Midlife Repurposed
Midlife Repurposed is your go-to podcast for inspiration, practical guidance, and a fresh sense of purpose in midlife. Join Michelle Rayburn as she navigates the messy, uncertain twists of life with humor, uncovering treasure in the most unexpected places. michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, February 19, 2025
Human Rights Progress and the Cost of Silence
In this episode, we dive into the tapestry of transformational history over the last fifty years and explore how these pivotal moments intertwine with human rights, the gospel, and our roles as advocates in midlife. Michelle Rayburn shares her heart in a vulnerable plea for seeing and listening and then speaking up. If you're searching for inspiration and practical wisdom to navigate the complexities of midlife while making a positive impact, you're in the right place. In this episode, Michelle reflects on the monumental shifts in human rights and societal norms that have unfolded during her lifetime, highlighting how these changes have redefined our world. Yet, she emphasizes the fragility of such progress and the risk of it vanishing overnight. As midlifers, we've witnessed cycles of change, reminding us of our responsibility to protect and preserve these hard-won advancements. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how the gospel calls us to advocate for human dignity beyond political divides and to embrace the interconnectedness of our global community. Equip yourself with the knowledge that our silence has a cost, and that by standing together, we can champion a future where justice and human rights aren't temporary. So, tune in to discover how repurposing your midlife with intention and courage can leave a lasting legacy of advocacy, love, and impact. Want more? Check out this essay: https://open.substack.com/pub/michellerayburn/p/what-we-lose-if-we-stay-silent Find Midlife Repurposed on Substack https://michellerayburn.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, February 12, 2025
Relation-Tips for Your Midlife Classic Marriage
In this episode, we dive into the nuances of long-lasting relationships and finding purpose in midlife. In this special episode, Michelle Rayburn takes us on a reflective journey back in time to when she and her husband had been married for 28 years. Now, after 35 years of marriage, she revisits her past thoughts, sharing insights on what has changed and what remains true in her perspective on marriage. Join us as we explore the critical elements of staying connected, honoring a covenant, and effective communication, all while embracing the ups and downs that come with midlife transitions. Whether you're navigating the complexities of marriage, empty nesting, or simply seeking inspiration for a renewed sense of purpose, this episode offers timeless wisdom and practical takeaways. Let's repurpose this season of life together with encouragement and insights drawn from Michelle's own experiences. There are also some fun printable bonuses in the show notes! You'll find shownotes and more at https://michellerayburn.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, January 08, 2025
Intuitive Productivity: Tips for Less Pressure, More Joy
If you caught my recent article about intuitive productivity, then I hope you enjoy this follow-up podcast with 12 practical tips for practicing it daily. Key Points in the Episode 12 Practical Tips for Intuitive Productivity * Start each day by checking in with yourself. Before you dive into your to-do list, take a moment to pause and reflect. Ask yourself, 'What feels most exciting or meaningful today?' * Break free from rigid schedules. If you’re feeling energized and creative in the morning, tackle your most challenging or creative tasks. Flexibility allows you to work in harmony with your natural rhythms instead of fighting against them. * Use joy as a compass. Pay attention to the tasks that bring you a sense of joy or flow. If something feels draining, pause and ask yourself if it’s truly necessary. Can you approach it differently or delegate it? * Set intentions, not deadlines. Instead of rigid deadlines, focus on broad intentions. This approach moves you forward without the unnecessary pressure to be perfect or rushed. * Honor your energy cycles. Productivity ebbs and flows—that’s normal. When it’s low, give yourself permission to rest or shift to less demanding tasks. Trust that the flow will return. * Simplify your to-do list. Choose just one to three things to focus on each day. This clarity helps you avoid overwhelm and allows you to pour your energy into what matters most. * Celebrate small wins. Instead of focusing on what’s left undone, take time to acknowledge your progress. * Let go of multitasking. We often think doing more at once makes us productive, but it usually has the opposite effect. Intuitive productivity thrives when you’re fully present with one task at a time. * Trust your instincts when prioritizing. When you’re faced with competing demands, trust your gut to decide what truly needs your attention. * Create space for creative exploration. Set aside unstructured time to brainstorm, experiment, or simply let your mind wander. * Reflect and adjust regularly. At the end of each day or week, take a few minutes to reflect on what felt good and what didn’t. * Say no to what doesn’t align. If a task or commitment doesn’t align with your values or passions, give yourself permission to say no. Which one resonates most with you as something you can practice? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, November 20, 2024
Awakening Awe and Wonder in Everyday Life
Have you ever felt that the busyness of life has dulled your sense of curiosity and awe? It’s so easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities. Balancing work, family, and everything in between can leave us feeling drained and disconnected from the beauty around us. But here's something I've discovered: intentionally seeking moments of wonder can bring a breath of fresh air to our busy lives. Whether it’s a simple walk in the park, listening to your favorite piece of music, or watching a sunset, these moments can reignite a sense of amazement. They help us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and reconnect with our Creator. It’s in these moments that we can see God’s fingerprints in our everyday lives, and that is incredibly grounding and uplifting. This podcast episode reminds us of how reconnecting with wonder—in nature, art, travel, and through children's eyes—can shift our perspective, boost mental health, and deepen our connection with God. Rediscover how moments that once seemed fleeting can become sources of inspiration and renewed purpose. After you listen to the episode, here are a few ideas for next steps and ideas Cultivate Awe and Wonder * Identify Busyness : * List your top 5 daily responsibilities or commitments. How might these be affecting your ability to experience wonder? * Reflect: Are you making room for moments that "take your breath away"? What gets in the way? * Revisit Childhood Awe : * Recall a moment from your childhood that filled you with wonder. How does it feel to reconnection with the feelings? * The podcast episode mentions childhood delights such as chasing fireflies and rainbows. Think of crunching leaves or northern lights. What childhood wonder would you like to replicate? * Plan Nature Time : * Plan a simple outing for this week (e.g., a walk in the park, a visit to a nearby lake). * Pause on your outing to breathe deeply and notice the sights and sounds. * Appreciate Art and Music : * Choose a piece of art or music to explore today. Describe its elements that stir emotion or wonder in you. * How can you incorporate art or music into your routine to enhance your day-to-day life? For inspiration, here are a few photos of some of my recent nature adventures that took my breath away. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, November 13, 2024
Spiritual Minimalism: The Art of Letting Go
Are you ready to let go of the mental clutter that is affecting your spiritual well-being? The influences come from outside of us—social media, arguments, political angst, and busyness—but how we allow it to influence our spiritual health is up to us. Perhaps it’s time for spiritual minimalism. In today’s podcast episode, Michelle discussed the transformative power of letting go of mind clutter and how it can lead to a more meaningful midlife. As life tends to become increasingly complicated, especially around midlife, simplifying both our physical and spiritual spaces can pave the way for clarity, growth, and inner peace. Time to Redefine Outdated beliefs, spiritual baggage, and unhelpful thought patterns can weigh us down. Midlife presents an opportune moment to reflect and redefine what genuinely matters, allowing us to shed the excess and embrace a faith focused on love, compassion, and true spiritual alignment. It doesn’t mean abandoning your core faith. It means extracting it from the stuff that doesn’t belong there. And no, we don’t need to donate this to charity or dump it on someone else. If you have cleaned a closet or a room and dumped the stuff that filled every space, you know how freeing that is. That how it feels to say goodbye to the mental and spiritual clutter. Key takeaways from this episode include: Practical steps for spiritual decluttering Reassessing commitments driven by guilt Redefining relationships Simplifying spiritual focus. I know. Some of your cultural expectations are tied to religious upbringing and the entanglement of political and spiritual identities. You can reclaim those spaces. There is room for even stronger faith when you clear out the stuff that doesn’t belong there. This is about going deeper, not wider. Look for bonus resources on Midlife Repurposed on Substack, including a 10-day spiritual decluttering challenge . Mentioned in the episode: Whiskers, Wags, and Woofs book . A gift for the dog or cat lover in your life. (affiliate link) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, November 06, 2024
An Open Letter to Myself on the Eve of the Election
Welcome to Episode 211 of Midlife Repurposed, where today's format takes a reflective turn. I'm your host, Michelle Rayburn, and in this episode, I'm sharing a heartfelt letter I wrote to myself just before the election, without knowledge of the outcome. I needed reassurance either way. The letter emphasizes the importance of grounding ourselves in faith, love, and community, no matter the political climate. Join me as I pour my thoughts onto paper and over the airwaves and explore how we can continue to be a force for kindness and unity in our immediate communities. Here are three key takeaways: 🔹 Embrace Eternal Focus : It's crucial to anchor ourselves in what remains constant. While leaders and circumstances on earth change, our faith and values are unchanging. Our purpose in this world is far beyond any political outcome. 🔹 Love and Compassion Above All : Politics may divide, but our calling to love and support others knows no boundaries. Kindness, empathy, and humility should guide our interactions, no matter the landscape around us. 🔹 Navigate with Grace and Unity : Real progress is built on bridging differences. Extend a listening ear and an open heart, finding common ground in compassion and mutual respect. Our individual actions have the power to transform our communities positively. I'd love to hear how you're navigating this season, so feel free to share your thoughts on Substack. Just click through to the post, and you’ll see the comments section at the bottom! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, October 30, 2024
Nature-Inspired Storytelling with Cheryl Grey Bostrom
Ever wondered what it's like to embark on a creative journey in midlife while blending writing, faith, and a deep connection with nature? The latest podcast episode with Cheryl Grey Bostrom goes into just that, offering so much inspiration and practical takeaways. Cheryl really got to the heart of creativity, resilience, and faith in this discussion. She’s an accomplished author who shared her journey of shifting from nonfiction to fiction writing in midlife, exploring the inspirations behind her award-winning novels, such as Sugar Birds , and an inside peek at her writing process. Have you discovered that midlife isn’t as free of responsibilities as you once anticipated? We get it! We also explored the delicate balance between creativity and responsibilities, urging listeners to embrace midlife as a season brimming with new opportunities and personal growth. Cheryl invites us to reflect on the interplay of productivity and fruitfulness, integrating spiritual insights from nature into creative endeavors. This episode offers encouragement and wisdom to pursue divinely inspired dreams with perseverance and faith. Key Takeaways: * Creative Themes and Settings: Get a sneak peek into Cheryl's upcoming novels set against the stunning backdrops of the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Peninsula. Explore how themes of healing and resilience intertwine with lush natural settings to create a profound tapestry in her storytelling. * Faith and Creativity: Discover Cheryl's philosophy on time and faith, emphasizing divine timing and the importance of patience. Learn how she integrates her faith into her creative process, crafting stories that emphasize hope and positive outcomes despite life's challenges. * Midlife Transformation and Inspiration: Let's explore Cheryl's transition to fiction writing in midlife, providing encouragement for listeners exploring new passions. Her personal stories demonstrate the power of perseverance, divine guidance, and believing in one's dreams no matter your age. * Nature and Spirituality: Connect with the interplay of nature and spirituality that fuels Cheryl's photography and writing. Learn how she uses photo essays to mirror spiritual truths, showcasing the magnificence of God with minimal text. We invite you to celebrate midlife as a season ripe with opportunity for personal growth and creative exploration. Whether you're an aspiring writer or just curious about finding new paths in midlife, this episode offers rich insights and a sense of community for those who wish to align their passions with their life's purpose. Links Cheryl Grey Bostom - Birds in the Hand on Substack Cheryl’s website Books <a target
Wed, October 16, 2024
Grief Is Not an Emotion: It's a Journey of Growth | Clarissa Moll
In the latest episode of "Midlife Repurposed," I had the pleasure of welcoming back Clarissa Moll, whose journey through grief offers incredible insights into resilience and empathy. Clarissa's experience with loss and her dedication to helping others through similar challenges are truly inspiring. Here are three key takeaways from our enriching conversation: * Grief as a Journey : Clarissa highlights that grief is not a singular emotion or moment but an ongoing part of life. Rather than viewing it as a problem to solve, embracing it as part of our daily routines and personal growth can lead to profound change. She called it a journey. * Empathy in Action : Her own story shows how personal experiences of pain can develop deep empathy and compassion. Clarissa discusses how this empathy empowers her to engage with news stories in a way that connects with the humanity behind the headlines. * Balancing Information Consumption : In navigating midlife challenges, it's essential to recognize personal burdens before overwhelming oneself with global issues. Establishing boundaries around media consumption can reduce stress and enhance our ability to cope with changes. About Clarissa Moll Clarissa Moll is an award-winning writer and podcaster who helps bereaved people find flourishing after loss. Clarissa’s writing appears in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, RELEVANT, Modern Loss, Grief Digest and more. She co-hosted Christianity Today’s Surprised by Grief podcas t and produces Christianity Today's flagship news podcast, The Bulletin . Clarissa’s debut book, Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving After Loss , was a best-selling new release in 2022. She is the author of the Beyond the Darkness Devotional, Hurt Help Hope: A Real Conversation about Teen Grief and Life after Loss , and Hope Comes to Stay (forthcoming 2025). Clarissa is a remarried widow and lives with her large blended family in the Boston area. Quotes from Clarissa Every new beginning comes out of a place of absence, and there is grief attached to that. It requires a reorienting time. Our woundedness gives us wisdom. . . . You can hold joy and sorrow in the same hand. You can live with both and survive. We learn how to take our grief to the grocery store, to the office, to the boardroom, to the kitchen table. We let it be a part of who we are and a part of our
Wed, October 09, 2024
A Picture, Not Pixels
This week, Michelle takes listeners on a journey of understanding how focusing on the bigger picture in life offers greater clarity and harmony. Drawing parallels between her graphic design experience and life's complexities, Michelle describes how zeroing in on a single pixel—be it a personal issue or societal challenge—can lead to a distorted view. Just as a photo is composed of countless pixels that must harmonize to form one beautiful image, our lives are made richer by acknowledging and understanding interconnected issues. The episode continues from a recent Substack post. Michelle emphasizes the importance of zooming out to understand how everything from education to health care, politics to faith, interrelate. Her insights underscore that solving societal problems requires a collective approach—not an isolated one. This episode serves as a poignant reminder to focus on collaboration rather than division, even when disagreements arise. Throughout the episode, Michelle shares thoughtful anecdotes and insights from her personal journey and writing. She highlights the necessity of empathy, humility, and seeing shared humanity as critical to overcoming polarization. By choosing love and understanding over winning arguments or proving others wrong, we can create a world that’s more compassionate and inclusive. Listeners are encouraged to refocus their perspectives and contribute to a bigger, more beautiful picture by collaborating, learning, and growing through tension and differing viewpoints. Also mentioned the upcoming launch of Michelle’s new book Whiskers, Wags, and Woofs . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, October 02, 2024
A Candid Conversation on Perimenopause
In this insightful episode of Midlife Repurposed , host Michelle Rayburn sits down with Dr. Mikala Albertson, a board-certified family practice doctor and author of "Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife: A Woman's Guide to Health in the Body You Actually Have." Together, they unpack a wealth of practical health advice tailored for midlife women navigating the complexities of perimenopause and beyond. Dr. Albertson shares down-to-earth tips for maintaining the health of the body you have, underscoring realistic and sustainable goals over unattainable ideals. The conversation addresses the often-overlooked health effects on intimacy, stressing the importance of open dialogue with your healthcare provider and your partner. Michelle and Mikala also delve into traditionally taboo topics such as urinary incontinence and the profound impact of perimenopause symptoms on daily life. From the need for individualized healthcare consultations to the benefits of preventive health exams, this episode is a treasure trove of information for enhancing well-being in midlife. Links: Book: Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife: A Woman’s Guide to Health in the Body You Actually Have Claim your preorder bonuses (through October 8) Connect with Mikala on Facebook and Instagram Mikala’s website Listen to Mikala tell her story on the podcast before (Life Repurposed episode 160) About Mikala: Dr. Mikala Albertson is a board-certified family practice doctor, author, and well-being advocate who is passionate about women’s health and healing in the imperfect bodies we actually have. She’s the author the book Ordinary on Purpose and inspires readers every day to stop striving for “perfect” lives or some unattainable cultural ideal of “beauty and wellness” and instead aim for wholehearted living through a gentle, achievable, sustainable approach. Key Takeaways: * Realistic Health Goals Mikala debunks the myth of chasing unrealistic fitness ideals and encourages setting sustainable, grounded health targets that fit your lifestyle. * Limited Agency The conversation explores the balance of control we have over our health and acknowledges what we can't change, a crucial mindset for managing stress and anxiety. * Impact on Intimacy Health change
Wed, September 25, 2024
A Recipe for Simple, Meaningful Midlife Hospitality
In this episode, we explore practicing spontaneous hospitality and how it fosters deeper connections and meaningful relationships. Sue Donaldson shares her own enlightening experiences – from inviting a mistaken guest to her home to hosting neighborhood gatherings, and how these acts of openness have enriched her life. Key Takeaways from This Episode: * Embrace Spontaneity Sue’s stories encourage us to say "yes" to unexpected opportunities and turn potential mistakes into beautiful connections. * Intentional Connections Learn how Sue’s regular neighborhood coffees and “adopting” a college student create long-lasting relationships and community bonds. * Practical Hospitality Tips Michelle and Sue discuss practical tips for inclusive and stress-free hosting that focus on the guests’ comfort rather than the host’s perfection. * Handling Awkwardness and Contributions Discover strategies to make your guests feel more at ease, like asking them to bring an item or giving them a manageable role in the gathering. Sue's enthusiasm is contagious as she recounts hosting college students, adapting to dietary restrictions, and maintaining flexibility to accommodate last-minute guests—sometimes dozens! She emphasizes how small gestures like inviting someone over for a wine night or a simple dinner can lead to profound community outreach and personal growth. Main Ideas Discussed: * The distinction between hospitality and entertaining and why the former should always be guest-focused. * The importance of encouraging guests to contribute to gatherings, making them feel involved and reducing the host’s stress. * Tips for including and mentoring younger generations through informal gatherings and intentional hospitality. Throughout the episode, Sue provides actionable advice on preparing for gatherings, building inclusive settings, and even handling introverted children during events. Michelle joins in with her own experiences, making this episode a rich resource for anyone looking to repurpose their midlife with more meaningful hospitality practices. Get inspired by Sue Donaldson’s dedication to welcoming others into her home and heart—whether it’s through thematic gatherings, neighborhood brunches, or her famed wine nights. Join us as we dive deep into how you can cultivate a welcoming heart and create a ripple effect of kindness and connection in your own community. Don’t miss Sue’s free resource gift for listeners, which includes a prayer for a hospitable heart, a special recipe, and mentoring worksheets. Links: * Sue’s bonus resources just for Midlife Repurposed listeners: recipes, free printables,
Wed, September 18, 2024
Midlife Wisdom on Beauty, Body Image, and Aging Gratefully
This week, we have guest Heather Creekmore on the Midlife Repurposed podcast. Heather is an author, podcaster, and coach who speaks extensively on women's body image and comparison. In this episode, we dive deep into aging gracefully, shifting our focus from physical beauty to inner beauty, and the significance of gratitude in our daily lives. We explored how to embrace the natural changes that come with aging, from hair color to body shape, and how gratitude can significantly impact our outlook. Should we color our hair or go gray? We pondered that too. Heather shared invaluable insights on nurturing self-acceptance and offered practical action steps to declutter our wardrobes and minds. Whether dealing with shifting family dynamics, managing forgetfulness, or redefining beauty standards, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement for anyone navigating midlife. We also touched on Heather's latest devotional, which provides spiritual guidance and practical steps for embracing aging. So, grab your favorite cup of coffee and join us in discovering how to age gracefully and gratefully. Plus, you can pick up Heather’s devotional (below) wherever books are sold. Links Mentioned Compared to Who podcast with Heather Creekmore Aging Gratefully 30-day devotional book Heather’s website This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, September 11, 2024
How to Grow and Thrive as We Age
This week on Midlife Repurposed , Michelle shares practical strategies to overcome the inertia that often accompanies midlife. Drawing from her personal experiences and the concept of a growth mindset, Michelle provides a roadmap to help you stay mentally sharp, spiritually grounded, and physically well. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply looking to enrich your journey, this episode is your guide to repurposing this vital season of life. Key Takeaways: * Understanding Stagnation : Michelle explains the natural tendency towards routine and how it can lead to stagnation, especially as we accumulate life experiences that shape our preferences and habits. * Cultivating a Growth Mindset : Discover the powerful concept of a growth mindset, popularized by Dr. Carol Dweck, and learn how embracing continuous learning and adaptability can keep you vibrant and engaged. * Embracing Change : Michelle emphasizes the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and staying open to new experiences, career paths, technologies, and ways of thinking to avoid stagnation. * Intergenerational Relationships : Learn the value of connecting with different generations. Michelle shares her own experiences of learning from and teaching both younger and older individuals, highlighting the mutual benefits of such relationships. * Serving Others : Understand how focusing outwardly through community service and supporting others can keep you engaged with the world around you, fostering personal growth and a continued sense of purpose. * Repurposing Life : Get inspired to find new purposes and passions later in life. Whether it’s starting a new ministry, pursuing long-neglected hobbies, or simply being a mentor, Michelle offers practical suggestions to keep your life dynamic and meaningful. * Physical and Mental Activity : Explore the importance of staying physically and mentally active. Michelle shares tips on how to keep your body strong and your mind sharp through various exercises and engaging activities. * Spiritual Growth : Emphasizing the need for continual spiritual development, Michelle discusses how seeking God’s wisdom and remaining rooted in faith can provide a sturdy foundation for lifelong growth. Whether you’re in the midst of midlife transitions or just looking for inspiration, this episode provides practical strategies to avoid stagnation and repurpose your life with renewed vigor and purpose. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, September 04, 2024
Take the Empty-Nest Joyride
On this Midlife Repurposed podcast episode, Michelle Rayburn joins guest Linda Hanstra as they discuss finding joy and purpose in midlife transitions. Linda shares her story of discovering hope and renewal in unexpected places, providing practical tips and insights along the way. Michelle and Linda talk about: * Linda’s journey from blogging about her daughter’s health challenges to connecting with a new blog audience of empty nesters. * The power of community and how sharing personal stories can inspire and connect others. * Embracing faith and finding joy even in the face of difficult life transitions. * The concept of a "mighty nest" and how to transition from an empty nest into a fulfilling phase of life. * The unexpected blessings and moments of joy experienced in the midst of trials and struggles. * Overcoming imposter syndrome and finding authenticity in writing and personal growth. * Encouragement for those navigating midlife transitions, finding joy, and embracing the ride. Connect with Linda Hanstra: * Check out Linda’s uplifting content in her Substack newsletter: Empty Nest Joyride. * Explore more about Linda’s journey and connect with her at LindaHanstra.com . * Get Linda’s free resources. * More about Linda's published books, including her Lenten devotional. * Check out This Reimagined Empty Nest , where Linda shares her story in one of the chapters. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, August 28, 2024
Speak Your Mind Without Sacrificing Kindness
In midlife, newfound confidence often leads to more freely expressing opinions, but balancing that confidence with empathy in communication is crucial. Overly blunt communication can come off as abrasive, potentially damaging relationships. While speaking honestly and directly can be refreshing and effective, particularly in business or building trust in relationships, it can also risk misunderstanding and hurt feelings if not handled carefully. The key to maintaining this balance lies in empathy. It’s important to consider how your words might be perceived by others, asking yourself if your delivery is both honest and kind. Practicing empathy helps you understand others' perspectives, ensuring that your confidence doesn’t hurt others. When confidence becomes abrasiveness, it can shut down communication, erode trust, and create a toxic environment. An increase in confidence may also lead to dismissing others' opinions, which can create a feeling of superiority. This dismissive attitude can damage relationships, as others may feel belittled and stop sharing their thoughts. This can be especially prevalent in political discussions or social media posts where blunt labels or phrases like "Obviously" or "Only weak-minded people would think..." can alienate others. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s important to approach communication with humility. Even when you strongly believe in your perspective, it’s vital to remain open to others' viewpoints. Listening actively and respecting differing opinions strengthens relationships and fosters growth. True confidence isn’t about always being right—it’s about respecting others’ opinions and creating an environment where dialogue and mutual respect thrive. Five strategies for balancing confidence with compassion include: * Pause Before Speaking : Take a moment to consider the impact of your words. This can help you find the right balance between honesty and tact. * Choose Your Words Carefully : Small changes in phrasing can make a big difference. For instance, replacing "You're wrong" with "I see it differently" softens the message without diluting it. * Be Mindful of Your Tone : Tone can convey as much meaning as words. A calm and respectful tone, especially in sensitive situations, can prevent misunderstandings. * Practice Active Listening : Focus on the other person's perspective, acknowledging their input. This fosters understanding and helps you respond more effectively. * Apologize When Necessary : If your words unintentionally hurt someone, a sincere apology can repair the damage and show that you care about their feelings. Ultimately, the goal is to build a culture of respect. Confidence should be tempered with kindness and consideration, creating communication that uplifts and empowers rather than tears down. In a world that often values bluntness, choosing to bala
Wed, August 14, 2024
From Empty Nest to Full Purpose | Ruthie Gray
In this episode of Midlife Repurposed , host Michelle Rayburn interviews guest Ruthie Gray about her journey from feeling lost and purposeless in an empty nest to finding fulfillment through online marketing, mentoring, and writing. Ruthie shares her experiences of caregiving, parenting, and grandparenting, offering practical advice and insights for listeners navigating similar life transitions. From her journey to publishing her book, Empty Nest Awakening , to her expanding role as a mentor and coach for empty nest entrepreneurs, Ruthie's story is one of personal growth, faith, and finding God's purpose. Michelle and Ruthie discuss the challenges and triumphs of midlife and how to embrace change with courage and boldness. Episode Summary: In the latest episode of Midlife Repurposed , host Michelle Rayburn invites guest Ruthie Gray to share her inspiring journey of finding purpose and fulfillment in the midst of midlife transitions. Ruthie Gray, a former stay-at-home mom and now a successful online marketer, opens up about her struggles with the empty nest phase, caregiving for aging parents, and discovering her calling through faith and perseverance. Ruthie's story resonates with many listeners who have faced similar life transitions. Her experience of struggling with a lack of purpose after her children left home is a common challenge for mothers. But instead of letting herself drown in the emptiness, Ruthie took courageous steps to journal, read through the Bible, and eventually start blogging about her journey. She shares her experience of finding meaning through mentoring younger moms online and writing two ebooks. Ruthie's message about embracing flexibility and seeking help during caregiving resonates with anyone facing similar situations, offering practical advice and a sense of hope. Her personal growth from being an introvert to becoming a connector and mentor is truly inspiring, reflecting her courage and faith in God's guidance. The episode encourages listeners to approach midlife transitions with courage and boldness, finding comfort in connecting with God's purpose. Ruthie's journey serves as a beacon of hope for those facing life transitions, urging them to take action and find fulfillment in the next chapter of their lives. Links: Michelle Rayburn on Ruthie’s Authentic Online Marketing podcast Empty Nest Awakening Book Authentic Online Marketing (coaching, podcast, and more) RuthieGray.mom This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visi
Tue, August 13, 2024
Life Repurposed Gets a Rebrand
Hey there, amazing listeners! You might have noticed a little change around here— Life Repurposed has gotten a midlife upgrade! I’m here to give you a quick update on how that changes the podcast. Yep, after 200 episodes, we've rebranded to Midlife Repurposed . When I first started out, I was creating content for those who were about ten years behind me. But as time has marched on (and I’ve gracefully stepped into the fabulous 50s), I've realized that the person now coming up behind me is around 40. So, it only makes sense to tailor my content to what's relevant in this midlife chapter. But don't worry if you're still rocking the 30s—there’s plenty of wisdom and laughs here for you too! After all, midlife is just around the corner, and it’s never too early to start thinking about how to repurpose it! Here are some topics you might see in upcoming episodes: * Pursuing new passions or reinventing your career. * Staying active, healthy, and vibrant. * Strengthening marriage relationships after the kids are grown. * Finding community and connection in midlife with new friendships. * Prioritizing your well-being, self-care, and mental health during midlife transitions. * Exploring the world and finding new adventures. * Decluttering and embracing a minimalist lifestyle or downsizing. * Coping with grief and loss in midlife, whether it's losing parents or other loved ones. * Navigating doubt and questioning long-held beliefs. * Finding fresh and meaningful ways to connect with God. * Considering the beliefs and values you want to pass on to the next generation. When you subscribe to Midlife Repurposed on Substack, you’ll receive all the bonus blogs that go with the topics I cover on the podcast. Thanks for sticking with me on this journey! I’m super excited about the upgrade! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Mon, July 15, 2024
From Rules to Grace: My Unedited Faith Testimony
In this raw and unedited episode, Michelle Rayburn opens up about her personal journey with faith. From grappling with conflicting religious standards to experiencing a shift in church traditions, she shares her struggle to break away from a tradition and find a path to grace and love. Michelle's transparent testimony reflects her evolving understanding of grace, love, and the importance of remaining in Jesus. Join her as she recounts her college experience, intertwining lifelong friendships and spiritual activities, and her transformative shift toward what it means to abide in Jesus. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, May 08, 2024
Rediscovering Your Place in the Pew
What does it really mean to belong in church? When do you know if you've found a church home? Michelle Rayburn discusses this and also briefly mentions a social media post from author and speaker Mary Demuth, who shared her own definition of a spiritual refugee, and the importance of finding a place where we can be vulnerable and truly belong in a church community. Michelle talks about the key factors that contribute to feeling at home in a church community, and how to overcome the barriers to connection in order to find belonging and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're searching for your spiritual home or have found it, this episode will resonate with you. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/rediscovering-your-place-in-the-pew/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, May 01, 2024
Is Critical Thinking Dead?
Is critical thinking dead? It doesn't have to be! In this episode of Life Repurposed, we're diving into the world of critical thinking and its profound impact on life, culture, Bible study, faith, and spirituality. Host Michelle Rayburn unpacks the importance of engaging with scripture in a discerning way, exploring diverse perspectives, and understanding historical and cultural contexts to avoid misinterpretation. But the conversation doesn't stop there. We'll also explore the surprising link between critical thinking and resilience to doubt and uncertainty, as well as the misconception that it challenges deeply held beliefs. Join us as we embrace the complexity of faith and reason, and discover the power of curiosity, the joy of discovery, and the diverse perspectives that enrich our understanding of scripture. Show Notes https://michellerayburn.com/is-critical-thinking-dead/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, April 24, 2024
Challenging Gender Roles in the Church: Empowering Women in Leadership and Ministry
As we journey through life, our perspectives and beliefs undergo a transformation, often challenging long-held traditions and assumptions. In Episode 197 of "Life Repurposed," host Michelle Rayburn shares her personal journey of challenging traditional beliefs about biblical manhood and womanhood. Reflecting on her own evolving perspective and the influence of influential books, she explores the need for open dialogue and understanding within faith communities, particularly regarding women's leadership in the church. Michelle offers practical steps for empowering women and emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse gifts for shared leadership. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/challenging-gender-roles-in-the-church-empowering-women-in-leadership-and-ministry/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, April 17, 2024
A Candid Chat on Planning Ahead for an Empty Nest
Join Michelle and guests Amber Cullum (Grace Enough Podcast) and Amy Fritz (Untangled Faith Podcast) in a candid and emotional conversation about planning for an empty nest. As midlife moms with kids at various stages, they share their thoughts, fears, and hopes about their children growing up and leaving home. From navigating the transition to preparing for empty nesting, this episode offers relatable insights and genuine conversations about the next chapter in parenting. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion on Life Repurposed. Then hop over to liferepurposed.me to have a conversation about your questions and fears. Show Notes https://michellerayburn.com/a-candid-chat-on-planning-ahead-for-an-empty-nest/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, April 10, 2024
Stay or Go: Church Choices and Spiritual Journeys
Did you stay in a church for the kids? Would you stay for your friendships? In Episode 195 of "Life Repurposed," Michelle Rayburn discusses the topic of staying or leaving a church, particularly as individuals navigate changes in their lives and spiritual journeys. Drawing from personal experiences, biblical examples, and insights from experts, Michelle explores the complexities and considerations involved in discerning this spiritual path. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize their relationship with God, embrace change with faith, and seek guidance when contemplating a new church community. This episode provides valuable reflections and practical guidance for those grappling with the decision to stay or seek a new spiritual home. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/stay-or-go-church-choices-and-spiritual-journeys/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, April 03, 2024
Love Comes with Maturity—If We Cultivate It
In Episode 194 of "Life Repurposed," Michelle emphasizes the transformative power of love as the foundation for rebuilding and enriching lives. With a focus on practical ways to cultivate love, the episode explores empathy, compassion, active listening, and seeking to understand others' unique life stories and worldviews. She discusses the importance of extending acts of kindness, practicing forgiveness, and embracing love as a guiding principle in relationships, communities, and society. The episode also delves into the role of loving others, emphasizing emotional and soul maturity aligning with love and understanding the bigger picture of life. Join us as we prioritize love and intentional relationships, with practical steps for fostering empathy and compassion. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/love-comes-with-maturity-if-we-cultivate-it/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, March 27, 2024
Uncover Passions and Live with Intention
In this episode, host Michelle Rayburn explores the importance of pursuing passions and overcoming obstacles in midlife. She shares personal stories and practical tips for reigniting a sense of purpose, embracing uncertainty, and investing in personal growth. Listeners are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, confront fears, and pursue their true aspirations with courage and conviction. Join Michelle as she challenges you to live each day with intention and embrace the beauty of self-discovery. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/uncover-passions-and-live-with-intention/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, March 20, 2024
Midlife Memory Hacks, Task Management, and Renewed Purpose
Discover practical tips and playful insights for navigating life's adventures and memory lapses. Learn memory-boosting strategies, organizational hacks, and how to thrive in midlife and beyond. Rediscover the joy of living fully in the present moment while staying organized and embracing new experiences. Gain practical tips for navigating forgetfulness and maximizing productivity amidst life's chaotic moments. Join Michelle as she inspires and empowers you to celebrate each day as an opportunity to create memories, pursue passions, and connect with the world around you. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/midlife-memory-hacks-task-management-and-renewed-purpose/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, March 13, 2024
Forget the Crisis! Midlife is a Crossroads.
In this episode, Michelle dives into the topic of midlife, reframing it as a pivotal crossroads rather than a crisis. Embracing authenticity, shedding societal expectations, and seeking empowerment and purpose are just some of the transformative themes discussed. Through personal insights and engaging storytelling, Michelle encourages listeners to approach midlife with wonder, gratitude, and a sense of self-discovery. Join her for an inspiring conversation that challenges perceptions and celebrates the beauty of this transformative stage of life. Sponsor: Classic Marriage book https://michellerayburn.com/classicmarriage/ More show notes: https://michellerayburn.com/forget-the-crisis-midlife-is-a-crossroads/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, March 06, 2024
Navigating Transitions and Change in Mid-Life
Are you facing a major life transition? Let's explore the transformative power of change and the resilience it can bring. In this episode of "Life Repurposed," Michelle shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating changes and transitions in midlife. From moving to a new community, dealing with personal and family losses, to reinventing her career, she discusses the emotional challenges, spiritual practices, and practical strategies for handling transitions. Join her as she explores the complexities of transitions and offers hope and encouragement for embracing change and finding renewal in the midst of life's challenges. Series: Midlife Mixtape: Rocking Out to the Soundtracks of Our Middle Years Show Notes https://michellerayburn.com/navigating-transitions-and-change-in-mid-life/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, February 28, 2024
Building Thriving Connections in Christian Community
In this thought-provoking episode, Michelle explores the complex world of spiritual growth and finding authentic connection in Christian communities. She tackles the tricky topic of midlife transitions, questioning of faith, and the search for deeper meaning and purpose. She explores the impact of phrases commonly used in church circles and the signs of spiritual abuse within Christian communities. Drawing from her own experiences, Michelle emphasizes the importance of remaining connected to Jesus and seeking genuine, supportive relationships within the church. Michelle encourages listeners to take a leap of faith to find authentic connection and fruitfulness in their spiritual journey. This is an episode that will challenge, inspire, and encourage you to seek genuine growth and connection in Christ. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/thriving-connections-in-christian-community/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, February 21, 2024
Challenging "Hate the Sin, Love the Sinner”
Is it possible to love someone while hating their behavior or decisions? In this episode of Life Repurposed, host Michelle Rayburn explores the potentially controversial phrase "hate the sin, love the sinner," challenging its implications and impact on our relationships. Through biblical insights and compelling examples, Michelle discusses the potential harm and judgmental attitudes this phrase may foster, advocating for a more empathetic and inclusive approach to loving others. She’s honest and transparent about her own thoughts on how to treat others and the origin of the phrase. Listen in and explore the transformative power of genuine love and acceptance. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/challenging-hate-the-sin-love-the-sinner/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, February 14, 2024
Love, Laughter, and Classic Marriage
Join host Michelle Rayburn and her husband, Phil Rayburn, as they share insights and playful banter about their 34-year marriage. They discuss intentional date nights and the value of communication. Tune in for a fun game of "would you rather," their preferences in various scenarios, and a glimpse into their relationship dynamics. Having fun together is one of their secrets for a long marriage. Don't miss out on this heartwarming and candid conversation about love and marriage. Subscribe to Michelle's mailing list on Substack for bonus gifts and explore more resources in the Life Repurposed magazine. (Paid members get chapter 1 of Classic Marriage this time!) Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/love-laughter-and-classic-marriage/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, February 07, 2024
What Is a Born-Again Christian?
Is “born-again Christian” just a box to check on a survey? How does it apply to life today, and is it a label we still use, or has it been ruined by modern evangelicalism? Host Michelle Rayburn begins this thought-provoking episode with exploring the history and modern use of the term “born again” and its impact on the evangelical movement. She reviews the transformative journey of Nicodemus in John 3 and its parallels to the modern Christian experience. Explore beyond a mere label as Michelle encourages listeners to embrace continual transformation and renewal that make being spiritual rebirth (being born again) lead to a way of living rather than a label to claim. Show notes: https://michellerayburn.com/what-is-a-born-again-christian/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, January 31, 2024
“Christian” Is a Noun, and Scripture Is Not for Decoration
Is “Christian” a noun or an adjective, and what difference does it make? In Episode 185 of "Life Repurposed," host Michelle Rayburn dives into the implications of the title "Christian" in various aspects of life. She explores the significance of embodying the qualities of Jesus in everyday decisions and challenges listeners to seek spiritual transformation over “plastic” versions of Christianity. What happens when we use Bible verses out of context for decoration on t-shirts, mugs, and wall art? Michelle also explores the importance of understanding the context of Bible verses to avoid misinterpretation and misapplication, providing practical tips to achieve this. Zooming out to look at the context has changed her personal Bible study so much, and she gives examples of how she’s experienced a repurposed life in this area. Show Notes: https://michellerayburn.com/christian-is-a-noun-and-scripture-is-not-for-decoration/ Substack: www.LifeRepurposed.me This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, January 24, 2024
What in the World Is a Biblical Worldview?
In Episode 184 of Life Repurposed, join host Michelle Rayburn as she shares explores the concept of "biblical worldview" and the diversity of interpretations within Christianity. Michelle discusses what aspects of life are affected by worldview and shares ways to appreciate theological diversity and avoid assuming uniformity among Christians. She explains the pitfalls of living in an echo chamber and the importance of embracing diverse beliefs without sacrificing core values. Michelle encourages embracing diverse beliefs while maintaining core values, and commits to delivering quality content and fostering open dialogue Michelle also shares her vision for the new season and her commitment to providing valuable content and building a community focused on meaningful engagement and invites listeners to join the discussion on Substack. Tune in for an engaging and thought-provoking content. Show notes: https://michellerayburn.com/what-in-the-world-is-a-biblical-worldview/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, December 28, 2023
Let’s Rethink Food, Body Image, and Purpose | Heather Creekmore
It’s time to rethink everything you thought you knew about food, your appearance, and your body. In this episode of Life Repurposed, host Michelle Rayburn is joined by guest Heather Creekmore for a candid conversation about body image and the biblical approach to it. Heather shares her personal journey of struggling with body image issues, dieting, and the realization that her obsession with changing her body had become an idol in her life. The conversation also explores the false promises of diets, the temporary nature of the "after" picture, and how diets do not provide lasting fulfillment as promised. They discuss practical tools to address body image issues and aim to shine a light on cultural expectations, with Heather providing insights from her new book The 40-Day Body Image Workbook: Hope for Christian Women Who’ve Tried Everything. Join Michelle and Heather as they explore the intersection of faith, body image, and self-acceptance in this thought-provoking and uplifting episode. Show Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, December 21, 2023
Trading the Fast Lane for a Slower Pace | Becky Melby
In Episode 182 of Life Repurposed, host Michelle Rayburn and guest Becky Melby dive into the importance of setting boundaries, giving yourself grace, and finding balance in managing time and rest. Becky shares her personal experiences with health challenges, taking a pause on her writing, and the transition to embracing a slower pace of life. They dive into the joy of leisure, finding purpose, and debunking unrealistic holiday expectations. Plus, discover Becky's heartwarming Christmas traditions and her delightful novels to unwind with this season. Join us for a heartwarming and insightful discussion. Show Notes __________________ Audio intro and outro "To Meet The Light" used with permission from Pixabay Terms of Service. https://pixabay.com/users/lemonmusicstudio-14942887/ Licensee: michelle1825 https://pixabay.com/music/upbeat-to-meet-the-light-108601/ Audio File ID: 108601 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, December 14, 2023
Touched You Last: Christmas Special
Michelle shares delightful stories of Christmas with her grandma, from treat bags and childhood memories to enduring love and holiday traditions. She encourages listeners to consider those who have touched their lives and to reach out to them during the holidays. This episode is part 3 of 3 in the Renewed Christmas Blessings special holiday series. It focuses on considering how our legacies are rooted in what we have received from our ancestors. Michelle said, "Our loved ones have not left us. They're in our DNA. They're in the smiles around the table, in the faith legacy represented in the nativity story we read before opening presents and in the songs we sing on Christmas Eve as we hold candles and join hands. They are always in our hearts." Show Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, December 07, 2023
Better Homes and Garlands – Christmas Special
In this special Christmas episode, step up to the challenge of releasing the desire to create the perfect holiday wonderland. Michelle reflects on the evolution of her Christmas celebrations, from meticulously crafted themed trees to the delightful chaos of family decorations. Discover the beauty in imperfection as Michelle shares her journey from being a multitasking marvel to a minimalist maven, finding joy in the simplicity of the season. The episode resonates with themes of hope, grace, and the profound meaning of Christmas beyond the trappings of decorations and busyness. Join Michelle in this soul-stirring episode that invites listeners to recenter their hearts on the true light of the season—Jesus—and to embrace the celebration of Christmas with open hearts and without an agenda. Show Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 30, 2023
A Grinch-Proof Christmas and the True Spirit of the Holiday Season
In this episode, Michelle Rayburn shares a story titled "A Grinch-Proof Christmas," based on a chapter from her new Christmas book, "Renewed Christmas Blessings." Tune in as Michelle reflects on the joys and challenges of the holiday season, sharing personal insights and practical wisdom about embracing the true essence of Christmas. She shares her not-to-do and her must-do lists with examples of how her holiday traditions have changed. Discover how she found a new perspective on holiday traditions and gift-giving, and learn about the book's release and special offers. Show notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, November 22, 2023
Trusting God’s Purpose When Life Takes a Turn | Sarah E Frazer
In this episode, Michelle welcomes guest Sarah Frazer, author of the book "I Didn't Sign Up For This." Sarah shares her story of how God revealed his plans through disruptions in her life and how she had to let go of her own plans and dreams to follow his path. From redefining what is "good" to navigating the challenges of adoption and pursuing missions work, Sarah's journey offers encouragement and perspective for those facing unexpected situations in life. Tune in to discover how faith and biblical wisdom can help navigate life's unexpected journeys. Show Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 16, 2023
Renewed: How Our Lives Become Testimonies to God’s Transforming Work | ReMade Part 4
In this episode of "Life Repurposed" with Michelle Rayburn, we dive deep into the power of words and the transformative journey of Paul. Michelle shares her personal stories and insights, reminding us to never underestimate the impact our lives can have on others. From soldiers finding lifelines in letters to her grandparents courting during World War 2, we explore the remarkable connections formed through written words. Michelle challenges us to examine our priorities, hearts, and fruit, while emphasizing the hope and victory found in Christ's love. Join us as we discover how to live a life that reflects Christ's light and transform our weaknesses into beautiful testimonials. Let's embrace our new nature and be renewed in the knowledge of God. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 09, 2023
Repurposed: The Power of Before and After | ReMade Part 3
Are you ready for a fresh start? Episode 176 of Life Repurposed, we explore the theme of before and after, and what it means to be truly transformed. Discover how Paul's dramatic change can give us hope for our own transformation. Michelle explores the concept of repurposing one's life and the ability to say, "I used to be this way, but now I am transformed." She discusses the importance of recognizing our before as evidence of God's power, striving to resemble Jesus in our after, and embracing the fact that we are all a work in progress. Join Michelle as she provides practical insights and encouragement for those seeking transformation and repurposing in their own lives. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 02, 2023
Restart: Spiritual Transformation Grounded in Grace and Truth | ReMade Part 2
In this episode of "Life Repurposed," host Michelle Rayburn shares a powerful message about the importance of truth and grace in our lives. Drawing from the story of the apostle Paul, Michelle encourages listeners to ask God what changes or amends they need to make in their opportunity for a restart. She covers the misuse of scripture as a weapon, the idea of how we can be misguided in unintentionally putting traditions and legalism ahead of truth. Michelle explores the concept of personal and spiritual restarts, offering wisdom and inspiration for growth along with transparency in her own spiritual journey. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 26, 2023
Thirsty for More: Refreshed through an Encounter with Jesus | ReMade Part 1
Explore the transformative power of encountering Jesus. This recording is session 1 of a 4-part series from a retreat called ReMade. Drawing inspiration from the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, Michelle discusses how Jesus understands our true needs and seeks to connect with and not condemn us. She reminds us that finding refreshment and fulfillment comes from reconnecting with Jesus, regardless of our past attempts. Tune in to discover how encountering Jesus can bring hope, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose to your life. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 19, 2023
Love and Disagreement: Choosing to See Opponents Instead of Enemies
In this episode, host Michelle Rayburn explores the difference between opponents and enemies. She explores the power of our words and the impact they can have on our relationships and interactions. Michelle shares practical steps to approach disagreements with grace and a willingness to understand differing perspectives. Discover how embracing a mindset of love and respect can transform our interactions and open doors to collaboration and common ground. Join Michelle as she encourages listeners to view others as opponents rather than enemies and explores the positive outcomes that can result from this mindset shift. Plus, she talks about reading Rainn Wilson's new book, and about two brand new releases from other authors. Show notes and resource links This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 12, 2023
Taking a Leap with Purpose and Passion | Rachel G. Scott
Do you struggle with focus? Does it seem as if others know their direction but you don’t? In this episode, you’ll learn how boundaries can be your best friend when seeking to live out your purpose. Guest Rachel G. Scott talks about being raised by her father and how it shaped who she is now as a passionate ministry leader and business owner. If you keep self-sabotaging, Rachel has some words of encouragement for you. And if you’re uncertain about taking a leap, Rachel talks about taking the first step. Show notes, links, and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, October 04, 2023
When Everything Is Messed Up, God Is Not
In this episode, Michelle explores the theme of finding hope and strength in the midst of life's messiness. From questioning our purpose to navigating communication issues in family life, Michelle delves into the challenges we face and how they can shape our faith. Drawing from personal experiences and spiritual insights, she encourages listeners to embrace the journey, trust in God's faithfulness, and seek support and understanding from those around them. Join us as we discover how even in the messiest of situations, God's presence can bring light and hope. Don't miss this inspiring episode of Life Repurposed: "Finding Hope in Life's Messiness." Show Notes and Resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 28, 2023
How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed and Start Owning Your Time | Crystal Paine
In this episode, Michelle welcomes guest Crystal Paine, author of the book The Time-Saving Mom. Crystal shares her unique approach to time management, emphasizing the need for personal ownership and intentional choices. Drawing from her own experiences as a mother and caregiver to a child with special needs, Crystal offers practical tips on how to budget time just like you would budget money. Join us as we explore the power of prioritization, planning, and preparation to create a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Tune in to learn how to stop saying you don't have time and take control of your schedule. Crystal Paine is a New York Times bestselling author, a popular speaker, the host of The Crystal Paine Show, and the founder of one of the top personal finance blogs on the web, Money Saving Mom. Her desire is to help women across the globe live with more joy in their everyday lives. Her biggest passions are helping women understand how the Gospel can radically transform their lives, raising awareness for foster care, and finding great deals at the grocery store. She lives with her husband and kids in the Nashville, Tennessee, area. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 21, 2023
Questions, Misconceptions, and Outcomes of Faith Deconstruction
On this episode of Life Repurposed, host Michelle Rayburn discusses the concept of deconstructing faith. She clarifies that deconstructing faith does not imply demolition or destruction, but rather a process of critically examining and reevaluating one's beliefs within the context of religion or spirituality. Michelle shares her personal journey of deconstruction and how it led her to question assumptions, explore doubts, and reflect on her experiences. She emphasizes the importance of asking questions, being curious, and engaging with diverse perspectives. Michelle also addresses common misconceptions about deconstructing faith, such as it leading to atheism or a rejection of all religious practices. She explains that deconstruction can actually deepen one's faith and foster greater compassion and empathy. Ultimately, deconstructing faith is a transformative aspect of self-discovery and an ongoing journey of growth and understanding. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 14, 2023
Motherhood, Mental Health, and Making Time for What Matters | Caris Snider
On this episode, Michelle chats with author and speaker Caris Snider to discuss the journey of overcoming anxiety and depression as a mom. Caris shares her own personal experiences and how she found hope and encouragement through being authentic with other moms about getting help. They also dive into the importance of talking about mental health and finding support within the church community. Join Michelle and Caris as they explore the power of vulnerability and self-care in the journey of motherhood and talk about Caris’s new devotional book for moms. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 07, 2023
Rethinking Good and Godly for an Inclusive Grace-Centered Gospel
This week, Michelle explores the powerful topic of reimagining what it means to be good and godly in a grace-centered gospel. She candidly reflects on the pressure and expectations placed on families and our children, challenging us to question the consequences of not fitting the mold. Michelle shares her personal experiences and struggles, opening up about the dangers of labeling and excluding others based on their choices and lifestyles. With warmth and compassion, she emphasizes the core message of Christianity: love, grace, and redemption for all. Michelle invites us to embrace humility, vulnerability, and authenticity in our faith journeys, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can find hope, repurpose their lives, and discover the transformative power of the gospel. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 31, 2023
Stepping Out in Faith: Overcoming Doubts and Daring to Pursue Your Dream | Kate Battistelli
In this episode of Life Repurposed, Michelle and guest Kate Battistelli discuss the challenges and rewards of stepping out in faith and following God's calling. From battling doubts to learning to trust in God's timing, Kate shares her personal journey of obedience and the incredible transformations that have unfolded as a result. They cover topics such as overcoming guilt and shame, embracing forgiveness, and finding purpose amidst waiting seasons. Join Michelle and Kate as they encourage listeners to take action, trust in God's plan, and live a life repurposed for his glory. Episode 166: Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 24, 2023
Reinventing Yourself and Finding Purpose on New Paths
In this episode, we address the power of reframing the narrative during times of change and the importance of embracing the journey ahead, even when it looks different than expected. Michelle explored how to navigate through challenging situations such as changes in family dynamics, job loss, relocation, and health issues. As our circumstances shift and evolve, we are often faced with unexpected challenges and opportunities. Michelle reminds us of the importance of nurturing relationships and seeking a deeper purpose in order to embark on a remarkable expedition of personal growth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 17, 2023
Unmasking Destructive Anger and Embracing Grace | Natalie Hixson
In this episode, Michelle welcomes guest Natalie Hixson, a certified professional life coach who helps moms overcome anger and burnout. Natalie shares her personal journey of grappling with destructive anger and the steps she took to overcome it. From her own experiences with therapy, personal development, and serving others, Natalie offers valuable insights for moms struggling with anger issues. She emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, seeking support, and finding healthy ways to release and address anger. Don't miss this empowering and insightful conversation that will help moms navigate the challenges of parenthood and find peace in their daily lives. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 10, 2023
How Do We Balance Humility and Authenticity in the Pursuit of Influence?
The episode emphasizes the power of gratitude and contentment in our pursuit of influence. Michelle encourages us to cultivate a heart of thankfulness and a spirit of rest in contentment. True gain is found in appreciating rather than accumulating, and it recalibrates our perspective, silencing comparison and envy. Michelle explores the transformative power of humility, gratitude, and contentment. She discusses the dangers of pride and the importance of valuing others above oneself. With insights from Scripture and personal anecdotes, Michelle guides independent creatives on striking a balance between self-promotion and authenticity. Join her on this journey of self-reflection and discover the secrets to building influence with humility. Remember, it's not about the number of followers or accolades, but the impact we make when we walk humbly, honor God, and spread Christ's love. Let's embrace humility and gratitude, and watch how they transform our lives and the lives of those around us. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 03, 2023
Jennifer Dukes Lee on Doubt, Deep Questions, and the Transformative Power of Journaling
Secial guest Jennifer Dukes Lee opens up about doubt and faith and talks about the therapeutic value journaling holds. Discover how a simple journal can help you explore your emotions, discover your purpose, and even reconcile friendships. Plus, dive into the importance of being your authentic self and find out why Jennifer embraces the title Binder Girl. Learn what “itsuarpok” is, explore whether Michelle will survive a zombie apocalypse, and find out what spreading ashes, chocolate buffets, and weird stuff in Jennifer’s purse have in common. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 27, 2023
Overcoming the Pressure of Unrealistic Expectations in Motherhood
Michelle discusses the reasons why setting unrealistic expectations can be detrimental to our well-being and offers practical tips to reassess and adjust our expectations. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation that will help you navigate the challenges of motherhood with grace and self-compassion. Have you ever found yourself feeling like you’re falling short as a mother? Like the picture-perfect version of motherhood that you had in your mind just doesn’t align with your reality? Well, you’re not alone. Michelle reminds us of the importance of reframing our expectations as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of motherhood. Life circumstances, personal growth, and the many challenges that parenting brings can all influence our perspective and priorities. It’s essential to recognize that what once worked for us may not be feasible or necessary anymore. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 20, 2023
Ordinary on Purpose: Embrace Imperfections and Find Beauty in the Ordinary | Mikala Albertson
In this episode Michelle engages in a thought-provoking conversation with guest Mikala Albertson, a family practice doctor turned stay-at-home mom and writer. They discuss how embracing the ordinary moments in life and finding beauty in everyday challenges can lead to personal and spiritual growth. Mikala also opens up about her own healing journey, overcoming childhood trauma, and finding strength in sharing her story with others. Join Michelle and Mikala on this inspiring episode as they explore the power of repurposing life’s trials into sources of hope and inspiration. About Mikala: Mikala Albertson, MD is a family practice doctor turned mostly stay-at-home mom who is passionate about Jesus and all things ordinary. Since 2017, she has been writing and inspiring women to let go of striving for the world’s expectations so they can fully embrace the good, hard, ordinary life God has planned. Life is beautifully ordinary, after all! Mikala lives with her husband of 19 years just outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, and together they raise their five children who range in age from 16 to 4. Be ordinary on purpose, and learn more at ordinaryonpurpose.com or on Instagram at @ordinaryonpurpose. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 13, 2023
Break Free from Impostor Syndrome: Challenge Negative Self-Talk and Embrace Your Worth
In this episode Michelle Rayburn dives into the topic of impostor syndrome and its impact on personal growth and confidence. Discover how recognizing and addressing self-doubt can unleash your true potential and help you overcome the fear of not measuring up. Michelle shares personal strategies, practical steps, and uplifting resources to combat impostor syndrome, including her recommended book “Ready to Rise” by Jo Saxton. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 06, 2023
Navigating Motherhood with Grace: Confronting the Past, Embracing Imperfection, and Finding Support | Pam Fields
In this episode, guest Pam Fields shares her journey through motherhood and her mission to support and mentor other moms. Pam opens up about the challenges she faced as a young mother, feeling unprepared and overwhelmed by the responsibilities of raising children. She shares how her faith in God and the guidance from mentors and resources helped her navigate the complexities of motherhood. Join Michelle and Pam as they explore the importance of creating a community for moms to connect, learn, and support each other. About Pam Fields Pam Fields is the wife of Andrew, mother of nine, and grandmother of four. She’s always had a heart for encouraging moms in their walk with the Lord and in their mothering journey. She enjoys sharing testimonies on her podcast, The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith. When Pam has some free time, you can find her at coffee with friends or planning her next family gathering at their home in Tennessee. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Tue, July 04, 2023
Independence Day: Reflecting on the Principles that Define America
In this special Independence Day episode, Michelle reflects on the principles that make America unique and the ongoing journey of personal growth and a different mindset. She explores the importance of embracing open-mindedness, recognizing the value of diversity, and fostering an environment of respectful dialogue. Michelle encourages listeners to critically evaluate their own beliefs and embrace the ever-evolving journey of life repurposed. Join us as we celebrate Independence Day and explore what it means to truly live in a free and diverse nation. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 29, 2023
Unexpected Difficulties an Opportunity to Grow
In this episode, Michelle discusses the concept of starting over after facing unexpected difficulties. Drawing from her own experiences and biblical wisdom, Michelle shares practical steps for finding hope and purpose in the midst of life’s challenges. She explores the importance of surrendering burdens to God, seeking support from Christian communities, and embracing new opportunities. Now What?: How to Move Forward When We’re Divided (About Basically Everything) by Sara Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers provides practical strategies for engaging with others, understanding different perspectives, and moving beyond divisions, emphasizing the power of our actions in personal and community contexts. Michelle also mentions the fiction book, The One You’re With by Lauren K Denton, which delves into the story of a couple starting over and explores the impact of past choices on their relationship and family. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 22, 2023
Renewed Hope after Surviving Tragic Loss | Kaitlyn Odom Fiedler
In this episode, Kaitlyn Odom Fiedler shares her personal journey of finding hope and healing in Christ after a tragic loss of her parents and four siblings and emphasizes the importance of being intentional with children in teaching them about God. She also encourages others to allow themselves to carry grief with them and not feel ashamed for still feeling sad after months or even years. Join Michelle and Kaitlyn in this touching conversation about faith, loss, and healing. Kaitlyn Odom Fiedler was eight years old when she woke up alone in a hospital room, the victim of a horrible car accident that claimed the lives of six of her family members as they traveled on their way to vacation at the beach. Left with only one living brother, young Kaitlyn was left with the question, “What now?” How do you find hope after loss? Twenty years later, Kaitlyn has found her hope and wants to encourage others as they struggle with their own trials. In What Now?: Finding Renewed Life in Christ After Kaitlyn shares her pain, struggle, and personal wrestling with grief, love, and hope with courageous vulnerability. She has found Christ sustaining, patient, and present and introduces Him as one friend introduces another. Her value of children, their emotions, grief, and the need for ways to engage their trauma with or without words reminds us and challenges us to enter in and give space for all. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 15, 2023
Navigating Online Echo Chambers: Embracing Authenticity in a Polarized Digital World
In this episode Michelle discusses the challenges of expressing opinions on social media and offers strategies for fostering positive dialogue and building a digital community rooted in love, respect, and unity. She shares practical tips for navigating negative reactions online, seeking out diverse perspectives, and prioritizing mental and emotional well-being. Join in an inspiring conversation on repurposing social media for positive change. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 08, 2023
Starting Over: From Job Loss to Mompreneur | Andrea Gribble
In this episode Andrea Gribble talks about her journey from losing her job to starting over in a completely new career path, finding a niche in social media management, and professional development for school social media champions. Andrea shares her personal challenges, including potentially losing her home, but ultimately realizing that it was a blessing in disguise. She also reflects on her faith journey and how it has helped her overcome anxiety and uncertainty, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and cherishing memories during difficult times. Tune in to this inspirational episode for encouragement and motivation to keep pushing forward through life’s challenges. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 01, 2023
Repurposed Focus: Deeper Relationships by Showing Interest Others
In this episode, Michelle shares the power of focusing on others rather than ourselves. As Christians, we are called to lead a life of love, compassion, and selflessness. However, it can be easy to forget the needs of those around us and become consumed with our own lives. Michelle shares personal challenges and practical ways to shift our focus, such as taking a genuine interest in someone’s day, actively listening, and lending a helping hand. Focusing on others opens our hearts and leads to deeper relationships. Michelle also gives tips on cultivating gratitude, seeking opportunities to volunteer, and surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 25, 2023
Root Causes of Disordered Eating: Understanding Lies, Brokenness, and Vulnerability | Jennifer Smith Lane
In this episode of Life Repurposed, Michelle and Jennifer delve into the root causes of disordered eating habits and body dissatisfaction, discussing the emotional and mental health problems that often give rise to eating disorders. Jennifer’s ministry work and use of biblical teachings as a source of emotional and spiritual healing provide hope and inspiration for individuals struggling with disordered eating or looking to transform their lives. About Jennifer Smith Lane: Jennifer Smith Lane is the co-founder of the Michigan Eating Disorders Alliance whose mission is to provide education programs to prevent eating disorders. In addition to her non-profit work, she has written an award-winning Bible study birthed out of her own struggle with an eating disorder, to help others on their recovery journey and empower them to find freedom in Christ. At present, Jennifer works as an eating disorder recovery coach with the Kirsten Haglund's Virtual Transitional Living Program for Eating Disorders . However, she enjoys most her role as a mom to her three children. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 18, 2023
Balancing Perfectionism and Humility
From rooting out pride, to behind the scenes of season 6, to rapture theology, we cover a LOT of ground this week. An honest conversation about life lessons and spiritual growth, plus a peek at what Michelle is reading. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 03, 2022
10 Life Lessons from Season 5 of Life Repurposed
Wrapping up season 5 and celebrating episode 150. Includes 10 life-repurposed lessons learned from guests this season, plus some other favorites. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 20, 2022
Design Principles for Life | Tracy Steel
What happens when life feels like one big Pinterest fail? What happens when we're living a life we didn't design? Professional designer Tracy Steel applies design principles such as movement, emphasis, pattern, contrast, balance, and space to what God does in our lives. Hallway moments—the in-between that doesn't always feel beautiful—remind us that God's purposes stand, even in the waiting when nothing goes as planned. About Tracy Steel: Tracy Steel graduated from with a BS in Interior Design. Eager to change her clients’ lives by improving the interior space they occupied, she thought she had the blueprints for her future completed. Then she met and fell in love with Jesus Christ, and He changed everything. Since then she has pursued a different kind of interior design. God’s true design for Tracy involves improving the interior space of the hearts and minds of women around her. She has a degree biblical leadership and a masters in biblical and theological studies. As a military wife and mother of two, Tracy currently pursues her passion for ministry on a national basis through her speaking and writing ministry and enjoys serving women locally via various ministry opportunities her church. Tracy loves to travel and teach at women’s events and shares her heart as a contributor on many websites. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 06, 2022
Faith Questions and Finding Something Real | Janell Wood
Janell Wood took a meandering path from growing up in a Christian home, to questioning her faith, and then finding her way to a real relationship with God. It gave her a passion for having honest discussions with young women who are uncertain about Christianity and searching for something real. About Janell Wood: Janell Wood loves to have honest, imperfect, conversations about faith and Jesus Christ. She has a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, a background in advocacy and a deep interest in apologetics. She is a writer, speaker, high school foreign exchange coordinator, and host of the 'Finding Something REAL' podcast- a grace-filled journey for faith seekers and believers needing encouragement. She lives in Eastern Washington with her husband (the kindest man she knows), four kids, and (often) a teenage exchange daughter. In her free time, she can be found watching vintage television with her family and avoiding the kitchen. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 22, 2022
Life Is Better with Fiction | Robin W Pearson
Robin W Pearson talks about fiction, treasures in the everyday stuff of life, and seeking to honor God first with her writing. She discusses the long journey to getting published and how she keeps her focus on what matters. She's found pockets of time to write, despite being a homeschooling mom of seven! About Robin W Pearson: Robin W. Pearson ’s writing sprouts from her Southern roots, her faith in Jesus Christ, and her love of her husband, seven children, and four-legged baby, Oscar. She’s the author of the Christy Award–winning A Long Time Comin’, ’Til I Want No More, and her latest, Walking in Tall Weeds. Follow this homeschool mama to hear her adventures in faith, family, and fiction. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 08, 2022
Trauma to Transformation | Debra Laaser
Her husband's betrayal and sexual addiction affected their earlier years of marriage, but transformation ultimately turned it into a counseling ministry. Debra talks about how growth through pain and finding God’s purpose. About Debra Laaser: Debra Laaser is a licensed marriage and family therapist and cofounder and director of Faithful and True. She was involved in recovery with her husband, Mark, for 30 years and is committed to helping couples find healing and transformation from the pain of sexual addiction and relational betrayal. Debra has facilitated therapy groups for wives for over 20 years and now devotes her time to counseling spouses who have been relationally betrayed. She is the author of the highly acclaimed book Shattered Vows and, together with Mark, coauthored Seven Desires. She lives in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 25, 2022
Get Organized to Live on Purpose | Jennifer Ford Berry
Organize your time, spaces, energy, and finances to experience your best purpose. A Christian approach to organizing and making room. About Jennifer Ford Berry: Jennifer Ford Berry is a certified professional organizer and life coach, She is also a best-selling author of 5 books and the host of The 29 Minute Mom podcast. Her newest book, Make Room, was just released this summer. Jennifer is passionate about helping women clear away the clutter that is distracting them from living out their God-given purpose and life calling. She resides between Western NY and Indian Rocks Beach, FL. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 11, 2022
Choosing Joy, No Matter What | Pam Farrel
Pam talks about what it was like to grow up in a home with an alcoholic father, how she protected her younger siblings when her dad was at his worst, but how she also made many happy memories. She shares about how her relationship with Jesus is what ultimately brought her to the place that she is now. Mostly though, it's Pam's life repurposed story of how God took the difficulties in her life and turned them into opportunities to grow and to become a cheerleader for others. Pam is a gifted Bible teacher and writer and we talk about her latest book, Discovering Good News in John. About Pam Farrel: Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 55+books, and CoDirector of Love-Wise Ministries with her husband of 42 years, Bill. These sayings captured Pam’s heart because they sum up her experience. “I am the first-born daughter of an alcoholic father with severe rage issues. I often thought our family would make the headlines but for all the wrong reasons. When I was 8 years-old, however, a family friend saw the chaos we were living in and invited us to attend church with her. There I saw what real love looked like.” Having discovered peace and focus in her life, she is motivated to help women everywhere uncover their potential through a life of confidence and courage. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 28, 2022
Another Beautiful Life, Hope in Heartbreak | Tricia Zody
This week, my guest and I have a heartfelt chat about how God showed her that when her dreams and plans crumbled, he gave her hope and a message that she could have another beautiful life after the heartbreak.* More than anything, this episode is about hope and renewal, about transforming our minds and breaking old patterns of thinking. I got chills a few times while recording. Hope is very much alive. *I want you to know that this episode includes a topic that may be triggering. Although we do not talk about suicide in a graphic or detailed way, please use discretion if suicide is a sensitive topic for you. About Tricia Zody: After the tragic death of her husband, Tricia is learning to put the pieces of her life back together by leaning on the love and hope of Christ one day at a time. His promise to her of “another beautiful life” is evidence of His gracious mercy and tender care for the brokenhearted. Hers is a story of loss, broken dreams, and complicated grief. But it is also one of redemption and great hope that is full of evidence of God’s loving presence that is proving to be beautiful and good. Tricia Zody is a Speaker, Life Coach for Christian women, and podcast host of Another Beautiful Life. Tricia lives in the Houston area and is the mother of three beautiful adult children who are scattered all over the globe. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 14, 2022
A Christian Approach to Intuitive Eating | Erin Todd
Are you ready to ditch diets forever? Erin Todd takes a Christian approach to intuitive eating, helping you unlearn everything you were taught about calorie-counting and other aspects of diet culture and break free from weight stigma. This episode came about when Michelle began exploring intuitive eating and found Erin's podcast. This content in the tip of the iceberg in what's out there, but Erin's approach ties in the guidance of the Holy Spirit—a piece missing from a lot of advice out there! Join Michelle on her journey toward a life repurposed that's free from diet culture. About Erin Todd: Erin L. Todd is a wife, dog mom, attorney-by-day and writer-by-night living in St. Petersburg, Florida. As a redhead who battled insecurity and body image issues for over 30 years, she now claims the concept of being both a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously. Her blog “Ginger In Progress” was born from a spiritual awakening where Jesus set her free from diet prison. Now she is on a mission to empower and equip women to heal their relationships with food and body so they can find freedom, purpose and health, too! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 30, 2022
Untangling Faith from Spiritual Abuse | Amy Fritz
This week’s episode forces us to take a look at our Christian organizations and our beliefs. When Amy Fritz's husband’s job at a well-known organization ended because he refused to be silent about what was going on in the organization, it shook their world. They had to learn to differentiate between Christ and Christian culture. It tested their integrity when they had to choose between money and following God with consistency and honor. Now, Amy is helping others by telling her story and pointing them to resources that can help them through spiritual abuse and more. About Amy Fritz: Amy is the host of the Untangled Faith podcast where she hopes to help encourage people who have been hurt in their faith communities. She’s a Minnesota native who relocated to Nashville for her husband's dream job that ended up breaking their hearts and teaching them a lot of the problems behind the curtain in some Christian organizations. Amy has three teenagers and two dogs. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 16, 2022
Losing Her Dad, Finding a Second Good Gift | Gina Stinson
this episode: Gina lost her dad when she was a teenager in college. God has reclaimed and repurposed in her life to bring her to a relationship with a stepdad who she calls a second gift. Our circumstances don't always end up the way we had originally hoped, but God always brings hope in the midst of them. About Gina Stinson: Gina Stinson invites you to reclaim every day for God’s glory. She’s a pastor’s wife and mom of two teenagers. Her first book, Reclaimed: The Stories of Rescued Moments and Days, released in November, 2020. She is featured in several anthologies and writes regularly for Lifeway’s Journey Magazine for women. You can find Gina sharing the good news of Jesus, coupled with humor and hope, on social media or her website www.ginastinson.com . Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 02, 2022
Living with Grief and Thriving After Loss | Clarissa Moll
God has given Clarissa Moll a joyful life again after the tragic death of her husband on their family's vacation in 2019. As a young widow, she’s helping others by providing a map for finding grace in the grief after being blindsided by loss. About Clarissa Moll: Clarissa Moll is an award-winning writer and the author of Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving after Loss. She cohosts Christianity Today’s Surprised by Grief podcast, and her writing appears in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, RELEVANT, Modern Loss, Grief Digest, and more. Clarissa holds a master's degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and delights in God’s good creation with her four children from their home along the New England seacoast. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 19, 2022
Empowered for Purpose by Unique Strengths | Jenni Schubring
Are you using your strengths and abilities in a way that is uniquely aligned to your best life? This week, life coach Jenni Schubring talks about the CliftonStrengths assessment and how fulfilling life can be when we stop trying to be someone else. About Jenni Schubring: Jenni Schubring is a Certified Gallup Strength Coach and owner of Embrace Your Story Coaching. Jenni wants everyone to experience the freedom and empowerment that comes with knowing who they are in Christ. Along with her 1:1 clients, she works with teams, speaks at conferences, and facilitates an online community. Jenni helps people understand their strengths, identify their values, and dig into their story so they can embrace the beauty God created in themselves. Jenni has been married to her best friend for almost 23 years and is mom to 5 not so little kids. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 05, 2022
The Gutsy Path to Breakthrough and Freedom | Jennifer Watson
Do you long to be gutsy enough to break free from the stuff that keeps you in defeat? God hasn't wasted a single heartache in Jennifer Watson’s life, and she’s passionate about helping others break free. From working through her own brokenness and learning to end toxic patterns in relationships, marriage, ministry, and work, Jennifer now helps others advocate for themselves in ways they never thought possible. Whether brokenness, trauma from abuse, or bondage from shame, you can experience freedom too. About Jennifer Watson: Jennifer Watson is an author, cohost of More Than Small Talk podcast, mother of two teenagers, and a fierce advocate for anyone working through trauma from broken relationships and systems. Author of Freedom!: The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough & the Life Beyond It. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 21, 2022
Where Passion and Purpose Intersect | Katie Leigh
Voice actress Katie Leigh is known for the popular roles she has played in films and on radio dramas, including Connie Kendall on Adventures in Odyssey, but that isn’t her real identity. What started out as a gig to pay the bills led to a calling and the path to true identity. With each speed bump, God has shown her how to find true joy. In this episode, she's transparent as she shares how she almost lost her career when unexpected circumstances shook her world, how her most famous role almost wasn't, and how God worked it all out in the best way. Katie's life is an example of what happens when passion and purpose intersect. About Katie Leigh: Katie Leigh is a voice actor, director, coach and author. Possibly best known to the Christian community as Connie Kendall on Adventures in Odyssey. Since 1981, Katie Leigh has been a part of the Los Angeles voice over community, staring in such Emmy-award-winning and fan favorites hits as "Muppet Babies,” (Baby Rowlf) "Darkwing Duck,"(Honker Muddlefoot) "Richie Rich,"(Richie) "Disney's Adventures of the Gummi Bears,"(Sunni Gummi) “Totally Spies,”(Alex) and many more. In 1987, she took on the role of Connie Kendall in the world-wide radio show "Adventures in Odyssey," a role she continued ever since. In 2015, Katie took on her first voice directing job with the award winning radio play “Rex Tanner and the Sword of Damocles.” She has directed several cartoon series and film trailers since. She has an extensive background in ADR (Automated Dialog Replacement), which includes supplying the voice for the Maharaja in "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom." Katie is best known for her fantastic children, teen and character voices (but she can sound like a grown-up, too!). A frequent guest on nostalgic podcasts, convention guest and public speaker, she also coaches up-and-coming animation voice actors through her online workshops and private sessions. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 07, 2022
Life Rhythms and No-Guilt Spiritual Habits | Gwen Jackson
Have you ever felt as if you weren't following the "rules" when it came to how you practiced spiritual growth? If you thought that you were somehow broken because you weren't doing it the way everybody said you should, then you'll enjoy this interview with Gwen Jackson, who explains how we have different habits: daily rhythms, weekly-monthly, and seasonal. About Gwen Jackson: For 30+ years Gwen Jackson served in numerous ministry roles alongside her husband, Dennis, in pastoral ministry, including becoming an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church in 2014. Her greatest joy is to process life and faith with others. Her first book, Unforced Rhythms, was released in the fall of 2017. She enjoys hiking, running, summer, but more than that, she loves sharing life with her husband of 43 years and spending time with her family of four grown children and eight grandchildren. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 31, 2022
Important Announcement About the Life Repurposed Podcast
This bonus episode explains some changes coming to the Life Repurposed podcast, which includes a focus on fewer episodes with a continued focus on sharing great guest stories. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 24, 2022
The Real Cost of Social Media, Plus Helpful Solutions | Chris Martin
This week, Chris Martin talks with me about how we can have healthy relationships with the content on the web and become more aware of how platforms control us. We talked about the good, the bad, and the ugly, and what is coming in the future. Chris’s solution is not just delete your accounts and log off. Instead, he has a thoughtful way of approaching technology. Bottom line, Chris says: “Use the platforms and don’t let the platforms use you.” About Chris Martin Chris Martin is a content marketing editor at Moody Publishers and a social media, marketing, and communications consultant. He writes regularly in his Substack newsletter, Terms of Service, and wrote a book of the same title, which released in 2022. Chris lives outside Nashville with his wife, Susie, their daughter, Magnolia, and their dog, Rizzo. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 17, 2022
What if It Feels as if God Isn’t Listening?
Have you ever wondered if God isn’t hearing your prayers? It’s more difficult than a country song about unanswered prayers being God’s greatest gifts. This episode explores questions about prayer. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 10, 2022
Honey, You’re Home All the Time | Cynthia Ruchti
Does it feel as if your spouse or your kids are home all the time? All. The. Time! Learn how to modify and remodel your attitude to make those tight spaces work in this conversation with author Cynthia Ruchti. About Cynthia Ruchti: Cynthia Ruchti is the author of 35+ books (fiction and nonfiction) written under the tagline, "I can't unravel. I'm hemmed in Hope." She and her grade school sweetheart husband live in the heart of Wisconsin, not far from their three kids and six (to date) grandkids. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 03, 2022
Nine Ways to Support a Hurting Friend
Practical tips for supporting a friend who is sorting through all the emotions that come along with healing from trauma. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 24, 2022
Identity in a Culture of Loneliness | Bonnie Gray
Bonnie was born in a story that wasn't filled with love but with brokenness and loneliness. Her mother was a teenage mail-order bride from Hong Kong, and her father was a busboy in a noodle shop in San Francisco Chinatown. He abandoned her when she was seven. God used all her broken pieces to bring beauty to shine the light of his love so she can encourage others who hide in loneliness. Broken was once her identity, but God repurposed it to bring beauty and hope to others. About Bonnie Gray: Bonnie Gray is a Soul Care Expert and author of Sweet Like Jasmine, which recently became #1 New Release in Christian Biographies on Amazon, along with Whispers of Rest, and Finding Spiritual Whitespace. As speaker and podcast host of Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast, Bonnie empowers thousands of lives to flourish in emotional wellness and intentional rest. Her writing is featured in numerous Christian media outlets including Relevant Magazine and Christianity Today. She lives in California with her husband and two sons. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 17, 2022
Scrambled Eggspressions and Purposeful Conversations
Communication all jumbled up? Seven tips for how we can experience repurposed communication by being intentional and focused with conversations. Repeat. Make sure we understand what someone else said. Assess emotions. Check your own emotions to see they are affecting what you say and hear. Put down your phone. Give the conversation your full attention. When we give communication our full focus, it means our words are more thoughtful, our focus is clearer, and we demonstrate how much we value people. Say what you mean. Assume the best. Practice listening. Let go of the habit of working on your reply while the other person is speaking. If you aren’t sure, ask questions to provide clarity. Keep the tone kind and not condescending. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 10, 2022
Unexpected Testing, Steadfast Faith | Kristine Brown
If you know God is real and that he is faithful, why do you keep imagining the worst? Kristine Brown was living frazzled, stumbling through the same pattern of defeat week after week. When she came face-to-face with her worst-case-scenario, a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, she knew something had to change. Through her journey with cancer, God taught her how to trust him like she means it. About Kristine Brown: Kristine Brown is a communicator at heart, ministry wife, mom, stepmom, and Mimi. She is a former chronic worrier who loves connecting with women today and teaching about women of the Bible. You’ll find encouragement to help you “become more than yourself through God’s Word” at her website, morethanyourself.com . Any given day you can find her texting her young adult kids, checking on neighbors, or searching for a new way to cook broccoli. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 03, 2022
Practical Marriage Tips for the Crazy Life
Does life feel too crazy to keep your marriage strong sometimes? This episode includes tips for busy couples who want to hang on when life makes them dizzy. If you've ever hopped on a playground merry-go-round, you know that when someone spins it as fast as they can, you’re at the mercy of the person doing the spinning. You could not hop off that thing without risking injury. Sometimes life and marriage feel that way too. I like to think of it as not a merry-go-round but a marry-go-round. Most of us don't start out on the marry-go-round. Although some start out on kind of a slow spin. Then it ramps up from there. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 27, 2022
Pursue Your Ideal Life | Esther Littlefield
Have you ever paused to consider if you're fully using your gifts and abilities? Do you pursue what you think is quote, right? What others want of you? Or do you go after what most fulfills your passions and desires? Today, Esther Littlefield and I talk about what it means to pursue the ideal life. Not perfect, not utopia, but ideal. About Esther Littlefield: Esther Littlefield is a marketing strategist and business coach for Christian women who are ready to stop feeling scattered and confused about how to grow their business online. She’s the host of the award-winning Christian Woman Leadership Podcast and the Christian Woman Business Podcast. She is passionate about helping clients cut through the confusion, find clarity, and develop confidence in their marketing strategy so that they can focus on what will truly help them create a business (and life) they love. Esther resides in Maine with her husband Scott, daughter KJ, Golden Retriever Allie, cats Daisy and Zoe, and two leopard geckos. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 20, 2022
How to Cultivate the Art of Boredom
When was the last time you said, “I’m bored”? Are your brain and schedule so full that you have no space to dream, solve, innovate, or create? In this solo episode, learn how bringing back boredom can be a good thing. We live in a noisy world.… It isn't just what we hear.…It's also the schedule demands that scream at us. It's the internal dialogue that won't shut off because of what's coming at us. I should be working I should you know, all those kinds of things. It's the flood of information from news and from posts we read in from articles in emails and texts and podcasts, yes, even those, and the messages that we get. It's the overwhelm of any kind of input to our senses or our brains. Boredom doesn’t mean sitting around staring at blank walls. Three kinds of boredom: Active – doing a mindless task with sound turned off Waiting – not going to social media to pass the time Intentional – setting up barriers to easy access to noise Turn off the podcasts, music, and TV sometimes, and let your thoughts wander. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 13, 2022
Get Beyond the Rut | Jerry Dugan
While Jerry Dugan was overseas as a soldier prepping for battle, his wife was back home asking God pleading for his life. And though Jerry claimed no belief in God, he was praying anyway, asking God that if something should happen to him in battle to please send his wife a better husband to love her and raise their children. What he didn’t know was that God would make him into that husband. About Jerry Dugan: Jerry is the host of Beyond the Rut, a show about helping you achieve your dreams without compromising your faith, family, or health and live the life you dream of living beyond the rut. Each episode brings inspirational stories and practical advice from those who have come before you. Jerry’s own life growing up through divorce, his dad’s attempted suicide, and combat have built within him resilience and the perspective that life is just too dang short to live it stuck in a rut. Today, Jerry is a Christ-follower, husband, and father living in Texas. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 06, 2022
Knowing Your Why Directs Decisions and Goals
Have you ever stopped to ask why you do certain things? Maybe it’s time for a second look at how you use your resources and energy. Explore your motivation by looking at how the small purposes add up to bigger purposes. This is the start of season 5 of Life Repurposed. In this season, you’ll find a new cover image and new look for social posts. There’s an updated format to the show notes to help you find the most important nuggets of wisdom. Plus each episode will have a full transcript in the show notes. We’re kicking off this year and this season with a question. Why? What if you asked that after every decision or plan you made? Why start with why? (1) You know where you’re going. (2) It gives focus from distractions. (3) It stops you from making decisions you might later regret. (4) Keeps you going when it gets difficult and you want to quit. (5) Doesn’t only motivate the big goal, it motivates the decisions along the way. What would you do even if it didn’t provide any income because it provided something else that fulfills you? What would you stop doing because you can’t explain why you do it? For today, let’s put a why on the end of everything we do. Why am I buying this? Why am I using my time this way? Why am I eating chocolate right now? Why does that person rile me up so much? Why do I want to change? Why is there so much sand on this floor? Oh, maybe not that kind of why. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 25, 2021
Gratitude, Celebration, and 3 Tips to Survive the Holidays
In this episode: A little bit of gratitude as we wrap up this podcast season. Plus three tips to keep your sanity over the holidays, and a free bonus. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 18, 2021
Off the Sidelines and into the Action | Darla Grieco
Darla Grieco went as a chaperone on her daughter’s school field trip as a lonely, broken woman, wondering what could possibly be next in her life. It led to rekindling a life-long dream when she decided to chase it! Darla Grieco wondered what could possibly be next in her life. Then she went as a chaperone on her daughter’s school field trip. She describes herself as a lonely, broken woman, but what happened on the trip pushed her out of her comfort zone. Shortly after returning home, she rekindled her life-long dream of becoming and writer and started chasing it. Darla had sat on the sidelines watching other parents participate in games and activities on the field trip until someone pulled her into the action. Darla realizes how many experiences she has missed because she held back on participating. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 11, 2021
Overcoming Anger Led to a Gospel-Centered Life | Jodie Cooper
When Jodie Cooper found out her son was on the autism spectrum, it magnified her struggle with anger. Her marriage was already rocky. But instead of causing everything to fall apart, it forced her to face the challenges head on, and in the process, she found truth faith and discovered hope. Jodie Cooper shared about how isolating it was when her son was born and her life changed. As her friends’ children hit milestones, she blamed herself, thinking she had done something wrong. But then some people suggested that they see some specialists. When her son was around 2 years old, they received a diagnosis that he is on the autism spectrum. She had it in her mind that if they had a diagnosis, her son would be fixed. But when it registered with her that it was going to be a long process, she started to experience the phases of grief. Jodie talked about how the challenges as parents brought some of their marriage issues to light more, and more specifically, she acknowledged that she had an anger problem. I love how vulnerable she was with sharing her struggles. Ultimately, pulling together for the sake of their children brought them closer together as a couple. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 04, 2021
If You’re Done with Religious Rules, Start Over
After trying to keep all the artificial rules that went along with Christian faith, Michele Morin needed a fresh start when she found herself disillusioned. She started over with a renovated version of habits and spiritual practices. This week, Michele Morin and talked about habits of holiness and healthy spiritual practices. After struggling with her faith, Michele found a new balance with being “intently haphazard” with her routines. We found common ground as fellow boy moms. Michele said, “A boy home has a certain character to it and a certain decibel level.” She talked about how she learned to chill more with the mud and all of the things that come with boys. We discussed Michele’s journey from a difficult home life to getting involved in a local church and then going off to college to major in Christian education. While she was there at a Christian college, she started to question her faith. She didn’t doubt the providence of God, but it was “the trappings” of Christianity that she struggled with. It was centered around checking boxes and doing certain things. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 28, 2021
God Is There in Your Loneliness | Robin Seaton
Robin Seaton adopted a son with autism, and God used some of their most difficult experiences to make significant changes in her spiritual growth and his. Where loneliness and frustration once reigned, now there is peace and joy. This week, Robin Seaton talked about how she and her husband weren’t able to have children, and they had tried adopting several times before they finally adopted their son. They decided to go the route of adopting a child with special needs. At that time (in the 90s) autism was something that not many people understood, so when they adopted their son, Robin adapted from her initial fear of having a child with autism to really understanding her son’s needs. When their son’s behaviors and acting out caused people to feel uncomfortable, it became easier and easier not to be invited. This increasing isolation was hard. Even friends who tried struggled. Playdates didn’t go well with her son who didn’t have social skills or verbal abilities. Robin’s intense loneliness led to bursts of anger as she struggled with her son’s behaviors. She realized that her ability to cope on her own wasn’t what she had expected. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 21, 2021
Doubting Hearts Welcome | Sue Donaldson
Over chocolate cake and lemon bars, Sue Donaldson creates heart connections with others who want to know what she once asked: Is God real? Sue opens doors to communication while she opens her home and has conversations with others around her table. Sue Donaldson is back for an encore on the podcast as she talks about her chapter in the Life, Repurposed book. When Sue was in college, she wrestled with whether or not God is real, and in voicing those doubts, she found a safe place to process her thoughts. Now, Sue opens doors for others to ask the questions while she opens her home for hospitality and has conversations with others around her table. Over chocolate cake and lemon bars, she creates heart connections that go deeper than baked goods and coffee. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, October 20, 2021
Broken But Still Useful: God Uses Us as We Are | Kathy Carlton Willis
Kathy Carlton Willis isn’t waiting for life to become perfect. Instead, she’s asking God to use her broken as she fulfills her purpose and calling. In this bonus episode, Kathy Carton Willis is back for an encore to talk about her chapter in the Life, Repurposed book. Kathy discussed how God doesn’t wait for us to be perfect before he gives us an assignment. Instead, he uses us broken. We caught up on her latest book too (see the resources below). If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to come, you might be inspired by Kathy’s journey! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Tue, October 19, 2021
Gratitude Lessons from a Caregiver | Joanie Shawhan
When Joanie Shawhan needed rejuvenation as a caregiver, she found that practicing gratitude made all the difference. She returns for an encore episode this week. Joanie Shawhan is back for an encore interview! This time we talked about how she learned that gratitude helped her to find hope in the midst of a tough season of being a caregiver for her best friend in the final years of her life. Joanie herself is a survivor of ovarian cancer, and she has learned to look for the little things to be thankful for if she can’t find anything else. This is the first of three episodes with return guests that will air this week as we celebrate the 3rd anniversary of the Life, Repurposed podcast. Joanie has a chapter in the Life, Repurposed book, and we chatted about that in our interview as well. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 14, 2021
Pursuing Purpose Means Daring Decisions
Are you ready to tackle big challenges and pursue your passion and purpose? This week I talked about a big decision I had to make in order to pursue the purpose God has given me. Now it’s your turn! As I weigh out what is important to me and where to invest my time, I’ve also been burning the candle at both ends many days. So, I have weighed things out to figure out what to keep and what to let go of. This week, I share how I’ve processed through advice from friends, comparing it with what God has called me to. I also ask you the question: What is standing in the way of God’s purposed for you? Podcasting is at the heart of what I want to do because it’s an extension of the ministry that I believe God called me to. The ministry of reaching people who are hurting and broken and helping them find hope in the midst of the trashy stuff of life. However, the paying freelance work and the volunteer work had started to crowd out my passion. I’m honored to do work for some great clients, but bottom line, I believe God is not honored when I forsake what he has called me to do—write and podcast—to spend all my time pursuing a paycheck. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 07, 2021
From Pandemonium to Peace
Where Meaghan Jackson’s life was once overwhelming and chaotic, now she has replaced that with a peaceful existence where she coaches others. As a highly sensitive person, she has coping skills to keep her mindset in the right place. Where Meaghan Jackson’s life was once overwhelming and chaotic, now she has replaced that with a peaceful existence where she coaches others. She talked about being a highly sensitive person and how she copes with being over-stimulated by sound, visual input, sensations, etc. As a mom of all boys, she’s learned how to help them cope, which has taught her something about her own challenges and needs. What challenged Meaghan’s faith most was her second miscarriage. At the end of herself, she learned to lean on God’s power, to find community, and to be more intentional about her thoughts. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, September 30, 2021
She Survived and Thrived Trafficking
Marlene was missing for 8 months after a trafficker kidnapped her and took her away. Now she rescues others from trafficking, and she’s found hope and healing through faith. She's a "sur-thriver." When Dr. Marlene Carson was 15 years old, a neighbor couple befriended her, which led to a weekend away where she was trafficked. Days after that, her perpetrator kidnapped her for 8 months and took her away from her family. They had no idea where she was. She didn’t finish high school when she was returned home pregnant. But later she would further her education and eventually get a doctorate degree. She now rescues girls from trafficking through Rahab’s Hope of Ohio, and organization she founded. Marlene believes she was targeted because of her charisma and friendliness. Traffickers might be drawn to people for their entrepreneurial spirit. She said it was her strengths, not her weaknesses that she believes made her a target. “The greatest level of your anointing can also be the greatest level of your attack,” she said. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, September 23, 2021
Delayed Doesn’t Mean Denied | Becky Hofstad
Becky Hofstad was 39 when she met her husband after a long season of wondering if she would ever marry. From marriage, to infertility, to adoption, she has has discovered that God might simply delay what she thinks he has denied. Becky Hofstad talked about how God has used delays in her life to enrich her experience and her story. She met her husband at age 39 after a long process of people setting her up on dates, online dating, and singles groups. A successful chemist, she had a satisfying career and was content with her life. But a blind date changed all that. She shared how she felt most alone when she was single and searching for where she fit in with others in her church family. That community was ultimately a place to learn and grow while she waited for God’s next. When she did meet her husband, one of the things they talked through was having children. Becky had been content with the idea that she probably wouldn’t have children, but her husband really did want a family. When they weren’t able to conceive, they turned to adoption. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 16, 2021
EASY Goals to Set For Yourself
Who needs a new year to set goals? You can get started at any time! Just make sure they are EASY goals. In this episode: tips and resources to accomplish what you’ve been dreaming about. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 09, 2021
You Have Purpose, Even on Dark Days | Amy Marcoux
When a painful chronic condition changed Amy Marcoux’s active lifestyle, she needed a reminder that her life has purpose, even on the difficult days. She repurposes her own pain to inspire others. Amy Marcoux is a young adventure-lover, but an injury that wouldn’t heal changed her active life. After a surgery didn’t correct the issue, she continued to see doctors. Eventually, she was diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a term that describes excess and prolonged pain and inflammation that follows an injury to an arm or leg. It changed Amy’s active lifestyle from avid hiker and Pilates instructor to someone who spent days on the couch because of a disability. Amy talked about setting aside her pride and receiving help. She also talked about trying to do it all on her own. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 02, 2021
God in the Grief of Loss of a Child | Terri Prahl
Terri Prahl knows what it’s like to leave the hospital with empty arms after the loss of a child. She talks about processing through grief and learning to trust God fully amid unimaginable emotional pain. Terri and her husband were a young college-aged couple, married for three years, when a heartbreaking loss changed their lives forever. With her home nursery all set up to welcome their first child, Terri left the hospital with empty arms, and instead of sending out birth announcements, she and her husband were planning a funeral. In this episode, Terri walks us through what it was like to process from numb to self-harm, to deep pain. One of the most raw and tender episodes I’ve ever recorded, this interview touched me so much. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 26, 2021
A Quest to Belong Somewhere: From Gang to Grace
Maureen Hager understands what it means to land in the wrong place when searching for connection. Her search led her to a motorcycle gang, two gunshot wounds, and eventually to Jesus. A misguided search for love and acceptance lured Maureen Hager into the life of an outlaw motorcycle gang. Caught up in a violent gang war, she sustained two gunshot wounds when a rival gang opened fire on their clubhouse with M16 rifles. While severely wounded, this act of violence was a catalyst for God to work in her life and gave her a way of escape from captivity. After suffering physical, emotional, and spiritual trauma, she heard the gospel and accepted Christ, and her road to a restored life began. This week, Maureen tells her story. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, August 19, 2021
The Second Act, the Best of Life | Deb DeArmond
Whatever life phase you’re in, why wait for someday to pursue that thing you’ve always wanted to do? This week, Deb DeArmond talks about making the rest of your life the best of your life. This week, Deb DeArmond talked about what it was like raising three boys and working full-time. Never did she have “become a writer” on that list until someone told her she should write a book. Her journey to this goal began at age 55, and now she inspires people of all ages to consider what comes next. What is your “next”? Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 12, 2021
Being Productive Doesn’t Make You More Valuable
Do we make productivity into a gospel? Being busy doesn’t make you more valuable. Checking boxes or being prolific doesn’t make you a better person. Productivity is not bad, but it isn’t the gospel. I’m currently reading a good book, but it almost implies that success is a hustle that includes sleep deprivation, pushing your limits, and learning to live with the stress of all that. I say there is an in between. Rather than defining ourselves by how much we do, let’s take a different approach that helps us to know if productivity has become our new gospel. Three questions to ask yourself about productivity What is my motivation? How often am I willing to pause productivity to be with people? What is the cost of my drive to produce? Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 05, 2021
Controlling Anger So It Doesn’t Control You | Betty Predmore
Betty Predmore tells the story of how she reacted in a pivotal moment when she could either blow up or find the humor in it. She says we are able to and worthy of making a change to respond differently from anger. When a camping trip turned into a seek and find effort to recover their luggage along the highway, Betty turned the experience into life lessons. When things don’t go your way, what triggers you? Life doesn’t always go the way we plan! As Betty started a meltdown in the midst of an immensely frustrating situation, she sensed God’s voice, as if he were on her shoulder speaking to her. She heard, “The way you react in this moment is going to make or break your vacation. Choose your response wisely.” They had a laughter-filled trip and wonderful memories. But it all hinged on that moment. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 29, 2021
A Millennial Perspective on Purity and Finding Balance
Sarah Buckland is a Jamaican millennial who is passionately pursuing God and sharing the message he has placed on her heart. But when she pushed herself too hard, she learned how to make rest a priority. This week’s podcast guest comes to us all the way from Jamaica, and she is a millennial with a ton of ambition and a heart for ministry. I loved hearing about what God has been doing in her life. When we started off, Sarah told me about a couple of dishes that would be delicious to try if I were in Jamaica: Jerked chicken, akee and salt fish. Yum! Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, July 22, 2021
Mental Health, Mind Decorations, and Hope for Depression | Robyn Mulder
If you could change something about how your church perceives mental health, what would you change? This week, Robyn Mulder talks about her journey and how she’s helping others find hope for their struggles with depression. In this week’s podcast, Robyn Mulder shared her vulnerable story of becoming overwhelmed in a new job, having a flare with clinical depression, and how she came to a place where she wanted to harm herself. But what Robyn is known for is helping others process their thoughts in healthy ways. She has learned when to push herself and when to rest. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 15, 2021
Creating Simplified Systems for Mompreneur Success with Jenn Uren
Jenn Uren, the host of This Mom Knows podcast, loves helping women entrepreneurs establish systems. Her goal is to help people get unstuck and move forward with their goals. Jenn talked about being a perfectionist and also about how she has a fear of succeeding more than a fear of failure. Perhaps you’ve felt that before and wondered, what if I succeed? She talked about something I’ve heard so many people say. It’s that futuristic thinking that once the to-do list is gone, kids are well-behaved, and I have a lot of free time, then I will finally do the things I’ve talked about doing. Jenn learned how to shift from the fantasy of “it’s never going to happen” to the idea of “what can I do?” She started to tack small, measurable things that were within her ability to get done. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 08, 2021
Life Repurposed Podcast 100th Episode
This week features guest host Phil Rayburn interviewing Michelle for the 100th episode of Life, Repurposed. Enjoy a few laughs as we celebrate! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 01, 2021
Courage to Change Career and Believe in Your Calling
She climbed the corporate ladder, but at the top, her heart’s longing was to be at home with her family. Natalie Lavelock tells how she took the leap and left the safety of her job. Now, her message is that your real identity is not in what you do. Faced with a decision about whether to launch the business she always wanted or staying in her successful nursing career, she learned to rely on God for guidance. In our chat, she talked about taking the risk, what was at stake, and how she processed through it when she took the leap. Natalie came to terms with the “even ifs” she says. It was the question of whether she would follow God even if it meant losing everything to follow what he called her to. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 24, 2021
Empathy Before Solutions: Purpose in Listening More
In my attempt to be “helpful,” I know I sometimes offer solutions when someone else was looking for empathy. If we listen and learn, we might discover the true needs of others and find space for understanding. Will you join me in practicing that skill? We can’t rescue every hurting person, but what if we practiced noticing the real hurt in someone else? In this episode, we look at how we can be purposeful in our response to others. I give some examples of ways we might heap more stress on each other when we’re trying to help, and then give some examples of ways I’m trying to learn to listen more and fix less. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 17, 2021
Perfection is Not a Destination
In our conversation this week, Susan Macias shares practical wisdom about changing our perspective on mistakes, setting our sights on something other than perfection, and letting God redeem what we thought to be ruin. Have you ever felt as if God disappeared from your view? This week, my guest Susan Macias and I talked about how the stories of what God has done in the past helps us remember God is there in the present, even if it feels as if he isn’t working. We talked about how to keep our perspective and mindset on God in the difficult times. Susan said sometimes we can make the results into an idol. Isn’t that the truth! She said when results don’t go our way, it can cause us to doubt God’s plan. We don’t always know God’s purpose in something, and we might never know. Susan says God isn’t in a hurry. When we’re wondering, when is this going to get fixed? God has it all under control. We can rest in knowing that much. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 10, 2021
Handle Difficult Family Relationships by Changing Yourself First | Kolleen Lucariello
What if you could repurpose family conflicts into personal growth, even if the relationships won’t ever be perfect? This week, Kolleen Lucariello talks about how she learned to see with eyes of grace. She also shares how she’s discovered a secure identity after struggling to find purpose. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 03, 2021
Mistakes Don’t Disqualify or Decrease Our Value | Teresa Janzen
There was a time when Teresa Janzen thought she was disqualified from serving God. Until she realized we’re all flawed people, and God can repurpose our mistakes and set us on a new path when we surrender to him. Now she’s helping others find grace. eresa talked about how she struggled to restart her life with four small children after going through a divorce. She wondered if God would be able to use her in service to fulfill her lifelong dream to be in ministry. When she realized that we all have sin to deal with, it opened her eyes to see that we wear a false front and aren’t open with others. We talked about being honest with one another and not wearing a façade being afraid of being excluded because of sin. We are all broken people, and pretending doesn’t help us move forward. “How I began to understand grace was when I encountered other people who were willing to share their story of brokenness and be honest, then I found the courage to share my story of brokenness and then how God restored that.” Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 27, 2021
Ten Ways to Charge Up Your Creativity
Your version of creativity might not include paint, glue, or words on paper, but I believe you have imagination waiting to be tapped somewhere. This episode contains 10 ideas for how to wake it up. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 20, 2021
From Fear to Freedom and Purpose | Linda Kruschke
Linda Kruschke lived trapped in fear because of the trauma she’d experienced in the past. But when she let the secrets out and spoke freely, she started hearing “me too” long before #MeToo was a hashtag. This week, she talks about her journey to living fearlessly. Linda let fear hold her back from experiencing life for so many years. But then she decided to live fearlessly. We chatted about how God has helped her to overcome her fears and trust him. She opened up and shared so many aspects of her story: from overcoming the fear of water to finding freedom after sexual assault. She talked about how being brave about sharing her story has helped others to overcome trauma. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 13, 2021
Practical Steps to Go Beyond What Hinders Your Goals
Have you ever stopped to think about what you’ll need to accomplish your goals and dreams? This week’s podcast covers how to work through the factors that could stand in the way. And there’s a custom free resource to help you work on your goals! Time Money Skills Focus Control Habits Mindset Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 06, 2021
Hidden Potential, Even in Failure | Wendy Pope
When we surrender our failures to him, God can bring out the best in us! If you’ve ever felt less-than because of failure, be sure to tune in for wise words from Wendy Pope to discover your hidden potential. What a delight to sit down and chat with Wendy Pope! In this episode, Wendy talked about learning to celebrate the successes of others while she waited for God to fulfill her dream. While she watched him fulfill that dream in others, it was painful to wait. But God taught her to rejoice with others. Wendy Pope is the Founder and President of Word Up Ministries. She is a wife to Scott and mother to her grown children, one daughter and one son. Wendy is an international speaker and has been leading women all over the world to life change through her in-depth teaching, Read Thru the Word study of the One Chronological Bible. She has been teaching RTW for ten years. Wendy is the author of Wait and See: Finding Peace in God’s Pauses and Plans, Yes, No and Maybe: Living With the God of Immeasurably More, and Hidden Potential: Revealing What God can Do Through You. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 29, 2021
Qualities That Make a Great Friendship
You probably have an inner circle of close friends, but have you paused to think of what qualities make your dearest friendships work? In this episode, you’ll be encouraged to reflect on those relationships and look for ways to become a better friend as well. Friends come and go. I’ve had more than one falling out, a change of direction in life (we don’t work together anymore), moving away, fading connection, and different goals in life that have come between relationships. Then there are some that you just pick up where you leave off every time you’re together. Aren’t those precious? And there are others who are part of daily life and you can’t imagine it without them. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 22, 2021
History and His Story Are in God’s Hands | Chris Staron
What would happen if we made it our goal to be the exception when it comes to negative opinions about Christians? That’s exactly what Chris Staron does. He’s also living out his faith as he studies history for his podcast episodes while trusting God for his future steps. This week, Chris Staron shared his story of coming to know Christ at the age of 10 and diving into reading the New Testament. He said his faith is what carried him through some challenges in high school and eventually led him to ministering to his fellow classmates in college on a secular campus. He realized that “cultural Christians” had a difficult time with practicing true faith, and he discovered how relationships were the key to being able to share the gospel with those who were searching for something more. Chris went from being confused by non-believers to having a real heart for them. Going to a secular college and then working in Hollywood taught him that many non-Christians don't really know the gospel. They learn about Christians from TV and the news. He says, “If we can be the exception to their negative opinions of Christians it opens a big door for the gospel.” More about Chris: Chris Staron is the host of the Truce Podcast , a history show that dives deep inside the Christian church. He's also the award-winning filmmaker behind the movies "Bringing up Bobby" and "Between the Walls" and the author of the time travel thrilled "Cradle Robber." Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 15, 2021
Five Creative Ways to Bless Someone Else
Can you imagine how wonderful our world would be if we intentionally looked for creative ways to bless someone else? The ideas in this episode give you a starting place to be deliberate about encouragement. Even the strongest of people need encouragement! Not too long ago I had a couple of weeks of really wrestling with whether or not the time I pour into creating podcasts every week, writing books, and hosting a Facebook community were really making a difference for anyone. I was bone-weary from it all and asking God if I was on the right track or if I was pursuing something outside of his direction. That’s a legit question to ask. That struggle also made me aware that there are many others out there who could use a few words of encouragement sometimes. In this episode I share some ways that we can creatively encourage someone else without having to be crafty, just thoughtful. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 08, 2021
The Impact of Grace: Hope Holds Strong | Nancy Kay Grace
What do we do when life has so many uncertainties, when scary diagnoses threaten our peace, or when everything feels upside down? My guest Nancy Kay Grace knows, and she runs to God. This week, we talk about her recurring diagnosis of tongue cancer and how God has taught her to pursue his grace above all. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 01, 2021
Five Tips for Accomplishing Goals and Balance
How do you achieve balance in life while also reaching your big goals? Sometimes it takes an intense sprint and a lot of hustle. But with a solid action plan, focused efforts, and a commitment to stay charged, you’ll be ready to go the distance. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 25, 2021
Intentional Faith and Creative Ways to Meet with God | Rosie Williams
Rosie Williams was serving in Christian ministry and working herself to the breaking point while unraveling on the inside. When she promised to spend a minimum of 10 minutes a day for the rest of her life in prayer and Bible study, it changed everything. What started as the treasure of trusting Christ completely in her early years looked more like trash when dealing with difficult life challenges such as secondary PTSD from her Nam vet husband, job stress, and family members who struggled with issues of faith. Rosie was serving in Christian ministry and working herself to the breaking point while unraveling on the inside. A walk down a very long aisle and a promise she made to God changed everything! Some listeners might ask this question that Rosie mentions in her book: “I fully believed that God worked in the lives of others, but I didn’t truly believe that God had a purpose and direction for me.” Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 18, 2021
Repurposed Faith and Amazing Stories from Everyday Women
There is so much we can learn from someone else’s story! I’m excited to introduce a new project featuring the stories of 34 amazing women who have seen God at work in their lives. Hear the introduction to the book Life, Repurposed in this podcast episode. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 11, 2021
Waiting for God to Come Through | Grace Fox
When life feels like a crisis overload, God is still there. That’s what Grace Fox has learned from her years of trusting God through hardships. In this episode, we talked about where God has been faithful, and she shares about her new book, Finding Hope in Crisis. In this episode, Grace Fox shared about where her second child was born while she and her husband were missionaries in Nepal. Her daughter was born with hydrocephalus and the doctors there told them they had to return to the US immediately so she could have life-saving surgery. Grace had to remain behind because the airlines refused to issue her a ticket because she was considered a medical high-risk. Imagine watching your husband board a plane with your newborn baby! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 04, 2021
Flipping on the Light on Spiritual Sleepwalking
Do you ever feel spiritually numb, as if you’re overloaded on crisis and you’re done with it? Does it feel as though the darkness is too much, and self-preservation is your only hope? This week, I want to talk about how we might be faith sleepwalkers when life stresses us out. Let’s flip on the light and wake up to what we might be missing. The podcast episode began with one of my sleepwalking stories, so you’ll want to tune in on the audio to get the full effect. My troubles with sleepwalking and talking in my sleep started when I was a child. As an adult, the trouble shows up whenever I am under a lot of stress or when I’m wrestling with a big decision. Have you ever had a similar hazy feeling to sleepwalking? Not in the sense of actual sleepwalking—although you may be a kindred sleepwalker—but a spiritual sense. Have you felt as though you were groping in confusion hoping someone would turn on a light? When the everyday stuff consumes us and zaps our spiritual and physical energy, we become spiritually narcoleptic, dozing off without noticing exactly when it was that God faded into the background. Our conscience numbs. I’ve had some sleepwalking seasons spiritually. I talk about that in chapter 14 of The Repurposed and Upcycled Life if you want to read the rest of that story (see link in show notes) Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 25, 2021
Purpose Grows in the Waiting | Eric Nevins
This week’s guest, Eric Nevins, talked about how God used his time in a call center to give him the skills he would eventually need for podcasting. He was miserable and never thought anything but a paycheck would come from that season of his life. But God had other plans. Eric says one thing leads to another. Each step takes us closer to where God is leading. Taking the leap from the call center to a calling was terrifying. He wondered if anyone would listen to the show. There were so many uncertainties. Eric said, “I did all this work. I went to school. I thought that was where you were leading me God and then nothing happened. It didn’t matter how many resumes I sent out or where I sent them. Nothing worked. I look at that now, and think that that was probably God’s provision. “I wrote in my journal that I thought God might have an unconventional ministry for me. And then I spent the next 15 years trying to have a what I thought was a conventional church-style ministry…He was leading me there that whole time.” Eric shared a quote from Biz Stone, one of the founders of Twitter. “Timing, perseverance, and ten years of trying will eventually make you look like an overnight success.” Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 18, 2021
Saying Yes Could Change Your Life
What if saying no more often isn’t the answer? Maybe we just need a better yes. If you’re ready to say no to things that someone needs FROM you and yes to better opportunities FOR you, this is episode is for you. Stop closing the wrong doors and discover a more hopeful future. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 11, 2021
Using Online Conversations for Good—It’s Possible!
Could you use a little more kindness on social media? Would you appreciate less arguing and more objectivity? Daniel Darling talks this week about how we use our words in the digital space and how we can change our own behavior to make a difference. Dan and I talked about the biggest traps we can fall into on social media these days and how we can avoid them. We discussed navigating the digital world with grace and what that looks like in real life. We discussed the idea of sharing truth in the way that isn’t destructive or attacking. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 04, 2021
How to Increase Self-Control and Emotional Maturity
In this episode, we explore ways to change from being highly reactive into people who can cope using emotional maturity and self-control. I was recently watching my granddaughter as her mommy and daddy played with her. How quickly her face could change from a lit-up smile combined with a belly laugh to a pout and a whimper. It took literally seconds for her to react and change from happy to sad. With her immature emotions, she’s naturally affected by what goes on in the room. If the adults sound happy, she plays happily on the floor, but if our tone escalates in a serious conversation her reaction, reflects that tone. Because she’s emotionally immature, she’s highly sensitive to being reactive. While some of our responses are rooted in past emotional pain that could require the help of a therapist, I think some is just because we chose to be emotionally immature. So, let’s talk about how we can get in a better place. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
S4 E77 · Thu, January 28, 2021
The Practice of Audacious Generosity
Kevin White found himself in a performance trap in bondage to the fear of failure. Fired from the ministry, this painful experience afforded him the freedom to live generously. He asked God to give his family food so that others could eat. In one year, they went from a family needing food to sharing food with over 500 families per month.
Thu, January 21, 2021
End Negative Comparison and Experience New Purpose
Has comparison kept you from fulfilling the purpose God intended for you? Do you experience highs and lows in your positive outlook based on appearance or body or image? This week, we continue from last week with talking about how to break the chains of unhealthy comparison and experience God’s best for us. Last week, I talked with Heather Creekmore about comparison and about how she overcame a constant struggle with body image. This week, let’s continue that conversation with some thoughts about how comparison affects everyday life and how we can change our mindset. I’m not sure we ever really get over comparison. But I’m in a better place than I was at one point. I want to share some of the dangers that I talked about in the opening chapters of my book, The Repurposed and Upcycled Life . The dangers come when our mindset centers around our physical appearance or even our body health and not the other way around. If I believe that I can only smile if I am thin, or if I have lost my joy, what happens if my body changes? When I think other people have something that God forgot to give me, comparison has gone awry. If I lose weight and people tell me I look great and then I gain some, or all of it, back, what do I now believe about myself? See episode 8 where I talked about how we can start to make this part of our self-worth. When I long for someone else’s life, body, job, talents, success, etc. and I don’t see what I already have, this is dangerous. If my insecurity about my body, my image, abilities, or anything else causes me to withdraw from participating in life or from volunteering or serving, comparison has frozen me. Let’s look for some ways we can move past comparison to a healthy place of living out what God has designed for each of us. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 14, 2021
Let Go of Struggles with Body Image and Comparison | Heather Creekmore
Get to know Heather Creekmore, a writer, podcaster, and former contestant on the Netflix show Nailed It! Heather shared about how she overcame her own struggles and now encourages other women as they wrestle with body image and comparison. Heather Creekmore is known for being bad at decorating cakes—at least from her TV appearance on Nailed It! But she is no failure when it comes to real life. We had a conversation about how she turned body image into an idol and how she broke that down through the power of understanding who God created her to be. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 07, 2021
Expectations and Productivity: New Method for a New Year
Let's launch this year well! Sometimes, we start out with great plans, but they get off track quickly. In this episode, Michelle talks about the art of setting goals, negotiating time, and getting things done. Don't miss info about a brand new productivity planner too! Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, December 31, 2020
What is Your Laugh Language? Humor in Marriage
Michelle talks with her husband, Phil, about the different types of laugh languages spouses might have. Phil brings his usual dry humor as they chat on their anniversary about how laughter has helped them keep their relationship strong for three decades. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, December 23, 2020
Podcast Christmas Party: A Variety Show
This week, it's a Christmas variety show with some of my friends from the Christian Podcasters Association. Several friends have each put together a 5-minute Christmas episode for my listeners. Enjoy the music, radio theatre, and Christmas reflections. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, December 17, 2020
Grace Enough and Daily Gratitude | Amber Cullum
In this episode: How can we respond when we're at a crossroads, unsure of what to do next? What if we cave to stress or mess up? In this episode, guest Amber Cullum talks with me about how she found that God's grace was enough when she could never be enough. And she shared how a gratitude list helps to keep her in the right mindset. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, December 10, 2020
How the Fire Refines Us: Five Ways to Look at 2020
In this episode: Very little about this year has been easy. But it can still be good. What if it is all an opportunity to become better people? What if the fire is what refines us? In this episode, I talk through options for how we can respond, and I leave you with a resource about going through trials. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, December 03, 2020
From Depression and Anxiety to Hope and Healing
In this episode: In this episode, I sit down with Dena Dyer, author of Wounded Women of the Bible: Finding Hope When Life Hurts. She shares her journey through postpartum depression and is so vulnerable in telling her story. In her late 20's, Dena Dyer experienced severe post-partum depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. In this episode, we chatted about how she found hope and healing in that difficult experience. She shared that through the wisdom of a godly counselor, supportive family and friends, and medicine, God healed her of childhood wounds. He now allows her to minister to others who are struggling with mental health issues. Dena was vulnerable and transparent, and we talked through the difference between using Scripture to shut someone down without offering true empathy and when we read Scripture and the Holy Spirit uses that to teach us something. We talked about the danger of "prescribing" to someone else and using Scripture like a bandaid. That can almost come across as shaming. Instead, we can offer true caring and empathy. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Fri, November 27, 2020
Reclaiming Christmas: Ways to Make the Holidays Special in a Pandemic
In this episode: This episode is packed with ideas for fun and creative things you can do with friends and family from a distance. If your pandemic holiday needs something a lot more interesting than a video chat, you'll want to check it out. Plus, an Advent resource from author Jane Rubietta, and a secret discount offer on one of my books hidden in the episode. It's a must-listen episode! Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, November 19, 2020
Tips to Prepare Your Mindset and Home for a Pandemic Christmas
In this episode: Author Stephenie Hovland returns this week to talk about how she changed her mindset about Christmas from “If you can’t do it all, do more” to a more balanced approach. We also discussed how we can prepare now for the necessary celebration changes in a pandemic. There's a giveaway this week and some great resources. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, November 12, 2020
My Story: From Pharisee to Empathy
In this episode: This is my story of pursuing biblical truth but getting sidetracked by legalism and pride along the way. Discover how God revealed my heart condition to me and began his process of transforming me into a more compassionate and graceful human. —Michelle Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 05, 2020
How Do We Move Forward?
In this episode: How do we move forward in a culture where we disagree, where we are deeply discouraged, and where tension is off the charts? We have choice in how we contribute to conversations and in how we adjust our own attitudes. Also, you don't want to miss this week's resource that asks the question: what if Jesus was serious in what he taught? Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 29, 2020
Exciting News About Life, Repurposed
In this episode: In this episode, I share an announcement about a new project related to this podcast that is just launched. If you like to write, you'll want to learn more! I'm also announcing a new way to connect as a Life, Repurposed community. Yay! Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, October 22, 2020
What You Do Today Matters
Sue Donaldson says, "Surrender every day. We have disappointments, but we surrender over and over." On this week's episode, we talked about how she walked through a period of doubt and how God brought her through that in steps that surprised her. We also talked about how taking the next step is where faith comes in. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 15, 2020
Just Enough in Times of Need
In this episode: When we pause to think about it, having "just enough" is actually an abundance. Scarcity says there isn't enough, but even with a very little, God can provide even more than we really need when we practice generosity and faith. Growing up, I learned that we had to wear it out or outgrow something before we bought a new one. When I was in elementary school, I was hard on boots. Sometimes boots were hand-me-downs that had already had some wear! When the soles started cracking, the moisture from snow-melted, slushy puddles on the playground would seep into the boots and squish around in the woolen liners. I wasn’t the only one whose socks left a drippy trail from the coat racks to my desk where my sneakers waited for me after recess. Can you recall the smell of wet socks in the classroom after recess? Yes, there's a spiritual lesson there. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 08, 2020
Blue Light Special, Repurposed Hope
In this episode: From blue light specials to garage sales, I've enjoyed making the most of living on a budget! Sometimes, life's challenges have hidden fun and joy. There is no second best when we embrace our present circumstances as part of the adventure! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 01, 2020
Happy Birthday to Life, Repurposed
This week, we celebrate the second birthday of this podcast! Included in this episode are short clips from my favorite interviews from the past two years. Enjoy! Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, September 24, 2020
Helping Shut-Ins Not Feel Shut Out | Kathy Carlton Willis
In this episode, I chatted with author Kathy Carlton Willis about how COVID-19 affected her personally, and we talked about what it is like living with chronic health challenges when the risk is high. Kathy shared how the last nine months of mostly isolation have been for her and how she has experienced a pause on her normal speaking, conferences, local ministry, and personal connection to friends. Kathy has learned new ways to reach out and have a personal ministry to others via technology. She’s used creativity in how she’s turned a time of being shut in into an opportunity to help others. After having her own small group have to take a break because of not being able to meet in person, and not being able to attend worship services, Kathy didn’t spend time feeling sorry for herself. Instead, she sprang into action. We talked about two factors: how she has repurposed her time and attention and still found meaningful ways to minister to others while being more limited and confined, and also about how others might think outside of the box to reach out to people who are more confined. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 17, 2020
Change One Thing
In this episode: If you had to choose just one thing for your next step, what would it be? What if a tiny pivot could change your direction and help you finish up the year 2020 strong and heading toward a better life? I’ve heard the term “butterfly effect” a few times and didn’t understand what it meant until recently. We’re approaching the end of the 3rd quarter of 2020. Many people have called this a dumpster fire of a year. But is it all that bad? What if it’s prompting you to make an adjustment that will have a new and better path for you? What if one little change could put you on a better path for 2021 and you’re missing it because you’re focused on the frustrations of 2020 right now? Let’s talk about what sort of changes that would set off a better course for the end of 2020 that would lead to a great 2021. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 10, 2020
A warm HYGGE from me to you
In this episode: The coziness and comfort of HYGGE is more than just fuzzy socks, a candle, and a mug. It isn't a vignette. It's a way of life. We can grow the essence of hygge in our relationships whether online or in person. This week, I want to talk about HYGGE. If you aren't familiar with the term, hygge (pronounced HOO-gah) is a Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness and comfortable familiarity associated with feelings of wellness and contentment. It's associated with the idea of charm, happiness, content, security, familiarity, comfort, reassurance, kinship, and simpleness. Appropriately, it originated with the Scandinavians, who are familiar with long winters! I think of it is an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, September 03, 2020
Shine Bright in Dark Places | Jane Rubietta
In this episode: This week, author Jane Rubietta talks with me about how we can find light in dark places and how we can shine that light on others. I hope you'll laugh along with us as we catch up and enjoy a hope-filled chat. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 27, 2020
Coping with Overwhelm to Restore Sanity
In this episode: Does it sometimes feel as if you're one mini-crisis from capsizing? These are days where people feel overwhelmed by the level of stress that has become part of everyday life. What do we do with the overwhelm? In this podcast episode, I talk about how we can be aware and give ourselves and others more grace in difficult times. May I just do a short rant here? If I see another meme about if 2020 were a song, or if 2020 were a menu item. Or if one more person asks if we can press the reset button on 2020. Did anyone have 2020 vision about this when they made that their New Year’s slogan? Ok. Rant done. Now, let’s talk about what the last week or two has brought into my brain: There are fires in California, and I have loved ones there. COVID-19 broke more records for positive numbers, and that’s a negative thing. There has been another shooting of a black, unarmed man. There are two hurricanes hitting the southern coast at the same time. There is bickering on social media and someone’s comments cut to the core of my identity, threatening my sense of belonging in the fellowship of Christians. Several friends are either sick with COVID or have lost loved ones to it this week. Need I say more? A Christian leader has been forced to resign because of misconduct. A family member had a serious accident. And pumpkin spice coffee is back at Starbucks. Eew. Ok. I had to on the last one. But seriously, that’s a normal week lately. It’s just plain overwhelming. I’m feeling out of my mind! Maybe you’ve felt it too. I’m finding myself feeling kind of numb. Like I don’t know how to have appropriate emotions anymore. And I wonder what’s happening. I think it’s overwhelm. I’m at the top edge of full when it comes to bad news. The waves have come up to the edge of the rim of the boat, and now the littlest stress makes me act like I would if the ship were going down. Except it isn’t. So let’s talk about that. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 20, 2020
Mended Relationships Between Mother and Daughter | Blythe Daniel and Helen McIntosh
In this episode, I talk with daughter and mom, Blythe Daniel and Dr. Helen McIntosh, about experiencing restoration and healed hearts in broken mother-daughter relationships. They talk about their book, Mended, and share their story of how Helen turned a difficult childhood into a ministry. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 13, 2020
Giving Up Our Rights
What does it mean to give up our rights? And what would happen if we lived in such a way that we were conformed to the mindset of Jesus? This week, we consider how our actions could be the only indication that someone else might have of how a follower of Jesus might act and live. point is, what does it mean to give up our rights, and is it truly unAmerican to do so? Am I called to hold my ground at all costs because it opens the door for a hostile takeover of my freedom? Or is there another script? I’ve wrestled with it, and come to a conclusion that isn’t all that popular. But I’m ok with being a weirdo. I believe that the only way to wake up Jesus’s followers and make a difference is to change our mindset. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, August 06, 2020
Reinventing Spiritual Growth Habits in the Midst of the Hustle | Stephenie Hovland
In a season where we long for peace and hope, one of the best ways to find it is in time spent with God. But how can we keep up the habits when distractions and busyness interfere? Author Stephenie Hovland gives helpful tips and shares a link to a free downloadable resource! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 30, 2020
Trading Hobbies: Discover a New Appreciation for Your Spouse
In this episode: Michelle talks with her husband, Phil, about how she tried deer hunting and he tried her hobbies as they discovered more about each other and learned to appreciate their uniqueness. She tried hunting, and he tried her crafts. Laugh along as they talk about the debut of their new book for couples. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 23, 2020
Michelle and Phil Rayburn Play ‘Would You Rather?’
In honor of the launch day of their book, Phil and Michelle play a game of "Would You Rather?" Enjoy a few laughs as they discuss questions about money, work, time, and love. Sample questions: Would you rather stay in or go out for a date night? Would you rather play a board game or watch a movie with me? Would you rather lose your keys or your cell phone? Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 16, 2020
Michelle Chats with Hubby, Phil Rayburn, About Their New Book
In this episode, Michelle chats with her husband, Phil, about the first chapter of their new book, Classic Marriage: Staying in Love as Your Odometer Climbs. Listen in to the podcast episode to hear their conversation in Phil's first time behind the mic, and laugh along as he provides some advice for husbands. Listen in as they practice a set of discussion questions for date night. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 09, 2020
How to Be Free to Move Forward
Sometimes what keeps us stuck in the past is our own mindset. The apology from an offender might never come. And restitution might not be possible. But what if we could move forward and not punish ourselves for things we can't undo? The future is wide open for us to repurpose our struggles into something that gives us new purpose. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 02, 2020
How the Past Could Hinder Our Progress
Life's rearview mirror frames our regrets for things we have done—failed relationships, financial blunders, poor decisions, and situations we wish we could do over. It also frames the things done to us—circumstances that were outside of our control such as abuse, a troubled home life, taunting from bullies, racial discrimination, and abandonment. If we get stuck on that view, it could hinder us from seeing the wonderful future God has ahead of us! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 25, 2020
Five Things Camping Can Teach Us About Life
In this episode: Have you ever had a rustic camping adventure? In this episode, I talk about the time when worms rained from the trees at our campsite, and I give five life application tips that I've learned from camping. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 18, 2020
Lonely Doesn’t Always Mean Alone
Being aware of when we feel the most lonely could help us learn to pay attention to how we can include someone else. It helps us notice how we can serve others. Awareness of our own struggle can also help us repurpose something negative into an opportunity to make a difference. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, June 11, 2020
Become a Voice for Change
In this episode: Michelle says no one really needs to hear her words about racial injustice, but someone does need to hear her voice. There is a difference between throwing words out there and being a voice. We can be a voice with few words. Being a voice means we have not passed on by or pretended we did not see. Michelle said: What does matter is that other human beings have cried out for help, and whether or not I understand all of the implications behind their cries, I hear the pain. I hear the plea for someone to listen, to notice, to validate, to at least pause long enough to pay attention and not pass on by pretending not to see or hear. I’m listening, learning, and taking off my perspective lenses to borrow the lenses of others who have had a different experience from my own. So much about my own life journey hasn’t been easy or simple. Yet, I know nothing of what it is like to heap racial inequality or injustice in the path along with the other challenges. Nothing. We grew up saying the Pledge of Allegiance every day in school. But now I realize that the words are empty if I cannot speak where liberty and justice have been oppressed. I am inept, inadequate, and ignorant, but that can change. I’ll start with being inquisitive and intent, informed and invested in what it takes to make a difference. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 28, 2020
Relation-Tips Part 4: Social Media Distancing
In this episode: More than ever before, digital communication is a vital means of staying connected with others. But sometimes a little social media distancing is needed to preserve relationships when opinions burn hot, passion is ignited, and misinformation is abundant. Why not reclaim digital media for positive influence! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, May 21, 2020
Relation-Tips Part 3: Married and Friends
In this encore episode, learn about secrets to a long marriage based on friendship, get four ready-to-print downloads for wedding shower games, plus a fun bonus freebie, and recommendations for resources that could help your marriage. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, May 07, 2020
Relation-Tips Part 2: One of the Most Difficult Phrases to Say
In this episode: How we handle ourselves when we're wrong says a lot more about us than being wrong about something does. If we handle it with maturity and grace, that shows humility. But if we get defensive and argumentative, it shows emotional immaturity. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 30, 2020
Relation-Tips Part 1: 4 Little Words to Never Say
In this episode: There is a lot of stuff going on in our world right now. This means a lot of opportunities to argue, for people to follow their gut and then make a mistake, for not being prepared enough for financial stress, and for choices that could lead to consequences. In relationships, it's often tempting to say, "I told you so" when someone else messes up. But what if we flipped the script to 4 other little words? I still love you. Whether it’s related to a pandemic, an election, a cause, or a disagreement, we have the opportunity to love. And that’s how we win at relationships. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 16, 2020
Nothing Is Wasted: Trash Repurposed for Good
In this episode, Michelle pledges: I’d rather laugh about what I can’t change instead of grumbling about it. I'll aim to embrace hard times as an opportunity for God's power to shine, even if that isn't my first reaction. This week,she talks about one man in the Bible who understood God's ability to repurpose circumstances in a mind-blowing way. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 09, 2020
Empty Nest, Full Life: Author Jill Savage
In this episode: This week, Michelle talks with Jill Savage, where they discuss how to prepare for and experience joy in the empty nest phase of life. Learn what to let go of and then what we need to grab hold of as we transition from raising children to releasing them from the nest. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, April 02, 2020
The Bright Side of Gray Hair and Chin Fuzz
In this episode: There could be a silver lining in growing older and turning silver. It could be a perspective change about how we think about challenges that are out of our control, or it might be the ability to laugh in the face of wrinkles and chin hairs. Either way, joy is where we look for it. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 26, 2020
Interrupted: Coping with Disrupted Plans
In this episode: Eight ways to respond when your life is on hold and plans disrupted. Face the challenge with a perspective shift about delayed plans, uncertain future, and indefinite waiting. Postponed. Interrupted. Delayed. Canceled. Uncertain. Indefinite. Hindered. Suspended. Questionable. Undetermined. Words that could give a planner anxiety. Not planner as in someone who plans events, but a person who likes to have an orderly method for life. A planner: Puts events on calendar far ahead Arranges details using binders, sticky notes, phone reminders, and white boards. Has a sense of what will be happening for the next two weeks, two months, two years. Has a FranklinCovey binder and actually writes stuff in it. Reaches deadlines and finishes stuff. Keeps details and possibilities organized in her brain for months before an occasion. Imagine the anxiety for anyone who is a planner when life is interrupted. What about when it’s interrupted not only for them but for the whole world? Suddenly all those horrible words are tossed around multiple times per day: Postponed. Interrupted. Delayed. Canceled. Uncertain. Indefinite. Hindered. Suspended. Questionable. Undetermined. This week, Michelle gives quick tips on how to cope when everything you had scheduled is on hold. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 19, 2020
10 Ways to Find Peace, Resilience, and Hope When Life Feels Out of Control
In this episode: We can love others and bring glory to God even when unexpected circumstances shake us up. A repurposed life is one that is driven by a different approach to interruptions and crisis. It is one where there is peace when the “normal” response might be panic. It’s where resilience takes priority over resentment. This is the life where hope triumphs over hysteria. Ten tips for how to hold on to hope and peace and discover the source of resilience in hard times. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 12, 2020
How Do We Love People Who Believe Differently?
God has been slowly changing me from someone who avoided people who have different worldviews from me to someone who wants to engage and learn. In this episode, I give some tips for how this perspective change looks in practical application. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, March 05, 2020
Has Fear Replaced Our Love?
In this episode: We have been subtly tricked into believing that fear is the voice we should listen to. We have become enemies of one another, champions of causes over people. What if we found new purpose for life and we shut out the fear and lived by love? Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 27, 2020
I Don’t Have Enough Time, and Other Lies We Tell Ourselves
In this episode: This might be tough to accept, but if you want to achieve a dream of any kind, you’re going to have to admit that no one else has more time in a day than you do. Others aren't just lucky. They weren't given more time. They learned how to kick out the lies that held them back, and they made some changes to use their time differently. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 20, 2020
The ‘Grin Gal’ Talks About Joy
In this episode, author and speaker Kathy Carlton Willis returns to talk about how she became God's Grin Gal and how she has discovered joy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Learn how to grow your "JQ"—joy quotient. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 13, 2020
Love Isn’t Only for One Day of the Year
In this episode: What we learned from too many years of expectations and let-downs is that gift-giving out of obligation dictated by the calendar isn’t what has kept us together. What has held us together is that my husband treats me with the same genuine love every day of the year. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, February 06, 2020
Sometimes It’s Best When You Say Nothing at All
In this episode: Do you remember when your world was contained to the people you saw at home and at work each day? Social media has opened an opportunity to have public forum discussions on a daily basis, and the result is sometimes that we say too much. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 30, 2020
How to Identify Your Distraction Triggers and Get Your Productivity Back
In this episode: Did you know that distraction is motivated by the desire to avoid discomfort? Reward isn't necessarily the motivation that will help you get stuff done. But if you can figure out your distraction triggers and remove the temptation, watch out world! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Fri, January 24, 2020
BONUS episode: Would you like to start a podcast? There’s a conference for you!
This was a promo for the Inaugural Spark Christian Podcast Conference in 2020. Show notes Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Fri, January 24, 2020
Creating a Rule of Life: Could this framework help you focus?
In this episode: Having a framework in place helps us to direct how we grow and ultimately helps us flourish. A Rule of Life is an alternative to setting goals (or a companion to it). It stems from a tradition of religious orders who had guidelines for how they lived in community—think monks. We can use their example and write our own code of conduct that guides our decisions. Based on a book by Peter Scazzero, called Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: It's Impossible to Be Spiritually Mature, While Remaining Emotionally Immature. He explains that a Rule of Life is like a trellis on which we train a vine to grow. Having a framework in place helps us to direct how we grow and ultimately helps us flourish. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Fri, January 17, 2020
What Is on Your List of UN-Goals for this Year? Reaching Your Goals Might Be More About What You Will Give Up.
Reaching your goals might be more about what you will give up than it is about what you need to add. Your UN-goals are just as important as your goals. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, January 09, 2020
Behind the Scenes Look at How I Did with My Goals from Last Year
I talk a big game and give advice about setting goals and achieving your dreams. So how did I do with my own? In this episode, I share my intentions from last year and how I did with accomplishing them. Spoiler alert - I didn't get them all done! Let's continue the January series on goals and plans. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Sat, January 04, 2020
Launching into New Goals and a New Year
Let's talk about how you did with the goals you set in 2019. If there are some that you didn't achieve, what got in the way? In this episode, we reivew some of the ways we sometimes need to adapt in order to deal with real life and to let go of some of our aspirations without guilt. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Tue, November 26, 2019
You Are a Precious Jewel
In this episode: Life isn't easy. There are days when it would be nice to have someone tuck us in, read us a bedtime story, and assure us about happily ever after. This story is for you. A word of hope to let you know you matter. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, November 07, 2019
A Simpler Life for Weary Parents
In this issue: Sleep deprivation, the endless laundry mountain, crazy to-do lists and diapers and dishes made young mother Courtney Ellis wonder what it would look like to be closer to Jesus and enjoy spiritual practices of prayer, studying Scripture, and more. In our interview, she talks with Michelle about how she met Jesus in the everyday stuff of life. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 24, 2019
How to Keep Grinning Even if Everything Isn’t Great | Kathy Carlton Willis
In this issue: If life doesn't go the way you expected, how can you keep smiling? It isn't easy, but it's possible to find pockets of joy in the middle of even the toughest situations. In this episode, guest Kathy Carlton Willis talks about how she became God's Grin Gal and how her own hardships gave her purpose in life. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, October 10, 2019
Take a Personal Retreat | Letitia Suk
In this issue: This is for anyone who has ever wished they could escape from regular life for just a few days; a personal retreat is calling your name! A getaway with God is a time to pull away, refresh, and renew. But where does someone start? Author Letitia Suk makes a guest appearance to explain how her own personal retreat turned into a ministry of helping others plan their own getaways. We talk about how it has changed her life and the lives of others. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Wed, September 25, 2019
Uncluttered: Free from Overwhelm
In this issue: Is your schedule crammed? Your space full of too much stuff? Your soul overwhelmed with too much of everything? Author Courtney Ellis makes a guest appearance to talk about a simpler life based on the idea that less is more. Courtney is funny and witty and so honest about her own struggles in a way that encourages us to believe we can find the same freedom she has. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Fri, September 13, 2019
Take a Break
In this episode: Do you ever feel as if you're always running and never have time to rest? When was the last time you took a day to refresh? I'll use my own struggle as exhibit A for why a sabbath is important, and Michelle shares some resources with ideas for how to give yourself a break. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Thu, July 18, 2019
When Plan A Isn’t an Option
In this episode: What happens when life doesn't go the way you've planned, when your plan A is no longer part of the picture? It's hard to embrace plan B, and maybe we don't like it at all, but resilience has a lot to do with how we frame our thinking. In this issue, we talk about facing adversity, finding hope, and discovering resilience. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Fri, July 05, 2019
From Nine to Five to Thriving Artist
In this episode: Are you working 9 to 5 and not feeling fulfilled in the work you do? Do you long for more than just a paycheck? What if you could start over and pursue what you really want to do? Discover how pursuing a new dream doesn't have to equal becoming a starving artist. Show notes and resources Get full access to Midlife Repurposed at michellerayburn.substack.com/subscribe
Thu, June 13, 2019
She’s Dancing in the Shadow of Cancer
In this issue: Cancer came unexpectedly and Joanie put life on hold, paused her career as a nurse, and in days was headed for surgery. In the aftermath of chemo and cancer, Joanie is a survivor. She now supports others going through the journey, and has published a book, In Her Shoes: Dancing in the Shadow of Cancer to encourage women and equip them with Scripture, hope and resources. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Fri, May 24, 2019
Friend or Fixer
In this episode: Sometimes friends pile a lot of shoulds on each other. Have you caught yourself telling someone what they ought to do, rather than listening? Are you tired of being the one that others heap their shoulds on? Learn tips for how to learn to be a friend rather than a fixer, and how to reply when someone tries to fix you. Also discover a small group resource that you and your friends might want to consider. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
S1 E13 · Thu, April 18, 2019
Healthy Living Body and Soul
Your physical, emotional, and spiritual health have everything to do with your wellbeing. The before-and-after story of health should include more than a drop of the number on the scale. It's really about experiencing life in a whole new way. In this episode, Susan Neal chats with Michelle about healthy living.
Tue, April 09, 2019
You Already Know What You Need to Know
Do you think you need one more class, one more seminar, one more book or another tutoring session before you get started on your goals? Will that be enough? You already have everything you need! Let’s get moving! Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
Sat, March 23, 2019
Stop Apologizing: The Truth About the Lies that Hold Us Back
Do you find yourself apologizing for things that are out of your control? Do you see yourself as less-than? Develop and awareness of how often you apologize, break the lies that keep you from seeing your God-given value, and learn how you can take steps to live in the light of truth. Show notes and resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com
loading...