Vitality Conversations

Grief can feel like a storm—especially for children and families who don’t know where to turn. In this episode of Vitality Conversations, Rana sits down with her longtime friend Tamari Miller, a grief-support leader with over 25 years of experience, to talk about hope, healing, and why community matters after loss.Tamari shares the heart behind her new nonprofit, The Umbrella Project—a mobile grief support program created to remove barriers like transportation, cost, and awareness so families can access support right in their own communities. Together, Rana and Tamari discuss why grief is a journey (not an incident), how play helps children process trauma, and why caregivers need support too.You’ll also hear the powerful meaning behind the name Umbrella Project: something that covers you in the storm so you can keep walking forward—one step at a time.This conversation is for anyone navigating loss, supporting a grieving family, or looking for practical ways to bring comfort, dignity, and hope in the middle of heartbreak.

Is AI something to fear…or a tool you can use wisely with your family and faith? In this episode of Vitality Conversations, Rana sits down with career coach and leadership facilitator Debbie Goldbarth to unpack what artificial intelligence really is and how it’s already woven into our everyday lives—from maps and search engines to Canva, Planning Center, and more.Together they talk about why AI is “just a tool,” how to steward it like any other technology, and the ethical guardrails believers can use to stay grounded in God’s truth. Debbie walks through the A.B.I.D.E. framework—Accountability, Bias awareness, Image of God, Dependence on God, and Edification—to help you filter how you and your kids engage with AI for school, work, creativity, and even fun family nights.If you’ve felt overwhelmed, curious, or a little nervous about AI, this life-giving conversation will help you move from fear to discernment—so you can stay relevant to today’s culture without compromising your values, and keep living on mission in a digital world.

Could better health really be as simple as making one small change at a time? In this episode of Vitality Conversations, host Rana Smith sits down with Rianna Sanchez, a clinical nutritionist and new mom, to talk about the connection between faith, food, and intentional living. Together, they explore how small daily choices—like eating real food, slowing down, resting, and honoring your body—can have a profound impact on your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. This uplifting and practical conversation reminds us that caring for our bodies is one of the simplest and most powerful ways we can honor God and live with vitality.

Could your child’s ADHD symptoms be connected to more than just focus? In this episode of Vitality Conversations, host Rana Smith talks with Dr. Dana O’Keefe about how gut health, diet, and modern toxins may play a surprising role in attention and behavior. They explore why ADHD cases have skyrocketed since the 1990s, what hidden factors could be affecting your child’s brain, and how simple lifestyle changes—like better food, more movement, and less screen time—can make a lasting impact. A practical and faith-filled discussion for parents who want to support their kids in body, mind, and spirit.

What if healing starts not by fixing—but by feeling? In this candid episode of Vitality Conversations, Rana Smith sits down with guidance counselor and adjunct instructor Michele Hayden to talk about moving from numbness to meaningful recovery. Michele shares her journey through early loss, caring for a mother with cancer, and life as a first-responder family—plus why counseling, movement, journaling, and clear boundaries matter. Together they offer practical, faith-rooted steps to be an “ever learner” in grief: normalize getting help, process before you pour, care for your spiritual, emotional, and physical health, and build community support that actually helps. Encouragement and tools for anyone walking through hard seasons—and those who love them.

What do you do when life takes a turn you never expected for your child or your family? In this powerful episode of Vitality Conversations, host Rana Smith sits down with her daughter, Raeli Miller, to share their journeys of walking through unexpected challenges, from health crises to seasons of uncertainty. Together, they speak candidly about pain, surrender, and the importance of community support, while holding fast to the truth that God is present in every moment. This heartfelt conversation is filled with honesty, hope, and encouragement for anyone navigating life’s unexpected turns.Vitality Conversations is a ministry of ⁠WaterStone Church⁠. 

What if you could see the future potential of your child—and know exactly how to nurture it? In this insightful episode of Vitality Conversations, Rana Smith and special guest Raeli Miller discuss practical strategies for recognizing and encouraging the unique gifts within every child. Through relatable experiences in ministry, education, and parenting, they unpack how establishing a foundation of identity, grace, and clear purpose can empower children at every stage of life. Discover how small, intentional moments today can shape your child’s confidence, resilience, and future success.Vitality Conversations is a ministry of WaterStone Church.

In this special episode of Vitality Conversations, guest host Beth Cannon turns the tables to interview her long-time best friend and podcast host, Rana Smith. Together, they recount their 30-year journey filled with deep friendship, shared ministry experiences, and life's unexpected trials—including Rana’s profound journey through grief after the loss of her husband, Ron. Rana opens up authentically about how she's navigated unimaginable heartache, maintained a daily relationship with God, and discovered renewed purpose in tragedy. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of faith, friendship, and the unwavering presence of God's grace, even in life's darkest moments. 

In part two of this encouraging series, host Rana Smith reconnects with special guest Catherine Canone to explore the deeper meaning and necessity of true rest. Together, they unpack common misconceptions about rest, highlight the dangers of constant busyness, and discuss practical ways to integrate restful practices into daily life. Catherine shares valuable insights on setting healthy boundaries, honoring your limits, and intentionally choosing rest over rush. Tune in to discover how slowing down can bring clarity, refreshment, and lasting restoration to your life.

Anxiety affects us all differently, but there's hope and practical ways to overcome it. In this thoughtful episode, host Rana Smith sits down with special guest Catherine Canone to talk about managing anxiety in everyday life. Catherine offers gentle guidance and actionable advice for recognizing anxiety, understanding its roots, and building healthier responses. Through an approachable conversation that balances real-life experience with biblical encouragement, listeners will discover effective tools to move from worry to greater calm and confidence. Vitality Conversations is a ministry of WaterStone Church.

Goals give us direction, but how do we turn them into reality? In this motivating episode, host Rana Smith sits down with Michele Hayden to talk about the power of goal-setting and how to create a plan for success. From small daily habits to big life dreams, they share practical tips for setting achievable goals, staying motivated, and overcoming obstacles along the way. Whether you're looking for a fresh start or a little inspiration to keep going, this episode will help you take the next step toward the life you want! Vitality Conversations is a ministry of WaterStone Church.

Thinking about the future can feel overwhelming, but having a solid plan in place brings peace of mind. In this insightful episode, host Rana Smith sits down with Dianne Reynolds to break down the essentials of wills, trusts, and estate planning. They discuss practical steps to ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Whether you're just getting started or need to refine your plan, this conversation will empower you to take the next steps with confidence! Vitality Conversations is a ministry of WaterStone Church.

Ever wonder how sleep, coffee, and hormones are all connected? In this energizing episode, host Rana Smith chats with special guest Rianna Smith about cortisol—our body's stress hormone—and how it impacts everything from energy levels to overall health. They dive into how daily habits, diet, and even your morning coffee routine can influence cortisol balance. With practical tips for reducing stress and supporting your body naturally, this conversation will leave you feeling informed and empowered to take charge of your well-being!Vitality Conversations is a ministry of WaterStone Church.

Words matter more than we realize. In this heartfelt episode, host Rana Smith sits down with Franchesca Cook, a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in trauma and works with both children and adults. Together, they talk about the role words play in healing, building trust, and shaping how we see ourselves and others. Franchesca shares her experiences and offers practical advice for choosing words that uplift and empower. It’s a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about how small changes in what we say can make a big difference. Vitality Conversations is a ministry of WaterStone Church.