In a recent interview on the “Wake Up With Dee Morning Show,” host Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler spoke with ordained minister and host of the “A Balanced Life With Dr. Jacquie” podcast, Dr. Jacquie Hood Martin, who is also the owner of J. Hood & Associates and co-founder of the Black Star Network. She shared an inspiring and grounded message about faith, balance and gratitude as the year draws to a close.
During the interview, Dr. Martin reflected on the significance of gratitude and faith in navigating turbulent times, emphasizing the need to stay spiritually grounded despite life’s challenges. “There is something about gratitude that leads us into this understanding that along with gratitude comes grace and growth,” she said, urging those to remember that every season, whether joyful or difficult, offers opportunities for divine lessons and renewal.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Martin broke down different forms of grace; saving, sanctifying, sustaining, and serving, explaining how each plays a vital role in maintaining faith and emotional balance. Her message centered on finding peace amid uncertainty, highlighting that spiritual stillness often leads to personal clarity. “God wants you to sometimes sit yourself down and be still and know that he is God,” she said, reinforcing the idea that strength often comes from surrender.
In the second half of the interview, the conversation shifted toward her show, A Balanced Life with Dr. Jacquie, where she explores how individuals can restore equilibrium in their personal and professional lives. Dr. Martin said the show discusses topics that impact everyday people, from parents managing households to individuals adjusting to life changes after the pandemic.
“Sometimes balance comes from not taking on the world because it’s not your responsibility,” she explained, adding that learning to delegate tasks and release control is key to achieving peace and growth. Her approach to life management intertwines faith, practicality, and emotional intelligence, giving her audience tools to live more intentionally.
The discussion also touched on the shared experience of overextension and the cultural pressure to constantly “do it all.” Dr. Martin acknowledged that while service and hard work are deeply embedded in many communities, they must be balanced with rest and renewal.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.