In this episode, the speaker, Tommy Thompson, shares his unique career journey from seminary graduate to entrepreneur alongside his brother, and finally a life coach, podcaster, writer, and speaker. He discusses the challenges of integrating faith into the workplace and the importance of authenticity in leadership. Tommy highlights his personal transformation through practicing Sabbath and creating space in his life, especially during his daughter's battle with cancer. He emphasizes the necessity of slowing down and intentionally creating space for rest and reflection to live more purposeful, fulfilling lives. The episode encourages listeners to examine the internal engines driving their burnout and stress and offers insight on how to cultivate a lifestyle that aligns with personal values and faith, even in the face of societal pressures to be perpetually busy.

https://www.needleseye.org/

This podcast shares a personal story of a family's frightening experience with a rogue wave in Sandestin, Florida, which becomes a metaphor for the speaker's message on loneliness and the importance of relationships.

The episode delves into the dangers of loneliness, defined as perceiving oneself as alone, unwanted, and unknown, and the transformative power of companionship, referencing Biblical passages to underline the significance of togetherness.

It introduces the acronym 'CAMS' to discuss the four types of beneficial relationships: Companions, Advisors, Mentees, and Soul Friends, each serving a different purpose in enriching one's life and combating loneliness. Tommy illustrates how these relationships not only provide joy and support but are crucial for personal growth and well-being. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional in cultivating these connections, suggesting practical steps for building and maintaining them, thus advocating for a proactive approach to overcoming loneliness and leading a fulfilled life.

In this episode, Tommy begins by reflecting on the idea that life is lived in context, and that the experiences and environments we are born into shape the people we become and the impact we have on the world. The special guest, Mike Acker, shares his compelling life story, beginning with his unconventional childhood as the son of a drug smuggler father and a witch mother, and how he became a pastor. Mike's narrative takes listeners through his turbulent and extraordinary path, including his family's radical transformation after embracing Christianity, his struggles and adventures growing up in Mexico, and his eventual calling to ministry. After years in pastoral work, Mike faced burnout and transitioned to a successful career in sales, ultimately finding a mission to lead and inspire others, culminating in his work with a Christian poverty relief organization.

The episode emphasizes the importance of living on mission, understanding one's purpose, and making impactful choices, offering insights into how personal context and faith can lead to fulfilling one's potential.

Episode Highlights:

00:54 Introducing Mike Acker: A Story of Transformation

03:45 Mike Acker's Unbelievable Journey: From Drug Smuggling Roots to Pastoral Mission

10:19 Embracing a New Path: Mike's Shift from Mexico to Ministry

15:03 Navigating Career and Identity Shifts: From Ministry to Sales

18:57 Living on Mission: Crafting a Personal Mission Statement

26:57 Embracing Life with Clarity and Purpose

27:43 The Power of a Personal Mission Statement

29:55 The Transformative Impact of Having a Mission

35:35 Addressing the Challenges of Identifying a Life Mission

38:47 Simplifying the Journey: Steps to Discovering Your Mission

47:36 Closing Thoughts: Taking the First Step Towards Your Mission

Connect with Mike:

https://www.mikeacker.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mikeackerdotcom

https://www.youtube.com/c/ADVANCEwithMikeAcker

Connect with Tommy:

https://tommythompson.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-thompson-teacher/

https://twitter.com/tommypthompson

https://www.instagram.com/author_tommythompson/