Thrive Today

Thrive Today Podcast

The Thrive Today Podcast was created to equip, inspire, and motivate women to fulfill their full God-given potential in both their personal and professional lives. No matter what industry, ministry, or field they may be a part of, if you're seeking to grow in all you do, this podcast was made for you!

  1. 5d ago

    Agreement is Not Buy-In with Colleen Rouse

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast, Natalie Born sits down with Thrive Today founder Colleen Rouse to explore how leaders can move a team from surface-level agreement to genuine buy-in. Together, they unpack the differences between compliance, agreement, and commitment; why resistance often appears after the meeting; and how leaders can create space for honest feedback. Colleen also shares a practical framework for building clarity, strengthening collaboration, and helping people take ownership of the ideas they help shape. [00:00 – 05:35] From Compliance to Commitment Understand the difference between compliance, agreement, and buy-in. Recognize why external agreement does not always mean internal commitment. Give people the why behind the what so they can take ownership. [05:36 – 09:41] Inviting Honest Feedback Read the room and notice who is truly engaged. Ask questions that invite people to challenge the idea. Bring resistance to the table before it appears through poor follow-through. [09:42 – 14:46] Motivation vs. Manipulation Make space for both internal and external processors. Help others see the vision instead of pressuring them to agree. Examine your motive and adjust your influence to fit the room. [14:47 – 18:53] A Framework for Better Decisions Move through observation, validation, and solution. Prioritize clarity and the opportunity to be heard over consensus. Use thoughtful questions to move the room toward a shared solution. [18:54 – 22:42] Creating Connection and Ownership Ask for research, experience, and insight—not opinions alone. Build trust by helping people feel safe, heard, and respected. Remember that people value what they help build. [22:43 – End] Collaboration That Brings Out the Best Use collaboration to uncover strengths and mine the gold in your team. Include the people who will be impacted by and responsible for the idea. Approach the process strategically, honestly, transparently, and respectfully. Quotes “People can agree with you externally but never be committed internally.” — Colleen Rouse “Leadership isn't about convincing people. It’s about helping them see what I see.” — Colleen Rouse “Manipulation is thinking, ‘How do I get my idea across?’ And motivation is, ‘How do I help others see this?’” — Colleen Rouse “When people feel heard, the walls start coming down and collaboration can begin.” — Colleen Rouse About Colleen Rouse Colleen Rouse is the founder of Thrive Today and the founding pastor of Victory Church in Norcross, Georgia. She is a trusted voice for faith-centered leadership, helping high-capacity leaders move from pressure-driven performance to grace-filled stewardship. Guest Links 🌐 Website: https://thrivetoday.com 📱 Join the Thrive Today Community Loved this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast? ⭐ Subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help more women discover faith-filled leadership. 💬 Join the Thrive Today community for coaching, encouragement, and connection. 👉 Learn more at https://thrivetoday.com

  2. Jul 29

    Lead Without Losing Yourself with Colleen Rouse

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast, Natalie Born sits down with Thrive Today founder Colleen Rouse for an honest conversation about what it means to lead with confidence without losing yourself in the process. Together, they explore why women often feel misunderstood in leadership, how men and women process communication differently, and practical ways to build stronger collaboration. Through biblical wisdom and leadership experience, Colleen shares how curiosity, confidence, and intentional communication can help women lead authentically while remaining true to who God created them to be. [00:00 – 03:40] Understanding Leadership Differences Why women often feel unheard in leadership. Honoring differences between men and women. How beliefs shape the way we lead. [03:41 – 07:28] Different Strengths, Better Collaboration How men and women process information differently. Valuing both relational and solution-oriented thinking. Turning differences into collaboration. [07:29 – 10:40] Choosing Curiosity Over Assumptions Replace assumptions with better questions. Grow in self-awareness and awareness of others. Curiosity creates healthier communication. [10:41 – 14:40] Communication Habits to Avoid Stop expecting others to think like you. Avoid over-explaining your ideas. Don't take direct feedback personally. [14:41 – 18:30] Leading with Confidence Build bridges instead of proving a point. Prepare well and communicate strategically. Lead from conviction, not approval. [18:31 – End] The Power of Community Why leadership can feel lonely. The value of learning alongside other women. How Thrive Today equips women to lead well. Quotes "The way that we show up is often based on what we believe and how we feel." — Colleen Rouse "Curiosity is a saving grace." — Colleen Rouse "Confidence isn't something you hype up. It comes from conviction." — Colleen Rouse Guest Links 🌐 Website: https://thrivetoday.com 📱 Join the Thrive Today Community Loved this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast? ⭐ Subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help more women discover faith-filled leadership. 💬 Join the Thrive Today community for coaching, encouragement, and connection. 👉 Learn more at https://thrivetoday.com

  3. Jul 15

    An Altered Life with Traci Morrow

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this encouraging episode of the Thrive Today Podcast, host Natalie Born welcomes author, speaker, and leadership coach Traci Morrow for a deeply personal conversation about navigating unexpected life change with faith and purpose. After learning through a public press release that the company she had faithfully served for years was shutting down its division, Traci found herself facing uncertainty, loss, and a complete shift in identity. Rather than allowing disappointment to define her, she chose to surrender her future to God and trust that He was leading her into something greater. Through biblical examples, personal testimony, and practical wisdom, Traci shares how God can use seasons of disruption to clarify our calling, refine our identity, and redirect us toward His true assignment. This episode is a powerful reminder that while we cannot always control our circumstances, we can choose how we respond—and that response can change everything. [00:00 – 03:52] When Life Changes Overnight Traci shares the shocking moment she learned her company was closing. Processing unexpected loss while standing in a fabric store with her daughter. The emotional impact of uncertainty and sudden change. [03:53 – 07:09] Choosing Your First Response Why our initial response shapes the road ahead. Turning to God before reacting to circumstances. Trusting Him and surrendering fear even when the future feels unclear. [07:10 – 10:55] Releasing What Was Letting go of an identity connected to a career. Asking God what He wanted to do in the next season. Viewing change as an invitation rather than a setback and becoming a faithful steward of every season. [10:56 – 15:10] Finding Identity Beyond Success Building identity in Christ instead of accomplishments. Allowing God to strip away unhealthy attachments. Embracing transformation from the inside out. Discovering renewed purpose through surrender. [15:11 – 19:45] Lessons from Esther Drawing encouragement from Esther's willingness to obey. Showing up in faith even without knowing every outcome. Trusting God's timing and preparation. Courage often begins with simple obedience. [19:46 – 24:15] Joy, Purpose, and New Perspective Rediscovering joy that isn't dependent on circumstances. Learning to see difficult seasons through God's perspective. Finding peace by resting in God's faithfulness. Recognizing that disruption can reveal new direction. [24:16 – End] Staying Focused on God's Assignment Lessons from Nehemiah on avoiding distractions and staying faithful to God's calling. Why obedience in your current season prepares you for what's next. A final encouragement to trust God through every transition and choose faith over fear. Quotes "You don't know how you'll respond until life turns upside down." — Traci Morrow "I am building something the Lord has me on, and I cannot be distracted." — Traci Morrow "Until you've completed the last thing the Lord asked you to do, you can't begin something else." — Traci Morrow About the Guest: Traci Morrow Traci Morrow is a speaker, author, leadership coach, and relationship mentor with a passion for helping people discover God's purpose for their lives and build healthy, thriving relationships. She serves as the Growth Guide for Relationships on John Maxwell's Growth Platform, co-hosts the Maxwell Leadership Podcast, and mentors married couples alongside her husband, KC, at Zeal Church in Colorado. Traci is also the author of the Amazon bestselling book Real-Life Marriage: Navigating Your Beautiful, Messy, One-Of-A-Kind Love Story and equips individuals and couples with practical, Christ-centered tools for lasting relationships. Guest Links 🌐 Website: https://tracimorrow.com 📱 Follow Traci on social media: @TraciMorrow 📖 Real-Life Marriage: Available wherever books are sold.

  4. Jul 1

    Art of Resilience with Vince Thomas, Jr.

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast, Natalie Born sits down with pastor, leadership advisor, speaker, and author Vince Thomas Jr. to discuss his new book, The Art of Resilience. Vince shares the personal experiences and biblical lessons that shaped the book, offering practical wisdom on developing character, overcoming comparison, stewarding resources, asking for help, and growing stronger through life's challenges. Whether you're leading a team, navigating a difficult season, or simply pursuing personal growth, this conversation will encourage you to build resilience one faithful step at a time. [00:00 – 06:48] The Story Behind The Art of Resilience Vince shares his family, ministry, and leadership journey How years of personal journaling became the foundation for the book Why resilience is built through dependence on God rather than personal strength [06:49 – 12:46] Character Over Success Why character matters more than charisma or accomplishments Leadership as a marathon, not a sprint The importance of remaining faithful when no one is watching [12:47 – 16:56] Escaping the Comparison Trap The dangers of measuring your life against others Paul's "thorn in the flesh" and learning dependence on God Staying humble by remembering who deserves the credit for every success [16:57 – 22:55] Stewarding Finances & Small Decisions Biblical principles for managing resources wisely Why small financial habits create long-term impact The "small leaks" that quietly steal from our future [22:56 – 28:46] Growing 1% Every Day The power of consistent, incremental growth Why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness Building personal dashboards for spiritual, emotional, relational, and financial health Healing from past pain so you don't repeat unhealthy patterns [28:47 – End] Final Encouragement How personal healing impacts leadership Where to connect with Vince and learn more about The Art of Resilience Natalie's encouragement to pursue intentional daily growth Quotes "The moment we stop growing, we start stagnating." - Vince Thomas Jr. "What you don't heal from will eventually show up in how you lead." - Vince Thomas Jr. "Character will always speak louder than your reputation." - Vince Thomas Jr. About the Guest: Vince Thomas Jr. Vince Thomas Jr. is the Founder and Lead Pastor of The Outlet Community Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He also serves as the Director of Leadership Development and Adjunct Professor of Urban Leadership at Oglethorpe University, where he equips leaders in faith, leadership, and community impact. He is the author of The Art of Resilience and holds a Master of Arts in Leadership Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Beulah Heights University. Vince and his wife, Ashley, have two children, Asher and Chloe, and call metro Atlanta home. Guest Links Website: VinceThomasJr.com Book: The Art of Resilience Church: TheOutlet.cc Thrive Today: ThriveToday.com Loved this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help more women grow in leadership, faith, and purpose. Join the Thrive community for leadership resources, coaching, and conversations designed to help you thrive in every season.

  5. Jun 17

    Ally Leadership with Stephanie Chung

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast, Natalie Born welcomes leadership expert and bestselling author Stephanie Chung for a conversation on leading people who are different from you. Stephanie shares lessons from her journey in business and aviation, offering practical insights on building trust, fostering psychological safety, embracing diverse perspectives, and developing stronger teams. Whether you lead an organization or a small team, this episode will equip you with tools to create a culture where people feel valued, empowered, and inspired to succeed. [00:00 – 04:39] From Baggage Claim to the Boardroom The leader who saw potential in her before she saw it herself Why great leaders recognize and develop talent [04:39 – 08:44] Leadership Is About Developing People The difference between management and leadership Why leaders must intentionally see and nurture potential Introducing the ALLY Leadership philosophy [08:44 – 14:02] Bias, Diversity & Better Decision Making Why diverse teams outperform homogeneous teams Moving beyond familiarity in hiring and leadership Different perspectives create stronger business outcomes [14:03 – 18:12] Psychological Safety & Drawing Out Every Voice Creating environments where people feel safe to contribute How leaders can intentionally invite diverse perspectives The value of different thinking and processing styles [18:13 – 24:33] Empowering Teams Through Ownership Letting teams help create the solution Why leaders should resist the urge to immediately critique ideas Facilitating ownership rather than controlling outcomes [24:34 – 29:45] The EARN Framework for Leading Diverse Teams Stephanie's EARN framework: E — Establish an environment of psychological safety A — Assure alignment R — Rally the troops N — Navigate the journey [29:46 – End] What Today's Leaders Need Most The leadership skills organizations are promoting Why technical expertise alone is no longer enough Developing the people skills required to lead effectively Final encouragement for leaders navigating complex teams Quotes: “Leadership is not just about getting the work done. Leadership is about developing people.” — Stephanie Chung “The people who are not like you are often the people who will give you your competitive advantage.” — Stephanie Chung “What companies are promoting are leaders who can build trust, create alignment, and establish psychologically safe environments.” — Stephanie Chung About the Guest: Stephanie Chung Stephanie Chung is the #1 international bestselling author of Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You and a respected executive, keynote speaker, and leadership strategist. With more than 30 years of experience, she has helped organizations drive growth, strengthen culture, and develop high-performing teams. Stephanie made history as the first African American president of a private aviation company and has held executive leadership positions with organizations including Wheels Up, JetSuite, American Airlines, Flexjet, and Bombardier Aerospace. Her leadership insights have been featured by major media outlets including ABC, CNBC, CBS, Forbes, Essence, Inc., and Black Enterprise. Guest Links: Website: StephanieChung.com Book: Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You Thrive Today: https://thrivetoday.com/ Loved this episode of the Thrive Today Podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help more women grow in leadership, faith, and purpose. Join the Thrive community for leadership resources, coaching, and conversations designed to help you thrive in every season.

  6. Jun 3

    Building Wealth with Dr. Robert Watkins

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this episode of Thrive Today, host Natalie Born sits down with Dr. Robert Watkins, CEO of Conquer Worldwide, for a conversation centered around building wealth, leadership, relationships, and the people we allow close to us. Together, they discuss how proximity, emotional decisions, and unhealthy financial habits can either help or hinder long-term success. This episode explores the difficult but necessary conversations surrounding wealth building, boundaries, stewardship, leadership, and the importance of protecting your vision from unhealthy distractions. Dr. Watkins shares practical wisdom on navigating relationships, leadership pressures, financial discipline, and creating opportunities for future generations. [00:00 – 00:00:45] Podcast Introduction & Welcome Natalie welcomes listeners to the Thrive Today podcast Introduction to Dr. Robert Watkins and today’s topic on wealth building Overview of leadership, stewardship, and financial growth conversation [00:00:45 – 00:02:08] Relationships, Leadership & Wealth Building Family and friends can sometimes become obstacles to financial growth The people closest to leaders can become their biggest blessings or distractions Leadership failures often stem from unhealthy proximity and influence [00:02:09 – 00:04:00] Protecting Vision & Creating Boundaries Importance of discernment when building wealth Why leaders must evaluate who has access to them Financial growth often requires difficult relationship boundaries [00:04:01 – 00:06:15] Leadership Responsibility & Stewardship Stewardship over influence, finances, and opportunities The responsibility leaders carry for future generations How leadership impacts families, businesses, and communities [00:06:16 – 00:09:20] Financial Discipline & Healthy Habits Avoiding debt and unnecessary financial entanglements Learning to make disciplined decisions instead of emotional ones Why consistency matters in long-term wealth building [00:09:21 – 00:12:10] Environment, Mindset & Personal Growth Environment shapes mindset and financial outcomes The importance of personal development and wisdom Protecting mental and emotional peace while pursuing success [00:12:11 – 00:15:20] Generational Wealth & Legacy Building wealth that impacts future generations Leadership as a tool for service and impact The importance of thinking beyond immediate gain [00:15:21 – 00:17:49] Access, Opportunity & Capital Discussion around access to financial resources and opportunities Encouragement for entrepreneurs and business leaders Overcoming fear surrounding growth and investment [00:17:50 – 00:18:40] Final Encouragement & Closing Thoughts Encouragement for listeners pursuing financial growth Resources available through Conquer Worldwide Natalie shares Thrive Today resources and coaching opportunities Key Quotes: “The people closest to you can become your biggest blessing or your biggest danger.” – Dr. Robert Watkins “Most leaders fall because of the wrong people around them.” – Dr. Robert Watkins “You have to protect your vision with wisdom and boundaries.” – Dr. Robert Watkins Resources & Links: Thrive Today: https://thrivetoday.com Conquer Worldwide: https://conquerworldwide.com/ If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, entrepreneur, or leader working toward building wealth with wisdom and intentionality. Be sure to subscribe to Thrive Today for more conversations centered around leadership, faith, growth, and purpose.

  7. May 20

    Anchored Leadership with Roshanda Pratt

    In this episode of Thrive Today, host Natalie Born sits down with communication strategist, media expert, author, and speaker Roshanda Pratt for a powerful conversation on anchored leadership, faith, stewardship, and purpose. Together, they explore what it means to lead people well, stay grounded during pressure, and create impact in every environment God has entrusted to you. This episode dives into how leadership rooted in faith can influence workplaces, businesses, families, and communities. Roshanda shares practical encouragement on stewardship, purpose, navigating pressure, and how challenges often shape leaders into who they are called to become. [00:00 – 01:14] Introduction & Meet Roshanda Pratt - Natalie introduces Roshanda Pratt and discussion around Roshanda’s article on “anchored leadership” - The visual and meaning behind being anchored as a leader, leadership influence across business, family, and community [01:15 – 02:49] Leadership Rooted in Faith & Stewardship - “Everything rises and falls on leadership” discussion - Biblical leadership principles and leading people well - Leading with intentionality both online and offline [02:50 – 05:30] Pressure vs. Purpose - The tension between pressure and purpose - Pressure as part of the process instead of a sign to quit - Biblical examples of leaders facing adversity before stepping into purpose [05:31 – 08:45] Stewardship in Leadership - Leadership as stewardship rather than control - Being intentional with influence and opportunities - The responsibility of leading with integrity and care [08:46 – 12:20] Communication & Influence - The power of communication in leadership - Helping people feel seen, valued, and encouraged - Building trust through consistency and authenticity [12:21 – 15:50] Growth Through Challenges - Seasons of difficulty often shape stronger leaders - Staying anchored through uncertainty and setbacks - Learning resilience through pressure and responsibility [15:51 – 19:25] Final Encouragement & Leadership Application - Faith-centered leadership inside business and personal life - Encouragement for leaders navigating difficult seasons - Final thoughts on impact, purpose, and stewardship Key Quotes “Leadership is about making people and places better because you were there.” – Roshanda Pratt “You can’t lead others well if you’re not anchored yourself.” – Roshanda Pratt “Every environment you enter is an opportunity to steward influence well.” – Roshanda Pratt “Growth often happens in the uncomfortable seasons we try to avoid.” – Roshanda Pratt Resources & Links Website: https://roshandapratt.com/ Thrive Today: https://thrivetoday.com/ If this episode encouraged you, share it with a leader, entrepreneur, or friend navigating pressure while pursuing purpose. Be sure to subscribe to Thrive Today for more conversations centered around faith, leadership, growth, and impact.

  8. May 6

    Inspire and Influence: Using Your Voice for Good with Sam Chand

    ✅ Join our Thrive Tribe! https://thrivetoday.com/ Learn more about our Thrive Today Membership: https://thrivetoday.com/pages/membership In this episode of Thrive Today, host Natalie Born sits down with leadership expert Dr. Sam Chand for a powerful conversation on leading with clarity, faith, and vision in seasons of change. Together, they explore how strong leadership requires a clear voice, intentional direction, and a foundation rooted in faith, hope, and love. This episode highlights how leaders can navigate uncertainty with confidence, stay grounded in their identity, and create environments where both they and their teams can thrive. Dr. Chand shares practical insight and wisdom on developing clarity, strengthening leadership influence, and leading others well through transition. [00:00 – 02:10] Introduction & Leadership Foundations Introduction to Dr. Sam Chand and the episode focus Leadership is most tested in seasons of change Clarity is a foundational requirement for effective leadership [02:11 – 05:20] The Power of a Clear Voice & Vision Leaders must develop and communicate a clear voice Vision provides direction and alignment for teams Lack of clarity leads to confusion and stalled progress [05:21 – 09:00] Leading Through Seasons of Change Change is constant—leaders must remain steady Confidence comes from consistency, not circumstances Strong leadership creates stability during uncertainty [09:01 – 13:00] Faith, Hope, and Love as Leadership Anchors Leadership should be rooted in internal values Faith, hope, and love guide decisions and perspective Leading from values creates lasting impact beyond strategy [13:01 – 16:30] Identity & Leadership Growth Leadership begins with understanding who you are Identity shapes influence, confidence, and direction Growth happens when leaders become secure in themselves [16:31 – 19:30] Encouraging and Strengthening Others Encouragement is a key leadership responsibility Strong leaders build people, not just systems Empowered teams multiply overall impact [19:31 – 22:00] Clarity That Builds Confidence Clear communication strengthens team confidence People thrive when expectations and direction are defined Clarity removes hesitation and builds momentum [22:01 – 25:39] Practical Leadership Application & Final Thoughts Apply clarity and vision in everyday leadership decisions Lead intentionally rather than reactively Stay grounded while continuing to grow and adapt Key Quotes · “Leaders need a clear voice and a clear vision.” – Dr. Sam Chand · “In seasons of change, faith, hope, and love become your foundation.” – Dr. Sam Chand · “Clarity doesn’t just guide you—it strengthens the people around you.” – Dr. Sam Chand Resources & Links · How to Hold your Pastor’s Ladder: https://shorturl.at/jmDgY · Website:https://www.samchand.com/ If this episode encouraged you, share it with a leader or friend who may be navigating a season of change. Be sure to subscribe to Thrive Today for more conversations that equip you to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

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About

The Thrive Today Podcast was created to equip, inspire, and motivate women to fulfill their full God-given potential in both their personal and professional lives. No matter what industry, ministry, or field they may be a part of, if you're seeking to grow in all you do, this podcast was made for you!

Information

  • Creator
    Thrive Today Podcast
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    114
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Thrive Today