From Mess to Miracle B. Keith Haney

How do you pivot from athlete to entrepreneur when life throws a curveball? As he recounts his journey from the Missouri Tigers to the business world, former SEC quarterback Alex Demzcak answers that question. He shares the lessons he learned on the field in his best-selling book "The Sale," which he co-authored with Jon Gordon, and how Proverbs 3:5-6 guided him through the challenges that followed his sports career.

Alex shares his experience of being benched and the resilience required to forge a new path while navigating identity and leadership. Leadership is not defined by titles but by our ability to rise above adversity and grow as individuals. His darkest moments became a period of enlightenment and unexpected encouragement thanks to mentorship and community.
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Have you ever chuckled your way through pain or used humor as a shield against life's darker moments? Our guest, Dave Ebert, isn't just making waves with his remarkable improv workshops; he's mending broken spirits. As a missionary with the Assemblies of God, Dave's bringing laughter and light into the lives of sex and human trafficking survivors, teaching us that even in the bleakest circumstances, joy can be a powerful healer. His transformative journey, fueled by personal struggles and a deep-rooted faith in Christ, has led him to harness the restorative power of comedy and vulnerability to empower these individuals with confidence and a renewed sense of self.

This episode traverses the sensitive landscape of human trafficking and the role of trust in recovery. Dave’s workshops aren't just a space for shared laughter; they're a sanctuary where survivors can rebuild their lives away from the shadows of their past. By fostering a trusting relationship with male figures in a safe environment, Dave challenges preconceived notions and equips these resilient ladies with essential communication skills. We also tackle the importance of hope and identity in Christ and the critical need to maintain safety and confidentiality as these women courageously piece themselves back together.

Wrapping up, we confront a sobering reality—the dark tendrils of human trafficking, the scourge of pornography, and the call to action for everyone, especially men in the church, to don the full armor of God. It’s an eye-opening discussion that urges us to stand united against this form of modern-day slavery. Join us as we explore the collective responsibility to champion hope and become beacons of laughter and change in a world that cries out for both. Dave Ebert's testimony and mission with Improv Missionaries isn't just an account of healing; it's an inspirational battle cry for compassion and action.


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Have you ever met someone whose life story is so compelling that it stops you in your tracks? That's exactly what happened when Holly Porter joined us on our latest episode. As a beacon of resilience, Holly opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, the guiding principles of the golden and platinum rules, and the immeasurable value of mentorship in shaping her path. Her candid reflections on the complexities of managing a blended family while pioneering multiple businesses are nothing short of extraordinary, providing a rich tapestry of lessons on personal growth and adaptability.

Navigating one of life's sternest tests, Holly recounts her intense battle with COVID-19 and the Delta variant, an ordeal that brought her to the brink of death. The gravity of her tale is palpable as she describes her hospitalization and the transformation that followed her near-death experience. As a testament to her indomitable spirit, Holly emerged with a renewed purpose, embarking on new business ventures while grappling with the long-term effects of the virus. Her experiences serve as a stark reminder of the profound changes the pandemic has imposed on numerous lives, reshaping worldviews and personal relationships in its wake.

Wrapping up our conversation, Holly's infectious enthusiasm for life post-recovery beams through. She gives us a glimpse into her most recent projects, including her innovative retreat software and her written work, "Retreat Forward," which promises to be her most impactful yet. As she outlines her nonprofit's mission to support those affected by long COVID, Holly's desire to leave a meaningful legacy shines through. Her optimism is a beacon of hope, encouraging us to face adversity head-on and emerge stronger, wiser, and more connected to our purpose. Join us for this remarkable exploration of human resilience and the beauty of a life reinvigorated.
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Dana S Diaz's book "Grasping for Air" explores human resilience. You will be captivated by her candid account of surviving narcissistic abuse as a child to the end of her marriage. In her transformation from a victim to a victor, Dana's great-grandmother's wisdom shines as a beacon of hope. In this story of self-discovery and empowerment, her past is shaped by neglect and nurturing love from her great-grandmother.

As Dana navigates the treacherous path out of an abusive relationship, she shares her unflinching honesty. In addition to chronicling her past, it is a guide for those trapped in similar toxic cycles. Throughout the conversation, we discuss the insidious nature of narcissistic abuse and how complex trauma bonds make escaping seem impossible. We also discuss the critical milestones that led Dana to reclaim her health and dignity. The story of Dana illustrates the importance of setting boundaries for self-respect and listening to one's body.

In the end, the exchange explores the importance of community support for abuse and trauma survivors. Providing a sanctuary for healing and uplifting, her commitment to helping others reflects a communal spirit. As Dana shares her ongoing journey of self-care and discovery, she proves that rebirth and joy can come from the darkest of places. Join us in celebrating the hope and renewal found in vulnerability and solidarity.
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How can we stay afloat when grief crashes upon us? Embark on a journey through the turbulent waters of loss and grief with Katherine Barner, a poignant voice in grief and trauma. With her deeply personal loss experience and professional expertise, Katherine serves as a beacon for those adrift in grief. We are reminded that our journey through sorrow is as unique as our fingerprints by her words of solace and understanding. In this conversation that embraces the heart, we traverse our healing paths with patience and self-compassion. As we untangle the myths surrounding grief, we uncover the false notions that shroud it in unnecessary pain. We uncover that there is a standard period of mourning or a lack of faith in the future. Instead, we believe that grieving deeply is a sign of being deeply loved. Sharing memories is a powerful salve for a wounded soul that the presence of a friend can nourish. Katherine, aka Mrs. Kat Speaks, illuminates the often obscure road to hope and renewal during our heart-to-heart. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, the rupture of a relationship, or any of life's other countless losses, Katherine inspires us to seek out the glimmer of light that pierces the darkness. Her online community offers listeners a nurturing space to continue the conversation. We invite you to join us as Katherine reveals how the human spirit is resilient and indomitable.
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Have you ever found yourself trapped in a cycle of anger, unsure of how to break free? Paul Zolman's journey from a tempestuous past to a present drenched in love is a story that promises hope and inspiration. During our heartfelt conversation, Paul peels back the layers of his life, revealing how he conquered deep-seated resentment and transformed it into an unwavering commitment to love. He didn't just read about love languages; he lived them. From his childhood struggles to an emotional awakening guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ, Paul's narrative is a beacon for anyone seeking to replace bitterness with compassion.

The magic of love languages isn't reserved for the fairy tales of romance—it's an everyday spell we can cast on all our interactions. This episode is a masterclass in harnessing the gift of affirmative expression, as Paul demonstrates the profound effects of consistent, genuine gestures of love. It's about the power behind a thoughtful word, a selfless act, and even the appropriate touch. With anecdotes that will resonate with families and friends alike, we unravel how small acts of kindness can forge deeper connections and lead to a more fulfilling life for ourselves and those around us.

Imagine a world where our future generations are as fluent in kindness as they are in their ABCs. We delve into the heartwarming initiative within schools that's championing this very idea, as children begin their days rolling dice that challenge them to bring love into action. With Paul's insights, we discuss the potential this holds for shaping a society brimming with empathy and unity. Wrapping up, we reflect on the indelible mark each of us can leave through choosing love over anger every day, and how, through simple acts, we can weave a tapestry of connection that blankets the world in warmth. Join us for this enriching exploration, and let Paul's story inspire you to be a curator of kindness in an often indifferent world.
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