God And My Girlfriends

For our Season Two podcast finale, we have a very special "Guy-friend" in the house!  Marcia visits with her dear friend Rob Harris about their friendship, their connection with music (get all the scoop on their House Concerts!) and Rob's past in full-time ministry. Rob is beautifully honest about the ups and downs that ministers experience. He also talks about his brand new job with the non-profit, Standing Stone Ministry, which offers free support, care and counseling to pastors. If you, or someone you know, is in ministry, you definitely need to hear about Standing Stone!  For more info about Rob Harris: www.robharrisonline.comFor more info about Standing Stone: https://standingstoneministry.org/To connect with Rob at Standing Stone: https://standingstoneministry.org/shepherd/rob-harrisFor more info  about our House Concerts:https://robharrisonline.com/house-concertsorhttps://marciaramirez.com/house-concertsTo connect with Rob on social media:Twitter: @robharrismusicInstagram: @robharrismusicFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/robharrissongwriterConfessions of a Prayer Slacker by Diane Moody:https://amzn.to/3HDco3bTo donate to the GAMG Single Mamas Christmas Blessing Fund:https://www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.com/donateGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

 Growing up as an Evangelical Christian, I never could imagine that some of the teachings or theology that I was being taught could possible be harmful or damaging. As an adult, I see now that not all teachings are good, just because they might be labeled “Christian”. Many Christian churches and communities have fostered toxic environments and now, there are many, many men and women trying to work through those teachings via some form of faith deconstruction.When I started my own deconstruction, I didn't have trusted guides and the disorientation of it all almost cost me my faith entirely. Luckily, there are wonderful counselors, leaders, and coaches who are helping people walk through deconstruction so that they don't have to give up all the beliefs that have served them well.  Our guest this week is Dr. Camden Morgante and she is one of those trusted voices that is helping many safely navigate the deconstruction of toxic Christian cultures. Join us this week and we talk about some of those harmful teachings.  ABOUT OUR GUEST:Dr. Camden Morgante is a licensed clinical psychologist and adjunct college professor.  She writes and speaks about Christianity, psychology, and gender equality and is a regular contributor to Christians for Biblical Equality's blog Mutuality. She is currently writing a book on the myths of purity culture. Camden also provides Coaching services for purity culture recovery, egalitarianism, and faith reconstruction. Camden lives in Knoxville, TN with her husband, their daughter and two rescue dogs.Books Dr. Camden mentioned:"The Making of Biblical Womanhood" - https://amzn.to/3CdI2Af"Every Moment Holy" -- https://amzn.to/3Dh5cXB"To Light Their Way" - https://amzn.to/3Du87g1Other books helpful with deconstruction:"Faith After Doubt" by Brian McLaren -- https://amzn.to/3n97O4h"Faith Unraveled" by Rachel Held Evans -- https://amzn.to/3Fcc35kGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Well, I learned a hard lesson on the road this fall. I really can't do it all. (At least not all the time!-haha) This week, you just get me - no guest. But I do try to help with some self-care tidbits, my thoughts on aging, skincare, makeup, and at the end of the podcast, what I think really helps make us beautiful at any age.Because I'm showing things on camera, please forgive much of the background noise.. and also, I have put up the video of this podcast on Monday as well so you can watch on our YouTube channel right now instead of waiting until Wednesday.  Hope you enjoy!Links:Here are links to all the products I mention in this podcast:Neutrogena make up wipes: https://amzn.to/3EX6yHMClean Skin Club: https://amzn.to/3CXOoVqThe Ordinary Skin Care: https://bit.ly/3wsGvoOBare Minerals: Foundation: https://bit.ly/3o5EWt8Blush: https://bit.ly/2Ys4s2UIt cosmetics brow powerFULL: https://bit.ly/3quUE3VSheet masks we used on the road:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C3NBJ33?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_shareBooks:"Wholehearted Faith" by Rachel Held Evans: https://amzn.to/31uWNBW"The Making of Biblical Womanhood" by Beth Allison Barr: https://amzn.to/3GYjRJC"No Cure For Being Human" by Kate Bowler: https://amzn.to/3CTkz8wGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

You guys asked for it… so you got it!  This week on the God and My Girlfriends Podcast, you get to meet the girls I travel with on the road when I'm touring with Christopher Cross — Jewelee Peters and Stephcynie Curry (who goes professionally by just her first name, “Stephcynie”)  We talk about music, friendship, self-care, spirituality — we cover a BUNCH of topics, we laugh a lot, and I think you'll find this whole conversation incredibly rich, deeply honest, very enlightening and endearing. So join me (Marcia Ramirez), Stephcynie and Jewelee for a very unique episode that gives you a little glimpse into life on the road and our nightly dressing room conversations. Links:Stephcynie: Official website: https://www.stephcynie.com/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/stephcynie/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/StephcynieTwitter: https://twitter.com/stephcynieTIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephcynieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/stephcynieJewelee:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeweleepeters/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeweleepetersmusicChristopher Cross: https://www.christophercross.com/Purposity: https://about.purposity.com/God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Many people love using the Enneagram as a self-discovery tool, but it's also a wonderful way to enhance our relationships, including our friendships!  Join host, Marcia Ramirez and her guest,  LMFT and Certified Enneagram Teacher, Liz Perez as they discuss ways to use the Enneagram to learn about one another and nurture compassion in our friendships.ABOUT OUR GUEST:Liz Perez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who developed a passion for teaching the Enneagram after experiencing the growth it brought in her marriage, parenting and, most importantly, relationships. Liz trained at the Narrative Enneagram Worldwide Institute and is equipped to teach the Enneagram, help others find their type, lead panels and work with teams using this tool.“The Enneagram has given me greater compassion and awareness around my motivations and those of others, and how I can continue to grow,” said Liz. “It is my privilege to now use my background and skillset as a therapist to bring this tool to our community.”Liz's background and extensive training as a therapist bring an exceptional layer of depth and insight to her work that her Enneagram clients appreciate. In addition to establishing her private therapy practice and teaching the Enneagram to the community, Liz is part of the brave leadership team that is launching Spero Dei, a progressive church community in Nashville, TN. These professional accomplishments aside, however, Liz is most proud of raising two emotionally intelligent children and being married to her husband for 28 years.Liz' site: https://yourenneagramtherapist.com/https://www.narrativeenneagram.org/https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/Podcasts mentioned:“The Heart of the Enneagram”“Typology”Book: “The Essential Enneagram”: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002VL1CNK/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Anxiety can be debilitating. The newest studies show that in the United States, nearly 1 in 3 individuals will experience an anxiety disorder in their lifetime. Even children and teens are becoming more and more apt to develop severe anxiety, which has led to increased rates of childhood depression, suicide, panic disorders and drug/alcohol abuse. Today, our guest Dr. Leslie Shew talks about her own journey with anxiety and how she is successfully treating patients with newer and gentler holistic approaches. She explains the connection between emotional and physical ailments and how she helps people find over-all well-being by treating total body wellness.  Do you have an unexplained physical ailment that doctors can't seem to diagnose properly? It just might be tied to your emotions more than you realize.Are you struggling with anxiety or know someone who is?  This episode is for YOU. About our guest:In 2009, Dr. Leslie Shew opened her holistic practice with the express purpose of helping people feel better—physically and emotionally—by embracing a gentle, natural approach to self-care. After a 16-year-career educating at-risk adolescents with learning disabilities, ADHD, and depression, Dr. Leslie blended her degrees in Education and Professional Counseling with her love of natural health care to enlighten others about the benefits of a holistic lifestyle. Dr. Leslie earned her PhD in Natural Health Sciences with extensive study and dissertation on the gut/brain connection. She is a certified Life Strategies Coach, a Holistic Wellness Coach, and is trained in Hemispheric Integration, a form of Neuro-Linguistic Programming. She has additional training in EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) which allows patients to process trauma and anxiety through a safe, natural physiological technique and also trained in HeartMath technique.  Dr. Leslie is also a certified yoga instructor in the Baptiste method. Dr. Leslie's vast, comprehensive expertise in education, nutrition, and coaching provides a unique approach to guiding others toward total body wellness.  She is passionate about assisting those struggling with unwanted, unexplained, and debilitating health challenges.She specializes in intestinal health, brain function, stress management, and holistic approaches to adrenal fatigue and anxiety. Dr. Leslie's own personal journey gives her a unique perspective and understanding of her clients' challenges and frustrations. She is excited to help her clients become the best version of themselves—to live well and be well.Dr. Leslie sees clients on an individual basis at her Nashville location while offering phone/Skype consultations for those living out of the area.  She serves her community by offering local wellness and yoga classes, and she is available for corporate trainings, conferences, and other speaking events. Professional membership:ADP-Association of Drugless PractitionersThe International Society for Neurofeedback & Research (ISNR)The American Nutraceutical Association---------------------God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Almost every woman has been influence by “diet culture”.  It's a billion dollar business that has convinced us all that we have to be thin to be healthy, happy, popular, or beautiful. Today we talk about that big lie and how we can learn to trust our bodies and follow a more “intuitive eating” approach on our journey to real “health at every size.”Join Marcia and Dr. Maggie Landes as they spotlight how dangerous the diet culture is and how we can finally break the cycle of yo-yo diets that we have all been on, once and for all.About our guest;Maggie Landes is a board-certified physician, public health nutritionist, and anti-diet wellness expert. She created her signature getEATfluenced® coaching program to help women who are exasperated with chronic dieting, be able to fix their food overwhelm and live a full and unrestricted life pursuing their personal passions and attain optimal health without the distraction of rigid eating behavior.  She is also the creator and host of “The Eatfluencer Podcast” where she and her guests dig into the mindset work required to construct a healthy, complete, and high-quality life unlimited by the oppression of diet culture.Maggie's websitehttps://www.maggielandesmd.comMaggie's Social mediahttps://www.clubhouse.com/@maggielandesmdhttps://www.facebook.com/maggielandesmdhttps://www.instagram.com/maggielandesmd/https://twitter.com/maggielandesmdhttps://www.pinterest.com/maggielandesmd/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-landes-md-mph-3445a67/Podcast Feed for “The Eatfluencer Podcast” with Maggie Landes MDhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-eatfluencer-podcast/id1537284754?itsct=podcast_box&itscg=30200For more information on God and My Girlfriends Ministires:www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Some call it “Spiritual Abuse”. Some say “Religious Trauma”. Others will call it “Adverse Religious Experience”. It all refers to a negative experience with religion and it's a highly popular topic right now as more and more people are coming forth with their own stories of this harmful behavior by people and systems they were told they could trust.  There is an actual physiological condition that is called RTS (Religious Trauma Syndrome) and I'm seeing it played out in real time with many of my friends. I think this is why so many are drawn to “The Rise and Fall of Mars Hills” right now - finding their own story in the similar stories being told by this popular podcast.Today I talk with therapist Jessica Hyne, who is a licensed trauma therapist who specializes in the intersection of religious trauma and family of origin trauma.  We talk through so many topics that are directly related to this trauma, from patriarchy, faith colonization, purity culture, and more. It's a fascinating conversation and she gives us some great advice on how to navigate these waters if you are experiencing any of these symptoms or know anyone else who is. *Please note that there are some sensitive topics discussed that are not appropriate for young ears in this episode, so please keep this in mind as you are listening.---------------------------------------About our guest:Jessica Hyne is a native Nashvillian who has been working for over 10 years as a licensed trauma therapist in Tennessee specializing in the intersection of religious trauma and family of origin trauma. She holds a Master in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College. She enjoys mediation, reading, adventure, and exploring the outdoors with her dog Cam.  To contact Jessica, email her at: Jessica.hyne@gmail.com  —————-Books and resources mentioned in the interview are:Pleasure Activism by Adrianne Maree Brown : https://amzn.to/3isaqrcYou Are Your Own: A Reckoning With The Religious Trauma of Evangelical Christianityby Jamie Lee Finch : https://amzn.to/3mmPKSxMy Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies —  by Reesma Menakem : https://amzn.to/3itq6uoBraving The Wilderness by Brené Brown : https://amzn.to/3B6aNisUntamed by Glennon Doyle: https://amzn.to/2ZUABAwThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel Van Der Kolk: https://amzn.to/3uyloQUFor more information on God and My Girlfriends Ministries:www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.com God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

We all have a creative side, but learning how to bring that creativity into our daily lives can be challenging sometimes. Are you looking for ways to re-ignite your creative spark?  This is the episode for you!  This week's guest on the podcast is publisher, manager and creative consultant, LeAnn Phelan. LeAnn and Marcia talk about starting out together in the music business as background singers, and then how a series of circumstances took LeAnn into the “business” side of the music business. Over the years she has been able to help guide artists, producers, and songwriters to win awards like ASCAP Song of the Year, BMI Songwriter of the year, Grammy awards, ACM awards, CMA awards and many #1 records. This woman knows how important it is to nurture our creativity and with her new company, LP Creative Therapy, she's able to help anyone get in touch with their creative mindset. Let's get creative, girlfriends!!———-About our guest:LeAnn Phelan is a 25-year veteran Music Executive. She was formerly Co-Head of ASCAP Nashville Creative, she worked with 19 Entertainment as a Writer/Producer Manager and served as a preliminary judge for American Idol seasons 6-9.   Before that was Sr. Director, A&R at Sony Nashville and VP at Combustion Music.LeAnn has received the following honors:  Music City Milestone from her alma mater Belmont University, Billboards Most Powerful Women In Music 2015, Women in Music City 2017 -- and she has proudly served on the boards of ACM, The Recording Academy and The Onsite Foundation.  She currently runs multi-faceted LP Creative Management - an artist/songwriter/producer management, publishing and consulting company.  LeAnn also serves as a Creative Wellness Coach through her company LP Creative Therapy where she mentors, educates and motivates songwriters/artists/producers/creative execs via workshops and private sessions.   To sign up for one of LeAnn's workshops: https://www.lpcreativetherapy.com/workshopsLeAnn's website: https://www.lpcreativetherapy.com/LeAnn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leannphelan_mlp/Book we mention: “The Artist's Way” by Julia Cameron: https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Way-25th-Anniversary/dp/0143129252-------For more information about God and My Girlfriends Ministries:www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

This week, host Marcia Ramirez talks with author, speaker and coach, Brandi Wilson about navigating life's unexpected turns, and learning how to move forward when you feel "stuck". About Brandi:Brandi Wilson is an author and speaker who for the past 20 years has helped women and their families navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. She loves helping single moms learn how to show up fully for themselves so they can show up fully for their kids. She's helped start two churches, the most recent being Cross Point Church, where she learned how important it is as a leader to know your truth and speak it. Her work now aims at helping women develop emotional and mental health so they live a life of freedom and confidence. Her own journey has taught her the power of that very skill. To connect with Brandi:www.lovebrandiwilson.comInstagram: @lovebrandiwilsonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandiWheelerWilsonFor more info on God and My Girlfriends Ministries and/or to donate:www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

This week on the podcast, host Marcia Ramirez talks about the latest information on Covid-19 and the pandemic  with her guests, Amy Jean P.A. and Susie Tucker, R.N.Marcia asks questions sent in from listeners as well as questions of her own, and it turned out to be an enlightening and informative conversation. About the guests:Amy Jean is a certified physician assistant (PA) currently working in orthopedics and sports medicine. She has 10 years of experience as a PA, which includes time in family practice, orthopedics, urgent care, and hospital medicine. She spent 5 weeks treating COVID patients at Harlem Hospital in New York City during the height of the COVID pandemic. She lives in Nashville, Tn with her husband, Jamie and their sweet dog, Emmy. Susie Brewer is a registered nurse with over 30 years experience in ICU, infusion and community nursing. She has been monitoring COVID exposures for employees at Vanderbilt University Medical Center since the beginning of the pandemic. Her current role includes education, testing and vaccinations. A worship leader and mother of two teenage boys, she lives in Nashville with her husband, Jason and their sons, Jack and Sam.For more info about the latest Covid recommendation - here are some trusted link talked about by Amy and Susie in the episode:https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/therapies/ To watch this interview on youtube: https://youtu.be/15a9tddo46kDISCLAIMER:  All of the information shared today is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or give medical advice.For more information about God and My Girlfriends Ministries or to donate to help support this podcast, please go to www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comOr our socials:Facebook: https: @godandmygirlfriendsministiresInstagram: @godandmygirlfriendsministriesTwitter: @godandmygirlfr1God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Welcome back to Season Two of The God and My Girlfriends Podcast, with host Marcia Ramirez.This week,  Marcia talks with her friend,  entrepreneur and non-profit director Lisa Schmitz about how it's never too late to follow your dreams, how to discern the voice of God, and how important it is to create a life you love! About Lisa:Lisa Schmitz has a love for the arts. After leaving corporate America in 2018, she created a floral design consultancy "Where Pigs Fly and such", which is part of a nonprofit that Lisa and her husband John founded, the Mars Hill Arts Center. As co-founder, Lisa manages the arts center, which is focused on providing arts and community outreach programming for the neighborhood of Mars Hill.  Lisa has also been considered “the flag lady” in Speedway, making most of the race flag pennants you see on homes and businesses around town during the month of May. There was a lady many years ago who made them for residents. And after no longer being able to locate her, Lisa made her own, and began making them for people on her street. Now 7 years later, she has made hundreds! Lisa also runs the social media brand “For the Love of Speedway” which spotlights the good about the town and the race and she has turned it into a fun brand with things like dog collars, kitchen aprons, and all kinds of fun checkered items!Lisa's floral design was recently recognized and on exhibit as part of the Newfields Indianapolis Museum of Art's Inaugural Art in Bloom exhibit. Lisa is also an experienced HR professional. She served companies like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Galyans, and finished her HR career as VP of Human Resources for a multi-million-dollar organization. She also continues to consult, serving as HR consultant to the town of Speedway. Lisa can be found on the Instagram handles:@fortheloveofspeedway@wherepigsflyandsuch@marshillarts@dosomethingindyhttp://www.wherepigsflyandsuch.comhttps://www.marshillarts.com/about-ftlos For more information about God and My Girlfriends Ministries or to donate to help support this podcast, please go to www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comOr our socials:Facebook: https: @godandmygirlfriendsministiresInstagram: @godandmygirlfriendsministriesTwitter: @godandmygirlfr1God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

It's the Season One finale of the “God and My Girlfriends” podcast with a VERY special guest,  the one and only Carole Ford!Get ready to laugh, cry and everything in between as Carole and Marcia talk about how music can change your life, the importance of self-care, and why Jesus is their cornerstone. It's truly a wonderful conversation. Season Two starts Sept. 6thCarole Ford is a singer-songwriter based in Atlanta, Georgia. She has performed as a session artist and background  o with with a variety of artists from The Mighty Clouds of Joy to David Pack.  Her CCM top ten hit, “For My Growing” was featured on the Grammy-winning album, “Crack the Sky” (Mylon Lefevre) and the daytime television drama,  “The Young and the Restless”.Carole is a founding member of the CCM group, SevenFold. She is also a staff musician with Home By Dark Productions in Atlanta. She has two CDs: “Five” and “Bittersweet “.For more info on Home By Dark: www.homebydark.com"Both Sides Now" performed by Carole Ford: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeA8KA-Ir74God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Our guest this week is Rev. Sherry Cothran, author of the brand new book, “Wild and Holy Women of the Bible”.  Host Marcia Ramirez talks with Sherry about her musical background, how she made the leap from being a rock star (she was the lead vocalist of the popular rock band The Evinrudes) to ministry, and how uncovering the hidden stories about women in the bible can help us all uncover hidden gems about ourselves —- and set us on a pathway towards complete healing from past traumas. For more information about the book: https://wildandholy.org/For more information about Sherry: http://www.sherrycothran.com/For more information about the non-profit, Beloved Woman: https://belovedwoman.org/God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

This week's episode features one of the most talented women in Nashville, TN.... Carol Grace Anderson.  She's a singer, songwriter, actress, painter, motivational speaker and author!  Carol joins host Marcia Ramirez as they discuss her colorful life, and her latest book, "Pawprints of Wisdom - Life Lessons From Our Dogs."  If you are a dog lover, you don't want to miss this beautiful episode!To connect with Carol:email: carolgraceanderson@gmail.comHer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolmotivatesHer website: http://www.getfiredup.com/Buy the book, "Pawprints of Wisdom": https://amzn.to/2T7B1jX This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

This week's special guest is registered nurse and integrative health coach, Petra Amrein.  Petra is passionate about empowering women to learn true self-care, guiding them on their journey to health, happiness and living their most authentic lives.Petra's words: "We so often put everyone else first... family, friends, the co-worker who always needs help, that neighbor we barely know... pretty much everyone and anyone get on our priority list. Except us. ... Self-care isn't about putting yourself first in a selfish way. Self-care is about putting yourself on the list in the first place!  ... I became an integrative health coach to help women just like me - people-pleasing good girls - learn to practice self-care, to say no and set boundaries, to make themselves a priority, to reconnect with their authentic selves, and to live with energy, ease and joy."Join Marcia and Petra as they discuss a few ways to start making your own health journey a priority! Petra's website:https://petraamrein.squarespace.com/Petra's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.happy.peach/God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Want to learn how to declutter your life... including your digital life?  Then join us this week as Marcia talks with business owner and digital marketing expert, Irene Williams."Over 10,000 phone photos, four email accounts with tens of thousands of messages, dozens of social accounts between personal and professional life, and 100% overwhelm...It was at this make-or-break point that digital marketer and business owner Irene Williams developed a system to declutter, organize, and manage her digital life. The solutions she created immediately improved her day-to-day productivity and peacefulness and, long-term, proved to be effective and sustainable.Now, Irene is bringing her system to the world through content, coaching, and an online course: Declutter Your Digital Life. The course addresses all aspects of digital life: email, social, phone use, photos, files—even virtual meetings. Her practical approaches get to the heart—and mind—of the matter so you can experience lasting change and gain translatable skills to help in other areas of life (e.g. - bye forever, extra 20 lbs!).Beyond her passion for helping people cut the clutter and get to what really matters, Irene continues to lead client accounts through her digital marketing firm, Msg2Mkt, LLC, speaks at national conferences, and is an author and contributing writer for trade publications."For more information about Irene and her coaching and courses:www.irenewilliams.comOr engage with her on Instagram:@irenewilliamsofficial For more information about God and My Girlfriends Ministries - and/or to donate to help fund this podcast and other ministry programs, go to : www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.com God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Stacey Byington Wynn is a coach, conference speaker, podcast host, ministry leader and author. She is also the founder of a non-profit called “Common Ground” which unites women of different faiths.  Stacey is an empowering advocate for women, and has a ministry called "Clarity Unleashed" which helps women rebuild their faith after abuse, and she is the author of the new book/study journal, "Deconstruction: Your Journey In Faith".For more information about Stacey and her coaching or ministry:www.clarityunleashed.comTo order the book/study journal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09328MJ6G/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_4CMPFH4AWDZBN4B7RF7XAnd to connect with her on her socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staceybwynn/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacey.b.wynnTwitter: https://twitter.com/staceybwynnAlso, to join her "Deconstruction Zone" on FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/553024858642296Other resources Stacey mentioned:Marg Mowczko: https://margmowczko.com/Lucy Peppiat: https://twitter.com/lucepeppiatt?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Debbie Cunningham is a recording artist, author and speaker. She is known as a powerful and engaging entertainer. Her musical styling of jazz is soulful and sultry, yet elegant and sophisticated.  She has recorded two albums; the first, a Jazz standards album entitled-The Rest of Your Life. The 2nd, an all-original jazz album entitled- A Million Kisses; with songs about the journey & celebration of committed love; also reflected in her brand new book - Dancing in the Kitchen: Hope and Help for Staying in Love. In it Cunningham shares stories behind the songs on the album, lessons from her 30 years of marriage and interviews from couples that have learned how to build lasting love in marriage and recapture the lightheartedness they once knew. Debbie lives in Franklin, TN with her husband, Derek. She spends her time performing with her pianist or jazz quartet, speaking about building lasting love, and performance coaching.For more information about Debbie's music and book: www.debbiecunningham.netFor a free chapter of her audio book, "Dancing In The Kitchen" go to: www.debbiecunningham.net/audiobookFor more information about God and My Girlfriends Ministries: www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.com God And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Marcia's guest this week is Mark Smeby. Mark is a singer-songwriter, actor, speaker and author. He has been an in-demand writer in the Christian music and publishing industry for nearly 25 years,  has recorded 9 cd's of original material and performs all over the country, taking his ministry of hope to churches, conventions and other venues. As an actor, Mark has appeared on the hit tv series, “Nashville” as well as multiple roles in faith-based films.  His Live Hope Minute daily radio feature is nationally-syndicated in 250 radio markets around the US and Canada.Mark joins us this week as our first "Guy-friend" and we are so happy to have him come into our little community to inspire and encourage us all.  They talk about faith, spiritual reframing, finding hope ... and Mark's latest book, "Losing Control: Finding Freedom by Letting Go" To order Mark's books or cd's go to:Mark's website: www.livehopenow.comFor more of his current writings:His blog: https://marksmeby.substack.com/To connect with Mark on his socials:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smebyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marksmeby/Twitter: https://twitter.com/msmebyGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

This week's podcast episode is a very special episode, featuring singer/songwriter, author and speaker, Staci Frenes. In her new book, “Love Makes Room”, Staci tells her story of coming to understand and fully affirm her daughter's gay orientation within the context of her Christian faith.This episode is a must-listen to anyone who loves someone who identifies as LGBTQ.For more information about Staci:  https://www.stacifrenes.comHer blog post on Huffington post: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-i-learned-about-love-when-my-daughter-came-out_b_7692082Books she recommends:“God and The Gay Christian” by Matthew Vines -https://matthewvines.com/“Unclobber” - by Colby Martin“Walking the Bridgeless Canyon” by Kathy Baldock -Helpful websites:https://www.freedhearts.org/FB Mom's Group - “Mama Bears”—— Marcia's blog post:“Loving Better: My Journey towards becoming an affirming Christian”http://marciaramirez.blogspot.com/2019/07/loving-better-my-journey-towards.html This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Singer-songwriter, speaker and author, Mary Sue Englund joins Marcia this week to talk about her new inspirational book, "I Am A Woman" and the accompanying song of the same name.   An inspiring and uplifting conversation.  To order the book: https://iamawomansurvivor.com/the-book/To download the song for FREE: https://iamawomansurvivor.com/the-song/For more about Mary Sue and her music:  www.marysueenglund.com And for more info about God And My Girlfriends Ministries: https://www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

In this week's episode,  Marcia speaks with Eve Annunziato and Jackie Brewster, the authors of the book, "Hearing God Speak - a 52 week interactive Enneagram devotional".  They dive into discussions about the Enneagram and how they both discovered it,  how they came up with the idea of writing this book, and how we can all use the Enneagram to help us dive deeper into biblical truths. To order the book, "Hearing God Speak:": https://www.amazon.com/Hearing-God-Speak-Interactive-Devotional/dp/0593232690To find their podcast, "Speaking of The Enneagram": https://speakingoftheenneagram.buzzsprout.com/Connect with Jackie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enneagramwithjb/?hl=enThe book, "The Red Tent": https://www.amazon.com/Red-Tent-20th-Anniversary-Novel-ebook/dp/B000FA5PZU/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+red+tent&qid=1618450295&s=books&sr=1-1And for more info about God And My Girlfriends Ministries: https://www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

In this 1st show of Season 1, Marcia calls on two of her best friends. Britt Savage and Kim Parent to help kick off the GAMG Podcast Series.  They have an honest discussion about what self-care looks like, the ups and downs of friendship, embracing aging -  and how spirituality has shaped their lives.  They also touch on Kim's love of Tiny Houses, Britt's wacky dress-making abilities, and even "Forest Bathing".  Come on into the conversation!  :-) For more information about Kim Parent: www.kimparent.com For more information about Britt Savage: https://www.reverbnation.com/brittsavage*And for a picture of Britt's dress that she talked about -made entirely out of IRS Tax Forms and then donated to charity, check out this article! -- https://www.nashvillescene.com/news/article/13027308/economic-stimulus-britt-savages-irs-tax-form-dress-to-raise-money-for-charityFor more information about Marcia Ramirez: https://marciaramirez.com/And for more information about God and My Girlfriends Ministries:www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.comGod And My Girlfriends Ministries A non-profit ministry helping women flourish in their relationships with God and others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com

Welcome to the "God and My Girlfriends" podcast trailer. Host Marcia Ramirez talks a little bit about why she decided to start this podcast, and what to expect from future episodes.  For more information, you can visit www.godandmygirlfriendsonline.com/podcast  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marciaramirez.substack.com