Girls Talking Life

Do you need a reminder that hoping in Jesus is an active practice? Advent is a time of expectant hope, and it's an invitation to increase our focus on our Savior in preparation for the celebration of Christmas. While part of hoping is waiting, we don't wait passively. My guest, Jen Ludwig, and I are talking all about holding on to the hope we have in Jesus and intentionally embracing Advent this season. You'll hear us talk about… Actively waiting with hope Hoping with other people Where we go to find hope Longing for holiness at Christmastime Jen Ludwig is a Jesus-follower, writer, and worship leader. After attending Pepperdine University and finishing her graduate studies at UCLA, she settled in Southern California, where she currently resides with her husband. They are recent empty-nesters, daily discovering what God has in store for them in this new season. Her devotional book, Embracing Advent, encourages us to focus on the hope, peace, joy and love that Jesus offers at Christmas, and every day of the year.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH JEN Instagram | Facebook | Website     CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

Are you grieving a loss? You likely are. We experience loss every day. Sometimes, it's smaller, like moving away from a friend or a city you loved, and sometimes, it's extremely significant, like the death of a family member. But through it all, we can be looking for God's glory. And when we search for it, we will see it. My guest, Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young, is sharing her personal story of loss and the miraculous gift God gave her family through it. She's encouraging us to chase God's glory through our grief, too. You'll hear us talk about… Navigating everyday grief Using God's Word to help process grief How good things can come from loss Supporting others on their grief journey Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young is a multi-published author, speaker, podcaster, former news reporter, and writing coach. She is passionate about helping women discover God's glory on life's unexpected paths and flourish in their God-given callings.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH DORINA Instagram | Facebook | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

Do you want more of Jesus? Do you desire a deeper life with God? The depth of intimacy is determined by you. God has already restored the relationship by sending Jesus. He is already pursuing us. It's up to us to intentionally pursue Him. Jeannie Cunnion, today's guest and author of Closer to God, says “we will not grow closer to Him on accident.” So how do we deepen our relationship with God? Listen in! You'll hear us talk about… How to experience more of God in your daily life What going deeper has looked like for Jeannie How you know you're growing in intimacy What holds us back Where to start Jeannie Cunnion is a bestselling author and speaker whose most recent books and Bible studies include Mom Set Free, Don't Miss Out, and Never Alone. Her work has been featured on outlets such as the TODAY show, Fox News, CBN, and a host of popular podcasts. Jeannie holds a master's degree in social work, and she is the co-founder of The 509 Foundation. She and her husband, Mike, live in Greenwich, Connecticut, with their five boys.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH JEANNIE Instagram | Website   OUR SPONSOR Abide: Come Practice Being with Jesus Presented by Sarah at Love Well LLC.   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

A discussion about engaging in the political conversation, making biblical-based decisions and practically preparing to go to the polls. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE vote411.org CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

Are the one-size-fits-all parenting techniques falling short for your family? Maybe it's time to parent using the Enneagram as your guide. Beth McCord, also known as Your Enneagram Coach, joins me to help us use the Enneagram to better understand ourselves first, and then better understand how God uniquely created our kids. You'll hear us talk about… becoming a self-aware mom how and when we can discover our kids' types choosing connection over behavior modification noticing our kids' strengths (even when they don't seem like strengths) Beth is the heart and mind behind Your Enneagram Coach. With a rich background spanning over two decades as an Enneagram speaker, coach, bestselling author, and dedicated educator, Beth has devoted herself to empowering others through the transformative lens of the Enneagram from a faith-based perspective. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH BETH Instagram | Facebook | Website   OUR SPONSOR Hide and Seek Scriptures Devotional (Get the personalized version with your name inserted for 50% off with code: GTLOFFER50 or get a free copy of the standard version. Use Code: GTLOFFER)   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

Do you feel defeated when it comes to parenting or do you parent with a victory mindset? I'm talking with Victoria Riollano about how to equip ourselves to fight for our families, as our kids get ready to go back to school and every day. It starts with us. But today's show isn't just for moms. It's for any woman in a position to fight for the kids they love. You'll hear us talk about… defeated thinking vs. victory-minded how we equip our hearts to fight having a war plan for our children prayers for our kids as they go back to school Victoria Riollano is a mother of eight, military spouse, and Psychology professor at three universities. Victoria holds an MA in child psychology and is currently a doctoral student of Social Psychology at Liberty University. Her ultimate passion is to write and speak to inspire others to know Christ more.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH VICTORIA Instagram | Website   OUR SPONSORS Dream Belivers Community Hide and Seek Scriptures Devotional (Get the personalized version with your name inserted for 50% off with code: GTLOFFER50 or get a free copy of the standard version. Use Code: GTLOFFER)   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

Have you ever wondered how to actually follow Jesus in your real life? Do you know if you're following Christ or following the culture? Does discipleship sound way too hard? Yolanda Solomon, author of Discipleship as Holy Collaboration: Helping Others Follow Jesus in Real Life, is on the show today to help us answer some of these questions. You'll hear us talk about… Following Jesus without being a weirdo Discipleship as a group project – holy collaboration Following culture or following Christ Yolanda M. Solomon is the director of discipleship at Epiphany Church in Brooklyn, New York, where she teaches and creates discipleship curriculum and resources. She has also worked in campus ministry at Columbia University in New York, where she was blessed to serve undergraduate students for seven years. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH YOLANDA Instagram | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Website

What are you consuming? What are you filling up on? Is it adding to your anxiety? We are revisiting a popular episode from the series Overcoming Anxiety.  Amy Seiffert joins me for a conversation about nourishing ourselves with the things our souls need to be fulfilled. You'll hear us talk about… Spiritual junk food we're consuming Amy's story of overwhelm and her new book Starved Techniques to ground us in peace Amy is also the author of Grace Looks Amazing on You and is on the teaching team at Brookside Church. She is an affiliate Cru staff member and a regular YouVersion Bible teacher. She loves to travel and speak (and try new foods on all of her adventures!). Amy is married to her college sweetheart, Rob, and they live in Bowling Green, Ohio, with their three kids. (This episode was originally released in March of 2023.)

Are you ready to shift into a slower gear? Let's take advantage of this season and create some intentional rhythms that allow us to slow down, and connect with God and with people. My friend Jodi Grubbs is on the show gently guiding us into slower living and sharing some practices to help us be unhurried. You'll hear us talk about… Creating slow-living rhythms for summer Slowing down to deepen friendships How Jesus modeled slowness Finding your Soul Care Sanctuary Jodi H. Grubbs is the podcast host of Our Island in the City and a slow-living advocate. She is the author of a children's book, The Island Adventures of Lili and Oliver, and coauthor of a Bible study called The Friendship Café. Jodi, her husband, Dean, and their daughter, Lili, live in outside Raleigh, North Carolina.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH JODI Instagram | Facebook | Website   GET THE QUICKSTART GUIDE Girls Talking Life is all about cultivating community and creating meaningful connections. In pursuit of that mission, I'm launching Girls Talking Life Groups. It's like a book club but for the podcast. You listen to an episode then get together with friends to discuss, reflect, and apply it to your life. Grab the Girls Talking Life Group Quick Start Guide. I outline a couple of simple steps, answer a few questions you may have, and tell you exactly how I'd start, if I were starting a group.   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Do you have a heart for healing and restoration? Confronting systemic racism feels overwhelming, but you and I can help dismantle it one small step at a time. Latasha Morrison, founder of Be the Bridge, is on the show today sharing a little of her story and walking us through why this should be a priority, especially in the life of a believer, and what we can do to make a difference. You'll hear us talk about… How understanding culture lessens our biases Prioritizing relationships with people who are different from us Scripture's instruction for justice and unity Steps of action toward transformation Latasha is a distinguished author, renowned for her transformative work in fostering racial reconciliation and unity. As a New York Times best-selling author, she has captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide with her powerful words and insightful perspectives. Her influential book, "Be the Bridge," has become a beacon of hope, guiding individuals and communities towards a future free from racial division.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH LATASHA Instagram | Facebook | Website   GET THE QUICKSTART GUIDE Girls Talking Life is all about cultivating community and creating meaningful connections. In pursuit of that mission, I'm launching Girls Talking Life Groups. It's like a book club but for the podcast. You listen to an episode then get together with friends to discuss, reflect, and apply it to your life. Grab the Girls Talking Life Group Quick Start Guide. I outline a couple of simple steps, answer a few questions you may have, and tell you exactly how I'd start, if I were starting a group.   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

When was the last time you experienced authentic connection? It's becoming more and more rare as our country faces an epidemic of loneliness. But it doesn't have to be that way. There is power in authentic connection and you have the ability to create it. Nancy Lindgren in on the show today to tell us how. She has over 35 years of mentoring experience and she's sharing how simple it can be to come alongside someone, and also how powerful those connections can be with Jesus at the center. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH NANCY Instagram | Facebook | Website   GET THE QUICKSTART GUIDE Girls Talking Life is all about cultivating community and creating meaningful connections. In pursuit of that mission, I'm launching Girls Talking Life Groups. It's like a book club but for the podcast. You listen to an episode then get together with friends to discuss, reflect, and apply it to your life. Grab the Girls Talking Life Group Quick Start Guide. I outline a couple of simple steps, answer a few questions you may have, and tell you exactly how I'd start, if I were starting a group.   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Welcome to another Girls Talking Life Extra.  It's not a full show, just a short chat with a past guest to let you know what she's up to now. I'm talking with Sarah E. Westfall. Sarah joined me way, way back on episode 17 where she shared her story of motherhood and heartbreak and seeking God's goodness. She was also my guest host for the Summer of Friendship in 2022 where she talked about barriers to belonging, showing up when life gets hard, and celebration over comparison. Sarah is a writer, speaker, and host of the Human Together podcast. Her previous work includes serving as director of community for online writing groups and as a student development professional on college campuses. She has been published in RELEVANT, Fathom Mag, and (in)courage. Sarah lives in Indiana with her husband, Ben, and four sons. Today we are talking about her new book, The Way of Belonging: Reimagining Who We Are and How We Relate, releasing on June 11th. This topic is so close to my heart and the mission of Girls Talking Life.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Preorder The Way of Belonging Use code IVPPOD20 for 20% off plus free shipping I'll be giving a copy of her book away to a GTL newsletter subscriber. Be sure you are on my mailing list for a chance to win! Sarah on episode 17 [Sacrificial Motherhood] Sarah as Guest Host for the Summer of Friendship   CONNECT WITH SARAH Website | Instagram   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

We've all experienced a friendship breakup. Maybe you were able to reconcile, maybe you're in the middle of friendship turmoil right now, or maybe your friendship has distinctly ended. Relationships are hard and not all of them are for the long haul which is why I'm so grate to my guest, Elizabeth Laing Thompson, for walking us through what to do when a friendship falls apart. You'll hear us talk about… Why friendships fall apart Navigating the pain of broken friendships Keeping your hurt from affecting other relationships Taking steps toward healing Why it's important to God Elizabeth is the author of many books for women and teens, including All the Feels, All the Feels for Teens, and the When God Says series. She writes at ElizabethLaingThompson.com about clinging to Christ through the chaos of daily life. As a speaker and novelist, Elizabeth loves finding humor in holiness and hope in heartache. She lives in North Carolina with her preacher husband and four spunky kids. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH ELIZABETH Instagram | Facebook | Website   GET THE QUICKSTART GUIDE Girls Talking Life is all about cultivating community and creating meaningful connections. In pursuit of that mission, I'm launching Girls Talking Life Groups. It's like a book club but for the podcast. You listen to an episode then get together with friends to discuss, reflect, and apply it to your life. Grab the Girls Talking Life Group Quick Start Guide. I outline a couple of simple steps, answer a few questions you may have, and tell you exactly how I'd start, if I were starting a group.   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Welcome to a Girls Talking Life Extra. It's not a full show, just a short chat – usually with a past guest – but today I'm introducing you to a new friend. New to the show that is! You may be familiar with Myquillyn Smith, also known as "The Nester.” She is the New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Welcome Home and Cozy Minimalist Home. For the past 15 years, she has been encouraging women to embrace their space--imperfections and all--and make it their own. Her home in North Carolina has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Ladies' Home Journal, and Cottages & Bungalows. She's never met a home she didn't love.  Today Myquillyn and I are talking about her new book HOUSE RULES. You'll hear her talk about how perfection is not the goal. The goal is for you to love your home and invite people in. Rule #1: learn the rules and then break them beautifully.   RELATED EPISODES If you'd like to hear more on hospitality and inviting people in, I encourage you to check out episodes #74 [A Warm and Welcoming Home for the Holidays] with Alieta Casey and #133 [Love Your Neighbors] with Twyla Franz.   SUPPORT THE SHOW After listening, tell me what you thought! Did this episode resonate with you? I would love your feedback. On Apple Podcasts, tap the three dots in the upper right corner, choose Go to Show, scroll down, and under Ratings and Reviews, tap Write a Review. It's quick and easy!    CONNECT WITH MYQUILLYN Find her online at TheNester.com and on Instagram @TheNester.   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Do you feel intimidated when it comes to opening your Bible? Do you read your Bible but feel like you don't get much out of it? Do you need something to freshen up your current Bible-studying routine? My guest today is the lovely Portia Collins, a Christian Bible teacher, writer, and podcaster with a passion for sharing God's Word. But it hasn't always been that way. Portia shares her story of struggle, of turning to the Bible in desperation, and how when she did, she was changed. You'll hear us talk about… Why we need to study the Word for ourselves Reading vs. studying Getting started with Bible study Fresh ideas for experienced bible-studiers Portia is the founder of She Shall Be Called, a nonprofit women's ministry focused on Bible literacy. You can also catch her hosting two weekly podcasts: Grounded—a podcast/videocast from Revive Our Hearts—and Sweet Tea with Jasmine & Portia. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH PORTIA Instagram | Facebook | Website   SUPPORT THE SHOW After listening, tell me what you thought! Did this episode resonate with you? I would love your feedback. On Apple Podcasts, tap the three dots in the upper right corner, choose Go to Show, scroll down, and under Ratings and Reviews, tap Write a Review. It's quick and easy!    CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook  

Are you going through a big change right now? Or maybe lots of little ones? Change is inevitable and even good change can be hard. Author Andi Andrew joins me to chat about how we show amid of the changes we face, how it's okay to grieve the losses, show gratitude for what's next, and how through the transition we can grow to be more like Christ. You'll hear us talk about… The grief of letting go Change that molds us Avoiding vs. welcoming Processing change with integrity Friendship through transition   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH ANDI Instagram | Facebook | Website   SUPPORT THE SHOW If you're listening in real time, my birthday is in two weeks! As a gift to me would you be willing to support the show by leaving a rating or review? If you are listening on Apple Podcasts just scroll to the bottom of the show and there it is. Quick and easy!    CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook   OUR SPONSOR Custom art by Connie Lawson  Weeds Seeds and Beautiful Things 

How well do you know the people who live close to you? How well do you love them? Jesus tells us to love our neighbor as ourselves, but how do we actually do that? Missional neighboring advocate Twyla Franz is on the show today helping us get closer to Jesus and grow deep, missional friendships with our neighbors. You'll hear us talk about… What missional living is What it means to be visible and interruptible How humility and curiosity can deepen friendships Overcoming the obstacles to missional neighboring Twyla Franz is a big believer in baby steps and ripple-effect living. An Enneagram 9 learning to live open. She loves front-yard conversations with neighbors, chalk-painted furniture, and Yogi's blueberry tea. As a missional neighboring guide, she helps others get close to Jesus and grow deep, missional friendships with neighbors. Find her words (written and recorded) on twylafranz.com. Other places Twyla writes include (in)courage, Relevant, Her View From Home, and The Grit and Grace Project. She also hosts Begin Within: A Gratitude Series to encourage year-round gratitude (because gratitude, she says, has a ripple effect). GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH TWYLA Instagram | Facebook | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook   OUR SPONSOR Custom art by Connie Lawson - Weeds Seeds and Beautiful Things       

How do you interact with people who are different than you? If someone has different beliefs or political associations, do you automatically dismiss them? What if your actions of friendship could save the world? Author and speaker Carrie Stephens is on the show talking about the power of a diverse community, how we can move toward people who are different than us, and how we show up in the world as followers of Jesus first.   You'll hear us talk about… The Book of Ruth Why we need diverse friendships Forgiveness and redemption Law, love, and politics  Carrie Stephens is the author of Holy Guacamole: A Glorious Discovery of your Undeniable Worth (Shiloh, February 2020), Jesus, Love, & Tacos: A Spicy Take on Lordship, Community, and Mission (Leafwood, October 2022), and co-author of Friendship Can Save the World: The Book of Ruth and the Power of Diverse Community (Leafwood, September 2023). Carrie and her husband, Morgan, live in Austin, Texas, and have four incredible kids. After serving as campus ministers for ten years at the University of Texas, Carrie and Morgan have led Mosaic Church, a richly diverse community of faith in Austin, since 2009. They are passionate about reaching lives and transforming cities through church planting, campus ministry, and missional work. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH CARRIE Instagram | Facebook | Website   GET THE REFLECTION GUIDE   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook   OUR SPONSOR Custom art by Connie Lawson - Weeds Seeds and Beautiful Things 

As you begin to settle into 2024 are you wondering how to make the most of this year? How to make the most of your life? As you look at your goals and intentions for the year are they pointing you toward your purpose or are they all about performance? Shawna Sullivan joins me to chat about how we can view our lives through a new lens, not living for achievements and accolades but taking small, practical steps toward the purposes God has for us. You'll hear us talk about… Shawna's story of performance to purpose 5 focus areas to help you live with purpose Pursuing authentic relationships 5 prayers to create space for God to move this year Shawna Sullivan is a mother and home educator to four children. After 13 years, she traded the hustle and bustle of New York City for the suburbs of north Texas. She will never take a backyard, time with family, air conditioning, or her own laundry room for granted. Shawna writes regularly for Family Christian and Christian Parenting online. Her passion for living faithfully, not perfectly, informs her words and ministry.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE A Practical Guide for a Purposeful Life The Bible Recap 5 Prayers to Create Space for God to Move This Year   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH SHAWNA Instagram | Facebook | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Do you feel prompted to be in God's word more or in a different way this year? I have two ideas for you. The beginning of the year, for most of us, is a time to reflect on the past year and plan for the year to come. I have several categories I try to take inventory in. Areas like my marriage, parenting, health, friendships, money, and one is always spiritual growth. What am I going to do this year to grow in my relationship with Jesus?  One of my answers to that question is by being in God's Word. Opening my bible and reading it for myself has greatly deepened my faith. So as you plan for the year ahead, I want to offer two ways for you to open your bible, be in God's word, and grow in your relationship with Jesus this year.   A Bible Reading Plan A Word of the Year Word Study I've also invited a special guest to join us. My friend Megan Ericson – also a guest on episode 16 - joined me in 2023 and read the bible using this plan. She is here to share her experience. Megan is the CEO of The Yoga Abbey, an online Christian yoga community. She lives in the Columbus, Ohio, area with her husband and three teenage kids.     CONNECT WITH MEGAN Megan on IG | The Yoga Abbey on IG   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Here we are at the beginning of the Advent season. The hustle and bustle of December has started. It's layered with excitement, anticipation, and stress. Every year I ask myself how can I make sure this Christmas is all about celebrating our Savior. My guest today is going to point us right to Him. Author and Bible teacher, Ocieanna Fleiss, joins me to talk about her Advent devotional, Awaiting the Manger: Whispers of Advent in the Old Testament, and how we can quiet our hearts and focus on Jesus. You'll hear us talk about… How Jesus was God's plan before the beginning The OT story of Leah and how it points to Christ Slowing down to celebrate our Savior Ocieanna is the author of Awaiting the Manger: Whispers of Advent in the Old Testament which was released in September from Harvest House publishers. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   MORE HOLIDAY INSPIRATION #104 Bring Peace into Your Heart and Home with Victoria Duerstock #76 Why Christmas Matters with Anna Nash #74 A Warm and Welcoming Home for the Holidays with Alieta Casey #52 What Mama Needs at Christmas #29 Reclaiming Home this Christmas with Krista Gilbert

What negative beliefs have you internalized about sex? Do you think of intimacy as a good gift from God? For much of human history, intimacy has been a place of pain and brokenness, an area where we have lacked discipleship. So I would be remiss not to include this topic in our Strengthen Your Marriage series. Francie Winslow is on the show today and she's letting us in on her healing journey when it comes to sex, marriage, and the mission of God. She invites us to heal, find freedom, and shift our mindsets to more accurately reflect what God intended for us. Francie's ministry includes sexual discipleship for women. She teaches, not as an expert, but as a Christian woman pursuing healing and wholeness for herself, rooted in Scripture and theology. You'll hear us talk about… Correcting wrong beliefs about sexuality God's design for intimacy Vulnerability with your husband Overcoming barriers to intimacy Connecting to your body Francie has a BA in Political Science and a Masters in Evangelism and Leadership from Wheaton College in Wheaton, Il. She lives in Northern Virginia and is crazy about life with her husband and their five kids. Francie currently ministers as a podcast host, mentor, writer and as a speaker for churches and women's conferences.   GET THE SERIES REFLECTION GUIDE   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES

Marriages are not perfect. We're two imperfect people. We're bound to hurt each other. But we don't have to respond the way the world tells us to with spite, unforgiveness, or cancelation. We are continuing in our Strengthen Your Marriage series with a conversation on forgiveness and healing. Stephanie Broersma lived a charmed life…until the day she discovered a deleted conversation between her husband and another woman. Stephanie is on the show sharing her story with us today. You'll hear us talk about… Her husband's confession of betrayal How she partnered with God to forgive him Their journey toward healing and restoration Rebuilding trust and establishing boundaries Stephanie Broersma is the author of the Reclaimed 30-day Devotional and the founder of Reclaimed Ministries.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH STEPHANIE Instagram | Facebook | Website    GTL BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY Girls Talking Life is turning 5! I'm celebrating by giving YOU the chance to win gifts! I've teamed up with some amazing and thoughtful women to bring you this GROW YOUR FAITH bundle. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY!

Next up in our marriage series, we are focusing on communication. How we interact with our husbands will either build our marriages up or tear them down. But honest, humble communication isn't easy. Today, I'm talking with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Heather Bjur. She helps us understand why we might react the way we do, how humility can change our relationships, how our thoughts shape what we say, and how to begin to become emotionally honest. You'll hear us talk about… Attachment style How your thoughts affect your communication Creating new neuropathways Becoming emotionally honest When to seek counseling Heather is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Valley Christian Counseling Center in Fargo, North Dakota. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional who offers EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (for couples). Additionally, Heather holds a certificate in Spiritual Direction through the late Dr. Larry Crabb's New Way Ministries. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH HEATHER Instagram | Facebook | Website    GTL BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY Girls Talking Life turns 5 next month! I'll be celebrating by giving YOU the chance to win gifts! Be sure you are on my mailing list or following me on Instagram so you know how and when to enter!

We are starting a series today that focuses on strengthening our marriages. Where better to start than at the foundation? What we build our lives and our marriages on matters. Alli Patterson, author and pastor, joins me to share her story of building her marriage on things she thought were good only to discover that following the standards of the world is like building your house on the sand. But when her world collapsed, Jesus was there. You'll hear us talk about… Alli's marriage story The importance of guarding your heart How Jesus meets you at rock bottom 3 practices to build your life and marriage on Alli is a Teaching Pastor at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, OH and a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary. She's passionate about helping others know Jesus in his Word and discover the strength and power of God's wisdom for their real lives. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH ALLI Instagram | Facebook | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

How do you lend your voice in constructive ways? How do you disagree without destroying a relationship? Is kindness only a nicety? Just a moral virtue? Ashlee Eiland, author of Human(Kind): How Reclaiming Human Worth and Embracing Radical Kindness will bring us Back Together, joins me for a timely conversation about the power we can access to help heal and reconcile our world. You'll hear us talk about… Where the Power to be Kind Comes From Speaking in Grace and Truth Elevating a Person's Worthiness Confronting an Issue Without Being Confrontational to a Person When Helping to Healing Humanity Feels Too Big Ashlee is a leader, pastor, writer and Bible teacher who exists to join God in His redemptive work here on Earth. Her work has one purpose: to help humanity build bridges back to the Truth of who God is and between one another in redemptive, healing relationship. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH ASHLEE Instagram | Facebook | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Does back-to-school have your head spinning? Do you feel overwhelmed with the demands of parenting in this season? Are you struggling to find time with God? Today I'm talking with my new friend Caris Snider, author of Car Line Mom: 100 Days of Encouragement for the Mama Who Gets Everybody Everywhere. And Caris is doing just that…she's giving us encouragement in this busy season of back-to-school, fall sports and activities, and the many carlines we are starting to find ourselves waiting in. You'll hear us talk about… Handling the mental load of motherhood Getting time with God amidst the chaos The importance of community Caris's back-to-school hacks Caris Snider is a Christian Communicator who shares the hope of God as a speaker, writer, certified life coach, and podcaster on her weekly show, Car Line Conversations. GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   CONNECT WITH CARIS Instagram | Facebook | Website   LISTEN TO THE SUMMER OF FRIENDSHIP SERIES   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

We are wrapping it all up today! This is week ten, the final episode of the Summer of Friendship series and we're talking about three things: creating a new friendship rhythm for a new season, making new friends, and a common friendship struggle. If you haven't listened to all the episodes in this series or haven't been as intentional with your friendships as you'd planned, there's still time! There's no end date on this, in fact, this is just the beginning!   Mentioned in this Episode Episode #94 Making New Friends Episode #107 with Amberly Neese - Finding Safe Friends Take the Summer Survey Join The Gathering Project

Welcome to week nine of the Summer of Friendship series. Friend, we are almost done!  Today we're tackling a tough topic, at least for me. We're chatting about when a friendship ends. Friendships can end for so many different reasons and I can't even begin to go into all the nuances that you've experienced or that could come up, so I'm breaking it into two categories: 1) when things end because something unfavorable happens and 2) when things just end.   Mentioned in this Episode Psalm 55 - The Betrayal of a Friend Episode 44 with Chelsey DeMatteis More of Him Less of Me chelseydematteis.com   Connect with Girls Talking Life Instagram | Facebook | Website

Last week we talked about four factors that can lead us into deeper friendships. One of those was asking good questions, but could all our questions be keeping us from sharing our own hearts? Special guest host Jill E. McCormick joins us again to talk us through dropping certain habits that keeps us from going deeper in friendship. Jill is the host of the Grace in Real Life podcast and the writer behind jillemccormick.com, spaces where she shares common-sense grace with the try-hard girl who wants her faith to intersect with her real and full life. Jill lives in South Texas with her high-school-sweetheart-now-husband Ryan, their two daughters, and one Vizsla puppy. CONNECT WITH JILL Instagram | Website | Enneagram Guide   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Instagram | Facebook | Website

How do you move from being acquaintances or casual friends into a closer, deeper relationship? Find out today! We're taking a look at who we have in our lives and talking through four ways to go deeper with a few friends.   Mentioned in this Episode Friendship Inventory Conversation Cards   Connect with Girls Talking Life Instagram | Facebook | Website

We are in week six of the Summer of Friendship series here on Girls Talking Life and we're chatting about our capacity for friendships, what it might look like to have or to be an introverted friend, and thinking through our expectations for ourselves and for those friends.   Mentioned in this Episode Grace in Real Life episode #134: How to Make Friends As an Introvert    Connect with Girls Talking Life Instagram | Facebook | Website

Welcome to week five of the Summer of Friendship series! Special guest host Jill E. McCormick is back sharing a bit of her story and what to do when you feel too fragile for friendship. If you're in a difficult season or just having a hard day, you may feel the tension of needing to let friends in and, at the same time, not wanting to share a thing. I hope Jill's words encourage you today. Jill is the host of the Grace in Real Life podcast and the writer behind jillemccormick.com, spaces where she shares common-sense grace with the try-hard girl who wants her faith to intersect with her real and full life. Jill lives in South Texas with her high-school-sweetheart-now-husband Ryan, their two daughters, and one Vizsla puppy. CONNECT WITH JILL Instagram | Website | Enneagram Guide   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Instagram | Facebook | Website

Welcome to week four of the Summer of Friendship series! Today we're talking even more about personality, your uniqueness, and how YOU ARE NEEDED as a friend. To go along with this series, I'm hosting a  Summer Friendship Challenge. If you're ready to dig in with intentionality this summer, I'd love for you to jump in. Each week of the challenge, you'll get an email with a small action step to help you cultivate community. If you're already subscribed to the GTL newsletter, you're in! If you're not a subscriber yet, join the challenge here: Summer Friendship Challenge   Connect with Girls Talking Life Instagram | Facebook | Website

Guest host, Jill E. McCormick, joins us to talk about the Enneagram and how your type impacts your friendship style. Learn how God specifically wired you and how he designed the personalities of friends in your life. She'll break down each of the nine Enneagram types and give you habits to help you grow in your friendships. Jill is the host of the Grace in Real Life podcast and the writer behind jillemccormick.com, spaces where she shares common-sense grace with the try-hard girl who wants her faith to intersect with her real and full life. Jill lives in South Texas with her high-school-sweetheart-now-husband Ryan, their two daughters, and one Vizsla puppy. If you aren't familiar with the Enneagram or don't know your type yet, don't worry. Listen to see if you hear Jill describe some of your personality traits and be sure to grab her Quick Start Guide to the Enneagram. CONNECT WITH JILL Instagram | Website   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Instagram | Facebook | Website

Did you know that in May the US Surgeon General declared LONELINESS a public health epidemic? SG Murthy said half of US adults experience loneliness, and that it can be as dangerous as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Research over the years has also found isolation can lead to sleep issues, depression, anxiety, heart disease, stroke, and dementia. This is a public health crisis, but it doesn't have to be. Because friend, the opposite is true too. While being isolated, not experiencing meaningful connection can have negative effects on your health. Friendship, spending time with other and connecting, is so good for you and your health! Let's talk about the benefits. Here are the research studies referenced: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_your_social_life_might_help_you_life_longer https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321019#Face-to-face-contact-is-like-a-vaccine https://www.newyorker.com/science/maria-konnikova/social-media-affect-math-dunbar-number-friendships https://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/social-support.aspx https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-need-to-belong-2795393 To go along with this series, I'm hosting a Summer Friendship Challenge. If you're ready to dig in with intentionality this summer, I'd love for you to jump in. Each week of the challenge, you'll get an email with a small action step to help you cultivate community. If you're already subscribed to the GTL newsletter, you're in! If you're not a subscriber yet, join the challenge here: Summer Friendship Challenge   Connect with Girls Talking Life Instagram | Facebook | Website

We are in our very first week of the Summer of Friendship series and I'm tackling the question, does God value friendship? I chose to start here because if you're a follower of Jesus, you look to Him to define and direct your life, so the most important question you can ask about any topic is ‘how does God feel about this?' And the best place to go to understand how God feels is His word. So everything we're talking about today comes from the Bible. Here are the verses referenced: Genesis 1:1-2 John 1:1-3 Colossians 1: 15-16 Genesis 1:26-27 Genesis 1:31 Genesis 2:18 Corinthians 15:58 Matthew 22: 37-39 Proverbs 27:17 Romans 1:11-12 Hebrews 10:24-25 2 Corinthians 13:11 To go along with this series, I'm hosting a Summer Friendship Challenge. If you're ready to dig in with intentionality this summer, I'd love for you to jump in. Each week of the challenge, you'll get an email with a small action step to help you cultivate community. If you're already subscribed to the GTL newsletter, you're in! If you're not a subscriber yet, join the challenge here: Summer Friendship Challenge   Connect with Girls Talking Life Instagram | Facebook | Website

During June, July and August, I'll be releasing mini episodes all about friendship. My hope is that these bite-sized shows will be just what you need for the laidback rhythm of summer and will encourage you to prioritize connection, make new friends or deepen existing friendships. This series is based on what I've been learning from God's word, the research I've been studying, and my own experiences.  If you are looking for my traditional, interview-style show, there are over 100 past episodes for you to dive into, and I'll be back with all new conversations this fall. I have some truly amazing women lined up and I'm excited to bring you their stories! MEET MY GUEST HOST I've also invited my sweet friend Jill E. McCormick to join us. Jill was a guest on episode #102 sharing her story of entering into the invitation of God's grace and how we can move from being try-hard girls to being grace-girls. If you haven't heard that one, definitely go back and listen!  Jill is the host of the Grace in Real Life podcast and the writer behind jillemccormick.com, spaces where she shares common-sense grace with the try-hard girl who wants her faith to intersect with her real and full life. Jill lives in South Texas with her high-school-sweetheart-now-husband Ryan, their two daughters, and one Vizsla puppy. SUMMER FRIENDSHIP CHALLENGE To go along with this series, I'm hosting a Summer Friendship Challenge. If you're ready to dig in with intentionality this summer, I'd love for you to jump in. Each week of the challenge, you'll get an email, where we will give you a small, practical action step to help you be intentional in this area of your life. If you're already subscribed to the GTL newsletter, you'll get these weekly challenge emails. If you're not a subscriber yet, join us here! I can't wait to spend the summer with you growing in our friendships! CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Instagram | Facebook | Website

How do you feel about the body you're living in? Summer is about to begin and as the weather warms, we wear less and show more of our bodies, but for many of us that ramps up negative feelings because we're not happy with how our bodies look. Today I'm talking with Jennifer Taylor Wagner, author of Your Good Body, who encourages us to take small steps toward resetting how we view our bodies in order to love them as they are. She reminds us that God desires for us to be whole – spirit, soul AND body, and that pursuing wellness should encompass our entire selves because external changes alone won't heal what's on the inside. You'll hear us talk about… Jennifer's body journey and mindset shift Viewing your right-now body as good and living free in it Trusting God in your transformation Pursing wellness with worthwhile motives Jennifer Taylor Wagner is a certified fitness instructor and successful blogger. She is passionate about challenging the way we think about health, wellness, and regularly writes on the topics of healthy living and body positivity. Whether it's hosting online webinars, speaking in auditoriums, or chatting at MOPS meetings, she is committed to helping others find hope in their journey. Jennifer lives in Virginia with her husband, Phil and their two kids.    GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your faith, business, and relationships? Look no further than the Simply Wholehearted Podcast! Join certified Marriage and Family Enneagram Coach Amy Wicks as she shares stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you thrive in business, relationships, and personal growth. With nearly 300 episodes and six years of experience, the Simply Wholehearted Podcast is the ultimate destination for anyone looking for tools and insights to overcome anxiety, self-doubt, and overwhelm. Plus, don't miss out on her special podcast playlist for each Enneagram type. Grab yours here: https://www.simplywholehearted.com/enneagrampodcastplaylist.  Find The Simply Wholehearted Podcast on your favorite listening app and start living your best-wholehearted life!   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Summer is a few short weeks away! Planning ahead and being intentional about your time together will set you up for a successful summer with your family. My guest today is Arlene Pellicane. Arlene is the co-author of the popular book Screen Kids, along with Dr. Gary Chapman. She speaks and writes to impact and improve families, and she's here to share her expertise with us! You'll hear us talk about… Planning ahead for success Getting your kids involved Creating a technology plan Resetting your own screen time What to do when plans fail Arlene is a speaker, host of the Happy Home podcast, and author of several books including Parents Rising, 31 Days to a Happy Husband and Screen Kids. Arlene has been featured on the Today Show, Fox & Friends, the Wall Street Journal and Focus on the Family. She lives in San Diego with her husband, James, and their three children.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your faith, business, and relationships? Look no further than the Simply Wholehearted Podcast! Join certified Marriage and Family Enneagram Coach Amy Wicks as she shares stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you thrive in business, relationships, and personal growth. With nearly 300 episodes and six years of experience, the Simply Wholehearted Podcast is the ultimate destination for anyone looking for tools and insights to overcome anxiety, self-doubt, and overwhelm. Plus, don't miss out on her special podcast playlist for each Enneagram type. Grab yours here: https://www.simplywholehearted.com/enneagrampodcastplaylist.  Find The Simply Wholehearted Podcast on your favorite listening app and start living your best-wholehearted life!   CONNECT WITH GIRLS TALKING LIFE Get the GTL Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Special Mother's Day Rerelease If you have a mom, if you've lost your mom, if you've struggled (or are currently struggling) to become a mom, or if being a mom has ever felt hard, this episode is for you.    My guest is the lovely Nancy Willis. She and I talk about her losing her mom to breast cancer. She tells us about the special moments that were gifted to her before her mom's passing, how their family was intentional about their last days together, and her walk through the deep grief that followed. Nancy describes how losing her person left her empty, even though she was surrounded by her fantastic husband and family and how relying on the Lord was what rescued her.   Nancy and I talk about her emotional journey through infertility, how they made the decision to try ​in vitro fertilization and the waiting involved in that process. Nancy went on to have a healthy baby boy, but shares how she struggled being a mom to a newborn and how being a stay at home mom wasn't the right thing for her even though that was what she had always wanted and how hard that was to face.   My conversation with Nancy is sure to stir your soul.   Get all the show notes and connect with Nancy!   (Episode originally released in November of 2018.)

We're wrapping up our Overcoming Anxiety series today with guest expert Dr. Chinwé Williams, a Board-Certified Therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma recovery. Dr. Chinwé graciously normalizes worry and fear, walks us through what it might look if someone is experiencing an anxiety disorder, and gives strategies for easing general anxiety or managing a disorder between counseling appointments. You'll hear us talk about… 4 common forms of anxiety 3 strategies to ease/manage anxiety When it's time to see a mental health professional Recognizing anxiety in our kids Accessing Jesus's peace Dr. Chinwé Williams is a Licensed and Board-Certified Therapist and co-owner of SCTI. She has served as an associate professor, college and high school counselor, clinical therapist, and executive coach. She currently works as a consultant for schools, non-profit, faith-based, and corporate work settings. Her expertise lies in areas of stress/anxiety management, trauma recovery, intersection of faith and mental health, and youth and women's wellness.   GET THE SERIES REFLECTION GUIDE   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR Hide and Seek Scriptures Get 15% off your first order with promo code: GTL15

 Did you know that moving your body helps you let go of whatever it is you're holding onto at a cellular level, a muscular level and even a mental level? Miranda Jo Davis joins me for a conversation about adding movement into our daily routines in order to ease anxiety. She says that movement can lower the stress hormone cortisol in our bodies and bring our minds back to the present moment.  You'll hear us talk about… Miranda's story of overcoming fear and anxiety The mind body connection  Yoga and Christianity   Integrating worship into your movement  Ideas for adding movement into your day Miranda is an expert in the yoga world with over twenty years of experience. She owns PerfectFit Christian Yoga Teacher Training and infuses scripture to shape her teachings. In ministry, Miranda is a biblical counselor, using God's word to implement heart change. She is the best-selling author of Christian Girl in the Yoga World and featured on TV, radio, podcasts, and print as an expert in Mind/Body wellness.   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR Hide and Seek Scriptures Get 15% off your first order with promo code: GTL15

Did you know you can use creativity to access joy? Would you call yourself an artist? I wouldn't have said that about myself. But my guest, says we're all artists, and that by being creative we're reminded “of the goodness and the peace, and the purity with which God created us.” I'm talking with Merideth Hite Estevez, formally trained oboist and creator of Artists for Joy, about how making something you care about can connect you with God and ease your anxiety. You'll hear us talk about… Merideth's story of perfectionism, anxiety and burnout Creative practices to release anxiety and access joy How creativity intersects with our faith Ideas for creative practices you can try Dr. Merideth Hite Estevez is a spiritual space-maker for artists as an oboist, writer, coach, and educator. Her podcast Artists for Joy was an Award of Excellence Winner in the 2022 Communicator Awards and is in the top 2% of podcasts worldwide. She has served thousands of artists in communal creative recovery with her popular support groups around Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way and serves artists of all disciplines through her writings, workshops, and one-to-one coaching services. She holds degrees in oboe from The Juilliard School and Yale University and is a Certified Start with Heart Facilitator through Graydin.   CONNECT WITH MERIDETH Instagram | Facebook | Website   GET ALL THE SHOW NOTES   THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR Hide and Seek Scriptures Get 15% off your first order with promo code: GTL15

What are you consuming? What are you filling up on? Is it adding to your anxiety? We are beginning a brand new series today: Overcoming Anxiety. Most of us experience some sort of anxiety, everything from occasional or situational feelings of worry or fear all the way to anxiety disorders where there is frequent and intense, even excessive worry or fear. For the most part, in this series we will be talking about the common, everyday anxiety we all experience, not anxiety disorders. But later in the series, we will hear from a LPC on different types of anxiety and when it's time to see a mental health professional.  So how do we become grounded in peace? We let God intervene. Today Amy Seiffert joins me for a conversation about nourishing ourselves with the things our souls need to be fulfilled. You'll hear us talk about… Spiritual junk food we're consuming Amy's story of overwhelm and her new book Starved Techniques to ground us in peace Amy is also the author of Grace Looks Amazing on You and is on the teaching team at Brookside Church. She is an affiliate Cru staff member and a regular YouVersion Bible teacher. She loves to travel and speak (and try new foods on all of her adventures!). Amy is married to her college sweetheart, Rob, and they live in Bowling Green, Ohio, with their three kids.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Starved: Why We Need a Spiritual Diet Change to Move Us from Tired, Anxious, and Overwhelmed to Fulfilled, Whole, and Free (out March 21st) Luke 15:20 – the prodigal son – So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. Hebrews 10:24-25 – And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. “Connection happens through the cracks.” – Brene Brown   AMY'S FAVORITE 5 Colab Dry Shampoo Tru Earth Laundry Detergent Strips Madewell Sneakers Skin Feels Good Tinted Moisturizer by Lancôme Air Pods   CONNECT WITH AMY Instagram | Facebook | Website   THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR Hide and Seek Scriptures Get 15% off your first order with promo code: GTL15

Welcome to another Girls Talking Life Extra. It's not a full show, just a short chat with a past guest to let you know what she's up to now. I'm talking with Rhonda Stoppe. Rhonda joined me on episode 70 and we talked about marriage, becoming the couple you long to be. Today we are talking about her book Moms Raising Sons to Be Men. The 10th anniversary edition releases on March 7th. And you guys, Rhonda is awesome. She's the big sister we all need! Rhonda's website - https://www.rhondastoppe.com/ Rhonda on episode 70 [Becoming the Couple You Long to Be] -https://girlstalkinglife.com/70-rhonda-stoppe-becoming-the-couple-you-long-to-be/ Rhonda's free gift to you - God Uses Ordinary People I'll be giving a copy of her book away next month to a GTL newsletter subscriber. If you'd like a chance to win it, be sure you are on my mailing list!

Did you know February is International Friendship Month? Today we're talking about being hurt in friendship, because, unless you've been living under a rock, I'm pretty sure you have been hurt by a friend sometime in your life. And while today's show isn't going to magically protect you from all future friendship hurt, Amberly Neese, speaker, comedian and author, is here to talk about finding safe friends and being a safe place for our people to land. You'll hear us talk about… Being Hurt in Friendship Moving Past the Fear of Rejection Levels of Friendship The One Anothers of the New Testament Amberly Neese is a popular speaker/teacher, comedian, author, and all-around encourager dedicated to helping you become the joyful person you were created to be. She helps people like you and your group experience the freedom found in meaningful relationships with God and others.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Marriage Date Night Aspire Women's Events Amberly's Books Untangling Faith   AMBERLY'S FAVORITE 5 Miss Jessie's Hair Products Crossway NIV New Testament Truff Hot Sauce Columbia Hiking Shirts Starting a New Playlist!   CONNECT WITH AMBERLY Instagram | Facebook | Website

This is the third and final episode in our new year's series, Significance, Dreams and Calling. If you missed either of the first two shows in the series, you'll want to go back and catch up! In Today's episode, we're digging in even deeper and talking about finding clarity and confidence in your calling. This show was originally released in September of 2021. It was a top show then and it fits perfectly in this series which is why I'm releasing it again. Bailey Stone and I are talking about finding our unique callings and the confidence to live those callings out. Bailey is a Certified Professional Life Coach who helps women elevate their confidence and increase clarity so they can pursue their calling and make an impact. GRAB YOUR SERIES REFLECTION GUIDE SEE ALL THE SHOW NOTES MEET OUR SPONSOR Did you know the Easter season is almost here? Lent begins on February 22, 2023.    If you are looking for a way to focus on Jesus as we approach the Easter season, consider reading Easter Matters, How the Resurrection of Jesus Changes You. Easter Matters, is a devotional written by Anna Nash and Katy Shelton where you'll explore the 21 chapters in the gospel of John.    Listen to [Girls Talking Easter] where Anna Nash shares what readers can expect from this book.    Buy Easter Matters  

Do you have a dream in your heart, but don't know where to begin? Have you been pursuing a dream, but feel stuck? Are you weary from operating alone? Merritt Onsa – host of the Devoted Dreamers Podcast, a Dream Coach and creator of the Dreamer Lab where she supports Christian women in building community, clarity, and confidence to pursue a God-shaped dream – joins me today for the second episode in our new year's series, Significance, Dreams and Calling. You'll hear us talk about… What a God-shaped dream is Where to start on your dream Questions to ask if you're stalled or stuck How being in community fuels your dream What to do if you're not a dreamer Merritt is passionate about helping women trade in fear and imposter syndrome for the freedom in Christ that is already ours. Whether you're starting a business, ministry, or non-profit, writing a book or shifting careers, Merritt's teaching and coaching can help you take bold, purposeful steps, face challenges without giving up, and overcome doubt so you can pour out the gifts and talents God has planted in you.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Matthew 6:33 – But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. The Dreamer Lab Imposter Syndrome Bible Reading Plan Devoted Dreamers Facebook Group   MERRITT'S FAVORITE 5 All it Takes is a Goal with Jon Acuff The Passion Translation Candied Jalapeños EO Hand Soap Lemon & Eucalyptus Bluey Show   CONNECT WITH MERRITT Instagram | Facebook | Website   WORD OF THE YEAR – WORD STUDY You have your Word of the Year. Now what? Make it meaningful by studying what the Bible says about your word. Get Your Word Study!

Do you ever feel insignificant? Like your contribution doesn't matter? If you're starting this new year wondering whether your life matters, you are in the right place. I'm talking with Rachael Adams about just how significant you are and how the little things you do can have a big impact if you're partnering with God. Rachael says “it isn't about doing more but trusting in the value of all the little you are already doing.” You'll hear us talk about… Rachael's search for her own significance Where our value comes from Why we feel insignificant How the small things matter Author of A Little Goes a Long Way and host of The Love Offering podcast Rachael Adams hopes to help women realize their God-given purpose and significance. She and her husband, Bryan, run a family business and farm in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate, and two dogs. Her work has been featured on Crosswalk, iBelieve, Today Parenting, and YouVersion.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE A Little Goes A Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. The Love Offering Podcast Lauren Daigle Song – You Say Zechariah 4:10 – Those who have made fun of this day of small beginnings will celebrate when they see Zerubbabel holding this important stone.   RACHAELS'S FAVORITE 5 Woven by Angie Smith Harry and Meghan Documentary Kylie Jenner Lip Stick Dazzle Dry Nail Polish Madewell Jeans   CONNECT WITH RACHAEL Instagram | Facebook | Website   WORD OF THE YEAR – WORD STUDY You have your Word of the Year. Now what? Make it meaningful by studying what the Bible says about your word. Get Your Word Study!   PAST NEW YEAR'S SERIES #78 [Making the Most of Your God-given Time] with Sarah K. Butterfield #79 [Manage Your Money on Mission] with Katie Jones #30 [Your Wellness for God's Glory] with Kara Osborne (Physical and Spiritual Wellness) #31 [Health in Your Enneagram Number] with Julie Short #9 [Restoration Therapy] with Nicole Zasowski (Infertility; Emotional and Relational Health) #8 [True Health] with Julie Watson (Movement, Nutrition + Including God in Your Health Journey)

Enjoy this popular episode on marriage with Rhonda Stoppe, the No Regrets Woman (originally released in September of 2021)! Rhonda talks about what she did when her marriage wasn't what she thought it would be. She says the number one marriage trouble is unmet expectations. We chat about resentment and unforgiveness, and how if these sins are in our lives, we need to acknowledge and repent of them regardless of what our husbands are doing. Rhonda says “it has to begin with you.” Get all the show notes and connect with Rhonda!