Teresa McMillan is a leader and mentor for the World Race, a program for 21 to 35 year olds to travel to 11 countries in 11 months all while getting discipled and witnessing on the go. Today Teresa shares her transformation story to help build up listeners faith and to empower you to be the hands and feet of Jesus right where you are too.
Introduction to Teresa (3:00)
Teresa grew up Asheville North Carolina, was raised catholic, and never knew Jesus though she did go to church because her parents wanted her to. From age 14 and on she pursued a buckwild life but around 22 years old had a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey. In that moment, a stranger approached her and asked if she was a Christian. This person in particular challenged her thinking in love, and shared the gospel with her in a way she had never understood before. Shortly after, Teresa decided to write a letter to God asking for the opportunity to know Him more and to be able to share about Him the rest of her life.
A Special Letter (4:45)
One day as Teresa worked in a J&S cafeteria, she received a piece of paper that had a typed letter saying something along the lines of, “Dear friend I love you, I miss you, and saw you go to sleep last night. Love, Jesus.” This letter in particular reminded Teresa of how real Jesus was and how He wanted to be so close with her.
A True Friend (8:00)
Teresa is still friends with the pastor that shared the gospel with her and occasionally speaks at the church to help inspire and empower the local body.
20 Seconds of Insane Courage (8:30)
Carrie pitches the idea that sometimes all it takes is 20 seconds of insane courage to share the gospel with individuals you find yourself around.
A Dream Come True (9:30)
Teresa had a desire to go and share her faith to the world, and this is what God has led her into.
Wisdom From Teresa (11:30)
See the person in front of you, notice them, and ask God what they need to know today. It’s all about taking it one person at a time. Teresa shares that evangelism can look different every time. Maybe it’s telling a person for 15 seconds that Jesus loves them, but it’s also sitting for 6 hours talking with the muslim family about who Christ is. Teresa also encourages listeners to be interruptible, to be open and available, to allow the holy spirit to move in and through you.
Hearing the Voice of God (13:00)
Sometimes it can be challenging to discern the voice of the Lord verses your own voice. Sometimes you may hear a voice in your head say “hey, stop what you’re doing and go talk to that person”. Even if you may have heard wrong, it’s still a beautiful thing to share the love of Jesus with someone else. God delights in our willingness and heart for obedience. Make sure to give yourself extra grace! You never know until you try.
Cross Cultural Missions Verses the USA (15:00)
There seems to be a thinking in the Christian culture that evangelism in the United States is more difficult that evangelism overseas. Teresa shares that it’s not one or the other, both are just different. There is an intense intentionality overseas, while most evangelism for her in America happens in the day to day while eating at a restaurant, uber driving, waiting at an airport, and other moments like that. This is not to say intentional outreach doesn't happen in the United States, because it most certainly does!
A Global Revival (18:00)
Teresa shares that she almost exploded at the send and it was a dream come true to see many people gathered and worshipping Jesus. She believes God is creating a wider capacity in her to be more bold in evangelism and on fire for God.
Sugar Fast (20:30)
Teresa elaborates on how this 40 day fast from sugar is serving her.
Crushed (21:30)
After a sister dying and Dad committing suicide, the grief process was excruciating and Teresa felt like she was going to die. But in that time, she overcame and found true hope in Christ no matter what.
Suffering Produces Hope (25:00)
We all need God to renew our minds on a daily basis. A couple good questions to ask God during times of difficulty are “God what was that?” and “Hey God, why did this happen?” When we hear God minister to our hearts, it changes everything. We encourage you to invite Him into the process.
The World Race (27:00)
Content manager, Kailey Mattarella did the World Race and that is how Carrie and Teresa were initially connected. The world race is a branch off of the Adventures in Missions organization which provides opportunity for people of all ages to embark on missional journeys around the world, while being discipled along the way. Impressively, there are currently over 480 ministry Adventures in Missions partners around the world.
Radically Changed (30:00)
Teresa shares how she gets to see lives radically changed not only across the globe, but within America too.
World Race America (30:30)
For a long time Teresa had a dream to bring the gospel into the nations and through the new opportunity known as “World Race America” this dream has come true.
Turn to Jesus (31:00)
If you are someone that has never started a relationship with Jesus, we encourage you to start one today. God wants to be close and you don’t need to do anything but simply come as you are. Teresa is someone who had never read the bible before she gave her life to Christ but knew in her spirit it was the best decision she could ever make. Following Jesus will be hard, but it most certainly is choosing the best life. It is in all of our best interest to live for the King of kings, the Lord of lords, the one who loves us through it all.
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Crystal Hodges is speaker, writer, and resilient leader. On this episode she shares her personal experience with cyber bullying. Because of her facial difference, she was the target of a social media post that went viral to over 30 million people. Her story raises awareness on this very real, hurtful issue in our culture today. Crystal shares practical insights on ways you can help protect the privacy of others, be sensitive as to what kind of content should be shared online, and how we can all use our God sized dreams for the betterment of this world. Let Crystal inspire you on how to use your difference to make a difference in your life!
Introduction to Crystal Hodges (2:30)
Crystal grew up in a baptist home, with a deep heritage in the Christian faith. At around six years old she accepted God, and at twelve years old decided to be all in for His glory. This leader is a gal on the move, working hard to encourage and empower others with a message that we can all make a unique difference in this life.
A Facial Difference (5:00)
Crystal has had to deal with a lot of attention to her face because of how many people give negative attention on her port wine stain birthmark. She has had to deal with quite a bit of health treatment, stares from people, harsh comments, and much more.
Cyber Bullying (6:00)
Crystal knows well what it can look like and feels like to be bullied. In the recent past, a photo of her with the port wine stain birthmark went viral to 30 million people around the world via social media, which in return made her headshot become a digital symphony cause.
Be Cautious (11:00)
It is very important to be cautious with what we post on social media in this day and age as well as how we go about purchasing photos. A photo gone viral over social media to one person may look funny, but to another person it might be their unwanted face portrayed.
Born to Overcome (12:00)
We have a choice to be dwellers of the pain or to overcome for something greater. Crystal learned this lesson after a dear friend spoke truth and challenged her thinking in regards to her unique facial difference and how she could use her life experiences to make a difference in this life. From there, she was empowered to live a life of overcoming rather than being a dweller of pain.
Dream Board (13:30)
Crystal decided to create something called a “Dream Board”, which allows her to visualize, set goals, and dream with God on what she truly desires in this life.
A Greater Passion (19:00)
Carrie poses a question in regards to asking what Crystal is passionate about. Crystal elaborates on how she finds great purpose in teaching, challenging, and encouraging others to treat people with kindness no matter what they look like or who they are. She's been asked to speak at events, share her story, teach, and plans to continue engaging with communities in this capacity.
Our Words Have Impact (21:00)
Whatever you say to somebody, you don't get to decide what sticks. We have the power to choose what we let out of our mouths, may we be wise and discerning with this gift.
The Travelin Chic Blog (22:00)
Carrie touches on a blog post Crystal wrote titled “13 Things to Remember about Health Advocates and Role Models”. To check this blog out click here.
Healthy Boundaries (23:00)
Just because someone may have an influential platform, doesn't mean they need to respond to everyone. It is in our best interest as followers to understand and respect that people on platforms need healthy boundaries too.
Writing and Speaking (25:00)
Crystal is now full time pursuing her vocation in writing and speaking. She quit her job after getting married and is excited to have more space and time to fully invest into this realm of influence.
Encouragement from Crystal (28:45)
Carrie asks Crystal to share a word of encouragement to the listeners and Crystal responds back with “God knit you together with intention and purpose, you’re beautiful and to never forget that we were all made with intention.”
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Carrie Robaina and Kailey Mattarella are not only good friends, but also co workers for the She Walks In Truth podcast. Today they decided to chat on navigating work and friendship dynamics, the back story on how they first met doing ministry across the states, and how starting work together with the podcast all took place. The insight, joy, and goodness of God they share on the podcast today, will inspire you to open your eyes to what God has laid right before you as well.
The Backstory (3:30)
Carrie and Kailey first met at a Love Twin Cities missions trip about five years ago and continued networking with each other as they were involved with the same ministry based out of Minneapolis.
Not Your Typical Missions Trip (4:00)
The mission trips Carrie and Kailey were involved in when they connected with each other were one of a kind. These mission trips consisted of an entire week of 24/7 outreach, prayer, and worship. They have both traveled to Minneapolis, New York, and San Francisco, serving alongside one another and having a blast while doing it.
A Joyful Heart (7:00)
Carrie takes a moment to honor Kailey for who she is and all that God has called her to be.
Outreach Night (8:00)
Kailey is reminded that Carrie and herself originally met on the streets of Minneapolis, worshipping at a local bus stop with a group of people. They both agree that it was a blast to say the least. That night Kailey couldn’t help but jump up and down saying, “this is what we’re made for!”
An 11 Month Mission Trip (10:30)
Kailey shares how her time with the World Race was a foundational year, one of the best and most uncomfortable times of her life.
Episode #36: Learning to Walk By Faith (11:00)
Close to two years ago, Kailey was interviewed on the She Walks In Truth Podcast talking about her faith journey as she prepared to do the World Race missions trip. Check episode #36 out if you’d like to learn more about her faith journey!
God Knows Best (11:30)
We can trust God in His goodness and that He will reveal all we need to know in perfect timing.
Take A Risk (12:30)
Kailey shares how God really encouraged her through Carrie’s words and mentorship. This past year Kailey decided to pursue entrepreneurship instead of going back into the social work field, and Carrie was the perfect person to mentor he in that transition through starting work with She Walks In Truth.
Working Together (13:30)
No matter what kind of friendship or working relationship one finds themselves in, it is important to maintain honor, integrity, and respect towards one another.
Kingdom Mentorship (15:30)
Often times the people that may be good to partner together with are right in front of us. Kailey and Carrie both agree God showed up in their lives, bringing each other together for a reason and they encourage you to ask God to open your eyes to this reality as well! God desires to use the skills you have to help coach and disciple others along.
Walking In Wisdom (18:00)
Carrie and Kailey chat on how they started off with firm boundaries in regards to communication styles for their work relationship as they navigated a new role, coming in as good friends already.
A Thriving Friendship (19:00)
Stewarding friendship as Kailey and Carrie dance between work and personal life boundaries has been an exciting journey. Kailey expresses how cherished and taken care of she has felt by Carrie.
Internal Dialogue (23:30)
Sometimes when we start off with a new job, especially working for someone we look up to, there can be an unhealthy strive for perfection. Kailey shares that “while striving for success is good, we need to give ourselves grace and be okay to make mistakes, knowing we are doing our best with what we know how at that time”.
Together Is Better (26:00)
Carrie and Kailey both love each other so much, have learned from one another, and are equally excited for what God is doing in their individual lives.
Letting Go (28:00)
Carrie shares that in this time of hiring Kailey on, she has grown in learning to let go, entrusting Kailey with responsibilities she no longer has to think about. In return this has been a season of new freedom and space to expand the influence of the She Walks In Truth podcast!
Friendship Takes Precedence (29:30)
When in a working relationship with someone that is a close friend, Carrie and Kailey both suggest having a conversation on ways you can protect a friendship for the long run, before you start official work with each other.
Joy Makers Project (30:30)
Joy Makers Project is an organization that was downloaded on Kailey’s heart during an 11 month missions trip around the world in 2018. This is a platform organization that empowers people to go and spread authentic joy around the world by spreading random acts of kindness, generous gift giving, and notes of encouragement. Part of this project’s mission is to create awareness that we should never underestimate what God can do through the little things to impact someone's life or change the trajectory of someone’s life for the better! You can check out Joy Makers Project by clicking HERE.
Be Encouraged (33:30)
We don’t have time to value any thoughts within our own mind outside of what God thinks of us. God is speaking constant affirmations over us and it is in our best interest to tune into what those affirmations are. See Psalm 139.
Best Case Scenario (34:00)
Sometimes we make up things in our own head that simply aren’t true. If you are in a sticky situation and not sure what someone may think of you, Kailey’s best advice was to “think of the best case scenario unless that particular person was to tell you otherwise.
CONNECT with Carrie Robaina by clicking here.
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JOIN THE AFTER PARTY Connect with Carrie and other sister friends who listen to the show by joining the after party in our She Walks In Truth private group on Facebook by clicking here. In the group we chat about the episodes and support one another on this journey called life!
Gary and Lisa Black are global minded leaders, full of wisdom, encouragement, and passion for seeing the next generation set free. Speaker and entrepreneur Gary Black, and writer and advocate for the vulnerable, Lisa Black chat about their past experiences in life and passion for reaching the nations. Both of them are global minded leaders doing some major kingdom work and it is incredible. Get ready to be encouraged and inspired!
Introduction to Gary and Lisa Black (1:30)
The Black family has lived in a variety of locations around the world, currently they’re living in Mijas, Spain! Gary Black was raised in a religious home and his mother and sister with special needs passed away at a young age. In the midst of having a large influence within national ministry, Gary also had a very challenging first marriage. At one point, his boys were kidnapped by his wife and eventually he won full custody of them back. After a painful season of divorce, Gary met Lisa and added two more daughters to the family.
Meeting Seth Barnes (6:15)
After Lisa and Gary met founder of the World Race Seth Barnes, this changed the trajectory of their life. Several months later their family sold everything they had and moved all 8 of the family members to Swaziland, Africa to pursue ministry opportunities locally and to mentor young adults on the World Race journey.
A Tragic Loss (7:30)
The Black family’s son who was a USA Rugby player got caught up with the cartels which eventually led to a violent death. In this time, Gary and Lisa felt like they could not make it through, but eventually found themselves in Spain, learning to let the pain transform them from the inside out.
A Background on Lisa Black (9:30)
Lisa was married at 19 years old and had children shortly after. Her first husband struggled with alcohol addictions and one night after years of being abstinent, he was killed from an accidental fall, resulting in a fatal head injury.
God’s Provision (12:30)
As Lisa worked through the trauma of her first husband’s death, she met an intriguing man, named Gary and soon fell head over heels. While it was a bit of a wild transition, she knew it was provision from the Lord for both of them.
The Best Comfort (14:30)
We are called to be comforted by God and as we let Him comfort us, it will transform you from the inside out!
Pain used for Glory (16:00)
God will always use our pain, He won’t let anything go to waste.
Radical Obedience (17:00)
When a husband and wife give their yes to God together, it’s a very powerful thing. To follow Christ with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, will cost everything, but it is totally worth it.
Be Faithful (21:00)
Gary encourages listeners to be faithful with what you have in your hands right now, do it really really well, and then see what God does with it next.
Involvement with the World Race (22:00)
Gary and Lisa are currently involved with the World Race ministry, where they help lead gathering events across the globe as well as help coach young adults on their transition back to the states.
Generation 42 Leadership Academy (23:00)
Generation 42 Leadership Academy is a nine month program focused on discipling and empowering creative leaders to go and be all that they were made. This academy focuses on training young adult leaders how to live missional, wherever their feet may go.
A Call to All Generations (26:00)
No matter what generation you were born in, we’re all called to partner together and see younger generations come alive. Millennials want to be discipled and boomers desire to have authentic relationships with the younger generation. As generations partner together, God’s glory will fill the whole earth.
Landing Zones (29:00)
Gary and Lisa have a passion to get a global network of wild people, willing to join in on multi-generational discipleship together. You can learn more about this by connecting with them here.
All Seasons (30:00)
God will use us wherever we are or whatever season we find ourselves in, if we allow it.
Rise Up (31:00)
It’s time for men to speak up be the leader they are meant to be within families and to the world. Gary shares from experience that the best thing father can do for the kids are having strong, loving, and healthy marriages.
CONNECT with Carrie Robaina by clicking here.
CONNECT with Gary and Lisa Black by clicking here.
FAITH SHOP Grab your cool She Walks In Truth gear at our new Faith Shop!
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JOIN THE AFTER PARTY Connect with Carrie and other sister friends who listen to the show by joining the after party in our She Walks In Truth private group on Facebook by clicking here. In the group we chat about the episodes and support one another on this journey called life!
Connie Albers is an author of the new book "Parenting Beyond the Rules: Raising Teens with Confidence and Joy", where she sheds light on the joy of parenting and debunking popular myths when it comes to parenting teenagers. Today Connie joins the show to share wisdom, insight, and strategy on how you can pour into teenagers as well as help support others in your community who have teens.
Introduction to Connie (2:30)
Connie has always has a passion for building strong families, especially in the teen years.
Blurred Visions (7:00)
Sometimes the visions of what family dynamics would be like don’t turn out the way we expect, and that’s okay.
Entrusted (8:30)
God entrusted us with His children, it is an honor! We must devour God’s word on a constant basis to stay on track with stewarding His children we are entrusted with.
Starve the Fear (13:00)
Connie suggest that as mothers with children, we should starve the fear that grips us when it comes to parenting.
Pressure’s Off (17:30)
Where your child is today, does not mean your child will be in that state or lifestyle one year, five years, or even ten years from now.
God’s Mandate (19:00)
God has given us a mandate to teach and train our children in the way they should go. Our job is to do our very best and be faithful with that mandate.
Trust and Adjust (23:00)
God simply asks for us to do the best we can with what we know, now. Be faithful in prayer, pay attention to what you say, and how you communicate with your children. We can always adjust our parenting styles as we learn and grow!
A Beautiful Dance (25:00)
Don’t sacrifice relationship on the hand of unbending rules. We must learn the dance of navigating relationship and healthy boundaries with our children.
Encouragement from Connie (28:00)
Teen years are years to be celebrated, not dreaded. As parents we get to watch God shape and form his child to be all that they are made to be in this life.
Connect with Carrie Robaina by clicking here.
Connect with Connie Albers by clicking here.
Purchase "Parenting Beyond the Rules” book by clicking here
FAITH SHOP Grab your cool She Walks In Truth gear at our new Faith Shop!
RATE & REVIEW Rate and review She Walks In Truth on iTunes by Clicking here.
JOIN THE AFTER PARTY Connect with Carrie and other sister friends who listen to the show by joining the after party in our She Walks In Truth private group on Facebook by clicking here. In the group we chat about the episodes and support one another on this journey called life!