This memory is etched in my mind even though it was many years ago. I remember where I was standing as she made a bee-line for me after one of the talks I had given at a weekend retreat.
She was probably in her mid twenties, slender frame and was dressed with unique style. Her vibrant eyes kind of bugged out. She had a funky, messy, hair style and I immediately noticed the pink little girl’s barrette which kept her bangs pulled back. Well, she’s quite spunky and is something special!
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She approached me, smiling with her phone held out in front. I don’t remember if she stated her name, but she blurted out, “Hi, okay, um, could I please have your podcast information? I’ll just enter it in my phone here. Oh! By the way, that was a great message! Um, so what’s your podcastcalled? I’d like to listen to you everyday on my commute.” She paused and was about to hand me her phone.
“Oh!” I informed her. “I don’t have a podcast, but I have some of my messages over at the product table, CD album collections. Please grab those if you’d like.” I remember this encounter for a few reasons:
- She was adorable Such an original!
- I felt a bit behind the times.
- I was exhorted and encouraged by her wanting more truth than “the one and done talk.”
- God planted a seed in my heart that would germinate from then on.
Different song same theme… Again, a few years ago, I spoke way up in northern Wisconsin, afterwards a young woman from my audience emailed me and we met for coffee.
“After that weekend, as I drove back home, I listened to every clip on your website or anything I could find on-line or get my hands on.” She continued, “You should periscope your messages and release them. I’d totally watch them all!”
I admittedly confessed, “I don’t even know what that is! So how could I do it?” She enlightened me and also suggested I do a podcast to encourage people beyond my weekend engagements. There it was again cropping up for my consideration and prayer.
Here’s one more story of the catalyst behind the podcast idea. I met with a young mama friend of mine . We stood in play area where kids get to run free and travel from room to room exploring, but importantly, can’t escape the building.
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We had fun watching her two precious little ones stand in the atmosphere of bubbly joy as the bubble machine periodically dispensed an iridescent bubbles for kids to watch, pop or lick. She fed them a snack and caught me up on her life.
“I’ve been enjoying podcasts.” She told me one she enjoys. “You know, every time I listen to it, I think of you. You should do a podcast. While I’ve listened I think of texting you to encourage you to do one. There are plenty of young moms who love being at home with kids but want to experience adult conversation a podcast gives them the ability to listen to dialogue and interviews or just simply to be encouraged during their long days. Rachel, you really should do it! I’ll pray for you about it. Okay?”
I’ve seen God moving in this area propelling me forward. I am simply connecting the dots along the way. There hasn’t been a voice from the clouds proclaiming, “RACHEL DO THIS!” But I feel like I am connecting dots as he leads me. Let me share one promise of God with you: I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Psalm 32:8
I think God has been leading me in this whole thing. I love to edify, encourage, challenge, motivate, comfort, inspire, break down barriers and bring hope as I communicate. This is just another way to do those things.
Yes, it’s a new thing I’ve been exploring and Lord willing will launch in January. Yay! I’m so excited and curious and on a definite learning curve as to the process, but I trust God will order my steps. He is faithful!
I have AMAZING people all around me who have been through so many life experiences too. I want to interview some of my friends and my life with the listening world. The format will be a rotation of sorts:
- interviews with amazing, vulnerable, real people
- releasing portions of talks I’ve given with some added thoughts as well
- “Buddy Time” will be part of the rhythm of the podcast with my dear friend Gayle Novak. I’m really excited about the authentic laughter and joy God dumps on us when we are together. It’s gonna be good!
I’ve been doing these tiny little schooches along the way toward the goal of getting this podcast launched in 2019.
What are the ways God has been leading you lately? He goes before you and is your rear guard. He will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. Remember He will counsel you with His loving eye on you. He loves you so much.
Let me encourage you to do your thing!
Along your journey, pay attention to:
- the catalysts that effect you.
- what’s life- giving to you
- the promptings of the Holy Spirit
- feedback and encouragement you receive
As you can tell from this blog post,it took years for this podcast idea to gain traction and come to fruition. It has been percolating for quite a while in my mind and heart. Now, however, I’m kind of like a tea kettle that has been heating up over time and I’m ready to blow!
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rachel inouye 