help readers find simple, practical ways to rest. Rest is a gift from God, and in this podcast is sure to refresh you mentally, physically, and spiritually. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDpLfmG18lw

Your Story #40 You might remember Dr. Merry Lin from Episode 16 where she spoke about absent dads. But if not, Dr. Lin is a registered clinical psychologist who specializes in helping people overcome depression, anxiety, abuse, grief, marital and relationship struggles, and other life stressors. Her passion is to help people of all ages discover their full potential as children of God and to break free from the bondage that prevents them from realizing their purpose and joy in life. And that's why she's back on the show. Her and Melinda cover so much in this great interview that you can listen or watch above. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DKGUynvvF8