Realign Your Life with Vivian Smith Richardson

Faith in Action: The Birth of Alongside Families with Emily Kemmann

In Episode 74 of "Realign Your Life Podcast," host Vivian Smith Richardson talks to Emily Kemmann, founder of Alongside Families, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing children from entering foster care by offering crisis child hostings. Emily's childhood on the Mexico border and her social work experience highlighted the need for earlier interventions to aid families in crisis, inspiring her leap of faith to start this organization through the support of local churches.
During the episode titled "Faith in Action: The Birth of Alongside Families with Emily Kemmann," listeners get an intimate view of how Emily's upbringing and career led her to establish a collaborative, values-driven nonprofit that engages churches in supporting family preservation. Emily details how churches of all sizes can get involved in this vital ministry. She shares her coping strategies for managing the emotional toll of her work, including specific prayers and self-care practices.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with the mission of Alonglike Families via their website, www.alongsidefamilies.org, or by calling 704-900-0150 if in the Charlotte or Asheville areas of North Carolina. Through Emily’s story, Vivian urges the audience to consider how they, too can realign their lives to serve others, further supporting the episode’s theme of putting one's faith into action. The discussion rounds out with an invitation for feedback and suggestions on future podcast content through social media or email.
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Missionary upbringing in Mexico shapes deep compassion.
06:56 Extensive social work experience advocating for intervention.
10:24 Supporting families in crises, preventing unnecessary foster care.
12:30 Balancing work and personal life in family preservation.
16:45 Hezekiah spreads letter before Lord, prays for guidance.
20:46 Becoming a locally headquartered nonprofit was best.
22:24 Unplanned nonprofit journey led to serving families.
28:01 Prayerful hiring process for a supportive team.
31:39 Supportive spouse, family, friends, and professional network.
33:27 Church partnership is essential for loving neighbors, impactful ministry.
38:40 Trusting God's calling despite feeling unprepared.
39:40 Trust in God's equipping for your journey.
 
About the Guest : 
Emily Kemmann is a Christ-follower, nonprofit leader, and social work professional dedicated to fostering healthy families and strong communities. She is passionate about holistic family preservation, aiming to heal families today and for future generations. As the Founder & Executive Director of Alongside Families, Emily mobilizes and equips local churches to prevent unnecessary foster care placements and support isolated families. Emily and her husband, Lars, have a 1-year-old son who brings wonder and adventure to their everyday lives.
Links to connect Emily: 
Website: https://www.alongsidefamilies.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alongsidefamilies
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alongsidefamilies/
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

What Does 'Good' Really Mean in the Bible

In this episode, Vivian Smith Richardson embarks on a reflective discourse about the word "good" and its profound implications. Vivian seeks to unravel the deeper spiritual and biblical meanings behind this everyday term, which is often taken for granted. She is prompted by the Dove Award-winning song "The Goodness of God," using it as a springboard to explore the Christian faith's moral and ethical connotations associated with good.
Throughout the episode, Vivian consults biblical scriptures and delves into the original Hebrew and Greek translations of the word to shed light on its significance beyond superficial use. She articulates how good, rooted in the embodiment of God's nature, is more than an adjective—it is a testament to God's moral perfection and generous spirit.
Listeners are taken on a journey through the scriptures, where Vivian provides insights into why recognizing God's goodness is not just a theological concept, but also a practical necessity in our daily lives. This recognition is integral to biblical teachings and fortifies the believer's relationship with the divine. The episode prompts personal contemplation and spiritual introspection by focusing on 'goodness' as an attribute closely tied to God's character and deeds.
Take advantage of this supportive guide that underscores the importance of realigning one's life with a heightened appreciation for the essence of true goodness. 
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Song "Goodness of God" inspired by adoption.
05:45 Word "good" has joyful, honorable, admirable meanings.
07:54 Biblical concept of good is thoroughly theological.
13:26 Goodness of God intertwined with biblical teachings.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Finding Hope After Being Ghosted: Biblical Steps to Recovery

In this episode, our host, Vivan, tackles the emotionally charged topic of ghosting—a phenomenon where a person cuts off all communication in a relationship without any warning or explanation. We've all experienced the end of relationships and the heartbreak they bring. Still, ghosting can bring profound feelings of rejection and confusion. Originally linked to dating in the early 2000s; ghosting has since permeated friendships, family ties, and professional relationships, often driven by a desire to avoid emotional discomfort.
Vivian explores the mental health effects of ghosting and provides a spiritual, biblical framework for those seeking solace and a way to move forward. She outlines practical steps, including seeking God's comfort, understanding your worth, avoiding self-blame, practicing forgiveness, and finding support within the community. 
Vivian reminds us that while ghosting may close a door, it can open the way for new, healthier relationships and opportunities. Stay tuned as Vivian shares heartfelt advice and scriptural wisdom to help heal and recenter those affected by this modern relationship dilemma. Take advantage of this supportive guide to overcoming the pain of ghosting and realigning your life with faith and resilience.
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Dealing with relationship ghosting and its impact.
05:13 Ghosting causes pain, but God helps heal.
08:15 Meditate on scriptures, acknowledge feelings, seek support.
13:03 Join community and church groups for support.
17:43 Overcoming ghosting: seek comfort, acknowledge, forgive, grow.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

How Accountability Can Transform Your Spiritual Journey: Insights with Dr. Rashard Barnes

This episode, "How Accountability Can Transform Your Spiritual Journey," invites listeners to an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Rashard Barnes, hosted by Vivian Smith Richardson. Dr. Barnes, a distinguished pastor with a heart for spiritual formation, shares his expert insights on accountability's transformative role in our relationship with God.
In this enriching episode, Dr. Barnes introduces the "5 S Foot Framework" for deeper spiritual reflection, spanning the soul to scripture, struggles, sharing, and spirit. Vivian adds to the discussion by underscoring the significance of church involvement in social justice and the impact of physical Bible reading.
This episode is essential listening for those eager to learn how disciplined practice, finding rest in Christ, and choosing the right accountability partners can influence their spiritual path. Dr. Barnes' personal journey and actionable advice will empower you to take small, effective steps toward fostering a profound connection with God.
This episode is full of wisdom and motivation for listeners seeking a more intentional and accountable spiritual walk. Don’t let the noise of today’s society drown out your call toward spiritual transformation.
 
Key Moments: 
07:18 Frequent neighborhood trips tried various vocations.
10:41 Accountability, not a pastor, aids spiritual growth.
13:46 Professor at Southern Seminary wrote, "Delighted in God."
14:35 He prays for quiet time with God.
18:21 Clear writing channels thoughts clear the mind.
22:52 Struggle with sin; confront it for change.
26:25 Study the Bible, focus, avoid distractions, and improve faith.
29:16 Find an accountability partner, read scripture, and share struggles.
33:58 Creating SURGE and Sonship to tackle racism.
35:56 Seek peace, reconcile, obey, trust in God.
39:18 Prepare, prioritize, sleep, and exercise for spiritual well-being.
41:58 The importance of effort in spiritual practice is emphasized.
46:29 Ministry leaders pilot conferences to connect help.
About the Guest: 
Dr. Rashard Barnes is a native of West Texas, where his spiritual calling emerged at the age of 18, propelling him into youth and college ministry. His collegiate years at Tech University coincided with his participation in a church plant, marking a turning point in his personal spiritual formation, exploring fasting, silence, and solitude. Son of a church planter, Rashard's own ministry blossomed from his deep-rooted faith background, positioning him as a guiding force for spiritual growth within his community.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Episode 70 - How Mountaintop Experiences in the Bible Can Transform Your Life

In this enlightening episode of the "Realign Your Life Podcast," titled "How Mountaintop Experiences in the Bible Can Transform Your Life," host Vivian Smith Richardson takes listeners on a spiritual journey to understand the significance of mountaintop experiences and how they shape our spiritual paths. Vivian opens the conversation by defining what a mountaintop experience entails, emphasizing its transformative impact on our faith journey. 
Drawing from biblical narratives, Vivian recounts the profound experiences of Moses on Mount Sinai, Elijah on Mount Horeb, and Jesus's Transfiguration on Mount Tabor, highlighting the clarity, guidance, and divine encounters each experienced. She breaks down the characteristics of these moments, such as spiritual clarity, transformational impact, divine revelation, and their temporary yet powerful nature.
Transitioning to modern-day applications, Vivian provides listeners with practical ways to seek their own mountaintop moments through retreats, conferences, personal devotions, and worship—stressing how these experiences are accessible and relevant to today's believers.
Tune in to absorb vital insights from Vivian!
 
Key Moments: 
05:28 God reassures and provides direction in mountaintop experiences.
08:57 Modern mountaintop experiences: prayer, worship, retreats.
13:14 Sustain mountaintop experiences in everyday life effectively.
16:27 Reflect, apply, seek God, share, review. Grow.
18:22 Upcoming bible studies.
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Episode 69 - Noah’s Ark and Realignment: Finding Hope and Renewal

In this episode, Vivian Smith Richardson takes listeners on an inspiring journey of faith and perseverance. She shares her profound experiences from a visit to the Noah's Ark replica in Williamston, Kentucky. The discussion centers around the timeless biblical story of Noah's Ark, examining its deep messages about faith, obedience, and the intervention of the divine, and how these themes resonate in the contemporary world. 
Vivian contemplates the significant symbols found within the Ark and the cross, underscoring God's meticulous care and the enduring covenant that spans from Noah's era to our own. As she narrates, Vivian extracts valuable insights regarding the importance of trusting God's plan, the strength in obedience, the virtue of patience, and the eternal promise of hope and new beginnings. This episode transcends a mere retelling of an ancient tale, evolving into a dialogue on harnessing historical wisdom to navigate life's modern trials. 
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Surprising visit to Noah's Ark inspires faith.
06:31 Detailed biblical accounts, Noah's faith, and ark.
08:19 Symbol of salvation and God's mercy.
13:04 God's covenant with Noah marked by rainbow.
18:08 Noah's covenant inspires in modern times.
21:08 Noah's faith in God's enduring love.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Episode 68 - Understanding Heart Health: Risks and Self-Care for Women of Color

In this episode, our host Vivian, takes us through a profoundly personal and transformational topic, sparked by the sudden loss of her vibrant friend to a heart attack. Vivian delves into the essential nature of self-care and taking charge of our health, urging us to be vigilant and proactive in recognizing the signs and risks of heart disease, especially among women, and even more so within the black community.
Through her experience and sharing sobering facts about cardiovascular health, Vivian invites us to understand the critical differences in symptoms between men and women, grasp the gravity of heart disease's impact, and learn how to advocate for ourselves in healthcare settings effectively.
Tune in to absorb vital insights and heed the powerful call to action—paying it forward with the knowledge that could save lives, all as part of our journey to realign our lives. Remember to care for yourself, as we explore this life-saving topic that's close to our hearts.
 
Key Moments: 
00:20 Mother's death, friend's change, and important message.
06:20 Heart attack symptoms are not discriminatory, affecting both men and women. 
07:45 Heart attack symptoms may vary and disguise.
12:39 Stress impacts cardiovascular health, self-care is vital.
15:18 Advocating for heart disease education and prevention.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Episode 67 - How to See Miracles in Your Daily Life

Join Vivian on the Realign Your Life Podcast, as she delves into the captivating world of miracles. Vivian brings a fresh and intriguing perspective on how miracles appear in our everyday lives and play a crucial role in our journey toward realignment. 
She inspires listeners to recognize the miraculous in the mundane — from the simple act of breathing to the profound instances of synchronicity and divine timing that guide us on our path. With references to powerful sermons and biblical passages, Vivian encourages cultivating faith, letting go of control, and embracing gratitude to facilitate a life rich with wonder and divine intervention. 
This episode reminds us of miracles' omnipresence and provides a practical guide to opening ourselves up to their transformative power. Whether you're looking for a glimmer of hope or a renewed sense of purpose, this insightful discussion will help you shift your mindset and welcome the miraculous into your life. 
Tune in to learn how to spot signs and wonders each day and join the conversation as we continue to realign our lives. 
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Vivian's podcast shares strategies for realigning life.
03:06 Miracles as beacons of hope and intervention.
07:29 Miracles require faith and trust in unseen forces.
13:40 Be open to miracles, serve others, share.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Episode 66 - Embracing Authenticity: Living True to Your Values Over Appearance

In this episode, Vivian talks about authenticity and living true to your values Over appearance Drawing from a personal experience with her car tag that leads to the North Carolina motto *Esse quam videri* ("To be, rather than to seem"), Vivian delves into the importance of substance over mere appearance in our everyday lives.
Vivian's compelling narrative reveals how authenticity is crucial in an election year, discusses the teachings of Jesus against hypocrisy, and emphasizes the value of genuine connections. She invites you to reflect on staying true to your core values and urges living an authentic life without succumbing to societal pressures.
End this episode feeling inspired to embody your truths and remember to join Vivian for her upcoming virtual Bible study. Let's navigate our journey of realignment together.
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Podcast host Vivian shares realignment strategies.
04:13 Prioritize authenticity and integrity in life choices.
09:51 Jesus' commitment to mission and values. Authenticity.
12:02 Join virtual Bible study on realigning with Vivian.
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.

Episode 65 - Discover Your Divine Strengths: A Practical Guide to Life Realignment

Discover how to tap into your spiritual gifts and realign your life with host Vivian Smith Richardson in this episode. Vivian explores the powerful concept of using our God-given strengths to navigate the complexities of life, with insights from Romans 12:2.
This episode delves into the value of self-reflection, identifying your innate talents, and setting intentional goals to harness your strengths for personal and spiritual growth. Embrace authenticity, seek community support, practice gratitude, and take decisive action toward your dreams.
Join Vivian for an empowering session filled with practical advice, biblical wisdom, and encouragement for anyone on a path of transformation. Tune in for a guide to a life of purpose, passion, and divine alignment. 
 
Key Moments: 
00:10 Testing and challenges lead to growth.
04:27 Our innate strengths guide transformative life journeys.
11:22 Embrace God-given strengths for transformation and purpose.
 
About Vivian:
Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.