Family, Loss, and the Magic of Christmas with Jess & Steph

Growing up, the magic of waking up to a blanket of fresh snow was unbeatable, but the struggle of shoveling and navigating icy roads was a stark reality check. In this episode of the Jesus Fix It Podcast, we reflect on those mixed feelings about winter's wonderland. We embrace the enchantment of snow days, where warm drinks and beloved holiday movies provide the perfect cozy escape, while also acknowledging the practical challenges the season brings. The episode is filled with personal stories that reveal the delicate dance between cherishing the beauty of a snowy Christmas and the longing for clear roads when the festivities come to an end.As we journey through the nostalgia of Christmas movie traditions and family meals, listeners are invited to share in our love for timeless classics like "Home Alone" and hidden treasures like "Emmett Otter's Jug Band Christmas." Alongside these cinematic gems, we share heartwarming family traditions ranging from traditional feasts to uniquely personal celebrations. Our conversation takes a meaningful turn as we discuss the importance of embracing hope in every season, drawing strength from faith amidst life's ups and downs. With deeply personal reflections, we offer a prayer for resilience and hope, inviting listeners to find their own strength in the face of life's challenges.

In this engaging and honest podcast, Stephanie and Jess dive into the complexities of cultural understanding, addressing stereotypes, misconceptions, and sometimes awkward but necessary questions about race, culture, and identity. With humor and warmth, they create a safe space to explore topics like Black hair care, cultural appropriation, food habits, and the nuances of language when discussing race. They share personal stories and genuine curiosity, blending serious discussions with light-hearted moments, all rooted in mutual respect and their shared faith. Whether you’re wondering how to navigate conversations about race or seeking insight into different cultural experiences, this podcast fosters empathy, education, and laughter.

In this episode, Jess and Stephanie get real about the crazy world of dating for women over 35. From navigating double standards and uncomfortable questions to the strange misunderstandings that often arise, they share candid thoughts on what it's really like to date at this stage in life. And, of course, no conversation would be complete without adeep dive into the world of Christian dating apps. They tackle everything from ghosting to the balance between waiting on God and taking action in your own dating life. Stick around for a heartfelt moment at the end.

What happens when faith is put to the ultimate test? In an inspiring episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast, we're joined by Kristy Lair, a remarkable woman who shares her courageous journey through a breast cancer diagnosis at just 42. Kristy's story is one of unyielding faith, resilience, and hope. She opens up about the initial shock and emotional whirlwind of her diagnosis, revealing how her steadfast belief in Jesus and past experiences of divine faithfulness have been her anchor in the storm. Her candid reflections offer a beacon of hope, underscoring that no matter how daunting the challenges, we are never alone.This conversation transcends Kristy's personal battle and taps into broader themes of self-care and spiritual community. We explore the emotional roller coaster of cancer treatment and the vital importance of prioritizing one's health, even amidst cultural pressures to put others first. Kristy's journey also underscores the profound influence of faith in fostering meaningful connections and supportive communities. Through her story, we are reminded of the power of spiritual kinship and the importance of surrounding ourselves with those who uplift and encourage us. Get ready for a heartfelt discussion that not only challenges but also inspires you to hold fast to your faith in the face of life's unpredictable turns.

Join us for a soulful conversation with our esteemed guest Leslie Robb, a multi-talented comedian, teacher, and encourager. We take a journey into Leslie's personal struggles with depression and anxiety, offering a deeper insight into mental health issues and the role therapy plays in healing. Listen as Leslie uses her faith and humor to navigate her way through these challenges. This episode underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health, and you won't want to miss Leslie's enlightening take on finding purpose amidst the pain.

Join us on the Jesus Fix It podcast as we explore the multifaceted world of higher education, career choices, and work-life balance. Our special guest, Aaron Basko, Vice President of University Outreach at the University of Lynchburg, shares his valuable insights on the significance of a college education in today's evolving job market, and finding the thing that God wired you to do. We discuss the financial and personal benefits of obtaining a degree while acknowledging that college may not be the ideal path for everyone. Aaron sheds light on how higher education equips individuals with critical thinking and adaptability skills, which are crucial for navigating multiple career changes throughout life. We also address the challenge of balancing passion with practicality in a tough economy, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's unique design, desires, and market demand when selecting a career path.Listen in as we navigate the changing landscape of work-life balance and generational differences in work ethics. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, we examine how each generation's values and priorities have shaped their approach to work and personal life integration. We discuss the blurred boundaries between work and life for Millennials and Gen Z, the impact of social media on job satisfaction, and the challenge employers face in retaining talent amidst rapid economic shifts. Finally, we reflect on finding clarity and joy in our lives, with a focus on appreciating the blessings we already have and being present in the moment. Join us for an enriching conversation that offers valuable perspectives on education, career, and finding contentment in today's fast-paced world.

Join us for a heartfelt and insightful episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast as we continue our conversation with Betsy and Chris Head from Karis Care. We explore the critical aspects of caring for our aging and elderly loved ones, focusing on planning for caregiving based on specific events rather than a rigid timetable. Betsy shares valuable tips on maintaining physical abilities through daily activities that promote mobility and independence, drawing from her own mother's inspiring experience of staying active until the age of 97. We also address the challenge of finding compassionate caregivers in a post-COVID world and emphasize the importance of having a heart for caregiving over formal certifications. If you're passionate about making a difference, Karis Care offers training and support for those looking to join this meaningful field.In another segment, we highlight the significance of relationship-building in home care and share touching stories of clients and caregivers forming deep connections, especially during end-of-life care. Funding home care can be challenging, and we discuss various options such as private pay, long-term care insurance, veteran benefits, and improved reverse mortgage programs. Finally, Betsy and Chris open up about the grace that guides their business decisions, the blessings they've experienced, and their hopes for addressing caregiver shortages. Tune in for a truly enriching discussion!

This much-requested episode tackles the emotional and practical challenges of taking care of aging parents. Joined by Betsy and Chris Head from Karis Care Services, we explore how their organization supports families by providing a range of services, from companionship to full personal care. They share valuable insights on maintaining the independence of aging loved ones at home and enhancing their quality of life. We also discuss the overwhelming feelings of guilt that many family caregivers experience and how professional services can help alleviate these burdens.We discuss the reluctance of older adults to accept help and the critical importance of consistent care and social interaction. I share personal anecdotes about my own mother's resistance to home care and the steps we took to ensure her safety. Additionally, we address the current challenges in recruiting compassionate caregivers and emphasize that while formal training is beneficial, the right attitude and dedication are paramount. This episode offers heartfelt advice and practical solutions for anyone navigating the complexities of caring for aging parents.

Join us on the latest episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast, where Doug, our enthusiastic sports guest, and I discuss the burgeoning popularity of the WNBA. We delve into how stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have skyrocketed women's basketball into the national spotlight, sparking new fan interest and intense rivalries. Doug shares his newfound admiration for the WNBA, while I reflect on my long-standing love for women's sports. We explore the reactions of new fans experiencing the electrifying intensity of the game for the first time, underscoring how sports can both polarize and captivate.Switching gears, we also share our experiences in the world of youth soccer coaching, touching on the joys and hurdles of guiding young athletes, especially our own kids. From the challenges of coaching without goalies to the humorous dilemmas of parenting, like getting hot food to the perfect temperature, we cover it all. Tune in for relatable stories, laughter, and a heartwarming discussion about sports, parenting, and community.

In this heartfelt installment, I'm thrilled to have my son Cameron back by popular demand, as we candidly discuss the delicate balance between being a parent and a friend. We laugh, we muse, and we get real about why that "mom voice" or "dad voice" inevitably has to take precedence over buddy-buddy banter. Listen in as Cameron and I explore the affection and respect that form the foundation of our mother-son relationship, all the while understanding that parenting comes with boundaries and sometimes tough love.The conversation takes a tender turn as we confront the all-too-familiar pangs of mom-guilt. We share our personal stories and healing processes, and acknowledge that forgiveness and understanding can bridge gaps left by past regrets. Tune in for an emotional journey where laughter and wisdom go hand in hand, and where the love between a mother and her child shines through, even in the most challenging moments.