Navigating Life’s Challenges: From Isolation to Inspiration -IW EP008 with CJ Milacci, Part 1

In the latest episode of the I Witness Podcast, Kelly Jo dives deep with CJ Milacci into a compelling dialogue about faith, life challenges, and the transformative power of community. Their candid conversation navigates CJ's unique life experiences from the Disney college program to her spiritual immersion in Italy, shedding light on the significant role of faith in shaping her responses to life's twists and turns. A dark time had CJ questioning her purpose. She discusses how she battled loneliness and a loss of direction that caused her to drop to her knees. Listen to Part 1 here IW EP008 CJ Milacci Part 1 Meet CJ Milacci CJ writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As a referee, she’s always relearning the hard lesson that it’s impossible to make everyone happy, and she’s discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope amid seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance. Visit her website Connect with CJ on Instagram & Facebook Interview Highlights CJ's story touches on many different themes, such as overcoming isolation, the reality of faith in dark times, and being honest with God during life's greatest challenges. Kelly and CJ offer insights into the blend of personal journeys. The top takeaways that really encompass the themes of the podcast discussion between Kelly and CJ are: Incorporating Faith into Everyday Challenges: Both Kelly and CJ discuss how their faith has been a guiding force in their lives. Whether it's confronting isolation or handling the life challenges of unfamiliar emotions, CJ Milacci shares how faith plays a pivotal role in shaping her decisions. Their experiences emphasize the significance of faith in everyday life, not just during profound spiritual moments. Community and Connection: The podcast highlights the importance of a religious community and the human need for connection. CJ's contrasting experiences at Disney College and in Italy underline the significance of spiritual fellowship. Fellowship grounds and broadens experiences. Empathy and Vulnerability: CJ's interactions with young people from various backgrounds showcase the need for understanding and empathy. CJ discusses how the differences in upbringing and experiences of others shed light on the power of genuine connection. God's Guidance through Life Transitions: Kelly and CJ touch upon surrendering to God's plan, even during life's challenges. CJ's shift from direct youth ministry to writing emphasizes God's role in guiding individuals through various phases of life. CJ's personal challenges have made a broader impact, and the same can happen for us. Addressing Young Adult Issues: CJ gives a raw account of the issues facing young adults today, many fearing judgment and being shunned by the church if they share what's truly on their hearts.   Listen to Part 2 here IW EP008 CJ Milacci Part 2 Bible Verses for Encouragement Galatians 3:28, NKJV: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Resources for You Check out CJ Milacci's two-time, award-winning book Recruit of Talionis. “Forget where you came from. Forget the life you knew. You are now recruits of Talionis!” America has fallen. Seventeen-year-old Bria Averton grew up in a small town of survivors near the ruins of Portland, Maine. It’s all she’s ever known — until she’s kidnapped along with hundreds of other teens and brought to the city of Talionis. A city no one knew existed. The soldiers tell them the intense trainings are for the good of the survivors...