Afleveringen

  • In this episode of The Commons with Karla, I sit down for a compelling conversation with Stephanie Sherman, a remarkable woman whose journey embodies resilience, faith, and social activism. Stephanie's transition from nurturing her children to joining Awaken, a faith-driven organization dedicated to combating commercial sexual exploitation, sets the stage for an exploration of personal growth and spiritual evolution. Together, Stephanie and I explore profound topics, including race, parenting, gender dynamics, and the portrayal of women in the Bible. We also examine the fusion of faith and social justice, drawing insights from Stephanie's experiences and her impactful work with Awaken. Join us on this enlightening journey as we navigate the complexities of life, faith, and advocacy.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Stephanie

    ● Stephanie’s Backstory/Growing up in England

    ● Growing in Faith

    ● College at TCU

    ● Relying on Community during Motherhood

    ● Becoming a Mentor

    ● Combating Commercial Sexual Exploitation

    ● Race, Parenting & Gender Dynamics

    ● Portrayal of Women

    ● Awaken

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Awaken Website

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.


    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome back to another episode of The Commons with Karla! Today, I have a special guest, Gretchen Huijskens, who is dedicated to using fashion as a catalyst for positive change in alleviating poverty. In our conversation, Gretchen shares her journey, including her experiences founding a charity in Haiti and co-founding Trades of Hope. Through her work, she has witnessed women overcoming poverty, trafficking, and gender inequality. Gretchen's book, "Our Voices Rising: One CEO’s Journey to Alleviate Poverty Using Fashion as a Force for Good," offers a compelling memoir and tribute to women globally striving for meaningful lives. Join us as we dive into Gretchen's inspiring story and reflect on how our own unique experiences shape our paths. I hope this episode reminds you that your story matters.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Gretchen

    ● Gretchen’s early life

    ● Fashion as a Force for Good

    ● Charity in Haiti

    ● Trades of Hope

    ● Nurturing Friendships when you feel overloaded

    ● Women rising out of poverty, trafficking, and gender inequality

    ● Gretchen’s Book: Our Voices Rising: One CEO’s Journey to Alleviate Poverty Using Fashion as a Force for Good

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Gretchen on IG @gretchenhuijskens

    ● Our Voices Rising: One CEO’s Journey to Alleviate Poverty Using Fashion as a Force for Good

    ● Trades of Hope - Shop

    ● Trades of Hope Website Partner with Podcast guest Melanie

    ● Mentions: Melanie’s Episode #87 and Episode #97

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?

    Klik hier om de feed te vernieuwen.

  • Welcome to The Commons with Karla, where we dive into the stories of everyday women making extraordinary impacts in their families and communities. My passion for this podcast stems from a deep belief in the power of shared experiences and connections. Through conversations, we uncover the common threads that unite us as human beings, from our desires and struggles to our capacity for purpose and joy.

    In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jamie Hanson, a woman whose remarkable journey and insightful perspectives shed light on the importance of dialogue. Jamie's diverse experiences, including her upbringing in the Jewish faith and her teenage visit to Israel, provide a unique lens through which to understand complex issues.

    Join us as we explore the value of conversations in fostering understanding and deepening connections.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Jamie and her family

    ● Jamie’s backstory

    ● Being raised Jewish

    ● Jamie’s Favorite Holiday - Seder

    ● Trip to Israel

    ● Navigating losing her Dad

    ● Jamie’s two jobs and mentoring

    ● Nurturing and Cultivating Relationships

    ● Being a Conversationalist

    Find more on Guest:

    ● The Genius of Israel Book

    ● Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • In this episode of The Commons with Karla, I dive deep into the concept of superpowers with my guest, Ashleigh Harvey. Rather than envisioning superpowers as the typical superhero abilities like invisibility or teleportation, we explore the idea that each of us possesses a unique superpower – a special skill, mindset, or belief that profoundly shapes our lives and influences the world around us. Through Ashleigh's captivating story, you'll witness firsthand how her superpower has left an indelible mark on her relationships, faith, resilience, and success. I hope this episode encourages you to reflect on your own superpower and its extraordinary impact on your life's journey.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Ashleigh and her Family

    ● Growing up as an only child

    ● Friendships as an only child

    ● Adoption

    ● Photography

    ● Creative outlets

    ● Breast cancer diagnosis

    ● Community & Support

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Link to book Ashleigh on The Hytch website

    ● Ashleigh on IG @imashleighmarie

    ● Ashleigh’s Journal- Made to Thrive

    ● Moms on the Run

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome back to The Commons with Karla. In this episode, I have the privilege of sitting down with Amy Riley, who graciously shares her poignant journey of caring for her mother during the challenging final stages of Lewy Body Dementia. As Amy navigates this difficult path, she also manages to fulfill her roles as a wife, mother, volunteer, writer, and marketing professional. Through her story, we discover the profound ways unexpected challenges can reshape our lives and prompt personal growth. Amy's experiences remind us to seek beauty amidst adversity and to reflect on our own journeys of resilience and adaptation. Our conversation explores the complexities of caregiving and the transformative power of facing life's challenges head-on. I hope this episode will give you the strength and confidence to navigate any unexpected turns you are currently facing in your life.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Amy and her family

    ● Being torn between multiple roles

    ● Amy’s Mom’s diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia

    ● Caregiving

    ● Power of prayer

    ● Transformation and growth

    ● Gaining perspective

    ● Learning patience, empathy, and compassion

    ● Loving devotion

    ● Understanding and naming the monster

    ● The Alzheimer’s Foundation

    ● Hospice and Palliative Care

    ● Alzheimer’s Association

    ● Finding support in community

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Amy on IG @amytriley

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome to Episode 134 of The Commons with Karla! In today's episode, we explore the themes of strength, resilience, and the transformative power of adversity. Many of us aspire to become stronger and more adept at navigating life's challenges. However, it's often during moments of change and hardship that we truly discover our inner resilience.

    Our guest, Melissa Saldana, shares her profound journey marked by significant life changes and trials. Like a diamond forged under pressure, Melissa's experiences have shaped her into an incredible, unique, and vibrant individual. As you listen to Melissa's story, I encourage you to reflect on your own experiences.

    What adversities have you faced, and how have they contributed to your strength?

    What valuable lessons have significant changes taught you?

    I hope this episode encourages you to dive deeper into your story and helps you trace back through all of the hard times you went through to see the purpose they ultimately played in your life.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Melissa

    ● Melissa’s husband and children

    ● Melissa’s early childhood in Peru

    ● Moving to Costa Rica

    ● Moving to the United States

    ● Grieving the loss of her nephew

    ● Navigating Change

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Melissa on IG @mely_pavia and on Facebook @Melissa.Saldana.357

    ● Listen to Teresa’s Episode Here

    ● Listen to Carol’s Episode Here

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome back to The Commons with Karla. Today, I have the incredible Charlotte Sanchez joining me. Charlotte wears many hats – she's a devoted wife, a mom to two adorable little ones, and the Chief Communications Officer at the Luis Palau Association. We're diving into her journey, and trust me, it's a rollercoaster of embracing beauty in the midst of life's bumps and bruises.

    Working with a team of fellow creatives, Charlotte sees her role as a Chief Communications Officer not just as a job but as a genuine gift. Together, they're on a mission to share the love of Jesus in a way that truly connects with hearts. Community, connection, and those deep, soul-stirring conversations – that's where Charlotte thrives.

    In today's episode, Charlotte opens up about her own vulnerabilities, and it's like she's giving us a backstage pass to the real, unfiltered stories of life. Her journey encourages us to do the same, to share our stories authentically.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Charlotte’s Background Story

    ● EMDR therapy

    ● Coping Mechanisms

    ● Self-harm

    ● Internal Family Systems Theory

    ● Charlotte’s Career & Family

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Charlotte on IG @CharlotteLeanna

    ● Luis Palau Association (LPA) website

    ● Link to Journal - Save $10 (on order of $30+) with this link

    ● Spiritual Direction (John Chandler)

    ● Stories of Hope Book

    ● Know Me- Release the Lie and Embrace God

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • In this episode of The Commons with Karla, I am joined by the incredible Shanna Southam, a devoted wife and mother with a deep passion for advocating for her young adult children. Shanna shares her inspiring journey, revealing how she navigates challenges, leverages her strengths, and fosters a sense of community among warriors, both in her gym and in the broader context of life with advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Shanna's narrative showcases her resilience and unwavering strength, proving that while challenges may shape circumstances, they do not define. Join us as we dive into Shanna's story, drawing inspiration from her experiences and reflecting on our own strength and resilience. I hope this episode reminds you of the power within your own story.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Shanna

    ● Evoke Warriors- Heath & Fitness

    ● Shanna’s Family

    ● Raising children with autism & advocating for them

    ● Adoption

    ● Breast Cancer Diagnosis

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Evoke Fitness website

    ● Evoke Fitness on IG

    ● Application for Evoke Warriors

    ● Deirdre Hammon, Senior Advocate - Center for Self Determination

    ● RAVE and Amplify Life

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome to a special bonus episode of The Commons! In our regular episodes, we are privileged to hear the inspiring stories of everyday women, sharing their pivotal moments, connections, and experiences within their communities. Today, however, my dream of bringing together multiple women to explore a specific topic is becoming a reality.

    I am thrilled to be joined by two remarkable women, Brooke Shay, and Stacy Fisher, each bringing her own unique story to the conversation. What binds these two beauties is a shared experience that we delve into in this episode – their Rooted Life Experience.

    At the heart of our discussion is the Rooted Life Manifesto. We explore the concept that we are all created with a unique purpose, and a rooted life is one that flourishes through the integration of mind, body, heart, soul, and community. Our individual and collective stories play a crucial role in shaping our everyday lives and relationships, emphasizing the significance of understanding and reading our stories well for healing, wholeness, and living out our purpose. I hope today’s episode encourages you to pursue your purpose!

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Learn more about Brooke and Stacy

    ● What is Rooted Life?

    ● Pre-work

    ● Story work

    ● Post-Groups

    ● How their relationship with themselves & God has changed

    ● Transitioning into reality post-retreat

    Links from Episode:

    ● Rooted Life Website
    ● Rooted Life on IG @rootedlifeco

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe to, rate, and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome back to The Commons with Karla! In this episode, our guest is the incredible Val Saborio, a platform software engineer based in Reno, Nevada. Beyond her coding expertise, Val is deeply passionate about knowing Jesus and spreading that passion to others. In today's episode, we explore the pivotal events and relationships that have shaped Val's journey, exploring themes of faith, prayer, meaningful conversations, mentorship, and the profound impact of community in her life. Val's story is a testament to a life fully surrendered to Jesus, revealing the inherent beauty in our ordinary, imperfect lives. Her remarkable humility and honesty serve as a guiding light, emphasizing how each of our unique narratives intersects with the larger story of God. I hope this episode will encourage you to follow your passions as well.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Learning more about Val

    ● Val’s journey with hearing loss

    ● Building community in Reno

    ● Val’s early life

    ● Val’s faith and relationship with Jesus

    ● Dealing with her parent's divorce

    ● Moving to the United States from Costa Rica

    ● Starting a Prayer Ministry at Church

    ● Translating in Spanish at Church

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Spiritual Authority by Dr. Rob Reimer

    ● Val on IG @valesaborio_

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.



  • In this episode of The Commons with Karla, I sit down with Louise Zevan, a prayer counselor, author, and captivating storyteller. Louise shares her powerful journey of redemption and restoration, recounting her personal experience of inner healing and her subsequent training and work as a prayer counselor. Through her compelling narrative, Louise sheds light on the transformation she has witnessed in the lives of countless individuals. The conversation delves into her recent book, "Root Therapy: Short Stories of Deep Inner Healing," where she explores the profound impact of God's transformative power on the pain we endure, turning it into purpose. I hope this episode also encourages you to start the journey of inner healing.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Getting to know Louise

    ● Louise’s early story

    ● Louise’s abusive childhood

    ● Inner Healing

    ● Mountain Light Ministries

    ● Louise’s Recent Book- Root Therapy: Short Stories of Deep Inner Healing

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Find Louise’s Book Here

    ● mountainlightministries.org

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome back to The Commons with Karla, Episode 129! Today, I'm joined by Michelle Gennaro Lapp, the Southwest Mobilizer for Africa Inland Mission. Beyond her role in missions, Michelle's life is a tapestry woven with speaking, teaching, writing, and church ministry. Based in San Diego, California, Michelle shares her captivating journey, a story she delves into further in her memoir, "Worst Case Scenario: Finding Overwhelming Rescue in the Promises of God."

    Living alongside her husband and their eight combined adult children, Michelle embodies the belief that she has been comforted to be a comforter. Join me in this conversation with Michelle as we explore her experiences, her memoir, and the powerful idea that our stories can be told boldly for the glory of God. I hope this episode encourages you to tell your story boldly as well.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Getting to know Michelle

    ● Michelle’s childhood and early life

    ● Michelle’s Faith Journey

    ● Michelle’s Memoir: Worst Case Scenario: Finding Overwhelming Rescue in the Promises of God

    ● Michelle’s Worst Fear Coming True

    ● Telling Your Story

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Miracle of Miracles by Mina Nevisa

    ● Michelle’s Memoir: Worst Case Scenario: Finding Overwhelming Rescue in the Promises of God

    ● Michelle's Website

    ● Michelle’s IG and Facebook


    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    ● Memory Lane Chats - use discount code SAVE50 for 50% discount until 1/8/24

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • What is your family story? How can you make sure future generations know more of their own history?

    Welcome back to another episode! In today's conversation, we reconnected with a previous guest, Bonnie Deach. If you haven't already, I highly recommend checking out episode 126 for our initial discussion, where we delved into our mutual fascination with true crime and the importance of community. During that conversation, we touched on Bonnie's deep-seated love for storytelling, and today, we're continuing that conversation.

    In this episode, Bonnie elaborates on her motivation, methods, and experiences in uncovering and documenting her family's history for the benefit of future generations. Bonnie is a true enthusiast for life, history, and the art of storytelling, and her journey is bound to ignite your own curiosity. Take a moment to reflect on how you, too, can embark on the captivating journey of preserving your family's unique narrative.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Where Bonnie’s passion for preserving her family legacy

    ● Recording family members to remember their voices

    ● Bonnie’s great-grandmother’s diaries

    ● Ancestry & Family Search

    ● Taking a trip down memory lane

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    ● Memory Lane Chats - use discount code SAVE50 for 50% discount until 1/8/24

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

  • In this episode of the podcast, I'm joined in conversation by Joy Smalley, a devoted wife and mother of four teenagers aged 13-17. She's deeply involved in her children's lives, homeschooling them and sharing their passions for activities like volleyball, jiu-jitsu, art, and anime. Joy is also a writer and proudly identifies as an introvert.

    Today's discussion delves into community and coping with past traumas. Joy opens up about her personal experiences with trauma and its enduring effects on her faith, family, and the people around her. She offers a profound insight into her journey, chronicled in her memoir, "Abraham’s Daughter: Healing Trauma from a Childhood in Missions."

    We explore the process of both writing and healing, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and maintaining a connection with one's spirituality, even in the face of life's hardships. I hope this episode encourages you to find healing and hope.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Getting to know Joy

    ● Raising teens & homeschooling

    ● Living as a missionary in Mongolia during childhood & the trauma that came with it

    ● Survival as a child

    ● Signs of unresolved trauma

    ● Self-harm

    ● Receiving therapy

    ● Joy’s Book - Abraham’s Daughter

    ● Monica’s episodes What Defines You? and Struggling Does Not Make You a Failure

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Joy’s website JoySmalley.com

    ● Joy’s recent read The Gift of Dyslexia by Ronald D. Davis

    ● Instagram @joysmalley6

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • I'm pleased to introduce our guest today, Bonnie Deach. Bonnie, a retired speech pathologist, holds a deep affection for her family, creative undertakings, and quality time spent with friends. She is actively engaged in volunteering within her community and cherishes the moments she can share with her beloved grandson. Additionally, Bonnie has a notable fascination with the realm of crime. Our conversation today delves into the true crime genre, examining what it means to be an enthusiast. We explore whether it's merely a form of entertainment, as some argue, or if there are more profound motivations and narratives behind this interest. This episode is a discussion about stories, conversations, shared passions, and much more. I hope this episode encourages you to dive into what you are passionate about!

    Episode Highlights and Mentions:

    ● Bonnie’s wonderful relationship with her grandson

    ● The genre of true crime

    ● Donating her body to science

    ● Bottom Left Drawer

    ● Bonnie’s backstory

    ● Dealing with death and loss

    ● Volunteering with Veterans

    ● Speech Pathology

    ● OLLI classes website

    ● Crime Con in Nashville 2024

    ● Bonnie’s podcast & book recommendations:

    ● The Prosecutors Podcast, Retired FBI Case Review, Generation Why, Court TV, Dateline

    ● Authors - Jack Olson, Ann Rule

    ● Truman Capote In Cold Blood

    ● Documentaries - 9/11

    ● Best Crime Documentary Dear Zachary

    ● Listen to Crystal’s episodes #9 and #62 - work with Crystal

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    ● Memory Lane Chats


    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • *Trigger Warning- This podcast episode contains discussions about miscarriage and pregnancy loss, which may be emotionally distressing for some listeners. Please exercise discretion and consider your own emotional well-being before listening.*

    Did you know October is Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness Month?

    Today’s guest, Lauren, unfortunately, is all too familiar with the hurt and grief that comes along with the loss of multiple miscarriages. However, Lauren’s story is one of redemption and hope. Lauren, an extraordinary and courageous woman, is deeply devoted to her faith. She is married to Kyle and is the loving mother of her now three-month-old daughter, Macie. During our conversation, Lauren generously shared her personal journey, revealing how the trials she went through profoundly enriched her faith. She discovered that even in moments when she felt distant from God, He was steadfastly holding her together. We explore themes of trust, building intimate connections through adversity, and the significance of embracing our emotions, as well as the vital role of community during challenging times. If you or someone you know has experienced a similar loss, I hope that this episode will give you hope and encourage you to reach out to your community for support.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Lauren’s family

    ● Lauren’s childhood & upbringing

    ● Dealing with multiple miscarriages

    ● Living through the grief and challenges of miscarriage

    ● Leaning into community

    ● God is with you during the trials

    ● Seeking help to heal through counseling and community

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Lauren @_laurenriem on IG

    ● Twelve 12 Ministries for resources and support

    ● Episode #110: To the women experiencing Infertility and Pregnancy Loss

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Do you ever consider how much power your words and your thoughts have over your life?

    Today's guest, Victoria, shares with us how when she realized the impact and weight that her words had on her life- she made a conscious effort to transform them positively and shift into a more hopeful outlook on life.

    Victoria possesses a strong passion for the influence of language and the importance of following our life's purpose. She reassures us that life is too short to remain trapped in an unhappy way of living.

    During our discussion, we dive into topics such as faith, parenthood, marriage, mental health, and the importance of having an optimistic perspective toward life. I hope this episode encourages you to reframe your negative thinking and have faith that God has a great plan for your life.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● All about Victoria and her family

    ● Victoria’s faith in God

    ● Changing careers

    ● Mental Health

    ● Victoria’s passions

    ● The power of words and positivity

    ● Being obedient to God during hard times

    Find more on Guest:

    ● @itsvictoriaevans on Instagram

    ● Victoria’s journal on Amazon Church Notes: Write it Down. Soak it In.

    ● Victoria’s author page on Amazon - with journals for teens, recipes, and daily insights
    ● Book Victoria mentions The Awe of God by John Bevere

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate, and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Today, I have the pleasure of being joined by Nicole Frens. Nicole possesses a remarkable talent for writing and exceptional communication skills and is a dedicated homeschooling mother – all of which she balances with her genuinely cool and engaging personality. Her witty humor and boundless creativity consistently bring joy to those around her, including myself. Nicole's versatility shines through in her abilities, whether it's teaching, connecting with children, maintaining composure in challenging situations, adapting gracefully to life's changes, or uncovering the bright side of any situation. Nicole's proficiency extends to various pursuits, whether it's mastering a new craft, crafting a novel, delving into the pages of a book, or engrossing herself in a captivating conversation. In everything she does, Nicole approaches it with a blend of excellence and a zest for enjoyment. In today’s episode, Nicole and I will delve into the intriguing subjects of evolving relationships and navigating the transitions that life presents. Furthermore, we'll explore Nicole's life as a creative individual. I hope this episode encourages you to get in touch with your creative side.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Writing a novel

    ● Difference between writer, author, and novelist

    ● What Nicole is reading

    ● Life and community in Idaho

    ● Homeschooling

    ● Coaching Robotics

    ● Losing yourself in motherhood and being a wife

    ● Empty Nest

    ● What Nicole is looking forward to

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Email [email protected] to stay in touch about Nicole’s upcoming novels

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.

    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • Welcome back to The Commons with Karla. Today I am in conversation with Vicky. Vicky is strong, creative, and kind. She likes to encourage women to grow as athletes and weekend warriors. Vicky grew up surrounded by her many siblings and family friends. However, Vicky now spends a lot of time on her own while her husband is away working as a guide and hunting. In this episode, she shares how she enjoys solitude and how she seeks community through running and backpacking. Vicky has so much wisdom to share - I hope this episode encourages you to find what makes you really happy and to celebrate how your moments add up to a beautiful life.


    Episode Highlights:

    ● Vicky’s community

    ● Vicky's career as a book designer

    ● Running Community

    ● Dealing with double knee replacements

    ● Vicky’s earlier life

    ● Graphic Design School

    ● Creating a book

    ● Encouraging other women

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Vicky’s website Ponderosa Pine Design

    ● Vicky’s IG @ponderosapinedesign

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    ● Website

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.


    This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

  • We all know that life is not guaranteed, but it’s different when you are face to face with that reality. Today’s guest, Jamie, was faced with this when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, not once, but twice. Jamie’s story is one of strength and triumph. Through her obstacles, Jamie has found community, balance, and the ability to keep a smile on her face. She is an honest and open person. Our conversation was such a breath of fresh air. I hope this episode encourages you to keep pushing through the hard times because you will have a reason to smile again.

    Episode Highlights:

    ● Jamie’s move to Bend, Oregon

    ● A Day in the Life of Jamie

    ● Pilates teacher

    ● Jamie’s superpowers: smiling and balance

    ● Diagnosis of breast cancer

    ● Taking government classes online

    ● Creating new friendships as adults

    ● What Jamie is looking forward to

    Find more on Guest:

    ● Jamie on IG @jskuse77

    ● Listen to Episode #22: Life is an Adventure with Johanna

    ● Club Pilates Reno

    ● Here’s Where It Gets Interesting pod

    ● Link to The Food Nanny

    Find More on The Commons with Karla:

    ● On IG @karla_osorno

    Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate and review The Commons with Karla Podcast on Apple or Spotify. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. For show notes, go to karlaosorno.com/podcast.