Are you ready to be inspired by a story that will touch your heart and uplift your spirit? In our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, we had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Kimberly Morrow, an extraordinary woman whose journey of faith, resilience, and creativity is nothing short of remarkable.
Kimberly, also known as Chosen Arts, is not just an independent artist, but a motivational speaker, inspirational rap artist, and pastor. Her passion for helping others break free from their chains and rise above their challenges is palpable in every word she shares. But what truly makes Kimberly’s story compelling is her authenticity and the raw truth she brings to the table. She speaks candidly about her life’s ups and downs, the rollercoaster of her faith journey, and how the scriptures became a lifeline that brought her peace and strength during the darkest times.
In this episode, Kimberly opens up about her childhood, sharing touching memories of her grandmother who first introduced her to church, a place that became her sanctuary. She also delves into the complexities of managing multiple roles—mother, wife, artist, and pastor—and the importance of prioritizing self-care to maintain balance and avoid burnout.
One of the most moving parts of the conversation is when Kimberly discusses her journey through mental health struggles and how her faith and music played a crucial role in her healing. Through her platform, she advocates for mental health awareness, encouraging others to seek help and speak out about their struggles. Her story is a powerful reminder that you are not alone, and that with faith and perseverance, you can overcome any obstacle.
But Kimberly’s influence doesn’t stop at music and ministry. Her creativity also shines through her visual art, which she uses to give back to her community. With the proceeds from her paintings, she supports those in need, embodying the true spirit of service and love.
If you’re looking for a story that will inspire you to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges, then this episode is a must-listen. Kimberly’s words are a testament to the power of faith and the incredible strength that comes from trusting in God’s plan.
Don’t miss out on this uplifting and empowering conversation. There’s a little surprise within the episode. Don’t miss it! Tune in to Thrive by the Rising Musenow and let Kimberly Morrow’s story inspire you to discover the beauty within yourself and the strength to face any storm.
Are you ready to be inspired by a journey of faith, resilience, and personal transformation?
In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with the incredible Tanya Nemley, a mother, grandmother, and author, whose life story is a testament to the power of faith. Tanya opens up about her struggles with depression and suicidal ideation during her youth, her remarkable recovery, and how she found solace and strength in her deep relationship with God.
What You’ll Discover:
How Tanya’s faith helped her overcome immense personal challenges, including the loss of a family member to suicide.
Her unique perspective on how the church and society have evolved over the years, especially regarding mental health, family dynamics, and community support.
Insights into her experiences with aging and the wisdom she has gained along the way.
What motivated her to author the impactful books Obsessed With God and A Layman’s View on the Holiness of God, and how her role as a minister’s wife has shaped her ministry work.
Tanya’s journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the path may seem, there is always hope. Her story of resilience and her deep commitment to faith will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity. But that’s just the beginning—Tanya also shares her thoughts on the cultural shifts she’s witnessed over the decades and the ongoing work in her ministry.
Why You Should Tune In: This episode isn’t just a story—it’s a celebration of seniors and the incredible lives they’ve led. Tanya’s reflections on how societal and religious landscapes have changed over the years offer a unique window into the past, as well as insights into how we can all grow from these experiences. Whether you’re looking for encouragement, spiritual guidance, or simply a story that speaks to the heart, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.
Get a Glimpse of the Episode: One of the most poignant moments in our conversation with Tanya is when she discusses the profound changes she’s seen in the church and society over the years, particularly in how we handle mental health and community connections. Her reflections are both eye-opening and inspiring, providing valuable lessons for listeners of all ages.
Ready to Be Inspired? Don’t miss this heartfelt and uplifting episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse. Listen now to hear Tanya Nemley’s full story and discover the wisdom she has to offer. Whether you’re dealing with your own struggles or simply want to celebrate the strength and faith of others, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and hopeful. To hear more from Tanya you can go to her website
Join the Conversation! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. How has your own faith journey been influenced by the changes in society and the church? Share your reflections with us on social media using the hashtag #ThriveWithFaith.
Subscribe & Stay Connected If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse for more inspiring stories of faith, resilience, and triumph. Follow us on social mediato stay updated on our latest episodes and news.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the shadows of postpartum depression? You’re not alone. Join us on a transformative journey with Amber Hoopengarner, a life coach and mental health advocate, who has faced the darkness of postpartum depression head-on and emerged stronger. Amber’s story is not just about surviving but thriving.
In our latest episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse,” we dive deep into Amber’s experiences and insights. With four children and a series of mental health challenges, Amber knows firsthand the trials many mothers face. Her upcoming venture, Prayers, Progress, and Deliverance LLC, aims to be a beacon of hope, providing faith-based mental health support for those in need.
Amber’s book, “Three Parts of Healing All Parts Whole,” serves as a guide for those navigating the turbulent waters of postpartum depression. In this episode, she shares powerful strategies from her book, practical advice, and her own journey from pain to empowerment.
Why should you tune in? This episode isn’t just about understanding postpartum depression; it’s about finding strength, hope, and a path to healing. Whether you’re a mother, a family member, or someone supporting a loved one, Amber’s story will resonate deeply and provide the encouragement needed to move forward.
Don’t miss out on this heartfelt conversation filled with hope, resilience, and actionable steps to overcome postpartum depression. Listen now and join us in the mission to support mental health and well-being within our community.
About Amber Hoopengarner
Amber Hoopengarner is a passionate advocate for women and children who struggle with mental illness, shame, and loneliness. She dedicates her life to encouraging and praying for those in need, with a profound desire for everyone to understand the value and identity God has bestowed upon them. Amber shares her inspiring testimony of supernatural healing and true freedom through God’s grace.
As an accomplished author, prophetic intercessor, life coach, and speaker, Amber’s mission is to uplift and empower others through her words and actions. Her recent book, “Three Parts of Healing All Parts Whole,” reflects her commitment to providing faith-based support and guidance to those facing postpartum depression and other mental health challenges.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Amber treasures her role as the mother of four beautiful children, finding joy and purpose in nurturing and guiding them. Her new venture, Prayers, Progress, and Deliverance LLC, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to creating a supportive community for mental health through faith.
Amber’s journey from pain to empowerment serves as a beacon of hope for many, and her work continues to inspire and transform lives.
Ready to embark on this journey from pain to power? Catch the full episode on here, and be sure to subscribe to “Thrive by The Rising Muse” for more inspiring stories and insights.
Call to Action: If you are in crisis, don’t forget that you can call 988. If your child is in crisis, remember that you can dial 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room. We want everyone to be safe.
Follow us on social media for updates, resources, and more empowering content. Let’s thrive together!
Dive into Amber’s world, hear her story, and learn how you too can turn pain into power. This episode is not just an interview; it’s a lifeline. Tune in now!
(Context: Matthew 13:1-23. Parallels: Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8:4-15.) Story time was over. The keel of the fishing boat ground into the gravel along the shore, and the men stopped rowing. Jesus climbed over the side and paddled to the beach. As He and the disciples gathered their gear and prepared to go back to the house to rest, one of the disciples raised the question they had all been too shy to ask until the crowd dispersed. “Why do you speak to them in parables?”
I think we get stuck in the Parable of the Soils. 1 What I mean is that we spend so much time trying to decipher the analogies and apply them to our lives that we miss the core of what Jesus said. This is one of Jesus’ most important teachings because it answers the disciples’ question, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” Jesus’ answer is the key to hearing the voice of God and therefore the key to spiritual growth. So, why did Jesus use parables? At first, His explanation seems cryptic: Jesus answered them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted. . . . Therefore I speak to them in parables; because while seeing they do not see, and while hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. . . . But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. (Matthew 13:11, 13, 16) Every crowd listening to Jesus’ teaching contains two types of people; those who have functioning spiritual ears and eyes, and those who do not. Ears receptive to sound waves and eyes able to resolve light patterns are not enough. Spiritual sight and hearing happen when the heart understands, the mind perceives, and lives return to a healthy relationship with God (Matt. 13:14-15). The disciples were spiritually receptive; they could grasp the mysteries of the kingdom of God and change to live the kingdom lifestyle. Jesus used parables to see which people were in which group. The Parable of the Soils illustrates this essential lesson. Every parable and truth about the King and His kingdom acts in the same way. Like a seed, it tests the soil of the heart. Many people hear God speaking directly to them, or through His followers, but only superficially. The truth is quickly snatched away from hard hearts. Difficult times, when temptation or opposition comes, shrivel it. Distractions steal all time and energy, hindering application. Only hearts that are like soft, deep, clean soil will apply the truth in such a way that life changes. Each time that Jesus concludes with the phrase, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear,” He means the ears of the will. So, next time God drops a seed of truth into your life, will your will nurture it to fruition?
John Avery
Author of The Sparks Series. Collections of short meaty devotional/Bible Studies.
Becoming Like Jesus: How to Think and Live Like Jesus Christ (February, 2024).
The Questions of Jesus: Questions Asked by Jesus, Questions People Asked Him (October, 2022).
The Kingdom of God: Our Life with Jesus the King (March, 2023).
And
The Name Quest: Explore the Names of God to Grow in Faith and Get To Know Him Better (Morgan James Publishing, 2015).
Are you ready to uncover your God-given design and ignite a fire within your faith journey? The latest episode of our podcast is a deep dive into the inspiring story of Brush Fires Ministry, featuring an exclusive interview with the founder, John Rennie. Whether you’re a believer seeking direction or someone intrigued by the power of faith-based guidance, this episode is a must-listen.
The Birth of Brush Fires Ministry
In a captivating interview, John Rennie shares the fascinating journey of how Brush Fires Ministry came to be. Starting as a reluctant participant, John reveals how a divine calling led him to create a ministry that helps believers discover their unique, God-given designs. This story is not just about a ministry’s inception but a testament to the transformative power of faith and obedience.
Unlocking the Mystery of Your Purpose
Brush Fires Ministry uses psychometric assessments to delve into the core of an individual’s personality, much like DNA analysis for your spiritual calling. John explains how these assessments, originally used by corporations like Coca-Cola and IBM, are now helping believers understand their true purpose. Imagine having a clear, objective understanding of your spiritual gifts and how they can be applied to build the kingdom of God.
Beyond Identifying Gifts: Kingdom Building
The mission of Brush Fires goes beyond merely identifying spiritual gifts. John passionately discusses the broader goal of kingdom building, emphasizing that true ministry extends far beyond church walls. It’s about igniting the fire within individuals to live out their God-ordained purposes, thereby transforming communities and making a global impact.
Real Stories, Real Impact
The episode is filled with powerful anecdotes that showcase the life-changing impact of Brush Fires Ministry. From a 15-year-old girl discovering her calling to an elderly gentleman finding new purpose, these stories illustrate the ministry’s profound influence on individuals of all ages. These testimonials are a glimpse into the transformative experiences that await those who engage with Brush Fires.
A Vision for the Future
John shares his vision for the future of Brush Fires Ministry, expressing a desire to see 80% of church congregations actively living out their divine purposes. This vision includes creating ministry incubators within churches and providing the necessary support for believers to thrive in their spiritual journeys. It’s an inspiring call to action for church leaders and believers alike.
How You Can Get Involved
Feeling inspired? John provides actionable steps for those who want to support or get involved with Brush Fires Ministry. From taking the initial spiritual gifts assessment to potentially partnering with the ministry, there are numerous ways to contribute to this incredible mission.
Tune in to this enlightening episode to learn more about how Brush Fires Ministry is changing lives and how you can be a part of this divine movement. Whether you’re seeking clarity on your spiritual gifts or looking to support a ministry dedicated to empowering believers, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Don’t miss out on this transformative conversation. Listen to the full episode now and discover how you can ignite your own faith journey with Brush Fires Ministry.
In our latest episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse,” we are honored to have Tanisha Bankston, the remarkable author and founder of the ministry “My Pain is My Power,” share her deeply personal and transformative journey. This episode delves into the profound impact of childhood trauma and the incredible power of faith and resilience in overcoming life’s most challenging moments.
A Glimpse into Tanisha’s Journey
From an early age, Tanisha faced unimaginable pain and adversity. Her story begins at just five years old when she endured abuse and was subsequently disbelieved by those she trusted. This traumatic experience silenced her inner voice and set her on a path of fear, shame, and self-doubt that spanned nearly three decades.
In “My Pain is My Power,” Tanisha courageously recounts her journey of finding her voice again and reclaiming her life through faith. She speaks candidly about the struggles she faced, the healing power of prayer, and how she transformed her pain into a source of strength to empower others.
Tanisha also shares valuable information about her ministry, “My Pain is My Power,” and its mission to support women and children who have experienced similar traumas. She discusses the various initiatives and programs her ministry offers and how the community can better support individuals on their healing journeys.
Why You Should Listen
This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith. Tanisha’s story is not just one of survival but of thriving against all odds. Her journey from pain to power is an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity and seeks hope and healing.
Tune In and Be Inspired
Don’t miss this compelling episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse.” Tanisha’s story will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to embrace the power within yourself to overcome any obstacle.
Tanisha Bankston is a mother of 3 children from Grenada, Mississippi. She is a survivor of childhood abuse and domestic violence, and now an author and speaker. Tanisha was abused at the age of 5, leading her to lose her inner voice and withdraw into a shell for 27 years. She was taken from her mother, separated from her siblings, and adopted by her aunt. Despite feeling protected, she faced further challenges within the broken judicial system. Tanisha became a teen mom at 14 and again at 17. She rediscovered her inner voice on July 3, 2020, and found healing and deliverance from her pain and past on September 4, 2020. Tanisha wrote and self-published her book “My Pain is My Power” on May 21, 2021. She created a private support group for survivors called “I Believe You” on Facebook and founded the nonprofit organization I Believe You Inc. Tanisha launched her podcast, “My Pain is My Power Podcast,” on April 1, 2022, aiming to inspire others that they can overcome their challenges with hope.
Listen to the full episode on here and join us in supporting Tanisha’s mission to empower others through her ministry.
Be sure to subscribe to “Thrive by The Rising Muse” for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions on faith, family, and mental health. Follow us on [social media links] and stay connected for updates on future episodes and special guests.
Together, let’s turn pain into power and support one another on our journeys of healing and growth.
As the back-to-school season approaches, families everywhere are bustling with preparations. But what does back-to-school look like for homeschooling families compared to those with children in traditional schools? Our latest episode of ‘Thrive by The Rising Muse’ dives deep into this very topic with our special guest, Nicole Richards, a dedicated homeschooling mother and life coach.
One of the highlights of this episode is Nicole’s philosophy of fitting education to the child, rather than forcing the child into a rigid educational model. She shares how she tailors the educational experience to meet the individual needs of each of her children, creating a learning environment that fosters growth and creativity.
Balancing homeschooling with a professional career can be challenging. Nicole opens up about how she manages her dual roles as a homeschooling parent and a life coach. She offers practical advice and encouragement for parents considering homeschooling but worried about juggling these responsibilities.
Social Interactions and Extracurricular Activities
How do homeschoolers ensure their children have ample social interactions and extracurricular opportunities? Nicole discusses the various avenues available to homeschooling families that might not be as accessible to traditionally schooled children. From co-op groups to specialized classes, she provides a wealth of information on how to enrich the homeschooling experience.
Are you curious about homeschooling? Do you want to learn more about how to tailor education to fit your child’s unique needs? Tune in to this episode of ‘Thrive by The Rising Muse’ for an inspiring conversation that will leave you informed and motivated. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just exploring the idea, Nicole’s insights are sure to resonate with you.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and tips from a seasoned homeschooler. Listen to the full episode now on ‘Thrive by The Rising Muse’ and join the conversation!
About Nichole Richards
Nicole Richards is an Bestselling Author, Podcaster, Human Potential and Personal Reinvention Coach. She works with faith-focused visionaries and executives seeking the biblical connection, between faith, and business. Her methodology with clients is based on a ‘whole life approach,’ helping people discover their ‘life’s work’ by establishing meaningful connections in their business and relationships.
Nicole had a successful 22-year career as an entrepreneur in the beauty and wedding industry. Her multi-six-figure business included a retail store and a team of 15 artists. After closing her studio and retiring her brushes, she now uses her business expertise to help others achieve fulfilment in their financial and spiritual journeys.
Her Podcast, Minding His Business, explores the fascinating intersection between business, life and exploring our faith. Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking interviews, listeners are taken on a journey of self-discovery in building the connections between building a business based on faith. She stresses the importance of running a business that aligns with God’s word. She gives her listeners the tools and inspiration needed to thrive in their professional lives and walk with God. Nicole homeschools her children near Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda tackle a topic that is both timely and crucial: teenage depression. Joined by licensed counselor Taylor Warren, the discussion dives deep into the complexities of adolescent mental health, offering invaluable insights for parents, guardians, and anyone involved in the lives of teenagers.
Teenage depression is more than just occasional sadness or mood swings; it’s a serious mental health condition that can have far-reaching consequences. During the episode, Taylor Warren highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of depression, which can often be mistaken for typical teenage behavior. Persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and a noticeable drop in academic performance are just a few of the red flags to watch out for.
One of the most eye-opening segments of the episode focuses on the role of social media in teenage depression. Taylor discusses how the constant exposure to curated and often unrealistic images can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem among teens. The hosts explore practical strategies for parents to help their teens navigate this digital landscape, such as setting boundaries for phone usage and encouraging real-life interactions.
Communication is a recurring theme throughout the episode. Taylor emphasizes the need for parents to create a safe space where their teenagers feel comfortable expressing their feelings without fear of judgment. The hosts share tips on how to validate a teen’s emotions and the importance of listening without immediately offering solutions.
Another crucial aspect covered in the episode is the importance of seeking professional help when needed. Taylor explains that it’s okay for parents to not have all the answers and that therapists can provide the support and guidance necessary for a teen’s recovery. The discussion also touches on the role of trusted adults, such as mentors and church leaders, in supporting teenagers through their struggles.
The episode concludes with a range of practical tips for parents to help their teens thrive despite the challenges of depression. From promoting healthy habits like proper sleep and nutrition to being a role model in handling stress, these actionable steps are designed to empower parents in their journey to support their teenagers.
Tune In for More
This episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand and support teenagers dealing with depression. Taylor Warren’s expertise, combined with Naty and Veda’s heartfelt approach, makes for an episode that is both informative and deeply empathetic.
Don’t miss out on this enlightening discussion. Tune in to the full episode to gain more insights and practical advice on how to help teens navigate the challenges of depression in today’s digital age.
Taylor Warren is an education specialist, licensed professional counselor, and the owner of The Grove Counseling & Consulting. She specializes in supporting teen girls and women in the areas of anxiety, self-esteem, perfectionism, and eating disorders.
Subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse and follow us on social media for more episodes on faith, family, and mental health.
In this heartfelt interview, we sit down with Kim Gilson, a Christian author and certified Zig Ziglar trainer, to discuss her journey of faith, resilience, and the inspiration behind her latest book, “Made for Community: A Biblical Model to Activate Your Purpose.” Join us as Kim shares her experiences and insights on navigating grief, the power of community, and finding joy and purpose through faith.
How did you navigate the challenges of losing your husband while starting a new job and caring for your sons?
Kim Gilson: I know people say to take it one day at a time. Honestly, that was too much. Some days I just made it from one meal to the next. I adopted the word “forward” and set my face towards building a new normal. I really didn’t have an “Option B.” I had no choice but to get up each day and do the next thing. I was fortunate that I had great family and friends who carried us along the way!
What role did faith play in your journey towards finding joy again for you and your boys?
Kim Gilson: I don’t know how people survive a major loss without the Lord. I believed He would take care of us, and I saw so many ways He fulfilled His promise. I was in church one Sunday by myself thinking, “I’m alone.” I so clearly heard His voice say, “You’ll never be alone.” I held onto that. My faith gave me the hope that Paul was in a better place and we would find our Promised Land on this side of heaven.
What were some of the key moments or realizations that helped you find strength and hope during those difficult times?
Kim Gilson: The night he died, I vowed I would fight for our joy. I couldn’t let that be the last good day my boys had. I knew if they were going to have joyful whole lives, I had to show them it was OK and I had to show them how. I saw a long dark tunnel ahead of me, but I knew if I squinted hard enough, I could see a flicker of light. I held on to the belief that we would find our new normal and smile again.
How did your relationship with your sons evolve as you all worked together to rebuild your lives?
Kim Gilson: It’s one of my proudest accomplishments in life. I knew I had to be a safe place for them. I’d say we gave each other space and grace to make mistakes. If any of us messed up, we forgave quickly. I recently remarried, and at the reception, one of them made a speech about how I led them through that time to give them the lives they have today. He had everyone in tears. When the other took the mic, I braced for more! He thanked my new husband for taking my antique shopping so they didn’t have to! The entire room burst into laughter. I just thought, “Those are my boys!” I’m so proud of their resilience.
Kim Gilson: It was a very organic process. I had a “moment” in our ladies’ Bible study where I felt like I didn’t belong and started to leave. I heard the Lord say, “You sit right there. I created you in my image and it’s too vast, too perfect for any one person to represent all of me. Sit right there and contribute your piece of the puzzle.” He continued to show me things through scripture, experience, and revelation that led to a sermon and a class. I realized it all went together to make a book!
Can you explain the analogy of cups and pitchers and how it relates to your message in the book?
Kim Gilson: God designed us to live in reciprocal relationships where we pour into and receive from each other, like pitchers pouring into cups. At some point, the cups should overflow and become pitchers themselves. No one can hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant” unless they help other people hear them.
What are the main themes you hope readers will take away from your book?
Kim Gilson: I hope they first of all appreciate how God designed them to contribute to the Body of Christ. Then I hope they appreciate how God designed other people for them to engage in cups and pitcher relationships.
How does your book address the current climate of division and loneliness?
Kim Gilson: I hope it gives people a new way to think about themselves and others. We are more dependent on each other than we realize. So many people are isolated at home, and I’d love to think this encourages them to branch out and take a chance on engaging with other people again.
How does your book define and describe the concept of community from a biblical perspective?
Kim Gilson: Paul describes the Body of Christ. Each of us has a valuable part to make, and though one part may look more important, all are necessary for God’s Kingdom on this earth!
Can you elaborate on how reciprocal relationships among the body of Christ can help individuals fulfill their God-given purposes?
Kim Gilson: God’s purposes for our lives seldom are limited to our benefit. We often think our hopes and dreams are for our gain, fame, fortune, or reputation. They invariably impact other people. That impact will bless others in a way that enables their contribution. Say for instance you’re a business owner. Your business provides goods or services to others, but you also serve as a provider to your employees. That provision enables families to meet their needs. One of many examples would be paying for a child’s education to pursue God’s calling on his/her life.
What practical steps do you suggest for readers who want to build and nurture these reciprocal relationships?
Kim Gilson: You’ve got to make the first step. We can’t just wait for someone else to reach out to us and then be sad if it doesn’t happen. There’s a good chance whoever you approach is also hungry for connection! When you go to church, get there early enough to talk to people, invite someone to lunch or coffee, attend an event or go to Bible study. I’m also a big believer in Meetup.com. This is an unpaid advertisement for them, but it’s where I met my new husband! I joined a Christian Singles group merely looking for new friends and found him.
How can churches and Christian communities implement the model you propose to foster a stronger sense of belonging and purpose among their members?
Kim Gilson: I led a class on this model at my church. We gave people a chance to explore their personality types, spiritual giftings, and talents. As they shared with others, people learned about themselves and each other in new ways. We even did an activity where people told in what ways they’re cups or pitchers, so they could see how they could combine forces. Anything the church can do to foster connection and conversations with people who don’t normally interact at that level will go far towards progress in this area.
Looking back on the past ten years, what are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned about faith, resilience, and community?
Kim Gilson: God is always up to something good, even when things look the worst. You can’t control what happens to you, only your response. Joy is a choice. Life is a group project. We’re meant to do it together.
How has your journey influenced your understanding of God’s goodness and purpose for your life?
Kim Gilson: As long as there is breath in us, God still has a purpose for our lives. Each day we wake up, it’s for a reason. Someday our clock will expire, but until then, we need to lean into His plans for us. I once heard Him tell me to “Honor the calling of today.”
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with grief and loss?
Kim Gilson: Get therapy or counseling, depending on your circumstances. I went through Griefshare, and it was instrumental in my healing. You’ll know when it’s time!
How can individuals find joy and purpose after experiencing significant life challenges?
Kim Gilson: Believe that you will see God’s goodness in the land of the living, and there IS a promised land for you! The desert season won’t last forever.
What is the one message you would like to leave with our readers today?
Kim Gilson: The Body of Christ NEEDS YOU! No one is perfect. God is working to sanctify us all, and you don’t have to wait to have it all figured out before you can pour into and receive from others. Share what He’s given you and bless others by letting them bless you in return!
How can readers connect with you and learn more about your work and ministry?
Kim Gilson: I’m on Instagram and Facebook, or they can contact me via email at kimgilson@excellivate.com
Do you have any upcoming projects or plans that you would like to share with us?
Kim Gilson: My next plan is to repackage my testimony workbook with videos!
About Kim Gilson:
Kim Gilson was born to be a teacher. As far back as she can remember, she played school in her room, teaching dolls and stuffed animals from a chalkboard, and holding parent/teacher conferences with those who struggled. As she grew older, the stuffed animals became real students, to whom she taught band and then math. As her career in public education blossomed, Kim learned her passion was teaching adults, making difficult topics easier to understand and enjoying laughter in the process. The sudden loss of her husband, Paul, to a blood clot in 2014 sent her on a personal journey of grief and a battle to reclaim joy in her life for her and her sons. Wanting to share her zeal for life with others, she became a certified Zig Ziglar trainer, speaker, and coach. After retiring from public education in 2022, she felt a calling to utilize her teaching and speaking skills to revitalize the hearts, minds, and dreams of people, activating them towards fulfilling their God-given purpose. Kim lives in Midlothian, Texas with her 2 dogs, Duchess and Cosmo. Her sons, Trent and Cade, have grown into fine young men pursuing their own dreams. She and her husband, Don, enjoy traveling across Texas to take selfies in front of its many courthouses. Kim approaches everything in life with passion and humor, and her hatred of kale is legendary. She attends Harvest Hill Church, where she’s a member of the preaching team. Kim’s website is excellivate.com
Are you ready to embark on a journey of healing and transformation? In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we are joined by the inspiring Dr. Toni Cooper, a renowned psychologist, author, and public speaker. With decades of experience in the fields of anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional family dynamics, Dr. Cooper shares her profound insights on coping strategies and how to deepen our connection to God.
Embrace Faith, Family, and Mental Health
In this episode, our hosts, Naty and Veda, delve into meaningful conversations that matter. They explore the intersection of faith, family, and mental health, offering wisdom and guidance to help you live a life fully alive. Dr. Cooper’s expertise and compassionate approach make this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking to overcome emotional and mental hurdles.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Inspiration Behind Dr. Cooper’s Work: Discover what inspired Dr. Cooper to focus on anxiety, depression, and adult survivors of dysfunctional families in her book and podcast.
Understanding Learned Helplessness: Learn about the concept of learned helplessness and how recognizing it can benefit you.
Practical Coping Strategies: Get practical tips for managing emotions, especially during challenging times.
Dealing with Toxic Guilt: Understand the origins of toxic guilt and how to release it while embracing forgiveness.
The Role of Faith: Explore how one’s view of God impacts their ability to draw on their faith, particularly in times of crisis.
Overcoming Mental Health Stigma: Gain insights on how to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage those in need to seek help.
Why You Should Listen
Dr. Cooper’s work is truly inspirational. She combines her professional expertise with a deep understanding of faith to offer strategies that are both practical and spiritually enriching. Whether you are personally struggling with mental health issues or looking to support a loved one, this episode provides valuable tools and encouragement.
Listen Now
Tune in toThrive by The Rising Muse to hear this enlightening conversation. Subscribe to our podcast, share it with your friends and family, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more people who can benefit from these conversations.
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Embrace your faith, cherish your family, and take care of your mental health. Together, we can thrive.
If you’re in a crisis, please call 988. If someone you love is in a crisis, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room. Don’t forget to check out Dr. Cooper’s resources. Stay strong, and until next time, don’t forget to thrive!
About Toni Cooper
Dr. Toni Cooper is a psychologist, author, and public speaker. Since 1986, she has been teaching adults the strategies to grow emotionally, build healthy relationships, heal from trauma, and experience God at a deeper level. Toni’s mission is to help people find the courage, confidence, and comfort they need through a deeper bond with Jesus Christ. She has served as a college instructor, retreat and conference speaker, and teacher of continuing education for mental health professionals. For many years, Toni helped train medical students as an adjunct assistant professor at the Northeast Ohio Universities College of Medicine. She is a frequent guest on local radio discussing topics related to coping with life’s challenges. In 2019, Toni felt led to “go digital” with her message to help people become Fully Alive in Christ. At that time, she started a YouTube channel to help people develop practical coping strategies from a Biblical perspective. In 2021, the Lord prompted Dr. Cooper to start a podcast, “Life Without Baggage”. The purpose of the podcast is to help people understand how to deepen their connection to the Lord and break through emotional baggage to walk out their destiny.
The Lord has given Dr. Cooper 7 books that help people hear the voice of the Lord, correct distortions in their thinking, build confidence in how to study the Bible, and break into the blessings of God. Dr. Cooper is in private practice at WellSpring Counseling Center in Uniontown, Ohio. In her free time Toni enjoys pickle ball, hiking, and ballroom dancing.
Naty Matos 