Episodes

3d ago

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson is joined by pastor and longtime ministry leader Tuck Knupp for a thoughtful conversation on kindness. Drawing from a men’s Bible study on the fruit of the Spirit, they explore how kindness is often misunderstood as niceness or weakness, when in reality it is rooted in strength, humility, and generosity of spirit. Together, they discuss kindness in relationships, leadership, work, self-reflection, and even cultural and political discourse. The conversation challenges listeners, especially men, to grow in kindness by embracing humility, receiving God’s kindness personally, and allowing that transformation to shape how they live, lead, and relate to others, particularly during the Christmas season. Key Takeaways - Kindness is not the same as niceness, it is rooted in strength and truth - True kindness requires humility and an honest view of our own brokenness - Kindness reflects a generosity of spirit that believes the best about others - Protecting someone’s reputation is a powerful expression of kindness - Kindness should extend to work, home, relationships, and public discourse - Receiving God’s kindness fuels compassion toward others - Self-kindness is essential for growth and freedom from performance - Kindness may lose short-term battles but can win long-term wars Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Kindness 05:09 Reframing Kindness Beyond Niceness 11:22 The Strength and Truth Within Kindness 18:23 Growing in Kindness Through Humility 25:36 Kindness in Relationships and Self-Compassion 32:09 Reflecting on Kindness During Christmas 36:20 Kindness in Society, Culture, and Politics 45:42 A Challenge to Men 47:11 Final Reflections and Closing Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Dec 11

In this episode, Tommy is joined by bravery expert, leadership developer, and author Jill Schulman to unpack The Bravery Effect —the idea that bravery isn’t something you’re born with, but something you can train. Jill shares her unconventional path from Marine Corps officer to positive psychology expert, blending personal stories, scientific research, and practical tools to show that courage is a learnable skill. Together, they explore how bravery drives personal and professional growth, why discomfort is essential, how mindset shapes action, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can make you braver than you ever imagined. Whether you're facing a tough decision, stuck in a rut, or seeking a more courageous life, this conversation offers a roadmap toward becoming who you were meant to be. Key Takeaways Bravery is not innate — it’s a skill you can learn and strengthen. Choosing discomfort is often the doorway to growth. A supportive community (“your brave tribe”) elevates your bravery. Bravery = voluntary action in the presence of fear toward a worthwhile goal. Small acts of “micro-bravery” compound into high confidence. Mindset is foundational — especially growth mindset and stress-is-enhancing mindset. Planning and pre-deciding your actions prevent fear from talking you out of progress. Some brave actions involve letting go, not just taking on more. Bravery is a strategy, not just a feeling. Every person has an area where they can take the next brave step. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bravery 03:07 Jill’s Journey & The Science of Bravery 05:50 The Definition and Importance of Bravery 12:07 Building Bravery as a Muscle 17:50 The Role of Comfort and Discomfort 24:02 Micro-Bravery in Everyday Life 29:41 Mindset & Stress Management 35:48 Taking Action & Planning for Bravery 41:47 Right-Sizing Your Bravery Goals 47:42 Surrounding Yourself with a Brave Tribe Resources Mentioned Jill Schulman’s Website: https://www.jillschulman.com Bravery Quiz: https://www.jillschulman.com/bravery-quiz Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Dec 4

In this episode of Space for Life , Tommy and Joe dive deep into one of the most overlooked drivers of personal transformation: the environment you build around your life . Instead of focusing on tips, hacks, or quick fixes, they explore how habits, self-coaching, meaningful relationships, and spiritual spaciousness create the kind of “rich soil” where long-term growth actually happens. Drawing from the Parable of the Sower , Tommy unpacks four types of “soil environments” and shows how they mirror the spiritual, emotional, and practical conditions we create in our lives. The conversation moves through the role of spaciousness, the discomfort that often precedes growth, why self-reflection is essential, and the four kinds of people every person needs around them. If you want deeper relationships, meaningful progress, and a spiritual life that actually transforms you — this episode will help you create the conditions where real growth can finally take root. Key Takeaways Creating the right environment is more important than any single growth tactic. The Parable of the Sower offers a framework for understanding how environment impacts growth. The three major components of a growth environment are habits , self-coaching , and people . Spaciousness is the foundational habit that enables reflection, listening, and deeper living. Weekly and quarterly rhythms create structure for long-term transformation. Growth requires a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Self-coaching begins with listening — to patterns, emotions, circumstances, and God. Four kinds of people accelerate growth: mentors, mentees, soul friends, and prophets. A “prophet” (your Nathan) is someone with permission to speak hard truth into your life. Resources Tommy’s Book: Space to Breathe Again Space for Life Episode: “30 Minutes to Your Best Week” Space for Life Episode: “The Art of Journaling” Space for Life Episode: "What's the Big Deal About Margin?" Space for Life Episode: "What's a Spacious Life?" 0:00 Intro 1:46 Why Environment Matters 4:26 Parable of the Sower 9:42 Four Types of Soil 12:49 Three Elements of Growth 16:43 Habits of Spaciousness 25:06 Weekly + Long-Term Rhythms 32:57 Self Coaching + Reflection 41:50 People of Growth 45:22 4 Types of People You Need in Your Life 55:48 Finding Your Nathan Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Nov 20

In this episode of Space for Life , Tommy welcomes entrepreneur Jeff Johnson for a deeply moving conversation about surrender, resilience, and the ways God reaches us through life’s hardest moments. Jeff shares the powerful story of hitting the breaking point in his fourth-generation steel fabrication business, kneeling alone on the shop floor, and asking God to take over. What follows is a journey of obedience, transformation, and learning to “take your hands off” while still doing the next right thing. Through biblical stories of Simon Peter, reflections on work, and moments of vulnerability, Jeff illustrates how surrender opens the door to a deeper relationship with God and an unexpected path to renewal. Timestamps 0:00 Intro 2:17 Scotland Trip and How They Met 3:45 Jeff Begins His Story 6:02 Marriage Counseling and Learning to Listen 7:49 Faith and Work in Jeff’s Life 10:26 History of Johnson Machine Works 14:07 When Nothing Works 16:28 Breaking Point on the Shop Floor 19:42 Praying Over the Building and Workers 23:49 The Unexpected Turnaround Begins 26:54 God’s Mercy, Not Formulas 29:33 Why Work Matters in God’s Design 40:38 How God Used the Crisis to Reach Jeff 44:22 Jeff’s Tuesday Night Practice of Surrender 46:25 Invitation for Anyone Needing Encouragement Referenced Links Jeff’s Podcast, Courageous Crossroads Artists & Writers Takeaways Surrender is often where true transformation begins. Desperation can bring unexpected clarity. Work is part of God’s design for purpose and flourishing. Vulnerability opens doors that effort alone cannot. God uses circumstances — even painful ones — to reach us. Doing the next right thing is part of surrender, not separate from it. Resilience is built in the quiet, unseen moments. Prayer can reshape environments, mindsets, and outcomes. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Nov 13

In this conversation, Tommy welcomes back author and teacher Gary Thomas to talk about his new book, The Life You Were Reborn to Live: Dismantling 12 Lies That Rob Your Intimacy with God . Building on Gary’s deep engagement with Christian classics and spiritual theology, they explore how many sincere believers unconsciously live by “old rules” and assumptions, even after being spiritually reborn. Gary and Tommy unpack why following Jesus is not about a safe, rule driven life, but about a deeper, riskier, more adventurous way of living that flows from intimacy with God. They dive into specific lies many Christians quietly absorb, like “family first,” “God owes me if I do my part,” and “I need to stay in control.” Along the way they connect Scripture, stories from church history, and their own personal experiences, including Tommy’s journey through his daughter’s cancer, to show how dismantling these lies is less about losing something and more about stepping into a fuller, freer life with God. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 30

In this episode of Space for Life , Tommy sits down with parenting expert Keith McCurdy , founder of Live Sturdy and CEO of Total Life Counseling , to unpack what it really means to raise sturdy kids . Keith shares decades of experience counseling more than 15,000 families, guiding parents toward raising emotionally mature, capable, and resilient children. Together, they explore the role of healthy struggle, practical responsibility, and emotional regulation in child development—and why comfort and happiness shouldn’t be the ultimate goals. This conversation challenges modern parenting norms and provides practical steps for building sturdier families—ones grounded in values, identity, and the kind of leadership that grows capable kids and healthy adults. Key Topics Why parenting can feel overwhelming and guilt-inducing What “sturdy” really means in child development How overprotection creates fragile kids Why emotions shouldn’t dictate parenting decisions The connection between practical skills and emotional maturity The value of healthy struggle and discomfort Moving children from consumers to contributors Establishing family identity and guiding principles Leading with sacrifice and consistency in parenting Practical steps to begin raising sturdier kids 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges 02:50 The Importance of Raising Sturdy Kids 06:10 Generational Wisdom in Parenting 08:51 The Role of Emotions in Parenting 11:48 Defining ‘Sturdy’ in Parenting 14:50 Practical Skills for Sturdy Kids 17:51 The Impact of Struggle on Growth 20:43 The Disconnect Between Happiness and Growth 24:05 The Process of Maturity Through Trials 32:09 The Fragility of Overprotection 36:21 The Role of Discomfort in Growth 41:31 Establishing Family Identity and Guiding Principles 47:03 Transitioning from Enabling to Empowering 55:42 Practical Steps for Raising Sturdy Kids Keith McCurdy President & CEO, Total Life Counseling Founder, Live Sturdy Counselor, Speaker, and Parenting Coach livesturdy.com Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 23

In this episode of Space for Life , host Tommy Thompson sits down with Meg Hunt , Senior Director of Strategic Services at Wycliffe Bible Translators USA , to explore how faith, technology, and community intersect in the mission to make God’s Word accessible to every language on Earth. Meg shares Wycliffe’s incredible progress toward its Vision 2025 goal—ensuring every language community has a Bible translation project in progress—and explains how AI is transforming translation work while maintaining a deep commitment to faithfulness and human oversight. Their conversation moves from the global mission of Wycliffe to personal reflections on faith, technology, and how communities can navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI together. Key Topics Wycliffe’s mission to make God’s Word available to every language and community Over 7,000 languages worldwide, with more than 560 still without Scripture The story behind Vision 2025 and its bold goal How AI supports translation while keeping humans at the center Partnerships with local churches and communities worldwide Balancing innovation with integrity in faith-based work The role of community and the church in navigating technology How AI can be both a tool for good and a challenge for discernment Practical and personal reflections on using AI in daily life Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 04:30 Meg’s Journey to Wycliffe and Church Planting in Orlando 12:10 The Mission and History of Wycliffe Bible Translators 19:45 Vision 2025: Every Language, Every Community 27:15 How AI is Changing Bible Translation 36:40 Faithful Translation and the Importance of Human Oversight 43:55 AI, Creativity, and Overcoming Global Barriers Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 9

In this episode, Tommy sits down with pastor and good friend David Dwight to talk about his new book Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians . Together they explore what makes Ephesians one of the most profound writings in Scripture, offering fresh insight into faith, the Church, and life in Christ. David shares how his book came to life, what the Greek word sozo (“to be healed”) reveals about salvation, and why mutual submission in marriage reflects the very nature of God. Along the way, they unpack Paul’s remarkable conversion, the beauty of the Church, and the hope found in living a life shaped by grace. What You’ll Take Away: Why Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians is more than a commentary — it's a reflection on life in Christ The deeper meaning of the Greek word sozo (“saved” or “healed”) What Paul’s conversion reveals about God’s power to transform anyone Why Ephesians offers such a vibrant, redemptive vision for the Church How “mutual submission” in marriage mirrors the relationship within the Trinity How Paul’s writing connects theology, beauty, and everyday life Resources: Get your copy of Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians on Amazon (available in print and Kindle) Explore more episodes and resources at tommythompson.org Timestamps: (0:00) Intro (8:46) Exploring the Depth of Ephesians (11:46) The Meaning of the Word “Saved” (15:06) The Complexity of Theological Concepts (17:59) The Structure and Style of the Book (21:10) Personal Stories and Their Impact (24:06) The Central Message of Ephesians (31:56) The Unlikely Apostle: Paul’s Transformation (35:42) The Magnitude of Conversion (39:09) Exploring the Relationship Between Jesus and Paul (44:49) Understanding Ephesians: A Deep Dive (48:00) Marriage and Mutual Submission in Ephesians (58:17) The Cultural Context of Ephesians (1:01:59) The Beauty of God in Marriage and Family Life Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Sep 18

Recorded live at Hope Church’s Volunteer Appreciation Day in Richmond. Tommy shares two life-giving disciplines that help “always yes” volunteers find margin, joy, and balance. You will hear how Sabbath rest and intentional celebration can move you from burnout to sustainable service, plus a practical Q&A on making this work in real life and work. Key Takeaways God did not design you to live overloaded, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Sabbath is both a command and a gift. It is meant to come first so your work flows from rest. Rest renews joy, relationships, and impact. You serve from overflow rather than empty. Celebration is a spiritual practice. Joy and gratitude strengthen service. Small margins matter. Arrive a few minutes early. Leave space between meetings. Build simple pauses into your day. In nontraditional schedules, take rest whenever the window opens. Treat it as a first priority when possible. Timestamps (0:00) Intro (1:11) My Volunteer Addiction (11:04) The Discipline of Rest (30:11) The Discipline of Celebration (38:26) Q&A Section (39:32) Question 1 (43:12) Question 2 (47:57) Question 3 (52:13) Question 4 (53:50) Final Thoughts Scripture Mentioned Isaiah 30:15 Isaiah 58:13–14 Psalm 23 Psalm 150 Matthew 11:28–30 Hebrews 4:9–11 Books Mentioned Margin by Richard Swenson If you found this helpful, please share the episode with a friend! Subscribe to Space for Life for more conversations on living with margin and purpose.

Sep 4

Grief touches almost every life, yet many of us feel unsure how to face it, name it, or talk about it. In this candid conversation, Tommy and longtime friend David Dwight (Senior Pastor at Hope Church in Richmond, VA) explore the complexity of grief and sadness. This is an honest, compassionate guide for anyone carrying loss or walking with someone who is. “the presence of her absence is everywhere.” ~ Edna St. Vincent Millay In This Episode: - The language problem, grief vs sadness and why one word is not enough - Myths that keep us silent, including the fear that talking about grief invites it - The unhelpful urge to scale or compare grief and how to stop - Different kinds of loss, extended illness, sudden death, suicide, job loss, broken relationships, losing a pet - Family systems, differing timelines, and the need for permission and grace - Guilt, shame, moments of happiness, and the surprising companion of relief - Faith as refuge and wholeness when losses feel irreconcilable Timestamps: (0:00) Why We’re Finally Talking About Grief (4:28) Why We Avoid Grief (10:43) Permission and Grace (17:58) Grief vs Sadness: Finding Better Words (26:27) How Loss Changes Us (36:08) What to Say (and Not Say) (46:16) Families Grieve Differently (55:32) When Acute Grief Becomes Lasting Sadness (1:03:06) Guilt, Forgetting, and Moments of Joy (1:10:08) Relief Alongside Sorrow (1:15:30) Moving Forward With Hope Resources: - Psalm 46 - The Taste of New Wine , Keith Miller - The Weathering Grace of God , Ken Gire - Lament for a Son , Nicholas Wolterstorff - A Grace Disguised , Gerald Sittser - Healing the Heartbreak of Grief , Peter James Flamming - Healing After Loss , Martha Hickman If this episode helps you or someone you love, consider sharing it. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Aug 27

We’re back for Season Six of Space for Life! This episode kicks off with exciting updates for the year ahead, including a new creative producer, a second podcast (Links for Life), and fresh energy for the YouTube channel. From there, we dive into the big theme that shaped the summer: taking a sabbatical. Why was it needed? What were the warning signs that led me to step back? Why does sabbatical feel scary at first? And what did this summer actually look like in practice? What’s In This Episode: – Why discomfort can make a sabbatical meaningful – Big updates for Season Six and new projects on the horizon – The red flags that signaled it was time to pause – Why sabbaticals shouldn’t have agendas – Highlights from the summer (from golf in Scotland to welcoming a new granddaughter) – The difference between recovery and true refreshment – How space can expand your vision for what’s next – Why sabbaticals aren’t just for pastors or executives – Practical encouragement for creating your own sabbatical rhythm Timestamps: (00:00) Intro (00:08) Exciting Updates (07:46) Today’s Topic (09:16) What Was Behind Taking a Sabbatical (15:47) Sabbaticals Are Scary (18:48) Sabbaticals Shouldn't Have Agendas (19:39) What Did This Sabbatical Look Like (22:56) Highlights from the Summer (26:49) Sabbatical is Refreshment not Just Recovery (32:44) Sabbaticals Expand Vision (38:35) Who Can Benefit From a Sabbatical (44:59) Space to Breathe Again Resources: Email Tommy@TommyThompson.org to get copies of Space to Breathe Again for only $10 when buying 5+ copies. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Aug 21

In this podcast episode of 'Space for Life', Tommy interviews Nicole and Jim Holland, founders of 'Hope 30' and 'Hope Essentials'. The Hollands share their unique wellness journey which began with a focus on improving personal health and evolved into a desire to help others. Jim talks about his transition from being overweight and diabetic to being healthy through natural methods and lifestyle adjustments. He discusses how achieving metabolic health is vital to overall wellness. The pair also focuses on the vital role community, accountability, and positive self-talk play in the process of health and wellness improvement. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of honoring our bodies as temples, considering it essential for spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. The podcast concludes with them highlighting their organic salad dressings, barbecue sauce, stir fry sauce, and upcoming sleep supplements aiming to aid in holistic health promotion. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Aug 14

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson welcomes Aaron and Vangie Hendrickson, co-directors of RVA Hope Center in Richmond, Virginia. They share their transformative journey, from leading mission trips in various cities to founding the RVA Hope Center. This ministry focuses on serving at-risk communities by providing after-school programs, community events, and extending outreach initiatives for exploited women. The Hendricksons discuss the challenges and rewards of answering their calling, the importance of consistency and relationship-building, and the unexpected opportunities that opened doors for their ministry. They emphasize the need to step into uncomfortable spaces to experience true growth and impact. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Aug 7

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' Tommy invites his wife of 42 years, Weezie, to discuss their shared passion for journaling. They explore how they've developed their unique journaling practices over the years and the profound impact it has had on their lives. Weezie breaks down her journaling process, including the tools she uses and the type of content she writes, emphasizing the importance of keeping the practice fun and personalized. The couple also reflects on how journaling has helped them navigate significant life challenges, such as their daughter's cancer diagnosis and the ensuing grief. They offer practical advice for those new to journaling, underscoring the importance of consistency and personal enjoyment. The episode aims to inspire listeners to start their own journaling journeys, providing them with various methods and approaches to make the practice a meaningful part of their lives. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jul 31

In this episode, Tracey Gates, a wellness coach and author of The Power of a Few Kind Words discusses her practice of intentional kindness. She shares her year-long experience of writing an unexpected letter of appreciation each day, highlighting the transformative effects of this activity not only for her but also for the recipients. The most profound of these letters was the last one - a heart-tugging message to her deceased father. Tracey also shares practical tips for writing appreciation letters. Additional topics include her father's powerful influence, recognizing the 'love language' of words of affirmation, and her book, 'The Power of a Few Kind Words.' Lastly, Tracey emphasizes that everyone has the inherent power to positively influence others and transform themselves through simple acts of intentional kindness. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jul 24

Nicole brings 20 years of leadership and counseling experience to her work as a coach and communicator. Nicole’s passion is facilitating environments of safety & vulnerability so that individuals & communities can courageously identify obstacles keeping them from maximum potential. As a speaker, Nicole brings both wit and wisdom, with an honest & vulnerable approach that appeals to both faith & leadership environments alike. As a coach, Nicole brings clarity & courage for individuals and teams as they pursue growth. Her latest book, “The Miracle Moment: How Tough Conversations Can Actually Transform Your Most Important Relationships” invites readers into the practical steps that create moments of breakthrough within relationships. Her books come to life through her popular video curriculum series found on RightNow Media. Invitations to speak have taken Nicole around the world, but she loves her home in Richmond, VA, which she shares with her husband and three kids. Nicole holds degrees from the College of William and Mary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and serves on the board of CHAT, a local nonprofit focused on restorative work with young people in poverty. Join Tommy in this delightful conversation with Nicole Unice. www.nicoleunice.com Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jul 17

This episode is all about the non-obvious patterns and realities of life. These truths exist for good and for bad, whether we like it or not. (0:00) Intro (1:04) Principles of Life (7:41) Principle of Naming (15:46) Principle of Firsts (22:03) Principle of Environment (30:16) Principle of Finishing Well (34:59) Principle of Space (43:36) Principle of Small Changes (49:20) Principle of Divine Multiplication (56:38) Principle of Proximity (1:01:31) Principle of Recency (1:05:59) Outro Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jul 10

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy welcomes his long-time friend, author, and speaker Amy Julia Becker. They discuss Amy Julia's journey from her early days, her background, her marriage, and significant life events such as her daughter's Down syndrome diagnosis which pivoted her career towards writing. They delve into her books, emphasizing themes of disability, family, culture, and faith. Her latest book, 'To Be Made Well,' which focuses on holistic healing, is explored in depth. They discuss the idea of interconnected healing—physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual—and practical steps and practices to develop a listening life, humility, and hope in one's healing journey. Amy Julia Becker helps people reimagine the good life through her writing and speaking on disability, faith, and culture. She is the author of To Be Made Well , White Picket Fences , Small Talk , and A Good and Perfect Gift and the creator of the Reimagining Family Life with Disability workshop . She is a guest opinion writer for national publications and hosts the Reimagining the Good Life podcast . Becker is a graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv). She lives with her husband and their three children in western Connecticut. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jul 3

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson and long-time friend Tuck Knupp discuss the concept of aging well, highlighting its relevance at any age. The conversation delves into Tuck's life journey, which spans decades of ministry work, including his involvement with Young Life and pastoral roles. Tuck shares insights on maintaining health, nurturing relationships, and the importance of spiritual practices. The discussion also addresses the challenges of aging, such as learning to grieve losses and reframing regrets within the context of God's grace. Both Tommy and Tuck emphasize the value of intergenerational relationships and leaving a legacy of faith and wisdom. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jun 26

Tommy welcomes AC Arendale, the youngest guest ever on the podcast, to share her incredible testimony of joy in service. A rising sophomore at Baylor University, she discusses her unique approach to life characterized by her commitment to service, particularly in special needs ministry and international missions. AC shares her journey from volunteering at her church's sensory room designed to help those with special needs to participating in several mission trips to Niger and Zambia. She talks about the challenges and rewards of these experiences, and how they have shaped her faith and perspective. They also delve into the generational differences and the impacts of social media on the current generation. Throughout the conversation, the theme of finding joy through serving and discerning God's calling is emphasized. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jun 12

Living intentionally is not just about setting goals, it’s about aligning every aspect of your life with purpose. In this episode, Tommy Thompson reconnects with Shawn Boyer , the visionary entrepreneur behind Snagajob and goHappy , to dive deeper into the journey that took Shawn from bootstrapping a startup to redefining his life’s mission. After the emotional challenge of leaving Snagajob, Shawn spent years reflecting on what truly matters, ultimately leading him to found goHappy—a tool designed to help people nurture their most important relationships. Listen in as they explore the intersections of personal and professional growth, the power of mentorship, and how applying business principles to life can create a more balanced, intentional way of living. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or simply looking to live more purposefully, this episode offers invaluable insights into how to thrive in both work and life. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jun 6

In this special episode, long-time friend and mentor, Elaine Metcalf, reflects on her life and the various 'seasons' she has navigated. The discussion includes her early days with her husband Bob and the working and faith journey that took them from pioneering ministries in Richmond such as STEP and CBS, to leading international mission work in East Asia. Elaine discusses the challenges and rewards of making impactful choices in the midst of the everday challenges of work and raising a family. The conversation explores 'seasons of life' and emphasizes the importance of embracing change, seeking God, and boldly following Him. Elaine also opens up about her battle with cancer and how she continues to find faith and purpose during this time. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

May 22

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy announces his plan to take a mini sabbatical during the summer, pausing the regular episodes to focus on rest and reflection. He shares his belief in the importance of sabbaticals and encourages listeners to consider taking their own mini-sabbaticals. During this period, the podcast will feature 'greatest hits' episodes, selected from past impactful interviews and topics. Tommy provides practical suggestions for planning a mini sabbatical, emphasizing the importance of choosing a restful location, minimizing distractions, and having a purpose with reflective prompts. This episode aims to inspire listeners to take time for personal reset and balance. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

May 15

In an address given at Hope Church in Richmond, Virginia to church leaders, Tommy emphasizes a unique approach to leadership that centers on rest as the foundation. Contrary to the typical notion that rest follows productivity, the script highlights the biblical perspective of rest preceding work, using examples such as the Sabbath and various scripture passages. The speaker outlines five elements in this 'rhythm of leadership': rest, clarity, character, connection, and returning to rest. They stress the importance of leading from a place of rest to achieve clarity, maintain strong character, and foster meaningful connections. The ultimate goal is to transform leadership and church culture by giving people permission to live from rest. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

May 8

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' host Tommy and guest Joel Suggs , a recurrent co-host, discuss the profound topic of humility and its crucial role in everyday life and on the golf course. They explore how golf serves as a mirror to life, revealing key aspects of personal character and humility. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, including references to biblical figures and writings by Andrew Murray, they outline what humility is and isn't. They emphasize humility as honest self-awareness, seeing oneself rightly in the context of the world and God, and freedom from posturing and people-pleasing. The podcast transitions into practical ways golf can teach and reflect humility, underscoring the mental and emotional disciplines that foster a humble spirit. The conversation aims to inspire listeners towards actions that grow humility, highlighting its transformative potential for greater freedom and joy. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

May 1

Despite the many distractions of the earthy world, humans are forever intertwined with God. Therefore, we must learn how to live a sacred life, let go of our desires, and be one with the Lord. Tommy Thompson sits down with bestselling author Gary Thomas who wrote over 20 books centered on bringing people closer to God and others. With most of his works containing the word “sacred” in the title, he shares how his writings guide readers on reconnecting with God in various ways while building a Christ-centered legacy. Gary also opens up about his passion for running marathons, his most important writing practices, and how to maintain healthy and long-lasting relationships. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Apr 24

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy meets with AJ Swoboda, author of over 10 books, including his upcoming release 'A Teachable Spirit.' The discussion delves into the themes of humility and teachability that run through Swoboda's work. The episode explores Swoboda's background as an associate professor of Bible and Theology and discusses the meaningfulness of his podcast, 'Slow Theology.' A significant portion of the conversation is devoted to understanding the discipline of teachability, how it shapes our learning process, and why it is critical to engage with differing perspectives, including those of our enemies. This discussion emphasizes the importance of humility and learning from others for personal and spiritual growth. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Apr 17

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy welcomes Rob Ukrop, a prominent figure in Richmond, Virginia, known for his influence in the local soccer scene and as a member of the well-known Ukrop family, founders of Ukrop's Grocery Stores. Rob shares stories from his past, including his time at Davidson College, his professional soccer career, and his involvement in the Richmond Kickers soccer team. They discuss the significance of community, faith, and the small actions that contribute to a meaningful life. Rob highlights his mission to strengthen community connections through joyful and authentic soccer experiences and reflects on the values of kindness, optimism, and leading by example. The conversation underscores the importance of foundational habits and the impact of sports as a unifying platform. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Apr 3

Ana Megrelishvili went through a troubled childhood: her family was poor and in disarray, and her own father sexually abused her. Nevertheless, she did not let trauma shape her identity, and she eventually found healing and peace after going on a silent retreat. In this episode, Ana joins Tommy Thompson to share how she immigrated to the United States, overcame her resentment of God, and is now changing the lives of many after fully understanding her purpose in life. She talks about the origins of her non-profit Christian Professionals Network Worldwide and how they are addressing the worsening state of homelessness in the country.

Mar 13

In this episode of 'Space for Life', Tommy welcomes Jeff Kemp, an 11-year NFL quarterback and accomplished author, as the guest. The episode delves into the concept of developing a playbook for life, not just on the field. Jeff shares his journey from his football career to becoming a soul coach, helping people build deeper relationships. They discuss the importance of 'Level 5 Friendships', marked by vulnerability, trust, and mutual support, equating it to building a team that helps one navigate life's challenges. Kemp advocates for connecting deeply with a few close friends, drawing inspiration from his Christian faith and the principles illustrated by Jesus. They further highlight practical steps for cultivating such friendships and emphasize that both men and women can benefit from forming intentional, supportive relationships at every stage of life. They also introduce resources like the 'Level 5 Friendship Playbook' and Kemp's books 'Facing the Blitz' and 'Receive' for those looking to deepen their personal connections. Visit all of Jeff's resources at http://.menhuddle.com Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Feb 27

Michael Thaler, founder of Equity Concepts, Effective Ministries, and now, My Purpose Plan shares with Tommy the value of clarifying one's unique Purpose. Michael shares how discovering and fine-tuning his purpose has guided his journey as brought him to this pivotal point of devoting his time to helping others find their purpose through the new online process called My Purpose Plan. Join Tommy as Michael as they challenge each person to discover their God-given Purpose. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Feb 20

Ever wondered how the game of golf can shape your life for the better? Join Tommy Thompson as he sits down with golf pro Joel Suggs for a captivating conversation about life’s unexpected journey. Joel, a third-generation golfer, opens up about his tumultuous childhood, moving through 13 schools and even living without running water. Discover how Joel found his way, embracing faith and purpose amidst the challenges, and learned valuable life lessons gleaned both on and off the golf course. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of finding your passion. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Feb 13

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' Tommy introduces Vic Marchetti, his personal trainer of two years, to discuss the profound interconnectedness of physical wellness with mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The host shares his journey of achieving physical fitness and emphasizes how it has positively impacted various aspects of his life. Vic Marchetti talks about his background, including his transition from competitive soccer to bodybuilding and eventually to a career in personal training. He elaborates on foundational concepts like progressive overload, frequency versus intensity, and exercise snacking for beginners. The conversation explores practical steps for those new to fitness, stressing the importance of consistency over intensity. Both highlight the unexpected benefits of physical fitness on overall life satisfaction and offer ways for listeners to get started on their wellness journey. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org Contact Vic at www.nextformfit.com or www.catalystfitrva.com

Feb 6

Tommy Thompson opens up about a pivotal childhood experience that profoundly shaped his understanding of faith. In this deeply personal episode, he bravely shares a never-before-told story from his childhood, revealing a moment of crisis and vulnerability where he felt utterly powerless. He recounts how a miraculous intervention ignited his lifelong faith journey, demonstrating the profound impact of experiencing God's presence tangibly. Through this intimate conversation, Tommy explores the themes of faith, suffering, and the enduring power of hope, offering a testament to the strength and resilience that can be found in a personal relationship with God.

Jan 30

Just days after her white wedding, Anne Smith ’s world came crashing down, turning into a long, dark, desert period. Soon after her marriage to a Special Forces officer, Anne, a woman who helped facilitate reintegration talks in Afghanistan, who is trained and wired to lean into conflict with the hope of reconciliation, found herself on the battleground of a lifetime. Her husband started to display symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), emotional and verbal abuse. Both their worlds crumbled. Every paradigm they knew shattered and every place of comfort was removed, leaving them grappling for truth. They broke. Listen as Anne shares her story with Tommy and the lessons from her hard journey. This episode will inspire and encourage those in a hard, dark season. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jan 23

This episode of "Space for Life" features a conversation with Larry O'Nan , an expert in stewardship and cultivating a generous life. He shares his journey from a performance-oriented upbringing to becoming a key figure in fundraising and stewardship for Christian ministries. The discussion delves into the deeper aspects of giving, focusing on the concept of lifestyle stewardship, which includes managing all aspects of life as entrusted by God. Larry emphasizes the importance of giving out of joy and gratitude rather than obligation and guilt. He also addresses the necessity of intentionality in living a generous life and the transformative effects it can have. Examples from Larry's personal experiences and the principles of biblical stewardship highlight the practical application of these concepts. The episode aims to encourage listeners to reframe their approach to giving and embrace a mindset of joyful, intentional generosity. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jan 16

Faith becomes tangible when theology meets real-life challenges. In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson dives into a heartfelt conversation with Denise Pass , a speaker, author, and Bible teacher with a Ph.D. in Bible Exposition. Together, they explore how immersing in theology helps in navigating life’s toughest seasons, overcoming shame, and finding redemption through faith. Denise also shares her powerful journey of overcoming personal tragedy and gaining spiritual triumph, offering practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking hope and purpose in a fallen world.

Jan 9

Money plays a significant role in shaping our lives, but are you making it work for you or simply working for money? Host Tommy Thompson welcomes Canon Hickman , a seasoned financial expert, to discuss practical strategies for managing money with purpose. From investing in yourself to automating savings and overcoming lifestyle creep, this conversation offers actionable insights for transforming your financial mindset. Discover how small, intentional steps can lead to lasting financial freedom and peace of mind. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that challenges the way we think about money and success! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Jan 2

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy discusses the common struggle of living a purposeful, meaningful life while also creating space for rest and joy. He shares insights from a talk he gave at the New Canaan Society in Richmond, Virginia, addressing this tension. He narrates his own life journey, from being overloaded while running multiple businesses and church commitments to hitting rock bottom and finding hope through discovering the importance of margin. He outlines four key steps to living a life of purpose with margin: knowing your purpose, knowing your principles, identifying your big rocks, and accepting the dance of balancing work and rest. Tommy emphasizes the importance of clarity in one's purpose, having non-negotiable guiding principles, and having routine practices like daily time with God, weekly reviews, and observing the Sabbath. He concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace the challenge and possibility of living a purposeful life while maintaining space for joy and breathing room. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Dec 26, 2024

Tommy and Patricia unpack a simple way to set the stage for your best year ever in only 3o minutes! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Dec 19, 2024

We can truly experience the joy and peace of Christmas by embracing the lessons taught by Jesus Christ from the manger. In this episode, Pete Bowell , author of Hope for a Season , joins Tommy Thompson to discuss the true meaning of Christmas and delve into the powerful concept of "manger ways". Pete shares personal anecdotes about his family's Christmas traditions and the impact of his granddaughter's birth on further understanding Christ's humility. Learn how to embrace the true spirit of Christmas by prioritizing relationships, practicing gratitude, and seeking opportunities to serve others in genuine humbleness.

Dec 12, 2024

Aging well is a journey that requires intentional choices and a focus on what truly matters. Join Tommy Thompson in this insightful episode featuring Mary Boza Crimmins , author of Taking the Holy Spirit to Work and founder of the Ourselves, Our Posterity newsletter and community. Mary shares her transformative journey from teaching to writing, offering powerful insights on how to age with purpose. She reveals the keys to thriving at any stage of life, from embracing restful habits and mindful thinking to building meaningful connections in a supportive community. Tune in for practical tips, heartfelt wisdom, and a fresh perspective on living fully as you age. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Dec 5, 2024

Stepping into the world of writing can be an exciting yet daunting endeavor, and in this episode, Terry Whalin joins Tommy Thompson to share his inspiring journey as a writer. From his early days as a high school journalist to his successful career as an author and trusted publishing insider, Terry discusses the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and taking ownership of one's success. Through candid anecdotes and insights, Terry shares valuable advice for aspiring writers and offers a peek into the world of publishing. This episode is packed with inspiring encouragement to fuel your literary journey. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Nov 25, 2024

Special Episode!!! At the eighth anniversary of my daughter Perrin's death, I offer a tribute and beautiful story that her husband, Joe Hall, shared at her memorial service. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Nov 21, 2024

Tommy and Catherine share an episode together as Catherine interviews Tommy on the place listening has in his Life Mission, and the various ways he practices the critical discipline of listening. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Nov 7, 2024

In today's fast-paced digital world, it has become crucial to talk about healthy tech—where technology enhances your life, rather than controls it. In this episode, Tommy Thompson and Steve Perkins delve into practical ways to have a healthy relationship with all of the different forms of technology that are a part of our lives. Realizing that social media, YouTube, texting, email are a fact of modern life, they explore ways to right-size and engage with tech to add to and improve our lives. Join this conversation as they uncover the secrets to thriving in the digital age without sacrificing our physical and mental well-being.

Oct 31, 2024

What does it mean to be authentic in your faith and at work? Tune in as Tommy Thompson chats with Jordan Maroon , Executive Director of Needle’s Eye Ministries , to discuss how to navigate faith in the workplace. Jordan explains how to find meaning and purpose in your daily grind by embracing authenticity, vulnerability, and compassion. He talks about approaching the intersection of your faith life and work life within the fullness of God’s purpose instead of pressuring or annoying the people around you. Jordan also touches on the importance of creating safe spaces for honest conversations, which is key to exploring ideological differences in the workplace. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 24, 2024

Hope is the anchor that keeps us steady through life's storms. In this heartwarming episode, Pete Bowell joins Tommy Thompson to celebrate the launch of his new book, Hope for a Season . With Pete’s usual humor and quirkiness, they dive into the relevance of his message today, exploring how hope, faith, and community can guide us through challenging times. Pete also reads a few powerful excerpts from his book, offering personal reflections and biblical insights that will uplift and inspire. Tune in for an engaging conversation that will leave you feeling hopeful and encouraged, no matter the season of life you're in. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 17, 2024

Emotional stability is the key to taming the emotional stallion within us. Join our captivating podcast episode, where we embark on a profound exploration of emotions and their impact on our daily lives. Tommy Thompson is thrilled to welcome Lisa Ould, Executive Director of Barnabas Center , as she shares her wisdom and insights on emotional stability. Discover how to harness the power of our emotions like a stallion, utilizing their strength while maintaining control. Prepare for an eye-opening conversation that will transform your understanding of emotions and equip you with tools for a more fulfilling life. This episode promises to be a game-changer for anyone seeking greater emotional stability and well-being. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 10, 2024

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' Tommy engages in a profound conversation with Chris Rhoden , a blogger and ongoing brain cancer patient, about life's deepest struggles and revelations, as well as grace in the face of adversity. Chris reflects on his life journey, from being a naval officer to confronting his daughter's battle with stage four cancer and his own glioblastoma diagnosis. The discussion delves into themes of suffering, control, identity, and the understanding of God's grace. Chris shares the transformative power of creating space for reflection and finding joy in hard times. This heartfelt dialogue offers insights into trusting in the goodness and grace of God, providing comfort and encouragement to listeners facing their own challenges. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Oct 3, 2024

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' Tommy Thompson celebrates the four-year anniversary of his book Space to Breathe Again , reflecting on its core concepts and their impacts since its release. Joined by his friend and fellow-coach Steve Perkins , they discuss the book's journey, its launch during the challenging COVID-19 period, and the lessons learned since. Tommy shares his personal experiences with maintaining balance, the importance of identity, and the necessity of creating margin in life. They highlight practical tips, like morning routines, weekly reviews, practicing Sabbath, and taking powerful pauses. The episode emphasizes the ongoing journey of adapting to life's changing seasons and maintaining a spacious, purposeful life. Additionally, Tommy announces a special anniversary sale on his book and study guide for October 2024. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Sep 26, 2024

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson and long-time friend Tuck Knupp discuss the concept of aging well, highlighting its relevance at any age. The conversation delves into Tuck's life journey, which spans decades of ministry work, including his involvement with Young Life and pastoral roles. Tuck shares insights on maintaining health, nurturing relationships, and the importance of spiritual practices. The discussion also addresses the challenges of aging, such as learning to grieve losses and reframing regrets within the context of God's grace. Both Tommy and Tuck emphasize the value of intergenerational relationships and leaving a legacy of faith and wisdom.

Sep 19, 2024

Tommy Thompson welcomes AC Arendale, the youngest guest ever on the podcast, to share her incredible testimony of joy in service. A rising sophomore at Baylor University, she discusses her unique approach to life characterized by her commitment to service, particularly in special needs ministry and international missions. AC shares her journey from volunteering at her church's sensory room designed to help those with special needs to participating in several mission trips to Niger and Zambia. She talks about the challenges and rewards of these experiences, and how they have shaped her faith and perspective. They also delve into the generational differences and the impacts of social media on the current generation. Throughout the conversation, the theme of finding joy through serving and discerning God's calling is emphasized. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Sep 12, 2024

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson welcomes Aaron and Vangie Hendrickson, co-directors of RVA Hope Center in Richmond, Virginia. They share their transformative journey, from leading mission trips in various cities to founding the RVA Hope Center. This ministry focuses on serving at-risk communities by providing after-school programs, community events, and extending outreach initiatives for exploited women. The Hendricksons discuss the challenges and rewards of answering their calling, the importance of consistency and relationship-building, and the unexpected opportunities that opened doors for their ministry. They emphasize the need to step into uncomfortable spaces to experience true growth and impact.

Sep 5, 2024

Tommy sits down with Kathy & Tucker Wrenn, mother & son, to share the raw story of Tuckers' addiction, hitting bottom, and path to 5 ½ years clean. Both Tucker and Kathy use their hard lessons learned to help others find their recovery and help families better manage the trauma of having a loved one go through substance abuse. This episode will captivate you with its transparency, but will also give vital information for anyone needing help in the midst of the world of addiction.

Aug 29, 2024

Kristin Harris is a truly inspiring individual whose life experiences have molded her into a beacon of hope and encouragement for countless individuals touched by cancer. With a history of breast cancer spanning four generations in her family, Kristin has an intimate and profound understanding of the disease. After losing her mother to cancer, Kristin found herself facing her own battle, being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer only a few years later at the age of 32. Throughout her journey, Kristin has become known for her faith, strength, and passion for helping others. Drawing from her experiences as both a patient and a caregiver, Kristin offers invaluable insight, encouragement, and support for those who find themselves navigating the complex world of cancer. Kristin shares the highs and lows of her journey, and how it led her to create Cancer Retreat Centers, a patient-centered integrative cancer care experience. In this episode we talk about: • Kristin's story • Caring well for individuals battling cancer or other ongoing conditions • The immense impact of community • Survivor guilt • Scanxiety • Finding purpose and passion • Cancer Retreat Centers

Aug 19, 2024

Living intentionally is not just about setting goals, it’s about aligning every aspect of your life with purpose. In this episode, Tommy Thompson reconnects with Shawn Boyer , the visionary entrepreneur behind Snagajob and goHappy , to dive deeper into the journey that took Shawn from bootstrapping a startup to redefining his life’s mission. After the emotional challenge of leaving Snagajob, Shawn spent years reflecting on what truly matters, ultimately leading him to found goHappy—a tool designed to help people nurture their most important relationships. Listen in as they explore the intersections of personal and professional growth, the power of mentorship, and how applying business principles to life can create a more balanced, intentional way of living. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or simply looking to live more purposefully, this episode offers invaluable insights into how to thrive in both work and life.

Aug 15, 2024

In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Ruth McKeaney. Ruth has spent years passionately cultivating a sense of home and family culture in her own life. Through her experiences in flipping homes and raising her five children, Ruth has discovered the importance of creating a space that nurtures life and love. With a background in law and an adventurous spirit, Ruth's journey has been filled with challenges and growth. Her desire to create a strong family culture and share her passion with others led her to write her book, Hungry for Home.

Aug 8, 2024

In this episode, I had the privilege of having a conversation with Os Guinness. Os is an author, social critic, and the great-great-great grandson of Arthur Guinness, the Dublin brewer. Os has spoken at many of the world’s major universities and at many political and business conferences across the world. He lives with his wife Jenny in the Washington DC area. Os shares about his early childhood in China during World War II, signals of transcendence, coming to faith, and practical ways to stay centered on our call.

Aug 1, 2024

In this episode of Space for Life, host Tommy interviews Curtis Carnes, an executive coach and author of the book 'Breakthroughs Are Everywhere.' Introduced by mutual friend Steve Perkins, Curtis shares insights about his life mission of energizing breakthroughs. He discusses his transition into accepting his evolving professional identity and details the 'Breakthrough Equation'—discovery times action equals breakthrough. The conversation delves into the importance of observing inflection points, reflecting on them, and discussing them with others to determine meaningful actions. Curtis emphasizes the significance of community and accountability in achieving breakthroughs. He also introduces the concept of 'Breakthrough Groups,' small group coaching experiences aimed at fostering continuous personal and professional growth. The episode encourages listeners to create intentional habits and relationships to experience regular breakthroughs.

Jul 18, 2024

In this episode, the speaker, Tommy Thompson, shares his unique career journey from seminary graduate to entrepreneur alongside his brother, and finally a life coach, podcaster, writer, and speaker. He discusses the challenges of integrating faith into the workplace and the importance of authenticity in leadership. Tommy highlights his personal transformation through practicing Sabbath and creating space in his life, especially during his daughter's battle with cancer. He emphasizes the necessity of slowing down and intentionally creating space for rest and reflection to live more purposeful, fulfilling lives. The episode encourages listeners to examine the internal engines driving their burnout and stress and offers insight on how to cultivate a lifestyle that aligns with personal values and faith, even in the face of societal pressures to be perpetually busy. https://www.needleseye.org/

Jul 4, 2024

This podcast shares a personal story of a family's frightening experience with a rogue wave in Sandestin, Florida, which becomes a metaphor for the speaker's message on loneliness and the importance of relationships. The episode delves into the dangers of loneliness, defined as perceiving oneself as alone, unwanted, and unknown, and the transformative power of companionship, referencing Biblical passages to underline the significance of togetherness. It introduces the acronym 'CAMS' to discuss the four types of beneficial relationships: Companions, Advisors, Mentees, and Soul Friends , each serving a different purpose in enriching one's life and combating loneliness. Tommy illustrates how these relationships not only provide joy and support but are crucial for personal growth and well-being. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional in cultivating these connections, suggesting practical steps for building and maintaining them, thus advocating for a proactive approach to overcoming loneliness and leading a fulfilled life.

Jun 20, 2024

In this episode, Tommy begins by reflecting on the idea that life is lived in context, and that the experiences and environments we are born into shape the people we become and the impact we have on the world. The special guest, Mike Acker, shares his compelling life story, beginning with his unconventional childhood as the son of a drug smuggler father and a witch mother, and how he became a pastor. Mike's narrative takes listeners through his turbulent and extraordinary path, including his family's radical transformation after embracing Christianity, his struggles and adventures growing up in Mexico, and his eventual calling to ministry. After years in pastoral work, Mike faced burnout and transitioned to a successful career in sales, ultimately finding a mission to lead and inspire others, culminating in his work with a Christian poverty relief organization. The episode emphasizes the importance of living on mission, understanding one's purpose, and making impactful choices, offering insights into how personal context and faith can lead to fulfilling one's potential. Episode Highlights: 00:54 Introducing Mike Acker: A Story of Transformation 03:45 Mike Acker's Unbelievable Journey: From Drug Smuggling Roots to Pastoral Mission 10:19 Embracing a New Path: Mike's Shift from Mexico to Ministry 15:03 Navigating Career and Identity Shifts: From Ministry to Sales 18:57 Living on Mission: Crafting a Personal Mission Statement 26:57 Embracing Life with Clarity and Purpose 27:43 The Power of a Personal Mission Statement 29:55 The Transformative Impact of Having a Mission 35:35 Addressing the Challenges of Identifying a Life Mission 38:47 Simplifying the Journey: Steps to Discovering Your Mission 47:36 Closing Thoughts: Taking the First Step Towards Your Mission Connect with Mike: https://www.mikeacker.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mikeackerdotcom https://www.youtube.com/c/ADVANCEwithMikeAcker Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

Jun 6, 2024

This episode of 'Space for Life' podcast dives into the personal and transformative journey of reading the Bible through a fresh lens. Tommy shares his conviction about the Bible's profound impact on personal growth, mindset, and relationships, stemming from over 50 years of engagement. He introduces an acronym, 'ROMP', aimed at reframing our approach to the Bible from an obligation to a source of life and engagement. 'ROMP' stands for Read Slowly, Observe, Meditate, and Personalize, offering a practical toolkit for diving deeper into scripture. Tommy emphasizes the importance of treating the Bible not just as text, but as a living, active conversation with God capable of penetrating the depths of the human heart and mind. By advocating for a slow, observant, meditative, and personalized reading practice, the episode invites listeners to experience the Bible as a transformative power in their lives. Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

May 23, 2024

In this episode, Tommy engages in a conversation with guest Erik Allen, exploring his inspiring journey from a troubled past to a life of thriving and success. Erik shares his childhood experiences, including his parents' divorce, moving to a small town, and living in challenging conditions. He recounts a pivotal moment of defending his mother from an abusive partner, leading to a series of struggles including homelessness, addiction, and legal troubles. Erik's turning point came when he embraced faith, leading to a complete transformation. He quit drugs and alcohol cold turkey and rebuilt his life, eventually finding love and starting a family. Hios story emphasizes the importance of changing one's environment, seeking mentorship, and maintaining a strong faith. Erik's story serves as a testament to the possibility of overcoming adversity and living a fulfilling life through intentional actions and faith. Episode Highlights: 02:40 Eric Allen's Journey: From Surviving to Thriving 08:35 A Turning Point: Finding Faith and a New Path 14:16 Embracing Change: The Power of Environment and Faith 18:58 The Power of Community and Intentionality 21:55 Daily Rituals for a Grateful Life 23:12 Changing Your Environment for Growth 26:48 Leveraging Podcasts and Books for Personal Development 29:43 Guidance for the Stuck: Pray and Clarify 33:35 Shifting Focus: A New Direction in Podcasting 37:02 A Vision for Intentional Living and Gratitude Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/ The Erik Allen Show - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-erik-allen-show/id1542602358

May 9, 2024

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' host Tommy engages in a profound conversation with Kim Sorrelle, Director at Rays of Hope International and author of Love Is , who shares her inspiring journey of love, loss, and healing. Kim recounts her story of marrying young, facing breast cancer at 47, and the subsequent devastating loss of her husband to pancreatic cancer. Despite these challenges, Kim talks about the power of love, the healing nature of service, and how these experiences led her to understand and express love in its truest form. Throughout the year following her husband's death, Kim embarked on a personal quest to decode the essence of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13, discovering that love transcends beyond emotions to a way of life, embodying patience, kindness, and a lack of record-keeping of wrongs. Kim's journey illustrates how service can be a remarkable healer of grief and how redefining narratives around our experiences can alter our perspective on love and life itself. Episode Highlights: 00:22 Introducing Kim Sorrelle: Author and Director of Rays of Hope International 02:17 Kim's Personal Battle with Breast Cancer and a Family's Ordeal 15:32 A Dream of Comfort and Messages from Beyond 19:17 Life After Loss: Moving Forward with Purpose 21:35 Finding Healing Through Service: Kim's Work in Haiti 25:12 Embarking on a Year of Living Like Jesus 25:21 The Deep Dive into Love: A Year-Long Journey 26:14 Discovering the True Meaning of Love 27:57 A Challenging Month: Love Keeps No Record of Wrongs 33:57 Learning to Change the Narrative 36:41 The Lasting Impact of a Year Focused on Love 43:59 Applying Love in Everyday Life Connect with Kim: https://www.kimsorrelle.com/ Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

May 2, 2024

In this episode, Tommy Thompson interviews Robert White, a successful entrepreneur and author, about his journey from a challenging upbringing to finding fulfillment and success. White shares how he overcame obstacles, including health issues and low self-esteem, through personal development and entrepreneurship. They discuss White's experiences with Mind Dynamics and his book, "Living an Extraordinary Life," which explores stories of individuals overcoming challenges. They also highlight the importance of mentorship and personal growth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual and organizational success. Episode Highlights: 01:58 Introducing Robert White: A Journey from Ordinary to Extraordinary 04:39 Robert's Early Struggles and Entrepreneurial Spirit 08:39 Transformative Experiences and the Human Potential Movement 12:24 The Impact of Mind Dynamics on Personal and Professional Growth 15:23 Exploring the Core Beliefs Behind Success and Fulfillment 23:08 Purpose, Vision, and Values: The Foundation of Effective Leadership 25:26 Understanding Agreement vs. Alignment 26:22 The Power of Commitment in Success 27:16 Inspirational Stories of Growth and Commitment 32:10 Translating Business Principles to Personal Growth 33:59 The Impact of Coaching Across Personal, Business, and Family Life 38:26 Embracing Extraordinary Living Through Coaching Connect with Robert: https://www.therobertwhite.com/ Robert’s Linkedin https://www.facebook.com/robert.white1 Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

Apr 25, 2024

In this episode, Tommy Thompson interviews David Ask, diving into David's entrepreneurial journey, involvement in mastermind groups, and the importance of finding one's true north. David shares insights from his background in music to starting a business with his brother-in-law and developing StatGuard Plus. The conversation explores the significance of mastermind groups in personal and professional growth, with David highlighting the support and accountability they provide. David emphasizes the significance of creating space for deep introspection to discover and affirm one's unique strengths and values. The episode also touches on the transformative effect of recognizing and pursuing what truly matters, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and embrace their authentic selves. Episode Highlights: 01:24 David Ask: A Man of Many Talents and Passions 08:19 The Entrepreneurial Journey of David Ask 21:50 True North and the Guardians of Grit: Defining Resilience and Purpose 26:03 The Importance of Core Values and Guiding Principles 34:44 Redefining Identity and Embracing True Self 37:40 Challenges of Parenting and Legacy Building 39:08 Discovering Purpose and Core Values 44:40 The Importance of Community and Relationships 56:50 Action Steps Towards Personal Fulfillment Connect with David: https://www.davidask.com/ or email hello@davidask.com https://statguardplus.com/ Connect with Tommy: https://tommythompson.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/ https://twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/

Apr 18, 2024

In this final episode of the marriage series, Tommy Thompson and Tom Barila , express gratitude for their insightful discussions and recap key points from previous episodes, focusing on self-care, managing expectations, and maintaining intentionality in marriage. They highlight characteristics of thriving marriages, such as effective conflict resolution, enjoying each other's company, and managing finances. Exploring the concept of love languages and the significance of marriage as a covenant, they offer practical insights to help listeners prioritize communication and connection in their relationships, emphasizing the importance of creating emotional and physical space for growth and intimacy. The “Marriage for Life” series reaffirms the commitment to marriage despite challenges, advocating for perseverance and the prioritization of the relationship to experience a deep, lasting connection. Episode Highlights: 01:46 Celebrating the Masters Golf Tournament: A Metaphor for Life 03:14 Recapping the Marriage Series: Insights and Foundations 15:50 Deep Dive into Love Languages: Enhancing Marital Affection 21:20 Covenant, Compatibility, and Communication: Key Pillars of Marriage 31:40 Creating Space for Personal Growth and Support 35:40 Prioritizing Communication and Quality Time 39:30 Investing in Fun and Vacations for Relationship Health 42:52 Financial Space: A Key to Relieving Marital Stress 44:30 Kronos and Kairos: Balancing Time for a Fulfilling Marriage 49:47 The Hard Work and Beauty of Marriage Tom’s story at engagement – The commitment for life o Open up to the possibility of getting help – coaching, counseling, friends The value of training! o Minefields: Self-Care deficit – physical, emotional, mental, spiritual – uneven growth Managing expectations Lack of Intentionality – lose the priority of marriage – career, and children Busyness The Storms of Life Lack of Affection o Thriving: Handle Conflict well – Practice Win/Win Enjoy each other – friends! Manage finances in a compatible way Attentiveness to one another – delight in each other

Apr 11, 2024

In this episode, Tommy Thompson and Lisa Ould dive into the complexities of modern marriage, addressing the challenges couples encounter in today's society. With a focus on fostering meaningful connections, Tommy and Lisa offer insightful perspectives and actionable advice drawn from their own experiences. They underscore the importance of intentional communication, highlighting the need for couples to create space for open and honest conversations where both partners feel heard and understood. By emphasizing the role of observation and empathy in understanding each other's love languages and preferences, they provide practical strategies for cultivating thriving relationships built on mutual respect and appreciation. They continue their exploration of marriage dynamics, discussing the nuanced interplay between gender roles and relationship dynamics. They advocate for breaking free from traditional stereotypes and embracing curiosity as a pathway to deeper understanding and connection. 00:21 Introducing Lisa Old: A New Perspective on Marriage 06:13 Addressing Loneliness in Marriage and Beyond 11:32 Creating Space and Time for Meaningful Conversations 20:27 Navigating the Complexities of Marriage Together 25:24 Exploring Deeper Connections in Relationships 28:07 Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Conversations 28:39 The Importance of Listening and Encouragement 45:01 Practical Takeaway: Enhancing Conversational Skills Links: https://www.barnabasrva.org/ https://www.facebook.com/barnabasrva

Apr 4, 2024

In this episode, Tommy Thompson is joined by David Dwight from HOPE Church , David delves into the profound concept of covenantal love in marriage. Dwight highlights the unilateral nature of covenantal promises, drawing parallels to God's unconditional love for humanity. He emphasizes that Christian marriage is founded on this unconditional commitment to love each other until death, distinguishing it from mere contractual agreements. They also discussed the significance of covenantal love, highlighting its transformative power in fostering enduring and meaningful relationships. Additionally, David and Tommy explore the influence of parental marriages on individuals' own relationships, discussing the importance of reflection and intentionality in shaping marital dynamics. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, they underscore the importance of humility, grace, and commitment in nurturing healthy and vibrant marriages, leaving listeners with valuable insights to apply in their own relationships. David Dwight is the senior pastor of HOPE Church , one of the fastest growing churches in Richmond, Virginia. David's spiritual journey began during his college years, following a period marked by skepticism and uncertainty throughout his teenage years. Despite venturing into a career in business post-graduation, He harbored a profound conviction that his path would ultimately lead him to ministry. Over time, he has served in various roles, including missions pastor and church planter, and now holds the position of senior pastor at HOPE . Together with his wife Elisabeth, they are blessed with two children. 00:00 Embracing Love in Marriage 00:58 Introducing David Dwight: A Journey Through Marriage Insights 02:34 The Essence of Marriage: Covenant, Compatibility, and Commitment 18:13 The Transformative Power of Covenant in Marriage 34:25 The Journey from Compatibility to Covenant: A Deep Dive 50:38 The Impact of Parental Influence on Marriage 53:47 Navigating the Seasons of Marriage: Challenges and Growth 57:20 Cultivating a Marriage-Centered Family 01:05:06 The Art of Communication: The Key to a Thriving Marriage 01:06:14 Creating Space for Listening and Understanding 01:16:58 The Evolution of Intimacy in Marriage 01:33:07 Closing Thoughts: The Beauty and Hard Work of Marriage

Mar 28, 2024

This episode of 'Space for Life' podcast, co-hosted by Tommy Thompson and Tom Barila, delves into the concept of love languages in the context of marriage, emphasizing its application in understanding and nurturing relationships. As part of a five-part series on marriage, the discussion highlights the importance of recognizing and applying the five love languages—Gifts, Acts of Service, Words of Encouragement, Quality Time, and Physical Touch—as identified by Gary Chapman. The hosts share personal anecdotes, reflect on the implications of love languages in various types of relationships including parental and romantic, and discuss the importance of intentionality and recognizing each other's unique expressions of love. They also touch upon the potential need to unlearn certain behaviors learned from one's family of origin and stress the value of clear communication and mutual understanding in loving well. Additionally, the episode offers practical advice on taking the love languages assessment and applying its insights to strengthen connections. www.5lovelanguages.com

Mar 21, 2024

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' Tommy embarks on the first of a series dedicated to the multifaceted aspects of marriage, emphasizing its impact on personal growth and the long-term journey of loving well. Joined by guest Tom Barila, who has 41 years of marriage experience, they explore the importance of self-care, managing expectations, intentionality, and affection in fostering healthy relationships. Highlighting both the minefields and characteristics of thriving marriages, they delve into practical strategies for improvement, such as building a support team, enhancing communication, and establishing healthy rhythms. The episode underscores the universal relevance of these insights, applicable to various relationships beyond marriage, and sets the stage for future discussions on enriching the marriage relationship. Tom Barila is a compassionate and skilled coach with over 41 years of experience in the Marriage and Relationship field. He specializes in Marriage coaching (Pre-Engaged; Engaged; and Married) as well as life coaching. Tom utilizes a combination of the Prepare-Enrich methodology along with other coaching principles to provide clients with life-changing principles. He loves working with couples to help them set a firm foundation, sort out issues, seek unity, and to thrive. Tom endeavors to work with each couple (or individual) according to their areas of unique needs to help them invoke curiosity, achieve clarity, and a more balanced and fruitful life. Tom has served in the government, business, and non-profit sectors. He served in the U.S. Army as a Captain in the Signal Corps. In business, Tom managed Information Technology projects and led teams for major regional banking institutions. In the non-profit sector, Tom served as a Director of Education and Chief Technology Officer. Tom has earned a BBA degree, a Master's of Arts in Spiritual Formation, is a certified Christian Educator, a certified BALM Family Recovery Life Coach, and a certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator. Currently, Tom serves as the “Head Coach” and owner of the Marriage and Relationship Coaching Center, LLC, Richmond, VA. Tom has been married for over 41 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandsons. He enjoys collaborating with people, the outdoors, coaching sports, and playing tennis and golf. Tom can be reached at marriageRVA@gmail.com .

Mar 14, 2024

In this episode of 'Space for Life,' the topic revolves around the significance of adopting a long-term perspective on personal development and growth, focusing on becoming the person you wish to be over decades. Tommy encourages listeners to think beyond short-term gains and introduces the idea of mentorship as a life-enriching practice. Special attention is given to the role of mentors in various aspects of life, such as career, marriage, and personal growth, offering insights on finding a mentor and embracing the role of being a mentor to others. The episode shares practical advice on initiating mentorship relationships, benefiting from them, and contributing to others' lives, ultimately suggesting mentorship as a lifestyle for profound personal and communal growth. 00:00 Introduction to the Long Game in Life 00:55 Recap of Phenomenal Episodes and Their Impact 03:16 The Core Practice of Finding and Being a Mentor 06:41 Defining Mentorship and Its Importance 12:36 How to Find a Mentor: Strategies and Tips 18:05 The Transformative Power of Being a Mentor 22:23 Taking Action: A Challenge to Engage in Mentorship 24:50 Conclusion and Encouragement to Share the Episode

Mar 7, 2024

In this special episode, long-time friend and mentor, Elaine Metcalf, reflects on her life and the various 'seasons' she has navigated. The discussion includes her early days with her husband Bob and the working and faith journey that took them from pioneering ministries in Richmond such as STEP and CBS, to leading international mission work in East Asia. Elaine discusses the challenges and rewards of making impactful choices in the midst of the everday challenges of work and raising a family. The conversation explores 'seasons of life' and emphasizes the importance of embracing change, seeking God, and boldly following Him. Elaine also opens up about her battle with cancer and how she continues to find faith and purpose during this time. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:01 Reflecting on Life's Seasons 02:44 The Power of Mentorship 04:10 Exploring Life's Themes 04:33 The Importance of Hospitality 08:02 The Journey to Richmond 09:36 The Start of a New Chapter 10:51 The Challenges of Starting Fresh 13:28 Finding a Home and a Community 22:24 The Birth of a New Ministry 28:56 The Need for a Bigger Space 29:13 Building Relationships and Community 30:03 Transitioning into a New Season 30:24 The Challenge of Elder Care 31:07 Building a New Home and Adjusting to Change 32:20 Reflections on Life's Unexpected Turns 36:08 The Power of Connection and Hospitality 37:43 The Journey to East Asia 44:54 Facing the Challenges of Cancer 48:13 Reflecting on Life and Faith in the Midst of Trials 54:13 The Importance of Scripture and Inner Growth 56:51 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Feb 29, 2024

In this episode, Tommy introduces the concept of “expanding comfort zones”, discussing specific ways to expand them, along with examples of everyday people who have ventured out of their comfort zones. Tommy challenges listeners to step out of their personal comfort zones in various aspects of life like social, emotional, financial, physical, and spiritual. Lastly, the host offers 10 practical ways to step outside one's comfort zone. 00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episodes 01:09 Upcoming Episodes and Invitation for Audience Participation 03:07 Introduction to the Topic: Expanding Your Comfort Zone 04:43 Understanding and Identifying Your Comfort Zones 06:52 Steps to Expanding Your Comfort Zone 08:27 Real-Life Examples of Expanding Comfort Zones 25:21 The Role of God in Expanding Comfort Zones 30:46 Practical Steps to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone 36:02 Conclusion and Encouragement to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Feb 22, 2024

This special podcast episode features a conversation about journaling with Tommy's wife of 42 years, Weezie Thompson. They provide advice for people who want to start journaling, emphasizing the need for individuals to make the practice their own. Weezie shares that she uses her journals to note daily affirmations, express gratitude, record prayers, and log specific life events. They also discuss the impact of journaling on their lives, how their practices differ, and how journaling has helped them navigate life's most difficult challenges, such as cancer and grief. Both agree that journaling has helped them find peace, analyze life, see God at work more, and adds joy to their lives. 00:02 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:59 The Importance and Practice of Journaling 02:09 Personal Experiences and Approaches to Journaling 04:00 The Evolution of Journaling Practices 05:43 The Role of Journaling in Spiritual Life 09:17 The Process and Structure of Journaling 12:09 The Role of Gratitude in Journaling 17:01 The Use of Journaling for Prayer 20:25 The Aesthetics and Tools of Journaling 25:32 The Joy and Freedom in Journaling 28:48 The Importance of Regular Journaling 29:12 Finding the Right Environment for Journaling 29:49 The Role of Journaling in Personal Reflection 31:26 Journaling as a Tool for Contemplation 31:51 Journaling to Track God's Work in Your Life 32:27 Journaling as a Habit for a More Aware Life 33:33 Journaling as a Memory Keeper 34:50 The Benefits of Journaling 40:31 Journaling Through Difficult Times 49:23 Challenges and Recommendations for Journaling You can find Weezie's journals and note cards on her Etsy shop at BotanicalsByWeezie

Feb 15, 2024

Transforming Lives with 'A Few Kind Words': A Conversation with Tracey Gates In this episode, Tracey Gates, a wellness coach and author of The Power of a Few Kind Words discusses her practice of intentional kindness. She shares her year-long experience of writing an unexpected letter of appreciation each day, highlighting the transformative effects of this activity not only for her but also for the recipients. The most profound of these letters was the last one - a heart-tugging message to her deceased father. Tracey also shares practical tips for writing appreciation letters. Additional topics include her father's powerful influence, recognizing the 'love language' of words of affirmation, and her book, 'The Power of a Few Kind Words.' Lastly, Tracey emphasizes that everyone has the inherent power to positively influence others and transform themselves through simple acts of intentional kindness. 00:02 Introduction and Welcome Back 00:38 Introducing Guest: Tracy Gates 03:06 The Power of Unexpected Letters of Appreciation 05:11 The Impact of Kindness on Others 09:17 The Origin of the Kindness Journey 12:33 The Transformational Power of Kindness 16:48 The Legacy of Kind Words 19:21 The Impact of Kindness on the Writer 25:27 The Power of Intentional Kindness 30:33 The Power of Handwritten Letters 31:44 The Impact of a Personal Story 36:11 The Art of Writing Appreciation Letters 45:15 The Last Letter to My Dad 49:40 Connecting with the World Through Kindness 52:23 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up

Feb 1, 2024

In this fascinating episode of 'Space for Life', host Tommy Thompson chats with an Indie award-winning author, speaker, writing coach, Michelle Layer Rahal. She discusses her journey as an author, writing her debut book 'Straining Forward', a compelling biography of a Vietnamese refugee's incredible life journey. Michelle emphasizes the importance of listening to God's voice and responding to it, a theme central to her most recent book, 'Are You Listening?' Michelle talks honestly about the real-life implications of trying to discern God's voice in our lives, dealing with God's silence, and perspectives about the 'dark night of the soul.' 00:06 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:19 The Connection Between the Host and the Guest 01:26 Guest's Background and Career 02:05 Understanding the Role of a Writing Coach 05:12 The Journey of Writing the First Book 16:08 Reading an Excerpt from the First Book 20:06 The Aftermath of Writing the First Book 21:26 The Inspiration Behind the Second Book 25:59 Understanding God's Voice and Responding to It 29:11 God's Perception of Us 29:23 The Power of Listening to God 29:49 God's Constant Presence in Our Lives 30:20 The Challenge of Recognizing God's Voice 31:06 The Importance of Spiritual Disciplines 31:40 Understanding God's Character 32:33 Recognizing God's Voice Amidst Other Voices 33:17 The Role of Faith in Hearing God's Voice 34:04 Distinguishing God's Voice from Others 34:28 The Deception of the Devil 35:31 The Role of Dreams and Visions in God's Communication 39:20 The Importance of Community in Recognizing God's Voice 45:42 The Challenge of Recognizing God's Voice in Difficult Times 45:56 The Dark Night of the Soul 51:18 Connecting with God's Voice 51:31 The Role of Scripture and Prayer in Hearing God's Voice 52:21 The Joy of Responding to God's Call www.michellelayerrahal.com

Jan 18, 2024

In this episode of 'Space for Life', Tommy has an inspiring conversation with guest Emily DuBose, the founder of Lighthouse RVA. Emily shares her personal journey of faith, starting from her early work at St. Andrews school, to her experiences with various volunteering roles, all leading to the creation of The Lighthouse RVA. Lighthouse RVA is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive community for women in recovery from addiction, offering a range of activities and opportunities to feel 'normal' and loved. Emily advocates for just taking 'the next step', believing that God's plans will come together in his time. She discusses the importance of community in addiction recovery and how seemingly small and ordinary gestures can significantly impact lives. 00:05 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:53 Discussing the Concept of BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) 02:19 Emily's Journey and the Story of Lighthouse RVA 07:26 Understanding Addiction and the Importance of Community 10:01 The Birth of Lighthouse RVA 15:15 The Impact of Lighthouse RVA 19:31 Reflecting on the Journey and God's Guidance 23:39 The Power of Perseverance and Trusting the Process 29:20 Discovering Thistle Farms: A Turning Point 30:31 Taking the Leap: Attending the Thistle Farms Workshop 31:50 The First Steps of Lighthouse RVA 32:48 Overcoming Fear and Embracing the Unknown 34:45 The Power of Small Steps and Great Love 36:53 The Role of Community in Lighthouse RVA 39:27 Breaking Down Barriers: The Impact of Lighthouse RVA 41:45 The Future of Lighthouse RVA 42:38 Reflections on Leadership and the Power of the Next Step 43:41 Connecting with Lighthouse RVA 46:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement www.thelighthouserva.org

Jan 11, 2024

Wellness and Transformation: A conversation with Jim and Nicole Holland - Overcoming Health Challenges for a Brighter Future In this podcast episode of 'Space for Life', Tommy interviews Nicole and Jim Holland, founders of 'Hope 30' and 'Hope Essentials'. The Hollands share their unique wellness journey which began with a focus on improving personal health and evolved into a desire to help others. Jim talks about his transition from being overweight and diabetic to being healthy through natural methods and lifestyle adjustments. He discusses how achieving metabolic health is vital to overall wellness. The pair also focuses on the vital role community, accountability, and positive self-talk play in the process of health and wellness improvement. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of honoring our bodies as temples, considering it essential for spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. The podcast concludes with them highlighting their organic salad dressings, barbecue sauce, stir fry sauce, and upcoming sleep supplements aiming to aid in holistic health promotion. 00:05 Introduction and Personal Health Journey 00:50 Guest Introduction: Jim and Nicole Holland 02:22 Mission of Hope Essentials 04:28 Personal Health Transformation Stories 09:00 The Birth and Growth of Hope30 14:49 The Impact of Community and Positive Mindset 21:26 The Power of Hope and Possibility 29:37 Struggles with Weight Loss and the Importance of Health 31:06 The Concept of Eating 'Foods by God' and 'Foods by Man' 33:02 The Role of Faith in Health and Wellness 33:23 The Journey to Health and the Role of Vanity 35:11 The Body's Ability to Heal Itself and the Importance of Proper Nutrition 41:24 The Importance of Sleep and Exercise in Health 48:53 Exploring HOPE30 and HOPE Essentials 51:05 Future Plans and Final Thoughts Resources: www.hopeessentials.com www.hopethirty.com

Jan 4, 2024

Amy Julia Becker reflects on her personal journey, recognising the detrimental impacts of her rigorous striving and pursuit of success during high school and college. While she effectually acquired commendable achievements, she confesses to falling into unhealthy practices that led to a severe eating disorder. Even while suffering, the pressure to perform made her overlook her own health. She discusses how this experience enabled her to understand her need to slow down and relinquish her persistent compulsion to achieve, acknowledging this as a necessary part of her personal wellbeing. Amy Julia Becker is an award-winning writer and speaker on disability, family, culture, and faith. She is the author of four books, including To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope , a guest opinion writer for national publications, and the host of the Love Is Stronger Than Fear podcast . Becker is a graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv). She lives with her husband and their three children in western Connecticut. SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram: @amyjuliabecker Facebook: @amyjuliabeckerwriter Twitter: @amyjuliabecker Website: amyjuliabecker.com BOOKS: · To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope · White Picket Fences: Turning Towards Love in a World Divided by Privilege · Small Talk: Learning From My Children About What Matters Most · A Good and Perfect Gift: Faith, Expectations, and a Little Girl Named Penny

Dec 27, 2023

Reflecting on the Year with PEACH: People, Experiences, Accomplishments, Challenges, and Hopes On today's episode of Space for Life, Tommy shares an end-of-the-year reflective exercise he found beneficial in journaling. This reminiscing activity, coined as PEACH, helps him to review the year that passed. With PEACH, he recollects the People who mattered most, Experiences he lived through, Accomplishments he achieved, Challenges he endured, and finally, the Hopes that keep him forward-looking. Tommy encourages his audience to engage in this empowering process of remembering 2023 in a way that fosters gratitude, self-awareness, and hope for 2024. He ends the episode by expressing his excitement for upcoming episodes in the new year. 00:02 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 00:29 The Origin of the Year-End Reflection 02:01 The Importance of Remembering 02:48 Introducing the PEACH Acronym 03:11 Remembering People 04:00 Remembering Experiences 04:53 Remembering Accomplishments 05:34 Remembering Challenges 06:08 Remembering Hopes 06:56 Conclusion and New Year Wishes

Dec 21, 2023

Tommy Thompson and Patricia Clarke discuss the important addition of setting your foundation in the life map process. They talk about how in establishing values, identity, and powerful words all go into the intention of setting a foundation. Hear both Tommy and Patricia share how finding a core foundation has helped to shape a life of intention and purpose. Join us as we discuss:

Dec 14, 2023

Tommy Thompson and Patricia Clarke finish their life mapping series by discussing the importance of having "one thing" in order to move forward in accomplishing your goals. Hear their points on the power of having a singular, well thought out, goal through focus, commitment and accountability. Join us as we discuss: Focusing on a single goal helps make achieving goals easier How strategically working towards the "one thing" can impact many parts of your life By fully committing and referring back to one goal, you're more likely to accomplish it

Dec 7, 2023

Tommy Thompson and Patricia Clarke continue their discussion about “life mapping” and bringing clarity to your life. In this part 2, they talk specifically about Dreaming 360. They walk us through the importance of dreaming by naming your desires, making them a reality, and balancing passion with finances. Hear both of them share their own stories of how dreaming gave them hope for the future through times of grief and hardship. Join as we discuss: The importance of clarity and intentionality in dreaming Balancing your dreams with reality The power in dreaming especially during hard times

Nov 30, 2023

Tommy Thompson and Patricia Clark discuss the power of life mapping and decision-making. They walk through the significance of having a "life map" to encourage reflection, guide choices, emphasizing the role of clear goals and values in leading a fulfilling life. They stress the importance of intention, flexibility, and self-correction in navigating life's journey, acknowledging the dynamic nature of decision-making. Join as we discuss: - The power in living with intention & making purposeful decisions - The balance of living with both clear direction & spontaneity - Dreaming and how it effects setting goals & living in purpose - The tool "Life 360" encouraging reflection & growth

Nov 23, 2023

Dr. Wes Peterson, Executive Pastor of Hope Church, Richmond, Virginia shares his amazing journey around the world serving and leading and living by his calling. He exemplifies the power of a life lived with open hands to God. In this dual episode, we hear Wes’ story and then join in on the creative conversation with Tommy on how we can make this Christmas season meaningful. Wes is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute with a Bachelor of Education, Taylor University with an MBA in Global Leadership, and recently Columbia International University with a Ph.D in Organizational Leadership. The importance of faith in the midst of grief & suffering - The value of real-world experience in ministry - Being open handed in leadership with church and nonprofits - Slowing down and reflecting during Christmas time

Nov 16, 2023

Nicole brings 20 years of leadership and counseling experience to her work as a coach and communicator. Nicole’s passion is facilitating environments of safety & vulnerability so that individuals & communities can courageously identify obstacles keeping them from maximum potential. As a speaker, Nicole brings both wit and wisdom, with an honest & vulnerable approach that appeals to both faith & leadership environments alike. As a coach, Nicole brings clarity & courage for individuals and teams as they pursue growth. Her latest book, “The Miracle Moment: How Tough Conversations Can Actually Transform Your Most Important Relationships” invites readers into the practical steps that create moments of breakthrough within relationships. Her books come to life through her popular video curriculum series found on RightNow Media. Invitations to speak have taken Nicole around the world, but she loves her home in Richmond, VA, which she shares with her husband and three kids. Nicole holds degrees from the College of William and Mary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and serves on the board of CHAT, a local nonprofit focused on restorative work with young people in poverty. Join Tommy in this delightful conversation with Nicole Unice. Books Website: www.nicoleunice.com Instagram: nicoleunice

Nov 9, 2023

Tommy sits down with Author & Speaker Stacy Hawkins Adams as she shares her own personal growth journey as a storyteller. Stacy provides valuable insights about her relationships, career, and beliefs, offering inspiration and encouragement to everyone she encounters. Her story reveals her resilience, faith, and commitment to making a positive impact through her writing and living out her purpose. Host: Tommy Thompson Website , YouTube , Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn , & Twitter Guest: Stacy Hawkins Adams Website , Instagram , & Blog Join as we discuss: - Stacy's journey into writing - Maintaining balance and rest in your career - The power writing has in bringing people & ideas together - How faith helped Stacey overcome challenges - Risks are made when living in purpose - Living for connection & intentionality

Nov 2, 2023

Tommy sits down with Kathy & Tucker Wrenn, mother & son, to share the raw story of Tuckers' addiction, hitting bottom, and path to 5 ½ years clean. Both Tucker and Kathy use their hard lessons learned to help others find their recovery and help families better manage the trauma of having a loved one go through substance abuse. This episode will captivate you with its transparency, but will also give vital information for anyone needing help in the midst of the world of addiction. Host: Tommy Thompson Website , YouTube , Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn , & Twitter Join us as we discuss: - The step by step journey of overcoming addiction - Loving people through their relapses and the process of overcoming addiction - Insights into the family recovery procress - Health & financial effects of drug addiction - Identity changes in the recovery process - The value of mentorship during recovery - Setting boundaries, hard conversations, & tough love - Life after recovery: living a sober & with community

Oct 26, 2023

Tommy Thompson and Patricia Clark discuss the importance of framing our lives. In their conversation, they address how individuals can utilize intentional time framing to improve their lives, from daily routines to personal growth, weekly reviews, and even setting annual goals. The speakers share their experiences and strategies for making the most of time framing in order to live a free, intentional, and productive life. Host: Tommy Thompson ⁠Website⁠ , ⁠YouTube⁠ , ⁠Instagram⁠ , ⁠Facebook⁠ , ⁠LinkedIn⁠ , & ⁠Twitter⁠ Co-Host: Patricia Clark ⁠ Website ⁠, ⁠ Instagram⁠ , ⁠ & ⁠ Podcast, "Lifted by Love”

Oct 19, 2023

Tommy sits down with Author, Host, & Founder of “Unhurried Living” Gem Fadling and as she shares her remarkable journey of learning how to live an unhurried life. Gem candidly shares her personal struggles, resilience in the face of loss, and the role of faith during times of tragedy. She talks us through how embracing an unhurried life, managing anxiety, and finding peace through faith have transformed her life and ministry. You'll also discover practical tips for practicing presence and solitude in our fast-paced world. Host: Tommy Thompson ⁠Website⁠ , ⁠ YouTube ⁠, ⁠Instagram ⁠, ⁠ Facebook ⁠, ⁠ LinkedIn ⁠, & ⁠ Twitter ⁠ Guest: Gem Fadling ⁠ Website ⁠, ⁠ Instagram ⁠, ⁠Facebook ⁠, ⁠Unhurried Living⁠ & ⁠ Podcast, "I Can Do That!"⁠

Oct 12, 2023

Tommy and Patricia sit down to talk about intimacy and the importance of fulfilling relationships. Whether you are seeking relationships in marriage or friendship, we are made to have intimacy. In this episode, you will learn about what kind of enemies can get in the way of intimacy, as well as what can create more space for intimacy. Listen to how creating containers, establishing boundaries, and having discipline will lead to more close, intimate relationships in your life. Host: Tommy Thompson Website , YouTube , Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn , & Twitter Co-Host: Patricia Clarke Website , Instagram , & Podcast “Lifted by Love” We not only naturally desire intimacy, but are created for intimate relationships.

Oct 5, 2023

In a world where honesty often clashes with compassion, radical candor butts into radical kindness, Tommy and Patricia discuss the art of healthy communication, the delicate dance between grace and truth. undefined The art of communication is having communication with another person that is full of both grace and truth. - Tommy Thompson In this episode, you will be able to: The key moments in this episode are:00:00:04 - Introduction, 00:02:08 - Importance of Relationships, 00:06:26 - Tools for Improving Relationships, 00:09:30 - Grace and Truth in Communication, 00:14:38 - Finding the Balance, 00:18:55 - Increasing Grace in Leadership, 00:22:38 - Truth-Telling with Grace, 00:26:02 - The Power of Truth in Love, 00:28:19 - The Self-Indulgence of Truth without Grace, 00:31:10 - Increasing Truth with Grace, 00:36:13 - Understanding Boundaries, 00:36:44 - Speaking with Intensity, 00:38:34 - Balancing Grace and Truth, 00:39:57 - Speaking the Truth, 00:40:53 - Conclusion and Reflection,

Sep 28, 2023

My special guest is Steve Perkins Meet Steve Perkins, a friend with a passion for living a life of purpose without sacrificing his family and faith. Growing up in Michigan with a love for sports and music, Steve wrestled with questions like, What do I want to be when I grow up?, driving him to begin a journey of introspection and growth. Despite stepping into the world of engineering, his focus never strayed from his desire to help others find their purpose - a mission that ultimately led him to entrepreneurial success. His conviction to maintaining balance in life, relationships, and faith reflect his belief that a purposeful life should never be at the expense of our personal wellbeing. Balance is about knowing our own capacity and setting right-sized expectations for ourselves. It's not about comparing ourselves to others. - Steve Perkins In this episode, you will be able to: Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:05 - Introduction, 00:03:21 - Finding Purpose, 00:09:56 - Meeting Tommy Thompson, 00:13:17 - Balancing Life and Entrepreneurship, 00:16:34 - Believing in Possibility, 00:19:06 - Comparing and Judging Ourselves, 00:22:26 - Self-Awareness and Right-Sized Expectations, 00:24:37 - The Power of Systems, 00:29:24 - Shaping Your Life, 00:33:17 - Experimenting with Systems for Success, 00:34:06 - Vision Guides Decisions, 00:35:28 - Balancing Faith and Personal Goals, 00:39:12 - The Power of Vision and Choice, 00:42:41 - Implementing Rhythms and Systems, 00:49:10 - Ditching the Posture of Obligation, 00:50:57 - The Power of Weekly Planning, 00:54:01 - Plan Once, Let It Run, 00:57:14 - Prioritizing Relationships, 01:00:13 - Taking the Holistic Approach, www.Greenhouse.co

Sep 21, 2023

Do you want to experience exponential personal growth and positive transformation in your life? Are you searching for a proven solution to create lasting change? Compounding rhythm provides the key to unlocking your potential. Success is not measured by immediate results, but by our faithfulness to the habits and practices that align with our values. It's about focusing on the journey, not just the destination. - Tommy Thompson In this episode, you will be able to: Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Stage, 00:02:02 - Understanding Compounding Rhythms, 00:06:28 - The Power of Compounding Rhythms, 00:09:15 - Overcoming Hurdles and Starting Small, 00:15:34 - Areas for Compounding Rhythms, 00:16:51 - Becoming Good Soil, 00:18:21 - Overcoming Overload and Busyness, 00:20:11 - Grace and Asking for Help, 00:22:58 - The Power of Grace and Accountability, 00:26:53 - Honesty and Change, 00:30:23 - The Compounding Effect of Small Actions, 00:35:29 - Casting Off Labels and Changing Mentality, 00:37:46 - The Power of Identity in Habit Change, 00:38:56 - Visualizing Change and Taking Action, 00:43:26 - Putting the Concept into Practice, 00:47:52 - The Challenge and Call to Action,

Sep 14, 2023

Deepening Friendships: Journey with Justin Earley as he navigates the art of vulnerability, forging a path of trust and forgiveness through intentional practices and the transformative power of meaningful connections. My special guest is Justin Earley Justin Earley is an accomplished author and business law expert with an interesting affinity for integrating daily work, tech, and business habits into the Christian life. Justin's journey from missionary to lawyer was influenced by his desire to understand and shape the world through law and economics. His passion for writing has enabled him to deeply explore these themes, resulting in three captivating books including his latest, Made for People. With a unique perspective built on his experiences and an underlying mission to form deeper human connections, Justin’s insights into friendship are truly transformative. I wouldn't be walking with Jesus the way that I am were it not for the friends that have walked alongside me. What does that mean? Why is that true? And how can I sing God's praises and my friends' praises? - Justin Earley In this episode, you will be able to: Develop an understanding of how intentional habits contribute to a life filled with quality and purpose. Unravel how integrating faith with work can bring a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Find solutions to the common struggle of incorporating spiritual disciplines in the midst of a busy lifestyle. Gain insight into the theological dynamics of friendship and its effect on mental health. Gain practical guidance on how to establish and maintain powerful, value-driven friendships. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Tommy introduces Justin Early as his special guest and highlights their previous connection through their books and shared interest in habits and practices for living a better life. 00:01:16 - Reconnecting with Justin, 00:03:10 - Justin's Background, 00:07:26 - Work and Calling, 00:09:32 - The Common Rule, 00:15:39 - The Urgency of Friendship in Daily Life, 00:19:28 - The Gaping Hole of Friendlessness, 00:22:22 - Recognizing Loneliness as a Spiritual Need, 00:25:37 - Loneliness as Hell on Earth, 00:29:49 - The Challenges of Time and Vulnerability, 00:32:25 - The Importance of Deep Friendships, 00:33:56 - Growing into Vulnerability, 00:36:12 - Scheduling Time for Friendship, 00:38:26 - The Power of Honesty and Vulnerability, Justin shares the transformative power of honesty and vulnerability in friendships. 00:42:29 - Encouragement for the Lonely, Justin offers theological encouragement to those feeling lonely and lacking meaningful friendships. He assures them that God will meet them in their loneliness and will not leave them there. Links and Resources https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson www.tommythompson.org https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583

Sep 7, 2023

We have lost the art of being undistracted listeners. Incessant noise dampens our ability to give full attention. In this episode, Tommy and Patricia delve into the critical importance of listening for living our best lives and give practical tips on becoming better listeners. In this episode we learn:

Aug 31, 2023

PGA pro golfer and winner of five professional events, turned financial advisor, Robert Wrenn humbly reflects on missed one-foot putts, finding life's unexpected riches, and the power of clearing our heads to navigate new paths in this captivating episode of personal growth and resilience. In this episode, you will be able to: · Unearth how reflection can enhance your understanding of both golf and life. · Embark on novel ways to carve out space for holistic well-being and personal growth. · Discover the transformative power of humility in refining your golf and life experience. · Appreciate the profound impact of interpersonal connections in your golf sporting journey. · Understand the essence of an incessant pursuit of growth in the professional sport of golf. Golf teaches humility. Even the best players in the world have had to eat humble pie at different times because their game just wasn't there. - Robert Wrenn Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:09 - Introduction, 00:01:16 - Robert's Background and Early Experiences with golf, 00:05:18 - Career Highlights, 00:10:17 - Golf as a Connector, 00:13:45 - Perspective and Coaching, 00:17:32 - The Humility in Life and Golf, 00:19:47 - Reflection and Growth in Golf, 00:22:31 - The Value of Reflection, 00:26:13 - Creating Margin in Life, 00:32:09 - Embracing New Opportunities, 00:36:32 - The Importance of Growth Mentality and Reflection, 00:37:25 - Parallels between Addiction and Being a Professional Athlete, 00:41:01 - Perseverance and Faith in Challenging Times, 00:45:37 - Embracing Ups and Downs in Life, 00:52:30 - Creating Space for Reflection, 00:55:47 - Reflection and Clearing Our Heads, 00:56:18 - Reflecting Supersedes Situations and Seasons of Life, 00:57:19 - New Ground to Discover with Perspective, 00:57:56 - Creating Space in Life for Joy and Peace, 01:01:13 - Liberating Power of Sharing Personal Story, Resources: illumefamilyrecovery.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/tucker-wrenn-4842197a · https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher · https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson · https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583 · www.tommythompson.org · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

Aug 24, 2023

Radical punctuality is about more than being on time. Let's debunk three common myths about radical punctuality: 1) Being punctual means sacrificing spontaneity, 2) It's impossible to change your punctuality habits, and 3) Punctuality defines your worth. 4?) There are more important reasons for punctuality than being on time. 5) Radical punctuality means being present and undistracted. Stay tuned to discover the truth and uncover a game-changing strategy to reframe your relationship with time. Rushing and enjoyment cannot coexist. Being present, being prepared, that's so critical. - Tommy Thompson In this episode, you will be able to: · Understand how infusing radical punctuality in your lifestyle can enhance relationships and amplify health and happiness. · Recognize the transformative potential of being fully present in each of life's moments. · Relate punctuality with the potential to ignite meaningful bonds and curate enriching experiences. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:05 - Introduction, 00:01:04 - The Importance of Punctuality, 00:06:44 - Rushing and Productivity, 00:07:18 - Trusting Time, 00:12:51 - Importance of Being Prepared, 00:17:14 - The Connection Between Choices and Disrespect, 00:18:55 - Radical Punctuality as a Statement of Respect, 00:21:03 - Rebelling Against Time and Control, 00:22:38 - Radical Punctuality and Greater Presence, 00:25:09 - Building in Time for After-Meeting Processing, Connect with me here: · https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher · https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson · https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583 · www.tommythompson.org · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

Aug 17, 2023

Unleash Your Potential: Join me as I navigate the paradox of personal growth, discovering the power of prioritizing the who over the how, unlocking the key to success through nurturing the right relationships. In this episode, you will be able to: · Gain insights into the substantial benefits of prioritizing crucial relationships in our lives. · Understand the influence supportive cheerleaders and effective coaches have in our individual progression and success. · Master the skill of actively seeking, establishing, and fostering precious relationships for overall growth and prosperity. What you believe about your spouse is who they will become. - Patricia Clark The key moments in this episode are:00:00:10 - Introduction, 00:06:46 - Cheerleader, 00:14:33 - Coach, 00:20:19 - Faithful Friend, 00:24:24 - Companion, 00:17:16 - The Role of a Faithful Friend, 00:19:32 - The Role of a Companion, 00:21:41 - The Role of Inspiration, 00:26:38 - What If We Can't Find These Roles?, 00:30:13 - Cultivating Relationships, · https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher · https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson · https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583 · www.tommythompson.org · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

Aug 10, 2023

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed with your lack of progress toward personal growth and improvement, despite your efforts to make positive changes, then you are not alone! You may be diligently setting goals and making to-do lists, but finding yourself constantly falling short or losing motivation. Instead of experiencing personal growth and improvement, you're stuck in a cycle of unfulfilled potential and disappointment. One simple practice can transform that frustration into transformation. Incorporate, in a very systematic way, a weekly review into your routines, because a week unit is an amazing period of time that allows us to work and operate at our best. - Tommy Thompson In this episode, you will be able to: · Learn why a weekly review is critical to making the progress we so desire. · Hear a sampling of the elements that make up an effective weekly review. · Find out how best to schedule your weekly review. · Learn the art of defining and organizing weekly objectives for maximized output. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:57 - The Importance of Weekly Goals, 00:09:08 - Planning Out the Week, 00:13:13 - Listing Accomplishments, 00:15:00 - Spiritual Component, 00:17:58 - The Importance of a Weekly Review, 00:19:30 - Using Past Weeks as Learning Opportunities, 00:20:43 - Seeking Help When Needed, 00:22:04 - Finding Meaningful Insights in the Weekly Review, 00:22:57 - The Challenge to Try the Weekly Review, · www.tommythompson.org · https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583 · https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher

Aug 3, 2023

Join Tommy as he explores the power of practice and how it can transform your life. From reframing major life events to intentionally practicing behaviors that align with your growth, discover the secrets to living a purposeful and intentional life. Life is all about practice. Every choice we make, every action we take, is shaping who we are becoming. Be intentional about what you practice. - Tommy Thompson In this episode, you will be able to: Timestamped summary of this episode:00:00:03 - Introduction and Greatest Hits Month Tommy introduces the episode as part of the Greatest Hits Month, featuring the most listened to episodes from season one. He explains that these episodes are foundational to living a creative and purposeful life.00:01:36 - Reframing Major Life Events as Practice 00:05:50 - All of Life as Practice 00:09:25 - Shifting Perspectives on Practice 00:14:22 - Intentional Practice and Creating Tracks 00:18:03 - Creating New Practices, 00:19:15 - Practicing with Actions, 00:21:20 - Areas to Practice, 00:24:02 - Setting Goals and Making Practice Tangible, 00:28:57 - Practice for Heaven,

Jul 27, 2023

In a world that constantly demands our attention and energy, finding the delicate balance between work and rest seems like an elusive dream. But what if I told you that one man's journey took an unexpected turn that completely transformed his perspective? Shane Schlesman, a devoted servant of God, thought he had it all figured out. But when a major heart attack struck, everything changed. Now, he's on a mission to share his newfound wisdom and help others navigate the demanding rhythms of life. Get ready to discover the secret to balancing work and rest in a way you never expected. My special guest is Shane Schlesman Meet our guest, Shane Schlesman, a fiercely dedicated leader, committed husband, and loving father. Holding pivotal roles in business and ministry over the past 20 years, Shane currently serves as the lead pastor at West End Assembly of God in Richmond, Virginia. His passion for creating an inclusive, diverse, and intergenerational religious community is truly admirable. Shane, who is known for his resilience and dedication to his role, has both a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degree. His personal stories and life experiences add depth and dimension to his understanding of faith, life balance, and work ethics. Stress is a silent killer. We don't realize the impact it has on our lives. Take a hard look in the mirror and make changes in how you manage stress. - Shane Schlesman In this episode, you will be able to: The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:09 - Introduction, 00:02:40 - Shane's Background, 00:09:51 - Challenges of Being a Pastor, 00:14:54 - The Story Behind Stress Test, 00:16:07 - Shane's Heart Attack, 00:19:08 - A Shocking Diagnosis, 00:20:38 - The Hidden Impact of Stress, 00:23:23 - Lessons from Stress, 00:28:00 - Learning to Rest, 00:34:38 - Working from Rest, 00:39:22 - Jesus as our Shepherd, 00:43:29 - Invitation to Rest, 00:46:52 - Learning to Be Done, 00:48:52 - Counter-cultural Message, 00:50:59 - Stress Test Podcast,

Jul 20, 2023

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by constantly chasing after quick fixes and short-term wins in your personal and professional pursuits, only to find yourself stuck and lacking true success, then you are not alone! In this episode, you will be able to: Process versus outcome thinking is a paradigm shift that can reframe everything in our lives, from problem-solving to personal growth. - Tommy Thompson The key moments in this episode are:00:00:05 - Reconnecting and Recapping, 00:02:40 - Writing Workshop and Impostor Syndrome, 00:07:04 - Identifying Your Position in the Journey, 00:10:16 - Clear Desired Outcomes and Processes, 00:13:28 - Authenticity and Internal Reflection, 00:16:53 - Finding Your Motivation, 00:18:20 - Shifting Your Goal, 00:21:58 - Moving Beyond SMART Goals, 00:25:21 - Embracing Process-Oriented Thinking, 00:31:58 - Breaking Down Overwhelming Tasks, 00:34:59 - Finding a Sustainable Pace, 00:36:14 - Starting Small with Tiny Habits, 00:38:57 - Finding Your Parallels, 00:40:16 - The Role of Accountability, 00:44:43 - The Power of Community and Body Doubling, 00:50:22 - The Importance of Systems and Habits, 00:52:31 - Adapting the Process, 00:55:48 - Expanding Goals, 00:58:31 - Power of Compounding, 01:00:15 - Find Your Plan, Pace, Problems, and People,

Jul 13, 2023

Does this sound familiar? You've been told that in order to grow and find fulfillment, you need to constantly strive, achieve, and mold yourself into what society deems successful. But despite your efforts, you still feel a deep sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction. The pain of chasing after an identity that isn't truly yours is overwhelming. It's time to break free from the ineffective action of pursuing an external image of success. In this episode, my special guest JG Carter shares his personal journey from trapped in a success identity to freedom to live above the constructs the world tried to impose. In this episode, you will be able to:

Jul 6, 2023

Episode Description: In this captivating episode of the Space for Life podcast, Cary Umhau shares her inspiring journey of saying yes to new experiences and being open to unexpected opportunities. From founding Breadcoin to her involvement with Spacious, Cary's story will leave you craving more of her incredible adventures. Tune in now to discover the power of saying yes and embrace a joy-filled, purposeful journey with Cary Umhau. I started feeling the most comfortable in places that our culture tells us we should fear. - Cary Umhau In this episode, you will be able to: · Embrace the transformative potential of saying 'yes' and fostering an open-minded perspective. · Discover the joys of including diversity and inclusivity in shaping impactful relationships. · Uncover the surprising role of playfulness and entertaining activities in forming robust social bonds. · Learn about Breadcoin, an innovative nonprofit offering dignity, and access to food for those who might otherwise go hungry. · Explore the significance of flexibility and faith in the divine plan to uncover your true calling. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Getting to Know Cary 00:03:36 - Exploring a Spacious Life 00:07:32 - Hearing and Acting on God's Guidance 00:10:46 - Finding Belonging in Unexpected Places 00:15:55 - Unlikely Friendship and the Birth of a Venture 00:18:33 - Spacious Ventures and Creating Community 00:20:59 - Embracing Playfulness and Spaciousness 00:23:19 - Breadcoin: Innovative Solution to Hunger 00:28:00 - Breadcoin's Impact and Micro Loans 00:31:46 - Feeding Kids in Lower-Income Communities 00:32:49 - Fulfilling the Command to Feed the Hungry 00:33:50 - Bringing People Together Through Breadcoin 00:34:52 - Removing Stigma and Democratizing Food Assistance 00:47:27 - The Importance of Nuance in Discerning Purpose 00:48:07 - Letting God Lead 00:49:00 - Embracing Unexpected Opportunities 00:50:00 - Finding Spaciousness in Life 00:54:36 - Connecting with Cary Umhau Resources: · Visit the website of Breadcoin, the nonprofit organization co-founded by Cary Umhau, to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved in their community-funded food token program - www.breadcoin.org · Check out Spacious, Cary Umhau's organization, and consultancy that celebrates neighborly love and connects communities across borders. Explore their website to discover the open-hearted and expansive things they are doing and find ways to get involved. www.spaciousconsulting.org · Read Cary Umhau's book, Burning Down the Fireproof Hotel, a spiritual memoir manifesto that explores her journey towards a more spacious life. Find it on major online book retailers or consider supporting local bookstores. https://a.co/d/1VjQE1x Links: · Instagram - @breadcoindc and @spaciouscommunity · Order Space to Breathe Again - https://a.co/d/9o24w8q · https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583 · https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson · https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher · www.tommythompson.org

Jun 29, 2023

I thought I had it all figured out until I stumbled upon a life-changing book that challenged everything I thought I knew. The Life God Blesses by Gordon McDonald opened my eyes to the importance of finishing well in all aspects of life. This realization prompted me to create a list of what finishing well meant for me. Now, as I approach a new season of life, I'm reminded of the power of intentionality. This episode will give you the tools to create your own Finishing Well list. "Intentionality becomes so much more important in the later seasons of life." - Tommy Thompson Resources: The Life God Blesses - Gordon MacDonald My Finishing Well List

Jun 22, 2023

If you're feeling overwhelmed and stuck in life, trying to make progress but constantly hitting roadblocks, then you are not alone! Remember, feeling stuck is a normal part of the journey. The key is to identify what's holding you back and take action to overcome it. With the right mindset and strategies, you can break through the obstacles and achieve the success you desire. In this episode, you will be able to: “We all find ourselves with stuck places in our lives...Today's episode is going to speak directly to those stuck places we're in, and what do we do to help extricate ourselves out of those stuck places and move again forward in our lives.” - Tommy Thompson

Jun 15, 2023

Kristin Harris is a truly inspiring individual whose life experiences have molded her into a beacon of hope and encouragement for countless individuals touched by cancer. With a history of breast cancer spanning four generations in her family, Kristin has an intimate and profound understanding of the disease. After losing her mother to cancer, Kristin found herself facing her own battle, being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer only a few years later at the age of 32. Throughout her journey, Kristin has become known for her faith, strength, and passion for helping others. Drawing from her experiences as both a patient and a caregiver, Kristin offers invaluable insight, encouragement, and support for those who find themselves navigating the complex world of cancer. Kristin shares the highs and lows of her journey, and how it led her to create Cancer Retreat Centers, a patient-centered integrative cancer care experience. In this episode we talk about: Kristin's story Caring well for individuals battling cancer or other ongoing conditions The immense impact of community Survivor guilt Scanxiety Finding purpose and passion Cancer Retreat Centers Timestamps: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:46) Early Life and Caregiving (00:09:49) Facing Greatest Fears (00:13:11) Learning from Mother's Modeling (00:15:41) Parent's Legacy and Foundation (00:17:32) The Isolation of Cancer Patients (00:22:33) The Meaning of Life (00:26:48) Cancer U-turns (00:30:42) Survivor Guilt (00:34:57) Darker Moments and Finding Hope (00:37:57) Surviving vs Thriving (00:42:40) Cancer Retreat Centers (00:48:04) Cancer Retreat Centers Becomes Reality (00:52:55) Divine Tailwind and Finding Purpose (00:58:05) Caring for Those with Cancer (01:04:53) Grace and Self-Compassion (01:06:27) Finding Purpose in the Midst of Hardship (01:08:56) Connecting with Cancer Retreat Centers (01:10:49) Closing Remarks Connect: Cancer Retreat Centers: https://www.cancerretreatcenters.org Email Kristin: kharris@cancerretreatcenters.org Kristin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivelypink2012/?hl=en Give to Support Cancer Retreat Centers: https://cancerretreatcenters-bloom.kindful.com/embeds/bfa61536-62b6-4283-a632-907505891c48 If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠ .

Jun 8, 2023

In this episode of Space for Life, we delve into the vulnerable topic of money and how it impacts our relationships and lives. This is the final episode of the "How To Be Happy" series, and we try our best to talk about the complex topic of our finances today. We explore the imbalances and tensions caused by personal money personalities, and discover the importance of generosity, and trusting in God for a healthier relationship with money. "The abundance mindset is counterintuitive when it comes to money, but it's the place that Jesus addressed very clearly." In this episode we talk about: Timestamps: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:28) What Money Can Get You (00:04:24) Unhealthy Relationships with Money (00:09:05) Money and Relationships (00:13:48) Worrying About Money (00:18:20) Jesus and Money (00:23:35) Deceitfulness of Wealth (00:27:14) Joyful Giving (00:30:07) Trusting God with Money (00:35:20) Practicing Giving (00:37:17) Changing Our Relationship with Money (00:39:22) Reframing Our View of Spouses and Money (00:42:44) Entering Conversations About Trust (00:43:40) Money Represents Reality (00:44:49) Final thoughts If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠ .

Jun 6, 2023

Does everyone have talent? In this episode, Patricia and I share our view that we absolutely believe that every single person has unique talents to offer. We continue our How To Be Happy series by talking about talent, and the act of giving and receiving our talents. Living into who God made us to be, to the gifts he created us to have, is so critical to having a happy, joyous, fulfilled life. - Tommy Thompson In this episode we talk about: Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:26) The Scarcity Mentality (00:09:08) Our Talents (00:15:57) Giving and Receiving our Talents (00:17:54) Over Harvesting Talents (00:18:54) The Importance of Balancing Talents (00:21:31) Learning and Growing Talent (00:25:51) God and Teamwork (00:28:01) Overcoming Weaknesses (00:29:24) Exponential Growth If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠ .

Jun 1, 2023

In this episode, we focus on giving and receiving our hearts. Although heart isn't what we typically think of for giving and receiving, opening our hearts up and balance of giving and receiving allows us to experience deeper, more meaningful relationships, and greater joy and happiness. "Opening our heart is the choice to risk and perhaps experience that our hearts are broken. Are we going to open and expose and take the risks, or are we going to go into survival mode and shut down and put on the tourniquet to our heart?" - Tommy Thompson In this episode we talk about: Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction(0:42) Giving and Receiving Heart (9:27)Balancing Joy and Suffering (12:53) Balancing Giving and Receiving(17:17) Practicing Vulnerability(20:05) Finding the Rhythm of Giving and Receiving in Relationships(22:18) Developing Skills for Open and Rich Relationships(25:07) Creating a Future Life Vision(26:11) Reflection and Learning from Failed Friendships If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠ .

May 30, 2023

As we dive into the 4 key ways we give and receive, time is perhaps the hardest to embrace an abundance mindset with. By almost all accounts, time is the most obviously scarce resource we have. After all, everyone is limited to the same 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week, 52 weeks in a year. However, in this episode, we challenge the way we tend to think about time. Time can be abundant, and we can be in the position to freely receive AND give time. Listen in as we talk about how happiness can be found through receiving and giving time. "Believing that time is abundant is a step of faith, but it's a path to joy." - Tommy Thompson In this episode we talk about: Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:46) Living in Abundance (00:08:19) Practicing an Abundance Mindset (00:12:46) Finding Punctuation (00:18:39) Importance of Punctuating Time (00:20:29) Spacing Time (00:22:44) Learning to Receive Time (00:26:44) Linger and Look (00:30:08) All of Life is Practice If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠ .

May 25, 2023

Discover the hidden world of abundance and joy in all areas of your life by balancing giving and receiving. In this episode we continue the "How To Be Happy" series by diving into the diverse ways we receive and give. This episode outlines 4 key areas that we find happiness through giving and receiving (time, money, talents, and heart) that we will be diving into in the coming weeks. When we participate in acts of love, we step into the realm of abundance. And when you give away out of love, you receive in the giving. - Tommy Thompson In this episode we talk about: Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:47) Scarcity and Abundance Mindsets (00:09:00) Receiving and Giving (00:11:51) Giving of the Heart (00:17:05) Final Thoughts If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠ .

May 23, 2023

In this episode, Tommy continues the happiness series by sharing a story about how how receiving and giving brought him true happiness. This story tells how God brought unexpected blessing from heart-wrenching loss. When we learn to give that way with receiving, it brings so much joy. And that's the joy that I so deeply desire for other people to experience. - Tommy Thompson Happiness is found in the rhythm of receiving and giving in all areas of our lives. Hear Tommy tell a real life happy story of receiving and giving through one of life’s most difficult struggle, the struggle of grief. Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:12) The Beginning of Giving (00:06:01) The Perrin School (00:09:14) The Miracle (00:14:30) Redeeming Suffering (00:18:32) The Joy of Giving (00:19:29) Settling for Small Happiness (00:20:15) Abundance Mentality If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe ⁠here⁠.

May 18, 2023

How can we be happy? This is perhaps one of the most common questions people ask themselves. We often think happiness is found in things like work, the experiences we have, or maybe through our relationships. Although these things are good, this episode suggests that true happiness is found in the balance of giving and receiving. This episode serves as part one of a new series all about how to be happy. Topics Discussed: Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:18) Four Categories of Pursuing Happiness (00:09:01) Pursuing a Pathway to Happiness (00:13:47) Receiving and Giving (00:16:58) Balancing Receiving and Giving (00:18:31) Finding Happiness Through Giving and Receiving (00:21:22) Assessing Yourself Without Judgment (00:22:38) Reframing Happiness If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! You can get a copy of Space to Breathe here .

May 11, 2023

Have you ever thought about how the lens you see the world through might be greatly biased? Do you want to change your perspective and see the world in a new light? In this episode Patricia and I dive into the lenses and perspectives we use to view the world. We talk about: Identifying the lenses we see the world through: The value of having meaningful relationships with people who can speak truth into our lives and cover our blindspots The importance of using compassion when we examine ourselves Practical tips to develop new ways of seeing and experiencing life "In order for us to get better, we have to be able to name that lens without judgment. In this, there's recognition. And in that recognition, we can hopefully move forward." Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(4:19) Acknowledging Our Lenses(8:05) Healing Our Lenses(12:56) Seeing with New Eyes(16:22)Overcoming Discouragement(18:22) Overcoming Faulty Lenses(22:58) Intentional Practices(28:02) Fearful Lenses (32:55) Truth-Telling Relationships(37:28) Creating a New Lens(43:03) Practicing Self-Compassion(47:34) Identifying Stuck Places(49:45) Seeing with New Eyes Potential Ways You Could Begin Seeing with New Eyes: Acknowledge that everyone has a lens through which they see the world. Seek out close relationships that can mirror back to you how you are in a loving way. Use the Bible as a tool to reframe the way you view your own reality. Practice gratitude by writing down things you are grateful for. Look for tangible reminders of the messages you want to reinforce. If your enjoying the show, please subscribe and share with a friend! Stay Connected: www.tommythompson.org https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/tommy.thompson.583 https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/tommy-thompson-teacher https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/tommypthompson https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/tommy_thompson

May 4, 2023

In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Ruth McKeaney. Ruth has spent years passionately cultivating a sense of home and family culture in her own life. Through her experiences in flipping homes and raising her five children, Ruth has discovered the importance of creating a space that nurtures life and love. With a background in law and an adventurous spirit, Ruth's journey has been filled with challenges and growth. Her desire to create a strong family culture and share her passion with others led her to write her book, Hungry for Home. Timestamps: (0:00) Intro (1:15) Hungry for Home (2:24) Ruth’s Story (16:23) How ‘Not Writing a Book’ Turned into Writing a Book (28:58) Distinguishing Between Bigger Than Yourself and ‘Crazy’ (36:44) Supporting Your Partner in a Marriage (45:29) Practices to Stay Centered

Apr 27, 2023

This episode is all about the non-obvious patterns and realities of life. These truths exist for good and for bad, whether we like it or not. (0:00) Intro (1:04) Principles of Life (7:41) Principle of Naming (15:46) Principle of Firsts (22:03) Principle of Environment (30:16) Principle of Finishing Well (34:59) Principle of Space (43:36) Principle of Small Changes (49:20) Principle of Divine Multiplication (56:38) Principle of Proximity (1:01:31) Principle of Recency (1:05:59) Outro

Apr 20, 2023

In this episode, I had the privilege of having a conversation with Os Guinness. Os is an author, social critic, and the great-great-great grandson of Arthur Guinness, the Dublin brewer. Os has spoken at many of the world’s major universities and at many political and business conferences across the world. He lives with his wife Jenny in the Washington DC area. Os shares about his early childhood in China during World War II, signals of transcendence, coming to faith, and practical ways to stay centered on our call. Timestamps: (0:00) Intro (3:26) Os’ Story (10:36) The Call and the Great Quest (14:14) Signals of Transcendence (24:51) Coming to Faith (28:57) Why It’s Hard to Examine Life (32:50) Habits + Practices to Stay Centered

Apr 13, 2023

Distraction is one of the greatest maladies in our world today, but distraction isn’t all bad. This episode dives into the difference between acute and chronic distraction as well as provides practical tips and applications to combat chronic distraction in our lives. Chapters: (0:00) Intro (1:11) Assessing Distraction (4:33) The Foundation of Distraction (10:11) The Law of Proximity (14:15) Practical Tips and Applications (18:12) Undistracted Times + Places (21:24) Practicing Focus + Experiencing the Joy (24:00) Distraction Experiment (25:47) Putting Distraction in It’s Proper Place (27:52) Final Thoughts

Apr 6, 2023

In this episode of Space for Life, we will be exploring the fundamental principle of why it is important to create space in our lives. We will be discussing the purpose behind this, why it is challenging to achieve, and how to begin to get a taste of experiencing space. Our discussion will cover how space facilitates growth, nurtures relationships, enables us to live our purpose, and allows us to experience joy. Chapters (0:00) Intro (0:48) Why Space is Important (4:01) 5 Categories We Need Space For (7:38) We Can’t Be Our Best in Busyness (9:50) Competing Values Behind Busyness (15:13) How Do We Begin Creating Space (19:22) How to Taste What Space is Like (30:44) Space for Growth + Takeaways

Mar 30, 2023

We're excited to have David Dwight, Senior Pastor of Hope Church, join us on this episode to talk about Easter. In today's culture, the symbols and traditions associated with Easter can be complex and sometimes neglected, leading us to miss its profound significance. David provides insightful perspectives that will hopefully enable us to appreciate the beauty and meaning of this miraculous event more fully. David’s previous episode on Space for Life ( Part 1 | Part 2 ) (0:00) Intro (4:49) Letters and Terminology (10:52) The Cross (18:26) Why Crucifixion (28:36) Our Souls Are Hungry (33:36) A New Way of Entering Easter Week (41:57) The Core Threads of Easter

Mar 23, 2023

Space for life is back, and in this episode, I share reflections and lessons from my year of jubilee. Chapters: (0:00) Intro (0:57) What is a Year of Jubilee (8:42) The Power of Creating Space (15:10) The Freedom of Being Small (23:31) How to Find ‘Jubilee’ in the Normal Rhythms of Life (31:24) Lessons and Takeaways from the Year (36:45) Coming up on Space for Life

Mar 20, 2023

What you can expect from the Space for Life podcast.

Nov 11, 2021

Space for Life’s farewell episode.

Oct 28, 2021

In this episode, Tommy and Patricia take a fresh angle and approach to the topic of “gluttony”.

Oct 14, 2021

In this episode, Tommy sits down with friend and pastor, Corey Widmer. After graduating from the University of Virginia, Corey worked for three years in London, England as "Study Assistant" to Rev. Dr. John Stott, a pastor, author and speaker. After returning to the U.S. he attended Princeton Theological Seminary and received a Master of Divinity degree. In June 2005 Corey and his wife Sarah moved to Richmond into the north Churchill neighborhood. In early 2008, he helped launch and then co-pastored for 7 years East End Fellowship, a multi-racial church in north Church Hill. Since 2015 he has served as the Lead Pastor at Third Church. He also has a PhD in theology from the Free University of Amsterdam. When he’s not working, Corey spends time running, bird-watching, and driving his kids to soccer practice. But mostly he enjoys being with his wife Sarah and their four daughters, Sophia, Anna, Phoebe and Frances.

Oct 11, 2021

Celebrate the 1 year Anniversary of Space to Breathe Again with a special sale and brief excerpt from the book

Oct 6, 2021

Simplicity is harder and more complicated than it first appears. How can we find a life-giving way of embracing simplicity in a complex, overloaded world?

Sep 30, 2021

Tommy and Patricia reflect on practices from Space to Breathe Again as the book approaches its first birthday.

Sep 23, 2021

In this episode, Tommy is joined by longtime friend and co-founder of HOPE Church, Pete Bowell. Pete shares some of his story as well as encouragement for creating space and loving and caring for people really well.

Sep 16, 2021

In this episode, Tommy and Patricia talk about a 30 minute weekly routine that can drastically change the course of your life.

Sep 9, 2021

In this episode, Tommy is joined by Patricia Clarke to talk about stress. For many of us stress has become a pillar of life – it has almost become life, death, taxes and stress. This episode questions whether stress is a healthy part of life, and how we can measure our overall heath by our stress level.

Sep 2, 2021

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Shawn and Lauren Sweeney where they talk about marriage, owning businesses, and finding space and healthy balance.

Aug 30, 2021

"Even in darkness, light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate, and righteous man." (Ps 112:4) Even in the darkest seasons of our life, when survival seems to be all we can hope for, God helps us with unexpected moments when light shines through.

Aug 26, 2021

Originally released on January 20, 2021, this episode dives into an age-old topic punctuality, but you may be surprised by what “radical” punctuality looks like. Hint: It’s way more than just being on time. The radical punctuality discussed in this episode leads to far more enjoyment, and a deeper experience of life. Our rushing is not necessary to be productive.

Aug 23, 2021

This question acknowledges that we are constantly changing, for good or for bad. Who do we want to become 10 years from now? Intentionally asking this question over the broad categories of our life will steer our becoming. Who do you want to become?

Aug 19, 2021

This week, Tommy and Patricia name their four core ingredients for a beautiful life. A healthy balance of these four elements can lead to human flourishing. The 4 Ingredients for a Beautiful Life:

Aug 16, 2021

Rarely do we take the time to answer this simple question. Yet, this question has the potential to reach to our heart's deepest desires. It has the potential to steer our futures.

Aug 12, 2021

In this episode, Tommy and Patricia discuss how the people in our lives deeply impact us, and who are the people we need to surround ourselves with to foster growth. 5 People We Need for a High Quality of Life: Cheerleader Coach Faithful Friend Companion Inspiration

Aug 9, 2021

Rest is meant to be more than just a means to maximize productivity. How are you resting?

Aug 5, 2021

In this week’s episode of Space for Life Podcast, Tommy and Patricia reflect on how to approach life with growing clarity and focus.

Aug 2, 2021

Questions are powerful tools to gain clarity, promote reflection, and grow individually. Learn more about the power of questions in this brief Reflection.

Jul 22, 2021

In this episode, Tommy sits down with coach and counselor, Alex Peavey, and hears Alex’s moving story.

Jul 15, 2021

Episode 43

Jul 1, 2021

In this episode, Tommy continues the conversation with longtime friend and pastor of Hope Church in Richmond, Virginia, David Dwight. In the second part of these 2 episodes, David and Tommy direct the anatomy of deep friendships.

Jun 24, 2021

In this episode, Tommy has a conversation with longtime friend and pastor of Hope Church in Richmond, Virginia, David Dwight. In the first part of these 2 episodes, David shares a little of his own story as well as the ways he finds space while leading a large church.

Jun 10, 2021

Patricia and Tommy continue the conversation about morning routines, but focusing on why the Bible is an important part of their time.

Jun 3, 2021

In this episode, Tommy and Patricia discuss how they start their days off right with a morning routine. Although a morning time can highly individualized and personal, they share some routines that have been helpful in their lives.

May 20, 2021

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Shawn Boyer – the founder of America’s #1 hourly marketplace, Snagajob. Shawn continues the story of his own journey and gets into how he is living into his purpose now.

May 13, 2021

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Shawn Boyer – the founder of America’s #1 hourly marketplace, Snagajob. Shawn shares his own journey and the story behind creating Snagajob.

May 6, 2021

In today’s episode, Tommy sits down with Jon-Marc Haden, Richmond Area Director for FOCUS. Jon-Marc shares his story and how it led him to how the ways he lives into his purpose today.

Apr 29, 2021

In this episode, Tommy and Patricia discuss how the ways we often view our identity in regards to habits.

Apr 22, 2021

Tommy and Patricia sit down for week three’s discussion around habits. In this episode they discuss how to remove willpower from creating habits.

Apr 15, 2021

In this episode, Tommy is joined by special guest, Jeff Baietto. Jeff is the COO and Co-Founder of InJoy Global, a culture-shaping company dedicated to transforming the workplace. Jeff talks about how we can change for the better, and how it is often much simpler than we tend to make it.

Apr 8, 2021

This episode is the first part of a four episode series on habits. Listen in as Tommy and Patricia discuss breaking a 30-year habit.

Apr 1, 2021

In this episode, Tommy is joined by Patricia Clarke to begin a 5-part series on habits. Today, they discuss experiencing real change in our lives. The type of change we really desire is something that happens from the inside out. Do we have the ability to change on the inside? Will we take the risk to believe we can change on the inside?

Mar 25, 2021

Today features part two of a two-part podcast conversation where Tommy sits down with entrepreneur and business owner, Michael Thaler. In this episode Tommy and Michael dive into purpose. Their conversation is both inspiring and challenging.

Mar 18, 2021

In this part one of a two-part podcast conversation, Tommy sits down with entrepreneur and business owner, Michael Thaler, to hear Michael’s unique story that led him to create both Equity Concepts and Effective Ministries. Michael has an amazing list of accomplishments, but most impressively, he lives into the purpose that God has for his life with tremendous faith.

Mar 4, 2021

Deb is an executive and business coach. She has 30+ years of global experience in top Fortune 500 companies in Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia, leading and coaching C-suite leaders, executive and senior management professionals, and their teams. In this episode, Deb shares some of her story and passion for heart-centered leadership. Tommy and Deb dive into the topics of leadership, self-care, and of course finding space.

Feb 25, 2021

Tommy is joined by Patricia today, and they talk about finding multiple streams of life. They take the concept of multiple streams of income, and apply it to more facets of life. This episode helps us expand our views on faith, giving, joy, and helps us live more into the abundance God has for us.

Feb 19, 2021

In this episode Tommy and Patricia take a look at practice. Yes, practice. Have you ever thought that all of life is practice? This episode challenges us to think about life and practice differently.

Feb 11, 2021

In this episode Tommy sits down with Steve Perkins to discuss designing their weeks. Have you ever thought about how much control you can actually have over your schedules? Listen in as Tommy and Steve share the current strategies they use to craft their weeks to support their priorities better.

Feb 4, 2021

Join us for today’s conversation where Tommy sits back down with Steve Perkins to continue Steve’s own story of living into his purpose. Today’s topics include entrepreneurship, creativity, finances, purpose, growth, career, faith, time and more!

Jan 28, 2021

In this episode Tommy sits down with Greenhouse founder, Steve Perkins, and talks about finding and living into our purpose. God does have a purpose for our lives. It doesn't need to be anything vast and glorious, an earth shattering purpose can be in the mundane purpose can be in the simple serving, but that there is purpose to life. And as we live into it, that's where we find joy and peace and passion.

Jan 21, 2021

This episode dives into an age-old topic punctuality, but you may be surprised by what “radical” punctuality looks like. Hint: It’s way more than just being on time. The radical punctuality discussed in this episode leads to far more enjoyment, and a deeper experience of life. Our rushing is not necessary to be productive.

Jan 14, 2021

Writer, author and coach, Johanna Stamps, shares her journey finding peace, purpose and unity with her inner and exterior being. She now helps mothers find their purpose, regain their passions and be more present for those they love.

Dec 31, 2020

Stress isn’t always negative. The reality is stress can be a mechanism that helps us grow (eustress), but the goal is not to have a stress free life but to be able manage the debilitating stress. This episode dives into 5 tips to keep stress manageable.

Dec 10, 2020

The Simple Goals process is all about creating change and growth in your life. The goals you choose should be what facilitates growth in your life, not just what works for somebody else. In this episode, Tommy and Patricia work through her goals to demonstrate how your goals should be tailored for you.

Dec 3, 2020

Successful entrepreneur and business owner, Litt Thompson, shares his experiences running multiple businesses; and how he reclaimed his life in the most chaotic season. A journey of getting off the frantic freeway of life, and moving from crisis aversion to creating a life you want to live.

Nov 25, 2020

Goal setting has the ability to make a tremendous impact on our future, but many times we don’t know where to begin. In this episode, Tommy shares his strategy for creating his goals for the upcoming year.

Nov 19, 2020

What if goals were thought of as dreams of who we wanted to become instead of a restrictive boxes that eliminate spontaneity? Tommy discusses how goals are a phenomenal mechanism for growing and living an intentional life.

Nov 12, 2020

Popular author and communicator, Nicole Unice, shares her story finding purpose and calling throughout seasons as a young mom, counselor, pastor, coach, and more. Listen to hear how Nicole arrived at a life purpose of “connecting people to God and each other”.

Oct 29, 2020

Tommy is joined today by Patricia Clarke, who shares about what being “apart but together" truly means.

Oct 15, 2020

Space for Life is in name and action all about finding space, but what is a spacious life? A spacious life isn't self-indulgent, but is rather deeply connected to purpose.

Oct 1, 2020

"Guard your heart" may be a familiar phrase, but what does it really mean, why does it matter to God?

Sep 17, 2020

Margin is a regular theme in Space for Life, but what's the big deal about it? What does it look like, and why does it matter?

Sep 3, 2020

In this episode, Tommy shares a story of a complete stranger’s generosity, and how thought provoking and impactful that action was.

Aug 20, 2020

This week, Tommy is joined by Patricia Clarke. The two discuss what humility actually looks like, as well as how to cultivate it in our lives.Here are 3 specific action steps discussed in the episode for cultivating humility:Do completely anonymous good...

Aug 6, 2020

How do you be responsible, and accomplished - but also seek child-like curiosity and fun?Listen in as Tommy and Steve discuss 12 ways that you can be an adult without growing up:Find your passionInvest your life in something that is bigger than you,...

Jul 23, 2020

Tommy and Steve discuss 11 Ideas for Dealing with Adversity.11 Ideas:Understand seasons Turn outward not inwardIn good times, rejoice; in bad times, consider that God has made one as well as the other.Find joy in everydayFight anxiety with...

Jun 25, 2020

Tommy and Steve discuss what Psalm 23 has to say about God’s economy.

Jun 11, 2020

Here's an episode where Tommy and Steve talk about the winding journey - life - and the ups, down, twists and turns it makes.Life has places for us to experience joy even in the midst of difficult times.In this episode, Tommy shares four key...

Jun 4, 2020

In this episode Tommy and Steve talk about how God works far beyond the boxes that we tend to put Him in. The story of Jesus healing a blind man with mud pies can teach us that He works in the most unexpected ways, and when we we open ourselves to Him...

Apr 23, 2020

In this episode Tommy and Steve talk about Tommy’s upcoming book, Space to Breathe Again. They discuss the process of writing the book as well as the story behind in.No Show Notes

Apr 8, 2020

In this episode Tommy and Steve discuss ways to thrive in the midst of quarantine and Coronavirus. We are in a unique time and old ways of thriving may not work in our new normal. What are some practical ways of turning the tables and coming out the...