A HOLY MESS - Keeping It Real! Hope, Peace & Encouragement! Biblical Truth, Hear From God, Christian Mental Health, Christian

Hello you beautiful soul! If you're feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts, stuck in loops of fear and self-doubt, or just plain exhausted, this episode is for YOU.  We're talking about God's incredible power to transform the wilderness places in our lives into streams of living water. What You'll Discover: ✨ Why you're NOT broken if you struggle with negative thoughts  ✨ How to begin the process of rewiring your brain from negative patterns to healthier thinking.  ✨ The vision of boats on the lake - letting resentment and anger sail on by  ✨ Why healing takes time and that's perfectly okay  ✨ The difference between pouring out empty vs. giving from overflow Key Scripture: Isaiah 35 "The desert and the parched land will be glad. The wilderness will rejoice and blossom... Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert." Real Talk: You're not doing anything wrong if transformation feels slow Your overactive imagination can be trained for good instead of fear God wants to speak to ALL of us - you're not a unicorn!   Ready to Go Deeper?

In this episode I sit down with the brilliant Dr. Sandra Richter, author of the Deborah Bible study to discuss finding God's grace in our broken stories and answering His call to reclaim kingdom territory. She shares part of her story, and you guys, she's one of us. She's amazing and God is doing so much good work through her. I hope hearing her story and her heart and passion for her work inspires you on your journey. God's NOT done with YOU!  About Dr. Sandra Richter: “Dr. Sandra Richter is the Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont College and a graduate of Harvard University, she's dedicated her career to making Scripture accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences." And she has! :)  You can learn more about her here as well. Today as we talk you can tell her approach combines brilliant theological insight with authentic vulnerability from her own journey of healing from childhood trauma. Her passion is making Scripture accessible while challenging believers to step into their kingdom purpose.  We're talking about her bible study, “Deborah Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video: Unlikely Heroes and the Book of Judges (Epic of Eden)”   Ready to Find Your Kingdom Purpose?   Are you struggling to reconcile your past with God's calling on your life? Do you feel God nudging you toward something but fear or shame's holding you back? I'd love to help you uncover your kingdom purpose and find healing in your story.   Book a complimentary 30-minute discovery call at and let's talk about how coaching can help you say "Yes" to God's invitation and deeper healing in your life.   I'm so grateful you're here and I hope this episode encourages and blesses you. Much love, Dani  

Ready for clarity on your next steps in life and want to learn more about working with Dani and how she can help you get there? Schedule a complimentary call with her to explore your options.    Hi friend! Today, I'm covering a few things… We're talking about one-day-at-a-time healing, why forgiveness isn't a "pray once and done" situation, and how to feel your feelings without letting resentment poison your soul.  Also, just a friendly reminder, God hasn't forgotten those dreams He planted in you long ago... I think sometimes we need that loving reminder. ;)  Take care of yourself this week - do something that makes you feel alive. You're worth it. Life is such a journey! I hope this episode blesses you.   Interested in one of Dani's retreats? Email me at hello@danisumner.com  Glad you're here, Dani  

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

Hi friend! I used to be soo controlled by others opinions of me. Until I embraced the life-changing truth: “Other people's opinions about me are NONE of my business.” Episode Highlights: - Why living under the tyranny of others' opinions keeps you from peace and joy - The only two relationships that truly matter: your relationship with God and yourself (after that, other relationships fall into place for the most part) - How healing these foundational relationships changes EVERYTHING else When you stop trying to control what others think of you and focus on healing your relationship with yourself, life becomes so much more enjoyable! You stand before an audience of ONE - God Almighty - and yourself. If you're tired of banging your head against the wall trying to prove yourself worthy to others, I can help!

I know when we're struggling in life sometimes the first thing that comes up is doubts about God or our relationship with him. I get it! Today we're talking to author Niki Hardy–she recently wrote “God Can We Chat” – a conversation about doubts and how that can lead us to grow closer to God. -

Today, Jim (my therapist) and I are talking about the importance of recognizing those special people who've been "beacons of light" in our lives. The ones who loved us back to life.  I remember when I couldn't see or recognize the people from my past who were looking out for me along the way. That's why questions like the one Jim asked me in today's episode are so powerful!  Who are your bright lights and beacons?  I'm grateful you're here.  May this Podcast be a bright light and beacon on your journey.  God bless and much love, Dani ☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

You are NOT alone in your struggles! Hi friend, Today, we're hearing from my friend and Pastor, David Hutsko. David is the real deal, and I hope his transparency blesses you! I know sometimes we think Pastors "have it all together,"--and I hope you're encouraged as you listen to David share his story and what he's currently walking through as he continues to heal and become who God has created him to be.  We're talking about self-forgiveness, finding authentic belonging, church hurt, and so much more. Also, if you don't currently have a Church home (or even if you do but want to be encouraged)--check out his sermons here: https://www.newlifepismo.com/sermons/sermon-series/ I'm so grateful you're here!  Much love, Dani

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

☎️Holy Shift! Ready for one?! Book a call with Dani to explore if one-on-one coaching is right for you! Click here to schedule!

Book a discovery call here to see if working one-on-one would be a fit.  Welcome to this spontaneous episode, where I'm literally recording from my hot tub! I'm sharing all about my approach to 2025 and why I'm focusing on a more holistic, gentle approach to well-being this year. Much love, Dani  Book a discovery call here to see if working one-on-one would be a fit. 

Welcome to Lent!  I just wanted to share some quick tools and share how I'm approaching this Lenten season.  Sending you much love, Dani Book a discovery call here to see if working one-on-one would be a fit. 

What if rest didn't make you feel guilty or lazy? That's the question I've been wrestling with during this intense season of life. I'm discovering that those "time out" periods aren't just nice—they're necessary!  I've been walking through some really challenging times lately, but instead of just trying to power through, I'm learning how to not only survive but actually find little moments of joy along the way. When we give ourselves permission to rest, something beautiful happens. That guilt we've attached to slowing down? It's not serving us. What if taking that break is exactly what your mind, body and spirit need to show up fully in all the other areas of your life? Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply pause. I hope this encourages you wherever you are today! Book a discovery call here to see if working one-on-one would be a fit.  Much love, Dani

Book a discovery call here to see if working one-on-one would be a fit.  Hey friend,  Today, I'm talking about anger. I know anger can be an issue for a lot of us. And sometimes, in our culture, it's difficult to talk about.  Key Points: - The two main sources of anger: injustice and grief - How childhood conditioning shapes our relationship with emotions - Understanding the connection between anger, fear, and control - The importance of self-awareness in managing anger - Practical breathing techniques for diffusing anger in the moment - Why anger can be a valuable teacher in our lives - Finding balance between spiritual practice and emotional healing I hope this episode helps you. Also, if you've been feeling the need for extra support and direction, AND you resonate with what I talk about on the Podcast--Book a FREE-(on me) discovery call for us to connect and see if working together one-on-one for a season could help you.  Go to www.danisumner.com/discoverycall, or here's the link to my calendar to sign up. I look forward to connecting!  So much love, Dani

Book a discovery call here to see if working one-on-one would be a fit.  Hey! I'm super excited to share this episode with you! After my birthday recently, my amazing family helped transform my office from a paper graveyard into this beautiful, tranquil space (if you're on YouTube, you can see the glow-up!). Huge shoutout to Chad Bohi for getting my audio and lighting locked in too!  I'm sharing a few thoughts that have inspired me lately, and I hope they inspire you, too.  The quote mentioned: "You will never outperform your own self-image." Verse mentioned: Isaiah 43:19 The Song mentioned is Hard Fought Hallelujah by Brandon Lake.  I talk about how sometimes we have to fight for our peace.  Whether you're wrestling with your next steps in life, feeling stuck, or need someone to walk alongside you, I want you to know you're not alone.  God's making streams in the wasteland, right where you are! I also mentioned that I'm opening up more time for one-on-one clients.  If you've been feeling the need for extra support and direction, AND you resonate with what I talk about on the Podcast--Book a FREE-(on me) discovery call for us to connect and see if working together one-on-one for a season could help you.  Go to www.danisumner.com/discoverycall, or here's the link to my calendar to sign up. I look forward to connecting!  So much love, Dani Your friend, Dani 

Merry Christmas! I just wanted to send you all some Christmas love. I know this time of the year can be so difficult for some of us. If you find yourself wading through a rough Christmas, I'm sending you some extra love. And I hope this episode blesses you. Wherever you find yourself this Christmas, the good news is God is NOT done 'birthing' good things in you or your life.  Merry Christmas, Dani

Hi friends, Today we have Therapist Jim Beebe with us and we're talking about his perspective and what healing ACTUALLY looks like at times for most of us. Not the Instagram highlight reel. Not the "I've got it all figured out now" testimonies. The real, messy, one-day-at-a-time journey that most of us are living. I hope today blesses you so much! HERE'S THE HOLY TRUTH BOMB: You're not doing recovery wrong because you're still struggling. You're not doing Christianity wrong because anxiety still visits at 3am. You're not doing life wrong because you haven't "fixed" yourself yet. IN THIS EPISODE WE'RE DIVING INTO: - Why "solving yourself" isn't the goal (and was never meant to be) - The beautiful paradox of being okay with not being okay - What happens when we stop shaming ourselves for being human - Why Paul admitted "I do that which I should not do" (spoiler: because he was human too) - How to embrace your journey without expecting perfection - What it means to love yourself back to life TRUTH MOMENTS THAT MIGHT MAKE YOU CRY (IN A GOOD WAY): - "If things outside of us could fix us – enough money, the right relationship, the perfect church – it would have happened by now" - "Even if you never change, you're still insurmountably loved by God" - "I'm not a puzzle to be solved, but an experience to be lived" - "The journey itself is the destination" FOR ANYONE WHO: - Wakes up some days feeling like they're back at square one - Measures themselves against the fruit of the Spirit and comes up feeling short - Is tired of trying to fix themselves into worthiness - Needs permission to be human while also being Christian THIS IS YOUR INVITATION: To step into a grace that's big enough for your humanity. To find community in the journey. To know that your struggles don't disqualify you from God's love – they qualify you for His grace. Remember, even Paul had a thorn in his side. Even Jesus was a man of sorrows. Your humanity isn't a hindrance to your holiness – it's the very place where grace meets you. Love you, Dani

Hello you awesome humans! We're diving deep into something not many are talking about: the real difference between shame and guilt.  You know that feeling when you mess up (like forgetting to mail thank you cards for four months... yes, I'm calling myself out) and suddenly you're spiraling into "I always do this" and "I'm not enough"? That's not just guilt, friend. That's shame talking. And there's a bigggg difference. In this episode, we're unpacking: • Why feeling unworthy isn't because you're unworthy (it's because shame's got a grip on you) • one holy truth about guilt vs shame • What King David teaches us about shame. His bones were literally wasting away... • How to show yourself some sacred compassion when shame tries to steal your peace If you're exhausted from being your own harshest critic, this one's for you. Let's break free from shame together, shall we? Remember: You get to be human AND holy at the same time. And nothing - absolutely nothing - can separate you from God's love. Not even those unmailed thank you cards.

Today, I'm talking a little bit about forgiveness and how I've come to realize that true forgiveness is a healing journey, not a one-time decision. And what a process it can be... if you're struggling with forgiveness, hang in there! Enjoy today's episode! To look at your life, no one would ever guess at the regret and secret limiting beliefs inside. If this is you, email me at hello@danisumner.com, and I will send you a link to an upcoming free workshop I'm hosting that you won't want to miss. Just email the "workshop link," and I will get you the Zoom link.  Much love, Dani

Welcome! Today, I'm just sharing from my heart and a bit more about my struggles and the process of finding peace in this messy world...one day at a time. Enjoy!  Glad you're here! xo! Dani

Do you ever feel like you're getting tackled from every direction? In this episode, we're talking about hearing God's voice through the chaos-- AND one way to keep the faith as we move through it all. And, I'm sharing a story about Zac and his football game last week. The video of the awesome play I'm talking about is coming soon... join my email list to see it first, or follow my YouTube Channel.

Hi friend!

Hey there, beautiful souls!

Hey friend! Life got you feeling like Mike Tyson just gave you a right hook? Yeah, we've all been there. Remember, your holy mess is exactly where God does His best work. So, if you're feeling kicked in the teeth by life, tune in, and let's rediscover those dreams together. Because guess what? Jesus is NOT done with you yet! I share a bit about dropping our daughter off at college for the first time, and wow, has it been a doozy season adjusting for me? Change is never fun! But it can be purposeful. Our time at her college reminded me how hopeful youth can be. It reminded me how, after living through different aspects of life, we can become cynical and even lose hope. So, that was the inspiration for today's episode. I hope it blesses you!

So, I had this weird morning where I wore my shirt backward (don't ask

Not many of us would choose our struggles or the paths of hardship we have to walk out in this life. So when you meet someone walking through hell, and they say, "I wouldn't trade or give up all I've gained walking this hard road." --I think it's 100% worth listening to what they say! And that's our guest today. My dear friend Deb Schultz is with us, and her journey has been inspiring and challenging. She's walking through stage 4 ovarian cancer, and it's been a difficult and long road. And somehow, through it all, she's finding joy and purpose within her suffering. Her resilient spirit and attitude are contagious. I hope her words of wisdom and encouragement bless you! And she's hilarious! Enjoy this conversation and getting to know Deb. Glad you're here, Dani

159. One Of The Real Reasons You're Feeling Distant From God--Bridging the Gap: Reconnecting with God Despite Past Hurts One of the Real Reasons You're Feeling Distant from God—Bridging the Gap: Reconnecting with God Despite Past Hurts Feeling distant from God? You're not alone, friend. In this episode, we explore how our earthly relationships, especially with our parents, can impact our connection with our Heavenly Father. But don't worry—there's hope! ## Key Points: - The surprising link between past hurts and our relationship with God - A simple, one-word prayer to ground you in triggering moments - Learning to accept God's acceptance (it takes courage!) ## Quotable: "Faith is the courage to accept acceptance." - Paul Tillich ## Try This: When you're feeling triggered or distant, take a deep breath and simply say, "Father." Notice how it shifts your perspective. You may notice some resistance or distance from God by even saying "Father"--whatever comes up, don't judge yourself--just notice what comes up. That's the first step in getting to the deeper root of what may be causing some deeper issues in your life.  Remember, you're more loved than you can imagine and less broken than you feel. Keep trudging through your beautiful mess—God's right there with you. Song: Check out CC Winans' "The Goodness of God" for an extra dose of encouragement! Scripture mentioned: Psalm 103 Enjoy. Much love, Dani

*To learn more about 17 Strong or get involved in this amazing ministry please visit: https://www.17strong.org/ Episode 158. Turning Grief into Purpose: The Heart Behind the non-profit 17 Strong with Guest Holly Teixeira Hi friends! I'm so excited to share today's episode with you for many reasons.  First and foremost, I know deep in my bones that hearing someone's story and how they've gotten through their darkest hours helps birth more courage and perseverance in us as we navigate our own struggles.  If you're in the middle of a tough season, I hope today's guest, Holly Teixeira, encourages you.  I've admired her from afar for a long time--our whole community watched them walk through the unimaginable (losing a child to cancer) Holly's sharing the journey of her son Ryan's battle with cancer and the beautiful legacy he left behind.  She's also sharing the story behind the creation of 17 Strong, a nonprofit dedicated to providing "victory trips" for young adult cancer survivors.  Sometimes, when walking 'through it,' the days can be long, but remember your story matters.  You matter! Holly reminds us that there's beauty to be found even in the darkest of times. 17 Strong was Ryan's idea that came about in a hospital--the story is incredible how it all came about, and now his family is living out for him. Key Takeaways: • Grief and purpose can coexist, even in our darkest moments • The importance of taking life one day at a time when facing overwhelming challenges • How helping others can bring healing and meaning to our own pain • The power of choosing joy, even when we don't feel it • Finding strength in faith and community during times of suffering No matter what you are walking through, I hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone in your struggles. Quote to Remember: "I choose joy every day. I don't feel that joy, but I have to choose it." - Holly Teixeira Please also check out 17 Strong and how you can get involved at 17strong.org So grateful you're here. Be blessed. Much love and grace to you, Dani

Episode 157: Finding Relief and Inner Peace - Your Christian Guide to Inside-Out Living--when external situations, circumstances, and people are taking your peace away. Hey there, beautiful souls!  Let's get real for a second – are you feeling like life's got you in a chokehold sometimes? Maybe you're crushing it on the outside, but inside? That's a whole other story. Well, grab a cup of coffee (or tea; my favorite is black tea), and let's dive into some truth-telling.  In this episode, we're talking a bit about that inner peace we're all desperately searching for.  We will chat a bit about how to live from the inside out, inspired by Psalm 16. Because let's face it, we've all got our struggles with people, situations, or circumstances that are driving us nutty at times. We're breaking down: - How to find that God-given peace when the world's going crazy - Practical, no-BS ways to grow spiritually (even when you feel like you're spiraling) - Why 'self-care' isn't selfish – it's Biblical! - How to stop letting circumstances, or other people, or your own crazy thoughts run the show...(this one takes some time, so be patient with yourself!) This isn't your grandma's Bible study (love you, Grandma! Heck, I'm a grandma and love it!) But we're talking real life, real struggles, and real faith. Whether you're a spiritual heavyweight and have been walking this faith journey for longer than you can remember or just dipping your toes in, I'm glad you're here. Let's figure out this whole 'peace that passes understanding' thing together, one day at a time. Remember, you are loved, you are worthy, and you've got this. Enjoy the episode. And my greesy hair and headband if you check it out on YouTube.  Sign up for my email newsletter here--you won't regret it! www.danisumner.com Quote: Ezra Taft Benson "The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in. The world would take people out of slums. Christ takes the slums out of people, and then they take themselves out of the slums. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature." I love this quote; there's just so much in this--Drop the mic, Ezra, amen.  Verse: Psalm 16:9a "I'm happy from the inside out" Song: Head to the Heart by United Pursuit itunes / spotify / youtube Much love, Dani

Hey friend! This episode is a deep dive into the messy, beautiful reality of our faith journey. I struggled for sooo long with judgment and condemnation. It's sometimes easier to live there, rather than to embrace Grace... such a paradox I know! Today, we have Jim Beebe with us--he's a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 40 years of ministry wisdom. We're talking about how to embrace the struggle without getting bogged down in shame and judgment. Some of us struggle with at times - generational sadness, anxiety, and fear of not measuring up. But here's the truth and kicker: Jesus still loves you in your struggles. You're not doing this Christianity thing wrong just because you're wrestling with doubt or feeling lost or hurting. We dive into: Why it's okay to struggle (spoiler: even Jesus and Paul did) How to shift from self-condemnation to self-compassion The problem with "white-knuckling" your faith Finding community that can handle your honest questions Embracing your journey, limp and all Let's get real about faith, grace, and what it truly means to walk with Jesus. We're in this together, fam. Let's dive in! Enoy! Dani P.S. Want to join my email list? go to www.danisumner.com and sign up.

Ever feel like some part of your life's spinning out of control? You're not alone! In this episode, we dive into those frustrating moments when our best efforts just aren't cutting it. Using a hilarious (and slightly embarrassing) story about my dog Coco, who has taught me so much about surrender and life through my dog training struggles--we explore how to find some peace when life gets messy. Today I'm talking about: Why sometimes 'it's' hard just because it's hard (and that's okay!) How to adjust without compromising who you are! The art of holy surrender (hint: it's not giving up!) Letting go of shame when others make poor choices--I could talk about this subject for days... Whether you're dealing with a stubborn pup or life's bigger challenges, I hope this episode helps you and offers a fresh perspective on finding God's grace in tough situations. And I hope, at the very least, you laugh about my ridiculous dog struggles. May the Lord bless you and help you get through your uncontrollable moments with faith and resilience. Amen. Grateful, Dani

Ever struggle with obsessive worry or anxiety and feel bad about it?! I hope this perspective helps. Much love, Dani

Life can often feel like a wild river, full of unexpected twists and turns. Last week, we went on a whitewater rafting adventure. I'm not super adventurous anymore, so it was definitely a stretch. I'm more hotelsy, than outdoorsy. And I willingly signed up for this! But I learned so much! The first thing I learned was-- I will neverrrrr do level 4 rapids again! Seriously, it was a one-and-done experience. haha. You'll hear about it in today's episode. However, the experience had a profound impact on my life and taught me so much about navigating life's challenges. Here's a couple of stories I share about in today's episode: Why the people in your "boat" matter more than you think How apparent setbacks might be saving you from more painful troubles Sometimes, it's hard to remember that, just like on the river, life's turbulent waters aren't a curse—they're an opportunity for growth and transformation. If you have the right people by your side and a willingness to lean into the journey, you can navigate any rapid path that comes your way. I mean it... Sending you so much love, Dani P.S. If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend who might need some encouragement today. Together, we're creating a community of support and growth! By the way--the podcast just hit 200k downloads! Thank you for your continued support and love. I'm so grateful for you and the community we're building together. P.P.S. Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Be sure to subscribe the YouTube channel too. https://youtu.be/ZA958tTHwLg?feature=shared

If you memorize one prayer all year, let it be this one! This simple yet profound prayer has saved me from myself and my struggles more than I can count. I hope this short episode blesses you! You are not alone, and I'm cheering for you. The Serenity Prayer: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change,  The courage to change the things I can,  And the wisdom to know the difference. Amen." Much love, Dani

Today, we're diving deep into something that's been heavy on my heart—those complicated, often painful relationships in our lives. You know, the ones I'm talking about—the ones that ache deep within you and keep you up at night. Our nearest and dearest struggles either with our spouses, children, parents, siblings, churches or even colleagues- can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed, and desperate for answers or even an escape hatch at times.  I've been there, friends. Oh, have I been there. And I know how crippling it can feel. But here's the beautiful truth I've discovered on this journey: the relationship we need to heal most is often with ourselves. I know it might sound counterintuitive and maybe even a little selfish, but stick with me here because this is where the magic happens. In this episode, we're exploring what I like to call the "magic sauce" of relational healing: - Why healing your relationship with yourself is the key to unlocking clarity and wisdom with how to deal with all other relationships - How our relationship with ourselves profoundly impacts every area of our lives - A special 7-day mirror exercise that might feel uncomfortable at first, but could change everything - The spiritual perspective on self-love and soul care and its critical importance in our walk with God Takeaway quote: "As we heal our relationship with ourselves, I'm telling you, other relationships around us are healed. And as we find boundaries, we find clarity." Verse mentioned: Jeremiah 1:5 "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born, I set you apart." Song mentioned: "God Only Knows" by King & Country If you're ready to go deeper in this healing journey, learn more about the Feel Better Journey coaching program at www.danisumner.com/thefeelbetterjourney With love and gratitude, Dani

Hi friend! I'm sharing a short story, verse, quote, and song in today's short episode. I hope it blesses you! Remember, no matter how lonely you feel, you're not alone.  Quote: "We are all born into this world looking for someone looking for us." --Psychiatrist Curt Thompson, read that again.

Hey friends, Get ready to dive into the messy, beautiful reality of being human with Therapist Jim Beebe. Jim's such a gift to our community!  We're talking about the loneliness and incompleteness so many of us feel, and guess what? It's not just you, and it doesn't mean you're failing at life or doing anything wrong! I know in some Christian circles, feeling sad or anxious can make you feel like you're not praying hard enough or that God's giving you the cold shoulder. And that can add another layer of shame to our struggles. Ugh. But those feelings are part of the human package. Jim also reminds us that even the best marriages and relationships can't erase human loneliness, but embracing it as part of our journey leads to depth, wisdom, and wholeness. Sadness can even be the doorway to true joy—crazy, right? But oh, so true. If you've ever felt like something's missing or beaten yourself up for not being happy enough, this episode is a big ol' hug and fresh perspective. True happiness is about dancing with all of life's experiences with acceptance and grace. Enjoy Jim's refreshing perspective and wisdom that comes from working as a Therapist for over 40 years. :) Sending so much love to you, and I'm glad you're here! Dani

Hi friend! Life is full of ups and downs. And I'm feeling all the feelings and emotions that come along with the rollercoaster. :)  In today's episode, I'm sharing a bit of what I've been wrestling through lately and some encouragement--if you're wrestling through a part of your life or this season of life--I hope you're encouraged! References: Quote- "If you're going through hell, keep going."-Winston Churchill Verse- Romans 5:3-5 Song- "There was Jesus" by Zach Williams and Dolly Parton iTunes // YouTube // Spotify xo

In today's episode, I share a personal struggle we're going through that's teaching me a ton about life. In this short encouragement episode, I also share a quote, a verse, and a song.  I hope it encourages you! Quote: "Be not angry that you cannot make others as you wish them to be, since you cannot make yourself as you wish to be."-- Thomas a Kempis Song: Shine Your Way iTunes // YouTube // Spotify Verse: Philippians 1:6, "He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." "This too shall pass. It may pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass!"-Dani :) Enjoy! Dani

“Our greatest strengths can also be our deepest vulnerabilities.”-Dani In today's episode, I'm sharing two tools to help build self-confidence.  One of the tools I share about is a practical exercise that you can incorporate into your daily routine. By practicing this tool, you will boost your self-confidence and gain valuable insights about yourself. It feels awkward at first, but it's so worth the effort to push through the awkwardness to reap the benefits.  Enjoy today's episode! Love you, Dani

Are you struggling with regret, shame, or feeling like you've missed out on the life you were supposed to have? Well then, you're in for a treat today!  My counselor, Jim Beebe, is with us, AND holy moly, do we dive deep today! Jim's amazing, and you're going to love him.  We're diving deep into the human experience of the "shoulda, coulda, woulda," and Jim offers profound insights on finding healing and peace. And most importantly, he shares practical steps that can help offload some regret and shame.  I'm telling you, what he shares works.  Jim's wisdom could be the key you've been searching for, potentially saving you from years of struggle and even thousands in therapy. You're welcome. ;)  His insights are so helpful and practical.   Remember, wherever you are in the process, you're not alone, and there's HOPE. If you're ready to stop beating yourself up, paying the "pain tax," and start moving towards freedom - this episode is for you.  Grateful you're here. Sign up for my email newsletter here, and we can be email buddies, too. Please subscribe to the Podcast on your favorite app so you are notified when we have new episodes.  Enjoy today's episode, Dani

Hi friend, I'm reminded how much the harm the hard things we've walked through in this life affect us. They leave their mark on us at times, so to speak... So, if you're walking "through it," I'm sorry for the pain... but keep walking... you will get through this. You've survived all of your worst days so far. ;) Glad you're here, and I hope today's episode encourages you. If you need prayer, email me at hello@danisumner.com Also, in today's episode, I mentioned a survey--if you'd like to participate, that would be amazing. I love hearing from those who listen to the show. Here's the link. Here's the song, quote, and verse I mention: Quote: "you will never outperform your own self-image." Verse: Isaiah 40:26 "Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing." Song: "Another in the fire" Hillsong United  iTunes // Youtube // Spotify Glad you're here.  Much love, Dani

Hey friend! Okay, let's get real for a second. Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of stress management and how to give shame the boot when we're struggling. Because let's face it, we're all beautifully complex humans, and guess what? That's exactly how God designed us! Now, I know there's this pesky little misconception that tends to float around in Christian circles (and trust me, I've fallen for it too)--the idea that if we're grappling with big feelings, intense emotions, or just facing some tough challenges, it must mean we're doing something wrong. ;/ But here's the thing: that's just not true. Nope, not even close! In today's episode, we'll explore the wild and wonderful truth that our emotions are not some kind of curse. In fact, learning to feel and process them is all part of the "holy and hard work" of personal growth. It's like a spiritual workout and so worth it in the long run. And you know what else? We'll talk about how our pain and struggles can actually become our purpose. Those hardships we go through can equip us with the wisdom and compassion to minister to others who are going through similar things. It's like turning lemons into the most delicious, soul-quenching lemonade. ;) I hope this episode wraps you up in a big ol' hug and reminds you that you are so not alone in your struggles. We're all in this beautiful, messy, amazing journey together. I'm so grateful you're here, and I can't wait to share this time with you! Love and grace, Dani P.S. If you haven't already, come join the party and sign up for my email list at www.danisumner.com ! I promise it's not just another boring newsletter. We'll have some laughs, share some tears, and walk this journey together. Can't wait to connect with you there! Key Takeaways: 1. Life's hardships, circumstances, relationships, and our unique physiology can all contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, or grief, and it's crucial to acknowledge and process these emotions without judgment. 2. We are not spiritual robots, and resenting ourselves for struggling emotionally can be harmful. Instead, we should strive to be self-aware, observing our feelings and thoughts to understand their deeper roots. 3. Our emotions are not a curse, and learning to feel and process them is part of the "holy and hard work" of personal growth. 4. As triune beings (body, mind, and spirit), trauma and pain can leave lasting imprints on our entire being, making it essential to find healthy ways to release pain and not allow our bodies to become "coffins for pain." 5. Our pain and struggles can become our purpose, allowing us to minister to others through the wisdom gained from hardships. 6. Experiencing difficulties doesn't make someone less of a Christian or indicate that they are doing something wrong. 7. Engaging in the work of processing emotions and experiences within a supportive community can be transformative. Quotes: "Your pain can also become one of your biggest purposes on this planet." "We are not spiritual robots, but we are spiritual beings, and we have to tend to those places within us." "Doing this life together ... is literally his kingdom come, thy will be done on earth now as it is in heaven."   Resources: - "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk (book mentioned in the episode) - The Feel Better Journey (a program created to help you process emotions and experiences in a healthy, Jesus-centered way, and it's a fun time, together!)

Hi friend! Here's a sneak peek inside my coaching program, The Feel Better Journey. This short episode covers a few subjects, and I hope it encourages you! Also, if you have little ones, please put them on your headset. My language is a little 'colorful' in a few spots.  Also, in case no one has mentioned it lately, while you still have breath in your lungs, God's not done with you! I'm so grateful we're on this journey together. 

Hey, my friend! Let's get real for a minute. Life is hard. It's messy, it's complicated, and sometimes it feels like we're drowning in a sea of grief, shame, and anxiety. But here's the thing: life is also beautiful. It's a crazy, wonderful, "brutiful" journey—as I once heard it said, and we're all in this together. I know what it's like to feel like you're not enough, to carry the weight of your past mistakes, and to wonder if you'll ever find relief from the constant barrage of emotions. As a recovering alcoholic, I've been there. I've hit rock bottom and clawed my way back up. And let me tell you, it's not easy, but it's so worth it. That's why I created The Feel Better Journey. It's a place where we can come together, drop our masks, and be unapologetically ourselves. It's a space where we can ask the hard questions, process our pain, and learn how to ride the waves of life without getting pulled under by the current. Because here's the thing: we're not meant to do this alone. We need each other. We need a community of warriors who understand our struggles and cheer us on as we do the holy and hard work of healing. And that work? It's not about fixing ourselves or striving for perfection. It's about learning to embrace the mess, to find beauty in the brokenness, and to trust that God is with us every step of the way. So, my friend, if you're feeling lost, alone, or overwhelmed, know that you're not the only one. We're all stumbling through this brutiful life together. And when we lean into each other and into God's grace, we find the strength to keep going, to keep growing, and to keep shining our light in a world that so desperately needs it. Because that's what this journey is all about. It's about finding our purpose, even in the midst of the pain. It's about learning to love ourselves and others fiercely and unapologetically. The Jesus way. It's about being brave enough to show up, to speak our truth, and to trust that we are exactly where we're meant to be. So, my friend, take a deep breath. You've got this. We've got this. And together, we'll keep walking through the mess and the magic, one brutiful step at a time. Here's your invitation to join us today inside The Feel Better Journey. Remember to use code "EARLYBIRD24" for all the bonuses!