Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast with Vivian Cumins

Balanced Hope: God’s Purpose Amidst Grief - Part 1 | Ep. 013

In part one of this two-part episode, Vivian sits down with Tina Akridge who shares her remarkable story of faith, hope, and finding balance amidst grief. Through her husband Mark's battle with cancer, Tina shares the incredible ways in which they experienced unexpected provisions and God's grace. As they faced the challenges of his illness, they found strength in weakness and intentional living, ultimately discovering the power of surrender and the importance of forgiveness. Join Vivian and Tina as they explore the profound impact of faith and determination, and the beautiful lessons learned through hardship. Stay tuned for a deeply moving conversation as Tina shares her courageous journey.
 
GUEST BIO
 
Tina Akridge is a mother of four adult children and a widow, married 25 ½ years to a beautiful man who loved God and loved his family unconditionally. When Tina married the love of her life, Mark, they never knew they would receive the terrifying Sarcoma diagnosis. She and her children have had to deal with the ripple effects of cancer that one never considers until they are forced to. After eight years of battling cancer, Mark passed. Tina has walked through addiction with their son, the effects of trauma on each of their children, and the reality of losing her beloved companion. Through it all, Tina has remained steadfast in knowing God was faithful. Through beautifully written blog posts and her newly published book, Grace in Grief: A 100-Day Journey Exploring God’s Tender Response to Loss, Tina shares God’s grace, faithfulness, and presence and helps others to find their purpose amidst grief.
 
Website: https://tinaakridge.com/start-here BOOK: Grace in Grief: A 100-Day Journey Exploring God's Tender Response to Loss, https://a.co/d/5HVPy9aFacebook: https://facebook.com/TinaAkridgeBlog
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tinakridge
POWERFUL QUOTE
 
“I am a believing, strong, faithful Christ-centered woman, but that threw me [upon learning of her husband’s cancer diagnosis]. And I think a lot of women need to know that just because you get thrown doesn’t mean you don’t have faith at all.” - Tina Akridge
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalanceMemory Blogger: https://memoryblogger.com

Sister Talk with Viv and Becca: For Better or Worse! | Ep. 012

Welcome to SisterTalk with Viv and Becca! Get ready for a rollicking ride through the ups, downs, and sideways moments of life. In today's special segment of the Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast, Viv & Becca serve up a heaping dose of hilarity with a side of heartfelt honesty.
Becca's quick wit and open-hearted storytelling will have you in stitches as she and Viv dive into the world of beauty blunders and marital misadventures. They dish about makeup mishaps, hair-raising experiences, and those quirky moments of married life that they don't warn you about in the brochures.
Whether you're battling with bangs, puzzling over peculiar compliments, or invoking your wedding vows in less-than-glamorous circumstances, Viv & Becca have got you covered. This episode is all about finding the humor in life's little challenges and celebrating the bonds that get us through.
So, grab your favorite beverage, kick off those shoes, and settle in for some good old-fashioned girl talk. Your to-do list can wait – this sisterly banter is just what you need to brighten your day and lift your spirits. 
CO-HOSTS
 
VIVIAN CUMINS
Vivian Cumins is a writer, speaker, and host of the Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast. She is also an Oklahoma native, a career professional, a military spouse, a stepmom to two adult kids, and a “Glammy” to five grandkids. Although her name means “LIVELY” Vivian admits she has not always felt lively. Her need to be perfect and in control led to an unbalanced lifestyle filled with work, self-inflicted stress and illness, depression, and anxiety.
 
In 2020, after years of striving and mental exhaustion, Vivian rededicated her life to the Lord and vowed to relinquish control and submit to God’s will. Her newfound faith and commitment were immediately put to the test when she had to trust God to provide healing from stage 3 melanoma. Though this was a difficult time, Vivian claims she would not change a thing. That ‘wilderness’ season, she says, delivered her from a prideful spirit, set her free from captivity, and taught her how to give up control and trust God, embrace imperfection, and recognize, then recalibrate, the unbalance in her life. Today, Vivian not only shares her testimony of preparation and deliverance, but she also provides valuable lessons and helpful tips for actively seeking balance, which starts with making time for God, taking care of yourself, and sprinkling in some good old-fashioned fun
 
BECCA ROBINSON
Becca is married to her best friend of over 26 years; they have been blessed with three children,
three granddaughters, a bonus daughter (daughter-in-law), and a bonus son (son-in-law). She is a writer and co-host of the SisterTalk with Viv & Becca special edition of the Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast. 
 
Over seventeen years ago, her husband joined the Army and gave Becca the honorable title of “military spouse.” Although Becca has a career in health care, she loves being an Army wife and volunteering and mentoring military spouses. Becca also loves to laugh and meet new people. It has been said she makes friends wherever she goes. 
CONNECT WITH BECCA
Facebook: https://facebook.com/kbaarobinson
MemoryBlogger website: https://memoryblogger.com 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
MemoryBlogger website: https://memoryblogger.com

The Write Time: A Teacher’s Lesson in Waiting | Ep. 011

Today, I’m joined by Karen Shafer, a dedicated teacher by day and a passionate screenwriter and novelist by night. Karen's unique story is a testament to following one's passion and calling while excelling in a career. Karen reveals how her daily interactions as a teacher fuel her creativity and enhance her storytelling in screenplays and novels, providing a fascinating glimpse into how one's career can beautifully compliment personal passions. In this episode, we discuss the importance of listening to God’s voice, and recognizing the signs and confirmations He provides. 
 
Through her own story, Karen explains how her role as a teacher compliments her writing passion, as she draws inspiration from her students’ stories and experiences. We’ll learn practical tips for prioritizing time, managing the feeling of being overwhelmed, and maintaining faith and trust in God’s timing. Karen shares the importance of making to-do lists and prioritizing tasks, as well as seeking God’s guidance and finding joy in the present. This conversation will leave you feeling inspired and encouraged to pursue your passion and calling, while still shining in your current career.
GUEST BIO
 
When Karen Shafer was eight, she gathered her dolls in a semi-circle, named them Anne and Laura after her literary best friends, and taught them to spell. Now, as a middle-school teacher with twenty years to her credit, Karen balances inspiring the next generation with parenting two rambunctious boys of her own, along with pursuing a second career as an author and screenwriter. Karen also serves as Marketing Director for West Coast Christian Writers and as leader of Bridgeway Christian Church’s Haven Writers group. 
 
Website: https://karenshafer.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/karenshafer.author
Instagram: https://instagram.com/karenshaferauthor
 
POWERFUL QUOTE
“It's not about what I want, it’s remembering what God wants. And if I remember what He wants, and I pursue what He wants, the joy will follow.”
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
 Memory Blogger: https://memoryblogger.com

Manifesting Miracles: Unleashing God's Blessings Through Vision Boards | Ep. 010

Discover the profound impact of visions, dreams, and goals in this episode. Vivian and her guest, Debbi Sluys discuss the importance of identifying one’s vision and dreams, and the responsibility to stay in action towards both, leaving the ‘how’ up to God. Debbi reminds listeners that miracles happen when people dare to declare their dreams and visions, and faith is ignited when we dream big. Tune in to learn the art of creating a vision board - a powerful collection of images, words, and representations that can help us clarify and pursue our life's calling. Vision boards shine a light on our unique gifts and talents and can depict our dreams and the future we aspire to create. Debbi further addresses the intersection of vision boards with our purpose and calling, emphasizing the role of passion and purpose in the visioning process.
 
GUEST BIO
 
Debbi Sluys empowers people to live their best lives and be the best professional they can be by discovering their vision, balancing their lives, and realizing their inner power. Debbi founded the Dare to Declare Academy™, which certifies coaches and entrepreneurs to lead impactful vision board experiences for their clients. She is a coach, trainer, podcast host, and speaker specializing in helping people expand their brain’s potential to see what is possible for their future. As a former Child Care Director, Debbi has studied personal development for over 30 years. She has facilitated and witnessed science at work by guiding over a thousand clients to identify and declare their vision online and in her Dare to Declare™ studio. Her mission and life purpose is to support women to declare their truth and create the life of their dreams. 
Website: https://debbisluys.com
The Dare to Declare Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/daretodeclarepod
Facebook:  https://facebook.com/debbi.sluys
LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/in/debbi-sluys-daretodeclare
Instagram:  https://shorturl.at/EgaDl
 
POWERFUL QUOTES
“Imagine all the things that are available, that when we simply ask, that God will send to us.”
 
“Nothing is too big for God. Nothing. And so we have the responsibility to dream, to ask, and to leave the ‘how’ up to Him. All we have to do every day is take a step forward.”
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com

The Pursuit of Happiness, Powered by Unique Calling | Ep. 009

Embark on an extraordinary journey of resilience, faith, and self-discovery with Vivian's guest, Shauna Parker. From the depths of adversity, failed dreams, divorce, and a harrowing brush with death, Shauna unveils her transformative journey toward finding happiness and her purpose. Prepare to be captivated as she shares her poignant battle against depression's relentless grip, and how she ultimately emerged victorious, embracing her unique calling. With profound wisdom and candor, Shauna illuminates the unwavering importance of holding fast to visions and dreams, even in life's darkest moments. 
GUEST BIO
After a near-death experience and a seven-year-long depression, Shauna embraced her Unique Calling and became passionate about helping Christians reach their full potential. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration: Management, Biblical Life Coach certification, and has additional training from the renowned Ziglar Corporation. Shauna’s joy comes from helping Christians discover their Unique Calling through five core components: spiritual gift(s), love language, passion-driven pursuits, aspirational goals, and heartfelt concerns. 
Shauna is a Christian motivational speaker, coach, coach trainer, and host of the Find God’s Calling Podcast.
 
Website:  https://shauna-parker.com
Instagram:  https://instagram.com/shauna.parker.coachingPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/find-gods-calling-find-your-purpose-find-your-why-gods-plan/id1673157297
 
POWERFUL QUOTE
 
“God knew the plan that he had for you before you were even born. And he wants to use you. You just have to say, here I am.” Shauna Parker
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Memory Blogger: https://memoryblogger.com

Beauty Redefined: Tammy’s Story of Authentic Surrender | Ep. 008

In this episode, Vivian introduces the courageous Tammy Singleton, who opens up about her journey of self-discovery in a society that often values appearance over authenticity. Tammy shares her struggles with body image, an eating disorder, and the pressure to conform to physical standards. Tammy reached a pivotal moment where God reminded her that she was created in His image and was fearfully and wonderfully made. It was this realization that prompted Tammy to surrender to His call and make a life-changing and potentially life-saving decision to remove her breast implants that were unknowingly making her very sick. She candidly discusses her decision to undergo multiple breast augmentation surgeries, the complications that arose, and her eventual choice to remove the implants. Through Tammy's heartfelt story, listeners will gain insight into the complexities of navigating self-acceptance, the impact of societal pressures, and the transformative power of embracing one's true self. Join us as we explore Tammy's journey and her inspiring message of self-love, forgiveness, and finding inner balance. 
 
GUEST BIO
Tammy Singleton is a stay-at-home wife, mom of three incredible adult children, and Mimi to five beautiful grandchildren. She was born in Indiana and adopted at 12 days old. Her family moved to Chickasha, Oklahoma where she’s lived ever since. Tammy was blessed to be able to quit her job 12 years ago and become a stay-at-home Mimi to her firstborn granddaughter, with four more grandchildren to follow. She is the social media coordinator for Century 21 Mosley and also Mosley Insurance Agency. She volunteers at church in multiple areas and is involved in a women’s Bible study. She does all of the errand-running for her hard-working husband and tries to be a good cook! Tammy and her husband, Boyd, enjoy taking their RV and Razor camping where they love being out in God’s creation, taking in all of His beauty.  
 
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/tammy.singleton.54
RESOURCES - Breast Implant Illness
 
https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction/types/implant-reconstruction/illness/breast-implant-illness
 
POWERFUL QUOTE
 
"We tend to look at the Kelley Blue Book value of ourselves, rather than what God tells us, you know, that we're worth." - Tammy Singleton
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@viviancumins
 

Radically Called, Outrageously Obedient: Bringing Hope to Strip Clubs | Ep. 007

Vivian sits down with Rachelle Starr, the founder of Scarlet Hope, a ministry dedicated to serving women in the adult entertainment industry. Vivian and Rachelle discuss the power of fasting, finding balance in life, and embracing one's calling with trust and obedience. You’ll be moved by Rachelle's unwavering commitment to showing love and kindness, and don't miss the opportunity to learn more about her ministry and the impactful work they are doing across the US. Stay tuned as we explore the themes of calling, surrender, and obedience in this uplifting episode!
 
GUEST BIO
Rachelle Starr is first and foremost a lover of Jesus. In 2007, Rachelle founded the nonprofit Scarlet Hope when God called her to share His hope and love with exploited and trafficked women. Scarlet Hope has since expanded across ten cities in the United States and has trained thousands to launch similar nonprofits worldwide under Rachelle’s leadership. Rachelle is an entrepreneur at heart and enjoys developing innovative ways to reach and disciple women, wherever they are. As a speaker, coach, and author of Outrageous Obedience, Rachelle has shared her story on numerous platforms to inspire women to live an outrageous life for Jesus. When Rachelle’s not sharing the gospel in a strip club, you will find her spending time with her husband, Josh, and two boys, baking tasty treats, or playing card games.
WEBSITE: https://rachellestarr.co 
WEBSITE: https://scarlethope.orgBOOK: Outrageous Obedience
https://www.amazon.com/Outrageous-Obedience-Answering-Darkest-Places/dp/0764240366
 
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/thescarlethope 
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/rachellestarr.co
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/thescarlethope
EMAIL: info@scarlethope.org 
PODCAST: Share Hope Bring Love
https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/scarlet-hope-share-hope-bring-love/id1728938596
POWERFUL QUOTE
 
The Power of Fasting: "It is really the relinquishing for a period of time, whether that's food or today's social media or it's shopping or whatever has your attention. It's releasing that for a period of time, fasting from that, and laying it down so that you can empty yourself and be really attuned to the Holy Spirit and to the Lord and His voice."
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@viviancumins

Unknown Territory: Trusting God When He Says “Go” | Ep. 006

Christa Joy Spaeth did not know what she was supposed to do next after she walked away from a 24-year career as a Registered Dietitian at a high-profile food manufacturing company. All she knew was that God had called her to leave her job. It wasn't an easy step, but it was a step of faith that led her closer to the purpose God had for her. Christa shares her experience of leaving a successful corporate career to pursue a ministry role, and how she found balance by prioritizing rest and trusting in God's guidance. In this episode, you’ll enjoy an enlightening conversation with Vivian and Christa filled with faith, trust, and the power of hearing God's calling in our lives.
 
GUEST BIO
Christa is a blessed wife, mother of two, and a successful businesswoman, an unexpected author of two books, and a podcaster. She is a woman ignited with a burning passion to walk in the rhythm of God’s plan each day. So much so that in 2022, she took a bold step, bidding goodbye to her long-standing career as a Registered Dietitian at a high-profile food manufacturing company. It wasn’t an easy step, but it was a step of faith, one that led her closer to the purpose God had for her: encouraging others through Christ. Today, Christa owns and operates Christa Joy Ministries where she publishes her own books, hosts a podcast, and writes daily encouragements on her social media. 
 
WEBSITE: https://christajoyministries.com
FACEBOOK:  ⁠https://acebook.com/ChristaJoyMinistries⁠
INSTAGRAM: ⁠https://instagram.com/christajoyministries
 
CHRISTA’S BOOKSPowerful Whispers Devotional - https://www.amazon.com/dp/057828801X?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_NY232VR7GYWJ7V90J9DA
 
A Busy Mom's Prayer Journal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM9NJGXH?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_BSG8W0CQ99MJ8BK0CM6K
 
SCRIPTURES
John 10:27 – My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
 
James 1:5 – If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@viviancumins