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November 2024

His Side S01e10 – Deflection – The Tool for Dodging Difficult Conversations

His Side, PodCasts /

In this insightful episode of HisSide on the StrongHome Network, host Jeff Reed gets into a topic that often goes unspoken—deflection—with licensed therapist, Lawrence Franklin and producer, JayCee Slade. Together, they explore what deflection really is, why it’s often used, and how it can sometimes be a man’s way of navigating conversations when honesty feels unsafe or challenging.

They break down why deflection can become a go-to tool for avoiding uncomfortable topics, shifting the focus away from personal vulnerability, and protecting emotions in the heat of a tough discussion. Jeff, Lawrence, and JayCee give real-life examples and insights into why many men feel they aren’t allowed to be fully open and honest in conversations, and how this can lead to creative “escape routes” like deflection.

Join the conversation to learn about the subtle art of deflection and its effects on communication and relationships. Remember to like, follow, and subscribe to the StrongHome Network for more episodes of HisSide and other powerful content!

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His Side S01E11 – Reimagining Holiday Service: A Man’s Role in Giving

His Side, PodCasts /

The holidays are often a season of giving, but for many families, the weight of serving falls disproportionately on women. From preparing meals to decorating the house, hosting guests, and managing the holiday chaos, women are expected to give endlessly while men often take a backseat, simply receiving.

In this eye-opening episode of *HisSide* on the StrongHome Network, host Jeff Reed and guest Dr. Jason Plunkett challenge men to rethink what it means to serve during the holidays. They explore the true heart of service—not for accolades or tradition, but as an intentional act of love.

Drawing on the five love languages, they discuss why serving isn’t just about doing—it’s about the posture of your heart. They remind men that serving isn’t solely a woman’s responsibility and emphasize that real leadership often means stepping up to lighten the load in ways that might not come naturally. Whether it’s helping in the kitchen, leading with grace during family gatherings, or showing gratitude through action, this season offers the perfect opportunity for men to serve differently.

Dr. Plunkett and Jeff also unpack how childhood experiences and societal norms influence how we approach serving, often reinforcing unhealthy dynamics. But this year, it’s time to rewrite the script. What if men served their families and loved ones with humility and intention, modeling Christ-like love instead of passively observing?

This powerful conversation is a call to action for men to re-examine their role during the holidays and step into a new level of purpose, service, and leadership in their homes.

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Start a new tradition this holiday season: Serve with a heart of love, not out of obligation. Like, comment, and share this episode to inspire others!

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Wounds in the Way | The Maturity of Men with Mike Hill S01E09

PodCasts, Wounds in the Way /

In this compelling episode of Wounds in the Way on the StrongHome Network, hosts Apryl Jones and Melissa Reed sit down with special guest Actor and TV Personality, Mike Hill to tackle the journey of male maturity and the struggles that often come with it. Mike, known for his candid nature, opens up with full transparency about his own story—admitting he didn’t reach true maturity until he was over 40. He reflects deeply on his past relationships, including marriages to three wives, one of whom was supermodel Cynthia Bailey, and reveals how immaturity led to broken trust and infidelity.

As he shares how these challenges impacted his connection with his daughters and was almost the demise of their relationship, Mike describes a turning point in his life where he committed to making lasting, positive changes. He credits a portion of his personal growth and increasing faith to his spiritual connection with Apryl, who helped guide him to church and encouraged his journey toward a stronger relationship with God.

In this episode, they also take on the question: Should a man leave behind his female friends when he finds his wife? And should a woman do the same with her male friends when committed to a man? Tune in for an honest, heartfelt discussion that dives into real-life experiences, spiritual growth, and the journey toward authentic, lasting maturity.

🔥 Don’t miss this impactful conversation! Like, follow, and subscribe to the StrongHome Network to stay updated on more episodes of Wounds in the Way and other great content.

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Holiday Vibe Check

Focused Individual, LUV Youniversity /

Thanksgiving is the season of gratitude, but let’s be real — life doesn’t automatically feel amazing just because it’s the holidays. School might feel like it’s dragging, friendships can get messy, or things might just feel “meh.”

Here’s the thing: even when life isn’t perfect, taking a minute to count your blessings can change your whole perspective. It doesn’t have to be big stuff — think about your favorite song, a friend who always checks in, or a cozy hoodie you love. Noticing the good things, even the little ones, makes your day feel brighter.

And don’t forget — you can be a blessing to someone else too! A simple act of kindness, like a compliment or helping someone out, can make someone’s day. It’s a win-win: you spread positivity and feel more grateful in the process.

So, this Thanksgiving, take a moment to appreciate what’s good in your life and find ways to spread those good vibes. Gratitude isn’t just for the holidays — it’s a game-changer all year round.

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The Gratitude Effect : Discovering the Mental, Emotional, and Physical Benefits of Blessing Counting

Focused Individual, LUV Youniversity /

A few years ago, I made a life-changing decision: I chose to focus on the positive instead of the negative. That simple shift — choosing gratitude — has profoundly impacted my life and those around me. I learned that it’s impossible to be thankful and negative at the same time because gratitude changes our perspective. It brings joy, optimism, and peace into our hearts, transforming situations for the better.

Expressing thankfulness enhances our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. It strengthens relationships, improves mental health, and can even boost physical health by reducing stress and improving sleep. Most importantly, counting our blessings welcomes God into our lives, grounding us in His promises. As 2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us, God blesses us abundantly so we can thrive in all things, at all times. When we shift our focus to gratitude, we unlock peace, renewed energy, and strength to stay on the path God has set before us.

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Grateful Gains: A Financial Perspective on Gratitude

Finances /

In the fast pace of managing finances, it’s easy to focus on what we lack or the pressures we face. But practicing financial gratitude can transform not only our mindset but also our money management. When we pause to appreciate what we have — a roof over our heads, food on the table, or financial progress like paying off debt — we cultivate contentment and make more intentional financial choices.

Gratitude helps us celebrate milestones, reduce financial anxiety, and curb impulsive spending by shifting our focus to what truly matters. Financial health isn’t just about numbers; it’s about appreciating the journey and finding peace in knowing we’ve made progress. By counting our financial blessings, we empower ourselves to manage resources wisely and move forward with confidence and clarity.

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Reflection: On Body Positivity and Gratitude

Leave a Comment / Fitness /

In a world that often encourages us to focus on perceived flaws, it’s easy to fall into the trap of critiquing our own appearance. We begin the day by zeroing in on the areas we’d like to change, whether it’s our waistline, the fine lines on our face, or those little imperfections we wish could disappear. However, what if we shifted our mindset? Instead of starting the day with self-criticism, let’s begin with gratitude for our bodies. Every day, our bodies do incredible things—things we often take for granted, like moving, breathing, and healing. This November, let’s choose to celebrate the strength, mobility, and resilience that we often overlook, acknowledging the everyday blessings of our health and fitness. Whether it’s walking, playing, or simply feeling the sensation of touch, let’s take a moment to appreciate what our bodies do for us. After all, a positive body mindset starts with recognizing our worth, just as we are.

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A Heart Full of Thanks: Celebrating God’s Everyday Goodness

Leave a Comment / Faith /

In a world where heartbreak and disappointment seem to dominate conversations about love, it’s easy to feel hopeless. But all is not lost. Love is still alive and ever-present if we simply seek Him.

This Thanksgiving, I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering presence of God in my life. People may fail us, friendships may fade, and even the closest relationships can break — but God never fails. He listens when I speak, comforts me in my struggles, and reminds me that I am never alone.

Knowing God personally brings peace in moments of uncertainty and hope when life feels overwhelming. His promises, faithfulness, and love are constant, even when everything else shifts.

So, I ask you — do you know Him that way? And if so, aren’t you grateful?

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10 Ways To Show Appreciation

Leave a Comment / Family /

Family plays a vital role in our lives, offering us emotional support, a sense of belonging, and physical strength. Sometimes, we take them for granted, forgetting how precious their presence is in our day-to-day lives. Whether it’s a traditional family or a chosen family of friends bound by love, the connection we share with those closest to us is a blessing. They’re there to celebrate our victories, provide comfort during tough times, and help us grow into the people we are meant to be.

Taking a moment to express gratitude for family can deepen our relationships and strengthen the bond we share. Simple acts like sending a text to check in, planning a game night, or reflecting on shared memories can make all the difference. Gratitude helps us appreciate not just the big moments, but the everyday acts of love and care that sometimes go unnoticed. Whether through words, actions, or quality time together, acknowledging our family’s importance reminds us of the value of connection, unity, and interdependence.

Family is a blessing that shapes us in ways we may not even realize—reminding us that even through imperfections, the love we share is always worth celebrating.

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Count Your Blessings: Name Them One by One

Editor's Corner /

Ever felt like life is tossing you around like a leaf in a storm? On those “tempest-tossed” days, it’s easy to lose sight of how far you’ve come and the ways you’ve been lifted along the way. That’s when the old wisdom of “counting your blessings” can shift your perspective. The hymn Count Your Blessings reminds us to pause, reflect, and name the ways God has shown up — providing in moments of need, offering comfort in sorrow, and giving strength for the journey. Gratitude isn’t just positive thinking; it’s a grounding practice that turns discouragement into hope. As you count your blessings, you’ll discover that God’s faithfulness brings peace for today and confidence for tomorrow.

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