Deconstruction can be a daunting word, especially when it comes to faith. But what if this process of questioning and unlearning could be a gateway to a more authentic and profound connection with God? In our latest podcast episode, Ivelisse Page sits down with psychologist, spiritual guide, and author Kristi Gaultiere to unpack the concept of faith deconstruction and how it leads to healthy reconstruction.

Kristi, co-author of Journey of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Growth, describes faith deconstruction as a natural, albeit challenging, part of the spiritual journey. Life’s trials, like illness, loss, or personal crises, often shake the foundational “bricks” of our beliefs. However, these moments are opportunities to rebuild a faith rooted in trust and love for Jesus.

Understanding the “Wall”
Kristi introduces the concept of “The Wall,” a stage in spiritual growth when doubt and dryness creep in. It’s not uncommon for life’s difficulties—such as a cancer diagnosis—to test even the strongest faith. While this experience can feel disorienting, Kristi emphasizes that it is also an invitation to grow.

“Deconstruction can be an opportunity to get emotionally honest with God, ourselves, and others. It’s a chance to rebuild a healthy and deeply rooted faith.” – Kristi Gaultiere

Biblical Examples of Deconstruction
Many heroes of the Bible faced their own “walls.” Moses questioned his calling, Nicodemus sought clarity about Jesus’ teachings, and Paul underwent a profound transformation on the road to Damascus. Even Jesus experienced testing in the wilderness and the Garden of Gethsemane. These stories remind us that questioning and seeking are not signs of weak faith but essential steps in spiritual growth.

How to Reconstruct Faith
Reconstructing faith after deconstruction involves tethering oneself to the truth of Christ while being open to reexamining beliefs. Kristi highlights four key anchors for this process:

1. Scripture – Rooting yourself in the Bible for guidance and truth.
2. Reason – Using discernment to evaluate beliefs.
3. Experience – Reflecting on moments of God’s grace and provision.
4. Tradition – Drawing from the wisdom of thousands of years of Christian faith.

Kristi also encourages individuals to remember past experiences of God’s faithfulness. “Looking back at how God has worked in your life can be a powerful reminder of His presence and goodness,” she shares.

Supporting Others in Their Journey
For those walking alongside someone experiencing a season of deconstruction, Kristi advises empathy, patience, and prayer. Avoid quick fixes or judgment, and instead, offer a listening ear and gentle encouragement.

“It’s not our job to fix others. It’s our job to walk with them, reflecting God’s grace and compassion.” – Kristi Gaultiere

Hope Beyond the Wall
The journey through the wall can lead to deeper intimacy with God, transformative healing, and renewed purpose. Whether you’re navigating your own doubts or supporting someone else, remember that God is present and faithful, guiding every step.

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Rethinking Cancer: Insights from Dr. Tom Cowan’s Unique Perspective

In the latest episode of the Believe Big podcast, Ivelisse Page delves deep into the unconventional yet profound insights of Dr. Tom Cowan, a celebrated author and alternative medicine doctor. Dr. Cowan has spent decades challenging the traditional medical narratives surrounding cancer, urging patients to question everything they’ve been told about the disease.

Dr. Cowan’s primary assertion is that a diagnosis isn’t a definitive statement of one’s condition but rather a narrative that may be deeply flawed. He suggests that the conventional understanding of cancer—as a mutation-driven disease where rogue cells invade the body—misses the bigger picture. Instead, he presents cancer as an adaptive response by the body, a way to compartmentalize toxins and prevent them from causing more harm.

This perspective radically shifts how we view treatment. Rather than attacking the body with more toxins, as conventional oncologists often do, Dr. Cowan advocates for holistic approaches that reduce the toxic load on the body and support its natural healing processes. Methods such as mistletoe therapy, high-dose IV vitamin C, and various detoxification practices align with his philosophy of “taking out the garbage” rather than adding to it.

In the podcast, Dr. Cowan shares his belief that the current surge in cancer diagnoses, particularly among younger people, is not just due to better detection but is also fueled by environmental toxins, stress, and a disconnect from our natural state of health. He encourages a focus on quality—of food, thoughts, and environment—as key to both preventing and healing from cancer.

For those newly diagnosed with cancer, Dr. Cowan’s advice is clear: don’t let the diagnosis define you. Understand that your body is trying to heal itself and that the power to support this healing lies in reducing the intake of harmful substances, embracing nourishing practices, and most importantly, shifting your mindset from one of fear to one of empowerment.

Dr. Cowan’s approach is a call to rethink everything we know about cancer and to take control of our health by aligning with the body’s innate wisdom. His insights are not just revolutionary—they are a beacon of hope for those seeking a different path in their healing journey.

To learn more about Dr. Tom Cowan, visit his website at
http://drtomcowan.com

Suggested Resources:

• BOOK:  The Contagion Myth by Dr. Tom Cowan
• BOOK:  Cancer and the New Biology of Water by Dr. Tom Cowan
• BOOK:  Human Heart, Cosmic Heart by Dr. Tom Cowan
• BOOK:  Radical Hope by Dr. Kelly Turner
• Dr. Cowan’s Garden
• The New Biology Clinic
• The New Biology Curriculum
• PubMed

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

Keeping pets healthy goes beyond basic checkups and pet store food! In this episode of the Believe Big Podcast, Dr. Judy Jasek, an integrative veterinarian with over 35 years of experience, dives into holistic approaches to pet health that focus on nutrition, natural therapies, and reducing unnecessary medical interventions. Here are five takeaways that can help you give your pets a healthier, happier life.

1. Good Nutrition is Key to Your Pet’s Health

“Like us, our pets are dealing with a toxic world. Feeding them fresh, balanced diets can significantly reduce their toxic load and help them fight disease.” — Dr. Jasek

Many pets suffer health problems due to processed kibble, which is loaded with carbohydrates. Dr. Jasek recommends a fresh food diet, ideally raw, to support pets’ natural health. By investing in quality food now, pet owners can help prevent costly medical issues down the line.

2. Integrative Medicine Treats the Whole Pet, Not Just Symptoms

“Conventional medicine often addresses symptoms instead of the underlying health of the pet. Integrative care supports the body’s natural healing abilities.” — Dr. Jasek

Integrative veterinary care is all about helping the pet’s body heal itself. Dr. Jasek explains that instead of being “on the attack” against diseases with drugs and chemicals, integrative medicine supports the body’s immune system through natural remedies, like herbal medicine and homeopathy.

3. Natural Cancer Therapies Like Mistletoe Can Improve Quality of Life

“Mistletoe therapy can help manage aggressive cancers and improve quality of life, often enhancing a pet’s appetite and comfort.” — Dr. Jasek

Dr. Jasek uses mistletoe therapy as part of her holistic approach to cancer care. This therapy helps boost pets’ energy levels and comfort, even in advanced cancer stages. Mistletoe is also easy for pet parents to administer at home, reducing stress for both the pet and the owner.

4. Ozone Therapy for Oxygenation and Healing

“Ozone therapy oxygenates tissues and boosts immune function, creating a less favorable environment for disease.” — Dr. Jasek

For pet parents interested in taking a proactive approach, Dr. Jasek recommends ozone therapy, which oxygenates cells and boosts the immune system. This therapy is especially helpful for pets with cancer, as it can be administered easily at home using a simple kit.

5. Finding the Right Integrative Vet for Your Pet’s Needs

“Having a vet who respects your choices and understands holistic care can make all the difference. Take time to find one before an emergency arises.” — Dr. Jasek

Not every vet will support an integrative approach. Dr. Jasek advises pet owners to visit the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) website, where they can find holistic vets nearby. Meeting a potential vet beforehand can save time and stress when your pet needs immediate care.

By adopting some of these integrative practices, pet owners can help their pets live longer, healthier lives. For more insights, tune in to the full podcast with Dr. Jasek on Believe Big.

Navigating cancer treatment can often feel like stepping into an unknown world, where the balance between medical care and inner healing becomes an overwhelming challenge. In our latest episode of the Believe Big podcast, we’re honored to welcome Kristi Gaultiere, a compassionate psychologist and spiritual guide, to share her journey and insights with us. Kristi joins Ivelisse Page, Believe Big’s co-founder and a resilient stage IV colon cancer survivor, to talk about her and her husband’s book, Journey of the Soul. Together, they explore how to find emotional and spiritual grounding during life’s most trying times.

Kristi and Ivelisse dive into the importance of building resilience—not just physically, but spiritually—for anyone facing a health crisis. For those moments when faith feels out of reach, Kristi shares gentle yet powerful ways to connect with God. Through “spiritual rhythms” like prayer, quiet retreats, and fasting, they explain how these practices can offer a sense of peace and purpose, even when things feel overwhelming. Many of our Believe Big listeners will find reassurance in knowing that cancer treatment doesn’t have to consume every aspect of life; it can be paired with supportive, grounding practices that help bring clarity and calm.

This episode is more than a conversation about health; it’s an invitation to listen—to God’s voice and to your own heart. Kristi’s wisdom encourages us to find strength and serenity beyond the medical journey. She also offers compassionate, practical advice on seeking God’s guidance when difficult choices arise, helping us all to take steps forward with peace and trust.

Spiritual Rhythms refer to intentional practices that help create a deeper connection with God, nurturing emotional and spiritual health. Kristi Gaultiere describes how spiritual rhythms can help people—especially those facing life challenges like cancer—by fostering peace, resilience, and a closer relationship with God. Here’s a breakdown of the spiritual rhythms discussed:

1. Prayer as a Foundation
   Prayer is essential for spiritual health, providing a direct line to connect with God, seek guidance, and express gratitude. It reinforces trust and faith, becoming a daily anchor for one’s spiritual life.
2. Rhythms of Solitude and Silence
   Regular moments of solitude and silence offer deep reflection and a chance to hear God’s guidance, free from life’s distractions. Solitude brings clarity, peace, and reconnection with faith.
3. Community Support and Safe Relationships
   Alongside solitude, supportive community interactions are essential. Engaging with others who offer understanding and empathy provides mutual encouragement and helps process thoughts and emotions, strengthening the journey.
4. Rest and Retreat for Restoration
   Rest and regular retreats—whether daily, quarterly, or annually—allow individuals to reset spiritually. Stepping away from daily routines for focused spiritual time refreshes one’s spirit and brings peace, preparing them to approach challenges with new strength.
5. Listening to God’s Voice
   Cultivating the ability to discern God’s voice involves practicing silence, engaging with scripture, and paying attention to experiences where He might be speaking. Using a GPS approach—God’s Word, Providence, and Spirit—can help confirm that insights align with God’s guidance.
6. Practicing Fasting for Spiritual Clarity
   Fasting, or temporarily abstaining from food or other comforts, helps shift focus to spiritual needs and strengthens prayer life. This practice reminds individuals of their dependence on God and helps deepen their relationship with Him.
7. Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading)
   Lectio Divina is a contemplative way to read scripture that invites God to speak personally through His Word. By meditating on specific passages, individuals can gain new insights and a stronger personal connection to God’s teachings.

Each of these rhythms fosters a holistic connection with God, balancing the need for personal reflection and community support to strengthen both emotional and spiritual well-being. For those going through treatment or facing other difficult journeys, these spiritual rhythms provide ways to feel grounded, gain strength, and deepen faith.

In this enlightening episode of the Believe Big Podcast, Ivelisse Page interviews Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, Executive Director of Realm of Caring, to delve into the role of cannabis in oncology. Sasha brings her wealth of experience in cannabis advocacy and education to shed light on how cannabis can be an effective tool for cancer patients seeking holistic and plant-based treatments.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Cannabis and Its Benefits for Cancer Patients
Sasha begins by explaining that cannabis is a plant with over 100 cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, which have a wide range of health benefits. She emphasizes that not all cannabis is the same, making it important to source high-quality, tested products. Cannabis can help alleviate cancer-related symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety while potentially offering anti-tumor benefits.

2. The Importance of Sourcing Credible Cannabis Products
As cannabis plants can absorb toxins from the soil, it’s crucial to find products that are third-party tested for purity. Patients should look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure their cannabis is free from pesticides, heavy metals, and other harmful substances.

3. THC vs. CBD: Understanding the Difference
Sasha clarifies the differences between hemp-derived CBD (which contains minimal THC) and cannabis from the marijuana plant. She shares that while THC can be psychoactive, it also has significant therapeutic benefits for pain management and sleep, especially for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

4. Research and Cannabis Use in Oncology
The conversation highlights ongoing research with Johns Hopkins University, where Realm of Caring collaborates on studies exploring how cannabis affects various health outcomes. This research aims to build a stronger scientific foundation for the medicinal use of cannabis.

5. The Role of Medical Teams and Patient Advocacy
Sasha advocates for transparency and collaboration with medical teams when incorporating cannabis into treatment plans. While not all healthcare providers are familiar with cannabis therapies, resources like Realm of Caring help bridge the gap by providing education and connecting patients with reliable products.

6. Personal Stories of Hope
Sasha shares inspiring stories of cancer patients, like one who used cannabis suppositories to manage her colon cancer and achieved remission. These real-life experiences demonstrate how cannabis can serve as an adjunct therapy to conventional cancer treatments.

Final Thoughts

The episode underscores the potential of cannabis as a complementary tool in cancer care, offering relief from treatment side effects and improving quality of life. Sasha encourages patients to do thorough research, consult with their healthcare team, and approach cannabis use with an open mind.

To learn more, listen to the full episode and explore the resources provided by Realm of Caring.

Learn more about Sasha and Realm of Caring:
https://realmofcaring.org/about/who-we-are/

Suggested Resources:

• Realm of Caring
• Realm of Caring Blog – Education
• Realm of Caring Blog – Client Stories
• Charlotte’s Web 
• 55 Plus
• Aspen Green
• NuuMe
• Peaceful Roads
• Long-Term CBD Study

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟