The Determined People Podcast

The Determined People Podcast

By: John Harrell

Language: en-us

Categories: Society, Culture, Documentary, Education, Self Improvement, Religion, Spirituality

Hello! Welcome to The Determined People Podcast, hosted by John Harrell, bestselling author, inspirational speaker, blogger and now podcaster. The Determined People Podcast is a two-pronged approach to podcasting. Every day I offer a 30 second inspirational message designed to start your day the right way. It’s not rah-rah stuff or fluff. The messages are designed to make you think, to inspire you, and to sustain you as you face the unknown challenges of the day. Bi-weekly I post interviews with real people who have honest, relatable stories. People who are willing to share their experience, strength and hope from th...

Episodes

Free Speech
Jan 11, 2026

Free speech is a wonderful right. We have to fight like hell to protect it. Once it's gone, you won't get it back. 

Duration: 00:02:30
A Sign of the Times
Jan 10, 2026

We live in a civilization that is increasingly less civil. It's up to us, individually and collectively, to set the right example when interacting with others. 

Duration: 00:02:46
Set Yourself Up
Jan 09, 2026

If you want more from life, you must be willing to give more of yourself. This is how you set yourself up to succeed in all your endeavors. 

Duration: 00:02:19
Newness
Jan 08, 2026

New things excite us! But one truth stands out: "faith without works is dead." You have talents that are unique to you. You have had them all your life. Develop them. Use them to make your mark on the world. 

Duration: 00:02:26
I Wonder...
Jan 07, 2026

In the words of the great philosopher, Ferris Bueller, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." Don't miss it. 

Duration: 00:02:49
Who Do You See?
Jan 06, 2026

Everyone wants to be seen, heard and understood. Create deeper, stronger connections by peering into the heart of mankind...

Duration: 00:02:21
Mind Shift
Jan 05, 2026

Change happens gradually, but it happens if you don't give up. Set your mind on what you want for your life. Don't allow anyone to talk you out of your dreams. Others don't see what you see...

Duration: 00:02:31
Problems? What Problems?
Jan 04, 2026

When you begin focusing on solutions rather than problems, you will dwell in possibility. 

Duration: 00:02:23
It's All in the Timing
Jan 03, 2026

Timing really is everything. Here is a method you can use to deliver a difficult message. 

Duration: 00:02:18
Walled In
Jan 02, 2026

When you drop your guard and approach life with openness, you create deeper, more meaningful connections. Happy New Year, everyone! Welcome to 2026. 

Duration: 00:02:48
Laurels
Jan 01, 2026

Great accomplishments require sacrifice and commitment. It's okay to take breaks along the way. Don't rest too long or run the risk of being accused of "resting on your laurels." Happy New Year, everyone! I wish you health, fulfillment and success in 2026 and beyond! 

Duration: 00:02:10
Those Annoying New Year's Resolutions
Dec 31, 2025

The year 2026 is one day away! Have you set any resolutions? If so, or if not, here is a guaranteed way to have success in reaching your goal in 2026 or anytime. 

Duration: 00:02:32
Pretention
Dec 30, 2025

Confidence is quiet and attractive. Arrogance is loud, and it's a real turnoff. False pride destroys everything good in your life. 

Duration: 00:02:20
We Gain Strength Through Pain
Dec 26, 2025

Resilience is built in the dark times, not when life is easy and we are coasting. Find your inner strength when the darkness comes. Light is on its way...

Duration: 00:02:01
Merry Christmas
Dec 25, 2025

Peace on Earth, and peace to you all...

Duration: 00:00:19
The Least
Dec 24, 2025

There are a lot of hurting, struggling people in this world. We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone. Look for opportunities. 

Duration: 00:02:21
Built to Last
Dec 22, 2025

Unlike appliances, you are built to last for eternity. What are you doing here on earth to prepare you for it? It matters. 

Duration: 00:02:16
The Lost
Dec 21, 2025

Everyone goes through periods where they lose themselves. Here's a way to reconnect with yourself. 

Duration: 00:02:21
Books
Dec 20, 2025

If you want to learn about something, read about it. Do you have an interest in history? Read historical biographies from those who lived it. 

Duration: 00:02:24
A Gentle Reminder
Dec 19, 2025

Remember to show kindness to everyone. We don't know what lies beneath the surface...

Duration: 00:01:52
Tunnel Vision
Dec 18, 2025

As you are considering your goals for 2026, make sure you commit to them with tunnel vision. Do whatever it takes to keep distractions away. 

Duration: 00:02:12
Battery Life
Dec 17, 2025

Stress from the holidays can cause you to get run down. Be sure to do what you need to take care of yourself! 

Duration: 00:02:14
Running
Dec 16, 2025

No matter how far or how fast you can run, you can never run away from you...

Duration: 00:02:31
Unseen Power
Dec 15, 2025

In this life we can take so many things for granted. But let's never forget the source of everything good.

Duration: 00:02:10
How Convenient
Dec 14, 2025

Entire industries have changed the world by making our lives easier. But the easy way isn't always the best way. 

Duration: 00:02:22
The Spirit of Christmas
Dec 13, 2025

Christmas is a wonderful time of year. People are more courteous. They smile more. It is my wish that the light of this season would shine all year long. 

Duration: 00:02:17
Are You Talking to Me?
Dec 12, 2025

We talk to ourselves all day long. Be sure that you are having honest, relevant, helpful conversations. 

Duration: 00:02:12
I'm Trying
Dec 11, 2025

There may be something about your life you wish to change. You can, but you need more than willpower alone. 

Duration: 00:02:33
Works
Dec 10, 2025

Faith is a verb, an action word. What good is it to have faith but always play it safe? Step across the line. Serve your fellow man. 

Duration: 00:02:33
Echoes of the Past
Dec 09, 2025

Keep the past where it belongs: in the past. Learn from it. Heal from it. Resolve to move forward. 

Duration: 00:02:30
Curves
Dec 08, 2025

The road to success is not a straight line. There are many twists and turns along the way. Don't dread them. Instead, welcome them. Look at them as opportunities to grow and learn. 

Duration: 00:02:08
Tenacity
Dec 07, 2025

In today's episode, I would like you to consider the tenacity of a child learning to walk. You have it in you. 

Duration: 00:02:23
Success Through Service
Dec 06, 2025

In today's episode, I talk about what success looks like. It might not be what you think it is. 

Duration: 00:02:10
Deception
Dec 05, 2025

Deceiving others is an evil act. But God gives us an opportunity to redeem ourselves. The same opportunity exists for those who have deceived us, too. 

Duration: 00:02:42
What's Your Vision?
Dec 04, 2025

We cannot legislate evil out of the heart of mankind. We can make a difference in the lives of others through our words and actions. 

Duration: 00:02:37
Soothsayers
Dec 03, 2025

The future is coming. Are you excited or anxious about it. Talk to God about it. He's already there. 

Duration: 00:02:45
Things Work Out
Dec 02, 2025

Your mind is powerful. It will work for you or against you. The mind is the portal to the Spiritual world. Remember, you are only as limited as you think you are...

Duration: 00:02:48
Removal
Dec 01, 2025

We remove the trash from our homes, so it doesn't begin to smell. We clean out the garage when too much clutter has accumulated. Maybe there are some people who need to be removed from our lives. 

Duration: 00:02:10
Laser Focused
Nov 29, 2025

Distractions are inevitable. You must develop a laser-like focus in your life. Put your blinders on and get to work! 

Duration: 00:02:04
In The Spirit
Nov 28, 2025

The Spirit of God is speaking to us all the time. Are we listening? 

Duration: 00:02:01
Without Limits
Nov 26, 2025

It's easy to have faith when everything is going well in your life. But God is operating behind the scenes even when we question Him. 

Duration: 00:02:21
A Week of Thanksgiving
Nov 25, 2025

In the United States, we celebrate a National Holiday known as Thanksgiving on Thursday. But I believe that every day should be a day of thanksgiving. 

Duration: 00:02:11
War Games
Nov 24, 2025

Two World Wars brought the United States together in a united front. But what are we going to do about the war within our own country? 

Duration: 00:02:14
There's A Little Bit of Clark in All of Us
Nov 23, 2025

The holidays have arrived! Don't stress out. Enjoy them. Be more like Clark and less like Hallmark. 

Duration: 00:02:29
In Faith
Nov 22, 2025

Faith requires more than just believing. Faith requires action. 

Duration: 00:02:01
Art and The Heart
Nov 21, 2025

Art and beauty are all around us. Take a moment to notice. The busyness of the world will still be waiting for you...

Duration: 00:02:29
Enemies
Nov 20, 2025

In today's episode, I share with you how you can turn an enemy into an ally. 

Duration: 00:02:25
I'm Obliged
Nov 19, 2025

The holidays bring on a whole new set of obligations. But you are obliged to yourself, too. 

Duration: 00:01:55
Who's Piloting The Plane?
Nov 18, 2025

We make our plans, great plans, but God controls our steps on the way to our true purpose. 

Duration: 00:02:24
Holiday Legacy
Nov 17, 2025

The holidays are coming whether you are ready or not. But aside from big meals and gifts, there is another important preparation to consider. 

Duration: 00:02:18
Am I Right?
Nov 16, 2025

The internet is full of lies told by irresponsible people. Think before you believe. 

Duration: 00:02:22
Time, Energy and Heart
Nov 15, 2025

We see the good in people show up to serve the least among us. Find your purpose to serve others and get involved. Everyone wants their life to count. You can make a difference. 

Duration: 00:02:28
Too Old
Nov 14, 2025

You aren't out of living a fully engaged, thriving life until you decide you are. Feel empowered...

Duration: 00:02:13
Scams
Nov 13, 2025

The scam artists have gotten better and better. Be alert and be aware. Don't think that it won't happen to you. 

Duration: 00:02:08
Hanging Around
Nov 12, 2025

We know what the afterlife holds. So why do we hang onto this life so dearly? 

Duration: 00:02:09
Just Come
Nov 11, 2025

Every Sunday is an opportunity to worship God with others. Don't be concerned about how you look. Remember, God is glad you are there. You brought a smile to His face.

Duration: 00:02:14
The Playbook
Nov 10, 2025

When professional athletes join a team, they are issued a playbook. Did you know that we were issued a playbook for life? Every one of us has access to the book. 

Duration: 00:02:38
Personal Glory
Nov 09, 2025

When we win, let's give the glory to God. He is the one who made it happen. 

Duration: 00:02:09
Thrown Away
Nov 08, 2025

If someone throws your past in your face, smile and tell them you don't live there anymore. 

Duration: 00:02:36
Willful Blindness
Nov 07, 2025

Knowing the right thing to do and not doing it is wrong. And deep down we know this to be true. Take a lesson from The Book of James. 

Duration: 00:02:23
Investigation
Nov 06, 2025

It's a good idea to challenge our own beliefs. The world is constantly evolving and we should, too. If your beliefs are sound, stay with them. If they have changed, the change. 

Duration: 00:02:51
The Heart of Man
Nov 05, 2025

In my heart, I believe most people are good. There is nothing you can do to convince me otherwise. We see the best in us show up when tragedy strikes. Those are the times we see our true selves...

Duration: 00:02:37
Bored
Nov 04, 2025

We aren't required to be busy all the time. Solitude and boredom are not the same thing. 

Duration: 00:02:03
Humor Me
Nov 03, 2025

Laughter is good for us. But I see some people have lost their sense of humor. 

Duration: 00:02:18
Insanity
Nov 01, 2025

A recent international magazine featured a picture of nine men dressed as women. They were cited for being "Women of the Year." In what universe could this happen? 

Duration: 00:02:16
No Judgment Zone
Nov 01, 2025

Judging others is for the weak-minded. The people who judge others put their own insecurities on display. See others for who they are, not just what you see on the outside. Jesus was the best at this. 

Duration: 00:02:26
Reports Don't Tell You Everything
Oct 31, 2025

There is some information you can't get from a marketing report. But there is one source that is 100% reliable every time. 

Duration: 00:02:17
Win Some. Lost Some. Win In The End
Oct 30, 2025

Life is full of unpredictable changes. This isn't eternity so it's not perfect. Stay the course. You win in the end. 

Duration: 00:02:04
Peace Through Strength
Oct 29, 2025

Peace through strength is usually associated with Ronald Reagan. It was his strategy to deal with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. But are you aware that Jesus showed peace through strength, too? 

Duration: 00:02:35
Forgetful
Oct 28, 2025

We forget our wallets, appointments, and we forget people's names. But there is one thing we cannot forget, no matter how hard we try. I'm talking about painful memories. There is a way to let them go, though. 

Duration: 00:02:16
Talk Therapy
Oct 27, 2025

Having some alone time or solitude is good for us. But we were not meant to be alone. Talking about things is therapeutic. 

Duration: 00:02:06
Caught Up
Oct 26, 2025

Sometimes in life we can get caught up in something we don't want to be in. There is a way forward to a better life. 

Duration: 00:02:18
The Eve of Destruction
Oct 25, 2025

In today's episode, I bring to light some things that are concerning to me. I'm not a gloom and doom person. In this episode, I am simply being realistic. 

Duration: 00:02:22
Free Range Chickens
Oct 24, 2025

In today's episode, I compare people to free range chickens. The similarities might surprise you! 

Duration: 00:02:15
Beliefs
Oct 23, 2025

In today's episode, I give you a brief glimpse into my mind and my beliefs. 

Duration: 00:02:25
Clear Vision
Oct 22, 2025

Bring your unique talents into the world and make a difference in the lives of your fellow man. Don't wait another second. 

Duration: 00:02:25
Neighbors
Oct 21, 2025

We are never in too big of a hurry to show kindness. 

Duration: 00:02:01
Detractors
Oct 20, 2025

Mental health was already compromised before businesses and churches were shut down. The ongoing effects are all around us. Take note...

Duration: 00:02:13
Free Radicals
Oct 19, 2025

Today I compare science to the far-left Democrats. 

Duration: 00:02:21
Uninspired
Oct 18, 2025

Here's a little advice for you on those days you just can't find any motivation. 

Duration: 00:01:57
A Play on Words
Oct 17, 2025

Today's episode had me laughing while I was recording. Silly stuff makes me laugh. I hope you will, too. 

Duration: 00:02:01
Rising Against
Oct 16, 2025

There will be times in your life when you must decide to stand for what is right and true, or you go along with the crowd. Be ready. 

Duration: 00:02:13
Runners
Oct 14, 2025

I'm not a runner, but for a long time I tried to run away from myself. Even if I was a runner, I couldn't run that fast.

Duration: 00:02:31
You've Got to Want It
Oct 13, 2025

Every worthwhile accomplishment begins with a burning desire. Find yours.

Duration: 00:02:19
The World I Knew
Oct 12, 2025

My life was full of fear, anger and violence when I was a child. There is no way I could have foreseen how my life story would benefit others. 

Duration: 00:02:25
Find The Beauty
Oct 11, 2025

There is beauty all around us. Stop your busy life for a moment and look around. Or at least slow down a little. 

Duration: 00:02:21
If Only
Oct 10, 2025

Living by the "if only" principle is an excuse. Nothing more. You were created by God in exactly the way he wanted you to be. 

Duration: 00:02:01
Friends of Value
Oct 09, 2025

Good, solid friendships are worth more than the National Treasure or the Crown Jewels. Do you want good friends? Be a good friend. 

Duration: 00:02:19
Unspoken
Oct 08, 2025

People are carrying things inside they just don't talk about. Show some kindness. 

Duration: 00:02:33
Kids
Oct 07, 2025

Let's let kids be kids. They will grow up soon enough, so let them enjoy childhood. 

Duration: 00:02:19
Reading Rooms
Oct 06, 2025

Before we had libraries in America, there were Reading Rooms. This is an idea I wish would return. 

Duration: 00:02:40
The Cycle of Abuse
Oct 05, 2025

Abuse is pervasive among society. You don't have to live this way. Find your courage, your inner strength and get the help you need. 


The number for the Domestic Abuse Center is 800-799-7233. Make the call. 

Duration: 00:02:45
Your Very Best
Oct 04, 2025

We don't always give our best. But we should. 

Duration: 00:02:15
Considering The Impossible
Oct 03, 2025

What are your dreams for your life? Do they seem impossible? They are only impossible if you believe they are. 

Duration: 00:02:34
Get Educated
Oct 02, 2025

It costs nothing to listen. We listen to become educated. 

Duration: 00:02:16
Interview with Stacy Johnson
Oct 01, 2025

Stacy Johnson is changing the world for out most vulnerable citizens, children. Recently I had her back in the studio to share an update on Grace365, a new standalone property for up to 24 kids who have aged out of foster care but aren't ready to be on their own. Prepare to be inspired and to learn about more miracles God has performed in her life. 

Duration: 01:11:25
Givers and Takers
Sep 30, 2025

Did you consider that it's possible for greed and kindness to coexist? 

Duration: 00:02:29
Aging in Reverse
Sep 29, 2025

Our biological clocks are ticking. But there are some ways we can slow the clock down. 

Duration: 00:02:19
Revealed
Sep 28, 2025

We show what is in our hearts and mind by our words and our actions. God knows everything...

Duration: 00:02:14
Unseen Protection
Sep 27, 2025

Law enforcement is under attack in the United States. Lunatics are doing their best to get rid of them. But to me, they are brave heroes. The men and women in law enforcement risk everything every single day on their job. 

Duration: 00:02:10