7 Inspiring Lessons from the Believe Big Podcast with Mark Batterson

  1. The Power of Bold Prayers: Mark Batterson, a lead pastor and author, shares how God delights in answering our heart’s deepest desires and God-given dreams through bold prayers. He encourages listeners to pray for things beyond their abilities, resources, and education.
  2. Setting Goals for Health: Mark emphasizes the importance of setting goals to stay in shape. He personally takes on annual challenges like a bike century or a marathon, which not only contributes to his physical health but also strengthens relationships, as he involves his family in these activities.
  3. The Role of Faith in Healing: Mark recounts his personal experience with asthma, which he had for 40 years. Despite decades of praying for healing, it wasn’t until July 2nd, 2016, that he was miraculously healed. He highlights the importance of participating in your own healing journey and combining faith with natural means.
  4. Persistence in Prayer: Mark encourages listeners not to give up on praying for miracles, even if the answers are not immediate. He shares the example of praying for someone who is far from God, emphasizing the need to keep pressing in, praying through, and entrusting it to God’s hands.
  5. The Power of Mind and Belief: Drawing from a study shared by Ivelisse Page, a cancer survivor and podcast host, Mark discusses the impact of our thoughts on our health. He highlights the placebo effect and the importance of nurturing a positive mindset and filling our minds with the capabilities of what God can do.
  6. Honoring God with Big Dreams: Mark emphasizes that nothing honors God more than having a big dream that is beyond our means and abilities. He encourages listeners to step out in faith when God gives them a vision, trusting that God will provide the means to accomplish it. By relying on God, we can’t take credit for the miraculous outcomes, making it clear that it was God’s doing.
  7. Ebeneezer’s Coffee House Miracle: Mark shares the story of Ebeneezer’s Coffee House, a project that seemed impossible but became a reality. Through God’s provision, his church is able to own multiple properties worth $83 million without any debt. This serves as a reminder that God can use the unlikely and accomplish the impossible when we trust in Him.

Listening to the Believe Big podcast and the insights shared by Mark Batterson can inspire and empower individuals to embrace bold prayers, set goals for their health, persist in their faith, and pursue big dreams with unwavering trust in God’s provision. Listen to the full episode below.

 

Read more

Finding Hope in Hard Times

Hope is defined as an optimistic state of mind based on an expectation of positive outcomes; a feeling of trust; or confident expectation.

This week I am joined by author Andrea Herzer and Andrea knows all about hope, growing it and maintaining it.  Andrea shares her story of managing extreme challenges and finding hope in difficult times, primarily through chronic health issues. Despite her hardships, Andrea has been able to find hope and resilience by relying on her faith, leaning on her support system, and focusing on gratitude.

Listen in as Andrea shares her insights and experiences on how to overcome adversity and find hope in life’s toughest moments. She emphasizes the importance of staying positive and focusing on the good things in life, even when things seem bleak. This episode provides an inspiring and uplifting message for listeners who may be going through their own struggles and need some encouragement to keep going.

Connect with Andrea Herzer on her website:
https://www.andreaherzer.com/

Suggested Resource Links:

 

Read more

CANCER EVOLUTION – The Metabolic Therapy Journey

A Discussion on Cancer Treatment and Research

Ivelisse Page, the founder of Believe Big, spoke with cancer survivor and advocate Maggie Jones and her husband Brad, about the importance of being your own advocate when it comes to cancer treatment and research. The conversation centered around the upcoming release of the docu-series, Cancer Evolution, which focuses on the need for more research into integrative cancer treatments. Ivelisse, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in 2013, shared her personal journey and the challenges she faced when seeking alternative treatments. Listen to the full episode below:

Here are some key takeaways from the conversation:

Be Your Own Advocate: When it comes to cancer treatment, it’s important to do your own research and be your own advocate. While doctors and oncologists can provide guidance and advice, ultimately, it’s up to you to make informed decisions about your care.

Seek a Supportive Team: Building a team of supportive doctors and practitioners can be invaluable in navigating cancer treatment. Just as there are different specialties in oncology, there are also specialists in integrative medicine who can provide unique perspectives and treatments.

Embrace Integrative Treatments: Integrative cancer treatments combine conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition, and meditation. While more research is needed in this area, many cancer patients have found relief from side effects and improved quality of life through integrative treatments.

Participate in Research: By participating in clinical trials and research studies, cancer patients can contribute to the advancement of cancer treatments and help future patients access new therapies.

The Cancer Evolution docu-series, set to be released in September, it aims to raise awareness about the need for more research into integrative cancer treatments. By sharing personal stories and insights from experts in the field, the series hopes to inspire patients and caregivers to explore all options when it comes to cancer care.

In conclusion, being your own advocate and seeking a supportive team are essential in navigating cancer treatment. Integrative treatments and participation in research can also provide additional options and hope for cancer patients.

 

Register to stream the premier for free >

 

Join us for the summit, save 20% when you use code: BELIEVEBIG20

Read more

Believe Big’s review of “100 Acts of Love: A Girlfriend’s Guide to Loving Your Friend Through Cancer or Loss”

As an organization that supports cancer patients and their loved ones, we highly recommend “100 Acts of Love” by Kim Hamer. This book is an incredibly helpful and heartfelt guide for anyone who wants to support a friend or loved one through a cancer diagnosis or loss. This book is based on Hamer’s personal experiences of caring for her husband with cancer and the support she received from her friends. Through practical advice and meaningful insights, she helps readers navigate the ups and downs of a cancer journey. From how to be a good listener to creative ways to show your love and support, “100 Acts of Love” is full of practical tips and thoughtful ideas that will help you be there for your friend in a meaningful way.

 

What we appreciate most about this book is that it emphasizes the importance of connection and community in times of difficulty. Hamer encourages readers to lean on their own support networks, while also offering guidance on how to build and strengthen those networks during a challenging time. Overall, “100 Acts of Love” is an essential guide for anyone who wants to show their love and support for a friend or loved one dealing with cancer or loss.

 

Three key takeaways we had after reading it:

 

  1. Small gestures can make a big impact: The book emphasizes that it’s often the little things that matter most when supporting a friend through cancer or loss. From sending a thoughtful text message to making a homemade meal, the book offers many practical suggestions for simple yet meaningful acts of love.

 

  1. Connection and community are crucial: The author emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining strong support networks during times of difficulty. Whether it’s reaching out to family members, joining a support group, or simply spending time with friends, connecting with others can provide much-needed comfort and help alleviate feelings of isolation.

 

  1. It’s okay to not have all the answers: Hamer acknowledges that supporting a friend through cancer or loss can be challenging and that there may not always be easy answers. However, she emphasizes that being present and listening to your friend’s needs is often the most important thing you can do. By showing empathy, compassion, and a willingness to simply be there, you can make a significant difference in your friend’s life.

 

We highly recommend this book to anyone looking for practical advice, heartfelt encouragement, and inspiration on how to be a good friend and a strong source of support in difficult times. You can find it on amazon: https://amzn.to/40pNzzM

Listen to the podcast episode below where we had the pleasure of speaking with Kim Hamer about the book and these important topics.

Read more

Sugar and Its Role in Feeding Cancer Cells

The western American diet is under fire for the amount of sugar we consume on a daily basis.  Overconsumption of sugar creates all sorts of health issues for us and it is a big topic of discussion for everyone these days, especially cancer patients.

In this Believe Big podcast episode, Dr. Lucas Tims of the Riordan Clinic returns for a second time to talk about sugar and the role it plays in cancer.

  • Can consuming sugar increase your risk for cancer?
  • Are there certain types of cancers that are more sensitive to sugar intake?
  • Does sugar affect cancer treatments?
  • Are artificial sweeteners beneficial to someone on a cancer journey?

Dr. Tims answers these questions and talks about how sugar consumption can lead to inflammation in the body.  This inflammation can create an environment that is conducive to cancer growth.   He also discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in nutrients, sharing how he has helped his patients reduce their sugar consumption in their individual health journeys.

You won’t want to miss this enlightening episode!

Connect with Dr. Tims at the Riordan Clinic – Overland Park
https://riordanclinic.org/

Suggested Resource Links:

Read more

Improving Gut Health: Small Dietary Changes Can Make a Big Impact

Believe Big’s latest podcast episode features Dawn Swann, a certified integrative health coach, who discusses the importance of gut health in preventing cancer. Swann shares her personal journey of healing her gut and provides tips on making simple changes in diet to improve overall health. The podcast highlights how the key to optimal health is a process of continual learning and small steps.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the conversation:

  1. Dark chocolate can be beneficial for emotional health, as long as it’s low in sugar and made with a clean sweetener like coconut sugar or coconut oil. Nuts with a higher fat content, like walnuts and macadamia nuts, can also help with emotional health.
  2. Many people have misconceptions about what it means to eat healthy. It’s important to educate ourselves about the hidden sugars and other additives in processed foods and supplements.
  3. Having an integrative practitioner or health coach can be helpful in figuring out what foods are best for your individual body chemistry.
  4. It’s important to be aware of the glycemic index of fruits and to pair them with other foods appropriately.
  5. Eliminating or reducing starch and sugar in your diet can help prevent health issues like insulin resistance, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Listen to the full episode here:

According to Swann, over 70% of our immune system is found in our gut, making gut health crucial for our overall well-being. The food we consume has a direct impact on our gut health, and a poor diet can lead to various health problems. She suggests that one should change their attitude towards food and focus on feeling better rather than just counting calories.

Swann recommends making small changes in the diet that will have a significant impact on gut health. One way to achieve this is by focusing on whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, as they are rich in fiber and other essential nutrients. Another way to improve gut health is by reducing the intake of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats. These foods are known to cause inflammation in the gut, leading to various health problems, including cancer. Swann recommends replacing processed foods with nutrient-dense options such as nuts, seeds, and lean protein.

In addition to dietary changes, Swann suggests that we should focus on improving our sleep patterns. Good sleep is essential for the body to heal and repair itself, and lack of sleep can lead to various health problems, including a weakened immune system. Swann recommends practicing good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, keeping a regular sleep schedule, and creating a relaxing sleep environment.

Lastly, Swann emphasizes the importance of increasing knowledge about nutrition to achieve optimal health. She suggests that we should learn about the nutrients our bodies need and make informed choices about the foods we consume. This will not only improve our gut health but also improve our overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, improving gut health is crucial for our overall health, and small dietary changes can have a significant impact. By focusing on whole foods, reducing processed foods, improving sleep patterns, and increasing knowledge about nutrition, we can achieve optimal health and prevent cancer and other diseases. Incorporating these simple changes into our daily routine can lead to a healthier and happier life.

Connect with Dawn on her website:
http://dawnswann.com/

Suggested Resource Links:

RECIPE – Chocolate Almond Butter Yogurt Bark:

  • 1 1/2 cups unsweetened yogurt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond butter ( or nut butter of choice)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup ( can omit )
  • 1/3 cup chocolate chips ( I use Hu or Lily’s)

Line a sheet pan with parchment paper, then mix first 3 ingredients in a bowl. Spread yogurt mixture onto sheet pan.
Melt chocolate chips in microwave 20 second intervals to avoid burning or in a double boiler, then drizzle onto yogurt mixture and swirl with a knife.
Freeze for about 4 hours then break into bark and enjoy! Store in freezer.

Optional add ons:  shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds or berries.

Read more

5 Health Tips for Healing with Lasers and Rolfing

Chris Hodel is an integrative practitioner who uses low-level laser therapy and rolfing to treat various conditions. Hodel shares with us a health tip on how to stimulate the vagus nerve to promote rest and relaxation. He also explains that rolfing is a type of bodywork that unblocks the body’s fascia, and how he incorporates lasers into his practice to enhance rolfing’s objectives. We will discuss healing at the speed of light and how lasers can be used to heal a variety of conditions from musculoskeletal pain to gut and brain health. Chris discusses his background in rolfing, a type of bodywork that focuses on the fascia, and how he combines this technique with lasers to treat his clients. The episode also includes a health tip from Chris on how to stimulate the vagus nerve to promote rest and relaxation.

5 Health Tips for Healing with Lasers and Rolfing

  1. Get Back to How Our Bodies Heal Themselves: In the information age, we are bombarded by traditional methods that often fall short of supporting our needs. To thrive, we must get back to how our bodies heal themselves naturally.
  2. Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve Daily: The vagus nerve is responsible for 75% of your body’s ability to rest and digest. You can stimulate your vagus nerve every day with a simple reflex called the ocular cardiac reflex. Gently press on your eyeballs for four seconds while taking a deep breath, hold for four seconds, then exhale for four seconds and hold for four seconds. Repeat this 10 times to calm down your nervous system and improve your parasympathetic tone.
  3. Rolfing: Rolfing is a type of bodywork named after Ida Rolf that focuses on fascia and connective tissue to unblock the body and address root causes of pain and dysfunction. Rolfing also addresses emotional and energetic issues that may arise during treatment.
  4. Low Level Laser Therapy: Low level laser therapy uses lasers to heal you from the inside out. Chris Hodel, an integrative practitioner and expert in low level laser therapy, has been using lasers to treat a wide range of conditions from muscular skeletal pain to gut and brain health.
  5. Light, Vibration, PEMF, Manual Therapy, and Exercise: Chris Hodel and his team at 212 Wellness in Fort Collins use a combination of light, vibration, PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy, manual therapy, and exercise to guide your body to healing you didn’t even know was possible. Their passion for human performance and all things biohacking has put them at the forefront of integrative healing.
Connect with Chris at 212° Wellness:
Suggested Resource Links:
Read more

In Integrative and Complementary Medicine, Where Are The Men? – Robin Daly

Men are often “tough” customers when it comes to new options in the world of health and wellness.  That’s a trend that was not lost on Robin Daly when he began digging into the world of integrative and complementary medicine for his daughter. It’s a trend he wants to change.

Men NEED options for their health as much as women, but they are often left out or overlooked, making it difficult for them to do what’s best for themselves.  There is a vulnerability that needs to be exposed for men to help them know their health matters too.

Join me today as Robin and I talk about:

  • why men are less likely to seek complementary care options for their health
  • how men can be better engaged to seek integrative therapy options in a diagnosis
  • where men can go to learn more and be empowered to make strong, personal decisions for their health
  • and so much more

Connect with Robin at Yes To Life:
https://yestolife.org.uk

Suggested Resource Links:

Read more

Surviving a Terminal Brain Cancer Diagnosis – Alison Gannett

It’s been 10 years since Alison Gannett was diagnosed with “terminal” brain cancer and given approximately six months to live.

How has she managed to beat the odds?

Cancer is not a “generalized” disease to be treated like you’re on a conveyor belt.  It’s an “individualized” condition, and Alison credits cancer for waking her up to the root causes of disease that were plaguing her.  She describes her “check engine” light as being on, yet ignored as she tried to push herself and prove herself in life (something we are all guilty of doing whether we have cancer or not).

This incredible story of self-discovery and positivity may be just what you need to hear today.  Join us on today’s podcast as Alison and I talk about the importance of lab testing, knowing and acknowledging your family history, genetic makeup and so much more!

Connect with Alison Gannett:
https://alisongannett.com

Suggested Resource Links:

Read more

Blocking Cancer Pathways with Off-Label Drugs – Jane McLelland

A cancer diagnosis is frightening.  A terminal diagnosis can be absolutely paralyzing.  But when  Jane McLelland was diagnosed with a second aggressive cancer in 1999, classified as terminal, she did not freeze.  Instead she dove headfirst into medical research because she knew she had nothing to lose.

Fast forward to 2021 and find out how Jane is trying to turn the world of oncology on its ear.  She’s not only overcome her diagnoses, but she is thriving and sharing her knowledge that she knows first hand has had a strong, positive impact on her health.

This episode will educate, inspire and encourage anyone who may be on a cancer journey today.  Join me as Jane shares about repurposed/off-label drugs, her Metro Map protocol, the effects of “starving cancer” and so much more!

Connect with Jane on her website:
https://www.howtostarvecancer.com/contact/

Suggested Resource Links:

Listen to the full podcast episode today!

 

Read more
Archives