Today, I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my conversation with the one and only Douglas McKelvey. Douglas is a songwriter, author, and liturgy writer extraordinaire. I have never met someone like Douglas. His gift with words and passion for Christ cultivates a visceral invitation to be more present in this life, to find your fight again as you walk this weary way, and speaks to our hope of the next life with Jesus. Douglas shares with me his story of what led him to Nashville, TN, his journey from songwriting to fiction writing and the idea of unpacking his belief that every moment in this life is sacramental, and sometimes words can help us to be present. Thus, the birth of Every Moment Holy. There are now 3 volumes of Every Moment Holy, each unique in how they offer opportunities for us to be awake to the moments we are living in. Whether that is something as simple as waking up in the morning and enjoying a sunrise, something unique like beginning a novel, or the keeping of bees, holiday celebrations, to going on a trip, there is a liturgy for it in one of these volumes. Many of these liturgies, especially in volume two, also hold space for the hard and holy moments around grief and lament, and even for those facing the end of their life. I cannot begin to express how much many of these liturgies have ministered to me as we’ve walked through many losses, and the anniversary of losses, over the last few years. As it is that time of year, Douglas and I also talk about how to embrace the season of advent,  which asks our hearts to prepare Christ room, but also to ask “where is our hope?” as we wait for Jesus to come back again. He even blesses us with a reading of his “A Liturgy for the Start of the Christmas Season.” I hope all of this conversation serves as a blessing for you in this season. I hope it is serves as an invitation to prepare Him room not just for now, but for always. And I hope and pray, it reminds you that you are not alone in this life, no matter how it may seem, and Jesus is coming back for us. You matter. Your story matters. Merry Christmas! Connecting with Douglas and Every Moment Holy: Facebook Instagram Douglas’ Website EMH Website EMH Downloads, some free, some for purchase EMH App Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts.  My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:36-Christ is the Lord over all  Colossians 3:17-Whatever you do whether in word or deed Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12- Being a living sacrifice  Romans 8:22- Groaning and longing with creation  Acts 2, Hebrews 10:19-25-The body of Christ in worship together Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, Ephesians 4:7-13- 1 Timothy 4:14-, 1 Peter 4:10- We are given spiritual gifts and our gifts are for ministering  Psalm 23:4- The valley of the shadow  Psalm 91, Psalm 42, Psalm 55, Psalm 34- Psalms that express disappointment, fear, pain, heartbreak  Lamentations 3:19-24-But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope… great is His faithfulness Job 2:8-10- sitting on the ash heap Job 13:15- Even so I believe you are faithful Psalm 27:13-14- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord? Wait for and hope for the Lord Revelation 12:12-13- come quickly  John 1:5- The light has come and pierced the darkness Daniel 2:44, Revelation 11:15-  Jesus is the King who will set all things right and establish a dwelling place on earth that never ends Revelation 21:4- He will wipe every tear from your eyes Habbakuk 1:2-How long oh Lord will you make me look at violence  Luke 22:19-20-The Lord’s Supper 1 Corinthians 13:12, Hebrews 10:1-5- We see now with veiled faces and a dim picture Revelation 19:6-9-The marriage supper of the lamb John 1 (14)- the MSG- “Jesus moves into the neighborhood” Luke 1-3-The Christmas story  Isaiah 9:6- The Prince of Peace 1 Corinthians 16:23- Jesus is waiting with open arms References: Charlie and Andi Peacok- The Art House Mechanical royalties for songwriters  Coram deo  Leslie Bustard “In the Garden”  Odessa Settles

A self-proclaimed “accidental author”, Carole Holiday was living a very full life as a wife, mother, and nana, until one day, everything fell apart. Her marriage to her childhood sweetheart of over 35 years ended, followed by losing her job and ultimately filing for bankruptcy. Then she developed heart issues because of all the stress, and a continued windfall of loss, and grief in losing close loved ones, until it felt like there was absolutely nothing recognizable about the life she had known.    In her book I Don’t Know Who I Am Anymore, Carole shares her story, but it is such a unique book that weaves honest reflections, practical applications of how to minister to those in grief,  beautiful applications from scripture, and recipes to share with others or to comfort your own heart.  She asks powerful questions about what we build our lives on, and find our identity in. These can be good things like relationships, careers, and even our health, but they are ultimately temporal. Christ alone is the cornerstone that can keep a life on a firm foundation.    This is an episode for my friends who are asking God, “What do I do now?” when a dream has died. This is an episode for my single friends, my divorced friends, and my widowed friends who may feel unseen in their communities. This is an episode for those who have known any amount of grief or loss and need to know they are not going to disappear or drown in this season. There is hope for you, we can testify to it.  As long as you’re breathing, there is more for your story. You matter and your story matters.    Connecting with Carole:  Book Facebook Instagram Website   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts.  My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.  Scripture References: 1 Timothy 4:12-Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young  Psalm 95:6-, Matthew 16:24,  James 4:7- We lay it down before the Lord  Matthew 17:19-21-The mustard seed of faith Galatians 5:22-23-Produce fruit in me  Ecclesiastes 3:1-8-There’s a time to tear down and to build   Psalm 118:22, Matthew 21:42, Acts 4:11-Jesus is the cornerstone that the builders rejected Matthew 7:24-27-Building on the sand or the rock  Luke 22:31-Being shifted like wheat Luke 7:36-50-The woman who washes Jesus’ feet with her tears Luke 7:11-16-The widow whose son had died Mark 12:41-44-The woman with her small offering  John 11-Mary and Martha at Lazarus’ tomb Romans 8:22-29-Creation groans and longs to be restored Romans 8:26 -The Holy Spirit speaks a language of lament John 14:26-The Holy Spirit is our advocate Habakkuk 1:2-4-How long Lord will you make me look at injustice and violence? Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21–23-The heart is deceitful above all else Psalm 6:6-David flooded his bed with tears 2 Samuel 12:1-25-When Nathan spoke to David, he  hit his face to the ground Psalm 56:8-God gathers our tears in bottles Matthew 21:12-17, John 2:13-25-Jesus goes charging into the Temple angry John 2:15-17-Jesus sat and created a whip  Philippians 1:6-God is not finished with your story  Psalm 107:2-Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story    References: -Dr. Paul Conti’s book Trauma: The Invisible Epidemic  -Seeing Beautiful Again- Lysa Terkeurst -The women’s movement of the 60’s  -Holocaust - hear the survivor’s stories  -Celebrate Recovery  -A.E. Graham’s episode where she shared about being in George W’s White House, and practicing scrutiny -Bonnie Lewis- wrote a translation of the Bible called Timshel -“Operation no more tears”- Sally Lloyd Jones -

Over the last several years, I don’t think there is anyone who has not been touched by loss or some kind of grief.  Today's guest, author, and literary agent Mike Nappa is incredibly familiar with loss and living with grief. In 2016, he lost his beloved wife, Amy, to cancer. In his learning how to live life without her, God has shown him why grieving is such an important part of losing a loved one. As Mike says, he learned how to cry into his keyboard and produced one of the most poignant books that bears witness to grief that I have ever personally encountered. It is called Reflections for the Grieving Soul: Meditations and Scripture for Finding Hope After Loss.   We are often so uncomfortable with grief and treat it like it is a problem to be solved. However, God Himself, in all three persons of the Trinity, grieves, and we are made in His image. It isn’t sinful to grieve. Mike says: “There are things in this world worth loving enough to grieve, and if we don’t grieve well, we are taking away from the image of God within us.” Although, as we’ll discuss in this episode, there are ways to grieve well and there are also ways to grieve poorly and even destructively.  The depths of grief isn’t a place where we want to live permanently, but we have to hold space for it or it will make itself known in other ways. When we don’t walk this journey, we miss out on the blessings for those who mourn.   There are quite a few tears shed during this episode, but honest, perhaps blessed, tears. I would like to offer this episode as a benevolent witness and comfort to whoever might need it in this season. The Lord promises blessing and comfort for us, dear ones. He is near to you. You matter, and Your story matters.    Connecting with Mike: Books and other publications Facebook Website   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts.  My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.    Scripture References: John 12:4-6- Judas was the treasurer Ephesians 2:8-There’s nothing I can do to earn God’s love John 15-Without Him we have nothing  Psalm 121, John 14:26-We need help from the Helper Genesis 6:6- God looks at the wickedness of man and is grieved Matthew 26:38-Jesus says “My soul is crushed with grief” Ephesians 4:30-Paul reminds us that we can grieve the Holy Spirit  John 11:17-41-Jesus stood outside of Lazarus’ tomb and wept  Matthew 5:4-Blessed are those who mourn Matthew 5:1-11-  the beginning of the Beatitudes and their promises Psalm 34:18-19-The Lord is near to the brokenhearted Deuteronomy 31:6-8, Hebrews 13:5-6-He will never leave me or forsake me  Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28-God has a purpose and a plan for your life Acts 17:28-In Christ we live and move and have our being    References: -Norman, OK -Lebanon  -Judas Iscariot’s story -Hard Way Home  -Dr. Gary Chapman -Pixar -An example of a book written by women on her journey home What We Wish Were True by Tallu Quinn  - “What is grief if not love persevering?”- Wandavision -If you’d like to see it, here is my Dad baptizing my daughter.  -Hebrew  and Greek translations of “blessed” makarios - “Ten Unexpected Benefits of Grieving Well” article by Mike -Douglas McElvey and Every Moment Holy “Liturgy for Leavings”   Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog

Gary Miracle is an author and a speaker who passionately believes in the power of storytelling and how it unites us and spurs us on when life is tragically hard, and also reminds us who we are and who God made us to be. In this episode, he shares his story of growing immersed in church culture on Sunday but then suffered from an identity crisis the rest of the week as he chased perfection, and changed personas in order to be affirmed by anyone and everyone. Finally, later in his life and career, now a married man with kids, Gary reached his breaking point and reached out to his friend Bart Millard of the band “Mercy’s Me” who began to disciple Gary and guide him to a life-changing and intimate relationship with Jesus. Not long after, in December 2019, Gary went from celebrating Christmas with his family feeling a little under the weather to being on his literal deathbed on New Year’s Eve. The first week of 2020 Gary’s life hung in the balance as teams of doctors worked on him and cared for him, and his loved ones stormed heaven for him. On January 10th, 2020, Gary opened his eyes, alive, but his body would never be the same, and his limbs were dying. Gary shares his journey of his 107 days stay in the hospital, reentering into his life without his legs and hands, and how God met him in all of it in our time together, but he goes more in-depth in his book No More Bad Days: Trading the Pursuit of Perfection for the Gift of Grace. Gary is passionate about choosing to truly live instead of just being alive and doing that authentically with others. We were made in the image of a communal God, and as we face the intensity and heartbreak of our lives, He provides people to walk through hard things with us. However, that call to live in community requires risk and humility, but as Gary reminds us, when life is at its lowest moments, people God gives us can echo hope back to us. This is a message for anyone who needs to know there is more left for them in this life. This is a message for those who need to remember God is still in the business of miracles. This is a message for someone who is walking through horrible circumstances but needs to be reminded that God still has good for them. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Gary: Book Facebook Instagram Website   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.    Scripture References:  Romans 10:8-9, John 1:12-13, Galatians 4:4-6-,  There’s nothing I can do to make Jesus stop loving me Galatians 2:20- It is no longer I who lives, but Christ in me 1 Samuel 17:36-54- David wrestled with lions as a shepherd before he faced Goliath  Lamentations 3:22-23- His new mercies are new every day  Job 1:21- The Lord gives and the Lord takes away Job 42:5- All of my life I’ve heard about You, but now I’ve seen you with my eyes John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world  Luke 18:19, 1 John 1:5- God is truly good Ephesians 3:16-19- I pray that He would strengthen you with power according to Jeremiah 29:13- seek me and you will find me if you seek me with all of your heart  John 3:16- For God so loved the world that He gave us His son 2 Peter 1:3- God has given you His power, and authority to live this life  John 10:10 - The enemy is coming to steal, kill and destroy, but Christ came to give us life to the full  Matthew 24:36-Nobody knows the day or the hour Revelation 21:27- The Lamb’s book of life John 14:3, Acts 1:11, Revelation 22- We’re going to Heaven Exodus 3- Moses’ story in the Bible, he struggled to speak Romans 6:17, chapter 7 Grace is not a license to sin Romans 6:1-7-We are no longer slaves to sin Psalm 139:14- Still fearfully and wonderfully made Psalm 27:13- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord  Revelation 19:10, and 12:11  A spirit of testimony Philippians 1:6- God is not finished with me  Exodus 14:13-Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord Psalm 27:14 (AMP), Isaiah 40:30-31- I will hope, I will wait, I will long for the Lord  2 Corinthians 12:9-11-I am weak but Christ is strong  Ephesians 1:18-  This is the hope to which we’ve been called  Jeremiah 29:11- God has plans for hope and a future Micah 6:8- help us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God  Mark 2:17, Matthew 10 Jesus came to heal the sick, and save the

Justin and J.L. Gerhardt are on the podcast today, and you will love hearing from them! There is an epic retelling of their meeting and falling in love complete with 90’s Hearthrob meet cute and all. More than that, Justin and J.L. share about their journey of God leading them both into ministry with words, calling their family to travel the world, and unleashing their creativity and courage to press into new ways to encounter God and His Word. This journey has given birth to various creative outlets for the Gerhardt family, but the one we talk about the most in this episode is Justin’s incredible podcast “Holy Ghost Stories.” “Holy Ghost Stories” is a unique podcast that is more like an immersive narrated experience that takes stories from the Old Testament, unpacks them, and breathes life into the grit and shadow as well as the rapture and delight of God encountering His people. Justin’s heart for this podcast is to remind us that we have an inheritance of stories in scripture that we share in an immersive, but often adolescent way to children, to try and captivate them and introduce them to God. And then they grow up. And as Justin says “We stop telling the stories and stop teaching the stories. And a story taught is different than a story told.” There is absolutely fruit to be found in teaching! However, grown-ups can miss out on what these stories have always had for us when we face real suffering, real rejoicing, and everything in between unless we revisit what they really were: real events that happened with real people with a very real God. Y’all hanging out with the Gerhardts is such a delight, and I can’t wait for you to get to know them a little better. If you loved this episode, or love Holy Ghost Stories you need to attend a live experience! And for my local friends, there is one coming up in Nashville in December! I really believe you will see the Old Testament in a more alive and engaging way, and it will help you prepare your heart for the coming of Christmas. I hope I see you there. Connecting with the Gerhardts: Hazefire Studios Holy Ghost Stories Podcast  J.L.’s Substack- “The Goodness” Justin’s Substack “The Latest” Holy Ghost Stories Instagram J.L.’s Instagram and Books Giving to Holy Ghost Stories one time or via Patreon Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 12:9- Strength in weakness Hebrews 12:2- God is the author Hebrews 4:12-The Bible is alive and active  1 Samuel 28- The witch of Endor Genesis 37-50- The Story of Joseph Jonah 1-4- Jonah and the Whale Genesis 6- Noah and the Ark Genesis 39:12-18-Potiphar’s wife calling to Joseph Judges 3:12-30- The story of Ehud and Eglon Judges 1- The book of Judges Genesis 25 (is where it starts)- The Story of Jacob Genesis 32:22-31- Particularly when Jacob wrestles with the Angel  Mark 10:51, John 5:1-15- Jesus asks “What do you want?” Number 23:19, God is not a human, but He is a person Matthew 2:16-18,  There are multiple genocides in the New Testament (encompasses Revelation) Acts 8:1-2, Acts 9-  There is persecution in the New Testament Job 1:21- God gives and takes away  Genesis 6:6, Ezekiel 6:9, God’s heart grieves Matthew 9:35-37, John 11:11-44, John 12:27,  John 16- Jesus grieved Ephesians 4:30- Holy Spirit grieves Genesis 1:27-We are made in God’s image Luke 24:13-35-Jesus and the Road to Emmaus Exodus 3- The burning bush that is aflame, but doesn't burn up Psalm 84 Psalm 130 (The Voice) Luke 1:5-19-Elizabeth and Zechariah References:  Videos of people seeing color for the first time (OK seriously grab your tissues)  My first interview with J.L.  Peaky Blinders 90’s Leo DiCaprio Avengers “assemble!”

I am so excited to share with you a really special conversation with the incredibly talented Renaissance woman Nikki Anders. Nikki is an award-winning musician, songwriter, and music producer in the TV and film industry. She shares some of her experiences in the music industry as a solo artist and member of the music group Avalon, her and her husband Adam’s time working on “Glee” as well as many other films, and now are the creative team behind the new movie musical “The Journey to Bethlehem.” Nikki shares how the Lord closed and opened so many doors over the last seventeen years from an idea about a Christmas movie the whole family could enjoy and focus on the true story of Christmas, all the way to bringing the music, script, and spectacular vision on their hearts to fruition. Placing themselves in the shoes of the real people who lived the days of Jesus’ coming into the world was a practice of holy imagination and allowing themselves to wonder how God wove this story together. The Christmas story is sometimes too familiar to those who have grown up hearing it. This movie and its music breathes so much life into the incredible true story of the God who loved us so much, He sent His Son as a baby, to a very real family, who faced very real risks, because we needed a Savior. Ever since I had this conversation with Nikki, the music has brought up some really amazing conversation opportunities and questions from my two kids, and I already can tell our experience of Christmas and Advent this year will be different because of this movie, the music, and the way it has ignited the curiosity and imagination of my children.  This world is weary and longs and groans to be restored. A Savior has come and made redemption and salvation available to all who call on Him. And I hope that wherever you are, I can whisper some hope to your heart today. You matter, friend. And your story matters. Connecting with Nikki: Anders Media Adam’s Instagram “Journey to Bethlehem”’s Instagram “Journey to Bethlehem” soundtrack Nikki’s Instagram Twitter/ X   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References:  Ephesians 4:1- Following the call of God Matthew 13:1-9- Scattering seed living as God wants you to live 1 Corinthians 10:31- Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God Daniel 1- Daniel and the exile in the Palace of Babylon Daniel 3- Shadrach, Meshach and Abendengo’s God Matthew 1-2, Luke 1-2- Mary, Joseph, and the Christmas story that is in the pages of scripture Luke 1:26-56 - Mary and an angel appeared to her Matthew 2:16- The massacre of the innocents 1 John 1:7 (among others!)Jesus covers us with His blood Matthew 6:13- Thine is the Kingdom  Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun Luke 1:20-25, Luke 1:57-80- Zechariah couldn’t speak Isaiah 14:27-Nothing can stop the Lord Luke 1:37- Nothing will be impossible with God  Matthew 2- The wise men Matthew 2:7-9-Conversations between the wise men and Herod Ephesians 6:10-18-We are armed with the Armor of God James 1:2-4- consider it all joy when you endure trials Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood  Hebrews 9:28 (and many others)- He’s coming again References: Adam Anders Avalon  Steven Curtis Chapman  See ALL of Niki’s accolades and credits here. It is a LONG list. “Glee” Belmont University Avalon “A Maze of Grace” “Adonai” Lea Michelle When you sing you vibrate your vagus nerve/singer's joy Corey Monteith

Travis Thompson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practices in Middle Tennessee. He is a PhD candidate who works with clients from many backgrounds to find the deeper meaning of their struggles and embrace long-term recovery from the pains that they experienced.  His work is focused on being healed from past hurt and toward future success. During our conversation, Travis shares his journey of wrestling with his own mental health as a teenager, his recovery and healing journey, and entering the world of becoming a mental health professional serving and helping others like those who served and helped him. We’ll talk today about the stigmas around mental health, counseling, and medication, particularly in Christian circles, and how to care for people struggling with addiction AND those walking through it with them. Travis has actually written a book specifically around that topic of understanding addiction and how it impacts those around an addict and it is called To Those Left Behind: Helping Partners and Families Understand and Heal from Addiction. He’ll unpack many of the themes from his book, the effect and aftermath on mental health and addiction from the pandemic, where we see mental health in the Bible and he offers hope to those who may be suffering in the cycle of addiction as well as encouragement for those in the residual waves of it with someone they love. Modern mental health issues and recovery can seem overwhelming and confusing. I hope this conversation can serve you wherever you are in your journey, and perhaps Travis’ book might as well! No matter whether this journey is a part of your story, or someone you love, we are all wrestling with real issues bound up in these broken bodies. There is hope for all of us. As long as you’re breathing, God is not finished with you. You matter, and your story matters.    Connecting with Travis:  Book Twitter (X) Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References:  Romans 8:28- God works all things together for good  Psalm 107:2- Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story  Psalm 142 (an example)King David struggling with mental health Ephesians 4:17-32- Paul talks about putting off the old self, drunkenness for one Job 16:2- Job’s friends and their bad advice Gensis 3- Eve misquotes God’s word Galatians 5:24-Paul talks about gnostic dualism Matthew 17:20- Mustard seed  Psalm 19:1- The Heavens are declaring the glory of God Psalm 112:1-9 Psalm 37:4-, God made us to know delight Hebrews 4:12- The word of God is alive and active Genesis 19:30-38- Forgive me Noah!! It was LOT getting drunk off the boat and having sex with his kids. Whoops! Genesis 6:1-8- Nephelim… so weird  1 Samuel 17 (51-54) David cuts Goliath’s head off and keeps it as a trophy (ew) Ecclesiastes 3:1-8- To everything there is a season Philippians 1:6- This isn’t how the story ends References: -Little Free Library -Foster Care in TN  -Recidivism  -”Bluey” -Vanderbilt Mental Health facility -OnSite  -My conversation with Irene Rollins, her book Reframe Your Shame -gnostic dualism -Witchcraft in scripture Job’s unhelpful friends  -Book of Job from Bible Project (so insightful) -Impact 360 Institute  -Kathryn Maack talks about integrating your head and your heart -”All truth is God’s truth”- Saint Augustine “Every story whispers his name”- Sally Lloyd Jones Louie Giglio’s testimony (and love for science) Louie’s Devotionals for kids about science (there’s also a podcast)

I have a powerhouse on the podcast in the form of Kelly Balarie. Kelly is an author and a speaker who is passionate about Jesus and the Word of God. She is a sister in the trenches and a self-proclaimed spiritual cheerleader. Every book she has written, she writes from a place of “this is where God has been faithful to me in this season.” Or “this is what God has been teaching me,” full of authenticity, and powerful scripture-saturated insights for women who desire to walk well and be filled to the fullness of God.    In our conversation today, you’ll hear about her latest book Taking Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy For the Mind of Christ. We unpack that term,“the mind of Christ,” and what it means, how to connect deeper into the heart of God as we yield our minds and hearts to His love, plans, and purposes for our lives. We go deep and wide about spiritual warfare and even the differences between spiritual possession and oppression.  We’ll talk about the goodness of God in the “even ifs” of life, how our thoughts in suffering can impact us, how God can and will meet us in the feelings He gave us, and so much more. Kelly’s love for the Lord and the power of His word is vivacious and galvanizing and I truly believe it will serve as a balm to your soul today.    God is not finished with us. He is not finished with the Church. He is not finished with this world. Even when things are hard, or everything looks like it is past redemption, hope and His love get the final word. You matter, friend. Your story matters.    Connecting with Kelly: Current Book: Taking Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy For the Mind of Christ Facebook Instagram Website   For great resources for Bible study and getting into God’s word check out the Daily Grace Co!   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: Ephesians 3:19-21- Filled to the fullness of God 2 Corinthians 10:5- Take every thought captive  Philippians 2:1-11, Ephesians 3:16-21- We are powerful in Christ Jesus  Psalm 42:7- Deep calls to deep  Matthew 4:1-11- Jesus in the wilderness  Luke 4:1-14- Jesus was endowed with power (after His temptation) 1 Corinthians 11  1 Corinthians 2:9- No eye has seen, no ear has heard what I have for You Philippians 4:7- Beyond our understanding 1 Corinthians 2:10- These things are revealed by the Spirit 1 Corinthians 2:11, 2:12-13-Who can know the Lord’s thoughts… but we can understand these things for we have the mind of Christ  Romans 5:8- Jesus died for us while we were still sinners John 10:27- “The sheep that are my own hear and are listening to My voice and I know them and they follow me.” 1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you.  Psalm 23:5- You set a table from me in the presence of my enemy Psalm 27:13-14- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living  Jeremiah 29:11- Plans of a hope and for a future 2 Peter 1:3- You have everything you need in Christ Matthew 14:22-34-Peter hops out of the boat  Hebrews 12:1-3- He’s the Author and Perfector of our faith 2 Corinthians 5:17- I am a new creation  Galatians 2:20- It is no longer I who live, but Christ in me Romans 6:11- I am dead to the old and alive to the new Romans 13:14, Colossians 3:12-15, Ephesians 6:10-18-Clothing ourselves in God’s word Matthew 6:11- I receive today our daily bread  Exodus 16- The manna in the wilderness, trusting every morning He would provide 2 Corinthians 3:18- We are being transformed into the image of Christ Genesis 3- Eve’s desire to know what it was like on the other side of the bite Ecclesiastes 3- There is a time for everything and every season under Heaven John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world 1 Peter 1:12-Angels marvel at the mystery of the Gospel Isaiah 14:27-Who can stop the Lord almighty?  Revelation 12:11-We triumph by the blood of the Lamb and the Spirit of testimony

Dr. Clarence Shuler is the President and CEO of his nonprofit BLR- which stands for Building Lasting Relationships. Their mission is to equip others for discipleship in various venues. He and his wife both speak and write about marriage, but also dealing with infidelity, and divorce, but they especially love to minister to singles in the church. Whatever it looks like, the Shulers are committed to “loving people with God’s love with no agenda and see what happens.” During our conversation today, Dr. Shuler shared his story of coming to Christ through a relationship that would impact his life in many ways, through a young guy by the name of Gary Chapman. Yup, the Love Languages guy. I share that because their relationship gave birth to 50+ years of friendship and an opportunity to share how crossing those racial lines in the 1960s taught them both and continues to guide them in helping others learn how to embrace cross-cultural friendships today. Dr. Shuler himself does quite a bit of diversity training for companies, and for churches, and brings such gracious honesty to the table about what it has been like for him as a Black man in predominately white spaces. His most recent book is a really powerful and raw look into his journey with depression and a sense of hopelessness. The book is called Finding Hope in Dark Places: Facing Loneliness, Depression, and Anxiety with the Power of Grace. He coauthored it with his therapist, Dr. Monique Smith Gadson, otherwise known as Dr. Mo. Their book is unique in that it gives an honest narrative of Clarence’s personal experiences as he walked out the darkest place of his life, but also shows his relationship with his counselor and how she was able to help him in that season. It is full of spiritual and mental health wisdom, it does not end tied in a bow, but it is overflowing with hope. Dr. Shuler hopes that sharing his journey will empower anyone, but especially Black men, to embrace vulnerability and find God’s power and healing in weakness. I also want to echo this powerful reminder Dr. Shuler gives in this episode: Being in a dark place is not a sin. It is a place for the Lord to reveal Himself in a whole new way. We see throughout scripture about the Lord shepherding us in dark places, and in this world, we will know and have trouble, but we will never be alone and He will help us to find our hearts again there. He is not finished with you, friend. You matter and your story matters.   Connecting with Dr. Clarence Shuler: Books Facebook Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.  Scripture References: Matthew 28:19-20- Making disciples  Genesis 1:26-28 Colossians 2:10- You are complete in Christ  Genesis 3- Men’s curse/purpose from the Garden  John 14:27- The world gives peace that doesn’t satisfy  Isaiah 45:3- “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.” Isaiah 43-46 2 Corinthians 1-4 Psalm 63, Psalm 57, Psalm 142-David was in a dark place hiding in caves 1 Samuel 24- When David didn’t kill Saul  Revelations 3:7-8-I can shut a door no one can open and open doors no one can shut Acts 2- the tongues of fire and each in their own language understanding one another Genesis 11:1-9-Tower of Babel John 13:35- They will know Me by your love 1 Chronicles 12:32- Men and women of Issacar and know what time it is  2 Corinthians 1:9- Indeed we felt within ourselves we would die… but we believe in the God who raises the dead James 1:2-4- Suffering isn’t punishment  John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble  1 Peter1:6-7 , Zechariah 13:9-  you are going to have many trials, the fire will refine you Romans 5:3-5- Suffering produces character, which produces… Philippians 1:6- The Lord isn’t finished with you Revelation 21- This isn’t how the story ends  2 Corinthians 1:10- On Him we have set our hope Colossians 3:23-24- We do not find our significance in men but in the Lord  Hebrews 13:5- We’re never alone  Lamentations 3:19-25 Psalm 23 Psalm 27:13-14-What would have become of me had I not believed I would see the goodnes of the Lord in the land of the living   References: Brandi Wilson’s episode where she shares about her divorce Brown v. Board Desegregation in the South was still SLOW.

Today I have the absolute joy of sharing with you my conversation with Kayla Craig. Kayla is a modern liturgist as the woman behind Liturgies for Parents online. She is a Mama of 4, a supportive pastor’s wife, and just this week she released her second book Every Season Sacred. In our conversation today, you’ll get to hear Kayla’s heart as she shares about what it looks like to pursue an honest and abundant life full of wonder and work. In all the spaces she occupies, she offers an open invitation to be curious, to express our questions, doubts, or confusion as we walk out our faith journeys, and to see the Lord make Himself known no matter where we are. Her first book To Light Their Way is a book of liturgies for everyday life and real-life parenting feelings, celebrations, issues, and places that are hard to parent through. (It is a personal favorite in my home and in walking life out with my friends and family). Her most recent book Every Season Sacred is an offering to still engage your faith life in your parenting journey and faith conversations with your kids, no matter where they lie. This book isn’t a formulaic way to do faith and family. It is what Kayla would call a “hand hold” for wherever you are. It is for you as well as your kiddos. It is practical and applicable, but also invitational and gracious. What you find in these pages is flexible for application while living your actual life and can easily be incorporated in an intentional, but parent life-sized way. There are prayers for all kinds of life experiences, and hold space for each of your unique kids to respond (or not respond) uniquely. I can’t wait for you to hear more about it and just find yourself encouraged by Kayla today. You don’t have to do this parenting thing perfectly or shoot just the living life thing, perfectly. As Kayla reminded us, we are all in process and working out the hard things in our life, whether people realize it or share it or not. You are not alone, God is with you. And you matter. Your story matters. Connecting with Kayla: Facebook Liturgies for Parents’ Instagram Kayla’s Instagram Podcast Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.    Scripture References: Ephesians 3:20-21.Psalm 113:4-6-God is bigger than anything we could fathom Psalm 139:23-24-He already knows our questions or doubts or fears James 4:6--God is so gracious Zephaniah 3:17, Deuteronomy 31:6, Psalm 139:7-12 -God is with us Colossians 2:2, Ephesians 3-We can rest in the mystery of Christ 1 Corinthians 3:9-Co-laborer for the Gospel Matthew 6:9-13-The Lord’s Prayer Isaiah 6:3- -There is glory happening around us all the time (the Earth is filled with His glory) 1 Corinthians 12:12-27-We are ALL part of the family of God Philippians 2:9-11, Revelation 7:9 -God is the God of all tribes of all tongues and nations Jeremiah 31:3,, John 3:16- -God loves you 1 John 3:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:5,  God calls you a beloved child Jeremiah 29:11-We don’t know what the future holds, but He does Philippians 1:6-The story isn’t over    References: -Kayla’s first episode on the podcast  -To Light Their Way her first book (which is SO good) -The “Craigmore” -”Home Alone” house -MySpace (RIP) -Liturgy for talking about racism with your kids -Liturgy for School Shooting  -Liturgy for When Child Sees Something Scary on the News -Every Season Sacred -The Church Calendar (a GREAT resource for incorporating this into your life! And an episode from us explaining the Church Calendar)    Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:

Today I get to share with you my conversation with Patricia Raybon. Patricia is a woman who wears many hats as a writer of both nonfiction and fiction. She shares with me what it was like for her to grow up under Jim Crow segregation and how that informed her identity from a young age, and how writing out stories helped her to make sense of what she experienced from the culture at large while her faith bloomed in her own soul. As an adult, in her journalism career, she cultivated the art of listening and understanding people’s history to help her wrestle with  forgiveness, the effects of racism on her life, learn to love when things got hard, and writing it all down so that the Lord could reveal Himself to her, and ultimately others, in that journey. Most recently she burst into the Christian fiction scene with her award winning debut novel All That is Secret is the first book in the Annalee Spain trilogy which follows a young Black woman in 1923 working in higher ed as a theology professor, as well as writing as a journalist. Annalee finds herself in the midst of a mystery in the wild west of Colorado, where the second wave of the Klu Klux Klan is flexing its power, and willing to do anything to keep secrets hidden. Patricia shares with me the inspiration for her female professor turned detective, the realities her story is based on, and the resilience and heart of Black women that beats through each page. She shares a little bit about the topics that come up in the rest of the trilogy such as interracial marriage, Black women’s roles in society historically, female detectives as a whole, but mostly, we talk about the realities of what many people continue to face day in and day out and yet still have to persevere in their days. When we listen to the stories of others to better understand their experience, not to pass judgement, even if it makes us uncomfortable, we have such a rich opportunity to encounter God, learn more about fellow image bearers in the Kingdom of God, and consider life from a perspective we may not have had a chance to otheriwse. Patricia has such a sweet spirit, but a fiery tenacity that I know you are just going to love. I cannot wait for you to spend time with us today.    Connecting with Patricia: Books Facebook Instagram Reader’s Circle Website    Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   Scripture References: John 15:18, 16:33- The world may hate you, but it hated Jesus first, take heart John 3:16- God loves you (among a thousand other verses!) Zephanie 3:17- God sings over you Colossians 3:12, 1 John 4:7-God calls you beloved Psalm 116:15, Psalm 139:13-16, Jeremiah 31:3, Ephesians 2:10- You are precious in the Lord’s sight  Jesus’ parables (his stories) Galatians 6:4- “Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” (NLT)   References: Jim Crow Segregation Internalized oppression  The Denver Post United Methodist Publishing House  The Holocaust  Holocaust denial  Reconstruction The prison pipeline  The middle passage Night - Ellie Wiesel James Baldwin President Truman integrated the army (July 1948) University of Colorado  USA Today, New York Times, Newsweek Penguin Random House My First White Friend : Confessions on Race, Love and Forgiveness Zondervan  I Told the Mountain to Move Christianity Today  One Year: God’s Great Blessings Devotional Civil Rights Movement The klan = Klu Klux Klan The second highest KKK membership in the country in the second wave in Colorado What is the “white savior” narrative? The Help book and movie The Black friend who enlightens the white protagonist trope Sherlock Holmes The instagram post about the model cover  Anti Miscegenation Undivided: A Muslim Daughter, Her Christian Mother, Their Path to Peace Steph Curry’s book club pick! Our Daily Bread    Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (

I am so honored to get to share with you my conversation with the amazing Brandi Wilson. Brandi is a woman who loves Jesus fiercely, being a Mom to her 3 boys and cheering them on as they play football. She is passionate about walking with women as a coach working through their callings, and walking with them when they’re in the midst of relational healing journeys. Recently, she released her first book Better Than Okay: Finding Hope and Healing When Your Marriage Ends which shares her journey of following God’s call to plant a church in Nashville, TN with her then-pastor husband, watching it grow exponentially into a massive and impactful ministry with multiple sites, meanwhile at home experiencing heartbreak and betrayal. This ultimately led to a very painful divorce as well as a public parting with the faith community that had been the epicenter of their ministry and their lives. During her book as well as our conversation, Brandi shares how God met her as she wrestled through grief, mothered her boys, navigated what it means to be a divorced Christian woman, as well as a former pastor’s wife, and just how she navigates life in co-parenting, and so much more. Brandi is honest, hilarious, and heartfelt in her sharing of her story while also giving such beautiful advice for how to hold space for the people we love as they grieve through their own experiences, and letting that happen at their own pace. She shares ways that might be helpful to those walking through seasons of trauma and loss, in others' lives, annnnd the not-helpful ways to maybe steer clear of as well. She’s a self-proclaimed deep feeler, but also a deep healer and if that’s not a word of hope that I think we all need no matter where we are, I don’t know what is.    Brandi is an amazing follow on Instagram, her book is such a breathtaking view into her heart, overflowing with honesty but constantly pointing to hope, and like she said, a reminder that there are NEW things that are still coming. I hope that hearing this episode helps anyone who needs it to feel seen and cared for wherever you are in your story, because we are all feeling, and we all carry the possibility for healing. The One who made you cares about all the pieces that feel broken, and His hope never runs out. You matter, friend. And your story matters.    Connecting with Brandi: Book  Facebook Instagram Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   Scripture References: God is still good Psalm 27:13- God is going to be good to me 1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you Romans 5:5-11-Hope does not disappoint Philiipians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you    References:  Acteens Young Life Experiencing God Mind of Christ Crosspoint Church Lori Wilhite Central Church Vegas Leading and Loving It Onsite  Enneagram 2 Jennifer Dukes Lee’s journal Stuff I’d Only Tell God journal (it is AMAZING) Jennifer Dukes Lee’s episode with me!  David Thomas’ episode on the podcast Raising Emotionally Strong Boys  Sissy Goff Sissy Goff and David Thomas’ podcast “Raising Boys and Girls” Daystar Counseling  Side plug, I cannot say enough good things about Sissy’s new book The Worry-Free Parent   Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog

I am so thrilled to welcome back to the podcast, the one and only Dorena Williamson! Dorena is a woman of deep faith, with a passion for building the kingdom of God and living a legacy of faith as a minister, a mama, a pastor’s wife, and a woman of impactful and instructive words. She is the author of 8 children’s books that all provide beautiful insight into the heart of God and scripture’s call to live in diversity and humility as we learn and grow together in the world. Whether that diversity is found in differing racial or ethnic communities and cultures, to others living with visible or invisible disabilities, or on the margins socioeconomically. She encourages children and the big people who love them, in every story that she writes to celebrate how God made them, and to delight in His world that He made and all those made in His image. Her most recent book is called I Know Who I Am. It is a book of scriptural affirmations for kids. It is designed to serve as a companion to come alongside families and those that love kids with words that contain truth about them, about the Lord, and to see all of God’s image bearers represented in the pages from around the world! It gives beautiful verbiage for children to repeat over themselves and to speak over other children of all ages they encounter as they walk through the hills and valleys and changes of life. My kids absolutely loved it, and it would be a perfect addition to a morning or evening routine for kiddos that are starting back to school! In this conversation, Dorena also shares her heart so beautifully about where God has her in her lament as a leader in her church, a Mama raising Black kids, and the world around her. She invites us to consider how all Believers can lean in to the reality of what is before communities and their daily fears and concerns and how to bear one another’s burdens together at the feet of Jesus. She offers an invitation to lean in to humility and honor towards others as we experience beauty, hope, tragedy, and all that is found on Earth this side of Heaven together. None of us are perfect, we will make mistakes, but God honors our learning, our choices to lean in and have Him show us His heart for us and for others. He has so much to show us. Always remember, you matter, and your story matters. Just as an FYI, we recorded this episode right in the midst of our communities’ grief over the Covenant shooting in the Spring. We mention it briefly in the beginning of the episode, but we spend a little more time (around 5-7 minutes) discussing its impact on our community around 40 minutes in. If that is a tender place for you, I just want to be sensitive to that and give you that heads up. We fairly quickly transition to Dorena sharing about how to be the body of Christ in the midst of seasons of communal lament. It’s a powerful word, not solely about that tragedy, but about how to lock arms and shields of faith with others as humans made in God’s image walking this weary land together until we all go home. Connecting with Dorena: Books  Facebook Instagram  Website  Sponsor for this Episode: HopefuelUse the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% offInstagram Website Please consider joining our Patreon community. We need your support! If you have enjoyed what you heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.  Scripture References: Psalm 136, Psalm 27:13-14,James 1:17 - God is good (plus many more verses) Psalm 100:5 – His truth endures to all generations  John 2:1-11- Water into wine  Matthew 6:10- On Earth as it is in Heaven  Ephesians 3:14-15, Revelation 7:9- The family of God in Heaven Isaiah 6:1-3-The Earth is full of God’s glory  Matthew 7:24-29-I build my life on Jesus who is the solid rock, vs. shifting sand Jeremiah 29:11- You have plans for me for hope and my future  Hebrews 13:5–6; Deuteronomy 31:6–8-You will not leave me  Isaiah 40:31- Wait on the Lord, He will renew your strength Psalm 8:5-8- Crowned with glory and God’s strength Psalm 5:1-12, Romans 8:26- Oh Lord, with deep groanings  Exodus 1:8-14, Exodus 2:23-25- Exodus and the cries of those enslaved, and God heard them and saw their grief and He was concerned Ephesians 1:4, 1 Corinthians 2:7, 1 Peter 1:19-20 - His plans from the foundations of the earth (futher insight here) Exodus 6-14- The Exodus story and the plagues  Exodus 14:9-31- God parted the seas for His people Psalm 3:3- Lift my head  Jude 1:24-25- God keeps us Romans 8:28- God works together for the good of those that love Him Galatians 6:2- Bear one another’s burdens Matthew 28:18–20; Revelation 5:9–10; Revelation 7:9–10; Revelation 14:6–7 Every nation tribe and tongue in Heaven Genesis 1:26-28- Let us make man and woman in our image   References:  Dorena’s previous episodes on the podcast (part one, part two, Advent) The Covenant School shooting in Nashville  Bridge Builder  Taylor Swift concerts ;) Loving Day and the Lovings’ Story and the Loving

I have one heck of a power-packed conversation for you with the lovely, hilarious, and always honest T.I. Lowe. T.I. is a born and bred Southern woman, and fiction author with a fiery passion for the Lord, and she shares her story with me of God coming into her life and redefining love and family, and how He can change a life. Some people have said they can really hear my southern accent on the podcast… but T.I. brings out my roots, and I love it. Her heart to understand the experiences of others led her to take her secret love of writing and breathe life into stories of deep pain and wild Divine redemption. No topic is off limits because no human is exempt from pain and suffering. Her stories run the gamut of spiritual leaders battling major mental health issues, suicide, dealing with abusive relationships, and more, but they are saturated with the real reminder that nothing and no one is beyond the redemption of the Lord. T.I.’s latest book Indigo Isle is a little bit of “Beauty and the Beast” and the Prodigal Son parable and a whole lot of T.I.’s personal brand of “grit and grace.” It deals with issues so many of us wrestle with like knowing our worth, identity, being held back by our past, sexual abuse, and the deep lies Satan sews to keep us captive from receiving love from others, but most importantly receiving the love of God. This one is a deeply personal one for me because it echoed so much of my personal story, which we talk transparently and boldly about in this podcast.  If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, we see you and are with you, but also I want to offer a trigger warning as a sister who has been there. You’re not alone. The Bible is no stranger to the things that make some feel seen, and others uncomfortable. All of it is real. It is not in God’s nature to shy away from our pain and suffering. He enters in. So we offer you this conversation today so that we can enter in together.    Connecting with T.I. Books (the current one we discussed at length is Indigo Isle!) Facebook Instagram Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   References: Sweet Valley High series Lulu’s Cafe (it is free for Kindle Unlimited users btw!) Under the Magnolias “Beauty and the Beast” The #metoo movement (For faith-based conversation here, some of my favorite voices are Tiffany Bluhm and Ash Abercrombie) “True Love Waits” movement and Purity Culture (I also really appreciate Tiffany and Ash’s voices on this as well. We talk about it a good bit on these episodes, but on their podcast, they have good conversations too) Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn trauma responses Learning about various trauma responses  (example- there’s an endless well of resources I could point you to! This podcast is another.) Young Life Cru The Body Keeps the Score Scarlet Hope My conversation with the founder of SH, Rachelle Starr Christy Awards  The book of Habbakuk How to make indigo  Low Country Boil (we made this recipe last week at the beach actually!)  Charleston, SC Mount Pleasant, SC   Scripture References: Psalm 139:16- He knew me before I was born Psalm 13- Psalms that depict suicidal ideation  Genesis 21:8-21- Hagar wishing for death Luke 15:11-32- The prodigal son parable Genesis 1:27- You are an image bearer John 4- The Samaritan woman  Joshua 2- Rahab John 1:1-5, John 17:20-21-  We were made by a communal God who does everything in three  Mark 3:13-19-Jesus modeled having a small group of friends Matthew 17-Then he had even a smaller group of trusted friends Matthew 14:22-33,Mark 6:45-52,John 6:15-21- He went away to be alone with the Father Revelation 1:7, Revelation 19:7-9-  The Bride of Christ is not going anywhere and Jesus is coming back for her

I am so delighted to share with you my conversation with the lovely and amazing Jennifer Dukes Lee. Jennifer is a Bible teacher and writer living on a fifth-generation farm in the middle of Iowa with her family. She began her career of words working in journalism and was on the way to a successful political correspondent career. Then, the Lord called her and her husband to the farm life raising crops and daughters, and there, she began to really wrestle with the faith she grew up in, and used her interrogation skills from her journalism career and took them to God and His word. What she found there was so rich and full and transformative, and God began to help her share what she was learning and invite others into that same adventure. Her latest work is a guided journal titled Stuff I’d Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous, Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery. The journal is a book of questions and prompts because as Jennifer says there are beautiful things that can be encountered at the end of a question mark. It is unlike any other journal I’ve ever encountered, it is full of questions that plumb the depths of your soul, and others that make you laugh out loud. Jennifer and I even share some of our answers to some of the really funny ones later in this episode, but much of what we talk about today is unpacking how we perceive Jesus’ questions, the tones we assign to scripture, why we resist growth, questions, and are scared to confess our doubts. Jesus is not afraid of what He already knows we’re wrestling with. Perhaps this conversation will serve as an invitation for you to consider what He may have for you at the end of a question mark. Y’all I cannot express how much I enjoyed this journal. It has given me space to be all the versions of myself. Serious me, introspective me, silly me, music-obsessed me, all of it. Is it hard for you to answer questions about yourself? Serious ones or lighthearted ones? Are you like me and struggle to embrace fun and whimsy in your life?    I want to challenge you to hold space for the weird and the wonderful in you, no matter what that looks like. The Lord welcomes you, as you are, as He made you, questions, doubts, quirks, and all. I hope this conversation serves as a catalyst for just that. You matter, and your story matters.    Connecting with Jennifer: Stuff I’d Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous, Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery  Books Facebook Instagram (The seperate journal’s instagram page!) Website   References: Grief bacon- “kummerspeck” Baker Publishing Group (hey, to my friends!) Bethany Publishers Jennifer’s post about her daughter going to Oxford  “Des Moines Register” (newspaper) “The Chosen” - Jesus and Simon “I’ve got you.” Growing Slow  Annie F. Downs 8 Track Tape  “The Osmond Family Christmas” “Chipmunk Punk”- Alvin and The Chipmunks “Thriller”- Michael Jackson “Pump up the Jam” “Make You Sweat” (“Everybody Dance Now”) C+C Music Factory  “Can’t Touch This” MC Hammer “Vogue” - Madonna The Stuff I’d Only Tell God playlist  The band Chicago “Cinderella” Disney movie soundtrack Casey Kasem American Top 40 (now Ryan Seacrest) Countdown “Phenomenon” movie soundtrack “French Kiss” movie soundtrack  “Dizzy Up the Girl” by Goo Goo Dolls Maverick City Music  Brandon Lake  “Baby’s Black Balloon” - Goo Goo Dolls “Tubthumping” by Chabuwamba  “Home” by Phillip Phillips “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magenetic Zeros “The Walking Dead”   Scripture References: John 20:24-29-Thomas Matthew 12:1-8, Mark 2:23-28, Matthew 15:1-9, Luke 6:1-5, John 8:1-11- The disciples’ concern with breaking the Law (and the Pharisees and Sadducees, and etc) Acts 9 -Scales came off Paul’s eyes John 5:1-15- Do you want to get well? Luke 18:41-43- what do you want me to do for you? Matthew 14:31 - Why did you doubt? John 6:67 - You do not want to leave too, do you? Matthew 26:14-30, Luke 22 (this account is different than John. John says he was “prompted” to betray Jesus, and after Jesus fed him the bread, Satan entered Judas and he left the supper)  John 13- When Jesus speaks to Judas  Luke 2:1-20- Jesus showed up as a baby  Luke 2:52-Jesus grew up in wisdom and stature

Today we are continuing our conversation about mental health and faith and caring for our hearts with identity coach Ray Leight. Ray and his wife Kathryn lead Faith by Grace, a coaching practice and ministry designed to equip people to do deep inner work to live lives of freedom and joy. Ray shares with me today how the Lord led him into ministry and a passion for identity coaching through his own journey of coping with trauma as well as living with undiagnosed neurodivergence and bipolar two until he was well into adulthood. Ray brings some really fascinating insights into this conversation that brings to the surface some of the points of contention that can confuse Christians about spiritual healing, maturing in faith, and neurological and biological roadblocks that occur genetically or as a result of trauma and life experience. Have you ever had a breakthrough in a struggle and then after time you feel like you go backward? Have you ever questioned God’s healing in your life? Do you lack clarity with terms like ‘codependency’ or ‘boundaries’, but find it confusing about how that might actually apply practically? I’d love to invite you to give this conversation a listen with Holy Spirit-led discernment for your healing journey. His discernment is always available to those who call on Him! And I ALWAYS want to encourage you to pursue His leading in any conversation we have! But I think some of the things we discuss today touch on places we can get tripped up in the church, so I just want to remind us all to have ears to hear and hearts tuned to the One who made us and will bring us to the day of completion.  We are professionals with our  tools we fashion for survival, aren’t we? But friends, we have to hand over those tools to the Carpenter who made us by hand and have Him give us new tools, new skills, and new ways of living life. The Lord can and will recalibrate and reset what you have always known and how you have coped.  God’s goodness and mercy and hope are always there and are always enough as we walk out this journey. As Ray shared,  “It is not selfish to care for yourself.” In fact, it honors God and makes space for Him to continue doing a work in you. You matter, my friend. Your story matters. Connecting with Ray: Book: Maturing into Yourself  (Other books) Facebook Instagram Twitter Website (and Coaching information) Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Instagram Website Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. References:  Bipolar 2 ADHD CRU (Campus Crusade)  Life Builders Leanne Payne’s Pastoral care model  Bethel Church (Just a quick word of using the Holy Spirit-led discernment here)  Sozo and shabar work (same here) We’re all just spiritual beings walking around in earth suits - Well I royally screwed this one up. I merged multiple quotes together and CS Lewis didn’t say one of them. Good times. But this was insightful.  On-Site Podcast on Treating Trauma, and the other about Living Centered- (this is the episode I was listening to) - On-site is a REALLY sound resource at the intersection of faith and mental health.  codependency Finding a New Normal The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Bod in the Healing of Trauma- Bessel van der Kolk (this is an incredible resource for understanding how trauma and experiences stored in the body and affects us over time) An example of a study of people believe that they are actually saved or not Also studies of what do people mean when they say they’re Christian and how Americans and faith have shifted since the pandemic Example of some stories we’ve heard on the podcast of spiritual things we may or may not understand Tessa Afshar, Michael Heiser, and Todd Nettleton. “Beloved is where we begin.” Scripture References:  Genesis 3 - Adam and Eve believed the lie and ate the fruit  John 8:42-47- We have an enemy that lies to us  Romans 5, Romans 14:16-19, 2 Corinthians 4:1-6,  2 Timothy 1:7- Kingdom of the world is fear, shame, and guilt. Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit   Deuteronomy 6:4-7,Matthew 22:37-40,Mark 12:30-31,Luke 10:27-We are called to love the Lord our God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength Philippians 1:6- Jesus is working on you until the day of completion  Psalm 51:10-19- Create in me a clean heart oh God John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble  John 10:10- He is the One who gives us life and to the full  Galatians 5:22-23- Fruits of the Spirit  1 Corinthians 12- Gifts of the Spirit  2 Corinthians 5:17- You are a new creation  Jeremiah 17:9-

We are diving into part two of my conversation with author and advocate Ally Henny. If you missed part one of this conversation I would strongly recommend you check that episode out first so you can hear some context of Ally’s life, ministry, and some of her experiences as a Black woman in predominately white Christian spaces, and a glimpse into her journey of allowing herself to speak up and not just allow racism to be what is just an accepted part of her occupying space in the world. This gave birth to her new book I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You. Ally shares with us what it can really look like to fight racism from the inside, offers ideas of how to be welcoming in predominately white spaces, and how white people's good intentions can still cause harm if they (including me) aren’t willing to lean in when it's uncomfortable and admit we don’t know what we don’t know. She challenges people to consider what it might look like to embrace discomfort in these conversations. and embracing what we didn’t know and engaging people who do know, and then being willing to learn and sit with it. Let’s lean in today, friends, and embrace this Kingdom-building work and learn how to better build one another up, and bear one another’s burdens as the body of Christ. I hope and pray that every time you encounter the stories on this podcast, you walk away encouraged to live more fully in your story, equipped with how to engage those around you more fully in their story, and how to better see your place in God’s story. You matter and your story matters. Connecting with Ally: The Audiobook is not out yet, stay tuned though! Book: I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You Facebook Instagram Patreon Podcast “Combing the Roots”  TikTok Twitter  Website   Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.    References:  Part one of my conversation with Ally (Spotify, Apple) The death of George Floyd  Dr. Jemar Tisby Dr. Tisby’s episode on the podcast (Ep 119) Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. talking about white liberal allies Malcolm X talking about white liberal allies Black churches exist because of white people’s racism - The Color of Compromise is a fantastic historical look at this by the way. (I’m linking his audiobook version here because the first two chapters are audio lectures and easy access to learning!) Respectability politics  A Tale of Two Cities “Be the Bridge” Facebook group (There’s a rule if you join it and you are white, you have to be quiet for 3 months before you can say or ask ANYTHING.)  “Be the Bridge” is an incredible resource that truly takes the time to offer resources specifically for white people to learn about how to be an ally.  Notion app  Pass the Mic podcast episode with Ally talking about Prince Harry, the Royal Family and the Meghan Markle factor /(I THINK it was this episode or the next one where she mentions the parallels with the Royal Family and how H&M left loud) Spare- Prince Harry  The Tennessee Three // In the heat of the situation  The Justins (Rep. Justin Pearson and Rep. Justin Jones) and a few insanely captured moments of just blatant trying to get them to sit down and shut up when they were asking questions (oh this one is wild) and one for Rep. Gloria Johnson as well.  Belmont University (can I just say, listening to Dr. Tisby speak at a university that is on the property of a former plantation where hundreds of people were enslaved was… full of feelings.) Dr. Christina Edmondson The Witness Black Christian Collective Pass the Mic podcast Tyler Burns, President of “The Witness” Ally and Tyler sharing about their Joy and Justice conference The Color of Compromise: The Truth About the American Church’s Complicity in Racism by Dr. Jemar Tisby    Scripture References:  Romans 8:29-Growing to be more like Christ Growing as brothers and sisters in Christ (so many scriptures) Micah 6:8- Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with your God

Today I get to share with you my powerful conversation with the amazing Ally Henny. Ally is an author, a speaker, a minister, an advocate, and the vice president of The Witness, a Black Christian Collective which is an organization committed to encouraging, engaging, and empowering Black Christians toward liberation from racism. This week, Ally released her book I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You which one reviewer poignantly and perfectly called “An unvarnished perspective on racism that calls Black women to find their voice.” During our conversation today, Ally is going to share some of the insights from her incredible book as well as some of her experiences as a Black Christian woman who for many, many years felt constantly silenced but perpetually on display for public opinion. She shares how it feels for her to never be “off” because her responses in conversations, even her facial expressions are constantly being evaluated and judged. Or what it feels like to consistently be perceived as a potential threat or as someone who needs to be handled or managed. She unpacks topics such as society’s expectation of women being the burden bearers, the helper, and the nurturers in American society, but how that uniquely plays out for many Black women and its roots in systemic harm. Ultimately, Ally shares a glimpse into the culmination of events that led to her finding what she calls her “holy hell no,” the sacred boundary that rose up in her and said I do not deserve to be treated this way and that racism does not have to be an accepted fact of life. Her book moved me so deeply and continued opening my eyes to experiences I’ve lived in ignorance of, and this conversation continues to remind me about the beauty and the power of not staying silent in the face of injustice and the heart of God to let ALL of our lights shine before men. This conversation goes so deep and wide, that this is actually part one of two episodes, and I can’t wait to listen and learn right along with you. Remember friend, no matter where you are in your journey, you matter and your story matters. Connecting with Ally: Book: I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You Facebook Instagram Website   Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Instagram Website   References: The Witness Black Christian Collective Fuller Seminary  Juneteenth “Black Panther” The Black Panther Party Kantha Bae headwraps Chadwick Boseman (“Wakanda Forever!”) T’Challa Fred Hampton Huey P. Newton The assassination of Fred Hampton Mercury Mercury thermometers  Sassy Black friend trope (examples: “Sex and the City,” “Save the Last Dance”,”Clueless,” etc.) The idea during slavery that Black women could give birth and go back right out to the field. (This is a fascinating read as well about the mindset towards enslaved women) The history of medical racism, gynecology and struggle for Black women and also discusses the “science” myth that Black women were built stronger of enslavement rhetoric  Black maternal mortality rates Serena Williams’ birth experience Simone Biles Educated Black women are more likely to die in childbirth than undereducated white women and other statistics Big tobacco lawsuits The prevalent nature of smoking in the 20th century Marketing menthols to Black communities specifically Constellations in the sky Science Olympiad- “Reach for the Stars” Reconstruction Civil Rights Movement School-to-prison pipeline Liquor stores and fast food funneled disproportionately into predominately Black neighborhoods History of redlining Booker T. Washington and respectability politics Ferguson, MO protests sparked by the shooting of Michael Brown Jr. The gateway arch to the west, St. Louis, MO The L.A. riots in 1992 The Watts Uprising/Rebellion Civil Rights Movement protests (these photos are from Nashville) “Downton Abbey” “The West Wing” “The Golden Girls”   Scripture References: Matthew 5:16- “Let your light shine before men.”  Job 38:11- Thus far and no more Micah 6:8- “

Today, I get to share my conversation with minister and author Kathryn Maack. Kathryn shares her seemingly accidental, but God-ordained road into vocational ministry. God began to reveal Himself to her in ways that helped her to process how we as Believers approach the Lord, and that there can be a segregation that happens within ourselves in how to we relate to the Lord or even are willing to learn about Him or worship Him. Whether that be disconnect between our head and heart, Spirit and the Truth, there is much that can be disrupted and disjointed due to pain, our experiences, or perhaps even half truths we’ve come to believe as the whole truth. She dives into this topic in the book she coauthored with ministry partner Aaron Williams Whole: The Life-Changing Power of Relating to God with All of Yourself. When the Lord made us, He did not make us in segmented pieces, but as a whole person. Kathryn and Aaron want to remind us that Jesus wants to make us holy and whole and He wants us to live out the identity He created us to have. if you are struggling in your own story because it is just… loud. Too much yelling, too much fighting, too many confusing narratives, I want you to hear me say that the Lord is with you. He is the God of peace, and a God of justice and mercy. He will not leave you here. If you are struggling in your story because it is just too quiet, and you feel like God is too far and you don’t know what to make of what you see, feel or what you’ve seen, I want you to hear me say that the Lord is also with you. He has a history that suggests that even when it seems like He is absent, He is anything but. He never leaves us or forsakes us and rejoices over us with loud singing. He listens to lament, He can take our questions, and He will not leave you here. No matter you are, I hope you know that you matter, and your story matters. Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time.    Connecting with Kathryn: Kathryn and Aaron’s book: Whole: The Life-Changing Power of Relating to God with All of Yourself Facebook Instagram  Website   Connecting with Dwellings: App Instagram Podcast Website   Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Instagram Website   References: Aaron Williams  Dwellings is a ministry that helps ordinary people cultivate kingdom communities, typically in small groups or house churches Jennie Allen IF Gathering Ancient Jewish perspective on the heart being one “Build My Life” Revival at Asbury University Peter Greig 24/7 The Great Awakening The Hebrides Revival  The Welsh Revival  “Walk Down This Mountain” - Bebo Norman The Jesus movement in the 60’s-70’s  “Jesus Revolution” movie  Barna study about Gen Z not being in the church  Men of Valor  “Reckless Love”- Cody Asbury “Rattle” - Elevation Worship “Sanctified”- Mercy Me - “We worship with the sound of broken shackles falling to the ground.” Priscilla Shirer- Armor of God study The power is in the name of Jesus   Scripture References:  Mark 12:30-31- Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength John 4:23- true worshippers come to Jesus in Spirit and Truth  Jeremiah 17:9- The heart is deceitful above all else John 11:38-44 Matthew 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-18; John 2:13-22,Mark 3:5) Matthew 14:14; 15:32, Matthew 9:36,  Matthew 4:1-11,Mark 1:12-13,Luke 4:1-13, Hebrews 4:15- Jesus came and displayed emotions but never sinned Matthew 22:34-40-This is the first and greatest commandment  Galatians 5:22- The fruit of the spirit is joy  Psalm 34:8- Taste and see that the Lord is good  Ephesians 1:18- The Spirit enlivens the eyes of the heart John 5:39- You search the scriptures and you want to find Me, but you don’t know Me Exodus 34:29-35-Moses shining with God glory’s off the mountain  Exodus 32- Moses catching the people in a hot mess  Exodus 34- Moses comes back with the Law again

Welcome to summer, my friends! This month, we’ll be talking about how to engage who we are on the inside so we can better connect with God, get to know who He has always been, and walk with Him from a more authentic place. Once we can do that, it spills over into our relationships around us. Past me would think it was completely crazy to pursue space for growing myself in the summer but present me says that this part of our story matters. We’ve got self-examination, growth, and care to do. God has much to show us and heal in us. Are you willing to come along for the ride? Today we’ll start with Meredith Boggs. Meredith is a podcaster and an author. Her book The Journey Home: A Biblical Guide to Using the Enneagram to Deepen Your Faith and Relationships tells the story of her life as a young adult and doing all the good Christian things, but finding herself burned out and confused. Looking for a way to breathe life back into her soul and her faith and the Enneagram became a tool that God used to minister to her.  Ohhhh the Enneagram: We’re going to talk about the beef people have with it, the understandable concerns many have about it, the misuse of it, AND if it is a useful tool to you, then how could we see what God has for people of faith in it so they can grow into who God made them to be. Maybe you’ve never even heard of it or only heard weird things about it OR you’re over it. Give us another chance today because how Meredith breaks down perspectives about how the enneagram can be used well and not well in relationships, and how it can build one another up in the body of Christ is really beautiful and unique. Of all the Enneagram content I’ve consumed over the years, Meredith’s voice has become my favorite. Her book is about spiritual growth more than a personality evaluation. It is grace-filled, but honest and nuanced. I loved this conversation with her so much where you will get to hear some of Meredith’s story and hear her share about her journey with recognizing weaknesses and surrendering in recovery and learning how to trust God in those places.   I hope that this conversation ministers to you today. If anything, I hope you hear that we are ALL in progress. We all have weaknesses and limits and the Lord can and will make Himself known in all of them. Transformation takes time, it is messy, and grappling with who God really versus how broken people sometimes claim Him to be can be an adventure, but a worthwhile one.  You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Meredith: Book: The Journey Home: A Biblical Guide to Using the Enneagram to Deepen Your Faith and Relationships Facebook Instagram Podcast TikTok Website Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube References: Enneagram  The Road Back to You Enneagram 8  Enneagram Test (a free one) Enneagram Test from Enneagram Institute (paid one!) Ian Morgan Cron  Annie F. Downs’ Enneasummer series  Myers Briggs Strengths Finder Enneagram 7 Enneagram 3 Beth McCord Harry Potter (y’all know I’m a #Potterhead), the beef with it when the books were coming out “Hocus Pocus 2” Enneagram 2 Codependency (more words about this here and here) John Calvin quote- “Without knowledge of self there is no knowledge of God Our wisdom, in so far as it ought to be deemed true and solid Wisdom, consists almost entirely of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves. But as these are connected together by many ties, it is not easy to determine which of the two precedes and gives birth to the other.” Our friend Kelsey is Kelsey Chapman. You can hear my conversation with her on episode 73  Triads Attributes of God Daily Grace Co. study (Affiliate link, thank you for your support!) Communicable vs. incommunicable attributes of God  Walking in the Spirit Aslan who creates (From Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis) 12-Step Recovery Process The Power to Choose Meredith’s resources on her website   Scripture References: Galatians 5:22-23- Fruit of the Spirit 1 Corinthians 12:12-27- How the body of Christ functions (all its unique parts) Lamentations 3:40-  see ourselves rightly Luke 10:27; Matthew 22:36–40; Mark 12:28–31-Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself Psalm 90:12- Grant me a heart of wisdom  Ephesians 1:18- Enlighten the eyes of my heart Isaiah 9:7- God’s power has no end and He has no limits 2 Corinthians 12:9-11- In my limits/weaknesses, He is strong Ephesians 3:20-