Stephen Panus is a father, sports marketing executive, and author whose story reminds us that even in loss, we can choose to walk on and create a legacy of love. After losing his son, Jake, Stephen transformed his grief into purpose, choosing to honor Jake’s legacy through scholarships and acts of kindness that inspire others to lead with compassion and determination.

Today, Stephen shares how he faced unimaginable loss, learned to embrace forgiveness, and opened his heart to unexpected joy. He reveals the fine line between despair and hope, offering wisdom on turning pain into purpose and creating a meaningful life through vulnerability and community.

My friends, if you’re navigating grief, searching for hope, or striving to find light in life’s darkest moments, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave inspired to honor your challenges, embrace healing, and take the next step forward with courage, gratitude, and love.

Several years ago, with Christmas nearing and Beth and I unable to make eye contact with our boys due to the hair covering their eyes, I loaded up the car and took the teenaged boys to get haircuts.

Despite their slumped shoulders as they entered and the soft-spoken answers they provided as she worked, the stylist could not have been sweeter to my boys. In thanking her afterwards for how she made them look and how kind she had been to them, she asked me a seemingly simple question: “Are you ready for Christmas?”

Now, I don’t think she was actually curious if my house was cleaned, the tree was up or the dinner rolls ordered. Do you think she was truly interested if my suit was ironed, shoes were polished or if the last several weeks of Advent had prepared my heart for the final two weeks before Christmas?

Blessing Offor is two-time Grammy nominee and multi-talented artist who proves that resilience and authenticity can create a life—and a legacy—of purpose. From humble beginnings as a young blind man in a small Nigerian village to now shining on global stages, Blessing’s story is as vibrant and soulful as his music. With chart-topping hits like “Brighter Days”, competing on The Voice, and collaborations with icons like Dolly Parton, Blessing inspires millions through his artistry and story.

Today, Blessing shares how music became his compass through life’s challenges. From navigating blindness and identity to finding his voice in the world, Blessing shares profound lessons in embracing your story, leaning into joy, and using creativity as a bridge to connection.

My friends, Blessing reminds us that brighter days aren’t just ahead- they’re here when we choose to see them. You’ll leave this conversation with a renewed sense of purpose, an appreciation for the gift of community, and perhaps a new favorite song.