Grief is messy. So many have described the grieving process as steps that we go through, but in reality, grief takes time and a lot of work in order to navigate and maneuver one’s way through. However, one can experience simultaneous emotions such as gratitude in the midst of one’s grief. Today, we have a very special guest who can speak to the depth of pain and suffering following loss. Seldom in life do you get the chance to meet someone who has a powerful story of overcoming fear, adversity, and tragedy. Even less frequent do you meet someone who can deliver that message with life changing impact. Our guest today, Dustin Rivenbark, is a determined inspirational speaker who is taking his passion for motivating the leaders of today, using stories of inspiration and unwavering faith. Dustin is a keynote speaker for the National Beta Association in which he speaks to thousands of teenagers and future leaders of America on the topic of "Leadership" each year. He speaks to educators and students across the country and has been a part of National Conferences put on by Georgia Southern University as well as Clemson University. Dustin is determined to make a difference in this world, leading community outreach, working in schools and detention centers across the country and has even been recruited to lead his "Path2Purpose" program at Rikers Island prison in New York City. He will stop at nothing to leave "no stone unturned" in lighting a fire within the hearts of men and creating change on this planet. We pray that this conversation would remind you of three things: God loves you, He is for you, and His consistency never fails!

Find out more about Dustin: https://dustinrivenbark.com/

Follow Dustin on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/dustin_rivenbark/

There’s no question that our next generation are facing unique challenges in modern day culture and society today. As it relates to our young adults, a plethora of research has revealed that one of the biggest challenges they face on a daily basis is loneliness. As we always like to remind people of here on the podcast is that loneliness is unfortunately the invisible illness of our day and age and it’s the undiagnosed illnesses that are always the most dangerous and deadly. That being said, we have to help educate, equip, and empower our next generation as to how they can find their hope, purpose, and identity rooted and anchored in Christ while also leaning into the gift of community. Joining us today to do just that is a dear friend and the Young Adult Pastor at Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, VA, Steven Thomas. Steven has been entrusted with a powerful voice to invest and speak into the lives of countless young adults over the years. He is a man who truly encompasses what it means to love God and love people! We pray that this conversation would be life-giving in reminding you that we together we can impact and influence this next generation!

Hear More about Steven’s testimony: https://watch.trbc.org/media/t/1_wobnfset/116662911

Learn More about TRYA: https://trbc.org/engage/adults/young/

TRBC’s Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ThomasRoadChurch

Mike Tyson once said, “Everybody’s got a plan, until they get punched in the mouth.” Let’s be honest, oftentimes life can send some unexpected blows that closely resemble a knockout punch. Things such as the diagnosis of a debilitating disease or health challenge, a crumbling marriage, loss of a job, a prodigal son or daughter, death of a loved one, financial woes, a deferred dream, and so much more can be flat out painful. Things don’t always go our way or the way we wanted or expected them to. Sometimes hard times just keep stacking up on top of each other, and sometimes life just isn’t the way it’s supposed to be. However, I’m reminded of the words of James 1:2-4 which say, “Consider it PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish it’s work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Today, we’re going to be joined by a man who is no stranger to pain and adversity in this life, but a man who has made it his mission to help others rewire and restructure their perspective of and relationship with suffering. Joining us today is the Founder and CEO of Ambition in Mind, host of the AIM Podcast, ultrarunner, and Super-Athlete, Doug Elks. Today, Doug takes the time to share his unique mindset and perspective with you as to why he views suffering as a privilege and a unique opportunity to grow into the man or woman God has destined for you to become. Remember, no matter what you’re going through - don’t just choose to go through it. Choose to GROW through it!

Link to Doug’s Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/dougelks/?hl=en

Link to the AIM Podcast’s Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY8n5GRPbDFvc6DDf72ITyw

Link to the AIM Podcast Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/aim_podcast/