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Lessons from Living

Beth Graham

Everyday heroes, young and old, are interviewed to glean wisdom and secrets for living well so that listeners are inspired to live meaningful lives. As a mother of six, theology student, breast cancer survivor, and wife of 36 years, host Beth Graham includes many personal tidbits surrounding parenting, health, marriage, and spiritual living. No more treading water and feeling unfulfilled; it's time to take action! Welcome to our community of inspiration!

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  • 24 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 35 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • S5 · E111
    Saturday · 15 min

    US Open Life Lessons: Composure, Gratitude, and True Sportsmanship

    In this solo episode of Lessons from Living, Beth Graham reflects on the powerful life lessons she gleaned from an unforgettable US Open. From contrasting emotional styles on the women’s side to extraordinary humility and gratitude on the men’s, Beth explores what truly endures beyond a scoreboard. She contrasts visible emotion and outbursts with steady composure, then highlights moments of quiet greatness: Alexander Zverev staying locked in point-by-point, his heartfelt respect for Ben Shelton at the net, and Ben’s remarkably generous runner-up speech that thanked everyone from tournament staff to his driver by name. Beth also shares Zverev’s story of overcoming diabetes—and a mother’s courageous resolve that her son would not be defined by a diagnosis. Themes include emotional regulation, sportsmanship, resilience, faith, parenting for character over accomplishments, and why grace under pressure shapes reputations and futures. Whether you watched every match or none at all, you’ll find timely reminders for raising kids, leading teams, and living well. Quote to remember: “Who you are and how you treat others lasts forever, while a victory on a scoreboard is temporary.” Write Beth at beth@lessonsfromliving.net—she reads every email.

  • S5 · E110
    September 10 · 1 hr 1 min

    Adversity to Impact: Carissa Hope on Resilience and Purpose | Lessons from Living

    In this moving episode of Lessons from Living, host Beth Graham welcomes Carissa Hope—a poised, purpose-driven young leader who turned a difficult childhood into a calling to help others heal. Carissa opens up about the moments that shaped her, the mentors and practices that helped her reframe pain into strength, and the daily habits that keep her grounded as she serves her community. If you’ve faced adversity and wondered how to transform it into impact, Carissa’s story offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a roadmap for resilient living. Drawing on the spirit of J.K. Rowling’s reminder that emerging wiser and stronger from setbacks builds lifelong confidence, this conversation explores how to move from survival to service. You’ll hear how Carissa cultivates hope, sets healthy boundaries, finds meaning in the mess, and empowers others—proving that it’s never too early (or too late) to start changing lives. What you’ll learn: How to reframe hardship into purpose and service Practical tools for healing: mindset, routines, and supportive relationships Setting boundaries without losing compassion Finding your voice after adversity and using it to uplift others Why starting young accelerates growth—and how to begin wherever you are Who this episode is for: Anyone recovering from a tough season and seeking direction Young adults and students looking for purpose-driven paths Caregivers, educators, counselors, and community leaders Listeners who love real stories of grit, grace, and growth Quotable moment: “The knowledge that you have emerged wiser and stronger from setbacks means that you are ever after secure in your ability to survive.” —J.K. Rowling Call to action: Watch the video version on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@LessonsfromLiving Subscribe for more stories that encourage and equip you to live with purpose Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that hope is possible Suggested chapter markers (optional): 00:00 Welcome and today’s theme 01:23 Meet Carissa Hope 06:10 Turning pain into purpose 14:45 Habits that build resilience 22:30 Boundaries, healing, and serving others 32:50 Advice for starting young 40:00 Final reflections and J.K. Rowling quote

  • S5 · E109
    September 3 · 37 min

    Letting Love In: Jody Hudson on Resilience, Faith, and the Bluebird That Changed Everything

    Note: First segment of Jody Hudson's interview published August 20, 2026. Go back to catch the opening segment. In this powerful segment, Jody Hudson opens up about the resilience she learned in childhood—and the unexpected blessing of letting people love you through casseroles, cards, and acts of kindness. She traces her spiritual journey from a strict Catholic upbringing to “double-dipping” weekends with her daughter Alex—Saturday sacraments and Sunday worship at a non-denominational church—moments that laid the groundwork for unshakeable faith during Alex’s illness. Jody recalls a providential meeting with “Jack,” a prayer companion whose words reframed healing as spiritual transformation, and shares the letter of Scripture he gave them. She also tells the story behind the bluebird on her book cover: a daily reminder that God hadn’t forgotten Alex—and a sign that brought deep peace. Jody describes Alex’s radiant final moments and how that parting gift breathed new life into her purpose, moving her from grief to action. This conversation explores accepting support, recognizing God’s presence in suffering, and carrying forward Alex’s legacy through a Lyme disease foundation focused on awareness, prevention, and patient support. Listeners will find hope-filled takeaways on faith, resilience, and choosing how to “show up” after loss.

  • S5 · E108
    August 31 · 16 min

    Bonus: Remembering Dolly Parton — 10 Life Lessons from a Tennessee Legend

    In this heartfelt bonus episode of Lessons From Living, we honor Dolly Parton’s life and legacy by reflecting on 10 timeless lessons she modeled for the world. From being unapologetically herself and chasing audacious dreams, to putting in the reps as a prolific songwriter, protecting her business interests, and leading with humility, kindness, loyalty, and love for children—Dolly showed us what it means to live big and give bigger. We revisit her iconic journey from a one-room cabin in Tennessee to global stardom; her fearless stage persona and frank honesty about beauty and image; the long road from childhood songwriting to worldwide hits like I Will Always Love You, Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, and 9 to 5; the pivotal decision to keep ownership of her catalog (including the song Elvis wanted and Whitney later made immortal); and the enduring impact of Dollywood and the Imagination Library, which has gifted books to millions of children. We also reflect on her steadfast marriage, her collaborative spirit, and her forward-looking philosophy—working and dreaming right to the end. If Dolly taught us anything, it’s that excellence comes from patience and practice, success from courage and ownership, and legacy from compassion. As we grieve, we can honor her by embodying the kindness she gave so freely: “If you see someone without a smile today, give ’em yours.” If this episode resonates, please share it with a fellow Dolly fan—and let us know your favorite Dolly lesson or memory.

  • S5 · E107
    August 27 · 51 min

    Healing Trauma from the Inside Out with Ben Oofana

    Ben Oofana joins Lessons From Living to explain how trauma imprints in the body and how to heal it from the inside out. Drawing on his apprenticeship with a traditional Native healer, decades of vision quest practice, internal martial arts, and work with clients worldwide, Ben details an embodied meditation method that processes emotions rather than bypasses them. We discuss spiritual bypassing, resilience, why some people fragment while others cope, the trauma–health link, relationships after wounding, and cultivating connection to a higher power. Expect practical steps you can use today to calm the nervous system, digest difficult feelings, and rebuild capacity. BenOofana.com TeachMeToMeditate.com BreakUpFirstAid.com IG @BenOofana

  • S5 · E106
    August 20 · 39 min

    When Lyme Steals a Future: One Family’s Fight Back

    Author and advocate Jody Hudson joins Lessons From Living to share the powerful story behind her book, “My Promise to Alex,” and the legacy she’s building after losing her 22-year-old daughter, Alex, to late-diagnosed Lyme disease. Jody recounts a decade-long medical mystery, 40 doctors, false negatives on outdated tests, and the painful reality of “invisible illness” and medical gaslighting. She explains early Lyme symptoms (summer-flu feelings, joint pain, brain fog, digestive issues), why only some patients get a bullseye rash, and how timely antibiotics after a tick bite can change everything. Jody also opens up about caregiving, faith, and resilience; advocating inside a complex medical system; and helping kids develop empathy and selflessness through real-world service. You’ll hear how Alex’s competitive spirit, big heart for the homeless, and deepening faith continue to inspire Jody’s advocacy and foundation work. What you’ll learn: Early signs of Lyme disease and why testing can miss it How to advocate for a loved one amid misdiagnosis Practical support ideas for caregivers Ways to nurture empathy and service in kids If this episode resonates, share it with someone navigating chronic or “invisible” illness, and subscribe for more conversations that turn hardship into hope.

  • S5 · E105
    August 13 · 29 min

    Mitch Parsons: Holy Living, Gym Culture, and Raising Godly Men

    In this powerful Lessons From Living finale with Mitch Parsons, host Beth Graham dives into Mitch’s vision for The Remnant—a Christ-centered training center designed to call men to holiness, strengthen marriages and fatherhood, and offer a countercultural alternative to modern gym and bar culture. Mitch shares the moment that sparked the idea, why he walked away from traditional gyms, his decision to quit alcohol to protect his marriage and integrity, and how The Remnant will blend fitness, brotherhood, Bible studies, and practical community to forge men who lead at home, church, and city. From addressing oversexualized gym norms to offering sober camaraderie (golf simulator, co-working, marriage events, daddy–child experiences), Mitch lays out a blueprint for discipling men and transforming culture—starting in Denver. What you’ll learn: Why Mitch believes gym culture is failing men—and how The Remnant reframes fitness as discipleship Practical steps to replace alcohol-driven socializing with Spirit-led community How shoulder-to-shoulder activities help men open up about marriage, parenting, and purpose The vision for a holistic training center: fitness, co-working, Bible studies, marriage/fatherhood events, and sober fun A call for ordinary men to stand against cultural complacency and lead with courage and holiness Mitch’s core life lesson: “If it’s not Jesus, it doesn’t matter—and if He asks, the answer is yes.”

  • S5 · E104
    August 6 · 34 min

    From SEC Athlete to Healing: Mitch Parsons on Eating Disorders, Identity, and Obedience to God

    Former Vanderbilt football standout Mitch Parsons joins Beth Graham to share a raw, faith-filled journey from performance-driven living and a seven-year battle with anorexia to freedom, healing, and wholehearted obedience to God. Mitch opens up about the “curse of the athlete,” body image, control, and the long-term neurological and emotional scars of an eating disorder—and how he’s retraining his mind and heart. He talks social media’s pull, leading a family in a city where faith isn’t “cool,” raising bold kids who love Jesus, and building a Christian men’s training center in Denver while trusting God for provision. What you’ll learn: The athlete-to-eating-disorder pipeline: control, identity, and body image Long-term impacts of disordered eating and renewing neural pathways Living for God vs. impressing people (Galatians 1:10) Healthy boundaries with social media while pursuing calling Parenting tiny evangelists and cultivating everyday discipleship at home Obedience, provision, and surrender when God redirects your plans

  • S5 · E103
    July 30 · 45 min

    Dawn Ward on Ambiguous Loss, Spiritual Warfare & Rugged Love — Lessons From Living

    In this portion of Dawn Ward’s Lessons From Living conversation with Beth Graham, Dawn goes deeper into the spiritual and emotional realities families face when a loved one struggles with addiction. Key topics: ambiguous loss — grieving a child who is physically present but relationally distant — and how mothers can begin grieving while still holding hope. Dawn explains practical tools for healthy boundaries, the traffic-light method for safer conversations, and the difference between enabling and “rugged love” (love with teeth). She addresses spiritual warfare in families, shares a personal encounter with a sinister presence and how prayer, Scripture and reclaiming the home helped, and wrestles honestly with the disease vs. moral-failure debate from both scientific and biblical perspectives. This episode is essential listening for Christian moms, caregivers, and faith leaders seeking: Guidance on grieving ambiguous loss without losing hope Practical communication strategies for difficult interactions How to set loving, faith-based boundaries that avoid enabling Spiritual practices to protect and restore your home and family Perspective on addiction that integrates neuroscience, scripture, and grace Resources & where to connect with Dawn Ward: From Guilt to Grace (book), TheFaithtoFlourish.com, DawnRWard.com, and The Faith to Flourish social channels — for ministry support, prayer groups, and community for moms navigating addiction. Tune in for candid testimony, biblical counsel, and actionable next steps to move from fear and control into faith, rest, and resilient hope.

  • S5 · E102
    July 23 · 43 min

    Faith to Flourish in Hard Seasons: Dawn Ward’s Lessons on Addiction and Grace

    Dawn Ward opens up to host Beth Graham about her family's two very different experiences with addiction — one son who fought his way back after being inadvertently exposed to laced drugs in high school, and another who became dependent on prescription pain and anti-anxiety medications compounded by mental-health challenges. Drawing from her book From Guilt to Grace and her Faith to Flourish ministry, Dawn describes how the Holy Spirit prompted her to share a vulnerable, scripture-rooted testimony, the struggle of shedding shame as a Christian parent, and the practical spiritual and emotional tools that helped her move from control and hyper-vigilance to surrender and trust. This episode offers insights on setting healthy boundaries, distinguishing love from enabling, supporting adult children with respect, navigating church stigma, and finding community — especially for Christian moms facing addiction in the family. Tune in for honest stories, faith-based counsel, and actionable resources to help parents find hope, healing, and a path forward.

  • S5 · E101
    July 2 · 34 min

    Redeeming the Mother–Daughter Bond: Stacey Glass on Forgiveness, Faith, and a Holy Farewell

    In this powerful second segment, Stacey Glass shares how an estranged mother–daughter relationship was redeemed through persistent love, faith, and everyday invitations—calls, cards, short visits, and “keeping the door open.” Hear the pivotal moment her mom asked, “Why did you forgive me?,” the quiet watching that rebuilt trust, and how integrity at home matched what her mother saw in public. Stacey recounts a sudden health crisis, a brain tumor diagnosis, treatment, relapse, and 30 sacred hospice days filled with bucket-list grace—motorcycle ride, skydiving, and, ultimately, baptism. We talk practical reconciliation steps, healthy hope vs. forcing outcomes, breaking generational cycles, self-forgiveness, and how community and God’s love heal what trauma breaks. If you’re navigating an estranged parent, grief, or starting over, this testimony offers faith-filled encouragement and actionable ideas. Topics: reconciliation with an estranged parent, Christian forgiveness, restoration, healing from childhood trauma, grief and hospice, mother–daughter story, keeping boundaries and invitations, breaking cycles, hope, “Grace Between the Cracks.” Connect with Stacey: staceyglass.com | @StaceyGlassAuthor.

  • S5 · E100
    June 25 · 24 min

    100th Episode Celebration: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives | Lessons From Living with Beth Graham

    Join host Beth Graham for Lessons From Living’s 100th episode—a heartfelt look back at the podcast’s original vision: elevating ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Beth revisits the story that started it all (Episode 1: Will Reynolds and his life-changing kidney donation), reflects on a growing body of work, and shares behind-the-scenes challenges of finding humble, never-before-featured voices alongside seasoned storytellers. Discover insights on perseverance, the power of a singular voice in audio, steady growth, faith interwoven with resilience, and what keeps this inspirational podcast moving forward. Help shape the next 100 episodes: Share stories of everyday heroes in your life Rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Subscribe and share with a friend Watch episodes on YouTube Email Beth: beth@lessonsfromliving.net

  • S5 · E99
    June 18 · 29 min

    From Trauma to Triumph: How Church Community Transformed a Broken Childhood - Stacey Glass on Lessons From Living

    In this powerful episode of Lessons From Living, Stacey Glass shares her remarkable journey from a traumatic childhood marked by addiction and abandonment to finding hope through the loving hands of a church community. Discover how a pastor's family driving 20 minutes out of their way three times a week, a music director who saw potential beyond circumstances, and surrogate families who opened their doors changed the trajectory of not just one life, but generations to come. Stacey's story reveals the profound impact of small acts of love - from picking up a third-grader for church to encouraging musical talents to providing a safe home when nowhere else existed. She also candidly discusses the lasting wounds from careless words by teachers and coaches, showing how both positive and negative influences shape our self-perception. This episode explores themes of resilience, the irreplaceable longing for maternal connection, finding worth in Christ versus performance, and the ripple effects of showing up for hurting children. Whether you're in ministry, education, or simply want to make a difference in someone's life, Stacey's story will inspire you to see the extraordinary power of ordinary kindness.

  • S5 · E98
    June 11 · 38 min

    Redefining Success After Crisis: Adrian Jones on Self-Compassion & Finding Your Ikigai | Lessons From Living

    What does success really mean? After two heart attacks derailed his Wall Street career, Adrian Jones had to completely redefine his markers of achievement. In this deeply personal conversation with Beth Graham, Adrian shares how health crises forced him to confront the truth: traditional success was literally killing him. Discover Adrian's powerful framework for career reinvention, including the Japanese concept of Ikigai (a life worth living), the "I Want" exercise for radical honesty, and why self-compassion isn't "woo-woo"—it's essential survival. Adrian reveals the hidden costs of living misaligned with your purpose, from regret to physical deterioration, and explains why transformation happens best in community, not isolation. Whether you're at a career crossroads, feeling burned out, or simply questioning if there's more to life than your current path, this episode offers practical tools and hope for reinvention. Learn how to give yourself permission to choose YOU, build a foundation of self-compassion, and find work that lights up your soul—before a crisis forces the decision.

  • S5 · E97
    June 5 · 41 min

    From Widow-Maker to Wake-Up Call: Adrian Jones on Surviving Two Heart Attacks & Redefining Success

    In this powerful Lessons From Living episode, Adrian Jones shares how surviving two “widow-maker” heart attacks—one in 2016 and another in 2024—finally forced him to transform his life. We explore what his life and definition of success looked like before these health crises, why the first heart attack wasn’t enough to spark lasting change, and why it often takes a life-threatening “wake-up call” for us to finally listen. Adrian opens up about stress, lifestyle, ambition, and the mindset shifts that followed his second heart attack, offering honest insight for anyone ignoring warning signs in their own life.

  • S5 · E96
    May 28 · 29 min

    Rekindling Communication: Insights from Couples Counselor Raffi Bilek on Humor, Conflict Resolution, and Lasting Relationships

    In this encouraging episode of "Lessons From Living," couples counselor Raffi Bilek shares invaluable insights into the art of communication in relationships. Explore how humor can enhance dialogue, how even gridlock can be navigated and discover effective strategies for couples when one partner is resistant to improving their communication skills. Raffi discusses the impact of cultural, gender, and family of origin differences on communication styles. He reveals the one essential practice couples should remember, shares an inspiring success story, and highlights the broader societal implications of his work. Tune in for a hopeful message aimed at rekindling connection for struggling couples!

  • S5 · E95
    May 21 · 25 min

    Creating Connection: Expert Insights on Improving Communication in Marriage with Raffi Bilek

    Join us on this illuminating episode of Lessons From Living as we sit down with seasoned couples counselor Raffi Bilek to explore the art of effective communication in relationships. Discover the critical gaps in communication guidance that Raffi addresses in his insightful book, "The Couples Communication Handbook." We delve into common myths about relationship communication, uncover ineffective patterns, and identify the biggest challenges couples face when implementing new strategies. Plus, learn a practical technique you can start using today to strengthen your connection, create lasting communication habits, and understand the powerful role emotions play in our interactions. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your relationship skills and move from being right to truly listening and being heard! The Couples Communication Handbook: The Skills You Never Learned for the Marriage You Always Wanted, Raffi Bilek

  • S5 · E94
    May 7 · 17 min

    Unlocking Your Potential: A Journey of Self-Improvement

    In this transformative episode of Lessons From Living, we're diving deep into the world of self-improvement and personal growth. Discover why investing in yourself is essential for happiness, fulfillment, and success. We'll explore the importance of recognizing areas for development, setting SMART goals, and creating actionable plans to achieve your aspirations. Join us as we share inspiring stories of individuals like J.K. Rowling and Tony Robbins, who faced challenges but overcame them through dedication and resilience. Their journeys remind us that we all have the power to change our lives for the better. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, boost your confidence, or improve your relationships, this episode offers practical tips and motivational insights to guide you on your self-improvement journey. Embrace the power of growth and take the first step towards unlocking your true potential today!

  • S5 · E93
    April 30 · 32 min

    Empowerment Through Adversity: Zolal Habibi on the New Vision for Iran's Future

    Join us for an inspiring second segment with Iranian-American activist Zolal Habibi, as we delve into her unwavering quest to raise awareness for the Iranian people. Discover how Zolal overcomes fear and danger to share her vision for a brighter future and what motivates her resilience. We explore her insights on whether American youth would cherish their freedom enough to defend it if roles were reversed, and we uncover the most significant life lesson she's learned along her journey. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that highlights the power of perseverance and the importance of cultural awareness. FB: https://www.facebook.com/IranNCR/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashrafi4ever/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/ashrafi4ever LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zolalhabibi Email: zolalhk@gmail.com WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+393312094616

  • S5 · E92
    April 23 · 38 min

    Lessons from Living: Zolal Habibi on the Iranian Resistance and the Fight for Freedom

    In this compelling episode of Lessons from Living, join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Zolal Habibi, an American-Iranian resistance member. Discover the profound impact of her father's tragic loss to the regime at a young age, the unwavering dedication of her mother to the resistance, and Zolal's courageous decision to leave a prestigious medical career to fight for freedom. We explore the realities faced by the Iranian people, the complexities of government policies toward Iran, and the reasons behind Iranians' reluctance for foreign intervention. Gain insight into the current state of resistance and learn about the potential timeline for genuine revolution in Iran. This is just the first installment of a captivating journey into the heart of a nation's struggle for liberty. FB: https://www.facebook.com/IranNCR/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashrafi4ever/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/ashrafi4ever LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zolalhabibi Email: zolalhk@gmail.com WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+393312094616

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