Living Proof Project

Living Proof Project We are Living Proof Project. Jason serves as the HIRE Indiana Region 4 Coordinator and is the President of the Living Proof Project.

We are a faith-based Re-entry and Recovery reintegration and personal rebranding project focused on providing material & content for individuals walking out a unconditional personal rebranding of their self. He is a devoted husband to Lauren Hochstedler and a committed follower of Jesus Christ. As a dynamic public speaker and published author, Jason is a passionate advocate for justice reform and

the empowerment of justice-impacted individuals. His speaking engagements include impactful appearances at the Michigan Men's Encounter Conference, serving as the Keynote Speaker for the One Stop Partner Conference and the Miami County Recovery Event, and his anticipated role as a Break-Out Speaker for the upcoming Get In The Game Conference. He is the author of the forthcoming book "Unconditional Rebrand" and works tirelessly to amplify the transformative power of faith-based reentry initiatives. Lauren is the Creative Director for Living Proof Project, and a remarkable woman of faith and Jason’s cherished wife. A gifted artist and creator, she channels her talents into faith-inspired works that uplift and encourage others. Her Bible journaling ignites a passion in women to dive into Scripture, and her profound dedication to studying God’s Word offers a guiding light for those on their spiritual journey. Lauren’s nurturing spirit, keen listening skills, and artistic brilliance make her a trusted friend and a beacon of creativity within the faith community. Together, Jason and Lauren have triumphed over immense challenges, including drug addiction, sex trafficking, repeated incarcerations, and homelessness. Their lives are a testament to the transformative grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. Drawing from their deeply personal experiences, they intimately understand the highs and lows of recovery, reentry, and rebuilding a renewed personal identity. Their journey exemplifies the power of faith and resilience, inspiring others to embrace their own paths to transformation.

This morning, I want to pose a question about the popular school of thought among Evangelicals: the idea that we need to...
12/15/2024

This morning, I want to pose a question about the popular school of thought among Evangelicals: the idea that we need to go back to a "better time." A time when people worked harder. A time when crime was low, neighborhoods were safer, and "family values" truly mattered.

Yet, when researched properly, I find that Americans often romanticize these bygone eras without fully acknowledging the complexities of those times. For example, the 1950s are often cited as an idyllic period, but this was also a time of profound racial segregation, gender inequality, and suppression of marginalized voices. Crime rates may have been lower in some areas, but the justice system was far from fair or inclusive. Family structures seemed more stable, yet domestic abuse and other issues were swept under the rug because of societal stigmas.

The truth is, while certain aspects of the past may hold valuable lessons, there is no single "better time" to return to. Instead of longing for a version of history that never truly existed, perhaps we should focus on how to build a society that values hard work, safety, and strong families in ways that are equitable and reflective of modern realities. What do you think? Are we clinging to a myth, or can we forge a better future by critically examining the past?

In my opinion great example of a Bible character who suffered from overthinking is Martha, the sister of Mary and Lazaru...
12/14/2024

In my opinion great example of a Bible character who suffered from overthinking is Martha, the sister of Mary and Lazarus, found in Luke 10:38-42.

Martha is known for being distracted and overly concerned with the details of hosting Jesus in her home. While her sister Mary sat at Jesus' feet, listening to His teaching, Martha became anxious and frustrated, focusing on all the tasks that needed to be done. She even interrupted Jesus to ask, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

Jesus gently corrected her, saying, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

This story shows Martha's tendency to overthink and become overwhelmed by her responsibilities. It also offers a reminder about the importance of prioritizing time with God over being consumed by tasks and worries.





Overstimulation isn’t just a feeling—it’s a real neurological response to a world coming at you too fast. When too many ...
12/14/2024

Overstimulation isn’t just a feeling—it’s a real neurological response to a world coming at you too fast. When too many unrelated events happen in rapid succession, your brain struggles to process it all, leaving you overwhelmed and out of sync. This happens because your prefrontal cortex (responsible for logic and decision-making) gets overloaded, while your amygdala (your fight-or-flight system) kicks into high gear.

The result? Stress, confusion, and a desperate need to restore order. Science shows that taking moments to pause, breathe, and ground yourself can help your brain reset and find balance. Remember, your brain is powerful—it just needs a little space to catch up. 🌍🧠

Your words carry weight. Your thoughts shape your reality. Your presence transforms spaces.When you truly understand the...
12/13/2024

Your words carry weight. Your thoughts shape your reality. Your presence transforms spaces.

When you truly understand the power within you, you'll no longer waste your energy on meaningless words, idle thoughts, or places that don't serve your growth.

Know your worth and move intentionally through life. You are powerful beyond measure. 💡✨

The Sermon on the Mount isn’t just a teaching—it’s a call to transformation. Every word Jesus spoke in that moment was r...
12/12/2024

The Sermon on the Mount isn’t just a teaching—it’s a call to transformation. Every word Jesus spoke in that moment was radical, challenging, and full of life-giving truth.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” In a world obsessed with power and pride, Jesus elevates humility and dependence on God.

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” While revenge feels natural, He shows us the power of forgiveness and the freedom found in love.

“Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” He invites us to trust in the Father’s provision and rest in His peace.

The Sermon on the Mount flips the world’s values upside down, reminding us that true strength comes from surrender, true joy comes from obedience, and true peace comes from trusting Him.

Let these words take root in your heart, and you’ll discover a faith that moves mountains and a life that reflects heaven. - Jason Hochstedler


One of the most important lessons for maintaining your mental health is recognizing where your energy and explanations a...
12/10/2024

One of the most important lessons for maintaining your mental health is recognizing where your energy and explanations are truly needed. Not everyone in your life deserves access to your thoughts, emotions, or decisions.

Some people, those who truly care and contribute positively to your life, deserve your time, your explanations, and your openness. They’ve earned it through mutual respect and understanding. Others may only need a simple answer—a yes, no, or brief acknowledgment. And then, there are those who deserve absolutely nothing—no energy, no response, and no space in your mind.

Learning to distinguish between these groups is not selfish; it’s self-care. Protect your peace. Protect your energy. Prioritize yourself and surround yourself with people who value your boundaries.

The issue with the phrases 'your faith' and 'my faith' lies in their tendency to reduce faith to a personalized, often d...
12/08/2024

The issue with the phrases 'your faith' and 'my faith' lies in their tendency to reduce faith to a personalized, often dogmatic, framework that reinforces individual perspectives rather than calling us to true transformation. Faith becomes a shield to justify one's views, a tribal identity, or a means of separation, rather than a force that unites us in pursuit of higher truths.

However, the faith that Jesus demonstrated and called us to is not about defending or protecting our own preferences. It's about action, humility, and self-denial. Jesus lived a faith that was deeply practical and transformative, seen in His ability to overcome the very things that often ensnare humanity:

1. The Lust of the Eyes (Materialism): Jesus resisted the pull of worldly wealth and possessions. He taught us to store treasures in heaven, not on earth, emphasizing generosity over greed and a focus on eternal values rather than fleeting luxuries.

2. The Lust of the Flesh (Selfish Desires): Jesus lived a life of service, putting the needs of others before His own. His faith was evident in His sacrifice and in His rejection of the temptations that sought to gratify self-interest at the expense of His mission.

3. The Pride of Life (Vain Pursuits): Jesus exemplified humility, constantly pointing to the will of the Father rather than seeking personal glory. His faith rejected pride, choosing instead to walk the path of a servant, even to the cross.

Faith, as Jesus modeled it, is not a static belief system or a protective blanket for our opinions—it’s an active, ongoing surrender to God’s will, a call to live counter-culturally in a world obsessed with possessions, pleasure, and prestige. True faith transforms us from within, enabling us to overcome the desires that enslave us and empowering us to love God and others selflessly. It’s not about what we believe; it’s about how we live in light of that belief.

James 5:1-6 challenges us to confront the greed and injustice in our world. As we navigate a society filled with dispari...
12/08/2024

James 5:1-6 challenges us to confront the greed and injustice in our world. As we navigate a society filled with disparity, let's remember the cries of those who have been overlooked, oppressed, and left behind.

We are called to act with kindness, fairness, and generosity, not to hoard wealth or indulge while others suffer. How can we make a difference today in our communities?

What happens to a little lamb that is rejected by its mother, it will hang its head so low it looks as if the lamb is be...
11/28/2024

What happens to a little lamb that is rejected by its mother, it will hang its head so low it looks as if the lamb is beyond depressed ..!!! Every once in a while, a ewe will give birth to a lamb and reject it. There are lots of reasons she may do this. If the shepherd tries to return the lamb, the mother might even kick the baby away. Once a ewe rejects one of her lambs, she will never change her mind.

These little lambs will hang their heads so low that it looks like something is wrong with their little necks. Their spirits are broken.

These lambs are called "bummer lambs."

Unless the shepherd intervenes, that little lamb will die - rejected and alone.

Do you know what the shepherd usually does?

The shepherd will take that rejected little lamb into their home, hand-feed it and keep it warm. They will wrap it up with blankets and hold it to their chest so the little lamb can hear their heartbeat. Once the lamb is strong enough, the shepherd will place it back in the field with the rest of the flock.

That sheep never forgets the shepherd's love and care when their mother rejected them. When the shepherd calls for the flock, guess which sheep runs first? That sheep knows the shepherd's voice.

The bummer lamb isn't loved more, it just knows intimately the one who loves it. It trusts the shepherd because it has experienced love from the shepherd.

Many of us are bummer lambs. Rejected and broken. But Jesus is the good Shepherd. He cares for our every need and holds us close to His heart so we can hear His heartbeat.

We may be broken but we are deeply loved by the Shepherd who will never leave us.

• Author Unknown •

11/28/2024

This holiday season, let’s open our hearts and extend hope and joy to all. 🌟 As we celebrate, let’s not forget those facing struggles—those battling addiction, those in prison, or experiencing homelessness. Pray for their strength, their joy, and for Christ’s love to wrap them in warmth. Together, we can share the light of this season with those who need it most. ❤️🙏

The surface may be dry 🏜️ and cracked, but replenishment 💦 comes from the roots, not the surface! Are your roots🌲 strong...
11/28/2024

The surface may be dry 🏜️ and cracked, but replenishment 💦 comes from the roots, not the surface! Are your roots🌲 strong 🏋️‍♂️? Are you planted 🌿 in a place where motivational water can drench the ground around your roots?

Time ⏰ moves forward for 🏙️ society, but in prison, it stands still. Reentry is one of the toughest challenges because y...
11/27/2024

Time ⏰ moves forward for 🏙️ society, but in prison, it stands still. Reentry is one of the toughest challenges because you’re faced with adapting to a world that grew and changed while you were away.

If you’ve never experienced this but know someone who’s going through it, be prepared to 🫂 support them as they navigate 🗺️ these changes. Your help can make all the difference."

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North Apperson Way
Columbus, OH
46901

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+18108379900

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