Elevate Life Podcast

Eric Spaulding
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Religion & Spirituality
  • Updated Weekly

Hosted by Eric Spaulding of Elevate Life Network The Elevate Life Podcast is where bold faith meets real-life transformation. If you’re facing poverty, stuck in survival mode, or simply searching for a path toward a better life—this podcast is for you. Each week, Eric Spaulding—co-founder of Elevate Life Network—delivers raw, hope-filled episodes that blend faith, career development, personal growth, and spiritual truth. You’ll hear powerful stories of change from Leaders in the Elevate Life program, insights from Allies, donors, and coaches, and biblical wisdom that challenges and inspires. This isn’t just talk. This is practical. This is personal. And this is a movement. Whether you’re looking to rebuild your life, deepen your faith, or step into your calling, this podcast will give you real tools, proven principles, and a community that believes in your potential. 🗓️ New episodes drop every Monday morning ⏱️ 30–45 minutes of real talk, raw stories, and revival-level growth 🌐 Visit ElevateLifeNetwork.com to: Apply for our programs Get involved as a volunteer or Ally Donate to support our mission to end spiritual, economic, and relational poverty

  1. 3d ago

    Elevate Life Network 2026 Graduation Ceremony | Celebrating Our Fourth Graduating Class

    Celebrate the Elevate Life Network Class of 2026 and the graduation of ELN’s fourth graduating class in Canton, Ohio. In this special episode, we share the full audio from the 2026 Elevate Life Network Graduation Ceremony, celebrating 11 Leaders who completed the Elevate Life Network Leader Program and reached an important milestone in their personal, professional, and career development. Elevate Life Network (ELN) is a Canton, Ohio nonprofit organization working to abolish economic, relational, and spiritual poverty through career and community development. The Leader Program combines personal development, career training, mentorship, coaching, community, and ongoing support to help individuals break cycles, build sustainable careers, strengthen their families, and create lasting change. The 2026 graduating class represents career pathways in Administrative Assisting, Bookkeeping, Diesel Mechanics, the Electrical Union, Medical Billing & Coding, Paralegal Studies, and Sterile Processing. Throughout the ceremony, you’ll hear their accomplishments celebrated alongside the mentors, coaches, volunteers, families, community partners, and supporters who walked with them throughout their journey. The ceremony includes remarks from Elevate Life Network leadership, an invocation, a commencement address, Leader Awards, recognition of the graduating class, presentation of graduation certificates, and a special celebration of the Leaders and the growth they experienced during their time at ELN. More than a graduation, this ceremony represents what can happen when people are given the opportunity, relationships, resources, and encouragement to pursue a different future. Congratulations to the Elevate Life Network Class of 2026. Live Different Together. Learn more about Elevate Life Network, the Leader Program, volunteer opportunities, partnerships, and ways to support our mission at ElevateLifeNetwork.com.

  2. Aug 11

    When It’s Time to Cross: Finding Faith and Courage in Seasons of Change

    What happens when the difficult season you’ve prayed to escape finally comes to an end—and stepping into something better still feels scary? In this episode of the Elevate Life Podcast, Eric Spaulding explores how to navigate change, fear, uncertainty, new beginnings, and major life transitions through Christian faith. Using the biblical story of Joshua and the Israelites crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land, Eric examines why leaving a familiar season can be difficult even when we know something better may be waiting on the other side. After 40 years in the wilderness, the Israelites knew how to survive there. The wilderness wasn’t good—but it was familiar. Crossing the Jordan meant more than changing locations. It meant leaving behind an old identity and learning how to live as entirely different people. The same can happen in our lives. Starting a new career, graduating, getting married, leaving poverty behind, changing relationships, moving into leadership, or facing an uncertain future can force us to ask a surprisingly difficult question: Who am I going to be now? Eric shares his own experience of transitioning from life as a longtime bachelor into becoming a husband and father to an instant family, as well as the uncertainty currently facing Elevate Life Network as the organization navigates major changes in funding and considers what its next chapter may look like. Drawing from Joshua 1–4 and Ephesians 3:20, this episode explores an important truth: courage isn’t the absence of fear. It is refusing to allow fear to make our decisions for us. Sometimes God doesn’t reveal the entire path before asking us to move. Like the priests stepping into the Jordan, sometimes faith means taking the next step before we can see exactly where it will lead. Released during graduation week for Elevate Life Network’s newest class of Leaders, “When It’s Time to Cross” is a message for anyone standing between an ending and a new beginning. Your wilderness may have shaped you, strengthened you, and taught you how to survive—but it doesn’t have to define how far you can go. An ending doesn’t mean you’ve lost your future. Sometimes you have to release the future you imagined before you can see the one God is opening in front of you. The river is in front of you. The wilderness is behind you. It’s time to cross. Topics: Christian faith and change, navigating life transitions, fear of change, trusting God in uncertainty, Joshua and the Jordan River, Promised Land, Christian encouragement, new beginnings, finding purpose, identity and personal growth, overcoming fear, career transitions, faith during difficult seasons, Elevate Life Network, spiritual growth, Christian leadership, graduation and new chapters.

  3. Aug 3

    Living a Balanced Life: Putting First Things First

    What does success really look like? Is it earning more money, climbing the career ladder, or checking every task off your to-do list? Or is it building a life centered on the people and values that matter most? In this powerful Family Gathering session, Elevate Life Network Executive Director Diana Spaulding challenges Leaders who are preparing to graduate from the program and begin their new careers to think beyond employment. Using the timeless "Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand" illustration, she explores how to prioritize faith, family, health, purpose, and meaningful relationships while still pursuing excellence in work. As many participants transition from six months of career preparation into full-time employment, this message serves as an important reminder: your career should support your life—not become your life.  In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify the "rocks" that deserve first priority in your life. Why careers, while important, should never replace your most meaningful relationships. Practical strategies for creating healthy work-life boundaries. How to prevent burnout by managing distractions and protecting what matters most. Why true success is measured by the legacy you leave with the people you love—not just the title on your business card.  Whether you're starting a new career, balancing family responsibilities, leading a team, or simply seeking greater purpose, this conversation offers practical wisdom for building a life of intentionality, balance, and lasting impact. About Elevate Life Network Elevate Life Network is a nonprofit career and community development organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome economic, relational, and spiritual poverty. Through career training, life skills development, coaching, and authentic community, we empower Leaders to build sustainable careers, strengthen their families, and create lasting generational change. Topics Covered: Work-life balance, life priorities, career success, personal development, leadership, time management, burnout prevention, purpose, family, faith, productivity, healthy boundaries, personal growth, nonprofit leadership, career development, Elevate Life Network, Rocks Pebbles Sand, Jar of Life, intentional living.

  4. Jul 13

    Built for Community: Why we all need people to carry us—and people to carry.

    In this heartfelt episode of the Elevate Life Podcast, host Eric Spaulding reflects on an unexpected moment during Elevate Life Network’s weekly Family Gathering that became a powerful reminder of what true community looks like. When a Leader experienced a medical emergency, fellow Leaders, staff, and volunteers instinctively came together—each playing a different role to provide care, comfort, and support. What followed was an unplanned moment of prayer that revealed the strength of a community built on trust, compassion, and faith. Drawing from the biblical account of Moses, Aaron, and Hur in Exodus 17, Eric explores why none of us are meant to carry life’s burdens alone. He also shares the story of the friends who carried the paralytic to Jesus, reminding us that sometimes we need others to hold us up—and sometimes we’re called to carry someone else. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, building a career, leading a family, or simply looking for deeper relationships, this episode offers practical encouragement to invest in the people around you before the crisis comes. In this episode you’ll discover: Why strong communities are built before they’re needed What Moses’ story teaches us about leadership and vulnerability How everyone has a role to play in helping others succeed Why life is not a zero-sum game—we all rise by lifting one another How faith and authentic relationships create the scaffolding that helps us thrive If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, this conversation is a reminder that you were never meant to do it alone. Hosted by Eric Spaulding COO, Elevate Life Network

  5. Jun 29

    Home Is More Than Four Walls: Understanding Housing Insecurity

    What does it really mean to be housing insecure? For many families, it doesn’t start with homelessness—it begins with impossible choices. Choosing between paying rent or buying groceries. Living paycheck to paycheck, wondering if one unexpected expense could mean losing the place you call home. Housing insecurity affects millions of families and creates ripple effects that impact physical health, mental well-being, education, employment, and relationships. In this episode of the Elevate Life Podcast, Eric explores the realities of housing insecurity, why it’s about so much more than having a roof over your head, and how stable housing serves as a foundation for long-term success. He discusses the cycle of poverty, the barriers families face when trying to achieve stability, and why temporary assistance, while essential, often isn’t enough to create lasting change. You’ll also hear how Elevate Life Network is helping break that cycle through personal development, career training, financial literacy, workforce preparation, and a supportive community that empowers individuals to build sustainable careers and stronger families. Rather than simply addressing immediate needs, ELN focuses on creating lasting transformation that leads to generational impact. Whether you’re a community leader, employer, nonprofit partner, church member, or someone who simply wants to better understand the challenges facing families in your community, this conversation will encourage you to see housing insecurity through a new lens—and inspire you to become part of the solution. In this episode you’ll discover: What housing insecurity really looks like The hidden emotional, financial, and relational costs of unstable housing Why employment alone isn’t always enough to create stability How community and relationships are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty Practical ways individuals, businesses, churches, and organizations can help families build a stronger future Because everyone deserves more than a place to live—they deserve the opportunity to build a home, a future, and a legacy. Learn more about Elevate Life Network: https://www.elevatelifenetwork.com

  6. Jun 8

    The Gift of Presence | Strengthening Relationships in a Distracted World

    In a world filled with notifications, busy schedules, constant stress, and endless distractions, one of the greatest gifts we can give another person is our presence. In this episode of the Elevate Life Podcast, Diana Spaulding shares a powerful message from a recent Elevate Life Network Family Gathering on the transformative impact of being fully present with the people around us. Originally planned before a difficult day of conflict and heightened emotions within the community, this message became an even more timely reminder that our greatest challenges often reveal just how important presence, empathy, and intentional listening truly are.  Through personal stories, practical strategies, and reflections on relationships, Diana explores the difference between simply being physically present and being emotionally present. She challenges listeners to consider how distractions—whether technology, stress, or busy schedules—can quietly rob us of meaningful connection with the people who matter most.  In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why presence is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer another person • The difference between physical presence and emotional presence • How phones, stress, and busy schedules can weaken relationships without us realizing it • Why active listening is a critical skill for building trust and deeper connections • Practical ways to set healthy boundaries with technology and reclaim your attention • How intentional conversations can help navigate conflict and strengthen relationships • The role presence plays in combating loneliness and relational poverty • Why meaningful community is built one conversation at a time Diana also shares a touching personal story about disconnecting from technology during a family vacation and discovering the power of uninterrupted connection. Through that experience—and through the mission of Elevate Life Network—she reminds us that people may not remember every gift we give them, but they will remember how we made them feel.  Whether you’re a parent, spouse, friend, coworker, leader, or simply someone wanting stronger relationships, this episode offers practical tools to help you become more present, more intentional, and more connected. Because in a world where so many people feel unseen, unheard, and alone, the gift of presence may be one of the most life-changing gifts we can ever give. About Elevate Life Network Elevate Life Network is a faith-based workforce development nonprofit dedicated to overcoming economic, relational, and spiritual poverty through career development, coaching, mentorship, and authentic community. Learn more, volunteer, donate, or get involved: 🌐 https://elevatelifenetwork.com

  7. Jun 1

    When the Plan Changes | Finding Direction Through Life’s Detours

    We all need a plan. Plans give us direction. They give us purpose. They help us take the next step toward the life we’re trying to build. But what happens when the plan falls apart? What do you do when the money doesn’t come in? When your child gets sick? When you lose your job? When legal issues, family challenges, or unexpected setbacks suddenly force you off the path you thought you were on? In this episode of the Elevate Life Podcast, Eric Spaulding explores one of the most common realities of personal growth and life transformation: learning how to adjust when life doesn’t go according to plan. Through personal reflections, leadership lessons, and practical insights gained from working with individuals overcoming significant barriers, Eric discusses why having a plan is still important—even when that plan needs to change. More importantly, he explores how resilience, adaptability, and perseverance often become the most valuable tools we have when the future feels uncertain. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why having a plan matters—even when it doesn’t unfold exactly as expected • How to navigate unexpected setbacks without losing sight of your goals • The difference between changing your destination and changing your route • Why flexibility is one of the most important leadership and life skills you can develop • How to stay focused when circumstances create confusion and uncertainty • Practical ways to keep moving forward when the path ahead isn’t clear Whether you’re facing career challenges, financial setbacks, family struggles, health concerns, or simply feeling stuck in a season you didn’t anticipate, this conversation will encourage you to keep taking the next step. Because success isn’t reserved for people whose plans work perfectly. It’s often found by those who learn how to adapt when they don’t. About Elevate Life Network Elevate Life Network is a faith-based workforce development nonprofit helping individuals overcome barriers, build sustainable careers, and create lasting life transformation through coaching, community, accountability, and career development. Learn more, volunteer, donate, or get involved: 🌐 https://elevatelifenetwork.com

  8. May 18

    Built Through Change | Growth, Pressure, and Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be

    Growth sounds exciting… until it starts costing you something. In this powerful episode of the Elevate Life Podcast, Eric Spaulding shares a challenging and deeply personal message recorded live from a recent Elevate Life Network Family Gathering. In “Built Through Change,” Eric unpacks the uncomfortable reality of transformation—how real growth often comes through pressure, discipline, consistency, and learning to respond differently when life gets difficult.  As Leaders in Elevate Life Network move deeper into Skill Development, many are experiencing the tension between the life they’ve always known and the future they’re trying to build. This episode explores what it truly takes to change—not just externally through career development, but internally through mindset, habits, ownership, and perseverance. In this episode, Eric discusses: • Why the life you want requires a different version of you • How transformation begins by changing the way you think (Romans 12:2) • Why growth often feels like loss before it feels like progress • The four responses to pressure: avoidance, blame, growth, and ownership • How habits—not motivation—shape your future • Why employers are hiring more than just skills—they’re hiring discipline, reliability, and character • How pressure can reveal and build who you are becoming Blending biblical truth, personal stories, modern life examples, and practical encouragement, Eric challenges listeners to stop waiting until they “feel ready” and start building the habits necessary for lasting transformation. This message is especially for anyone who feels stuck in the middle of change—tired, overwhelmed, uncertain, or struggling to stay consistent. Because as Eric reminds us: “You are not stuck. You are being built.” About Elevate Life Network Elevate Life Network is a faith-based workforce development nonprofit based in Canton, Ohio, helping individuals overcome barriers and build sustainable careers through coaching, accountability, community, and career development. Learn more or support the mission: 🌐 https://elevatelifenetwork.com

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About

Hosted by Eric Spaulding of Elevate Life Network The Elevate Life Podcast is where bold faith meets real-life transformation. If you’re facing poverty, stuck in survival mode, or simply searching for a path toward a better life—this podcast is for you. Each week, Eric Spaulding—co-founder of Elevate Life Network—delivers raw, hope-filled episodes that blend faith, career development, personal growth, and spiritual truth. You’ll hear powerful stories of change from Leaders in the Elevate Life program, insights from Allies, donors, and coaches, and biblical wisdom that challenges and inspires. This isn’t just talk. This is practical. This is personal. And this is a movement. Whether you’re looking to rebuild your life, deepen your faith, or step into your calling, this podcast will give you real tools, proven principles, and a community that believes in your potential. 🗓️ New episodes drop every Monday morning ⏱️ 30–45 minutes of real talk, raw stories, and revival-level growth 🌐 Visit ElevateLifeNetwork.com to: Apply for our programs Get involved as a volunteer or Ally Donate to support our mission to end spiritual, economic, and relational poverty

Information

  • Creator
    Eric Spaulding
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Elevate Life Podcast