• EP10: Diving into Listener Questions: Josie & Symone Discuss Their Podcast Journey, Positive Influences, and Life Lessons
    Sep 16 2024

    EPISODE SUMMARY

    In this Bonus episode of the 'Rooted' podcast, hosts Josie and Symone Harms celebrate their 10th episode by addressing listener-submitted questions. Together they discuss the inspiration behind starting their podcast, predominantly influenced by their family life verse Psalm 1:3. They reflect on growing up in a small town, favorite childhood memories including traveling to all 50 states and spending summers at Camp Shetek, and share how camp has shaped their spiritual journeys.


    Together, Josie and Symone delve into personal life advice, discussing the importance of focusing on the positive, living with courage and kindness, and practicing gratitude. Relationship topics such as love languages and the best relationship advice are explored. The episode concludes with Josie and Symone sharing what they love about each other and what they encourage listeners to be rooted in–truth and the acknowledgment of Jesus' constant presence.



    00:00 Setting Up and Introduction

    01:01 Why We Started a Podcast

    03:25 Overcoming Fear and Taking the Leap

    05:21 Growing Up in a Small Town

    07:29 Favorite Childhood Memories

    10:52 Christmas Traditions

    11:46 Impact of Camp on Our Lives

    12:59 Waves of Grace: A Spiritual Reflection

    14:51 The Camp Experience: A Slice of Heaven on Earth

    16:31 Life Advice: Focus on the Positive

    19:41 Favorite Podcasts and Influences

    20:43 Love Languages and Relationship Advice

    24:12 Current Season of Life: Embracing Freedom

    26:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


    -------------------


    NOTABLE QUOTES


    • "The fear of failure almost held us back, but we can't live by fear, we have to live by faith." – Symone
    • "We're not here to just sit and talk about shallow things. What truly matters is eternity." – Josie
    • "The only thing holding us back right now is us. We had to focus on God, not ourselves." – Symone
    • "Waves of grace never stop, even when we're asleep. Just like the ocean waves, God's grace is endless." – Josie
    • "What you focus on will increase—when we focus on the good, our lives reflect that." – Symone
    • "It's not about finding someone to complete you; it's about finding someone who compliments you." – Symone
    • "We’re all on a race toward Jesus, and the right partner will run alongside us at the same pace." – Josie
    • "Jesus is the truth, and the truth will set you free." – Symone


    -------------------


    RESOURCES MENTIONED

    • Sadie Robertson’s Podcast – Whoa That’s Good
    • Craig Groeschel’s Sermons - Life.Church Podcast
    • Ben Stuart’s Book – Single, Dating, Engaged, Married
    • Psalm 1:3 – Josie and Symone's Life Verse


    -------------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


    -------------------




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    28 mins
  • EP9 - Navigating Loss and Grief: Lydia Gessner on Experiencing God’s Love and Joy even in the Midst of Tragedy
    Sep 2 2024

    ABOUT THE GUEST:

    Lydia Gessner recently graduated from Bethel University. Lydia is a creative writing major who harbors aspirations of becoming an author. Known for her resilience and joy, she has navigated personal grief with strength and faith, notably after losing her father to cancer during her adolescence. Lydia is set to step into the role of Development Coordinator at a nonprofit supporting children and families in foster care.


    -------------------


    EPISODE SUMMARY:

    In this episode of “Rooted,” hosts Josie and Symone Harms sit down with Lydia Gessner to discuss navigating life, faith, and grief. Lydia shares her foundational roots in a Christian family, her early acceptance of Jesus, and the impactful experiences of her upbringing. Her deep, personal testimony reveals her journey through her father’s illness and passing, and how those events shaped her faith and understanding of God’s love.

    Lydia delves into the importance of choosing joy, even amidst suffering, drawing on her own struggles and insights. She emphasizes the significance of gratitude lists, finding joy in simple pleasures, and seeking community support. The conversation also touches on vulnerability, the roles of different types of comfort, and how understanding one’s own and others’ grief processes can foster connection and healing. As Lydia transitions to her new role in supporting foster care families, she reflects on the lessons learned from her past and how she plans to apply them in her future endeavors.


    • 00:00 Introduction to Rooted
    • 00:35 Meet Lydia Gesner
    • 01:01 Lydia's Early Faith Journey
    • 02:08 Balancing Denominational Upbringings
    • 04:05 High School Activities and Overcommitment
    • 06:21 Navigating Grief and Finding Joy
    • 15:16 The Power of Vulnerability
    • 19:23 Supporting Others Through Grief
    • 28:20 Looking Ahead: Lydia's Future Plans
    • 34:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


    -------------------


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • Choosing Joy in Hardship: Lydia underscores that true joy can coexist with pain and emphasizes the power of choosing joy, especially on difficult days.
    • Gratitude Practices: Cultivating gratitude through daily lists and finding contentment in small moments can significantly enhance one’s happiness.
    • Power of Vulnerability: Sharing one’s struggles and being honest with close companions and community can be profoundly healing.
    • Effective Support: Simply acknowledging someone’s grief and offering presence, rather than attempting to “fix” their pain, can be the most supportive act.
    • Embracing Unexpected Paths: Lydia’s journey into her new role highlights that sometimes the best opportunities come unplanned, and passion can often outweigh qualifications.


    -------------------


    NOTABLE QUOTES:

    • “We have a God who stepped down from a really comfortable place in heaven to a really uncomfortable place on earth. And that just shows the depth of his love for us.”
    • “True joy can only come on the other side of pain.”
    • “Choosing joy doesn’t always mean ignoring your pain.”
    • “In order to choose joy and actually have true joy, you have to face your suffering.”


    -------------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


    -------------------





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    36 mins
  • EP8 - From Roots to Fruits: Exploring Transformative Well-Being and Individual Wholeness with Dr. Christine Osgood
    Aug 19 2024

    ABOUT THE GUEST:

    Dr. Christine Osgood is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a Master’s of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry. She currently serves as the Director of Wellbeing Initiatives at Bethel University. With over 26 years of experience at Bethel, Dr. Osgood has dedicated her career to understanding the intersection between psychology and spirituality, focusing on human development and transformation.


    -------------------


    EPISODE SUMMARY:

    In this insightful episode, Dr. Christine Osgood discusses the importance of establishing healthy roots to cultivate holistic wellbeing. She delves into the concept of renewal and transformation, highlighting the interconnected nature of intrapersonal and interpersonal wellbeing. By exploring the meaning of shalom as a justice-infused peace, Dr. Osgood encourages listeners to envision a world where all aspects of life flourish.


    Key themes include the significance of renewing the mind for transformation, the practical steps to cultivate wellbeing, and the impact of loving God and loving others in shaping a meaningful life. As Dr. Osgood shares practical advice and personal insights, listeners are inspired to reflect on their thoughts, relationships, and purpose in fostering holistic wellbeing.


    0:01 - Holistic Well Being: Integrating Mind, Body, and Soul

    6:44 - The Interconnectedness of Physical Health and Emotional Well-Being

    11:23 - Unconventional Sleep Aids: YouTube Videos and Bible Reading

    15:19 - Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life Through Faith

    23:13 - Influence and Growth Through Relationships and Community

    26:10 - The Power of Renewing Your Mind and Transforming Your Life

    31:04 - The Expansive Meaning and Practical Application of Shalom

    35:34 - Practical Steps for Cultivating Well-Being and Spiritual Growth


    -------------------


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • Renewal of the mind leads to transformation and growth.
    • Cultivating wellbeing involves a disciplined approach to curate resources and focus on positive habits.
    • Shalom encompasses justice-infused peace and wholeness for all aspects of life.
    • Loving God and loving others are foundational principles for a meaningful and purposeful life.
    • Envisioning a world where all aspects of life flourish guides actions towards renewal and transformation.


    -------------------


    NOTABLE QUOTES:

    • "One of the very first things is going back to our thoughts… What are the words that you put before your mind?”
    • "The essence of who we are can be changed the more our mind is renewed."
    • "I don't have to get filled with despair. I can be transformed. I can be renewed and become something new and different over the course of time."
    • "When I think about wellbeing, I'm thinking about the intrinsic nature of a human and how it is thriving and flourishing in life today."
    • “Actually, we can change our patterns of thinking, our patterns of feeling, all of those things, because of how we change our neural circuitry inside of us.”
    • “Shalom is justice infused peace, wholeness, thriving for all of creation.”
    • “Can you imagine this world being utterly consumed, filled with shalom, where everything is as it should be?”
    • “Are we bringing about what God deeply desires that heaven would look like?”
    • “A well-lived life is truly focused on loving God and loving others.”


    -------------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


    -------------------


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    41 mins
  • Bonus EP - From Small Town to Big Dreams: Josie and Symone Harms Join KJOE Radio and Share their Journey of Rooted Podcast
    Aug 14 2024

    EPISODE SUMMARY

    In this bonus episode, Josie and Symone had the privilege of being invited on the morning show at KJOE radio 106.1. Ryan interviews Josie and Symone Harms, two inspiring sisters who have launched a podcast called 'Rooted.' They delve into their small-town origins, their growth, and the purpose behind their podcast, which is based on the Biblical concept of rooting one's life in God to yield positive 'fruits.' The podcast aims to bring on experts from various fields to discuss how their spiritual roots influence their success. The sisters share their journey from childhood dreams to students at Bethel University, where they felt divinely guided to pursue their podcast. They also talk about overcoming fears, the support from their family, and their future aspirations, including Josie's dream to become the White House press secretary and Symone's hope to work in media. Their story is a testimony of faith, passion, and divine timing.


    00:00 Welcome and Introduction

    00:19 Reconnecting with Old Friends

    00:51 The Birth of the 'Rooted' Podcast

    03:30 Overcoming Fears and Family Support

    05:05 College Decisions and Experiences

    08:39 Future Goals and Aspirations

    12:18 How to Support the Podcast

    12:58 Conclusion and Farewell


    ----------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


    ---------------


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    13 mins
  • EP7 - Intersection of Faith and Finance: Insights from Investor, Professor, & Uncle - Drew Whitson
    Jul 29 2024

    EPISODE SUMMARY:

    Join hosts Josie and Symone on the Rooted Podcast as they welcome their uncle Drew Whitson, co-founder of Endurus Capital and professor of finance at Bethel University. Drew shares his career journey from Red Wing, Minnesota to corporate finance at Target, and eventually to real estate and teaching. Listen in as Drew discusses the importance of ethics in business, redeeming one's profession, and his experiences navigating a career as a Christian in a secular corporate environment. Learn practical advice on financial management, the significance of credit scores in relationships, and hear inspiring stories of faith and personal growth. Don't miss out on this insightful episode where faith and finance intersect in unique and meaningful ways.


    00:00 Welcome to Rooted Podcast

    00:27 Drew Whitson's Career Journey

    01:30 Finance and Early Interests

    02:28 Roles and Responsibilities at Target

    03:27 Teaching at Bethel University

    04:45 Christian Values in Business

    08:10 The Story of Zacchaeus

    11:18 Entrepreneurship and Private Equity

    15:13 The Importance of Saying Yes

    17:24 Travel Adventures and Family

    20:20 Financial Advice for Relationships

    23:28 Drew and Erica's Love Story

    25:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


    -------------------


    ABOUT THE GUEST:

    Drew Whitson is the co-founder and principal of Endurus Capital, specializing in real estate investments. With a background in finance and corporate finance roles at Target Corporation, Drew brings a wealth of experience to his current position. Additionally, Drew is a professor of finance at Bethel University, where he imparts real-world knowledge to students preparing for careers in business.


    -------------------


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • Drew emphasizes the importance of rootedness in faith and values, highlighting the impact of Christian ethics in the business world.
    • Traveling and exploring the world can provide valuable experiences and perspectives that shape personal and professional growth.
    • Credit scores reflect financial responsibility and can be a valuable indicator of compatibility in relationships.
    • Trusting in God's faithfulness and looking back at life experiences can reveal a greater purpose and plan at work.
    • Drew's personal journey showcases the evolution from a finance professional to a real estate entrepreneur and educator, illustrating the power of faith and perseverance.


    -------------------


    NOTABLE QUOTES:

    • "Looking back 20 years, I can see God's hand working in ways when at the time I couldn't."
    • "Aligning values early in a relationship is crucial for financial compatibility and long-term harmony."
    • "Trusting that things will make sense in the future is key to moving forward with faith and resilience."
    • "Credit scores can be a reflection of character traits and financial decision-making patterns."
    • "Rooting oneself in faith and values can have a profound impact on personal and professional growth."


    -------------------


    RESOURCES:

    • Bethel University: https://www.bethel.edu/
    • Endurus Capital: https://www.enduruscapital.com/


    -------------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


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    28 mins
  • EP6 - Balancing Faith and Passion: Nick Cocalis' Journey of his passion for Golf with a life of Ministry
    Jul 15 2024

    EPISODE SUMMARY

    In this episode of 'Rooted,' hosts Josie and Symone Harms interview Nick Cocalis, the golf coach and campus pastor at Bethel University. Nick shares his unique journey of stepping away from golf for a decade to pursue a life of ministry and service, only to return and find a way to integrate both passions. They discuss his childhood, the impact of his faith, his career transitions, and the concept of aligning one's passions with God's purpose. Nick also shares personal stories about his marriage, the life-changing health challenges his wife faces, and valuable insights on staying rooted in one's faith through prayer and authentic storytelling.


    ----------


    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    00:00 A Life of Mission and Ministry

    00:34 Welcome to Rooted: Meet Nick Kakalis

    00:54 Nick's Childhood and Faith Foundation

    02:45 The Role of Golf in Nick's Life

    03:49 A Turning Point: From Golf to Mission Work

    05:43 Combining Passions: Golf and Ministry

    09:55 Encouragement for Diverse Passions

    11:16 Navigating Relationships and Marriage

    15:24 Melanie's Health Journey

    17:08 Life or Death: A Heartfelt Perspective

    17:31 Gratitude in Every Breath

    18:06 The Impact on Our Daily Lives

    19:15 The Relatable Apostle Peter

    21:03 The Power of Stories and Testimonies

    24:14 Rethinking the Lord's Prayer

    28:33 Living Out Your Faith

    30:00 A Final Piece of Truth


    —------------------


    NOTABLE QUOTES

    • "God had gifted me in some cool ways and found out that I was decent at the game at a young age, and so wanted to pursue it, wanted to chase it." - Nick
    • "God was bringing my two passions, him, the Lord, and golf, and saying, I can use you in both of these." - Nick
    • "Your number one job as a husband is to prepare your wife to meet Jesus. Your number one job as a wife is to prepare your husband to meet Jesus." - Nick
    • "Understand that the paradigm of your faith is the fact that God wants something for you and doesn't want something from you." - Nick


    —------------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


    ----------



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    31 mins
  • EP5 - Our Roots: Dad & Mom Share Their Cancer Story, Faith Journey, and Finding Freedom In Life
    Jun 24 2024

    EPISODE SUMMARY:

    In this heartfelt episode of Rooted, the hosts interview their parents, Kirsten and Isaac, diving deep into their touching love story and the trials they faced together due to Isaac's health issues, including cancer. The conversation touches upon themes of faith, perseverance, and finding strength in God during the darkest times. Kirsten and Isaac's journey is an inspiring testament to the power of rootedness in truth and growing in freedom through faith. Kirsten and Isaac share their experiences of meeting in childhood, overcoming health challenges, and leaning on their faith to navigate difficult times. Their story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, showcasing how rootedness in truth and belief in God can lead to a prosperous and fulfilling life.


    —-------


    ABOUT THE GUESTS:

    Kirsten and Isaac are the parents of the hosts of the Rooted podcast, Josie and Symone Harms. They have a remarkable love story that began in childhood through their involvement in a Bible camp. Isaac faced a challenging health journey, including cancer and subsequent health issues, while Kirsten supported him through it all with unwavering faith and resilience. Their experiences have shaped their perspectives on life, love, and the power of being rooted in faith.


    —-------


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • Overcoming trials and difficulties can lead to personal growth and resilience.
    • Finding strength in God during challenging times can provide a sense of hope and purpose.
    • Expressing gratitude and trust in God's plan can lead to spiritual and emotional healing.
    • Family support and love play a crucial role in navigating life's toughest moments.
    • Focusing on faith and rootedness in truth can lead to a life filled with freedom and prosperity.


    —-------


    NOTABLE QUOTES:

    • "God's timing is perfect. It's never too early, never too late. He is right on time." - Kirsten
    • "The gift of cancer is that it shapes us and makes us stronger, ultimately leading to a better version of ourselves." - Isaac
    • "In times of uncertainty, turning to God for peace and guidance is the only way forward." - Kirsten
    • "The truth sets you free, and God wants that freedom for all of us." - Isaac
    • "Believe in the unseen, trust in God's plan, and watch how your life transforms in His light." - Kirsten
    • "Where do you want more freedom? Turn to God. He is the way, the truth, He is the life." - Isaac


    —------------------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


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    33 mins
  • EP4 - Navigating Life and Finding God's Purpose for You with Stan Thompson of Bethel University
    Jun 3 2024
    EPISODE SUMMARY:

    In this episode of Rooted, hosts Josie and Simone are joined by Stan Thompson, the Director of Vocation Pathways and Partnerships at Bethel University. They delve into the topic of discovering one's purpose, passions, and calling in life. Stan shares his personal journey of navigating through different career paths and majors, emphasizing the importance of trying different things and being open to pivoting. He highlights the value of self-reflection, assessments, and exploring various interests to find alignment with one's skills and passions. Stan also emphasizes the dynamic nature of vocation and the significance of incorporating purpose into all aspects of life, including family, community, and career. Throughout the conversation, he encourages listeners to trust in God's plan and stay rooted in their relationship with Jesus.


    ----------


    ABOUT THE GUEST:

    Stan Thompson is the Director of Vocation Pathways and Partnerships at Bethel University's Office of Career Development and Calling. With a passion for helping others, Stan has dedicated his career to guiding students in discovering their purpose, passions, and calling in life. He leads a team of professionals who provide coaching, presentations, and support to students as they navigate their career paths. Stan's background includes experience in various industries and roles, including music and banking. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role at Bethel University.


    ----------


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:
    • Discovering one's purpose and calling is a dynamic process that may involve trying different things and being open to pivoting.
    • Assessments, self-reflection, and exploring various interests can help individuals narrow down their career paths and find alignment with their skills and passions.
    • Purpose extends beyond one's career and can be found in various aspects of life, such as family, community, and volunteer work.
    • Trusting in God's plan and staying rooted in one's relationship with Jesus provides a firm foundation for navigating through life's challenges and uncertainties.
    • Maintaining a strong connection with Jesus and investing in one's faith can bring peace and guidance, even in difficult times.


    ----------


    NOTABLE QUOTES:
    • "I'm not big enough, strong enough, or smart enough to screw up God's plan."
    • "Your time in college, your time in learning and life, really develops the skills that employers are looking for anyway."
    • "I put my trust in Jesus and I stay in that through being in the Word and through really reflecting on how God has been faithful throughout my whole life, even in super hard times."
    • "Keep that foundation strong, invest in that foundation, and everything else will fall into its appropriate place, even if it's a hard thing."
    • "If you try something and you get like, let's say you graduate in a particular major, and you're like, I'm really not feeling this, this profession that I'm in... Well, you can pivot."


    ----------


    REFERENCES

    Bethel University's Office of Career Development and Calling - https://www.bethel.edu

    Clifton Strengths Inventory - https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx

    Sadie Robertson - https://liveoriginal.com/


    ----------


    FOLLOW & SUPPORT:

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/rootedtoprosper

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/rootedtoprosper

    Support: https://bio.site/rootedtoprosper


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    29 mins