Mint Arrow Messages

Allison Hottinger & Lisa Kalberer are the sisters behind The Giving Manger, who believe kindness is an everyday practice and giving can change everything. With 6 kids between them (Lisa has one son, Allison has five kids), their focus is RAISING KIND KIDS. Kids who Give. Kids who CARE. They are constantly looking for ways to make giving and kindness simple and a daily practice. Today I get to ask Allison and Lisa all about their journey with starting the Giving Manger and how they've helped bring that tradition to thousands of families and created millions of acts of service around the world. We also get to talk about their inspiration behind their newest project, the kindness chain, and how this kid-friendly, family centered activity can help unify kids and parents with their communities and bring more love and kindness to the world. Time Stamps:[00:58] - Allison explains where the idea for The Giving Manger came from.[03:57] - “If we can’t get it out of our mind, it might be something that we need to do.”[05:41] - Lisa talks about the drive they had once they were set on bringing The Giving Manger to life.[07:35] - Real joy comes from being in service and helping each other.[09:53] - When you follow your purpose, resources will show up for you.[12:51] - Did Allison and Lisa feel any opposition as they created The Giving Manger?[14:57] - Reach out to the community around you.[17:38] - Shifting the focus to giving.[19:26] - Take time to appreciate others and be intentional.[21:13] - Human connection is part of giving. Lisa shares what happened when she took a chance on having a kind chat with a stranger.[23:18] - Our small contributions add up. Allison shares a story of a stranger making a friendly request to make another person’s Christmas joyful.[25:26] - Be kind.[27:24] - A smile goes a long way.[30:12] - We can all be more understanding of each other.[31:51] - Corrine recalls a moment where simple words from a nice stranger made a situation more comfortable.[33:40] - Where did the creative prompts come from?[36:11] - Kindness creates a chain reaction.[38:57] - Try to be part of the solution. Allison and Lisa talk about how their families are being more and more involved in creating change.[41:38] - Remember to be kind to people, even when it feels inconvenient. You never know what impact your kindness could have.[43:32] - Kindness is a daily practice. It starts from one thing at a time. Supporting Resources: Instagram @thegivingmanger The Giving Manger website “The Giving Manger” Book by Allison HottingerSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bre Welch is an actress and photographer who has studied and performed in London, New York City, and Walt Disneyworld. She has performed in venues across Utah including Hale Centre Theatre, The Grand, The Ellen Eccles, Centerpoint Legacy Theatre, and the Salt Palace. Bre studied vocal performance for over fifteen years and is the owner and photographer of Pepperfox Photo where she takes rad headshots and modern branding photos. She is mommy to 3 incredible humans. Late last night I was on instagram when I saw a post from Bre about putting goodness into the performing community rather than the toxicity she was seeing, and it really struck a chord with me. The stars all aligned so that 13 hours later, we were able to sit down and talk all about this! I was so uplifted by the things Bre shared with me and I hope you leave this interview feeling the same way too. Time Stamps:[00:56] - Bre Welch gives the backstory of The Pepperfox Podcast and its connection to the artist community. [03:21] - How did Bre start doing photography?[06:21] - Bre says she was really active in photography, but she noticed this scarcity mindset she had.[08:52] - When you clearly communicate what you offer, you become the “go-to” person.[11:50] - Bre shares her experience of being a Disney princess. How did she hear about the opportunity?[13:31] - What do you do to audition as a Disney princess? PART 1[16:31] - What do you do to audition as a Disney princess? PART 2[18:29] - Your worth does not fluctuate. You are always worthy.[20:34] - What is Bre’s advice to people in scrutinizing careers?[22:41] - We are here to fully live our lives.[24:40] - Who is the most magical person Bre remembers from her time at Disney?[27:26] - Bre wants to see more good infused into the theatre community.[29:52] - What is the hardest part of theatre in Bre’s opinion?[31:23] - Opportunities are abundant, and they’ll keep coming.[33:14] - We want to see people being people.[35:48] - Bre talks about which personality traits she sees emerging in her children. PART 1[38:14] - Bre talks about which personality traits she sees emerging in her children. PART 2[40:00] - It’s not so much about what you do, but who you’re becoming.[41:57] - Thank you Bre, and thank you for listening! Supporting Resources:Bre’s photography pepperfoxphoto.comInstagram @pepperfoxphotoBre’s podcast The Pepperfox PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are halfway through 2022, so right now is a great time to pause and reflect on how far we’ve come. Have you given yourself space to see how close you are to your goals, if you’re at least headed in the right direction, or if you need to redirect a little? Today Neil and I are talking all about evaluation, progression, and how to achieve and celebrate small wins that will get you to the bigger wins in the future, and how to make sure you're enjoying the journey along the way. Get 10% off Mint Arrow jewelry by going to mintarrow.com/merch and use the code podcast10 at checkout. Time Stamps:[00:35] - Corrine reflects on her vision board and talks about celebrating new milestones.[03:08] - Evaluate your goals, so you know where you’re at in your journey.[05:51] - Do you know if you’re spending time on the best tasks for your goals?[08:30] - Know where and when to place your focus on certain tasks.[11:22] - Ask a trusted person in your life for feedback about your goal setting habits.[13:22] - “Goal setting should cause us to stretch as we make our way.”[16:22] - Corrine describes the meanings of the new Mint Arrow jewelry pieces.[19:40] - Actively search for good and practice gratitude.[22:03] - Keep your heart open to conviction and guidance.[24:48] - Not all problems can be solved at once, but we can work it out step by step.[27:14] - “Daily decisions determine destiny.”[29:00] - Neil talks about praying for help to accomplish an effective and balanced approach to life. [31:22] - Listen to how Pixar writes out their ideas. It’s a great example of not chasing perfection.[33:18] - Let’s pause for a moment and appreciate how far we’ve come.[35:53] - You might spend a season working on one goal over others. [37:35] - Give yourself grace for whatever time and season you are in. Supporting Resources: “The Word Is Commitment” Talk by Marvin J. Ashton “Choose Wisely” Talk by Quinton L. Cook“Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less” Book By Greg McKeown“The Power of Clarity: Find You Focal Point, Maximize Your Income, Minimize Your Effort” Audio Book by Brian Tracy “Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time” Book by Brian Tracy Story of Joseph Smith appearing to Brigham Young in a dream and counseling the saints to keep the spirit.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you've been on social media at all in the past couple of weeks, and really in the past couple of years, you know that when issues hit the internet they tend to blow up like an explosive. So when some really heated and emotionally charged current events started to blow up on social media in the past week, I turned to the scriptures and to talks and sources of truth to try to find not only answers to my questions, but how to appropriately share whatever god might want me to share. The answers that I found were different than I expected, mostly centered around being a peacemaker, so that's what we're going to talk all about today. The need for a peacemaker in this world and how to become one. Time Stamps:[00:46] - Corrine talks about society’s reaction to the series of legislation changes in the US.[02:38] - Is there a time where Neil felt he had to be more of a peacemaker?[05:29] - Staying stuck on ill-feelings ruins your experience of life.[07:23] - We must individually seek peace and harmony within ourselves to do the same with others.[09:37] - Peacemakers are not passive; they are persuasive.[11:39] - Take a moment before you respond to something that makes you upset.[13:17] - Withdraw from anger and contention.[14:54] - Peacemakers break the cycle.[17:18] - Beware of pride. [20:08] - Do people really need to comment on everything?[22:57] - Go to sources of truth.[25:38] - How can we bring peace into a heated conversation?[27:44] - “God does not send thunder when a still, small voice is enough.”[29:20] - The common ground in the truth is greater than our differences.[32:08] - Lean into being a peacemaker in our society. Supporting Resources: “The Power of Spiritual Momentum” Talk by Russell M. Nelson “Following Jesus: Being a Peacemaker” Talk by Neil A. Anderson“How to Win Friends and Influence People” Book by Dale Carnegie “Our Hearts Knit as One” Talk By Henry B. EyringSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever been in a situation where you don't realize it at the moment, but after the fact you look back and see that the adversary was totally working to get at you, to pull you down, to sneakily make you feel less-than worthy or like you're failing or you even lost out on joy from comparison or negativity? Today we're going to discuss how Satan is in your blind spots, how to spot him, and what to do about it. Time Stamps:[00:37] - The adversary is hanging out in our blind spots.[03:09] - What’s the difference between a leopard and a cheetah?[04:57] - Corrine describes how cheetahs stalking their prey mirrors how evil can be lurking in plain sight.[07:38] - Satan is the enemy of righteousness.[10:22] - Do you understand the underlying problem that is fueling the chaos?[12:08] - Restlessness, irritation, and discontent can still exist when the true cause of the havoc is not addressed.[14:24] - There are times we don’t recognize Satan and claim ourselves as the “problem.”[16:06] - Don’t let the adversary score easy wins.[17:48] - Corrine talks about the difference between being “fearful” and being “aware.”[20:22] - Neil brings up the concept that not all thoughts in your mind are from you.[23:20] - Neil gives a tip on separating the good and the subtle bad that appears in your thoughts from time to time. [25:41] - Everybody can relate to being concerned about rejection or comparison at some level.[28:29] - More people resonate with your experience than you think.[30:56] - “You have accomplished something beyond price.”[33:53] - Here’s why you shouldn’t nag yourself with a sense of failure.[35:50] - Christ taught us how to deal with the devil.[38:20] - Be careful of the subtle temptations that start to leak into your life.[41:19] - Satan will take you down however he can get you.[44:14] - Savior is much more powerful. [46:33] - Give your attention to the positive. Supporting Resources: “Watchful unto Prayer Continually” Talk by David A. Bednar “To the Women of the Church” Talk by Gordon B. HinckleySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever asked God for a miracle, or wondered how in the world you should go about that if you need one? I'm willing to bet that if you're listening to this, there's some kind of miracle you need in your life right this minute! I'm going to share with you the details of a few miracles that happened to me just last week, while Neil reminisces about some that happened on his mission, and then we'll share the formula that you can follow to seek and expect miracles in your life too. Time Stamps:[00:34] - Corrine recaps the youth camp she just came from. How did the trip go?[02:53] - Can we really seek and expect miracles? Neil gives an example of putting together faith and action.[05:04] - Neil talks about using prayer and intention to move towards miracles.[06:49] - Seeing miracles consistently builds the amount of faith you have for the next miracle.[09:09] - The Lord is willing to intervene in the lives of those who believe in him.[11:05] - Where did Corrine find the confidence to seek and expect miracles?[13:49] - Corrine talks about the miracles that happened during the youth trip that kept everyone safe.[15:42] - Even when the situation looks one way, watch how a miracle will appear at the right moment. PART 1[18:11] - Even when the situation looks one way, watch how a miracle will appear at the right moment. PART 2[20:34] - Neil and Corrine talk about miracles being evidence of faith and belief.[23:11] - Listen to Corrine and Neil talk about food miracles where it looked like there wasn’t enough to go around.[25:56] - With miracles, everything aligns in a way that can’t be made up.[28:48] - Miracles happen every day.[31:19] - Are you expecting miracles or are you in doubt of them?[33:56] - Boldly seek and expect miracles.[35:50] - This will accelerate your spiritual momentum. Supporting Resources: “The Power of Spiritual Momentum” Talk by Russell M. Nelson. New York Times article on Tyler Skaggs miracle tribute game.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On February 24, 2022, Russia attacked Ukraine in an attempt to take over the country, but for the past three and a half months, Ukrainians have fought back in a David and Goliath effort to stand their ground and preserve their beloved country. Right when the war started, I discovered on Instagram, and became friends with, a Ukrainian man named Andre Zinkovsky who was sharing about his testimony of food storage and how he was prepared to deal with the war because his church leaders had instructed him to have a supply on-hand of food and cash and to be self-reliant. Andre started just by serving his neighbors but quickly ended up turning his once profitable food delivery business into a full-blown charitable effort to feed those who were left behind in his hometown of Kharkov Ukraine with food, hygiene, and medical supplies for the past several months. We've been able to take a small part in this by gathering donations and sending them to Andre weekly, and in the process, he has become a dear friend to us. Andre does weekly live reporting sessions on Instagram where he reports on the hundreds if not thousands of people he's fed each week, and then takes questions, and each week he's inevitably asked to share his conversion story to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has also faced some really challenging conversations with the people he's been serving for the past few months about whether they truly NEED the food he's delivering or if they're able to be self-reliant at this point in the war. So today we got to talk all about both of these things. Andre's pure testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ is so touching and this was such a blessing to me to hear him tell the full story, and I know it will be to anyone else who listens to it too. This week’s episode is brought to you by Aura Frames. From now until Father’s Day you can save on the perfect gift and visit auraframes.com. Last year Aura completely sold out for Father’s Day, so don’t wait! Listeners can use code mintarrow and get up to $20 off while supplies last. Terms and conditions apply. Time Stamps:[01:45] - Andre Polonski is back for another episode. What changed since the last time we talked?[03:52] - Andre’s past experiences are all being used in his current mission. It’s as if God prepared him for this.[06:16] - What inspired Andre to deliver food to others?[08:58] - What is self-reliance, as taught by the church?[11:42] - Andre’s understanding of what it’s like to be “in need” helps him encourage others to be more proactive. People are more capable than they think.[14:39] - Self-reliance gives hope and assurance that you can persevere.[16:15] - Corrine and Andre talk about the self-reliance courses. What are their thoughts?[18:37] - Andre shares a story about missionaries helping his sick mom. PART 1[21:33] - Andre shares a story about missionaries helping his sick mom. PART 2[23:34] - Andre talks about how his life changed after joining the church.[27:02] - What would Andre do instead if he was not in his current profession?[28:41] - Andre gives a sweet update about his mom and gives his tips for staying grounded during hard times.[31:01] - Andre shares tips for staying positive and opens up about his relationship with his father.[33:57] - Andre explores how he feels towards marriage.[36:56] - What does Andre imagine doing after the war?[39:24] - We live in an uncertain world, so be kind to each other.[41:44] - Use everyday to share appreciation with your loved ones. Supporting Resources:Andre’s Instagram @andrepolonskiSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Charlie Bird, a Missouri native, was Cosmo the Cougar at Brigham Young University from 2016-2018. He received national acclaim for his multiple dance performances with the BYU Cougarettes after ESPN and many other news and social media channels picked up his video that went viral of Charlie dancing (and keeping up!) with the Cougarettes. Charlie served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Redlands, California. He is the author of Deseret Book bestselling memoir, Without the Mask, and hosts a top-ranked religious podcast called Questions from the Closet. Charlie recently received a Masters in Social work from BYU.Today you'll hear my interview with Charlie where he opens up about his identity first and foremost as a son of God, and a gay Christian and member of the church of Jesus Christ, and the journey he's been on toward accepting himself fully and completely. Charlie’s story is heartwarming and inspiring and was so helpful for me to have more awareness, compassion and understanding toward other LGBTQ+ people. I'm honored to call Charlie a friend and am constantly entertained AND inspired by his social media content so it really was a treat for me to just sit and talk with him today and I hope you feel the same way as you listen too. This week’s episode is brought to you by Aura Frames. From now until Father’s Day you can save on the perfect gift and visit auraframes.com. Last year Aura completely sold out for Father’s Day, so don’t wait! Listeners can use code mintarrow and get up to $20 off while supplies last. Terms and conditions apply. Time Stamps:[01:22] - Charlie Bird and Corrine met in Hawaii in the midst of food and dancing.[03:28] - It can seem that identities matter most when they influence how you can be viewed and treated.[06:27] - Charlie explores how his connections to the church and the LGBT+ community originally felt polarizing.[09:17] - Charlie recalls a moment of shouldering shame at 14 years old when he first started considering his sexuality.[11:39] - What does Charlie hope his story will help others with? [13:04] - Charlie gets honest about the time he almost became homophobic to try to get away from his internal battle.[15:43] - What is the story of becoming Cosmo the Cougar? PART 1[18:11] - What is the story of becoming Cosmo the Cougar? PART 2[20:08] - Charlie talks about his first time really being exposed to the LGBT+ community. Where was he?[22:56] - What happened when Charlie started to more openly accept his sexuality?[25:14] - Trying to be something you’re not inhibits every other part of life.[27:45] - The feeling of freedom is contagious.[30:46] - Charlie speaks about the realization he needed to share his story of embracing his entire identity. [33:19] - What is a good example of being supportive when someone comes out to you?[35:40] - Charlie suggests ways to approach these vulnerable conversations.[37:25] - Why did Charlie decide to come out more publicly?[40:11] - Corrine appreciates Charlie being a positive and relatable advocate for the intersection of the church and the LGBT+ community. [41:58] - How can we help church communities feel more safe and welcoming for the LGBT+ community? [44:46] - Life’s too short to not do what is calling your heart.[46:29] - What is Charlie looking forward to these days?[48:25] - The best you is “the real you.”[50:22] - Thank you Charlie! Thank you for listening!  Supporting Resources:Instagram @mrcharliebird Tiktok @mrcharliebird“Without the Mask: Coming Out and Coming into God’s Light” book by Charlie BirdPodcast “Questions from the Closet” with Charlie Bird and Ben SchilatyVideo of Charlie as Cosmo the Cougar performing with the CougarettesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When horrible, unexplainable evil and tragedy happens in the world, what do you turn to? I'm a little ashamed to admit this, but I used to seriously question whether a little prayer from me could actually make a difference in something that happens halfway across the country, or the world. That all changed 3 years ago when our family was lifted by the prayers of so many people who don't know us personally but wanted us to feel comfort and peace during an unimaginably painful time. I would invite you today to listen to this episode with an open heart and mind and that you'll hear the message that is meant for you. Today’s episode is sponsored by Calm. Reduce stress and anxiety through guided meditations, improve focus with curated music tracks, and rest and recharge with Calm’s imaginative sleep stories for children and adults. There’s even new daily movement sessions, designed to relax your body & uplift your mind. Go to calm.com/mintarrow and get 40% off a Calm premium subscription.Time Stamps:[00:42] - Corrine opens a conversation about using her voice to speak on tragic events.[03:17] - Corrine once felt that collective prayers for tragic events seemed hollow and cliche.[05:05] - When did Corrine change her mind about collective prayer?[07:23] - Neil talks about the power of collective prayer during a hard time for the family.[10:15] - Corrine mentions what comment on social media made her think about those who don’t feel as connected to collective prayer in tragic times. [12:41] - Corrine shares a miracle that was only possible by prayer.[15:17] - Corrine talks about following a nudge she had to ask for prayers, despite not knowing if it’ll make a difference.[17:57] - Sometimes we need collective experiences with faith and prayer to strengthen our trust in miracles.[20:38] - Corrine talks about the power of praying for the leaders guiding the country.[23:22] - If we believe in an omnipotent and omnipresent God, why would we not seek God’s guidance?[25:42] - Neil explores the definition of prayer and discusses the relationship cultivated through prayer.[27:58] - Faith is active by the channel of prayer. Prayer is a two-way communication.[30:46] - Why don’t all miracles happen? Does it have to do with an individual’s faith?[32:39] - Hard times help us gain character, compassion, faith, and much more.[34:53] - Neil brings attention to understanding the nature of God. How do we step outside of ourselves?[36:56] - Exercise a practice of being rooted in prayer.[39:47] - Each prayer you say contributes to a greater faith. No prayer is wasted. [41:56] - Expect miracles.[43:39] - When you look back, you’ll see countless miracles throughout your life. Supporting Resources: Governor of Tennessee, Bill Lee, puts out a proclamation and declares a day of prayer, humility, and fasting.  President Russell M. Nelson’s message on US National Day of Prayer. “Prayer, the Passport to Spiritual Power” from the life of Spencer W. Kimball “Tragedy or Destiny?” from the life of Spencer W. Kimball Definition of prayer from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Bible DictionarySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spencer Taggart, a LONG time friend of ours, has a strong background in social media and marketing. Prior to accepting a full-time teaching position at BYU Hawaii, he was the director of Strategy and New Business for Boncom and a Social Media professor at LDS Business College. Before diving into academia, Spencer was the Global Marketing Manager for Blendtec, one of the most successful companies to use social media as a marketing tool today. Spencer received his BA in Communication from the University of Utah and his MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management. Spencer and his wife, Katie, have 4 amazing children and they live on the north shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Spencer and Katie bought an investment property in 2020 after God told them that it would be a place of healing and gathering. They hold womens retreats where Spence and his team help people discover their infinite worth and truest purpose in life, which is what we're going to talk all about today. Spence is going to teach us about getting out of the box, leaving behind the pressures and expectations of the world and embracing an intentional life of focusing on the potential God sees in you.Time Stamps:[01:13] - Spencer Taggart is a LONG time friend. How do Corrine and Neil know Spencer?[02:55] - Spencer shares how he came up with the idea for strategic framework sessions.[05:19] - What is a vision video?[07:38] - If you design your dream life, what would it look like? What would it feel like?[10:29] - Spencer says that all of us are born with confidence.[12:34] - Spencer talks everyone through a powerful box analogy for fear, limits, and progress.[15:04] - Here is a secret about how the “box” was created.[17:19] - Real failure is part of life and helps us learn.[20:09] - Living authentically can inspire others to do the same.[22:32] - Don’t get stuck in the box.[25:20] - How many times have you allowed fear to win?[27:49] - Everyone wins when you do this. What is it?[29:44] - When you move with love, you are courageous.[31:53] - Spencer encourages being more present with yourself. [34:44] - Follow along with this meditation guided by Spencer: PART 1.[36:26] - Follow along with this meditation guided by Spencer: PART 2.[39:00] - Live everyday on purpose.[41:55] - Truth leads to freedom and love.[44:08] - Spencer encourages you to get out of the box.[45:55] - Change your life and start truly living.[48:14] - What is Spencer’s gift?[51:10] - Tune into Spencer’s morning walk show! Supporting Resources:Learn more about the September 2022 Her Infinite Worth Retreat with Spencer and Corrine at herinfiniteworth.org *Sign up and join us for the retreat at mintarrow.com/retreat Spencer’s Instagram/morning walk show @sptaggartFollow along with the women’s retreats on Instagram @herinfiniteworthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.