On A Lighter Note Podcast

We all talk about “Cancel Culture” but have we confronted the fact that we all participate in some form? Responding to hate with more hate in the comments, liking mean-spirited posts, or laughing at the latest “social media dragging” are a few examples. How do we turn it all around for good? Here to shed light and a newfound perspective is Brittany Dawn, Founder of She Lives Freed and Chiseled and Called Podcast. Ultimately Brittany has walked through the fire of social media bullying and come out not smelling like smoke.  Her newfound intimacy with God and focus on his purpose is to blame in the best way and it’s helped her respond the bullies without becoming a bully herself  in the process… something we could all learn from.Through her vulnerability she invites us all to lay down our armor, confront our skeletons and remember to treat each other with the grace, sincere compassion and a very healthy dose of boundaries. It’s hard work, but it’s good work. This is a conversation that will leave you feeling genuinely uplifted comforted and hopefully inspired to look at the people we encounter with a heavenly perspective.  From Award-Winning Producer and Actress Roma Downey - we bring you the  “On A Lighter Note” Podcast - a conversational interview series hosted by Author & Speaker Elyse Murphy. We feature voices from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the unexpected twists and turns of life, while providing inspiration, hope and valuable insights to help us thrive during challenging times. 

We all want a miracle but we don’t want to actually NEED a miracle. Meaning we want the incredible miracle story, but not the mess, crisis or struggle that comes before it. So what happens when we can’t find God when we’re waiting on a miracle? What happens when we can’t understand why he won’t answer our prayer (the way we think it should be answered). Easter is the pinnacle of the ultimate miracle and it’s also a time we often reflect on the reality of our faith. Do I really trust God? Does he really do miracles in my life? And what happens when He doesn’t appear to answer it?  This Episode Elyse gets real about when faith became real to her. Through her own personal trials to those of the ones closest to her — she reminds us how it’s in the beautiful, broken and messy reality where God meets us with the biggest and brightest miracles that make faith what it is. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

What is the secret to a healthy relationship? Can men and women really be friends? We’ve asked this question for eons but what if it's a lot more simple than we make it? The incredible clinical Psychologist and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Henry Cloud breaks down the most crucial element in every relationship — trust. We’ll dive into how to earn trust and recover when it’s broken. Dr. Cloud discusses how friendships are often the educational training camp for entering a romantic relationship. From dissecting why we make irrational decisions when we fall in love (the "love drug") to breaking down how Christian culture can inadvertently discourage men and women from being friends - we going all the way in.  This episode with Dr. Henry Cloud will equip and inspire you with the keys to healthier and happier relationships with our friends, romantic partners and  your community at large.   Pre-order your copy of Dr. Henry Cloud's new book "Trust" today, coming March 28th! From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday. 

Has our world lost touch with kindness? How do we stay kind while managing our own feelings of pain or distrust of others? This incredibly special episode of On a Lighter Note we are taking a lesson from, LightWorkers president, award-winning actress, producer and the world's most famous angel Roma Downey from her latest book “Be an Angel” which is now available. Roma touches not only on the importance of extending compassion to others especially in our isolated post-COVID world, but she highlights the small and practical steps we cna take towards embracing acts of kindness as a lifestyle. In our relationship series we are touching on how we relate to others in our world and Roma is full of so much wisdom from her devotional “Be an Angel” sharing stories of forgiveness, grace and encouragement. From the highs to the lows, she will walk through the principles of how to be an angel. “Be an Angel” is a beautiful devotional full of quotes, scripture and reflections full of wisdom, affirmation, and encouragement to fill your cup to make the world a kinder place.  Order your copy of “Be an Angel” TODAY! https://linktr.ee/romadowney

If you could jump in a time machine to the past what would you tell yourself at the most crucial stages of your relationship? In other words, what do you wish you knew that you know now about singleness, dating and marriage? Christian dating experts, The Heart of Dating podcast hosts and newlyweds Kait and JJ Tomlin are here to dive deep into all the powerful journey of finding and keeping love. Through their love story they share genuine wisdom and insights about singleness, dating, marriage and everything in between just a few months into married life. Beyond all Kait and JJ masterfully highlight the beauty of vulnerability and how we embrace ourselves flaws in all and seek the gold in others in our relationships. Join us in this celebration of love! Part 1 of this amazing conversation is here, you can find Part 2 on The Heart of Dating Podcast with Kait & JJ Tomlin.  From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

Has dating gotten weirder or less weird post-pandemic? Why do Christians turn coffee dates into future spouse interviews? What in the world is going on in the world of Christian dating right now!?  This Christian dating state of the union Elyse is joined by friends and ground-breaking content creators Chaz Smith and Hillary Phillips to give us the full scoop. From first date horror stories, guy vs gal’s perspectives on dating with intention for marriage, and listing least favorite “icks”. Chaz, Hillary and Elyse also dive into wisdom and insight into dating as a believer with open hands, being intentional in the age of "swipe-right/left culture" and most importantly having contentment with singleness as the key. Whether you’re single or in a relationship - this hilarious and enlightening conversation about all things dating is for you. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.  

What stories are you ruled by? Are they stories you've learned from your family, friends or even the media that shape your greatest highs or mark your greatest wounds? Does your story actually come from you?Spoken Word Poet, Author and Speaker Arielle Estoria speaks about the power of not only your words but your story to renew, strengthen and heal. She shares about the power of your story is not just for your own edification but to move and inspire those around you. Author and Professor Brené Brown said herself "we are wired for story" - as Arielle and Elyse unpack why our stories are not just a powerful but crucial for the world to become more empathetic, connected and united despite differences. She also notes in order to tell your story you have to know your story. If we do not even take the time to articulate our story, and unearth it from within ourselves and face our pains we simply can't share it. Arielle encourages us to be courageous as we have been uniquely woven we are by our creator as we have each been given a story that the world needs. Only we can share the "magic in our bones". Begin this New Year empowered by the fact that your words matter, your story matters, and you matter. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

Do your dreams reflect a big God or a "realistic" God? Do you actually believe God can do bigger or are you still burdened by circumstances and doubt that miracles can happen in your life? Author & Speaker, Marshawn Evans Daniels shares about the power believing bigger with God. She reminds us not to have a scarcity mindset with miracles, and how to stay open for the possibility of new ones. It’s in this place of believing God for more where we can avoid idolizing our blessings and truly receive all that God has for us. Marshawn’s book, “Believing Bigger” along with her devotional, “100 Days of Believing Bigger” encourages us to be prepared for the calling God has for us - how to shed the old skin of unbelief to become impactful, bold and confident image bearers in whatever lane we walk. Learn to dream bigger with God and and believe God for greater than anything you could’ve imagine.   From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

Does binging cheesy Christmas movies feel more like fun or a much needed escape from life? Is it OK for it be a bit of both? The Christmas cheer of the season brings plenty of laughter and joy but it also can feel complicated holding space for the pains of life. So what's the right posture? Comedian and Actress Anjelah Johnson-Reyes knows exactly the feeling of holding space for laughter and tears. With the heights of her success this yea from releasing her first book, two comedy specials and a world tour - yet grieving the loss of her dear tia Mary. Life moves fast and Anjelah and Elyse discuss how to enjoy the magic of Christmas and engage the joy of the holiday in an authentic, present way (as opposed to faking or forcing it). There is beauty even in the pain we experience as Anjelah shares her advice for processing grief healthily, as you can't process what you don't recognize. From favorite Christmas memories to the Hallmark movie debate let this episode fill you both with hope for the holiday as well as space for your struggles - because we get to do both. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

Why are Christians often known more for who they hate than who they love?  What does it practically look like to love EVERYONE - even the people you can't stand? In a world becoming more polarized by the day - the idea of loving everyone feels more like a fantasty than reality.  Pastor Choco de Jesús- Founding Pastor of New Life Church and General Treasurer of the Assemblies of God passionately shares his guide to loving well in spite of our sometimes radical differences in values and perspectives.  Through his book, “Love Them Anyway” he seeks to answer the prevailing question in our culture, “what should we do with so much racial tension and political unrest?” His answer is that we need to love people the way God does  - and that kind of "in spite of" love is contagious. In the midst of cancel culture fueled by quick offense - Pastor Choco emphasizes that we don't have to surrender our convictions in order to affirm the humanity in others. You don't have to understand or agree to empathize and care. Be encouraged to love like God does. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

What do you do when you're angry with God, and can't seem to shake the feeling? Author, entrepreneur and international speaker, Rosie Rivera shares a powerful message about meeting God during a very dark time in her life. Rosie dives into the series of traumas she experienced from childhood sexual abuse, suicide attempts, divorce and the sudden death of her sister. Opening up about her feelings of betrayal and anger as she sought answers to why God would allow such traumatic things to happen to her. She admits that even in the middle of painful times, God was always with her. A reminder to us that we can come as we are and reckon every emotion with God. You don’t have to have it all together; call out to God, He will hear you and he will heal you. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

Where do we find the room to fit the enormous emotion that is grief? In Christian culure, we have a reputation for throwing phrases around like "they're in a better place" but not acknowleding the unthinkably painful and often slow process of lamenting. Nearing the Christmas season - many of us are faced the reminder of loss. Pastor of Fresh Life Church Levi Lusko vulnerably shares the story of the tragic and unexpected death of his 2-year old daughter and how he found his footing again. What does lamenting look like without staying trapped in a dark place? How do we trust in God when we are completely shattered by greif, and met with millions of dark and confusing feelings?   Levi thoughtfully shares how to walk with God through the grief and not try to skip to the good part. The peace that surpasses all understanding is real and tangible in Levi's life. Our hearts go out to everyone who is grieving whether a recent or past loss this holiday season. This conversation will encourage you to allow God to shape your perspective around grief and turn pain into power. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episodes air every Tuesday.

How do we forge authentic, deep, life-giving friendships in a culture of staying socially “booked and busy” yet quietly guarded? Thanksgiving is no longer just a family holiday — it’s a time to focus on friendship, some of the most crucial relationships in our lives. But what does it take to not only find a true friend but to be a true friend? In this episode, Elyse invites none other than her so-called best friend (more like soul sister) Katy Knox to speak to the heights, valleys and ultimately life-changing learnings through forging their friendship over the years. From shedding walls of insincerity, loving even when it's hard, to differentiating codependent relationships from covenant relationships…this conversation with Katy and Elyse will invite you to thoughtfully vet your friendships, set healthy boundaries and recognize the power of vulnerability - with plenty of laughs along the way. Whether your circle is too large or too small, we can all glean immeasurable wisdom and strength through our friendships. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episodes air every Tuesday.

Do you find yourself looking forward to the holidays but also dreading it? Does this time of year fill you with excitment but also anxiety? How do you stay sane dealing with family when holidays and trauma don't mix? How do we smile through "most wonderful time of the year" when coping with loss, divorce, or other traumas?  Trauma therapist and life coach, Dr. Anita Phillips addresses major quesitons surrounding navigating mental health and challegning family dynamics all during "the happiest time of the year". She encoruages us to give ourselves permission to lavishly protect our hearts by setting healthy boundaries with anyone who steals your joy - even if it "ruins" tradition. Dr. Phillips walks us through the stigma of "disrupting the peace" when confronted with painful relationship dynamics we often feel obligated to appease when Thanksgiving and Christmas roll around.  When we often feel we have to choose greif or grattitude - Dr. Phillips reminds us we don't have to delcare a winner.  Leave this profound conversation encouraged with tools to move through the holidays with room for both our messy, mixed-up emotions and the true joys of the holiday season. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.

Do you ever find yourself answering “I’m OK” when you're really not OK? We live in a culture of hiding the messy, broken parts of ourselves from our friends, families and God. How do we face our brokenness to find healing in the areas we try to hide? Many of us feel the pressure to be perfect, but what we really want is the freedom to be broken. In this episode Toni Collier, founder of the international women's ministry Broken Crayons Still Color — will show us how to bravely process our brokenness so we can experience the fullness of God's healing. In her new book "Brave Enough to Be Broken", Toni dives into her own story of trauma, spiritual abuse, heartbreak and the deep wells of shame that try to trap us in the darkness. Elyse and Toni speak into the real path towards healing through finding the courage to be honest with ourselves and ultimately God. We’ll learn how to find the beauty beyond the bruises of our past and embrace the lasting hope only found in Jesus. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episodes air every Tuesday.

What do you do when you feel like you’re stuck in survival mode? When there seems to be no end to the chaos? How do you reconcile a season where so much has been lost? Learn how to go from survival mode to thriving with one of the most influential voices of our lifetime, Pastor Samuel Rodriguez. In this episode Pastor Samuel shares his own journey of weathering the storms and the key to finding hope in the midst of a difficult season. So wherever your faith and emotional levels are today, whatever season you are walking through right now, count on a fire hose of encouragement that will actively energize your faith and give you that extra push you need to keep pressing toward everything that God has called you to. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday

What does it mean to rise above the critics? How do we truly achieve success? Is it even possible to get to a place of happiness, peace and contentment? International award-winning speaker and success coach, Anand Chulani, is here to help you unlock the strategies and tools needed to sustain true success in a way that will keep you healthy, happy and feeling fulfilled. True success comes not only from external wins, but when we take a deeper look within. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episodes air every Tuesday.

Have you ever worked hard to finally reach your dream only to feel lost and confused instead of rewarded? Singer Ally Brooke was in the exact same boat both during and after her time with Fifth Harmony. From smiling for cameras at red carpet events yet feeling her lowest from the harsh public scrutiny - to enduring rejection after rejection in her search for a new label as a solo artist. God showed up and rescued her in ways she couldn’t imagine. Hear how she learned how to accept and trust God’s plan for her life no matter what her circumstances looked like. Ally speaks into how adversity gave birth to incredible beauty, and how we can carry the keys to overcoming darkness in our own lives. Leave this discussion inspired to hold on to tight to your faith and believe that something greater is on the other side of your pain, frustration or doubt. From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episodes air every Tuesday.

What does being a leader actually mean? What does being a GOOD leader mean? Bestselling Author and Pastor of Zoe Church Chad Veach downloads all the knowledge to equip and empower the leader in all of us.  In this episode Chad will dive into the art of recognizing our own influence and then harnessing it for good. He’ll also teach us how to lead the hardest person you’ll encounter — yourself. Leave this discussion encouraged and motivated to cultivate the gifts God has given you while being an influence to those around you.  From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episodes air every Tuesday.

How do we champion truth in a world of quick offense? Well, author, speaker and truth-telling warrior Lisa Bevere is here to guide us. In this episode Lisa will break down the difference between harsh truth and hard truth — and how to handle it ourselves. From navigating sensitive conversations with empathy and honesty to the keys to navigating some of our most crucial relationships from friendships to dating. Lisa is getting into it all — but not without a little bit of fire and a lot of laughs along the way. Listen in for a special cameo from John Bevere here to drop his own keys of wisdom too! It's all here on On a Lighter Note Podcast.  From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.