What if the hardest seasons of your life were shaping you in ways you cannot yet see? What if the weight you are carrying is not a sign of defeat, but a doorway to courage, hope and quiet inner strength? In this deeply human conversation, host John Merkus sits down with author, pastor and chaplain Sam Wegner to uncover truths about waiting, hope, grief, love and what helps us keep going through the moments that stretch us. Sam shares the raw and tender reality of supporting his wife through a decade-long cancer journey, losing his job and navigating a long season of uncertainty. His honesty is grounding. His reflections are warm, relatable and filled with wisdom. And John guides this conversation with clarity, heart and presence. His thoughtful direction brings out the gold in every moment and creates a space where honesty becomes healing. This is one of those episodes that stays with you. 🔥 Episode Highlights 💛 Why waiting feels so heavy🌱 What hope really means and why it needs action🕊 How to stay steady in long seasons of uncertainty💭 The real difference between hope and wishful thinking🤝 Why sharing your truth creates deeper connection🧠 How mindset, faith and daily choices shape resilience✨ What helps you keep going when life does not make sense This is Part 1 of a moving two-part conversation. Part 2 continues with even more powerful tools, moments and stories. 🎧 Tune In Now to Be Inspired Whether you're on a walk, driving or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you.Hit play and rise into your greatness today. 🌟 Meet Today’s Guest: Sam Wegner 📘 Author of The Weight of the Wait🙏 Pastor & Chaplain serving young adults🎤 Teacher with a heart for lifting others through hard seasons💪 A man whose story of courage, faith and perseverance inspires thousands Connect with Sam In response to many thoughtful requests, a page has been created for those who would like to support Sam and Crystal during this season: https://www.thousandhillsmissionary.org/hope-in-the-waiting 🌐 Website: https://www.samwegner.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575799584385📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samwegnerjr💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samwegner/ 🎙 About Your Host: John Merkus John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising and packed with wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest, and this episode is no exception. 🌐 www.johnmerkus.com 💬 Loved It? Here’s What You Can Do Next ✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list for exclusive inspiration and free resources 💬 Join the Conversation What’s one insight from this episode that stayed with you?Share it using the tags:#RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart ✨ Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving 📲 Explore the Fluid Reality Mindset App: www.johnmerkus.com▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@riseandthrivejohn📸 Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/jmerkus👥 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/288565440476587/🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnmerkus🎵 Merko Motivation Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1zOOEieBv2g1cZxIe7uFRV 📜 Legal Stuff By accessing this Podcast, you acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by him with permission, and are protected by copyright and trademark laws.Use of this Podcast is for personal or educational purposes only.For permissions, email: john@johnmerkus.com This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the use of the information presented.