Valentine’s Day is often reduced to chocolates, flowers, and romantic gestures, but what if love is so much more? In our latest Thrive by The Rising Muse episode, we peel back the layers of love and explore its true essence.
From the unwavering love of God to the deep connections we share with family and friends—and even the challenge of loving those who don’t love us back—this conversation will challenge your perspective on love.
Join us as we discuss how to navigate relationships through faith, what it means to love beyond conditions, and why true love is an action, not just a feeling. We will also dive into self-love and setting boundaries, ensuring that love isn’t just something we give but something we nurture within ourselves.
This episode is more than a discussion—it’s an invitation to live out love every day. Are you ready to redefine what love means in your life? Tune in now and let’s thrive together!
In these times of rapid change and shifting social landscapes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of transformation happening all around us. Whether you find yourself aligned with these shifts or feeling a sense of unease, one truth remains clear: we are living in a period of profound transition.
Change, by its very nature, can be unsettling. It challenges long-held beliefs and forces us to re-evaluate the very fabric of our society. For those who are struggling with the pace of change, know that your feelings are valid. It is perfectly natural to feel apprehensive, confused, or even frustrated when faced with uncertainty.
At the same time, for those who embrace these changes, it is crucial to extend compassion and understanding to those who may see the world differently. Every individual is on their own journey of understanding, shaped by unique experiences and perspectives. Engaging in respectful dialogue, listening with an open heart, and seeking common ground can help bridge divides and foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.
The Bible provides wisdom for navigating such times: “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5). This verse encourages us to approach others with kindness, patience, and understanding, recognizing that everyone is working through their own beliefs and challenges.
In the spirit of fostering meaningful conversations and exploring these complex issues, we are thrilled to introduce TheRising Muse on Substack!Our new platform will serve as a space to delve deeper into topics of faith, family, and mental health—areas that are essential to navigating today’s world with grace and wisdom.
At TheRising Muse, we believe that through open dialogue, shared experiences, and faith-centered discussions, we can find strength and clarity in times of uncertainty. Our goal is to create a community where we can learn, grow, and support one another as we embrace the changes that life presents.
We invite you to be part of this journey by subscribing to our Substack, engaging with our content, and joining in on the conversations that matter. Your support enables us to continue building a space for thought-provoking discussions and spiritual growth. Together, let’s walk this path with faith, understanding, and a commitment to kindness.
Subscribe today and be a part of The Rising Muse—where faith meets change, and understanding leads to transformation. See you there!
We’ve all been there—caught in a whirlwind of emotions like stress, anxiety, and self-doubt. But what if you could transform those negative feelings into something empowering? In this deeply moving episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Sue Bowles, a master certified life coach and award-winning author, who has turned her personal struggles into a message of hope and healing.
Sue’s journey from trauma to thriving is both inspiring and eye-opening. She’s not only learned to navigate her own emotional ups and downs but has become a powerful advocate for mental health. If you’ve ever wondered how to break free from the grip of anxiety or tackle those negative thoughts head-on, this episode is for you.
Why You Should Listen:
In this candid conversation, Sue shares:
The power of vulnerability and how it’s key to healing.
The practice of gratitude and how it can immediately interrupt anxiety.
Why seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness—especially in faith communities.
How to help others who are struggling without judgment, and the role of service in healing.
Sue also opens up about her personal battles with childhood trauma, an eating disorder, and even suicidal thoughts, offering real, raw insights into how she found healing—and how you can too. It’s not a quick fix, but Sue’s philosophy of taking “one step ahead” is the key to navigating your own journey.
Don’t Miss Out:
This episode is filled with wisdom, hope, and practical tools you can start using today. Whether you’re looking for ways to manage negative emotions or simply want to feel inspired by someone who has walked through the fire and emerged stronger, Sue’s message will leave you motivated and empowered.
Sue Bowles is a survivor turned thriver as an author, speaker, and Master Certified Life Coach. Having done the hard work of healing from a childhood rape, an eating disorder, other sexual assaults, and considering suicide, Sue now defines the effect the life-altering events have on her. The events no longer define Sue; she defines them. “You only have to be a step ahead to help the person behind you” is the bedrock to the value Sue brings. She founded My Step Ahead and is the “Chief Instigator” behind the new Dare to Believe Movement, whose purpose is to nurture others to ‘dare to believe that you matter,’ knowing that nothing changes until that bedrock belief is solidified. Whether speaking on a podcast, a stage, or one-on-one, Sue’s enthusiasm is contagious, shining the light of hope wherever the listener needs. Sue’s award-winning first book, “This Much I Know…The Space Between” is available on Amazon and Kindle.
Call to Action:
Ready to break the stigma surrounding mental health and start your healing journey? Listen to the full episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse now!
And for more resources, visit SueBowles.com to grab her free PDF, “Quieting Your Inner Karen,” and discover how to silence that inner critic for good.
There’s no better time to hit the reset button and cultivate a new attitude toward life than at the beginning of the year. Each new year brings the promise of growth, opportunities, and transformation. But this year, let’s go beyond setting fleeting resolutions and focus on fostering a sustainable mindset and lifestyle that promotes both mental and physical health.
To help you kickstart this journey, consider embarking on the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU!— a practical, faith-based guide designed to lay the foundation for lasting change.
Why Attitude Matters
Your attitude shapes your reality. It influences how you approach challenges, interact with others, and ultimately, how you experience life. A positive attitude doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties but rather facing them with resilience, gratitude, and a solution-oriented mindset.
This year, make your new attitude stick by starting with the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! It’s not just a self-help tool; it’s a roadmap to integrate faith into every area of your life while building a stronger spiritual, mental, and emotional foundation.
Cultivating Mental Health in 2025
Mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Here’s how you can prioritize it:
Practice Gratitude Daily The 15-Day Challenge helps you develop daily gratitude practices that shift your focus from scarcity to abundance. Each day of the challenge provides prompts to guide your reflections.
Set Boundaries Boundary-setting is easier with clear, actionable steps. The challenge includes practical exercises to help you identify what matters most and set boundaries accordingly.
Engage in Mindfulness Practices Discover faith-aligned mindfulness techniques that combine spiritual practices with emotional grounding.
Seek Support When Needed The challenge emphasizes the importance of community, encouraging you to seek help when needed and surround yourself with uplifting individuals.
Boosting Physical Health in 2025
Your body and mind are deeply interconnected, and taking care of your physical health enhances your overall well-being.
Move Your Body Regularly The 15-Day Challengeoffers tips to incorporate enjoyable, faith-inspired movement into your routine to energize your body and spirit.
Nourish with Purpose Explore ways to practice mindful eating, aligned with your values, to improve your physical health without overwhelm.
Prioritize Rest and Recovery The challenge encourages you to embrace rest as a vital part of the growth process.
Try Something New With prompts to push you out of your comfort zone, the 15-Day Challenge is designed to spark growth and joy through novelty.
The Power of a Fresh Perspective
Adopting a new attitude in 2025 is not about perfection; it’s about progress. The 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU!can be your starting point to cultivate this new perspective, offering tools to align your spiritual, mental, and physical health.
Limited-Time Offer: Begin your transformation today! For a limited time, the Kindle edition of15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU!is available at 67% off — just $1.99 until January 8th. Take advantage of this special offer to make 2025 your most transformative year yet.
This year, let’s commit to growth, finding joy in the journey, and becoming the best version of ourselves. Here’s to a transformative 2025 filled with vitality, resilience, and positivity!
In this latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda dive into one of the most challenging conversations for any parent – when a child questions their faith. This episode features Heather Hart, who opens up about her journey after her daughter expressed doubts about Christianity. With raw honesty, Heather shares how this moment reshaped their family dynamic and taught her to balance unconditional love with the values she holds dear.
Heather Hart is a passionate writer, speaker, and devoted mother who shares her journey of faith and resilience in navigating the complexities of parenting. Known for her candid insights and heartfelt stories, Heather writes extensively on topics of faith, family, and personal growth. She is the author of a powerful blog post on handling a child’s faith crisis, where she draws from her own experiences to help other parents facing similar challenges. Heather’s approach is grounded in love, empathy, and a deep commitment to fostering strong, compassionate relationships within her family and community.
Heather’s story goes beyond a personal faith crisis; it’s a testament to resilience, grace, and the art of “letting go” while still holding onto love. From emotional conversations about belief to the wisdom that only comes from experience, this episode is filled with heartfelt insights for parents and families of all backgrounds. Heather reveals how she finds peace amidst uncertainty and how her faith continues to guide her through the ups and downs of parenthood. Check out Heather’s book Candid Moments.
Tune in to hear Heather’s inspiring journey and discover valuable insights on how to navigate difficult conversations about faith and identity with loved ones. This episode ofThrive by the Rising Museis not just a conversation; it’s a guide to thriving with empathy, patience, and resilience. Don’t miss it – this could be the encouragement you need to handle your own family’s journey with grace and hope.
In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Social media feeds are filled with curated lives, impressive achievements, and seemingly perfect moments. It’s natural to feel like we’re falling short when we see others shining. However, it’s crucial to remember that comparing ourselves to others can undermine our self-worth and distort our perception of success.
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” — Galatians 1:10
The Illusion of Comparison
When we compare ourselves to others, we often focus on their highlight reels while overlooking our own progress and achievements. Everyone has their struggles, insecurities, and setbacks—things that are rarely shared in public forums. It’s essential to recognize that behind every seemingly perfect photo or achievement, there’s a unique story filled with challenges and growth.
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.” — Galatians 6:4-5
Understanding Your Value
Each person has their own path, shaped by individual experiences, strengths, and passions. Instead of measuring your worth against someone else’s success, take time to reflect on your journey. Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your milestones can foster a sense of fulfillment and help you appreciate your unique contributions to the world.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10
Shifting Your Mindset
When you recognize your inherent value, you can begin to cultivate a healthier mindset. Here are some strategies to help you shift your focus:
Practice Gratitude: Regularly remind yourself of what you’re thankful for in your life. This can help shift your focus from what others have to the abundance in your own life. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Set Personal Goals: Define success on your own terms. Set goals that resonate with your values and aspirations rather than those imposed by societal standards. “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3
Limit Social Media Exposure: Consider curating your social media feeds to follow accounts that inspire and uplift you. Unfollow those that trigger feelings of inadequacy. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23
Cultivate Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Acknowledge your struggles without judgment. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32
Engage in Self-Reflection: Spend time contemplating your strengths and areas for growth. Journaling can be an effective tool to track your progress and remind yourself of your journey. “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” — 2 Corinthians 13:5
You Are Enough
Remember, you are better than you think you are. Your worth is inherent, not defined by comparison. Embracing your individuality allows you to cultivate confidence and authenticity. When you stop comparing yourself to others, you open the door to self-acceptance and a richer, more fulfilling life. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” — Psalm 139:14
Ultimately, the journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance is ongoing. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, not a copy of someone else. Celebrate your uniqueness, for that is where your true strength lies. You have a remarkable journey ahead, and it’s entirely yours to embrace.
Are you struggling to move forward after loss, or perhaps supporting someone who is? You won’t want to miss this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse! This week, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Carolyn J. Murphy—author, coach, and certified peer recovery specialist—who knows the depths of grief and the heights of healing.
In this episode, Carolyn shares her personal journey of loss, anger, and eventual transformation. Known as the “Mindshift Coach,” she reveals how shifting your mindset can be the key to unlocking emotional freedom. With profound insights from her bookGod, Why Did You Save Me?, Carolyn offers practical steps for those feeling stuck in grief and searching for a way out.
Whether you’re looking for tips on how to cope with grief, curious about how faith can carry you through dark times, or simply need some encouragement, this conversation will open your eyes to the possibility of healing. Carolyn reminds us that grief isn’t just about death—it’s about any kind of loss. And more importantly, it’s about finding purpose again.
Get ready for an episode filled with honesty, compassion, and wisdom. Carolyn’s message of hope is exactly what we all need to hear.
Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss:
How Carolyn learned to manage her grief after years of wearing a “mask.”
Why the first step to healing is giving yourself permission to grieve.
Practical strategies to break free from emotional cycles like anger and perfectionism.
The powerful role of faith and mindset in the recovery process.
Tune in now and take the first step towards healing. This conversation could be the spark that changes everything!
Catch the full episode of Thrive by The Rising Musewherever you listen to podcasts or click on the picture below. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with anyone needing it. Grief doesn’t have to keep you stuck—join us as we learn how to move forward together.
In this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we bring you an unforgettable story of resilience, faith, and the power of forgiveness. Shelly Edwards Jorgensen, author of Beautiful Ashes, joins us to share her harrowing yet inspiring journey. Imagine enduring the unimaginable—losing your mother to a violent crime, living through abuse, and facing overwhelming medical challenges. Shelly has survived these trials and found peace and healing in the most miraculous ways.
Through her conversation with hosts Naty and Veda, Shelly opens up about her path to healing and the pivotal moments that tested her faith. What kept her going? How did she learn to forgive in the face of such betrayal and loss? And, most importantly, what lessons does she want to share with others walking through their own darkness?
This episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to rise above even the deepest of ashes. Tune in to hear how Shelly’s faith, courage, and the support of loved ones carried her through—and how her story can inspire you to overcome whatever life may throw your way.
Shelly attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where she was the first female to graduate with a degree in Manufacturing Engineering. After graduation, she moved back to her home state of Michigan and landed her dream job as a manufacturing engineer to start off her 20+ year career for Ford Motor Company. A few years into her engineering career, she decided to go back to school to get her MBA.
Shelly has spent over 30 years serving within her church congregation and community. She has always enjoyed serving others.
Shelly enjoys wood working and has amassed a workshop of her dreams. She also enjoys being outside in the fresh air, trail riding in her ATV and enjoying the Great Lakes boating & jet skiing.
Shelly is happily married to her husband Glenn. She is a step-mother, grandmother, and adored aunt!
In part two of our Thrive by The Rising Museseries on domestic violence, faith, and healing, we delve even deeper into the complexities of escaping abusive relationships. Joined again by trauma therapist Tabitha Westbrook, we uncover essential strategies for survival, including how to create a safety plan, the importance of finding your voice, and the power of faith in healing.
How Can You Prepare for the Unexpected?
Tabitha shares crucial tips on how to create a personalized safety plan—from where to safely store vital documents to the simple items that could make a world of difference in a crisis (like clean underwear and a toothbrush). But more than that, she emphasizes the importance of protecting yourself emotionally and spiritually during the process of leaving an abusive relationship.
Faith as a Guide Through Darkness
As we explore the role of faith, we discuss how churches can be a source of support, but also where they sometimes fall short. Tabitha doesn’t shy away from the difficult conversations, like reconciling faith with the harsh realities of abuse and understanding God’s true intentions when it comes to divorce and protection for the vulnerable.
Why This Episode is a Must-Listen
Whether you’re a survivor, a supporter, or just someone looking to learn, this episode is filled with actionable insights and heartfelt wisdom. From personal stories to professional advice, Tabitha’s passion for helping those affected by domestic violence shines through, offering hope and practical steps for anyone who may be in a dangerous situation.
Tabitha Westbrook, LMFT-S, LCMHC-QS, LPC-S, is a licensed therapist who helps people who have messy, funky pasts (and sometimes messy, funky presents) live amazing, empowered lives today. In addition to being a licensed counselor and supervisor, Tabitha is an EMDR Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider.
She’s the Founder & CEO of The Journey and The Process, a private practice with offices in North Carolina and Texas, specializing in complex trauma, with a focus on domestic abuse and coercive control. Tabitha is a nationally known expert and speaker on domestic abuse & coercive control, providing training to churches, therapists, and agencies. She also helps train domestic abuse advocates through Called to Peace Ministries’ faith-based advocacy training, and she co-facilitates the G5 Men’s Batterer Intervention Group. Tabitha is the author of the forthcoming book Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality After Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control.
If you or someone you know is in danger, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. Help is available—you are not alone.
Are you ready to confront one of our most difficult yet vital conversations? In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with renowned trauma therapist Tabitha Westbrook for an unflinching look into domestic violence and its devastating impact on families, mental health, and faith.
The Darkness of Coercive Control
Too often, domestic violence is misunderstood or oversimplified. In this eye-opening episode, Tabitha walks us through the different, often invisible, forms of abuse like coercive control—where the victim’s freedom, identity, and autonomy are systematically stripped away. It’s not always about physical harm. As Tabitha explains, it’s the slow, methodical erosion of a person’s sense of self that can be just as, if not more, damaging.
Faith and the Journey to Healing
What role does faith play in both surviving and healing from domestic violence? As a survivor herself, Tabitha shares her deeply personal story of how God walked with her through the pain and ultimately called her to help others do the same. In this episode, she offers practical advice on how faith communities can provide real, life-changing support to those in abusive situations.
The Moment of Freedom
One of the most powerful moments in the conversation comes when Tabitha describes the importance of regaining autonomy. She recounts stories of survivors—some of whom felt a rush of liberation in the simplest moments, like sitting in a car, knowing they finally had control over their own lives. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, freedom is possible.
Why You Can’t Miss Part 2
This episode is just the beginning. We’ve only scratched the surface of this complex and important topic. In part two, we’ll dive even deeper into the spiritual and emotional aspects of domestic violence recovery, as well as provide actionable resources for those who may be suffering in silence.
Tabitha Westbrook, LMFT-S, LCMHC-QS, LPC-S, is a licensed therapist who helps people who have messy, funky pasts (and sometimes messy, funky presents) live amazing, empowered lives today. In addition to being a licensed counselor and supervisor, Tabitha is an EMDR Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider.
She’s the Founder & CEO of The Journey and The Process, a private practice with offices in North Carolina and Texas, specializing in complex trauma, with a focus on domestic abuse and coercive control. Tabitha is a nationally known expert and speaker on domestic abuse & coercive control, providing training to churches, therapists, and agencies. She also helps train domestic abuse advocates through Called to Peace Ministries’ faith-based advocacy training, as well as co-facilitates the G5 Men’s Batterer Intervention Group. Tabitha is the author of the forthcoming book Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality After Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control.
If you or someone you know is in danger, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. Help is available, and you are not alone.
Naty Matos 