Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

Melissa Radke

My mom’s King Ranch Chicken casserole. My small hometown in East Texas. My eleventh grade choir teacher. Know what all of these things have in common? None of them are famous. None have been written about or sung about or reported on. You might call them “ordinary.” Welcome to Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. Where we talk about all the things that we see and touch and fear and feel and eat and hope for - every day. Because that’s what life is, you know? It’s one miracle after another - we just get so used to seeing them...we call them ordinary. “THE WORLD IS A SERIES OF MIRACLES. BUT WE’RE SO USED TO SEEING THEM WE JUST CALL THEM ORDINARY THINGS." - Hans Christian Anderson

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Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

This Christmas

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

12/17/19 • 48 min

I am sitting down with my friend Billie Jean Johnson on this very special Christmas, because any Christmas we are lucky enough to have is special. Even more so for some of us. Billie Jean is funny, sarcastic, and loud. She has a smile that spreads all the way across her face. She’s the queen of laughing at her own jokes, and she thinks she’s the funniest person in the room. The first time we met, I attended a party she was hosting and nothing was home cooked.

She's been married to the love of her life over 25 years. She’s a parent and a grandparent. She’s a faithful and loyal friend who’s never met a purse or a fake set of nails that she doesn't love. She likes big Texas cars and long hair extensions. She is more girly girl than I am on my best day. Every time I've seen her she's been dressed to the nines. Yet, she's never uppity and has zero pretense.

She is someone who believes in community. She built a rehabilitation and recovery center for people with addictions. She has fed inner-city families on Thanksgiving with her giant walk-through Thanksgiving buffet. She has literally brought hundreds of volunteers together to serve dinner plates to shut-ins. Billie Jean isn’t on the show today for the amazing things that she has done. She’s here because of where she’s going.

Unless a miracle happens, this will be the last Christmas that Billie Jean has with her husband Jeramy and her girls, Haley and Jessica. It will be the last Christmas she watches her grandson or son-in-law open gifts. Stupid, horrible, spiteful cancer may very well win this one. I asked Billy Jean a few weeks ago if I could sit with her in silence and grief and ask her some questions. We often want to ask questions of those with one foot on the other side, but are too afraid too. It’s an honor to sit and talk with Billie Jean on this episode.

Show Notes:

[05:17] Billy Jeans go to meal in Lufkin would be a turkey burger from Mom's Diner.
[05:54] Friendship means family and being there through the good and the ugly.
[06:20] Every one Billie Jean knows has risen to this season.
[07:13] Billie Jean has many roles and the actress who would play her might surprise you.
[07:43] Billie Jean has always been an optimistic person. She believes that God is good and only gives good gifts.
[08:19] Her perspective on life is taking care of what God has put her here to do and nothing else matters.
[09:40] Her family is her greatest testimony, so she's letting them see how she can live and die graciously.
[12:12] Billie Jean had a great health report from the doctor. Two weeks later they went back to the doctor, and found out that the tumors had grown. There were so many tumors that Billie Jean wouldn't make it through the surgery to remove them.
[13:17] When Billie Jean and her husband heard this news, they were shocked.
[14:22] Billie Jean doesn't worry about the fear of dying, it's what she leaves behind that has to wrestle with the pain.
[15:17] Years ago, Billie Jean dealt with losing her dad from addiction and her sister's addiction. She then took care of her sister's children. The whole experience was an emotional roller coaster for Billie Jean.
[16:28] She cried out to God, and he took the pain away from her.
[19:29] She can't complain about cancer or ask God for anymore, because of all the wonderful things he has done for her in this life.
[20:26] Billie Jean trusts that God's going to help take care of her family. She believes that whatever the reason for all of this is that God's fulfilling his purpose.
[21:16] Moms want to prepare their children as much as they can, but they don't really know how. We don't know what we're doing, but what we do know is that we're going to be gracious to each other.
[22:45] Billie Jean's relationship with God is very sweet.
[23:40] When she is really having a hard day, she listens to worship music and let's her family know she loves them.
[25:36] God's love is so rich. If your emotions aren't benefiting, you try something else. Don't stop talking to him, and he won't leave you stranded.
[27:25] Billie Jean used to think that she was introverted and didn't have friends, but the love and support of her community has been overwhelming.
[27:55] Treat everybody well, because you never know when you'll need to be treated well.
[29:55] For Billy Jean, material things mean absolutely nothing. Her perspective is shifting from worldly to heavenly. Spiritual awareness and relationships are what matter to her now.
[33:30] If everybody got to choose how they live, they wouldn't be so overburdened with their schedules. The big things are teaching your children how to deal with everyday life.
[34:28] Stop and let your children see you for who you really are.
[36:57] Eve...

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“Tight Around the Middle”

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

10/01/19 • 49 min

I often get asked why I chose Ordinary People Ordinary Things for the name of this podcast. I wanted to do a podcast, because I like to hear myself talk, and I have some pretty good things to say along with some ridiculous things to say. I'm not famous. I'm not wealthy. I'm just ordinary me, so that's how I named the show. I interview ordinary people, and chances are, you are ordinary too. Some of the best lessons I've ever learned were from ordinary people.

When we take a second look, we realize that the things we do everyday aren't ordinary at all. Maybe it takes fresh eyes to see that my role as a parent is a living breathing miracle, and I'm lucky to get to do it. There are miracles all around us in the ordinary. This is why today's guest is so important. Lisa Jo Baker is a fangirl of ordinary life, author, speaker, co-host of the Out of the Ordinary Podcast and champion of women and Netflix. Lisa-Jo lives just outside of Washington DC with her husband of over 20 years and 3 of the loudest kids you've ever heard, and I’m thrilled to talk with her today.

Show Notes:

[03:34] Lisa-Jo is from South Africa. She is named after her mom Jo. Her son is Jackson Jo.
[05:28] The designer for the book cover asked Lisa-Jo for a placeholder photo. This photo ended up being used on the cover. It captured Lisa-Jo as she really was while throwing a kids birthday party surrounded by friends.
[10:00] Lisa-Jo was an attorney and practiced human rights law in the Ukraine for the UN.
[10:26] She writes and speaks and is still an advocate for women. I started blogging and several books were born out of it.
[11:16] She went from advocating as an attorney to being an advocate as a writer. Her husband is a professor of political science. She also has three kids.
[12:59] I share the introduction to Lisa-Jo's book The Middle Matters.
[14:39] The middle is the place where our lives really live.
[16:43] Most of us live very ordinary days, but our kids are interested in our stories. Lisa-Jo's book is like a snapshot of her life. Most of our lives are lived in the middle.
[19:35] Lisa-Jo wants to help women embrace those middle moments. It's about seeing the day not seizing the day.
[21:21] It's a challenge to write or work and still capture those ordinary moments.
[22:18] Lisa-Jo needs to be anchored to people who see her real self.
[25:40] Lisa-Jo shares her feelings about her muffin top. She is also happy to share her age.
[30:01] Nobody is as critical of us as we are. Women should be proud of their bodies.
[34:02] We shouldn't let people put labels on us as teens or college age girls.
[36:44] We don't have to live in a storybook. An ordinary love is perfect and beautiful.
[40:05] On the outside we age, but on the inside we feel kind of frozen in time.
[41:02] Lisa-Jo wants to give people new glasses and a new way to see their own lives.
[43:18] Lisa-Jo answers the rapid fire questions. She loves a South African restaurant called Spur and eats a mushroom burger.
[45:03] Friendship is a safe place with grace and space.
[48:06] We need to say out loud that we are paying attention to what matters.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. Just like your mother taught you.

Links and Resources:

Podcast Web Page
Facebook Page
@MsMelissaRadke on Instagram
@msmelissaradke on Twitter
Autographed Copy of Eat Cake. Be Brave.
Eat Cake. Be Brave. Extended Book Trailer
Sign Up for Insider Access
Home Chef Use code MelissaR80 to get $20 off your first four meals
INK Replacing What Stained You With What Can Change You
Lisa-Jo Baker
Lisa-Jo Baker on Facebook
Lisa-Jo Baker on Instagram
Out of the Ordinary Podcast

To Mind Own Self Be True

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

02/26/19 • 34 min

2019 is about body, mind, and soul. These three topics are connected within all of us, because you can’t change one without affecting the other. I am so excited to focus on these topics. I know in 2020, when I look back at this year, I will see a healthier, happier, more hopeful me.

The first few weeks of this podcast were focused on the body. Now it’s time to focus on the mind. This is a very special and personal topic for me. For years, I was a victim to my own thoughts. What we think about is what we become. This topic is so important that I recorded this episode, thought about it for a week, and then did it all over again.

This is a topic that I have lived and can speak about from the heart. In this episode, I talk about retraining our minds, not believing lies others tell us, not believing lies we tell ourselves, and what a difference our thoughts can make in our lives. This topic is so important to me that I’m even creating a course around it.

You can find Melissa here:

Podcast Web Page Facebook Page @MsMelissaRadke on Instagram @msmelissaradke on Twitter

Show Notes

[06:33] There were times when I was an enemy to my own self whether it was believing I was too good or believing that I was nothing.
[06:49] It's difficult to train our minds.
[07:46] The way we do everything from parenting to work is based on the things that we think.
[08:40] I can't negate the importance of what goes on in our minds. Even the scriptures tell us to think of good things and things that are lovely.
[09:09] What we process in our minds is what we choose to let in, and this creates the words that come out of our mouths.
[10:48] My depression was a mind issue for me. In my mind, there was a war raging for my thoughts and my life.
[11:37] I had to change my focus and my thoughts. I had to write sentences and put them around my house.
[12:11] We are believing lies and not just lies from the people who spoke them but also from ourselves.
[12:31] So many of us have had negative things spoken to us as children. Why do we believe the hate?
[13:49] I remember things people said to me, and I remember my go to lines.
[13:55] Why am I trying to lose weight? Girls like me can't lose weight?
[16:13] I did not realize the power my own thoughts had over my life. If I thought I would fail in a certain situation, I would.
[16:37] When I put the work into changing the thoughts in my head, my life changed.
[17:25] I spent years replacing every single lie in my mind with the truth. I spent years fighting for my life and my mind.
[18:14] It's so important that you understand that your thoughts control your life that I am creating a course about it.
[19:59] There is nothing you believe, that you haven't given yourself permission to believe.
[23:31] Stop waging war on yourself and thinking things are never going to change and things are never going to get better.
[24:21] "Whenever you hear opportunity knocking just know that on the other side of it is work." Brendon Burchard
[24:24] You have an opportunity to change the way you think, and we are going to do it together.
[26:02] We are going to remove one lie at a time and replace it with something positive. Like pulling weeds and replacing them with flowers.
[29:17] I want you to know that I'm mad at you for being an enemy to yourself. Why can't you see yourself Like Jesus does?
[32:26] I take every thought I have, and I make it sit down and shut up if it doesn't align with the truth that I know to be about me.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. Just like your mother taught you.

Links and Resources:

LandMINDS In Marriage

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

04/09/19 • 51 min

One of the things I've heard a lot about last season was that you guys loved it when the Attorney General was on the show. This is an episode featuring David Radke during our MIND series. So of course, this show is titled LandMINDS In Marriage. This is an appropriate topic because we get a lot of questions about our marriage. We have both been very open and vulnerable about our relationship.

Today, we are going to talk about some of the landmines in our own marriage. We are going to share five things that are sore topics or maybe things that we have learned in our marriage. It’s funny, because some of the conventional wisdom and advice doesn’t always apply. We have found five things that enable us to avoid a fight, diffuse a situation, or eventually get past whatever the problem was. We hope you enjoy this little glimpse into our marriage and our lives.

Show Notes

[02:13] The other night we were racing home to get our kids. We passed Kingwood, and David wanted to go to Culver's and I didn't. I suggested we go to two places. David won't do that. He thinks it's a waste of time.
[04:08] David is a man of purpose, that is why we call him the attorney general.
[06:27] 1. Your mother. We don't bring up our families in our fights. We don't want to bring in outside issues into our marriage or cause a fight. Our families are part of our lives, but they are not part of our marriage.
[07:27] It's taking a shot below the belt.
[08:25] We are imperfect parents raised by imperfect parents who were raised by imperfect parents.
[09:43] The grace we give is the grace we will receive.
[13:47] Focus on one good thing and give yourself time to mature. Find one good trait.
[14:40] 2. Keeping score. This is different than forgiveness.
[15:49] We have been married 25 years. We can forgive even when things aren't forgotten. Use caution and don't bring up those things. If there is true forgiveness. it's not fair to bring those things up.
[17:48] Stop keeping records of wrongs. Don't remind them of what they did and speak to who they are.
[19:22] 3. We go to bed angry and often wake up with a clear head.
[21:42] It's freeing to go to bed angry. We don't even sleep apart. Give yourself a break, don't go to the couch.
[22:31] We make poor decisions when exhausted and worn out physically and emotionally.
[26:03] 4. Button pushing. This was a big one for us. When you spend a lot of time with someone, you know their buttons.
[27:46] Write down your hot buttons on a post-it note. It's disrespect to push these buttons intentionally.
[29:52] Over time, people change and the hot button issues change.
[31:42] When we aren't in the fight is the best time to talk it out.
[33:39] The hot button aspect is removed when things are talked about.
[34:03] 5. A hand gesture that would signify an immediate stop. No matter how tense things are. Everything stops! Enough of this topic now.
[35:56] This gesture has to be used sparingly and responsibly.
[36:43] We have used this when it comes to money, parenting, business, or when we were tired.
[37:21] It's a pause button.
[38:57] Treat the other person like you would want to be treated. Try to out serve and out love them and a time will come when it is returned.
[40:38] Became a safe place for your spouse to fall. Pillows not thorns.
[41:32] We took a canoe trip. We tipped over three times in a 30 degree river in Oklahoma. We were sitting in the wrong positions.
[43:13] It was a hilarious trip, but we love each other. We pick on each other, but we LOVE each other.
[44:28] The more time we spend with each other the better. We are wild about each other.
[45:27] The last three questions with David!
[47:25] If there is one thing I want you to know about this episode is that you can let go of all of the trite cliches and expectations.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. Just like your mother taught you.

Links and Resources:

Mind Your Manners

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

03/26/19 • 54 min

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert. She is the owner of a company that specializes in corporate etiquette training. She is the author of Modern Etiquette for a Better Life. She has appeared on The Today Show, Headline News, CBS Sunday Morning, and in the New York Times. She is also poised, beautiful, smart, and so well-spoken.

I was nervous about having an etiquette expert like Diane on the show today, but she put me at ease. Diane teaches that etiquette is about mind and soul, and that they are connected. She believes that etiquette is about putting other people at ease, and that's what she did with me. She also answered my questions with such grace and wisdom that I loved this episode. Diane shares insights about life we all need to keep in mind. This interview wasn’t what I had expected, but it is filled with actionable knowledge we can all use.

You can find Diane here:

Diane Gottsman Website Diane Gottsman on Instagram Diane Gottsman on Facebook [email protected]

Show Notes

[02:45] Diane is in San Antonio today.
[05:25] To Diane etiquette isn't stuffy, it's about life skills and making other people feel comfortable. Every person at every age can fine-tune their life skills.
[05:59] When Diane was growing up she didn't know what she wanted to do, but she did know she wanted to work with people.
[06:25] Diane has a master's degree in human behavior. She started fundraising for meals-on-wheels. She also worked with a children's charity and one of the children said when she grew up she wanted to be just like Diane.
[07:33] She had an aha moment and realized that knowledge and training was all that was holding this little girl back. This inspired Diane to work and train people in all walks of life.
[08:33] She merged her teaching and training into one. By nature Diane is an introvert. She is still shy, but she's a socialized introvert.
[09:48] It's up to us to be relationship builders. Etiquette is just about being authentic and genuine. That is what Diane teaches.
[10:37] We get to choose how we behave and how others treat us. We train people how to treat us. If someone is talking down to you, you don't have to waste a lot of time with them.
[11:07] It's about feeling good about yourself and knowing that you are not competing with anyone else.
[11:16] Money doesn't buy class it buys a great pair of shoes. It's about self confidence and making others around you feel comfortable.
[11:36] If everyone likes you, there's something wrong with you. It means you're not speaking your truth.
[11:45] Diane teaches etiquette which is about mind and soul, and they are connected.
[13:02] There's a difference between assertive and aggressive. You lose your power when you scream or shout.
[13:48] As we grow, we weed our friendship gardens.
[14:40] A graceful exit isn't a shouting match. It's better to talk about something positive rather than negative. You can gracefully exit. You don't need to give excuses. There is power in truth, but use good judgement.
[16:54] Diane owns the Protocol School of Texas which is a company that specializes in corporate etiquette training.
[17:35] You are your brand. Always work on your brand.
[19:44] It's up to us as parents to do the best that we can. Give your kids structure and boundaries.
[20:54] Diane instilled values in her kids. The need to be respectful, make eye contact, exchange a handshake when appropriate, and be open and have grace. Give everyone the benefit of the doubt.
[22:13] When eating at restaurants, at the end of the meal, Melissa asks her kids what were the color of the eyes of their waiter or waitress.
[22:48] When you are introduced to someone stand up.
[25:25] Balance is the key with social media. You can tell a great deal about a person from their posts. Social media can help you, but we all need face-to-face relationships.
[27:20] Texting isn't a bad thing, but it may not be the best thing in some situations. Know the language of the person that you are relating to.
[28:29] Everyone should have people around them who lift them up.
[31:44] Cell phone etiquette? Put your phone away at a party or event. You can use your phone when getting a pedicure. Use your best judgement. The most important person is sitting across from you.
[34:28] Thank you notes? They aren't outdated. Send the note.
[36:29] Hold a red wine glass from the bowl and a white wine glass from the stem. A champagne flute is held from the st...

Mind Made Up

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

03/19/19 • 54 min

I love today’s guest. My friend Ashley Berry is a life coach, entrepreneur, cancer survivor, mom, foster mom, and woman of strength and wisdom. She loves and touches everyone she comes into contact with. Ashley is passionate about coaching and seeing lives changed for the better. She has overcome breast cancer and many other obstacles in life and is a pure inspiration. She also proves God's love even in times of uncertainty.

In this episode, we have a no holds barred conversation about life, love, and parenting. Ashley shares her perspective on today’s society and culture and gives some wonderful ways that we can all make our world better. She lives by example and cares for everyone she meets. We talk about men, raising children, respecting each other, and how Ashley turned her breast cancer journey into the inspiration to start a nonprofit to help others in need.

You can find Ashley here:

Living Zoe Instagram: @ zoecoaching Facebook: @livingzoecoaching [email protected]

Show Notes

[07:20] Ashley was dating her son's father in college. It didn't work out for them, but Ashley has a son named Cayden and now has a good relationship with his father.
[09:32] As a result, Ashley is teaching her son to take care of his responsibilities.
[10:15] Ashley met her dad when she was 12, and it was a series of let downs after that.
[11:26] Ashley is ready to get married. The type of guy who is going to be in her life has to love God first.
[13:59] About six years ago, Ashley was praying and she visualized herself sitting with Jesus. That moment changed her relationship with Christ and has helped her to love people differently.
[17:02] Ashley grew up with her grandparents until she was seven, and her grandfather was an alcoholic.
[19:41] Ashley worries about whether Cayden will be seen differently, because he is black.
[22:32] She wants to protect him, so she sets an example of how to be respectful.
[25:50] All people deserve the same mutual respect.
[27:08] Saying negative things in front of our children leaves a much stronger impact then we realize.
[28:13] When we all decide that we are all valuable and worth so much more, and we start truly caring about each other we will stop being mean and start caring about people.
[31:07] Melissa shares an example that Oprah told about how pit bulls are loving, but they are feared because of all the bad things people hear. Oprah made the same analogy about black men.
[32:12] There are so many good strong intelligent black men who are leaders in this country. These men are setting the pathway for younger black men behind them.
[33:17] We can teach children to respond in such a way that doesn't continue the vicious cycle.
[33:58] Ashley is also a foster care parent. She has been fostering since August. She now has a 14 month old little boy.
[34:57] He is a joy. He sleeps all night long and eats really well.
[35:42] People need to show these children what family looks like and break the cycle of dysfunctional families.
[37:21] Ashley refuses to allow circumstances to define her. Breast cancer was one of those situations.
[38:49] There's no point in just existing. We need to dig deep and get it done.
[39:45] Ashley is a life coach and the owner of 3 event venues.
[40:27] She also helped her best friend with catering.
[40:43] She is also starting a nonprofit called East Texas Cancer Alliance of Hope.
[40:58] There is a significant need for tangible hope for people with cancer.
[41:56] They will provide tangible hope in the form of gas vouchers, food vouchers, hotel bills, co-pays, and things that will make it easier for people not to have to choose between treatment and paying the bills.
[42:30] When Ashley sees a need for something, she goes ahead and does it.
[43:57] Do what you can with what you have. Nothing should hold you back. Someone is waiting for you to tell your story. Be authentic and inspire and help someone.
[45:20] Ashley loves people, and where she is today is where God has taken her.
[47:45] Ashley answers the rapid fire questions.
[51:47] Live in such a way that if someone spoke badly about you, no one would believe it. That is how Melissa feels about Ashley.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our po...

Rage MOMster

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

09/10/19 • 46 min

Anger, rage, and screaming were some of the things I dealt with when I was neck deep in depression. I should say, these are some of the things those around me dealt with. My depression comes out in waves of anger. Today's guest is Natalie Hixon who is a certified professional life coach. I am so excited to have her on the show today, because she specializes in helping women overcome destructive anger and burnout.

The theme for season 2 was body, mind, and soul. I was upset because I didn't have a theme for season 3, but everything came together. Season 3 is really about cleaning out our hearts, homes, and souls. It's about ridding ourselves from junk and clutter that threaten our health and relationships. Burnout, self-destructive patterns, addiction, and anger will destroy who you are and what you're setting out to do. This is why I’m so honored to have Natilie on the show to share her story today.

Show Notes:

[03:39] Natalie lives in Montana. This is one of my bucket list states.
[04:58] Natalie married Mike, her high school sweetheart. They have three daughters ages 15, 12, and 8 years old. They love living in Montana. Natalie has been there her whole life.
[05:23] Natalie spends her days coaching moms who suffer with anger and burnout.
[06:29] Growing up, Natalie knew she was an angry person. When she first got married, she noticed she was screaming at Mike.
[07:13] She knew there was a problem when she was on the floor throwing tantrums with her two-year-old.
[08:51] After a couple of years, Natalie took her daughter to a therapist and discovered she was the one who had the real anger problems.
[09:39] When a child has an issue, it's often the mother who has things to work through.
[12:01] Natalie would scream at her kids, throw things, slam doors, squeeze arms, and spank. She would cry that she abused her kids with destructive anger.
[14:59] Melissa doesn't struggle with this now, because her kids are older, and she has had a lot of counseling.
[17:19] Natalie is opening group coaching, because so many people feel like they are alone. There is a multitude of women who are beside themselves.
[20:41] Natalie's journey started in the therapist's office.
[23:13] Communicating how you are feeling helps your kids understand their feelings.
[24:30] Anger is a natural human emotion. Destructive anger is what needs to be worked through.
[25:36] Slamming doors, screaming, hitting, throwing things, or causing any type of pain is destructive anger.
[29:08] Gaining control of anger and restoring relationships in family is possible.
[30:17] When Natalie would blow up in rage, she would ask for forgiveness. This is the recovery piece.
[33:14] Open and honest communication is how we restore, heal, and grow.
[34:42] When mom's get angry, they can practice what they are learning and teach their kids how to get angry.
[35:58] It's not okay to deny destructive anger in your life. Reach out for help.
[37:31] Recognize how you feel after exploding. Create awareness.
[40:03] Natalie loves pizza and rosé.
[40:39] Friendship means love, openness, and sisterhood.
[41:17] Her favorite movie is You've Got Mail.
[42:04] I love women like Natalie who take their pain to change the world. I love the kind that bravely ask for help.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. Just like your mother taught you.

Links and Resources:

Don’t MIND Me, It’s Just the Season 2 Premiere

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

01/08/19 • 20 min

Welcome to season 2 of the Ordinary People Ordinary Things podcast. I loved doing the first season so much that we are doing another round. Now that I have one season down, the second season is going to be better than ever. I will be telling the stories that I’ve always wanted to tell.

These stories will be told by people who I’ve learned the most from in my life. Ordinary people like you and me. We will be breaking the season down into three sections of body, mind, and soul. Next week kicks off with a special guest as we start with the body topic.

You can find Melissa here:

Podcast Web Page

Facebook Page

@MsMelissaRadke on Instagram

@msmelissaradke on Twitter

Show Notes

[03:52] I am so excited about season 2. I'm going to tell the stories that I've always wanted to tell. Those stories are going to be about ordinary People, because the best lessons I've ever learned in my life are from ordinary people like you and me.
[04:34] This season you are going to hear from some really amazing people with some really amazing stories.
[05:02] If you want to hear how ordinary people like you and I have rebounded from the same heartbreaks, then do I have a podcast for you.
[05:26] Eat Cake Be Brave was born on July 17th. Something shifted in me the day that the book was released. I felt so vulnerable or metaphorically exposed.
[06:39] This was one of the scariest and loneliest that I've ever felt in my life. So then, I dove in head-first into a television show.
[07:00] The more exposed I became the more acutely aware I became of the need to protect and heal myself.
[07:31] I became more aware of my shortcomings and brokenness maybe more than ever before.
[07:46] I started journaling again, seeing my counselor, reading books that help me, and finding quiet time to pray.
[08:20] If I don't figure out why I do the things that I do now, will I ever?
[08:33] I have to handle myself gently, but I do have to handle myself.
[10:05] You may not learn how to parent your children or run on a budget from me, but you will always see me try to be kinder and try to be more patient.
[10:59] If there's something you want to do, you should just try.
[11:36] Our body, our mind and our souls are all intricately connected.
[12:55] Nothing can make you happy unless it's done with the other two.
[13:37] What good is it to have it all if your soul isn't healthy.
[14:29] This season is going to be divided into three parts. Body, mind, and soul. Each focus area will consist of a few weeks.
[14:41] We will have guests to make you think, make you cry, and we will make you laugh your head off.
[15:03] The first topic is our bodies.
[18:47] Here's to an incredible Season 2 of Ordinary People Ordinary Things. I'm excited.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. Just like your mother taught you.

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Road Trippin'

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

07/24/18 • 30 min

We are on the book tour. Today, we are broadcasting from the road as we hit San Antonio and try to find a nice lunch spot. So far, we have been to Houston, Dallas, and New York. For this episode, we have decided to record each time we are in the car. So, we are taking you on the road with us. If you ever wanted to be in the car with David and Melissa, this is your chance.

We talk about how nice Megan was and that there was a big announcement at the end of the segment. We discuss bringing and not bringing our kids on the road trip. We talk about having a meet and greet with Melissa’s social squad of sisters, some favorite and not so favorite comments about the book, feeling tired and emotional after the book signing, and more. I hope you enjoy this ride with us.

You can find Melissa here:

Podcast Web Page Facebook Page @MsMelissaRadke on Instagram @msmelissaradke on Twitter

Show Notes

[02:33] How we get along great in the car, and sometimes we don't
[03:00] We were exhausted last night when we got to San Antonio. We slept in and woke up just in time for Melissa to be on the Megan Kelly Show.
[03:14] Megan said that David was handsome.
[03:56] The interview with Megan went well.
[04:17] There was also an exclusive announcement.
[04:29] Remi has been getting fan mail and gift cards and even a ring.
[04:52] Rocco is depressed about it, and plans on being on the show.
[06:46] Road Trippin part 2. We are going to the Cheesecake Factory to meet up with my squad of women.
[08:07] We got into a misunderstanding about being on the phone while at a restaurant.
[11:06] We were going to enjoy this trip as a family with the kids, but after three stops we realized the kids would have more fun at their grandparents house.
[12:12] We are heading to a meet and greet with my squad sisters. I spent half my life trying to make it onto the squad, then I started my own squad.
[13:26] I get the most nervous or excited to go meet my squad. This is my VIP meet and greet with my social squad sisters.
[14:18] Melissa's favorite comment people have said about the book is when they say that reading the book just felt like sitting down and having a conversation with her.
[14:49] This is what Melissa wants the most, other than for people's lives to be changed.
[15:11] Melissa's least favorite comment about the book.
[16:54] A funny comment during 30 Days of Facebook Live.
[18:04] We just finished up the book signing. It was tiring, but awesome. Now it is time to find a place to get dinner.
[19:42] Some women were there because they saw Melissa on TV or read an article about her.
[20:24] Why Melissa started crying tonight when a beautiful woman showed up and said she got dressed up for Melissa, because it was like her girlfriend was coming to town.
[24:04] A little inside look into our car conversation. Good, bad or otherwise. Along, with trying to find a playlist.
[26:57] Pulling into Starbucks before Melissa's next interview.
[29:03] The fact that David and I are still married after being on the road for seven days straight.
[29:37] Miracles are all around us.

Thanks for joining us on Ordinary People Ordinary Things. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. Just like your mother taught you.

Links and Resources:

Big Mouth, Little City

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

05/29/18 • 37 min

I lived in Nashville Tennessee for 16 years. It was beautiful. There were rolling hills. We had four perfect seasons. The shopping and the culture were to die for. A friend visited me and said it was like being in a Hidden Valley Ranch commercial. It was beautiful and wonderful.

In spite of the culture and beauty, it’s not the scenery of a town that plants you there, it’s the people who you share that place with. Today’s episode is about my home town of Lufkin, Texas and how sometimes we end up in the very place that we thought we needed to escape.

My friend and guest today is Tara Watson-Watkins the Lufkin Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director. Tara was Miss Texas and left Lufkin for ten years for school and her career. She has been back for 14 years and loves promoting Lufkin and small town life in general. Today, we talk about the advantages of small town life and living in Lufkin and similar small towns.

You can find Melissa here:

Podcast Web Page Facebook Page @MsMelissaRadke on Instagram @msmelissaradke on Twitter

Show Notes

[02:47] Tara Watson-Watkins loves Lufkin and loves being able to promote her hometown. She gets to tell people why they should visit Lufkin, and reminds the residents why they should love to be home.
[03:51] Tara was also Miss Texas. She truly has a love for Lufkin and small towns in general.
[04:02] Tara left Lufkin for ten years. She went to school at Texas Christian University and then worked at Pfizer pharmaceuticals and another company.
[04:23] Tara knew it was time to come home when her father passed away, and her mother had an accident falling off of a ladder.
[04:59] Tara has been home now for 14 years.
[05:16] How many women and young girls just want to get out of their small towns.
[05:48] Tara may go to bigger cities to shop and get her fix, but there is no better place than being home.
[06:11] What small-town life provides. There is such a networking opportunity of friends and family that aren't even blood relations.
[06:56] In a small town, it's important to take advantage of the opportunity to get to know people. Go into it with open eyes and an open heart.
[07:44] Moving back to Lufkin changed Melissa's outlook on everything.
[07:54] In a small town, you can have no blood relatives and yet have a community. Take the time to appreciate the heart of a small town.
[08:13] If you make the effort, people will make the effort with you. Embrace the people that are there, because small-town people are the best.
[09:04] How moving back to your hometown can be a culture shock and feel like starting over.
[09:37] Melissa decided to make herself approachable and started smiling at people.
[10:32] What Tara loves about Lufkin. It's a special town. Being a part of the community is a full circle moment for Tara. She loves being able to leave her car running and know it will be there when she gets back.
[12:19] In small towns, you also make friends who play jokes on you.
[12:47] The Lufkin community is the most giving community that Tara has ever been a part of.
[13:22] How the community comes together to make a difference.
[14:43] Lufkin is the home of Lufkin industries an oil and gas equipment company. It was the town's largest employer, but was purchased by a larger company and started outsourcing jobs. The town lost a lot of employment. Especially, when another employer Temple-Inland was acquired by International Paper.
[15:33] Because of these job losses, the city and Chamber of Commerce have been working hard to bring new industry to the town.
[16:31] Lufkin is bringing back jobs and industry.
[16:41] Lockheed Martin is also bringing in a new plant. There are definitely things on the horizon.
[17:49] When people say negative things about Lufkin, Melissa wants to engage.
[18:35] There are a lot of things for families to do in Lufkin.
[19:30] Tara wants her children to grow up appreciating their small town. She has worked hard to instill a sense of volunteering and giving back.
[23:23] Doing an educational push to shop local. All of Melissa's merchandise is produced locally. If they succeed, they are succeeding with Lufkin.
[27:21] A great story about when Tara was Miss Texas, and she went to Target and denied being Miss Texas.
[28:48] When Melissa was at The Dollar Store, a man was going to rob the store, but his wife was in line and prevented it.
[29:19] Tara shares a CVS story about discretely trying to buy a pregnancy test.
[30:53] Melissa's Red R...

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FAQ

How many episodes does Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke have?

Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke currently has 83 episodes available.

What topics does Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke cover?

The podcast is about Christianity, Religion & Spirituality, Comedy and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke?

The episode title 'This Christmas' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke?

The average episode length on Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke is 43 minutes.

How often are episodes of Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke released?

Episodes of Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke?

The first episode of Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke was released on Feb 26, 2018.

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Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke

Melissa Radke

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FAQ

How many episodes does Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke have?

What topics does Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke cover?

What is the most popular episode on Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke?

What is the average episode length on Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke?

How often are episodes of Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke released?

When was the first episode of Ordinary People. Ordinary Things. with Melissa Radke?

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