Let's Unpack That with Alex & Grace | Empowering Christians to Live Out Authentic Faith

It's hard to believe it's already been a month since our move!

We talk about how life has been, what has surprised us, what we've been learning, some testimonies of ways we've been experiencing God... as well a big UPDATE in terms of our podcast...

👉 Get the FREE Divine Priority Planner to learn how to prioritize your week with GOD'S guidance and wisdom! withthetrans.com/planner 

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

How do we share our faith with those who DON'T believe one of the main bases for our faith: The Bible?

Today we're joined by Dr. Mikel Del Rosario, a seasoned Professor of Bible and Theology at Moody Bible Institute with over 15 years training Christians in apologetics, to break down:

• What actually is apologetics, and why does it matter for every believer?
• The real root of all the disagreement about Jesus (despite historical evidence)
• Practical tips for navigating questions and conversations with grace and love (and avoiding nasty debates) with those who don't share your beliefs
• What famous atheists say about Jesus
• The key "one-pager" fact sheet about Jesus you should know & can talk about
• And much more...

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Dr. Mikel Del Rosario helps Christians find clear answers to tough questions about Christianity and explain the faith with courage and compassion.

He is a Professor of Bible and Theology at Moody Bible Institute. Previously, he taught Christian Apologetics and World Religion at William Jessup University and Digital Media for Ministry at Dallas Theological Seminary. He has published over 30 journal articles on apologetics and cultural engagement in Bibliotheca Sacra with his mentor, Dr. Darrell Bock. He holds an M.A. in Christian Apologetics with highest honors from Biola University, along with a Master of Theology (Th.M) and a Ph.D in Biblical Studies (Emphasis in New Testament Studies) from Dallas Theological Seminary where he served at the Hendricks Center, hosting The Table podcast.

He is also host of The Apologetics Guy Show: conversations that help men and women find clear answers to tough questions about Christianity and navigate spiritual conversations with courage and compassion. Learn more at https://apologeticsguy.com.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Today we sit down with our favorite Christian comedy creator: Gabriel Lopez! Known as @gods.best.friend with over 350,000 followers on social media, what led Gabriel to start this social media ministry and write his book (God's Best Friend: The Adventures of an Ordinary Man and an Extraordinary God) was far from what he had ever willed or expected.

Join us as we dive into his personal journey of the unimaginable loss and grief that led him to where he is today... including POWERFUL supernatural testimonies that will ignite your faith and expand your perspective.

We also talk about what it looks like to invite God into the creative process, how to not be weighed down by pressure to "top yourself," and encouragement and wisdom for those of you who feel a tug to start a new endeavor or create with God!

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👉📘 Want a clear, step-by-step process to identify what God wants you to prioritize for the week? Download your FREE DIVINE PRIORITY PLANNER: https://withthetrans.com/planner

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KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• How to become God’s best friend (& what that means)
• What led Gabriel to follow Jesus
• Losing his best friends & processing deep pain, grief, & trauma
• Reconciliation with his dad
• The timing of prophetic fulfillment
• How God spoke through his dog and a "daydream"
• The surprising events that led Gabriel into film, social media, & writing a book
• What he learned on his Sabbatical
• Does he feel pressure to top each video?
• What it looks like to be led by God's creativity
• Encouragement for those feeling led to start something new
• The big picture goal for his social media ministry
• A prayer for you ❤️

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Gabriel is a filmmaker and Revival Group Pastor at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry who's passionate about seeing the church walk in greater authority. He and his wife Louise are forerunners in the Kingdom committed to bring Heaven to Earth.

You can follow Gabriel on Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube as @gods.best.friend, or learn more about him / find his book and other resources at MarkedByGoodness.com.

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💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

👉 GET THIS FREE LIST OF 60 EASY, LOW-COST DATES: https://withthetrans.com/dates

NOTE: The best experience is to watch this episode on YouTube (to follow along with the visual slides), though it's fine to listen as well :)

There's a big difference between just being "in" a relationship vs. actually having a *consistent* heart connection with one another.

And the truth is, there really is no shortcut... true connection, authentic intimacy, and stronger bonds don't just "happen." In fact, when we're passive about our relationships, the opposite happens: they grow stale and often breed boredom or even resentment.

Instead, having a thriving relationship takes our active participation and intentionality... but it is SO worth it!

Today, we're covering some practical tips for cultivating and strengthening a deeper, richer emotional/relational connection with a spouse or significant other (though the principles can also be adapted for family / friends).

This was from a mini training we led for the Thriving Couples Virtual Summit hosted by The Shine Campus. Our audience was a mix of people from all kinds of backgrounds, but one thing we of course want to mention for you guys here is also the importance of putting God at the center: engaging in spiritual practices and rhythms individually and together, as well. (Let us know if you'd like more on that another time...)

Join us as we talk about: 

• What the stat 29% shows us about relationships
• Common causes of disconnection
• 3 rhythms (and our personal examples)
• 3 communication keys (with more examples)

We're not experts nor perfect by any means, but we hope that these things that have helped us in our own journey ever since our long-distance dating days, to now in marriage, help you in your own relationships, communication, and endeavors to love others well!

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

• The very real challenges of being "content in singleness" in a world that glorifies romance
• My own journey & reflections amidst so-called "waiting seasons" with God
• 5 Practical Tips for what to do with uncomfortable / mixed emotions that often come up
• Biblical vs. secular self-love & why it matters
• Managing the tensions of having longings AND trusting God

• Is It BAD To Have Desires? (How To Manage The Tension Between DESIRE & SURRENDER) | Ep. 27
• What If My Prayers STILL Aren't Answered? (5 UNEXPECTED Gifts Of UNANSWERED Prayers) | Ep. 26
• What People Don't Tell You About Grieving - Natasha Smith ("Can You Just Sit with Me?") | Ep. 30
• What is “Self-Care” vs. “Soul Care” (& Why Does It Matter)? | Ep. 16

• You and Me Forever: Marriage in Light of Eternity by Francis & Lisa Chan
• Celebrating Singles (Online Course & Podcast)

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Do you ever wake up from a dream and think: "That was weird..." but aren't sure what to make of it (OR if you even should)?

Today, Grace sits down with her good friend Elani to dive into the series of unexpected events (including supernatural dreams) that brought her out of depression, suicidal thoughts, and the occult - and into healing, joy, and freedom way beyond what she ever thought possible.

Join us as Elani shares about coming out of New Age curiosities and a snippet of her journey of finding the real God through dreams, encounters with both heaven and hell, and testing out different world religions to ultimately discover and be forever changed by the one true God.

We also delve into how to tell between a "bad pizza" dream and a "God dream," AND go through a spontaneous LIVE interpretation of dreams that Alex and Grace had literally the night before this recording!

We pray this candid conversation encourages, challenges, and perhaps stretches your perspective - and ultimately empowers you to seek and know God more.

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👉📘 Want a clear, step-by-step process to identify what God wants you to prioritize for the week? Download your FREE DIVINE PRIORITY PLANNER: https://withthetrans.com/planner

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Key highlights:

• What brought Elani from New Age & Buddhism into Christianity
• Experiencing heaven and hell through supernatural dreams
• How to discern between a "bad pizza" dream vs. a "God dream"
• A LIVE spontaneous dream interpretation :)
• A prayer for you ❤️
• And much more…

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Elani is an everyday girl, who just happens to have experienced God in miraculous ways. She's a creative producer in tech and naturally activates others in bringing heaven to earth wherever they are. You can follow / connect with Elani on IG @helloelani.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

• The unexpected trauma & tragedy that led Ben to God & dance
• Reconciling & healing painful family relationships
• Processing grief
• Unconventional "side paths"
• Integrating dance & faith
• Living on mission & glorifying God in whatever we do
• Co-creating, having fun, & making decisions with God
• Consequences of doing things out of an unhealthy place
• How to stop being held back by fear
• Innovating & making plans while trusting God
• Ben's exciting new project
• And much more…

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

• The psychology behind our compulsive phone usage (despite "knowing we shouldn't")
• The impact of even being in the PRESENCE of our phones (it's WAY bigger than we think)
• What your phone usage is doing to your family, friends, and others around you
• Research-backed keys to LASTING habit formation
• How your phone is blocking you from the #1 MOST IMPORTANT THING in your life
• Aro's innovative approach to gamifying time away from your phone
• Practical tips for cultivating and prioritizing deep, meaningful relationships in a world dominated by shallow, perceived "connections"

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Hey friends, this episode's a bit different!

We wanted to share the real, raw, behind-the-scenes, in-progress testimony (that's STILL unfolding) of a personal life update (and what led up to it), including a few of the lessons God's been teaching us in the process, in hopes that it might encourage you in your own journey, too.

NOTE: We recorded this in December 2023, so when we say "this" year, we mean 2023.

Also, there is a LOT more that we left out since it was already getting long (including how Alex made HIS work decision, a testimony that came out of his announcement, many prophetic words and encounters we had that added confirmation, etc.)...

But one thing we especially wanted to highlight is that a MAJOR part of this decision was based on the long-term vision God has given the both of us for our future family, wanting to be better positioned and equipped to best serve those whom we believe we're called to serve, and overall continuing to follow God's lead in laying the groundwork in faith (let us know if you wanna hear more about that stuff in the future)!

Wherever God may lead each of us in our unique journeys, may we all keep focusing our eyes on Jesus and learning to sense His nearness, see His faithfulness, and earnestly seek His heart and all the beautiful ways He's inviting us to boldly partner with how He's already at work in and around us... with all He's entrusted to us and will continue to provide for us.

We are so grateful for your support and prayers, and excited to share more in the coming weeks and months!!

To be continued...

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

• How God completely changed their perspective on money & giving
• God-centered money principles (vs. what we've all been taught)
• POWERFUL miracles they've gotten to experience (and partake in)
• Navigating money conflicts in marriage and relationships
• Practical examples & tips to invite God into your finances
• The secret weapon behind couples with a less than 1% divorce rate
• How Linda overcame shopaholism and being daunted by finances
• Why financial freedom isn't actually about having more money
• How to become financially savvy WHILE staying focused on God

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

What does it look like to honor God in our pursuit of health and fitness? Why is it so much harder to value health and wellness for some versus others? How can we set and stick to our 2024 health goals, without falling into the trap of *unhealthy* obsession?

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🆓🎁 GET YOUR FREE 2024 GOAL-SETTING GUIDE: Start your New Year with clarity, intention, & actionable focus WITH God! Used & loved by many for the past several years, with exciting UPDATES for 2024, this guide is our BEST version yet, to help you make 2024 your BEST year yet! Happy New Year!! → Get it for FREE here: withthetrans.com/goals ✨

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Today, join us for testimonies and lessons guaranteed to inspire you from Matt Huffman, Owner of The Ark Fit and fellow Christian entrepreneur based in Orange County, California.

Matt shares his personal story of being in the plumbing business, to moving his family to California without a plan - and how God led them to launch The Ark Fit.

We delve into:

• What it looks like to cultivate a God-honoring relationship with health and fitness
• How our physical / mental / spiritual health are all connected
• The secrets to finally achieving your health goals
• What God has taught Matt about doing "Kingdom business" with him - and for HIS glory
• and MUCH more...

Tune in for invaluable wisdom, POWERFUL stories, and keys that will help you make 2024 your HEALTHIEST year yet!

ABOUT OUR GUEST
In 2018, Matt Huffman founded The Ark Fit, a top-rated fitness group-class gym based in Orange County, California. He and his wife are dedicated to creating welcoming, fun, and values-driven experiences for their customers, and on a mission to build a wellness center and movement that helps people cultivate holistic health and wellbeing. Find out more at thearkfit.com or @thearkfit on Instagram.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

🆓🎁 GET YOUR FREE 2024 GOAL-SETTING GUIDE: Start your New Year with clarity, intention, & actionable focus WITH God! Used & loved by many for the past several years, with exciting UPDATES for 2024, this guide is our BEST version yet, to help you make 2024 your BEST year yet! Merry Christmas!! → Get it for FREE here: withthetrans.com/goals ✨

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What does it look like to partner WITH God in our work and lives? How do we set goals aligned with God's desires for our lives?

Today, we dive into all of this (and more) with Shae Bynes, Co-Founder of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur, who shares POWERFUL testimonies and wisdom guaranteed to fuel your faith!

Join us in unpacking not just working FOR God but WITH him, practical examples of Spirit-led strategies and decisions, why God allows uncertainty, and the key to overcoming fear to truly follow God wholeheartedly.

This is one of our FAVORITE episodes to date - we hope it blesses you!

HIGHLIGHTS

• 1:06 - Get your FREE 2024 Goal-Setting Guide!
• 2:45 - Intro
• 6:08 - Meeting the Holy Spirit
• 8:20 - What led Shae to leave her corporate career in 2009
• 12:00 - What God told Shae that opened her eyes
• 13:14 - What led to Grace Over Grind
• 15:20 - The testimony of how KDE divinely started
• 20:37 - Examples of working WITH God
• 23:55 - God encounter that led to the KEY to stop being a control freak
• 29:37 - Overcoming fear
• 30:51 - Resisting comparison of our processes
• 32:59 - Supernatural productivity
• 35:15 - Matching God's pace
• 36:32 - Discerning faith vs. foolishness
• 38:54 - Thinking of leaving your job?
• 43:25 - Drilling down on your core fear
• 45:16 - Importance of godly community
• 47:16 - Relying TOO much on direction from God?
• 50:25 - Goal-setting WITH God
• 54:30 - Is your goal God-led?
• 56:35 - A prayer for you ❤️

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Shae is a pioneer in the Kingdom entrepreneurship movement who's impacted over a million people through her writing, teaching, and mentoring since 2012. Her most popular book Grace Over Grind is shifting the way people engage the world around them. Shae is Executive Advisor for Kingdom Driven LLC and President and Executive Director of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur Foundation Inc. Find her at https://shaebynes.com / @shaebynes.

📕 Get The Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur's Guide to Goal Setting here.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

When should we speak up, vs. just "let it go"? How do we love and honor both others AND ourselves well, even in the midst of conflict? How can we equip ourselves to navigate difficult conversations during the holidays?
 
Today, we sit down for a thought-provoking conversation with Kathy Khang, co-author of Loving Disagreement: Fighting for Community through the Fruit of the Spirit with Matt Mikalatos (recently named Book of the Year 2023 by The Englewood Review of Books).

Join Grace & Kathy as they dive into cultural & generational nuances that affect how we approach conflicts and resolution, specifically with their own personal experiences as Asian American Christian women (and why that matters).

We also explore how to live out the fruits of the Spirit amidst conflict, practical wisdom and tips on how to love and honor others amidst disagreement (for those who need a survival guide for challenging family dynamics - especially during the holidays!), and learning to embrace the messy journey along the way.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 1:10 - Intro
• 3:55 - Nuanced experiences as an Asian American Christian woman
• 8:11 - What inspired "Loving Disagreement" and why it almost never happened
• 11:28 - Civility vs. Love
• 12:20 - How Kathy grew up relating to conflict in the Korean American church
• 15:50 - The responsibility of this book
• 17:10 - A powerful story NOT in the book that deeply impacted her
• 19:33 - Does every conflict need to be resolved? (Different approaches towards resolution considering cultural / generational nuances, e.g. "swallowing suffering")
• 24:45 - Peace-making vs. Peace-keeping (according to Jesus)
• 29:22 - The most challenging fruit of the Spirit / exercising self-control in the context of conflict
• 33:46 - Practical tips and important questions for anyone dreading family gatherings during the holidays
• 40:00 - The power of our words & what that means for each of us
• 42:27 - A prayer for you ❤️

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Kathy Khang is the author of Raise Your Voice: Why We Stay Silent & How to Speak Up and Alabaster Guided Meditations, Psalms Vol. 1 and 2, and a contributing author in More Than Serving Tea and Voices of Lament. She recently co-authored Loving Disagreement: Fighting for Community through the Fruit of the Spirit with Matt Mikalatos, with whom she co-hosts The Fascinating Podcast. She's also a wife, mother of 3, and was previo

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

This week, on top of Alex's birthday, we're also celebrating our wedding anniversary!

Marriage has been one of the BEST gifts ever—but it's also not all sunshine and rainbows. In honor of this milestone, we thought we'd share 3 key lessons that have been HUGE for our relationship (but aren't often talked about) that we've learned so far in the past 3 years.

We are FAR from perfect, but we hope these personal examples of real-life challenges and what God's been teaching us through them can speak to you and help you wherever you're at—whether you're married, engaged, dating, or single and wanting to learn more about and prepare for marriage (HIGHLY recommend!).

HIGHLIGHTS:

• 2:43 - Decision-making when you're single vs. married
• 6:26 - The gift of differences
• 9:35 - Dating/marrying a non-believer (if you're a believer)
• 12:33 - How Alex stopped being a Passive Asian Man
• 14:11 - Ways to overcome passivity / baby steps into spiritual leadership
• 15:03 -  Unhealthy feminism
• 16:46 - How women can support men to be leaders
• 19:53 - Signs of being passive
• 21:02 - What women REALLY want from men
• 24:18 - What triggers are a signals of & how to manage them
• 28:14 - Unpacking an example from when we were still dating
• 32:00 - The long-lasting impact of your family of origin & upbringing
• 32:38 - Are triggers signs of a declining relationship?
• 32:59 - More current example of triggers
• 35:33 - Recap

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Next Friday (December 15) is... *drumroll*... Alex's birthday!! 🎉

We did a fun and juicy Q&A for Grace's birthday that many of you enjoyed, so today we're doing Birthday Q&A (Alex's Version)... Grab some tissues 🥹

We dive into what makes Alex tick, light up, and tear up 🥲 We hope that this reflective conversation is both entertaining and inspiring for you in your own life!

P.S. Thank you to those who submitted questions! Interested in more Q&As? Leave your questions in the YouTube comments :)

HIGHLIGHTS:
1:51 - A deep-dive on vegetables
4:13 - Alex's "Spotify Wrapped"
5:42 - Most important friendship traits
7:33 - Alex's "turnoff"
8:42 - Dream job
12:01 - Basketball vs. pickleball
14:53 - Mysterious Australian place
17:04 - Biggest advice to yourself 10 years ago
18:45 - Bucket list
19:41 - Living abroad
20:22 - Biggest misconceptions about you
22:50 - Biggest ways you've changed
26:18 - Purpose vs. FOMO
30:45 - How your relationship with God has changed
32:22 - How you'd spend your last day, his biggest dream
37:26 - What do you want people to remember about you
40:18 - Meeting Jesus face-to-face
43:35 - A little ask :)

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Steve Kang was a fervent Buddhist trying to reach Nirvana... But at the age of 19, after overdosing and believing he had no choice but to end his own life, he vividly experienced heaven and hell - and heard God's audible voice - which changed everything.

Steve's near-death experience (NDE) was featured in the recent film After Death, whose director Stephen Gray we interviewed just last week. 

This week, join us as we dive deeper into Steve’s story, including:

• What led up to his near-death experience (and second NDE later)
• What exactly hell and heaven looked, felt, even smelled like
• The invaluable insights and lessons that have completely changed not only his whole life - but also his family and countless others in his life.

⚠️ WARNING: This episode includes brief mentions of suicide & graphic descriptions. Listener discretion is advised.

➡️📝 GET THE EPISODE "REFLECT & APPLY" GUIDE: https://withthetrans.com/blog/e34

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⭐  KEY TOPICS:
1:18 - Growing up as a Korean American Buddhist
3:38 - The experience that changed Steve’s life
8:40 - What hell was like
12:06 - Supernatural knowledge
12:40 - How Steve got out
14:45 - Total transformation from persecutor to evangelist
17:35 - Hope for non-believing loved ones
18:11 - God’s ways and truth vs. deception and sin
20:12 - What “taking up your cross” really means
20:22 - Freedom from depression
20:55 - The one thing we can’t be lukewarm about
22:13 - Shining God’s light at work
22:33 - The significance of your conscience
26:02 - How Steve’s family and friends were impacted by his change
27:04 - Does Jesus truly want everyone to be saved?
27:42 - For people feeling discouraged in their faith
28:59 - Steve’s second NDE
29:26 - The truth about sin
30:14 - Steve’s one regret
30:30 - What the failures of biblical heroes teach us
31:44 - How to actually stop striving
32:33 - The biggest advice Steve would give himself 10 years ago
34:13 - What God really wants from you
35:08 - A prayer for you ❤️

Ready to receive the eternal life Jesus is offering you? Visit https://www.gotquestions.org/how-can-I-be-saved.html

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ABOUT OUR GUEST
Steve Kang was a fervent Buddhist and now child of God Most High and servant of Jesus Christ. He has an MDiv from Talbot School of Theology and serves as an evangelist and pastor at Freelife Community Church and founder of Revive The Nations. He is married to Goeun Kim. Learn more at  https://pastorstevekang.wordpress.com

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

We are thrilled today to have Stephen Gray, the director of After Death, with us to unpack one of life's biggest questions (yet one that is far too often ignored): What happens when we die?

From investigating thousands of near-death experiences, After Death is a film from Angel Studios that explores the spiritual and scientific dimensions of mortality with the guidance of New York Times bestselling authors, medical experts, scientists, & survivors & sheds light on what awaits us after death.

Join us as we dive into  key insights from 4,000 recorded NDEs (near-death experiences), his approach to understanding & portraying descriptions of heaven and hell on screen, as well as how to interpret near-death experiences in light of the Bible and life's mysteries.

We hope this conversation encourages you and leaves you with a fresh perspective not only on the implications of death... but also the implications of how we're meant to live.

🎥🎟️ [LIMITED TIME ONLY] Make sure to get tickets to see After Death ASAP while it's still showing in theaters! Can't afford tickets? You can also claim FREE tickets that others have already "paid forward": https://angel.com/lifeafter

➡️📝 GET THE EPISODE "REFLECT & APPLY" GUIDE: https://withthetrans.com/blog/e33

⭐  KEY TOPICS:

• 2:26 - What led Stephen to make this film
• 4:43 - How NDEs brought Stephen back to faith
• 10:20 - Going from shallow faith, to losing faith, to deeper faith
• 16:04 - The lesser-known challenges of making the film & spiritual opposition
• 20:36 - How life after death impacts every person & how we live
• 24:26 - Reconciling NDEs with biblical theology
• 28:45 - Hell vs. Heaven & understanding God as love
• 31:18 - Howard Storm's NDE of experiencing hell
• 33:46 - Unpacking the goal of the film
• 35:02 - The one shared datapoint in thousands of NDEs
• 42:09 - Interesting New Age & occult perspective
• 44:19 - Future meeting with Jesus
• 45:31 - What After Death is about, Steve Kang's testimony of going from Buddhist to Christian minister
• 49:34 - The background & major finding behind John Burke's Imagine Heaven

ABOUT THE GUEST
Stephen Gray is a multidisciplinary filmmaker based out of Winnipeg, Canada & director of the documentary After Death. Stephen’s work also includes award-winning short films & commercials, having partnered with brands like Target, Leisure Travel Vans, Google, Pepsi. Learn more or connect with Stephen at https://stephengray.ca.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Today, we're diving into Part 2 of a topic that's been close to our hearts and highly requested by our listeners: the intersection of faith and depression.

Depression can often be an overwhelming, paralyzing, and isolating experience. It's easy to feel so stuck in the darkness, tempted to believe that there is "no way out," and that we're powerless to our thoughts and emotions.

Our goal with this episode is not to add more weight to your burden - but simply to be your friends from afar, to come alongside you and encourage you with truth.

The truth that you aren't alone. The truth that there IS hope and light ahead of you. That there is absolutely nothing - not even the depths of depression and despair - that can separate you from God's presence, power, and unimaginable love for you.

Ultimately, we hope these 5 tangible tips equip and EMPOWER you to take a small, courageous, intentional step towards powerfully pursuing the freedom and healing AVAILABLE for you - even in the midst of your struggles.

Because your feelings are valid, but they are not the truth.

We pray that this conversation lovingly reminds you of what's true for you today.

➡️📝 GET THE EPISODE "REFLECT & APPLY" GUIDE (& MORE RELEVANT RESOURCES): https://withthetrans.com/blog/e32

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⭐  KEY TOPICS:

• 3:02 - Addressing medication
• 5:07 - Practical Tip #1
• 5:49 - Rule of Life
• 11:04 - The trap of shame
• 11:34 - Practical Tip #2
• 15:19 - Practical Tip #3
• 17:15 - ROI of inner work/healing
• 21:04 - What Kobe Bryant & Michael Jordan have in common besides basketball
• 22:53 - Practical Tip #4
• 25:13 - Practical Tip #5
• 29:20 - Last encouragements
• 31:17 - How to support someone else struggling with depression
• 34:51 - A prayer for you ❤️

And more...

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*If you're contemplating suicide, call or text the U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for 24/7, free and confidential distress support and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. For those outside the U.S., please visit https://befrienders.org.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

Is it "okay" to have depression as a Christian? Did people in the Bible ever experience depression? And what do we do when we find ourselves in a dark and hopeless place, DESPITE knowing all the "Christian truths"?

Today, we're sharing part 1 of 2 on the topic of faith and depression (one of our most highly-voted-on topics to date). (Subscribe to our newsletter to vote for future ones!)

We talk about our own personal experiences - from years ago, but also even more recently leading up to this episode release. We dive into the unspoken challenges so many of us (including biblical heroes and giants of faith) face, 3 common myths about depression that many people (including Christians) have, and what we've personally found to be helpful in how to view and think about depression - either for ourselves or for those around us suffering through it.

If you or someone you love struggle with depression: you are not alone.

You are more valuable, worthy, and powerful than you think - no matter what you're experiencing right now.

We pray that God uses this conversation to speak hope into your heart, and strength to keep on going.

🆓📚🎉 [ENDS THIS FRIDAY] ENTER TO WIN one of 3 SIGNED copies of Natasha Smith's new book on how to HEALTHILY GRIEVE WITH GOD: https://withthetrans.com/giveaway

➡️📝 GET THE EPISODE "REFLECT & APPLY" GUIDE (& MORE RELEVANT RESOURCES): https://withthetrans.com/blog/e31

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⭐  KEY TOPICS:

• 3:38 - Alex’s experiences
• 9:06 - Grace’s experiences 
• 17:58 - Myth #1
• 21:11 - Myth #2
• 23:22 - Myth #3
• 25:05 - Defining Depression Today vs. in Biblical Times
• 27:47 - Depression in the Bible?
• 30:03 - Examples in the Bible / history
• 33:16 - What God says to you in your suffering
• 36:14 - 2 unexpected gifts from suffering
• 39:30 - An unexpected experience Grace had recently & final encouragements for anyone going through depression right now

And more...

*If you're contemplating suicide, call or text the U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for 24/7, free and confidential distress support and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. For those outside the U.S., please visit https://befrienders.org.

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack

How do we grieve healthily AND find real hope?

We often associate grief with the loss of a loved one or a serious tragedy... But grief is much more common than we think. It’s a natural part of life’s transitions, unexpected hurts, and a wide variety of challenges.

Yet, most of us were never taught how to grieve well. Instead, we default to pushing our hard emotions to the side and fight to stay “positive” and “have more faith.”

Because deep down, we’re scared of being so overwhelmed by our losses - that we lose ourselves in the process.

Today, we sit down with Natasha Smith, author of Can You Just Sit with Me? Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life. Through her personal journey of navigating 30+ years of painful losses, she shares insights on why healthy grieving matters, as well as how to allow grief to draw us closer to God rather than pull us away.

We also dive into the unspoken aspects of grief and uncomfortable emotions, from "invisible grief" that usually gets overlooked, to managing the tension of grieving honestly WHILE putting our faith in God at the same time.

If you or someone you know might be experiencing grief (maybe without even realizing it), there is hope for you.

As Natasha says, it’s not a matter of getting OVER grief - but of allowing God to help you THROUGH it.

Let’s dive into what that looks like - and practical ways of finding hope and healing, even in the midst of real pain and disappointment.

🆓📚🎉 LIMITED TIME ONLY: ENTER TO WIN one of 3 SIGNED copies of Natasha's book! https://withthetrans.com/giveaway

➡️📝  "REFLECT & APPLY" GUIDE (& RELEVANT RESOURCES): https://withthetrans.com/blog/e30

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• 2:48: Natasha's personal journey & what led her to write this book
• 8:18: What is grief & why it matters
• 11:15: Invisible & unrecognized grief
• 15:03: Growing closer vs. drifting away from God
• 20:15: Practical ways to process grief & lament with God
• 24:50: Bereavement leave & societal constraints
• 27:52: "Why do I need more time/space than others?"
• 32:00: Does grief ever go away? (WandaVision)
• 38:30: Collective grief (Israel-Hamas war, social & racial injustices, etc.)
• 45:09: How to ask for help (or space) when you're grieving
• 48:08: How to help others who are grieving
• 49:40: Last words for those who are grieving
• 50:32: Last words for those who want to help those grieving
• 54:15: A prayer for you ❤️
• 55:59: BOOK GIVEAWAY: win one of 3 SIGNED copies of Natasha's book!

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💌 Get each week's episode & helpful resources sent directly to you for FREE, along with EXCLUSIVE sneak peeks & perks: https://bit.ly/3M7OMXY

💬 Get personalized help overcoming your life's challenges and internal barriers through our 1-on-1 Spirit-led & science-based coaching. Book a FREE Discovery Call: https://withthetrans.com/consulting-alex

🎥 WATCH this podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@withthetrans

💵 Faith-Based Financial Resources: https://withthetrans.com/faith-finances

📱 Connect with us on social: https://instagram.com/@withthetrans // https://facebook.com/withthetrans

❓ Submit questions & testimonies: https://memo.fm/unpack