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The Candid Life

by Lydia A. Botsoe

"Let your listening change your life"The Candid Life is about amplifying the power of our personal stories because they matter. God has placed a heavenly treasure in each and every one of us and it's up to us to discover what that is so that together we can make this world a better place. The stories from each of the guests on this podcast will inspire, challenge, empower, and encourage you to think and live differently. Like Muhammad Ali quote: Don't count the days, make the days count. Contact: [email protected]

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed May 14, 2023 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Between Destinations: Lessons From The Road

    The Route I Didn't Plan: Lessons From the Road What can your daily commute teach you about life? Join Lydia A. Botsoe as she reflects on unexpected detours, road construction, patience, and making room for others. Discover how life's unexpected turns can teach us to navigate change with grace,...

  2. Between Destinations: What Season Am I In?

    Life moves us through many seasons—some chosen, some unexpected. But even when we can't choose the season, we can choose how we move through it. Pause. Reflect. Ask yourself: What season am I in? What is it teaching me? And what intentional step will I take next? Email…

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  3. Between Destinations: Pouring My Heart Into It

    Between Destinations: Pouring My Heart Into It with Denise K. Nowinski In this episode, chocolatier Denise K. Nowinski shares her journey into the world of chocolate—and how she is using her gift to infuse joy, spread kindness, and bring a little sweetness to others. Denise talks about her dream…

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  4. Between Destinations: The Unknown

    Machelle Spivey shares her personal journey through menopause, including the changes she has experienced, lessons she has learned, and hopes for the future. The conversation reminds us that life transitions are something we all experience and we don't have to navigate them alone. Asking…

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  5. Between Destinations: Reason. Season. Time.

    Some people enter our lives for a reason, a season, or a particular time. In this stand-alone episode of Between Destinations, Lydia reflects on the people who influence our journey, what they leave behind, and what we carry forward. Because every encounter has a purpose, even when we don't yet...

  6. Between Destinations: Lord Hurry Up and Take Me Home & Letting Go

    A journey of love, faith, and purpose, as mother and daughter Kay Counts and Betsy Williams reflect on the seasons of change that have shaped their lives. Together, they talk about aging, loss, grace, community, letting go, and looking toward the future—while remembering that through every…

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  7. Between Destinations: The Season of Our Next Adventure

    At 67 and 71, Robin and Tom remind us that when the pace changes, the purpose doesn't have to. After 47 marathons in 45 states, Robin is now walking through an arthritis diagnosis—but still moving toward the five states ahead. Together, they continue the journey with faith, perseverance, and a...

  8. Between Destinations: God Prepares

    Sharon Hiller shares two moments that changed her life: her breast cancer diagnosis and the sudden death of her only son, Jacob Eskel Hiller (1975–2025). Are we listening when God gently nudges us to change course? God is faithful and is always calling us to come up higher. He loves us deeply. As...

  9. Between Destinations: Stand for Right

    STAND FOR RIGHT | The Candid Life What does it mean to stand for what is right—even when it isn't easy? In this episode of The Candid Life, Lydia Botsoe reflects on courage, integrity, and the importance of standing firm when our values are tested. Sometimes standing for right means standing…

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  10. Between Destinations: Discovering Who We Are on the Journey

    Between Destinations: Discovering Who We Are on the Journey In this episode of The Candid Life, Lydia reflects on seasons of transition, the lessons found in unexpected moments, and the courage to trust what comes next. Inspired by Manchester airport encounter in the United Kingdom, she reminds…

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  11. A-Z Encouragement Notes Finale

    As we celebrate the A-Z encouragement notes, we take a moment to listen to the letters that continue to impact the lives of our family members. What is your A-Z? I invite you to write it and live it out. God Bless. Share it with me at [email protected]; follow me on Instagram...

  12. Z for zeal and Zest

    What if one small change in your perspective could help you live with greater passion, purpose, and enthusiasm? Join me for the final letter of the A–Z Encouragement Notes as we discover what it means to embrace life wholeheartedly.

  13. Y for Yes & Yield

    Y — Yes & Yield A simple yes can open unexpected doors. In this episode, we explore the courage to say yes and the wisdom to yield—trusting the process, embracing growth, and allowing purpose to unfold. Record your A-Z letter/ how it has impacted your life/Record it here-...

  14. X for Xenial and X-factor

    In this episode of The Candid Life: A–Z Encouragement Notes, discover how simple acts of hospitality can make people feel seen, valued, and welcomed—and how those moments often create the opportunity for God-given gifts to shine. Together, we'll explore the power of kindness, purpose, and the...

  15. W for Wait and Wonder

    W for Wait and Wonder Waiting isn't empty space—it's where God is quietly at work. In this episode, we explore how delays become divine design, how faith is formed in the unseen, and how wonder grows when we trust God's timing. What feels like pause may actually be preparation. Listen now. Email:...

  16. V for Value and Virtue

    V for Value & Virtue In this episode of The Candid Life: A–Z Encouragement Notes, we explore two life-shaping truths: Value and Virtue. One reminds us who we are in God. The other shapes how we live that truth out. Through personal reflection and a powerful classroom story, we're reminded that…

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  17. U for Unity and Understanding

    Episode U: Unity and Understanding As children, we were often told, "Stay united." In this episode, Lydia shares two powerful stories—one from a family reunion thirty years in the making and another from a lesson learned in the classroom. Together, they reveal a timeless truth: unity keeps us...

  18. T for Triggers and Truth

    Why do certain people or situations trigger us so deeply? In this episode, Lydia explores how everyday encounters can uncover hidden truths about ourselves—and why understanding our triggers may be the key to greater self-awareness and compassion.

  19. S for Simplicity and Sincerity

    S — Simplicity and Sincerity In this episode of The Candid Life: A–Z Encouragement Notes, Lydia shares two touching wreath-making stories that reveal the beauty of living authentically and embracing what truly matters. A gentle reminder that life doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful....

  20. R for Rest and Renewal

    R for Rest and Renewal is a reminder that rest is not weakness—it is repair. In a world that glorifies constant movement, this episode explores the importance of slowing down, protecting your peace, and allowing yourself space to heal, replenish, and begin again. Email…

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  21. Q for Questions and Quiet

    Q for Questions and Quiet invites you to slow down, sit with uncertainty, and make space for honest reflection. In a world full of noise, this episode explores how clarity often begins in stillness—and how our deepest questions don't always need rushed answers, just a quiet place to breathe,...

  22. P for Patience and Purpose

    This episode explores the quiet strength of patience, purposeful growth, and learning to trust the process one step at a time. Through reflection, encouragement, and a powerful classroom story inspired by The Harp by Augusta Savage, we are reminded that progress does not have to be fast to be...

  23. O for Opportunity and Openess

    In this episode, we explore how staying open can help you recognize the opportunities that don't always look obvious. Through real-life moments of trust, awareness, and growth, you'll be encouraged to move beyond what's familiar and step into what's possible.Email- [email protected];...

  24. N for No and Next

    In this episode of A–Z Encouragement Notes, N is for No and Next. Sometimes saying no is the first step toward something better. A healthy no creates space for peace, growth, and the next season waiting for you.

  25. M for Music and Meaning

    M is for Music and Meaning— the melodies we carry and the truth they reveal. What you listen to shapes what you live. @lydiaabotsoe

  26. L for Love and Legacy

    Every moment we're given is an opportunity to love—fully, freely, and intentionally. And while those moments may pass, what we build through them… remains. This is a journey of love in action and legacy in motion—where what we give today becomes what others carry tomorrow.

  27. K for Kindness and Knowledge

    Kindness and knowledge may seem simple, but together they have the power to transform how we live and respond to others. In this episode of The Candid Life, discover how small, intentional moments of compassion and awareness can make a lasting impact. Instagram @lydiaabotsoe

  28. J for Joy and Jubilee

    J for Joy and Jubilee Explore the beauty of celebrating life from the inside out. This episode dives into the heart of joy, the art of gratitude, and the freedom of jubilee—moments when life feels abundant and every small victory shines. Tune in for reflections, stories, and inspiration that…

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  29. I for Investment and Inspiration

    Today, we lean into the letter "I"—Investment and Inspiration. What we invest in ourselves and in others—has the power to grow beyond what we can see. And sometimes, the very seeds we nurture in quiet become the inspiration someone else needs to rise. Let's step into this moment… together. Follow...

  30. H for Humility and Honor

    Humility keeps us grounded. Honor reminds us that the way we treat people always matters. And when humility leads the way… honor often follows quietly behind. Connect: [email protected]; @lydiaabotsoe

  31. G for Gratitude and Grace

    Gratitude changes how we see life. Grace changes how we move through it. Join me this week as we explore Gratitude and Grace and how noticing life's gifts can transform ordinary days. Take a few minutes to pause, reflect, and reset. Listen now. Email: [email protected]; Instagram...

  32. F for Forgiveness and Favor

    Forgiveness and favor often arrive together—but not always the way we expect. Forgiveness invites us to release what weighs us down, and favor meets us with grace we didn't earn but deeply need. In this space, we'll explore honest stories, quiet healing, and the strength it takes to let go—so we...

  33. E for Expectation and Enlightenment

    Expectation sets the direction. Enlightenment reveals the depth. In this brief episode, we reflect on the moment anticipation gives way to understanding—and how clarity reshapes the journey forward. Connect with me on [email protected] or @lydiaabotsoe

  34. D for Determination to Delight

    In this episode, we explore what it means to stay determined without losing your joy. Determination helps us press forward — but delight reminds us why the journey matters. When your heart, mind, and spirit are aligned with purpose, growth becomes sustainable and joy becomes natural. Stay…

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  35. C for Community

    Belief grows stronger when it's supported by C for Community. You were never meant to do life alone. Community provides perspective, accountability, and support. Reach out. Stay connected. Growth happens together, but it takes hard work. "What work of harmony is being asked of you today? What…

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  36. B for Belief

    B-Belief Belief determines whether we step forward. Belief gives you the Courage to begin. Reflect on this question: What am I believing about myself and what's possible? Are you ready and willing to reset your thinking? Join me as we press towards becoming champions through candid living.

  37. A for Attitude

    The Candid Life A–Z: Encouragement Notes is an opportunity to Pause, Reflect, and Reset—one alphabet Letter, one Principle, one Intentional Moment at a time. Listen, learn, and Live out the Candid Life. A for "Attitude". Your attitude determines your progress in life. Will you react or respond to...

  38. God's Perfect Plan with Nancy & Daniel McBride Part 3

    Daniel visits the Candid life. His love for life is evident. He is at home with new family. Love it! Nancy wraps up the podcast with some words of hope that are sure to encourage you to trust God in the season you are currently walking in. If ever there was a prayer to strengthen your faith, tune...

  39. God's Perfect Plan Part 2 with Nancy McBride

    In this episode, Nancy McBride continues to share her amazing story of God's healing from cancer and talks about their adopted son Daniel who is God's perfect gift to their family. She uses the acronym P.L.A.N to reveal life giving nuggets of what it means to walk in step with God our provider....

  40. God's Faithfulness

    Nancy McBride is a humble Christ follower, wife and optometrist. She loves connecting with patients and sharing stories of God's faithfulness in the storms of life. She is currently almost 4 years cancer free, and is amazed at how God continues to use her story to encourage others and tell about...

  41. Lessons I Learnt From My Mother

    Mother's Day, comes by once a year. However, mothering is a 24 hours 7 days a week opportunity. Today and everyday, make time to create a moment by appreciating the women in your life who have made a difference through good and challenging seasons. Love you all! Lydia

  42. Count Down To Mother's Day

    Mother's Day? I say Mothering Day because being a mother is more that the biology. It is the ability to nurture someone towards positive change. There are many women who are live givers. They exist in every part of society. What makes them special is that they come along side you and speak life...

  43. Student Moments That Took my Breath Away

    In this podcast, Lydia shares impactful student moments that caused her to reflect on how teachers need to treat each student as an individual. She also shares some practical ways of coming alongside a student in support, as they navigate various situations. Lydia encourages self reflection and...

  44. Life Changing Teacher-Student Moments

    As teachers, our words and actions matter. In this podcast, I share some personal stories about my interactions with students, teachers, and parents. I reflect on each experience offering some practical advice to help teachers function effectively in the classroom. The stories are as follows: Put...

  45. I'm A Child Of God

    If you want to be Inspired, Challenged, and Empowered to live better, I highly recommend you listen to this podcast to the end. Meet Leyna Karina Hancock who is the most confident 9 year olds I have ever met. She has lots of energy and is very outspoken about her thoughts. If you want a candid...

  46. Seeing Your Work As Ministry

    How do you view your work? Are you seizing the opportunity to make the most of your gifts and talents? Lean in to be inspired, challenged, and empowered towards positive change as you listen to Doris Oyegade. Through her service in the community in Manchester, United Kingdom, Doris is bringing…

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  47. You Only Live Once

    Meet Steven, a vibrant young man living each day with intention. A graduate of George Town University in Washington DC in 2020 with degrees in African American Studies and Government. Steven is currently working for a nonprofit foundation dedicated to providing financial resources to young people...

  48. You Only Live Once

    Meet Molly Jensen, a Ghanaian-American born in New York who is a vibrant, intelligent, and progressive woman. She is also the Chief Executive Officer of Afripods. Lean in and get to know her through a different lens- Unfiltered. https://youtu.be/qzRrhIMZjdQ

  49. Press On

    Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Consider your life choices. Are you moving forward, at a stand still or thriving? What are going to do about it? As you say Bye to 2022 and Hello to 2023, we encourage you to…

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  50. Comfort and Joy

    The Holiday season has a yin and yang feel because of the seasons people are walking through. My Dad taught me to Celebrate the Gift of life by embracing everyday as miracle . He lived each day of his life with an attitude of gratitude because he trusted God with every moment. I have a blue...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

"Let your listening change your life"The Candid Life is about amplifying the power of our personal stories because they matter. God has placed a heavenly treasure in each and every one of us and it's up to us to discover what that is so that together we can make this world a better place. The stories from each of the guests on this podcast will inspire, challenge, empower, and encourage you to think and live differently. Like Muhammad Ali quote: Don't count the days, make the days count. Contact: [email protected]

HOSTED BY

Lydia A. Botsoe

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Candid Life have?

The Candid Life currently has 62 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Candid Life about?

"Let your listening change your life"The Candid Life is about amplifying the power of our personal stories because they matter. God has placed a heavenly treasure in each and every one of us and it's up to us to discover what that is so that together we can make this world a better place. The...

How often does The Candid Life release new episodes?

The Candid Life has 62 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Candid Life?

You can listen to The Candid Life on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Candid Life?

The Candid Life is created and hosted by Lydia A. Botsoe.
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