What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• Drew's family inheritance of faith, from a self-taught preacher grandfather in rural Nebraska to his own call to plant a church
• Why Christianity is the only world religion built on the claim that God came to you, not the other way around
• The historical and extra-biblical evidence that gives the resurrection credibility 2000 years later
• Why Tommy believes the resurrection can't be proven but says the preponderance of evidence is overwhelming
• The C.S. Lewis framework: Jesus is either a liar, a lunatic, or Lord
• What Tim Keller meant when he said the gospel changes everything
• Drew's raw story of asking God for a week off from belief during the hardest season of church planting, and what happened the next morning

Timestamps:

(0:00) Intro

(3:37) Drew's story

(10:31) Why the resurrection matters

(22:57) Historical evidence for the resurrection

(26:11) The disciples' martyrdom and women at the tomb

(34:03) What difference does it make?

(50:22) Final Thoughts + Connect with Boulevard Church

Resources / Next Steps: Learn more about Drew and Boulevard Church at blvdchurchrva.com. They meet Sundays at 1212 N Arthur Ashe Blvd in Richmond's Scott's Addition neighborhood. Whether you're a person of faith or still figuring out what you believe, they'd love to have you.

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In this episode, Tommy sits down with longtime friend and recently retired pastor Dr. Nelson Ould to explore the power and practice of presence.

Drawing from decades of pastoral ministry and personal experience, Nelson shares a simple insight: in life’s most difficult moments, people rarely remember the exact words that were spoken, but they always remember who showed up. Together they discuss why distraction and hurry are eroding real connection, why loneliness continues to rise, and how the simple act of being present with someone can transform relationships.

They also share practical ways to grow in presence, including listening for open doors in conversation, asking thoughtful follow-up questions, creating margin before important interactions, and checking back in with people after meaningful conversations.

In a culture filled with noise and constant distraction, this conversation is a reminder that one of the greatest gifts we can offer someone is our full attention.

(0:00) Loneliness, distraction, and why presence matters today

(2:16) How pastoral ministry revealed the power of presence

(9:39) The biblical foundation of presence and God with us

(19:01) Listening for open doors in conversation

(22:07) The two enemies of presence, distraction and hurry

(29:42) Practicing presence with the people closest to you

(32:09) The underrated power of following up with people

(40:02) Creating margin and quieting distraction before conversations

But this episode is not primarily about a medical outcome. It is about something deeper.

In this conversation, Steve reflects on the different ways God heals, the power of community, and what it means to participate in the fellowship of suffering. He shares how the faith of others carried him when he could not believe for himself, how pain can either harden the heart or deepen it, and how redemptive healing does not always mean the removal of suffering. This is a thoughtful and pastoral conversation about chronic pain, unanswered prayer, community, gratitude, and the surrounding love of God.

If you are walking through illness, loss, or long term suffering, this episode offers a steady reminder that you are not alone and that God’s faithful love surrounds you even here.

(0:00) Introduction and How Steve’s Story Reached Space for Life

(2:19) The Motorcycle Accident and Becoming Quadriplegic

(6:31) Degrees of Paralysis and Living with Chronic Pain

(11:26) Community and the Story of the Paralytic

(16:00) The Turning Point and Moving His Toe

(21:10) Different Types of Healing

(30:06) Redemptive Healing and the Fellowship of Suffering

(36:33) Guarding Against Bitterness

(45:09) A Word for Those Walking Through Pain

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But the question lingers Where do I even begin?

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy sits down with Terry Whalin, acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing and author of more than 60 books, to talk about what it really takes to move from dream to discipline.

Terry pulls back the curtain on the publishing world and explains why most aspiring authors start in the wrong place, what publishers are actually looking for, and why writing success is often 80 percent about the author and 20 percent about the book. They explore the catch 22 of publishing, the power of critique groups and apprenticeship, and why becoming a better reader is foundational to becoming a better writer.

If you have ever considered writing, or simply want to understand how books truly shape lives, this conversation offers practical clarity and grounded encouragement for taking your next step.

(0:00) Why So Many People Dream of Writing

(6:41) How One Book Can Change a Life

(14:16) What Publishers Really Look For

(18:07) Where Aspiring Writers Should Start

(32:32) The Catch 22 of Getting Published

(40:19) The Power of Critique Groups

(48:34) Why Reading Shapes Better Writing

(58:53) Building Consistency as a Writer

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Rather than offering formulas or life hacks, this conversation explores the deeper internal work of defining what truly matters. Joe and Tommy talk through why so many decisions feel exhausting, how guiding principles and guardrails can simplify life’s gray areas, and why postponing life often trains us to keep postponing it. They close by reflecting on how habits, more than any single decision, quietly shape the direction of our lives. This episode is for anyone navigating the weight of this decade and looking for a calmer, more grounded way to move forward.

0:00 Intro

7:41 Avoiding Comparison

13:04 Guiding Principles

26:23 Making Decisions Easier

34:13 Now Versus Later

53:56 Auditing Your Habits

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They explore the science of play, the cultural myths that have stripped play from adult life, and why so many people feel burned out, disconnected, and exhausted in a world that treats play as a waste of time. Mia shares her personal journey growing up in a play-based learning environment, how her grandfather’s research shaped her life, and why play is now being reframed as a public health necessity.

This conversation challenges the idea that productivity and play are opposites, and instead shows how play fuels better work, deeper relationships, creativity, and emotional health. They unpack the difference between real play and modern forms of escapism, why social media often masquerades as play, and how adults can reconnect with the playful part of themselves they’ve forgotten.

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In this episode, host Tommy Thompson is joined by David Dwight, Senior Pastor at Hope Church Richmond, and Ray Paul, National Board Chair of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Together, they share deeply personal stories of losing close family members to suicide and reflect on what it means to grieve, to care for one another, and to hold hope in the midst of profound loss.

Listener discretion is advised. This is a heavy and sensitive topic, and we encourage you to listen at your own pace and with support if needed.

This conversation is rooted in lived experience, not theory. With honesty, compassion, and care, they explore:

• What makes suicide-related grief uniquely complex
• How to recognize warning signs and risk factors
• How to talk about suicide without shame, fear, or judgment
• The role of community, presence, and faith in healing
• How we can better support both those who are grieving and those who may be at risk

This episode is for anyone who has lost someone they love, is walking alongside someone who is struggling, or wants to learn how to respond with greater care and understanding in these moments.

Important Support Note

If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to connect with trained counselors 24/7.

You are not alone.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to a Difficult Conversation

03:49 Personal Experiences with Suicide

11:27 Understanding Grief and Loss

24:08 The Complexity of Suicide

32:17 Statistics and Prevention Strategies

42:56 Navigating Conversations about Suicide

54:34 The Role of Community and Support

01:06:17 Faith and Understanding in Grief

01:14:35 Final Thoughts and Resources

Key Themes & Takeaways

• Suicide loss carries layers of grief that are often misunderstood
• Prevention and compassion must exist together
• Warning signs often show up as subtle changes in behavior or mood
• Asking direct questions and listening carefully can save lives
• Presence matters more than having the “right” words
• The way someone dies does not define the value or meaning of their life
• Healing often happens in community, not isolation

Resources Mentioned

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
• https://afsp.org
• What to Do When Someone Is at Risk
• https://afsp.org/what-to-do-when-someone-is-at-risk/
• Risk Factors, Protective Factors, and Warning Signs
• https://afsp.org/risk-factors-protective-factors-and-warning-signs/
• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)
• Call or text 988

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Dan shares his personal journey in ministry, how The Chosen has become a powerful catalyst for gospel conversations, and why collaboration across ministries is essential in this moment. Together, they explore the surprising signs of spiritual hunger among Gen Z, the tension between retreat and revival, and why this season feels bigger than any single strategy or organization.

This episode offers clarity, encouragement, and real hope for anyone wondering what God may be doing in the next generation.

Key Takeaways

• God appears to be moving in a unique way among Gen Z
• The Chosen is reintroducing Jesus in a relational, accessible format
• Collaboration strengthens impact more than competition
• College campuses show both spiritual retreat and renewal
• Watch parties create natural entry points for faith conversations
• Prayer and presence matter more than polished strategies
• Rising spiritual hunger is supported by both stories and data

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and global perspective

02:08 The impact of The Chosen

07:18 Dan Allan’s journey into ministry

16:52 Collaboration across Christian ministries

30:05 Gen Z, retreat, and revival on campus

54:10 Stories of faith and transformation

Resources & Contact

• The Chosen Watch Party Discussion Guides (free and publicly available)
• Contact Dan Allan: dan.alan@cru.org

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Wendi shares her journey from the corporate and publishing worlds into a calling that sits at the intersection of faith, technology, and human flourishing. The conversation explores the ambitious mission to translate The Chosen into 600 languages, the importance of delivering content in heart languages, and how emerging technologies like AI are being thoughtfully used to serve people who would otherwise never hear the story of Jesus.

Together, Tommy and Wendi wrestle with both the promise and the risks of new technologies, discussing how AI can support spiritual formation, creativity, and global connection without replacing human discernment, community, or God’s sovereignty. This episode offers a hopeful and grounded vision for engaging technology faithfully while staying rooted in what matters most.

Key Topics

• The mission of The Chosen and the Come and See Foundation
• Dr. Wendi Lord’s journey from corporate leadership to faith based work
• Why localization is more than translation
• The concept of heart languages and cultural relevance
• Reaching a billion people through technology and storytelling
• Using AI to support translation and lower resourced languages
• Opportunities and threats presented by emerging technologies
• Faith, discernment, and God’s sovereignty in a digital age
• Human flourishing in a technology driven world

(0:00) Introduction and Wendi’s Story

(4:34) From Corporate Leadership to Calling

(12:07) The Chosen and the Mission of Come and See

(18:15) Reaching a Billion People Through Story

(26:09) The Role of AI in Localization and Translation

(31:48) Speech to Speech Technology and Heart Languages

(39:31) Risks and Threats of Emerging Technologies

(49:14) Opportunities for Faith, Creativity, and Human Flourishing

(56:30) Balancing Technology With Human Connection

(1:05:49) Final Encouragement and Hope

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Stan shares firsthand stories from around the world showing how The Chosen is reaching people across cultures, denominations, and generations. They discuss the mission to translate the series into hundreds of languages, the intentional theological care behind the storytelling, and why the show has become a powerful entry point back to Scripture for many viewers.

The conversation also explores the current spiritual climate, signs of renewed hunger for faith especially among younger generations, and why “come and see” remains one of the most compelling invitations Jesus ever gave.

Key Topics:

• The Chosen and the Come and See Foundation
• Global discipleship and Christian storytelling
• Translating faith-based media into hundreds of languages
• Why authenticity matters in portraying Jesus
• Signs of spiritual renewal around the world
• Reaching new generations through invitational faith

00:00 Introduction to The Chosen and Come and See

03:52 Global reach and international impact

10:47 Stan Jantz’s background and journey

21:32 The vision behind Come and See Foundation

32:57 Storytelling, theology, and production challenges

42:01 Signs of spiritual renewal and revival

51:28 How listeners can get involved

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Key Takeaways

- Kindness is not the same as niceness, it is rooted in strength and truth

- True kindness requires humility and an honest view of our own brokenness

- Kindness reflects a generosity of spirit that believes the best about others

- Protecting someone’s reputation is a powerful expression of kindness

- Kindness should extend to work, home, relationships, and public discourse

- Receiving God’s kindness fuels compassion toward others

- Self-kindness is essential for growth and freedom from performance

- Kindness may lose short-term battles but can win long-term wars

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Kindness

05:09 Reframing Kindness Beyond Niceness

11:22 The Strength and Truth Within Kindness

18:23 Growing in Kindness Through Humility

25:36 Kindness in Relationships and Self-Compassion

32:09 Reflecting on Kindness During Christmas

36:20 Kindness in Society, Culture, and Politics

45:42 A Challenge to Men

47:11 Final Reflections and Closing

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Together, they explore how bravery drives personal and professional growth, why discomfort is essential, how mindset shapes action, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can make you braver than you ever imagined. Whether you're facing a tough decision, stuck in a rut, or seeking a more courageous life, this conversation offers a roadmap toward becoming who you were meant to be.

Key Takeaways

• Bravery is not innate — it’s a skill you can learn and strengthen.
• Choosing discomfort is often the doorway to growth.
• A supportive community (“your brave tribe”) elevates your bravery.
• Bravery = voluntary action in the presence of fear toward a worthwhile goal.
• Small acts of “micro-bravery” compound into high confidence.
• Mindset is foundational — especially growth mindset and stress-is-enhancing mindset.
• Planning and pre-deciding your actions prevent fear from talking you out of progress.
• Some brave actions involve letting go, not just taking on more.
• Bravery is a strategy, not just a feeling.
• Every person has an area where they can take the next brave step.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Bravery

03:07 Jill’s Journey & The Science of Bravery

05:50 The Definition and Importance of Bravery

12:07 Building Bravery as a Muscle

17:50 The Role of Comfort and Discomfort

24:02 Micro-Bravery in Everyday Life

29:41 Mindset & Stress Management

35:48 Taking Action & Planning for Bravery

41:47 Right-Sizing Your Bravery Goals

47:42 Surrounding Yourself with a Brave Tribe

Resources Mentioned

• Jill Schulman’s Website: https://www.jillschulman.com
• Bravery Quiz: https://www.jillschulman.com/bravery-quiz

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Drawing from the Parable of the Sower, Tommy unpacks four types of “soil environments” and shows how they mirror the spiritual, emotional, and practical conditions we create in our lives. The conversation moves through the role of spaciousness, the discomfort that often precedes growth, why self-reflection is essential, and the four kinds of people every person needs around them.

If you want deeper relationships, meaningful progress, and a spiritual life that actually transforms you — this episode will help you create the conditions where real growth can finally take root.

Key Takeaways

• Creating the right environment is more important than any single growth tactic.
• The Parable of the Sower offers a framework for understanding how environment impacts growth.
• The three major components of a growth environment are habits, self-coaching, and people.
• Spaciousness is the foundational habit that enables reflection, listening, and deeper living.
• Weekly and quarterly rhythms create structure for long-term transformation.
• Growth requires a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
• Self-coaching begins with listening — to patterns, emotions, circumstances, and God.
• Four kinds of people accelerate growth: mentors, mentees, soul friends, and prophets.
• A “prophet” (your Nathan) is someone with permission to speak hard truth into your life.

Resources

• Tommy’s Book: Space to Breathe Again
• Space for Life Episode: “30 Minutes to Your Best Week”
• Space for Life Episode: “The Art of Journaling”
• Space for Life Episode: "What's the Big Deal About Margin?"
• Space for Life Episode: "What's a Spacious Life?"

0:00 Intro

1:46 Why Environment Matters

4:26 Parable of the Sower

9:42 Four Types of Soil

12:49 Three Elements of Growth

16:43 Habits of Spaciousness

25:06 Weekly + Long-Term Rhythms

32:57 Self Coaching + Reflection

41:50 People of Growth

45:22 4 Types of People You Need in Your Life

55:48 Finding Your Nathan

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What follows is a journey of obedience, transformation, and learning to “take your hands off” while still doing the next right thing. Through biblical stories of Simon Peter, reflections on work, and moments of vulnerability, Jeff illustrates how surrender opens the door to a deeper relationship with God and an unexpected path to renewal.

Timestamps

0:00 Intro

2:17 Scotland Trip and How They Met

3:45 Jeff Begins His Story

6:02 Marriage Counseling and Learning to Listen

7:49 Faith and Work in Jeff’s Life

10:26 History of Johnson Machine Works

14:07 When Nothing Works

16:28 Breaking Point on the Shop Floor

19:42 Praying Over the Building and Workers

23:49 The Unexpected Turnaround Begins

26:54 God’s Mercy, Not Formulas

29:33 Why Work Matters in God’s Design

40:38 How God Used the Crisis to Reach Jeff

44:22 Jeff’s Tuesday Night Practice of Surrender

46:25 Invitation for Anyone Needing Encouragement

Referenced Links

Jeff’s Podcast, Courageous Crossroads

Artists & Writers

Takeaways

• Surrender is often where true transformation begins.
• Desperation can bring unexpected clarity.
• Work is part of God’s design for purpose and flourishing.
• Vulnerability opens doors that effort alone cannot.
• God uses circumstances — even painful ones — to reach us.
• Doing the next right thing is part of surrender, not separate from it.
• Resilience is built in the quiet, unseen moments.
• Prayer can reshape environments, mindsets, and outcomes.

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Gary and Tommy unpack why following Jesus is not about a safe, rule driven life, but about a deeper, riskier, more adventurous way of living that flows from intimacy with God. They dive into specific lies many Christians quietly absorb, like “family first,” “God owes me if I do my part,” and “I need to stay in control.” Along the way they connect Scripture, stories from church history, and their own personal experiences, including Tommy’s journey through his daughter’s cancer, to show how dismantling these lies is less about losing something and more about stepping into a fuller, freer life with God.

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In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy sits down with parenting expert Keith McCurdy, founder of Live Sturdy and CEO of Total Life Counseling, to unpack what it really means to raise sturdy kids.

Keith shares decades of experience counseling more than 15,000 families, guiding parents toward raising emotionally mature, capable, and resilient children. Together, they explore the role of healthy struggle, practical responsibility, and emotional regulation in child development—and why comfort and happiness shouldn’t be the ultimate goals.

This conversation challenges modern parenting norms and provides practical steps for building sturdier families—ones grounded in values, identity, and the kind of leadership that grows capable kids and healthy adults.

Key Topics

• Why parenting can feel overwhelming and guilt-inducing
• What “sturdy” really means in child development
• How overprotection creates fragile kids
• Why emotions shouldn’t dictate parenting decisions
• The connection between practical skills and emotional maturity
• The value of healthy struggle and discomfort
• Moving children from consumers to contributors
• Establishing family identity and guiding principles
• Leading with sacrifice and consistency in parenting
• Practical steps to begin raising sturdier kids

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges

02:50 The Importance of Raising Sturdy Kids

06:10 Generational Wisdom in Parenting

08:51 The Role of Emotions in Parenting

11:48 Defining ‘Sturdy’ in Parenting

14:50 Practical Skills for Sturdy Kids

17:51 The Impact of Struggle on Growth

20:43 The Disconnect Between Happiness and Growth

24:05 The Process of Maturity Through Trials

32:09 The Fragility of Overprotection

36:21 The Role of Discomfort in Growth

41:31 Establishing Family Identity and Guiding Principles

47:03 Transitioning from Enabling to Empowering

55:42 Practical Steps for Raising Sturdy Kids

Keith McCurdy

President & CEO, Total Life Counseling

Founder, Live Sturdy

Counselor, Speaker, and Parenting Coach

livesturdy.com

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Meg shares Wycliffe’s incredible progress toward its Vision 2025 goal—ensuring every language community has a Bible translation project in progress—and explains how AI is transforming translation work while maintaining a deep commitment to faithfulness and human oversight.

Their conversation moves from the global mission of Wycliffe to personal reflections on faith, technology, and how communities can navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI together.

Key Topics

• Wycliffe’s mission to make God’s Word available to every language and community
• Over 7,000 languages worldwide, with more than 560 still without Scripture
• The story behind Vision 2025 and its bold goal
• How AI supports translation while keeping humans at the center
• Partnerships with local churches and communities worldwide
• Balancing innovation with integrity in faith-based work
• The role of community and the church in navigating technology
• How AI can be both a tool for good and a challenge for discernment
• Practical and personal reflections on using AI in daily life

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode

04:30 Meg’s Journey to Wycliffe and Church Planting in Orlando

12:10 The Mission and History of Wycliffe Bible Translators

19:45 Vision 2025: Every Language, Every Community

27:15 How AI is Changing Bible Translation

36:40 Faithful Translation and the Importance of Human Oversight

43:55 AI, Creativity, and Overcoming Global Barriers

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David shares how his book came to life, what the Greek word sozo (“to be healed”) reveals about salvation, and why mutual submission in marriage reflects the very nature of God. Along the way, they unpack Paul’s remarkable conversion, the beauty of the Church, and the hope found in living a life shaped by grace.

What You’ll Take Away:

• Why Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians is more than a commentary — it's a reflection on life in Christ
• The deeper meaning of the Greek word sozo (“saved” or “healed”)
• What Paul’s conversion reveals about God’s power to transform anyone
• Why Ephesians offers such a vibrant, redemptive vision for the Church
• How “mutual submission” in marriage mirrors the relationship within the Trinity
• How Paul’s writing connects theology, beauty, and everyday life

Resources:

• Get your copy of Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians on Amazon (available in print and Kindle)
• Explore more episodes and resources at tommythompson.org

Timestamps:

(0:00) Intro

(8:46) Exploring the Depth of Ephesians

(11:46) The Meaning of the Word “Saved”

(15:06) The Complexity of Theological Concepts

(17:59) The Structure and Style of the Book

(21:10) Personal Stories and Their Impact

(24:06) The Central Message of Ephesians

(31:56) The Unlikely Apostle: Paul’s Transformation

(35:42) The Magnitude of Conversion

(39:09) Exploring the Relationship Between Jesus and Paul

(44:49) Understanding Ephesians: A Deep Dive

(48:00) Marriage and Mutual Submission in Ephesians

(58:17) The Cultural Context of Ephesians

(1:01:59) The Beauty of God in Marriage and Family Life

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Key Takeaways

• God did not design you to live overloaded, overwhelmed, and exhausted.
• Sabbath is both a command and a gift. It is meant to come first so your work flows from rest.
• Rest renews joy, relationships, and impact. You serve from overflow rather than empty.
• Celebration is a spiritual practice. Joy and gratitude strengthen service.
• Small margins matter. Arrive a few minutes early. Leave space between meetings. Build simple pauses into your day.
• In nontraditional schedules, take rest whenever the window opens. Treat it as a first priority when possible.

Timestamps

(0:00) Intro

(1:11) My Volunteer Addiction

(11:04) The Discipline of Rest

(30:11) The Discipline of Celebration

(38:26) Q&A Section

(39:32) Question 1

(43:12) Question 2

(47:57) Question 3

(52:13) Question 4

(53:50) Final Thoughts

Scripture Mentioned

• Isaiah 30:15
• Isaiah 58:13–14
• Psalm 23
• Psalm 150
• Matthew 11:28–30
• Hebrews 4:9–11

Books Mentioned

• Margin by Richard Swenson

If you found this helpful, please share the episode with a friend! Subscribe to Space for Life for more conversations on living with margin and purpose.

“the presence of her absence is everywhere.” ~ Edna St. Vincent Millay

In This Episode:

- The language problem, grief vs sadness and why one word is not enough

- Myths that keep us silent, including the fear that talking about grief invites it

- The unhelpful urge to scale or compare grief and how to stop

- Different kinds of loss, extended illness, sudden death, suicide, job loss, broken relationships, losing a pet

- Family systems, differing timelines, and the need for permission and grace

- Guilt, shame, moments of happiness, and the surprising companion of relief

- Faith as refuge and wholeness when losses feel irreconcilable

Timestamps:

(0:00) Why We’re Finally Talking About Grief

(4:28) Why We Avoid Grief

(10:43) Permission and Grace

(17:58) Grief vs Sadness: Finding Better Words

(26:27) How Loss Changes Us

(36:08) What to Say (and Not Say)

(46:16) Families Grieve Differently

(55:32) When Acute Grief Becomes Lasting Sadness

(1:03:06) Guilt, Forgetting, and Moments of Joy

(1:10:08) Relief Alongside Sorrow

(1:15:30) Moving Forward With Hope

Resources:

- Psalm 46

- The Taste of New Wine, Keith Miller

- The Weathering Grace of God, Ken Gire

- Lament for a Son, Nicholas Wolterstorff

- A Grace Disguised, Gerald Sittser

- Healing the Heartbreak of Grief, Peter James Flamming

- Healing After Loss, Martha Hickman

If this episode helps you or someone you love, consider sharing it. 

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From there, we dive into the big theme that shaped the summer: taking a sabbatical. Why was it needed? What were the warning signs that led me to step back? Why does sabbatical feel scary at first? And what did this summer actually look like in practice?

What’s In This Episode:

– Why discomfort can make a sabbatical meaningful

– Big updates for Season Six and new projects on the horizon

– The red flags that signaled it was time to pause

– Why sabbaticals shouldn’t have agendas

– Highlights from the summer (from golf in Scotland to welcoming a new granddaughter)

– The difference between recovery and true refreshment

– How space can expand your vision for what’s next

– Why sabbaticals aren’t just for pastors or executives

– Practical encouragement for creating your own sabbatical rhythm

Timestamps:

(00:00) Intro

(00:08) Exciting Updates

(07:46) Today’s Topic

(09:16) What Was Behind Taking a Sabbatical

(15:47) Sabbaticals Are Scary

(18:48) Sabbaticals Shouldn't Have Agendas

(19:39) What Did This Sabbatical Look Like

(22:56) Highlights from the Summer

(26:49) Sabbatical is Refreshment not Just Recovery

(32:44) Sabbaticals Expand Vision

(38:35) Who Can Benefit From a Sabbatical

(44:59) Space to Breathe Again

Resources:

Email Tommy@TommyThompson.org to get copies of Space to Breathe Again for only $10 when buying 5+ copies.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Additional topics include her father's powerful influence, recognizing the 'love language' of words of affirmation, and her book, 'The Power of a Few Kind Words.' Lastly, Tracey emphasizes that everyone has the inherent power to positively influence others and transform themselves through simple acts of intentional kindness.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

As a speaker, Nicole brings both wit and wisdom, with an honest & vulnerable approach that appeals to both faith & leadership environments alike. As a coach, Nicole brings clarity & courage for individuals and teams as they pursue growth.

Her latest book, “The Miracle Moment: How Tough Conversations Can Actually Transform Your Most Important Relationships” invites readers into the practical steps that create moments of breakthrough within relationships. Her books come to life through her popular video curriculum series found on RightNow Media. 

Invitations to speak have taken Nicole around the world, but she loves her home in Richmond, VA, which she shares with her husband and three kids. Nicole holds degrees from the College of William and Mary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and serves on the board of CHAT, a local nonprofit focused on restorative work with young people in poverty.

Join Tommy in this delightful conversation with Nicole Unice.

www.nicoleunice.com

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(0:00) Intro

(1:04) Principles of Life

(7:41) Principle of Naming

(15:46) Principle of Firsts

(22:03) Principle of Environment

(30:16) Principle of Finishing Well

(34:59) Principle of Space

(43:36) Principle of Small Changes

(49:20) Principle of Divine Multiplication

(56:38) Principle of Proximity

(1:01:31) Principle of Recency

(1:05:59) Outro

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In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy welcomes his long-time friend, author, and speaker Amy Julia Becker. They discuss Amy Julia's journey from her early days, her background, her marriage, and significant life events such as her daughter's Down syndrome diagnosis which pivoted her career towards writing. They delve into her books, emphasizing themes of disability, family, culture, and faith. Her latest book, 'To Be Made Well,' which focuses on holistic healing, is explored in depth. They discuss the idea of interconnected healing—physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual—and practical steps and practices to develop a listening life, humility, and hope in one's healing journey.

Amy Julia Becker helps people reimagine the good life through her writing and speaking on disability, faith, and culture. She is the author of To Be Made Well, White Picket Fences, Small Talk, and A Good and Perfect Gift and the creator of the Reimagining Family Life with Disability workshop. She is a guest opinion writer for national publications and hosts the Reimagining the Good Life podcast. Becker is a graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv). She lives with her husband and their three children in western Connecticut.

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Elaine discusses the challenges and rewards of making impactful choices in the midst of the everday challenges of work and raising a family.

The conversation explores 'seasons of life' and emphasizes the importance of embracing change, seeking God, and boldly following Him.

Elaine also opens up about her battle with cancer and how she continues to find faith and purpose during this time.

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In this episode of 'Space for Life', Tommy welcomes Jeff Kemp, an 11-year NFL quarterback and accomplished author, as the guest. The episode delves into the concept of developing a playbook for life, not just on the field. Jeff shares his journey from his football career to becoming a soul coach, helping people build deeper relationships. They discuss the importance of 'Level 5 Friendships', marked by vulnerability, trust, and mutual support, equating it to building a team that helps one navigate life's challenges. Kemp advocates for connecting deeply with a few close friends, drawing inspiration from his Christian faith and the principles illustrated by Jesus. They further highlight practical steps for cultivating such friendships and emphasize that both men and women can benefit from forming intentional, supportive relationships at every stage of life. They also introduce resources like the 'Level 5 Friendship Playbook' and Kemp's books 'Facing the Blitz' and 'Receive' for those looking to deepen their personal connections.

Visit all of Jeff's resources at http://.menhuddle.com

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Contact Vic at www.nextformfit.com or www.catalystfitrva.com

Listen as Anne shares her story with Tommy and the lessons from her hard journey. This episode will inspire and encourage those in a hard, dark season.

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The discussion delves into the deeper aspects of giving, focusing on the concept of lifestyle stewardship, which includes managing all aspects of life as entrusted by God. Larry emphasizes the importance of giving out of joy and gratitude rather than obligation and guilt. He also addresses the necessity of intentionality in living a generous life and the transformative effects it can have. 

Examples from Larry's personal experiences and the principles of biblical stewardship highlight the practical application of these concepts. The episode aims to encourage listeners to reframe their approach to giving and embrace a mindset of joyful, intentional generosity.

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In this episode we talk about:

• Kristin's story

• Caring well for individuals battling cancer or other ongoing conditions

• The immense impact of community

• Survivor guilt

• Scanxiety

• Finding purpose and passion

• Cancer Retreat Centers

Os shares about his early childhood in China during World War II, signals of transcendence, coming to faith, and practical ways to stay centered on our call.

https://www.needleseye.org/

The episode delves into the dangers of loneliness, defined as perceiving oneself as alone, unwanted, and unknown, and the transformative power of companionship, referencing Biblical passages to underline the significance of togetherness. 

It introduces the acronym 'CAMS' to discuss the four types of beneficial relationships: Companions, Advisors, Mentees, and Soul Friends, each serving a different purpose in enriching one's life and combating loneliness. Tommy illustrates how these relationships not only provide joy and support but are crucial for personal growth and well-being. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional in cultivating these connections, suggesting practical steps for building and maintaining them, thus advocating for a proactive approach to overcoming loneliness and leading a fulfilled life.

The episode emphasizes the importance of living on mission, understanding one's purpose, and making impactful choices, offering insights into how personal context and faith can lead to fulfilling one's potential.

Episode Highlights:

00:54 Introducing Mike Acker: A Story of Transformation

03:45 Mike Acker's Unbelievable Journey: From Drug Smuggling Roots to Pastoral Mission

10:19 Embracing a New Path: Mike's Shift from Mexico to Ministry

15:03 Navigating Career and Identity Shifts: From Ministry to Sales

18:57 Living on Mission: Crafting a Personal Mission Statement

26:57 Embracing Life with Clarity and Purpose

27:43 The Power of a Personal Mission Statement

29:55 The Transformative Impact of Having a Mission

35:35 Addressing the Challenges of Identifying a Life Mission

38:47 Simplifying the Journey: Steps to Discovering Your Mission

47:36 Closing Thoughts: Taking the First Step Towards Your Mission

Connect with Mike:

https://www.mikeacker.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mikeackerdotcom

https://www.youtube.com/c/ADVANCEwithMikeAcker

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ 

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

'ROMP' stands for Read Slowly, Observe, Meditate, and Personalize, offering a practical toolkit for diving deeper into scripture. Tommy emphasizes the importance of treating the Bible not just as text, but as a living, active conversation with God capable of penetrating the depths of the human heart and mind. By advocating for a slow, observant, meditative, and personalized reading practice, the episode invites listeners to experience the Bible as a transformative power in their lives.

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ 

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

Episode Highlights:

02:40 Eric Allen's Journey: From Surviving to Thriving

08:35 A Turning Point: Finding Faith and a New Path

14:16 Embracing Change: The Power of Environment and Faith

18:58 The Power of Community and Intentionality

21:55 Daily Rituals for a Grateful Life

23:12 Changing Your Environment for Growth

26:48 Leveraging Podcasts and Books for Personal Development

29:43 Guidance for the Stuck: Pray and Clarify

33:35 Shifting Focus: A New Direction in Podcasting

37:02 A Vision for Intentional Living and Gratitude

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ 

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

The Erik Allen Show - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-erik-allen-show/id1542602358

Episode Highlights:

00:22 Introducing Kim Sorrelle: Author and Director of Rays of Hope International

02:17 Kim's Personal Battle with Breast Cancer and a Family's Ordeal

15:32 A Dream of Comfort and Messages from Beyond

19:17 Life After Loss: Moving Forward with Purpose

21:35 Finding Healing Through Service: Kim's Work in Haiti

25:12 Embarking on a Year of Living Like Jesus

25:21 The Deep Dive into Love: A Year-Long Journey

26:14 Discovering the True Meaning of Love

27:57 A Challenging Month: Love Keeps No Record of Wrongs

33:57 Learning to Change the Narrative

36:41 The Lasting Impact of a Year Focused on Love

43:59 Applying Love in Everyday Life

Connect with Kim:

https://www.kimsorrelle.com/

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ 

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

They also highlight the importance of mentorship and personal growth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual and organizational success.

Episode Highlights:

01:58 Introducing Robert White: A Journey from Ordinary to Extraordinary

04:39 Robert's Early Struggles and Entrepreneurial Spirit

08:39 Transformative Experiences and the Human Potential Movement

12:24 The Impact of Mind Dynamics on Personal and Professional Growth

15:23 Exploring the Core Beliefs Behind Success and Fulfillment

23:08 Purpose, Vision, and Values: The Foundation of Effective Leadership

25:26 Understanding Agreement vs. Alignment

26:22 The Power of Commitment in Success

27:16 Inspirational Stories of Growth and Commitment

32:10 Translating Business Principles to Personal Growth

33:59 The Impact of Coaching Across Personal, Business, and Family Life

38:26 Embracing Extraordinary Living Through Coaching

Connect with Robert:

https://www.therobertwhite.com/

Robert’s Linkedin

https://www.facebook.com/robert.white1

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ 

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

David emphasizes the significance of creating space for deep introspection to discover and affirm one's unique strengths and values. The episode also touches on the transformative effect of recognizing and pursuing what truly matters, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and embrace their authentic selves.

Episode Highlights:

01:24 David Ask: A Man of Many Talents and Passions

08:19 The Entrepreneurial Journey of David Ask

21:50 True North and the Guardians of Grit: Defining Resilience and Purpose

26:03 The Importance of Core Values and Guiding Principles

34:44 Redefining Identity and Embracing True Self

37:40 Challenges of Parenting and Legacy Building

39:08 Discovering Purpose and Core Values

44:40 The Importance of Community and Relationships

56:50 Action Steps Towards Personal Fulfillment

Connect with David:

 https://www.davidask.com/ or email hello@davidask.com

https://statguardplus.com/

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ 

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

The “Marriage for Life” series reaffirms the commitment to marriage despite challenges, advocating for perseverance and the prioritization of the relationship to experience a deep, lasting connection.

Episode Highlights:

01:46 Celebrating the Masters Golf Tournament: A Metaphor for Life

03:14 Recapping the Marriage Series: Insights and Foundations

15:50 Deep Dive into Love Languages: Enhancing Marital Affection

21:20 Covenant, Compatibility, and Communication: Key Pillars of Marriage

31:40 Creating Space for Personal Growth and Support

35:40 Prioritizing Communication and Quality Time

39:30 Investing in Fun and Vacations for Relationship Health

42:52 Financial Space: A Key to Relieving Marital Stress

44:30 Kronos and Kairos: Balancing Time for a Fulfilling Marriage

49:47 The Hard Work and Beauty of Marriage

Tom’s story at engagement – The commitment for life

o   Open up to the possibility of getting help – coaching, counseling, friends

• The value of training!

o   Minefields:

• Self-Care deficit – physical, emotional, mental, spiritual – uneven growth
•  Managing expectations
• Lack of Intentionality – lose the priority of marriage – career, and children
• Busyness
• The Storms of Life
• Lack of Affection

o   Thriving:

• Handle Conflict well – Practice Win/Win
• Enjoy each other – friends!
• Manage finances in a compatible way
• 
  
• Attentiveness to one another – delight in each other

They continue their exploration of marriage dynamics, discussing the nuanced interplay between gender roles and relationship dynamics. They advocate for breaking free from traditional stereotypes and embracing curiosity as a pathway to deeper understanding and connection. 

00:21 Introducing Lisa Old: A New Perspective on Marriage

06:13 Addressing Loneliness in Marriage and Beyond

11:32 Creating Space and Time for Meaningful Conversations

20:27 Navigating the Complexities of Marriage Together

25:24 Exploring Deeper Connections in Relationships

28:07 Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Conversations

28:39 The Importance of Listening and Encouragement

45:01 Practical Takeaway: Enhancing Conversational Skills

Links:

https://www.barnabasrva.org/ 

https://www.facebook.com/barnabasrva 

David Dwight is the senior pastor of HOPE Church, one of the fastest growing churches in Richmond, Virginia. David's spiritual journey began during his college years, following a period marked by skepticism and uncertainty throughout his teenage years. Despite venturing into a career in business post-graduation, He harbored a profound conviction that his path would ultimately lead him to ministry. Over time, he has served in various roles, including missions pastor and church planter, and now holds the position of senior pastor at HOPE. Together with his wife Elisabeth, they are blessed with two children.

00:00 Embracing Love in Marriage

00:58 Introducing David Dwight: A Journey Through Marriage Insights

02:34 The Essence of Marriage: Covenant, Compatibility, and Commitment

18:13 The Transformative Power of Covenant in Marriage

34:25 The Journey from Compatibility to Covenant: A Deep Dive

50:38 The Impact of Parental Influence on Marriage

53:47 Navigating the Seasons of Marriage: Challenges and Growth

57:20 Cultivating a Marriage-Centered Family

01:05:06 The Art of Communication: The Key to a Thriving Marriage

01:06:14 Creating Space for Listening and Understanding

01:16:58 The Evolution of Intimacy in Marriage

01:33:07 Closing Thoughts: The Beauty and Hard Work of Marriage

www.5lovelanguages.com 

Tom Barila is a compassionate and skilled coach with over 41 years of experience in the Marriage and Relationship field. He specializes in Marriage coaching (Pre-Engaged; Engaged; and Married) as well as life coaching. Tom utilizes a combination of the Prepare-Enrich methodology along with other coaching principles to provide clients with life-changing principles.

He loves working with couples to help them set a firm foundation, sort out issues, seek unity, and to thrive. Tom endeavors to work with each couple (or individual) according to their areas of unique needs to help them invoke curiosity, achieve clarity, and a more balanced and fruitful life.  

 Tom has served in the government, business, and non-profit sectors. He served in the U.S. Army as a Captain in the Signal Corps. In business, Tom managed Information Technology projects and led teams for major regional banking institutions. In the non-profit sector, Tom served as a Director of Education and Chief Technology Officer. 

Tom has earned a BBA degree, a Master's of Arts in Spiritual Formation, is a certified Christian Educator, a certified BALM Family Recovery Life Coach, and a certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator.  

Currently, Tom serves as the “Head Coach” and owner of the Marriage and Relationship Coaching Center, LLC, Richmond, VA. Tom has been married for over 41 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandsons. He enjoys collaborating with people, the outdoors, coaching sports, and playing tennis and golf.

Tom can be reached at marriageRVA@gmail.com.

00:00 Introduction to the Long Game in Life

00:55 Recap of Phenomenal Episodes and Their Impact

03:16 The Core Practice of Finding and Being a Mentor

06:41 Defining Mentorship and Its Importance

12:36 How to Find a Mentor: Strategies and Tips

18:05 The Transformative Power of Being a Mentor

22:23 Taking Action: A Challenge to Engage in Mentorship

24:50 Conclusion and Encouragement to Share the Episode

Elaine discusses the challenges and rewards of making impactful choices in the midst of the everday challenges of work and raising a family.

The conversation explores 'seasons of life' and emphasizes the importance of embracing change, seeking God, and boldly following Him.

Elaine also opens up about her battle with cancer and how she continues to find faith and purpose during this time.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

01:01 Reflecting on Life's Seasons

02:44 The Power of Mentorship

04:10 Exploring Life's Themes

04:33 The Importance of Hospitality

08:02 The Journey to Richmond

09:36 The Start of a New Chapter

10:51 The Challenges of Starting Fresh

13:28 Finding a Home and a Community

22:24 The Birth of a New Ministry

28:56 The Need for a Bigger Space

29:13 Building Relationships and Community

30:03 Transitioning into a New Season

30:24 The Challenge of Elder Care

31:07 Building a New Home and Adjusting to Change

32:20 Reflections on Life's Unexpected Turns

36:08 The Power of Connection and Hospitality

37:43 The Journey to East Asia

44:54 Facing the Challenges of Cancer

48:13 Reflecting on Life and Faith in the Midst of Trials

54:13 The Importance of Scripture and Inner Growth

56:51 Final Thoughts and Reflections

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episodes

01:09 Upcoming Episodes and Invitation for Audience Participation

03:07 Introduction to the Topic: Expanding Your Comfort Zone

04:43 Understanding and Identifying Your Comfort Zones

06:52 Steps to Expanding Your Comfort Zone

08:27 Real-Life Examples of Expanding Comfort Zones

25:21 The Role of God in Expanding Comfort Zones

30:46 Practical Steps to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

36:02 Conclusion and Encouragement to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

This special podcast episode features a conversation about journaling with Tommy's wife of 42 years, Weezie Thompson. They provide advice for people who want to start journaling, emphasizing the need for individuals to make the practice their own. Weezie shares that she uses her journals to note daily affirmations, express gratitude, record prayers, and log specific life events. They also discuss the impact of journaling on their lives, how their practices differ, and how journaling has helped them navigate life's most difficult challenges, such as cancer and grief.

Both agree that journaling has helped them find peace, analyze life, see God at work more, and adds joy to their lives.

00:02 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:59 The Importance and Practice of Journaling

02:09 Personal Experiences and Approaches to Journaling

04:00 The Evolution of Journaling Practices

05:43 The Role of Journaling in Spiritual Life

09:17 The Process and Structure of Journaling

12:09 The Role of Gratitude in Journaling

17:01 The Use of Journaling for Prayer

20:25 The Aesthetics and Tools of Journaling

25:32 The Joy and Freedom in Journaling

28:48 The Importance of Regular Journaling

29:12 Finding the Right Environment for Journaling

29:49 The Role of Journaling in Personal Reflection

31:26 Journaling as a Tool for Contemplation

31:51 Journaling to Track God's Work in Your Life

32:27 Journaling as a Habit for a More Aware Life

33:33 Journaling as a Memory Keeper

34:50 The Benefits of Journaling

40:31 Journaling Through Difficult Times

49:23 Challenges and Recommendations for Journaling

You can find Weezie's journals and note cards on her Etsy shop at BotanicalsByWeezie

In this episode, Tracey Gates, a wellness coach and author of The Power of a Few Kind Words discusses her practice of intentional kindness. She shares her year-long experience of writing an unexpected letter of appreciation each day, highlighting the transformative effects of this activity not only for her but also for the recipients. The most profound of these letters was the last one - a heart-tugging message to her deceased father. Tracey also shares practical tips for writing appreciation letters.

Additional topics include her father's powerful influence, recognizing the 'love language' of words of affirmation, and her book, 'The Power of a Few Kind Words.' Lastly, Tracey emphasizes that everyone has the inherent power to positively influence others and transform themselves through simple acts of intentional kindness.

00:02 Introduction and Welcome Back

00:38 Introducing Guest: Tracy Gates

03:06 The Power of Unexpected Letters of Appreciation

05:11 The Impact of Kindness on Others

09:17 The Origin of the Kindness Journey

12:33 The Transformational Power of Kindness

16:48 The Legacy of Kind Words

19:21 The Impact of Kindness on the Writer

25:27 The Power of Intentional Kindness

30:33 The Power of Handwritten Letters

31:44 The Impact of a Personal Story

36:11 The Art of Writing Appreciation Letters

45:15 The Last Letter to My Dad

49:40 Connecting with the World Through Kindness

52:23 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up

00:06 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:19 The Connection Between the Host and the Guest

01:26 Guest's Background and Career

02:05 Understanding the Role of a Writing Coach

05:12 The Journey of Writing the First Book

16:08 Reading an Excerpt from the First Book

20:06 The Aftermath of Writing the First Book

21:26 The Inspiration Behind the Second Book

25:59 Understanding God's Voice and Responding to It

29:11 God's Perception of Us

29:23 The Power of Listening to God

29:49 God's Constant Presence in Our Lives

30:20 The Challenge of Recognizing God's Voice

31:06 The Importance of Spiritual Disciplines

31:40 Understanding God's Character

32:33 Recognizing God's Voice Amidst Other Voices

33:17 The Role of Faith in Hearing God's Voice

34:04 Distinguishing God's Voice from Others

34:28 The Deception of the Devil

35:31 The Role of Dreams and Visions in God's Communication

39:20 The Importance of Community in Recognizing God's Voice

45:42 The Challenge of Recognizing God's Voice in Difficult Times

45:56 The Dark Night of the Soul

51:18 Connecting with God's Voice

51:31 The Role of Scripture and Prayer in Hearing God's Voice

52:21 The Joy of Responding to God's Call

www.michellelayerrahal.com

Lighthouse RVA is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive community for women in recovery from addiction, offering a range of activities and opportunities to feel 'normal' and loved. Emily advocates for just taking 'the next step', believing that God's plans will come together in his time. She discusses the importance of community in addiction recovery and how seemingly small and ordinary gestures can significantly impact lives.

00:05 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:53 Discussing the Concept of BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal)

02:19 Emily's Journey and the Story of Lighthouse RVA

07:26 Understanding Addiction and the Importance of Community

10:01 The Birth of Lighthouse RVA

15:15 The Impact of Lighthouse RVA

19:31 Reflecting on the Journey and God's Guidance

23:39 The Power of Perseverance and Trusting the Process

29:20 Discovering Thistle Farms: A Turning Point

30:31 Taking the Leap: Attending the Thistle Farms Workshop

31:50 The First Steps of Lighthouse RVA

32:48 Overcoming Fear and Embracing the Unknown

34:45 The Power of Small Steps and Great Love

36:53 The Role of Community in Lighthouse RVA

39:27 Breaking Down Barriers: The Impact of Lighthouse RVA

41:45 The Future of Lighthouse RVA

42:38 Reflections on Leadership and the Power of the Next Step

43:41 Connecting with Lighthouse RVA

46:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

www.thelighthouserva.org

In this podcast episode of 'Space for Life', Tommy interviews Nicole and Jim Holland, founders of 'Hope 30' and 'Hope Essentials'. The Hollands share their unique wellness journey which began with a focus on improving personal health and evolved into a desire to help others. Jim talks about his transition from being overweight and diabetic to being healthy through natural methods and lifestyle adjustments. He discusses how achieving metabolic health is vital to overall wellness. The pair also focuses on the vital role community, accountability, and positive self-talk play in the process of health and wellness improvement. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of honoring our bodies as temples, considering it essential for spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. The podcast concludes with them highlighting their organic salad dressings, barbecue sauce, stir fry sauce, and upcoming sleep supplements aiming to aid in holistic health promotion.

00:05 Introduction and Personal Health Journey

00:50 Guest Introduction: Jim and Nicole Holland

02:22 Mission of Hope Essentials

04:28 Personal Health Transformation Stories

09:00 The Birth and Growth of Hope30

14:49 The Impact of Community and Positive Mindset

21:26 The Power of Hope and Possibility

29:37 Struggles with Weight Loss and the Importance of Health

31:06 The Concept of Eating 'Foods by God' and 'Foods by Man'

33:02 The Role of Faith in Health and Wellness

33:23 The Journey to Health and the Role of Vanity

35:11 The Body's Ability to Heal Itself and the Importance of Proper Nutrition

41:24 The Importance of Sleep and Exercise in Health

48:53 Exploring HOPE30 and HOPE Essentials

51:05 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

Resources: www.hopeessentials.com

www.hopethirty.com

Amy Julia Becker is an award-winning writer and speaker on disability, family, culture, and faith. She is the author of four books, including To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope, a guest opinion writer for national publications, and the host of the Love Is Stronger Than Fear podcast. Becker is a graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv). She lives with her husband and their three children in western Connecticut.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Instagram: @amyjuliabeckerFacebook: @amyjuliabeckerwriterTwitter: @amyjuliabecker

Website:

amyjuliabecker.com

BOOKS:

·       To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope

·       White Picket Fences: Turning Towards Love in a World Divided by Privilege

·       Small Talk: Learning From My Children About What Matters Most

·       A Good and Perfect Gift: Faith, Expectations, and a Little Girl Named Penny

On today's episode of Space for Life, Tommy shares an end-of-the-year reflective exercise he found beneficial in journaling. This reminiscing activity, coined as PEACH, helps him to review the year that passed. With PEACH, he recollects the People who mattered most, Experiences he lived through, Accomplishments he achieved, Challenges he endured, and finally, the Hopes that keep him forward-looking.

Tommy encourages his audience to engage in this empowering process of remembering 2023 in a way that fosters gratitude, self-awareness, and hope for 2024. He ends the episode by expressing his excitement for upcoming episodes in the new year.

00:02 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode

00:29 The Origin of the Year-End Reflection

02:01 The Importance of Remembering

02:48 Introducing the PEACH Acronym

03:11 Remembering People

04:00 Remembering Experiences

04:53 Remembering Accomplishments

05:34 Remembering Challenges

06:08 Remembering Hopes

06:56 Conclusion and New Year Wishes

Join us as we discuss:

Join as we discuss:

- The power in living with intention & making purposeful decisions

- The balance of living with both clear direction & spontaneity

- Dreaming and how it effects setting goals & living in purpose

- The tool "Life 360" encouraging reflection & growth

Wes is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute with a Bachelor of Education, Taylor University with an MBA in Global Leadership, and recently Columbia International University with a Ph.D in Organizational Leadership.

The importance of faith in the midst of grief & suffering

- The value of real-world experience in ministry

- Being open handed in leadership with church and nonprofits

- Slowing down and reflecting during Christmas time

As a speaker, Nicole brings both wit and wisdom, with an honest & vulnerable approach that appeals to both faith & leadership environments alike. As a coach, Nicole brings clarity & courage for individuals and teams as they pursue growth.

Her latest book, “The Miracle Moment: How Tough Conversations Can Actually Transform Your Most Important Relationships” invites readers into the practical steps that create moments of breakthrough within relationships. Her books come to life through her popular video curriculum series found on RightNow Media. 

Invitations to speak have taken Nicole around the world, but she loves her home in Richmond, VA, which she shares with her husband and three kids. Nicole holds degrees from the College of William and Mary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and serves on the board of CHAT, a local nonprofit focused on restorative work with young people in poverty.

Join Tommy in this delightful conversation with Nicole Unice.

Books

Website: www.nicoleunice.com

Instagram: nicoleunice

Host: Tommy Thompson

Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, & Twitter

Guest: Stacy Hawkins Adams

Website, Instagram, & Blog

Join as we discuss:

- Stacy's journey into writing

- Maintaining balance and rest in your career

- The power writing has in bringing people & ideas together

- How faith helped Stacey overcome challenges

- Risks are made when living in purpose

- Living for connection & intentionality

Host: Tommy Thompson

Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, & Twitter

Join us as we discuss:

- The step by step journey of overcoming addiction

- Loving people through their relapses and the process of overcoming addiction

- Insights into the family recovery procress

- Health & financial effects of drug addiction

- Identity changes in the recovery process

- The value of mentorship during recovery

- Setting boundaries, hard conversations, & tough love

- Life after recovery: living a sober & with community

Host: Tommy Thompson

⁠Website⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠LinkedIn⁠, & ⁠Twitter⁠

Co-Host: Patricia Clark

⁠Website⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠& ⁠Podcast, "Lifted by Love”

Host: Tommy Thompson

⁠Website⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠LinkedIn⁠, & ⁠Twitter⁠

Guest: Gem Fadling

⁠Website⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Unhurried Living⁠ & ⁠Podcast, "I Can Do That!"⁠

Host: Tommy Thompson

Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, & Twitter

Co-Host: Patricia Clarke

Website, Instagram, & Podcast “Lifted by Love”

We not only naturally desire intimacy, but are created for intimate relationships.

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The art of communication is having communication with another person that is full of both grace and truth. - Tommy Thompson

In this episode, you will be able to:

The key moments in this episode are:00:00:04 - Introduction, 00:02:08 - Importance of Relationships, 00:06:26 - Tools for Improving Relationships, 00:09:30 - Grace and Truth in Communication, 00:14:38 - Finding the Balance, 00:18:55 - Increasing Grace in Leadership, 00:22:38 - Truth-Telling with Grace, 00:26:02 - The Power of Truth in Love, 00:28:19 - The Self-Indulgence of Truth without Grace, 00:31:10 - Increasing Truth with Grace, 00:36:13 - Understanding Boundaries, 00:36:44 - Speaking with Intensity, 00:38:34 - Balancing Grace and Truth, 00:39:57 - Speaking the Truth, 00:40:53 - Conclusion and Reflection, 

Meet Steve Perkins, a friend with a passion for living a life of purpose without sacrificing his family and faith. Growing up in Michigan with a love for sports and music, Steve wrestled with questions like, What do I want to be when I grow up?, driving him to begin a journey of introspection and growth. Despite stepping into the world of engineering, his focus never strayed from his desire to help others find their purpose - a mission that ultimately led him to entrepreneurial success. His conviction to maintaining balance in life, relationships, and faith reflect his belief that a purposeful life should never be at the expense of our personal wellbeing.

Balance is about knowing our own capacity and setting right-sized expectations for ourselves. It's not about comparing ourselves to others. - Steve Perkins

In this episode, you will be able to:

Timestamped summary of this episode:

00:00:05 - Introduction, 00:03:21 - Finding Purpose, 00:09:56 - Meeting Tommy Thompson, 00:13:17 - Balancing Life and Entrepreneurship, 00:16:34 - Believing in Possibility, 00:19:06 - Comparing and Judging Ourselves, 00:22:26 - Self-Awareness and Right-Sized Expectations, 00:24:37 - The Power of Systems, 00:29:24 - Shaping Your Life, 00:33:17 - Experimenting with Systems for Success, 00:34:06 - Vision Guides Decisions, 00:35:28 - Balancing Faith and Personal Goals, 00:39:12 - The Power of Vision and Choice, 00:42:41 - Implementing Rhythms and Systems, 00:49:10 - Ditching the Posture of Obligation, 00:50:57 - The Power of Weekly Planning, 00:54:01 - Plan Once, Let It Run, 00:57:14 - Prioritizing Relationships, 01:00:13 - Taking the Holistic Approach, www.Greenhouse.co

Success is not measured by immediate results, but by our faithfulness to the habits and practices that align with our values. It's about focusing on the journey, not just the destination. - Tommy Thompson

In this episode, you will be able to:

Timestamped summary of this episode:00:00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Stage, 00:02:02 - Understanding Compounding Rhythms, 

00:06:28 - The Power of Compounding Rhythms, 00:09:15 - Overcoming Hurdles and Starting Small, 00:15:34 - Areas for Compounding Rhythms, 00:16:51 - Becoming Good Soil, 00:18:21 - Overcoming Overload and Busyness, 00:20:11 - Grace and Asking for Help, 00:22:58 - The Power of Grace and Accountability, 00:26:53 - Honesty and Change, 00:30:23 - The Compounding Effect of Small Actions, 00:35:29 - Casting Off Labels and Changing Mentality, 00:37:46 - The Power of Identity in Habit Change, 00:38:56 - Visualizing Change and Taking Action, 00:43:26 - Putting the Concept into Practice, 00:47:52 - The Challenge and Call to Action, 

My special guest is Justin Earley

Justin Earley is an accomplished author and business law expert with an interesting affinity for integrating daily work, tech, and business habits into the Christian life. Justin's journey from missionary to lawyer was influenced by his desire to understand and shape the world through law and economics. His passion for writing has enabled him to deeply explore these themes, resulting in three captivating books including his latest, Made for People. With a unique perspective built on his experiences and an underlying mission to form deeper human connections, Justin’s insights into friendship are truly transformative.

I wouldn't be walking with Jesus the way that I am were it not for the friends that have walked alongside me. What does that mean? Why is that true? And how can I sing God's praises and my friends' praises? - Justin Earley

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Develop an understanding of how intentional habits contribute to a life filled with quality and purpose.
• 
  
• Unravel how integrating faith with work can bring a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
• 
  
• Find solutions to the common struggle of incorporating spiritual disciplines in the midst of a busy lifestyle.
• 
  
• Gain insight into the theological dynamics of friendship and its effect on mental health.
• 
  
• Gain practical guidance on how to establish and maintain powerful, value-driven friendships.
• 
  
• 
  

Timestamped summary of this episode:

00:00:02 - Introduction, 

Tommy introduces Justin Early as his special guest and highlights their previous connection through their books and shared interest in habits and practices for living a better life.

00:01:16 - Reconnecting with Justin, 

00:03:10 - Justin's Background, 

00:07:26 - Work and Calling, 

00:09:32 - The Common Rule, 

00:15:39 - The Urgency of Friendship in Daily Life, 

00:19:28 - The Gaping Hole of Friendlessness, 

00:22:22 - Recognizing Loneliness as a Spiritual Need, 

00:25:37 - Loneliness as Hell on Earth, 

00:29:49 - The Challenges of Time and Vulnerability, 

00:32:25 - The Importance of Deep Friendships, 

00:33:56 - Growing into Vulnerability, 

00:36:12 - Scheduling Time for Friendship, 

00:38:26 - The Power of Honesty and Vulnerability, 

Justin shares the transformative power of honesty and vulnerability in friendships.

00:42:29 - Encouragement for the Lonely, 

Justin offers theological encouragement to those feeling lonely and lacking meaningful friendships. He assures them that God will meet them in their loneliness and will not leave them there. 

Links and Resources

• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher
• 
  
• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson
• 
  
• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson
• 
  
• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson
• 
  
• www.tommythompson.org
• 
  
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583
• 
  
• 
  

In this episode we learn:

In this episode, you will be able to:

·       Unearth how reflection can enhance your understanding of both golf and life. 

·       Embark on novel ways to carve out space for holistic well-being and personal growth. 

·       Discover the transformative power of humility in refining your golf and life experience.

·       Appreciate the profound impact of interpersonal connections in your golf sporting journey. 

·       Understand the essence of an incessant pursuit of growth in the professional sport of golf. 

Golf teaches humility. Even the best players in the world have had to eat humble pie at different times because their game just wasn't there. - Robert Wrenn

Timestamped summary of this episode:00:00:09 - Introduction, 00:01:16 - Robert's Background and Early Experiences with golf, 00:05:18 - Career Highlights, 00:10:17 - Golf as a Connector, 00:13:45 - Perspective and Coaching, 00:17:32 - The Humility in Life and Golf, 00:19:47 - Reflection and Growth in Golf, 00:22:31 - The Value of Reflection, 00:26:13 - Creating Margin in Life, 00:32:09 - Embracing New Opportunities, 00:36:32 - The Importance of Growth Mentality and Reflection, 00:37:25 - Parallels between Addiction and Being a Professional Athlete, 00:41:01 - Perseverance and Faith in Challenging Times, 00:45:37 - Embracing Ups and Downs in Life, 00:52:30 - Creating Space for Reflection, 00:55:47 - Reflection and Clearing Our Heads, 00:56:18 - Reflecting Supersedes Situations and Seasons of Life, 00:57:19 - New Ground to Discover with Perspective, 00:57:56 - Creating Space in Life for Joy and Peace, 01:01:13 - Liberating Power of Sharing Personal Story, 

Resources:

illumefamilyrecovery.org

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tucker-wrenn-4842197a

·       https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher

·       https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson

·       https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583

·       www.tommythompson.org 

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

Rushing and enjoyment cannot coexist. Being present, being prepared, that's so critical. - Tommy Thompson 

In this episode, you will be able to:

·       Understand how infusing radical punctuality in your lifestyle can enhance relationships and amplify health and happiness. 

·       Recognize the transformative potential of being fully present in each of life's moments. 

·       Relate punctuality with the potential to ignite meaningful bonds and curate enriching experiences. 

The key moments in this episode are:00:00:05 - Introduction, 00:01:04 - The Importance of Punctuality, 00:06:44 - Rushing and Productivity, 00:07:18 - Trusting Time, 00:12:51 - Importance of Being Prepared, 00:17:14 - The Connection Between Choices and Disrespect, 00:18:55 - Radical Punctuality as a Statement of Respect, 00:21:03 - Rebelling Against Time and Control, 00:22:38 - Radical Punctuality and Greater Presence, 00:25:09 - Building in Time for After-Meeting Processing, Connect with me here:

·       https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher

·       https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson

·       https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583

·       www.tommythompson.org 

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

In this episode, you will be able to:

·       Gain insights into the substantial benefits of prioritizing crucial relationships in our lives. 

·       Understand the influence supportive cheerleaders and effective coaches have in our individual progression and success. 

·       Master the skill of actively seeking, establishing, and fostering precious relationships for overall growth and prosperity.

What you believe about your spouse is who they will become. - Patricia Clark 

The key moments in this episode are:00:00:10 - Introduction, 00:06:46 - Cheerleader, 00:14:33 - Coach, 00:20:19 - Faithful Friend, 00:24:24 - Companion, 00:17:16 - The Role of a Faithful Friend, 00:19:32 - The Role of a Companion, 00:21:41 - The Role of Inspiration, 00:26:38 - What If We Can't Find These Roles?, 00:30:13 - Cultivating Relationships, 

·       https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher

·       https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson

·       https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583

·       www.tommythompson.org 

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

Life is all about practice. Every choice we make, every action we take, is shaping who we are becoming. Be intentional about what you practice. - Tommy Thompson

In this episode, you will be able to:

Timestamped summary of this episode:00:00:03 - Introduction and Greatest Hits Month Tommy introduces the episode as part of the Greatest Hits Month, featuring the most listened to episodes from season one. He explains that these episodes are foundational to living a creative and purposeful life.00:01:36 - Reframing Major Life Events as Practice 00:05:50 - All of Life as Practice 00:09:25 - Shifting Perspectives on Practice 00:14:22 - Intentional Practice and Creating Tracks 00:18:03 - Creating New Practices, 00:19:15 - Practicing with Actions, 00:21:20 - Areas to Practice, 00:24:02 - Setting Goals and Making Practice Tangible, 00:28:57 - Practice for Heaven, 

My special guest is Shane Schlesman

Meet our guest, Shane Schlesman, a fiercely dedicated leader, committed husband, and loving father. Holding pivotal roles in business and ministry over the past 20 years, Shane currently serves as the lead pastor at West End Assembly of God in Richmond, Virginia. His passion for creating an inclusive, diverse, and intergenerational religious community is truly admirable. Shane, who is known for his resilience and dedication to his role, has both a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degree. His personal stories and life experiences add depth and dimension to his understanding of faith, life balance, and work ethics.

Stress is a silent killer. We don't realize the impact it has on our lives. Take a hard look in the mirror and make changes in how you manage stress. - Shane Schlesman

In this episode, you will be able to:

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:09 - Introduction, 00:02:40 - Shane's Background, 00:09:51 - Challenges of Being a Pastor, 00:14:54 - The Story Behind Stress Test, 00:16:07 - Shane's Heart Attack, 00:19:08 - A Shocking Diagnosis, 00:20:38 - The Hidden Impact of Stress, 00:23:23 - Lessons from Stress, 00:28:00 - Learning to Rest, 00:34:38 - Working from Rest, 00:39:22 - Jesus as our Shepherd, 00:43:29 - Invitation to Rest, 00:46:52 - Learning to Be Done, 00:48:52 - Counter-cultural Message, 00:50:59 - Stress Test Podcast, 

In this episode, you will be able to:

Process versus outcome thinking is a paradigm shift that can reframe everything in our lives, from problem-solving to personal growth. - Tommy Thompson

The key moments in this episode are:00:00:05 - Reconnecting and Recapping, 00:02:40 - Writing Workshop and Impostor Syndrome, 00:07:04 - Identifying Your Position in the Journey, 00:10:16 - Clear Desired Outcomes and Processes, 00:13:28 - Authenticity and Internal Reflection, 00:16:53 - Finding Your Motivation, 00:18:20 - Shifting Your Goal, 00:21:58 - Moving Beyond SMART Goals, 00:25:21 - Embracing Process-Oriented Thinking, 00:31:58 - Breaking Down Overwhelming Tasks, 00:34:59 - Finding a Sustainable Pace, 00:36:14 - Starting Small with Tiny Habits, 00:38:57 - Finding Your Parallels, 00:40:16 - The Role of Accountability, 00:44:43 - The Power of Community and Body Doubling, 00:50:22 - The Importance of Systems and Habits, 00:52:31 - Adapting the Process, 00:55:48 - Expanding Goals, 00:58:31 - Power of Compounding, 01:00:15 - Find Your Plan, Pace, Problems, and People, 

In this episode, you will be able to:

In this captivating episode of the Space for Life podcast, Cary Umhau shares her inspiring journey of saying yes to new experiences and being open to unexpected opportunities. From founding Breadcoin to her involvement with Spacious, Cary's story will leave you craving more of her incredible adventures. Tune in now to discover the power of saying yes and embrace a joy-filled, purposeful journey with Cary Umhau.

I started feeling the most comfortable in places that our culture tells us we should fear. - Cary Umhau

In this episode, you will be able to:

·       Embrace the transformative potential of saying 'yes' and fostering an open-minded perspective. 

·       Discover the joys of including diversity and inclusivity in shaping impactful relationships.

·       Uncover the surprising role of playfulness and entertaining activities in forming robust social bonds. 

·       Learn about Breadcoin, an innovative nonprofit offering dignity, and access to food for those who might otherwise go hungry. 

·       Explore the significance of flexibility and faith in the divine plan to uncover your true calling. 

Timestamped summary of this episode:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Getting to Know Cary

00:03:36 - Exploring a Spacious Life

00:07:32 - Hearing and Acting on God's Guidance

00:10:46 - Finding Belonging in Unexpected Places

00:15:55 - Unlikely Friendship and the Birth of a Venture

 00:18:33 - Spacious Ventures and Creating Community

00:20:59 - Embracing Playfulness and Spaciousness

00:23:19 - Breadcoin: Innovative Solution to Hunger

00:28:00 - Breadcoin's Impact and Micro Loans

00:31:46 - Feeding Kids in Lower-Income Communities

00:32:49 - Fulfilling the Command to Feed the Hungry

00:33:50 - Bringing People Together Through Breadcoin

00:34:52 - Removing Stigma and Democratizing Food Assistance

00:47:27 - The Importance of Nuance in Discerning Purpose

00:48:07 - Letting God Lead

00:49:00 - Embracing Unexpected Opportunities

00:50:00 - Finding Spaciousness in Life

00:54:36 - Connecting with Cary Umhau

Resources:

·       Visit the website of Breadcoin, the nonprofit organization co-founded by Cary Umhau, to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved in their community-funded food token program - www.breadcoin.org 

·       Check out Spacious, Cary Umhau's organization, and consultancy that celebrates neighborly love and connects communities across borders. Explore their website to discover the open-hearted and expansive things they are doing and find ways to get involved. www.spaciousconsulting.org 

·       Read Cary Umhau's book, Burning Down the Fireproof Hotel, a spiritual memoir manifesto that explores her journey towards a more spacious life. Find it on major online book retailers or consider supporting local bookstores. https://a.co/d/1VjQE1x 

Links:

·       Instagram - @breadcoindc and @spaciouscommunity 

·       Order Space to Breathe Again - https://a.co/d/9o24w8q 

·       https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583

·       https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

·       https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

·       https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher

·       www.tommythompson.org 

"Intentionality becomes so much more important in the later seasons of life." - Tommy Thompson

Resources:

The Life God Blesses - Gordon MacDonald

My Finishing Well List

In this episode, you will be able to:

“We all find ourselves with stuck places in our lives...Today's episode is going to speak directly to those stuck places we're in, and what do we do to help extricate ourselves out of those stuck places and move again forward in our lives.” - Tommy Thompson

In this episode we talk about:

• Kristin's story
• Caring well for individuals battling cancer or other ongoing conditions
• The immense impact of community
• Survivor guilt
• Scanxiety
• Finding purpose and passion
• Cancer Retreat Centers
• 
  

Timestamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:03:46) Early Life and Caregiving

(00:09:49) Facing Greatest Fears

(00:13:11) Learning from Mother's Modeling

(00:15:41) Parent's Legacy and Foundation

(00:17:32) The Isolation of Cancer Patients

(00:22:33) The Meaning of Life

(00:26:48) Cancer U-turns

(00:30:42) Survivor Guilt

(00:34:57) Darker Moments and Finding Hope

(00:37:57) Surviving vs Thriving

(00:42:40) Cancer Retreat Centers

(00:48:04) Cancer Retreat Centers Becomes Reality

(00:52:55) Divine Tailwind and Finding Purpose

(00:58:05) Caring for Those with Cancer

(01:04:53) Grace and Self-Compassion

(01:06:27) Finding Purpose in the Midst of Hardship

(01:08:56) Connecting with Cancer Retreat Centers

(01:10:49) Closing Remarks

Connect:

Cancer Retreat Centers: https://www.cancerretreatcenters.org

Email Kristin: kharris@cancerretreatcenters.org

Kristin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivelypink2012/?hl=en

Give to Support Cancer Retreat Centers: https://cancerretreatcenters-bloom.kindful.com/embeds/bfa61536-62b6-4283-a632-907505891c48

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

"The abundance mindset is counterintuitive when it comes to money, but it's the place that Jesus addressed very clearly."

In this episode we talk about:

Timestamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:02:28) What Money Can Get You

(00:04:24) Unhealthy Relationships with Money

(00:09:05) Money and Relationships

(00:13:48) Worrying About Money

(00:18:20) Jesus and Money

(00:23:35) Deceitfulness of Wealth

(00:27:14) Joyful Giving

(00:30:07) Trusting God with Money

(00:35:20) Practicing Giving

(00:37:17) Changing Our Relationship with Money

(00:39:22) Reframing Our View of Spouses and Money

(00:42:44) Entering Conversations About Trust

(00:43:40) Money Represents Reality

(00:44:49) Final thoughts

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

Living into who God made us to be, to the gifts he created us to have, is so critical to having a happy, joyous, fulfilled life. - Tommy Thompson

In this episode we talk about:

Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:26) The Scarcity Mentality (00:09:08) Our Talents (00:15:57) Giving and Receiving our Talents (00:17:54) Over Harvesting Talents (00:18:54) The Importance of Balancing Talents (00:21:31) Learning and Growing Talent (00:25:51) God and Teamwork (00:28:01) Overcoming Weaknesses (00:29:24) Exponential Growth

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

"Opening our heart is the choice to risk and perhaps experience that our hearts are broken. Are we going to open and expose and take the risks, or are we going to go into survival mode and shut down and put on the tourniquet to our heart?" - Tommy Thompson

In this episode we talk about:

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction(0:42) Giving and Receiving Heart

(9:27)Balancing Joy and Suffering

(12:53) Balancing Giving and Receiving(17:17) Practicing Vulnerability(20:05) Finding the Rhythm of Giving and Receiving in Relationships(22:18) Developing Skills for Open and Rich Relationships(25:07) Creating a Future Life Vision(26:11) Reflection and Learning from Failed Friendships

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

"Believing that time is abundant is a step of faith, but it's a path to joy." - Tommy Thompson

In this episode we talk about:

Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:46) Living in Abundance (00:08:19) Practicing an Abundance Mindset (00:12:46) Finding Punctuation (00:18:39) Importance of Punctuating Time (00:20:29) Spacing Time (00:22:44) Learning to Receive Time (00:26:44) Linger and Look (00:30:08) All of Life is Practice

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

When we participate in acts of love, we step into the realm of abundance. And when you give away out of love, you receive in the giving. - Tommy Thompson

In this episode we talk about:

Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:47) Scarcity and Abundance Mindsets

(00:09:00) Receiving and Giving

(00:11:51) Giving of the Heart

(00:17:05) Final Thoughts

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

Topics Discussed:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:02:18) Four Categories of Pursuing Happiness

(00:09:01) Pursuing a Pathway to Happiness

(00:13:47) Receiving and Giving

(00:16:58) Balancing Receiving and Giving

(00:18:31) Finding Happiness Through Giving and Receiving

(00:21:22) Assessing Yourself Without Judgment

(00:22:38) Reframing Happiness

If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend!

You can get a copy of Space to Breathe here.

Timestamps:

(0:00) Intro

(1:15) Hungry for Home

(2:24) Ruth’s Story

(16:23) How ‘Not Writing a Book’ Turned into Writing a Book

(28:58) Distinguishing Between Bigger Than Yourself and ‘Crazy’

(36:44) Supporting Your Partner in a Marriage 

(45:29) Practices to Stay Centered

(0:00) Intro

(1:04) Principles of Life

(7:41) Principle of Naming

(15:46) Principle of Firsts

(22:03) Principle of Environment

(30:16) Principle of Finishing Well

(34:59) Principle of Space

(43:36) Principle of Small Changes

(49:20) Principle of Divine Multiplication

(56:38) Principle of Proximity

(1:01:31) Principle of Recency

(1:05:59) Outro

Os shares about his early childhood in China during World War II, signals of transcendence, coming to faith, and practical ways to stay centered on our call.

Timestamps:

(0:00) Intro

(3:26) Os’ Story

(10:36) The Call and the Great Quest

(14:14) Signals of Transcendence

(24:51) Coming to Faith

(28:57) Why It’s Hard to Examine Life

(32:50) Habits + Practices to Stay Centered

Chapters:

(0:00) Intro

(1:11) Assessing Distraction

(4:33) The Foundation of Distraction

(10:11) The Law of Proximity 

(14:15) Practical Tips and Applications

(18:12) Undistracted Times + Places

(21:24) Practicing Focus + Experiencing the Joy

(24:00) Distraction Experiment 

(25:47) Putting Distraction in It’s Proper Place

(27:52) Final Thoughts

Chapters

(0:00) Intro

(0:48) Why Space is Important

(4:01) 5 Categories We Need Space For

(7:38) We Can’t Be Our Best in Busyness

(9:50) Competing Values Behind Busyness

(15:13) How Do We Begin Creating Space

(19:22) How to Taste What Space is Like

(30:44) Space for Growth + Takeaways

David’s previous episode on Space for Life (Part 1 | Part 2)

(0:00) Intro

(4:49) Letters and Terminology

(10:52) The Cross

(18:26) Why Crucifixion 

(28:36) Our Souls Are Hungry

(33:36) A New Way of Entering Easter Week

(41:57) The Core Threads of Easter

Chapters:

(0:00) Intro (0:57) What is a Year of Jubilee (8:42) The Power of Creating Space (15:10) The Freedom of Being Small (23:31) How to Find ‘Jubilee’ in the Normal Rhythms of Life (31:24) Lessons and Takeaways from the Year (36:45) Coming up on Space for Life

Even in the darkest seasons of our life, when survival seems to be all we can hope for, God helps us with unexpected moments when light shines through.

Who do you want to become?

The 4 Ingredients for a Beautiful Life: