Rise to Freedom

30 Days to Boldness: The Challenge to Step Into Your Power

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the Rise to Freedom podcast! In this special episode, I’m kicking off a powerful 30-day Boldness Challenge—a journey designed to help you break through fear, self-doubt, and hesitation so you can walk boldly in your purpose.

Over the next month, we’re diving into faith, confidence, resilience, and action-taking strategies to help you stop playing small and start showing up for yourself. Whether it’s speaking up, making a bold move, or stepping out of your comfort zone, this challenge is for the woman ready to own her power.

Are you in? Let’s rise boldly together!

✨ Follow & Connect With Me:

🌍 Website: CMColumbusEnterprise.com

📩 Email: ceciliamcolumbus@gmail.com

📲 Instagram: @RisewithCecilia

🎙️ Listen to the podcast: Rise to Freedom Podcast

#BoldnessChallenge #ConfidenceCoach #FaithOverFear #WomenEmpowerment #RiseToFreedom

Still Standing: Why Educators’ Stories of Strength & Resilience Matter

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 13:58:44 -0400

Educators are more than lesson plans and test scores—they are leaders, mentors, and changemakers. But behind the scenes, many are navigating personal hardships while still showing up for their students. In this special episode of the Rise to Freedom podcast, host Cecilia Columbus shares why the Still Standing Anthology was created—to give educators a platform to share their untold stories of strength, resilience, and perseverance.

🎙 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

✔️ Why educators’ voices need to be heard beyond the classroom

✔️ The power of storytelling in healing and inspiring others

✔️ How you can become a contributing author in Still Standing

This isn’t just a book—it’s a movement. If you’re an educator who has faced personal challenges but still showed up, your story deserves to be told.

📩 Want to Learn More?

Comment “FREEDOM” or visit freedomencourages.com to join the next Still Standing interest call.

🔗 Stay Connected:

📍 Website: freedomencourages.com

📩 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

📲 Follow on Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

📢 Share this episode with an educator who needs to be reminded that their story matters!

How to Stop Self-Sabotage and Step Into Your Purpose

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 14:03:00 -0400

Have you ever wanted something badly but found yourself holding back? Maybe you dream of stepping into a new role, launching your business, or sharing your story—but fear, doubt, or perfectionism keeps stopping you. That’s self-sabotage.

In today’s Rise to Freedom episode, I’m breaking down:

•What self-sabotage really is and how it shows up in our lives.

•My personal experience with self-sabotaging my own growth as a speaker.

•Practical steps to stop overthinking and start walking in your purpose.

✨ Your breakthrough is on the other side of fear!

🎧 Tune in now, and let’s talk about overcoming fear, breaking cycles of doubt, and finally moving forward.

📩 Need support? Let’s connect!

🔗 Resources & Coaching: freedomencourages.com

📲 Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

📩 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

How to Share Your Story

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 19:26:15 -0400

Have you ever hesitated to share your story because you felt like you were profiting off your pain? In this episode of Rise to Freedom, we explore the power of storytelling and why sharing your journey isn’t about exploiting your struggles—it’s about inspiring and empowering others. I’ll share personal insights on how I once felt ashamed to tell my story, how I overcame that fear, and why your testimony has the power to change lives. Plus, I’ll break down practical steps to confidently share your experiences in a way that brings healing, impact, and even opportunities—without guilt.

If you’ve been holding back, this episode is for you. Tune in now and give yourself permission to own your story!

Connect with Me:

📩 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

🌐 Website: freedomencourages.com

🎙 Podcast: Rise to Freedom – Available on all major platforms

📲 Instagram: @risewithcecilia

📘 Facebook: CM Columbus Enterprise

📌 Threads: @risewithcecilia

📖 Books & Resources: Available at freedomencourages.com

Why Self-Doubt is Stealing Your Purpose

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Self-doubt is the silent dream killer. It whispers that you’re not ready, not qualified, and not enough. But here’s the truth—you were created for more, and your purpose is too big to let fear hold you back.

In this episode of Rise to Freedom, I’m breaking down:

✅ How self-doubt disguises itself as “logic” but is really fear

✅ The dangerous cycle of inaction that keeps you stuck

✅ My personal struggle with self-doubt—and how I pushed past it

✅ Practical steps to silence the inner critic and step into your calling

🎧 Listen in and take the first step toward your purpose—despite fear.

🔗 Connect With Me:

📌 Website & Resources: FreedomEncourages.com

📌 Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

📌 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

🎙 Let’s rise together. Hit play and step into your purpose today.

How to Handle Difficult Coworkers and Keep Your Peace

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Dealing with difficult coworkers, workplace drama, or leadership challenges? Workplace conflict is inevitable, but protecting your peace is a choice.

In this episode, I share a personal story of handling workplace tension, how I set boundaries, practiced forgiveness, and moved forward, and practical strategies to navigate conflict while staying focused on your goals.

If you’ve faced toxic colleagues, power struggles, or team conflicts, this episode is for you!

🎧 Listen now and take back control of your peace!

Ways to Connect:

✨ Apply to be a part of the Still Standing Anthology (for educators!): FreedomEncourages.com or email me at ceciliamcolumbus@gmail.com

📲 Follow me on Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

📩 For coaching or topic suggestions, email me at: freedomencourages@gmail.com

How to Stay Inspired and Remember Your ‘Why’ Amid Educational Changes

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

How to Stay Inspired and Remember Your ‘Why’ Amid Educational Changes

Teaching is more than a career—it’s a calling. But when the education system keeps shifting, policies change, and expectations grow heavier, many educators find themselves questioning their purpose and wondering if they can keep going.

If you have ever felt burned out, discouraged, or disconnected from the reason you started teaching, this episode is for you.

Why Your ‘Why’ Matters

Your ‘why’ is the driving force behind everything you do as an educator. It is the reason you push through long days, advocate for your students, and continue showing up—even when it is hard. But in the midst of educational uncertainty, teacher burnout, and personal struggles, it is easy to lose sight of it.

In this episode, we will explore:

•How to reconnect with your original passion for teaching

•Practical strategies to stay inspired amid educational changes

•Why your story as an educator matters more than ever

•The power of storytelling and how it can reignite your purpose

Your Story Can Inspire Others

That is why I am inviting educators to be part of the Resilient Educator Anthology—a book that gives teachers a platform to share their stories of resilience, challenges, and triumphs.

If you have ever had to push through burnout, self-doubt, or systemic challenges while still showing up for your students, your voice belongs in this book.

Apply to join the Resilient Educator Anthology at FreedomEncourages.com.

Follow on Instagram for daily inspiration at @RiseWithCecilia.

For questions or collaboration, email CeciliaMColumbus@gmail.com.

Subscribe to the Rise to Freedom Podcast—because your voice, your journey, and your impact matter.

How to Become the Teacher You Needed When You Started

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

What do teachers wish they knew their first year? In this episode of Rise to Freedom, I break down the hard truths and lessons that every educator needs to hear. From setting boundaries and avoiding burnout to the mental and emotional toll of teaching, we’re getting real about what it takes to survive and thrive in education.

Whether you’re a new teacher, experienced educator, or passionate about education reform, this episode is for you. Plus, learn how you can share your own story in the Resilient Educator Anthology—a book by teachers, for teachers.

Want to join the Resilient Educator Anthology?

Email: ceciliamcolumbus@gmail.com

For general inquiries, coaching, or collaboration:

Website: freedomencourages.com

Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

Instagram: @risewithcecilia

How to Turn Setbacks Into Stepping Stones

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Setbacks can feel like the end of the road—but what if they’re actually a setup for your next breakthrough? In this episode, I share how I turned a low performance evaluation into an opportunity for growth, went from “Needs Improvement” to “Highly Effective,” and learned the power of resilience in the process.

If you’ve ever faced challenges in your career and felt like giving up, this episode is for you. Plus, I’m introducing the Resilient Educator Project—a space for educators to share their stories and inspire others.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to turn your challenges into comebacks!

📩 Connect with me:

🔗 Digital resources: freedomencourages.com

🔗 Learn more: cmcolumbusenterprise.com

📩 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

📱 Follow me on Instagram: @RisewithCecilia

📌 All the ways to reach me are in the description box!

🔥 Tag a friend who needs to hear this! #ResilientEducator #KeepGoing #TurnSetbacksIntoComebacks

How to Avoid Burnout While Juggling Work, Entrepreneurship, and Life

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:15:36 -0500

In this episode of Rise to Freedom, we explore how to avoid burnout while managing the many roles life throws at us—wife, mom, educator, entrepreneur, and more. Host Cecilia Columbus shares her personal journey of balancing a full-time job, building an education consulting business, and navigating the challenges of family, health, and entrepreneurship.

Discover how to recognize the signs of burnout, prioritize what truly matters, and replenish your energy when life feels overwhelming. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep going without losing yourself, this episode will give you the tools to reclaim your balance and FREEDOM.

What You’ll Learn:

•How to identify the early signs of burnout before it takes over.

•Simple strategies to manage work, family, and entrepreneurship without overwhelm.

•Practical tips for prioritizing rest and finding joy in the chaos.

Connect with Cecilia:

🌟 Visit: FreedomEncourages.com

📧 Email: FreedomEncourages@gmail.com

📱 Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

How Life Led Me to Education When I Least Expected It

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Sometimes, purpose isn’t something we choose—it chooses us. In this episode of Rise to Freedom, I’m sharing my unexpected journey into education. I never planned to become a teacher—I wanted to be a pediatrician. But life had other plans. From struggling with precalculus and biology to earning a psychology degree and later becoming a special education teacher, my path took many turns. But through it all, one thing remained constant—my passion for working with children.

Join me as I share how resilience, faith, and unexpected opportunities led me to where I am today. Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or someone navigating an unexpected career shift, this episode will inspire you to embrace the journey and trust the process.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ How my dream of being a pediatrician shifted into a career in education

✔️ The struggles and setbacks that shaped my path

✔️ Why special education became my passion

✔️ How resilience plays a key role in stepping into purpose

🎧 Listen now and be inspired to embrace the unexpected turns in your own journey!

📩 Connect with me:

🔗 Digital resources: freedomencourages.com

🔗 Learn more: cmcolumbusenterprise.com

📩 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

📱 Follow me on Instagram: @RisewithCecilia

📌 All the ways to reach me are in the description box!

How to Take Care of Yourself

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, I was hit hard with the flu, and it reminded me of an important lesson: pushing through is important, but so is rest.

In this episode of the Rise to Freedom podcast, I’m sharing my experience with illness, the power of listening to your body, and why rest is not a weakness—it’s necessary.

💡 Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

👉 Take care of yourself—you can’t pour from an empty cup.

📲 Stay Connected & Access Digital Resources

📍 Website: CMColumbusEnterprise.com

📍 Digital Resources: FreedomEncourages.com

📍 Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

📍 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

🎙️ Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs this reminder!

#SelfCare #HealingThroughFaith #RestIsStrength #RiseToFreedomPodcast

How to Rise Through Depression - Part 4 Wrap-Up

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Depression can feel like an overwhelming weight, but there is hope. In the Rising Through Depression series, Freedom Empowerment Coach Cecilia Columbus shares faith-filled insights, practical strategies, and personal reflections to help you navigate through the darkness. Explore how leaning on God, embracing self-compassion, and taking small steps can lead to lasting healing and freedom. Whether you’re battling depression yourself or supporting someone who is, this series offers encouragement, hope, and the reminder that you are never alone.

Resources for Support:

•National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): Dial 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for confidential support 24/7.

•Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.

•NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit nami.org for mental health resources and support.

•Faith-Based Counseling Services: Look for Christian counseling services in your area or explore online resources like faithfulcounseling.com.

Stay Connected:

•Website: FreedomEncourages.com

•Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

•Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com

You are not alone, and help is always available. Let this series be a source of strength, hope, and guidance as you rise through depression.

How to Rise through Depression pt. 3: Breaking the Cycle of Isolation

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Feeling stuck in loneliness and isolation? You’re not alone.

In this episode of the Rise to Freedom podcast, host Cecilia Columbus shares heartfelt ways to break free from the isolating effects of depression. Discover simple yet impactful steps to reconnect with others, rediscover your inner strength, and find healing through faith and community. Depression doesn’t have to keep you stuck—healing is within reach, one step at a time.

Resources for Immediate Support:

•National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support.

•Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free crisis counseling.

•211 Helpline: Dial 211 for access to local mental health and community resources.

Connect with Cecilia:

•Website: FreedomEncourages.com

•Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

•Email: FreedomEncourages@gmail.com

•Blog & Business Info: CMColumbusEnterprise.com

Let’s rise together and find strength in community, healing, and faith. Tune in and take your first step toward freedom.

How to Rise Through Depression Pt. 2 – An Interview with Pamela Turner

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 06:34:15 -0500

In this insightful episode of Rise to Freedom, we continue the conversation on overcoming depression with special guest Pamela Turner. Together, we explore the complexities of depression, how it impacts individuals and families, and the importance of showing support to those who are navigating this difficult journey. Pamela shares practical ways to identify the signs of depression and actionable steps to provide meaningful help to loved ones.

We also provide a comprehensive list of resources to help those dealing with depression:
•United Way: Connect to local support services, including counseling and financial assistance. Call 211 for immediate help.
•Crisis Hotline: Access 24/7 support from trained professionals. Dial 988 or your local crisis hotline.
•Department of Human Resources (DHR): Find mental health services and community programs in your area.
•211: A nationwide resource line connecting individuals to vital local services, including mental health support.
•Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Check with your workplace to see if they offer EAP benefits. These programs often provide free, confidential counseling and mental health support.

To contact Pamela Turner directly: Call 980-334-3373 for additional guidance and support.

If you’re struggling, please know that help is available, and you are not alone. Take the first step by reaching out to these resources or someone you trust.

Best Ways to Reach Me:
If you’d like to continue the conversation, share your story, or have questions:
•Email me at freedomencourages@gmail.com
•Follow me on Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia
•Visit my website: CMColumbusEnterprise.com

Together, we can rise resiliently, inspiring self-encouragement and creating freedom in every area of life.

How to Rise through Depression

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Rise to Freedom podcast, host Cecilia Columbus shares her personal journey of navigating depression and the holiday blues, offering practical tips and faith-based insights to help you rise above feelings of sadness and overwhelm. Depression doesn’t have to define you—healing is possible, one small step at a time.

Cecilia discusses how depression impacts motivation, success, and daily life, while also providing actionable steps to uplift your spirits, connect with others, and lean on faith. She also shares critical resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) and 211, for those in need of immediate support.

This is the first episode in a transformative series dedicated to helping you rise through depression and anxiety with faith, tools, and expert insights.

Ways to Connect with Cecilia:

•Website: FreedomEncourages.com

•Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

•Facebook: Join the Rise to Freedom community here

•Email: FreedomEncourages@gmail.com

•Blog & Business Info: CMColumbusEnterprise.com

Follow Cecilia for more inspiration and resources on living with purpose and rising to freedom!

How to Live with Intentionality in 2025: Choosing Your One Word for Success

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 14:29:34 -0500

In this episode of Rise to Freedom, we dive into the transformative concept of One Word That Will Change Your Life and explore how choosing a single word can help you live intentionally in 2025. Host Cecilia Columbus shares her personal journey of rediscovering the power of intentional living and how her chosen word, intentionality, is shaping her year. Discover how to align your actions with your values, simplify your goals, and live with clarity and purpose. Ready to embrace intentionality and rise into your best self? Let’s start now.

Ways to Connect with Cecilia:

•Website: FreedomEncourages.com

•Instagram: @RiseWithCecilia

•Facebook: Join the Rise to Freedom community here

•Email: FreedomEncourages@gmail.com

•Blog & Business Info: CMColumbusEnterprise.com

Follow Cecilia for more inspiration and resources on living with purpose and rising to freedom!

How to Rise in 2025

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the Rise to Freedom podcast, the go-to resource for healing, empowerment, and personal growth. In this episode, discover how to rise in 2025 by letting go of past hurts, releasing guilt and shame, and stepping boldly into the best version of yourself. Gain actionable tips for building confidence, practicing self-compassion, and creating a clear vision for your future.

Whether you’re seeking inspiration, strategies to overcome self-doubt, or tools to thrive, this podcast is here to guide you every step of the way.

📧 Email: freedomencourages@gmail.com to schedule a 1-on-1 Empowerment Hour Session.

🌐 Website: Visit FreedomEncourages.com for products and resources.

📖 Blog & Resources: Check out www.cmcolumbusenterprise.com for blogs, tools, and how to join the Freedom Through Forgiveness Anthology.

📱 Follow: Stay connected on Instagram @RiseWithCecilia and join the conversation in the Rise to Freedom Group on Facebook.

If you’re ready to embrace forgiveness, break through limiting beliefs, and rise into your purpose, this is the episode for you! Let’s rise together—because you are worthy, you are enough, and you are rising to freedom.

How to Let Go

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:46:40 -0500