Advertise on podcast: Love and Life with Dr. Karin and Pastor Elliott

I think we can all agree that things feel heavy right now.  Wars. Culture Wars. The politicization of our health and, well, everything! It never stops. And when things feel heavy and like there’s chaos all around us it can feel disempowering.  What can I actually do? What do I have the power to change? What can I turn to? In today’s episode Karin and Elliott wrestle with these questions we all face. They talk us through various situations and examples of the ways we can find ourselves carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders and feeling unable to make a real change.  They take us through various reframes and help us see underlying motivations for these various issues. What role does fear play? What about trying to control people and situations around us?  What role does faith play? Is prayer enough? What does it look like to be grounded?Join Karin and Elliott as they wrestle through these issues and offer us some perspective, guidance, and soul care as we navigate the world around us.  Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Wrestling with addictions is a part of the human experience we all face — to our phones, screens, routines, and even good things. In this episode, we explore the neurological, spiritual, and psychological roots of addiction, revealing how everything from our experiences, wiring, culture, faith (or lack of it) can shape our lives, minds, and who we are. Join us as we unpack the science behind behavioral addictions—how habits like compulsive phone use mimic drug withdrawal in the brain—and why their physiological effects are much more similar than you might think. We break down the latest in mental health language shifts from "substance abuse" to "substance use," and delve into the powerful role of language in destigmatizing struggles we all face.  You'll discover how addiction isn’t just about substances—it’s intertwined with human biology and spiritual longing, revealing how dependency can become both a trap and a pathway to spiritual intimacy. We'll explore topics including:  the neurochemical impact of screensthe gut-brain connection affecting mental healthbalancing spiritual practice and relationship  If you or someone you love struggles with addiction—whether substance-related, behavioral, or even spiritual—this episode offers insights and practical encouragement. We hope it offers support for anyone seeking to understand themselves better, explore faith, or deepen their dependence on Christ while understanding the biochemical and psychological mechanisms that drive compulsive patterns. In a culture obsessed with control and instant gratification, discovering the true source of lasting peace and joy might just be a dependency worth cultivating. Tune in and find out how embracing dependency on Jesus can transform addiction into devotion. Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Elliott and I reflect on Easter and how we can integrate the miracle of Christ’s resurrection into our daily lives. We talk about the freedom that comes from surrendering to Christ’s calling and how we can submit to His expectations of us. Spoiler alert:  this surrendering and submitting stuff goes against our natural urges—which is why we need supernatural help! We then move into sharing real-life stories and practical applications on how to move through relationships and hardships that come our way. What do you do when even family or friends disagree with what you believe God is calling you to do?  Whether you're wrestling with doubts, facing difficult scenarios, or simply seeking fresh motivation to follow Jesus with courage and joy, you'll leave inspired to embrace the foolishness of the Gospel and walk boldly in the resurrected life. Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Take charge of your thoughts—even when it feels like you can’t change them. Elliott and Karin unpack the powerful belief that keeps so many of us stuck: “I can’t change my thinking.” They explore how our brains are wired with a negative bias—and how that wiring can quietly shape our beliefs, relationships, and sense of hope. What are you telling yourself on repeat? • I can’t change. • I’ll never get past this. • This is just who I am. • There’s no way through this. These thoughts don’t just sit in your mind—they take root. They shape your identity, your relationships, and your ability to move forward. But what if that belief isn’t true? In this episode, Karin and Elliott explore the following: • Why your brain defaults to negativity (and how to challenge it) • How “stuck thinking” becomes a false identity • The difference between “I can’t” and “this is hard” • How to begin rewiring your thoughts through small, intentional shifts • Why change often starts outside the biggest problem you’re facing • How fear and past wounds keep us from honest, healing conversations This conversation blends neuroscience, faith, and real-life counseling insight to help you move from feeling trapped…to taking your first steps toward freedom. You are not as stuck as you think. Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

After a few months off, Elliott is back! And he's just released his newest novel: When Love Transforms Today we discuss insights on marriage, crisis management, and the transformative power of faith. We go in depth on his latest novel, personal challenges, and the importance of surrendering to God's plan in life's trials. You can purchase Elliott's new book When Love Transforms here: https://a.co/d/0hbtoaUG Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott AndersonWebsite: http://loveandlifemedia.com/Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBookInstagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

We’re back with The Smart Stepmom, Laura Petherbridge! We continue our discussion about stepfamily life by picking up where we left off in part 1. Specifically, Laura and I discuss the following:  Current trends with stepfamilies.For example, the term “bonus mom” is now commonly used instead of “stepmother.” Is this helpful or hurtful?Custody changes—moving from mothers having full custody to 50/50 arrangements.Why children tend to have a harder time connecting with stepmothers as opposed to stepfathers.The many stepfamilies in the Bible and how Laura believes God views stepfamilies. Whether you’re personally part of a stepfamily or not, you’ll be blessed by Laura’s warmth, wit, and wisdom. Please join us!  Laura Petherbridge, The Smart Stepmom Website: https://www.thesmartstepmom.com/ Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

I’m so pleased to introduce my personal stepmom coach, Laura Petherbridge, to the Love & Life family! Laura is an author, speaker, and coach. She specializes in supporting clients as they navigate the complexities of modern relationships. She works with couples, women, and single adults sharing with them what God has taught her as a childless stepmom. Laura shares truth from Scripture, along with wisdom from personal challenges. In part one of our conversation, Laura and I discuss all things stepfamily. Specifically, we tackle the following: • Expectations—those we realize we have and those that surprise us. • How bio parents perceive their children vs. how stepparents see their children. • The most important thing stepparents can do to help the family gel. • What bio parents need to understand about their spouse’s experience as a stepmother or stepfather. Join us for part 1 of our deep dive into stepfamily life! Laura Petherbridge, The Smart StepmomWebsite: https://www.thesmartstepmom.com/ Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott AndersonWebsite: http://loveandlifemedia.com/Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBookInstagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

I’m thrilled to welcome back to Love & Life, Jenna McCarthy. Her newest book was just released and is co-authored with Dr. Pierre Kory called: The War on Chlorine Dioxide: The Medicine That Could End Medicine. She’s also the author of Yankee Doodle Soup for the Fringy, Tin Foil Hat-Wearing Conspiracy Theorist’s Soul and The War on Ivermectin: The Medicine that Saved Millions and Could Have Ended the Pandemic with Dr. Pierre Kory.  Picking up where we left off, we continue to process our parallel journeys navigating a country and world that we don’t even recognize anymore.  How do you process everything that’s culturally and politically these last few years?How do you navigate the isolation you can feel from family and friends?What does moving forward look like? What can we do? What are practical ways we can push back and find trustworthy voices? And how does Substack play into all of this? We discuss this and so much on the show today!  Jenna McCarthy Substack: https://jennasside.rocks/ Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. It’s a holiday that brings up a lot of emotions for people whether you’re single or not.  Elliott is back today to discuss various strategies and modalities for approaching Valentine’s Day that honors our past and encourages us to embrace growth and change regardless of our relationship status.   He specifically shares his experiences working with both students and therapy clients, highlighting how our formative years and relationships shape our pursuit of love. Elliott emphasizes that healing those wounds can lead to healthier and more fulfilling connections.   So if the idea of love to you feels complicated, chaotic, or even painful, this discussion dives into how you can rewire your attachment style, nurture genuine intimacy, and find peace regardless of your relationship history or status. Ultimately, we hope no matter what your relationship status is this Valentine’s Day, that this episode gives you practical steps to finding healing, fulfillment, and peace.   Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Today I’m speaking with Rob Pikula, who I met at the Indiana Children’s Health Defense. Rob is an advocate for medical freedom and shares his experience dealing with many personal trials and how he overcame those hardships through the power of shifting his mindset, understanding his triggers, and learning to live presently.   Rob shares how his health freedom advocacy began with a life-altering event—a heart attack that revealed to him the limitations of conventional medicine. After hitting various dead ends within the current medical system, Rob sought alternative treatments and started to question the medical protocols that had been imposed on him. This pivotal moment set him on a path of research and self-discovery, leading to a deeper understanding of health and wellness.  Rob’s journey is a powerful testament to the importance of health freedom, personal empowerment, and the role of mindset in shaping our realities. May you be empowered by Rob’s story and encouraged to take control of your own mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health as you listen. Rob Pikula Website: https://www.consciousalchemistcoach.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Our-Children-Come-First-Responsibility/dp/147919994X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JQ8AWF232S6Q&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.FsSxcgpOoKK3fSt9j5Hc9A.5n6kmklt_nD8beG85JML9dQOL5UNYGJu0LlMEl1Mrr0&dib_tag=se&keywords=book+robert+pikula+our+children+come+first&qid=1769802865&sprefix=book+robert+pikula+our+children+come+first%2Caps%2C135&sr=8-1 Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Today I’m joined again by Dr. M. Nathaniel Mead and Dave Wayne as we continue the conversation Dr. Mead and I began in Ep. 391 Covid: Find out What REALLY Happened on The Covid Index.  In this conversation, we dive into the ways censorship, corporate influence, and technological manipulation have distorted evidence-based medicine, suppressed free speech, and accelerated societal fragmentation. We also discuss the profound impact of mass formation and psychological manipulation during COVID — from the suppression of dissenting voices to the rapid artificialization of lifestyles, food, and even human identity.  We break down: * The decline of genuine science and the rise of scientism during the pandemic * The dangers of centralized media, censorship, and reliance on AI for knowledge * How artificial environments, chemical exposure, and disconnection from nature are subtly rewiring human biology and psychology * The importance of reclaiming personal autonomy, free speech, and practices like mindfulness * Practical steps to awaken critical thinking and restore connection to natural and spiritual truths Why does all this matter? Because the erosion of free speech, personal sovereignty, and authentic science isn't just about politics—it's about the very fabric of human liberty. If we don’t wake up now, we risk losing our capacity to discern truth and to live freely in a rapidly transforming world. Thank you for joining us! To learn more about about Dr. M. Nathaniel Mead's work at The Covid Index please visit covidindex.science  David Wayne, BSN-RN, CPHC https://www.americaoutloud.news/author/david-wayne/  Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

We are continuing to discuss what real change looks like in 2026.  We start off in the middle of a Midwest snowstorm, which takes out Karin’s power mid-recording, but Elliott and Tim pick up the conversation and continue to discuss how Elliott’s clients have embraced his A.C.E. acronyms from Ep. 390. The conversation leads into what do we do when life happens? How do we stay present and grounded in the midst of chaos? How can we reframe difficult circumstances? How do we battle the internal dialogue we can all find ourselves struggling with? These patterns, beliefs, and habits that are ingrained into us. What does real transformation look like?Elliott gives practical application that gives us a framework for how to face these challenges and keep moving us forward!  This is the time of the year when New Year’s Resolutions start to drop off. May this conversation help give you the tools and belief to keep going! You can take charge of your thoughts and take charge of your life in 2026!    Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Last November, I attended the Children's Health Defense Annual Conference in Austin, and I was able to connect with so many medical freedom activists and dissidents and so many people who are still concerned about COVID. Yes, even 6 years later - we need answers! At the conference, I got connected with The Covid Index, founded by researcher M. Nathaniel Mead, MSc, PhD. Since the late 1990s, Dr. Mead has authored over 55 peer-reviewed scientific papers, contributed to numerous books, served as an editor for two peer-reviewed scientific journals, and worked as an integrative-medicine research consultant. Mead is also the lead author on several peer-reviewed papers on the Covid-19 mRNA vaccines, co-authored with Drs. Peter McCullough, Stephanie Seneff, Jessica Rose, Paul Marik, William Makis, and other notable scientists. He joins me on the program today to discuss where we are today and the work that The Covid Index is doing to grow and build an expansive dictionary of evidence to the many falsehoods that were pushed by officials and media outlets alike during the COVID-19 experience.    To learn more about The Covid Index please visit covidindex.science  Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

On the heels of last week’s episode, we are continuing to discuss how to thrive in 2026!  Today, Elliott and Karin dive into various modalities to help us strategize and take charge.  They explore the importance of concrete planning in areas like sleep, nutrition, and personal habits, emphasizing the power of self-control and conscientiousness.  Elliott takes us through two acronyms that he uses in his personality class he’s teaching this spring: A.C.E. Accept, Change, EngageAcknowledge, Consider, Emote Karin then walks us through her practice this year, highlighting a fruit of the Spirit each month and the habits, practices, and mindset changes that can come from it.  Finally, the conversation also touches on recent changes in health recommendations and their impact on current and future generations.  Join them as they share personal insights, practical strategies, and the significance of aligning habits with values for a healthier, more intentional life in 2026! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Happy New Year! As we move into 2026, it’s that time of year where many of us take time to pause, reflect, and set goals for the upcoming year.  Transformation is something that takes time. It’s change that comes from the inside out. But where do we start? At times, it can feel daunting and overwhelming to even know where to begin.  So today, we want to discuss various ways we can grow personally, spiritually, and within our relationships.   What role does reflection play in setting goals for the new year?How do we build habits when our days already feel too full?What does it mean to be intentional in 2026?How do all of these areas impact not only ourselves but the relationships around us? Take charge of your new year and build habits, routines, and systems that will last! We pray that no matter how 2026 finds you, this year would be one of transformation for you. Thank you for listening.  Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson