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Faith, Purpose & Gratitude: Alexa & Carlos PenaVega’s Inspiring Journey

The Joy of Living Podcast with Barry Shore

In this deeply moving episode of The Joy of Living Podcast, Barry Shore sits down with the inspiring duo Alexa and Carlos Penavega to discuss faith, purpose, and the unexpected blessings that come from surrendering to divine guidance.

From life-changing decisions to moments of deep loss, Alexa and Carlos share their incredible journey—one that took them from uncertainty to profound clarity. They reveal how trusting in God led them to new beginnings, a strong community, and the realization that gratitude is the most powerful tool for healing.

Listen as they dive into:

  • The importance of vision with purpose and how service can shape your life
  • Why every role, no matter how small, has the power to impact others
  • The surprising turns that happen when you listen to divine guidance
  • Their leap of faith that led to a new home, new connections, and a newfound sense of belonging
  • The transformational power of gratitude, even in the face of heartbreaking loss

Through laughter, tears, and wisdom-filled insights, this episode is a testament to the beauty of trusting the process and embracing the unknown with faith. Whether you’re at a crossroads in life or seeking inspiration, this conversation will uplift and encourage you to step forward with courage and gratitude.

Tune in now and discover the joy of living a life led by faith, love, and purpose.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

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Show Notes:

 [11:18] Vision with Purpose

  • Every individual has something meaningful to contribute to the world.
  • Viewing life as a vision with purpose rather than just a mission.
  • Marriage as a refining process that shapes individuals in service to others.
  • Service as the highest calling, helping people transcend their personal desires.
  • The struggle between seeking fleeting excitement and embracing a purposeful life.
  • Understanding stewardship vs. strategy—focusing on what’s entrusted rather than always chasing what’s next.
  • The risk of “shiny object syndrome” distracting from meaningful work.
  • The power of love and support in marriage as a source of fulfillment.

 [21:28] The Power of Every Role

  • No matter your job or position, you can impact others and serve a greater purpose.
  • Influence happens in everyday interactions, not just on grand stages.
  • Humility comes from knowing that success flows through you, not from you.
  • Every role, even seemingly small ones, can be a platform for kindness and joy.
  • Understanding yourself as a “channel of goodness” makes every contribution valuable.
  • Embracing your purpose helps uplift and positively affect those around you.
  • The light and goodness you channel in your work can create lasting impact.

 [31:41] The Power of Listening to Divine Guidance

  • Life may seem to be falling apart, but trusting in divine guidance brings unexpected opportunities.
  • Small decisions, like starting a Bible study, can lead to life-changing transformations.
  • Even during financial hardship, taking a leap of faith can lead to freedom and new beginnings.
  • Moving to Hawaii with uncertainty set the stage for long-term blessings.
  • Prayer and spiritual intuition help in making bold, life-altering decisions.
  • Sometimes reckless-seeming choices open doors to lessons and growth.
  • Trusting the process can turn the unexpected into a stepping stone for something greater.
  • Embracing faith, even in uncertainty, brings peace and purpose.

 [37:00] The Journey of Faith and Unexpected Blessings

  • Stepping into the unknown, like moving to a new place, can lead to life-changing blessings.
  • Taking small steps, such as exploring new opportunities, can lead to major revelations.
  • Trusting the process, even when struggling financially, opens doors you never imagined.
  • Being open to God’s direction often results in unexpected but perfect outcomes.
  • Seemingly random connections can serve as divine signs confirming the right path.
  • Even when things don’t go as planned, faith reassures you that you’re where you need to be.
  • A strong community and listening to your spouse’s intuition can guide you through challenges.
  • Leaning into faith and trusting divine timing brings peace and clarity.

 [45:21] The Healing Power of Gratitude

  • Gratitude has the ability to transform pain into healing.
  • In the hardest moments, shifting to gratitude provides perspective and peace.
  • A strong, loving community can be a divine source of comfort during grief.
  • People who surround you in your time of need bring unexpected support and connection.
  • Sometimes, healing begins when you fully let go and surrender.
  • Worship and gratitude can carry you through the most difficult losses.
  • Witnessing the kindness and love of others reminds us that we are never alone.
  • Gratitude shifts you from pain to hope, opening the door to unexpected blessings.
  • Embracing gratitude leads to an abundant, fulfilling life.

Insider Tips:

Nicole Iny is the Executive Director of Grants and Consumer Education at FAIR Health, a national, independent nonprofit organization that qualifies as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. FAIR Health possesses the nation’s largest collection of private healthcare claims data, which includes over 47 billion claim records. It is dedicated to bringing transparency and integrity to healthcare costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support.

Topics:

  • What is FAIR Health?
  • What types of tools and resources are offered on FAIRHealthOlderAdults.org?
  • What obstacles do older adults and family caregivers face when navigating the healthcare system, and what strategies can they use to find the services and support they need?
  • Have you received any feedback from patients and/or their caregivers about the shared decision-making resources available on the FAIR Health consumer website?
  • Where can patients, family caregivers and healthcare providers find more information?

About Carlos and Alexa PenaVega

Alexa PenaVega gained widespread recognition for her breakout role as “Carmen Cortez” in the Spy Kids franchise. While PenaVega has an impressive movie filmography, she has also had massive success in other areas of the entertainment industry. She played Penny in Hairspray on Broadway, had TV roles in shows such as “Ruby & the Rockits,” “Nashville,” “The Tomorrow People” and “Big Time Rush,” appeared in the video for Aerosmith’s “Legendary Child” and was a contestant on Season 21 of “Dancing with the Stars,” where she danced alongside her husband, Carlos PenaVega. Outside of performing, the couple most recently partnered together to create their production company Good For You Entertainment with the mission to create quality ‘good for you’ content the whole family can enjoy. The company’s first film Get Him Back for Christmas will air later this year on Great American Family.