How can vulnerability and grace transform our most challenging relationships? Join us as we explore this question through the incredible journey of Jennifer Shook, an inner healing mentor and Christian life coach. Jennifer's story is a testament to finding hope and healing amidst the trials of addiction, betrayal, and family crises. She shares her experiences of standing by her husband, Scotty, during his battle with addiction and incarceration, and how this journey led to unexpected growth and redemption. Her candid insights reveal the power of breaking the silence on these often-avoided topics in church communities, offering a safe haven for those in need of encouragement and understanding.

Jennifer takes us through her personal journey, from facing the stigma and skepticism surrounding her relationship with Scotty to embracing the surprising paths of love and faith. She speaks about the transformative bond they formed through letters while he was in prison, and the profound lesson they learned about grace, acceptance, and letting go of past mistakes. We uncover the misconceptions about grace and performance in faith, exploring how a deeper understanding of God's love can foster healing and connection. Her narrative is a powerful reminder that life can take unexpected turns when we allow ourselves to be seen and supported by others.

Through heartfelt stories and insightful reflections, we tackle the complexities of living with a partner struggling with addiction and the importance of seeking help for oneself. Jennifer's journey highlights the necessity of setting boundaries, trusting God, and embracing resilience in the face of uncertainty. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges, reminding us that faith and community can guide us through the darkest times. Whether you're facing struggles with addiction or seeking inner healing, Jennifer's inspiring journey offers valuable lessons on grace, vulnerability, and the incredible strength found in trusting the process.

Jennifer Shook Instagram

Becoming Together community on Facebook

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Ever find yourself riding the waves of parenting, wondering how to swim against the cultural currents? Join us and our special guest, Josh Poteet, lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of "Parenting Against the Current," as we explore the beautiful chaos of parenting with purpose and faith. Through Josh's journey from EMS to ministry, discover how God’s guidance can illuminate your true calling. We break down all the complexities of raising children who love Jesus amidst a sea of cultural challenges, offering listeners practical wisdom and heartwarming stories to inspire intentional parenting.

Josh shares the power of testimony in our spiritual journeys, showing us how leaning into authentic relationships and challenging cultural norms can empower parents. With humor and humility, he guides us through the significance of setting boundaries, embracing imperfections, and the transformative power of mentorship. Together, we reflect on the spiritual dynamics of marriage and the balance that differing perspectives can bring, all while highlighting the importance of seeking peace and authenticity in our family lives.

As we navigate through topics like technology, discipleship, and the often bumpy ride of parenting teens, we invite you to join us in embracing imperfection with grace. Our conversation emphasizes the joy that comes with failing forward, owning our weaknesses, and shepherding our children’s hearts closer to Jesus. Whether you're a seasoned parent or new to the journey, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and encouragement to help you lead your family with faith, love, and purpose.

https://parentingagainstthecurrent.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ParentingAgainstTheCurrent

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(04:38) - God's Call to Run for Governor

(15:59) - Challenges Facing Kansas Growth and Business

(30:00) - Stepping Out in Faith and Trust

(34:42) - Preparing for Spiritual Battles in Public

(44:16) - Courage, Sacrifice, and American History

What if stepping out of your comfort zone could lead to a life driven by faith and purpose? Join us as we uncover the remarkable story of Philip Sarnecki, a Kansas businessman who left behind a thriving career to answer a higher calling—running for governor. With ventures spanning industries from entrepreneurship to movie production, Philip's journey into politics is a testament to courage, faith, and a business-minded approach to governance. His inspiring leap from humble beginnings to the political stage serves as a reminder of the powerful transformation that can occur when you trust in a greater plan.

Guided by God, Phillip and his wife, Heidi, have embarked on this new path as a family. We dive into Philip's admiration for leaders like Ronald Reagan and the impact of formative experiences such as the National Youth Leadership Conference. As he shares his frustrations with the current political landscape and his transition from business to politics, Philip emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, and family support. This candid conversation reveals the deep-rooted motivations and the significant role of faith in Philip's decision to enter the gubernatorial race.

Kansas faces unique challenges, from population retention to bureaucratic barriers hindering small businesses. Together, we explore these issues and the opportunities they present for growth, especially in a post-pandemic world. Personal anecdotes highlight Kansas's potential as a family-friendly state, while insights from John Maxwell's leadership principles underscore the value of stepping out and trusting in a higher calling. Through themes of courage, sacrifice, and the influence of American history, this episode encourages listeners to embrace their faith-driven journeys and pursue impactful change.

https://philipsarnecki.org/

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(03:27) - Navigating Anxiety With Amber Lia

(08:57) - Parental Support for Social Media Transparency

(13:55) - Navigating Social Media Boundaries for Kids

(22:53) - Building Confidence in Teenagers Through Scripture

(30:52) You Are Seen Book Overview

(33:08) - Overcoming Triggers and Parenting Challenges

Join us in this enriching conversation as we welcome author Amber Lia, who, alongside her son Ollie, has penned a powerful new book aimed at addressing the challenges teenagers face today. Amber shares how their collaborative effort serves as a vital resource for parents to better understand their teens' needs to be seen, heard, known, and loved, all through a relationship with God. We share practical ways to incorporate this devotional into daily life, such as reading it during breakfast, and emphasize the importance of fostering authentic relationships with your teens.

Listen in as Amber opens up about her journey from being a high school literature teacher with dreams of writing the great American novel to becoming a non-fiction author with impactful works like "You Are Seen" and "Triggers." Together, we explore the intricacies of parenting and the complexities of guiding children through anxiety and depression. Amber shares how her son Ollie's openness about his struggles and his initiative to reach out through social media were pivotal in shaping their book, highlighting the widespread need for these essential conversations and resources.

In this episode, we also tackle the pressures of social media on mental health, particularly for children and teenagers. We stress the importance of processing emotions healthily and discuss the dangers of comparison on social media. By instilling a strong sense of self-worth in young people, grounded in biblical teachings, and modeling healthy digital behaviors, we aim to equip parents and teens with the tools to navigate these challenges positively. We also highlight the significance of overcoming parenting triggers, managing emotions like anger, and creating systems to minimize chaos, offering a heartfelt reflection on the journey of seeking patience and grace in parenting.

https://amberlia.com/

https://www.instagram.com/walkin.with.ollie/

https://www.instagram.com/therealamberlia/

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(00:00) - Unlikely Housewives Discuss Faith and Culture

(03:29) - Navigating Faith, Love, and Authenticity

(17:33) - Godly Leaders and Their Imperfections

(22:57) - Parenting Through the Culture War

(30:50) - Navigating Cultural Shifts in Faith

(43:09) - Parenting Challenges in Modern Culture

(51:50) - Love, Accountability, and Faith

Can cultural differences coexist harmoniously with faith? Join us as we uncover surprising journeys of atheists who embraced Christ by aligning with church's worldview on contentious issues like the trans movement and socialism. With Pastor Zach Terry bringing his no-nonsense approach to faith and community, we promise you'll gain insights into navigating challenging conversations with love and authenticity. This episode isn't just about belief—it's about the courage to build bridges beyond disagreement and discovering how community thrives even in diversity.

Podcasting is more than a medium; it's a movement reshaping spiritual discourse, and we're eager to explore its transformative power with you. We discuss how sermons are evolving into motivational messages, influenced by public figures like Russell Brand and Jordan Peterson, who are on their own spiritual journeys. Through candid conversations, we consider the authenticity of these transformations and the role of sincerity in faith. As we navigate these cultural shifts, we reflect on how podcasts can spread the gospel with boldness and truth, creating a ripple effect in today's digital age.

Parenting in modern culture isn't for the faint-hearted, especially when navigating complex issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. Our episode offers a guiding hand, sharing personal stories and lessons learned in support of families facing these challenges. From tackling unexpected topics like exposure to unconventional subcultures to the importance of mercy and acceptance in faith, our conversation reaffirms the strength found in community.

https://zachterry.org/

https://www.instagram.com/zachterry

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(00:00) - Magnetic Marriages

(06:29) - Transforming Marriage Through Personal Growth

(15:42) - Love Language Dynamics and Miscommunications

(24:13) - Rebuilding Fun and Foundation in Marriage

(30:16) - Prioritizing Self-Care and Active Listening

(43:36) - Reviving and Nurturing Marital Relationships

(54:11) - Empowering Housewives for Self-Improvement

Unlock the secrets to building and sustaining magnetic marriages with insights from our special guest, certified relationship coach Cristie Cerniglia. Learn how husbands often gauge their success through their wives' happiness and discover the transformative power of personal growth in revitalizing long-term relationships. Cristie shares her journey of reigniting intimacy in her 30-year marriage using Laura Doyle's strategies, offering valuable lessons that extend beyond marriage to all types of relationships. Prepare to become the "magnet" in your connections, ensuring they thrive long after the children have flown the nest.

Discover how the right resources, such as Laura Doyle's "The Empowered Wife," can turn rocky marital paths into smooth journeys. We highlight the importance of self-investment, the pitfalls of a "holier-than-thou" mindset, and explore how gratitude and active listening can enhance marital satisfaction. Whether it's meeting the challenges of different life seasons or maintaining a strong foundation, this episode provides practical tools for adding fun and friendship back into the fabric of marriage.

Celebrate personal empowerment as key components in sustaining harmonious relationships. Find joy in small daily activities, respect your partner's autonomy, and avoid the trap of micromanagement. We also tackle the misconception that staying together for the kids simplifies future decisions, highlighting the need for proactive renewal in marriages.

Go to Cristie’s website below to sign up for her newsletter and she’ll send you a free resource, “Five Mistakes Women Make Getting Their Man’s Attention”.

https://relationshipswithamap.com/

https://www.instagram.com/relationshipswithamap/

Relationships With A Map Facebook Page *********************

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(00:04) - Discussing Divorce and Infidelity

(08:48) - Creative PR Strategy Involving Celebrities

(15:30) - Taboo Topics of Infidelity and Divorce

(27:24) - Recognizing Signs of Marital Infidelity

(34:47) - Grateful for Friend's Support and Faith

We take a trip back to our early podcasting days, where we were huddled in a makeshift studio, with the incredible Stephanie Dulin, our very first guest as we discussed the complex issues of foster care and adoption. Fast forward to now, and we're diving headfirst into a heartfelt discussion and the isolating experience of divorce within the Christian community. Stephanie shares how a seemingly unrelated event, like a Coldplay concert incident, can mirror personal trials, offering unexpected lessons and insights. Through laughter and candid conversation, we remind each other—and our listeners—that no one is truly alone in their journey.

This episode tackles the tough conversations many shy away from—infidelity and divorce—and the societal judgments that often accompany these topics. Stephanie bravely recounts her experience of addressing these issues at a church event, highlighting the delicate balance of vulnerability and strength needed to break the silence. Together, we explore the signs of marital infidelity and the emotional turmoil that comes with being dismissed. Trusting one's instincts, leaning on community support, and seeking guidance from scripture emerge as key themes in navigating these rocky paths. We also touch on the invaluable role of empathy and accountability in personal relationships, hoping to empower others to share their stories for personal healing and communal support.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(00:00) - Warrior Moms in Faith and Healing

(05:33) - Family Struggles With Anxiety and Depression

(14:17) - Desperate Struggles of Motherhood

(23:11) - Recovery Journey From Trauma and Suicide

(26:59) - Navigating Therapy and Counseling With Children

(41:36) - Empowering Communication With Teenagers

Jenn Robb, a warrior mom and nurse practitioner, shares her emotionally charged journey in navigating her daughter's mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and self-harm, that disrupted their seemingly perfect family life. As someone who understands the pressure of maintaining appearances in Christian communities, Jenn speaks candidly about the stigma and isolation that comes with these challenges, particularly when sensitive topics like sexual assault are involved. Through her story, Jenn reveals how faith, prayer, and persistence became her guiding lights, and how she found healing and purpose amidst personal battles.

Together, we explore the painful yet hopeful aspects of motherhood, from the emotional burdens of discovering self-harm to the desperate measures taken after her daughter Chloe's unresponsive night due to alcohol consumption. Jenn brings to light the critical nature of addressing root causes rather than just symptoms, emphasizing cognitive behavior therapies like EMDR that played a significant role in Chloe's recovery. She also reflects on her own healing journey, finding peace in the belief that trials can be transformative, presenting opportunities for growth and deeper understanding.

Jenn's commitment to fostering open communication within her family stands out as a powerful testament to the importance of emotional safety and trust. By sharing techniques such as using code words and encouraging free expression of feelings, Jenn has cultivated a supportive environment for her children. Her insights are further expanded in her book "Warrior Mom Rising," a vital resource for mothers facing similar struggles. Through this episode, we find encouragement and reassurance that God's timing, though sometimes delayed, is never absent.

Warrior Mom FB Group

Connect with Jenn on Instagram warriormom_jennrobb

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com