How do we find freedom from trauma in our lives? Today's guest, J. Otis Ledbetter, offers insights on the keys to overcoming trauma. J. Otis Ledbetter is an author, conference speaker and lead pastor at Sonrise Church in Clovis, California. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Liberty University. He is the author of Your Heritage: How to Be Intentional about the Legacy You Leave and Soul Hunger: Satisfying Your Heart’s Deepest Longing. See also:    Dr. Ledbetter shares how the issue of trauma first captured his attention during a board meeting for the Parenting Enhancement Program. The Board of Education required development of a Trauma-Informed curriculum to address emerging issues resulting from the recent pandemic. When Ledbetter saw the impact of trauma upon children in his county, his heart couldn't take it.  Ledbetter also heard the leader of a national ministry say he'd never heard a pastor address the issue of trauma from the pulpit. Realizing he hadn't targeted the topic of trauma, J. Otis wrote a sermon series on trauma. When he delivered the messages for the series, an unusual silence fell across the congregation as he spoke. Ledbetter received more feedback from his messages on trauma than he'd gotten from the entirety of his 36 years in ministry at that church, so he decided to write a book on this much-needed subject.  We discuss the rise in anxiety, depression, and suicide among children, teens, and adults. Dr. Ledbetter describes the progression from fear to anxiety, mood swings, and then isolation. He states that isolation brings on hopelessness and desperation, which can lead to suicidality.  Ledbetter declares the Bible is the best psychology book ever written. He states this is why he chose to approach this topic from a spiritual perspective. His school district intended to address only the social and emotional aspects of trauma, but Ledbetter recognized the need to include the spiritual component.  Dr. Ledbetter explains that the most revered people featured in scripture all suffered from trauma. He defines trauma as a chronic reaction to an event, not the event itself.  We discuss why the church has avoided the subject of trauma and how believers can better respond to the issue. Ledbetter cites the following reasons why Christians fail to deal well with trauma:   The myth that Christians should not have troubles  We become comfortable with our pain.   He cites Biblical examples of those who became too familiar with an unhealthy lifestyle. J. Otis describes how we often cry about pain but remain reluctant to allow anyone to touch the sore points and free us from the cause.  Dr. Ledbetter declares we need to live vertically in a horizontal world. He elaborates upon how trauma compounds as new events trigger additional chronic reactions. Quoting a therapist, he describes how trauma shatters perspective like a pebble hitting a windshield.  Ledbetter cites Biblical examples of trauma related to loss, anxiety, moodiness, isolation, and suicidality. He states this progression leads to lying as we attempt to create a safe place for ourselves. Our personal choice remains a key factor in overcoming trauma.  We discuss how isolation keeps us from the source of healing.  We also explore reasons why believers and even ministry leaders fear reaching out, particularly the lack of proper training.  Ledbetter encourages us to see hurting people as disconnected souls. He refers to his book, Soul Hunger, in which he identifies the number one hunger of the soul as connection. If a person has a psychological disorder, refer them to professional support. If the wounded heart does not have a mental health disorder, offer them the healing balm of connection.&nbsp;  We discuss equipping lay believers and ministry to respond better to trauma, using Set Free as a resource. Ledbetter describes how people in the Bible moved from fear to faith, from anxiety to assurance, from moodiness to maturity, from isolation to...

Freedom from Trauma with J. Otis Ledbetter

In this episode of Flourish-Meant, host Tina Yeager sits down with special guest Melissa Huray to delve into Melissa's transformative journey from blackout binge drinking to finding grace and redemption. Melissa shares her compelling story of overcoming 15 years of despair and misery through surrendering to the light of Jesus and finding her way back to sobriety. Melissa Huray is an Emmy award-winning journalist, the executive director of the Lindell Recovery Network, and host of the Hope Report Show. As an author, Melissa discusses her book "Blackout to Blessings" and the impact she hopes it will have on those struggling with addiction, trauma, or a feeling of being distant from God. The candid conversation covers topics of trust, forgiveness, and the power of grace in finding freedom and healing. Tune in to hear Melissa's inspiring tale of resilience and faith, and discover how her story can bring hope and comfort to those in similar situations. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and perseverance in the face of addiction and personal struggles. Melissa's candid conversation with host Tina Yeager revealed the deep impact of her battle with blackout binge drinking and the compelling journey of finding hope and healing through her faith. She highlighted the importance of surrender, repentance, and forgiveness as pivotal steps in her deliverance. Her experience with recovery and the long road to finding peace resonates deeply with those who have faced similar challenges. Through her unwavering commitment to trust in God and his grace, Melissa's path from darkness to blessing serves as an inspiring beacon for anyone seeking solace and redemption. To continue engaging with Melissa's remarkable story and explore her upcoming devotional book for addicts, "Radical Freedom," we encourage you to visit her author website at . Keep an eye out for her insightful blog and other resources aimed at nurturing hope and healing in the lives of those facing addiction and seeking spiritual restoration. We hope that Melissa's journey will inspire and encourage you, as it has for so many others. We're honored to have had the opportunity to share her remarkable story with our Flourish-Meant community. To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website:  To flourish in all seasons of life with the highest quality nutraceutical health supplements that benefit charitable causes, shop NutraMedix wellness supplements. Be sure to use my link&nbsp;  and add my special code TINA to get 10% off your entire purchase! Get inspired now and get Tina Yeager's newest release, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose! The book is available on Amazon, Bold Vision Books, or wherever books are sold. Visit Tina's website for craft videos and more at&nbsp; Follow Tina on Amazon:&nbsp; If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers):&nbsp; Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and Anxiety&nbsp; Connect with Tina at: Facebook:&nbsp; Linked In:  Instagram:  YouTube:&nbsp; Pinterest:  Goodreads:  &nbsp;

Hope in Your Darkest Hour: From Blackout to Blessing with Melissa Huray

On today's episode of Flourish-Meant, we sit down with Katherine Warnock, VP of Original Content for The Chosen TV streaming series. Katherine shares her personal insights into the powerful messages conveyed in The Chosen TV show and how it has impacted the lives of audiences. From the permission to be in process to the importance of small beginnings, Katherine delves into the profound impact of the show and its grassroots engagement with viewers. Join us as we explore the deeper meaning behind The Chosen and its potential to change lives and communities. Katherine Warnock is Vice President of Original Content with the global phenomenon television series The Chosen, a groundbreaking historical drama based on the life of Jesus. Katherine holds a background in strategic content, marketing, and branding-based leadership spanning media, fashion, and social enterprise. Previously head of faith and family content at MGM Studios, Katherine helped to steer exponential growth through innovative content creation. Katherine has worked with elite brands from Paramount Pictures, Warner Brothers, and Sony to Ford, Aerie, and Gillette with a goal of positively affecting culture through purposeful, anchored, mission-driven media. Katherine shared profound insights about the show's message of giving ourselves permission to be in the process, embracing the grace and redemption provided by Jesus, and being part of a diverse and imperfect community. Katherine's message resonates deeply with the heart of Flourishment, as it speaks to the ongoing journey of spiritual growth and the importance of authentic connections with others in our faith community. We encourage you to listen to the full podcast episode to gain a deeper understanding of The Chosen's impactful storytelling and the significance of journeying alongside imperfect yet transformed individuals. Moreover, Katherine discussed the practical ways in which The Chosen can be used as a tool for outreach, discipleship, and community building. The show's ability to reach individuals across different faith backgrounds and impact their lives serves as a testimony to the power of storytelling and the message of hope and redemption. If you have not yet experienced The Chosen, we invite you to explore the show through , where you can access a wealth of resources, including devotionals, community engagement opportunities, and valuable content that seeks to deepen the impact of the series. As we navigate our own personal journey of faith, may we draw inspiration from the stories shared in The Chosen and recognize that, like the diverse group of individuals who encountered Jesus in the Gospels, we too have permission to be in process, to embrace grace, and to walk alongside others with authenticity and compassion. May your faith be strengthened, your hope renewed, and your connections deepened through the transformative messages of The Chosen. To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website:  Get inspired now and get Tina Yeager's newest release, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose! The book is available on Amazon, Bold Vision Books, or wherever books are sold. Visit Tina's website for craft videos and more at&nbsp; Follow Tina on Amazon:&nbsp; If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers):&nbsp; Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and Anxiety&nbsp; Connect with Tina at: Facebook:&nbsp; Linked In:  Instagram:  YouTube:&nbsp; Pinterest:  Goodreads:  &nbsp; To flourish in all seasons of life with the highest quality nutraceutical health supplements that benefit charitable causes, shop NutraMedix wellness supplements. Be sure to use my link&nbsp;  and add my special code TINA to get 10% off your entire purchase! &nbsp;

The Chosen Shares Truth in Fiction with VP Katherine Warnock

How can WIT boost our WISDOM? Welcome back to another enriching episode of Flourish-Meant! In today's sweet treat of a conversation, we're sprinkling wit over wisdom with the talent and charm of award-winning author Linda Kozar.&nbsp; Linda brings her signature Southern flair and humor to the discussion as we dive into her delightful devotional, "Gimme Some Sugar." This episode is not just about laughs; it's about reaching our spiritual depths. We'll explore how humor can disarm us, making way for resilience and a deeper acceptance of wisdom. Linda shares insights from her own journey of faith and wisdom gained from her experiences in teaching a women's Bible study, as well as the therapeutic and relational benefits of humor in everyday life.&nbsp; Join us as Linda gives us a taste of how Southern humor uniquely stitches grace into our interactions and how we can use it to sweeten the lens through which we view Scripture. Linda also provides practical tips on integrating humor into your devotional routine and juggling Bible reading amidst a busy life. Don't forget to listen to the end for a special offer—a free PDF gift filled with funny Southern sayings, recipes, and a guaranteed smile! So, get ready to find the sweet juice in your spiritual journey and let's get our sugar fix on Flourish-Meant, where we feed not only your soul but promise a hearty helping of humor with our special guest, Linda Kozar.&nbsp; Linda Kozar is an award-winning multi-published author of traditional and indie-published fiction and nonfiction books with a southern flair.&nbsp; 🔑 **Here are 3 Key Takeaways:** - 🤣 Humor as a Spiritual Disarmament: Linda shared how incorporating humor into Bible studies and devotionals can break down walls, allowing the serious teachings of faith to settle more softly into our hearts. - 📖 The Healing Power of Laughter: We discussed the biblical proverb about a merry heart and laughter's almost medicinal influence on our souls, highlighting how humor can shift our brain chemistry toward joy. - 🌼 Southern Sweetness in Devotionals: Linda's Southern roots shine through her work, especially in her new book "Gimme Some Sugar". She emphasizes the importance of slowing down, savoring life's moments, and seeing God's grace and humor in everyday situations. Visit Linda's website at  to learn more about her devotionals. Sign up for Linda's newsletter on her site or my newsletter at &nbsp; to get a special free PDF gift!&nbsp; 👉 Subscribe to Flourish-Meant for your bi-weekly boost of wit, wisdom, and wellness! To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website:  To flourish in all seasons of life with the highest quality nutraceutical health supplements that benefit charitable causes, shop NutraMedix wellness supplements. Be sure to use my link&nbsp;  and add my special code TINA to get 10% off your entire purchase! Get inspired now and get Tina Yeager's newest release, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose! The book is available on Amazon, Bold Vision Books, or wherever books are sold. Visit Tina's website for craft videos and more at&nbsp; Follow Tina on Amazon:&nbsp; If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers):&nbsp; Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and Anxiety&nbsp; Connect with Tina at: Facebook:&nbsp; Instagram:&nbsp; YouTube:&nbsp; &nbsp;

How Wit Boosts Wisdom with Linda Kozar

Welcome to the latest episode of Flourish-Meant! In this enlightening discussion, host Tina Yeager sits down with children's author and speaker, Jennifer Noel Wilson, to explore the delicate balance between healthy competition and friendship. They delve into the impact of competition on children, the role of parents in modeling healthy competition, the influence of childhood experiences on adult relationships, and the significance of prayer and biblical principles in cultivating positive friendships. Jennifer also shares invaluable insights on how parents can support their children's journey towards building strong and meaningful relationships. Tune in to gain valuable wisdom and practical tips on fostering healthy competition and friendship in your family and community. Jennifer is an author, speaker, children's ministry leader, triathlete, wife, and mom to three teenagers. A graduate of Wheaton college, she desires to help bring families and children closer to Jesus through serving, teaching, and writing.  Tina and Jennifer explore the role of competition in children's lives, its potential impact on friendships, and how parents can model healthy competition for their kids. With valuable insights into identifying and nurturing healthy competition, this episode offers practical tips for parents and caregivers aiming to guide children toward positive and supportive relationships in their competitive endeavors. From the abundance of valuable scripture references to the practical advice on redirecting negative competition and fostering positive sportsmanship, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intersection of competition and friendship within children's activities. In addition to the engaging dialogue, Jennifer shares about her debut picture book, "The Best Trophy," which encourages children to develop godly friendships by praying for each other and putting others first, based on the principles found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10. We hope this episode provides valuable insights and encouragement for nurturing healthy competition and fostering strong friendships within your community. Connect with Jennifer Noel Wilson at .&nbsp; To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website:  To flourish in all seasons of life with the highest quality nutraceutical health supplements that benefit charitable causes, shop NutraMedix wellness supplements. Be sure to use my link&nbsp;  and add my special code TINA to get 10% off your entire purchase! Get inspired now and get Tina Yeager's newest release, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose! The book is available on Amazon, Bold Vision Books, or wherever books are sold. Visit Tina's website for craft videos and more at&nbsp; Follow Tina on Amazon:&nbsp; If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers):&nbsp; Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and Anxiety&nbsp; Connect with Tina at: Facebook:&nbsp; Linked In:  Instagram:  YouTube:&nbsp; Pinterest:  Goodreads:  &nbsp;

Healthy Competition and Friendship with Jennifer Noel Wilson

Welcome to another soul-nourishing episode of Flourish-Meant. Today, your host, Tina Yeager, invites you to tune into a compelling discussion on mental wellbeing for teens, featuring the remarkable insights of author and national speaker, Laura Gallier.  Laura Gallier () is an author and national speaker whose inspiring life story empowers students and adults to overcome enemies of the soul such as oppressive thoughts, emotions, and habits. Having battled her own enemies of the soul throughout her teen and young adult years, she is on a mission to expose deception with the light of truth, bringing hope and healing to a generation in need. As an advocate of biblical truth in a skeptical generation, Gallier sheds light on many of today’s most highly debated moral and social issues. She is the author of the Christy Award award-winning novel series, The Delusion. Gallier is the lead developer of the I AM WORTHY Mental-Emotional Wellness and Character-Building Program for Students in public schools. Laura shares not only from her wealth of professional knowledge but also her personal journey through dark emotional challenges. Together, they delve deep into the pressures facing today's youth—from existential angst fostered by societal messaging to the breakdown of family structures and the often misleading allure of social media influencers. Laura highlights the importance of a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses body, mind, and spirit, touching on the physical impact of our thoughts and the power of beliefs in shaping self-worth. They confront the complex realities of spiritual warfare and the influence of the demonic on our vulnerabilities and despair.&nbsp; Moreover, Laura offers thought-provoking perspectives on the shifting sands of faith among teens, the significance of engaging with tough questions, and the transformative power of knowing God's love. From discussing the nuanced challenges of confronting topics like homosexuality to advocating for intimate relationships with God over religious legalism, this episode promises to equip listeners with wisdom and actionable advice for guiding teens towards healing, truth, and flourishing mental health. Here are **3 Key Takeaways** from Laura's interview: - **Understanding the Whole Person**: Laura stresses the importance of addressing teen mental health from a holistic perspective—encompassing the body, mind, and spirit. She highlights the impact of societal messages and the fragmentation of the family unit on teen mental wellbeing. 🌿 - **The Power of Authentic Faith**: She discusses the decline in belief in biblical truth among teens and parents, suggesting that modeling a genuine relationship with God rather than merely following doctrine could be transformative. 🙏  **Navigating through Delusion**: Lastly, Laura touches upon her book series, "The Delusion," explaining how it aims to illustrate spiritual warfare in a way that's relatable to teens. Her goal is to convey that true fulfillment and safety come from aligning with God's truth, not societal falsehoods. 📚  Connect with Laura and check out her Delusion series at&nbsp;. To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website:  To flourish in all seasons of life with the highest quality nutraceutical health supplements that benefit charitable causes, shop NutraMedix wellness supplements. Be sure to use my link&nbsp;  and add my special code TINA to get 10% off your entire purchase! Get inspired now and get Tina Yeager's newest release, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose! The book is available on Amazon, Bold Vision Books, or wherever books are sold. Visit Tina's website for craft videos and more at&nbsp; Follow Tina on Amazon:&nbsp; If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers):&nbsp; Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and...

Freedom from Trauma with J. Otis Ledbetter

Tina Yeager

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