Lessons from Living

In this powerful second segment, Stacey Glass shares how an estranged mother–daughter relationship was redeemed through persistent love, faith, and everyday invitations—calls, cards, short visits, and “keeping the door open.” Hear the pivotal moment her mom asked, “Why did you forgive me?,” the quiet watching that rebuilt trust, and how integrity at home matched what her mother saw in public. Stac...

Join host Beth Graham for Lessons From Living’s 100th episode—a heartfelt look back at the podcast’s original vision: elevating ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Beth revisits the story that started it all (Episode 1: Will Reynolds and his life-changing kidney donation), reflects on a growing body of work, and shares behind-the-scenes challenges of finding humble, never-before-featured v...

In this powerful episode of Lessons From Living, Stacey Glass shares her remarkable journey from a traumatic childhood marked by addiction and abandonment to finding hope through the loving hands of a church community. Discover how a pastor's family driving 20 minutes out of their way three times a week, a music director who saw potential beyond circumstances, and surrogate families who opened the...

What does success really mean? After two heart attacks derailed his Wall Street career, Adrian Jones had to completely redefine his markers of achievement. In this deeply personal conversation with Beth Graham, Adrian shares how health crises forced him to confront the truth: traditional success was literally killing him. Discover Adrian's powerful framework for career reinvention, including the J...

In this powerful Lessons From Living episode, Adrian Jones shares how surviving two “widow-maker” heart attacks—one in 2016 and another in 2024—finally forced him to transform his life. We explore what his life and definition of success looked like before these health crises, why the first heart attack wasn’t enough to spark lasting change, and why it often takes a life-threatening “wake-up call”...

In this encouraging episode of "Lessons From Living," couples counselor Raffi Bilek shares invaluable insights into the art of communication in relationships. Explore how humor can enhance dialogue, how even gridlock can be navigated and discover effective strategies for couples when one partner is resistant to improving their communication skills. Raffi discusses the impact of cultural, gender, a...

Join us on this illuminating episode of Lessons From Living as we sit down with seasoned couples counselor Raffi Bilek to explore the art of effective communication in relationships. Discover the critical gaps in communication guidance that Raffi addresses in his insightful book, "The Couples Communication Handbook." We delve into common myths about relationship communication, uncover ineffective...

In this transformative episode of Lessons From Living , we're diving deep into the world of self-improvement and personal growth. Discover why investing in yourself is essential for happiness, fulfillment, and success. We'll explore the importance of recognizing areas for development, setting SMART goals, and creating actionable plans to achieve your aspirations. Join us as we share inspiring stor...

Join us for an inspiring second segment with Iranian-American activist Zolal Habibi, as we delve into her unwavering quest to raise awareness for the Iranian people. Discover how Zolal overcomes fear and danger to share her vision for a brighter future and what motivates her resilience. We explore her insights on whether American youth would cherish their freedom enough to defend it if roles were...

In this compelling episode of Lessons from Living, join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Zolal Habibi, an American-Iranian resistance member. Discover the profound impact of her father's tragic loss to the regime at a young age, the unwavering dedication of her mother to the resistance, and Zolal's courageous decision to leave a prestigious medical career to fight for freedom. We explor...

Join us in this engrossing segment of "Lessons From Living" as Ally Phillip shares her journey of reinventing herself in her 60s. Discover how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth, the importance of brain stimulation for a long, healthy life, and the joy that faith can bring. Ally discusses her valuable tips for maintaining a sense of joy, the significance of leaving a leg...

In the first part of this powerful episode of Lessons From Living, influencer Ally Phillips opens up about the three formative tragedies that shaped her life, including the heartbreaking suicide of her father when she was just 10 years old. Discover how her mother, a young single parent with four children and no support, became a beacon of strength and inspiration. Ally shares the invaluable lesso...

In this powerful Part 2 interview of Lessons From Living, Stanley Bronstein shares the 20-trait system of excellence he developed after losing 200 pounds and transforming his life. Stanley explains each trait — from personal ...

In this motivating episode of Lessons From Living, we chat with Stanley Bronstein, who successfully lost 200 pounds and has maintained his weight loss for 18 years. Stanley shares his personal journey, revealing the circumstances that led to his significant weight gain and the four simple steps he took to achieve lasting change. Discover the valuable lessons he learned along the way, which not onl...

In this intriguing episode of Lessons From Living, we delve into the transformative journey of starting over at any stage in life. Join me as I share noteworthy stories from my own experiences and those of others who have embraced change, overcome challenges, and found new beginnings. Discover practical insights and motivational tips that will encourage you to take that leap, regardless of your ag...

In Part 2 of Lee's episode, we delve into coping with rejection, defining success as an independent artist, and his personal growth throughout his journey. If you missed the first part, jump back to Part 1, a compelling episode of Lessons From Living featuring singer-songwriter Lee Isaacs. Discover the inspiration behind his music career, insights into family support, and the realities of living i...

Join us for a compelling episode of Lessons From Living featuring singer-songwriter Lee Isaacs. Discover the inspiration behind his music career, insights into family support, and the realities of living in Nashville. Lee shares the best and worst aspects of the music scene, the sacrifices he’s made for his passion, and how he navigates fear and motivation amidst challenges. In part one, we delve...

Join host Beth Graham in this meaningful episode of Lessons from Living , where she delves into the vital importance of friendship throughout our lives. Discover impactful stories, including insights from a remarkable 92-year-old, and learn practical tips on how to cultivate and maintain meaningful relationships. Beth reflects on her own friendships, the emotional and physical benefits they bring,...

In this thought-provoking episode of Lessons From Living, we welcome AI specialist Rowena Spencer to explore the complex relationship between children and artificial intelligence. Together, we tackle the emotional draw of AI for kids, the dangers of AI toys, and the challenge of keeping children safe in a rapidly evolving digital world. Learn how to help your kids distinguish between chatbots and...

Join us in this powerful episode of Lessons From Living as we sit down with Jenna Udenberg, who has bravely faced Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis since the age of seven and has been confined to a wheelchair since she was eight. Jenna shares her heartfelt journey through the childhood trauma of experiencing chronic pain, and emotional struggles, revealing how two inspiring teachers ignited her passio...

In this episode, we shift our perspective on “purpose,” understanding it as a collection of meaningful chapters rather than a singular calling. We delve into the challenges of adhering to a narrow path—such as immobility, burnout, and feelings of inadequacy—while also addressing the societal pressures faced by people of all ages to pinpoint their purpose. Inspired by the journey of Grandma Moses,...

What does perseverance really look like after life changes forever? In this deeply moving and surprisingly joyful episode of Lessons From Living , host Beth Graham sits down with Dr. James Perdue—Professor of Perseverance —for an honest conversation about resilience, faith, and rebuilding a meaningful life after catastrophe. After a life-altering accident left him a quadriplegic , Dr. Perdue share...

Join us for a meaningful New Year's Eve episode as Richard and I reflect on the transformative moments of 2025. We discuss the beliefs we've updated, habits that brought us joy, and the books that reshaped our perspectives. Discover what we stopped doing that improved our lives, memorable conversations that left a mark, and how we learned about our capacities and limits. Each of us shares a specia...

What if silence is not the absence of God—but the place where you finally meet Him? In this Lessons From Living episode, Rich Lewis, author of Sitting with God: A Journey to Your True Self Through Centering Prayer , shares how contemplative prayer became one of the most life-giving and identity-shaping practices of his spiritual journey. Rich explains what centering prayer is, exactly how it is pr...

In this insightful episode of Lessons From Living, we explore the growing frustration among young Americans and their evolving views on socialism. We discuss the challenges they face, from soaring housing costs to predatory college debts, and how these experiences prompt a desire for fairness and relief. Delving into the misconceptions around socialism, we clarify that the call for change is not a...