Relation EQ

In this episode of Relation EQ, hosts Brian and Julie Sims are joined by Ginger Nelson, former mayor of Amarillo, Texas. They discuss the multifaceted role of hospitality in fostering community connections. Ginger shares her unique experiences and insights from her time as mayor, her journey as a cancer survivor, and the importance of practicing simple acts of kindness. The discussion emphasizes the power of listening, the impact of small gestures, and the value of being available to others in order to build a healthier and more connected community. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction to Relation EQ 00:33 Meet Ginger Nelson: A Multifaceted Leader 01:47 The Power of Gathering: Insights from Episode 3 with Sarah Harmeyer 02:32 Mega Neighbors Table: Building Community 04:45 The Importance of Connection in Community 09:55 Hosting a Neighbor's Table: A Step-by-Step Guide 17:11 Challenges and Reflections on Connection 19:52 Personal Stories and Overcoming Adversity 21:50 Exploring Connection and Hospitality 22:24 The Gift and Practice of Hospitality 23:00 Navigating Life's Extremes 23:50 The Power of Simple Actions 24:09 Creativity and Introversion 25:07 Keeping Conversations Alive 26:39 The Art of Listening 28:54 Parenting and Deep Conversations 29:46 Supporting Friends in Hard Times 31:20 The Importance of Community 36:56 Small Acts, Big Impact 39:11 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts Continue the conversation on our Facebook page @Relation EQ

In this episode of Relation EQ, host Julie Sims welcomes Sarah Harmeyer, a woman with a remarkable gift for gathering people through her business Neighbor's Table. Sarah shares her journey of discovering her unique calling to be a 'people gatherer' and how she uses her custom-made tables to bring people together across the United States. She discusses the impact of these gatherings on her life and community and provides practical insights into how anyone can foster connections through hospitality. With stories of overcoming challenges, embracing vulnerability, and creating meaningful experiences, Sarah inspires listeners to open their homes and hearts to others. Julie and Sarah explore the profound, yet simple, act of inviting people into their lives and the transformative power of love and connection. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:00 Sarah Meyer's Background and Journey 03:24 The Birth of Neighbor's Table 06:37 Gathering Experiences and Community Impact 13:22 Expanding the Neighbor's Table Concept 18:20 Practical Tips for Hosting Gatherings 26:27 Creating Meaningful Connections 30:45 Setting the Scene for Hospitality 31:14 Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere 34:08 The Power of Belonging 35:47 Connecting with Neighbors 36:27 Creative Ways to Meet People 37:48 The Impact of Simple Gestures 41:54 Hosting a Mega Neighbor's Table 49:07 The Legacy of Neighbor's Table 51:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement To connect with Sarah Harmeyer or to purchase your own table visit Sarah's website http://www.neighborstable.com/ Connect with Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neighborstable/ Continue the conversation on our Facebook page @Relation EQ

In this episode of Relation EQ, our host Julie sits down with former professional model Kayln King, also known as Kayln Hemphill, who has transitioned from a successful runway career to being a full-time wife and mother of twins. They discuss Kayln’s experience on 'Models of the Runway’, the challenges and surprises of motherhood, and the significant shift from a self-focused career to focusing on family life. Kayln shares her insights on humility, contentment, and the value of different life seasons, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and faith. This heartfelt conversation highlights the beauty and growth found in embracing new chapters. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction to Kayln King: From Runway Model to Full-Time Mom 00:51 Kayln’s Journey on Models of the Runway 04:51 Early Modeling Days and Career Evolution 08:47 Maintaining Modesty and Setting Boundaries in Modeling 13:19 Transitioning to Motherhood: Challenges and Joys 17:23 Reflections on Parenting and Personal Growth 23:21 Surviving and Embracing Seasons 23:34 Reflecting on Past Seasons 24:31 Balancing Motherhood and Career 26:49 Teaching Life Lessons 29:36 The Joy of Parenting 30:49 Transitioning Careers and Lifestyles 40:03 The Value of Simplicity 43:50 Looking Forward to New Seasons Continue the conversation on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode of Relation EQ, Brian and Julie Sims introduce their special guest, 19-year-old Cammie Smith, who has bravely battled cancer and chronic illness. Despite facing significant health challenges, Cammie has built a following of over 70,000 on her Instagram account, 'Chronically Cammie.' The conversation delves into Cammie's experiences, including her diagnosis with acute B cell lymphoblastic leukemia at the age of two, her struggle with chronic nausea starting in her sophomore year of high school, and the difficulties she has faced in maintaining a sense of normalcy. Cammie also describes how her chronic illness has impacted her relationships with her brother and sisters. As she approaches a critical surgery to address a structural issue in her neck, Cammie remains hopeful for a future where she can live a more typical life, including attending college to study zoology. She shares insights into her family dynamics and coping mechanisms, particularly the use of humor to navigate challenging times. Cammie emphasizes the importance of not losing hope and looks forward to a brighter future post-surgery. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Welcome Back to Relation EQ 00:18 Introducing Cammie Smith 00:56 Cammie's Early Battle with Cancer 03:00 Living with Chronic Illness 11:52 High School Struggles and New Diagnoses 15:40 Preparing for Life-Changing Surgery 20:34 Struggling with Food and Calories 20:55 Marching Band Challenges 22:04 Sibling Dynamics and Achievements 23:00 Social Life and Humor as a Coping Mechanism 23:27 Dealing with Judgement and Health Issues 27:29 Facing Dark Moments and PTSD 30:04 Family Impact and Relationships 37:57 Future Aspirations and Hope Follow Cammie’s story on Instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/chronically.cami/?hl=en

In this episode, Julie sits down to have an honest conversation with Kristin Watne on the importance of creating a safe place in relationships. In their conversation you will hear why it’s important to listen in order to bring empathy and trustworthiness to your relationships. Julie and Kristin provides insights and guidelines on how to be a safe person, including tips on building trust and maintaining healthy communication. The conversation also touches on personal experiences and reflections on parenting and building strong connections with others. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Oversharing can create problems in relationships. 4 Keys To Knowing If You Are A Safe Person: 1. Would I share what I know about this person if that person was here with me? 2. Is what I’m sharing about this person positive or negative? 3. Does this person no longer give details on their lives but only gives just facts and figures? How do I get my relationship back on track if I’ve broken trust? 1. Own Your mistake. 2. Don’t make excuses for your actions. 3. Give up the right to be right. Ask yourself: Do people seek me out? Follow Kristin Watne on her YouTube channel @ https://www.youtube.com/@Kristin-Watne Continue the conversation with us on our Relation EQ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

Let’s face it. We’ve all asked ourselves, “How did I get here?” at one time or another in our marriages or in any relationship. Sometimes we find ourselves in a difficult or dangerous relationship that we don't know how to get out of. In this episode, Julie Sims sits down with her good friend Linda Gromowsky to have an honest conversation centered around the question, “How did I get here?” Linda discusses the decisions that led her down a difficult path in her marriage relationship and the steps she took to get out of a frightening and dangerous situation. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Linda explains two false truths she was taught as a child. Linda recounts the events of her first marriage that would eventually lead to a divorce. Linda discusses the effects her divorce had on her and her children. Linda shares the trauma she experienced as a child which led her to make decisions for herself and her children. You are making unhealthy decisions if you don’t take care of yourself. Find ‘one’ person you trust that has your best interest in mind and only share your situation with that person.

In this episode, we explore the power of saying “Yes” to your children, spouses, and employees. Brian and Julie discuss the importance of saying “Yes” to opportunities and ideas, especially within family dynamics. They emphasize the impact saying “Yes” has on personal growth, building trust, and opening doors to new possibilities. Through personal stories and reflections, Brian and Julie highlight how saying “Yes” can lead to transformative experiences and long-lasting memories. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Saying “Yes” leads to new opportunities and opens doors; whereas, saying “No” can close a door and lead to missed opportunities. Saying “Yes” builds trust. Saying “Yes” creates conversation and can help build negotiation skills. Saying “Yes” led to new opportunities. Saying “Yes” gives children confidence and gives parents the opportunity to see their child’s potential. Brian and Julie highlight the importance of saying “Yes” to your spouse! Continue the conversation with us on our Relation EQ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

Welcome to Season 2 of Relation EQ. We kick this brand new season off with Brian and Julie explaining why dating is essential to maintaining peace and harmony in any marriage or dating relationship. Brian and Julie discuss creative ideas for dates and explain some of the dates they have been on. They also discuss some of the regrets many people have confessed on their deathbeds about not spending enough time with loved ones. EPISODE HIGHTLIGHTS: Be intentional about setting a date for your date. When you feel prioritized you feel valued. The money you spend now dating will be way less than the money you end up spending on counseling or divorce. Build your schedule so you can connect during the week. Dating should always be face to face. Brian and Julie discuss dating your children and give examples of adventures they have had with their kids. Brian and Julie discuss two of the Top 5 Regrets of Dying: 1. I Wish I Hadn’t Worked So Hard 2. I Wish I Let Myself Be Happier Have fun. Be your authentic self. Check out the book: The 5 Top Regrets of Dying by Bronnie Ware available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Top-Five-Regrets-Dying-Transformed/dp/140194065X Continue the conversation with us on our Relation EQ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this heartfelt episode of Relation EQ, join us as Arbnore Haliti recounts her harrowing escape as a child from Kosovo’s war in 1998 to her family's resettlement in the U.S. From tragedy to hope, discover her transformation into a confident, proud American determined to repay the community that embraced her. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Arbnore describes her family’s escape from Kosovo. Arbnore recounts the U.S. military's impactful kindness to her family. Arbnore tells how she embraces Amarillo as her foundation. Arbnore shares how she inspires others with a no-limits mindset. Quote: “I'm here because of my family, and we have made roots here. I have to give back to Amarillo 'cause’ it has given so much to me." Continue the conversation with us on our Relation EQ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode, Julie Sims interviews Christy Smith. At age 23, Christy was a single mom with a five year old son when she had an abortion for the first time. Christy explains the trauma associated with the process of having that abortion and the healing journey she went through. She now helps others heal from this trauma. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Many women who have abortions often experience PTSD symptoms. Christy shares her story of having an abortion. The biggest lie: “What is everyone else going to think?” You have to go back in order to move ahead. We pass on what we haven’t cleaned up. Christy explains the strategy she used in telling her children about her abortion experience. It’s important to FORGIVE YOURSELF! There is power in surrender. For more information on the book “Surrendering The Secret of Abortion”, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Surrendering-Secret-Healing-Heartbreak-Abortion/dp/1535947330/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12SP9O3PGJBUY&keywords=Surrendering+The+Secret+of+abortion&qid=1687971051&sprefix=surrendering+the+secret+of+abortion%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1 Visit the website: http://surrenderingthesecret.org/ For more information on the book, “The Emotion Code” visit https://discoverhealing.com/the-emotion-code/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3_eMy7bm_wIVxHxMCh1EeAncEAAYASABEgIiNfD_BwE Continue the conversation with us on our Relation EQ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In the first of our “manly” episodes, Brian Sims sits down to have a conversation with his good friend Dubb Alexander about Emotional Intelligence. Dubb Alexander is a spiritual advisor with a passion to see The Kingdom of God made practical and implemented into culture. Dubb explains what emotional intelligence is and how he uses emotional intelligence in dealing with nations in his work at the United Nations. ‌ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: For more information on Dubb Alexander visit his YouTube Channel @ https://www.youtube.com/@SchoolofKingdom Read Dubb Alexander’s book , “From the Cult to the Kingdom” available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Cult-Kingdom-commune-Waco-halls/dp/1737873400/ref=sr_1_1?crid=4PV4A8DPGCQE&keywords=Dub+Alexander&qid=1682354539&sprefix=dub+alexander%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 If you would like more information on the D.I.S.C. test mentioned in this episode, check out Jason Weaver’s site @ https://jasontweaver.com/ Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

Food is on the menu in this episode of Relation EQ. Brian and Julie discuss how food and nutrition play a huge part in helping us live long and live well. Brian and Julie share humorous stories from their own lives about their food journey and share the DO’s and DONT’s of proper nutrition. You will also learn the role food plays in your relationships. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS There is less than 25 hours of nutritional instruction given in a 4 Year medical school. Brian and Julie explain their motivations behind living well. One of the keys to a long life is ‘walking in’ forgiveness. Your mindset plays an important part in living well and living a long life. Your diet is 80% of the battle, and exercise is 20%. You are what you eat. Brian and Julie share the DO’s and DONT’s of eating well. One of the keys to living long and living well is eating together. Don’t make the dinner table a battlefield. Give others the freedom to choose what they eat. For more information on nutrition and living longer, check out these books referenced in the Podcast: “ Food Rules” by Michael Pollan https://www.amazon.com/Food-Rules-Eaters-Michael-Pollan/dp/014311638X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1CX3RU5RNW6K6&keywords=Food+Rules&qid=1681331568&sprefix=food+rules%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-1 “50 Secrets of the World’s Longest Living People” by Sally Beare https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Worlds-Longest-Living-People/dp/1569243484/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RTMJKC7YXL3O&keywords=50+secrets+of+the+world's+longest+living+people+Sally+beare&qid=1681331642&sprefix=50+secrets+of+the+world's+longest+living+people+sally+beare%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1 Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

Some of the most sensitive and important relationships we encounter in our lives are those in the workplace. In this episode, Julie and Brian Sims interview their good friends Steve and Lydia Erdman. Steve is the owner of Texas Glass Restoration and Window Cleaning in Amarillo, Texas. Steve shares his experiences managing and building rapport with his employees and explains how building trust with your employees and adding incentives leads to a better work environment. ‌ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: For more information on Texas Glass Restoration and Widow Cleaning, visit their website at https://www.texasglassrestoration.com/ Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode, Julie Sims interviews Lydia Erdman with Joyfully Organized You. Joyfully Organized You helps clients organize their homes, and she makes it a priority to serve clients with excellence and efficiency. Through streamlining processes and educating clients on the latest techniques, Lydia is able to save her clients time and frustration in any area they desire. This leaves the customer with a sense of peace, knowing they have systems in place that they can easily maintain. Julie and Lydia discuss why it is important to maintain an organized home when it comes to relationships, and they share practical ways you can organize your home to create an atmosphere of unity and harmony. ‌ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Connect with Lydia Erdman at: https://www.joyfullyorganizedyou.com/ For more information on the 4 types of Clutterbugs read the book “The Clutter Connection” by Cassandra Aarassen https://www.amazon.com/dp/1633538567/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=1633538567&pd_rd_w=Yh0Km&content-id=amzn1.sym.af9528d2-09ba-47ee-b909-59e3022bebe1&pf_rd_p=af9528d2-09ba-47ee-b909-59e3022bebe1&pf_rd_r=YWBC3KGCHD36QNCEPYG3&pd_rd_wg=RMm8A&pd_rd_r=5616f2e6-737e-46f7-afd5-97b6a8bbc241&s=books&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExQlVMTVdGVUk1NDRBJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMDU2NTY5MVRHUFNDMFdDRVBWNCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjc1ODg2M0I0UFhUVllUQk05TCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2RldGFpbCZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU= Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode, Julie sits down with Bethany Burkholder to have a conversation about what it was like growing up in an Amish community. Bethany Burkholder is the youngest of ten siblings. Bethany shares stories of her relationships with her family while growing up and after she left the Amish community. ‌ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS To learn more about life in an Amish community, connect with Bethany Burkholder. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@that_amish_chick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethany_burkholder/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008642058448 Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode, Julie, Jory, and April continue to discuss the joys and challenges that come with raising a special need’s child. Jory and April discuss applying for government assistance, joining a support group, and discussing the role their faith plays in giving them strength to face daily challenges. ‌ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode, we are delighted to have with us in the studio Jory and April Buchenau. Jory and April are the proud parents of three children, one of which is a child with special needs named McCoy. McCoy was born with Cerebral Palsy and blindness in one eye. Jory and April discuss the joys and concerns that parents face when raising a child with special needs. ‌ Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

In this episode, Julie sits down with her good friends Susan Roberson and Stephanie Nance to discuss the art of entertaining guests, specifically through food. Julie, Susan, and Stephanie discuss the tips and tricks you can use to host stress free dinners that will leave your guests coming back for more. ‌ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Favorite Cookbooks - Stephanie Nance: Texas Cowboy Cooking by Tom Perrini - https://www.amazon.com/Texas-Cowboy-Cooking-Tom-Perini/dp/0971312206 - Susan Roberson: The Junior League Cookbook - Julie Sims: Half Baked Harvest by Tiegen Gerard - https://www.amazon.com/Half-Baked-Harvest-Every-Day/dp/0593232550/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AB0QAYVBN24P&keywords=half+baked+harvest+cookbook&qid=1676664231&s=books&sprefix=Half+Baked+Harvest%2Cstripbooks%2C100&sr=1-1 Continue the conversation with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632

Welcome to Relation EQ. In this first episode, your hosts Brian and Julie Sims explain what Relation EQ is all about and share the practical tips they have used to fine tune their relationship. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS When it comes to relationships, the first person you have to look at is yourself. There are several tests you can use to hone in on your specific set of skills, i.e. Enneagram Test and Core Values Test. There are certain Core Values you will have that are Non-Negotiable. Quality relationships have a plan and a vision. Don't get bogged down with the non-essentials in your relationships. Your quality of life is directly related to the quality of your relationships. Ask yourself, “Am I a taker or a giver in this relationship?" ENNEAGRAM TEST: https://www.truity.com/test/enneagram-personality-test?ppcga=fixed&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1vSZBhDuARIsAKZlijT8nb3nc7GEqBkO64MvBK5wJLDZzYOO7oo_h6L46CT1TAriGQPEKQAaAujaEALw_wcB CORE VALUES TEST: https://consciousendeavors.org/core-values-index/ Connect with Relation EQ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090814782632