Send a text

Silence can be fertile ground. After five months off the mic, we come back with a plan that finally matches our conviction: design a life skills curriculum for teens, launch a youth nonprofit with Aaron, and weave daily encouragement into the lives of 13–24-year-olds through positive affirmation texts. The path from idea to action wasn’t about finding extra time; it was about telling fear to get out of the driver’s seat.

We walk you through the real work behind building something useful for young people: interview prep that feels natural, resumes that tell a story, financial basics that reduce anxiety, simple tasks like addressing envelopes or writing checks, and mindset training that helps students bounce back. Then we share why we chose a nonprofit model, how we plan to partner with schools and community groups, and what consistent, compassionate messaging can do for a teen on a tough morning. If you’ve been sitting on a vision because someone else already “does that,” this conversation reframes uniqueness as your competitive edge.

There’s also a candid look at boundaries. We talk about quitting the habit of overexplaining, ending people-pleasing, and calling adult bullying what it is. Respecting a clear no protects our energy for the commitments that matter—like mentorship. With two new mentors from a campus leadership program and an upcoming associate’s degree in business management and leadership, we’re aligning structure with spirit, and hustle with health.

Underneath every update is faith: God made only one you. That’s not a slogan; it’s strategy. We hope this story pushes you to make the first brave move—send the email, draft the lesson, book the therapy session, or call the friend you’ve been thinking about. If this resonated, subscribe, share with someone who needs courage today, and leave a review telling us the one step you’ll take this week.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

Taylor Turner, a ninth-grade science teacher and mother of three, shares her transformative journey from struggling with family Bible reading to creating a comprehensive family Bible study. What began as a simple tradition of reading a chapter of Luke daily during December evolved into something much more profound when Taylor realized her family was merely going through the motions without meaningful engagement.

"We'd read the Bible and it felt like we got nothing out of it," Taylor explains, describing how her young daughter would focus more on the advent calendar reward than the scripture itself. This disconnect prompted Taylor to develop a resource that transforms Bible reading into genuine family conversations about faith.

Her Bible study stands apart through its accessibility and practical design. Understanding the intimidation many parents feel about leading spiritual discussions, Taylor incorporated parent tips, conversation starters, and background information using simple Bible translations. "I try to come about it in a perspective of a parent who doesn't really read the Bible as much," she shares. Each chapter includes fill-in-the-blank summaries, memory verses, and family activities—from themed snacks to games that reinforce biblical concepts.

Beyond scripture comprehension, Taylor's study teaches families how to pray meaningfully, moving beyond formulaic approaches to develop authentic communication with God. "I think there's so much hate in this world that if I could choose anything to stand for, it would be love in every situation," Taylor reflects, explaining how her own faith journey informs her approach to teaching children about God's love.

The Bible study represents more than just a published work—it embodies Taylor's passion for breaking generational curses through intentional faith development. As she powerfully states, "We have to train up our kids in the way of the Lord, and it's nobody else's job." Whether you're looking to strengthen your family's faith conversations or begin a new tradition this Christmas season, Taylor's Bible study offers a fresh approach to experiencing scripture together as a family.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

What does it mean to truly stand in your truth? In this deeply personal conversation, host Yanni welcomes Kelci for an exploration of self-worth, boundaries, and authentic connection that will resonate with anyone who's ever struggled to put themselves first.

The raw vulnerability begins immediately as Kelci admits how seeing others succeed serves as her primary motivation—a confession that opens the door to discussing deeper issues of self-confidence and people-pleasing tendencies. "I have all these things that I want to do, and I have it all written down," she shares, "and then I just close the notebook and put it back on my desk." This moment of honesty captures what so many of us experience: the gap between our dreams and our courage to pursue them.

Through a thoughtful game of "Not Really Strangers," the conversation flows naturally through topics that matter—protecting mental health, setting boundaries, and the challenge of answering honestly when someone asks "How are you?" Both women reveal their experiences carrying others' emotional burdens while neglecting their own needs, particularly as oldest siblings who learned early to care for everyone else. When asked what advice she'd give her younger self, Kelci doesn't hesitate: "Put yourself first all the time."

The most powerful moments come when discussing personal growth through life's challenges, including Kelci's journey through. Her story of finding the strength to leave reveals how self-advocacy develops over time—sometimes through painful experiences that ultimately lead to freedom. Whether you're working on establishing boundaries, finding your voice, or reconnecting with your worth, this conversation offers both comfort and courage for the journey ahead.

Ready to start prioritizing yourself without guilt? Listen now and discover what might be possible when you finally put yourself at the top of your own list.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

What happens when life's disappointments lead to unexpected blessings? Lupita Navarrete never imagined she'd make history as Ector County's first Hispanic District Clerk, but her journey through divorce, single motherhood, and professional setbacks prepared her for exactly this role.

The conversation begins with Lupita sharing how her nine-year-old son motivates everything she does, though "he has no idea the impact he's made in my life." As a recovering people-pleaser, she discusses her ongoing struggle with boundaries and how running serves as her primary form of self-care. When faced with rejection, Lupita has learned to look for the lesson rather than dwell on disappointment – a mindset that proved crucial throughout her life.

Divorce became the defining turning point in Lupita's story. Married at 19 to her high school sweetheart, she found herself divorced at 25 and navigating life as a single mother. The experience brought shame in her traditional Hispanic community but ultimately shaped her into who she is today. "I wouldn't be who I am without it," she reflects with surprising gratitude. Through therapy and personal growth, she transformed self-destructive coping mechanisms into resilience.

Her professional journey contains equally powerful lessons. After years working in the legal field, previous career disappointments suddenly made sense when the District Clerk position opened. Initial self-doubt nearly stopped her – "I'm Hispanic, I'm little, I'm a single mom" – until she recognized the opportunity as an answer to prayers she didn't even know she had. Now making history in her county, she sees how God's plan exceeded anything she could have envisioned for herself.

Whether you're facing divorce, career uncertainty, or any significant life transition, Lupita's story reminds us that closed doors often lead to better opportunities. Sometimes the puzzle pieces of our lives only make sense in retrospect, revealing a picture more beautiful than we could have imagined.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

Breaking free from people pleasing isn't just about learning to say no—it's about reclaiming your authentic self after years of self-abandonment. As someone who recently emerged from the clutches of prioritizing everyone else's needs and opinions, I've discovered that the journey doesn't end when you make the decision to change.

The residue of people pleasing lingers in unexpected ways. You might still shrink yourself even when you have valuable insights to share. You could feel responsible for emotions that aren't yours to carry. You might replay conversations wondering if you disappointed someone. These thought patterns don't disappear overnight, but recognizing them is the first step toward washing them away for good.

What I've learned most profoundly is that healing takes time, but every act of self-honor moves you forward. When you say no without explaining, when you rest instead of performing, when you express your true feelings without apology—you're reclaiming pieces of yourself that were lost in the pursuit of others' approval. The beautiful outcome? Rediscovered confidence, authentic relationships that survive your boundaries, and the profound self-respect that comes from no longer abandoning yourself to be liked. Yes, some people won't understand your transformation. Yes, you might face temporary loneliness before finding alignment. But the freedom waiting on the other side is worth every uncomfortable moment of growth. Remember, you're never truly alone on this journey—God walks beside you, and authentic connections await when you show up as your true self.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

What does motherhood really mean when you don't have children of your own? I'm diving into this question from my personal perspective as a married woman without kids who's still figuring out if biological parenthood is part of my journey.

The biblical instruction to "be fruitful and multiply" often gets brought up in conversations about having children. But looking deeper, I've found powerful meaning by breaking it down: "be" (to exist), "fruitful" (exhibiting the fruits of the spirit like love, joy, peace), and "multiply" (to increase). This reframing has shown me that nurturing the next generation extends far beyond having biological children.

Through my experience mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters, I've discovered the profound connection that forms when you consistently show up for a child who isn't biologically yours. Despite knowing my "little sister" for just over a year, I find myself deeply invested in her wellbeing – attending her events, responding when her mother needs help, and including her in my daily prayers. This relationship has taught me that motherhood isn't confined to biological connections – it's about the heart's capacity to nurture and champion a young person's growth.

For those longing for children but still waiting, I encourage you to start mothering now. Volunteer, mentor, or invest in the children already in your life. Every child I've connected with has drawn something out of me I didn't know I needed or possessed. They've helped me heal and grow in unexpected ways. We all have something inside us that this world needs – don't let fear stop you from sharing it. Whether you're a biological mother, aunt, godmother, teacher, or mentor, your contribution to raising the next generation matters profoundly. You're seen, you're heard, and you're an essential part of the village.

Follow us on Facebook at Standing in your Truth Podcast with Yanni and on Instagram at Talks with Yanni to join our community of truth-seekers and nurturers.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

What happens when a mother who was told she'd never conceive defies the odds, only to face the devastating loss of a pregnancy and spiral into addiction? In this heart-wrenching yet hopeful episode, guest April Morales bares her soul about her complex journey through motherhood.

April's story begins with a PCOS diagnosis and doctors telling her childbearing would be impossible. When she miraculously conceived at 25, one year into sobriety, it seemed life had turned around. But after having three beautiful children, tragedy struck when she lost a pregnancy at five-and-a-half months. This loss triggered overwhelming grief that led to relapse and separation from her children.

"I thought I did something wrong," April reveals, describing how depression and addiction took everything from her. But this isn't where her story ends. Through raw vulnerability, she shares how therapy, spiritual reconnection, and the unwavering love of her children guided her through recovery and reunion with her family.

What makes this conversation particularly powerful is April's ability to find meaning in her darkest moments. Now, she uses her experiences to support others facing similar struggles. "If you're hearing this for a reason, make contact," she urges listeners who might feel invisible or alone in their pain.

The episode offers profound reflections on community, divine timing, and how being seen can change someone's entire day. April's perspective on motherhood extends beyond biological children to nurturing anyone who crosses our path—a reminder that we all have opportunities to make meaningful connections daily.

Whether you've experienced loss, addiction, or simply moments of feeling completely alone, this conversation offers both comfort and courage. April's journey proves that healing is possible, and sometimes our most painful chapters become the source of hope for others walking similar paths.

Leave a comment sharing how this episode impacted you or reach out if you need prayer or support. Remember: you are loved, you are seen, you are enough.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Send us a text

When Savannah Woodward met her firefighter husband nine years ago, she never imagined how deeply his profession would shape their family life. From navigating 48-hour shifts to explaining daddy's absence to their curious 4-year-old son, the challenges of a first responder family require constant adaptation and unwavering faith.

Savannah's journey took an unexpected turn when they relocated to West Texas with their one-year-old son. "I was so against moving here," she admits, fearing the loss of her entire support system. Yet this leap into the unknown transformed their lives completely. "I attribute one of our greatest successes as a family to moving out here," she shares, highlighting how the community's entrepreneurial spirit and accessibility created opportunities they never would have found in their hometown.

Throughout our conversation, Savannah candidly discusses her struggle with postpartum depression, the resentment she initially felt toward her husband's absences, and the evolution of her priorities from career advancement to finding balance. "I'm motivated by making sure I'm not in burnout constantly anymore," she explains, reflecting on her journey toward intentional self-care and setting boundaries between work and home life.

Perhaps most powerful is Savannah's perspective on the values her son gains from being raised in a first responder family. From compassion and selflessness to gratitude and consideration for others, these lessons provide a silver lining to the missed birthdays and rearranged holidays. "He admires Justin so much," she says of her son's relationship with his father, "and Justin is teaching him incredible values he wouldn't have gotten if he wasn't in a first responder family."

For anyone navigating the complexities of parenthood while supporting a partner with demanding responsibilities, Savannah offers a simple yet profound message: "Give grace. We're all just trying to figure it out." Her story reminds us that behind every hero in uniform stands a family making countless sacrifices, finding strength through faith, and building their village wherever life takes them.

Support the show

Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Kcug7eVXX/?mibextid=wwXIfr