Your Biggest Breakthrough
Your Biggest Breakthrough with Wendie Pett
Older episodes
- 145Episode 49: Practical Tips For Coping With Grief and What To Do When You're Overwhelmed With Grieving EmotionsAre you over it? The 'it's' in your life that have caused grief. Maybe your 'it' was trauma or obstacles you've had to overcome, a past relationship or a friend that has departed your life. Are you over it?Generally it's about loss, the loss of a job, a marriage, a loved one. Would you say that you have been able to recover from the grief of a loss in your life?What happens if you think you're over that loss but then a trigger pops up and quickly reminds you of that grief? Todd and Wendie recently experienced that little trigger with the loss of their sweet family dog, Kodie. Kodie was 14 and a half years old and lived such a great life but finally, it was her time to go. The loss of Kodie triggered a different level of grief for the family and on previous losses. It was an opportunity to go deeper on that grief healing. Today, we talk about loss, grief and the feeling of continued loss that many of us experience throughout our lives.In this conversation, you'll discover...-How grief has recently struck Wendie and Todd and what's come up from that grief...02:30-What the bible says about grief...04:30John 11-What Kodie's death triggered for Todd and Wendie...08:35-The good that comes from our grief...10:00-How to breakthrough to a new level of healing from your grief...12:00-Why it's okay to express righteous anger...15:10-The importance of crying it out and NOT self medicating...16:00-The best way to support someone who's experiencing grief...17:00-Best things to do to help relieve your grief...17:45-Previous Your Biggest Breakthrough Episodes that might help you heal...19:30Your Biggest Breakthrough, Episode 16-What we can learn about Jesus's grief and how to turn outward...20:152 CorinthiansPsalm 34:18In Loving Memory of KodieCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 146Episode 48: How Valerie Bracchi Found True Love from Her True Father, and Serves Him Through a Real Estate "Ministry"We've all heard the statement, "Make lemonade out of lemons," right? Well today's guest is responsible for most of the lemons in her own life. After a lifetime of poor choices and pain, Valerie Bracchi finally chose the Lord and learned to make lemonade so that she could experience a refreshing breakthrough. Despite a troubled past, Valerie is a super successful, God loving woman. She has over 15 years of real estate experience and is deeply passionate about relationships, negotiation and getting the job done. She received her bachelors degree in psychology and business, which have all equipped her to be a sought after agent and negotiator in the north Dallas markets. Valerie has such a big heart that she gives a percentage of her own commission from every closing to local ministries and charities. She likes to say her business is "real estate on a mission." In this discussion, you'll learn...-About Valerie's high school alcohol addiction...04:00"I started as a way of surviving"-The spiral that finally led to Valerie's sobriety...07:35-What rock bottom actually looked like for Valerie...08:50-How Valerie changed her environment and community to support her goals...10:00-Valerie's advice on getting to know the Heavenly Father after being raised by an abusive father...12:10"I had to go deeper with God and do a lot of work in that father/daughter relationship"12 step plus (12 step program PLUS the power of the Holy Spirit)-How Valerie learned to surrender to God's word, even though she didn't know how...16:15"We're transformed by the renewing of our minds"Joyce MeyerAA and Next StepJeremiah 21:11-Valerie's 'why' and how connecting to this helped her break through...23:45Union Gospel Mission-How Valerie uses her real estate business as a platform for 'market place ministry'...26:45Christian Women in MediaVisibly FitSimply Grace House-Valerie's #1 resource for when she's feeling overwhelmed...31:45"The gifts and the call are irrevocable"-Something most people don't know about Valerie...34:30-Best advice for taking that first step toward healing...36:45Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 147Episode 47: "God Ordained It"...How the Rewiring of a Child's Brain Rewired a Family's Spiritual Schema with Jason and Michelle Fraser"Still the seat encroaches into your daughters headspace and cracks her skull open, it kills people worldwide, it maims people worldwide." - Jason FraserOn Thanksgiving day, 2016, Jayden Faith Fraser was in the backseat of her fathers Sudan, heading home from feeding the homeless on thanksgiving 2016 when another car rear ended them on the highway. The drivers seat collapsed backward, slamming into Jay-Fay's head. Her mother, Michelle recounted, "it was a 360 degree fracture around her skull." Jay-Fay, who was only 12 at the time, had been a state champion gymnast and a nationally performing dancer. These days, she is wheel chair bound, unable to speak and fed through a tube in her stomach. Her parents are on a mission to make sure this doesn't happen to any other family. Today, we talk to the Fraser's about their journey, their faith and their effort to make a difference. Let's dive inIn this conversation, you'll hear...-The event that changed the Fraser family's lives forever...02:35"Whoa, there's something wrong with vehicles"-What happened just after impact...06:40-How the family embodies such positive attitudes after such trauma...11:30"This was ordained by God"Miracle Monday#pray4jayfay Facebook, Instagram & Twitter-Why Jason says this accident was something that God ordained...14:00-How the Fraser family's faith has held up throughout Jay-Fay's healing journey...15:50-Michelle's advise on how to choose faith over fear...19:55"I think that if anyone in the world could do this, we can do this"-How to handle anger, sorrow or regret after a tragedy...25:10Romans 8"The reason why anger feels bad is because it's not the truth, it's not what God promises""Things work out best for those who make the best of the way things work out" - Abe Lincoln-The profound simplicity involved in making difficult decisions...28:30-Jay-Fay's healing and rewiring journey from the accident until now...29:30"Every new little miracle is just so beautiful and so fun"Pray for Jay-Fay facebook page-How the Fraser's are trying to make a difference and how you can get involved...32:30Modernizing Seat Back Safety ActInvest America Act through the House of RepresentativesContact senators directly and push for quicker response to the Modernizing Seat Back Safety Act-How to trust that God has a plan, even in the darkest of times...37:30"Believing is seeing"Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 148Episode 46: "Even My Pimp Rejected Me"...Trafficked Woman, Holly Christine Hayes, Finds Jesus and Redemption After Hitting Rock BottomAccording to the International Labor Organization, there are 40.3 million victims of human trafficking globally.Human trafficking is an issue that's taken center stage as numerous celebrities, businesses, organizations increase awareness to combat this modern day slavery.Our guest today, Holly Christine Hayes, knows all about this all too well. As a survivor of addiction and abuse herself, Holly is now the founder and CEO of the Sanctuary Project, a survivor run non-profit jewelry enterprise employing and empowering women who have survived lives of trafficking, violence and addiction. She is an award winning author of the book, From Basement to Sanctuary. She speaks in jails, churches, recovery communities and conferences all over the globe about transformation from trauma and the redeemer who can lift any life from the pit. Holly is passionate about spreading the message, especially to young girls, that "worth is not dependent on what you look like or what anyone thinks of you, except what God thinks of you." - Holly Christine HayesIn this conversation, you'll hear...-Facts about human trafficking and what that really looks like here in America...04:00-How Holly found herself being sex trafficked...05:35"I was 19 when I met my trafficker""Men will pay for you, you're valuable"-Why Holly chose to hit rock bottom...09:15-Holly's advice to the young girl with the hard heart and no hope...11:40-How Holly got so low, even her trafficker didn't want her anymore...13:15-What factors make young children vulnerable to trafficking and who traffickers really look for...16:30-What Holly would say to her younger self...21:00-What inspired Holly to create the Sanctuary Project...23:25New partnership with Target-How Holly meets, gains trust and mentors survivors at the local jail...26:40-What the Sanctuary Project jewelry designs represent...30:15Shop Sanctuary Project jewelryNew Wild CollectionMens jewelry available-How to help in your local community...33:30Find local trafficking organizationHelp educate communityDonations or volunteering-The message Holly hopes to inspire through her new book...35:05From Basement to Sanctuary: Finding Healing & Transformation Through Surrender-How to connect with Holly...37:00Special Jewelry Promo: Breakthrough20 (20% off all jewelry)Holly's WebsiteAbout Holly & PodcastAbout Holly20 years after finding herself in a run down bathroom stall in Austin praying, "God, help me," Holly is now the founder and CEO of the Sanctuary Project, a survivor run non-profit jewelry enterprise employing and empowering women who have survived lives of trafficking, violence and addiction. She is an award winning author of the book, From Basement to Sanctuary. Holly is passionate about sharing her vulnerable journey of healing. She speaks in jails, churches, recovery communities and conferences all over the globe about transformation from trauma and the redeemer who can lift any life from the pit. Holly and her husband, Jeff enjoy life on a hobby farm and vineyard outside of Austin with their many animals and sweet 1 year old daughter, Havana. About the Sanctuary ProjectThe Sanctuary Project, started only 2 and a half years ago has provided more than 10,000 hours of employment to 26 women coming out of trafficking, violence and addiction. 100% of their sales go directly to providing employment and job training for women.More Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 149Episode 45: When Bronze is As Good as Gold, What Olympic Athletes Teach Us About Setting and Breaking Through LimitationsDo you know your limits? Do you know when to pause for the sake of mental or physical wellness? What about knowing when to keep pushing past those limits in order to embark on new territory you never thought possible?Knowing your limits can be a two sided coin. It can be the difference between winning the gold, silver, bronze or no metal at all. Today, Todd and Wendie talk about a few incredible athletes from the Tokyo Olympics and how they knew when to pause and when to come back, guns-a-blazing and push past their limits to break records. They break down some commonalities that Simone Biles and Moses have in common and talk about what scripture tells us about our limits and breaking free. Let's dive in...In this episode, you'll hear...-The example Simone Biles set for knowing her limits...01:45-Why Simone is being hammered by the media...03:40-What Simone and Moses have in common and the powerful message we can learn from both...05:00-How to know you've got 'Moses Syndrome' and when to give yourself a timeout...07:50-The contradictory flip side of the coin and reaching beyond our limits...09:35Simone Biles winning the Bronze metal on the balance beam-How to know when to go at it again and test your limits...11:35Sydney McLaughlin and Dalilah Muhammad setting new World RecordsIron sharpens iron-Todd's personal example of pushing his limiting beliefs...14:05-The benefits of knowing your limits and avoiding burnout...15:40-How to recognize your own limits and when to ask your loved ones for support...18:15Apostle PaulPhilippians 4 13Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 150Episode 44: A Mum and Son's Intimate Documentation Through the Cancer Journey With Clayton BjelanWhat happens if you discover that you have an incurable cancer and that you just have months to live? What would you do? How would you handle that? In this episode, we're talking about the C word...Cancer. The chances are that maybe you, a loved one or someone you know has experienced a cancer diagnosis. Sadly this is a topic that is never too far away from any of us.Today, we talk to Clayton Bjelan, who did something really, really remarkable. After Clayton's mum, Rhonda Bjelan was diagnosed with terminal cancer, she agreed to do a podcast with him to document each step in her journey form diagnosis to death. Why would they do that? The answer is simply so that they could help others who are experiencing something similar through the process. Incurable, the podcast, is a conversation between mother and son through the emotional roller coaster that all families experience when faced with the reality of losing a loved one. In the podcast, they work through difficult emotions, disbelief, the struggles of facing death, the preciousness of time and what really is important.The podcast also addresses the big question that we all have, which is, 'Why would God let this happen?' In this conversation, you'll hear...-Why so many of us are afraid to talk about death...04:00-How Clayton dealt with interviewing his mum, knowing she was going to die...05:45-How a vision Rhonda had over 30 years ago came true through the podcast...06:45-What it was like to record through such a painful grieving process...09:50-How Clayton balanced doubt and his faith in God...11:55-Clayton's advice on how to talk to people going through a difficult health journey...15:45-How and when to talk to children about a cancer diagnosis...17:30-How Clayton juggled his day to day responsibilities, marriage, kids and quality time with mum...20:15-How Clayton and Rhonda recorded through constantly changing hospital environments...24:20-Rhonda's magnetic connection with the doctors and nurses...26:00-What to do when regret and guilt start flooding in...27:55-Chasing healing vs. living peacefully through the last few weeks...31:15-The importance of talking about death and how to live without fear of it...34:35-Where to find a strong support system if you don't already have one...38:00Clayton's Facebook group: The Incurable Podcast GroupIncurable podcast-What Rhonda would say today about living and dying...40:50"Jesus has something special for you""Trust in Jesus" - Rhonda BjelanAbout ClaytonBesides creating an incredibly fascinating podcast, Clayton Bjelan has spent 20 years in Christian radio, the majority at 89.9 The Light in Melbourne, Australia. He has also held the roles of Music Director, Content Director, Head of Product Development, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. Currently he is the Group Transformation Manager at PositiveMedia (home of 89.9 TheLight). Clayton hosts the radio program, ‘In Conversation’ - a full length feature interview program. He’s interviewed over 1500 guests including Prime Ministers, sports stars, musicians and former mafia bosses. By far the most challenging of Clayton's experiences has been producing and co-hosting his mum's 3-month journey from cancer diagnosis to her death. It shares Rhonda’s innermost thoughts and struggles during this time. The aim of the podcast is to give others hope if they were to be diagnosed themselves (and let everyone else listen in to what this time is like for the patient and the family). Listen and find out more at www.incurablepodcast.com.More Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 151Episode 43: Carrying on When Your World is Crumbling with Rob DempseyHave you ever felt like the cards you were dealt have led to a life filled with betrayal, disappointment and pain? Do you ever struggle with feelings of hopelessness, abandonment or feeling unloved? How do you not lose hope when things get really tough? Is it even possible to experience love or success after a life filled with negativity and loss?Today, we talk to Rob Dempsey, who walks us through some amazing stories of incredible breakthroughs he's had in all areas of his life. You'll be amazed, encouraged, and well equipped to cope the next time you feel like everything is crumbling around you. Rob's experience with loss started from a young age. He was faced with abandonment, abuse, death of a loved one and even struggled with severe obesity. Now, Rob is a die-hard radio guy on HIS Radio Network. He is a devout Christian, a community leader, a dad, and has successfully dropped more than 140 lbs. Rob's constant battle with adversity and loss has led him down a path of resilience, triumph, and success. He is living proof of how powerful faith in God and a strong will to keep going can be. In this conversation, you'll hear...-Where Rob's story began...04:10-What kept Rob going in his darkest times...10:20JOY FM radio station-About the impact that radio had on Rob's transformation...16:30-The breaking point that launched Rob's 140 pound weight loss...19:50-Rob's advise for people struggling to keep going...27:25-Rob's reunion story with his birth dad...31:30-The most influential people in Rob's life...38:45President of radio stationMentor at radio stationYouth pastor in Rob's teenage yearsMentor = Bill ScottJesus Christ"Faithful, endurance, not giving up"Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 152Episode 42: Mental Health Problems Show Up In All Kinds Of Ways, Including Being a "Secret Alcoholic" with Rebecca CarrellMental health...a topic many of us can relate to, especially since the COVID pandemic started in March, 2020. Many of us who have been dealing with ups and downs of our mental health have also developed coping mechanisms and tactics to not have to feel pain or discomfort. What if these coping mechanisms are actually attacking our mental health and spiritual wellbeing? Could our avoidance in dealing with the pain lead us down a journey of becoming distant with the Lord?In today's episode, we speak with Rebecca Carrell, a woman who is far too familiar with suffering. Rebecca shares her lifelong struggle with mental health, the coping mechanisms she's used over the years and what truly helped her heal.She teaches us that when we start to acknowledge where we're at, God opens doors that allow us to breakthrough and in turn, heal. Discover the path that took Rebecca from overwhelmed alcoholic to the "Joyful Jesus Lover."In this conversation, you'll hear...-The anxious road that led Rebecca to secret alcoholism...04:30Mental illness runs in Rebecca's family12 years old when she started expressing mental illnessPositively influenced by Episcopal churchNegatively influenced by moving every 3 yearsAlways trying to fit in + genetic predisposition to mental illness played biggest role in downfall of mental healthBecame an alcoholic after high schoolLow point came in 2009, after finding a bottle of pain killers-Rebecca's transformative moment...13:20"I did a very good job of hiding my alcoholism"Luke 21:34Deuteronomy 30:19Journaled through the entire New Testament12 years sober-How Rebecca handled the conflict in her soul...19:25She was really good at justifying itDr. David HendersonOver 90% of addicts are actually self medicating an underlying illness or conditionCounterfeit comfort is fleeting, temporary relief-Tips on seeking help without feeling shame and guilt...21:55Psychiatrist care, counselors and medicineJournalingUnderstanding the chemical imbalance: overproduction of glucocorticoids and adrenaline and underproduction of serotonin and dopamine-How you may be shutting down the Lord's messages to help you...28:20James 5-Where to start in helping a loved one seek help....30:30InterventionDo not discount prayerMaintain healthy boundaries-How Rebecca's mental health journey has impacted her ministry...32:35"God will take the thing in your life that has caused you the greatest pain and shame and turn that into your weapon of warfare"-Rebecca's books...35:30Holy Jelly Beans: Finding God through Everyday ThingsHoly Hiking Boots: When God Makes the Ordinary ExtraordinaryRebecca's website -Rebecca's biggest influences...37:00DadBible teacher named Jen WilkinRebecca, the 'Joyful Jesus follower' - "Joy is a fruit of the spirit and not a fruit of our circumstances"Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 153Episode 41: Failure And Mistakes Are Necessary For Us to BreakthroughLet's be real, we've all experienced failure at some point in life. The question is, are you learning from those failures or do you keep repeating the same failures time and time again? Failures occur in all of our lives often and the truth is that without those failures, we could not experience breakthroughs. In today's episode, we dive in to some of our own biggest failures that have also led to some of our biggest breakthroughs. We will talk about how to accept our mistakes and how to slow down enough to learn the lesson that each mistake brings with it. In this conversation, you'll hear...-What Wendie learned from her recent failure...03:00-What Todd learned from a recent business investment failure...05:25-How to stop repeating the same failing cycle...08:40-A mistake Todd made that led to a huge breakthrough in his business...11:55-Why we sometimes need others to help us point out our blindspots...14:35-A big thank you to our amazing listeners...16:40-How to be open to learning and growing through your failures...18:10The Apostle Peter-About Wendie's Visibly Fit podcast and Todd's upcoming podcast...21:50Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 154Episode 40: "No Regrets Woman"™ Rhonda Stoppe - Opens Up About Finding Purpose Through the ChaosDo you live with regret? Do you have any would've, could've, should've moments making you feel bad about something you did, or maybe didn't do? Have you ever experienced a moment when it feels like the crumbs your kids or husband keep dropping around the house just keep piling up? You feel like you're going to lose it, like you just can't take it anymore. You've reached your breaking point and it's time to walk away.Sometimes our fear and frustration gets the best of us and we're left with a decision to give in to that fear and frustration or to choose the Godly response. But how do we know what decision is the right one? At what point do we realize we might regret something if we don't make a change?In today's episode, we talk to the 'No Regrets Woman,' Rhonda Stoppe. Rhonda is the author of 6 books and dedicated to helping women live a life of no regrets. She is a wife, mother and blessed grandmother that has experienced a life filled with nearly regretful moments. Rhonda's wisdom and experience will help you discover the significance in God and his specific purpose for your life. She shares some of her nearly regretful moments and the ways in which she stuck with God and became the "No Regrets Woman."In this conversation, you'll learn...-What prompted Rhonda to become the "No Regrets Woman"...04:20We're often stuck in regret and we think God can't use usRhonda stems from a long line of broken marriagesShe knew that if she didn't find help, she would regret the wife she becameTitus 2 - Built a no regrets marriageThe women in her church community helped her lead a no regrets lifeBy dwelling on what we don't want to be, we attract and become just that-How to clean up the crumbs of a challenging season...12:30Unmet expectations is the number one thing that unravels the love in a relationshipUn-repented sin, resentment, anxiety and fear renders our prayers powerless-Finding Godly mentors...15:45When God saves, he forgives to the utmostStart with a local church - Iron sharpens IronFind Godly people who have experienced what you're experiencing-The breakthrough moment in Rhonda's life...19:15The book of PhilippiansPsalm 119: 165Rhonda experienced a very regretful time in her marriageSuffered from post-partum depressionFinally went to an endocrinologist to get help for her hormonal imbalanceConstantly reading the bible, taking notes and spending time in praryer-Why Rhonda almost walked away from her faith...25:45Her son's diagnosis with severe epilepsyRhonda watched her dreams for her son fall awayShe was ready to give up and angry with GodPsalm 119Eventually began to observe Brandon becoming a musicianGod used Brandon's epilepsy to bring the crowd to glory through his music-Best advice for avoiding something regretful...29:50The book of SolomonIf you want wisdom for your life, you must ask God for it-Rhonda's favorite story...32:25Rhonda's daughter Meredith lost several babies from failed pregnanciesWhen she finally had a successful birth, her daughter had years of surgeries and hardship aheadMeredith said, "Mom this is Ivy's trial"Your trials are not about you-The balance between being aware of regret and self sabotaging...36:45Your priority must be to love in God with all your heartTrust that God always has a plan for the greater goodWhen someone is falling behind, be the person putting your hand at the small of their back to help them keep paceBe cautious of the people you surround yourself with-Rhonda's gifts for you...41:40Free Gift: Sign up to Nurturing Letters and receive a free ebook, "The Money Myth" Gift: 35% Discount code for Audiobook, "Mom's Raising Sons To Be"Free: Summer book club via FacebookRhonda's websiteCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 155Episode 39: "I Wouldn't Trade It For Anything" Says Jean Abbott After a Wrongful Diagnosis of Over Thirty Years Left Her Confined to a WheelchairHave you ever been told one thing, but it turned out that the truth was completely different? Can you imagine being told that you have a debilitating disease that you never had? Today, we speak with Jean Abbott, a resilient woman with a mind-blowing story. Jean was misdiagnosed as a young child with Spastic Diplegia, a form of Cerebral PalsyAfter 33 years of countless doctors visits, medical procedures, unnecessary medications she was correctly diagnosed with Dopa Responsive Dystonia (DRD) and given a new chance of life. In this discussion, you'll hear...-Why Jean says she would go through it all over again...04:30Always wanted to show people that they could stay positive despite their physical limitationsOver 25 people got a correct diagnosis from hearing Jeans story-Jean's faith journey...06:40Jean accepted her debilitating condition and continued to trust God"When I think about the positives in my life, that's when I realize how blessed I really am"-The effects of Jeans diagnosis on her family and growing up...08:20Decided from a young age that she could still do everything all the other kids could do, but maybe just a little differentlyShe had 2 older brothers and nobody ever babied her-How to shift limiting beliefs...10:15Change prayer focus and how you're going about being close to GodDevotionalsDaily readings from Crushing by T.D. Jakes-Jeans initial symptoms and diagnosis story...11:30Diagnosed around age 4 with cerebral palsyLimited mobility with legs and armsSleep was a huge factor in symptomsSymptoms worse as she was getting older, which is abnormal for Spastic DisplesiaAfter having children, her symptoms were getting worse because sleep was decliningHad to use mobility scooterNo spasticity, no rigidity, lost all mobility that she had, couldn't even sit up in a chairDepression and anxiety set inDaughters were putting her to bed every nightStarted going to counseling with depression and anxietyWent back to another doctor and was told that something seemed strange and recommended a NeurologistWent to see new Neurologist and when she talked about the effect of her sleep. The doctor immediately said she thought she had DRD. Prescribed some medicationJean almost refused medication because she was in such disbeliefJean had new medicine and glass of wine at dinner that night and was able to walk alongside her husband to the car3 days later, on Easter Sunday (at 33 years old) she was standing in a parking lot without holding on to anyone (first time in a decade), that's when I realized my life had changedConnection to God in that moment that she had never experienced beforeAmazing calmness came over herEverything was scary but she wasn't going to let fear affect herNew doctor: Dr. Martha Nance-Jean's best advice for those struggling with debilitating diseases...20:50Trust that God has a plan for each and every one of usIf we hold on to the bitterness and hatred, we will be imprisoning ourselvesTry to reach acceptance for what we cannot change Take things day by day or even hour by hour-How the family responded to Jean's new diagnosis...22:05-The importance of accepting support during hardship...23:50"If you let me help you, you're actually giving me a gift"-Advise on asking for support...26:00Be as open as you possibly can to let them inIf you say 'no,' you're pushing them awayJean's website-How to develop an attitude of gratitude...27:15Start your day on a positive note (prayer, gratitude, intention setting)Being very specific with daily intentionsWhen negative thoughts sink in, ask yourself how you can find the positive in that negative thought-How to accept that pain might be purposeful...29:25Sometimes it takes more work than normal to stay positiveKnow when to turn to God moreAbout the guest: Jean Abbott was misdiagnosed as a young child with Spastic Diplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy. After 33 years of countless doctor’s visits, medical procedures, unnecessary medications and surgeries, she was correctly diagnosed with Dopa Responsive Dystonia (DRD) and given a new life! Jean is the author of Misdiagnosed: My Thirty-Year Struggle with a Debilitating Disorder I Never Had.She has appeared on the Today show, Good Housekeeping and the U.K.'s Daily Mail to share her story. Since then, an overwhelming number of people from around the world have contacted Jean to tell her how inspired they were by her journey from “wheels to heels”. As a mother of three children, Jean enjoys all the adventures of her new life, but wouldn't change the journey that brought her to where she is today. Her positive attitude is highly contagious as she encourages others to appreciate the little things in life.Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 156Episode 38: Wayne Pederson Talks About Turning Profound Loss Into Opportunity to Discover God In a Deeper WayWhat happens when we experience a very hurtful loss and then how we breakthrough to find opportunities that God can provide through that loss.Whether it's been the loss of a loved one, a job, a pet or even a future dream cut short. Everyone deals with some kind of loss at some time in their lives.Today, we speak to Wayne Pederson, who teaches us that how we handle our losses determine the difference between prolonged pain and resentment or discovering new opportunities and freedom.Wayne started his career in 1967. He was an announcer on KTIS in Minneapolis. He's the producer of a number of shows on the one of the first satellite shows in the country. He served on the board of the National Religious Broadcaster. He's on a number of boards and committees In this episode, you'll hear...-Simple beginnings...04:45-Wayne talks about the loss of his wife, Norma...10:45-Wayne's faith journey...19:25-Questioning God after loss...23:35-How Willie entered into Wayne's life...26:00-How to deal with the loss of a job...29:20-Wayne's advise to people suffering from a loss...35:25-What it really means to finish well...39:55Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 157Episode 37: You've Heard Our Voices, You've Laughed and Cried With Us, But Just Who are We?Who are Wendie and Todd, your hosts of this show? You've heard our voices. You've perhaps met us in person at some point.But who are we? We decided we should take a few minutes and let our hair down and allow you the listeners to get to know us personally. We thought of some questions to ask each other, that quite frankly we would want to ask each other, then hit the record button and went to town.And if you have some questions you'd like to ask us, please ask away at yourbiggestbreakthrough.com. The next time we have a Q&A type episode, we'd love to include it and also mention your name on the air!Here are the questions we ask each other on this episode:-Who is the biggest influence in your life?...02:49-What are your biggest pet peeves?...06:50-What do you love most about your life?...12:15-What accomplishment in life are you most proud of?...17:30-Whats' the best piece of advice you've ever received?...22:40-What is one word of phrase that can sum up the entirety of who you are?...26:25-What is one thing most people don't realize about you?...30:55Resources mentioned:YBB episode w/ Barbie BreathittCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 158Episode 36: Barbie Breathitt Says Dreams Are Love Letters from God. Interpret Your Dreams While You Are Asleep and AwakeDo you dream? Have you ever wondered what your dreams are telling you? Perhaps you experience nightmares or no dreams at all. What could these dreams, or lack thereof, be telling you? Could your dreams actually be guiding you to live out your most fulfilled life? What if the key to reaching our life achievements was being told to us nightly through dreams? Wouldn't you want to interpret those dreams immediately to see how to reach your highest success?In this episode, dream expert Dr. Barbie Breathitt breaks down the importance of interpreting our dreams through Christ. She discusses why our dreams are so important, what they can reveal for you and what God has in store for you through your dreams. “If I believe it so, it is so.”In this episode, you’ll hear...-Why we should take our dreams more seriously...04:15-How Barbie got started...06:40-Barbie’s relationship with God...09:30“Why did God change?”How can we interpret our own dreams?...12:00Website: dreamsdecoder.com or barbiebreathitt.comGiving a FREE GIFT: Dream journal at decodemydream.comBooks: Dream EncountersGateway to the Seer RealmDream InterpreterDream SeerA - Z Dream Symbology-How not to be afraid of the supernatural...15:00“God told me, ‘I change not. I was the same yesterday, today and forever.’”John 14God’s in an abundant mansion and wants us to move inKeep a child-like faith-Night time dreams and lifetime goals...20:55First, we must believe, then we will seeLucid dreaming = creative ability“Nothing is impossible”-How to get believers to believe in their dreams...24:00Prayer: “Lord, release your creative realm to me so I can see”Gratitude“If I believe it so, it is so”-Nightmares and Night terrors...27:05Where nightmares come fromIsaiah 35Revelation 4-What to do if you don’t have dreams...30:20-Ways to enhance dreams…32:55Book: A-Z Dream Symbology-Who to share our dreams with...36:10-How dreams can lead us to a breakthrough…37:50Barbie’s breakthrough dreamWendie’s breakthrough dream-Something most people don’t know about Barbie…43:20Barbie Breathitt BIO: Dr. Barbie L. Breathitt is an ordained minister and experienced revelatory teacher of the supernatural manifestations of God. She is recognized around the world as a leading master dream analyst, published best-selling author, certified life coach and healing minister. Barbie has ministered God’s love in the streets, prisons and hospitals and through television, radio and the internet throughout the world. Her deepest desire is to see people fulfill their unique destiny here on earth. Barbie is a dedicated businesswoman and entrepreneur who has established prophetic training centers. She currently resides in Texas. ***Breath of the Spirit offers a variety of courses on healing, revelatory gifts, angels, the Kingdom of God and dream interpretation as well as evangelistic outreaches and discipleship through the commands of Jesus. Many individuals have been miraculously healed during her meetings and conferences, while others have experienced the presence of the Spirit as never before. ***Her infectious humor promotes unity with those in and outside the church walls. Barbie is available for conferences, teaching, life coaching and hands-on training. ASK BARBIE is a one-on-one prophetic-dream life phone consultation and prayer session that is scheduled and prepaid through (place DreamsDecoder link here). ASK BARBIE is a powerful resource and personal ministry time that helps clients understand new strategies, develop plans and apply the direction God gives them through prophecy, encounters, dreams and visions. Barbie is an active member with Dr. Chuck Pierce's Global Sphere's Network, Cindy Jacob's Generals International Prophetic Counsel, Harvest International Ministries with Dr. Che' Ahn, Apostle John Kelly's International Coalition of Apostolic Leaders and Xtreme Prophetic with Patricia King.https://dreamsdecoder.com/bookstore/http://barbiebreathitt.com**Buy all 5 Imagine Books get one free with this coupon code E555DVJ3Another Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 159Episode 35: Groomed by Darkness, Pursued by The Light: From Staunch Atheist, to "Toe In the Water" Christian, to Full-Blown Jesus Fanatic - Danny Baideme“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” -Proverbs 22:6 What if the person you look up to the most taught you everything you're not supposed to do in this life?How would it affect you? It would probably make you afraid of everything. Your father, teaching you to steal, then chiding you for getting caught - even when you follow his exact instructions on what to do should you get caught.And this happens when you're six years old.That basically sums up the childhood of Danny Baideme (pronounced “Bay-de-may”). Danny’s father (whom she was named after) was a bookie in the ghetto of Omaha, Nebraska. Respected by all who knew him outside the home, life was absolute hell on earth inside it.She was taught how to steal cigarettes when she was 6. If one of her father’s petty heists went awry, Danny would soon feel the blunt end of his Size 11 boot - and it wasn’t just on the backside either.Is it any wonder that Danny chose to embrace “the dark side” spiritually? Then a literal slap in the face changed everything. Meaning Danny slapped a guy while on a date. The guy reacted in a non-threatening way, i.e. the way Jesus would want a person to react, and it was over. She wanted to know more about this Jesus person in the man (who is now her husband). After accepting Jesus as her savior, and spending years as a “toe in the water” Christian, a providential meeting with a roving security guard at a museum compelled her to take up the cross she bears to this day.In our conversation with Danny Baideme, you'll hear:-Danny's childhood groomed her to be a thief and a con...04:55father was a bookie in an Omaha, Nebraska ghettopeople would owe his dad money and dad would go after them, shoot them, run them over with a car, etc (while Danny was in the car)youngest memories are lying, stealing, listening to dad beat her and her mom up"You're stupid, you're worthless, you're nothing""If I'm doing bad, he's proud of me. If I'm doing good, he's beating me and locking me up"No friends and didn't belong anywhere-The 'first' time Danny's dad took a shot at her...09:50Danny was 6 years old-What led Danny to become an atheist...12:00father shot guns in the housecocaine frenzy/lost his mind for 24-48 hours and would just shoot stuffDad locked us each in our rooms, shooting a gun and laughing as he slowly walked to each room and said, "I'm coming to kill you""God, if you're really there, I'll do whatever you want, just kill my dad." (11 years old)Dad still came in and destroyed her room and beat her up a littleThis was the night Danny became an atheist.-Selling out to the Devil...17:50So filled with hate, she had no conscious anymoreShe started shoveling drugs in her nose, smoking, selling her body, ran away from home, dad almost blinded herDad would be nice to her to get drugs for herNo moral guide led to her not caringI empathize with them because I understand what it's like to be a monster and not have any feelings.Adopted a very tough persona "I wanted to be as big of a monster as he was"-Meeting Phil...20:50Worked at a casino - she got clean to get the job and learned to look more femininePhil was a kind computer nerdSmacked him in the mouth on 2nd date - he grabbed her hand and said, "If we're going to do this, you can't do that"He smiled at my brokenness - strongest, most masculine man I'd ever metDanny started asking questions like, "If God is really real, ....."Phil used scripture to answer Danny's questions-Danny becomes a toe-in the water christian...26:0022 years old she read John 3:16, asked for forgiveness and gave her life to ChristBy this time, Danny had 2 abortions and never felt anything about them, despite knowing abortion was a sinDay after being saved, she began witnessing to her familyPhil and Danny were soon married and started a familyPhil wanted to go to church but Danny felt she didn't belongstarted scheming to get Phil drunk on Saturday so they could skip church on Sundaywitnessed often, didn't pray, didn't read anything biblical-Danny's biggest breakthrough...30:10"These God people" kept coming to the houseOur church, River Valley had a 7 day prayer challenge cardsPhil encouraged Danny to volunteer at the prayer challenge"God, if you want me to volunteer or anything stupid like that, you better hit me in the head with a 2X4" 16 years of marriageShe was "comfortable" being a toe-in-the-water christianMade eye contact with the security guy, "You two are down with the bible, huh?" - What?!?Always dressed to get hit on - "I don't look like a lady who believes in God"Security officer says, "I think I'm supposed to tell you you're supposed to volunteer or something."Prayed with and witnessed to people at the men's shelter-How Danny became comfortable with ministry...43:10We all have to do our parts, collectivelyDriving vans and picking up kids in the inner-cityWomen are breaking free from prostitution, choosing not to get abortionsFriday Night Street Ministry in MinneapolisBefriend Danny on Facebook to get involvedResources:Danny's book: Godcidence: Chased by the Devil But Caught by ChristCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 160Episode 34: Iron Sharpens Iron: Why the Company We Keep is So Vital to Our Relationship With God with Punky Tolson"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17"You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with."Are you in good company?Punky Tolson made a promise when she was in high school. She had just become a Christian, and was full of high hopes of serving Jesus for the rest of her life.Then she went to college - and promptly fell away from the faith, not to mention the promise she had made a few short years earlier.She sought love, comfort, acceptance in the company of man after man after man - sometimes with no regard for the relationship status of the man she was with.In one case, her presence most definitely put her man's status to "It's complicated.""But I was helping him find happiness, he was in a bad marriage," she told herself.The rationalization hamster just keeps on spinning, doesn't it? It spins one' reality distortion into absolute truth if you let it.Why did this happen? Where were the friends who saw what was going on? Why didn't they intervene, try to make her see the error of her ways?The company we keep defines who we are. When Punky began hanging out with people who meant business with their walk with God, she began making better decisions. Now she and her husband minister to those who are walking the path they've walked, in hopes others will stand strong in their faith.In this episode, you'll hear:-Why giving up is the best place to be...04:45-How Punky got to the end of herself...11:35-How Punky dealt with her breast cancer diagnoses...17:30-Disciple-making and Punky's mission to help women...25:45-What most people don't know about Punky...29:45Resources mentioned:punkytolson.com(You can find her Life on Life podcast on her website)John PiperCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 161Episode 33: Magnetic Positivity, Ugly Cries, Recovering Perfectaholics, Conspiracy Theories ...Wendie and Todd Share Highlights from their Favorite Episodes Published to Date!We can't believe it's our 33rd episode!Good things happen in 3's. For example, Jesus walked the Earth for 33 years. While we've never interviewed Jesus (at least not for a podcast), we have had some doozies for interviews with people who follow Him. In this episode, we're going to take you through some of our favorite highlights and takeaways from breakthroughs over the past 32 episodes.And here's to many blessings and breakthroughs to come!In this episode, you'll hear:-How a top Mary Kay sales rep learned to confront cancer through joy, positivity and laughter and how you can overcome your own challenges ...03:40Episode 26 with Dawn Barton -How a recovering perfectionist overcame his fear, wrote several books and won the National Quirky Person of the Year Award ... 10:45Episode 11 with Brant HansenBook: UnoffendableBook: Blessed are the MisfitsBook: The Truth About Us-How a good Texan woman rewired her mind and used gratitude to override negativity and how you can do the same with a simple shit ...18:00Episode 12 with Karol LaddPositive Life PrinciplesEngage Positive Parenting Initiative-A tech genius shares how you can balance your internet and social media usage and what happens if you don't ... 27:45Episode 18 with Micah MitlyngCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 162Episode 32: Hard-Charging High Achiever Helps Men Find Proper Balance Between Performance and Intimacy w/ GodAssembling words goes way back for Jon Edward Fugler. Growing up in Upstate New York, his first writing effort was to publish a neighborhood newspaper — which lasted one issue. In middle school, Jon printed and distributed a newsletter to his classmates and teachers reporting on his board game baseball league.In 1973, Jon came to know Christ after hearing a college football coach speak on how to be born again. This event would change the course of his life and writing.He spent over 30 years in Christian radio, turning out script after script, beginning as the radio writer for Dr. Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ. From there, he wrote scores of scripts that would impact the hearts of radio listeners across the country.Jon’s writing extended into print when, for a decade, he published the Christian Times newspaper, connecting believers with what God was doing in their community.Journaling has been Jon’s habit for over four decades. He sometimes looks back on those writings to inspire him for his current works. His conversational style connects with readers on a personal level. Writing from his heart, he hopes readers’ lives will be different through their relationship with Jesus Christ.“It’s not about performing for Jesus,” says Jon. “It’s about living with Jesus.”He was influenced by author Skye Jethani, who teaches that life over, under or for God leads to defeat. Life withGod is what every person desires. Jon sensed that developing a habit of doing life with God was missing for believers. That’s what inspired him to write his devotional series, starting with Life with God: 30 Days of Joy.“I feel that if someone can immerse themselves in one aspect of the Christian life for 30 days, it will change them,” says Jon. “This series is not about behavior. It’s all about relationship. The reader’s relationship with God. Growth happens when a person lets God flood their life.”Jon’s passion is that every person on earth has access to the gospel. He is active today in media ministry to the world. He and his wife live in North Carolina. They have three children and eight grandchildren.-How Jon came to faith at the age of 16...4:40-The hard-charging high achiever for God hits a brick wall...8:25-Embracing a mindset of "missionalism"...10:25-What does it mean to really know Christ personally?...14:15-Signs that our intimacy w/ God is waning...16:20-Developing a relationship with God that supersedes a high performance mentality...21:15-Love is spelled T.I.M.E...25:25-How to cultivate fresh faith in God...27:45-We won't truly pursue God until this happens...30:20Resources mentioned:-Fresh Faith 24/7, Jon's website-Radical by David Platt-With: Reimagining How You Relate to God by Skye Jethani-Philippians 3:8-10-James 1:22-John 15Call to action:To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.comTo learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comAll the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 163Episode 31: Brenda Crouch Suffered Trauma As a Child and Forgiveness Was Extended As an Adult. God's Grace Put on Full Display After Healing a Deep Wound.Have you ever found it hard to forgive someone for doing something so unforgivable? "I don't know man, there are some sins that just can't be forgiven." That's no doubt something you've said, thought, or heard someone else say. Maybe you feel there are certain sins that are so awful, the person who commits them can't be forgiven, or certainly doesn't deserve forgiveness. Our guest on today's episode was not a witness to such sins that may be deemed "unforgivable." She was the victim of it.Brenda Crouch suffered traumatic abuse at the hands of someone very close to her as a child. The person she should have been able to trust most became the source of her deepest pain.This person was fighting demons from his own past, and it caused massive failure and abuse. Brenda suppressed these memories, however they came back to her in the form of dreams and visions that were so real she knew they couldn't be just her imagination.She coped with this trauma by seeking approval of her looks, her physical appearance. She finally realized that God simply loves what's inside her, not outside.By understanding God's true grace, having this intimacy with God, she was able to extend genuine forgiveness to the one who had hurt her the most. In this interview with Brenda Crouch, you'll hear:-There are no shortcuts to healing...04:15-How Brenda's self-identity went south as a child...09:10-Trauma suffered as a child leads to trauma as an adult..13:15-Breaking free from anger and victimhood, a form of idolatry...17:32-Our enemy seeks to kill and destroy those made in God's image...19:45-Learning a healthy way of dealing with self-hatred...21:30-Forgiving, and leading to self-forgiveness, the abuser on his death bed...25:10-Take advantage of the opportunity to show God's grace by forgiving others...31:00-Perfectionism is your enemy...35:45-One thing about Brenda no one has known until now...40:20-How to receive a FREE signed copy of Brenda's book...43:45Resources mentioned:Fight Forward: Reclaim the Real You by Brenda CrouchCall to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 164Episode 30: The Chrisagis Brothers, Twins Who Escape Death, Share Laughter With Millions and Inspire Faith With Hollywood Elite"She'd give the twelve apostles a run for their money." This was spoken in reference to the mother of Shawn and Brian Chrisagis, who absolutely refused to accept that her twin boys, born three months premature, and deathly allergic to even small amounts of sunlight, would not be given every opportunity to survive.The Brothers Chrisagis did indeed survive their childhood, which was lived in constant fear of death. Family members made tremendous sacrifices so that they could be properly cared for.Surviving this ordeal gave Brian and Shawn confidence and faith in God and His Word that inspires thousands through their entertainment-based ministry.As they say, "Without the brokenness, you can't become like Christ."Their ministry has delighted audiences all over the world, and has opened doors to minister to heavyweights in the entertainment industry. Their message to us is that you don't need to be a megastar to be a witness for Jesus. You just need faith through your trials and brokenness to move others to Him.In our conversation with the Chrisagis Brothers, you'll hear:-Bubble babies: narrowly escaping death as infants...4:35-Mom refuses to accept a seemingly certain fate for her children...9:20-Finally allowed exposure to sunlight and windows...14:20-What family life was like with two babies in need of constant intensive care...18:25-Identify your children with the word of God, not their interests, personality, etc...24:25-Restoring legends of the entertainment industry...30:35-Me, myself, and I: What's preventing Christians from making an impact in this world...35:45-Social media a catalyst to hyper-narcissism and a perversion of truth...39:35-The blessings of remaining single...43:30-Close encounters with law enforcement in rabbit and Santa Claus outfits...47:30Resources mentioned: -Chrisagis Brothers website-YouTube channelTo learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 165Episode 29: Your Biggest Breakthrough Might Be a Process, Not Just an EventWelcome to the show! We had the idea to name our podcast Your Biggest Breakthrough because in speaking with people in our respective niches - Todd coaching men and Wendie coaching women and men in the Visibly Fit program - we kept hearing about how small victories in seemingly insignificant parts of people's lives led to major breakthroughs.Breakthroughs in relationships, careers, physical appearance, health, the list goes on and on.The truth is, it's those small wins that often lead to our biggest "breakthrough". The Grand Canyon wasn't formed with a huge "breakthrough". It happened over a very long period of time. And so it goes in our lives. In this shorter-than-usual episode, Todd and Wendie both share experiences in their own business endeavors where their own faith was tested. There were no claps of thunder, nor bolts of lightning when their breakthroughs occurred.Only peace and joy as they quietly submitted their own will to God.In this episode, you'll hear:-A small breakthrough regarding perspective in Wendie's business...2:30-Understanding what is real and not real in our priorities...6:10-3 areas in which total honesty are required...8:40-Todd's burnout w/ his own business...11:00-"The business has never been 'mine' in the first place"...13:30-A standing invitation to find rest in the Lord...17:05-The process of surrender is different for everyone...18:30Call to action:To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.comTo find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!
- 166Episode 28: Cancel THIS: Christian Radio Personality Renews Love for Jesus, Marriage Vows After Digging Inch Wide, Mile Deep in ScriptureCancel Culture. It's the buzzword of the age.Cancel everyone who's not in line with the consensus of The Mob.Cancel Christmas.Cancel 2020.Cancel the divorce.Wait, what? Cancel the divorce? Why, divorce should be the first option when a couple experiences difficulty in their marriage. At least that's how worldly minded people think.Chuck Knapp, our guest on this episode, says that the Cancel Culture, while real and problematic in the here and now, is actually advantageous for the Gospel. It just makes God and His word more real to those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.As a radio personality in both the Christian and secular realms, Chuck has long had a deep love for God and a desire to have the fruits of the Spirit manifest in his life. While not the personification of perfection, he's found the means to return to God and His word has allowed him to remain faithful. In fact, he and his wife even cancelled their pending divorce as they both dove deep into the Scriptures, and the truth contained in them, and allowed them to be real in their life and marriage.That's a Cancel Culture we most definitely approve of!In our conversation with Chuck, you'll hear:-How Chuck got interested in the afterlife...03:15-Pushing the boundaries of what could be said on the air while remaining clean...07:30-Why Chuck chose unemployment over a lifetime job offer in radio...11:45-Why it was so easy to let loose in an environment that was known for its predictability...18:30-Leaving radio ministry to pursue the desires of the flesh...22:30-The dangers of forsaking the armor of God...29:15-The process of restoration of the soul...33:30-Why Chuck and his wife cancelled their divorce...36:15-Chuck's wife Cheryl shares her perspective on the cancelled divorce...40:30Resources mentioned: Book: Undefeated Innocence by Chuck's wife, CherylBook: Created for ConnectionThe Rhythmic Community course offered by Chuck's home church
- 167Episode 27: Beware the Slippery Slope of Compromise, For It Will Lead to Your Downfall w/ Bill ScottBill Scott shares a deeply intimate story of how he erred in his thinking, and allowed his pride, not to mention a deep hurt not fully processed, to cause him to stray from what he knew was the right way to walk.Bill reveals the exact moment he chose to forsake his conscience and give in to a deceptive mindset. His skewed rationale prevented him from heeding the sound counsel he received to change direction and avoid certain consequences. The beauty of Bill's story is not just one of restoration but also how you can offer hope and comfort to others who are hurting.We're grateful for Bill being willing to share his story, and we do so in hopes our listeners will perhaps be swayed in the right direction when they are on the edge of a slippery slope of compromise. With loving support and a commitment to make things right, restoration can be the outcome.Ultimately, the comfort we seek in the wrong things is what we truly seek in Christ - and following Him will give us the true joy and the healing we seek. In our conversation with Bill, you'll hear:-Bill's history in Christian fundraising ministry...05:22-Beware the slippery slope of compromise...07:30-The root cause of "all of a sudden" making a tragic decision...10:00-Dealing with giving up The Truth while working in ministry...12:00-Why we ignore sound counsel when we're in the wrong...16:05-How to lovingly confront someone who's living in error...17:10-How to seek and find accountability...19:25-The restoration journey...23:50-The end result of being humbled by a loving God...29:05-The biggest influencers in Bill's life...31:55-What is one thing about Bill that no one else knows...34:04About Bill:Bill Scott has been fundraising for 35 years with non-profit organizations, having hosted, consulted and coached over 500 fundraisers in nearly every state in the U.S. plus internationally in the UK, New Zealand, Canada and Egypt. He has helped raise over $250 million in revenue.Over his 37-year career in radio, Bill has been involved participating in and lau8nching successful media ministries such as Dawson McAllister Live, as well as running his own syndicated radio ministry, ZJAM Youth Ministries.Bill is also a certified life coach in the area of leadership, executive, and stress management coaching. He has written three books:The Rock Your World devotional for teenagersRed Tears, a book about self-harm andThe Day Satan CalledReady For Your Biggest Breakthrough?Find out exactly what stands between you and your biggest breakthrough and how you can achieve your next level of living. Get your FREE 12-page starter kit now!
- 168Episode 26: When Apologizing is Unattractive, Floating Luck, and Proactively Choosing Joy with Dawn BartonWhat is an "ugly cry"? Well, there's crying, either with joy or sorrow - and then there's crying so that you're just plain ugly. The make-up (if you use it) is streaking, you're bawling uncontrollable. It's messy any way you look at it.Dawn Barton has had plenty of occasions to cry the ugly cry. Loss of an infant child, with a subsequent divorce, then later getting breast cancer forcing her to lose much of the traits she valued, without which she felt a shell of herself.Dawn had to wrestle with feelings of anger toward her maker, not to mention inadequacy and feeling just plain ugly, whether she was crying or not. She realized that joy isn't a feeling, it's a focus. When she focused on being joyful, she saw things with a different perspective. That which made her feel ugly was reason to be grateful for her life.Now she shares her story with audiences all over, including those lucky enough to catch this episode of our show!In our conversation with Dawn, you'll hear:-Joy is a focus before a feeling...5:05-God can handle us being angry with him...6:45-Dawn's marriage couldn't survive tragedy...10:30-Advice for people to fix their anger problem with God...12:45-Dealing with breast cancer...14:30-Good and bad advice...17:30-Leaving a lucrative career to write a book...20:00-Who's Lucky, and why did Dawn hate it?...26:30-Why people feels sorry for people who have never dealt with tragedy...32:45-3 things on Dawn's "Joy List"...35:55-One thing that prevents people from choosing joy...38:05About Dawn, who you can find at dawnbarton.comA multibillion-dollar direct sales company put Dawn on their Times Square billboard in the summer of 2018. In Dawn's thirty years of sales and marketing, she has been a top producer at every company she's worked for. Most recently, she was the #7 Sales Director in Mary Kay Cosmetics, when she took a leap of faith and left it all to write her first book, Laughing Through the Ugly Cry. Dawn has been a public speaker for more than ten years, giving talks about cancer, joy, female empowerment, and direct sales. When she's not encouraging other women to find joy and humor in even the most difficult of circumstances, you can find her living happily ever after in Cantonment, FL with her husband, daughter, parents, mother-in-law, two horses, four dogs, and three cats (the pear tree has been inspected with no partridges in sight.)In May 2021, Dawn was awarded "New Christian Author of The Year!" Ready For Your Biggest Breakthrough?Find out exactly what stands between you and your biggest breakthrough and how you can achieve your next level of living. Get your FREE 12-page starter kit now!
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