Faithful on the Clock by Wanda Thibodeaux

October 19, 202613 min

How to Cope When Waiting for Success Feels Impossible

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... How to Cope When Waiting for Success Feels Impossible https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-cope-when-waiting-for-success-feels-impossible Good things come to those who wait, but how can we as Christian professionals deal with the waiting well? Faithful on the Clock Episode 163 explores. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:36] - My background in writing — which is a masterclass in waiting [01:15] - Focusing on God rather than the goal [03:38] - Using side quests as an intentional way to prepare ourselves for the larger success we want while passing the time [05:46] - Adjusting habits and expectations around immediate gratification [07:29] - Finding others who have waited who can provide empathy and practical guidance; exploring Scripture for those who waited and considering our larger legacy [10:38] - Reassurance and encouragement in the waiting [11:42] - Prayer [12:17] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Waiting feels especially difficult when we become fixated on the finish line. Instead of focusing obsessively on the goal or blessing, focus on the relationship you have with God and let that be more important than the clock. Enjoying God can change our experience of time in a positive way. Use “side quests” to pass the time in a way that prepares you for the success ahead. These are not merely distractions or ways to numb yourself. They’re meaningful Kingdom work that can utilize your God-given gifts. Practice tolerating delayed gratification in smaller ways. Because we are conditioned by our culture and environment to expect everything almost immediately, we need to recalibrate our nervous system and expectations around time. Find people who understand what waiting actually feels like, as they can over empathy and practical support. But also look at people in Scripture who waited. Their stories show that we can wait without seeing the whole picture and later discover that the waiting had meaning. That evidence can change our perception of the wait. Success can stretch across generations, as it did for Moses and Joshua. Consider whether your success might be being the shoulders for someone else to stand on. Waiting is genuinely hard, and “just trust God’s timing” isn’t always enough. Struggling doesn’t mean you lack faith. It takes real strength, but you don’t have to go through the wait alone. CTAs: Reach out to someone who has waited through someone difficult. Clearly communicate to someone else what you are waiting for. What’s coming up next: Some issues are so huge we don’t feel like we can change them or make a difference. Episode 164 of Faithful on the Clock shows us what to do in those circumstances. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

October 5, 202613 min

Applying the Lord’s Prayer as a Framework

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... Applying the Lord’s Prayer as a Framework https://faithfulontheclock.com/applying-the-lords-prayer-as-a-framework In Episode 161 of Faithful on the Clock, you’ll learn how the Lord’s Prayer can serve as a framework not only for how to pray, but how to lead and live. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:39] - The context of the Lord’s Prayer [02:42] - The problem with becoming too focused on recitation [03:53] - Jesus’ basic framework inside the Lord’s Prayer and how it offers flexibility [06:34] - The Lord’s Prayer as a leadership framework [08:15] - The world’s business practice vs. the Lord’s Prayer; being a visible light in private worship and service without performing [10:56] - Prayer [11:48] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Jesus gave us a framework, not just a script. The Lord's Prayer begins with "This is how you should pray," meaning Jesus was teaching an approach to prayer rather than requiring us to repeat exact words. The Lord's Prayer is still valuable to recite, but don't let it become a performance. It can help when you don't know what to say, but the goal is always an authentic relationship with God, not checking a religious box. The prayer has two simple parts. First, recognize God's authority and invite His will and presence. Then ask Him to provide and protect. The framework applies far beyond prayer. The same pattern can shape your leadership, decisions, projects, meetings, and everyday work by keeping God in the right place and focusing on what truly matters. The world's framework is often about visibility; God's is about faithfulness. Success isn't ultimately measured by applause, impressions, or recognition, but by serving God with the right motives. Expect God's approach to look different from the world's. People may not understand a leadership style rooted in humility, stewardship, and obedience, but God's way produces the right kind of reward. CTAs: Put the framework of the Lord’s prayer into practice. Instead of starting your prayers with requests, begin by acknowledging who God is. Then ask Him to provide and protect according to His will. Audit one one meeting, presentation, sales call, or customer interaction this week. Ask yourself: "Am I following a rigid script, or am I working from a framework that allows authentic connection?" What’s coming up next: Episode 163 of Faithful on the Clock offers advice on how to faithfully cope as we wait for God to deliver our success and blessings. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

September 21, 202657 min

AI, Identity, and the Church With Christopher Benek

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... AI, Identity, and the Church With Christopher Benek https://faithfulontheclock.com/ai-identity-and-the-church-with-christopher-benek How should we use AI in our work, and how it might influence our faith? Episode 161 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes techno-theologian and pastor Christopher Benek for answers. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:36] - Christopher’s background [03:33] - How Christopher bridges ministry and AI work [09:05] - How we can create ethics around AI that are good for both us and God [15:12] - How we can separate what we could do with AI from what we’re called to do [27:51] - How we can ensure the time we get back from AI is joyful [36:03] - Making the goal of the church to not have single people be the value proposition [41:35] - Seeing the entire person on top of AI [48:12] - How to create an environment where people feel safe enough to bring in alternative perspectives [53:52] - How to find out more about Christopher [54:31] - Prayer [55:46] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: AI isn’t primarily a technology question. It’s a formation question. Ask yourself who we are becoming and what AI is forming us to value. The ethical question isn’t simply “Can AI do this?”, but whether what we’re doing aligns with Jesus’ teachings and God’s purposes. AI can be a tool for stewardship, not just for efficiency. AI can reduce administrative and information-gathering work, which can give us more time for relational work. But that requires discernment. AI output isn’t automatically trustworthy simply because it’s fast. Human experience still matters when evaluating AI. AI doesn’t replace the wisdom we accumulate through successes, failures, and context. But it can give us more time to exercise the wisdom we gain. The church shouldn’t be dependent on one person. Everyone has a ministry in their own way. Jesus equipped people to participate instead of centralizing all ministry in Himself. AI can either reinforce or undermine the communal model God designed. The goal isn’t to make any leader the sole source of value. Technology should help create systems through which the broader community can use its gifts and serve one another. Calling requires discernment, not simply following your potential. There’s a distinction between what you’re capable of doing, what you enjoy, and what God is actually calling you to do. Test that sense of calling against Scripture, trusted Christian community, time with God, and attentiveness to how God is moving. The “side quests” of life can actually prepare us for our calling. Our current work might not be our final vocation. But we shouldn’t minimize what we’re doing through it. Different experiences give us different pieces of what we’ll eventually need. Don’t overlook mundane sources of joy. We don’t have to justify everything through productivity. Don’t focus so much on the eventual goal that we miss the good God is giving us right now. AI isn’t inherently the enemy—or inherently the answer. AI can cause harm, but it can also support the church. The important thing is critical thinking about the ramifications of using it, rather than adopting a blanket “use AI” or “don’t use AI’ position. Church Leader’s Guide to Artificial Intelligence: Understanding AI’s Impact on Ministry, Theology, and Culture: Benek, Christopher: 9781971082004: Amazon.com: Books Christopher Benek | Techno-Theologian Author and Speaker CTAs: Evaluate the areas in which you currently use AI. Do the intentions and results reflect the fruit of the Spirit and what Jesus calls us to do? Consider your side quests. How might God be preparing you with tasks and opportunities that aren’t your primary vision or goal? Analyze your application of discernment. Where are you using your God-given wisdom, and where are you unnecessarily outsourcing to AI? What’s coming up next: Most professionals like a good framework. Episode 162 of Faithful on the Clock explores why the Lord’s Prayer is the only one you’ll ever really need. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

September 7, 202656 min

Listening Between the Lines for Biblical Customer Service With Tom Vander Well

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... Listening Between the Lines for Biblical Customer Service With Tom Vander Well https://faithfulontheclock.com/listening-between-the-lines-for-biblical-customer-service-with-tom-vander-well In Episode 160 of Faithful on the Clock, Tom Vander Well explains how to approach customer service biblically — and how to apply it in everyday living. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:50] - Tom’s ministry and business background [08:21] - Customer service as a biblical endeavor [13:52] - Simplifying customer service to connect and remove the wall of complexity that frustrates customers [16:34] - Listening versus having data and the need to “listen between the lines” for what the customer really wants and needs [21:15] - The Holy Trinity of customer satisfaction [27:06] - How to marry social expectation with a consistent customer service framework rather than a verbatim script [33:35] - Bridging the gap between acting pleasant on a customer service call and being authentically honest [41:13] - How technology is influencing customer service [52:35] - How to connect with Tom and learn more [54:20] - Prayer [55:41] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Biblical customer service begins with seeing people, not transactions. The principles behind exceptional customer service — listening, serving, integrity, empathy, and stewardship — are rooted in Scripture rather than modern business trends. Calling doesn't always look like our original plan. Tom's journey from aspiring pastor to customer service expert illustrates that God sometimes redirects us into unexpected vocations where our gifts can have greater impact. Frameworks outperform scripts. Great customer service isn't about memorizing exact words. It's about equipping employees with principles and allowing them to communicate authentically within a consistent service framework. Technology raises — not lowers — the value of human connection. As AI, self-service tools, and automation eliminate routine questions, the remaining conversations become more emotionally and technically complex. That means emotional intelligence and careful listening are more valuable than ever. Listen for the subtext. Great communicators don't just hear words — they notice what's underneath them. A comment like, "This is the fourth time I've called," carries frustration, fatigue, and a need for reassurance that should shape the response. Meet penalty expectations before pursuing delight. Courtesy cannot compensate for unresolved problems. Organizations should first eliminate recurring pain points, then create memorable moments that exceed expectations. People flourish when their gifts match their role. Businesses, churches, and families often place people where tradition says they belong instead of where they're actually gifted. Loving leadership means helping people discover where they fit best. Customer service principles extend far beyond customer service. Listening, serving, and seeking understanding aren't merely business skills — they're expressions of Christian love applicable in every relationship. Empowering Data-Driven Business Insights | Intelligentics Tom Vander Well – Author, Speaker, Emcee Email Tom at tomvanderwell@gmail.com . CTAs: Choose one conversation this week where you'll intentionally listen for what's under the words rather than simply responding to what's said. Evaluate one process in your business or ministry that repeatedly frustrates people. Ask whether you're solving the root problem or simply apologizing for it. What’s coming up next: Episode 161 of Faithful on the Clock features pastor Christopher Beck, who explores the role of AI in shaping business, identity, calling, and the church. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

August 24, 202618 min

How to Handle Grief and Good Things

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... How to Handle Grief and Good Things https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-handle-grief-and-good-things In Episode 159 of Faithful on the Clock, we get real about how to handle the grief that often unexpectedly shows up when we transition into something new that’s good. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:47] - Personal examples of transitions including grief [03:23] - Examples from Scripture of transitions including grief [06:26] - Overly focusing on the positive versus Jesus’ analogy in John 16:20-22, which links grief and childbirth [09:48] - Tip to deal with the grief #1 — realize you aren’t alone and find empathetic people who can stay present with you [11:07] - Tip to deal with the grief #2 — be honest about the grief contractions when they hit, rather than trying to hide them [13:02] - Tip to deal with the grief #3 — come up with pre-decided coping strategies so you don’t handle your overwhelm with negative options [14:39] - Closing thoughts — God’s love is bigging than the grief, and the presence of grief is not necessarily evidence you’ve made the wrong decision [16:21] - Prayer [16:53] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Good career changes can bring real grief. Even positive transitions like promotions, retirement, or a new job often involve loss. The Bible is full of people who left good things to follow God. Moses, Joseph, Ruth, the disciples, and others all experienced loss alongside calling. God doesn't ask us to deny grief — He asks us not to stay there. Jesus’ analogy of childbirth shows that grief is only temporary and part of the process that leads to new joy. Feel the pain, but don't let it keep you from your next assignment. Don't go through the transition alone. Let trusted people walk beside you instead of isolating yourself. Expect grief to come in waves, and have a plan for difficult moments. When grief resurfaces, acknowledge it instead of pretending you're fine. Healthy coping strategies help you process grief without making harmful decisions. God's love is bigger than your grief. His presence sustains you until the joy on the other side arrives. Grief is not proof you’re moving in the wrong direction or made a bad decision. Leaving behind people, routines, or identity is a normal part of growth, and faithful obedience often includes loss before restoration and renewed joy. CTAs: Share this episode with someone who's navigating a career change, retirement, promotion, or major life transition. Reflect this week: What good thing are you grieving, and how can you intentionally bring that grief to God instead of hiding it? What’s coming up next: Customer service is one of the most frustrating areas of business for both employees and buyers. In Episode 160 of Faithful on the Clock, Tom Vander Well shows it can be done with a biblical foundation. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

August 10, 202650 min

Why Who You’re Being Matters in Claiming Your Calling With Donna Tashjian

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... Why Who You’re Being Matters in Claiming Your Calling With Donna Tashjian https://faithfulontheclock.com/why-who-youre-being-matters-in-claiming-your-calling-with-donna-tashjian Intro teaser paragraph: Episode 158 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes guest Donna Tashjian for guidance on how to claim the calling God always intended us to live out. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:40] - Donna’s bio and background [10:33] - Why what feels natural is what you might be called to do [12:56] - Basic advice on finding your people [14:28] - Making finding your people fit into real life [16:57] - The meaning of success [23:04] - The biggest struggles people have in reaching out to be who they really are [26:09] - What Donna has found useful for leaving the hang-ups that hold her back [29:55] - How getting into the Word helps change our perception of who we are to God, and how to approach study [31:55] - Addressing the emotions that can hold us back [37:30] - Developing greater self-awareness for regulation and decision-making [41:45] - The exponential effect of regulating ourselves to help others step into their own identity and calling [43:19] - Donna’s main takeaways [47:26] - How to connect with Donna [48:03] - Prayer [49:08] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Your past shapes you, but doesn't have to define you. Difficult experiences and the messages spoken over us can create "identity theft," causing us to see ourselves through wounds instead of through God's perspective. The work is recognizing those distortions and choosing not to let them dictate the future. Success is faithfulness, not achievement. Worldly definitions of success often are based on titles, income, status, and recognition. But we can frame success as loving God, loving people, showing kindness, and maintaining a pure heart. Excuses often disguise a loss of agency. Phrases like "I'm too busy" can reinforce a sense of helplessness. Reframing life as a series of choices helps people reclaim responsibility and see possibilities they previously overlooked. Self-awareness creates choice. Emotions are valuable information, but they should not drive decisions. Developing awareness of what you're believing and feeling allows you to respond intentionally rather than react automatically. You bring God into the workplace primarily through who you are. Christians often focus too much on what they say and not enough on who they are. Peace, joy, kindness, wisdom, and emotional regulation can be powerful expressions of faith at work. Small acts of kindness have exponential influence. Joy and kindness affect the emotional atmosphere around us. We can either absorb and mirror tension or intentionally bring peace into a room, helping others regulate and function more effectively. Vibrant Living Website CTAs: Take five minutes to write down how you're currently measuring success. Then ask yourself whether those measures align with God's definition of success or the world's. If they don't, what needs to change? The next time you find yourself frustrated, anxious, or reactive at work, don't immediately respond. Take a moment to ask yourself Donna's question: “What am I believing right now?” Choose one environment this week — a meeting, a client call, your office, your home — and intentionally bring peace, encouragement, or kindness into it. Don't wait for the atmosphere to change. Be the person who changes it. What’s coming up next: Episode 159 of Faithful on the Clock shows us how to biblically address the counterintuitive grief that’s often involved under the surface when we move on to good things in the workplace. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

July 27, 202611 min

How to Discern When to Say Yes and When to Say No

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... How to Discern When to Say Yes and When to Say No https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-discern-when-to-say-yes-and-when-to-say-no Intro teaser paragraph: Episode 157 of Faithful on the Clock offers guidance on how to discern which requests and opportunities to take and which to politely refuse. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:39] - Need versus calling, and God’s use of many servants [01:51] - Saying yes out of obligation and care like Moses [03:37] - Saying yes because we fear the request or opportunity will disappear (FOMO) [05:10] - Saying yes because of guilt and shame [07:00] - Saying yes because of a narrow, worldly view of the fruit produced [07:55] - Summary question checklist; final point using the story of Jonah [09:14] - Prayer [09:58] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Most discernment challenges involve choosing between good things, not good and bad things. The difficulty is deciding which opportunities are actually yours to pursue. The existence of a need is not proof of a calling. Exodus 18 shows that God meets needs through many servants, not one exhausted servant trying to do everything. Consider timing, not just opportunity. David, Abraham, and even Jesus experienced delays between calling and fulfillment. Fear of missing out is not a reliable reason to say yes. Watch for guilt and shame masquerading as obedience. High achievers often overcommit because they're subconsciously trying to prove their worth. Harder does not automatically mean holier. Evaluate the fruit, not just the benefits. Promotions, visibility, and income can come with hidden costs. Ask whether an opportunity produces the fruit of the Spirit or feeds ego, fear, scarcity, or people-pleasing. Use a four-question discernment checklist. Am I saying yes because I care but can't see others who are qualified? Am I afraid of missing out? Am I atoning or stewarding? Will this produce godly fruit? God tends to persist when something truly is part of your calling. The story of Jonah reinforces the idea that God often keeps bringing the right assignment back until we can no longer comfortably ignore it. CTAs: Identify one opportunity, request, or commitment you're currently wrestling with. Run it through the four questions from today's episode and see what emerges when you look beyond urgency and into stewardship. What’s coming up next: Guest Donna Tashjian shows us how to claim our purpose in Episode 157 of Faithful on the Clock. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

July 13, 202613 min

Why Joy Is the Most Critical Job Skill

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! LinkedIn YouTube Substack In this episode... Why Joy Is the Most Critical Job Skill https://faithfulontheclock.com/why-joy-is-the-most-powerful-job-skill Episode 156 of Faithful on the Clock explores why joy is the most powerful job skill we can bring into the workplace, and how it’s different from positivity. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:32] - Positivity versus joy, defined [01:46] - Differentiator #1 — truth [03:57] - Differentiator #2 — stability and circumstances [04:57] - Differentiator #3 — generosity [05:50] - Joy as a stabilizer; impacts on work and leadership [06:55] - How to increase joy #1 — seek joy experientially through joy a thousand jolts (many small, lovely things) [08:08] - How to increase joy #2 — seek joy cognitively by studying the Word for evidence that builds trust [08:56] - How to increase joy #3 — seek joy both emotionally and cognitively by praying [09:27] - The importance of patience in joy development; how joy matures over time and trusting in God’s pacing and degree of it [11:27] - Prayer [12:14] - Outro Key takeaways: Joy and positivity are not the same thing. Positivity is an intentional mindset focused on resilience and gratitude, while joy is a deep, lasting state that comes from connection to something meaningful—ultimately, for Christians, connection to God. Joy holds the whole truth. Instead of saying, "Everything will be fine," joy is able to say, "Everything is not fine, but God is still present." That allows us to acknowledge problems without becoming anxious or avoidant. Joy creates curiosity and courage. Because it isn't protecting ego or chasing a particular outcome, joy welcomes feedback, asks better questions, and pursues wisdom rather than comfort. Joy is more stable than positivity. Positivity often depends on circumstances going well, while joy remains grounded even through layoffs, criticism, uncertainty, and loss because it is rooted in relationship with God. Joy frees us from scarcity thinking. Rather than trying to engineer perfect outcomes or control every variable, joyful people trust God's provision, making them more generous with their time, knowledge, and encouragement. Joy is a leadership advantage. It increases discernment, ethical decision-making, empathy, consistency, and the ability to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting defensively. Joy grows through intentional connection with God. Three practical habits cultivate joy: Looking for "joy by a thousand jolts"—small daily reminders of God's goodness. Studying Scripture to build confidence in God's character and miracles. Praying consistently to deepen both emotional and intellectual relationship with Him. Joy develops gradually. Like any meaningful relationship, connection with God matures over time. Rather than expecting instant transformation, we can trust that God provides the joy we need at the pace we can receive it. Faithful on the Clock Episode 141: Joy by a Thousand Jolts - Faithful on the Clock CTAs: Practice "joy by a thousand jolts." Each day, in the spirit of Philippians 4:8, intentionally notice and linger on several small moments of goodness—a conversation, a flower, a pet, a beautiful sky—and let them become reminders of God's presence. Replace "Everything will be fine" with "God is still present." The next time you face a challenge at work, practice naming reality honestly while anchoring yourself in God's faithfulness instead of a desired outcome. Choose one daily connection habit. Spend five minutes in Scripture, prayer, or intentionally seeking good every day this week, remembering that joy grows through consistent relationship rather than instant results. What’s coming up next: Sometimes, it’s hard to know whether God wants us to say yes to something. Episode 157 of Faithful on the Clock breaks down how to discern what offers or requests to take and which offers to leave. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock support page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. We also offer an option for a one-off tip or donation, too! Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

June 29, 20261 hr 8 min

How to Bring Faith Into Early Career Development With Daniel Simon

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! Threads Bluesky Facebook Pinterest Instagram LinkedIn YouTube In this episode... How to Bring Faith Into Early Career Development With Daniel Simon https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-bring-faith-into-early-career-development-with-daniel-simon Intro teaser paragraph: In Episode 155, leadership coach and career advisor Dan Simon shares how to support young people as they navigate early career choices and development. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:39] - Dan’s bio and background [03:50] - What drew Dan into helping young people align their faith and career and why it matters [06:36] - What we can do to support young people in the awkward place of being asked to choose a career so early [10:48] - Testing careers as a lived, felt experience rather than just through logistical planning [14:25] - Differentiating between choosing a career because it is familiar or safe and choosing a career because it’s truly a calling; the importance of obeying God before anyone else [24:09] - How to ensure we pay attention to both our mission and other things that offer joy [29:11] - Building your life first and work second; taking a big-picture approach to career assessment and seeing how other elements like family might influence results [33:56] - The difference between kids who know what they want and those who have fallen through the cracks; how to support kids with gaps [45:12] - Top recommendations for leaders and young people [53:04] - Not shying away from pain or scars and the ability to be authentic or even build from mistakes [58:05] - How young people (and others) can approach church to find real support when they are trying to develop or are lost [01:01:42] - Closing the gap between leaders and those who need them [01:04:41] - How to connect with Dan [01:06:05] - Prayer [01:07:15] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Calling and career are not always the same thing, and they don't have to be. Paul made tents. Jesus spent three decades as a carpenter. What puts food on the table can be separate from what God has purposed for you — and both matter. The best time to start having conversations about calling with young people is the late middle to early high school transition, before decisions carry real cost. Shadowing, informational interviews, and career assessments are not just practical tools — they are forms of prayerful discernment in action. Familiar is not the same as called. Just because a path is visible, safe, or expected by the people who love you does not mean it is yours. Obeying God first actually honors your parents more than compliance does. The difficulty of a path can be a signal, not a warning. If what you are pursuing is genuinely kingdom work, expect resistance. Joseph's 40 years, Jonah's detour, Daniel's trials — obedience was never promised to be smooth. Your scars are not disqualifiers. They are credentials. The specific pain you have been through is often the exact foundation God intends to use — for a business, a ministry, a single conversation with someone who needs to hear that you survived it. Connection is the whole game, whether you are a leader, a parent, a mentor, or a young person trying to find your footing. The kids don't care how much you know until they know how much you care — and that does not change when they become adults. Home - Dan Simon Solutions CTAs: If you have a young person in your life — your child, a student, a kid at your church — ask them one question this week: What lights you up? Then just listen. Let them talk and pay attention to when they sit up straight. Do the backwards design for yourself. Where do you want to be in 15 years — not just professionally, but as a whole person? Then work backwards. What has to be true in 10 years, in 5, and what is one thing you can do starting now to get on that path? What’s coming up next: Episode 156 of Faithful on the Clock reveals why joy is the most critical job skill any of us can bring to the table. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. patreon.com/faithfulontheclock Give a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too. Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

June 15, 202649 min

Parenting, Work, and Building the Next Generation of Leaders With Olaolu Ogunyemi

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God! Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms! Threads Bluesky Facebook Pinterest Instagram LinkedIn YouTube In this episode... Parenting, Work, and Building the Next Generation of Leaders With Olaolu Ogunyemi https://faithfulontheclock.com/parenting-work-and-building-the-next-generation-of-leaders-with-olaolu-ogunyemi Parenting while also trying to work is tough! In Episode 154 of Faithful on the Clock, Olaolu Ogunyemi shares insights about how to balance those tasks and raise the next generation of leaders. Timestamps: [00:04] - Intro [00:41] - Olaolu’s background [02:40] - What got Olaolu interested in working with kids [04:12] - The main pain points Olaolu sees parents and kids having [07:15] - The reality of how much people use technology; recommendations for parents who want boundaries but are stuck using tech to a high degree [11:13] - Addressing the psychological conflict of setting tech limits but needing the tech to provide [13:25] - What parents can do to show kids they care and be present despite work responsibilities [18:15] - The difference between real and online presence; Olaolu’s real-life example supporting his daughter in band; the importance of small, consistent moments of being there in building trust [24:37] - What parents can do to model confidence and practice good mental health even if they are still developing themselves [32:36] - How faith has played into Olaolu’s leadership [36:53] - Advice on how parents can give kids hope and a deeper sense of purpose [41:48] - The importance of community and the reality that kids and parents need a full network of support [46:10] - How to learn more about and connect with Olaolu [46:47] - Prayer [47:56] - Outro/What’s coming up next Key takeaways: Parenting today requires new strategies, not recycled ones. Today’s children are growing up in a radically different technological environment than their parents did. Old parenting defaults often don’t translate well, which means parents need intentional awareness of the digital world shaping their kids Screen boundaries begin with parent self-awareness. Before correcting children’s tech habits, parents need honest insight into their own screen usage. Tracking your tech habits creates clarity about whether your screen time is truly productive or mostly recreational distraction. Transparency builds trust. Children need context for why parents are using technology for work. Explaining work responsibilities and creating visible “work zones” helps children distinguish healthy digital responsibility from mindless consumption. Leadership starts with modeling. Children learn leadership by watching adults prioritize physical health, emotional regulation, spiritual discipline, and mental growth. Parents who consistently invest in themselves teach resilience without ever giving a lecture. Kids notice more than parents realize. Children often detect parental stress long before adults admit it. Their observations can become valuable feedback that helps parents course-correct emotionally and spiritually. Conversations create protection. If parents don’t help children process current events, media narratives, and faith questions, outside voices will shape those conclusions instead. Providing context for what kids are seeing prevents overwhelm and helps them cope. Parenting was never meant to be isolated. Strong parenting depends on healthy community. Mentors, neighbors, teachers, and trusted adults expand a child’s support system and reinforce shared values. CTAs: Audit your screen time this week. Open your phone’s screen report and evaluate how much of your usage is work or distraction. What patterns need adjusting? Create one intentional connection ritual with your child (e.g., tea time, reading, cooking). Small repeated moments create long-term trust. Start one deeper conversation this week. Ask your child, “What’s something happening in the world that’s confusing or frustrating to you right now?” Then help provide perspective and context. What’s coming up next: In Episode 155 of Faithful on the Clock, guest Daniel Simon emphasizes why it’s critical for us to provide teens and young adults early career and faith guidance. Support the show! Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you. patreon.com/faithfulontheclock Give a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too. Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replays exclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos exclusive audio exclusive in-depth devotionals. Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

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How to Bring Faith Into Early Career Development With Daniel Simon

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