In The Seams

In this episode, Broken and Mended founder and executive director David Heflin gives an update on the podcast and ministry, highlighting the upcoming conference on Oct. 10th. David shares his observations about chronic pain in Africa after his recent trip to Kenya and Tanzania and makes spiritual application about how to be strong by being weak. Episode Links: https://brokenandmended.org/ https://brokenandmended.networkforgood.com/events/102571-2nd-annual-broken-and-mended-conference-2026 (Conference Registration) David's book Purpose in Pain: https://a.co/d/0cBpERmz Host: David Heflin Editor: John Shields

Dan Finch shares his inspiring journey through life-threatening illnesses, faith, and perseverance. His story highlights how leaning into faith during life's most challenging moments can foster resilience and hope, offering encouragement to those walking their own difficult paths. Main Topics Covered: Dan Finch's health journey: pulmonary fibrosis and liver cirrhosis How faith strengthened during life's crises and uncertainties The impact of family and community support in battling chronic illness His experience with lung transplant and subsequent health challenges The significance of honesty and vulnerability in spiritual and family life The financial and emotional strains of chronic illness management Writing and sharing a faith-based book as a legacy and source of hope In this episode: Dan recounts the moment he was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis and the abruptness of life changes The emotional journey of telling his children about his prognosis How his faith grew stronger through prayer and trust in God during medical crises The miraculous timing of his lung transplant aligning with his grandson's birthday Practical insights on navigating medical and financial struggles while managing health The importance of support systems, especially a faith-based community Resources & Links: Building Faith While Walking Through Fire — Dan Finch’s book (search link for purchase) UNOS Organ Donation Registry Additional: Register for the upcoming virtual conference on October 10th — Conference Registration Follow the podcast for more inspiring stories and resources Broken and Mended Website David's new book: Purpose in Pain Host: David Heflin Producer: Andres Ruiz Editor: John Shields

In this episode, we welcome Mandy Farmer back to the show to share her remarkable journey through grief, chronic illness, and finding hope in God's grace. Mandy discusses her new devotional book, "Dissonant Chords, Joyful Harmony," and offers insights on lament, the power of music, and authentic faith during suffering. Main Topics Covered: Mandy’s journey through grief after losing her husband to pancreatic cancer How faith has helped her face chronic illness and grief authentically The unique structure & inspiration behind her devotional book, blending music & scripture The importance of lament and honesty about pain in the church Practical ways to find hope and spiritual renewal during suffering Mandy’s writings and resources, Her upcoming projects: a workbook, social media presence, and potential future books on suffering and the bride of Christ Dissonant Chords, Joyful Harmony — Mandy's new devotional book blending music and scripture Thefarmersplace.com — For her children's books and other updates Chosen: Sacred Journeys with a Faithful God — Mandy’s story about God choosing her amid grief (Mandy is one of several contributors). Purpose and Pain: Rediscovering God's Purpose Through the Pain of Chronic Illness — David's new book on hope and purpose in suffering Broken and Mended Mandy's Substack — Personal reflections and daily grief updates Mandy's Previous Interview with In The Seams Connect with Mandy: Facebook | Instagram | Host: David Heflin Producer: Andrés Ruiz Editor: John Shields

In this episode, Sarah Reid shares her inspiring story of living with chronic illnesses like POTS, ME-CFS, and fibromyalgia from a young age. We explore how her faith and community support help her navigate daily challenges, and she offers encouragement for others facing invisible health struggles. Plus, discover her innovative projects, including books and the annual Be Potsitive Conference, aimed at empowering young adults with chronic illness. Main Topics: Sarah’s health journey and diagnosis timeline from childhood to age 23 The impact of chronic illnesses like POTS and ME-CFS on young adult life The significance of faith and scripture during illness, especially the Psalms The importance of supporting and connecting with others through community Her creative projects: children's book "Leo and Charlotte" and rom-com "Salty for You" Strategies for managing social media and outreach with limited energy Raising awareness about invisible illnesses and mental health resources Details about the upcoming Be Potsitive Conference and its mission Book mentioned by Sarah: Searching For Sea Glass https://www.amazon.com/Searching-Sea-Glass-Journeying-Devotions/dp/1777721407 Be Potsitive Conference (this is a link to last year's conference, but be on the lookout for this year's conference soon): 2nd Annual Be POTSitive Conference Tickets, Saturday, August 9, 2025 • 5 PM - 8:30 PM | Eventbrite Connecting with Sarah (Sarah's Linktree to all of her social media accounts and books): bepotsitive Official: Instagram | Linktree Connect with Broken and Mended: www.brokenandmended.org Host: David Heflin Producer: Andres Ruiz Editor: John Shields

In this episode, David Heflin welcomes LA Sprague, the founder of "Christians with Chronic Illnesses," to discuss her inspiring journey with POTS, her faith, and her new podcast aimed at encouraging believers facing health challenges. They explore the impact of chronic illness on dreams, faith, and relationships, emphasizing the importance of community, vulnerability, and divine trust. Main Topics: LA’s personal journey from aspiring missionary and musician to living with POTS Understanding POTS: symptoms, challenges, and management strategies The emotional and spiritual impacts of chronic illness The inception and purpose behind "Christians with Chronic Illnesses" podcast Building community and providing a safe space for honest faith discussion The significance of trust and understanding in marriage amid chronic illness The role of gratitude and divine interaction during health struggles Future plans: music album, community growth, and resource development Resources & Links: Christians with Chronic Illnesses Support Group on Facebook LA Sprague's Music on Spotify The Supernatural Case of an Accidental Time Traveler by Paul Trumbo Broken and Mended Ministry Support and Donate to Broken and Mended Information about POTS Connect with LA Sprague: Instagram Email: [email protected] Note: Listen to LA's podcast "Christians with Chronic Illnesses" for inspiring stories, faith encouragement, and community support — available on all major podcast platforms.