What if a vivid dream could change not just your life, but the lives of countless women and children? That's exactly what happened to Susan Binkley, the founder of Blue Monarch. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Susan as she shares her inspiring journey from a dream in 1995 to the creation of Blue Monarch in 2003. Despite having no experience in recovery work, Susan overcame her initial reluctance. Her unwavering obedience, faith, and determination led her to build a sanctuary that has reunited over 350 children with their mothers and helped women heal from severe trauma.

In this episode, Susan opens up about the miraculous ways that God equipped her to start Blue Monarch and how he continues to sustain her. Listen as Susan reflects on a pivotal moment in 2012 that taught her the importance of serving rather than fixing people, a philosophy that has been crucial in preventing burnout among her team. We also discuss her book and the wealth of resources available on her website, offering listeners a comprehensive look into her impactful work at Blue Monarch. This episode is a testament to the power of obedience, faith, and the transformative impact of serving others.
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Susan Binkley grew up in Tennessee and received a degree in Fine Arts from the University of Tennessee. In addition to working as a professional artist, she owned and operated a horse farm and large boarding operation, developed unique vacation rentals, created a bakery/café, and established a granola manufacturing business. In 2003, Binkley founded Blue Monarch, a Christ-centered, long-term residential recovery program for women and their children. Blue Monarch has since become one of the most unique and successful recovery programs in the country with a strong emphasis on teaching women to parent sober and by focusing on the child’s recovery as much as the mom’s. Since 2003, Blue Monarch has served nearly 1,000 women and children and over 350 children have been reunited with their mothers who had previously lost custody.

Susan authored a collection of her personal Blue Monarch stories, “From My Front Row Seat,” which quickly became an Amazon bestseller in two categories: Inspirational Christianity and Christian Missions & Missionary Work. The stories are raw and authentic combined with surprising humor, considering the heavy subject matter.

Binkley’s awards include Women in American History Award from Daughters of the American Revolution, TIAA Difference Maker, and an Honorary Doctorate in Civil Law from the University of the South. Susan lives with her husband, Clay, on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee overlooking a state park.

Connect with Susan:
On Instagram: @susanbinkleyauthor
On Facebook: Susan Binkley
Website: bluemonarch.org

Links mentioned:
From My Front Row Seat: by Susan Binkley

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