Honey for Your Heart with Bryson Kessler

I am so thrilled to introduce you to Kari Kampakis today! Kari is a best selling author and speaker focusing on very practical and godly tips for primarily teens (but other stages as well) and wisdom for parenting through all stages of childhood. I discovered her books about 4 years ago at a time when I was newly parenting teens and felt very lost in how to navigate that season well. A friend gave me Kari's book Love Her Well and it was truly eye opening and life changing for me, especially during that season. Soon after, we added Kari's books to Clover + Bee and had her come in for a special event for moms. Kari's wisdom is truly a gift from the Lord. She has the ability to share it in such a practical, common sense way that is easy to digest and immediately implement. Her tips are so helpful to learn how to love your child well and relate to him or her in whatever season you find yourself in.   Kari describes herself as a deep thinker, saying if you met in person, she would want to skip the small talk and dive straight into the coffee talk. That is the treat you are in for today! She has been featured on the Today Show, Focus on the Family, multiple podcasts, Yahoo News and so much more.   Kari and I dive into her story for a bit but then really settle into that good coffee talk tackling issues like anxiety, adult friendships, social media, boundaries and more. If you are a parent in any season of life, wondering if you are alone or if you are getting this thing right or how to navigate the stage you are in, grab a pen and paper and pull up a seat - this episode is just for you!   To learn more about Kari, her books and her upcoming speaking events, visit https://www.karikampakis.com/

At the core, this podcast is rooted in storytelling. Typically, we would walk through the story of a guest and encounter the Lord and His redemptive work through the lens of that particular story. But on this episode, we change that up a bit. Today, I want to invite you to intentionally step into your own story armed with the knowledge you obtain as you listen to this episode. Let me explain what I mean…   Our guest today is Laura Williams. Laura is the co-owner of Be Found Counseling in Brentwood, TN just south of Nashville and the host of the Encountering You Podcast which tackles touch issues in mental health and how they relate to your faith journey. Laura specializes in trauma therapy and an incredibly powerful concept called re-parenting. You might be thinking - I really don't have trauma in my life - I've not had anything major happen to me. Right off the bat, Laura dives into what trauma really is and I assure you, what she says will resonate with you.   A friend of mine says, “God Fathers best by taking us back through our story. You can not write a new story until you deal with the one you've been given”. So, the hope today is that we are able to encourage each of you step into your own story from a high level perspective and start or maybe continue the process of story work.   Our prayer is that as you listen today you would feel seen in ways you haven't before or maybe receive clarification on a space within your emotions or thoughts that has been confusing or possibly even alerted to places in your life that need to be attended to currently. The tools and information Laura shares on this episode are truly life-changing. Definitely grab a pen and paper for this one and enjoy understanding more about how God has perfectly created you and discover the pathway back to the true essence of who He created you to be.   For more information on Laura, visit https://www.befoundcounseling.com/

Do you find yourself feeling “stuck” in the hard seasons of life? Maybe you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, confused, alone or simply not sure how to survive one more day in the space you find yourself today. If I am describing you, know that you are not alone and in God's grace and kindness, He has a special word, especially for you today.   My guest today is Lauren Fortenberry. Lauren is a writer and speaker with a passion to fearlessly and faithfully encourage women through the love of Jesus Christ. Her desire is to point every Sister's heart to God's promises and healing. This desire and passion was born out of a very hard season in her own life. Today, she shares her journey through that season and the beautiful way the Lord met her there and began to teach her daily more about Who He is and what He promises - and it all started with a single prayer.   She is the Author of One Prayer Away, an inspirational and encouraging devotional book written in poetic form that daily points you to the freedom that can be found in Christ. Lauren states: “When you cannot see the road ahead. When you wonder if the hurt is beyond healing. When you are at the edge of what your heart can handle. Whether you are struggling or seeking, flying or failing - God is with you! You can trust Him to hold you through it all.”   As you hear Lauren share her story today, it is our prayer that the Lord would use her words to bring peace, encouragement and healing to your soul and most importantly remind you that you never walk a single second of this life alone. He is with you. He is for you. He is holding you and He is not wasting a moment of the season you are in.   For more information about Lauren or One Prayer Away, visit https://laurenfortenberry.com/

If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, burnout and insecurity, especially as it relates to the comparison game that is so prevalent on social media today, this episode is one you do not want to miss!   My guest today is Whitney Lowe. Whitney is a Christian influencer who wants to see young women excited about God's work: in the Bible, in history, in the world, and in them. She writes and creates an Instagram called @ScribbleDevos, which was a project born from the realization that young women simply do not interact with the Bible enough to be changed by its truth.   Whitney is passionate about disrupting the toxic scroll of social media with hope, peace, and light straight from Scripture. She lives in Denver, Colorado, with her husband, who is a pastor, and their two young children   She just released a new book called Set Your Eyes Higher: A 40-Day Reset to Slow Your Anxiety and Fix Your Focus on God. The book was inspired by the realization that constantly staring at her phone and computer were causing her increased anxiety and insecurity – and that the only way to combat this addiction to screens was to set her gaze UP and OUT.    Today, we dive into a number of common toxic struggles including social media information overload, insecurity and anxiety, burnout, rest vs counterfeit rest, the joys and struggles of motherhood, and so much more! Whitney has a gift of simplifying these issues that can seem to drown us and overwhelm us into understandable truths with practical applications to break free from the struggle and step into a Godly rhythm in these areas of our lives. This conversation was so life giving and encouraging to me - I know it will be for you as well.   For more information about Whitney, visit https://www.scribbledevos.com/

My guest today is someone that I've followed on social media and watched her inspiring story unfold for several years. Last year, I had the privilege to meet her at a conference and hear a bit more of that story but also see her authenticity and vulnerability first hand.   Tara Austin is the founder and CEO of Ruthie Grace, a women's clothing boutique empire. She has a storefront in Montgomery, TX and a massive online presence servicing customers all over the globe. In addition to Ruthie Grace, she is also the co-owner of Forged, a men's boutique with her husband Josh and she has recently been spending much of her time investing in other retail store owners, teaching strategies to grow and scale their businesses, as she has done with Ruthie Grace. In addition to all of those things, she is the mother to three precious boys! Needless to say, she is very busy.   Today, Tara shares the history of Ruthie Grace, which she started with very little experience but a lot of confidence in how the Lord created her and gifted her. She also dives into how the Lord walked with her through a season of extreme burnout and ultimately uprooted some deep lies she was believing about herself and how He transformed her as a person, calling her to then share that journey with others.   I know, that like me, you will find inspiration in Tara's story as she stepped out on faith and trust into a calling the Lord had on her life. And you will find encouragement in her vulnerability as she shares some of the deep valleys she walked along the way and how the Lord was faithful to His promises to redeem and refine her as he carried her through the storm.

We hear the word “intentional” a lot these days and we are encouraged to live with intentionality. But we live in a world full of distractions and responsibilities that seem to choke out the ability to really choose how we live versus letting our lives dictate for us. I know that is a constant struggle for me and I find myself longing for simplicity. If that is you as well, today's episode is one you don't want to miss!   Lara Casey Isaacson is a mom to three (one through the gift of adoption), a grateful wife, and a believer in the impossible. She created the PowerSheets grace-filled goal setting planner and the Write the Word journals, and she founded Southern Weddings magazine a decade ago. Lara is also the author of Make It Happen: Surrender Your Fear. Take the Leap. Live On Purpose.   Today, Lara shares her fascinating story of creating multiple businesses and how that practically looked in her life, while also touching on the difficult seasons she walked through in the midst of the successes she was finding in those businesses. It was during those harder seasons that the Lord gave her a desire to truly live intentionally or “cultivate what matters” which would become a thriving business that is still growing and helping countless people get “unstuck” in life and step fully into their purpose and Godly goals for living.   Currently, Lara has moved into a new season of life, stepping away from Cultivate and is living in NC, where she loves getting her hands dirty in the garden.   I know that no matter where you are in your life journey, you will find this episode to be both encouraging and helpful as Lara offers some very practical tips to beginning or even continuing the process of cultivating what matters in your world and living intentionally in the place the Lord has you today.   For more information on Lara, visit: https://laracasey.com/

My guest today is a special friend who is sharing her story for the first time publicly. If life has ever thrown you very unexpected and painful curve ball that changed the trajectory of your future in ways you could have never imagined, this episode is for you.   Harleigh Portante is a beautiful friend who is also one of our models at Clover + Bee. She is a former Miss Teen Alabama and Miss Alabama USA. Growing up, Harleigh's life seemed like a fairytale but she would soon find out that it was anything but that. She takes us back to the day everything changed and her life would never look the same again. But she also shares how she can look back and see the Lord literally right next to her every step of the way. If you are in a season of deep grief or unexpected, life changing hardship, you will find understanding and compassion in Harleigh's authentic words today and you will find encouragement to keep going as she shares how the Lord never left her side.

Today's episode is a special one both for me personally and for the month we are in. As most of you know, October is breast cancer awareness month and as we wrap up October, I'm so grateful for the opportunity to introduce you to my sweet friend Lexie Appleby who is a breast cancer survivor and advocate. Breast cancer has touched my life as my mom was diagnosed with it in October of my junior year of high school and passed away after a brief battle in June of the following year. So this episode is special for me in so many ways.   Lexie's story is one that is full of chasing dreams and finding herself on top of the world only to have it all come crashing down with the news of her breast cancer diagnosis. In that moment, by God's grace, she made the crucial choice to see this diagnosis not as a burden but as an unexpected opportunity from the Lord to use her story in ways only He could. She takes us on her incredible journey today through the pageant world as an NFL cheerleader and now as an influencer and speaker through her Born To Sparkle Brand.   If you find yourself wrestling with unexpected news or suddenly in an unplanned season, you will be encouraged as you hear Lexie share her story of God's faithfulness through her journey and the reminder that He does not break His promises to lead us to His calling and purpose for our lives.   So pull up a seat, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy hearing from my sweet friend, Lexie Appleby.   For more information on Lexie and Born to Sparkle, visit https://www.instagram.com/lexie_appleby/?hl=en

I am so very grateful you are joining us today. Like Season One and Two, this season is full of broken and beautiful stories that will encourage, challenge and inspire you. As you listen, you will be encouraged by God's unfailing faithfulness. He does what He says He will do. He is a promise keeper who NEVER forsakes - even when we doubt Him. You will be reminded that you are NEVER alone in your story. No matter where you are today, God is there, walking with you and working in you. In the unexpected, He is in control. In the delay, He is faithfully working. In the hurt, He is healing. In the pain and grief, He is comfort. In the joys and successes, He is glorified. When the seasons change, He does not. This is why we tell our stories! Because each time we share our story, whether in a public setting or quiet moment, we are reminded that God does not leave us or forsake us and He has been working for our good through it all. Our stories point to the only source of hope, peace and joy in this life - fixing our eyes on Jesus. So as you enjoy hearing the stories this season, once again, it is my prayer that as you listen, you will be ushered to the presence of God and that He would meet you in your own story through the messages of those you hear this season on Honey For Your Heart.   So it's become a tradition to kick off each new season of Honey For Your Heart with a guest from a previous season: kind of like a “where are they now episode”. So, continuing that tradition, I am SO excited to welcome Mattie Jackson Smith back to Honey For Your Heart to launch our first episode of Season Three. Mattie joined us on season one and shared about her journey through very unexpectedly losing her husband Ben to a tragic accident after only 11 months of marriage. She walked us through her powerful book Lemons on Friday, which is one of my favorite books still to this day. In this book, Mattie so eloquently expresses the real time emotions and struggles of grief while also pointing to powerful, foundational truths that are critical to navigating grief from a Biblical perspective. If you haven't read the book or listened to Mattie's episode in season one, I highly recommend doing both!   When we left Mattie last, she was preparing to get married to Connor in a few months. Today, we pick up where we left off with Mattie and hear all about her life updates and how grief looks now in a new mountaintop season. She also has just released a new devotional book called: Through The Valley of Grief: Daily Rhythms to Navigate Grief. If you are walking through any kind of grief or even just a hard season, this devotional book provides incredible tools to daily go before the Lord with your struggle, with eyes fixed on Him, even on the darkest of days. You will enjoy hearing Mattie talk about how the Lord gave her four practices that truly helped her navigate her grief authentically and spiritually.   Follow Mattie here: https://www.instagram.com/mattiejackson/?hl=en

Today is the finale in our Men of May series and we are ending with another fantastic episode! I have really enjoyed this mini series and I pray you have too! I hope you have found it encouraging, uplifting and a nice way to change things up a bit on Honey For Your Heart!   If you are a regular listener, you most likely heard Melody Hemphill's beautiful story of brokenness and redemption a few months ago on the show. If you haven't heard it, I highly recommend you listen to her powerful testimony. Today, I am joined by her husband Randy Hemphill who shares the other side of their story. Randy is the founder of Life Ministries. He is an author, speaker, counselor and he and Melody are some of our dearest friends!   Each week, I pray that the Lord would speak directly to the ears that are listening in ways that only He can. This week, He had a word specifically for me through Randy's story and to be honest, it caught me a little by surprise! You will hear more about that as you listen but it was a sweet reminder that the Lord does truly meet us right where we are as we listen to others share their stories. He is faithful to allow us to find ourselves in the narrative while reminding us in those moments that He is a God who sees and knows the deepest parts of our souls and meets us there with unchanging love, mercy and compassion. I know that as you listen today, you will find that to, once again, be true.   Psalm 42:1 says, As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” As Randy eloquently states in this episode, we pray that these words are refreshing streams of water for your thirsty soul.   For more information about Life Ministries and Randy, visit http://www.lifeministriesnow.com/

We are continuing our special mini series titled Men of May: Stories of Women's Impact and Inspiration where we are hearing the incredible stories of men God is using in powerful ways for the kingdom, but also looking through their eyes at the women He has surrounded them with who serve alongside them in ministry.   Today, I am joined by Micah McElveen. Micah's story is extraordinary.   A surfing accident left Micah dead. But God wasn't done. Through that brush with death, Micah's dreams were shattered but a new path for his life emerged as God gave vision for a world-impacting ministry.

In 2005, Micah founded Vapor Ministries. Today, they operate ministry centers in multiple countries, serving hundreds of thousands on a weekly basis and employing hundreds of indigenous people. Micah is married to Audrey, who was also a guest on this season of Honey For Your Heart sharing her extraordinary story that undeniably showcases God's grace and mercy. Today, you will have the privilege of hearing not only Micah's inspiring story but also peeking in to the other side of his love story with Audrey and the clear calling the Lord placed on their lives as a team to literally change the world for His glory.   Micah says, “at the end of the day, life is a Vapor. The question is, will we waste it, or invest it?”. As you listen today, our prayer is that the Lord will meet you at the intersection of that question and you will find encouragement and inspiration to follow Him wherever He may lead.   https://www.micahmcelveen.com/ https://www.vaporministries.org/

We are in the middle of our Men of May Series where we are highlighting and honoring the inspirational influence of some extraordinary women as we look at their lives through the lens of the men they have impacted.   Today, I am joined by my friend Josh Orr. Josh is an entrepreneur and a podcast host. He is the founder of Capital Commerce and is also one of the hosts of the annual Manifest Conference. I had the privilege of meeting Josh last fall at the Manifest Conference and began working with him shortly after. Josh's story is nothing short of amazing and as you hear him share about the incredible sacrifices his mom, who was a single mom, made that got him to where he is today, you too will be both encouraged and inspired. If you feel like you are not enough or you aren't making a difference, this is the episode for you. We dive into those topics and much more as we look at Josh's journey and the tribute he pays to both his mom and his beautiful wife, Kristen. So grab a good cup of coffee and maybe some tissues as you listen in to this incredible story.   To learn more about Josh, visit https://madebycapital.com/

Today, we are kicking off a very special mini series called Men of May: Stories of Women's Impact and Inspiration.   The month of May holds particular significance as we celebrate the profound influence of mothers and women everywhere. While we typically feature the unique and powerful stories of women, in this exciting mini-series, we turn the spotlight onto men who the Lord is using in mighty ways. Each week in May we will hear their stories, while paying tribute to the remarkable women God has strategically placed in their lives. We will highlight and honor the invaluable role these women play in uplifting, encouraging, and inspiring our men on their journeys.   We kick off our series with my great friend Jeff Simmons. Along with being an author and speaker, Jeff is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Rolling Hills Community Church in Nashville, TN and serves as the President of Justice and Mercy International.   I had the privilege of working with Jeff and Lisa many years ago. He has had a profound impact on my life and I have been able to see firsthand how the Lord called Him to great Kingdom work and surrounded Him with amazingly gifted, wise and strong women who walk alongside him in ministry.   If you wonder what your purpose is or ever feel like your job, giftings or role is mundane or even trivial - this episode is for you. Today, we take a deep dive into how the Lord has a calling and a purpose on each life, exactly where you are. And He is using right where you are today with whatever talents you have today in whatever circumstances you are in today to accomplish His work in a bigger story. Our job is to simply lean in and let Him work. In the hands of the One who can do “immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine”, the ordinary becomes extraordinary. So grab a cup of coffee and join me as we hear Jeff's story.   For more information Jeff, visit https://www.jeffsimmons.org

Angela Correll is a best selling author and successful entrepreneur. Today we talk about Angela's latest book, Restored in Tuscany: A True Story of Facing Loss, Finding Beauty, And Living Forward with Hope. The book is fascinating story of Angela and her husband Jess's time in Italy which ultimately led to buying and restoring a home there while paralleling how the Lord was also restoring Angela's during that process.   For those that feel exhausted in life, or maybe overwhelmed by the season you are in - this story is for you! I know that, like me, you will find yourself in the details of Angela's story and you will also find a God who is calling you into quiet rest with Him where He is waiting to restore places deep in your soul that only He can. I pray that you feel the mercy and grace of the Lord wash over you today as you listen.   For more information on Angela and her books, visit https://angelacorrell.com/

Most of us would probably say we want to make a difference in this world but we are often not really sure how to do that.   My guest today had that same thought and prayed that the Lord would show her how and He did just that.   Jovana Mullins is the creator of Alivia Clothing. God gave her a creative mind with a love for fashion. Growing up with a mother who taught special education and after volunteering at an organization serving those with special needs, the Lord opened the door to combine her passion for fashion with her love for those with disabilities and Alivia clothing was created.   Understanding that each and every person is created beautifully and wonderfully by the Lord, Alivia uses fashion as a platform to connect conscious consumers with the talents of people with disabilities. I know you will be just as fascinated and inspired as I was when you hear Jovana's incredible story of how a gorgeous piece of clothing starts with the creative mind of beautiful individual with disabilities.   For more information, please visit: https://www.shopalivia.com/

Have you ever had a moment where the Lord undeniably and unexpectedly brings someone in your life that you know will change it forever? That happened to me a little over a year ago with my sweet friend, Elizabeth Evans.   Elizabeth is the reason Honey For Your Heart exists. She is our producer and has been with us from the start, paving the way to what you are enjoying today. As the producer, Elizabeth normally stays behind the scenes, but today I am SO thrilled to have her join me on the other side of the mic.   Elizabeth is one of those people who you feel instantly connected with. Her love for the Lord is written all over every interaction you have with her and He is using her in BIG ways to make a difference for His kingdom.   Her story is one of difficult seasons, miraculous interventions, bold life changes and often scary decisions requiring radical faith and obedience. But through it all, there is a common thread: God is trustworthy, faithful and is constantly redeeming and restoring, not wasting a single second of our stories.   As you hear Elizabeth share her amazing journey today, I know that, like me, you will encounter a good Father who is personal and intentional with His children, never leaving them alone and always working for their good.   Perhaps you know this but need a sweet reminder today. Elizabeth's story will be like honey for your soul as you remember God's faithfulness in your own life as she shares about His faithfulness in hers. Or maybe you doubt if God is good and can be trusted. Maybe He seems distant and anything but good. If that is you today, our prayer is that through Elizabeth's story, you will meet a God who knows you perfectly, loves you intimately and can be trusted to tenderly hold every doubt, every fear, every decision, every emotion, every question, every bit of shame you may feel and cover them with his unending mercy and grace as you surrender in obedience to Him. So grab a cup of coffee and allow the Lord to meet you right where you are as you listen to Elizabeth's story.   Follow Elizabeth here: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethevans.co/ Learn more here: www.elizabethevans.co

Today, I am joined by a fellow podcaster, Lauren Cunningham. Lauren has an amazing journey that is full of twists and turns and literally leaves you with your jaw open in amazement at some points. But through it all, the Lord was writing a very beautiful story that only He could write, teaching her about His love along the way and leading her to a passion and calling that is impacting countless lives today.   So grab a cup of coffee and settle in for a story that will remind you that if life seems completely confusing, hard and very unexpected, the Lord has not left you and He is truly working all things together for your good.   Find more about Lauren and the So Can I Podcast here: https://laurencunningham.co/about

You are in for a special treat today with our guest Ashley McMakin. Ashley owns Ashley Mac's Kitchen: a thriving catering business along with 5 restaurants that are mouth wateringly good!   To give you a little history, Ashley crafted meals that became like edible greeting cards for the community. In moments when words were not enough, they gave poppyseed chicken and yeast rolls. On no-cook days, moms relied on Ashley to put a warm meal on the table. And for celebrations, they served her mouthwatering strawberry cake.   She has achieved enormous success in her businesses and we dive into how it all started - which is fascinating. But her story hasn't always been easy. Ashley walked through years of infertility and we talk through how the Lord carried her through those years and ultimately gave her a big beautiful family both through biological birth and adoption. You will love hearing Ashley's wisdom as a business owner and her heart as a mom.   The tagline of her business is: Serving hand-crafted southern food to the community - feeding the moments that matter. And this is truly Ashley's purpose for Ashley Macs.   So cozy up for an encouraging and inspiring story of a business born out of passion and a mom born out of God's grace - both trusting the Lord and His good plan and His perfect timing.   To find out more about Ashley Mac's Kitchen, visit https://www.ashleymacs.com/

I remember, at a young age, seeing in scripture that Abraham was called a “friend of God.” Those words jumped off the page to me and I remember thinking - wow! I wonder how you get to actually be “friends” with God - so much that it's even recorded in scripture.   Well, my guest today has a passion for that very thing and has devoted her life to ministry and teaching others about the friendship of the Lord. I am so excited for you to hear from Faith Eury Cho today.   She has been in ministry since she was 19 years old and in her words, met Jesus at a young age and hasn't stopped talking about Him since. She is a speaker, author, CEO and founder of The Honor Summit, church planter, and much more. She has a new book out called Experiencing Friendship with God that looks at what that means and the path to getting there (spoiler alert: the wilderness is involved).   I know that, like me, you will find Faith's words to be both encouraging and challenging but definitely life giving as we dive into what it means to have a personal friendship with God and how we get there.   If you are deep in a wilderness season and feeling angry, confused, frustrated, even wondering if God is there and why it all even matters or if you are in calmer days but still feel like you don't really KNOW God or want to know Him more personally, this message is for you!  So grab a cup of coffee and your journal or notebook (you will want to take notes - I promise) and meet a God who is bigger than any wilderness you will ever face but desires you to know Him intimately.  To learn more about Faith and her ministry, visit https://www.faitheurycho.com/

If you have ever desired something so deeply only to face closed doors time and time again, you know the heartbreak, disappointment and confusion those seasons bring. Maybe you felt angry at God and wondered what He's doing and if He is even trustworthy. If that's you, this episode will certainly validate those feelings and speak to the questions and longings of your heart.   Today, I am joined by my sweet friend Megan Smalley. Megan owns Scarlet & Gold, a multifaceted business based in Auburn, AL and she is the mom of three beautiful boys. I actually came across Megan's story several years ago on social media. Megan spoke openly and honestly about her very painful and difficult struggle with infertility and also about dealing with burnout in her business. She made a very difficult and extremely honest post about how she sensed the Lord was calling her to step away from her thriving business, possibly for a season, possibly forever and that in obedience to that she was literally shutting down Scarlet & Gold. Thankfully, the Lord did eventually lead her to pick the business back up and it is still thriving today. I remember being shocked but also so inspired by her willingness to be open and vulnerable with anyone who wanted to listen. I loved her heart for the Lord and for helping people and often found encouragement and inspiration in her words. A few years later, the Lord would allow our paths to cross and a friendship to form - something I will forever be grateful for.   As Megan shares her story today, no matter what season you find yourself in, you will find such wisdom her words as we talk about business ownership, motherhood and other just basic life issues. But if you are in the depths of waiting and longing - not knowing how the story will end, you will find compassion and understanding in her words and as you listen, it is our prayer that you will encounter the hope and peace and trust that can only come from the Lord and lifting your eyes to Him, especially on the darkest of days.   For more information on Megan or Scarlet & Gold, visit: https://www.megansmalley.com/

Have you ever felt stretched to your limits or frustrated by your limits? Maybe you really wish they didn't exist or you could make them magically go away! If you find yourself there, today's episode is for you!   I am joined today by Sara Hagerty. Sara is a bestselling author, speaker, wife and homeschooling mother of 7 - four adopted from Africa and three through surprise miracle pregnancies.   Sara says she “has found significance of words whispered in hidden places as conversation with God and worship to God as well as written in tearful honesty and shared with her readers”. She has walked through hard seasons of infertility and faced significant health struggles which have revealed her physical and mental limitations, opening the door for the Lord to meet her there with tenderness, compassion and His strengths.   Today, we discuss her newest book, The Gift Of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries, and talk through questions like “What if your greatest weaknesses - the areas of your life you resent the most, the places where you feel the most overextended and unfulfilled - are your doorway to rich intimacy with God? “ What if your limitations were, in fact, your greatest gift?” Sara has seen, firsthand, how the boundaries of our life circumstances can bring about growth and satisfaction we would never experience otherwise. So grab a notebook & pen (you'll definitely want to jot these practical truths down) and join me as we learn to name our limitations and see them as beautiful weaknesses drawing us closer to the Lord, slowing down the cadence of life and ultimately creating a heart that is truly at rest in the Father.   For more information on Sara and her books, please visit https://sarahagerty.net/

Do you find yourself longing for true peace but unsure how to get it? In difficult seasons, do you struggle to find comfort and rest? If this resonates with you, today's episode is one not to miss!   Our guest today is Kelly Minter. Kelly and I have many friends in common and had the privilege of meeting each other and working together about a year ago so I am thrilled to share her story and her love of scripture with you today on the show.   Kelly is an author, Bible teacher, and podcaster. She speaks around the country and also works closely with Justice & Mercy International in the Amazon jungles of Brazil as well as the Eastern European country of Moldova.   Kelly is deeply passionate about teaching the Bible and believes it permeates all of life. Kelly's story on how the Lord paved the way for her to use her gifting of teaching and writing is fascinating and involves a college basketball scholarship and three record deals in Nashville. So pull up a seat, grab a cup of coffee (Kelly will be drinking hers in a big diner mug - she's also passionate about those) and enjoy hearing Kelly's story that will hopefully inspire you to dig into scripture as a balm for your soul as it has been for Kelly from a very young age.   Follow Kelly here! https://www.instagram.com/kelly_minter/

If you have ever asked the question at any season of life or during multiple seasons of life - “who am I” you are in for a wonderful treat today. I had the honor of chatting with Laney Rene for this episode of Honey for Your Heart and it was such a joyful conversation that blessed my heart, as I know it will yours.   Laney is a wife, mom, and founder of The One He Loves, a ministry which exists so every woman can be refreshed, encouraged, and reminded of Jesus' loving-kindness toward them. Laney is known for sharing the goodness of Jesus in a way that is not just inviting but also captivating. After walking through a painful season and into a redemption story only Jesus could come up with, Laney couldn't keep the good news to herself. Today, as a worship artist, author, and speaker, Laney continues to find creative ways to share the heart of Jesus with everyone she can!   Definitely grab a good cup of coffee and a notebook and allow the encouraging and life giving words that Laney shares to wash over you, bringing hope, peace and freedom as you listen.   https://www.instagram.com/heylaneyrene/?hl=en

Melody and her husband, Randy, are founders of Life Ministries. But their story is one filled with brokenness and healing.  Restoration marks their relationship and ministry.  They were married in June of 1995.  Though they did not realize the full extent of their marriage vows, they made a commitment that they believed had forever all over it.  Their individual stories became one story that day, but they did not realize the amount of wounding and struggles that they were each bringing into marriage until several years down the road.  Gradually, it became clear that their marriage had cracks in the foundation, and in 2003 the depth of the damage became clear…their marriage was completely broken.  It appeared that they had reached the end of their relationship, and the future looked hopeless.   Only the love of Jesus could rescue them from the sinful, broken choices they had made.  God exposed them, pursued them, and began to restore them.  What they believed was impossible, God saw as possible, and He began a process of restoration in each of them that led to the healing of their marriage.    Today, Melody is here to share her side of that story with a desire to point to God's powerful healing not only in her marriage, but deep within her soul in ways she could have never imagined.   Maybe you are in a hard place in marriage and it feels hopeless. Or maybe you feel tempted to believe the lies Satan is throwing your way that you have to be perfect or your life has to look a certain way to be worthy. This story is for you! You will feel seen and known as Melody shares and most of all you will be pointed to a place of dependency on the Lord that gives you the courage to call out to Him and trust Him, especially in the darkest of days.   To find out more about Life Ministries, please visit http://www.lifeministriesnow.com/

I am thrilled to share a truly amazing and miraculous story with you today. I recently met Erin Hamby and heard her story and knew it was one that would touch so many lives and needed to be shared on Honey For Your Heart.   Erin walked through an extremely complicated pregnancy and was ultimately told there was a zero percent chance her child would survive. But the Lord told Erin otherwise and through the process her faith grew in ways she could have never imagined.   Erin's husband, Blake, wrote a powerful book called Zero Percent Chance which shares the story from his perspective. And today, Erin is here to tell her side of the story and how God worked in her life during that time.   So grab a cup of coffee and be prepared to be amazed at the Lord's goodness and encouraged by His faithfulness as you hear Erin's story.   Grab their book here: https://www.amazon.com/Zero-Percent-Chance-Blake-Hamby/dp/B0CJ5W1YTX

Amy and Jess, the creators of Sister I'm With You, discuss the importance of adult friendships and sisterhood. They share their personal experiences with loneliness and the power of intentional friendship. They emphasize the need for authenticity, reciprocity, trust, and positivity in healthy adult friendships. They also discuss the importance of setting boundaries and knowing when to step away from toxic relationships.   In this conversation, Jess and Amy discuss the importance of intentional pursuit of healthy friendships and the seasonal nature of friendships. They also explore the significance of authenticity and long-lasting friendships, as well as the need for setting boundaries in friendships. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing overextension and resentment, and the value of loving from a distance.   They also discuss the guilt associated with needing boundaries and the power of truth-telling friends. The conversation concludes with a discussion about their new book, 'Here For It, The Good, The Bad and The Queso,' which delves deeper into friendship topics.   For more information or to order the books, visit https://www.sisteriamwithyou.com/

"Like enduring a cold winter, waiting for life to happen can feel long, lonely and agonizing.  But winter also carries a hidden beauty: Life is being preserved an dstored away to be revealed in a later season."  - Barb Hill If you find yourself feeling hopeless in a long season of waiting, today's episode is for you!  My guest today is Barb Hill.  Barb is a licensed therapist and the founder of Holding Space Counseling with a specialty in trauma. She holds an undergraduate degree in biblical studies and has a masters in clinical mental health counseling.  As a therapist, Barb recognizes the importance that faith and mental health have in our lives and she is passionate in the pursuit of bridging these two important worlds.   Barb is the author of Seasons of Waiting, which is a 52 week devotional book with daily prompts helping you process and work through week.  Today, she shares with us a particularly her journey through a long season of waiting and how the Lord used it to birth this very powerful and practical book.  Barb compares our experiences in waiting to the physical seasons we walk through each year.  It is truly fascinating and a very helpful tool to identify where you are in waiting and how to lean in to each season, allowing the Lord to work, as He is always faithful to do. I believe you, like me, will find Barb's story and wisdom offers both the help you need and the comfort you desire.   Follow Barb here! https://www.instagram.com/barbs_hill/ Check out her book here: barbhillauthor.com

You are in for a special treat today as you hear from my friend, Jennifer Mayer.  Jennifer was raised in a Christian home, went to a Christian school, graduated top of her high school class and Cum Laude from Auburn University.  After college, she landed a prestigious job, lived in a beautiful home with her husband and two beautiful children, drove nice cars and seemingly had it all.  But hidden beneath it all was an addiction to alcohol and pills that would ultimately take her marriage, her kids and eventually land her in jail.  Throughout that time, the Lord never left her side as He patiently and relentlessly pursued Jennifer.  When she hit rock bottom, she simply cried out, "Lord help me" which started the beautiful journey of healing, redemption and restoration in her life through her surrender and His power.   I am so excited to introduce you to my friend, Jennifer, and share her powerful story of rescue and redemption that can be found in the Lord when we simply ask!

I believe God has a purpose for my life but how do I know what it is? When life doesn't make sense, is God really there and in control? If you've ever asked questions like these, this episode is for you! Today, we have a truly extraordinary guest with us, someone whose journey through life is a testament to the relentless pursuit of the Lord in all situations and His trustworthiness with our stories.  Audrey McElveen's story is one of beauty emerging from hardship that will definitely touch your heart. Audrey's story is a beautiful, yet challenging one. It is a tale of how the Lord pursued her in her time of need. But this story is more than just a narrative; it's a testament to the divine orchestration of our lives for God's good purposes. Her passion for basketball became a conduit for God's grace, birthing a ministry and leading her towards a future she could have never imagined.  Her story is full of joy, authenticity, and inspiration. She and her husband, Micah, are the founders of Vapor Ministries. Today, Vapor Ministries operates multiple ministry centers in multiple countries, serving hundreds of thousands on a weekly basis and employing hundreds of indigenous people. Each year, Vapor Ministries is serving tens of millions of cups of clean water and hundreds of thousands of meals through centers and providing health services to people in desperate need. As you hear Audrey's story today, I pray it is a powerful reminder that even in our most desperate moments there is a loving Father who does not withhold His good gifts from His children and is writing a beautiful story in the process. So, I challenge you to lean in and immerse yourselves in this inspiring story of trust, love, and the incredible journey of a soul pursued by the Lord for His glory and purpose. To find out more about Vapor Ministries, visit https://www.vaporministries.org

If you've ever said the wrong thing - or said the right thing the wrong way - you know how quickly your mouth can make a big mess.  This is something I know all too well!  But the good news is, it doesn't have to be that way!I'm absolutely thrilled to introduce a dear friend of mine, Kathleen Edelman. We've known each other for a little over a year, and her message on communication has been a game-changer in my life, affecting everything from my personal friendships to how I connect with my spouse and kids. Devoting her life to the cause of improving communication and relationships, Kathleen's work is rooted in helping individuals understand their unique temperaments (or color). Her core belief is simple but incredibly powerful: by speaking kindly to one another, we have the power to change the world. Today, she's here to share her insights, experiences, and valuable wisdom on the transformative power of communication. So, get ready for a conversation that's all about understanding how God uniquely created you and how that affects the way you talk and listen. I am so excited to dive into this conversation and discover more about how we can all improve our connections with one another and ultimately understand how the Author of our stories perfectly created us. Find out more about Kathleen and other resources available at https://www.isaidyouheard.study/

Today's episode is a special treat from a true thought provoking gem in the world of faith and inspiration, Mary DeMuth. She will not only inspire and uplift your heart but also add a dash of sweetness to your day. Mary shares great wisdom on how to heal from trauma and truly begin the process of “re-storying” your life as you look through the lens of a perfect God who does not waste suffering. She's the author of 48 incredible books, a captivating speaker, a gifted artist, and the compassionate host of the "Pray Every Day Podcast." She is passionate about restorying lives, healing from past wounds, and advocating for those with hard stories. As Mary beautifully puts it, 'People who are broken and hurting are tutors to lead us to Christ.' So, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy this heartfelt conversation that will absolutely nourish your soul." Learn more about Mary at www.marydemuth.com

Does it feel like your life is nothing like it should be or how you thought it would be? Do you struggle to trust that God really does have a good plan for your life? I am so excited to introduce you to Anne Neilson, who struggled with some of those very questions.  Anne is an extremely gifted artist who is well known for her Angels paintings. Her story is fascinating and filled with wisdom as she looks back over the “canvas of her life” and learns to trust the One who is painting her story. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy Anne's beautiful story reminding us that God is listening, He has a good plan for our lives and He cares deeply for your heart and your desires. Follow Anne here!: https://www.instagram.com/anneneilsonhome/?hl=en

Do you feel enslaved to your past? Does the shame of something you've done or something that's happened to you keep you from living in freedom and sharing your story with others? If so, you are definitely not alone! Today's guest, Lauren Sisler, is a two-time Emmy award-winning ESPN sports broadcaster. Best known for her sideline shimmy, she is also a former college gymnast but her story has not always been easy. Lauren tragically and unexpectedly lost both of her parents within hours of each other to drug addiction - a struggle no one knew they had. For years Lauren struggled to share an authentic, “non sugar-coated” version of her story. Today, in addition to sideline reporting, Lauren is also a motivational speaker who has embraced her story and uses it to help inspire others. From the moment I met Lauren, I not only loved her joy and passion for life but also came to admire her authenticity and ability to so beautifully communicate her story.  I am so excited to introduce you to Lauren today and share her inspiring journey with you. Grab a cup of coffee and join us as we learn how to truly embrace our own authentic stories and ultimately live in the freedom and hope that comes from that place. Follow Lauren here! https://www.instagram.com/laurensisler/

What is my purpose? Why am I here? Why do I feel like a failure?  These are common questions that many of us struggle with throughout the different seasons of life.  This week, I am joined by the ladies behind Her True Worth.  They reach millions through their instagram page and in addition to their first book, titled Her True Worth (which I've read and highly recommend), they have a brand new devotional book out called There's Beauty In Your Brokenness: 90 Devotions to Surrender Striving, Live Unburdened, and Find Your Worth in Christ.   On this episode we dive into all things related to worth and where we should or should NOT find our identity.   I know you will enjoy getting to know Britt + Cass as much as I did and hearing the story behind this incredible ministry. For more information on Her True Worth, as well as options for book ordering, visit https://hertrueworth.com

Have you ever wondered where God is during the darkest days or if He even cares? On today's episode, my friend, Martha, dives into those very questions as she shares her story of losing her youngest son in a drunk driving accident. Martha is truly the definition of a pioneer woman. She is married to Roger and is the mother of 12 children. She is the author of Built From Scratch Life which, an autobiography of her extraordinary life.  From raising and growing their own food to sewing their own clothes to constructing their dream home they now live in to building a casket for the tragic and unexpected death of their son, Martha's life truly has been Built From Scratch while resting on a Foundation of Faith in Christ. Martha states “We are all building lives for ourselves - from scratch - and everyone's finished product is unique and different.” Get ready to be both inspired and encouraged as you hear Martha's story that involves unconditional love, unimaginable heartache and unwavering faith through it all. For more information on Martha's business visit https://www.firefliesnurserylinens.com/ For more information on Built From Scratch Life or to learn even more of Martha's story visit https://builtfromscratchlife.com/

Today, we are kicking off season two with a special guest who is actually returning from Season 1. Many of you heard Beth Booth's story about her journey with cancer. If you missed it definitely make sure you go back to season 1 and listen to her episode. It's one you don't want to miss. Beth was diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma around 7 years ago. The journey has had highs and lows with the cancer spreading to tissue and some organs and even the brain, but despite medical odds, the Lord choosing to heal those places and give her more time on this earth. But the journey for Beth has been less about cancer and more about the faithfulness of the Lord and learning to fully rely on Him and completely trust Him only, and draw from His strength to find faith that is unwavering despite ever-changing circumstances or scan reports. In season one, Beth's story closed with her enjoying an extended season of cancer free normalcy. She mentioned that the following week she had routine scans so everything could change but her trust and faith would not. Today, we pick up where we left off with Beth's journey. I pray that as you hear the continuation of the story, you will be reminded of the beautiful faithfulness of the Lord and encouraged to learn to allow Him to lead you to a place where your trust is truly without borders. Follow Beth's cancer journey here: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bethbooth Beth's episode from Season 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0tvnBN5riXJGMvGi50aeME?si=e48c7bc81f604315

Do you feel like you don't have a story to tell? Do you think your story wouldn't be interesting or impactful to others? In this season 1 finale episode, Bryson discusses why we should all be willing to share our stories. No matter what your story involves, sharing it not only impacts others, but also brings healing you may not even know you needed. It is our hope that as you listen you will find the courage to share your own story to encourage those around you and grow in your own faith as you do so. www.shopcloverandbee.com

Who am I?  What is my purpose? Where is my value and who defines it?  We have all asked these questions at some point in life, especially during seasons of confusing change. Izzy Nix has a beautiful heart for the Lord but her high school years were spent focusing on other things besides Him, but the Lord was faithfully pursuing her and leading her to a greater calling she would later find in college. To any teen (or adult) wondering who you are and what God's plan is for your life or to any parent of a teen who is struggling, this episode is for you! Izzy's story hits at the heart of almost every girl through seasons of high school, college and beyond.  As you listen and allow Izzy's story to be a reminder to you that God has not left you and He does have a good and perfect purpose for your life - even when you can't quite see it! www.shopcloverandbee.com

How do you navigate heartbreak?  Maybe you've lost a loved one.  Maybe life hasn't turned out the way you pictured it in your head.  Maybe a relationship ended and has left you feeling empty and confused.  All of us face times of heartbreak that leave us doubting, hurting and confused. In this episode of Honey For Your Heart, Mattie Jackson Selecman tells the story of losing her husband in a tragic accident three weeks before their first wedding anniversary.  She describes wrestling with God in the aftermath and being completely transformed as a result.  We tackle tough spiritual questions so many of us ask during seasons of heartbreak - the same ones Mattie asked as the Lord was drawing her closer to who He really is and what His heart really is like. You are definitely going to want to grab a pen and paper for this episode as Mattie reveals foundational truths that peace and hope can truly be found, even through the pain and unanswered questions. Follow Mattie here! https://www.instagram.com/mattiejackson/?hl=en Get her book, Lemons on Friday, here! https://www.mattiejackson.net/

Does prayer really work? Do we even need to pray to a God who already knows everything? Does God actually answer our prayers?   If you struggle with answers to these questions and others like them, you are not alone. Even seasoned followers of Christ often have a misunderstood and complicated view of prayer. Prayer is powerful and has an important purpose in our lives.   In this mini episode, we take a look at God's beautiful design behind prayer and how He uses it to not only meet our needs but also give us an even greater gift - an invitation to know Him more in the process. Grab a cup of coffee and join us as we learn how to tap into the power, potential and purpose of prayer.   www.shopcloverandbee.com

Where do you turn when the bottom falls out and life looks completely different than you could have ever imagined?  What do you do when it feels like God is silent? In this episode, Stacey Pardue shares her story of love, loss and learning to seek the Lord during deep grief and the very unexpected twists and turns of life. If you struggle to trust God where is leading you or wonder if He's even there at all, Stacey's story is for you. Tune in for a beautiful reminder that you are not alone but are kept by a God who sees you, cares for you and meets your deepest needs, especially in your darkest moments. www.shopcloverandbee.com

Do you feel stuck in life right now? Does it seem like you can't make sense of your situation? In this mini episode, Bryson looks at biblical perspective on life that, when embraced, will change everything. If you are stuck in the past, live in fear, or just feel like the grass seems to always be “greener on the other side”, grab a cup of coffee and allow these truths to minister to your heart and provide a fresh outlook on living life with an eternal perspective.   www.shopcloverandbee.com

Do you struggle to find any joy in seasons of waiting?  Waiting is hard and typically uncomfortable for most of us.  In this episode, Bryson chats with friend, model and real estate agent, Megan Hilt about her journey through waiting on a heart transplant that was needed to save her life.  Little did she know, this would only be beginning of the Lord teaching her to wait patiently on Him through other life impacting seasons following her heart transplant.  Megan shares her unbelievable story of life saving medical situations but also learning to lean on the Lord and to rest in Him during the waiting and unknown.  If you feel weary in the waiting, there is a sweet, refreshing message for you in this episode.  Listen in and allow the Lord to lovingly lift your eyes toward Him to find the rest that is waiting for you there. Follow Megan here: https://www.instagram.com/mkghilt/ www.shopcloverandbee.com  

What should our response be toward suffering and brokenness? How do we walk with others through trials well? In this mini episode, Bryson shares God's ultimate purpose in the overarching story of history. Understanding this gives us the key to successfully navigating hurt in this life that will inevitable come our way. Tune in for an impactful story that will leave you in awe and wonder of the reconciliation of God - even in the hardest of moments. https://shopcloverandbee.com/

Do you have a dream you want to chase but are clueless where to start? Maybe you are ready to start but it feels like there is never enough time or resources to actually take the leap?  In this episode of Honey for Your Heart, Krista Lovelady shares the story of starting Kristalize Jewelry with a huge vision and a very small budget.  She discusses the steps she took to build a small jewelry line that has now been featured in People Magazine, Vogue Magazine and become a celebrity favorite.   If you have a dream, big or small, and need a dose of encouragement or wisdom to take the next steps, this is the episode for you! Follow Krista here: https://www.instagram.com/kristalizejewelry/ https://shopcloverandbee.com/

When the storms of life rage and the elements seem to beat us down, what do we do?  How do we weather them?  How do we find calm in the midst of the chaos? In this mini episode, Bryson looks at Matthew 14:22 - 33 when Peter boldy steps out of the boat in the middle of a raging storm and walks towards His Savior.   What does it take to have that kind of faith and how do we apply it to our lives today?   If you are searching for peace in the pain, calm in the chaos or faith in the fear, this episode is for you. We invite you to grab a pen, notebook and a cozy spot as we learn some important lifelong lessons from the carwash. https://shopcloverandbee.com/

Sometimes, the people we love face very difficult struggles, ones we may not even fully understand.  They often need family and friends to sacrificially walk alongside them as they battle through the dark places. In this powerful episode, Lillian Lalo describes the courageous actions she took in the moments surrounding her husband's death which ultimately provided the gift of life and healing for herself and many others. If you have a friend or loved one walking through a very dark season, our prayer is that this episode provides some practical steps to loving that person well and serves as a reminder that you are not alone. Disclaimer: This episode includes conversations around suicide and mental illness. We believe this is a very important + powerful episode -- please listen with care. https://shopcloverandbee.com/

Do you feel that your past defines you?  Do you have deep wounds from things that happened years ago? So often we find ourselves paralyzed by the decisions and circumstances surrounding our early years in life. But you don't have to live that way. In this episode, Jenny shares about how the Lord used infertility + adoption to not only give her the priceless gift of a child but also show her His perfect Fatherly love and heal some deep wounds from her past!  You don't want to miss this heartwarming story of healing and restoration.

Do you find it hard to navigate the undesirable, messy areas of life?  Sometimes, it's hard to know how to even take the next step forward.  In this mini episode, Bryson takes a look at 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to uncover a basic command which actually holds the secret to successfully walking through both the good AND the bad seasons of life.  If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, confused and unsure how to process your current circumstance, you don't want to miss this episode!  Throw on your favorite PJs, and allow scripture to encourage, refresh and breathe truth into your weary soul. https://shopcloverandbee.com/

Do you find yourself searching for peace in the middle of the hard seasons of life? If you feel like that is impossible, this episode is for you!  In Episode 2, Bryson sits down with her sister, Beth Booth, who has been battling Stage IV melanoma for almost 7 years.  Beth talks about how she found her cancer which led her on a journey to discover lasting peace in the face of fear and uncertainty. If you're facing a similar hardship, or perhaps are walking this journey with a loved one right now, our hope is to provide encouragement and community through this conversation. **NOTE: See Beth's CaringBridge page for an update on her latest diagnosis given after this recording: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bethbooth

Some days, the brokenness just feels too much carry, doesn't it? If you're ready for a dose hope, healing, encouragement and beauty, this episode is here for you today. On Episode 1 of the Honey for Your Heart Podcast, Bryson is sitting down with model and beauty pageant winner, Molly King. Molly vulnerably shares her story of love, loss, struggle and brokenness that led to a healing she never realized she needed. Grab your favorite cup of coffee and listen to this powerful story of freedom and forgiveness. Follow Molly here! https://www.instagram.com/mollyelana/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D