Holly's Highlights: An Anchored Living Podcast

Holly Curby

Welcome to Holly’s Highlights: An Anchored Living Podcast — a space designed to encourage, inspire, and equip you to intentionally live a life full of purpose.Hosted by speaker, author, and mentor Holly Curby, this podcast helps you grow in clarity, confidence, and direction as you navigate life, work, and relationships with intention.Each episode offers practical encouragement, meaningful conversations, and real-life insights to help you live a grounded, purpose-filled life that reflects what matters most.Whether you're seeking inspiration, personal growth, or a deeper sense of alignment in your everyday life, Holly’s Highlights will help you stay anchored in truth and live with intention.New episodes available on all major podcast platforms.

  1. 7h ago

    September Reset: 7 Things to Do Before the Holidays

    Send us Fan Mail You’re not behind. And 2026 is not over. You still have time. If you’ve looked at the calendar and thought, “Wait… how is it already September?” — this episode of Holly’s Highlights is for you. With just 121 days left in 2026, September can feel like a wake-up call. The kids are back in school, sports and work are picking up, the holidays are suddenly everywhere, and before you know it, Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here. But what if September isn’t a reminder that you’re running out of time? What if it’s a reminder that you still have time? In this encouraging and faith-filled episode, Holly shares 7 practical things you can do before the holidays to reset your priorities, reduce overwhelm, reconnect with what matters, and intentionally make the most of the rest of 2026. You’ll discover how to: ✨ Look back on your year and recognize what you’ve actually accomplished ✨ Decide what you’re not taking into the busy holiday season ✨ Make one decision your future self will thank you for ✨ Put the people who matter back on your calendar ✨ Identify what deserves more of your time, energy, and attention ✨ Give yourself something meaningful to look forward to ✨ Ask God what He wants you to make room for in this season Holly also gets real about her own year—including setting a goal to lose 30 pounds again after regaining the weight she had lost, realizing that she has kept only four pounds off, and recognizing that she, too, needs to stop, reassess, refocus, and get intentional. Because this isn't about creating a perfect life or accomplishing everything on your list. It’s about living the year you’re actually in. It’s about recognizing that starting over is still progress, that letting go can create room for something better, and that you don’t have to wait until January 1 to make a change. And most importantly, it’s about inviting God into the process. Holly walks you through 7 September reset questions to help you reflect, refocus, and decide what you want the rest of your year to look like: What am I proud of from this year?What do I need to let go of before the holiday season?What is one thing I need to take care of now?Who needs more of my time and attention?What deserves more of me in this season?What can I put on my calendar that brings joy?God, what are You asking me to make room for?Then comes the challenge: Take one action within the next 24 hours. Send the text. Make the appointment. Cancel the unnecessary commitment. Schedule the coffee. Open your Bible. Have the conversation. Book the trip. Take the walk. Start the project. Whatever your answer is—do something with it. Because information doesn't change our lives. Application does. If you’re feeling behind, overwhelmed, stuck, disappointed in how your year has gone, or simply wondering where the time went, press play. This episode is your reminder that your story isn’t over, this season still matters, and there is still time to make the rest of 2026 count. ❤️ If Holly’s Highlights encourages you, please subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a September wake-up call. And Holly wants to hear from you: What is your September action? Send her a message or tag her on social media and fill in the blank: “My September action is __________.” Because we don’t just listen together. We grow together. 🎧 Listen to Holly’s Highlights wherever you get your podcasts. Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  2. Aug 25

    Emergency Preparedness for Families: What to Do Before Disaster Strikes

    Send us Fan Mail Emergency Preparedness for Families: What to Do Before Disaster Strikes What would you do if an emergency happened today—while your child was at school, you were at work, your teenager was driving, or your family was separated? Most of us hope we'll never have to answer that question. But being prepared isn't about expecting the worst. It's about giving yourself and the people you love a better chance when the unexpected happens. As we head into a new school year filled with new schedules, teachers, sports, activities, work, and busy family routines, it's the perfect time to take a few simple steps toward being ready. On this episode of Holly's Highlights, I'm joined by Bryan Stinson, Emergency Preparedness and Community Outreach Specialist with the Utah Division of Emergency Management and lead for the Be Ready Utah preparedness outreach program. Together, we're talking about practical emergency preparedness for families, parents, students, teenagers, young adults, people living alone, and anyone who wants to be better prepared. You'll learn: What every family should have in an emergency planWhat parents should ask their child's school about emergency proceduresHow to create a family communication and reunification planWhat emergency supplies you may be forgettingWhat to keep in your car—especially for teen driversWhat to know about workplace emergency plansWhat to do during the first few minutes of an emergencyWhere to get reliable information when an emergency happensAnd five simple preparedness steps you can take this weekendPlus, Bryan answers rapid-fire emergency scenarios—from a child being at school during an emergency to getting stranded on the road or losing power at home. You don't have to prepare for every possible disaster. You just have to start. Because we can't always know what's coming—but we can choose to be ready when it matters. 🎧 Listen now, then choose ONE thing from this episode and do it this week. And if this conversation makes you think of someone who should be better prepared, share this episode with them. Additional interviews for emergency preparedness: - S7 E11: “Before the Sirens: Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie on EMS, Leadership, and Emergency Preparedness” - S2 E11: “Preparing for the Unexpected” - S7 E10: “Building Trust: A Conversation with Sandy Police Leadership” - S3 E21: “How to Be Safe This Holiday Season” - S6 E11: “Nurses: The Heartbeat of Healthcare” Additional resources from today's episode: - Be Ready Utah: https://beready.utah.gov/ - National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/ffc/prep Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  3. Aug 5

    The Best Leaders Never Graduate: Why Lifelong Learning Is Your Greatest Leadership Advantage

    Send us Fan Mail The Best Leaders Never Graduate: Why Lifelong Learning Is Your Greatest Leadership Advantage Is lifelong learning the secret to becoming a better leader? As a new school year begins, many of us think about fresh starts, new goals, and new opportunities. But what if the people who need to go back to school the most aren't students at all? What if they're leaders? In this episode of Holly's Highlights, Holly explores why the world's most effective leaders never stop learning, and why continuous growth is one of the greatest competitive advantages you can have in today's rapidly changing world. Whether you're leading a business, nonprofit, church, classroom, team, or your own family, you'll discover practical ways to develop the mindset and skills needed to thrive in an age of constant change, artificial intelligence (AI), and evolving workplace expectations. In this episode, you'll learn: Why lifelong learning is essential for effective leadershipHow a growth mindset can transform your leadership and careerThe difference between "know-it-alls" and "learn-it-alls"Four critical areas every leader should keep developing:Artificial Intelligence (AI) & TechnologyEmotional IntelligenceFinancial LiteracyLeading Through ChangeHow to overcome common barriers like lack of time, fear, or feeling "too old" to learn something newA practical challenge to help you invest in your personal and professional growthAlong the way, Holly shares personal stories, leadership lessons, and timeless wisdom from leaders like John F. Kennedy, Peter Drucker, Carol Dweck, Satya Nadella, Nelson Mandela, Henry Ford, and Alvin Toffler, reminding us that the best leaders are always curious, always growing, and always becoming. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to pursue a degree, earn a certification, learn AI, develop new leadership skills, or simply become a stronger version of yourself, this episode will encourage and equip you to take your next step. If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend, coworker, or leader who believes learning never stops. This episode of Holly's Highlights is brought to you by Glorieta. Nestled in the mountains of northern New Mexico, Glorieta exists to inspire Christ-like change through outdoor adventure, authentic relationships, and biblical truth. Whether you're planning a family vacation, youth camp, retreat, or conference, discover everything Glorieta has to offer at Glorieta.org. Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  4. Jul 22

    The Art of the Summer Reset: Finding Real Rest, Comfort, and Peace in a Busy Season

    Send us Fan Mail The Art of the Summer Reset: Finding Real Rest, Comfort & Peace in a Busy Season | Holly's Highlights Podcast Feeling exhausted... even in the middle of summer? If your calendar is overflowing with vacations, family gatherings, work responsibilities, endless to-do lists, and the pressure to "make the most of summer," you're not alone. Sometimes the season that's supposed to feel restful ends up leaving us more drained than ever. In this heartfelt episode of Holly's Highlights, Holly shares practical encouragement and Biblical wisdom on how to intentionally reset your mind, body, and spirit before burnout takes over. Discover why true rest is about so much more than getting enough sleep, learn the 7 types of rest identified by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, and uncover how God designed rest as part of His plan for abundant living. In this episode you'll discover: • Why summer often feels more stressful than relaxing • The surprising science behind why your brain needs downtime • What Scripture teaches about rest, peace, and slowing down • Three practical steps to create your own "Summer Reset" • Simple daily habits that can reduce stress and restore joy Whether you're feeling emotionally exhausted, mentally overwhelmed, spiritually weary, or simply longing for more peace, this episode will help you step away from the noise and reconnect with what matters most. Challenge for this week: ✔️ Spend 20 uninterrupted minutes without your phone. ✔️ Read a chapter from Psalms. ✔️ Find a quiet place to simply be still with God. A special thank you to this episode's sponsor, Minky Couture, for helping us create moments of comfort and rest. There's nothing quite like wrapping up in a cozy Minky blanket while spending quiet time with the Lord or enjoying a few peaceful moments for yourself. Visit www.MinkyCouture.com. If this episode encourages you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a reminder that rest isn't a luxury—it's a gift from God. Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  5. Jul 7

    Called, Not Qualified: How God Used an Ordinary Woman to Feed Thousands | Lori Birckhead

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt called to do something meaningful but wondered if you were qualified enough to take the first step? In this inspiring episode of Holly's Highlights Podcast, Holly sits down with Lori Birckhead, founder of By Faith Farm and co-founder of Fed By Faith, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting food insecurity and feeding families in need. What's remarkable is that Lori had absolutely no farming experience when she felt God calling her to start a farm. What began as a simple step of faith has grown into a powerful ministry that now produces tens of thousands of pounds of fresh food annually and has donated more than 240,000 pounds of produce to individuals and families facing hunger. Together, Holly and Lori discuss faith, purpose, obedience, overcoming fear, serving others, nonprofit leadership, and how ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact when they say yes to God's calling. Whether you're searching for your purpose, navigating uncertainty, building a mission-driven business, growing in your faith, or looking for encouragement to make a difference in your community, this conversation will inspire you to take the next step. In this episode, you'll learn: • How to discover your purpose and calling • Why you don't have to feel qualified to get started • The power of faith over fear • How serving others changes your perspective on success • Practical ways to make a difference right where you are • Lessons in leadership, generosity, and intentional living This episode is a powerful reminder that the harvest we hope for tomorrow begins with the seeds we plant today. If you've ever wondered whether one person can truly make a difference, this conversation is for you. Connect with By Faith Farm To learn more, volunteer, donate, visit the farm, or support the mission of feeding families in need, visit: By Faith Farm By Faith Farm grows nutrient-dense food and donates 100% of its harvest to those facing food insecurity through its nonprofit, Fed By Faith. Special July 2026 Give Back Initiative If this conversation encouraged you, consider picking up a copy of Holly Curby's award-winning book, Face-Lift: Embracing Hope Through Your Heartaches. Through personal stories, practical encouragement, and reflection questions at the end of each chapter, this book offers hope and healing for those walking through life's challenges. Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Walmart, and many local bookstores.  During July 2026, a portion of proceeds from every book sold will be donated to Fed By Faith to help support their mission of growing food, fighting hunger, and serving families in need. Together, we can plant seeds of hope that make a lasting difference. Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  6. Jun 23

    You Are Not Stuck—You Are Expanding: A Summer Growth Challenge

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt stuck, restless, or like the space you're in no longer fits who you're becoming? What if you're not stuck at all? What if you're expanding? As summer invites us to slow down, reflect, travel, and step outside our normal routines, it also gives us a unique opportunity to notice where we've grown—and where we're being called to grow next. In this episode, Holly shares the fascinating story of the Chambered Nautilus, a remarkable sea creature that grows by building new chambers within its shell. Through this powerful metaphor, you'll discover why the pressure you're feeling may not be a sign of failure, but evidence that it's time to expand. Together, we'll explore: • How to recognize when you've outgrown your current season • Why discomfort is often a sign of growth, not weakness • How past experiences become the foundation for future success • The importance of building capacity before seeking visibility • What it means to "grow into your next chamber" • How to remain anchored while embracing change Holly also shares an exciting personal announcement about the next chapter of her journey and the vision behind Anchored Living—a mission dedicated to helping people live anchored in their faith, purpose, work, relationships, and everyday lives. Whether you're navigating a career transition, personal growth, leadership challenges, a new calling, or simply sensing that something bigger is ahead, this episode will encourage you to stop shrinking yourself to fit an old space and start building the next chamber. Because you were never meant to stay where you've outgrown. You are not stuck. You are expanding. 📸 SUMMER CHALLENGE: If you spot a Chambered Nautilus seashell during your summer travels—or already have one at home—snap a photo and share it! Tag Holly on Instagram @hollycurby or Facebook @hollyshighlights. We'd love to see where these beautiful reminders of growth show up in your adventures. 📚✈️ Looking for meaningful summer travel reading? Face-Lift: Embracing Hope Through Your Heartaches by Holly Curby offers encouragement, inspiration, and practical hope for navigating life's challenges. Get your copy on Amazon: Face-Lift: Embracing Hope Through Your Heartaches. 🛏️ Cozy Earth Special Offer: Ready to upgrade your sleep this summer? Enjoy an exclusive discount on Cozy Earth luxury sheets, bedding, pajamas, and more: https://cozyearth.com/SFVPCVQV Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  7. Jun 9

    How to Delight in the Lord | A Powerful Father’s Day Sermon

    Send us Fan Mail In this special Father’s Day podcast episode, I’m sharing a recent sermon from my dad, Dr. Jim Harding, on what it truly means to delight in the Lord and how finding joy in God can completely change the way we live our daily lives. In a world filled with stress, distractions, and constant striving, this message dives into biblical truth, Christian encouragement, and practical faith-filled wisdom for anyone wanting a deeper relationship with God. Whether you’re walking through a difficult season, searching for peace, or simply wanting to grow spiritually, this sermon will encourage and challenge you. We talk about: What it means to “delight yourself in the Lord”How to experience true joy and peace through faithTrusting God in every season of lifeBiblical encouragement for ChristiansPractical ways to grow closer to God dailyThis Father’s Day episode is both personal and powerful, and I’m honored to share my dad’s message with you. My prayer is that this conversation helps you slow down, refocus your heart, and rediscover the joy that comes from God alone. If this episode encourages you, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs hope and encouragement today. Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

  8. May 26

    Before the Sirens: Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie on EMS, Leadership, and Emergency Preparedness

    Send us Fan Mail When you call 911, everything feels like it happens instantly—but what actually takes place in those first critical minutes before help arrives? In this powerful episode of Holly’s Highlights, we sit down with Sandy City Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie, a 25+ year fire service veteran, paramedic, and leader who has responded to emergencies at every level—from firefighter and paramedic to battalion and deputy chief. Together, we go behind the scenes of 911 emergency response, firefighting, and EMS systems in the United States to uncover what most people never see—but absolutely need to understand. You’ll learn: What actually happens the moment you call 911How EMS and firefighters respond to over 40 million calls a yearWhat bystanders should do in the first 60 seconds of an emergencyThe truth about CPR, survival rates, and response timesCommon misconceptions about firehouses and EMS workHow first responders manage the emotional weight of life-and-death callsLeadership lessons forged in high-pressure, real-world crisis situationsSimple ways everyday people can be more prepared and save livesChief McConaghie also shares powerful real-world insight from nearly three decades in service, including what it means to lead when every second counts—and how ordinary citizens can become critical links in the chain of survival. This conversation is especially timely as we honor International Firefighters’ Day and National EMS Week, recognizing the men and women who run toward emergencies while others are running away. Whether you're a parent, leader, student, or simply someone who wants to be more prepared, this episode will change the way you think about emergency response—and your role in it. Because readiness doesn’t start when first responders arrive. It starts with you. Support the show Visit www.hollycurby.com for more information and to sign up for the monthly Holly's Happenings e-newsletter. Holly's Highlights podcast and the opinions and ideas shared within it are for entertainment purposes only. The advice should be confirmed with a qualified professional.

5
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Welcome to Holly’s Highlights: An Anchored Living Podcast — a space designed to encourage, inspire, and equip you to intentionally live a life full of purpose.Hosted by speaker, author, and mentor Holly Curby, this podcast helps you grow in clarity, confidence, and direction as you navigate life, work, and relationships with intention.Each episode offers practical encouragement, meaningful conversations, and real-life insights to help you live a grounded, purpose-filled life that reflects what matters most.Whether you're seeking inspiration, personal growth, or a deeper sense of alignment in your everyday life, Holly’s Highlights will help you stay anchored in truth and live with intention.New episodes available on all major podcast platforms.