Podcast Title: Stay True with Madison Prewett Troutt
Episode: How 3 Seconds of Courage can Change Your Life with Riley Kehoe
Release Date: February 17, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Stay True, host Madison Prewett Troutt welcomes her dear friend and guest, Riley Kehoe. Both Madison and Riley share the joyous news of their pregnancies, setting a heartfelt and intimate tone for the conversation. The episode delves deep into the transformative power of courage, fear, and faith, anchored by Riley's remarkable life experiences and her insightful new book, Three Seconds of Courage.
Guest Introduction & Background
Riley Kehoe, known as "Riley with Courage" on social media, is a speaker and author who embodies the essence of bravery and resilience. Growing up on a self-sustainable farm in New Zealand and later serving as a missionary in Uganda, Riley has cultivated a life rich with experiences that have shaped her understanding of courage and faith.
Notable Quote:
"Even if God does not bring about that miracle or answer that prayer in the way that you want, will we have faith in Him?"
— Riley Kehoe [00:33]
Riley's Life-Changing Experience: The 2004 Tsunami
At the tender age of ten, Riley survived the devastating 2004 Boxing Day tsunami in Southeast Asia. While her family was on a mission trip in Thailand, the sudden earthquake and ensuing tsunami tested their faith and resilience. Riley recounts how her mother's unwavering prayer led them to safety, instilling in her a profound sense of God's presence and protection.
Notable Quote:
"When I was in the midst of all of this, we ran to the top of the hill, and I fell down to my knees. I had like one of the most radical encounters with God."
— Riley Kehoe [11:24]
The Birth of Three Seconds of Courage
Riley's harrowing experience with the tsunami and the subsequent challenges she faced, including overcoming PTSD and fearing the ocean, became the foundation for her book, Three Seconds of Courage. The book introduces a practical tool: counting to three to summon courage in the face of fear.
Notable Quote:
"The first time I ever used this tool of just, like, very simply just being like, I'm gonna do it. And this man, he swam out to him. He had actually drowned, and I performed CPR on him in the middle of the ocean, and he came back to life."
— Riley Kehoe [05:01]
Defining Courage and Overcoming Fear
Throughout the episode, Madison and Riley explore the true nature of courage. They emphasize that courage isn't the absence of fear but the decision to act despite it. Riley shares how her parents encouraged her to face her fears head-on, teaching her that fear should never dictate her life's direction.
Notable Quote:
"Courage is not the absence of fear. It's the assessment that something is greater."
— Riley Kehoe [00:06]
Practical Tools for Living Courageously
Riley introduces several actionable strategies to cultivate courage:
- The Three-Second Rule: When faced with fear, count to three and take action.
- Courageous Cheerleaders: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who encourage you to overcome fears.
- Distinguishing Fears: Identify whether your fears are helping or hindering your personal growth.
Notable Quote:
"If you have, like, social anxiety and you don't want to go out for the day, think of your fear as a barrier to helping someone else."
— Riley Kehoe [16:19]
The Importance of Community and Support
Both Madison and Riley highlight the significance of having a strong support system. They discuss how confessing fears and vulnerabilities to trusted friends can lead to healing and empowerment. Riley shares personal anecdotes about how her "courage cheerleaders" have played pivotal roles in her journey.
Notable Quote:
"Find your people... find someone to confess to and also find someone that will hold you accountable."
— Riley Kehoe [42:47]
Biblical Perspectives on Courage
The conversation delves into numerous biblical stories and verses that illustrate courage and faith:
- Peter Walking on Water (Matthew 14): Demonstrates the importance of maintaining focus on Jesus amidst chaos.
- Esther's Bravery: Showcases the courage to act selflessly for the greater good.
- Jesus and Lazarus: Emphasizes God's empathy and presence in times of suffering.
Notable Quote:
"Keep your eyes on Jesus... When you fix your eyes on Him, you find the courage to face any storm."
— Madison Prewett Troutt [27:24]
Daily Practices to Build Courage
Riley offers practical advice on developing courage as a daily habit:
- Courageous Acts for Others: Engage in small acts of kindness and bravery, such as helping someone in need without expecting recognition.
- Consistent Prayer and Reflection: Use scripture and prayer to center yourself and reinforce your faith.
- Forgiveness: Let go of grudges and practice forgiveness to free yourself from the chains of fear and anger.
Notable Quote:
"The most important type of courage is the courage to care for others."
— Riley Kehoe [50:47]
Concluding Thoughts and Prayer
As the episode wraps up, Madison and Riley share heartfelt prayers and affirmations encouraging listeners to embrace courage in their lives. They remind the audience that fearing God involves reverence and trust, not terror, and that true courage stems from faith and the desire to serve others.
Notable Quote:
"Even when you feel surrounded by fear, know that your God surrounds your fears and your enemy, and He is greater, stronger, and better."
— Madison Prewett Troutt [36:02]
Riley concludes with a powerful prayer, seeking God's strength, guidance, and blessings for listeners as they navigate their personal battles with fear and strive to live courageously.
Key Takeaways
- Courage Through Faith: True courage is anchored in trust and faith in God, not in personal strength alone.
- Practical Tools: Utilizing strategies like the three-second rule and surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can effectively combat fear.
- Community Support: Building a network of "courage cheerleaders" provides essential support and accountability.
- Biblical Inspiration: Numerous biblical narratives offer profound lessons on courage, faith, and resilience.
- Daily Commitment: Courage is cultivated through consistent, everyday actions that prioritize others and align with one's faith.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Stay True is a profound exploration of courage, fear, and faith. Riley Kehoe's inspiring story and practical advice offer listeners valuable insights into overcoming fear and living a life of true courage. Whether facing personal challenges or striving to support others, the wisdom shared by Madison and Riley serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement.
Recommended Read:
Three Seconds of Courage by Riley Kehoe – A transformative guide to navigating fear and embracing bravery in everyday life.
Stay tuned for more episodes that continue to blend meaningful conversations with actionable advice, all aimed at helping you stay true to your values and live authentically.