Starting Right - podcast cover

Starting Right

Starting Right is a 5 minute Day Starter to help keep you motivated, encouraged, and focused throughout your day. DannyMac is a pastor, teacher, motivational speaker, husband, and father. His years of leading and training people have given him vast experience in helping individuals to accomplish change in their lives and meet their goals. He can help you set the course for your day by offering practical advice from God's Word in a positive and fun way. There is no better way to begin your day than by Starting Right with DannyMac.

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Episodes

Finding Faith and Inspiration: A Journey Through the Psalms

What if the Psalms could transform your spiritual journey like they have for countless others across history? Join us on a heartfelt exploration through this profound Biblical book as we uncover the deep emotional and spiritual resonance that has captured believers for centuries. Drawing inspiration from Max Lucado's insights, we open the door to the diverse landscape of faith expressed in these ancient hymns and petitions. From the defiance in the face of adversity to the gentle whispers of rev...

Jan 15, 20256 minSeason 1Ep. 1223

Lessons from a Runaway Wagon

What happens when the reins of life slip from your hands, and you're no longer in control? Join me, Danny Mac, as I recount a charming story from Cliff Schimels' childhood on the farm, a moment that echoes the universal truths we all face. One wintry morning, Cliff experienced the exhilarating yet daunting task of driving a horse-drawn wagon for the first time. It was a thrilling ride of power and responsibility until the horses had a mind of their own, racing off into the snowy horizon. Cliff's...

Jan 14, 20256 min

Great Is Thy Faithfulness: The Inspiring Story Behind the Hymn

Unlock the secret to unwavering trust in a world full of broken promises with today's Music Monday episode. Discover the inspiring journey behind the timeless hymn "Great Is Thy Faithfulness," crafted by Thomas Chisholm amidst his battles with health and employment. I'll take you through his remarkable story and reveal how his friendship with William Runyon brought the hymn to life, ultimately becoming a beacon of hope through the Moody Bible Institute and the Billy Graham Crusades. You won't wa...

Jan 13, 20256 min

Embracing Faith in Uncertain Times

Have you ever navigated through your home in the dark, confident in your path, only to stub your toe or trip over a stray object? Just like that midnight adventure, life often throws unexpected obstacles our way when we think we know the route. Join me, Danny Mac, as we explore the parallels between these nocturnal missteps and life’s greater uncertainties. I share insights from biblical texts like Joshua 3 and 2 Samuel 22, guiding us on how to find our way when the path seems unclear and the li...

Jan 09, 20255 minSeason 1Ep. 1220

Clearing Our Windows, and the Great Toilet Paper Debate

What if a simple shift in perspective could transform your relationships? Join me, Danny Mac, as we journey back to 1963 with Mark and Carolyn Wright, and discover how a little bit of dirt on a window reveals a lot about human judgment. We'll explore how Carolyn's quick assumptions about her neighbor's laundry uncover a deeper lesson about the lenses through which we view the world. This episode uncovers the wisdom in the age-old teaching from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, reminding us to clear ou...

Jan 09, 20256 min

Transforming Struggles into Sweet Success

What do a farmer's love for biscuits and life's unexpected challenges have in common? Join me, Danny Mac, as we explore the wisdom hidden in an unconventional prayer that compares life’s hurdles to the ingredients of a biscuit—unpleasant on their own, but delightful when combined. This session of Starting Right brings a comforting reminder that although we often struggle to understand the divine plan, patience and faith can transform our trials into unexpected blessings. Grab your coffee and set...

Jan 08, 20256 minSeason 1Ep. 1218

Welcoming All: The Revolutionary Love of Christ

What if the very structure of society was turned on its head by a single ministry? Join me, Danny Mac, as we explore the revolutionary inclusivity of Jesus' ministry and how it flipped the script on societal norms of His time. Discover the incredible stories of women like Mary Magdalene and Joanna, whose spiritual and financial contributions were not just accepted but celebrated. Their involvement was nothing short of groundbreaking, challenging the rigid religious constraints that often sought ...

Jan 07, 20256 minSeason 1Ep. 1217

God is in YOUR Story

What if you discovered that the very fabric of your existence had been meticulously crafted before you were even born? Join me, Danny Mac, as we unravel the comforting truth that God has been ever-present in our life stories. In this episode of Starting Right, we dig into the powerful message behind the new song "God is in the Story" by Katie DeCole and Big Daddy Weave, using the profound words of Psalm 139:16 as our guide. Together, we reflect on how God, in His infinite wisdom, has been weavin...

Jan 06, 20256 minSeason 1Ep. 1216

From Galilee' to the Dead Sea. The Water Flows

Discover the vital spiritual lessons hidden in Israel's significant bodies of water with me, Danny Mac, as we traverse the biblical landscapes of the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. What can these ancient waters teach us about the essence of a life filled with faith versus one devoid of spiritual nourishment? Join our reflective journey and grasp how these storied waters symbolize the abundance and joy that come from a life enriched with Christ. This episode offers you a meaningful moment of re...

Jan 03, 20256 minSeason 1Ep. 1215

Navigating Life with Timeless Wisdom

Ever wondered how some people seem to accomplish so much with the same 24 hours we all have? Join me, Danny Mac, as I share insights from conversations with folks yearning for more time and productivity, and explore the profound wisdom of Ephesians 5:15-17 to guide us through the year with intention. We'll delve into the notion of time as a divine gift, challenging the idea that we can ever have more of it, and instead focusing on how to wisely seize every opportunity—even in trying times. Toget...

Jan 02, 20256 min

Reflecting on Recovery and Faith

Have you ever felt the weight of impatience or the sting of unmet expectations? Join me, Danny Mac, as I return to the microphone after a personal health journey, ready to share my own struggles with impatience and the profound lessons I've learned from Psalm 130:5. On this New Year's Eve episode of Starting Right, I open up about the challenges of recovery after a stroke and how the journey has been one of finding hope and strength in faith. Together, we'll reflect on the year gone by and the a...

Dec 31, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1212

Faith to Move Mountains. Believe For It!

What if the mountains you face today aren't as immovable as they seem? Allow Starting Right with Danny Mac to guide you through an inspiring journey centred on the powerful message of CeCe Winans' "Believe For It." Listen as we explore God's boundless faithfulness, His miraculous ability to turn impossibilities into miracles, and the uplifting promise that through faith, anything is possible. Drawing strength from biblical scriptures like Psalm 33:4 and Mark 11:22-24, we remind ourselves that fa...

Dec 30, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1211

Navigating Family Bonds and Holiday Transitions

What happens when the traditions you cherish start to feel like distant memories? Join me, Danny Mac, as we unwrap a heartfelt Christmas story of a family navigating the bittersweet transition from childhood excitement to teenage aloofness. Anne Reese beautifully captures the silent struggles of parents trying to reconnect with their son, Sheldon, during the holiday season. As we sit with them around the Christmas Eve table, the story reveals the quiet power of family love and the unexpected mom...

Dec 27, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1210

Carrying the Christmas Spirit Beyond December.

Have you ever felt the holiday blues once Christmas Day fades into memory? Join me, Danny Mac, as we unravel the often-overlooked story behind Boxing Day and its evolution from a day of rest for the 19th-century working class to the bustling sales bonanza we know today. As we navigate the highs of family gatherings and the lows of post-holiday transitions, we shift our focus to the true spirit of Christmas, which extends beyond material gifts and glistening decorations. Inspired by Matthew West'...

Dec 26, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1209

Broadcasting a Christmas Miracle

Merry Christmas everyone. On this Christmas Eve we bring you the story behind one of the most iconic Christmas carols of all time, and the fact that it was the very first radio hit song when it along with the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke, was broadcast live on Christmas Eve, 1906 O Holy Night carries a rich history, beginning as a poem in 1847 and evolving into a powerful anthem for freedom and love. This episode delves into its origins, notable figures behind its creation, and the la...

Dec 24, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1207

From Angelic Announcements to Modern Melodies

Step into a world of warmth and wonder as we explore the lesser-known yet profoundly moving Christmas carol, "Noel," co-written by Chris Tomlin, Ed Cash, and Matt Redman in 2015. Featuring the breathtaking vocals of Lauren Daigle, this episode promises to enlighten you about the timeless melody and the powerful message encapsulated within its lyrics. Hear how the song, with its evocative line "Come and see what God has done," serves as a beacon of hope and joy—a true embodiment of the Christmas ...

Dec 23, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1206

A Journey Back to Christmas Past's True Message

Amidst the chaos of Christmas Eve 2020, there's a story that stands out with its timeless simplicity and profound message. What if amidst the relentless noise, we could find a moment of peace and clarity? Join me, Danny Mac, as we journey back to the first Christmas, drawing inspiration from the iconic scene in the Grinch who Stole Christmas, where silence and stillness reveal the heart of the holiday. This episode invites you to pause and reflect on the pressures of the year, encouraging a retu...

Dec 20, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1205

The White Envelope: A Christmas Tradition of Selfless Giving

What if the true essence of Christmas wasn’t about the gifts we receive, but the ones we give? Join me, Danny Mac, as I unfold a touching narrative originally shared by Nancy Gavin, about her husband Mike’s unique way of celebrating the holiday season. This isn’t your typical Christmas story full of bustling malls and last-minute shopping sprees. Instead, it's about a simple white envelope that appears on a Christmas tree—a tradition started by Nancy to honor Mike's distaste for the commercial c...

Dec 19, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1204

Suddenly at Midnight

Imagine finding yourself locked away in a dark, dingy prison cell for a crime you didn’t commit. How would you react? Paul and Silas responded with an awe-inspiring act of faith that changed lives forever. Join me, Danny Mac, as I unravel the captivating story from Acts 16, where an unexpected earthquake opens both physical and spiritual prison doors, leading to a life-altering encounter for a jailer and his family. Discover the profound power of singing hymns and holding onto faith in the most ...

Dec 18, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1203

From Pine to Profound

Transforming simple pine boards into exquisite dining tables or crafting a jewelry box from a block of padauk isn't just a hobby—it's a metaphor for personal growth. Join me, Johnny Mac, as I explore the art of woodworking and the spiritual parallels it shares with our life's journey. Inspired by the precision and beauty of Japanese joinery, we discuss how these meticulous techniques mirror our lives, much like the master carpenter, Jesus, who shapes us with care, precision, and sometimes, a bit...

Dec 17, 20244 minSeason 1Ep. 1202

A Celebration of Faith and Music

Join me, Danny Mac, as we unwrap the mystery and magic behind one of the most beloved Christmas carols, "O Come All Ye Faithful." Discover the fascinating backstory of its creator, John Francis Wade, who, despite the turmoil of his time, gifted us with a song that echoes through church halls each Christmas. This episode is not just about tracing the hymn's journey from its Latin origins to Frederick Oakley's English translation; it's about celebrating the spirit of worship and the true essence o...

Dec 16, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1201

The Future Awaits with Purpose and Hope

What if the key to success was as simple as keeping your eyes forward? Join me, Danny Mac, as we uncover the compelling lesson from the legendary race between Roger Bannister and John Landy, where a single backward glance cost Landy the victory. This story serves as a vivid metaphor for how dwelling on the past can hinder our progress. Through inspiring passages from the Bible, such as those from Luke and Ecclesiastes, we explore the wisdom in embracing the present and future, rather than longin...

Dec 13, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1200

Lessons in Self-Control: White Fang's Journey and the Power of Conscious Choice

Ever wondered what a wolf's struggle with chickens can teach us about self-control? Join me, Danny Mac, on Starting Right, as we unravel a tale from Jack London's classic, White Fang. This episode shines a light on White Fang, a half-dog, half-wolf creature caught between his wild instincts and unwavering loyalty to his human master, Whedon Scott. Discover how White Fang's encounter with a tempting flock of chickens becomes a profound lesson in obedience and aligning our desires with a higher ca...

Dec 12, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1198

Connecting with Harmony in Mind

Ever wondered why social media, a platform meant to connect us, sometimes feels more like a battleground? Join me, Danny Mac, as I share a personal story about the surprising negativity I've encountered from fellow Christians online. Despite my Facebook page being a relatively peaceful place for humor and shared experiences, I've noticed a troubling trend of division. Inspired by Romans 12:16, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to embrace harmony and humility in our interactions, reminding u...

Dec 11, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1198

From Misdiagnosis to Divine Insight

After years of grappling with chronic health issues that upended my daily life, I discovered a profound source of comfort and strength that changed everything. Join me, Johnny Mac, as I step in for Danny Mac on Starting Right to share a personal story that explores the trials of misdiagnoses, the weight of questioning one's worth in suffering, and the relief found in faith and scripture. This episode takes a close look at the story of Jesus and the blind man from the book of John, reminding us t...

Dec 10, 20244 minSeason 1Ep. 1197

The Story Behind 'Do You Hear What I Hear?': A Christmas Carol Born During the Cuban Missile Crisis

Would you believe a beloved Christmas carol was born out of one of the most terrifying moments in history? Join us as we uncover the fascinating origins of "Do You Hear What I Hear?" penned during the Cuban Missile Crisis by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne Baker. This episode kicks off our special series on the stories behind Christmas carols, highlighting how these songs weave messages of hope and peace, particularly poignant during tumultuous times. We'll explore how "Do You Hear What I Hear?" d...

Dec 09, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1196

Unexpected Kindness: A Story of Acceptance and Understanding

Have you ever been surprised by the unexpected kindness of a stranger? Join me, Danny Mac, in this episode from 2022, as I recount the heartwarming tale of Bill, a college student whose wild appearance challenges the norms of a conservative church. Witness how a simple yet profound act of empathy from an elderly church elder, Mr. Edwards, becomes a lasting lesson in acceptance and understanding, reminding us that our actions speak louder than words. Reflect on the powerful message from Matthew 5...

Dec 06, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1195

Molded by Adversity

Have you ever felt like life’s trials are pounding you relentlessly, leaving you battered and worn? In today's episode of Starting Right with Danny Mac, we explore a timeless story that turns our everyday struggles into a powerful metaphor for personal growth. Imagine being a nail under a hammer, or metal in a furnace—how would you perceive the pressure and heat? Join me as I unravel this tale of a craftsman and his tools to reveal how life's heartaches and setbacks, much like those described in...

Dec 05, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1194

Drawing Strength When the Clock Runs Down

Originally broadcast Sept 13, 2023...Can you imagine witnessing your favorite team pull off the most epic comeback in just three minutes, only to realize you missed it because you'd lost hope? That exact scenario happened to me, Danny Mac, over the weekend with my beloved BC Lions. This rollercoaster of emotions got me thinking about how often we lose faith in our lives when challenges seem insurmountable. In this episode, I share how this sports miracle became a powerful reminder of the importa...

Dec 04, 20245 minSeason 1Ep. 1193

Navigating Honesty in Challenging Times

Have you ever considered that what's true for you might be false for someone else? Join us on a thought-provoking journey about the nature of truth, guided by my good friend Joe DeFrieze. As I recover from a stroke, Joe takes the mic to explore the complexities of truth in our modern world, where cancel culture and shifting societal norms challenge our understanding of honesty. Through engaging anecdotes, including a conversation with his granddaughter and an intriguing interaction with ChatGPT,...

Dec 03, 20246 minSeason 1Ep. 1192
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