Welcome to Conversations at the Well, Season 2, Episode 22! As we step into 2025, Desireé and Vernon share their goals, new habits, and the mindset shifts they’re embracing for the year ahead. From cutting out distractions and social media detoxes to unexpected lifestyle changes (Desireé’s surprise pescatarian journey!), they reflect on how small, intentional decisions can shape a transformational year. They also dive into lessons from scripture, navigating their faith journey after leaving their church, and why Vernon is officially calling Desireé “fishy” from now on.
This episode is packed with laughter, deep reflection, and a challenge to listeners: What habits will set the foundation for your best year yet? Tune in and share your 2025 goals with us!
00:00 - Welcome to Episode 2!
The Browns kick off the episode, setting the tone for 2025 and hinting at big changes.
01:15 - Goals vs. Habits: What Really Matters?
Vernon discusses how forming the right habits is more crucial than setting ambitious goals.
03:25 - Death to Distractions
Inspired by Pastor Mike Todd’s “Death to Distractions,” Vernon reflects on his social media detox and how it’s reshaping his focus.
06:05 - The Mindless Scroll Struggle
Desireé shares her journey of removing Facebook from her phone and realizing just how automatic the habit had become.
07:38 - The Pescatarian Plot Twist
Desireé announces her unexpected decision to cut out all meats except fish—despite her deep love for burgers and bacon.
09:53 - A Fishy Attitude?
Vernon takes the opportunity to introduce his new favorite phrase—calling Desireé “fishy” whenever she’s in a mood.
10:45 - Making God-Led Decisions
They discuss how obedience to God’s guidance often feels like a sacrifice but ultimately brings freedom.
13:14 - Recognizing Distractions in Real Time
How being aware of distractions changes how you engage with them—whether resisting or consciously indulging.
14:42 - The Power of Intention in 2025
Desireé’s word for the year is “intention”—choosing commitments wisely and seeking divine guidance.
18:00 - Cover-to-Cover Bible Reading Challenge
Desireé embarks on an ambitious six-month journey to read the entire Bible and shares her eye-opening insights from Genesis to Leviticus.
24:20 - What Will December Look Like?
They envision the end of 2025—how their habits and faith will shape the year’s outcomes.
27:54 - Big Goals for the Year
From reopening The Well’s coffee shop to leading national initiatives, Desireé shares some of her bold 2025 goals.
30:55 - Vernon’s Push for Structure & Excellence
Vernon wants to master time management and execution—without boxing God into a spreadsheet cell.
35:44 - Facing 2025’s Challenges Head-On
The year has already thrown some curveballs. How are they handling unexpected obstacles?
41:20 - The Sabbath Shift
With a new church search underway and Saturday classes at The Well, their family’s Sabbath routine has changed—what does rest look like now?
44:06 - Final Thoughts & Listener Challenge
They encourage listeners to reflect on their own 2025 goals, habits, and where God fits into the picture.