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This week, I share an unexpected lesson from a 45-minute watercolor class on our cruise. I hadn’t picked up watercolors since elementary school, and as the colors refused to blend perfectly, I was tempted to decide the whole thing was “stupid” and “horrible.” But I kept following the steps, made adjustments, and ended up with something I was willing to show people. That experience reminded me that “the tuition to get good at something is to be willing to be bad at something.” I’ll also explore why I believe we’re born to create, whether that means making art, building something new, or simply trying what feels uncomfortable. What might you create if you stopped waiting to be perfect? Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I take you to Glacier Bay, where a change in plans, a different glacier, and overcast skies left me feeling disappointed. But as I looked at Margerie Glacier through a new lens, I started to wonder: what if the experience I didn’t plan for was perfect exactly as it was? That question brought me back to a stressful mistake from my TEDx application process, when I accidentally deleted my YouTube channel and hundreds of videos. At first, I thought I had ruined my life. But the new channel I created out of necessity performed exponentially better, and I still ended up giving the TEDx talk. What if the hard things we’re facing are preparing us to progress in ways we couldn’t have imagined? This week, I’m reflecting on the possibility that our challenges, disappointments, and unexpected turns may be exactly what we need. Could the thing that feels wrong right now become a blessing in ways we can’t yet see? Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I’m thinking about faith, fear, and what it means to give things to God. A client recently quit her job without another one lined up, leaving behind a situation where she felt stuck and poorly treated. She didn’t know exactly what would come next, but she knew she needed to move toward something different. Is taking action without a complete plan foolish, or can it be an expression of faith? I explore the difference between believing in something we hope will happen and believing in something we hope won’t happen. When the unknown feels terrifying, where do we put our energy: protecting ourselves from fear or moving toward faith? I’m inspired by people who step forward with confidence in themselves and in God, even when they can’t see the whole path. Have faith, not fear. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I take you along for a 27-hour drive in a moving truck from Idaho to Indiana. Sitting for hours, stopping to stretch, and feeling the trip wear me down gave me plenty of time to think about what we’re really working toward. What do we want, and how does that answer change the way we handle difficult moments? 00:42 The heart of this episode is perspective. When I focused on the immediate discomfort, the drive felt exhausting. When I remembered the ultimate goal, helping my daughter and son-in-law settle into their new home, the sacrifice became manageable. I explore how that same longer-term view can help us face the uncomfortable, difficult, and frustrating parts of life with greater purpose. 03:30 Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I explore the limits we accept without ever testing them. A dentist’s recurring problem, a numbed mouth, and a surprising product that may reverse Novocaine’s effects reveal how often we simply put up with frustrations because we don’t know an alternative exists. I’ll take you from a moving truck on the highways of Wyoming to Harry Houdini’s supposedly locked jail cell, which turned out to be unlocked all along. What if some of the barriers holding you back are assumptions rather than facts? And what could change if you truly believed that, with God, nothing is impossible? Share your thoughts at [email protected].  Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I'm thrilled to have Brett back on the podcast for a conversation that hit home in all the best ways. After a recent sacrament talk, Brett shares how a familiar scripture teaching—"ask and ye shall receive"—shifted for him when he applied it beyond his usual worries about jobs and finances, and instead looked inward at his ongoing struggles with anxiety and mental health. What happens when you actually hand over every struggle—including the ones that feel permanent—to Christ, and decide to trust Him completely? Brett's experience might just change the way you approach your daily battles. We dig into how acting in faith looks different when you genuinely believe Christ "has you," from journaling and reminder lists to an entirely new sense of peace that can come with this surrender. Along the way, we wrestle with questions about aligning our will to God's, navigating scrupulosity, and the parable of the talents: what does a five-talent servant really feel like? If you've ever wondered what you're still not asking for—or how to systemize your own spiritual reminders—you'll want to be part of this week's discussion. I'd love to hear: what are you carrying on your own that you could hand over to Christ? And in what ways are you scratching the surface of what's possible when you live the gospel with both faith and surrender? Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I’m joined by Kaden, back on the podcast with a candid look at what happens when our faith hits a standstill. Have you ever felt stuck—like you’re going through the motions but not moving forward spiritually? We get real about what stagnant faith looks like, the hard places it can take us, and more importantly, how to find a fresh direction no matter where you’re starting from. Together, we talk through Kaden’s journey through college, dealing with depression, and what it means to hit “reset” on faith—exploring the honest struggles and the value in facing our own weaknesses. We reflect on how setbacks, even painful ones, can be the experiences that shape us the most, drawing on stories from everyday life and powerful visuals that stuck with us from seminary. Is there really such a thing as falling behind on your spiritual path, or are we exactly where God needs us to be? If you’ve ever wondered how to shift your mindset, set a game plan for personal growth, or turn your hardest moments into stepping stones toward deeper discipleship, this episode is for you. Let’s dig into how intentional change and gratitude for the hard things can realign us—helping us face toward the Savior, one step at a time. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

As this week wraps up, I’m reflecting on the close of another Pathways Institute term and some remarkable experiences I’ve shared with my West African students. What does it mean to truly exercise faith? I dive into the story of the man with palsy from Mark 2, exploring what it might have felt like to be asked by Jesus to rise, pick up his bed, and walk. Would you leap up boldly—or would you be tentative, testing your strength with each small movement? This episode is all about those pivotal moments when our faith is called into action—sometimes boldly, sometimes with caution. I share my thoughts on the leap from uncertainty to confident trust, wondering how each of us would step out if we were in that man's place. Where do you fall on the spectrum between cautious faith and bold, ambitious belief? I’d love to hear about your own experiences with faith—how do you take those first steps when there are no guarantees? And as always, if you have feedback or want to share your thoughts, reach out. Let’s keep digging into the sweet, faith-filled moments that make life so delicious. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I’m back in my own space after a whirlwind of travel, and I’m reflecting on what it means to find stability when everything seems to change at lightning speed. From airport delays to marathon mountain climbs, this episode dives deep into the unexpected twists that life throws our way, and how a steady, guiding presence can make all the difference. At the center of our conversation is Elder Holmes’ talk, “Jesus Christ Is the Way.” I share a personal story about my friend CJ, who is blind, and the remarkable systems and support (including a sighted guide) that allow him to navigate life’s challenges. But what if Christ isn’t just the guide—what if He’s actually the path itself? This idea has me asking how we lean into His support and access the comfort and assurance only He can offer, especially when plans fall apart. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—how do you hold onto your Guide when life takes an unexpected turn? Join me as we unpack these questions, and let’s keep moving forward, holding on to the Savior who’s more than a guide—He’s the very way through every mountain and marathon we face. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, we're talking about the power and discomfort of making decisions—big or small. Ever noticed how being out of your element or off your routine can throw off your sense of control? That happened to me this week while traveling, and it made me think deeply about how we handle choices when life feels unsettled. The heart of this episode is a raw look at the idea that our greatest power lies in choosing for ourselves. Too often, we avoid decisions, hoping life will sort itself out, or we surrender our authority by letting others (or our own Rationalizer voice) decide for us. What actually happens when we don't choose? Is "not to decide" really a decision in itself? These questions shaped my week—and this conversation. If you've ever felt stuck between options or intimidated by the pressure to get it “right,” this episode is for you. My challenge for you this week: make a decision, no matter the size, and feel the momentum that comes from moving forward. And if you want to dig deeper into the philosophy of decision-making—or even disagree with me about whether not to decide is to decide—reach out. Let’s get ambitious together. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

Today we dive into the concept of identity and its powerful impact on our personal and professional lives. How we see ourselves shapes not only the choices we make but also the authority we exercise over our lives. The goal in this life: becoming the kind of person who acts, rather than being acted upon—transforming habits, mindsets, and circumstances through intentional identity shifts.  Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I'm coming to you in the middle of July—can you believe summer is already halfway over? I've been heads-down, racing to finish writing a new book (spoiler: I'm cranking it out fast and hoping to get it on Amazon before the end of the month). Along the way, an interesting theme keeps popping up in my conversations: fear, especially the fear of doing things the "wrong" way. Is it possible that our Church culture turns life into a series of right-and-wrong choices and leaves us stuck, afraid to act if we might get it wrong? I take a closer look at this mindset and share some practical thoughts about the difference between moral right and wrong, and what's just a matter of convenience or preference. Using a lighthearted restaurant adventure as an example, I unpack how getting a little "lost" or making mistakes isn't always a bad thing—sometimes you even end up with a sunset you would have missed. What if there's room for grace in how we navigate big decisions that aren't moral issues at all? Join me for a fresh take on perfectionism and fear, and let's rethink what it really means to "choose the right"—not just as a box-checking exercise, but as a way to move forward with faith, flexibility, and maybe a little bit of chocolate cake. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I'm diving deep into the topic of ministering—what does it really mean, and how can we live it more authentically? With a few thunderstorms shaking up our July Fourth plans here in the Midwest, I've had some extra moments to reflect on what it means to be present in others' lives, not just through assignments, but through genuine, heartfelt connection. We'll talk about the power of noticing others, embracing your divine gifts, and making an impact not because you're assigned, but because it's who you are. I'll share how experiences like teaching in Elders Quorum—or even simple gestures like offering a chocolate cake—can be small but meaningful ways to light up someone's world. What do you bring to your relationships that naturally blesses others? And how would your life change if you shared those gifts on purpose, every day? Let’s challenge ourselves to think beyond formal assignments and instead minister in ways that are natural and true to who we are. As you go about your week, who do you know that could use a little extra sweetness—and maybe even a chocolate cake? Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I’m inviting you into a real-life saga of modern inconvenience—my Xfinity internet meltdown. Maybe you’re enjoying a long July 4th weekend (and hopefully better weather than the current heat wave), but have you ever found your work-from-home routine completely upended by a construction crew and a vanishing internet connection? That’s exactly what happened here, all thanks to some ambitious neighborhood development and a missing junction box. But this isn’t just a rant about tech support nightmares—though you’ll definitely get a taste of those frustrating “six days until a technician can help” conversations. The heart of this episode is a deeper look at what really steals our focus and peace. How many hours do we let the uncontrollable hijack our day, our attention, even our interactions with others? I’ll walk you through my own moments of letting frustration take over, and invite you to reflect: what are you allowing to distract you from what matters most? Join me as I unpack the unexpected lessons a broken internet line can teach us about patience, priorities, and being present. Maybe together, we can learn how to let go a little sooner—and enjoy the sweet moments life has to offer. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen

This week, I’m sharing a real-life tale of unexpected challenges and creative solutions—a sudden power outage in the middle of a busy afternoon. Ever had one of those days where nothing goes as planned? Between a Zoom call with a prospect, prepping cakes to send out, and getting ready for a hot wings (well, chicken legs) challenge at our Elders Quorum activity, I quickly learned just how dependent I am on electricity for, well, pretty much everything! But here’s where the story gets interesting. With no power, I had to get resourceful—melting butter in my hot car for frosting, switching to a gas grill recently vacated by a sparrow family, and scrounging up a battery-powered printer to get shipping labels out on time. The end result? Everything got done—even if not quite the way I’d planned. This episode is really about leaning into life’s difficulties and embracing creative problem-solving. I share how these inconvenient moments teach us strength we can’t develop any other way—just like those baby sparrows need to break out of their shells themselves. So if you’ve ever longed for an easy, smooth path, join me as we reflect on why the struggle might actually be the blessing. Please share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You can email me at [email protected] and follow me at  https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateCakeBytes https://www.instagram.com/chocolatecakebytes/ Check out my new podcast: The Unstuck Career podcast at https://kenwilliamscoaching.com/listen