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In this episode, Carissa Fleming and Debbie Brunet are joined by Annie Nelson, podcast host and Bible teacher. Annie shares her insights on spiritual disciplines, the importance of community, and how habits shape our spiritual formation, especially during challenging seasons Keywords: spiritual disciplines, spiritual formation, prayer, scripture, community, habits, faith, growth, seasons of dryness, Lectio Divina Key Topics The importance of spiritual disciplines like prayer and scripture readingHow community acts as a spiritual discipline and support systemThe impact of seasons of dryness and grief on spiritual habitsPracticing Lectio Divina as a way to meditate on scriptureThe relationship between grace, discipline, and sanctification"God is the one who releases us from the trap." "If I want to see God, I need to have a humble spirit." "Rest and grace are essential in dry or difficult seasons." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Annie Nelson 01:04 Annie shares her background and teaching experience 03:00 Discussion on teaching spiritual disciplines to high schoolers 07:01 Annie explains her personal prayer and scripture study practices 13:03 Insights from two weeks of Psalm 25 meditation 19:09 Seasonal changes in spiritual habits and their significance 24:11 Understanding spiritual formation and sanctification 28:02 The role of community as a spiritual discipline 32:59 Dealing with dry seasons and spiritual setbacks 43:04 Annie’s closing thoughts and encouragement for listeners Learn more at BecomingEvergreen.com Let the Movie Speak! Podcast by Annie and Travis

Summary In this episode, Carissa and Debbie explore the practices of studying and meditating on scripture, emphasizing how these spiritual disciplines deepen our relationship with God and transform our daily lives. They share personal insights, practical tips, and the importance of community in spiritual growth. Key Topics: Difference between studying and meditating on scriptureSeasonal approaches to spiritual disciplinesEngaging in communityMoving from head knowledge to heart transformationPracticing Lectio Divina and contemplative prayerThe role of the Holy Spirit in understanding scriptureThe importance of resting in God's presenceIntegrating scripture reading into daily life and routinesChapters 00:00 Introduction to scripture study and meditation 02:05 Personal routines and seasons for engaging with scripture 03:52 Using community to support spiritual growth 06:54 Understanding the difference between study and meditation 12:05 Moving from head knowledge to heart transformation 19:59 Practicing Lectio Divina and contemplative prayer 27:01 Responding to scripture and living it out 33:50 The importance of resting and integrating scripture 36:09 Encouragement to continue in spiritual disciplines Visit https://www.becomingevergreen.com/podcast to download the Prayer of Examen or Lectio Divina PDF.

Episode notes Carissa and Debbie kick off October's practice: studying and meditating on Scripture. They talk about the difference between gathering Biblical knowledge and letting it shape everyday life. Then they share practical tools to help you build a Scripture rhythm you can actually keep. In this episode Why studying Scripture is about more than reading moreHow meditation moves truth from information to formationWhy context matters when studying the BiblePractical resources for study, reflection, and listeningAn introduction to Lectio DivinaSmall, realistic ways to build a daily Scripture habitTimestamps 00:00 Welcome and introduction to the October Scripture challenge 00:34 What it means to study and meditate on Scripture 01:41 How Scripture teaches, corrects, and equips us 02:43 Helpful ways to study the Bible in context 04:25 Moving from head knowledge to heart-level formation 05:29 A story of Scripture coming alive in everyday ministry 06:32 Lectio Divina and lingering with a passage 07:50 Recommended tools for Scripture study and meditation 08:23 A simple framework for practicing Lectio Divina 09:57 Starting small and building a sustainable spiritual rhythm 11:19 Bringing Scripture into real life, even in busy seasons 12:32 Closing encouragement and ways to stay connected Resources mentioned Lectio Divina Download: https://becoming-evergreen-llc.kit.com/d3e56f1599J.I. Packer, "Overview of Lectio Divina" (C.S. Lewis Institute): https://www.cslewisinstitute.org/resources/overview-of-lectio-divina/https://becoming-evergreen-llc.kit.com/d3e56f1599

Becoming Evergreen is back with Season 2, Episode 2 — and this time we're getting honest about how our Prayer of Examen challenge actually went. Not the highlight reel, but the real story: inconsistent schedules, fighting for morning time, and the moments this spiritual discipline brought things to the surface we didn't expect. Carissa and Debbie walk through all five Examen questions — noticing God's presence, gratitude, emotions, where we missed God, and looking ahead to tomorrow — and share what surprised them most. We also look at how Jesus modeled a life of prayer (Mark 6:46, Matthew 14:22–23) and introduce meditating on and studying Scripture, including Lectio Divina — what it is, how it's different from just "reading more Bible," and the tools we personally use (Lectio 365, Dwell, The Bible Project, Blue Letter Bible). Download our free companion PDF for this month's practice and follow along with us at becomingevergreen.com. Takeaways Spiritual disciplines require time and effort to integrate into daily life.Approaching God with kindness and grace transforms our perspective and draws us closer to Him. Self-reflection and discernment are essential for recognizing moments of conviction and making decisions.The study and meditation of scripture are vital for internalizing and integrating God's word, leading to transformation and growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Disciplines02:32 Challenges of Habit Formation03:02 Reflecting on God's Presence08:21 Struggle with Self-Judgment19:34 Transformative Power of Kindness and Grace21:28 Self-Reflection and Conviction22:23 Discernment and Decision-Making28:01 Modeling After Jesus32:11 Study and Meditation of ScriptureFollow us @becomingevergreen on Instagram and learn more at becomingevergreen.com

Summary: In Season 2, Episode 1 of Becoming Evergreen, hosts Carissa Fleming and Debbie Brunet. introduce the Prayer of Examen — a centuries-old spiritual discipline for reflecting on your day with God. They explore how spiritual disciplines like prayer, scripture, worship, and reflection help believers stay rooted in their identity in Christ, and walk through practical, everyday ways to build spiritual rhythms that sustain growth and transformation in every season of life. Keywords: Prayer of Examen, spiritual disciplines, spiritual rhythms, prayer, scripture, worship, reflection, Christian habits, Holy Spirit, spiritual formation, Becoming Evergreen Key Topics: What the Prayer of Examen is and why it mattersThe importance of spiritual disciplines in spiritual growthPractical ways to incorporate prayer and scripture into daily lifeThe role of the Holy Spirit in transformationReflection and gratitude as spiritual practicesBuilding spiritual habits that sustain you through every season Key Frameworks: The Becoming Evergreen ModelSpiritual Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton Action Items: Practice the Prayer of Examen daily for one weekReflect on your emotions and gratitude each eveningIdentify one spiritual habit to incorporate this month Free Resource: Download the free Prayer of Examen journaling guide at becomingevergreen.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:15 Debbie and Carissa discuss their focus on spiritual habits 02:37 The Becoming Evergreen Model: identity, rhythms, relationships, impact 04:01 The importance of building habits rooted in Christ 05:02 Summer highlights and life updates 08:28 The concept of being formed by habits and the evergreen metaphor 11:10 Starting the day with spiritual awareness and habits 13:30 The impact of daily habits on our character and reactions 16:02 Understanding spiritual disciplines: inward, outward, and community 28:24 Introduction to the Prayer of Examen and its significance 49:33 How to practice the Prayer of Examen and reflect on your day 54:47 Next steps: practicing and sharing your experience

Episode 10: Season 1 Finale — The Fruit of Growth with Dr. Karen Bergstrom In this season finale, Carissa Fleming and Debbie Brunet sit down with longtime mentor and leadership coach Dr. Karen Bergstrom for a deeply encouraging conversation about growth, identity, and the healing power of safe relationships. Karen draws from decades of leadership, coaching, and nonprofit work to share how our earliest experiences shape us — and how truth, community, and faith help us grow beyond them. What You'll Learn Why healthy growth starts with desire and a grounded sense of selfHow early experiences can distort identity and create limiting beliefsThe four common roadblocks to growth: dependency, abandonment, failure, and inferiorityWhy truth, kindness, and safe relationships are essential for healingHow being witnessed in community can unlock growth and emotional freedom Key Takeaways Growth is possible at every stage of lifeIdentity should be rooted in truth, not past experience or future hopes aloneHealing often happens when we move from isolation into safe communityWe don't have to carry our stories alone Resources & Links Townsend Leadership Program — Dr. Karen Bergstrom Connect with Dr. Bergstrom via email or on LinkedIn Learn more about the TPRAT Join Us at the Fall 2026 Becoming Evergreen Retreat Ready to take your growth off-screen and into community? Register for the Becoming Evergreen Retreat →

In Episode 9 of the Becoming Evergreen Podcast, Carissa and Debbie explore the nuances of cultivating genuine connections, emphasizing vulnerability, intentionality, and Biblical principles. They share practical insights on building an inner circle of growth-minded individuals and navigating barriers like perfectionism and vulnerability. Key Topics Covered: The biblical model of relationship from John 15:15 and modeling after JesusWhat makes a relationship healthy: give and take, curiosity, vulnerability, proximityDifferent levels of friendship: inner circle, confidants, acquaintances, and their importance in various life seasonsThe role of vulnerability: sharing story, asking for help, trust, and safety in relationshipsBarriers to community: perfectionism, unhealthy partnerships, cultural differences, and unreciprocated effortThe importance of orienting life around Christ for unity and intentional growthPractical ways to cultivate community: time, structure, prayer, and seeking Holy Spirit's guidance Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to community and our model of biblical relationships 02:34 - How healthy relationships thrive: vulnerability and give/take 04:45 - Levels of friendships: inner circle, confidants, acquaintances 07:00 - Vulnerability in building trust and sharing stories 09:20 - Barriers such as perfectionism, cultural differences, and unhealthy ties 12:04 - Living and orienting around Christ for unity 15:00 - Practical steps for cultivating and deepening community relationships 17:00 - The power of intentionality, asking for help, and Holy Spirit’s guidance 18:30 - Final encouragement: we are made for connection Resources & Links: Register for the Becoming Evergreen Fall 2026 RetreatHenry Cloud’s Book "Never Go Back" Henry Cloud’s Book "Necessary Endings" Connect with Debbie and Carissa: Carissa on LinkedInDebbie on LinkedIn

Have you ever felt like your habits just aren't working — no matter how hard you try? The problem might not be your discipline. It might be your season. In Episode 8 of The Becoming Evergreen Podcast, Carissa Fleming and Debbie Brunet dig into why aligning your habits and goals with your current season of life is the missing key to lasting growth. They explore the difference between first and second order desires, how your temperament shapes your routines, and why community might be the most underrated habit tool you have. If you've been white-knuckling your goals and wondering why nothing is sticking, this episode is for you. In this episode: Why your season matters more than your strategyFirst vs. second order desires (and how they drive your habits)How temperament affects what rhythms actually work for youThe role of community in sustaining growthBiblical principles of timing and spiritual rhythms Chapters 00:00 Seasons and Habits: A Trader Joe's Perspective 03:19 Understanding Seasons in Life and Scripture 06:19 Desires: First Order vs. Second Order 08:33 The Role of Habits in Achieving Desires 11:04 Temperament and Its Impact on Practices 13:58 Community and Support in Different Seasons 16:16 Setting Goals and Building Habits 19:12 Navigating Interruptions and Maintaining Peace 21:45 Identifying Limiting Beliefs and Spiritual Rhythms 24:13 Life-Giving Habits and Fun Activities 27:16 Reflection and Moving Forward To register for the upcoming Fall 2026 Becoming Evergreen Retreat visit: https://www.becomingevergreen.com/retreats

This conversation is Part 2 of a conversation between Debbie Brunet and Carissa Fleming. They explore the impact of limiting beliefs and lies on one's calling and personal growth. Understanding our stories, identifying lies, and embracing our identity can unlock our true potential and purpose. Key Topics The connection between identity and callingHow lies and beliefs impact personal growthPractical exercises for identifying and replacing liesThe role of community and spiritual practices in healingReflecting on life stories to understand God's purpose Chapters 00:00 Exploring Limiting Beliefs and Identity 02:43 The Importance of Personal Stories 05:10 Life Mapping and Reflection 06:56 Understanding the Harsh Judge vs. Observant Self - John Townsend 10:31 The Impact of Lies on Our Calling 18:34 Journaling and Replacing Lies with Truth 22:13 Building Relationships and Community Support 26:09 The Journey of Transformation and Growth Keywords: limiting beliefs, personal growth, calling, identity, spiritual journey, story reflection, lies, truth, faith, transformation Learn more at BecomingEvergreen.com

Debbie Brunet and Carissa Fleming, explore the power of journaling for self-reflection and the impact of internal lies on our lives. It delves into the theology of lies and truth, the role of community in overcoming lies, and spiritual disciplines for addressing lies. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing internal lies, navigating difficult seasons, and the impact of lies on our lives. Key Topics The importance of journaling for spiritual clarityHow lies affect our identity and faithBiblical strategies for renewing the mindThe role of community and accountabilitySpiritual disciplines that foster growth Takeaways Journaling helps focus and invites the Holy Spirit to speak.Lies about ourselves and God can deeply impact our faith.Romans 12:2 emphasizes transformation through renewing the mind.Community provides light and accountability in spiritual battles.Spiritual disciplines like prayer and scripture meditation are vital. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Becoming Evergreen 03:12 The Power of Mind and Identity 06:16 Understanding Lies and Truth 08:52 Theological Perspectives on Lies 11:52 Recognizing Internal Lies 14:16 Overcoming Lies Through Scripture 16:10 Capturing Thoughts and Community 18:56 Spiritual Disciplines for Growth 21:57 The Power of Journaling 23:22 Walking in Truth and Its Impact 24:17 Life to the Full: A Partnership with the Lord 25:00 Becoming Evergreen outro.mp4 To learn more visit BecomingEvergreen.com

The conversation explores the concept behind Becoming Evergreen. How do you develop a growth community for leaders seeking purpose and lasting impact? The Becoming Evergreen Growth Model will help leaders build their lives around what matters most. The discussion delves into unlearning limiting beliefs, the importance of community, and the role of relationships in growth, culminating in the fruit of growth and impact. Takeaways Becoming Evergreen Growth ModelIdentity and InsightRhythms and RelationshipsFruit of Growth Learn more at BecomingEvergreen.com

Summary This episode explores the holistic approach to spiritual and personal transformation, emphasizing the importance of heart, mind, and body in becoming evergreen. Hosted by Debbie and Carissa, it offers practical insights on cultivating habits, overcoming pressures, and aligning with God's purpose. Key Topics Holistic spiritual formation The role of the heart, mind, and body in transformation Practical habits for spiritual growth Overcoming societal pressures and perfectionism Aligning life with God's purpose Chapters 00:00 Daily Life and Contexts 05:40 The Human Experience and Resilience 11:50 Striving vs. Resting in Jesus 11:54 The Burden of Striving and Perfectionism 15:01 The Limits of Willpower 18:15 The Journey of Transformation 24:06 Becoming Evergreen: A Lifelong Process Learn more atBecomingEvergreen.com

Summary Explore the holistic approach to spiritual formation focusing on the heart, mind, body, and soul. Learn practical ways to attune and restore your inner life to align with God's purposes. Keywords spiritual formation, soul care, heart, transformation, Christian living, spiritual rhythms, Dallas Willard, prayer, submission, hope Key Topics The role of the heart in spiritual formationPractical ways to attune and restore the inner lifeThe importance of submission and humility in growthHow to build daily spiritual rhythmsThe interconnectedness of heart, mind, body, and soul Takeaways Life must be organized around the heart to be truly transformedSubmission to God begins with confession and humilityStrong roots in Christ are essential for spiritual resilienceDaily spiritual rhythms cultivate lasting changeHope is rooted in the Holy Spirit's presence within us Key Themes The Heart of Spiritual Formation: Attuning to God's DesignTransforming Your Inner Life: Practical Steps for Soul Care Sound Bites "The heart is the core of who we are, shaping everything.""Submission begins with confession and humility.""Christ's Spirit lives inside us, giving hope and power." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Transformation and Spiritual Formation 02:42 The Role of the Heart in Personal Development 06:16 The Importance of Submission and Trust 10:45 Navigating Life's Challenges with Faith 17:18 Cultivating Growth Through Community and Connection 20:41 The Hope of Transformation Through the Holy Spirit

Becoming Evergreen podcast introduces the hosts, Carissa and Debbie, who share their passion for growth, purpose, and the concept of Becoming Evergreen. They discuss the idea of the easy yoke, address burnout and disconnection, and emphasize the importance of creating space for rest, connection, and engaging with nature and community. The podcast aims to help listeners reconnect with God, themselves, and others in a meaningful way. Takeaways Passion for growth and purposeAddressing burnout and disconnection Chapters 00:00 Introducing Becoming Evergreen06:24 The Easy Yoke12:18 Addressing Burnout and Disconnection19:12 Creating Space for Rest and Connection

What if leadership didn’t require hustle, burnout, or striving—what if it could flow from rest instead? In the very first episode of the Becoming Evergreen Podcast, hosts Carissa Fleming and Debbie Brunet introduce the heart behind the show and invite listeners into a different way of growing and leading—one that is rooted, resilient, and sustainable in every season of life. Learn more at BecomingEvergreen.com.