Mary Marantz's Blog: Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots, page 8

EP. 111: The True ROI of Community Over Competition with Natalie Franke

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Oxygen or belonging. Which one do YOU think is more important?! I get it- Oxygen seems like the obvious choice. It’s essential to life. We learn about it in school. We study it as part of the Periodic Table of Elements. We know it’s the most plentiful element in the earth’s crust!  I mean, that is a pretty big deal! But! Did you know that we have an innate need to belong in the SAME way that we need oxygen- our physical bodies actually REQUIRE it! Whoa! Take a minute to soak that in! Our bodies actually require connection. Require community. Require relationship with others. (I’m starting to think that in addition to a Periodic Table of Elements, we should create a Table of Belonging!) However, equally as true as requiring belonging, is that finding authentic community in our fiercely competitive world can feel like an impossible task.  I have to say… making genuine connections and cultivating real relationships as adults is flat out hard. Anyone else??  Why do you think this is? Is that because we are all doing life in different directions? Sure- I would argue that’s part of it.  Is it because we are surrounded by ideologies of scarcity, comparison, and winning at all costs?  BINGO! Yes, 100%. Just think about it for a minute. When you walk into a room, or onto a stage, or even behind closed doors….are you trying to be the best version of you? OR, are you trying to be the best?  Are you confident in your God-given abilities or do you find yourself in the comparison trap? Are you spending your energy on connecting or competing? (Have I hit a nerve yet?) Don’t worry! Nothing is wrong with you!  You see, the world we live in pits us against one another as competitors rather than collaborators. As a threat instead of a friend. And quite honestly, we are ALL suffering from this on a daily basis!  And, it is time that we address this head-on! Are you with me?? I am so thankful for 10 year friendship with Natalie Franke for many reasons, but especially for how she so powerfully speaks life into this exact issue! Or, as she so rightfully calls it, an epidemic of loneliness! In fact, Natlie’s new book “Built to Belong: Discovering the Power of Community Over Connection”, is based on the mantra: We must value connection as though our life depends on it … because it does! (I love what a straight shooter my dear friend is!) Did you know that we perform better and have greater successes as individuals when we are connected to the collective? Connected to community? Connected to each other!!

So then why is it that so many of us feel more alone than ever before despite living in the most connected society in human history?! 

Because we are being conditioned to consume instead of connect. Each scroll on social media is a scroll for consumption rather than connection. In fact, technology is monetized to keep us scrolling! But! What it is actually doing is positioning us to watch from afar, instead of loving up close!  Friends, we are enduring life moments through a screen, when life was meant to be lived face-to-face! When you actually take time to think about this, it’s no wonder that we feel so isolated. Loneliness is contagious. It’s an epidemic and it’s only getting worse. Seriously. Depth of connection is getting harder to fight for and it’s impacting our physical health, our mental health, and our relationships! The good news is that we are built to belong.  So how can we lean into that today?? Stop consuming, start connecting. Social media isn’t the problem, but how we are using it is. We have an opportunity to connect unlike any generation before us – it’s about making the conscious choice!

 

Be bold for yourself and others. Pursue God’s path for your life with boldness and with purpose. And! Champion and encourage those around you to do the same. There is always room for change and innovation – most importantly there is room for ALL of us to lean into our God-given giftings.

 

Start with one. I know it can seem like an impossible task to find your community, the people that you want to do life with. But remember, it just starts with one. Maybe that person is already in your life, or maybe they are just around the corner! Friends, if this idea of community over competition, of being built to belong, resonates with you as deeply as it does with me, then you are going to LOVE today’s episode. It’s one of my all time favorites where Natalie and I also talk about:  The opportunity to step outside of the box and become exactly who we are called to beThe dichotomy between how we can be built to belong but also created to compete, and what to do about itThe internal and external factors that are contributing to the widespread epidemic of loneliness and disconnectionWays to recognize when competition becomes unhealthy and how to strike that much needed balance between community and competitionHow to start building your personal network starting with just one personThe power of dropping the consumption of social media in order to embrace the connection aspects of it Oh, I am SO excited for this one today! So, if you are ready to join hands with us in charting a new course forward, while cultivating deeply rooted relationships that raise the tide for all – then today’s episode is not to be missed!  I can’t wait to hear what you think!  More From This Episode: 

Connect with Natalie on Instagram and be sure to pre-order her new book, ‘Built To Belong: Discovering The Power To Community Over Competition’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

  You May Also Like: Finding Strength To Take Back Your Story With Desiree SiegfriedWhat To Do When Community Over Competition Gets Complicated With Natalie FrankeWhy You Should Leave Your Comfort Zone Today With Zim Flores5 Principles To Succeed At Work & Succeed At Life With Megan Hyatt MillerA Mother’s Guide To Raising Herself With Sarah Bragg SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 110: A Mother’s Guide To Raising Herself With Sarah Bragg

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Let me ask you….do any of these phrases sound familiar? Don’t be so hard on yourself!You can do hard things!You can be anything you want to be!If you have children, these are likely some of the phrases that you use on repeat with them. But… what are you saying on repeat to yourself? Do you find that you talk to yourself in the same uplifting and encouraging manner as you do to others?  Or, are these phrases more familiar:  I’m the worst!I can’t do anything right!I should just give up!Hmm…. quite a difference, right?! (See where I am going with this yet?) I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…  Whether we realize it or not, every single one of us is walking around with the words someone else spoke over us tattooed on the sleeves where our hearts once lived…They tell us that our story will never be enough. That we will never be enough. BUT! What happens when we realize it is not just someone else’s negative words that we are carrying around, but our very own. I want to ask you to do something. Take out a pen right now (or the Notes app on your phone) and write down the first three things that come to mind as you think about yourself.  If any of those descriptions leave you feeling inadequate, overwhelmed, or guilty in trying to balance it all- then make sure to listen up because it’s time to make some changes! Today’s guest, Sarah Bragg, of the popular “Surviving Sarah” podcast is here to save the day (or, at the very least, your sanity!).  In fact, she doesn’t hold back AT ALL as she shares her realization that the things she wanted for her daughters (things like self-worth, body positivity, tenacity), she realized she did not yet possess herself.  (How about you? Are you practicing what you preach?) The beautiful part? This realization led her on a humbling yet eye opening journey to raising herself right alongside raising her girls! 

Sarah believes that one of the best things you can do for your children is to do the work on becoming your better self!

But how??  How can we instill the same positivity in ourselves as grown adults (with a lot of life experience that has beat us down) as we do in our children (who are still so fresh and innocent)? It just takes 3 steps, friends! 1. Get curious – What do you think is true about others, but not about yourself? Take time to really be introspective. Write down your thoughts. Journal so that you are not bottling it all up inside. 2. Name it – Once you begin to really understand how you view yourself, ask the hard questions. Why do I feel this way? Why do I believe this to be true? Is it true? Name the root cause. 3. Replace it – Once you have identified what it is that you think about yourself and why you believe it to be true, replace the negative with something positive! For instance, the next time that you burn dinner, or don’t sign up to be room mom instead of telling yourself “I’m the worst” try saying “I’m doing my best and that is enough! I need to be kind to myself.” Here’s the thing: We are all human. We all make mistakes. But, we don’t have to beat ourselves up over them!(Friends! There is SO much freedom in that!) Oh! Today’s episode with Sarah is jammed-pack with SO many other tangible tips to finding that freedom you deserve WHILE giving yourself permission to show up just as you, as we also chat about: What it means to be a recovering perfectionist as it relates to motherhoodThe concept of fitting in versus actually belongingThe tension between relief of letting go of a goal that no longer serves you and the grief that comes along with itThe importance of ‘presence’ in the lives of those around youThe power of replacing “Mom culture” thinking with the “3rd place is enough” mentalityYes. Yes. Yes. And, yes! So! If you are ready to find solidarity, understanding, and helpful encouragement to embrace all that motherhood is and remember who you truly are, then you are going to get SO much out of today’s powerful and insightful episode!  I can’t wait for you to walk away with your head held high as you begin to embrace a greater sense of self-worth! I believe in you! Now go believe in yourself! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Sarah on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘A Mother’s Guide To Raising Herself’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

 You May Also Like: How To Stop Treating Busy As A Badge Of Honor with Emily LexThe Secret Way Expectations Can Shape happier Habits with Gretchen RubinTrusting The Journey With Morgan Harper NicholsSimple & Free: 7 Ways To Pursue Less Over More With Jen HatmakerFinding Strength To Take Back Your Story With Desiree Siegfried SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 109: Finding Strength To Take Back Your Story With Desiree Siegfried

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Heartbreak. Humiliation. Hopelessness.  Three simple words that are anything but simple. In fact, they are so complicated that we never want to experience their tumultuous effects in our lives….and yet, without a doubt, we are all guaranteed to at some point in time.  Perhaps you thought you had finally found ‘Mr. Right’. Maybe you expected to land that promotion that fell through. Or possibly, you believed that old wound, buried deep inside of you would never surface again – only to find yourself still burdened by the stronghold it has over your life. There are SO many ways we can experience our lives not going according to plan!Do you have something in this moment that you are facing that was not in your life script? (I know I do!) If so, I have some good news for you today that I hope will encourage you to fight the good fight: You CAN and WILL find the strength when life doesn’t go as planned. You CAN and WILL find the courage to take back YOUR story!Just ask former Bachelorette, Desiree Siegfried! (I hope all of my friends who plan their weekly schedules around Monday nights are getting excited!)  You see, when Desiree was offered the opportunity to star on The Bachelorette, she thought she was FINALLY getting the life she always longed for. But, the reality of her reality TV dreams gave way to anything but.  Rather than her true love dreams coming true, her journey gave way to rough roads of unexpected twists, public scrutiny, and rejection.  I’m not sure about you, but being subject to any one of those trials would be hard enough for me, nevertheless charting down such a dark road only to have it completely illuminated by the harsh, public spotlight!  So! When I say that Desiree knows a thing or two about experiencing heartbreak, but still finding hope, I know what I’m talking about! And THAT is why I am wildly excited to share my conversation with her today! (Quick side note- Desiree is seriously one of the sweetest people ever!)

Here’s the thing. 

The actual problem isn’t the challenge itself. The problem usually becomes how we deal with, internalize, and let our hardships affect us.It is so easy to bury hurt without working through the pain. To accept others’ words about us as truth when they are anything but. To seek solace in familiar places instead of healthy ones. To shrink down instead of stand up.  And in the short-term while we think we are making progress, what is actually happening? We are actually allowing ourselves to be defined by others and defined by our circumstances. All the while replacing our true identity with untrue labels and unwelcome strongholds.  Friends! I have been there! If you have read “Dirt” you know! Desiree has been there too! She gets it!  And today she opens up about her experience and shares with us what to do if you wake up one day afraid that you’ve lost yourself, your identity, your voice. (Make sure to make note of this!) Recognize the stronghold that is keeping you from your identity Identify its roots (maybe it stems back to childhood) Surrender it to GodAfter walking through such a hard season, Desiree says that if you put God first, if you seek who He created you to be (rather than believing the words of others), the more old labels fall off and your true identity in Christ is revealed!  Your true identity in Christ doesn’t go anywhere! (Preach!) There is so much practical wisdom in today’s episode where Desiree and I also chat about:  Desiree’s story before life as a reality starHow old wounds from childhood left unaddressed can affect our decision-making as adultsWhat it truly looks like to put your identity in Christ while letting go of limiting beliefs and comfortable (yet, unhealthy) decision-makingFinding your grit and courage to keep going no matter what you are facing ways to while staying  true to yourselfWays to put your hope in the identity of Christ, trusting that God loves you just as you are(I wish you could see the HUGE smile on my face right now!) If you are ready to pick up the pieces of your life, jumpstart your dreams, and begin living true to yourself, then you are going to LOVE my conversation with Desiree! I can’t wait to hear your favorite takeaway! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Desiree on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘The Road To Roses: Heartbreak, Hope, and Finding Strength When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned’ wherever books are sold.

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

 You May Also Like: The Power Of ‘Spirit-Help’ Over ‘Self-Help’ With Jeannie CunnionHow To Live A Life Of Surrender With Holly HayesHow To Embrace What Matters Most With Kendra AdachiTrusting The Journey With Morgan Harper NicholsHow To Find Love Without Losing Yourself With Mandy Hale SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 108: How to Find Love Without Losing Yourself with Mandy Hale

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Calling all my single ladies! Cue the Beyonce music! Online dating. Zoom ‘meet-ups’ during Covid. Texting. Social media. Awkward conversations. Countless numbers of dating apps. Break-ups. Make-ups.  Oh, and don’t forget all of the endless swiping involved in search of “Mr. Right”. Sheesh – modern dating is not for the faint of heart! And that is coming from a girl who considers herself a pioneer, if you will, of the online dating world! That’s right! This is exactly how Justin and I met… 17 years ago!  Not even around for a decade at the time, and still very taboo, I met my husband on Match (back when it wasn’t just for dating but primarily for making friends!).  I laugh thinking about it because it was something that you just didn’t do then! So instead of owning it, Justin and I agreed that we would tell friends and family that we met at the coffee shop where we had our first date. (Pretty sure we were not the only ones to have developed this ploy.) I wouldn’t have known it at the time, but that one cup of coffee would soon turn into a friendship, followed by an exclusive relationship, followed by a marriage of almost 14 years and counting.  So trust me, I am by no means knocking online dating! I actually love how socially acceptable it has become!  But! I do think that I may have had it a bit easier 17 years ago when the selection of sites was limited. Oh, and the dating jargon more easily understood!  (If there is one thing I know for sure, it’s that 17 years ago birdboxing, breadcrumbing, caspering, and haunted housing were not a part of my vocabulary – as hilarious as they may be!) So, am I single right now? Nope. However, I can definitely empathize with the hardships of a “waiting season” just as easily as the next girl. Except that my wait is no longer for a husband, it’s for a family.  I think we can all relate to that waiting season actually.  Life is full of waiting for the different things that your heart desires.Maybe a relationship, perhaps a home, new job, starting a family, financial stability… the list goes on. The bottom line is, at some point, we all have to trust the process and the journey that is unique to us! And THAT is why I am wildly excited to share with you my conversation with Mandy Hale!  Blogger turned New York Times best-selling author and speaker, Mandy Hale, did not plan to be 42 and single, but nevertheless that is her unique journey and she is killing it!  Named “Twitter Powerhouse” by the Huffington Post, a “Woman of Influence” by the Nashville Business Journal, and a “Single in the City” by Nashville Lifestyles magazine are just a handful of accolades that make Mandy the voice of empowerment and sassiness for single women across the globe. As exhausting, time consuming, and overwhelming as dating may be, Mandy wholeheartedly  believes that there is a way to date with dignity, to refuse to let the swipe rule your life, to stand confident in your worth and not settle for less than you deserve. Most importantly there is a way to find love without losing yourself!ALL the yesses!! So, what’s the problem?? Unfortunately, many of us are directly or indirectly influenced by the culture around us. The culture that is telling us that there must be something tragically wrong if you are not married yet! That you are destined to live a life of misery and unhappiness if you don’t find someone to ‘complete’ you – resulting in SO many people living terrified of being alone.  So what happens when we buy into these unhealthy lies?? Toxic relationships ensue. We lose ourselves for the sake of ‘love’. We settle for less than we deserve.  

Friends! Nothing good can come out of fear-based decision making. Not when it comes to dating or any other decision for that matter!

So you may be asking yourself, “Okay, but then HOW? With all of these lies and toxic thoughts swirling taking up residency in my head, how can I approach dating in a healthy way?”Well, lucky for us, Mandy is here to save the day. The next time you find yourself on the verge of breaking down, of losing your identity to the dating game, remember these three facts: 1. Dating isn’t about “landing a man” or learning to “think like a man” or “getting any man to fall in love with you” 2. Dating is about falling in love with yourself and then extending that love to every aspect of your life–including your love life. 3. Dating is about learning to choose yourself, regardless of whether someone swipes right or swipes left Amen! Preach! Seriously, if this is the season you find yourself in, grab a pen right NOW and write down those three bullets. Memorize them. Live by them. And, no matter what you are waiting for today, remember to use this time to lean into God’s plan for your life! Friends! My conversation today with Mandy today is so full of hope and humor. Make sure to check it out where we also talk about: Learning to date without surrendering your powerThe crazy caricatures of your stereotypical dates gone wrongWays to change your mindset and intentions for datingBuilding a relationship with God no matter what you are waiting for instead of just seeing what’s not there yet(And, don’t worry, I’m not going to leave you hanging. We also discuss the definitions behind those crazy buzz words at the beginning of this blog!) If you are ready to approach dating with dignity, refuse to let ‘the swipe’ rule your life, and stand confidently in your worth while not settling for less than you deserve, you will not want to miss today’s hilariously honest episode!  I’ll  leave you with this quote from Mandy’s latest book: Let go. Laugh. Smile. Your life is unfolding just as it should so stop trying to skip ahead to the end and enjoy the chapter you’re in. And while you’re at it, remember that finding love is merely one chapter of your story. There’s still an entire book of other crazy, beautiful, wild, funny, colorful, meaningful adventures to be lived.  More From This Episode: 

Connect with Mandy on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘Don’t Believe the Swipe: Finding Love without Losing Yourself’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

  You May Also Like: How To Get Real About The Hard Stuff With Debra FiletaHow To Embrace What Matter Most With Kendra AdachiWhat The Bible Says About Dating, Relationships & Sex With Kat HarrisWhat 34 Years Of Marriage Has Taught Us With Jamie & Aaron IveyHow To Be Genuinely Happy Even In The Waiting With Lisa Harper SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 107: How To Get REAL About The Hard Stuff With Debra Fileta

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Ready to go deep with me today?! Good! Buckle up and let’s go!  Let’s start off with a question… How many times are you asked, “Hey! How are you?” or “Hey! How are things going?” From friends, family, and checkout lines alike, I would venture to say that I am asked this question AT LEAST once a day (if not more).  How about you??  I’m guessing it’s probably similar.  Not surprising, right? Afterall, what was once intended as a deep question has become a common greeting. My response?  Without even thinking: “I’m okay! How about you?”  (Does this sound like your go-to answer as well?) Well today, I want to change that! Today, my guest, Debra Fileta, and I want to ask you: ARE YOU REALLY OKAY? Think about that for a second. When was the last time you actually paid attention to how you are really doing?When was the last time you’ve answered that question honestly not only to others, but more importantly to yourself? If it’s been a while, then today’s message is for you! Why? Because you are going to be challenged – in a good way! Challenged to get real with who you are and how you’re doing: SpirituallyEmotionallyMentallyPhysically Hmmm….You might be thinking, “Okay….but what’s the point?? The answer: so you can recognize where you need growth and healing

Here’s the bottom line- like it or not, no one is immune to life’s struggles (um, hello 2020). 

So why do we always feel the need to act like we have it all together?? Why do we feel like we need to cover up the struggle?According to my friend, Debra – “It’s time for us to stop assuming health, and start pursuing health. “We’ve got to stop saying that we’re okay when we haven’t actually taken the time to really check in”. And, I have to say, I couldn’t agree more.  Debra has walked through the darkness herself. And, as a wife, a mother, a licensed professional counselor, a speaker, and an author, she is speaking from a place of experience, wisdom, and love when she says:  Getting healthy is an ongoing process that requires you to stop, dig deep, and ask yourself the hard questions. So….where do we even begin? First thing first! According to Debra, it is time for us to get real.  Time to get real about our faith and our struggles.  Just because you are a Christian does not mean that you are automatically exempt from depression, anxiety, life struggles! You CAN be a Christian who struggles with these things, and that is OKAY! Why? Because you don’t have to stay in that place. As Christians we have hope for healing! So much of who we are today has roots to who we were and what we’ve experienced in childhood. So it’s no wonder that we tend to choose what is familiar over what is healthy! Maybe we choose to bury our emotions and not deal with them, maybe we lean into unhealthy habits as coping mechanisms, maybe we find ourselves in toxic situations or relationships as a way to not deal with reality. Whatever the case may be we have to recognize that when really AREN’T okay, and then: See ourselves through the lens of who we are in Christ. As forgiven and loved and capable and worthy. Once we start to view ourselves through the filter of Christ, we can begin our healing.We can begin to shift our perspective so that we can find meaning in our stories and become a healthier version of ourselves. Sign. Me. Up!  If this sounds like the message you need to hear today, then you are going to LOVE my conversation with Debra where we also chat about:  What it looks like to be living in the social media times that says how you look through the filter on the outside is more important than what’s going on in the insideThings like trauma, anxiety, depression and how to get to the root of what you believe about yourself, others, and GodWays to recognize the influences of past traumas and replace them with God’s truthThe importance of understanding and expressing your emotions in healthy and helpful ways If you are ready to get intentional about pursuing health in every part of your life, using a combination of science, psychology, and faith, you will not want to miss today’s incredible episode! I can’t wait to hear how you apply Debra’s life-changing advice! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Debra on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘Are You Really OK?: Getting Real About Who You Are, How You’re Doing, and Why It Matters’ wherever books are sold.

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

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EP. 106: Loving What God Called Good With Jess Connolly

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Do you feel defeated when you look in the mirror? Are you embarrassed or uncomfortable in your own skin? Are you envious of your friend’s body shape? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then guess what?  1) You are human2) You are one among many (around 97% of women to be exact)3) You are a prime target for the enemy’s attacks  You see, the enemy uses these exact tactics! Planting seeds of defeat, embarrassment, and envy to turn you away from the Truth. The Truth that your body is more than its size, sickness, or even its symptoms. And you my friend, were made for more than a love/hate relationship with your God-given, God-ordained body! Think about it! How many special days have there been in your life that were supposed to be full of joy and celebration, but instead you were distracted by how your body looked?!  Weddings. Birthdays. Anniversaries. Trips.  Taking a million pictures until you get ‘the one’. Feeling upset because you wish your dress fit differently. Only thinking about the ‘flaws’ that you have on display. (Um – guilty!) Here’s the reality: when we are distracted by how our bodies look, we are being kept from seeing those Heaven on earth moments where the Kingdom breaks through.  Why? Because the enemy is actively trying to keep you and me from experiencing the joy and abundance in our lives that God desired for us!And I for one am done with it! Stick a fork in it – done! For me, it stops today! I hope it stops for you too! We are too precious in the eyes of the Lord to let this acceptance of self-negativity continue! According to my friend, Jess Connolly, the truest thing about you and me is that we are made and loved by God. And the truest thing about Him is that He cannot make bad things! (Amen to that, sister!) It is because of this powerful message that I truly couldn’t be more thrilled to have Jess on the show today to discuss her latest book, “Breaking Free from Body Shame: Dare to Reclaim What God Has Named Good.”  Jess doesn’t sugarcoat things when she talks about how it is one thing to know in your head that you were created in the image of God. Yet, it’s quite another to experience this belief in your body, against the cultural ideals of a woman’s worth. 

What lies between these two ideas?

A world of frustration, disappointment, and the shame of somehow feeling both too much and never enough in your body. (Can you relate?)I LOVE how Jess’ book points out that in the Bible there is no mention of Mary Magdalene’s thighs. Deborah’s teeth, Ruth’s waistline, Anna the prophetess’s forehead. Elsabeth’s stretch marks. Eve’s hair. Lois’ skin. Martha’s tunic size. Or, the symmetry (or lack thereof) of Miriam’s face. Why? Because the Lord looks at the heart.  Jess rightfully points out that their faithfulness was not defined by their bodies. Their capacity to be used by God was not defined by their bodies. And, their bodies were never the most interesting or compelling parts of their story.  Why? Because the Lord looks at the heart. I mean, just think about that for a moment! How reassuring! How comforting! How uplifting!So, let’s get to it! What can we do TODAY to take this from just head knowledge to truly believing it in our hearts?  Recognize that self-image is not a superficial issue – it’s a spiritual issueStop speaking shame over what God has ordained goodExtend yourself the grace that God has already given to you so that you can experience the freedom that God intendedFriends, if this is speaking straight to you, then you will not want to miss this must-listen episode, where Jess and I also chat about:  Practical ways to reframe your thoughts around your bodyThe body positivity versus body neutrality movementHow to rename what the world has labeled as less-thanThe balance between freedom and healthWays to experience restoration where there has been injury So, if you are ready to experience freedom and grace from whatever struggle you are facing today and experience God meeting you in your tender place, you will not want to miss today’s must-listen episode!  I am SO excited for you to listen! Jess is an all-star, and you are in for such a treat! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Jess on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘Breaking Free from Body Shame: Dare to Reclaim What God Has Named Good’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

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EP. 105: The Power of ‘Spirit-Help’ Over ‘Self-Help With Jeannie Cunnion

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Worn out. Exhausted. Running on empty.  Have you ever felt this way? I know I have.  In fact, not long ago I found myself the MOST burned out I have ever been…ever! I had just come off writing and launching my debut book, Dirt . I went right into writing my second. I was recording an epic number of podcasts… Trust me, the list goes on.  Everything was happening SO fast! And… everything was taking SO much out of me.  Then… I had a total gut check when I heard my friend, Jeannie Cunnion, talk about how she’s been wrestling with the following question: “Have I settled for less than ALL of God?” Friends, that question hit me like a ton of bricks. (Let’s be serious – burnout and exhaustion are not things from Above.) In fact, it challenged me to ask myself if I was relying on the power of God, or if I was trying to do things in my own strength? (I’m sure all of my Enneagram 3s can relate to just how easy it is to fall into the trap of doing the latter.) Take a minute and ask yourself the same. Really dive into that question and be honest with yourself. Such a good, yet challenging question! Trust me, I get it. I am right there with you! It’s probably easier than ever before to fall into the “social media trap”. Everything we see is ALL about self-help and self-care in the midst of hustling as hard as you can to pursue your dreams!  But, what is this really doing? It’s putting our own selves at the center of our lives. (Humbling, right?) However, WHAT IF we changed that narrative to pursuing “Spirit-Help”. Putting the Holy Spirit at the center of lives. Experiencing more of His presence on a daily basis.  You see, the truth of the matter is that the enemy is doing a good job trying to keep us from the FULLNESS of God. Trying to prevent us from experiencing the FULLNESS of the Holy Spirit.  But, in order to tap into the power that the Holy Spirit has to offer us, we have to really understand who the Spirit is.  And, if we are being honest, the Holy Spirit can often feel like a controversial, taboo, hands-off kind of topic, right?? It is for THAT exact reason, I was SO thrilled to talk for a second time with author, Bible teacher, and sought-after speaker – Jeannie Cunnion! After discovering the significance of the Spirit’s work in her life, Jeannie wrote a life-changing book –Don’t Miss Out – which is an invitation to experience the essential work of the Holy Spirit—in you! In fact, she takes the sometimes confusing, often misunderstood, and almost always under-appreciated person of the Holy Spirit and brings Him into our lives in all His magnificent glory! So, are you like me and tired of running on E? Worn out from relying on your own strength? Feeling dizzy from the toxic thoughts swirling around in your head?  Good! Then today is the day that we do something about it together!  In today’s episode, Jeannie gives us tangible advice for choosing Spirit-Help over Self-Help. And, it can start with these three tips: Turn to Scripture and acknowledge who the Holy Spirit really is. He is your Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Strengthener, Intercessor, and Champion. (He is not just some mysterious being.)Lean into the Holy Spirit, and stop relying on your own strength. If you would stay in step with Him, and yield to His Authority there is SO much more He could be doing in you and through you!Make your heart a welcoming home for Him. We spend so much time making our houses welcoming and inviting for guests, but how much time are we spending on making the Holy Spirit’s dwelling place an inviting place for Him?Oh friends, today’s episode is packed with SO much goodness!  If the Holy Spirit has seemed more like a mystery than a gift, my conversation with Jeannie will change that in the most wonderful way when we also chat about:  The power that the Holy Spirit has to offerThe difference between living saved and living freeThe reason why we may be settling for less than everything and what to do about itHow to recognize and defeat the toxic thoughts that are constantly taking up residence and swirling in a loop in your headWhy it’s important to unpack the countless ways the Holy Spirit Champions youIf you are ready to stop struggling on your own. Ready to choose peace over pressure. Ready to start choosing Spirit-Help over Self-Help, you will not want to miss today’s powerful episode! I can’t wait to hear how Jeannie’s words change your life in the best ways! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Jeannie on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘ Don’t Miss out: Daring to Believe Life is Better with The Holy Spirit’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

  You May Also Like: How To Stop Treating Busy As A Badge Of Honor With Emily LexHow To Un-Hurry Your Heart With Jennifer Dukes LeeMom Set Free: How to Live From the Depths of God’s Grace with Jeannie CunnionWhy Trusting The Journey > Chasing Finish Linkes With Morgan Harper NicholsWhy You Should Leave your Comfort Zone Today With Zim Flores SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 104: Why You Should Leave Your Comfort Zone TODAY with Zim Flores

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW Ready for a bombshell?? Good! Because I have one for you today! New Beginnings. Either by choice or by circumstance, we will ALL encounter new beginnings — whether we like it or not! No matter where we are from. No matter what we do. No matter how different we may seem on paper, no one is exempt from encountering new beginnings. Quite the statement to start off this Tuesday morning, isn’t it? So what comes to mind for you when you begin to think about new beginnings? Do you long for the hope that an opportunity to start over provides? Or does the idea of beginning again rock you to your core and you just don’t think you have it in you?To be honest, I’ve experienced both extremes. There have been times in my life where I welcomed a new beginning with open arms. And then, there have been times where I have dragged my feet crossing into a new season rather than embrace what was ahead. Change is hard, friends! New seasons can bring about difficult transitions. And growth? Well, that one doesn’t come without growing pains! But! My guest today, Zim Flores, has some insights for us today on specifically this topic. You can trust God through painful endings and new beginnings.  That is some welcomed good news for my ears! And, I hope for yours too! You see, Zim knows a thing or two about change, letting go, and starting over. The daughter of Nigerian immigrants, Zim was uprooted from her community as a young girl, marking the beginning of her quest for true identity.  Since then she has experienced tremendous success being named a Forbes “30 under 30”, a leader by Oprah Winfrey, and a serial entrepreneur. But, don’t let those accolades fool you. Her success did not come without hardship, pain, difficult choices, and ultimately trusting the plan that God has for her! And, today she hopes to help you do the same! In fact, our hope for everyone reading and listening today is that you will: Dare to bloom! Dare to endeavor all that God has called YOU to do, despite who society tells you that you are!In times of painful endings and new beginnings remember this: No matter what you may be going through, you belong to God. He holds your past, present, and future identity in His hand. In fact, there are two practical things that you can start doing TODAY when you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. When you are not sure how things are going to turn out. When life takes an unexpected turn.  #1: Pause and ask yourself this question: Are you asking for deliverance, or for revelation/transformation? (That one is a real gut check, huh?) Don’t miss out on what God is trying to do through you! God is a character forming God. He turns our times of transition into testimonies for his glory. Start asking for revelation over deliverance today! #2: Pause & Praise! Yes, that’s right!  Even in times of unknown, transition, or waiting-  thank God. Thank Him that you even have the opportunity to wait upon Him! Your prayer for a new job, a spouse, children – whatever the case may be- pause and reflect on what God has done up until this point! And, thank Him for what He is going to do as well!  Waiting isn’t a passive game. It’s active. Pause and praise- stay active! Oh friends, Zim shares SO much wisdom in today’s episode where we also chat about:  The tension between science and faith and the ways that one actually informs the other (Oh, did I mention that Zim is actually a biologist by trade and has actually cloned a gene?!)The difference between an all-weather purpose and a seasonal purposeHow to reclaim your true identity and surrender your desired outcomes to GodHow to joyfully participate in your own story even when you don’t know what the future holds If you are ready to be challenged to be both vulnerable and resilient in new seasons of your life while boldly positioning yourself for whatever God has next, you will not want to miss this incredible episode!  More From This Episode: 

Connect with Zim on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘Dare to Bloom: Trusting God Through Painful Endings and New Beginnings’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

  You May Also Like: How To Live A Life Of Surrender With Holly HayesTrusting the Journey With Morgan Harper NicholsHow To Live Bold With Grit, Gumption, and Grace With Emily LeyHow To Be Genuinely Happy Even In The Waiting With Lisa HarperHow To Stop Treating Busy As A Badge Of Honor With Emily Lex SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 103: How to Stop Treating Busy as a Badge of Honor With Emily Lex

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW In the journey of meaning of purpose, I’ve found it can lead you to one of two places: Asking , IS THIS IT, all there is? or Resting freely in your value. And honestly, the result depends on us. On if we decide to NOT rely on us. Is your journey keeping you wanting MORE or is it helping you find freedom in your TODAY? There have been SO many times where I’ve felt that I have what I should have – a loving husband, a great career, a house on the water, a podcast, a book deal, my sweet pups-  YET… I’m still reaching for the next thing! Still striving for more!  I think I’ve always just chalked it up to being an Enneagram 3. A success-oriented, ambitious achiever. Right?! I’m eye rolling at myself over here, because if I’m being honest with myself, really honest…. that’s the easy way out. The convenient cop out.  So. What about you? Where are you finding your value? Where are you placing your worth? Where are you anchoring your identity? Achievements?Success?Busyness?Others? If your answer is anything BUT Jesus – then KEEP reading! Our guest today on the podcast will help bring to light areas that leave you feeling empty – and what to do about it. Emily Lex is a popular blogger + new author. Emily knows firsthand what it looks like to live tangled up, burdened, and heavy. But she traded all of that in to live FREELY and LIGHTLY.  Emily’s secret- Live a life of quiet confidence! Let me explain. Emily describes quiet confidence as an inner disposition.  It’s consciously not looking out into the world for it to tell me that I’m valuable. That I’m enough. That I’m worthy. Friends, we don’t have to look to do that because Jesus already sets that in us! Yes….Your identity is already rooted in Jesus! Do you believe that?  Once you do and once you trust Him, trust that He’s good. That you’re loved and that He sets your value…it puts your soul at rest. REAL rest. So let me ask you…. Do you feel like you are living saved but not yet free?  Well good news! God is offering you a better way: A way of real restA way of quiet confidenceA way to free yourself from expectationsA way to become the person He created you to beA way to learn His unforced rhythms of grace If you are ready to live freely and lightly then you will not want to miss the rest of our conversation where we cover:  The feeling of unrest in your soul and what to do about it (and while a self-care mani is great, this is not the solution)The notion of busy as a badge of honor and what is really the driving force behind this dangerous mythThe reason we keep adding to our calendars in an effort to ‘keep up’, and the journey to finding a better wayHow to stop relying on yourself and your own efforts and start relying on JesusFriends, it is so natural yet so tiring to rely on ourselves. To carry the burden of the world on our worn out shoulders. To think that we know best.  BUT, there is a better way! It is time to breathe a sigh of hope and accept the gentle invitation from Jesus to live freely and lightly.  I can’t wait for you to listen to today’s life-changing episode! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Emily on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘Freely & Lightly: God’s Gracious Invitation To A Life Of Quiet Confidence’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

  You May Also Like: We’re Missing It: How to Swap Frazzled Overwhelm for Slow, Simple & Good with Emily LeyHow to Unhurry Your Heart with Jennifer Dukes Lee5 Principles To Win At Work And Succeed at Life With Megan Hyatt MillerHow To Embrace What Matters Most With Kendra AdachiWhy Scarcity Can Actually Be A GOOD Thing With Jesse Mecham SUBSCRIBE TO THE
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EP. 102: Why Scarcity Can Actually Be a GOOD Thing w/ Jesse Mecham

APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | STITCHER SUBSCRIBE HERE LEAVE A REVIEW

Sometimes, talking about budgets and spreadsheets just STINKS.

It can bring up endless stress and complicated relationships with money. But let’s start from the end result of peace: “Your money is doing things that you want it to do, and you are acting rather than reacting,” says Jesse Mecham, the founder of You Need A Budget (YNAB). Today I had the honor of chatting with Jesse about what it would be like to live a life free from financial stress without all of the restrictions that come with being told what to do.  YNAB was born out of Jesse longing to stop living paycheck-to-paycheck! So rather than just dream about it, he did something about it! And now YOU get to benefit from everything he has learned, designed, and refined over the last 13+ years! Ready for the best part?  Jesse doesn’t tell you WHAT you should do with your money! He doesn’t restrict your spending! He doesn’t force his personal beliefs on you! (Breathing a sigh of relief yet?) Just the opposite, actually! Jesse believes that no one should tell you what to do with your money! Why? Because only YOU know what’s most important to you! So! Instead of persuading you to do things his way, he actually helps you to decide YOUR true priorities! And! He equips you with the tools you need to transform money management from a paralyzing burden to a powerful tool, putting you in total control of your life. (Sign me up for ALL of that!) Ready to get started? Here is what you can do TODAY! Give every dollar a job! (I am picturing each dollar marching off to work in uniform ready to go to work!) What do I mean here?  Jesse says what we’re actually trying to do is simulate running out of money.  But, why? Because! Only then you can find out what’s important to you and what you want the money to do! If the money never runs out, we never find out what matters, but when the money goes to zero, then your priorities start to become crystal clear!For example, think about a dream trip that you would LOVE to take, but think it’s never going to be possible! (For me, I am almost 14 years in the waiting for my dream honeymoon to Bora Bora with Justin…but who’s counting?!) Okay so, you keep talking about this dream trip, you want to make it happen, but are you actually making any progress towards it becoming a reality?  (crickets…) So … why is that?? Chances are if you dive in, you find yourself spending hundreds on takeout, or impulse buying online, or doing everything instead of allocating money to your dream trip! So while you think you can’t afford it, if you decided to give every dollar a job, you would actually be able to see what you are truly prioritizing, and not let those dollars leave you with meaningless expenses that pile up without your knowledge! (Are you on board yet?! I thought so!) You are going to LOVE today’s conversation where Jesse shares all this knowledge and more as we also chat about: How you can crystalize your life’s priorities through the lens of a liberating, exhilarating, life-changing budget with just four rulesThe freedom that comes from positively reframing how you view money while shedding the guilt you experience when spending itWays to be intentional about what you want your money to do before spend itHow you can embrace your true expenses while breaking them into manageable amounts Alright friends, if you are ready to take charge, adjust your money habits, eliminate stress, and build the life you want to live (maybe even build in a trip to Bora Bora with me!), you will not want to miss today’s powerful and eye-opening episode! More From This Episode: 

Connect with Jesse on Instagram and be sure to pick up her new book, ‘You Need a Budget: The Proven System for Breaking the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle, Getting Out of Debt, and Living the Life You Want’ wherever books are sold.’

Subscribe to the Mary Marantz Show weekly email and get a weekly dose of inspiration and grit delivered right to your inbox

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