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The Courage To

The Courage To

By Madison Eckert

What does it look like to live with courage? Let's learn together from some incredible people.
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The Courage to GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS - Brian Stiller

The Courage ToJan 23, 2023

00:00
01:57:55
The Courage to GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS - Brian Stiller

The Courage to GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS - Brian Stiller

Brian Stiller. The man who has arguable accomplished a lot in his lifetime, yet remains so rooted in his relationship with God, friends and family, and pursues great depth in global partnerships. In this 2 hour episode, we explore two different parts - the first hour is all about Brian's life, leadership, and faith, and the second hour we dive into global partnerships and his organizational experience. There's a lot to chew on here!

This episode is in conjunction with Hope Story. Check out hopestory.ca

Jan 23, 202301:57:55
The Courage to HOPE STORY - Tim Brown

The Courage to HOPE STORY - Tim Brown

This episode is a collide of this podcast (a side hobby of mine) with my professional life (working at Hope Story). Meet Tim Brown, the Execute Director of Hope Story. In this episode we talk about his journey to becoming the ED of Hope Story, but more specifically, his journey of being called to serve the poor in some capacity. We also discuss staff culture, how opportunities are at the edge of chaos, the importance of partnerships, and who Hope Story even is as an organization. Plus we do a rapid question series where Tim shares some great stories! 

If you want to learn more about Hope Story, check out hopestory.ca

(And if you take up our invitation to have coffee with us, you can also contact us via the website or my social media)

Jan 23, 202301:35:28
The Courage to WRITE POETRY (Part 1) - Noah, Chris, Lauryn, and Catherine

The Courage to WRITE POETRY (Part 1) - Noah, Chris, Lauryn, and Catherine

Meet four friends who all share a love of poetry! On this episode, we talk about writing poetry, what inspires the writing, how it impacts their faith, the significance the practice of writing and sharing poetry has in building community, and so much more. We end off the episode giving you a chance to be a fly on the wall in a poetry club meeting. 

Enjoy!

Jan 16, 202301:00:43
The Courage to KNOWING OUR CITIES, REDEMPTION, AND BEING CLOSE TO THE MARGINS - John Schuurman

The Courage to KNOWING OUR CITIES, REDEMPTION, AND BEING CLOSE TO THE MARGINS - John Schuurman

On this episode, I chat with John Schuurman who shares about how he has come to learn and know about our city (Hamilton, ON), what that means for how he follows Jesus, and what it's like participating in stories of redemption that take a long time. 

Dec 03, 202201:03:51
The Courage to STAY IN PLACE - Phil & Merilee Henderson

The Courage to STAY IN PLACE - Phil & Merilee Henderson

Nine years ago, Phil and Merilee moved their family to Chad to work with MAF. Rather than only staying for a few years, or leaving when things got incredibly challenging, they have intentionally chosen to stay - and in the staying, they've experienced the transformation that comes with "long obedience in the same direction". In this episode, you'll hear the backstory of how they got to the point of saying "yes" to going to Chad, what has kept them going in the hard circumstances, how staying has impacted their faith, and what they're excited about for the next season. It's a profoundly rich conversation!

Note: there are some funky audio issues (not sure what happened), but use your mental strength to focus more on what they're sharing than the static :) I know, not ideal, but we're working with what we got.

Jun 22, 202257:41
The Courage to LEADERSHIP - Gabi Tiessen

The Courage to LEADERSHIP - Gabi Tiessen

This episode is all about leadership - different styles of leadership, as well as approaching leadership in a variety of cultural contexts. Gabi is wise, thoughtful, and a Barnabas leader (as she calls herself). Tune in to glean from all that Gabi shares! 

Mar 01, 202259:40
The Courage to COME TO CANADA - Romel Khiyo

The Courage to COME TO CANADA - Romel Khiyo

Romel came to Canada with his family two years ago as refugees. His story is one you don't want to miss as he talks about what life was like in Syria, the process of coming to Canada, and what the last two years has been like adjusting. 

Feb 15, 202252:55
The Courage to OBSCURITY - Matt Pamplin

The Courage to OBSCURITY - Matt Pamplin

The irony is not lost on us that we're talking about obscurity on a podcast, but it's a topic Matt has done lots of digging into, and I thought it was worthwhile to have him share more.

We talk about the invitation into obscurity, the backwardness of it in todays culture, the inner transformation that comes from being hidden, the courage it takes to actually enter into this, the importance of checking our motivations, and he also shares a plethora of Biblical examples to back up his thinking (well, they actually are the forefront of his thinking).

As with all episodes, may you feel inspired, encouraged, and/or challenged to life a more courageous life.

Feb 08, 202201:05:17
The Courage to CONFRONT PREJUDICE - Moses Latigo Odida

The Courage to CONFRONT PREJUDICE - Moses Latigo Odida

Welcome to 2022 - let's talk about prejudice!

I'm thrilled Moses was willing to sit down with me to chat - I'm convinced he was the right man for this conversation. He has a breadth of experience, but more than that, he's thoughtful, seeks wisdom, and is actively engaged in the work of truth-telling. He collides past events with present realities and future hopes to paint an incredible picture of the importance of confronting the prejudice within our own hearts and at a societal level.

We have this conversation in a local coffee shop, so you'll definitely hear some background noises - but just imagine you're sitting there with us. (And if you're in London, be sure to check out Asmara Coffee House).

Jan 11, 202201:14:09
The Courage to HOBBIES (and other things) - Josh Black

The Courage to HOBBIES (and other things) - Josh Black

Josh Black is BACK! To end of the 2021 year, we're finish off with 3 friends chatting about fun things that are important to us. We talk all about the importance of hobbies, rest, and so many other things...hence "and other things". Maybe this episode will inspire a new hobby to try out next year. 

Dec 28, 202101:04:08
The Courage to : 2021 Reflections - Madison Eckert

The Courage to : 2021 Reflections - Madison Eckert

The tables are turned for this episode, and Madi shares some things she learned and has reflected on this past year. 

Dec 21, 202101:00:23
The Courage to CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE - Emmanuel Asafo-Adjei

The Courage to CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE - Emmanuel Asafo-Adjei

In a culture that is all about “my truth”, with a great disregard for other perspectives and experiences, this conversation felt very relevant. Emmanuel brings a wealth of experience to the table in this episode, but also, as you will sense right away, a grand humility. What I really appreciate is that he doesn't approach this topic with a harsh tone of wanting to change your/my perspective on anything - he just shares what he's learned, how it's changed his life, and how he views people. He simply lives the life he knows he's called to live. Just another reason why Emmanuel was the right man for this conversation!

What was your take away from The Courage to CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE? We'd love to hear what you're learning along the way. 

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Dec 14, 202101:02:11
The Courage to FOLLOW JESUS - Manahil Mundh

The Courage to FOLLOW JESUS - Manahil Mundh

Manahil's story is one you don't want to miss! It's equal parts inspiring and challenging. Her testimony of choosing to follow Jesus leads to the question of "what are you willing to leave behind for the sake of the following Jesus?" In this conversation, we talk about what she gave up, the importance of community, establishing a new identity, being freed from the shame of past mistakes, and how God works in mysterious ways.

This is definitely a story worth listening to yourself, and sharing with a friend!

And, as always, we'd love to hear your take away from the episode!

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FB: Madison Eckert

Dec 07, 202157:59
The Courage to HEAL - Cathy Kuehni

The Courage to HEAL - Cathy Kuehni

Cathy Kuehni is a load of wisdom and joy and awesome-ness! With expertise in trauma-informed care, Cathy incorporates evidence-based training and practices within her coaching. Through individual, group and family mentoring, she helps those she serves towards freedom and renewed hope.

As a Certified Christian Leadership Coach, Cathy brings a Spirit-led, Jesus-centered approach in restorative-life strategies. She finds joy and purpose in helping others explore places where God is revealing tired, worn-down patterns…helping them towards renewal!

You'll want a paper and pen to write notes while listening to this episode.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to HEAL? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Nov 30, 202101:07:47
The Courage to ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Sebastian Kellner

The Courage to ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Sebastian Kellner

Sebastian Kellner is the mastermind behind Backyard Escape Studios (check it out online!). He has built the business from the ground up, and is always looking for ways to grow and expand. We had this conversation in the Backyard Escape workshop, so there was lots of hustling and bustling around us as we talked about how being an entrepreneur is courageous - but how following Jesus is even more courageous.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to ENTREPRENEURSHIP? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

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Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Nov 23, 202156:19
The Courage to EMBRACE YOUR WHOLE SELF - Maggie Paul

The Courage to EMBRACE YOUR WHOLE SELF - Maggie Paul

Maggie Paul is here!! We dive deep into the importance of embracing the entirety of who we are and where we're at - and why this all take courage. We also talk about the power of metaphor, and how that moves us into a place of curiousity and creativity. This is a conversation you don't want to miss!

What was your takeaway from The Courage to EMBRACE YOUR WHOLE SELF? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Nov 16, 202101:05:37
The Courage to HOSPITALITY - Calvin Tiessen

The Courage to HOSPITALITY - Calvin Tiessen

We are all guests receiving hospitality from Calvin Tiessen during this conversation! Calvin is pursuing a PhD in hospitality and shares what he has been learning from a Biblical perspective, but also experientially as he has lived in multiple cultures. It's a conversation that will challenge us all as we seek to love our neighbours well.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to HOSPITALITY? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Nov 09, 202101:07:07
The Courage to NEIGHBOURLINESS - Steve MacDouell

The Courage to NEIGHBOURLINESS - Steve MacDouell

Steve MacDouell is kicking off season 2 strong, talking all about neighbourliness - how to be a good neighbour, how neighbourhoods are designed, and why all of that is important as a follower of Jesus.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to NEIGHBOURLINESS? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

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Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Nov 02, 202101:08:38
Season 2 Trailer

Season 2 Trailer

Buckle your seatbelts - we're back for season 2 of The Courage To podcast!

Oct 26, 202100:59
The Courage to FOLLOW JESUS - Bishop Oscar Muriu

The Courage to FOLLOW JESUS - Bishop Oscar Muriu

To have Bishop Oscar Muriu on the podcast is a total privilege! He is the Bishop of Nairobi Chapel, which is based in Nairobi, Kenya, though they have 250 locations around the world.

Bishop Oscar is so wise and experienced, so I hope you’re ready to glean from all he has to share. We talk about wrestling with the desires in our hearts, humility, accountability, the gift of the global church, and the importance of learning from each other.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to FOLLOW JESUS? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Sep 21, 202101:23:47
The Courage to GRIEVE - Audrey Decker

The Courage to GRIEVE - Audrey Decker

Audrey Decker is on the podcast today talking all about her journey of grief.

In this interview, Audrey talks about what her family has lost over the past few years, her choice to lean into God during the darkest moments, how some of her misconceptions of God came to light, and what worked and didn’t work for her and her family as people journeyed alongside them.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to GRIEVE? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Sep 14, 202101:00:12
The Courage to CONNECT HEAD AND HEART - Shamiram Zendo

The Courage to CONNECT HEAD AND HEART - Shamiram Zendo

Shamiram Zendo is a professional student, researcher, Assyrian, sugar-free baker, and has been transformed by the power of narrative.

In this interview, Shamiram talks about her research and how it has changed her life, the importance of telling and listening to stories, why we need to let our assumptions be challenged, and how Assyrian dancing tells a story.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to CONNECT HEAD AND HEART? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Sep 07, 202157:41
The Courage to LEAVE STABILITY - Don Pape

The Courage to LEAVE STABILITY - Don Pape

Don Pape is a husband, father, publishing agent, follower of Jesus, and someone who enjoys the mysteries of the journey of life.

In this interview, Don talks about how he entered into the world of publishing, why he left his stable job for something new, how he has chosen to see people as people and not for their status, and leans into why we should enjoy the mystery of God and life.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to LEAVE STABILITY? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

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Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Aug 31, 202101:13:43
The Courage to SERVE - Bobbi-Jo Bongertman

The Courage to SERVE - Bobbi-Jo Bongertman

Bobbi Jo Bongertman is a mother, student, neighbour, dreamer, optimist, noticer of others, and expert volunteer. Bobbi Jo has a heart to serve others, and it consistently challenges me in my day to day life.

In this interview, Bobbi Jo talks about resiliency, living with gratitude, ways she actively serves her community, the simplicity of coming alongside others, her big dreams, and challenges us all to notice others better.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to SERVE? I’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Aug 24, 202154:24
The Courage to MENTOR - Matt Eckert

The Courage to MENTOR - Matt Eckert

Matt Eckert is a father, grandfather, uncle, pastor, author, biker, coach, visionary, and consultant for Deliberate U. He has lived and breathed mentorship for the past few decades from both the standpoint of mentoring others, and being mentored himself.

In this interview, Matt talks about the importance of doing a variety of things to stay creative, the courage to be vulnerable, the importance of engaging with Scripture, why he chooses to always mentor someone in their 20’s, and throws a spin on how courage could be defined.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to MENTOR? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Aug 17, 202101:16:59
The Courage to CULTURAL DUALISM - Haneen Bishara

The Courage to CULTURAL DUALISM - Haneen Bishara

Haneen Bishara is a daughter, student, harp player, thrifter, Egyptian, deep thinker, and a dear friend.

In this interview, Haneen talks about not fitting a mold, the difference between communal and individualistic living, listening to the older generation, the impact of labels, and dealing with people who make you feel unsure about yourself.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to CULTURAL DUALITY? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

Instagram: oliviamsmit
Facebook: Olivia Smit

Aug 10, 202101:17:49
The Courage to TRY - Jay Gurnett

The Courage to TRY - Jay Gurnett

Jay Gurnett is a husband, father, grandfather, church planter catalyst, house renovator, and Associate Director with Vision Ministries Canada. Jay is not afraid to experiment and spends his life in constant change. And considering his role with church planting in Canada, it made for a perfect combination to talk about the courage to TRY.

In this interview, Jay talks about why he loves renovating houses, the gift of Spiritual gifts, working with church planters, listening to God, prayer, and why God cares more about our hearts than doing things perfectly.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to TRY? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Aug 03, 202101:21:29
The Courage to ADVENTURE - Vladimir & Nadya Shupta

The Courage to ADVENTURE - Vladimir & Nadya Shupta

Vladimir and Nadya Shupta are a husband and wife duo who have lived through some unique experiences all around the world. They were the perfect couple to talk about what it means to live an adventurous life, and how courage plays into that.

Vladimir and Nadya talk about the many countries they’ve lived in, the wild story of their middle child’s birth, how they’ve learned to embrace rather than resist, the importance of our attitudes, and how their faith impacts their everyday life.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to ADVENTURE? We’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

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Facebook: Olivia Smit

Jul 27, 202101:13:35
The Courage to IMAGINE - Preston Pouteaux

The Courage to IMAGINE - Preston Pouteaux

Preston Pouteaux is a husband, father, church planter, author, bee keeper, and a promoter of community. Preston imagines deeply but it is rooted out of intentional listening and seeking of opportunities, which makes him such a great person to talk to about the courage to imagine!

In this interview, Preston talks about building strong communities, creating a city sculpture, attentive listening, bee keeping, gardening, storytelling, and living ordinary lives in an extraordinary way. It’s sure to inspire us all.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to IMAGINE? I’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert

ALSO, Olivia’s book is out! Find HEARING LIES anywhere books can be found.

And follow her here to stay up to date on all the writing projects she works on:

Instagram: oliviamsmit
Facebook: Olivia Smit

Jul 20, 202101:09:57
The Courage to ADVOCATE - Sanna Karosas

The Courage to ADVOCATE - Sanna Karosas

Sanna Karosas is a wife, mother, educator, advocate, and a Swedish living in Lithuania. Sanna and her husband have 5 kids, and the two youngest both have Down Syndrome. Knowing some of the barriers they would face, Sanna has really stepped into the courage to advocate as she strives to educate others about Down Syndrome.

In this interview, Sanna talks about the different generational perspectives, the power of a supportive community, the impact of showing that people with disabilities live relatable lives, why the Lithuanian culture perceives disabilities the way they do, and her experience of being a foreigner in a new land.

What was your takeaway from The Courage to ADVOCATE? I’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert
Email: madisoneckert@gmail.com

Jul 13, 202101:02:11
The Courage to LEAD - Adrian Del Monte

The Courage to LEAD - Adrian Del Monte

Adrian Del Monte is a husband, father, high school English teacher, podcaster, director of SLAM (a leadership program for students), and Executive Director of Hopes Rise. All that being said, Adrian lives and breathes leadership, and understands the courage it requires to lead well.

In this interview, Adrian talks about the potential he sees in Gen Z, the importance of holding the tensions, servant leadership in the mundane, how he leads himself amidst leading others, and so much more. He also shares many great book recommendations, so if you’re looking to add some good reads to your bookshelf, Adrian has you covered!

What was your takeaway from The Courage to LEAD? I’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert
Email: madisoneckert@gmail.com

Jul 06, 202101:04:41
The Courage to GROW - Olivia Zendo
Jul 01, 202138:17
The Courage to DIVE IN - Madison Eckert
Jun 29, 202137:17
The Courage to PODCAST

The Courage to PODCAST

As I began the process of putting this little project together, I asked myself what my "why" was - and just in case I ever forgot, I decided to record it so I have something to go back to always remember. 

Curious as to some of my "whys"? Here's a glimpse. 

I’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way, or even any questions you have for me.

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert
Email: madisoneckert@gmail.com

Jun 24, 202108:31
The Courage to BE CURIOUS

The Courage to BE CURIOUS

Welcome to The Courage To podcast! This podcast is all about hearing people's stories of courage, but it's going to take courage on our part to be curious. 

Season 1 will be a total of 8 interviews with people from all around the world exemplifying courage in some form. I'm learning lots from them, and I so much believe you will too that I decided the conversations were worth recording. 

I’d love to hear what you learn and discover along the way, so don't hesitate to reach out!

Instagram: madi.eckert
Facebook: Madison Eckert
Email: madisoneckert@gmail.com

Jun 22, 202104:56