Do you remember when you were a kid and Christmas felt all warm and cozy?Sometimes, as adults, we can get so wrapped up in the hustle & bustle that we forget to slow down and just be present. When you think back to your favorite Christmas memories growing up, are they of big extravagant gifts? Or are they memories of traditions enjoyed with family?We're peeling back the layers on our unique Christmas traditions, discussing ways to make the holidays memorable without the pressure of perfection, and sharing personal stories about our themed movie nights and Christmas Light Extravaganza. With us, it's not just about the lights and decorations, it's about slowing down and being present. But the holiday cheer doesn't stop there. We've got a Christmas giveaway in the works and a Christmas playlist that's sure to get you in the festive spirit. You can find our Christmas playlist and giveaway details below! So grab your hot cocoa, settle down by the fire, and let's navigate this journey together. We can't wait to celebrate the end of the year with you, share our holiday traditions, and look forward to the exciting changes coming to our podcast in the new year.Episode Highlights: Sharing a quick life update.Winning ‘one play at a time’.Why is everything that’s good for you such a struggle?You get a fresh start every day.Let’s finish the year off strong.We’re doing a giveaway!Remember when Christmas felt warm & cozy?It was never meant to be a burden.Auditing your Christmas traditions.Fun & simple traditions we love.Slow down & be present.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!Listen to our Apple Playlist here!Give to Hope BridgeFoster Our Community Giving OptionsFollow @shewhocreatesforhim on InstagramFind Emily’s bracelets here @wordsthatshinebyemENTER OUR 2023 CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY!:We are giving away a $400 Cash Prize to One Grand Prize Winner & 5 other winners will get their choice of a $20 Amazon OR Starbucks Gift Card!Here’s how to Enter:Leave a comment review on Apple Podcasts.Comment ‘reviewed’ on Bethany’s Giveaway post on Instagram here - @bethanyadkinsBONUS ENTRIES: Every time you share one of our episodes on your stories & tag @bethanyadkins. Also, every time you tag a friend on the Giveaway post.*Winners will be announced on 12/24!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Have you ever witnessed a crime?As just a young teen, not only had Ronald Olivier witnessed crime, but he had been convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. He was a product of a broken home, a crack epidemic, and a society that had turned its back on him.  This harsh lifestyle ultimately resulted in Ronald killing another young man on Christmas day.  In the absence of a father figure, he found guidance in unlikely places, proving that a helping hand can come from the most unexpected corners.  From a haunted past to a transformative future, Ronald Olivier's story is one of remarkable redemption. He was serving a life sentence in Angola Prison, but he found his freedom in forgiveness and faith. Ronald narrates an emotional encounter with the mother of his victim, a moment that broke walls and built bridges. He stresses the importance of faith, urging listeners to remember God's endless grace. Get a glimpse of Ronald's inspiring journey in his new book, which is available on Amazon. Embrace the power of change, forgiveness, and second chances in this powerful episode.Episode Highlights: Introduction to Ronald.Where is Ronald today?Ronald’s upbringing.His father, his hero.The crack epidemic.The day Ronald’s life changed forever.Turning to Jesus.Sentenced to Louisiana State Penitentiary.The conviction of the Holy Spirit.Kids need a father figure.The people God placed in Ronald’s life. Education and open doors.Mission work and pastoring a prison church.Breakthrough in the law.Speaking to the victim’s mother.God’s grace & goodness.Find More on Ronald:Follow Ronald on FacebookFind Ronald on Instagram @ronnieslim75Order 27 Summers Here!Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Do you have someone in your circle who inspires you by the way they live their life?When we think of heroes, we often picture individuals in capes saving the world, but my friend and inspiration, Lisa Robertson, is a hero in her own right. For nearly a decade, Lisa and her husband opened their hearts and their home to foster children, impacting countless lives in the process. Facing the difficult decision to close their home, Lisa shares her emotional journey, the difficult conversations, and her courageous step into a season of rest.As we navigate through this emotional rollercoaster, we uncover Lisa's continued impact on the foster care system through her work with Hope Bridge. This non-profit organization has given Lisa a platform to share transformative stories of hope, demonstrating that closing her home has not meant the end of her contribution. What's life like after leaving foster care? We explore this adjustment period, the mental and emotional toll it takes, and the importance of intentional presence.Lisa shares her adjustment process and how she was able to find value in her new season of life. So, join us for a conversation filled with raw emotion, deep insights, and a testament to the impact of faith. This episode isn't just a chat - it's an exploration of the human spirit, the struggles we face, and the hope that sees us through. Come, be inspired. You don't want to miss this!Episode Highlights: Lisa Robertson is back for another episode!Lisa shares a life update.There’s value in every area of your calling.If I don’t do this, who is going to?Learning how to rest in the midst of the chaos.About the mission of Hope Bridge.Hope Bridge is launching a podcast!How to be intentionally present.Find More on Lisa & Hope Bridge:Hope Bridge Podcast: RestoriedFind Lisa on Instagram Here!Trusting God with the Unknown with Lisa RobertsonRooted Pt. 1 with Lisa RobertsonRooted Pt. 2 with Lisa RobertsonThe Unexpected Road to Infertility and Foster Care with Lisa RobertsonHope Bridge WebsiteFind Hope Bridge on Instagram Here!Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Have you ever felt like God put a desire on your heart that you just couldn't ignore?Here at Adkins Media Co., each of us have had that undeniable nudge on our hearts.  We've navigated the rough waters of juggling our professional aspirations and raising our families, but all throughout our journeys, there was a fire on the inside that just couldn't be ignored.Join us as we share how we transformed from our previous careers to create Adkins Media Co, a family-first business that perfectly strikes the balance between work and home life. This business has been built around our families, not the other way around. Be a part of our journey as we talk about the hurdles we tackled, the faith we mustered, and the dreams we pursued.Without further ado, I invite you to meet the other two minds behind Adkins Media Co. - Whittni and Victoria who took the leap of faith, trusted in God to guide their decisions, and said goodbye to the 9-5 to become a part of the Adkins Media Co. team. Their stories are not just inspiring, but they're real and raw, filled with personal challenges and massive faith. Tune in to an episode that makes you rethink that dream God has placed in your heart, whatever it may be... and maybe, just maybe, inspires you to make a leap of faith of your own.Episode Highlights: My time in nursing and the desire to be primarily home.Finding balance between being home and creating.Starting a podcast and getting my first client.The growth of Adkins Media Co.What can happen with one little act of obedience?Meet the Adkins Media Co. Team.Being good stewards of our blessings and keeping priorities straight.Encouragement for those who are facing decisions.We are A Force to Be Reckoned With. Discussing our Patreon.Silencing the chaos with Truth.More on Whittni & Victoria:Find Whittni on Instagram Here!Find Victoria on Instagram Here!Visit Victoria’s Journal Page on AmazonLinks Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Would you believe it if we told you our family has grown since the last episode? We now have 8 kids in our home. You heard right... EIGHT! In this episode, we take a trip down memory lane, filled with funny stories,  including the surprising moment we found out we were expecting our first child.Ever wondered how this family handles bedtime, meetings, unexpected sickness, and the arrival of four additional kids in under 90 days? We'll bring you along on this wild ride – and what an adventure it's been! We're also discussing the invaluable support we've received from our friends, family, church, and community. Laugh along with (or AT) us while we play a game of lip-reading, and listen in as we reflect on the importance of quality time and setting healthy bedtimes for kids. We wrap up the episode by discussing the concept of living an unhurried life, pruning the things that hold us back, and being obedient to God's calling. Oh, and we couldn't resist adding a dose of laughter and fun with a game of 'Bible character guessing.' So come along with us on this journey. We promise there's never a dull moment!Episode Highlights: Working the night shift in college.Our Foster Care update.God is faithful.Finding ways to laugh when life gets hard.What do you look forward to most in your day?Let’s play some games.The craziness of life.What is God teaching you right now?Always make time to laugh.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!Link to the Surrender NovenaPsalm 46 by Shane & ShaneListen to our Spotify Playlist!Listen to our Apple Music Playlist!Check Out This Episode of That's So RandomThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Do you believe in miracles?From four kids to six in just 45 days, it's been an overwhelming and yet deeply humbling experience. But how did we cope with such a radical change? As we share these stories, we hope you, too, can recognize the divine interventions in your life and appreciate the magnitude of miracles God is capable of.Things happen in life that are out of our control, but with prayer and surrender, we can open our hearts to His work and create space for miracles. We share about the importance of finding your people and how we draw strength and support from our tight-knit community. Join us as we reflect on the magnificence of God, His unwavering presence, and the comfort we receive from His word. Remember, no matter the battles you face, with faith, community, and a little music, you are never alone.Episode Highlights: Sharing our foster care update.God is still doing miracles today.Surrendering our cares to God.Finding your people.Refuse to give anything but glory to God.Never lose hope.Handling our struggles with integrity.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!Link to the Surrender NovenaPsalm 46 by Shane & ShaneListen to our Spotify Playlist!Listen to our Apple Music Playlist!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Can you imagine a fourth quarter so intentionally planned that it catapults you into a successful new year? That's what we're bringing you in our latest episode. Ahead of the curve, we discuss our own financial journey, sharing updates on our debt and offering insights into effectively managing time and money. As the holiday season approaches, the hustle and bustle can often lead to stress and overwhelm. But what if this year could be different? We lay out strategies for decluttering and getting our homes organized, setting the stage for a peaceful and joy-filled holiday. We also delve into the complexities of gift-giving, giving tips on managing gift exchanges and ensuring that your children have a dedicated space for their winter activities. If you're looking for a guide to reducing stress this holiday season, this episode is a must-listen.And as we look forward to 2024, we share proactive health strategies designed to reduce sick days and boost morale. From setting a realistic budget to embracing self-care, we provide you with tools to set the stage for a healthier, happier year. It's all about intention and planning. So join us, and let's tackle 2024 together – with confidence, ease, and, most importantly, good health! This episode promises to equip you with the knowledge to craft a well-planned, abundant new year. Tune in and let's make 2024 our best year yet!Episode Highlights: We took an unintentional 2-week break.It’s October!Let’s finish out this year with a bang!Ironing out finances.Setting a realistic budget for Christmas.Organizing and taking inventory of your home.Identifying needs & potential Christmas gifts.Making intentional choices to support our immune systems.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What if you could tap into an unseen power that provides comfort, guidance, and wisdom at any given moment? What would happen if you began to understand prayer not just as a passive act, but as a life-altering resource? Today, we pull back the curtain on the power and importance of prayer, sharing insights from our own spiritual journeys. We discuss how prayer, when approached with the right mindset, can be a game-changer in your life, whether you're a seasoned believer or new to faith. We also illustrate how aligning our desires with God's will can profoundly impact our existence. Prayer isn't just a once-in-a-while activity; it's a constant conversation with our Creator. Today, we'll be sharing practical tips on how to incorporate prayer into your daily routine, from brief moments of connection with God before sending emails or stepping into meetings to praying for others on the spot. Moreover, we explore the significance of a supportive community that stands with us in prayer during challenging seasons. We firmly believe that making prayer a daily habit can revolutionize your life.Finally, we delve into the concept of a prayer group, explaining how such a space can offer solace and support. We're thrilled to announce our plans for a free Patreon prayer group where you can submit prayer requests and find encouragement from a nurturing community. In this group, we'll be writing out weekly prayers for various aspects of our lives, and we'll be discussing how you can participate. We also discuss other potential Patreon tiers that will be available in the future. So, join us today as we uncover the transformative power of prayer. Episode Highlights: Prayer is significant.Everybody’s story is different.Pray without ceasing.We get to engage with the Creator of the universe.Prayer is participating in God’s Will.Prayer is the most powerful thing we can do.Trusting His will over our wants.Coming to the end of yourself.Waiting on the Lord.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Have you ever pondered the fact that we are all born with an innate moral code? Even before we learn about the Bible and other religions, there is a moral standard woven within our inmost being. We're peeling back the layers of how this gift serves as our compass in a world spinning in chaos. Be prepared to deep dive into the concept of the American Dream and the shift it's taken over the years. Let's navigate the tumultuous terrains that the millennial generation and younger ones face in comparison to their predecessors. We're going to dissect the startling increase in home costs, the hike in household income, and the towering debt mountain that has grown in the last 20 years. In the end, it all boils down to discipline and the grit to push through adversity. We'll let you in on our personal journey of staying motivated and on track, revealing the morning practice of faithful Bible reading. We'll also borrow wisdom from Jocko Willink and Andy Frisella, who champion the idea of taking the next step and enduring the hard things to stay on course. As we grapple with the spiritual warfare hinted at in Ephesians 6, let's reflect on our current struggles and how to wage war against them by mastering the basics of life & tapping into our faith in God. Stay tuned for future discussions on manhood, hospitality, taking back our families, and intentional living. This is your call to action. Are you ready to join the force?Episode Highlights: We want to be real, but we also want to bring you hope.Society is veering off course financially.Why are things getting worse?Society’s rejection of God’s design for family.We’re all born with an innate moral code.We need to get back to the basics.Sometimes, you just have to take the next step.Linking arms between generations.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsMere Christianity by C.S. LewisThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Ever wonder what it's like to be a foster parent? Join us on a transformational journey as we converse with Kristen Andrus about our personal experiences and heartfelt lessons learned from being foster parents. We recount the trials and triumphs we've encountered, dissecting misconceptions and challenging societal norms surrounding foster care. We share our story, from our initial calling to aid children in need, to the enriching experiences that have since unfolded, all the while driven by unwavering faith.We take a moment to reflect on an impactful story of a child, who endured 19 calls seeking a home before finding placement. This poignant narrative is a call-to-arms for all of us, a stark reminder that we, as the church, are the hands and feet of Jesus. Our discussion broadens to spotlight the role of the church in supporting foster care families and touches upon the ongoing crisis in our county. Moreover, we delve into the tale of our rebranded podcast, A Force to Be Reckoned With - a platform dedicated to championing the cause of fulfilling our God-given purpose. We lay bare the connection between our foster care journey and our podcast's mission. Whether you're contemplating venturing into foster care, seeking ways to contribute to the cause, or looking for inspiration to live your mission, this candid conversation promises to enlighten you. So why wait? Join the force, and let's make a difference together!Episode Highlights: Taking a look at the stats of foster care.How we got started in fostering.Sharing about our community.Addressing questions & misconceptions about fostering.Living in surrender to God.Find More on Kristen Andrus:Planted and Flourishing with Kristen AndrusLinks Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsHope Bridge Foster Stats VideoThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.