Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?

Melissa Kruger serves as the Vice President of Discipleship Programming at The Gospel Coalition. As an author and Bible teacher, she regularly teaches women in her community and speaks at conferences around the country. I’m so excited to have her on the show today to talk about her latest book, Parenting with Hope: Raising Teens For Christ in a Secular Age, and dive into the ins and outs of raising teenagers. We talk about transitioning with your children as they grow, modeling a life of faith, creating a prayerful home, and so much more. In a culture that often implies that the teenage years are miserable and difficult, Melissa encourages parents to not overlook the beauty and joy in this chapter. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply someone who influences young lives, this conversation is SO important, and I can’t wait for you to hear it! 2:00 – Melissa 101 Vice President of the Gospel Coalition Mother of 3 and wife Former math teacher An unexpected path to writing 16 books 6:42 – Changing The Parenting Narrative The negative narrative surrounding parenting teenagers and tweens Understanding the development stages of this time period Being gracious and patient with teenagers + adapting your parenting style 14:21 – The Gracious Home Vs. The Permissive Home Setting boundaries and allowing for mistakes A lack of structure leading to negative outcomes Setting boundaries as a parent Allowing children to face consequences in a safe and supportive environment 21:25 – Parenting Through Different Stages Transitioning parenting styles from one stage to the next Recognizing children as independent human beings Walking alongside your children as they make their own decisions Avoiding placing your identity in your children’s actions or behaviors 33:03 – Modeling Faith Being gracious with failure as a parent Setting the example by walking with God Incorporating prayer into everyday life as a family Connecting with Melissa FEATURED QUOTES “I think growing up with our teen in some ways, is remaining curious about who they are and not making assumptions about why they're pushing back on something.” “I think it's really tempting as a parent sometimes to place a lot of our identity and in our teen…we start trying to control who they become, rather than walk alongside them as they're becoming who God made them to be.” “Learning how to make a mistake is actually a life lesson.” “I always say aim for patterns, not perfection.”   Learn more about Melissa: https://melissabkruger.com/ Get your copy of Parenting with Hope https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Hope-Raising-Christ-Secular-ebook/dp/B0CFTGDKJ1 The Gospel Coalition https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/   Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv   About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

My guest this week is the lovely Myquillyn Smith, also known as The Nester. She is a New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-selling author of Welcome Home and Cozy Minimalist Home. For over a decade, she has been encouraging women to embrace imperfections and live boldly in their spaces through her blog. Myquillyn’s home in North Carolina has been featured in publications such as Better Homes and Gardens, Ladies Home Journal, Cottages and Bungalows, and more. As a practicing imperfectionist, she believes in the power of small changes, putting nail holes in the wall, and taking the time to make a place feel like home – even if you’re renting. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her, hearing her perspective on creating a space you’ll love, and learning more about her latest book, House Rules, which is set to release on April 23rd. I just know you’re going to love her too! 3:07 – Myquillyn 101 Starting “The Nester” in 2007 Learning to build a home by moving frequently Teaching universal decorating truths 9:55 – Making a Home The perfectly staged homes seen on social media Embracing imperfection in home decor Making your space feel like you 17:45 – Establishing Roots Where You Are Taking ownership of your space, even in rentals or temporary spaces The perfect circumstance will never come The power of simple changes in home design 29:06 – Design Insights The genesis of Myquillyn’s passion for decorating Understanding design principles like scale, contrast, and lighting The Inspiration behind Myquillyn’s book, House Rules 38:39 – Embracing Imperfection Being a practicing imperfectionist Learning to take risks in home decor and life You can’t ruin something you already hate Connecting with Myquillyn + pre-ordering House Rules FEATURED QUOTES “I’ve never met a home I haven’t loved. I believe every home has a silver lining.” “I 100% believe it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.” “Where else can we take a risk if not at home?” Learn more about Myquillyn: Pre-order House Rules: https://www.amazon.com/House-Rules-Decorate-Every-Budget/dp/0800744748 The Nester https://thenester.com/ The Nester podcast https://thenester.com/podcast/ Myquillyn on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thenester/?hl=en Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly GET YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

My guest this week is the incredible Mattie Jackson Smith. Mattie is an author, podcaster, and speaker whose life took an unexpected turn when she tragically lost her 28-year-old husband to a traumatic brain injury just weeks before their first anniversary. Her first book, Lemons on Friday, offers a raw and honest account of her journey through grief, providing solace and guidance to others navigating the lonely and difficult path of widowhood. Outside of her writing career, Mattie is the host of the podcast In Joy Life, where she encourages her listeners to choose joy in any season or circumstance. We dive deep into Mattie’s story today as she transparently shares what it looked like to wrestle with God in life’s darkest moments, ask hard questions, and bring her hurt and doubts to Jesus. She has so many powerful things to say about finding God in the questions and navigating life after loss. I absolutely loved getting to spend time with her in this episode and know you will too! 2:21 – Mattie 101 Born and raised in Nashville in a country music family A passion for creative writing Owning a wine bar in Nashville Losing her husband after a brain injury Mattie’s memoir, Lemons on Friday 14:04 – Honesty in Grief Sitting in anger with God Biblical examples of emotions and suffering Embracing your emotions instead of suppressing them 24:45 – Finding God in the Questions Lamentations 3 How writing helped Mattie begin to heal God's invitation to bring our questions, doubts, and struggles to Him 36:09 – Navigating New Beginnings The secondary losses that come with grief Redemption is not a replacement Navigating dating after experiencing loss Honoring the past while embracing the future Connecting with Mattie FEATURED QUOTES “I lived my life and the worst thing I could have imagined happened. And through that God not only has worked miracles in me through the grief and healing process, but he fulfilled this desire that he planted in my heart at 19.” “God not only can handle it but invites me to bring it to Him.” “What I hope people see from my life is you do have agency to choose joy, even in the worst of the worst of it.” Learn more about Mattie: Get your copy of Lemons on Friday https://www.amazon.com/Lemons-Friday-Trusting-Greatest-Heartbreak/dp/0785241272 In Joy Life podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-joy-life-with-mattie-jackson/id1667357187 Mattie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mattiejackson/?hl=en Mattie on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mattiejacksonofficial/

Join me in this week's episode as I sit down with my dear friend and extraordinary human being, Kim Butler. Kim is the lead coach and founder of The Whiteboard Room, where she empowers creatives, leaders, and companies to unlock their true potential through one-on-one coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements. With a heart fueled by faith, family, and a passion for adventure (and a Diet Dr. Pepper), Kim's coaching journey has touched countless lives, including my own. I’m thrilled to have her on the show to share more about her story, her mentoring process and what it looks like to set personal and professional goals and walk them out in faith.  3:53 – Kim 101 Kim’s job at The Whiteboard Room Kim’s passion for helping people overcome obstacles and set goals Merging coaching and consulting The power of goal setting 8:25 – Following God’s Call Life lessons from a desk job Inspiring people to see the best in themselves Kim’s journey to the world race Sitting with God’s silence 16:32 – In The Waiting Sitting in the waiting Remaining faithful in God’s timing The careers that led Kim to where she is today 23:27 – The Creation of The Whiteboard Method How Kim created The Whiteboard Method What Kim’s mentor process looks like Working in alignment with your life 32:04 – A Work in Progress Real client stories Kim’s experience being Molly’s mentor The power of accountability Getting in touch with Kim FEATURED QUOTES “Goal setting became this like linchpin that I started to see, wow, there's so much power in this very simple thing. And nobody does it.” “Your platform is not your purpose. It is just the place that you get to live out your purpose.” “To know where you’re going and who you want to be, you have to know where you’ve been and who you are.” Learn more about Kim and The Whiteboard Room: https://www.thewhiteboardroom.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thewhiteboardroom/ https://www.facebook.com/THEWBROOM/ Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com  http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly GET YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn  Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG  ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb  Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8  Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv  About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

The day is FINALLY here! Yesterday marked the official launch of my book, which means you can now purchase If I Don’t Laugh I’ll Cry everywhere books are sold! To make this moment even more special, I'm joined by the one and only John Stillman in today’s episode. Although he didn’t prepare his interview questions (but don’t you worry- he never fails to prepare a joke or two) we had a blast reminiscing about the journey of bringing this book to life. From the initial days of the writing process to receiving my first-ever feedback from early readers, every step of this adventure has been nothing short of incredible. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who has supported me on this journey. Whether you've preordered the book, left a review, or simply shared in the excitement, your support means the world to me. If you’re planning to get your hands on a copy soon, I can’t wait for you to read it! Until next time, happy listening + happy reading! 0:11 – Presidents, Past Boyfriends & The Making of a Memoir Selecting Millard Fillmore The boyfriend chapter The evolution of If I Don’t Laugh I’ll Cry 8:09 – … Now What? A second book? Anticipation of reader feedback The publishing process Molly’s favorite chapter 14:32 – Chapter By Chapter What it’s like to work with an editor Crafting an engaging narrative and chapter titles Where chapters of the book were written 21:07 – Completing the Book The book’s content and structure The hardest chapters in the book to write John’s dialogue in the book The Dark Knight + Googling “racketeering” 29:16 – Final Thoughts Positive feedback from male readers Designing the book cover Buying the book in person FEATURED QUOTES “The initial idea was really just to tell a debt story... I think as I began to work on the outline I realized that more of that backstory needed to be included than I think I originally thought.” “I think the thing I'm most looking forward to is hearing the stories of people who are reading it.” “I can say, I'm not I'm not sick of myself. That sounds really weird to say, but I mean… I'm not sick of this book. Like, I'm not over it. I am more excited about it than ever. And I'm just genuinely excited for people to read it.” Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly GET YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

This week, I'm thrilled to welcome the most special guest ever on my show- my dad. With the release of my book just around the corner (coming out next week- can you believe it?!) I couldn’t think of a better time to have him on the podcast. Together, we dig into some of the stories that are (and aren’t) talked about in my book. Join us as we laugh, reminisce, and share stories of the joys, the challenges, and everything in between. My dad has such powerful things to say about gratitude, slowing down, choosing love, and finding joy in the darkest of moments. This conversation is so special to me, and I am so excited to share it with you today.  Without further ado, let’s jump into this conversation with Tom Buckley.  3:34 – Tom 101 Tom’s upbringing + challenging relationship with religion Going to college, joining a fraternity, and career as a teacher Difficulties in marriage, battles with alcoholism and homelessness Tom’s journey to sobriety + spiritual growth 26:49 – Parenting Perspectives Reading the memoir Watching children make mistakes and learn from them 36:28 – Choosing Love Tom and Lynda’s marriage that defied the odds Prioritizing sobriety, God, and the good of the family The importance of love, respect, and kindness 48:28 – Rule 62 Looking for the good throughout Lynda’s sickness Not taking yourself too seriously Appreciating what life has taught you Tom’s favorite chapter in the book 48:28 – Life lessons at 80 Tom’s life today with Cindy Slowing down and appreciating the present Trusting that things will work out when you get out of your own way FEATURED QUOTES “That's what life is about. It isn't about failure, it's about getting back up.”  “If you take yourself too seriously, you just lose sight of all the things that really are important.” “In the ‘getting through it’ stage, you gain experience and knowledge that you can use to get out of it. You can find places for help and guidance that will work.” “You want to see who the winners are? Follow the laughter.” Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com  http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly Preorder my book:  PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn  Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG  ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb  Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?  

PREORDER MY BOOK - IF I DON'T LAUGH, I'LL CRY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn  Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG  ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb  Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib My guest this week is the hilarious Dustin Nickerson, a comedian from Seattle now suffering in Southern California. In 2020 he released his debut comedy special Overwhelmed, which is currently one of the highest-rated specials on Amazon Prime.  His humor has graced the screens of Comedy Central, Netflix with Kevin Hart, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Fox, and Hulu, and his stand-up clips have garnered tens of millions of views. Dustin is also the author of How To Be Married To Melissa and co-host of the podcast Don’t Make Me Come Back There.  If you want to laugh today, this is the episode for you! I have been a long-time fan of Dustin’s work and I’m so excited to have him on the show today to share his perspective on life, marriage, comedy, and more. You’re going to love this one! 12:07 – Dustin 101, Toby Keith, and Bojangles Dustin’s Twitter bio Molly’s first date at a Toby Keith concert Bojangles Biscuits Dustin’s fan base 21:46 – Set Bedtimes and Mouthguards Adult parties need bedtimes  Middle-aged friendships The beauty of marriage 27:40 – If I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry Dustin and Melissa’s viral video Dustin’s relatable humor Evolving as a comedian 33:44 – Finding Your Funny Authenticity in creativity Bombing in stand-up Understanding your audience 41:41 – The Solider Dog, The Late Late Show and Dustin’s Book Dustin’s memorable career moments  The dedication behind success Connecting with Dustin FEATURED QUOTES "The only way to get good at stand-up comedy is to do stand-up comedy." “No comedian is beloved by everybody. You're not trying to get everyone to love you. You're trying to get the people that do love you, or will love your stuff, to find you.” Learn more about Dustin: Dustin on Tour: https://www.dustinnickerson.com/ Dustin’s Comedy Specials: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCs2QQYow6VX9nDpDwCspiqQ Dustin on social media: https://www.facebook.com/dustinnickersoncomedy https://www.instagram.com/dustinnickerson/?hl=en https://twitter.com/DustinNickerson How To Be Married To Melissa: https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/how-to-be-married-to-melissa/ Don’t Make Me Come Back There Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dont-make-me-come-back-there-with-dustin-melissa-nickerson/id1434215707?mt=2 Melissa’s Target Outfit Video: https://www.tiktok.com/@dustinnickersoncomedy/video/7327676165953457451 Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com  http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly PREORDER MY BOOK - IF I DON'T LAUGH, I'LL CRY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn  Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG  ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb  Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

We have such an incredible guest joining us for today’s show! Bola Sokunbi is a certified financial instructor (CFEI), money expert, speaker, and founder of Clever Girl Finance, one of the largest personal finance media platforms for women in the U.S. Bola received the 2021 Financial Education Instructor of the Year Award from the National Council of Financial Educators and is a 4x best-selling author of the Clever Finance Series and her book, Choosing To Prosper. She is passionate about helping women take control of their money stories and live life on their terms. Bola has such amazing things to say about breaking free from a limiting money mindset, being intentional, and giving yourself grace along your financial journey. I could not be more excited to have her back on the show with us today to share her story and wisdom with all of you! 4:49 – Bola 201 Bola’s life as a business owner, mom, and wife Releasing 4 books Bola’s career journey and mission Pursuing her business on her own terms 22:35 – Embracing Imperfections in Money Management “Low dough March” Tips for curbing impulsive spending Embracing imperfections and finding solutions that work for you 40:57 – The Wealth Paradox The cultural attitude towards money  Wealthy individuals being idolized and demonized Common misconceptions about wealth Money as a tool 51:24 – Final Takeaways Breaking free from a limiting money mindset Learning from others, being intentional, and open-minded to opportunities Changing dynamics in the financial planning industry Connecting with Bola FEATURED QUOTES “I had an idea that I wanted to build a business that would help women- that would empower women to not feel any shame or any judgment about their finances.” “Automation is a tool that can help you save and help you get out of debt faster, that can help you invest more. Leverage the tools and resources that can help you help yourself.” “Give yourself that grace. We’re all making money mistakes.” “Money is not anything. It's a tool. It doesn't make you good, it doesn't make you evil, it doesn't make you kind, it doesn't make you hideous… it… amplifies who you are. If you're a good person, you're a great person with money. If you're an evil person, you're a worse person with money. It’s a tool.” Learn more about Bola: https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/ Clever Girl Finance Book Series https://www.amazon.com/stores/Bola-Sokunbi/author/B076GP7FS3 Bola’s book, Choosing To Prosper https://www.amazon.com/Choosing-Prosper-Triumphing-Adversity-Achieving-ebook/dp/B0B4V644NT The Clever Girls Know Podcast https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/podcast/ Clever Girl Finance on social media https://www.instagram.com/clevergirlfinance/ https://www.youtube.com/clevergirlfinance https://www.facebook.com/clevergirlfinance/ Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

I am so incredibly excited to sit down with Joy Clarkson in this week’s episode. Joy wears many hats - from being a research associate in theology and literature at King’s College London to serving as the Books and Culture Editor for Plough Quarterly. Completing her Ph.D. in theology at the University of Saint Andrews, she's also the face behind the popular podcast Speaking with Joy and the author of several books, including her latest release, You Are a Tree, which we chat about today. This conversation was so rich, and it was such a delight to unpack some of the powerful metaphors found in scripture together. I hope you join us as we learn more about the inspiration behind Joy’s new book and talk about how God uses imagery and nature to help us better understand ourselves, our relationships, and the mysteries of life. 7:06 – Joy 101 Living in Scottland and teaching theology in London Joy’s books and podcast Joy’s love for tea, music, and baking 13:03 – The Origin Story for Joy’s book Frequently relocating as a child Joy’s lifelong connection with trees Living in one place for 27 months Exploring trees in Scripture  18:50 – Nature’s Lessons The profound metaphors found in nature God’s intentional creation The 7 metaphors explored in Joy’s book 26:44 – Metaphors of Mystery God’s intentional design woven into creation Embracing childlike wonder to see God’s presence and intentionality Using metaphors as tools to describe the mysterious aspects of creation 40:59 – Final Takeaways Unpacking “love is a disease” The metaphors of trees and travel Connecting with Joy FEATURED QUOTES “Scripture itself… it's not just a rulebook…doesn't give us a bunch of abstract, philosophical truths about God- it draws on our experiences of the natural world, and our experiences of light and height and depth, to help us understand ourselves and our relationship with God.”   “I think metaphors kind of keep us open to the many facets of things and the mystery of being alive.”   “We are created to belong in this world, and to have a relationship [with] it and to find meaning in it.”   “To be in the world and to flourish we do need to have roots, we do need to be like a tree and stay in one place. But even the best tree human life is still a temporary life and we still have this sense of belonging for a home that isn't here." Learn more about Joy: https://joyclarkson.substack.com/about Check out You Are a Tree: https://www.amazon.com/You-Are-Tree-Metaphors-Nourish/dp/0764238256 Check out Aggressively Happy: https://www.amazon.com/Aggressively-Happy-Realists-Believing-Goodness/dp/0764238248/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=LfzV1&content-id=amzn1.sym.cf86ec3a-68a6-43e9-8115-04171136930a&pf_rd_p=cf86ec3a-68a6-43e9-8115-04171136930a&pf_rd_r=144-9553475-8087324&pd_rd_wg=LvZyp&pd_rd_r=6d7bd05c-79fe-4760-962e-083df08e9a43&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk Speaking with Joy podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speaking-with-joy/id1310614879 Joy on social media: https://www.instagram.com/joynessthebrave/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/p/Joy-Clarkson-100063508753020/ https://twitter.com/joynessthebrave?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib   About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

My guest this week is the amazing Donna Jones. Donna is a national speaker, church planter, pastor’s wife, and self-described bible explainer with a remarkable speaking portfolio spanning 26 states and 4 continents. Donna is also the host of the weekly That's Just What I Needed podcast and the talented author behind Seek: A Woman's Guide to Meeting God, Taming Your Family Zoo, the Get Healthy Bible Study Series, and more.  In honor of her newest book, Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life, she joins us today to share powerful strategies for handling conflicts with grace and truth. We talk about everything from navigating disagreements to the biblical foundations of forgiveness. I know there is something valuable in this conversation for everyone- get ready for a good one! 2:29 – Donna 101 Pastor’s wife and church planter National speaker, writer, and mom Passionate about conflict resolution Gym, coffee, and shoe lover 7:04 – Healthily Handling Conflict Communicating thoughts, feelings, and opinions with grace and truth Donna’s unique perspective on conflict through ministry Don’t make the small things big and the big things small 18:31 – The Art of Listening & Disagreeing Gracefully The conflict continuum Listening to understand Learning to disagree without being disagreeable 34:20 – Forgiveness Forgiveness is a command, choice, and promise Starting with the “want to” Inviting Jesus into the pain It’s never too late 49:28 – Takeaways Ordering Donna’s book Connecting with Donna Free online resources FEATURED QUOTES “I would like to hope that this book serves the purpose to help people avoid things that will make them regret how they handled some conflict in their life.” “If you have conflict with someone, it does not mean you are a bad person, they are a bad person, or your relationship is somehow defective or bad.” “When we invite Jesus into those spaces, He doesn't shame us. He sympathizes because He leans towards us and He whispers, ‘I know. I felt it too. I get it. I understand. And I can help.’” Learn more about Donna: https://donnajones.org/ Get your copy of Healthy Conflict/Peaceful Life: https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Conflict-Peaceful-Life-Communicating-ebook/dp/B0CDKY8YNJ Donna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnaajones/ Donna on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donnajonesspeak/ Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly Preorder my book: PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib    

My guest this week is the incredible Rose Booth. With over 30 years of experience in technology and publishing, Rose is a dedicated mentor and counselor, passionate about ministry and teaching. She is also the co-host of the podcast, One Single Thought. In December 2021, Rose's life took a turn when she became an amputee, offering her a new perspective on life. Her first book, Dancing in the Valley: Finding Life and Joy Amidst the Shadow of Death Nipping at My Heels, was released in December 2023. I’m so excited to have her on the show today to share her inspiring story and talk about the power of surrender, as well as the growth that comes from navigating through dark valleys. Her story is such a powerful reminder that, even in our darkest moments, God is faithful and His plans for us are always good. 2:03 – Rose 101 Rose’s involvement with her church + journey as an author and podcast host Being born to parents who experienced 18 years of infertility Being instilled with a sense of independence from a young age 16:50 – Facing the Valley Rose’s series of health complications and surgeries Grappling with questions of faith and purpose Rose’s pivotal moment of surrender 27:45 – Navigating Setbacks The unexpected setbacks that kept Rose from healing Deciding to undergo amputation Yearning to be with Jesus 36:44 – Finding Strength in Surrender Encouragement for those in the valley Growing in the darkest places God is working all things for good 46:13 – Takeaways + Rose’s Life Today How Rose is doing physically today Publishing her book + future projects FEATURED QUOTES “The worst time of my life, God used to make my dreams come true.” “God will grow you more when you're in the darkness than He ever will in the light. It's one of the only things that grows in the dark and it's our faith.” “If we think in the valley that we are where we're supposed to be because it's part of God's plan, then we know that this is ultimately going to work out for His good and His glory.” Learn more about Rose: https://www.rosebooth.net/ Order Rose’s book, Dancing in the Valley https://www.amazon.com/Dancing-Valley-Finding-Amidst-Nipping/dp/1955051240/ref=sr_1_1?crid=X9EWQA7QFLWY&keywords=dancing%20in%20the%20valley%20rose%20booth&qid=1701392519&sprefix=%2Caps%2C151&sr=8-1 One Single Thought podcast: https://www.rosebooth.net/podcast Rose on social media: https://www.instagram.com/rosieboo65/

This week, I am sitting down with the incredible John R. Miles, the driving force behind the wildly popular Passion Struck podcast and nationally recognized radio show. With a background as a former US Navy officer and a senior executive at a Fortune 50 company, John is celebrated as a transformative leader in intentional behavior change and personal mastery. He’s an author, entrepreneur, and visionary in modern leadership and I’m so excited to have him on the show today to talk about his new book and the transformative power of purpose-driven living. Stay tuned for a powerful conversation on overcoming adversity, fostering authentic connections, embracing gratitude in our daily lives, and much more. I was truly inspired by my conversation with John, and hope you enjoy it as much as I did! 2:38 – John 101 John’s unique career path John’s book + the “pinball life” 10:01 – Breaking Free from the Pinball Life The self-discrepancy theory Intentionality as a muscle Life crafting + identifying goals Building a foundation through pillars of support 20:50 – Awakening to Purpose John’s unexpected career shifts John’s wake-up call and journey towards a more meaningful path Aligning with your true calling 32:43 – Gratitude, Connection, and Purpose Our innate desire for purpose The power of connection and service Being vessels for a greater purpose 40:42 – Hope in Hardship The transformative power of pain and hardship Focusing on the small wins The path to rebuilding 48:15 – Takeaways Connecting with John Matt Doherty’s story FEATURED QUOTES “When we're acting like a pinball, we're completely unintentional, we are so distracted by the world around us, so caught up in the matrix, that we're not allowing ourselves to live with intention- to craft the life we want, to become a self-realized version of ourselves that God put us here to actuate in our life.” “We can have suffering and be self-compassionate. We can experience trauma and be forgiving. But I think too many of us hold on to these things as either ors.” “We all can rebound, but it takes intentional action to do so.” Learn more about John: https://johnrmiles.com/ Passion Struck Podcast: https://passionstruck.com/passion-struck-podcast/ John’s new book, Passion Struck: https://www.amazon.com/Passion-Struck-Powerful-Principles-Intentional/dp/B0C8G5R5FZ John on social media: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/ https://www.youtube.com/c/johnrmiles

My guest this week is Matt Brown, the founding and senior pastor at Sandals church in Riverside, California. From a humble eight-person church plant in 1997, Sandals Church has now expanded to 14 physical campuses across California, with a digital footprint touching 110,000 people weekly. In our conversation, Pastor Matt shares insights from his latest book, Every Day a Miracle. He challenges us to explore the everyday opportunities for miracles and invites us to see Jesus not just as a savior but as a healer. I can’t wait for you to join us for this powerful discussion filled with laughter, tears, and deep reflections on faith and prayer. 2:17 – Matt 101 The early years of church planting Matt’s hobbies and interests outside of pastoring A vision to be real as a church    13:16 – The Power of Confession and Repentance Modeling confession for the next generation A story of miraculous healing 20:31 – Faith-Driven Miracles The inspiration behind Matt’s book, Every Day A Miracle God answers all prayers with yes, no, or wait Miracles in moments of desperation 28:12 – Participation in Miracles Getting real with God Repetition and meaning in prayer Trusting and worshiping amid uncertainty 40:27 – Journeying with Jesus Matt’s prayer for people reading his book Asking “how” instead of “why” during disappointment The complexity of healing 52:21 – Takeaways Connecting with Matt Pre-ordering Every Day A Miracle FEATURED QUOTES “If you want to heal, you’ve got to get real…That's just the only way it works.” “I'm not one of these super uber charismatic people that's always believed in miracles… I'm a Baptist, who has been compelled by repeated evidence that they happen, that miracles are real, and they happen every day.” “I cannot guarantee the miracle you want, but I do guarantee the miracle you need.” “There's a very little chance of that prayer being answered if your audience is the people around you and not the God in heaven.” Learn more about Matt: Sandals Church https://sandalschurch.com/ Pre-order Everyday a Miracle https://everydayamiraclebook.com/ Matt on social media https://www.instagram.com/matthewstephenbrown/ https://twitter.com/pastormattbrown https://www.facebook.com/pastormattbrown/

Today we’re joined by my good friend, Shannon Leyko. Shannon is an author, podcast host, mother of three, and a military wife who recently moved from Alaska to Florida with her family.   As a former Miss New York for the Miss America Organization, classically trained vocalist, and reality television development producer, Shannon has worn many hats throughout her life. Along with this, her book, You’re Completely Normal, achieved recognition as one of the Top 50 Hot New Releases in Self-Development on Amazon in 2020.   Shannon currently works as a ghostwriter and content creator for a world-renowned psychologist and is the host of the podcast Paring Down, where she helps listeners live a more intentional, decluttered life.   Stay tuned for a powerful conversation on embracing the non-linear path, cherishing the present, and being mindful of what truly matters. I know you’re going to love it!     7:31 – Shannon 101   Becoming Miss New York after college Moving to DC and Virginia Beach Becoming a military wife and moving to Alaska Writing a book, moving to Florida, and starting a podcast     13:08 – A Non-Linear Path   Societal pressure to follow a linear life trajectory The inspiration behind Shannon’s book, “You’re Completely Normal” Guiding children to be content with their individual paths Nonlinear paths leading to personal growth and wisdom     26:22 – The Power of Patience   Taking your next step in faith The human tendency to take matters into your own hands Peace through trusting in God’s plan     32:54 – Decluttering and Slowing Down   How living in Alaska inspired the Paring Down Podcast The power of intentionality and gratitude The sentimental aspect of decluttering Swedish death cleaning   54:07 – Don’t Save the Good Wine   Living intentionally and for the now Wear the sequin pants The frailty of life Creating a calm home environment     FEATURED QUOTES   “It will all come together if you just continue to pursue the things that God calls you to that bring you joy, and not always just move through with urgency.”   “If I remove this urgency from my life, this idea of where I want to go, what success means to me…remove all of that and just put on God’s lenses and say, ‘I trust in His will. Let me sit back and listen to what He wants from me.’ That… makes our lives so much better.”   “Be mindful and present right now, because today matters. Use the good things. Don't put the quilt that your grandma sewed for your child in the closet because you don't want anything to spill on it. Put it on their bed. Let them use it.”   Learn more about Shannon:   https://www.theexpertbeginner.com/   Shannon on Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/paringdownpodcast/   The Paring Down Podcast:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paring-down-realistic-minimalism-to-live-more-intentionally/id1713108995   Shannon’s Book, You’re Completely Normal:   https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Completely-Normal-Trading-Should/dp/0578742616

My guest this week is the incredible Susie Larson, who you might know as the host of the popular radio show, Susie Larson Live.  Susie is also a best-selling author and national speaker who is passionate about helping people discover the depth of God's love, the value of their soul, and their calling in Christ Jesus. Susie is a two-time finalist for the John C. Maxwell Transformational Leadership Award, has authored over 20 books and devotionals, and touches the lives of over half a million people weekly on social media with her daily devotionals. We'll be diving into her newest book, Waking Up to the Goodness of God: 40 Days Toward Healing and Wholeness, and exploring what it means to intentionally embrace God's goodness each day. Susie has such a powerful story of faith, healing, and resilience and has amazing insights into what it looks like to make space for hope in our lives, even in the darkest of moments. 3:34 – Susie 101 Susie’s family and upbringing Starting as an author and speaker and becoming a full-time talk radio host Susie’s journey through high-risk pregnancies and Lyme disease Embracing the goodness of God 17:09 – Trust in the Midst of Loss Choosing trust over bitterness in the face of life’s hardships Leaning into God’s goodness Actively imprinting God's goodness on the heart 24:50 – Making Space for Hope We can’t afford to live without hope Spend time getting to know God Finding older mentors that have a fire for God 29:23 – Spiritual Resiliency Affirmations and declarations rooted in biblical truths Battling inner critics and countering the lies of the enemy How Susie rewired her brain while battling Lyme disease 37:16 – Overcoming Fear + Closing Thoughts The significance of 40 days in healing Pushing through the wall of fear to expand your ministry and purpose Ordering Susie’s book and where to find her radio show FEATURED QUOTES “I would say a large share of Christians might have right theology around salvation- they know they're saved, but they don't know they're loved- and that makes a very big difference.” “Maybe you're in between crises, and in between storms… this is the perfect time to be looking around and noticing the goodness of God all around you.” “There are legitimate reasons for fear in our day. But there's even more legitimate reasons for faith because our future is bright in Jesus.” “If you're willing to apply yourself to the truth of God, change will happen.” Learn more about Susie: Susie’s Book, Waking Up to the Goodness of God https://www.amazon.com/Waking-Up-Goodness-God-Wholeness/dp/0785294716 Susie’s Radio Show: https://myfaithradio.com/programs/susie-larson-live/ Susie’s Website: https://www.susielarson.com/about  

Welcome to the first official episode recorded in 2024! After an incredible year filled with so many inspiring conversations, I've decided to shake things up and steer away from the usual New Year's resolutions talk this year. Let's face it, there's nothing inherently magical about January 1st. So instead, I want to share some of my favorite lessons from the podcast and life in 2023. I hope this episode encourages you and inspires a fresh perspective on the year ahead! 3:51 – Word of the Year Reflecting on the last two years This year’s word: “flourish” Your word of the year 7:16 – The Podcast in 2024 8 years of the podcast Switching up formats this year Getting creative and breaking routines 9:43 – “If I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry” Recording my audiobook Prayers for this journey Pre-ordering the book Mini book tour 13:41 – Top 5 Episodes of 2023 Episode 334, Megan Hyatt Miller Episode 369, Jay Hewitt Episode 373, Dr. Emily Smith Episode 345, Jamie Winship Episode 376, Ginny Yurich 23:29 – Encouragements For This Year Saying “no” to more things and “yes” to the right things Giving yourself room to try new things and mess up Learning when and when not to apologize Creating margin in your summer FEATURED QUOTES "I want to give you the encouragement to, this year, give yourself the space to break routines. Give yourself the space to get creative, give yourself the space to try something new." “I'm encouraging you to say no to more things, so that you can say yes to the right things. This is not a new concept. But it's easier said than done.” “I am so excited about what this podcast is going to look like this year.”

We’re kicking off the new year with Bill and Kristi Gaultiere. They are Doctors of Psychology and founders of the Soul Shepherding Institute, a ministry dedicated to helping pastors, leaders, churches and more thrive with Jesus in emotional and relational health. Bill and Kristi have authored several soul care books and resources, such as their newest book, “Healthy Feelings, Thriving Faith.” I’m so excited to have them on today to explore the relationship between our spiritual lives and mental health. Stay tuned as we talk about how embracing our feelings can lead to greater joy, peace, and spiritual growth. 4:25 – Bill and Kristi 101 A background in counseling and ministry Starting Soul Shepherding in 2009 9:21 – Psychology and Faith  Spiritual Directors vs Spiritual Counselors  All truth is God’s truth Embracing emotions to deepen your relationship with others and God 19:43 – The Enneagram Using the Enneagram as a tool for spiritual growth  Unconscious sin, dysfunction, and areas of growth Dealing with distressing emotions to cultivate positive emotions 27:15 – Embracing Emotions, Empathy, and Faith Anxiety as a repressed emotion Empathy and understanding with the Enneagram  Jesus’ emotions and faith 38:12 – Breaking Free into Greater Joy Taking action when dealing with anxiety and depression Finding words for your emotions + seeking support Bill and Kristi’s recommended resources FEATURED QUOTES “We just realized that all the people who are helping other people are prone to neglect their own soul.  And so that's our niche, to reach in there for the people that are really committed in their relationships in their work... and to really help them care for their own soul so that their work, their ministry, can be coming out of the overflow of God's love to them.” “God doesn't want us to be hiding our emotions. He wants us to be emotionally honest with him, like the psalmist.” “Jesus shows us perfect faith in God. He shows us how to have healthy feelings and thriving faith. He shows us how feelings and faith are not necessarily enemies. Some people think that they don't get along with each other, but actually being aware of our emotions and learning to care for our emotions and other people's emotions…helps us become more like Jesus.” Soul Shepherd Website- https://www.soulshepherding.org/ “Healthy Feelings, Thriving Faith” Book- https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Feelings-Thriving-Faith-Emotionally/dp/0800742818 Soul Shepherd Enneagram Resources- https://www.soulshepherding.org/enneagram/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAhc-sBhCEARIsAOVwHuQwau6brhW2gSyD3j64zm6zbSQIfbfanPcY0jg0uitQPjGzELTh_yIaAqdeEALw_wcB Meet with a Spiritual Director- https://www.soulshepherding.org/spiritual-directors-directory/

This week, I'm excited to welcome Ginny Yurich, a homeschooling mother of five and the founder of 1000 Hours Outside- a global movement reclaiming childhood and fostering family connections through nature-based play. Alongside her husband, Josh, Ginny is the brilliant mind behind the 1000 Hours Outside lifestyle brand, featuring an online store, app, podcast, a brand new book, and much more. Whether you have kids or not, this episode is an absolute must-listen. We dig deep into issues that resonate, especially for those of us stuck behind desks and indoors all day. This conversation was deep, thought-provoking, and left me feeling challenged and convicted in the best way. It’s easily one of my top 10 favorite episodes of all time, and I’m so excited to share it with you! 3:36 – Ginny 101 Struggles of early motherhood A playdate that changed everything Transformation through outdoor time Writing about this experience 15:07 – The Power of Outdoor Play   The challenges of modern parenting Making small, intentional changes in daily routines Building outdoor habits as a family The power of friends and community with outdoor activities 34:11 – Embracing All Seasons The magic of winter Leaning into the unique experiences each season brings Cultivating grit and resilience 41:55 – Parenting in a Changing World Balancing structured and unstructured activities Encouraging self-discovery and independence Rethinking the college-centric path 1:01:21 – Takeaways + Words of Encouragement The power of pre-ordering books The long-term impact of parenting choices Celebrating real-life, hands-on experiences FEATURED QUOTES “If all that time, all those memories, all that relationship building, all of that connection, all of those moments of exhale- if those had gone to screens, our life would be so much less full….This is about bringing balance back to childhood.” “What I've learned over the past decade is that this is a step that you take as a family. And the step is awareness. It's about knowing that, when we play outside, it benefits every single member of your family, from your newborn to your grandmother to your great grandmother.” “There are long-term effects to the choices that we make. And this is their life, this is their childhood. And it's important to understand, at least to a small degree, what self-directed childhood play does for kids. And it does an immense amount.” Learn more about Ginny: https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/ https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/about-us https://www.amazon.com/Until-Streetlights-Come-Brightens-Uncertain-ebook/dp/B0BW11WHTN/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1703003496&refinements=p_27%3AGinny+Yurich&s=books&sr=1-1

Jenny and Dave Marrs have been restoring and renovating historic homes since 2004. You may know them as the stars of the HGTV show Fixer to Fabulous, where they showcase their amazing work in their charming hometown, Bentonville, Arkansas.  Jenny and Dave believe that beautiful spaces are often imperfect and full of character, much like those who live there. Faith, family, and community are the driving forces behind everything they do, and I’m so excited to have them share their story with you today. Listen in to learn more about the heart behind the work that they do, their passion for nonprofit and community engagement and what it means to lean into intentional living.  5:35 – Jenny and Dave 101 Moved to Arkansas in 2004   Started a family building company   Getting picked up by the HGTV network  12:02 – Cultivating Hope Jenny’s fundraiser that evolved into a nonprofit   Establishing a partnership in Zimbabwe   Empowering orphaned teenagers through agriculture  19:49 – Called To Adoption A heart for adoption and family preservation   Misconceptions about adoption and foster care   Acknowledging the brokenness and trauma that comes with adoption 28:25 – Home and Heart Incorporating charitable passions into their HGTV show   A passion for restoring older homes and preserving history   The logistics of moving a home to a new location   The cultural shift in homeownership 51:04 – Intentionality In Your Space Jenny’s book release   Making your home work for you and your family   Where to find Jenny and Dave FEATURED QUOTES “There's so much beauty in adoption and redemption and all of that but it is all very much rooted and trauma and loss and brokenness, which is just the reality.” “Your family's story changes…when we moved out here 10 years ago, our twins were just about to turn four. Now they're bigger than Jenny is…there's always a shift and a juggle to make it fit our family's current needs.” “You can always paint the walls back and sell it… you can make changes and take risks… it's about giving yourself permission to love the space where you live.”

This week, I am thrilled to have the incredible Ciara Laine Myers as my guest. Ciara is a mother, award winning business owner, and author of the book Glasses Off: Seeing God When Your Vision is Gone.This book is an collection of personal stories and life lessons brimming with heart, passion, and raw authenticity that will resonate with every reader. In our conversation today, Ciara and I dive into the depths of vision and purpose in life. We learn more about Ciara’s story, what led her to write this book, and reflect on the beauty that comes from embracing both the dreamer and the visionary within ourselves.  Stay tuned as we chat about the delicate balance between dreaming and doing, the importance of humility in fulfilling our calling, inspiring others with our gifts, and so much more! 2:45 – Ciara 101 Growing up in the faith   Starting a group counseling center    Being called into the writing industry 8:52 – A Calling To Write A strong calling to stop digital work   The genesis of Ciara’s book   Finding and living one's purpose, calling, and vision 21:28 – Living With Purpose The role of purpose and meaning in longevity   Adam and Eve in the garden   Practical approaches for pursuing purpose in your life 33:23 – Balancing Vision and Action The distinction between being a dreamer and a visionary   Bringing your dreams to fruition and inviting others into the process   Being confident in one’s calling while maintaining humility 43:28 – Closing Thoughts Daily date with God + what this looks like for Ciara   How to connect with Ciara FEATURED QUOTES “God is an example to us of how we need to be a visionary. If he had stopped at the dreaming, none of us would exist.” “How can I serve one person with my gift? Awkwardly? Humbly? Just one soul. How can I do that? If I throw a concert and only one person comes, it's more than worth it.” Learn more about Ciara: https://veiledfree.com/