Podcast appearances and mentions of debra fileta

Today on the show I'm joined by Angie, who's greiving the fact that her adult daughter went “no contact” recently, withdrawing from family activities and isolating her daughter from seeing her grandma. Angie is grieving both the loss of her relationship with her daughter as well as her granddaughter, and wondering if there is anything she can do to move toward reconciliation and connection. I talk her through the building blocks of a safe relationship,what she can and what she can't do, and what it means for her to work on creating a space of safety and security for her adult daughter and their relationship with one another, even through their differences. According to Angie, their differing political views have kept her daughter away, so we spend some time talking about navigating the difficult territory when there is a stark contrast of views and perspectives between two people, whether politically, theologically, or otherwise. This episode is more important in this generation and culture than it ever has been before, so take the time to listen, process, and learn alongside Angie. To go deeper in your relationships with others, grab a copy of People Skills and learn the skills you need to strengthen your relationships.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

In this week's episode, Pastor Julie sits down with counselor, author, and friend of the podcast, Deb Fileta, for a conversation that has the power to transform every relationship in your life. Together, they unpack why healthy relationships don't happen by accident, and why the strength of our relationships is often tied to skills we were never taught.From understanding your communication style to learning how to express your needs with confidence and grace, Deb shares practical wisdom that will help you move from people-pleasing, passivity, and resentment toward healthier, more honest connections. Whether you're navigating marriage, friendships, family dynamics, or leadership, this conversation will equip you to show up differently and build stronger relationships.Deb's Latest Book: People Skills (https://a.co/d/00Ls5AyB)Subscribe to Shownotes Plus (https://rock.gocf.org/page/2849)Learn More About Sisterhood (https://www.christfellowship.church/sisterhood)Keep Up with Pastor Julie (https://www.instagram.com/juliedmullins/)© 2022 Be Essential Songs (BMI) / Jord A Lil Music (BMI) / Doejones20 (BMI) (admin at EssentialMusicPublishing.com). All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Today on the show I'm joined by Melissa who is calling in to get help dealing with her anger issues. She's noticing that her anger outbursts are getting less controlled, and has noticed losing her temper in the car as well as in public – at the bank, for example. She's not sure where these patterns of anger have come from, and she feels like she's tried everything to try and break free from her anger with no success. We process what her anger means, what emotions it represents, and then we look for trigger patterns to trace what may be the underlying root of her anger issues. We make some serious progress in this session, as I help her track the underlying issue that's been holding her back. If you struggle with anger, listen to this episode and start putting the pieces together in your own life so that you can respond to the signal of anger instead of simply reacting to it. Listen to this episode, and then go deeper on your own journey of healing by connecting with one of our faith-forward counselors at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network! The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Licensed counselor Debra Fileta highlights ways to “fill up” physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In a 6-part process that Debra calls “Soul Care,” she goes through the life and rhythms of Jesus to discover how we can care for our souls. Instead of living unsatisfied, we can experience renewed energy, purpose, and strength to serve others like never before! Receive the book Soul Care plus a free audio download of the program "Godly Rhythms to Help You Live Life to the Full" for your donation of any amount! Plus, receive member-exclusive benefits when you make a recurring gift today. Your monthly support helps families thrive. Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Licensed counselor and author Debra Fileta is back for her third appearance, and this one hits different — she's here to talk about the skill we're all convinced we already have. Levi and Jennie dig into Debra's new book People Skills, unpacking why our tech-saturated world is quietly eroding our ability to connect, why most of us privately think this book is for someone else (spoiler: it isn't), and how communication styles — passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive — show up in something as simple as a wrong order at a restaurant. Plus: Debra shares the moment God changed her perspective on public speaking anxiety, Jennie confesses she's a chameleon in social situations, and Levi admits cocktail parties are somehow scarier than 10,000-person crowds. Connect with us on social! Debra: @debrafileta Levi: @levilusko Jennie: @jennielusko Fresh Life Church: @freshlife [Links] Get Debra's book People Skills: https://bit.ly/4fco6Vl Get the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Get the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe Time Stamps: 00:07:46 – Introducing People Skills — and Jennie's very tabbed-up copy 00:08:26 – Why we're losing the art of real human interaction 00:18:44 – The room full of strangers exercise: how do YOU show up? 00:25:45 – Stop focusing on what they give you, focus on what you can give 00:49:10 – Passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, assertive

When you're living on empty, it's tempting to reach for things that don't satisfy. Licensed counselor Debra Fileta highlights ways to “fill up” physically, emotionally, and spiritually. She'll walk you through the life and rhythms of Jesus so you can experience renewed energy and purpose to serve others like never before! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29?v=20251111

Licensed counselor Debra Fileta highlights ways to “fill up” physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In a 6-part process that Debra calls “Soul Care,” she goes through the life and rhythms of Jesus to discover how we can care for our souls. Instead of living unsatisfied, we can experience renewed energy, purpose, and strength to serve others like never before! Receive the book Soul Care plus a free audio download of the program "Godly Rhythms to Help You Live Life to the Full" for your donation of any amount! Plus, receive member-exclusive benefits when you make a recurring gift today. Your monthly support helps families thrive. Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Sensitive Content Disclaimer: The following conversation includes sensitive information, covering themes of abuse. Today on the show I am joined by my friend Tim Ross for an on-air counseling session as we process the concept of vulnerability in relationships. What does it mean to be vulnerable? I guide him through the analogy of seeing vulnerability like a pool – equipped with both a shallow end and a deep end. Vulnerability means to go first, to take that first jump, and to invite people to the deep end of your life, and share authentically. He opens up about the moment that changed everything for him, where he decided that he will never keep a secret again, and his journey toward being open and honest in every part of his life. We process through both the benefits and the risks of vulnerability, how to find friends who are willing to go there, and why being open and honest is not a gender thing – it's an invitation to all. This episode is filled with lessons to learn and things to process about your own life, and what holds you back from sharing authentically. Don't miss this on-air session, and then go deeper with your relationships by grabbing a copy of People Skills.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

When you're living on empty, it's tempting to reach for things that don't satisfy. Licensed counselor Debra Fileta highlights ways to “fill up” physically, emotionally, and spiritually. She'll walk you through the life and rhythms of Jesus so you can experience renewed energy and purpose to serve others like never before! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29?v=20251111

My friend Debra Fileta sat down with me to share her perspective on people skills, and it totally shifted how I show up in my relationships. Not only is Debra a wife, mother, and professional counselor, but she's also the author of nine books, including her latest book, People Skills: Your Relationships Are Only as Strong as Your Skills. You'll love hearing her expert advice for navigating relationships with intentionality and vulnerability. Highlights from Today's Episode Receiving the right feedback Tracking patterns of tension Easing into vulnerability Related Resources Connect with Debra Fileta on Instagram or Facebook. Grab a copy of Debra's latest book, People Skills: Your Relationships Are Only as Strong as Your Skills. Visit Debra's website to learn about her books, podcasts, and counseling offerings. Check out this previous episode with Debra, reminding us that It's Time to Heal. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #574 – Do You Have People Skills? with Debra Fileta first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.

Devices and social media have "connected" us to each in amazing ways, but many struggle with real life relationships—or face to face communication. On this Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, counselor and author, Debra Fileta wants to help you reclaim the art of connection. How do we build stronger relationships and less social anxiety? Hear the encouragement on Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman. Featured resource: People Skills: Your Relationships Are Only as Strong as Your SkillsDonate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/buildingrelationshipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Worship leader Laura Story, author of "Stand in Awe," talks about the importance in awe and reverence for God, trusting in Him as He writes our lives, and allowing that to transform us into His image.  Licensed counselor Debra Fileta, author of "People Skills," talks about our body language, which communicates as much, if not more, than the words we use.  How do cultivate an open body language style.   The Reconnect with Carmen and all Faith Radio are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here

Today on the show I am joined by Kirby Kelly for an on-air counseling session, as we process her past trauma of growing up with alcoholic parents. In this emotional conversation, Kirby opens up specifically about her complex relationship with her mother, who continued to relapse into addiction to alcohol until she passed away unexpectedly in 2023. Kirby is now expecting her first baby girl, and a new layer of trauma and mother wounds has made its way to the surface of her life. She is dealing with a layer of new emotions as she grieves for the mother she never had, and also grieves the fact that her mom will not be here with her during this vulnerable season of her life as she herself becomes a new mom. We process the concept of God showing up to her as a good father, but what it means to ask him to fill in the gaps of our mother wounds as well. This episode is SO powerful, vulnerable, and emotional – and is so necessary for anyone who can relate to experiencing the trauma of mother wounds. Go deeper in healing from the trauma of your past, with my book Are You Really OK?  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

“We talk all the time, but I still feel alone in my marriage.” If that sentence has ever crossed your mind on a Tuesday night, mid-load of dishes, with your partner three feet away, you are not imagining it. And you are not the only one. In this episode, I sit down with Debra Fileta, the licensed therapist who has spent more than twenty years in clinical practice helping couples figure out exactly this. Debra is the author of nine books and the host of the nationally syndicated podcast Talk To Me, and her newest book, People Skills, is built around an idea that I think is going to be a relief for a lot of you. Most relationship pain is not a love problem. It is a skill problem. And skills can be built. In This Episode The three levels of communication, and why almost every couple stalls at level two without realizing it Why “we talk all the time” is not the same thing as feeling close, even after twenty years of marriage The thirty-minute weekly ritual Debra and her husband John have used for fifteen years to keep their marriage from drifting Why being “nice” is not the same as having strong people skills, and the people-pleasing trap that masquerades as kindness How to tell the difference between a one-time conflict and a relationship pattern that is pointing at something deeper The volume-dial reframe for couples where one partner feels everything at a 7 and the other at a 3 The empathy practice that takes thirty seconds and changes the way you see almost everyone in your life Why “I keep attracting the wrong people” is the wrong question, and the better one Debra asks instead Why This Matters This episode is for anyone who has caught themselves thinking, something has shifted between us and I cannot put my finger on what. For the partner who feels like they are always the one initiating real conversation. For the couple who used to talk for hours and now mostly talks about logistics. For anyone who has wondered if needing more depth in their marriage is asking too much. It is not. And the way back is more learnable than you might think. Episode Breakdown 02:30 It is Not a Lack of Love, It is a Lack of Skill 06:30 Patterns vs. Pain Points (How to Tell If You Are the Common Denominator) 10:30 Why You Keep Attracting the Wrong People (And How to Change Your “Magnet”) 14:00 The Three Levels of Communication: Why Most Couples Never Get Past Level Two 17:30 Duck Floaty or Scuba Diver? The Sunday Night Check-In That Saved a Marriage 23:00 When One of You Feels Everything at a 7 and the Other at a 3 29:30 The Yalom Story: How to Actually Look Out Your Partner's Window 33:00 Trauma Does Not Excuse Us, But It Does Explain Us Resources Free Communication Training (two-part video plus workbook) Work with a couples counselor or relationship coach on my team If something in this conversation lands somewhere specific for you, that is the signal to do something with it. Start with the free communication training at growingself.com/communication. It is two short videos and a workbook, and you can do it this weekend. And if you want to go a little deeper, we do free first conversations at growingself.com. No pressure, no commitment, just a real conversation about what is actually going on in your relationship and whether what we do here might be a fit. I will see you back on the podcast soon. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self Special thanks to this month's sponsors of the podcast Upwork — When you need specialized talent fast, Upwork gives you access to vetted professionals across 125+ categories, from marketing to web development to operations support. No long recruiting cycles. No guesswork. Just the right person, when you need them. Check it out at upwork.com — posting a job is free. Shopify — The all-in-one platform for building and growing your online business. Visit shopify.com/lhs to explore their tools and access exclusive listener discounts. OSEA — Amazing, clean, science-backed skincare made with the power of the sea. Use code LHS at oseamalibu.com for 10% off your first order. Quince — Quality products you'll actually use that feel like luxury without the price tag. Get free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/lhs. LNutra Prolon — A science-backed, plant-based nutrition program that supports fat loss, metabolism, cellular rejuvenation, and overall longevity. Head to ProlonLife.com/LHS for 15% off your first order + a bonus gift.

Today I have an on-air session with Christian Bevere, as we processed some of the mistakes she made during her dating days, including dating from places of insecurity, as well as the unrealistic expectations she placed on what dating was “supposed to” look like or feel like in that season of life. We then talk through how unrealistic expectations continue to play out, if we're not careful, even in marriage. We unpack how family dynamics and Christian culture can influence our perspectives on dating and relationships for both the good and bad, and how there can almost be a “desperation” for relationships, that lead us to looking for love in the wrong places. If this episode resonates with you, check out True Love Dates to learn more about becoming healthy standing alone, and attracting and engaging in healthy relationships.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

  Our kids often feel deep feelings they don't understand.  On this special The Reconnect with Carmen podcast, we listen again to our conversation with Counselor Debra Fileta, author of "Any Day Emotions."  She helps us to look at our strong emotions and what is underneath them.  How does God help us understand them and respond well?  How do we help our kids to the same?  The Reconnect's goal is the help you apply the mind to Christ to the matters of the day, equipping you to be bold in sharing God's love!  Pat and her friend Kathy took up the challenge to pray for those who serve you.  Pat wrote, "We heard you talking about praying for the waitress when you eat out.  We decided to put that into practice.  Kathy and I were in the third week of this "experiment."  So we went to IHOP after church and asked the young waitress how we could prayer for her.  Her mom was our waitress two weeks ago and she came up to thank us.  "But the real story was the woman we prayed for the week before...She asked us to pray that they could find a place to live with more bedrooms.  She told us that the Wednesday after we prayed for her, she got a great new place with enough bedrooms and a yard for their dog! "This is only one of the blessings that I/we have had when we have done this.  And like you said, everyone is happy for us to do so.  Thank you so much for unlocking the door of my mouth with such a simple suggestion!" The Reconnect with Carmen and all Faith Radio shows and podcasts are made possible by your support.  This week is our Spring Fundraiser.  Help us continue to lead people to Christ and nurture their spiritual growth, helping listeners be rooted in Christ!  Give now: Click here

The stress of the sandwich generation is real, but extremely underestimated. People don't talk about it enough. How do you navigate the burdens and blessings of caring for young children, as well as caring for your aging parents…all at once? How do you navigate that stress while you're also trying to run a household, keep a marriage intact, provide for your family, keep your job, and manage your mental and emotional health all the while? Theologian Joel Muddamalle sits down with me to process the stress he's dealing with in this season of life, caring for his aging parents and the many needs that come with that, all while managing a household and young children of his own. If you're dealing with the blessings and burdens of being the sandwich generation – this episode will encourage you and give you some practical suggestions of how to manage this season well, set healthy boundaries, and care for yourself in the process – so that caring for others doesn't end up destroying you. If you enjoyed this episode, you need to check out Soul Care and learn how to prevent burnout, and care for your own soul as you care for others.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Join me today as I chat with the beautiful  Debra Fileta who gives us a lifeline to THRIVING! Debra Fileta is a Licensed Professional Counselor and bestselling author of eight books. She's a national speaker who travels the country reaching millions of people with the message of mental, emotional, and relational healing. Her work has been featured by numerous media outlets, national television, syndicated radio, and ministries and churches nation-wide including Saddleback Church, Fresh Life Church, Lakewood Church, Focus on the Family, Better Together, The 700 Club, and many more. She's also the founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network, a national team of faith-forward, clinically-informed counselors, integrating faith and psychology to help people navigate personal and relational issues. Debra is also the host of the popular podcast, and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me, where she hosts on-air counseling style sessions with people from across the country including notable pastors and leaders, as well as every-day hotline callers talking about the things many others shy away from. She is the author of eight books, including True Love Dates, Choosing Marriage, Love in Every Season, Are You Really OK?, Married Sex, RESET, Soul Care, and her first children's book, Any Day Emotions. She and her husband, John, and their four children live in Lancaster, PA. You can connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Jess sits down with counselor and author Debra Fileta to talk about her newest book, People Skills, and what it looks like to build healthier, more peaceful relationships. From emotional triggers to communication habits, this honest conversation will help you grow in self-awareness and change the way you show up, so you can experience more peace in every relationship.Let's go.Don't Miss:Order Debra Fileta's Book, People Skills. Grab Jess's favorite bedding and loungewear from Cozy Earth. Head to cozyearth.com and use the code JESS for up to 20% off! And if you get a Post-Purchase Survey, make sure to let them know you heard about Cozy Earth here.Preorder Jess's Book: You Can't Be Brave Until You're ScaredJoin us at Brave 2026! A two-day gathering for Kingdom women in Charleston, SC Grab your ticket!Jess partnered with the Dwell Audio Bible App to create a 5-day devotional, Mothering as a Daughter of God, to help you be filled, held, and rooted in His love. Listen now at dwellbible.com/jess for up to 50% off.

Most couples go through a season where you're not connecting like you want. Erin Smalley addresses how spiritual connection matters, and that a lot of couples are struggling in this area. Plus, Jim Daly and Debra Fileta give some thoughts for getting on the same page spiritually again. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Love in Every Season for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Loving Your Spouse Through the Seasons of Marriage Counseling Consultation and Referrals Conversation Starters for Date Nights Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Most couples go through a season where you're not connecting like you want. Erin Smalley addresses how spiritual connection matters, and that a lot of couples are struggling in this area. Plus, Jim Daly and Debra Fileta give some thoughts for getting on the same page spiritually again. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Love in Every Season for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Loving Your Spouse Through the Seasons of Marriage Counseling Consultation and Referrals Conversation Starters for Date Nights Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1196/29?v=20251111

When you fell in love, was it love at first sight, or did attraction grow with time? Jim Daly and Debra Fileta address how a person can fall in love with their mate, and enjoy the spring season of marriage. Also, Erin and Greg Smalley will address why taking care of yourself is good for your relationship Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Love in Every Season for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Loving Your Spouse Through the Seasons of Marriage Spring: Is Your Relationship Growing? God’s Plan for Marriage Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Today's caller, Ron from California, is wondering what to do about cell phone addiction, especially as it relates to your marriage and relationships. How do you handle the issue of cell phone addiction before it has a negative impact on a marriage? What are some practical ways you can bring this area to the attention of your spouse, or other loved ones who struggle with being on their phone too much without getting into an argument? To help me answer this question, I'm joined by Larinda, one of the DFCN counselors, and together we unpack the neurological and relational impacts of cell phone addiction, as well as some really practical and gentle ways you can begin bringing up the conversation and making changes in your family and in your marriage with regard to screen time addiction. If you or someone you know is distracted by their screens more often than not (and let's get real – we ALL need to work on this) this episode is for you! Dig deeper into navigating friendships, triggers, conflict, rupture and repair by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold. Go deeper with the 60 minute RESET from screens and social media seminar HERE.   The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Burnout rarely announces itself with a flashing warning sign. It sneaks in through good intentions, old “shoulds,” and the quiet belief that being needed equals being faithful. We sit down with licensed professional counselor and best-selling author Debra Fileta to talk about soul care, rest, boundaries, and what actually changes when we stop treating health like a luxury and start treating it like stewardship.We dig into the real roots of burnout and why personality, family of origin, trauma history, and theology can all shape how we say yes and no. Debra shares one of the most freeing reframes for high achievers: Jesus honors his capacity. He withdraws for alone time, protects his time with the Father, and refuses to be driven by other people's opinions. That example gives us permission to set boundaries, protect our calling, and choose rhythms that keep us filled rather than depleted.You'll also hear practical guidance for discerning God's will through relationship and familiarity, plus a grounded take on “spiritual warfare” when the real issue might be low sleep, low blood sugar, or dehydration. From there, we zoom out to family life: keeping God at the center, strengthening marriage, navigating different parenting styles, and making decisions as a true team. Debra also introduces her new book People Skills and why ownership, empathy, and communication matter in a screen-shaped world.Subscribe for more conversations on Christian parenting, mental health, and practical faith, then share this with a friend who's running on empty and leave a review. What is one boundary you know you need to set this week?ABOUT US:The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore and Sandy Zamalis. Dr. Amy and Sandy have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, homeschooling, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping parents and kids thrive. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media! CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMomsSubscribe to our free monthly newsletterVisit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

When you fell in love, was it love at first sight, or did attraction grow with time? Jim Daly and Debra Fileta address how a person can fall in love with their mate, and enjoy the spring season of marriage. Also, Erin and Greg Smalley will address why taking care of yourself is good for your relationship Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Love in Every Season for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Loving Your Spouse Through the Seasons of Marriage Spring: Is Your Relationship Growing? God's Plan for Marriage Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1196/29?v=20251111

This conversation with Debra Fileta on The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast with host Ginny Yurich gets right to the ache so many women are carrying: the feeling of being stretched thin by good things, needed by everyone, and running on empty. Debra brings the kind of wisdom that makes listeners feel both seen and steadied as she talks about burnout, boundaries, soul care, screen time, motherhood, friendship, homeschooling, and the deep-rooted beliefs that keep so many of us overextending ourselves. Her reminder to stop living at 100 percent and start building margin is extremely practical. This is the kind of episode that helps you exhale, tell the truth about how tired you are, and start making a way back to joy. Learn more about Debra here Also check out her books: Soul Care, People Skills, Any Day Emotions, and ⁠True Love Dates Listen to her podcast here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when a long-term friendship suddenly comes to an end? How do you deal with the pain of rejection, misunderstanding, and even abandonment in close relationships — especially when you didn't see it coming. Today on the podcast, Pastor and Author Alex Seeley opens up about a recent rupture of a close friendship that left her feeling misunderstood and abandoned. In our on-air session, we talk about healthy ways vs unhealthy ways to deal with the sudden loss of a friendship, how to know what's yours to own vs. what's not yours to own, and where to go from here. If you've dealt with the loss of a friendship, this episode will be life-giving and encouraging, and it will give you loads of practical next steps as you heal and decide whether or not you can move toward repair. Dig deeper into navigating friendships, triggers, conflict, rupture and repair by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Mary DeMuth, author of "Restory," talks about how through Jesus, He's not just saving you from past sin and hurt, but He actually reframes that past, rewrites your present and redefines your future.  Embrace your "restory."  Licensed counselor Debra Fileta, host of "Talk to Me" and author of "People Skills," understand that sometimes it's hard to know what to talk about or how to communicate what you want to talk about.  She offers help for us to understand the levels of communication and how to gain comfort in having conversations.   The Reconnect with Carmen and all Faith Radio are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here    

What happens when you don't fit into the social norms? What happens when the social skills that are “supposed to” feel “easy”, feel like an incredibly difficult challenge? This is a glimpse of what it's like to live with neurodivergence, and a diagnosis that impacts your social skills, such as ADHD or Autism. Today on the show Kendall Mariah, Instagram influencer and content creator, opens up to me about the burden and struggles of living with social challenges in a relational world. She never felt like she was “normal” growing up, and she couldn't figure out why friendships were so hard for her. It's been a long journey for her, and one that's not finished yet, but she's learned how to steward her differences and see the blessings in her diagnosis – and you will too. If you or someone you know struggles with being “different” or having some type of neurodevergence, this episode is for you! Learn more and go deeper by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Today I'm joined by my friend and co-author of one of my books, Gary Thomas. He's opening up about many different times in his life when he's either felt misunderstood, slandered, or dealt with toxic interactions (some even from childhood) – and how he's learned to respond as a person who typically leans toward peace and repair. We talk about how to set proper boundaries in relationships with different people, depending on their level of safety and health. Dig deeper into dealing with difficult people and setting healthy boundaries, by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Whether you are in leadership, ministry, or business, you can strengthen your connections! Do you know your communication style? Are you a good listener, and do you have the key listening skill for success in life? These and many other skills are covered in our conversation with Debra Fileta. Don't miss it! Debra Fileta | Best Selling Author, Speaker, Psychotherapist, and Podcaster!(debrafileta.com)

Licensed counselor Debra Fileta, host of "Talk to Me" and author of "People Skills," talks about some of the junk that gets in the way to having true, fruitful people skills: having that ability to convey God's love in a pure way.  How do you break the pattern of unhealthy people skills.  Casey Hough, author of "Known for Love," offer help for those with who have friends, neighbors, and family who may be in an unhealthy lifestyle and follow some destructive gender ideologies.  How do you love them well? How does the Church love them well, while not compromising the truth around God's design?  How can we be known for love while upholding truth.   The Reconnect with Carmen and all Faith Radio are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here  

What do you do when you keep hitting a wall trying to go deeper in friendship? Today, I'm joined by Nicole who is feeling hurt by the cycle of trying to go deeper with friends, but finding herself at a dead end. She's feeling discouraged and wondering if it's even possible to connect with people on the level that she's desiring for friendship. I challenge her to dig deeper into some of her personal fears and triggers that might lie underneath the surface, particularly regarding rejection wounds, and then I give her practical steps for what to do next when you want to go deeper in friendship. If you're struggling to find the right fit in friendships, you have to listen to this episode! We cover this and more, in today's episode of Talk To Me! Dig deeper into going deeper in your friendships and connections by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Is one of your kids more emotional than the others? Danny opens up about the ways his kids expressed their emotions. Plus, Jim Daly talks to professional counselor Debra Fileta who gives some helpful insights on the popular verse, "Jesus wept." Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the Nourish Your Family’s Mental Health Bundle for your donation of any amount! Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment How to Nourish Mental Health in Your Family Contact our Counseling Team Family Reading of Scripture Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Parenting Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Devices and social media have made us more "connected" than ever, but many struggle with real life relationships—face to face communication. Counselor and author, Debra Fileta wants to help you reclaim the art of connection. Drawing from Scripture and more than two decades of clinical practice, she has a path to stronger relationships and less social anxiety. Hear the encouragement on Chris Fabry Live. Featured resource:People Skills: Your Relationships Are Only as Strong as Your Skills by Debra FiletaMarch thank you gift:On Our Way Home: Reflections on Heaven in the Face of Death by Colleen Chao Chris Fabry Live is listener-supported. To support the program, click here.Become a Back Fence Partner: https://moodyradio.org/donateto/chrisfabrylive/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on the show, Kevin calls in to talk to me about dealing with church hurt and trauma. He's a licensed counselor himself, and finds himself counseling people through church trauma issues on a regular basis. He wants to know how to best serve those who are struggling with this kind of trauma. He's worked through his personal journey of church trauma, but as a counselor at a local church, he wants to find better tools to help those who are in the thick of it. If you find yourself walking through church trauma, this conversation will offer encouragement and next steps. Dig deeper by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Rachel calls in to the hotline today to Talk To Me about her struggles with feeling secure standing alone. After the loss of her husband, she realized she'd never really dealt with abandonment wounds from the past, and is having a really hard time feeling secure in her singleness. How can a person begin to develop that confidence, and even enjoy being alone? Is it wrong to have a desire for a relationship, and how do you know if your desire for connection is healthy or unhealthy? We cover this and more, in today's episode of Talk To Me! Dig deeper by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

The early habits you form in marriage don't just shape your first year — they set the trajectory for decades to come. In this episode, the More than Roommates team unpacks the foundational patterns that help couples build a marriage that doesn't drift into “roommate mode,” but instead grows into a lifelong flourishing biblical marriage.Discussion Questions:- What kind of marriage do we want to “vote for” with our daily habits?- Are we consistently praying together? If not, what's stopping us?- Who has permission to speak into our marriage?- Is sex something we are proactively nurturing or just hoping works itself out?- Do we address conflict quickly, or let things simmer?- Are there boundaries (work, family, schedule) we need to clarify?Resources:- Ready or Knot by Scott Kedersha- Atomic Habits by James Clear- Married Sex by Gary Thomas and Debra Fileta- Celebration of Sex for Newlyweds by Douglas Rosenau- Mistake we made as newlyweds More than Roommates- Good Habits as Newlyweds More than Roommates- One Habit to strengthen your marriage More than Roommates

Can friendship bring up old wounds? Today Royneka calls in to the hotline to chat about a friendship that seems to be triggering her. How can she tell if the triggers mean she should step away from this friendship, or if the triggers are revealing something in her that needs to be healed? We unpack friendship triggers, how to deal with them, and when to confront them or step away. Knowing your triggers is an important people skill, and we talk through it in this episode of Talk To Me! Dig deeper by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Today we're breaking cycles with Deb Fileta as she dives deep into people pleasing, unpacking its roots, how it affects dating and relationships, and sharing practical steps to walk in healthy, God-centered connection! Need 1:1 support for your specific dating situation? Book a coaching call today! https://www.heartofdating.com/coaching  Find out your Dating Personality Type for free by taking our QUIZ here! https://www.heartofdating.com/quiz Join Basics of Dating! The 6-Week Program for the Christian single feeling stuck, anxious, or healing from heartbreak. https://www.heartofdating.com/basics-of-dating   Love Heart of Dating Podcast? Want to support us AND be a part of the fam? Join us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/heartofdating Subscribe to our YouTube channel here! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ1PswEXEyeSddMmOSiRKGw Crushing on a cutie? Download this FREE Resource on how to show interest: https://www.heartofdating.com/resource/how-to-show-interest  Want to further your dating knowledge? Check out our ultimate dating library! https://www.heartofdating.com/resource/ultimate-dating-library  Kait wrote a book! Snag Thank You For Rejecting Me on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3E59cLQ Want to meet some epic Christian Singles? Join our huge HOD Family on FB! https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartofdatingpodcast  Come hang with us on the gram: http://instagram.com/heartofdating http://instagram.com/kaitness https://www.instagram.com/jjtomlin/?hl=en Interested in advertising on this show? Learn more here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16V_c91F1iIYNZOVvrEinrB9h2dsZq-kZFqYYEDQ4A60/viewform?edit_requested=true  . . . . .  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk about healing as though it's inevitable. As though proximity to Scripture, therapy language, or Christian community automatically produces transformation. But God does not force anyone into wholeness. He invites. He confronts. He calls. And too many believers confuse awareness with growth. This week on Win Today, Debra Fileta joins me for a sober conversation about emotional health and spiritual maturity. We examine why so many Christians remain emotionally immature while sounding spiritually fluent, how "trauma-informed" has in some circles become trauma-defined identity, and why you cannot become spiritually mature if your mental and emotional life is neglected. Healing is not passive. It is participatory. If your faith is sincere but your reactions are volatile… if you know the right language but keep repeating the same patterns… or if you've mistaken self-protection for self-awareness, this episode will clarify what real growth actually requires. Guest Bio Debra Fileta is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in relationship, marital, mental, and emotional health. She is the author of five books, host of the Love + Relationships Podcast, and founder of TrueLoveDates.com, a widely read relationship advice platform reaching millions worldwide. Known for her candid yet compassionate voice, Debra integrates clinical insight with Christian faith to help individuals and couples pursue emotional health and stronger relationships. Her work has been featured in outlets including Christianity Today, Focus on the Family, Relevant Magazine, Crosswalk.com, Charisma Magazine, and more. Show Partner SafeSleeve designs a phone case that blocks up to 99% of harmful EMF radiation—so I'm not carrying that kind of exposure next to my body all day. It's sleek, durable, and most importantly, lab-tested by third parties. The results aren't hidden—they're published right on their site. And that matters because many so-called EMF blockers on the market either don't work or can't prove they do. We protect our hearts and minds—why wouldn't we protect our bodies too? Head to safesleevecases.com and use the code WINTODAY10 for 10% off your order. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my book "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Today I'm joined by Michelle, who has been on a journey of saying no to passivity. Being the oldest child in the family, she has had a tendency to become more accommodating than she should. This pattern has followed her into her adulthood and developed into passivity. We talk about 3 important mindset shifts that have to happen in order to see assertiveness as the best way to take care of yourself and others. In order for relationships to be healthy, they have to be balanced! Assertiveness is an important people skill, and we talk through it on this episode of Talk To Me! Dig deeper by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Relationships can be complicated, whether it's with your family, friends, co-workers, or everyday people you interact with online. Maybe toxic people have ruined relationships for you, and you don't know how to reconcile them. Maybe a broken home has shaped you to have unhealthy people skills. Whatever the case may be for you, my friend Debra Fileta joins me in today's episode to talk about what we can learn from Jesus in our everyday people skills! GET YOUR COPY OF THE FABRIC OF HOPE HERE: https://a.co/d/4wwwqBO GET DEBRA'S BOOK HERE: https://a.co/d/0eDhPE4j CHECK OUT MY FREE RESOURCES: https://kirbykelly.myflodesk.com/kirbykelly Learn more about Every Woman’s Bible today by visiting: https://hubs.la/Q0427wdw0 For 10% off of Faithful Counseling, and to start your healing journey today, go to: https://www.faithfulcounseling.com/kirbykelly To sponsor a child in need alongside me with Compassion International, go to: https://www.compassion.com/kirbyisaboss Support the ministry!: https://kirby-kelly.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=5d23856d41ec3a0001234376 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We are so excited to celebrate the official launch of my new book People Skills today! People Skills offers 31 transformational social skills that will strengthen your interpersonal relationships, increase your influence, and help you create meaningful interactions. Rooted in Scripture and informed by science and psychology, this roadmap offers practical lessons on empathy, clear communication, listening, body language, conflict resolution, attachment styles, and more.  As we continue this People Skills series on the show, I'm joined today by Anthony, who called in to Talk To Me About how to move past the hurt he experienced at his past church. Anthony talks through the church hurt he experienced after serving relentlessly at his last church, and after giving so much yet getting so little in return.  This episode takes an interesting turn when I start to notice this pattern of “giving too much” in Anthony's life and history…and we start to make some really significant connections. Learning to own your role in a relationship is a really important people skill, and it's one that we discuss in depth in this important episode of Talk To Me. If you've been hurt in relationships, again and again, it's time to start looking for patterns. This episode will help you learn how. Dig deeper by ordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Apply to Alli's Intern Program - https://alliworthington.com/interns    Today I'm talking with my friend Debra Fileta about her new book, People Skills, and why many relationships seem harder than they should. If you've ever left a conversation thinking, That's not what I meant, there's a reason—and it's not because you're unkind or uncaring.   This episode is for the try‑hard people. The ones who show up with good hearts and good intentions, yet still feel misunderstood. If you've ever thought, My heart is in the right place, so why does my message keep landing sideways? This conversation is going to feel like a deep exhale.   Debra explains why good intentions don't guarantee good communication, how to avoid being an accidental jerk (even the nicest people can be), and the four stages of conversation most people never move past. We discuss why vulnerability builds trust and how small shifts in awareness can transform how people experience you. It's honest, freeing, and will make every relationship in your life feel more open and connected.   Timestamps: (01:08) - Why We're So Quick to Label Other People as the Problem (04:38) - The Subtle Ways We Accidentally Damage Connection Without Realizing It (17:35) - The Conversation Levels That Separate Surface Talk from Real Connection (22:10) - The Three People Skills That Matter More Than Anything Else (25:53) - Why Listening Is Harder Than We Think    WATCH ALLI  ON YOUTUBE Links to great things we discussed:  Debra's Song Recommendation - The Goodness of God Debra's TV Recommendations - The Great British Baking Show & Hometown Debra's Book Recommendation - The Circle Maker Wise Woman Era People Skills Apply to Alli's Intern Program - https://alliworthington.com/interns 

We were made for connection, but our technology-saturated and social media–connected world has hindered our ability to engage in healthy, meaningful, real-life interactions. Debra Fileta shares from her book, "People Skills: Your Relationships Are Only as Strong as Your Skills."  Find our more about Debra's Talk to Me podcast here Find out more about Debra's counseling network here Check out Susie's new podcast God Impressions on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: click here

Will called in to Talk To Me about his journey through deep betrayal by his best friend – someone he never imagined would hurt him. How do you walk through this kind of betrayal, when you've been completely blindsided? Today, we talk through his story of pain and friendship betrayal, and the number one thing that helped him move into healing: forgiveness. Forgiveness is an important people skill, because it untethers you from the pain that others have caused you – so that you can be free to move forward and not stay stuck. We talk through how to do that, and why it's necessary in this important episode of Talk To Me! Dig deeper by preordering my new book People Skills anywhere books are sold.  The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

In one of the most vulnerable conversations of the year, I sat down with Pastor Shawn Johnson and processed the moment that literally almost took his life -- the moment he broke mentally and emotionally. After suffering from intense and continuous panic attacks behind the scenes for many years, one day he could take it no more. Thank God he chose vulnerability in that dark and desperate moment, and reached out for help, because it was vulnerability: letting people in on his darkest moments, that ultimately saved his life. We spend some time talking about the series of events leading up to this dark season in his life, what kept him from opening up before this moment, and how he's keeping track of his mental health and well being today. If you suffer from mental illness, panic attacks, depression or anxiety -- his journey will truly challenge and inspire you to continue moving toward healing, and to learn to let people in. The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.

Have you ever left a conversation thinking, That's not what I meant — and still felt the distance linger? Do you ever wonder why relationships feel exhausting, confusing, or fragile… even when you genuinely try to do the right thing? Dr. Alison is joined by counselor and author Debra Fileta for a conversation that names a quiet tension many people live with but rarely articulate. Sometimes the hardest part of relationships isn't a lack of love—it's the gap between what we intend and what others experience. Together, you'll explore: Why do the same relational patterns keep repeating? Why does communication break down so quickly under stress? Why do good intentions sometimes land as hurt or distant? Why does love feel like it should be enough… but often isn't? If you've ever thought, Why does this still feel so hard when I care so much? — this episode creates space to ask better questions, without pressure to already have the answers.

What do you do when your people pleasing tendencies continue to come up again and again? How do you navigate the desire to please people, but ultimately continue to strive to please God? Today, I talk to Judah Smith about his tendencies to care too much about what people think, and the self-serving, self-protecting, selfish nature behind being a person who cares too much about what people think. We unpack the idea that ultimately, the root of people-pleasing is actually selfish -- because it's the desire to be wanted, loved, accepted, and validated -- is actually a desire to meet a deep, unquenchable need in us. If you struggle with people-pleasing, you need to tune in to this one. The Debra Fileta Counselors Network: Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY! DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.