Episodes

  • After two and a half years, our friend, host and fitness phenom Jo Ann Miller is back!

    In early 2022, Jo was a regular guest and host on the podcast for several months but after a series of life changing events, she unfortunately had to step away from the SBD show.

    If you believe in miracles or are in need of hearing one, strap in and get ready for the one and only Jo ‘Animal’ Miller as she and her superman husband Matt open up about the birth of their daughter, her scary diagnosis, her healing process and how she has learned to finally love herself.

    The old saying, ‘God certainly broke the mold after He made Jo’ seems especially appropriate for this amazing human being. She is truly one of a kind!

    "I'm going to heal you of cancer, but even more than that, I'm going to heal you of the lack of love you show for yourself." — Jo Miller

    Time Stamps

    00:58 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    01:22 - Meet today’s special guests, Matt and Jo 'Animal' Miller
    05:33 - Where has Jo been over the past 2.5 years?
    08:56 - Jo's shocking discovery: Finding light in the midst of darkness
    14:01 - What her cancer treatment was like
    16:36 - Matt discusses life with a newborn and his wife’s health revelations
    22:37 - Jo reveals her ultimate health secret
    28:14 - Jo, Matt, and Chris discuss life with their kids
    33:18 - How to build Self-Love and Self-Compassion
    43:42 - Can love truly heal wounds faster?
    46:13 - Love, Medicine and Miracles
    51:26 - How you can grow your capacity for love
    55:13 - A look back at Jo’s appearances on the SBD podcast
    56:39 - A peek into Jo’s weekly fitness schedule
    59:21 - Understanding Qigong and its benefits
    1:01:56 - Jo shares her healing puzzle and life’s non-negotiables
    1:09:17 - Follow Jo and Matt’s journey on social media
    1:14:38 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · BelieveBig.org

    Support the show

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    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • He is a 3x All-American Georgia Bulldog, Lombardi and Bednarik Award recipient, former first-round pick by the Cincinnati Bengals, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and featured on ESPN’s College GameDay as a football analyst for 13 years…

    Yeah, I would say that qualifies our guest as a ‘football great.’ But what makes him truly great has more to do with his heart for God and people.

    Today’s special guest on SBD is David Pollack, husband, father, and Kingdom man.

    David is using his gift of speaking and passion for his Christian faith to go beyond the football field and into the home, helping parents teach their children life’s most important values through sports.

    Partnering up with Brave, his new children's book, The Won’t Quit Kid, is designed to help kids understand the value of perseverance, teamwork, and hard work.

    "There's so many lessons that I learned that God showed me through my journey... Not the way I wanted to end, but (I'm) very thankful." — David Pollack


    Time Stamps

    01:00 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    01:26 - Meet today’s special guest, David Pollack: 3x All-American, former NFL first-round pick, College football Hall of Famer, author, and former ESPN College GameDay Analyst
    04:00 - David reveals the roots of his passion for coaching and sports
    09:42 - Was David good at football in high school?
    14:31 - Redefining goals: Path to creating a new purpose
    19:27 - Unforgettable GameDay moments highlighted
    23:47 - What inspires David's speaking engagements with parents and coaches
    28:15 - Why modeling failure and our response is crucial for kids
    32:20 - Introducing the 'Won't Quit Kid' Brave book and its inspiring message
    39:23 - What is the Family Goals Podcast all about?
    42:49 - The Pollack Family Foundation: Origins and Mission
    48:35 - Support David: the Pollack Family Foundation & The Won’t Quit Kid
    50:13 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · DavidPollack.com

    · The Won’t Quit Kid [BRAVE BOOKS]

    · The Pollack Family Foundation

    · Family Goals Podcast



    Connect with David:

    · Instagram

    Support the show

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    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
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  • The 2024 Presidential Election is here…

    And it ‘feels’ as if our country is as divided as ever between our two candidates, former President, Donald J. Trump (R) and current Vice President, Kamala Harris (D).

    Much of the news coverage and social media posts are largely ‘Anti’ one candidate over another rather than each side promoting what they stand for and why we should consider giving them our vote.

    Today, four members of the Critical Bench team discuss the political climate we are living in. A huge thank you to Tim Nixon, Samantha Harrison, and David Sautter for participating.

    One thing we MUST remember as our friend Dr. Frank Turek says routinely on his podcast, Cross Examined:

    ‘We are not voting in one person to office. We are voting for a platform and policies. Our vote brings in an administration of 5,000 people to influence change in our country.’

    We must also remember that both candidates are flawed, broken people and we need to look beyond their character issues, which they both have many, to see what they stand for and how will they influence law, policy, and the American way of life for the next 4 years.

    Your vote matters!

    "Whoever wins needs to have a diversification of thought, constituents and people voting for them.” -Tim Nixon

    Time Stamps

    00:51 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    01:15 - Join us today as the Critical Bench Team hosts a special episode
    04:04 - What would our forefathers think of us today?
    08:25 - The CB team shares thoughts on the two-party system
    19:54 - Are political views driving us apart?
    27:45 - How do social media and the media shape our votes?
    34:45 - How to remain united with different political views
    39:19 - Sam shares powerful lessons from Adam Grant’s book
    42:22 - Popular Vote vs. Electoral College: What’s the difference?
    46:00 - Voting with due diligence: What you need to know
    52:50 - Life's priorities: What really matters?
    1:00:09 - What’s the real definition of tolerance?
    1:05:50 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · The Constitution of the United States of America

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Jack-O-Lanterns, ghosts, goblins, skulls, spiders, cobwebs and horror movies remind most of us of Halloween along with fun costumes, bags of candy and spooky scary decorations.

    But what are we really celebrating?

    While many of us ‘celebrate’ and observe this holiday annually by dressing up in costumes, carving pumpkins, decorating our houses, and handing out candy to kids in our neighborhoods, most of us don’t reflect very much on what exactly we are honoring.

    We are in fact just going with the flow of culture.

    On today’s episode, members of the Critical Bench team discuss the dilemma of Christians celebrating a day with convoluted spiritual significance, death, and darkness.

    Does this day go against the teachings of the Bible or the Words of Jesus or is the American celebration of Halloween just about having some fun, wearing costumes, and eating some candy?

    "Death and darkness are encapsulated around this holiday, and it made me step back." — Cairistiona Haley

    Time Stamps

    00:44 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    01:07 - Join us today as the Critical Bench Team hosts a special episode
    02:47 - First thoughts on Halloween
    11:24 - Halloween origins: What are we really celebrating?
    17:38 - Coach Chris reveals his upcoming Halloween costume!
    20:03 - Halloween’s meaning for Cairistiona, Jared, and Steve
    29:00 - Halloween 101: What are you supposed to do?
    38:25 - What it really means to grow up
    45:00 - A new perspective on Halloween
    50:00 - Seeing things the way Jesus did
    56:58 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · Billy Graham Evangelistic Association – Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?

    · Focus on the Family – Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • As someone who struggles with a quick temper and anger, this episode was very personal for coach Chris.

    While we tend to be on our best behavior in public and at work, often when at home with the people we love the most, we can resort to explosive anger, yelling, cursing, and using harsh, hurtful words.

    Basically, our most cherished people in the world, our children and spouses, see us at our worst.

    In this solo podcast, host Chris Wilson reveals where his deep seeded anger and yelling behavior comes from. He talks about his father’s lifelong alcoholism and violence, the closeness of his mother and brothers and what he is attempting to do to overcome this unwanted, destructive behavior.

    "I want to get to the point that over-reaction doesn't happen at all... I'm not yelling, I'm not loud or irate." — Chris Wilson

    Time Stamps

    00:44 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast
    01:40 - Join us today as Coach Chris Wilson hosts a special solo episode
    02:45 - Coach Chris discusses his childhood struggles and how they influence his reactions today
    15:00 – From 0-100, what does it mean to make a mountain out of a molehill?
    28:08 - Is raising your voice necessary?
    32:06 - Ways to express anger and frustration positively
    41:59 - How does prayer bring emotional balance?
    45:50 - Chris opens up about his dad
    48:18 - Parenting: Understanding each other’s reactions
    50:14 - How to master your emotions for better control
    54:11 – 4 ‘final thought’ key takeaways from today’s episode

    Resources:

    · Books by Dr. Meg Meeker

    · Anger: Taming a Powerful Emotion by Gary Chapman

    · Uncommon Manhood by Tony Dungy

    · The Bible App

    Connect with Chris:

    · Instagram

    · Facebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Allison Maslan is CEO of Pinnacle Global Network, and last year was named “One of the 10 Women Entrepreneurs to watch in 2023”, by Forbes Magazine.

    She is the Wall Street Journal Best Selling Author of, Scale or Fail, which is endorsed by Daymond John and Barbara Corcoran of the legendary show Shark Tank and Allison has built 10 successful companies over the last 40 years.

    In today's episode host Chris Wilson and Allison talk about what it takes to be leaders others will follow, how personal and professional core values can make or break success, hiring and firing decisions and the key actions to start and stop in your business. Get your notepad and pen ready, Allison is about to drop some truth nuggets!


    For the past 15 years, she and her team of CEO Business Mentors have helped over 150,000 Founders and Leadership Teams scale their companies, fast-track their success and create a more meaningful life through her company, Pinnacle Global Network, one of the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies 2 years in a row.

    "You can thrive in any scenario. It's really how you think and how you open your eyes to opportunities and how resourceful are you." — Allison Maslan

    Time Stamps

    00:47 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!

    01:10 - Meet today's special guest, Allison Maslan, CEO of Pinnacle Global Network, named one of Forbes' '10 Women Entrepreneurs to Watch' in 2023, and author of the book 'Scale or Fail'

    04:50 - Allison shares her journey in leadership and entrepreneurship

    07:40 - What is Pinnacle Global Network, and what does it do?
    11:23 - Guiding people to step into leadership roles
    15:49 - Allison's wake-up call to success
    20:17 – Don’t be your company’s bottleneck
    24:39 - How core values drive success
    26:24 – Hiring smarter with the Rule of 3
    32:05 - The key actions to start and stop in your business
    37:29 - Allison discusses her love for trapeze
    41:10 - 'Scale or Fail': The ultimate guide for entrepreneurs
    47:38 – The quest for success: Can it be both personal and professional?
    51:07 – Connect with Allison Maslan to explore her work and Pinnacle Global Network
    54:15 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · Scale or Fail

    · Pinnacle Global Network

    Connect with Allison:

    · Instagram

    · Facebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • In his first solo episode on the Strong by Design podcast, Jared Haley speaks to the reality of how difficult it is for many of us to manage our time well.

    In our culture, we are consistently being pulled in a thousand directions. So, how do we determine the best way to manage our time?

    To answer this question, Jared points to the reality that the Bible actually can help us discern what is important, and what is a priority. We can even look into the very life of Jesus himself to teach us how to manage our time, live within boundaries, and develop healthy rhythms.

    "We have to understand the why behind what we are doing. If we don't understand the why, then the what becomes confusion. It becomes cloudy." — Jared Haley

    Time Stamps

    00:20 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    00:44 - Join us today as Jared Haley hosts a special solo episode
    01:08 - Jared discusses biblical principles for managing our time
    05:45 - Discover five practices to intentionally manage our time
    09:18 - 'Know Your Why' with Michael Jr.
    13:28 - Understanding the 'Why' behind what we are doing
    16:50 - How to develop healthy rhythms
    27:40 - The power of reinforcing healthy boundaries in your life
    33:04 - How to escape the noise of technology and take back your time
    41:40 - Key takeaways from the episode
    44:55 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · Know Your Why featuring Michael Jr.

    · Redeeming Your Time: 7 Biblical Principles for Being Purposeful, Present, and Wildly Productive: Jordan Raynor

    · The Bullet Journal Method: Ryder Carroll

    · Rhythms of Grace: Life Saving Disciplines for Spiritual Leaders: David O Williams

    Connect with Jared:

    · Instagram

    · Facebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Child sexual abuse material (CSAM), which is legally known as child pornography, is a global pandemic.

    Unfortunately, the United States remains one of the largest producers and consumers of child abuse content in the world.

    Today on the Strong By Design podcast we are honored to have Bryan Weight from Operation Light Shine. Their main purpose is to create, fund, develop and equip INTERCEPT Task Forces that are working tirelessly to rid the country of child exploitation material, child sexual abuse and human trafficking.

    In recent years this mission has gained some traction with advocates like Tim Tebow and movies like Sound of Freedom to help put the spotlight on a very real and disturbing truth. Sexual predators are out their and we all need to stand vigilantly to protect our children.

    We thank Bryan, his father Jack and his entire OLS team for their strength, boldness, and willingness to fight for our children.

    Matthew 5:16 reads, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

    Operation Light Shine plea…

    Help shine a light of hope into the dark underworld of human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

    We Need You To Stand With Us (WATCH NOW)

    “The US is the #1 producer and consumer of child sexual abuse material.” -Bryan Weight

    Time Stamps

    00:43 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast
    01:05 - Introducing today’s special guest, Bryan Weight, from Operation Light Shine, an initiative dedicated to combating child exploitation and human trafficking
    03:58 - Bryan shares his motivation and how he first got involved with OLS
    06:03 - Does Operation Light Shine resemble 'The Sound of Freedom' movie?
    08:39 - Understanding the core differences between child exploitation and human trafficking
    17:02 - Is Operation Light Shine directly involved on the front lines?
    19:00 - The Imbalance in funding - Where does the BIG money go?
    21:08 - Was OLS named after Matthew 5:16?
    22:53 - Is there more risk today if you let your kids play outside?
    25:06 - The Bark Phone: Introducing gadgets to kids
    30:34 - The importance of open communication with your kids
    34:22 - Bryan discusses the Intercept Task Force
    38:45 - An overview of Operation Valiant Knight
    43:04 - Jared and Chris highlight the significance of law enforcement
    45:25 - Discover how to support and learn more about Operation Light Shine
    48:09 - Please share, and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    OperationLightShine.org

    Connect with Bryan:

    InstagramFacebookYouTube

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Self-Evident Ministries is dedicated to seeing all Americans understand the foundation of our nation and to understand that those rights come from God.

    Today on the Strong By Design podcast, coach Chris Wilson speaks with Chief Operations Officer Mike Sonneveldt from Self-Evident Ministries. Mike is a national speaker, author, and co-host of the Self-Evident podcast.

    Find out the vision and mission of Self-Evident which ultimately points back to having a healthy relationship with our Creator. If there is no standard beyond what we as the people determine it to be, then it is just simply our opinion.

    But our nation, that was founded in 1776, was rooted in God’s ‘self-evident’ Truth.

    If we are to be ‘One nation under God’ like the pledge of allegiance says, then we must look to the Word of God for the blueprint to get there… and over the last 100+ years, the erosion of God in our culture has proven to be catastrophic as we move further away from the Truth.

    From theSelfEvidentTruth.com…

    The name Self-Evident was chosen because as it states in the Declaration of Independence, freedom for all and freedoms coming from our Creator are truths that do not need to be proven or reasoned. Meaning it is truly “self-evident.”

    "If you stand on conviction, have integrity, follow the lord in obedience, (and) are willing to say yes to what the Lord has for you... the Sky is the limit for where the Lord can lead you." — Mike Sonneveldt

    Time Stamps

    00:53 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast
    01:17 - Introducing today’s special guest: Mike Sonneveldt, Chief Operations Officer at Self-Evident Ministries, national speaker, author, and co-host of the Self-Evident podcast
    04:38 - Mike offers a glimpse into his life and the purpose behind his work
    14:57 - Chris and Mike share who they admire and why
    22:51 - How can we give hope in difficult times?
    34:02 - The vision for making America great again
    50:36 - Understanding the heart of George Washington
    58:50 - The influence of small business entrepreneurs
    1:08:31 - The vision and mission of Self-Evident Ministries
    1:15:45 - Support Mike Sonneveldt and learn more about Self-Evident Ministries
    1:16:26 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the Strong By Design podcast

    Resources:

    Self-Evident Ministries

    Connect with Mike:

    InstagramFacebookYouTube

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Dr. Jeanne Kuckelman is the founder of Inside Out Christian Counseling, a Non-Profit organization formed in 2002 following a passion to bring “authentic and lasting change” to those seeking help for their broken hearts. Her passion led to the development of several other centers, and to the training of other counselors. From an office nestled in the corner of rural Iowa, she has ministered utilizing the APS report in Brazil, Germany, Bulgaria, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jordan. Inside Out has also extended its reach into more than 15 states through way of video conferencing.

    Jeanne has been licensed as a Clinical Christian Counselor for 21 years by the NCCA. She holds her doctorate with Cornerstone University, and a master’s from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. Additionally, she is a Clinical Supervisor, and International Representative. Jeanne is also a Certified Temperament Coach.

    Recently, Jeanne has found the Temperament tool to be of great use in ministering to those on the mission field as well as church leaders in cooperation with the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel. The extensive use of this tool regardless of cultural context continues to be evident. Jeanne’s greatest passion is to sit with the hearts of those who are looking for a way back to their authentic self.

    To peer into the brokenness of another’s soul may be the most sacred privilege any of us can know. In this episode of the Strong by Design Podcast, Jared along with his wife Cairistiona, interview Jeanne to understand what is temperament, and how does it affect the way we live our day to day lives.

    “Each of us has a unique perception of the world based on how God designed us.” -Jeanne Kuckelman

    Time Stamps

    00:46 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    01:10 - Introducing today's special guest, Dr. Jeanne Kuckelman, licensed counselor, advocate and practitioner of Creation Therapy
    03:00 - Jeanne shares her journey to Temperament Therapy
    07:57 - Temperaments 101: What is it and why should you know yours?
    14:51 - Understanding your kids' temperaments
    19:43 - What are the 5 types of temperaments?
    37:07 - Temperaments resemble the movie 'Inside Out'
    41:03 - What makes creation therapy more effective?
    46:42 - How God views our strengths and weaknesses
    50:32 - How knowing your temperament can save relationships
    56:00 - Jeanne shares how temperament therapy works for individuals and families
    1:02:05 - Connect with Jeanne Kuckelman and learn more about your temperament

    Resources:

    · InsideOutChristianMinistries.org

    · National Christian Counselors Association


    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • In this episode, coach Tonya Fines sits down with Michele Riechman, a personal trainer, yoga teacher, health coach, and doctor of physical therapy, who is on a mission to help women feel their best.

    Discover how to nourish your body, mind, and spirit to feel your best at any age. Whether you are looking to optimize your metabolism, manage stress, or simply live a healthier life, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.

    As the host of the Healthy Beyond 40 podcast, Michele brings a wealth of knowledge and a holistic approach to health and wellness.

    Michele shares her insights on how to best nourish your body, going beyond the basics of diet and nutrition. She delves into the intricate connection between what we eat and how we feel, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet tailored to individual needs. Michele provides practical tips on optimizing metabolism, highlighting how small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in energy levels and overall well-being.

    But nourishing the body is not just about food. Michele underscores the crucial role of stress management and mental wellness in achieving optimal health. She offers strategies for reducing stress and fostering a positive mindset, explaining how mental and emotional health are integral to physical wellness.

    Throughout the episode, Michele's compassionate and empowering approach shines through. She encourages women to listen to their bodies, honor their unique needs, and make mindful choices that support long-term health. Her expertise in physical therapy adds a unique dimension, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of how to care for their bodies in a holistic and sustainable way.

    “Start with small habits that you can stick to 80-90% of the time.” -Michele Riechman

    Time Stamps

    00:24 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    00:47 - Meet today’s special guest: Michele Riechman—personal trainer, yoga instructor, health coach, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and host of the Healthy Beyond 40 podcast!
    02:00 - Explore Michele’s unique skills and expertise in health and wellness
    05:32 - Michele on fueling your body and understanding her core clientele
    10:10 - Eating and Emotions: What's the real connection?
    18:08 - Simple tips for better eating
    26:00 - Women and Protein: Why it’s essential and how to increase your intake
    33:33 - How parents' healthy eating habits influence their children’s growth
    39:03 - Michele’s 'TOP 5 Simple Habits' to kickstart a healthy lifestyle
    45:08 - Connect with Michele Riechman and learn more about her work
    46:05 - Please share, and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · MicheleRiechman.com

    Connect with Michele:

    · Instagram

    · Facebook

    · YouTube

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • What makes you a credible fitness expert? Your degrees, years of experience, where you work… or is that all secondary?

    Does your ripped physique solidify your authority?

    Is it a requirement to have overdeveloped biceps, pecs, delts and calves or washboard abs to be seen as ‘a legitimate trainer’ in the eyes of others?

    Long time strength coach and personal trainer Chris Wilson discusses his thoughts and philosophy when it comes to his 25 years in the fitness and health profession.

    Regardless if you have 20” arms, walk around at 8% body fat or have a year-round tan to better showcase your shredded 6-pack, it does not necessarily make you a good coach.

    A quality instructor and coach has far more to do with passion, knowledge, experience, and character… and yes, some muscles too!

    Hope you enjoy this fun solo episode as Coach Chris speaks from the heart and does not hold back!

    “Just because you’re huge and shredded doesn’t mean you’re a better trainer.” -Chris Wilson

    Time Stamps

    00:41 - Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
    01:05 - Join us today as Coach Chris Wilson hosts a special solo episode
    02:05 - Learn about Chris' motivation for fitness, muscles and strength
    09:00 - Defining a Fitness Expert
    14:52 - Does being huge and shredded make you a better trainer?
    23:42 - Why Clients choose Chris over other Coaches
    26:30 - Pathways to achieving true health!
    29:46 - The Top 5 muscle and strength influencers that shaped Chris' expertise
    40:13 - What determines your overall physical success?
    46:34 - Please share, and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · CriticalBench.com

    Connect with Chris:

    · Instagram

    · Facebook



    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Don Manning is, first and foremost, a husband and dad who follows Christ. He and his wife Suzanne founded Crazy Cool Family several years ago after raising seven children of their own – four girls and then three boys ages 34 to 18 – and seeing the need for parents to be inspired and equipped to build their best family.

    Don has a business and real estate background, owning different companies and putting together real estate deals. He and Suzanne are now blessed with eight grandchildren and more to come!

    In this episode on the Strong by Design Podcast, Jared and Don discuss the importance of building healthy relationships and culture within the home. Parenting is not about controlling your kids, but loving them and teaching them what is means to grow into a healthy adult. If you are a parent, you do not want to miss out on the wisdom that is poured out in this episode.

    "How do you make your kid wise while trying to keep his purity? And that's this balance that we're fighting as parents throughout the time." — Don Manning

    Time Stamps

    00:30 - Welcome to the 'Strong By Design' podcast

    01:36 - Today's special guest, Don Manning, co-founder of 'Crazy Cool Family'

    6:39 - Why 'play' is a child's most important job

    9:54 - How Don's kids helped write the 'Crazy Cool Family' book

    12:48 - Discover the key to raising a Godly family

    16:41 - Don on teaching men to win at family life

    21:03 - What Deuteronomy 6 teaches us about raising kids

    21:54 - Building stronger connections & cultural roots with 'Crazy Cool Family'

    26:40 - Create a strong family foundation by doing THIS!

    31:20 - How to let go of control in parenting

    38:38 - Dad's many hats: Bestowing a strong identity to your kids

    44:04 - The power of creating a home everyone loves

    52:29 - Connect w/ Don and start your '5 Days to Rethink Your Family' challenge

    Resources:

    Crazy Cool Family

    Connect with Don:

    FacebookInstagram

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • In today’s show, Coach Tonya sits down with Dave Clukey, a former Green Beret with over 20 years of military service.

    Now Sr. Director of Business Development – SOCOM at Immersive Works, Dave continues to serve in the national defense sector. While his passion for what he does is apparent, Dave is also a huge supporter of veterans and their families.

    Join us as Dave talks about making the transition from a military career to civilian life … you don’t want to miss this!



    "Seek help; don't be proud, and you are not alone... Those are probably the two biggest things to take away from my transition journey." — Dave Clukey



    Time Stamps
    00:50 - Welcome to the Strong by Design Podcast!
    01:13 - Meet today’s special guest: Dave Clukey, Senior Director of Business Development and former Green Beret
    02:06 - Dave shares his motivation and passion for his current role
    07:13 - The significance of accessing denied areas: Why does it matter?
    10:15 - Exploring the importance of technology and people in modern contexts
    17:21 - Dave discusses his transition from Special Forces to Civilian life
    24:28 - What is more challenging: asking for help or receiving it?
    28:09 - The genuine bond shared among military members
    35:40 - Comparing discipline in military versus civilian life
    41:30 - Understanding military qualifications, requirements, and passing percentages
    46:27 - How to connect with Dave Clukey and learn more about his work




    Connect with Dave:

    LinkedInFacebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • No one has answered the two-year-old lingering question “what is a woman” quite like Jennifer Strickland has.

    Let me tell you why: Jennifer is not afraid to address how this question is so deeply answered in the Bible.

    And the Strong By Design team couldn't agree more with her platform and voice in such a troubling era of gender misinformation.

    After two years of research and Jennifer’s previous experience as a former model and established speaker for a variety of topics, her knowledge and passion for explaining what a woman is reaches beyond the surface. It moves well past Genesis and into the depths of the Hebrew language.

    In this special episode on SBD, Jennifer shares the deep wisdom she gained while writing her newest book, I Am a Woman.

    In her book Jennifer expands on the deep, biblical, Hebrew meanings of man and woman, where it comes from, and how this information can be used to free men and women across the world who are struggling to grasp ‘Truth’ since the feminist movement that bred our culture's gender identity crisis. The same movement that emasculated and demoralized men.

    Jennifer will not only inspire you to use your Godly role and voices to lead more people to Christ, but teach to be a voice for others in these times of trials (1 Peter 1:7).



    "The truth is we're created male and female with purpose and intention." — Jennifer Strickland


    Time Stamps


    01:08 - Welcome to the Strong by Design Podcast!

    01:33 - Meet today’s special guest: Jennifer Strickland—author, speaker, former model, and founder of Let's Write and U R More Ministries

    06:20 - Jennifer discusses healthy body image, identity, and sexuality

    12:00 - Exploring our purpose and roles as male and female

    20:39 - Rebuilding our nation with the foundation of truth

    23:30 - Defining womanhood: What is a woman?

    28:00 - Jennifer introduces her latest book, I Am a Woman

    30:10 - Loaded language: How it bypasses logical reasoning

    35:50 - Why we, as Christians, approach sexual identity from a specific perspective

    42:53 - Establishing healthy boundaries in life

    44:38 - Chris discusses the debate over restroom access and gender inclusion

    47:50 - How to start, seek guidance, take action, and find the truth

    49:19 - Connect with Jennifer, get her book 'I Am a Woman' and join her group

    53:20 - Please share, and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast

    Resources:

    · URMore.org

    · I Am a Woman

    Connect with Jennifer:

    · Instagram

    · Facebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Our final episode highlighting the amazing men, women, and kids at the first ever Rise Up Con event in Sevierville, TN., just outside of Knoxville.

    Meet Jared Moon, from Proverbs 22:6 - his organization helps to reunite incarcerated men and women with their children. Their purpose is to heal these families and support them while most people turn their backs. The heart of their process is rooted in the 4 E's which are to: Encourage, Engage, Educate and Empower.

    As Jared said during our conversation, "We bring the humanity back to the human that's behind bars."

    Fun Side Note: Jared Moon had a booth next to ours on Day 1 of the event. We quickly got to talking and we became instant friends! He and another representative from his organization will be visiting our facility in Clearwater, FL. to have a longer, more in-depth discussion about what Proverbs226 is doing to help reunite families.

    Meet Laura Klassen, founder and director of Choice42, a Christian, Anti-Abortion organization. Choice42 is pro-women, pro-baby and pro-life!

    They are based in Canada but their reach is worldwide. Laura is also known as an anti-abortion influencer with some fantastic content on YouTube, just look for the pink wig!

    Choice42 website: CHOICE42 connects online with abortion-minded women from all over the world and helps them to cancel their abortion appointments. With the help of our supporters, we are able to provide emotional and practical support to women to empower them to choose their babies.

    And lastly, meet WWE Bros superstar Lucas.

    Lucas visited the Strong By Design booth several times and after receiving lots of free gifts spinning our fun prize wheel, we encouraged him to join us on the show for a few minutes. He and his brothers are huge WWE wrestling fans and have a fun YouTube channel. He was a delight to speak with.

    Both Jared Moon and Laura Klassen are fighting for our children, kids like Lucas. All life is special and matters, we must continue to do anything possible to save our children.



    "Children of inmates don't know that their parents love them." -Jared Moon



    Time Stamps
    01:19 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast
    02:19 - Proverbs226: Guest Jared Moon's fight against generational incarceration
    08:43 - Jared talks more about life-changing transformations behind bars
    10:38 - Why we must defend the family unit now more than ever
    13:20 - Connect with Proverbs 226: How you can help end incarceration
    15:59 - Get to know Laura Klassen, anti-abortion activist & founder of CHOICE42
    18:41 - Understanding the importance of human life
    21:13 - Laura discusses how CHOICE24 empowers women
    25:35 - Meet Lucas from WWE Bros
    28:00 - Chris, Jared, and Lucas share their favorite wrestlers and more
    29:20 - Connect and subscribe to Lucas on YouTube



    Resources:

    Proverbs226.org
    Choice42.com
    WWE Bros


    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Have you ever heard of the Wild brothers? Well hosts Chris Wilson and Jared Haley met them at Rise Up Con.

    Meet Morgan and Hudson, two of the four Wild brothers from Wild Brothers TV. They are the elder brothers but refused to say better lol. As their name infers, these boys are a bit 'wild' (yes, that's their real last name) and adventurous living several years of their lives (15) in southeast Asia (Indonesia) as missionaries spreading the Gospel.

    They lived side by side with the Indonesian people, fully immersed in their culture and customs doing things like hunting, exploring, building and even learning the language.

    Morgan and Hudson (and their younger brothers Kian and Asher) see following Christ as the ultimate adventure. They are currently filmmakers living in Florida continuing to explore and find adventure here in the US. They are truly fascinating young men, creating entertaining content on Wild Brothers TV and documenting their lives through filmmaking to share with the world.



    "Following Christ is the ultimate adventure." -Hudson Wild



    Time Stamps
    00:45 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' Podcast
    01:08 - Meet today’s special guests, The Wild Brothers, Morgan and Hudson Wild
    02:30 - The Wild Brothers discuss their teamwork and collaboration
    03:25 - Discover the origins and launch of the Wild Brothers
    06:00 - Dive into the Adventure Documentaries featured on Wild Brothers TV
    08:30 - Exploring why following Christ is the Ultimate Adventure
    10:00 - Tips on communicating the Gospel clearly and effectively
    13:40 - Understanding spiritual warfare and overcoming fear
    18:00 - Strategies for protecting our kids from spiritual attacks
    25:00 - What Wild Brothers TV is all about
    27:30 - Introducing the new TV show: Zoo Tales—Animals, Zookeepers, and Believers



    Resources:

    WildBrothers.TV



    Connect with the Wild Brothers:

    Instagram
    Facebook
    YouTube

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Ever meet someone and after just 5 minutes they feel like an old friend?

    Our guest today on the Strong By Design podcast, Adam Kovar, is a Marine Corp Veteran, Patriot, husband, father and hardworking entrepreneur. He is a guy that you instantly feel connection with if you love our country, what it stands for and why it's worth fighting for. And there is nothing better at bringing people together for hours than a warm fire on a cool night.

    At Rise Up Con in the beautiful mountains of southeast Tennessee, hosts Chris Wilson and Jared Haley had the good pleasure of seeing Adam's MYFIRESIDE booth. An amazing display of handcrafted, made in the USA firepits. The kind of firepits that make you want to sit down with people you know (or don't know) and engage in hours of conversation beside a roaring fire. But his firepits are like nothing you've ever seen before...

    His story of meeting actor, tv host and true patriot, Kirk Cameron, by the roadside a few years back is absolutely amazing. Sometimes in life it's just about hard work, passion and grit... and of course meeting a guy with 3.5 million followers on Facebook!

    If you want the BEST FIREPIT EVER, you have to visit Adam's website and take a peek at the incredible firepits he makes himself and sells from his garage. We can't wait to get our own customized pits. You will never have a boring fire again! Please enjoy our final conversation of the event with our new friend Adam.



    "Small business patriotic entrepreneurs are the solution to turn the tide back!"
    -Adam Kovar



    Time Stamps
    0:50 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' Podcast
    01:10 - Get to know today's special guest, Adam Kovar
    02:30 - What is Adam's purpose behind his Firepit creations?
    6:00 - God intervenes and brings a passionate Firepit Enthusiast, Kirk Cameron, to Adam
    8:00 - What is the American Campfire Revival?
    09:24 - Success doesn't happen overnight
    11:00 - Different ways to minister and spread God's word
    13:00 - Overcoming Fear, Fighting the Good Fight, and Finding Hope
    14:00 - How You Can Support Adam's Business



    Resources:

    MYFIRESIDE.com



    Connect with Adam:

    InstagramFacebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Our past does not define our character or determine our future.

    While this sentiment is simply said, it is terribly difficult to believe and follow through with. Unfortunately, some of us can never seem to overcome our past.

    Today's guest on the Strong By Design podcast is a living testament to the power of turning your life over to God. After years of struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, Rob believed his life was a complete failure and beyond repair. He even went as far as attempting suicide but miraculously he was saved.

    Now he's an award-winning author, speaker, producer, actor and TV host.

    In his book, Cruising Toward Heaven, Rob talks about redemption and devoting your life to God in service of others. This conversation will make you cry, give you goose bumps and get you Fired Up! Get ready for the one and only Rob Ekno.




    "Lord, please give me the words to write in this book to glorify you." -Rob Ekno



    Time Stamps
    0:22 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' Podcast
    0:45 - Get to know today's special guest, Rob Ekno, award-winning author, screenwriter, broadcaster and speaker
    2:30 - Rob shares his story from drug addict and alcoholic to award-winning author
    6:00 - Rob thanks the cop who changed everything
    9:15 - Beneath the surface: Unseen ways we make a difference
    14:05 - Answering God's call: Rob's journey from a D in English to Author
    24:04 - Discover Rob's mission beyond book sales
    30:11 - The importance of spiritual protection for teenagers
    34:24 - The power of teaching people to be followers of the Spirit
    38:58 - Host Jared shares powerful stories from his pastoral experiences
    43:01 - 'Cruising Toward Heaven': Rob's testimony of God's glory
    49:00 - Why you should prepare for the eternal rather than the temporary
    52:26 - The power of trusting God's provision



    Resources:

    RobEkno.comGet your copy of Cruising Toward Heaven


    Connect with Rob:

    FacebookInstagram

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com
  • Storytelling is an art form that has stood the test of time.

    From sitting around a campfire listening to spooky stories and tales of legendary heroism, to a family gathered around a giant radio in the 1930s listening to the adventures of Sherlock Holmes or Abbott and Costello, the audio experience invites imagination and evokes excitement.

    Live from Rise Up Con, hosts Jared Haley and Chris Wilson had the opportunity to speak with Darby Kern and Micah Touchet, audio producers for the Jake Muller Adventures, an action packed audio drama series and Callie Sioux, creator of the 1232 audio epic, which is a time-travel medieval fantasy audio adventure for all ages.

    Get to know these amazing people, how passionate they are about their work and what it takes to produce a top notch audio drama.



    "There's a lack of family-friendly content available in media." -Callie Sioux



    Time Stamps
    00:35 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' Podcast
    00:58 - Get to know today's special guests, Darby Kern & Micah Touchet
    02:20 - Darby and Micah introduce 'The Jake Muller Adventures' and how the audio drama came to life
    05:21 - The art of casting: Journey to finding the perfect actors for audio drama
    09:55 - Who 'The Jake Muller Adventures' is for?
    11:30 - Connect with Us! Follow 'The Jake Muller Adventures' on Social Media
    13:53 - Welcome our next guest, Callie Sioux of '1232: An Audio Epic'
    15:28 - Callie shares what makes '1232' special
    20:34 - Discover how spirituality is woven into the show
    25:50 - The joy and nostalgia of listening to old-time radio shows
    26:50 - 1232: Ongoing saga or completed story?
    29:00 - Where you can go to connect with Callie Sioux and get FREE content


    Resources:

    JakeMullerAdventures.com1232 Audio Epic



    Connect with Darby & Micah:

    InstagramFacebook


    Connect with Callie Sioux:

    InstagramFacebook

    Support the show

    Connect w/ CriticalBench:

    Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com