Becoming Bridge Builders

Hosted by Rev. Dr. Keith Haney

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300

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Oct 2026

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About the show

Becoming Bridge Builders is a faith-centered podcast hosted by Rev. Dr. Keith Haney, created for believers who sense God’s call to lead with wisdom, courage, and compassion in a deeply divided world. In an age of cultural confusion, outrage, and fractured relationships, this podcast exists to replace societal absurdity with biblical common sense and Christ-centered clarity. Each episode explores how God is raising up modern-day bridge builders—men and women equipped to stand firm in truth while extending grace, listening well, and leading with conviction. Through biblical teaching, cultural commentary, and practical application, Becoming Bridge Builders offers fearless yet thoughtful guidance for navigating today’s toughest issues without sacrificing faith or integrity. Listeners will be encouraged and equipped with: Scripture-rooted wisdom for understanding today’s cultural challenges Practical strategies for bridging divides in families, churches, workplaces, and communities Faith-filled leadership principles that move beyond talk into action Bold encouragement to live out your calling with humility, courage, and purpose Whether you are a Christian leader, a concerned believer, or someone longing for truth and unity in a broken world, Becoming Bridge Builders will challenge you to rise above fear, reject cultural chaos, and become an agent of reconciliation and transformation—right where God has placed you. This is more than a podcast. It’s a call to become the bridge.

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October 22, 202632 min

We Built a Monument: How You Can Stop Fighting Instantly (Yes, Really)

A marriage can become a refuge from the chaos of the world if you fiercely protect your “monument” — that’s the big, early truth Galen Wilson lays down. I sit with Galen (a heart‑transplant survivor) and hear how he and Heather turned their relationship into a deliberate sanctuary: eye‑gazing, affectionate touch, and a sacred cue word — “monument” — that stops fights before they wreck trust. You’ll hear concrete examples, like Galen literally crawling into Heather’s face and saying “I need a monument,” and how that gaze instantly dissolves anger and brings nervous systems back to calm. We unpack the Monument Method and the sanctuary bond (permission‑based emotional first aid), plus tiny everyday “micro‑sanctuary” moves that keep desire and safety alive long‑term. If you’re married, engaged, mentoring couples, or just tired of tension at home, this conversation gives you practical tools — not fluff — to protect your covenant and make your relationship a real refuge. Galen’s story reads like a medical drama with a rom-com heart: I nearly died from end-stage heart failure, waited on the transplant list, and then—boom—got a new heart in 2018. But the gold here isn’t just the miracle surgery; it’s what happened to Heather and me while waiting and after waking up with a Ferrari engine in an old Ford. We learned the hard way that time sharpens what matters. When your life calendar suddenly shortens, you stop wasting energy on ego fights and start fiercely protecting your bond. You’ll hear about the nights I told Heather I wasn’t going to be around much longer, how she stuck with me through hospitalizations and oxygen tanks, and the way simple things—eye-gazing, holding on, planning a vegetable garden to get my lungs working again—kept us emotionally intact. I tell you all this because it’s the soil where the Monument Method grew: grief and gratitude turned into a practical covenant to preserve intimacy and safety. If you want a tear-jerker with a roadmap, that garden scene and our near-death-to-new-life arc are the emotional engine that powers everything we teach. Takeaways: We learned conflict isn't the real villain; forgetting your spouse is the sneaky thing that chips away at emotional safety and connection. You can use a sacred word like "monument" as an instant relationship pause button—say it, turn toward each other, embrace, and repair the tiny chips before they widen into trenches. The sanctuary bond is a prearranged permission to calm each other when stressed—she meets him coming in fight-or-flight, regulates his nervous system, and you both get better sleep, intimacy, and longevity. We practice micro sanctuary moments daily — brief eye gazes, affectionate touch, or a quick check-in while paying bills — and those tiny rituals keep you in the romance phase long-term. Galen's transplant story reminded us that time is precious; I started doing purposeful things (like gardening to regain strength) and you should adopt deliberate habits to protect your covenant now. The best repair is the one you don't have to make: call monument early and often, and big fights can shrink to five- or ten-minute fixes instead of day-long grudges. Monument Hearts Trailer on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8GmXFnX/ Monument Method Trailer on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8GmATNK/ ED Trilogy on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8GWBKDj/

October 19, 202643 min

The Hidden Truth About Memory Loss: I Break Down What’s Happening Inside Their Brain — You Need to Hear This

Everything you've been told about talking to someone with dementia might be wrong: it's not stubbornness or malice, it's brain change — so the smarter move is to join their reality instead of trying to correct it. I sit down with Lisa, a behavioral specialist who’s spent 30+ years in the trenches (and had eight family members affected), and she breaks down how dementia erodes short‑term/executive function and leaves people reacting on raw emotion. You’ll get practical, counterintuitive tools—pause before your gut reaction, meet them where their memory timeline is (yes, sometimes that means agreeing that dad is “waiting at home”), and use calm strategies to prevent a catastrophic meltdown. We also talk medicines, diagnostics (hello PET scans and blood biomarkers), and why earlier detection lets you plan instead of constantly react. Lisa even shares everyday fixes—like prioritizing deep sleep and learning simple communication shifts—that actually preserve dignity and make life more peaceful. If you care for someone now or might someday, this conversation flips assumptions into useful actions you can try tomorrow. What if everything you thought 'memory problems' meant was wrong? You — yes, you juggling appointments and guilt — will get a totally different map for this maze. I (Lisa) walk you through the moment my grandma told me birds were living in her mattress and how a police chief’s snap judgment cemented the stigma we still wrestle with. From there we unpack what dementia really does: it’s not just forgetfulness. It chews up executive function, sequencing, and the bookshelf of your life so that, when short-term memory fails, people live in a different page of their own story. I give real, concrete cues to spot those switchbacks — like someone suddenly insisting a deceased spouse is waiting for dinner — and explain why correcting them (a.k.a. the old reality-orientation approach) backfires and can trigger catastrophic reactions. You’ll learn the practical stuff I’ve used for 30+ years: join their reality instead of arguing, pause before your gut reaction (yes, that furious “how could you?”), and use simple, compassionate moves that diffuse escalation. We cover everyday examples — the missing watch accusation, staring at a toothbrush for ages, calling someone by a sibling’s name — and I show how tiny shifts in how you respond change outcomes from meltdown to calm. Bonus: we talk diagnostics (new blood biomarkers and PET scans), why earlier detection matters, and how preparation — not panic — is the caregiver's secret weapon. Takeaways: You can't just correct someone with dementia — I learned to join their reality instead, which calms situations and preserves dignity. We discovered dementia is way more than forgetting names; it erodes reasoning, sequencing, and even everyday habits like brushing teeth. If you hear a loved one say their late spouse is waiting at home, don't argue — you should join their timeline, not force yours. Early detection matters: new blood tests and PET scans can help us plan sooner, giving families time to prepare and act. Caregiving requires emotional self-control — pause before reacting, because your instinct to correct can trigger catastrophic panic in them. We learned practical hope exists: with knowledge and simple communication skills, you can still create joy, meaning, and purpose for someone living with dementia. You should protect yourself too: prioritize sleep, lifestyle changes, and risk reduction — they can lower your chance of dementia significantly. Companies mentioned in this episode: Alzheimer's Association World Health Organization LinkedIn TEDx MindingDementia.com

October 15, 202650 min

Widowhood Real Talk: A Journey Through Grief and Hope

What do you do when everything you’ve built crumbles and the love of your life vanishes? Well, today, we dive deep into the heart of grief and discover how to transition from merely surviving to truly living again. Our guest, Dr. Tina Fronwald, has navigated the choppy waters of loss, from battling breast cancer to facing the unexpected death of her husband after 32 years of marriage. Instead of letting grief isolate her, she found purpose and a mission in helping others connect and heal amidst their sorrow. If you’ve ever felt the sting of loss or want to better support someone who has, this conversation is your ticket to understanding the journey of grief and the possibility of joy on the other side. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get into it! Takeaways: Navigating the tumultuous waters of grief is a universal experience that transcends loss, be it a loved one or even personal health issues, and it reminds us all of our shared humanity. Dr. Tina's journey through profound grief led her not only to find healing but also to create a mission of supporting others facing similar trials, emphasizing that community is vital in the healing process. It's crucial to recognize that grief doesn't adhere to a timeline; the loss of a loved one lingers far beyond the initial mourning period, and we must allow ourselves and others to feel this ongoing pain. The conversation highlights the importance of being present for those grieving, proving that sometimes just showing up and listening can be the most meaningful support one can offer. Links referenced in this episode: tinaformwall.com widowhoodrealtalkwithpina.com

October 12, 202638 min

Seven Promises for Dying Well: Insights from a Hospice Nurse

What if learning to die well could actually teach us to live better? That’s the big question we’re diving into today with JoAnne Chitwood, a seasoned hospice nurse with nearly 40 years of experience. Joanne’s seen it all—extraordinary courage, profound grace, and heartbreaking goodbyes—so she’s got some serious wisdom to share on how we can navigate the end of life with compassion and dignity. We chat about her new book, "Please Help Me Die Well," which offers powerful insights and seven promises to help caregivers and families support their loved ones through this sacred journey. If you’ve ever wondered how to have those tough conversations about death or how to approach life with a little more urgency and heart, you’re in for a treat. Grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get into it! Imagine diving deep into the concept that learning how to die well can actually teach us how to live our lives to the fullest. That's the kind of thought-provoking journey we embark on in this episode, where we chat with Joanne Chitwood, a seasoned hospice nurse who brings almost 40 years of experience to the table. She’s seen it all—extraordinary courage, heart-wrenching goodbyes, and those miraculous moments of clarity that come in life’s final days. JoAnne’s insights are not just about the end of life; they’re about redefining our approach to living. You’ll hear her share her personal experiences, including the profound lessons she learned from her patients, and how those moments have shaped her understanding of life, love, and loss. Through her new book, *Please Help Me Die Well*, she offers a roadmap for caregivers and families, emphasizing the vital importance of open conversations about death. It’s a gentle nudge for all of us to live better lives by facing our mortality head-on—because let’s face it, we’re all going to be on one side of that coin eventually. So why not make the most of the time we have? Takeaways: Learning to die well can teach us the art of living better and more fully. Our most vulnerable moments often hold the deepest lessons about life, love, and connection. JoAnne Chitwood's decades of hospice nursing reveal extraordinary courage and the importance of compassionate care. Conversations about death should be open and honest to relieve fear and foster connection. Many people regret not prioritizing relationships and experiences before it's too late, emphasizing the importance of seizing the moment. Building a supportive community can profoundly change the way we cope with grief and loss, as demonstrated in Joanne's experiences. Links referenced in this episode: www.joannechitwood.com

October 8, 202638 min

Bridging the Gap: The Art of Connecting Vision with Action

What sets transformational leaders apart from the good ones? Is it all about knowledge, experience, or that magnetic charisma? Nah, it’s much deeper than that. Today, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of leadership with our guest, Chris March, who’s been around the block—leading teams on three continents and advising some pretty big names. If you’ve ever felt stuck between knowing what needs doing and rallying the troops to get it done, you’re in for a treat. As we unpack Chris's insights, expect a mix of wisdom and real talk about bridging those leadership gaps in a world that's changing faster than a cat video goes viral. So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s get to the heart of what it takes to lead well in today’s chaotic landscape. The conversation kicks off with a deep dive into the nuances separating good leaders from transformational ones. We ponder over whether it's all about knowledge, experience, charisma, or the elusive knack for translating vision into action. Our guest, Chris March, has traversed the globe, leading teams and helping individuals unlock their true potential. He shares invaluable insights on bridging gaps between intentions and actual outcomes, emphasizing that real leadership isn't merely about telling people what to do; it's about understanding their motivations and fostering a culture that thrives on connection and trust. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone who has ever felt caught in the paradox of knowing what needs doing yet struggling to inspire others to join the cause. Chris’s wisdom on leadership principles, honed through his experiences across diverse cultures and industries, offers listeners a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to lead effectively in today’s chaotic world. Takeaways: Transformational leaders stand out from good leaders by their unique ability to connect vision with execution and motivate teams. Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about understanding your team's motivations and building genuine connections. In a world saturated with information, clarity and effective communication are essential for leaders to guide their teams successfully. Feedback should be viewed as fuel for growth, and leaders must learn to adapt their feedback styles to fit cultural nuances. The most significant leadership gap today is a lack of transparent communication, which can lead to misunderstandings and misalignment within teams. To truly lead, one must embrace the idea that it's not about personal greatness but about serving others and fostering their development. Links referenced in this episode: chrismarchcoaching.com

October 5, 202646 min

Leading with Integrity: The Pivot Process Explained

Sometimes, you hit a moment in life where everything just feels like it’s about to shift, and you’re left wondering how to make that pivot. That’s where our conversation today dives in. We’re chatting with Dr. Wayne D. Wilson, a pro at guiding leaders through transformation—not just with strategy, but with genuine connection and integrity. He breaks down his “pivot process,” which helps folks transition from uncertainty to clarity and trust. So, if you’re grappling with leading through change or just trying to figure out the next steps in life, stick around, because this episode is packed with wisdom that’s as real as it gets. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to navigate your own path, Wayne's insights are going to light the way. Have you ever felt like you’re at a crossroads, staring at a fork in the road where you’ve got to make a decision that could change everything? Well, that’s the vibe we’re diving into today with Dr. Wayne D. Wilson, a leadership coach who’s all about helping folks navigate those tricky transitions in life and work. We kick things off by pondering the nature of change—not just the fact that it’s inevitable, but how we respond when it comes knocking at our door. Dr. Wilson’s insights are like a fresh breeze, reminding us that real transformation doesn’t start with policies or procedures, but with the people involved. He introduces us to his “pivot process,” a framework that guides leaders from chaos to clarity. It’s a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone feeling lost in the whirlwind of change, whether in their personal lives or professional journeys. As the conversation unfolds, Dr. Wilson shares some golden nuggets of advice he received early in his career, highlighting the importance of connection in leadership. Remember that age-old saying, “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care”? That’s the heart of his philosophy! We dig into the nitty-gritty of what it means to lead with integrity and trust, and how building relationships can be the game-changer in any leadership role. Dr. Wilson has seen firsthand how fostering genuine connections can turn a struggling team into a powerhouse of collaboration and trust. If you’ve ever been in a position where you had to advocate for someone or make a tough call, you’ll relate to the real-life stories shared in this episode. It’s a raw and honest look at the challenges leaders face and how embracing vulnerability can lead to monumental growth. Towards the end, we get to the meat of the “pivot process” itself—Pause, Internalize, Vision, Operationalize, Track. It sounds simple, but as Dr. Wilson points out, the “I” for Internalize is often the hardest for leaders to tackle. We’re all doers, right? But taking that moment to reflect on our values and the emotional landscape of our teams? That’s where the magic happens. If you want to lead effectively, you’ve got to be willing to dig deep, listen, and really understand where your people are coming from. This episode is a call to action; it’s not just about surviving change but leading it with purpose and heart. So whether you’re looking to pivot in your leadership style or just seeking a fresh perspective on navigating life’s transitions, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and a good dose of encouragement to help you take that leap. Let’s not forget, the journey doesn’t end here. Dr. Wilson invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and identify where they might need a pivot. It’s a powerful reminder that meaningful change starts with taking that first step. So grab a seat, kick back, and let’s explore the dynamic world of leadership and transformation together! Takeaways: Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about fostering genuine connections with people. Change is inevitable, but how we respond to it defines our growth and effectiveness as leaders. Real transformation in organizations starts from within; it's about the people, not just the systems. The pivot process consists of pausing, internalizing feelings, creating a shared vision, and tracking progress methodically. Navigating through change requires leaders to slow down and truly listen to their team members' concerns. To lead effectively, one must prioritize integrity and character above mere task completion. Links referenced in this episode: coachdwayne.com linkedin.com/in/dr-wayne-wilson

October 1, 202638 min

Embracing the Bonds of Adoption: A Conversation with Julia Melanson

Today, we dive headfirst into a heartfelt conversation with Julia Melanson, author of the poignant memoir *Not Yours to Keep*. She shares her incredible journey of reconnecting with her birth mother, exploring themes of identity, love, and the resilience of women across generations. With profound reflections on adoption, Julie highlights how her experiences shaped her understanding of family and the unbreakable bonds that can exist despite life's challenges. As we chat, you'll find yourself nodding along to the powerful message that love, in all its forms, is what truly connects us. So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and join us for a discussion that promises to inspire and resonate long after the episode wraps up. Takeaways: Adoption stories often reveal profound connections between birth and adoptive families, highlighting the enduring power of love across generations. Julia Melanson's journey of reconnecting with her birth mother illuminates the complexities of identity and the emotional realities of adoption. The memoir 'Not Yours to Keep' emphasizes the strength and resilience of women, showing how love can transcend difficult circumstances. In navigating her personal history, Julia discovered unexpected similarities with her birth mother, prompting reflections on the nature versus nurture debate. The podcast discusses how sharing personal stories fosters understanding and healing, reminding us of the bonds that unite us all. Julia encourages those considering searching for their birth families to be prepared for any outcome, emphasizing the importance of love in all family forms. Links referenced in this episode: julie melansonauthor.com rootedindaypublishing amazon barnesandnoble

September 28, 202631 min

Stress Less, Achieve More: Unlocking the Secrets of Hardiness

Stress doesn’t have to be our enemy, and Dr. Steven Stein is here to drop some serious wisdom on how to make it work for us instead. As a world-renowned clinical psychologist and emotional intelligence pioneer, he’s spent years helping folks thrive under pressure, and today, he’s sharing his insights on hardiness—a mindset that can turn stress into a stepping stone for achievement. We dive deep into his latest book, which lays out a powerful framework for transforming stress into resilience and growth. Plus, we explore the traits that help people not just survive but flourish in high-pressure environments, and how to cultivate that hardiness in our own lives. So kick back, grab your favorite drink, and let’s get ready to learn how to tackle stress like a pro! Takeaways: Dr. Steven Stein emphasizes that understanding emotional intelligence is crucial for thriving under stress, which can be a game changer in both personal and professional realms. The concept of hardiness, defined by challenge, control, and commitment, is essential for turning stressful situations into opportunities for growth and resilience. It's not just about bouncing back from stress, but about coming back stronger, and this mindset can be cultivated through training and practice. Preparation for the unexpected is key, and having a clear sense of purpose can guide decision-making and coping strategies during challenging times. Many people mistakenly believe stress is entirely negative; however, it can be harnessed positively, leading to motivation and achievement if reframed correctly. Daily habits like visualization can enhance how we handle stress, allowing us to mentally rehearse and navigate potential challenges before they arise. Links referenced in this episode: stevenstein.com amazon.com barnesandnoble.com

September 24, 202642 min

Making Tough Decisions: The Leadership Dilemma Nobody Talks About

What happens when leadership stops being inspiring and starts getting lonely? That's the big question we tackle today with Reverend Kevin T. Taylor, who brings a fresh perspective on what it really means to lead with integrity and responsibility. You see, leadership isn’t just about the glitz and glam of influence or charisma; it’s about stewardship—carrying the weight of authority when the stakes are high. We’ll dig into the real struggles leaders face, like making tough decisions that might disappoint someone no matter what, and why many struggle with the heavy burden of accountability. Kevin’s insights might just flip how you think about leadership forever, so grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s dive into this thought-provoking conversation. Leadership isn't all about the glitz and glam; it's about the grit and the weight of responsibility that comes with it. Our guest, Reverend Kevin T. Taylor, takes us on a deep dive into what true leadership means, especially when the spotlight isn't shining on your decisions. He argues that being a leader is more about stewardship than influence. You know, it's like being the captain of a ship in a storm—you're responsible for the crew and the direction, even when the waves are crashing down. Kevin illustrates this with real-life examples from his journey in both ministry and the corporate world, highlighting those tough calls that no one wants to make but are essential for the greater good. So, pour yourself a cup of coffee and settle in, because we're unpacking how the silent burdens of leadership shape not just our roles but our character as well. Takeaways: Leadership often feels lonely, especially when the decisions made end up disappointing someone no matter what, so buckle up for the ride. Real leadership is less about the charisma and more about the heavy responsibility that comes with making tough calls when no one is watching, trust me on this one. Becoming a steward of leadership means recognizing that your authority is a temporary gift and you need to make the most out of it before it's gone. The weight of leadership is often realized in the tough moments when you're faced with decisions that impact people's lives, and that's where the true test lies. Leaders today need to embrace integrity and be prepared to speak truth to power, even when it's uncomfortable, because that’s what real change demands. If you’re feeling the pressure, remember this: every leader has faced moments that could break them, but it’s how you rise from those moments that defines your legacy. Links referenced in this episode: revkttaylor.com amazon.com

September 21, 202640 min

From Attendance to Authenticity: The Church Connection Dilemma

You ever stepped into a packed church and felt like you were the only one without a buddy? Yeah, that’s a real vibe, and it’s one of the biggest hurdles churches are facing today. We’re diving into this crucial conversation about how to not just get people through the doors, but to genuinely connect them, creating a space where they truly belong. Today, we’ve got the incredible Dustin Dozier on the mic, a guy who’s all about bridging that gap and building authentic relationships in the church community. So, if you’re a pastor, a volunteer, or just someone who cares about helping others grow in their faith, you’re in for a treat. Stick around as we explore connection, discipleship, and the heart of Dustin's book, "The Connected Church." Takeaways: Feeling alone in a crowded church is a common struggle, highlighting the need for genuine connection. The challenge for churches today isn't just attendance but fostering a sense of belonging and community. Building authentic relationships in the church is essential for discipleship and personal growth in faith. Dustin's experiences show that effective follow-up systems can significantly enhance guest retention and church engagement. Small groups and personal connections are key to creating a deep, meaningful church community. Pastors are encouraged to prioritize their personal connection with God to effectively lead and minister to others. Links referenced in this episode: theconnectedchurch.com