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Pastor Geno Gardner shares his transformative journey from military service to ministry, revealing how discipleship and trust in God's process unlocks purpose and transforms lives. His DEA model (Discipleship, Evangelism, Apologetics) provides a framework for believers to discover, defend, and develop their faith.

• From passed out drunk to passing the torch: Pastor Geno's pivotal moment in Korea that redirected his life
• Military structure providing the foundation for ministry leadership and manhood
• Marriage as a training ground for discovering authentic manhood
• The critical difference between being a Christian and being a disciple of Christ
• How the Lion's Den ministry connects 94 men across six states for spiritual growth
• Saying "yes" to God's calling even when it means relocating family and facing uncertainty
• The power of allowing Christ to change behavior without changing personality
• Three words for finding purpose: "Trust the process"

To learn more about Pastor Geno's upcoming book for men's development or to connect with the Madman Podcast and other ministry resources, follow his work through Rehoboth Church in Birmingham, Alabama.

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Kelli Proctor shares her journey from valedictorian attorney to minister and author, revealing how embracing life's storms led to discovering her purpose as an encourager. Through authentic conversation, she illuminates how returning to childhood passions helped her fulfill her calling to bring light to others.

• Finding comfort in your authentic identity rather than pursuing careers for money or prestige
• Overcoming significant challenges during law school including 9/11 and housing instability
• Using discipline and perseverance to graduate as valedictorian despite obstacles
• The pandemic creating both urgency and space to pursue creative projects
• Writing the book and companion album "Help Me Welcome the Storm"
• Discovering ministry through small steps of obedience and overcoming insecurity
• The importance of being comfortable with yourself before pursuing relationships
• Learning to believe bigger and shine your light in increasingly dark times
• Building a relationship with God as the foundation for discovering purpose

Find Kelli's book "Help Me Welcome the Storm" and companion album on Amazon, Spotify, and YouTube.

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Dr. LaToya Abrams shares her unexpected journey from aspiring backup dancer to accomplished counselor, professor, and business owner. Her path was shaped by personal connections to mental health challenges and a desire to increase representation for Black Americans in the counseling field.

• Originally wanted to be a backup dancer and choreographer before switching from business to psychology
• Pursued multiple degrees to deepen her knowledge after seeing family members struggle with mental health issues
• Faced challenges as a young Black woman whose competence was often questioned in professional settings
• Developed strategies to maintain boundaries between work and home life to prevent burnout
• Built a private practice after years of working in challenging environments like methadone clinics
• Balances teaching as a tenured track assistant professor with running her own counseling practice
• Lives with multiple sclerosis, which has deepened her understanding of disability and person-centered care
• Emphasizes the importance of knowing the communities you serve and their specific needs

Visit essenceofhealingllc.com to learn more about Dr. Abrams' services and approach to counseling.