January is over, but for many, it felt long, dark, and financially tight. If you're already feeling overwhelmed by 2025 and struggling to keep moving forward, this episode is for you. Tolu and Arnold dive deep into the power of small, consistent actions, financial discipline, and the importance of becoming a producer rather than just a consumer. Tune in for practical wisdom and actionable steps to help you thrive in uncertain times.

Key Discussion Points
[00:02] – The Struggles of January: How many felt the weight of the month, especially with payday landing on the 31st?
[00:28] – Barclays Bank Outage: The unexpected banking chaos that left people stranded on payday.
[01:30] – Small Actions Make a Big Difference: The importance of taking even the smallest steps forward during tough times.
[02:21] – Financial Discipline: The power of cutting back on unnecessary expenses and tightening your financial habits.
[03:08] – The Impact of Small Savings: How saving even small amounts consistently can lead to long-term financial security.
[04:06] – Mindset Shifts: Reframing how we view money, expenses, and what is truly "affordable."
[06:18] – The Value of Good Financial Habits: Why it's important to build financial discipline early, rather than waiting until circumstances force you to.
[09:12] – The Middle-Class Trap: How people get stuck in a cycle of increasing expenses with each pay rise.
[13:09] – Planning for Financial Uncertainty: Why learning to manage money well now prepares you for potential financial hardships in the future.
[17:31] – The Mortgage Rug Pull: The harsh reality of rising interest rates and why financial preparedness is crucial.
[19:38] – The Power of Producing vs Consuming: Why learning to create value rather than just spend is key to financial freedom.
[24:42] – Small Tweaks for Big Gains: Practical ways to save money on daily expenses without feeling deprived.
[28:21] – Leveraging Opportunities in the Digital Economy: The importance of side gigs, freelancing, and alternative income streams.
[30:13] – The Biblical Principles of Wealth: Why principles like sowing and reaping work regardless of belief.

Highlights From The Episode
"It's easy to do things when you don’t have a choice. But true discipline is tested when you have options."
"If you don't define what 'affordable' means properly, you’ll end up working for life."
"Being a consumer keeps you stuck, but being a producer can set you free."
"The bar for success has never been so low—just start doing the small things!"
"If you can feed consumers, you'll always have financial security."

Practical Steps You Can Take
Start Small – Whether it's saving, investing, or cutting expenses, the little things compound over time.
Evaluate Your Expenses – Look at your monthly outgoings and ask, "Do I really need this?"
Think Long-Term – Shift your mindset from instant gratification to sustainable financial security.
Find Ways to Produce – Identify skills or services you can offer to generate extra income.
Leverage the Digital Economy – Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or even a personal brand can help you monetise your skills.
Apply Biblical Financial Principles – Whether it’s stewardship, sowing and reaping, or generosity, these principles work.

Relevant Themes Covered
Financial wisdom and money management
Christian principles of stewardship
The power of small actions and consistency
The shift from consumer to producer
Planning for financial security in uncertain times

Connect with RTB For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails, and more, join the RTB community! Sign up here: www.reasontobehold.com
Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

Struggling Already In 2025? Here’s The ONE THING You Need To Do! - RTBP Episode 202

**Overview:** Arnold and Tolu discuss the true value of university, the impact of student loans, and alternative paths to success.

**Key Discussion Points:**
- **00:01 – University is a Scam?**: Challenging the idea that university guarantees success.
- **01:10 – Personal Experience**: Tolu reflects on his university costs and debt repayment.
- **02:31 – Modern Student Debt**: Graduates leaving with over £140,000 in debt.
- **04:16 – Career Prospects**: Importance of choosing a degree with career opportunities in mind.
- **07:53 – Stealth Tax?**: Ethical concerns behind student loan structures.
- **11:08 – Real-World Experience**: Success stories of those who chose work over university.
- **16:44 – Alternative Options**: Business coaching, apprenticeships vs. traditional degrees.
- **20:38 – AI and Automation**: Impact on degree value, especially in fields like law.
- **23:06 – Alumni Networks**: Comparison of UK vs. US university career support.
- **27:00 – Student Loan Psychology**: Spending borrowed money vs. upfront payments.
- **30:36 – Final Takeaways**: Is university a scam, or do students need to be more informed?

**Highlights:**
- Graduates with £140,000 debt struggle with repayment.
- Investing in yourself without student loans can be more beneficial.
- Success depends on leveraging skills, not just having a degree.
- Student loans can be financial chains for life.
- The system's bias against loans for business startups.

**Practical Steps:**
1. Research the ROI of your degree.
2. Consider alternative routes like apprenticeships and mentorships.
3. Think like an investor with your education funds.
4. Understand student loan repayment terms.
5. Leverage your transferable skills post-graduation.

**Relevant Themes:**
- True cost of higher education
- Financial literacy and responsible lending
- Career growth vs. student debt
- Alternative education and entrepreneurship
- Impact of AI and automation on traditional careers

Stay connected with RTB at www.reasontobehold.com and share your thoughts at info@reasontobehold.com.

We’ve Been Deceived! The REAL Cost Of A Degree - RTBP Episode 203

Are you feeling like you've fallen off track with your goals already in 2025? If so, you're not alone! In this episode of the Reason to Behold podcast, Tolu and Arnold dive into the challenges of maintaining consistency, recognising distractions, and getting back on track. From personal struggles with binge-watching TV series and doom-scrolling social media to the importance of self-discipline and accountability, this conversation will encourage you to reassess and refocus.
Whether you need a fresh start with your fitness goals, spiritual growth, or personal development, this episode is your reminder that the year is still young, and there’s plenty of time to turn things around!

Key Discussion Points
[00:02] - Falling Off Track
Arnold shares how he feels like he's fallen off track with his routines.
The importance of acknowledging setbacks and making adjustments.
[01:19] - The Power of Confession & Repentance
Why confessing our shortcomings brings freedom and growth.
Understanding grace: learning from our mistakes without being sin-conscious.
[03:35] - Breaking the Cycle of Failure
How many of us start the year with high energy but lose momentum quickly.
Why one bad month doesn’t define your entire year.
The importance of reframing failures and refocusing on long-term goals.
[05:03] - Recognising Distractions
Arnold and Tolu reflect on how distractions (like TV shows and social media) derail progress.
The hidden costs of indulging in short-term pleasures at the expense of long-term growth.
[07:42] - Social Media and the Battle for Your Attention
How algorithms are designed to keep you engaged longer than intended.
Recognising when consumption turns into addiction.
The impact of excessive screen time on productivity and well-being.
[12:00] - Small Decisions Lead to Big Consequences
How small compromises build up to create significant habits (good or bad).
The biblical perspective on how small temptations lead to greater struggles (James 1:14-15).
[17:57] - Committing to Change
The importance of recognising the issue and taking immediate action.
Arnold commits to cutting out TV series until July.
Tolu deletes Instagram from his phone and sets a goal to stay off until April.
[30:38] - Challenge to the Listeners
What do you need to cut out to stay focused on your goals?
Join us in committing to change and breaking bad habits!

Highlights From The Episode
“You don’t have to wait until Monday to start again. Start now, even if it’s midweek.”
“Every time we make a poor decision, we reinforce a pattern that can lead to bigger struggles.”
“Social media isn’t free. If you’re not paying for it, you are the product.”
“The time it takes you to recognise and correct your mistakes is getting shorter. That’s progress!”

Practical Steps You Can Take
Identify Your Distractions – What is consuming too much of your time? Social media, TV, gaming, or something else?
Set Clear Boundaries – Decide on a specific timeframe to cut out or limit these distractions.
Replace the Habit – Use the freed-up time for prayer, exercise, reading, or another positive habit.
Accountability Matters – Share your commitment with a friend or community to keep you on track.
Start Now – Don’t wait until a ‘perfect time.’ The perfect time is now!

Relevant Themes Covered
Overcoming distractions
Staying consistent with goals
Spiritual discipline and growth
The impact of small decisions
The battle between short-term pleasure and long-term growth
The role of accountability in personal development

Connect with RTB
For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails, and more, join the RTB community! Sign up here: www.reasontobehold.com
Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

Let’s stay committed and make 2025 a year of true transformation! What are you cutting out to stay focused? Drop us an email and let us know!

The Hidden Habit That’s Silently Ruining Your Life - RTBP Episode 204

Feeling like your bank account isn't stretching far enough? Struggling with job applications that demand years of experience for entry-level roles? This episode is for you! Join Tolu and Arnold as they discuss real financial struggles, the job market paradox, and the mindset shifts needed to navigate these challenges. Through engaging discussion and biblical wisdom, they break down how faith, action, and strategic thinking can change your circumstances.

Key Discussion Points
00:00 - Introduction: Are you feeling financially stuck? Tolu and Arnold set the stage for an honest conversation about money and job struggles.
00:50 - The impact of social media: How a 20-year-old YouTuber with 26 subscribers sparked a discussion on financial struggles.
04:09 - The power of self-awareness: Owning your financial reality and being honest about where you are.
06:23 - The job market paradox: Entry-level roles demanding five years of experience – how does that make sense?
07:20 - Breaking through job barriers: Why experience shouldn't hold you back and how to present your skills effectively.
09:29 - Taking strategic action: How focus, research, and leveraging AI tools can shift your career trajectory.
10:56 - The success mindset: Why some thrive in tough times while others struggle.
11:51 - Faith in action: What it really means to trust God with your finances and opportunities.
14:15 - Taking the first step: How stepping out in faith can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
17:38 - The power of persistence: Overcoming the fear of failure and embracing your journey.
18:55 - Closing thoughts: Are you being honest with yourself? What changes do you need to make?

Highlights From The Episode
Real Talk About Finances – Tolu and Arnold dive deep into the reality of financial struggles and how to approach them wisely.
Job Market Madness – Why unrealistic job requirements exist and how you can navigate them strategically.
Faith + Action = Results – How stepping out in faith, even when the path isn’t clear, can unlock unexpected opportunities.
The Power of Ownership – Acknowledging where you are is the first step to changing your financial and professional future.

Practical Steps You Can Take
·         Be honest with yourself about your financial situation.
·         Look for unconventional ways to gain job experience – volunteering, internships, or personal projects.
·         Use AI tools and research industry trends to position yourself effectively.
·         Take action – send that email, make that call, apply for that job. You never know what could happen.
·         Trust in God’s provision, but also do your part to step into new opportunities.

Relevant Themes Covered
Financial Struggles & Breakthroughs
Job Market Challenges & Career Growth
Faith & Taking Bold Steps
The Power of Mindset & Persistence
Overcoming Fear & Failure

Connect with RTB
For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails, and more, join the RTB community! Sign up here: www.reasontobehold.com
Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

Broke & Stuck? The One Mindset Shift That Changes Everything - RTBP Episode 205

Welcome back to the Reason To Behold Podcast! In this episode, Tolu and Arnold dive deeper into the conversation on breaking out of financial struggles and embracing the mindset required to thrive. If you haven’t yet listened to Part 1, be sure to check it out first!

From discussing what it truly means to “buy your freedom” to challenging limiting beliefs around money, work, and government reliance, this episode is packed with biblical wisdom and practical insights that will help you shift your perspective and take action towards real financial and spiritual freedom.

Key Discussion Points
00:02 – Introduction: The continuation of a powerful discussion on financial freedom and escaping the feeling of being broke.

02:25 – “You have to buy your freedom” – Breaking down the costs of true freedom: spiritually, financially, and mentally.

03:24 – The deception of modern-day financial ‘freedom’ – mortgages, car payments, and subscription-based living.

04:21 – The different prices that have to be paid for freedom: faith, hard work, and knowledge.

05:50 – The reality of government systems: why reliance on political parties will never be the solution to financial or personal freedom.

07:24 – The NHS system as an example of how governmental institutions are struggling and what that means for individuals.

09:14 – Why the only truly reliable government is the Kingdom of God.

10:09 – Who can you really trust? Examining the dangers of misplaced trust in human leaders.

11:37 – The world is preparing for the end: Understanding the signs and the importance of trusting God above all.

13:38 – The impact of media consumption: Social media and AI-driven feeds shaping our beliefs without us even realizing it.

14:53 – Taking control of your information intake – intentionally searching for knowledge instead of passively consuming.

16:13 – The “Brain Rot” Millionaires – How people are leveraging AI and YouTube to generate wealth in unconventional ways.

17:48 – The danger of believing limiting statements like “It’s harder than ever to make money” – how our beliefs shape our reality.

19:05 – Faith in action: Why aligning your mindset with biblical truths is essential for breaking financial limitations.

20:42 – Imposter syndrome: Addressing self-doubt and how to reframe it as an opportunity for growth.

25:49 – Final thoughts: It has never been easier to make money – shifting your mindset to see the opportunities in front of you.

Highlights
"The default position of this world is not actually freedom." – Tolu

"God has already paid for your freedom from sin, but we also have a part to play in our financial and personal freedom." – Arnold

Practical Steps
Shift your mindset with biblical truth.

Take ownership of your financial future.

Control your information diet.

Leverage modern opportunities.

Submit your fears to God.

Relevant Themes
Financial freedom & biblical principles

Power of mindset and belief

Overcoming fear and self-doubt

Government systems vs. Kingdom reliance

Leveraging modern technology for success

Faith-driven decision-making

Connect with RTB for updates and more at www.reasontobehold.com.. Contact us at: info@reasontobehold.com

Feeling Broke? The Hard Truth About Breaking Free! - RTBP Episode 206

Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and running on empty? In this episode of the Reason to Behold podcast, Tolu and Arnold dive deep into the reality of exhaustion, exploring what it means to truly rest and be refreshed in the midst of life’s relentless demands. Drawing from scripture, personal experiences, and some unexpected burger analogies, they unpack the importance of waiting on the Lord and creating space for genuine renewal.

Key Discussion Points
[00:00] - The Reality of Exhaustion
Arnold opens up about feeling physically and mentally drained.
Tolu shares his own struggles with tiredness and the need for deep rest.
[02:30] - The Pressures of Life
The constant demands of work, emails, and responsibilities.
The challenge of balancing productivity with personal well-being.
[04:10] - Biblical Perspective on Renewal
Isaiah 40:31 – "Those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength."
The need for intentional spiritual refreshment.
Tolu questions whether he is truly waiting on God in a way that renews strength.
[06:00] - What Does Waiting on the Lord Look Like?
Is waiting on the Lord passive or active?
The balance between service, rest, and spiritual renewal.
The importance of setting aside time to truly recharge.
[08:35] - The Discipline of Rest
How taking dedicated time off can lead to greater productivity.
Counterintuitive principles of rest from a biblical perspective.
[10:09] - Psalm 23 and God-Ordained Rest
"He makes me lie down in green pastures..."
The significance of God making us rest because we wouldn’t otherwise.
[16:50] - The Sabbath and True Rest
Are we really resting on Sundays, or just staying busy?
The Jewish tradition of Shabbat and how it could inform our approach to rest.
[18:49] - The Challenge of Making Time for God
The difference between consuming spiritual content and actively engaging with God.
The need to create ‘sweet’ moments of connection with Him.
[20:05] - Fast Food vs. Nourishing Meals (A Smash Burger Analogy)
How quick entertainment can feel like junk food for the soul.
The contrast between passive consumption and actively seeking God.
Tolu’s moment of realisation—spiritual nourishment requires effort.
[22:54] - Fighting for Rest and Spiritual Renewal
The battle against distractions that steal our time.
A call to be vigilant and intentional about true rest.

Highlights From The Episode
"God rested and was refreshed. If He did, how much more should we?"
"Rest isn’t just physical—it’s spiritual and emotional too."
"Waiting on God doesn’t mean doing nothing; it means actively positioning yourself for renewal."
"We don’t need to just consume—we can create our own nourishing spiritual meals."

Practical Steps You Can Take
Assess Your Rest Habits – Are you truly resting, or just being entertained?
Create Space for God – Dedicate intentional time to seek Him daily.
Implement a Sabbath Rhythm – Consider a day or evening where you fully disconnect.
Guard Your Time – Be mindful of distractions that take away from true refreshment.
Actively Engage in the Word – Go beyond listening to sermons—study and meditate for yourself.

Relevant Themes Covered
Biblical rest and renewal
The importance of Sabbath
Balancing work, service, and personal well-being
Spiritual nourishment vs. passive consumption
Trusting God to refresh and strengthen us

Connect with RTB
For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails, and more, join the RTB community! Sign up here: www.reasontobehold.com
Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

When Life Won't Stop Punching You—Do This! - RTBP Episode 207

In this deeply reflective solo episode of the Reason to Behold Podcast, Arnold delivers a powerful wake-up call for believers navigating today’s challenging times. With the cost of living rising, societal pressures mounting, and uncertainty lurking around every corner, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and adopt a mindset of victimhood. But Arnold challenges us to shift our focus—from the externals we can’t control to the internal disciplines that build spiritual confidence and resilience. Using scriptural examples like David, Moses, and Daniel, this episode calls us back to a mindset rooted in faith, responsibility, and victory.

Key Discussion Points
00:01 – Stop Staring, Start Solving
Arnold sets the tone by urging listeners to stop blaming external circumstances and start seeking God-centred solutions.
01:00 – Navigating Financial Pressures
A candid look at the current economic climate in the UK and how it’s impacting our daily lives, regardless of income level.
02:30 – Wrestling with Wealth as a Believer
Arnold shares personal reflections on internal conflicts about money, prosperity, and guilt rooted in misinterpreted teachings.
04:30 – Victimhood vs Responsibility
Exploring how we fall into victim mindsets when we acknowledge real challenges but take no steps forward.
06:40 – Scripture as a Solution Strategy
An introduction to key biblical figures who overcame impossible odds through faith, courage, and spiritual focus.
08:50 – David & Goliath: A Spiritual Perspective
Breaking down David’s confidence in God and how spiritual mindset, not human strength, leads to victory.
12:30 – Confidence, Sin & Consistency
How daily disciplines and choices affect our confidence, especially when facing major life “Goliaths”.
17:10 – The Danger of Comfort & Complacency
Arnold highlights how easing up in peaceful seasons can lead to spiritual unpreparedness for life’s battles.
22:30 – Moses & Pharaoh: Confidence Amid Inadequacy
Looking at Moses’ doubts and how God's assurance was his source of strength, not his own capabilities.
27:30 – Daniel in the Lions' Den: Devotion Despite Danger
Daniel’s faithfulness in the face of death and how God’s protection followed his continued devotion.
33:00 – Faith in Every Season
Encouragement that following Christ is a full-time calling—not just for when life is easy or hard.
35:50 – Rebuilding Lost Confidence
Practical and spiritual encouragement for those who feel disqualified, guilty, or disconnected from God.

Highlights From The Episode
“Victimhood begins when we observe real challenges and take no action to overcome them.”
“Your disciplines don’t make you righteous, but they help you keep the door shut to the enemy.”
“David didn’t beat Goliath with physical strength—he won with spiritual confidence.”
“In seasons of ease, we must not compromise on spiritual disciplines.”
“Confession isn’t just about sin; it’s about inviting God into our truth so He can help us.”

Practical Steps You Can Take
Reflect on areas where you may have adopted a victim mindset.
Confess feelings of inadequacy or guilt to God rather than internalising them.
Reinstate or reinforce spiritual disciplines like reading Scripture and prayer—even during ‘easy’ seasons.
Remember that your confidence comes from your connection to God, not your performance.
Revisit biblical stories to reframe how you view and respond to your own “Goliaths”.

Relevant Themes Covered
Faith in tough times
Biblical mindset for overcoming obstacles
Spiritual disciplines and confidence
Financial pressures from a Christian perspective
Avoiding victimhood
Building resilience through scripture
Honest confession and restoration
Trusting God amid fear and inadequacy

Connect with RTB
For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails and more, join the RTB community! Sign up here: www.reasontobehold.com
Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We’d love to hear from you!
Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

Why You’re Still Struggling (Even Though You’re Praying) - RTBP Episode 208

In this episode of the Reason to Behold Podcast, Arnold and Tolu dive into a highly practical and timely conversation around navigating financial hardship, especially in light of the rising cost of living and turbulent economic times. Whether you are unemployed and struggling to find work or employed but overwhelmed by expenses that far exceed your income, this conversation is packed with biblical insight, actionable wisdom, and real-life strategies to help you make it through. From breaking out of entitlement mindsets to taking bold and unconventional steps, this episode offers hope, challenge, and practical direction for anyone facing financial pressure.

Key Discussion Points

[00:01] Introduction addressing unemployment and financial overextension
[01:30] "Goshen Principle": God's protection requires obedience to divine instructions
[02:50] Job hunting: Beyond easy applications - cold calling, door knocking
[04:00] Holiness as practical differentiation in seeking employment
[06:40] Relationship-based opportunities vs. formal applications
[13:00] Philippians 2 approach: Focus on solving others' problems
[18:30] Strategic value of temporary unpaid work for experience
[23:00] Overcoming pride: Humble yourself before circumstances force it
[26:00] Ruthless expense evaluation and commitment adjustment
[33:00] Income increase through creating value for others
[37:30] Taking extraordinary action for extraordinary results

Highlights

God's protection requires action and obedience
Stand out by using methods others avoid (face-to-face, cold calls)
Relationships often unlock opportunities
Pride limits options; humility opens doors
Downsize to survive before thriving
Income correlates with the level of problems you solve

Practical Steps

Review Expenses: Eliminate unnecessary costs immediately
Diversify Job Search: Call, visit, network actively beyond online applications
Problem-Solving Focus: Position yourself as a solution provider
Consider Unpaid Work: Gain experience, relationships, and access
Practice Humility: Take available jobs regardless of status
Prioritize Action: Extraordinary effort leads to extraordinary results

Themes Covered

Christian financial stewardship
Faith during hardship
Biblical work perspectives
Humility and obedience
Value creation
Practical financial wisdom
Breaking entitlement mindsets
Connect with RTB
For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails and more, join the RTB community!
👉 Sign up here: www.reasonstobehold.com
Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We’d love to hear from you!
📩 Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

Struggling Financially? The Biblical Key No One Is Teaching You - RTBP Episode 209

We’re just ordinary people who’ve encountered an extraordinary God (the one true God!). From time to time, we have some really cool conversations. So we decided to switch on some mics and make a podcast out of it! Unashamedly Christian, unapologetically unscripted (most times!). And we’re intentional about making Christian concepts both practical and visible in the life of the disciple. Our podcast isn’t intended to be a teaching platform. Instead, it’s a public dialogue designed to cause us (the hosts) and you (the listener) to be provoked with godly thoughts and inspired to walk closer with God. And also, to gain a practical perspective of the Christian faith lived out!

Broke & Stuck? The One Mindset Shift That Changes Everything - RTBP Episode 205

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