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Everyone has a unique story of how the Lord has touched their hearts and shaped their journeys. The ”Women Behind the Words” podcast highlights women who have bravely navigated life’s challenges, harnessing the strength and courage to answer God’s calling. Listen to inspiring accounts of overcoming fears and achieving more than they ever imagined possible. These personal narratives will inspire, uplift, and offer hope, changing the course of history, which will affect the outcome of eternity, one heart at a time.
Episodes
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Date: July 16, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Katelyn Pfeiffer
Story Highlight: Thanks for joining us today on "The Women Behind the Words" as we welcome Katelyn Pfeiffer to the table. Kate shares from her heart about growing up as a pastor's daughter, loving her childhood, her home, her church, and her life. She recalls a pivotal moment in her young life when, by accident, she watched a movie that depicted the battle between good and evil. This brought her to the sobering realization of her own mortality and her need for Jesus’ salvation. In that instant, she cried out to Jesus, accepting His love and salvation.
In her later years, Kate experienced a period of rebellion during high school, a common struggle among pastor’s children. She lived in two worlds without anyone noticing, viewing God as an ATM machine, only turning to Him in times of need. This mindset led her to make poor relationship choices, leaving her confused and ashamed. She admits that her rebellion was fueled by anger towards God and a lack of a real, personal relationship with Him.
It wasn’t until the death of her mother that Kate fully surrendered her heart to Jesus. This marked the beginning of a profound transformation, as He started to redeem and restore her from the inside out. With this renewed perspective, Kate offers valuable advice to parents dealing with rebellious children. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our children belong to Jesus first and foremost, and the need to create a safe, unconditionally loving environment for them.
Kate candidly shares her struggle with false and true identity, and how the Lord led her through this journey to a place of freedom. She speaks of the healing she received following the loss of her mother and how a dream played a significant role in that healing process. Her story is a powerful testimony of God’s ability to retrain our thinking and redefine our identity according to His truth.
In closing, Kate underscores the importance of surrendering not just our own hearts, but also our children to God. She leaves us with a message of hope and a charming quote to apply to our own lives, encouraging us to remember Whose we are. Thank you for joining us! We pray this episode leaves you with fresh hope and a deeper understanding of your identity in Christ.
About the Guest (Bio): Born in California, Katelyn moved to Virginia with her parents and older brother at the young age of 1 and a half years old. The youngest child of a reading specialist and a pastor, books were readily available to Katelyn while growing up. At a young age, Katelyn found her love of reading and the arts, spending her summers at the community pool and in and out of local libraries. By High School she had begun writing as well as painting, drawing, and acting. Beginning with poems and short stories, Katelyn also kept journals a discipline she continues today. Her first published work was a poem she wrote in high school, released through poetry.com. She published a book in 2018 titled City of End, a predecessor to her first published work through Elk Lake Publishing Inc.
Following in her mothers’ footsteps, Katelyn married a pastor in 2019. Shortly after, they adopted three cats and gave birth to two beautiful children. Blessed with a growing immediate and extended family, Katelyn and Jordan are Aunt and Uncle to multiple nieces and nephews. Their church is located in Manassas, Virginia.
Still attempting to read as much as she can, Katelyn enjoys the classics written by authors like Alexander Dumas, Shakespeare, C.S. Lewis, Tolkein, Oscar Wilde, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. She also enjoys escaping into the fantasy worlds penned by J.K Rowling, Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis, Robert Jordan, Ted Dekker, and Rick Riordan. Her love of escape into another world and the adventures the characters are taken on is a discipline she strives to bring to her own writing.
Book Spotlight: City of End: The Tree of Life Series Vol. 1
In the year 4085, humanity survives underground in the cavernous End City, a desolate refuge following a nuclear genocide that ravaged the earth’s surface. The Program is the lifeline that keeps End alive, conscripting every woman of age to ensure the city's survival against the relentless Bashers. The city’s authorities turn a blind eye to the Program’s devastating impact, prioritizing survival over individual suffering.
Aoire, an orphan with extraordinary abilities and no knowledge of her origins, is approaching her Collection Day—the day she must face the harsh realities of the Program. Her world is further upended when she encounters a man wielding dark magic, revealing that her destiny may never have been her own to control.
Caught between her duty to End City and her desire to use her unique gifts to help others, Aoire confronts End’s greatest threat. As the city's most critical day approaches, she must unveil herself not only to her fellow citizens but also to the dark forces threatening their existence. With the powerful Tree of Life under enemy control, Aoire’s mission is clear: save the Tree, end the war on humanity, and protect her city and friends—all while evading capture.
Can Aoire harness her abilities and courage to save End City from destruction? Join her gripping journey in "City of End: The Tree of Life Series Vol. 1" by Katelyn Pfeiffer, a tale of resilience, mystery, and the unyielding fight for survival.
Connect with Katelyn:
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Date: July 9, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Nancy Kay Grace
Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words. Today, we have a delightful episode featuring Nancy Kay Grace, and we're excited to share a grace-filled interview with you. Nancy's journey began with struggles as a perfectionist, battling comparison and low self-esteem. However, in her teen years, she encountered Jesus, who showed her unconditional love and revealed that her worth came through God's grace, not her performance.
Nancy's passion now revolves around sharing God's love and imparting the truth about His grace in our lives to all Jesus brings her way. As a speaker, writing coach, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, Nancy opens her heart to discuss raising her children as pastor's kids, a role that taught her invaluable lessons about grace. She has also faced the challenge of tongue cancer multiple times, relying on God's grace for strength.
Having pastored for over 45 years alongside her husband, Rick, in small rural towns, Nancy reflects on her journey from growing up in Chicago to loving the charm of small-town life. Today, Nancy and her husband reside in Texas, where they minister to pastors and their wives, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to those who minister to others. Nancy's candid insights into the challenges faced by pastors' wives are shared through a special ministry initiative, Alongside—Ministering to Pastor’s Wives, where the women meet in the group of their choice where they are offered group-led discussions and support to navigate the unique roles they fulfill.
Whether you're a pastor's wife or someone seeking encouragement, Nancy's message of hope and grace extends to all. Please share this grace-filled interview with anyone who may benefit from Nancy's inspiring journey and insights!
About the Guest (Bio): Nancy Kay Grace struggled with low self-esteem due to perfectionism, comparisons, and performance. God has shown her true worth through the grace of Jesus. Now she shares hope in Jesus so others can know their worth in the eyes of God.
Nancy Kay Grace is a speaker, writing coach, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, a devotional about God’s grace. She has written for The Upper Room magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and other print and digital publications. She loves to inspire others about living in God’s grace.
On her faith journey, Nancy has learned to trust God in deeper ways as she’s coped with challenges of raising a family as a pastor’s wife. She’s lived through the unexpected detours of tongue cancer several times.
Nancy recently relocated to Texas with her husband Rick, where they serve in ministry to encourage pastors across the country. They have 2 adult children and six grandchildren.
For relaxation, Nancy enjoys hugs from grandchildren, playing piano, hiking, and traveling.
Book Spotlight: The Grace Impact - A Devotional
God alone is able to set into motion the “grace impact”—His ability to work in and through any situation, revealing His love and forgiveness to us, thereby drawing us to Himself, ultimately through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The initial impact of God’s grace to each of us comes by accepting salvation through Jesus. It continues in us and through us as our lives are transformed by yielding more to the Lord. As we grow in faith, we share God’s grace with others. Like a drop of water released on a smooth lake, the ripples of the grace impact continue to reach outward to many.
Not only can The Grace Impact be read as a thirty-day daily devotional, but it can also be used as a Bible study guide on grace. At the end of each daily reading there is a section called “Deepening the Grace Impact.” There are additional scriptures for further study, questions for your own meditation, and a prayer.
Connect With Nancy:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553012821261
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Date: July 2, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Susan Neal
Story Highlight: Welcome to today's episode of The Woman Behind the Words! We're excited to introduce Susan Neal, a dedicated health coach and author known for her profound insights into health and wellness from a Christian perspective. Susan's work emphasizes the integration of faith and health, helping individuals achieve overall well-being. Aligning their daily choices for physical health with practical, easy to implement steps that bring about lasting change, Susan has helped countless people on their health journey.
Susan's Journey
Susan Neal begins by sharing her personal health journey, detailing the challenges she faced and the milestones she achieved along the way. It was her health challenges followed by her recovery that led her to become a health coach and inspired her to write books on health and wellness. Susan's testimony highlights the importance of trusting in God's plan and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life, including health.
Importance of Nutrition
In this segment, Susan explains the vital role of nutrition in maintaining overall health. She provides practical tips for maintaining a balanced diet and addresses common misconceptions about healthy eating.
Holistic Approach to Health
Susan discusses the significance of a holistic approach to health, which integrates mind, body, and spirit. She offers recommendations for incorporating stress management into our routines, underscoring the benefits of daily practices which will benefit our mental and emotional well-being through nutrition.
Practical Health Tips
In this segment, Susan shares practical health tips that listeners can easily implement to improve their well-being. She provides strategies tailored for busy individuals, emphasizing the importance of making small, consistent changes. Susan also discusses how to stay motivated and consistent with health goals, reminding listeners that perseverance and discipline are key virtues in the Christian faith.
Conclusion
Susan provides brief insights into her books, focusing on how they can benefit listeners in their health journeys. Susan also shares how to connect with her and access her resources, offering support and guidance for those seeking to improve their health through a faith-based approach.
We recap the key points discussed during the interview, highlighting Susan's practical advice on our choices to improve our daily living. Susan leaves listeners with final words of encouragement, urging them to trust in God's plan for their health and to take proactive steps towards better well-being.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Susan for joining the show and sharing her wisdom, and we provide information on where listeners can find her work and connect with her online.
About our Guest (Bio): Susan Neal RN has a masters in health science and an MBA. She lives her life with a passion to help others improve their health. After suffering a health crisis, she became an author and health coach to provide others with the tools they needed to heal their bodies and reclaim their ideal weight.
Her award-winning #1 Amazon best-seller is 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates. The third book in her Healthy Living Series, Healthy Living Journal, won the Golden Scrolls award “Best Inspirational Gift Book.” Her newest release is 12 Ways to Age Gracefully: How to Look and Feel Younger.
She's been featured in many media outlets including CTN's Bridges TV show, WATC-TV Atlanta Live and Friends & Neighbors, TCT's Julie and Friends, Charisma magazine, and numerous podcasts and radio shows. Learn more about Susan at SusanUNeal.com.
Book Spotlight: 12 Ways to Age Gracefully: How to Look and Feel Younger
Embrace the youthful spirit at any age.
As you face the mirror each day, do you meet an older version of yourself? It’s a familiar journey, one where we acknowledge that we’re not as young as we once were, yet not quite ready to embrace being old. But what if there was a way to traverse this path with grace and vitality?
The good news is you can slow time down. By making the right choices, you can look and feel younger. You don’t have to spend a fortune on products either; simply learn the tools needed to move gracefully and joyfully through your senior years.
By making simple lifestyle changes, you’ll look and feel better. Discover how to choose:
- vitality over disease
- joy over depression
- youthfulness over listlessness
12 Ways to Age Gracefully, will empower you to:
- boost your energy levels
- improve senior brain health
- learn how to feel better about yourself
- develop better stress management
- fulfill your God-appointed purpose with renewed vigor
What path will you choose? Discover the secrets to not just feeling better but also looking fantastic as you do so!
Connect with Susan:
https://christianyoga.com/
https://www.facebook.com/HealthyLivingSeries/
https://www.pinterest.com/SusanUNeal/
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Date: June 25, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Karen Wingate
Story Highlight: Welcome to "The Women Behind the Words." Today, we are blessed to have Karen Wingate with us. Born blind, Karen's story is one of wonder and delight. Though she grew up in a family with multiple handicaps, her mother inspired her to pray and trust Jesus for all her needs. By 11 years old, she had developed a relationship with Him. Karen asked God to heal her eyes, and when He didn’t, she asked Him to help her cope with living life unable to see much of anything, and He did. Then, in her mid-50s, she noticed a change in her limited vision and discovered she had a torn retina. A specialist recommended surgery, and she agreed. Remarkably, the surgeon told her, "I don't usually say this to a patient, but I think when this operation is over, you'll have better eyesight than you've ever had." Join us today as we hear Karen's reaction to seeing the beauty of creation for the first time. Overwhelmed with awe and gratitude, Karen's heart will never be the same. Come and listen to her share her personal story, the goodness of God, and how the beauty of creation never grows old.
About the Guest (Bio): Karen Wingate is an author, speaker, and Bible study leader in Tucson, Arizona. A regular contributor to the Proverbs 31 Ministries online devotional, Encouragement for Today, Karen also writes regularly for her blog at karenwingate.com and has two more books scheduled to release in early 2025. Karen shares her story with local audiences and has appeared on the Focus on the Family broadcast. She spends her leisure moments baking homemade bread, knitting baby blankets for a pregnancy care center, and playing the piano.
Book Spotlight: With Fresh Eyes: 60 Insights into the Miraculously Ordinary from a Woman Born Blind
“Too often we take for granted what we see every day. We long for the extraordinary when we set aside time with God in a quiet room. But we don’t think to look for his hand in a traffic jam or while walking the dog. For Karen Wingate, sight itself is something extraordinary—and what our eyes can reveal is even more astounding.
“Karen lived most of her life with severely limited sight due to a genetic defect. But through the chance outcome of a surgery in her mid fifties, she doubled her visual acuity in one eye. As she eagerly explored a more detailed world for the first time, she also began to see God in every new discovery—from the glory of sunsets to the prosaic numbers of a bathroom scale.
“You, too, can awaken to the wonder of what you observe—great and small—and how God is working in everyday moments. In each of her sixty meditations, Karen’s humor and whimsy draw a connection between physical sight and spiritual understanding that will leave you with a renewed delight in what is good and beautiful.”
With Fresh Eyes: 60 Insights into the Miraculously Ordinary from A Woman Born Blind invites readers to celebrate with author Karen Wingate the gift of their own sight and reawaken to the wonder of what they observe in the creation of God’s world and His work in our everyday moments. Through sixty devotions, Karen weaves humor and whimsy into profound observations as she makes connections between physical sight and spiritual understanding that will leave you with a renewed joy and delight in what is good and beautiful, and will reassure you that God still works in the lives of his people.
Connect with Karen:
Author, With Fresh Eyes (Kregel Publications)
Visit www.karenwingate.com and sign up for her newsletter
I Need Your Voice!: I want to hear from you! Please participate in my survey: "The Art of Letting Go: Uncovering Our Deepest Surrenders." Your input is invaluable and will help shape my next book. Share your experiences and insights to inspire others on their journey of faith and surrender. Click HERE to take the survey.
Stay Connected: Subscribe to Debbie Dufek’s newsletter for updates on new podcast episodes, monthly insights, and upcoming events. Stay engaged and informed with all of Debbie’s inspiring projects
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Date: June 18, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Karin Beery
Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words. Today, it’s our pleasure to have Karin Beery join us. Karin is a Christian author and editor whose journey through the editing process over the years has been one in which the Lord has pruned and shaped her; her editing and publishing––-a greenhouse for growth, where her roots run deep and her walk with God has blossomed in beautiful and profound ways. We're excited to hear the wisdom she's gained along the way.
Karin Beery grew up as the middle child in a wonderful family with her parents and two sisters. Always a rule follower, Karin aspired to be successful from a young age. Despite being bullied in grade school, she learned early on that people could be mean and that life wouldn't always go as planned. Her father’s wisdom helped her navigate these difficulties, a lesson that has stayed with her throughout her life.
Within a year of her marriage, Karin’s husband was diagnosed with cancer. During this challenging season, Karin read countless books while her husband went through his treatments. It was then she realized she could write fiction herself. Through her writing journey and love for the editing process, the Lord did a deep work in her life.
Karin shares, "Some authors find writing easy, but for me, it’s not.” The Lord used her writing journey to shift her perspective on true success. She learned that success is not defined by the world’s standards but by God’s. This realization led her to examine whose rules she was following—those of the world or those of God’s. Two insights the Lord spoke into Karin’s life changed her perspective:
- True Success: Understanding that true success is defined by God's standards, not the world's.
- God's Rules: Aligning her life with God’s rules rather than the world’s expectations.
In her closing words, Karin emphasizes the importance of hope and waiting on the Lord. She shares how God has spoken to her about hope three times in the past week. While He doesn’t always give us a timeline, Jesus assures us He has a plan.” Therein lies our hope.
Karin holds onto His promise: "If I called you to it, it's for a reason.” Keep moving forward and you will see the Lord's plan and His purposes come to pass in your life.
Don’t miss this episode as Karin shares the personal wisdom she has gained through her writing and editing process. It was through her journey as a writer the Lord has “edited her life.” Her story is a testament to the faithfulness of God and the hope we can find in Him, even in the midst of life’s challenges.
About Our Guest (Bio): Owner of Write Now Editing, Karin Beery is a published author and editor with experience in traditional and self-publishing, freelance editing, and editing for publishers. She is an active member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Christian Authors Network, the Christian Proofreaders and Editors Network, and the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors. When she’s not editing or teaching, she writes hopeful fiction with a healthy dose of romance.
Book Spotlight: Finally Forever
Former competitive dancer Caroline Novak dreams of leaving the corporate world to work with special needs women at the Pathways nonprofit, but the organization can’t afford a full time director.
All-American defensive end Ben Allen was on his way to the NFL when a knee injury sent him home and into the same office as Caroline, his best friend’s older sister. When Pathways participates in a Dancing with the Stars-inspired fundraiser, Caroline quickly volunteers, and Ben joins her as the local “star.”
It doesn’t take long for Ben to realize it’s more than a dance competition, and Caroline is more than his best friend’s sister, but after two failed engagements, she’s hesitant to trust her heart with another man. When the NFL calls Ben, it looks like his dream might finally come true—but it could cost them the championship and Caroline her heart.
Book Spotlight: How to Edit Your Novel: Take Your Self-editing Skills to the Next Level
~ Have you eliminated all the telling?
~ Are the characters complex?
~ Is every scene necessary?
Most authors will answer 'yes!' to these questions. But then editors and readers tell them the descriptions don’t engage them, the characters are stereotypical, and the story dragged.
How do you fix it?
Self-editing can only take you so far. But if you know the right questions to ask and you know how to interpret the answers, you’ll not only strengthen your self-editing skills, you’ll strengthen your writing.
How to Edit Your Novel doesn’t simply rehash the fiction-writing basics that create good stories—it provides examples, context, and questions that will help authors identify and strengthen their weaknesses the same way a professional editor tackles a manuscript.
By combining mini writing lessons with practical self-editing tips, everything a writer needs to become a better self-editor is practically presented. Whether you’re a new writer or an experienced author, How to Edit Your Novel can help you polish your story into a gem that agents, publishers, and readers will want to keep reading.
I wanted to include Karin’s non-fiction, How to Edit Your Novel: Practical Steps for Strengthening Your Story, because so much of what the Lord has done in and through Karin’s life, He has used the editing rules and process to shape and mold her life and His working in and through her.
Connect with Karin:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorkarinbeery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karinbeery/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/karinbeery
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2666258-karin
Tuesday Jun 11, 2024
Tuesday Jun 11, 2024
Story Highlight: Welcome to 'The Women Behind the Words'. We are thrilled to have PeggySue Wells with us today. A single mother of 7 children, she's here to share her life and wisdom on navigating through single motherhood and all it entails. From how to work through being a one parent home, caring for the family and each child individually, and what it's like to try to find a church community that will embrace you and your children. PeggySue lays her heart wide open and shares such valuable life-changing truths.
You will walk away with answers for life in a one parent home. PeggySue's one-liners she lives out daily, are ones you will want to, not only jot down, but commit to memory as you walk through your days as a single mother.
From PeggySue sharing on the importance of switching out lies for the truth, to understanding and implementing the 5R's, as you begin to embrace some of the things the Lord has given her to add to her life as a single mom, you will see yourself beginning to flourish in your home and family, not to mention how your children will grow as a result of the Lord's work in your life.
This is an episode you cannot miss, whether you are a single mom, you know one, or you are a grandparent with your grandchildren in a single parent home, we all can learn so much from this dynamic, yet gentle time with PeggySue. So sit back and soak in a marvelous, freeing episode on 'The Women Behind the Words.'
About the Guest (Bio): PeggySue Wells is the bestselling author of 40 books and collaborator of many more. Action and adventure, romantic suspense, military romance, and cozy mystery are the page-turning novels by P.S. Wells including Chasing Sunrise, Homeless for the Holidays, and The Patent. How to live better, easier, and simpler is the focus of her nonfiction including Slavery in the Land of the Free and The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make.
Book Spotlight: The 10 Best Decisions a Single Mom Can Make
No matter how you became a single mom, you share the same challenges and fears all single moms have. You may feel stretched to the limit. You may suspect your children need more than you're able to give. How are you going to do this on your own?
With humor, Scripture, and sage advice, Pam Farrel (child of a single mother) and PeggySue Wells (single parent of 7 children) show you how to:
- be decisive
- create a nurturing home
- be proactive
- date wisely
- pray for your child
- embrace your happily-ever-after
- and more
You are capable of parenting your children with courage, confidence, and clarity. This loving, practical guide shows you how.
Connect with PeggySue:
PeggySue is the founder of SingleMomCircle.com
Check out books and resources by PS Wells on her website: https://www.peggysuewells.com
FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/Peggy.Sue.Wells.Adventure
FB Personal Page: https://www.facebook.com/peggysue.wells
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggysuewells
Website: https://www.peggysuewells.com. / https://singlemomcircle.com
I Need Your Voice!: I want to hear from you! Please participate in my survey: "The Art of Letting Go: Uncovering Our Deepest Surrenders." Your input is invaluable and will help shape my next book. Share your experiences and insights to inspire others on their journey of faith and surrender. Click HERE to take the survey.
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Date: June 4, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Billie Jauss
Story Highlight: Join us on The Women Behind the Word as we dive into the busy life of Billie Jauss. Billie is an international speaker, author, and podcast host with over 35 years of experience navigating life as the wife of an MLB coach. Moved by her love for Jesus, Billie’s passion is to help women conquer distractions, find peace amidst life’s busyness, and connect with people so they can share God's love with those He places in their lives.
Billie's journey into this mission stemmed from a profound personal experience. After a devastating end to what she thought was a deep connection, she realized there was a better way to relate to others. This epiphany led her to reflect deeply on the relationships and friendships she had formed over the years. Her "baseball family" proved to be a wellspring of insight, teaching her invaluable lessons about fostering healthy relationships.
Now, Billie shares these insights through her speaking engagements, writing, and podcast episodes, encouraging women to cultivate meaningful connections and live out their faith authentically. Her message is clear: through understanding and intentionality, we can overcome the distractions of daily life and focus on the purposes God has set before us, nurturing relationships that reflect His love and grace.
About the Guest (Bio): Billie Jauss is an international speaker, author, and podcast host with over 35 years of experience navigating life as the wife of an MLB coach. Billie is on a mission to help women conquer distractions, find peace in life’s chaos, and connect with people so they can share God with those He has placed in front of them wherever they are.
Book Spotlight: Baseball Family: Nine Core Qualities for Developing Healthy Relationships
Life is a whole lot like baseball.
As the wife of a Major League Baseball coach, Billie Jauss discovered firsthand that what happens on the field…often takes place outside the ballpark as well.
In the baseball world, we don’t get to choose the friends we spend time with during the baseball season. They come with the team. Still, the community must be built and relationships fostered. Navigating the different connections is challenging.
How much can we share with those in our circles?
Who are our true, close friends, and who are those who we will only spend time with for a season?
Baseball Family explores four distinct relationships we often encounter: accidental acquaintance, social contacts, kindred spirits, and forever family.
Readers will learn the starting nine core qualities to strengthen each type of relationship. When we learn the virtues of selflessness, inclusion, support, peacemaker, encourager, compassion, respect, trustworthiness, and generosity, we can help cultivate loving relationships with people we may or may not choose.
Step up to the plate and prepare yourself for how to make all your relationships—close and far—flourish.
Connect with Billie:
FB: Billie Jauss
Twitter: @billiejauss
Instagram: billie_jauss
Stay Connected: Subscribe to Debbie Dufek’s newsletter for updates on new podcast episodes, monthly insights, and upcoming events. Stay engaged and informed with all of Debbie’s inspiring projects
Tuesday May 28, 2024
Tuesday May 28, 2024
Date: May 28, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Melissa Heiland
Story Highlight: Today, we are honored to host Melissa Heiland on "The Women Behind The Words." Melissa, a dedicated advocate for life, founded Beautiful Feet International, a global pregnancy care ministry. Her profound commitment to supporting unborn babies and their mothers has led to the establishment of over 100 centers in 31 countries. In our discussion, Melissa shares her awe-inspiring journey from a young teen with a heart for helping unwed mothers to leading an international ministry.
Beautiful Feet International began in 1990 when Melissa and her family served in Costa Rica. Although initially planning to stay, they returned to the US after one year. This marked a pivotal point as they donated a house that became the home base for their burgeoning pregnancy ministry. Over the years, Melissa has seen God's hand at work, expanding their reach and impact far beyond her early visions.
Melissa’s passion is not only for the unborn but also for their mothers, especially those in crisis who are open to the Gospel. Through Beautiful Feet, these women find support answers, and hope in God’s good plan for their lives. Melissa and her husband train churches worldwide, equipping them to serve their communities and share the Gospel.
Reflecting on her 11 years with Beautiful Feet, Melissa remains humbled by the doors God has opened and the lives changed through their work. Her story is a testament to God’s faithfulness in providing for the work He calls us to, even beyond our strength.
About Our Guest (Bio): Melissa Heiland, wife and mother of six, and grandmother of twelve, holds degrees in education and curriculum from Wake Forest University and the University of Central Missouri. A former missionary with the International Mission Board, she has led mission teams since 2000. As the Founder and President of Beautiful Feet International, she oversees the operation of over 100 international pregnancy centers.
An accomplished author and speaker, Melissa has contributed extensively to educational and devotional materials, including a training manual for pregnancy centers and devotionals for new and pregnant mothers. Her dedication to life and the Gospel has been recognized with several awards, including the EvanTell Matthew 4:19 Award and the Heartbeat International Servant Leader Award.
Melissa's life and ministry emphasize the power of trusting God through all circumstances, inspiring listeners to embrace their calling and impact lives for eternity.
Book Spotlight: A Mother's Journey: Devotional for Pregnancy
This 40-week devotional, corresponding to each week of pregnancy, is a testimony to the wonders and depth of God's love and grace to pregnant women and children in the womb. It serves as both a devotional and a pregnancy journal, providing a warm, engaging biblical journey that offers comfort and encouragement. Each chapter is tailored to match the stages of your baby’s development, enriching your connection with the growing life inside you.
The readings include Scripture verses, reflective journal prompts, and practical information about your baby's development, making this book a comprehensive guide for expectant mothers seeking spiritual and emotional nourishment. Whether you are experiencing pregnancy with a partner or on your own, "A Mother’s Journey" reassures you of the compassionate presence of God throughout this transformative period. It’s a wonderful resource to deepen your relationship with your baby, yourself, and your heavenly Father during the life-changing adventure of pregnancy.
Connect with Melissa:
Instagram: Beautiful Feet International (@beautifulfeetintl) • Instagram photos and videos
Email: bfidiroperations@gmail.com
Website: http://beautifulfeetinternational.com
Stay Connected: Subscribe to Debbie Dufek’s newsletter for updates on new podcast episodes, monthly insights, and upcoming events. Stay engaged and informed with all of Debbie’s inspiring projects