#414 Your Jesus is Too American: Calling the Church to Reclaim Kingdom Values with Steve Bezner

My guest today is my dear friend, Dr. Steve Bezner. Steve is the senior pastor of Houston Northwest Church, in Houston Texas. His passion is to see Houston and the world become more like heaven as people become more like Jesus. He’s a preacher, teacher, writer, and speaker and has such a gift for making the Bible easy to understand. Steve’s new book is releasing this October, called Your Jesus is Too American: Calling the Church to Reclaim Kingdom Values over the American Dream, which I’m so excited to talk about today. In this book, Steve challenges the overpowering influences of money, politics, and status that often overshadow Jesus' teachings. With over a decade of pastoral experience, Steve encourages readers to rediscover important kingdom values like humble service, reconciliation, generosity, and a grounded political witness in our communities. This is such an incredible book, and I strongly believe it’s a must-read as we head into this election season.  So, without further ado, let’s get into it! 5:44 – Steve 101 Pastor of Houston Northwest Church Growing up in north Texas Being called to ministry Two adult sons 7:36 – The Genesis Of The Book The inspiration behind Your Jesus Is Too American The book’s foundation in the Sermon on the Mount Embodying the kingdom of God in the middle of community 15:29 – Living Out Kingdom Values  Being disciples of Jesus first Focusing on issues rather than candidates Turning to scripture and working towards the vision of Jesus locally Jesus’ command to love your enemy 34:33 – Faith In Action Embodying Jesus in our daily lives Recognizing ingrained beliefs that conflict with Jesus’ words Stepping into the lived experience of the kingdom Pre-ordering your copy of Your Jesus Is Too American FEATURED QUOTES “The purpose of a church is to provide faithful witness for Jesus in the midst of a community that often wants to ignore Jesus and ignore His way.” “The first and most important identity needs to be your identity in Christ and joining into His story.” “When you die to the American dream and you embrace the way of Jesus, you actually end up having a far better experience of being human than you could ever imagine.”   Learn more about Steve: https://www.stevebezner.com/ Get your copy of Your Jesus Is Too American https://www.amazon.com/Your-Jesus-Too-American-Calling/dp/1587436310 Houston NW Church https://www.hnw.org/ Steve on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sbezner/ Steve on X https://x.com/bezner Steve on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sbezner/?hl=en   Connect with me:   http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly     GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

I’m thrilled to welcome the incredible, hilarious, and brilliant Chase Rashad to the show. Chase is the lead pastor at Unison Christian Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is also a musician and a racial equity coach for many schools, churches, and businesses.  Chase recently released a new book, Seamless: What Your Spiritual Gifts Are Really For, exploring how spiritual gifts, intended by God to transform the world, are often underutilized. He reminds us that, like a human body has many different parts and functions, every believer has a unique role to play in the Body of Christ. This conversation was truly special. We laughed, we got deep, and this quickly became one of my favorite episodes in a long time. Chase’s insights on community, the role of spiritual gifts, and the importance of working together within the church were so inspiring and thought-provoking. Trust me, you’re in for a treat this week! 3:56 – Chase 101 Married for 19 years Parent to 4 humans and a great dane Pastor, singer, writer, musician and author The perfect shade of green and sanctified imagination 12:49 – What Your Spiritual Gifts Are Really For Where Chase’s passion for this book came from The importance of unity among believers 1 Corinthians 12 Spiritual gifts as a way to serve others 24:44 – The Power of Every Gift Recognizing and honoring all gifts The danger of only valuing visible or “up front” gifts The detrimental effects of isolation  How spiritual gifts are often best discovered and used in community 39:30 – Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts Identifying your gifts in community Spiritual gifts as a conversation starter Praying over your skills and talents Connecting with Chase FEATURED QUOTES “It’s not hung on, how big our churches are, how dope our podcasts are, how good our books are, and how great we sing… Our witness for Christ is hung on our love for each other and our unity. And that was really the burden by which I wrote Seamless.” “If you're working against your ability to be united, you're also working against your ability to show the world Jesus.” “Our purpose isn't to memorize Scripture with each other. Our purpose isn't to sing songs to one another. Our purpose isn't even to just make sure that we're good. Our purpose is to make disciples.” Learn more about Chase: Get your copy of Seamless https://www.amazon.com/Seamless-What-Spiritual-Gifts-Really/dp/1632575841 Unison Christian Church https://unisongr.churchcenter.com/home Unison Christian Church Podcast  https://unisoncc.podbean.com/ Chase’s Music https://music.apple.com/us/artist/chase-rashad/1481147224 Chase on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-r-stancle-sr-b577b068/ Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com  http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly   GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn  Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG  ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb  Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8  Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv  About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world. 

This week, I'm so excited to welcome Sandra Stanley and her daughter, Allie Stanley Cooney, as our guests. Sandra, a familiar face on the show, is a dedicated foster parent, foster advocate, and co-author of the book Parenting: Getting It Right. This time, Sandra is joined by her daughter, Allie, who has a Master’s in Christian Education and background in student ministry, to discuss their book Meet Me in the Middle: 8 Mother-Daughter Conversations about Life and Faith.  This book is such an incredible resource for those looking to strengthen their relationship with young girls in their lives. As a mom of a tween girl myself, this conversation was so insightful and encouraging. Moms, grandmas, sisters, dads, uncles, and mentors- there is something in this episode for you!  4:52 – Allie 101 Georgia native, pastor family, youngest of 3 Background in student ministry and Christian education Wife and mom 7:27 – Sandra 201 Life as a grandmother Writing a book with Allie 36 years of marriage 8:26 – Writing a Book Together What led Sandra and Allie to write this book  Having hard conversations ahead of time Setting your child up for success 15:24 – The Imperfect Path of Parenting Appreciating a parent’s love when you become a parent Making mistakes as a parent Allowing children to make mistakes in a safe environment The unique dynamic of a mother/daughter relationship  Philippians 4:4-9 as a foundation for this book 28:16 – Meet Me In The Middle How this book is structured  Identity and self-worth in middle and high school What we model matters Parenting in the age of social media Helping your children own their faith 48:17 – Final Thoughts Navigating big feelings with your children Getting your copy of Meet Me In The Middle Encouragement for moms and mentors FEATURED QUOTES “If we can bridge the gap between moms and daughters so that they can have some of the hard conversations ahead of time, before…. there's conflict and tension…it is such a win when those hard times come.” “We really wanted to structure it in a way that a grandmother or an aunt or a mentor could also pick it up and do this with the young lady in their life that they love and who is important to them.” “You don't have to change, you don't have to pretend, you don't have to give up hope, because Jesus did all of that on your behalf… You are enough and you are loved, and you are a child of God.” “What we model matters, and it matters in the development of our children's faith and how they view their Heavenly Father.” Learn more about Sandra and Allie: https://www.sandrastanley.com/meetmeinthemiddle Get your copy of Meet Me in the Middle  https://www.amazon.com/Meet-Me-Middle-Mother-Daughter-Conversations/dp/0310368677 Get your copy of Parenting: Getting It Right https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Getting-Right-Andy-Stanley/dp/0310366275/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zWEmq7GGvxYEchs0KShkw_xA3D4LBVR9tIJAm0eZLRgsDPFM_0sVtgStL4OceEucDiZxuWVTa7BVc4qDvnVWp7BeV1To3BFO9wjky07Q-79EBPiNXZ7kgu1gkj4eK0vUojrsnXGW9LG5NIcO6A9y3vGgpzBMRJ6okTT9KESOzRcswK2SRxd7AYBXH5v9trlMJNfAeRisd-GLAzzEHg0BnNrdhj8Ng9QM9egb7OTAdCo.K97LQwbs-mFGFmMBDRy1cpDI5RVsSO8JoZbkRnss_qA&dib_tag=se&hvadid=634502039983&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9010494&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=5591213651008220050&hvtargid=kwd-1913356014711&hydadcr=27890_14488800&keywords=parenting+getting+it+right&qid=1725999611&sr=8-1 Allie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliekaycooney/?hl=en Sandra on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandrawstanley/?hl=en Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com  http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly   GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn  Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG  ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb  Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8  Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv  About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

As we kick off the new school year, this conversation could not be timelier! My guest this week is the incredible Jennifer Pepito, who is on a mission to help moms create a home filled with peace, wonder, and purpose. Jennifer is host of the Restoration Home Podcast, founder of The Peaceful Press, and author of the book Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families.  As a homeschooling mother of seven, Jennifer has a deep passion for equipping families to homeschool in a way that is developmentally appropriate, spiritually nourishing, and based on proven methods of education. I’m so excited to have her on the show today to talk about her new book. Whether you homeschool or not, this conversation offers so much wisdom about building good habits in your home. I know you’re going to love it! 2:02 – Jennifer 101 Mom of 7 children Homeschooling for 26 years Empowering moms to take action 5:23 – Intentional Parenting in a Chaotic World How Jennifer’s upbringing influenced her intentional parenting Having strong family practices to counterbalance culture’s chaos The power of simple habits, like family dinners and reading together 14:48 – Building Good Habits: Foundations for a Purposeful Life Utilizing and caring for what God has entrusted us with Balancing work and presence with your loved ones Staying committed to good practices even when results aren’t immediately visible Finding balance in consuming the news 27:54 – Final Thoughts Influential women of faith The Peaceful Press and resources for families Connecting with Jennifer FEATURED QUOTES “Just being humans in relationship with other humans, as opposed to living solely in a virtual reality world, is counter-cultural. And I wanted to highlight in this book how powerful it is just to be like a normal, sort of 1980s human.” “Be faithful and trust that you sowed. Somebody else is going to water and make sure the harvest grows, and you don't know when that's going to happen. We aren't the potters. We are just the clay…Stay on the potting wheel and let God do what he's going to do, and just be faithful.” “If we look at stories and we look at the Bible, we can be hopeful, but if we look at the news, we will be dysregulated, and our bodies will feel awful, and we'll have a really hard time being sweet with our kids.” Learn more about Jennifer: Get your copy of Habits For a Sacred Home https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Sacred-Home-Practices-Families/dp/0764239546 The Peaceful Press https://www.thepeacefulpreschool.com/ The Peaceful Press on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/peacefulpress/ The Peaceful Press on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thepeacefulpress/ The Peaceful Press on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thepeacefulpress Restoration Home with Jennifer Pepito Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/restoration-home-with-jennifer-pepito/id1650672690   Connect with me:   http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly     GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.  

This month marks a huge milestone for Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? - 8 amazing years of podcasting! It’s incredible to think that for 8 years, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my thoughts, interviews, and stories with you every single week. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your endless support and encouragement along the way! Since I’ve been a little quieter on social media this summer, I wanted to record a special solo episode this week to catch up and share what’s coming up. Tune in as I fill you in on the last few months and share some exciting updates! We have some incredible guests lined up for the fall that I can’t wait to share with you. But I also want to hear from you! Who would you like to hear on the podcast? What topics are you passionate about? Send me your ideas at [email protected] – I’d love to hear from you! 1:26 – Podcast Feedback, Guests, and More! Share your thoughts with me at [email protected] 2:38 – A Quiet Summer An intentional break Catching up on social media The beach, lake, and a trip to Rome 4:22 – An Exciting Update… Going back to school Masters in Theological and Biblical Studies Words of encouragement (please!) 6:50 – 8 Amazing Years! Grabbing your copy of If I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry Thank you for your endless support!! Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

This week on Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder, we’re sitting down with the incredible Abbie Halberstadt. Abbie is a wife, homeschooling mama to 10 amazing kids, a best-selling author, blogger, and fitness instructor. But most importantly, she's a Bible-believing Christian with a deep desire to know God and make Him known.   Abbie lives by the motto "Hard is not the same thing as bad," and she passionately encourages women to dig deep in the everyday trials of motherhood to uncover the treasures of joy and growth that are abundant if we're willing to look.   In this episode, we dive straight into a rich conversation about her newest book, Hard is Not the Same Thing as Bad, which echoes this philosophy. We explore what it looks like to navigate the trials of life, motherhood, and everything the world throws at us.   It was an absolute honor to have Abbie on the show, and I just know you'll be as inspired by her as I was!   2:30 – Abbie 101   Wife, mom, and Christian living in Texas Best-selling author Married to a supportive and wise partner Trust and teamwork within a family     16:55 – Hard Is Not The Same As Bad   Where the idea for this book came from The hard teaches us something Who Abbie had in mind when writing this book Motherhood is not a burden     31:01 – The Gift of Parenting   How motherhood is commonly portrayed today Ignoring voices that encourage complaining and victimhood Seeking strength and support from God Giving children purpose and responsibility at home     48:47 – Takeaways   Psalm 27:13 Connecting with Abbie     FEATURED QUOTES   “The hard teaches us something. Hard is not the same thing as bad.”   “Moms need to hear that the Lord is good regardless of your circumstances, that motherhood is not a burden, that it is, in fact, a blessing from the Lord.”   “Dig deep into Jesus and kick out those voices that are telling you can't and you're a victim. And then also take the practical steps to prepare yourself and your children to have peace in your home and good rhythms, because they will pay off over time.”     Learn more about Abbie:   https://misformama.net/   Abbie’s book, Hard Is Not The Same Thing As Bad:   https://misformama.net/hard-is-not-the-same-thing-as-bad   Abbie’s book, M Is For Mama:   https://misformama.net/book   Abbie on Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/M.is.for.Mama/   Abbie on Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/MisforMama   Abbie on Pinterest:   https://www.facebook.com/MisforMama Connect with me:   http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly     GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

You are in for a treat this week! My guest is the hilarious and inspiring Cynthia Yanof. Cynthia is a wife, mom of 3, podcaster, blogger, and everyday girl who believes in embracing life’s messiness with a sense of humor and a whole lot of faith. She spends most of her days hoping her kids won’t embarrass her in public while praying they chase after God-sized dreams. After meeting her husband, Mike, in law school, she swapped legal aspirations for a simpler life (though that only lasted about a day). Now, Cynthia is the host of the popular MESSmerized podcast, a speaker, writer, and a passionate advocate for foster care. We laughed, we got deep, and we covered it all in this episode. Cynthia’s first book, Life Is Messy, God Is Good, is available now, and this conversation is a perfect reflection of that message. Tune in for a fun and relatable chat that reminds us all that while life may be messy, God is always good. 2:13 – Dance Parties in Nursing Homes Embracing 40 Having fun at every life stage Reminiscing about prom music 11:20 – Cynthia 101 Married for 22 years with 3 kids A foster parent Author of Life Is Messy, God Is Good Leaving law to become a podcaster 16:21 – Redefining Success + Aligning With Your Calling Being outside of your gifting What narratives are you listening to? Measuring success by God’s truth God wastes nothing 24:46 – The Foundational Things The story of the thigh master Learning to hear the voice of God The ordinary stuff is important Deepening your relationship with God in hard seasons 36:42 – Embracing The Mess Questioning God’s timing and methodology God is God Connecting with Cynthia FEATURED QUOTES "When you're doing something outside of your gifting, you know." “If you're sitting in a space where you're like, I feel like there might be something next the Lord's calling me into something next…. it takes the most reluctant ‘yes,’ and the Lord will take that and run with it.” " You've got to be putting foundational things in place in your life in order to hear from God.” " Don't buy into the lie that the ordinary stuff isn't significant because it is.”   Learn more about Cynthia: https://cynthiayanof.com/ Get Your Copy of Life Is Messy God Is Good https://www.amazon.com/Life-Messy-God-Good-Everyday/dp/0830785337 MESSmerized Podcast https://cynthiayanof.com/episodes/ Cynthia on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cynthia.yanof Cynthia on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cynthiayanof/ Connect with me:  http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly   GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.                                  

I am so excited to be joined by Kyle Winkler this week. He is a bible teacher and the creator of the highly acclaimed mobile app, Shut Up Devil!, which ranks among the top Christian apps. Kyle is also an accomplished author, speaker, and frequent guest on prominent Christian media platforms such as The 700 Club, Praise the Lord, and Sid Roth's It's Supernatural. Outside of this, Kyle is the host of an incredible podcast and author of the book Permission To Be Imperfect: How To Strive Less, Stress Less, Sin Less. I’m always thrilled to have other podcasters on the show, and this chat with Kyle absolutely did not disappoint. In a world that constantly pushes us to do more and achieve more, this discussion is a timely reminder that we are already enough in God’s eyes. I’m telling you, this is an episode that you’re going to be thinking about weeks after you hear it. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this powerful conversation with Kyle! 3:50 – Kyle 101 Living in central Florida Founder of Kyle Winkler Ministries Creator of the Shut Up, Devil! show and app Author of Permission To Be Imperfect 6:18 – Finding Peace in Imperfection Kyle’s faith journey and struggle with perfectionism The pressures of modern hustle culture Common misconceptions about God’s character The true nature of God 20:04 – Shut Up, Devil! Shifting your perspective when reading scripture God’s intention for humanity Combatting lies with biblical truths Understanding the enemy’s tactics Renewing our minds with the truth of God’s word 30:29 – Encouragement for Perfectionists The trap of the “good Christian” syndrome Performance vs. grace You have permission to be imperfect Leaning into who you are FEATURED QUOTES “We get into this pattern of we've got to do, do, do, do, do, in order to exceed or succeed, and it ends up wearing us down and burning us out.” “Any other thing that isn't grace and isn't unfailing love- any other idea that you have about God is ultimately a lie.” “When you… take yourself out of the picture, and you let the Holy Spirit really take you through things and show you things, you'll see God in ways you never did before.” Learn more about Kyle: Kyle Winkler Ministries https://www.kylewinkler.org/ Get Your Copy of Permission To Be Imperfect Permission to Be Imperfect: How to Strive Less, Stress Less, Sin Less - Kyle Winkler Ministries Kyle’s Other Books https://www.kylewinkler.org/store/books/ The Shut Up, Devil Show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-shut-up-devil-show-with-kyle-winkler/id1051150056 Download the Shut Up, Devil! App Shut Up, Devil! - Apps on Google Play Kyle on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kylewinklerministries Kyle on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kylejwinkler Kyle on X https://x.com/kylewinkler Kyle on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/kylewinklerministries?sub_confirmation=1 Connect with me:   http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly     GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.

My guest this week is the incredible Kim Jones, who you might also know as Real Talk Kim. She is a pastor, entrepreneur, mentor, motivational speaker, entertainer, best-selling author, and mother of two sons, Morgan and Lincoln. I’m thrilled to have her on the show today to talk about her new book, Unstuck. This is a powerful 90-day guide designed to help you break free from pain and regret through God’s truths and prepare your soul for new beginnings.  In our conversation today, Kim talks about hitting rock bottom after a devastating divorce. It was during this time that she realized she needed to take charge of her life, forgive others and herself, and embrace joy. I hope you’ll join us for this great reminder that, no matter where you are in life, it's never too late to get unstuck and start anew. This is probably one of my favorite episodes of the summer and I’m so excited to share it with you! 2:55 – Kim 101 Real Talk Kim on social media Mother, pastor, and coach Author of six books 6:58 – Turning Scars Into Stars Embracing joy Forgiving yourself and letting go God’s perfect timing and plan 14:24 – Breaking Free: Getting Out Of Your Own Way Kim’s catalyst for change How Kim used prayer and affirmations to change her mindset The role of forgiveness during the healing process The story of Jesus and Judas 24:52 – The Heart Behind Unstuck Forgiving others and yourself Taking one day at a time God isn’t done! FEATURED QUOTES "I remember when I got my laugh. And it was when I stopped caring what people thought about me.” “Every season is strategic by God. Even if you did it, even if you messed up, he's gonna turn them scars into stars.” "As long as you ain't dead, God ain't done." "Forgiveness is about getting your heart right with God." Learn more about Kim: Real Talk Kim https://realtalkkim.com/ Get your copy of Unstuck https://www.amazon.com/Unstuck-Days-Inspiration-Encouragement-Promise-ebook/dp/B0CMQ74M7Y Real Talk Kim on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/realtalkkim Real Talk Kim on X https://x.com/realtalkkim?mx=2 Real Talk Kim on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/realtalkkim/ Real Talk Kim on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/realtalkkim Connect with me:   http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly   GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.                              

I’m so excited to welcome Courtney Joseph Fallick onto the show today. She is a best-selling author and founder of Women Living Well Ministries and Good Morning Girls. Since 2014, Courtney has been blogging through the Bible, one chapter at a time, and her impactful work has been featured on platforms like the Rachael Ray Show and Proverbs 31 Ministries.   Courtney’s latest book, Still Standing: How to Live in God's Light While Wrestling with the Dark, dives into her personal journey through a dark season marked by fear, shame, and grief. Listen in as she shares her story of overcoming the pain of her husband's infidelity and offers powerful insights on how to stand up after life’s most crushing struggles.   Whether you’re wrestling through a dark season or are supporting someone who is, I hope you’ll join us for this incredible reminder of God’s faithfulness!   3:09 – Courtney 101   Blogging since 2008 Navigating a dark season of life New book to help women face struggles with courage and faith     5:30 – Blogging Through The Bible   How Courtney started blogging though the Bible The blog’s format and schedule The soak method     12:18 – Finding Peace After Infidelity   The early stages of shock and denial The struggle of public perception and advice Finding healing and a new normal Courtney’s marriage before this event     22:52 – Faith In The Silence   Navigating unanswered prayers and pain How God provided strength and comfort in unexpected ways Standing on God’s word   27:49 – Choosing Joy Over And Over   Struggling with resentment, bitterness and anger Surrendering to God The continual process of healing   34:54 – For Those Feeling Stuck…   Are you ready for change? The book of Psalms Making your home a haven   38:25 – Takeaways   What life looks like for Courtney today Getting your copy of Standing Still     FEATURED QUOTES   “What ​I ​needed ​was ​people ​to ​just ​show ​up ​and ​give ​me ​a ​hug. To ​show ​up ​and ​love ​me. ​To ​listen. To ​just ​be ​sympathetic ​and ​care ​and ​not ​judge.”   “Our ​feelings ​are ​liars ​and ​we ​cannot ​believe ​our ​feelings ​because ​God's ​word ​is ​true. ​And ​we ​stand ​on ​the ​promises ​of ​His ​word.”   “I've ​been ​through ​all ​those ​emotions that ​we ​all ​humanly go ​through. ​But ​God's ​word ​is ​really ​​what ​kept ​me ​standing ​and ​pulled ​me ​through.”   “Change only comes when we decide we’re going to change.”   Learn more about Courtney:   Get your copy of Standing Still   https://www.amazon.com/Still-Standing-Light-While-Wrestling/dp/0764242393   Women Living Well Ministries   https://womenlivingwell.org/   Women Living Well YouTube   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbl7jYIPjneSbn_m5fszKQ   Women Living Well Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/womenlivingwell/   Women Living Well Instagram   https://www.instagram.com/womenlivingwell/   Good Morning Girls   https://womenlivingwell.org/good-morning-girls/           Connect with me:   http://www.stillbeingmolly.com http://instagram.com/stillbeingmolly http://instagram.com/canilaughpod http://twitter.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/stillbeingmolly http://facebook.com/canilaughpod http://tiktok.com/@stillbeingmolly     GET YOUR COPY of ‘IF I DON’T LAUGH, I’LL CRY” TODAY: Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/IIDLICbn Amazon: https://amzn.to/48VYFkG ChristianBook: https://bit.ly/IIDLICcb Target: https://bit.ly/3Shh3Q2 Walmart: https://bit.ly/3MmGVpJ Indie Bound: https://bit.ly/IIDLICib Audible: https://amzn.to/3ITcdm8 Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ITaSvv     About Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?   Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? Podcast is a weekly podcast where we have honest conversations about faith, business, life, and everything in between. Hosted by speaker and author, Molly Stillman, her mission is to make you laugh, cry, and laugh till you cry. She wants to create a community of people who are unafraid to be themselves and have honest conversations about the things that matter most. Her vision is to create a safe space for people to explore their faith and share their stories and gifts with the world.