Jamie recently released a statement on Instagram that she is stepping away from podcasting for a while. As a team, we have decided to air the six conversations that were recorded prior to May 20th. We decided to do this to honor the guests, the projects they have worked on, and the stories they are sharing.Time after time when we hear stories of people encountering Jesus, it almost always includes a story of hearing or seeing what God has done in someone else's life. On today's show, Priscilla Shirer shares with us how hearing someone's testimony in church led her to her first encounter with Jesus on a deeply personal level. Priscilla shares the encounters she's had with Jesus as she's learned to surrender her own will, how God launched her into full-time ministry, and the impact of sharing your testimony with others. We hope this episode encourages you and challenges you to surrender to the most unexpected paths God may have for you!Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend. SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Priscilla Shirer-Where the Light Fell - Philip Yancey's Memoir-I Surrender All-The Forge Movie

Jamie recently released a statement on Instagram that she is stepping away from podcasting for a while. As a team, we have decided to air the six conversations that were recorded prior to May 20th. We decided to do this to honor the guests, the projects they have worked on, and the stories they are sharing.On today's show Jamie Ivey and Kat Armstrong discuss the podcast series 'Holy Curiosity' and the encounter of the Samaritan woman with Jesus at the well. Kat Armstrong was born in Houston, Texas, where the humidity ruins her Mexi-German curls. She is a powerful voice in our generation as a sought-after Bible teacher, innovative ministry leader, and the host of the Holy Curiosity podcast. She holds a master’s degree from Dallas Theological Seminary and is pursuing a D.Min. from Houston Christian University. Kat is the author of No More Holding Back, The In-Between Place, and a 6-study Bible study series, the Storyline Project. In 2008, Kat cofounded the Polished Network to embolden women in their faith and work. She and her husband, Aaron, have been married for twenty one years and live in Dallas, Texas, with their son, Caleb, and attend Dallas Bible Church, where Aaron serves as the lead pastor.Jamie and Kat address misconceptions about the Samaritan woman's character and explore the theological conversation she had with Jesus. They also highlight the impact of her testimony on the people in her town and the significance of Jesus prioritizing this encounter.  We hope after this conversation you'll see how everyone can encounter Jesus in unexpected places and be transformed by the power of encountering Him in our own lives.Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Kat Armstrong-Holy Curiosity Podcast-Why Can't I Get It Together

Jamie recently released a statement on Instagram that she is stepping away from podcasting for a while. As a team, we have decided to air the six conversations that were recorded prior to May 20th. We decided to do this to honor the guests, the projects they have worked on, and the stories they are sharing.On today's show we have Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Tasha Cobbs Leonard to discuss her latest project, "Do It Anyway: Don't Give Up Before It Gets Good." In less than a decade, Tasha Cobbs Leonard has become one of the most iconic artists in gospel music history. Winner of the Billboard Music Award for Top Gospel Artist for the past two years, her latest radio single, “You Know My Name (Live),” recently climbed to #1, while her career-launching hit, “Break Every Chain,” was recently certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.Tasha discusses her various roles as a wife, mother, pastor, entrepreneur, and gospel artist and shares personal stories about her journey in music, including the impact of her hit song 'Break Every Chain'. Tasha also opens up about her battle with depression and the importance of being present in the moment. Tasha's new book is a testament to her resilience and faith and trust me, you want to go grab a copy!Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Tasha Cobbs Leonard-Do It Anyway-Why Can't I Get It Together 

Jamie recently released a statement on Instagram that she is stepping away from podcasting for a while. As a team, we have decided to air the six conversations that were recorded prior to May 20th. We decided to do this to honor the guests, the projects they have worked on, and the stories they are sharing.Victor Boutrous, the founder of the Human Trafficking Institute, joins Jamie Ivey on the Happy Hour podcast to discuss human trafficking and how it can be combated. Boutrous shares his personal experience with a trafficking case and explains the work his organization does to build specialized anti-trafficking units and prosecute traffickers. He emphasizes the importance of enforcement and the need to decimate trafficking by reducing it exponentially. Boutrous believes that millions of people can be protected from trafficking through their work. Victor Boutros is the CEO of the Human Trafficking Institute. He was a federal prosecutor in the Department of Justice’s Human Trafficking Unit. He and Gary Haugen co-authored the best-selling book The Locust Effect: Why the End of Poverty Requires the End of Violence. Boutros is a graduate of Baylor, Harvard, Oxford, and the University of Chicago Law School. He lives with his wife, three kids and two dogs in Dallas, Texas.The conversation will give you a better understanding of the definition of trafficking, its prevalence in the US, and the role we have in combating it. Check out our links below to get involved and put an end to human trafficking!  SHOW LINKS: -Human Trafficking Institute-Justice Partners-Starfish Project -Digital Safety Resources -The Anxious Generation -The Chosen-Pray As You Go App -Jordan Raynor -Holly's Story -Rebecca's Story

Jamie recently released a statement on Instagram that she is stepping away from podcasting for a while. As a team, we have decided to air the six conversations that were recorded prior to May 20th. We decided to do this to honor the guests, the projects they have worked on, and the stories they are sharing.We might think of systemic racism as an unfortunate part of American history, something that happened back in the day. But the systems were never truly dismantled in our country, leaving artifacts of injustice that continue to affect every aspect of life for Black and Brown Americans. With the current DEI ban sweeping across campuses, students of color are facing the potential loss of their safe spaces and representation. Why should this matter to everyone? On today's show LaTasha Morrison shares that answer with us and how it's detrimental impact affects all of us! Through remembering our nation's history, LaTasha encourages everyone to hold elected leaders accountable and gives practical advice on how you can fight for equality and accountability in our systems! LaTasha calls for the church to lead the way in a deeper understanding of empathy, love, compassion, and justice.Latasha Morrison is a distinguished author and nonprofit founder widely known for her transformative work in fostering racial reconciliation and unity. As a New York Times best-selling author, she has captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide with her powerful words and insightful perspectives. She founded the nonprofit Be the Bridge in 2016 to encourage racial reconciliation among all ethnicities, to promote racial unity in America, and to equip others to do the same. Her new book, Brown Faces, White Spaces: Confronting Systemic Racism to Bring Healing and Restoration, traces the origins of systemic racism in America, illuminating why it persists today. In the book, she equips and calls readers to break the systems that have for so long marginalized the BIPOC communities. Through her writing and advocacy, Latasha Morrison is a beacon of hope, igniting conversations, challenging social norms and empowering others to take action toward a more inclusive and equitable world.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Brown Faces, White Spaces: Confronting Systemic Racism to Bring Healing and RestorationWhy Can't I Get It Together

 Jamie recently released a statement on Instagram that she is stepping away from podcasting for a while. As a team, we have decided to air the six conversations that were recorded prior to May 20th. We decided to do this to honor the guests, the projects they have worked on, and the stories they are sharing.On today's show, Molly Stillman discusses her new book and her personal journey of faith, loss, forgiveness, and self-discovery. She shares about her experience of losing her mother during her senior year of high school and the regrets she carried for years. Molly also talks about the importance of forgiving oneself and finding grace in the midst of mistakes and failures. Molly Stillman is a writer, speaker, bible teacher, and host of the Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder? podcast. She has been writing and creating content online for nearly 20 years, and her first book, "If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry" released on March, 26, 2024! Molly lives on a small farm in North Carolina with her husband John and their kids Lilly and Amos. SHOW LINKS:Connect with MollyIf I Don't Laugh I'll Cry On Getting Out of BedAs Long as The Lemon Tree GrowsThe Covenant of WaterCutting for Stone Book LoversBeach ReadHome Front Firefly LaneThe NightingaleThe WomenThe Four WindsThe Anxious GenerationThe Holy PostGabb PhonesThrive CosmeticsLumeMandoTushy

Have you ever had a parenting moment that you instantly regretted? Have you ever reacted in a way that reminded you of a side of your parents you didn’t want to imitate? We've all been there, and on today's show I have the most incredible conversation about this with Lisa-Jo Baker. Lisa-Jo Baker is a bestselling author, lapsed lawyer, current senior acquisitions editor for HarperCollins, and the author of Never Unfriended, The Middle Matters and Surprised by Motherhood. With a BA in English/prelaw from Gordon College and a JD from the University of Notre Dame Law School, Lisa-Jo has lived and worked on three continents in the human rights field and subsequently spent nearly a decade leading the online community of women called (in)courage as their editor in chief and community manager. She’s also the co-host of the Out of the Ordinary podcast. Originally from South Africa, Lisa-Jo now lives just outside Washington, D.C., where she met and fell in love with her husband in the summer of ’96. Their story together spans decades, languages, countries, books, three very opinionated teenagers, and one dog.Lisa and I discuss breaking free from generational patterns and learning from the stories of our ancestors. You'll hear Lisa explain why understanding the origins of our behaviors are important and the process of forgiveness and reconciliation in family relationships. We jump into the parallels of growing up in South Africa and America and the need for truth-telling and justice. You are going to love this conversation and I want you all to run and pick up her latest book, It Wasn't Roaring It Was Weeping (order your copy in the show notes!)!Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!  SHOW LINKS:-Why Can’t I Get It Together -Jamie Ivey Book Club -Huberman Podcast -Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by DayIt Wasn’t Roaring It Was Weeping

HAPPY 10TH BIRTHDAY TO THE HAPPY HOUR! On today’s episode I celebrated TEN YEARS with my good friend, Jessica Honegger. Jess is no stranger to the show and you may know her as the founder of Noonday Collection. We look over the last tens years and reminisce on friendships, parenting, ministry life, and The Happy Hour podcast began! You’ll hear how Jess contributed in teaching me the importance of vulnerability and repairing relationships, and the amazing growth that comes from entering those hard spaces. I’m so thankful all of you choose to listen every week! We love celebrating ten years of The Happy Hour with you! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-Noonday Collection -Why Can’t I Get It Together -Jamie Ivey Book Club -Arrows by Bethel -Covenant of Water-It Wasn’t Roaring it Was Weeping-Ardent Locket-Cutting for StoneIf I Don’t Laugh I’ll Cry

Happy Friday friends! This week has been filled with so much fun! Monday was my birthday and yesterday The Happy Hour turned TEN YEARS OLD! Amazing! We’re celebrating all month long and one of the best ways you can celebrate with us is to pick up a copy of Why Can’t I Get It Together and join our book club! Today on the show Jennie Allen and I are celebrating the release of both of our latest books, Untangle Your Emotions and Why Can’t I Get It Together! You’ll hear Jennie emphasize the importance of untangling and understanding emotions. She challenges us to share our emotions with our community and is transparent in how this practice has transformed her own life!  I believe in the words of both of these books so much and trust this conversation will be a huge encouragement to you.Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Jamie-Join Jamie’s Book Club-Why Can’t I Get It Together?-Untangle Your Emotions-How Are Emotions Made

Hey friends! I just can’t say thank you enough for all the amazing and kind words you have showered over me the last few days! May is an exciting month for me as we celebrated my birthday on Monday and tomorrow we celebrate the birthday of The Happy Hour! I feel so blessed to be celebrating 10 years, a full decade, of sharing the big things in life, the little things in life, and everything in between! I’m so thankful for all of you who have been on this journey with me! I’m also so excited about my book club this month! My latest book, Why Can’t I Get It Together, release last February, and unfortunately I didn’t get to give it the love and attention it deserves! That changes this month! You can sign up today to get a free month of the book club and read Why Can’t I Get It Together with me! It’s going to be a lot of fun and I’d love for you to join me!I couldn’t have known how I would need the words from Why Can’t I Get It Together in this season. The amazing part is that it’s still all true. Though I’m reading it through a different lens, I would still say all the same things!These last few months I have been sustained by so many good books and songs and get ready, because I’m about to share all of them with you! As I always say, thank you so much for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Jamie-Join my Book Club!-Younger Next Year for Women-Ragamuffin Gospel-Practicing the Way -27 Summers-Ronald Olivier’s episode on THH -The Other Year-The Body Keeps the Score-The Night is Normal-The Kingdom, The Power, and the Glory -The Screwtape Letters-What Happened to You-Mending a Shattered Heart-Dominion-Intimate Deception-Your Sexually Addicted Spouse-Moving Beyond Betrayal-Good Boundaries and Goodbyes-Boundaries-Tell Me More-If I Don’t Laugh I’ll Cry-It Wasn’t Roaring, It Was Weeping-Where the Light Fell-On Getting Out of Bed-The Covenant of Water-As Long as Lemon Trees Grow-Jeremiah 20:11-13-Lamentations 3:28-33-Take it To Jesus -Psalm 23-Brooke Ligertwood - Eight-Taya-Brutal Miracle -In Between -I Speak Jesus -Arrows (I Will Be With You) -Good Plans-Ordinary Ways-The Lord Will Provide-How Long-The Happy Hour with Alisa Keeton-Sign Up to get info on the Love-Paced Run

Hey friends! Today’s show is my first show back after a 3-month break. I wanted to come back and have a conversation with a friend about how I’ve been doing since my world fell apart in early February. My good friend Toni and I have a conversation about grief and pain, and I hope it is encouraging to you right where you are today - no matter what your world currently looks like. We both have walked through immense pain and grief in these last six months and on the show, you will hear us both process this in our own unique ways. I’m deeply grateful for this community! Your love and support from afar during my absence have meant the world to me. I’m thrilled to be back and look forward to the exciting things we have in store this month, including revisiting my book content and celebrating The Happy Hour’s monumental TEN-YEAR anniversary next week!Thanks for listening and sharing these episodes with a friend. I don’t take that lightly.SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Toni Collier-Connect with Jamie-Subscribe to Jamie’s Newsletter-Join the Why Can’t I Get it Together Book Club -Savannah Locke-Dr. Curt Thompson's Podcast, Being Known

Happy May 1st friends! We are beyond excited to be in the month of May because we have so many things to celebrate with you! Jamie will be returning to the show this week and we can’t wait to have her back! The Happy Hour is also turning TEN YEARS OLD next week! We can’t get over how God has allowed us to be in this space for ten years, and we are so thankful for all of the guests and listeners who have showed up in this space with us! We love sharing stories of hope, encouragement, and God’s love with you! On today’s show we have Guest Host, Toni Collier, and Debra Fileta walk us through how to grieve well. It’s so easy to bury, numb, or run from grief, but at the end of the day, in order for healing to take place, we must honor the space of loss and allow our community to support us in seasons of grief. Toni and Debra emphasize the need to heal and move forward, taking ownership of our role in relationships and finding closure. Walking through grief may feel burdensome, but it’s nothing like trying to walk through life unhealed! We believe God can bring healing and redemption in the midst of hardship, and you can trust his good plan for your life! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Toni Collier-Connect with Debra Fileta-Connect with Jamie-Subscribe to Jamie’s Newsletter-Join the Why Can’t I Get it Together Book Club

Hey friends! Welcome back to another birthday countdown episode! We are so excited about turning 10 years old in just a few weeks! Every Friday we've been playing episodes from our very first season. If you haven't caught up, we highly suggest you go back and listen! It's crazy how topics we talked about over ten years ago can still have so much relevance and meaning today! On today's show we throw it back to the very first conversation with Susie Davis. Susie is an author, blogger, speaker and church founder. Susie is married to Will Davis Jr., the founding and senior pastor of Austin Christian Fellowship, and together they have three children. Aside from family and ministry, Susie is helplessly addicted to horseback riding and McDonald’s coffee. In addition, one of her all time favorites is cooking and enjoying family dinners. Jamie and Susie discuss how they both ended up in radio accidentally, and also how hard it is to follow your passions individually when you also feel as though you are supposed to be giving so much to your family. Susie shares about what started her down the road of being a fearful person and how that ruled her world for so many years. We know by the end of this episode you'll be encouraged to live unafraid and kick fear to the curb! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-Unafraid: Trusting God in An Unsafe World-Loving Your Man Without Losing Your Mind-Parenting Your Teen and Loving It-Uncovered: Revealing the Secrets of a Sexy Marriage-The Time of Your Life: Finding God's Rest In Your Busy Schedule-Connect with Susie Davis-Connect with Jamie Ivey 

What comes to your mind when you hear the word, "humility"? Do you think doormat, walk over, self-deprecation, or strength, wisdom, boundaries, and peace? Humility can be a tough subject to tackle, but today we have the perfect duo to walk us through the connection between humility and peace: Guest Host, Esau McCaulley, and Dr. Joel Muddamalle. Esau is a long time friend of The Happy Hour and has provided us with incredible conversations around his books, Reading While Black and How Far to the Promised Land. Esau is an author and associate professor of New Testament at Wheaton College. His writing and speaking focus on New Testament theology, African American Biblical interpretation, and Christian public theology. His book Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope won numerous awards, including Christianity Today’s book of the year. Esau is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times. His writings have also appeared in places such as The Atlantic, Washington Post, and Christianity Today.Joel serves as the Director of Theology and Research for Proverbs 31 Ministries and Lysa TerKeurst, and is a part of the preaching team at Transformation Church with Pastor Derwin Gray. Joel earned a PhD in Theology under Drs. Patrick Schreiner (NT) and Michael Heiser (OT) with an emphasis on Paul's household language in Ephesians as it relates to the Old Testament. He loves studying and teaching the brilliant truths found in Scripture and unpacking how they relate to our everyday lives.Whether we've incorrectly defined humility or underestimated its relevance to our daily life, we believe humility is the missing piece for the security, strength and confidence we all want. It's time to stop trying so hard to avoid our limitations or overcompensate for them. God has better for us and it begins with bowing low in humility!Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Esau -Connect with Joel -The Hidden Peace-Connect with Jamie 

Hey friends! We are continuing to count down to our 10th birthday! An entire decade of incredible people telling meaningful stories! If you haven't had the chance to listen to the other episodes from the first season of The Happy Hour, we encourage you to go back and listen now! On today's show we have a very special memory: Jamie's first conversation with Wynter Pitts. Wynter is an author of several books, including She Is Yours. She is also the founder of For Girls Like You. Wynter Pitts started For Girls Like You magazine in 2012 when she was trying to find Christian resources for her four young daughters. In just a few short years, she created a national magazine, devotionals, books and many other tools for girls and their parents. For Girls Like You, equips girls to boldly walk in the person God created them to be! In 2018 Wynter suddenly went to be with the Lord. Her sudden death impacted us immensely, but not as much as her legacy continues to impact girls for generations to come! Wynter's husband and daughters carry on her legacy through For Girls Like You and today we are offering you a discount code! Use the code "happyhour10" to get 25% off the entire website! Trust me, if you're a mom with daughters, you want to get this! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-For Girls Like You - Use code "happyhour10" for 25% off the website!-Connect with Jamie

Sometimes we desire a new outfit, and other times it’s something deeper, like the approval of others. However, as we grow in our relationship with God, our desires should move in the direction of wanting him more than anything! In today’s show Guest Host Angie Elkins, and Lisa Whittle, dive into how our desires our shaped and transformed! We appreciate the vulnerability and transparency that both ladies share as they continue to be sanctified in their desires. If you struggle with people pleasing, or maybe it's a habit that's tied to your self-esteem, we encourage you to lean in and allow God to reveal his heart to you!SHOW LINKS:Connect with Angie ElkinsConnect with Lisa Whittle Jesus Over EverythingLove Paced RaceConnect with Jamie

Happy Friday friends! We are continuing the countdown to our 10th birthday and today we are going back to the very first episode recorded between Jamie and Annie F. Downs! We loved going back and listening to this conversation and we know you’ll enjoy the timeless topics they discussed! Annie and Jame talk about friendship, hookup culture, her new book at the time, Let’s All Be Brave, the Bachelorette (season 11 of course!), and more!Annie and Jamie are hilarious, so get ready to laugh, reminisce on some good tv shows and books, and be inspired to be brave! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Let’s All Be BraveIF: GatheringThe End of SexThe Meaning of MarriageInterruptedConnect with Jamie

At some point in your life you may have been told, or made to feel, that your emotions weren’t valid. Maybe it was a parent never letting you emote, or maybe it was friends picking on you for crying. Too often, outside voices try to silence our internal feelings and we become adults who are incapable of processing the inevitable grief we will face in our life. On today’s show, guest host Toni Collier and Dr. Alison Cook discusses the complexities of grief and emphasizes the importance of understanding and processes grief, as well as the guilt and gaslighting that often accompany it. Through transparency and the sharing of their own personal experiences, Toni and Dr. Cook encourages listeners to create space for feelings and give practical advice on how to brave the next step forward in making healthy decisions. We’re confident you’ll enjoy this episode and we encourage you to lean into the pain and make room for all of your emotions! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS: Connect with JamieI Shouldn’t Feel This WayBoundaries for Your Soul

Can you guys even believe The Happy Hour is turning TEN YEARS OLD next month?! We are over the moon that an idea to record conversations between Jamie and her friends has turned into all of this! Building a community, meeting new friends, sharing people's stories, published books, and more! None of this would have been possible without listeners like you, and we want to celebrate with you! Over the next few Fridays we'll be releasing shows from our very first year of production. So laugh along with us as you hear retro audio from a decade ago! Jamie's very first conversation was recorded with her friend since the 9th grade, Amy Gayhart. Though our production may have changed over the years, the topics we laugh about have pretty much stayed the same: getting it together for teacher appreciation week, girl weekends, and needing a break from social media! Make sure to check out the show links below to see the beautiful bracelets Amy’s daughter creates, with 100% of the proceeds going to Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding and Respite!Again, thanks for being part of this amazing journey with us! SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Jamie -Wild-Mabry’s Busy Beads-Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding and Respite 

As little kids we have dreams and ideas of what we think life will look like. Too often, as life goes on, we find ourselves in the middle of disappointment. Whether it's a different career path, a broken relationship, or the emptiness of infertility, life throws us curveballs and we can be drowning in unnamed disappointment without even realizing it. On today's show Guest Host Lisa Whittle and Angie Elkins discuss their childhood dreams and how their lives have taken unexpected paths. They delve into the different paths of disappointment, including disappointment in ourselves, disappointment of others, and even disappointment in God. Through the pain of admitting our disappointment, there is healing and redemption on the other side! God can, and will, make all things new in our lives! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Lisa Whittle-Connect with Angie Elkins-Connect with Jamie -Jesus Over Everything

Happy April 1st! It’s April Fools Day and I don’t know what that means for some of you, but we’re not messing with you around here and we  have some exciting things to share about April!Our team here at the happy hour continues to be overwhelmed by your kind words and messages! We are so thankful that through the amazing community Jamie has built, we get the opportunity to continue to bring you conversations that matter. This month is filled with rich conversations covering topics about grief, processing emotions, navigating life when it’s different than you expect, and the importance of friendship and community! Guest hosts include podcasters Toni Collier from Still Coloring , Angie Elkins from Let It Shine, Lis a Whittle from Jesus Over Everything, and more!We hope you all had an amazing Easter! Easter is so much more than just a cultural holiday or a day to dress up in color coordinating outfits. Easter is the hope we have, the transformation we live in, and the very reason why we do what we do here at Ivey Media! We are overwhelmed by the resurrection and thankful for the power it still has in our lives today! SHOW LINKS:Still ColoringLet It ShineJesus Over Everything Connect with Jamie 

Happy Good Friday! As we enter this weekend reflecting on Easter and the miracle of the cross, we're thrilled to share one of our favorite episodes with you! Rebecca McLaughlin is an award winning author and today we dive into her book, Is Easter Unbelievable? Four Questions Everyone Should Ask About the Resurrection Story.  Let me ask you this, does your belief in Jesus being the Son of God, dying on the cross, and his resurrection change the way you live? Do these truths penetrate your heart to the point where your life looks radically different from those around you? In today’s episode Rebecca shares why and how they should. We discuss how Jesus’ love for us displayed through his death is even more stunning than his love for us shown through his life, how the Gospel gives us 4 pieces of evidence of his resurrection, and how our earthly relationships point us to our reunification with our Savior! Friends, this is an important conversation. Wherever you are in your life right now, our prayer is that Jesus is appealing to you and that the miracle of the cross resonates with you. Make sure to grab a copy of Rebecca’s book and share this episode with a friend. Thanks for listening! SHOW LINKS: Is Easter Unbelievable? Four Questions Everyone Should Ask About the Resurrection StoryNavigating Gospel Truth Bible StudyBorn Again This WayA Secular AgeBiblical Critical TheoryCONNECT WITH JAMIEEpisode 314 with Rachel Gilson

Hey friends! We have a special surprise for you this week! Jamie’s close friend and podcast host of Still Coloring, Toni Collier, stands in as guest host for The Happy Hour! Toni is energetic, fun, not afraid to go deep, and is ready to talk about grief and community and the impact it has had in her personal life. Together with Dr. Curt Thompson, the two discuss the complexities of grief, the importance of acknowledging the grief process, as well as the crucial role our community plays in seasons of grief. Toni and Dr. Curt explore the scriptures and discuss how Jesus modeled grief and what his time on earth teaches us about the significance of allowing oneself to fully experience and express emotions. Dr. Curt Thompson and Toni Collier are no strangers to The Happy Hour and we are so thankful for the two of them standing in this space and walking us through this important and timely topic. We hope this episode encourages you to become people of grief and that you can find beauty and goodness through the process. Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Still Coloring Connect with Toni CollierConnect with Dr. Curt ThompsonConnect with Jamie

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.March is Women's History Month and we wanted to celebrate this by sharing with you an amazing panel of women who are holistically FOR women! Stand for Life hosted this panel of women to talk about what it meant to truly be pro life and pro women. This panel is hosted by Bri Strensrud and includes Jamie Ivey, Embrace Grace founder Amy Ford, Professor Missy Branch, and Annie Humphrey with Save the Storks. This conversation discusses the economical challenges women face, how to gain proximity to those who are vulnerable, truly giving women free choice, and helping others find freedom from shame and regret through Christ. Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with friend!SHOW LINKS:Stand For LifeWomen of WelcomeEmbrace GraceSave the Storks CONNECT WITH JAMIE

At just 16 years old Ronald Olivier made a decision that would change his life forever, but he wouldn’t let it define it. On today’s show Ronald shares his journey from growing up in poverty-stricken New Orleans to being sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole at the age of 16. He recounts his transformation in prison and how he became a missionary, spreading the gospel to other inmates. Despite facing challenges and unjust treatment, Ronald remains hopeful and finds purpose in his faith. He shares a powerful encounter with the victim's mother, ways he saw God move in other prisoners’ life, and the impact forgiveness had in changing his life forever. Today, Ronald Olivier is a loving husband and father. He has his Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministry and is an ordained minister. For several years Ronald served as the Director of Chaplaincy for the Mississippi State Penitentiary, and today serves as a Client Advocate for the Louisiana Parole Project where he helps formerly incarcerated individuals transition back into society.Ultimately, Ronald's story is one of redemption and the power of God's grace, and we know you’ll love hearing about his journey of freedom, forgiveness, and redemption during his time in Angola prison. Ronald's life is a testament to the power of forgiveness and the possibility of redemption.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS: Connect with Ronald27 Summers Brandon's Episode on The Happy Hour Kent's Episode on The Happy Hour

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.Happy Friday friends! Earlier this year Jamie shared an incredible message at a women's conference at Community Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas, and last Friday we shared Part 1 with you. If you haven't had the chance to listen to it, check out our show notes below for a link to the episode. Today we're bringing you Part 2 of that message, where Jamie talks about how God wants all of you! We hope this message encourages you throughout your weekend! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!  SHOW LINKS:Part 1 - Roller Coaster of LifeConnect with Jamie

Once a little boy running and playing with his friends, to a sick child that could hardly walk, Michael found himself wondering if he would live to his adult years or be another child who died in Sudan too soon. With the lack of medical facilities and war on every corner, Michael’s family  made the brave decision to flee to Kenya in hopes of finding medical support. After a two year journey, Michael was finally diagnosed and treated, however, he would forever be wheelchair bound. How does one in a wheelchair survive in Sudan where you must be ready to run for your life at any moment? On today's show Michael Panther, founder of Living with Hope Ministries, shares his story of his parent's courage, doctor's wisdom, and a divine miracle from God.Michael Panther is the Founder of the ministry Living With Hope/Hope Mobility International. He is a paraplegic, a native of South Sudan, and advocates for people with disabilities around the world. Michael's biological parents and 5 siblings live in Africa, and his American family lives in Michigan. Michael is passionate about serving & advocating for people with disabilities and special needs. Check out Living with Hope Ministries, an incredible nonprofit bringing mobility to Africa! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Living with Hope book Living with Hope MinistriesConnect with Jamie 

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.Happy Friday friends! We have a special treat for you today! Earlier this year Jamie shared an incredible message at a women's conference at Community Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas, and we are thrilled to bring that message to you! Life is filled with ups and downs - some we choose and some we don't! Throughout all of life's rollercoaster moments, God's truths keep us on steady ground: you are chosen, you are deeply loved, and you have a new identity in Christ! We hope this message encourages you throughout your weekend! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!   Connect With Jamie

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.Throughout life, change is inevitable. Sometimes it can be fun and adventurous, and other times it may feel unknown and scary! Whether you're someone that craves change or fears it, I'm convinced this episode is going to encourage you to live more surrendered and to trust God deeper! Today's guest is long time friend of The Happy Hour, Andi Andrew. Andi is the podcast host of Coffee With Andi and the author of She Is free, Fake or Follower, Friendship-It’s Complicated and Braving Change. Passionate about freedom, family, and creating safe spaces for the prophetic to move, Andi is a heartfelt preacher who loves to see the reality of the gospel worked out in our everyday lives. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, and planted at Seacoast Church, Andi’s life is currently focused on raising her kids, writing, and investing in local churches and lives around the world.Thanks so much for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Christmas Chosen Special Gratitude by Brandon Lake ProseNewlySlow Horses ReacherThe Book of NamesTrustConnect with Jamie

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.Happy March friends! We hope wherever you're listening from it's starting to feel like spring in the air! The Happy Hour team is so excited to share with you some exciting things we have planned for March! We have brand new episodes that have been pre-recorded, but never released! They are conversations filled with hope, courage, and resilience! We're also so excited to share with you that The Happy Hour will have a guest host at the end of this month! We're not going to tell you who it is, but we'll let you think on it all month and try to make a guess! And lastly, on Fridays of this month we'll be releasing messages that Jamie has preached all over the country this past year! On today's episode, Jamie's message is from the There{4} Conference, an incredible conference for 9th-12th grade girls. There{4} is happening this weekend and we have an awesome discount code for you to purchase the livestream event. You can access this stream until September 1st! Use discount code jamieivey to get 1/2 off! Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support during this time. We're so grateful for how you are showing up in this space every week and sharing these episodes with friends!  SHOW LINKS:Livestream There{4} Tickets - Code jamieivey for 50% offFounder of There{4}, Tiffany Daniels on The Happy Hour Website: https://www.there4gathering.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/there4gatheringTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@there4.gatheringYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@There4GatheringSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/there4gatheringDwell Differently27 SummersBraving ChangeCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.Research shows that over 80% of homes in America own a Bible, but less than 10% of Americans read the Bible regularly.  Too often we allow our lack of understanding stand in the way of experiencing the living and moving Word of God. On today's show Kristi McClelland shares with us how we can be like rivers, not lakes, and how the world needs both diggers and haulers of God's word! Kristi McLelland is a professor, speaker and author of Rediscovering Israel. She teaches the Bible in its historical, cultural, geographic, and linguistic contexts. Kristi leads biblical study trips to Israel, helping Westerners discover the Bible within the context in which it was written.We're certain this episode is going to inspire you to dig into God's word to learn more. Check out the links in the show notes for ways you can do that! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Rediscovering IsraelJesusUnveling the Kingdom of Heaven Kerygma ConferenceCONNECT with Jamie  

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.      My friend Heather MacFadyen is back on The Happy Hour today. Heather is the host of the popular parenting podcast Don't Mom Alone, with more than 20 million downloads from around the globe, as well as the author of the book Don't Mom Alone. She finds great joy in connecting other women to mentors and experts through her podcast and in speaking at live events with women across the country. She and her husband and their four sons live in Dallas, Texas. Her newest book, Right Where You Belong, was released last April. On today’s show Heather challenges us to identify our God-given space and to fully occupy that space. She encourages us to walk in humility by trusting God with the journey and finding comfort and peace in the fact that we don’t know, but we follow and serve an all knowing God! Right Where You Belong is a book for every mother in every parenting stage! Go grab your copy today and share this episode with a mom that could use the encouragement!SHOW LINKS:Heather’s last HH episodeGod Made You to Be YouDon’t Mom AloneDon’t Mom Alone Podcast Crazy Rich AsiansAmerican MahjongRight Where You Belong Heather MacFadyenIn the Wild Light Tired of Trying to Measure UpCONNECT WITH JAMIEDon't Mom AloneRight Where You Belong

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.                                           As adults, we make decisions everyday driven by forces we may not be aware of. On today’s show Mike Foster and I dive into a conversation about these forces: what they are, where they come from, and how we operate as healthy adults knowing what drives us. Mike Foster is a best-selling author, speaker, and executive coach. His new book, The Seven Primal Questions, is a revolutionary new framework for accelerating personal and professional growth. Mike's work has been featured in the NY Times, GQ Magazine and on Fox News.I found The Seven Primal Questions fascinating and I encourage you to head over to the website at the link below and take the quiz! Thanks for listening to this episode and sharing it with a friend! SHOW LINKS: The Seven Primal QuestionsThe Seven Primal Questions QuizThe Myth of NormalConnect with Jamie

Due to an unexpected crisis, Jamie will be delaying her book publicity and tour. She will also be taking a break from social media, public appearances, and recording podcasts until she has had time to process, discern, and recover. The best way you can show Jamie your love and support is to listen to these pre-recorded shows and share with a friend.In today’s show, Jamie and Esau chat about how important it is to sit, read, and listen to stories and experiences that may not affect us. We always have an easy way out of conversations that don’t directly impact our lives. But Jesus calls us to compassion and empathy and to love one another through joys and pains. We love the reminder from Esau that everything we need to love one another well is in scripture - what a blessing it is that we truly have the answer.Esau McCaulley is an associate professor of New Testament at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He is the author of many works including Sharing in the Son’s Inheritance and How Far to the Promised Land. He is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times and his writings have also appeared in places such as The Atlantic, Washington Post, and Christianity Today. SHOW LINKS:Reading While Black  

CLICK HERE TO PREORDER MY NEW BOOK, WHY CAN'T I GET IT TOGETHERA lot of times we need to be reminded of what we already know to be true. On today’s show we talk about what it means to ponder our own reality. Ponder serves as an acronym for:P - Past and Present HurtsO- ObligationsN- NeedsD - DesiresE - Expectations R - Responsibilities. We’ll break down each letter and ponder on what we’re currently telling ourselves versus the truth we need to hear! I encourage you to grab a pen and paper and take some time to ponder your own reality and ask God to reveal his truths to you! Thanks so much for listening to this episode and sharing it with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Come see me on my book tour!Join the Launch Team www.TravelTexas.com/getyourownPandora lab grown diamondsBeth Moore Episode Better HelpCONNECT WITH JAMIE

CLICK HERE TO PREORDER MY NEW BOOK, WHY CAN'T I GET IT TOGETHERYou wake up everyday, feed the kids, change diapers, go to work, come home, fix dinner, go to bed, and wake up the next morning just to do it all over again. Have you ever asked yourself what all of this is about? Does any of the work you put your hands to matter to God or for eternal purposes? Today on the show we have Jordan Raynor to answer that very question!Jordan Raynor is a leading voice of the faith and work movement. Through his bestselling books, podcast, and devotionals, Jordan has helped millions of Christians in every country on earth connect the gospel to their work. In addition to his writing, Jordan serves as the Executive Chairman of Threshold 360, a venture-backed tech startup which Jordan previously ran as CEO following a string of successful ventures of his own. He lives in beautiful Tampa, Florida where his family has been for 7 generations.Jordan and I have a conversation around his newest book, The Sacredness of Secular Work. Jordan defines these terms and gives us warnings of traps we can tend to fall into when we’re thinking our work doesn’t matter. Jordan gives us a resounding yes, that what we’re doing today does matter for eternity, even if it feels mundane.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Redeeming Your Time The Sacredness of Secular Work The Mere Christian Podcast Come see me on my book tour!Join the Launch Team Alicia Britt Chole www.TravelTexas.com/getyourownPandora lab grown diamondsKing CONNECT WITH JAMIE

CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER WHY CAN'T I GET IT TOGETHERYou guys! My newest book is coming out THIS MONTH!! I'm so excited about it, and for a few reasons, I feel like this is my best book yet! I love the minds that came around to help write this book and I love how practical it is! Over the next few Fridays you'll hear me talk about the meaning and purpose behind each part this book is broken into. This week is Part 1: Defining Your Reality. Too often I found myself comparing my life to someone else's. I imagine I'm not the only one who has done this. But how can we compare when our realities are so different? How can a 26 year old mother of toddlers possibly compare her life to a 47 year old mom of four teenagers? How can a stay at home mom compare where she's at in her career to a full-time working mother? It's just not fair to anyone when we do that. We have to look at our own lives and circumstances and define what our reality is in this season. We must ponder on the areas of life that feel out of control, and allow Jesus to come in and have his way!I can't wait to go through Part 2 with you next Friday! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:February UpdatesIf You Only KnewYou Be YouComplementConnect with Jamie IveyValentine's Day Gift Guide

Am I the only one that felt like January went on forever?! We made it to February friends! And I'm so excited to share all the fun things we have coming up! This month on The Happy Hour we'll have Jordan Raynor, Jennie Allen, Mike Foster, and Kristi McClelland on the show. All of these guests are so brilliant and have incredible books we've linked below. Go check them out! We'll also be changing it up a little and releasing an episode each Friday of just me, talking to you! Tomorrow is the first episode like that, and I'd love for you to tune in and check it out! We have so many things to look forward to this month: great friends, book tour fun, and a pretty exciting opportunity that I can't wait for you to hear!  SHOW LINKS:Pre-Order Why Can't I Get It TogetherBook Launch TourDwell DifferentlyRomans 12:12Colossians 1:17The Happy Hour Book ClubThe Other YearSo Many BeginningsHoly Curiosity with Kat ArmstrongThe Seven Primal QuestionsThe Sacredness of Secular WorkUntangle Your EmotionsRediscovering IsraelJesus and the Gospels IF:GatheringThere{4} Gathering  

With an unprecedented ruling from a judge, Lauren and Michael had their lives turned upside down in just a few short hours. All of their plans, expectations, and visions of what they thought their family would look like, was forever changed! On today’s episode, Lauren McAfee shares her journey of grief and how she found that scripture and God was solid truth, even in her darkest days. Lauren McAfee is the founder and visionary of Stand for Life, and the author of multiple books including her most recent release Beyond Our Control. Lauren also works at the Hobby Lobby corporate office in the Ministry Investment department, and is a PhD student studying ethics and public policy. She is married to her high school sweetheart Michael, and together they have two daughters through the blessing of adoption. It’s likely your story isn’t the same as Lauren’s, but we’ve all walked through grief that was completely beyond our control. We hope this episode encourages you to seek God and stand firm on His truth, when everything around you feels out of control. Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend. SHOW LINKS:Beyond Our ControlThe Case Against the Sexual RevolutionLove My BodyPre-Order Why Can’t I Get It Together?Connect with Jamie

You know you’re educated, experienced, and deserve the job, yet there’s a small voice telling you you’re not good enough. There’s something inside making you feel insecure of your position. On today’s show, Bre Clark and I break down imposter syndrome, what it is, how you know you’re experiencing it, and how to defeat it!Bre Clark is a seasoned multimedia journalist and news personality. Her time living the hustle and bustle of broadcast news and the pressure to perform led her to research the real impacts of imposter syndrome. She recently launched a talk-show called The Real Deal, bringing awareness to the imposter phenomenon and other related mental health issues. Bre has been married to her husband for 11 years and together they share one baby in heaven, a 6 year old energetic son and a brand new baby girl!If God has put you in your position, we hope this episode encourages you to stand in it confidently! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:What Happened To You?Pre-Order Why Can't I Get It TogetherGrab your book tour ticket!Connect with Jamie

Happy newly-weds Laura and Martin thought they had their whole lives filled with adventure and dreams ahead of them, when suddenly the news of a brain-tumor turned their life upside down. With Martin’s loss of short term memory, loss of partial eyesight, and other complications, the fairytale life they dreamed of was no longer possible. On today’s show Laura Story shares with us the unique challenges their family faces with Martin’s limitations, what the Lord has taught her through brokenness, and how joy and intimacy has been found through the life they never imagined. Laura Story is a wife, mother, songwriter, worship leader, author, artist, and Bible teacher. Her songs - which have won Grammy's, Billboard Music Awards, and Dove Awards - include "Blessings," and Chris Tomlin's "Indescribable." She is the author of several bestselling books and Bible studies including When God Doesn't Fix It and So Long Normal. Laura has a master of theological studies and doctorate in worship studies, and has served as a worship leader at Perimeter Church in Atlanta since 2005. Her greatest joy is being a wife to martin and mother to Josie, Ben, Griffin, and Timothy. Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! We hope that whatever challenges you’re facing, this episode encourages you to trust God’s faithfulness and know that just because your circumstances may not get better, you can. SHOW LINKS: When God Doesn't Fix ItHumilityPre-Order Why Can't I Get I TogetherJoin the new Launch Team Connect with Jamie 

As we wrap up this four part series, New Year, Same You, I want to acknowledge that not all of us are looking forward to the year. Some of us have crawled into 2024 still feeling like we are purely surviving, still grieving the losses of 2023, and still healing from the damage done. You know better than anyone that just because it’s a new year, it’s not a new you. In part 4 of this series I discuss these unique challenges with the author of Not What I Signed Up For, Nicole Unice. As a pastor and community leader. She is the author of several books on healthy faith, honing in on the connection between our emotional and spiritual life. She’s the host of How to Study the Bible, a popular weekly podcast that reaches people in 188 different countries in the last year alone, and preaches frequently for conferences and churches. She makes her home with husband, Dave, in the historic Fan district of Richmond, VA with their three almost-grown children and two pups.Nicole knows loss, grief, and failed expectations and as she emerges from that season she has a great word of encouragement for all of us. She challenges us not to miss the God-opportunities that are right in front of us, even in the hard, and to lean into truly living a life of faith through trusting God’s purposes.SHOW LINKS:Not What I Signed Up For Dwell Differently Beyond Our Control

Finances can be a touchy topic for so many people, but what if it doesn’t have to be that way? What if your money can serve you instead of you feeling like a slave to your money? This episode is part 3 of our 4 part series, New Year, Same You and today’s guest Rachel Cruze, challenges the way we think about our money. Rachel loves helping people get out of debt, take control of their money, build wealth, and actually have fun in the process! I’m all for having goals, but we can’t strive to hit unattainable goals for the wrong reasons! However, we can make changes by putting in the small steps over a period of time! During this four part series we discuss how we go into a new year as the same self but with the intentionality to make changes in our bodies, how we live out our calling, our finances, and our expectations. Rachel shares with us the best thing and the worst thing we could do with our money in 2024 and I hope this episode gives you a fresh perspective of what’s possible with your finances!SHOW LINKS:The Rachel Cruze Show Smart Money Happy HourEvery Dollar Budget - Use this link for $15 OFF!Smart Money Smart Kids I’m GIad for What I HavePre-Order Why Can't I Get It TogetherConnect with Jamie

In part 2 of our January Bonus Series I have a discussion with Chelsea Sobolik on how women contribute to the Kingdom of God through our work. Chelsea is the author of "Called to Cultivate: A Gospel Vision for Women & Work" and "Longing for Motherhood: Holding Onto Hope in the Midst of Childlessness" She's the Director of Government Relations for World Relief, and lives in Northern Virginia with her husband Michael and their son, Dev. Chelsea is passionate about helping women understand that they have a vital role to play in the flourishing of their families, the church, their communities, and the kingdom of God through their work.Friends, why do this series? I’m all for having goals and fresh starts, but we can’t strive to be people we’re not. We can’t strive to hit unattainable goals for the wrong reasons! However, we can make changes by putting in the small steps over a period of time! During this four part series we’re going to discuss how we go into a new year as the same self but with the intentionality to make changes in our bodies, how we live out our calling, our finances, and our expectations. What’s your next best step?SHOW LINKS:Called to Cultivate Liturgy of the OrdinarySeven Women and The Secret of their GreatnessWhy Can’t I Get It Together

We’ve all heard it said, “New Year, New You!” But let’s be honest, I’m the same person I was 13 days ago in 2023. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for having goals and fresh starts, but we can’t strive to be people we’re not. We can’t strive to hit unattainable goals for the wrong reasons! However, we can make changes by putting in the small steps over a period of time! During this four part series we’re going to discuss how we go into a new year as the same self but with the intentionality to make changes in our bodies, how we live out our calling, our finances, and our expectations. In part one of this series,  Alisa Keeton from Revelation Wellness challenges how we interact with our physical bodies as we go into the new year. Alisa is a wholehearted pursuer of God’s love. She is also an author, speaker, and the founder and CEO of Revelation Wellness. As a health and wellness professional for nearly 30 years, Alisa carries a deep passion for bringing fresh meaning to the world of health and fitness. On today’s show, Alisa encourages everyone to question where their desire to change their body comes from, what does it mean to have ability over vanity, and how even if you have a body that is limited you can still worship and glorify God through caring for it. We hope this episode challenges and encourages you to take your next best step. Make sure to listen to the end for some exciting news Alisa and I reveal!SHOW LINKS:Www.revelationwellness.orgGalatians 3:3God WalkLove-Paced RaceConnect with JamiePre-order Why Can't I Get it Together

Have you been following Jesus for a while and maybe have become disillusioned with it all? Maybe you’re someone who has needed to detangle your faith and the beliefs you were raised under. What if all of that was because of the ways we’ve been formed by modern western Christianity, and not by Jesus himself. In today’s episode John Mark Comer shares with us how we can truly be in relationship with Jesus, become like Jesus over time, and then do as Jesus did in our life. John Mark Comer is the founder of Practicing the Way, a nonprofit designed to create simple resources for church communities around the world. He is a New York Time’s bestselling author of seven books, including The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, one of my favorite books! John Mark holds a master’s degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Western Seminary and these days, you can find him continuing to read, listen, and learn what it looks like to follow Jesus in community. I hope this episode encourages you to look, sound, and act more like Jesus! SHOW LINKS:Ruthless Elimination of Hurry Practicing the Way Why Can’t I Get It Together The Happy Hour Book ClubThe Other Year The Body Keeps the ScoreConnect with Jamie Ivey!

Happy New Year friends! We are so excited for 2024 and all that it holds for us! Several months ago I read a book and immediately knew I wanted to start off 2024 on The Happy Hour with the author. Have you felt like you do a lot for God, and you still feel disconnected? Do you ever feel like you are reading your Bible all the time, and doing all the right things, yet still live in so much fear? Do you find yourself desperate for control? If any of that is you, you are not alone! On today’s show Holy Post Podcast Host and author, Skye Jethani challenges us to stop living our life under, over, from, and for God, and start living life with him! An award-winning author, speaker, and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast, Skye has written more than a dozen books and served as an editor and executive at Christianity Today for more than a decade. Raised in a religiously and ethnically diverse family, his curiosity about faith led him to study comparative religion before entering seminary and pastoral ministry. With a unique ability to connect Christian thought and contemporary culture, his voice has been featured  in The New York Times, USA Today, and The Washington Post, and he’s spoken to audiences throughout the world as diverse as the U.S. Naval Academy, The Chautauqua Institution, and the Lausanne Movement.You guys, if you’re anything like me, this conversation may start off with a lot of conviction, but hang in there! There is so much hope in all of this too! Skye reminds us that from the beginning of time God has shown his people patience and grace while he waits for us to simply come be with him. SHOW LINKS:WithWhat if Jesus was Serious About Heaven?What if Jesus was Serious about the Church?What if Jesus was Serious about Prayer?What if Jesus was Serious?The Holy PostPivotSkye JethaniConnect with JamiePre-Order Why Can't I Get it Together?

A new year always brings mixed emotions. As we remember 2023 and look ahead to a new 2024 my prayer is that we embrace all that God has for us!  SHOW LINKS:Romans 12:12www.dwelldifferently.com (code JAMIE)WithThe Holy Post Practicing the WayThe Other YearHappy Hour Book ClubWhy Can't I Get It Together

2023 was an incredible year, and a year filled with a ton of changes! On today’s show Aaron Ivey and I sit down and take a look over the year: the highs, lows, parenting moments, and huge business choices we made this year. We also take time to respond to questions that YOU submitted to us on social media! I’m so thankful for this past year and all God has taught me. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did! See you next year! Show Links:Austin Stone Worship Don't’ Hold Back Women Who Risk A Burning in My Bones God Walk Finding MeHow Far to the Promised LandSilo Books The Covenant of WaterLessons in ChemistryLosing Our Religion WithLittle Liar SpareWhy Can’t I Get it Together Jamie’s New Website

Last month I had the opportunity to go to the Mexico/United States border with Women of Welcome and World Relief. A group of friends and Happy Hour listeners joined me and we had the opportunity to gain proximity to those who were living the experience of immigration, as well as meet with pastors, community leaders, and border patrol officers to learn more about this issue. This was my third trip and I still walked away immensely impacted by the stories shared. In this month's bonus series you'll hear from two leaders who led the trip and a few voices from those who attended. On the final episode of this three part series, I have a conversation with the leaders of the trip, Bri Stensrud and Matthew Soerens. Bri Stensrud is an author and human dignity advocate who leads a nationwide Christian women's community called Women of Welcome. The community is dedicated to diving into the whole of scripture to understand God’s heart for the immigrant and refugee in an effort to live out biblical hospitality in an authentic way.Matthew Soerens is the Vice President for Advocacy & Policy at World Relief and the National Coordinator of the Evangelical Immigration Table. He’s the coauthor of several books including Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion & Truth in the Immigration Debate and Inalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American Church. He lives in Aurora, Illinois with his wife Diana and their four kids.Immigration may be a topic that has been politicized, but I believe it's a topic that is close to the heart of God and should be important to every Christ follower. My prayer as you listen to these episodes is that you'll be filled with questions and the desire to learn more about what God's Word says on this topic. I pray that we are moved to be compassionate and loving to all of our neighbors. SHOW NOTES:The Little LiarGive them GraceFree Family Refugee Guide World Relief, The PathGood Neighbor TeamsWomen of WelcomeMatthew Soerens article on Holy PostWelcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion and Truth in the Immigration DebateInalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American ChurchSeeking Refuge: On the Shores of the Global Refugee Crisis Connect with Jamie

Last month I had the opportunity to go to the Mexico/United States border with Women of Welcome and World Relief. A group of friends and Happy Hour listeners joined me and we had the opportunity to gain proximity to those who were living the experience of immigration, as well as meet with pastors, community leaders, and border patrol officers to learn more about this issue. This was my third trip and I still walked away immensely impacted by the stories shared. On the second episode of this three part series, I’m joined with two friends, Julia Curtis and Nikki Ogden. This was their first experience at the border and you’ll hear how this trip has impacted their life upon returning. Julia Curtis has served as a full-time missionary on the Tohono O’odham Nation with Live Love Ministries since 2017. Her main roles include teaching children, discipling teenage girls, and leading an adult Bible Study in a community without a church. When she isn't working, she loves to hike, especially at the Grand Canyon.Nikki Ogden  has more than 15 years of Christian ministry experience, serving a wide range of people groups from inner-city kids to college students to wives and mothers. In 2018, Nikki and her husband planted Horizon West Church in Winter Garden, Florida, and continue to lead the diverse and growing congregation there. In addition to her ministry work, Nikki is a Podcast Producer for several shows. She is passionate about discipling women and advocating for underserved people. On her free time she loves spending time with her husband and their three children.Immigration may be a topic that has been politicized, but I believe it's a topic that is close to the heart of God and should be important to every Christ follower. My prayer as you listen to these episodes is that you'll be filled with questions and the desire to learn more about what God's Word says on this topic. I pray that we are moved to be compassionate and loving to all of our neighbors.SHOW NOTES:The Little LiarGive them GraceFree Family Refugee Guide World Relief, The PathGood Neighbor TeamsWomen of WelcomeMatthew Soerens article on Holy PostWelcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion and Truth in the Immigration DebateInalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American ChurchSeeking Refuge: On the Shores of the Global Refugee Crisis 

Last month I had the opportunity to go to the Mexico/United States border with Women of Welcome and World Relief. A group of friends and Happy Hour listeners joined me and we had the opportunity to gain proximity to those who were living the experience of immigration, as well as meet with pastors, community leaders, and border patrol officers to learn more about this issue. This was my third trip and I still walked away immensely impacted by the stories shared. In this month's bonus series you'll hear from two leaders who led the trip and a few voices from those who attended. On the first episode of this three part series, I’m joined with two friends, Jessica Thompson and Becky Kiser. This was their first experience at the border and you’ll hear how this trip has impacted their life upon returning. Becky Kiser is tenacious in her intent to help women love God, themselves, and others. She is a life and small business coach, helping women identify and surpass their goals. Becky is an authentic and passionate speaker at Christian women’s events and retreats, as well as in prisons and in Africa. She hosts the Hearers & Doers with Becky Kiser podcast, interviewing new and old friends, and sharing one-on-one coaching sessions with her listeners. Becky cofounded Online Women’s Ministries, which hosts Online Women’s Bible Study, Online Women’s Retreat, and more coming soon! Becky and her husband, Chris, live in The Woodlands, Texas, with their three daughters: Karis, Moriah, and Chandler.Jessica is a Pastor at Risen Church in San Diego. She is the author of several books. She has her Masters in Biblical Studies from Redemption Seminary. She has three adult children and lives in San Diego, California.Immigration may be a topic that has been politicized, but I believe it's a topic that is close to the heart of God and should be important to every Christ follower. My prayer as you listen to these episodes is that you'll be filled with questions and the desire to learn more about what God's Word says on this topic. I pray that we are moved to be compassionate and loving to all of our neighbors. SHOW NOTES:The Little LiarGive them GraceFree Family Refugee Guide World Relief, The PathGood Neighbor TeamsWomen of WelcomeMatthew Soerens article on Holy PostWelcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion and Truth in the Immigration DebateInalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American ChurchSeeking Refuge: On the Shores of the Global Refugee Crisis Connect with Jamie

On December 10th, 2003 Kent Whitaker’s life was struck with tragedy in a way that would change it forever. After an evening out with his family, Kent, his wife, and two sons returned to their home to find an intruder waiting inside. On today’s show Kent shares with us how his entire family was shot that night, killing two family members, and how Romans 8:28 became real to him in a new way. Kent describes how he did what most of us would think as impossible, forgive the people responsible for such crime. Kent’s story of loss, forgiveness and redemption has been featured on Oprah, 20/20, 48 Hours Mystery, People Magazine, and dozens of other shows. His book, Murder By Family, made the New York Times Bestseller List and has inspired and encouraged thousands of people.Forgiveness isn’t easy and often feels like the most unnatural thing to do. But because of Jesus’ death on the cross, we can forgive because we have been forgiven.Thanks for listening and be sure to share with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Romans 8:28 The Parable of the Prodigal SonKairos Prison MinistryCONNECT WITH JAMIESign Up for Jamie's Newsletter

Hey friends! Today my good friend Jasmine Holmes is back on the show! This is Jasmine’s third time on the show in 2023 and we just love having her here! Jasmine is a content queen and we spent half of the interview talking about all her amazing projects she’s created, on top of all the books she’s read this year! Jasmine also shares with us how she cares for her mental health and her secret to moving her body all day!Jasmine L. Holmes is an educator, research assistant, and author of Carved in Ebony and Mother to Son. She creates public history resources for teachers and lifelong learners. Jasmine and her husband, Phillip, live in Jackson, Mississippi, with their three sons.We hope you enjoyed today’s episode and would love for you to share with a friend! Remember to check out the website’s new facelift, and watch this interview on YouTube! SHOW LINKS:Jasmine’s February episode Part 1Jasmine’s February episode Part 2Carved in EbonyCarved in Ebony - Young Adult book Crowned with Glory Never Cast Out Jamie’s WebsiteThe Happy Hour YouTubeWhy Can’t I Get it TogetherReggie and Delilah’s Year of FallingAll That is Secret#ReadingeverybodyblackWhen Dimple Met RishiIndescribable Kids Devotion BooksReading While BlackFor Colored Girls A Different DrummerBlack FolkMen We ReapedYonderInvisible ThingsThe Fifth Season 

You guys, I can't believe it's already December. As we look back on the year, we remember the good and reflect on the hard. This season is all about hope and my hope for you is that you can look forward to celebrating with anticipation!This month we have my good friends Jasmine Holmes and Kent Witaker on the show. We'll wrap up the year with my husband Aaron as we reflect on 2023 in our business life, our personal life, and all the things! You may know I took a trip to the Mexico/America border with some of you and was led by Women of Welcome and World Relief. I look forward to sharing more about that with you through this month's bonus series!As we wait and look forward, we can be filled with hope. I pray you have time to dwell on the fact that Jesus came for his people, and he's coming again!SHOW LINKS:Why Can't I Get it TogetherDwell Differently - code: JAMIEHoliday Gift GuideWomen of WelcomeWorld Relief 

As a woman, have you ever felt insecure about learning or teaching scripture? Is it because of the lack of experience? Maybe because of the lack of discipleship or opportunity? On today’s episode Jackie and I dive into some of the reasons women may feel insecure about learning and sharing scripture. Jackie encourages us to be reminded that we have the holy spirit living inside of us, therefore have been given the capacity through Christ’s power to understand His divine word!Jackie Hill Perry is an author, bible teacher, and hip-hop artist. Since becoming a Christian, she has been compelled to use her speaking and teaching gifts to share the light of the gospel of God as authentically as she can. She is the author of Gay Girl, Good God: The Story of Who I Was, and Who God Has Always Been, Holier Than Thou, and Upon Waking Devotional. At home, she is a wife to Preston and Mommy to Eden, Autumn, Sage, and August.Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter to always be the first to be in the know!SHOW LINKS:Upon WakingWhy Can’t I Get it TogetherMarvel at the Moon - This 90-day devotional for kids ages 6 to 10 will help them face loneliness, peer pressure, and insecurities with confidence, and learn how to navigate big feelings and negative emotions.Jamie's NewsletterThe Happy Hour Bookclub

To all of my American friends, Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you are enjoying good food, lots of football, and most of all, taking time to reflect on God’s goodness to you. I want to give a special shoutout to those of you who were able to join me at the US/Mexico border with Women of Welcome and World Relief. I am still processing all that we learned and experienced on that incredible trip! And to all of my friends around the world, thanks for listening and I hope you are experiencing the goodness of God in amazing ways.In today’s episode, I speak with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins. Dallas is a returning guest to The Happy Hour and is best known as creator of the massively successful TV show, The Chosen. This time around, Dallas joins me along with his lovely wife, Amanda, to discuss their experiences with the show and some of the unique and powerful ways God is using it in the lives of people. I know you’ll be blessed as you hear their perspective on what God is doing in and through them. Show Links:Women of WelcomeWorld ReliefChristmas with the Chose: Holy Night Buster Gets Back on Track  -  Share Buster’s empowering message of never giving up, perfect for preschool- and elementary-age kids.The Chosen: 40 Days with JesusConnect with Jamie

When married, too often it’s easy to fall into unintentional habits and patterns and all of a sudden you realize you have more of a roommate situation than an intimate marriage that you desire. On today’s show, marriage pastor Scott Kedersha shares how we can trust God with our spouse and be intentional about building the marriage we all desire to have.Scott Kedersha is a follower of Jesus Christ, husband to Kristen, dad to four teenage sons, and the Marriage Pastor at Harris Creek Baptist Church in Waco, TX. Scott is the author of Ready or Knot: 12 Conversations Every Couple Needs to Have before Marriage and The Ready or Knot Prayer Guide: 100 Prayers for Dating and Engaged Couples. He writes at ScottKedersha.com and is one of the co-hosts of the More Than Roommates Podcast.From talking football to marriage, to health and wellness, this conversation with Scott was so real and raw and I appreciate his vulnerability and transparency! SHOW LINKS:Confessions from a bathroom stall messageMore Than Roommates PodcastReady or Knot Prayer GuideComplementMade for PeopleEmbracing ObscurityWhen Narcissim Comes to ChurchThe BlindThe WellBroken Crayons Still Color - Help your kids process big feelings, build a social-emotional tool kit, and find beauty in life's challenges with this children’s book from my good friend, Toni Collier.Connect with JamieJamie’s Newsletter

This month’s bonus series is on a topic that can tend to be very uncomfortable to talk about. But this is a good uncomfortable. Pornography is a subject that affects all of us in one way or another and it’s important to have these conversations. The average age of kids who view pornography for the first time is 9 years old. As a parent you may read that statistic and feel completely discouraged or overwhelmed, but you’re not alone! On today’s show Chris McKenna shares ways we can help protect our kids from the weapons of the internet. Chris McKenna is a former middle school youth director, and author of multiple resources for families and churches. His 2019 US Senate testimony was the catalyst for new federal and state online child protection legislation and earned Protect Young Eyes (PYE) the Dignity Defense Alert Award in 2020. The PYE team performs hundreds of presentations at schools, churches, and nonprofits, receives over a million visits to their popular website annually, and was featured in the Childhood 2.0 movieI hope in this series you gain a wealth of resources to help you, however this topic affects you. Whether you’re someone who has struggled with pornography and addiction, or you are a spouse or partner who is dealing with the betrayal of such addiction, we encourage you to check out the links from the show to find support, healing, and ultimately freedom.SHOW LINKS:Protect Young EyesGood Pictures Bad Pictures Jr.Good Pictures Bad PicturesGod’s Design for SexHow to Talk to a 5 Year Old About Pornography What is Sextortion? 3 Prevention Tips for FamiliesBeggars DaughterQuenchedThe Healing ChurchPart 1 of Let’s Talk About Porn with Sam BlackPart 2 of Let’s Talk About Porn with Jessica HarrisCelebrate Recovery Covenant EyesCanopyBark - Use Code JAMIE10Coddling of the American MindTHH #506 From Porn to PastorTHH #565 Liberator Preview w/Chelsea and Layton BoeveTHH #538 Boundaries with Jim CressJamie’s Newsletter

This month’s bonus series is on a topic that can tend to be very uncomfortable to talk about. But this is a good uncomfortable. Pornography is a subject that affects all of us in one way or another and it’s important to have these conversations.Studies show that 33% of pornography consumers are female. This is no longer an issue that can only be talked about to men. With very little resources available to women, shame and guilt keep too many women hiding and in chains. On today’s episode Jessica Harris, author of Quenched, shares her story of addiction and freedom. Jessica shares valuable ways we can help people without shaming them! I hope in this series you gain a wealth of resources to help you, however this topic affects you. Whether you’re someone who has struggled with pornography and addiction, or have a spouse or partner who is dealing with the betrayal of such addiction, we encourage you to check out the links from the show to find support, healing, and ultimately freedom. SHOW LINKS:Beggars DaughterQuenchedThe Healing ChurchCreate AnywayPart 1 of Let’s Talk About Porn with Sam BlackPart 3 of Let’s Talk About Porn with Chris McKenna Celebrate Recovery Covenant EyesCanopyBark - Use Code JAMIE10Jamie’s NewsletterWednesday’s Episode with Josh and Katie Walters  

This month’s bonus series is on a topic that can tend to be very uncomfortable to talk about, but nonetheless, it's an uncomfortable good. Pornography is a subject that affects all of us in one way or another and it’s important to have these conversations. With statistics saying that over half of men in the church view pornography monthly, this addiction is infiltrating every ministry of our churches. Today’s guest, Sam Black, is an expert on the topic of how to talk about pornography in our churches and families in healthy ways.Sam Black is the author of The Healing Church: What Churches Get Wrong About Pornography and How to Fix It. The director of recovery education at Covenant Eyes, Sam joined the Covenant Eyes team in 2007 after 18 years as an award-winning journalist. He has edited 16 books on the impact of pornography and speaks at parent, men’s, and leaders events. Sam also wrote The Porn Circuit: Understand Your Brain and Break Porn Habits.I hope through this series you gain a wealth of resources to help you, however this topic affects you. Whether you’re someone who has struggled with pornography and addiction, or a spouse or partner who is dealing with the betrayal of such, we encourage you to check out the links from the show to find support, healing, and freedom. SHOW LINKS:The Healing ChurchCovenant Eyes 1st Chapter of The Healing Church Celebrate RecoveryCanopyBark - Use Code JAMIE10Building the BodyIntimate DeceptionDuran Church of NazareneHoliday Gift GuideSubscribe to NewsletterPart 2 of Let's Talk About Porn with Jessica HarrisPart 3 of Let's Talk About Porn with Chris McKenna

I’ll never forget when we had friends whose parents divorced after 25 years of marriage. As a newlywed I had no idea how that could happen. How, after making it 25 years, could your marriage just end? Now that I’ve been married for over 20 years, I know exactly how that happens. On today’s show Josh and Katie Walters share their story of how their marriage seemed to be over, but how God renewed it into something new and beautiful. Josh and Katie Walters live in Charleston, SC with their 7 kids. Ages 20-2 two of their girls are out of the home in college and one is serving in Togo, West Africa with the non-profit they lead Francis + Benedict. Josh and Katie both serve on staff at Seacoast Church and for the last 15 years have been pastoring couples with the comfort they have received. God brought them through a devastating season in their marriage and the brokenness they experienced became their catalyst for healing and getting a New Marriage, with the Same person. Their book releases Jan 9th and it’s a vulnerable account of the principals they learned moving from a season of pain to a place of joyThis conversation is for the couples who just got home from their honeymoon, or the couples that have been married for 20+ years. Josh and Katie have amazing insight into how every couple should experience a second marriage - but with the same people! 

Brandi Wilson had it all. She was married, had 3 children, and in ministry with her husband in a loving church. Brandi’s world was turned upside down in 2016 when her husband walked away from their church and their marriage. On today’s show Brandi shares how she found herself in deep grief and suffering, but how she found hope and peace on the other side of that journey.Today, Brandi Wilson is an author, coach, and speaker who has been in leadership for more than a decade at Leading and Loving It, a non-profit created to empower women to love life and ministry. Brandi has helped plant two churches and is passionate about walking alongside single moms and divorced women as they navigate parenting and life. Her latest book is Better Than Okay: Finding Hope and Healing After Your Marriage Ends. Brandi lives with her three sons in Nashville, TN.Friends, even if you haven’t lost your marriage and you haven’t walked a similar road, I’m certain Brandi’s story will encourage you! When our trust is in Jesus, no matter what we walk through, there is peace and hope on the other side of our grief!  Show Links:Brandi WilsonBetter Than OkayDwell Differently - Use code JAMIEMatthew 6:21Luke 13:10-13The Innervoice of LoveHow to do the Work Three WishesLessons in ChemistryCONNECT with Jamie

Too often we go about life thinking we’re doing it on our own. We pursue our dreams, ambitions, and goals without giving any thought to what God wants for our life. Today’s guest shares how she ignored God for 48 years while she gave herself all the glory after accomplishing goal after goal. Suddenly her life turned upside down and through the power of a praying friend, Julie Chen Moonves found herself in an unlikely position…. In a random church, on her knees, surrendering everything to Jesus. Her life was changed forever.Julie is a TV personality and host having worked in news, daytime talk and reality tv. She has been married to her husband for 19 years, has 4 kids, and 4 grandchildren. Julie is passionate about serving God and serving others! It doesn’t matter if prayer or searching for God is your last resort, God will meet you where you are! It is never too late to have a personal relationship with the Lord. Jesus is so patient and so faithful! Draw near to God and he will draw near to you! SHOW LINKS:But First GodJames 4:8 Big BrotherThe Happy Hour Book Club CONNECT WITH JAMIE

We’ve all walked through our seasons of wilderness. Seasons where you felt lonely, angry, and abandoned. You’ve wondered if anyone sees you. Does God even see you? Friends, what if those seasons of wilderness weren’t about thinking you were abandoned by God, but instead designed for you to grow in intimacy and friendship with God? On today’s show Faith Eury Cho challenges our way of thinking about the wilderness as she shares her own season of anger and discouragement. Faith Eury Cho has been a preacher since she was 19-years-old. Alongside her husband David, Faith co-founded and co-pastors Mosaic Covenant Church of NJ. In addition, she is the founder and CEO of The Honor Summit, a nonprofit organization that activates Asian American women for the mission of God. She is also an itinerant speaker and author of Experiencing Friendship with God (releasing October 17th 2023). However, her most precious role is being a mother to her 4 children— Moriah, Elias, River, and Adalynn.Whether you’re currently in a season of wilderness, or on the other side, I hope this episode encourages you to not get caught up in a noisy, empty christianity, but instead to press into an intimate friendship with your Savior. SHOW LINKS:Experiencing Friendship with GodThe Night is NormalSeveranceThe Happy Hour Book ClubCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Today’s episode concludes our 3 part bonus series on Pregnancy and Infant Loss. We’ve had incredible conversations with Jonathan and Peta PItts and Rachel Lohman. If you haven’t listened to those episodes yet, I encourage you to go back and listen now! On today’s episode I welcome Kayla Aimee to The Happy Hour for the first time. Kayla Aimee is an author by night and a digital marketing director by day. During out-of-office hours you can find her exploring the North Georgia mountains with her children and making semi-viral TikToks of her twin kittens. Kayla is a wife and mother to two children, one being a former micro-preemie weighing just 1lb 8oz at birth. On today’s episode Kayla shares her experience of spending half of the year in the NICU as a new mother and the challenges she and her husband faced. SHOW LINKS:Anchored: Finding Hope in the Unexpected In Bloom: Trading Restless Insecurity for Abiding ConfidenceThe Peasant KingThe Happy Hour Book Club CONNECT with JAMIE

Today’s episode is part 2 of our 3 part bonus series on Pregnancy and Infant Loss. Last week we heard from Jonathan and Peta PItts as they shared about the loss of their son. On today’s episode I have a very real and vulnerable conversation on the topic of miscarriage with Rachel Lohman.Rachel is the author of Miscarried Hope: Journeying with Jesus through Pregnancy and Infant Loss and founder of Hope Again Collective, a handmade jewelry line that shares the stories of loss moms and has donated over $10,000 in practical grief resources from jewelry sales to women going through miscarriage or stillbirth. She is a mother to two living children and one in Heaven. Rachel and her husband Mark pastor The Bridge, a bilingual church in Southern California.Through sharing her personal experience of miscarriage, Rachel is helping other mother's erase the stigma and shame that surrounds miscarriage and helping mother's find hope on the other side. If you’ve walked down this road, I hope through this conversation you can believe there is hope on the other side of the heartbreak. If you haven’t experienced miscarriage, I hope this conversation gives you new ways you can be a better friends to the women in your life who are walking this road. SHOW LINKS: Miscarried Hope: Journeying with Jesus Through Pregnancy and Infant LossHope Again CollectiveHappy Hour Book ClubCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Ronald Regan once said, “When a child loses his parents, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses their partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them.” This month’s bonus series is on Pregnancy and Infant Loss. We have three episodes covering this topic with guests who have walked this difficult path. On today’s episode I have a very real and vulnerable conversation with my friends Jonathan and Peta Pitts. Jonathan and Peta Pitts have been married for two years. Finding each other later in life, they live in Franklin, TN where they are raising Jonathan's four biological daughters and preparing for the arrival of their son. Jonathan is a Pastor at Church of the City and Ministry Executive. Peta is a career actress who has worked all over the world in theater and television. Earlier this year Jonathan and Peta walked the devastating road of losing their newborn son. There were many times in this interview that I was moved to tears, not just because of their heartbreak, but because of their bravery and how they have fought for their faith through this trial. These interviews are vulnerable and can be difficult to listen to if you've walked this road. Please listen with care and know that you are not alone! SHOW LINKS:The Voice of the HeartHappy Hour Book Club CONNECT with JAMIE

No matter how old you are or what season you’re in, friendships are so important, but not every friendship is the same! On today’s episode I welcome back lawyer and author Justin Earley to talk about the differences between friendships and why having covenant friendships are so important. Justin Earley graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in English Literature before spending four years in Shanghai, China as a missionary. Justin got his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center and now runs his own law practice in Richmond, Va. Justin frequently speaks at business and legal events on habits, technology, and mental health; and at churches and conferences on habits, spiritual formation and parenting. He is married to his wife Laura and has four sons. It’s so important to have those friends in your life that not only “get” you, but also lovingly challenge you. I love my friends who have spoken into me and challenged me to be the woman God has called me to be! I hope you leave this conversation desiring to have friends and be a friend at a deeper level! SHOW LINKSHabits of the HouseholdMade for People Relevant PodcastA Body of PraiseAnxiety OpportunityThe Happy Hour Book ClubCONNECT with JAMIE!

Beneath our every day smiles and greetings we all have cracks and bruises from past abuse, disappointment, hurt, or rejection. Have these cracks and bruises been holding you back? There is healing for you! On today’s show my friend Pastor Mike Todd is PREACHING about how we can let go of what is weighing us down and live in the freedom of healing! Mike Todd along with his wife Natalie, have been the Lead Pastors of Transformation Church based in Tulsa, OK since February 2015. Their personal philosophy and driving passion is re-presenting God to the lost and found for transformation in Christ. Their mission is to place Christ in the center of culture to impact their community, city, and world with the gospel presented in a relevant and progressive way. Pastor Mike’s newest book Damaged but Not Destroyed will give you tools to identify the impact of your damage, see yourself the way God sees you, and realize that healing is all about progression, not perfection.No matter how badly you’ve messed up, and no matter the pain you’ve experienced, nothing can destroy the God-given value of your life. It’s time to turn your damage into destiny! You may be damaged, but you are not destroyed. SHOW LINKS:Mike Todd’s previous Happy Hour episode Damaged But Not DestroyedEcclesiastes 4:9-12The Happy Hour Book ClubCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Hey friends! October is here and hopefully wherever you are feels like fall! We have an incredible month of interviews coming up! As you know, each month we're doing a Bonus Series! If you haven't listened to September's Bonus Series on World Religions, I encourage you to go check it out! This month we're sharing stories of Pregnancy and Infant Loss. Even if you haven't experienced this kind of loss firsthand, I hope these conversations can help you learn how to support and be a good friend when the people in your life do walk through this. Other guests this month include Mike Todd, Justin Earley, Faith Eury Cho, and Julie Chen Moonvez! Trust me when I say you don't want to miss these interviews! If you haven't joined The Happy Hour Book Club, what are you waiting for?! This month we're reading THE DEEP DOWN THINGS by Amber Haines & Seth Haines. In The Deep Down Things, Amber and Seth point to a simple truth: even in the darkest times, there are tangible signs of hope all around us. The authors demonstrate how tasting, touching, feeling, holding, and participating in these tangible acts of hope picks us up, builds our strength, and moves us into beauty, even in times of despair. They invite readers to participate with those signs of hope and thereby experience the divine love of God, even in the struggle of their everyday lives. Click here to join our book club today! Connect with JamieDwell Differently - code: JAMIEPsalm 48:14 

I’m going to be honest, with the election year right around the corner, I start getting nervous! The political climate and the way the Church weaves into it can be unsettling. But is it possible for us to fight the narrative that it’s “us against them”? Is it possible to talk about things that Jesus taught about during his time on Earth, and have a biblical lens and not a political lens? Is it possible to stay humble, work on relationships, and truly be the salt and light of the world? On today’s show Phil Vischer and I tackle how we think the answer to all of those questions is a resounding YES!Phil is a filmmaker, author, speaker and humorist, best known as the co-creator of VeggieTales, creator of What's in the Bible? and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast. He lives in West Chicago, IL with his wife Lisa and 3 adult children. He is funny, insightful, and so much fun to be around. Phil creates content that is thought provoking and calls out problems we see in evangelicalism today and potential threats to the American church. Even if this conversation made you feel a little uncomfortable or gave you food for thought, my prayer is that we all are slow to speak, quick to listen, and love people like Jesus! SHOW LINKS:Holy PostThe Bulletin Good Faith The Ballot and the Bible The Evangelical ImaginationThe Rise and Fall of DispensationalismBiblical Critical TheoryCONNECT WITH JAMIEHappy Hour Book Club

As the world’s conversation around same-sex relationships and marriage gets louder, it’s my desire as a christian to know how to listen and engage in a humble, Christ-like way. Today’s guest loves the Word of God and the people of God and engages in this topic with such love, compassion, depth, and thoughtfulness. I’m so incredibly grateful to have Preston Sprinkle on The Happy Hour for the very first time!Dr. Preston Sprinkle is a biblical scholar, speaker, podcaster, a New York Times bestselling author, and is the co-founder and president of The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender. Preston loves talking and writing about hot-button cultural and theological issues with thoughtfulness, honesty and grace. He is passionate about approaching topics that everyone wants to know about, but few are willing to talk honestly and graciously about. Topics like sexuality, gender, race, violence, patriotism, hell, politics, war, and what it means to follow a Jewish prophet-king who was executed for treason. He works hard to challenge himself and others to read the Bible with conviction and humility, while holding their predetermined beliefs loosely.Maybe you think this topic doesn’t affect you, or you’re feeling apprehensive after listening to our conversation. My prayer is that we can think more deeply, love more widely, and learn to listen and engage in conversations in Christ-honoring ways.SHOW LINKS:Center of FaithPeople to be LovedDoes the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?Launch PodcastTheology in the RawChristian SexualityCONNECT WITH JAMIEHAPPY HOUR BOOK CLUB

Too often we try to fill a God-size void with the things and people of this world. It isn’t until we wholeheartedly allow God to fill us and satisfy us with his love that we can have a healthy relationship with Him, ourselves, and others. A new guest to the Happy Hour, Madison Prewett Troutt, joins me in a conversation about a time when her life was transformed as she began to fully be satisfied in God alone. Madison "Madi" Prewett Troutt is a bestselling author of Made for This Moment, speaker, social media influencer, and TV personality. Madi’s life mission is to share the name of Jesus and to help women discover who they were made to be and where to find the truest form of love. Madi currently lives in Waco, Texas, with her husband, Grant Troutt.On today’s show Madi and I talk about filling our heart with a love that can only come from God and the pursuit of purity in our lives. Whether you’re single and in your twenties, or married in your forties, we’ve all experienced times of loneliness or discontentment. I hope today’s episode encourages you to trust God with your heart and allow him to satisfy your every need! The love you're looking for is already yours! SHOW LINKS:The Love Everyone Wants Matthew 22:35-39Matthew 5 Why Do I Do What I Don’t Want to DoThe PIlgrim’s Progress HH Book Club

Happy Friday friends! I am so thrilled to be bringing you a special series today. This month’s bonus series is on World Religions. We have two episodes covering this topic with expert guests Doug Groothuis and Preston Perry. Both of these men are filled with a wealth of knowledge and I’m so excited for us to learn together!After completing my first interview with apologist, Dr. Doug Groothuis, I knew I wanted to have a similar conversation with my friend, Preston Perry. Preston is a poet, author, apologist, and co-host, along with his wife Jackie, of a podcast called “With the Perry’s.”  His love for people inspires him to pair transparency and vulnerability with his creativity in a way that promotes freedom. Preston pursues engagement with people from various faith backgrounds. He has a palpable passion for God’s word, and stands on biblical truth amidst his study of other religions. In today’s episode, Preston and I talk about evangelism, apologetics, and the opportunities to engage people with different religious beliefs than our own.Talking with someone who doesn’t share your beliefs can be intimidating. I hope this series reminds you that the gospel holds up where other faith systems don’t. You don’t have to have every answer before pursuing intentional conversations with lost people!SHOW LINKS:Where Does It Say That?With the Perrys Podcast Tedashii on HHEsau McCaulley on HHHow Far to the Promised LandHappy Hour Book ClubThe Peasant King

Happy Friday friends! I am so thrilled to be bringing you a special series today. This month’s bonus series is on World Religions. We have two episodes covering this topic with expert guests Doug Groothuis and Preston Perry. Both of these men are filled with a wealth of knowledge and I’m so excited for us to learn together! Christians today are facing the growing reality of religious pluralism, with all of the unique challenges and opportunities that come along with that reality. In part 1 of this series I sit down with Dr. Douglas Groothuis, a professor at Denver Seminary and author of 19 books. His passion is to bring the truth of Christianity to the church and to the world according to his gifts as a teacher, preacher, writer, and mentor. He has been married to his wife Kathleen since 2019 and he’s an avid jazz and dog lover. In our conversation Dr. Groothius shares insights about some of the major religions of the world and encourages followers of Jesus to be prepared to engage these ideas in their everyday lives.Although it can feel like an overwhelming task, our proximity to people with different religious views provides followers of Jesus with a massive opportunity for the gospel. I hope my conversation with Dr. Groothuis encouraged your faith and inspired you to share the good news of Jesus with a friend, family member or neighbor who needs him!SHOW LINKS:Doug Groothuis World Religions in 7 SentencesNavigating Gospel TruthTessa AfsharThe Peasant KingThe Happy Hour Book ClubCONNECT WITH JAMIE 

Structural racism and social justice in the United States of America is a complicated story. I couldn’t think of anyone better to have on the show to talk about that complicated story other than today’s guest, my friend, Esau McCaulley. Esau McCaulley is an associate professor of New Testament at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He is the author of many works including Sharing in the Son’s Inheritance and Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope. He is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times and his writings have also appeared in places such as The Atlantic, Washington Post, and Christianity Today.In Esau’s newest book, How Far to the Promised Land: One Family’s Story of Hope and Survival in the American South, he takes us on a journey through his family tree and the community that shaped him into the man he is today. He raises questions like what it means to be human and what does each person’s struggle to build a life teach us about what we owe each other? This book brings into light our often too-simple narrative of poverty and upward mobility. I encourage you to lean into the hard, engage in the tough conversations, and go pre-order this book today! SHOW LINKS:How Far to the Promised LandReading While BlackLast episode with Esau McCaulleyHappy Hour Book ClubDenver SeminaryThe Peasant KingLent: The Season of Repentance and RenewalJosey Johnson’s Hair and the Holy SpiritSharing in the Son’s InheritanceCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Kids are back in school and football season has begun! Ya'll know how much I love football!We have a great line up for September: Esau McCaulley, Madison Prewett Troutt, Preston Sprinkle, and Phil Vischer. Trust me, you don't want to miss these shows! You already know that we went to one episode a week. We want to give you the absolute best shows we can and we believe this is the best step forward. With that, we will have special bonus series and we are so excited to kick off our first bonus series with you this month. This month's bonus series topic is World Religions with Preston Perry and Doug Groothuis. Both of these shows are so challenging and I hope you enjoy them! Have you joined our book club yet? This month we are reading The Peasant King by my friend Tessa Afshar. This book isn't even released until November but The Happy Hour Book Club gets it THIS MONTH!! It's easy to sign up, click here to join!Happy September Friends! SHOW LINKS:QuarterbackFavored ConferenceCityRise Women's Night of WorshipHappy Hour Book ClubCONNECT WITH JAMIE 

Once tragedy hits there is life before the tragedy and life after the tragedy. There is often a need for a new normal to be established. Tedashii knows this all too well after tragedy suddenly hit his family. On today’s show Tedashii shares with us how he came to know the Lord and how he clung to his faith as he found his new normal after the loss of his child. Tedashii is a tenured artist, musician, communicator, and writer burdened to see equity brought to the marginalized. Growing up in Texas on the fringes of society, family and football were everything - then he found faith in Christ. With this faith, he ventured into vocational ministry and eventually artistry as a member of the 116 on Reach Records. He graduated from the University of North Texas with a duel Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Sociology to further his ambitions to reach those beyond his city limits. For the last twenty years he’s devoted his life to encouraging others to find their identity in God and leading a movement of unashamed believers who desire to engage the world for His glory. He is the founder of the Chase Foundation—an organization to serve families who have lost children by being a present help for future hope, the originator of Chase Wellness, the CEO of Unashamed Ministries, and the host of his podcast The Dash. Tedashii and his wife (Danielle) live in Atlanta, GA and are the proud parents of four amazing boys. You may not have lost a child, but I’m certain you’ve had tragedy in your life. Today’s episode encourages and challenges us to change our perspective of hardships and not our perspective of God.SHOW LINKS:HH Book ClubWalking with God Through Pain and SufferingBurn the BoatsCONNECT WTIH JAMIE

It's Friday and you know something special must be happening if I'm releasing an episode on a Friday! Ya'll! The worship team at my church, Austin Stone, is releasing a single today and my husband Aaron Ivey and I get to sit down and share it with YOU!Austin Stone Worship is thrilled to release "Hymn of Healing," an earnest song of God's constant goodness and our need for His healing and hope. This modern hymn was a collaboration with Matt Redman, and points us to the truth that God has always been good to us, and always will. Psalm 118:14 beautifully articulates God being our "strength and our song." No matter the season of life we are in, we can trust Him with all the places in our lives that still seem fragile and unresolved. "Hymn of Healing" releases August 25th everywhere you listen to music! We hope this song stirs your heart to remember that through the chaos and uncertainty of life, He's always been so good to us.Head over to anywhere you get your music and download "Hymn of Healing" TODAY! The lyrics in this song are so beautiful and I know they'll be a blessing to you! CLICK HERE TO LISTEN! 

Disappointment and pain is all part of life’s journey. We can’t get through this world without experiencing it in some form or fashion. However, how we respond to that pain will determine our suffering. Today I sit down with Dr. Curt Thompson and we discuss the moments in life that form us and our response to those events that can lead us down a path of hope even in our suffering. Dr. Curt Thompson is a psychiatrist, speaker and author. He connects our intrinsic desire to be known with the need to tell truer stories about ourselves — showing us how to form deep relationships, discover meaning and live integrated, creative lives. Curt understands that deep, authentic relationships are essential to experiencing a healthier, more purposeful life — but the only way to realize this is to begin telling our stories more truly. He is married to his wife Phyllis and they have two adult children, Rachel and Nathan, and a son-in-law, Noah. In the midst of suffering, hope can be hard to find. I pray in your search for hope that you have confidence in knowing you are securely attached to your loving Father. When we fully grasp that truth I believe a peace beyond understanding washes over us and carries us through. SHOW LINKS:CONNECT WITH JAMIEConnect with Dr. Curt ThompsonBeing Known Podcast

If you’re anything like me you may have had a negative definition of humility. A definition that may mean punishment, or to make yourself less than. Maybe it was even used against you in response to an action. What if biblical humility doesn’t start with doing or being less, but instead starts with fully recognizing and living in your God-given space. What if biblical humility begins with stepping into the life God has for you? My friend Heather MacFadyen is back on The Happy Hour today. Heather is the host of the popular parenting podcast Don't Mom Alone, with more than 20 million downloads from around the globe, as well as the author of the book Don't Mom Alone. She finds great joy in connecting other women to mentors and experts through her podcast and in speaking at live events with women across the country. She and her husband and their four sons live in Dallas, Texas. Her newest book, Right Where You Belong, was released last April. On today’s show Heather challenges us to identify our God-given space and to fully occupy that space. She encourages us to walk in humility by trusting God with the journey and finding comfort and peace in the fact that we don’t know, but we follow and serve an all knowing God! Right Where You Belong is a book for every mother in every parenting stage! Go grab your copy today and share this episode with a mom that could use the encouragement!SHOW LINKS:Heather’s last HH episodeGod Made You to Be YouDon’t Mom AloneDon’t Mom Alone Podcast Crazy Rich AsiansAmerican MahjongRight Where You Belong Heather MacFadyenIn the Wild Light Tired of Trying to Measure UpCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Have you ever felt like life was just too busy but had no idea how to slow it down? Have you had the desire for change, but didn’t have the space or time to explore those changes? In today’s episode my friend Hosanna Wong and I discuss what it means to abide in Christ and live the life He has called you to live. Hosanna Wong is an international speaker, best-selling author, and spoken word artist helping everyday people know Jesus for real. Hosanna preaches in churches, conferences, prisons, & other events around the world. She serves together with her husband Guy in various ministries equipping people with tools to share the gospel of Jesus in today’s world.  Hosanna is passionate about spreading the gospel and helping people know and love as who they really are. Her newest book You Are More Than You’ve Been Told is available now! You may have heard the term, "to abide in Christ". In today’s episode Hosannah challenges us to look at what that practically means for our day to day life. You’ll hear how we can fight for our schedules to create structures that look like the rhythms of Jesus’ life. Four rhythms she dives into today are:Rhythm of scripture Rhythm of prayerRhythm of rest Rhythm of real communityIf I’m being honest, there are two rhythms on this list that I really struggle with. But Hosanna said some things today that have really stuck with me and even though they’re not my strengths, I’m committed to leaning into them and asking God to help me! Which of these rhythms are your strengths and which are some you can grow in to help you abide in Christ each day? SHOW LINKS:You Are More Than You’ve Been ToldI Have A New Name spoke wordThe Spirit of Disciplines by Dallas WillardOn Living Well by Eugene PetersonChinatown PrettyHH Book ClubConnect with Jamie

We’re starting August off strong with my dear friend Dr. Russell Moore! Dr. Russell Moore is the Editor of Chief at Christianity Today and has 5 sons with his wife Maria. He’s been on the show before and if you haven't heard his past interview head down to the show notes and check it out.“Evangelical Christian”, “Cultural Christianity.” You may have heard these terms before but have you ever stopped to think about what they really mean? Have you ever felt like you didn’t want a label, or that there wasn’t a box you could fully fit into? Then today’s conversation is one for you! Dr. Russell Moore challenges all of us to make peace with the feeling of homelessness and to remember that our identity is in Christ! SHOW LINKS:Dr.Moore’s WebsiteDr.Moore’s InstagramDr.Moore’s FacebookDr.Moore’s TwitterLosing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical AmericaDr. Moore’s episode on HHHH Book ClubThe Buletin PodcastThe Russell Moore ShowThe SingularitiesCONNECT WITH JAMIE!

You don't normally hear from me on a Tuesday, but I couldn't wait to share all that we have coming up! Our summer of Encounter stories were incredible and if you haven't listened to all of them yet I encourage you to! It never gets old hearing the ways Jesus calls his people to himself! We have a great line up for August: Russell Moore, Hosanna Wong, Heather MacFadyen, Curt Thompson, and Tedashii! Trust me, you don't want to miss these shows! BIG UPDATE to The Happy Hour: we are going to one episode a week. We want to give you the absolute best shows we can and we belive this is the best step forward. With that, some months we will have special bonus series that we're excited to sahre with you! Our first series will start in Septemeber where we'll be discussing World Religions. We have some incredible and meaningful series lined up for the rest of the year!Have you joined our book club yet? This month we are reading An American Immigrant by Johanna Rojas Vann. We read the book together and you get a live chat with the author!! It's easy to sign up, click here to join!Happy August Friends! Connect with Jamie!

At 15 years old and after years of having difficulty hearing, Sammi woke up to realize her hearing was completely gone. Everything changed for Sammi in that moment. Needing to rely heavily on interpreters and a cochlear ear plant, Sammi was left feeling overwhelmed, lost, and forsaken. Sammi wondered if her life even mattered.  Sammi Schouten is Deaf and communicates using American Sign Language. She is married to Kody who is also Deaf and they have a beautiful one year old KODA (Kid of Deaf Adult) named Donovan. Knowing first hand how hard it is to find community and belonging as a Deaf person in the church, Sammi is passionate about sharing the Gospel in American Sign Language through leading worship in asl for church services, doing translation work, teaching, and being involved in Deaf Millennial Project. The Deaf community is one of the largest unreached people groups in the world with less than 2% of the deaf community claiming to know Jesus. It wasn’t until 2020 that a completed Bible in ASL was available to the community. In today’s episode Sammi will share with us practical ways we can reach the deaf community with the love of Christ and how to better love our neighbor! If you haven’t checked us out on YouTube yet, this is the perfect episode to go watch! Thanks for sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Sammi’s InstagramSammi’s WebsiteHappy Hour Book ClubCODASound of MetalIMDB Recommended Deaf FilmsOpen Hands Willing Heart by Vivian MabuniDeaf Millenial ProjectCompassion Project Connect with JamieAdvertise on The Happy Hour 

As a college athlete and rising professional runner, Kaylee had it all. She was certain of the path ahead of her as she considered training for Track and Field at the Rio Olympics in 2016; however, her senior year was bringing about challenges she had never faced. As Kaylee experienced a death in her family and a career ending injury, she was forced to ask herself, “Who is Kaylee without a track career?” Kaylee Morgan is a four-time all American college athlete, writer, speaker, youth pastor, and racial justice educator who is madly in love with Jesus. Outside of the hours of nine to five, you can find her dodging the sun in St. Petersburg, Florida, playing her PlayStation, reading crime novels, enjoying a good meal, and obsessing over the Spice Girls. Ultimately, Kaylee’s desire is to love God and love people while promoting Gospel-Centered Unity. She is passionate about teaching how we find our identity in Christ and how that plays into our interactions with others.You may have never had a career-ending track injury, but my guess is you know the pain of loss. Whether it’s a job that wasn’t what you expected, a broken dream, or the death of a loved one, we can trust that God is faithful through it all. Friends, praise God we are not identified by our performance or lack thereof! You are a child of God and all of your identity can be found in our loving Father! SHOW LINKS:Be the BridgeLatasha Morrison on the HHKerygma SummitHappy Hour Book ClubCompassion SponsorshipThe Action BibleAdvertise on The Happy HourCONNECT WITH JAMIE!

Growing up with parents with differing belief systems, Alicia became a student of all world religions and quickly came to the conclusion that there was no God. Firm in her beliefs her agitation grew towards those sharing their faith and happily took on any christian debate. As a deal to never be invited to church again, Alicia stepped foot inside a church on its last leg. It was in that back pew that Jesus met her and life as she knew it was forever changed!Alicia Britt Chole is an award winning author and holds a doctorate in leadership and spiritual formation from George Fox Seminary. She serves as the founding director and lead mentor of Leadership Investment Intensives, a nonprofit devoted to providing customized soul-care for leaders in business and ministry. Alicia is also a wife of 32 years to Dr. Barry Jay Chole and is blessed with the miracle of adoption with three children. Alicia’s new book, The Night is Normal, releases next week and you’re going to want to get yourself a copy! Today’s episode reminded me so much of Jesus’ love for us no matter how resolute we think we are in our doubts or lack of faith. His pursuit for all of our hearts is relentless! I pray as you listen today that just as Alicia realized Jesus wanted her, your confidence in his desire for you is restored! SHOW LINKS:Become a Compassion Sponsor Creative Prayer by E. HermanAlicia Britt CholeAlicia's last HH episodeThe Night is NormalCONNECT WITH JAMIE!

Hey friends! I hope you had a great 4th of July celebration! I am so excited to continue our Encounter Series with one of my real friends Toni Collier. Toni Collier is the founder of an international women’s organization called Broken Crayons Still Color, which helps women process through brokenness and get to healing and hope. She is a Speaker, Host of The Still Coloring Podcast and Author of Brave Enough to be Broken. Toni is teaching people all over the globe that you can be broken and worthy and unqualified and still called to do great things. She doesn’t want you to just face your demons, she wants you to quash the illusion of your brokenness so you can live the most colorful life possible, on and off stage.In today’s episode you’ll hear how despite rebellion, heartaches, and a near death experience, God was pursuing Toni’s heart and how she discovered He was there all along! Toni challenges us to look at our own life and ask the tough question, are we a fan of Jesus or a follower of Jesus? Toni’s funny personality and transparency is an encouragement to every listener. No matter where you’re at in your walk with God, we hope at the end of this episode you are confident that Jesus loves you deeply and is with you always! SHOW LINKS:Story ChurchRedeeming Heartache by Dan B. AllenderStill Coloring PodcastBroken Crayons Still Color Kid’s BookBroken Crayons Still Color ResourcesGod Made You to be You BookCONNECT WITH JAMIE

Enduring her parent’s divorce, living in an unstable environment, and experiencing abuse, Lacy found herself in a world of hurt and wondered if she would ever be seen. Would her life ever matter to the people around her? Her pain led her down a path of self harm, eating disorders, and no desire to live. Through the faithfulness of a prayerful grandmother, Lacy found herself reading Psalm 139 and realizing for the first time the Creator of the Universe knows her, sees her, and loves her! Lacy’s life was forever changed! Lacy Abercrombie is a Social Media Manager, has the best Tik Toks, and is a woman passionate about discipling students. Though she met Jesus in Psalm 139, it was through the discipleship of a great mentor that taught her the Bible is a Living Word and transforms every area of your life. Friends if you’re listening and you don’t yet have a Bible, please reach out to us and we will easily ship you one! We hope in today’s episode you’ll be encouraged by the faithful prayers of Lacy’s grandmother, the healing that God worked in Lacy’s life, and the truth that we serve a father who knows us, sees us, and loves us! SHOW LINKS:Becoming SomethingLisa Harper’s Back Porch TheologyPraying Like Monks Living Like FoolsAnnie F. Downs Read Through the Gospels Lacy’s Tik Tok

Have you ever felt like your sin was just too big for God? Have you experienced the burden of shame? Today’s episode is such an amazing reminder that there is no sin too big for the cross and that Jesus desires for all his people to experience his grace! After years of hardships and trying to do everything on her own, Inés Franklin was a single mom, in the middle of an affair, and feeling more broken and lost than ever before. As she visited a church and heard an amazing message about the love and grace of Jesus, her entire life changed. Inés shares with us the years it took for her to finally believe in grace, lay down the burden of shame, and walk in the peace of forgiveness. Today, Inés lives with her husband  and they share a loving and large blended family. She received her Master of Divinity at Fuller Theological Seminary and is the founder of Trochia Ministries, a Christian discipleship ministry. Inés also serves as a teaching pastor at Mariners Church in southern California where she loves sharing the good news of Jesus! Inés' testimony of how she encountered Jesus is such a reminder of God’s pursuit of his people. There is truly no sin that can keep you from the love of the Father! Jesus offers forgiveness, grace, peace, and victory to all! SHOW LINKS:Compassion InternationalTrochia MinistriesUncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith

Friends I am thrilled to continue our Encounter Series today! This summer we'll be focusing on stories of how a person encountered Christ, how they began living their life for Jesus, and what their life looks like now. Today I have the privilege of sitting down and listening to the transformative power of Jesus in the life of Tessa Afshar. Tessa Afshar is an incredible author who's books have been translated into 11 different languages. Tessa's books have won a number of awards including the Christian Book Award, and she has been on Publishers Weekly and CBA best-selling lists. Tessa is a devoted wife, self proclaiming mediocre gardener, and is passionate about navigating the hard seasons of life with peace and grace. Tessa was born to a nominally Muslim family in the Middle East. In the midst of abandonment trauma and unbelievable heartbreak, God continued to pursue Tessa's heart through dreams and friends. Today you'll hear how God redeemed the broken spaces in Tessa's heart and how she learned the true love of a father.SHOW NOTES:Julie Klassen - Historical Fiction BooksThe Peasant KingWomen Who Risk by Tom Doyle & JoAnn Doyle

Happy Friday friends! I’m thrilled to begin our Encounter Series today! This summer we'll be focusing on stories of how a person encountered Christ, how they began living their life for Jesus, and what their life looks like now. Today I have the privilege of sitting down with JoAnn Doyle, author of Women Who Risk: Secret Agents for Jesus in the Muslim World.JoAnn was a pastor’s wife for 20 years before God called her family into full-time mission work in the Middle East. Together, she and her husband Tom launched Uncharted Ministries, which sounds the alarm and inspires believers to join God’s great harvest among Jews and Muslims. The women’s ministry of Uncharted, called Not Forgotten, encourages and equips Jesus-followers to engage these often-neglected women with the love of Christ—not only across the globe, but in our own backyards.JoAnn share with us stories of former Muslim women who literally risked it all to follow Jesus. My heart was convicted as I listened to these stories of women who gave up everything and I look at my own life as a Christ-follower here in America. JoAnn gives all of us encouragement in how we can walk in holy boldness wherever we live!Don't forget to click here to subscribe to our newsletter and share this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Women Who Risk by Tom Doyle & JoAnn DoyleUncharted MinistriesI Found The TruthNot Forgotten MinistriesDreams and Visions by Tom DoyleThe Return of the Gods by Jonathan Cahn  

Throughout our life events take place that eventually become our past. How can these events, or “bread crumbs” help us find purpose and meaning in our current life? Today I sit down with my dear friend Jami Nato as we discuss life, hospitality, talking about purity with our kids, and so much more! Jami Nato is one of the funniest instagram follows you’ll have, as well as a new author! Jami’s new book This Must Be the Place: Following the Breadcrumbs of Your Past to Discover Your Purpose Today releases next week! Tucked in these pages is Jami’s way of helping readers discover their purpose by looking at their past and following the breadcrumbs God has left for you every step of the way. Jami is passionate about women being built up and seen and using their gifts inside the church. Head over to the link in the show notes to pre-order This Must Be the Place. I hope this episode encourages you and challenges you to reflect on your past and discover the bread crumbs God has left you to shape your purpose and future!SHOW LINKS:This Must Be the Place

Shelby Houston was living her best life at college when she received a call from home that would change her life forever. On December 3rd, 2021 Shelby’s father, Richard Houston, was shot and killed in the line of duty. As Shelby and her family began to process their grief in the coming days, Shelby had a revelation from the Lord: Jesus died and forgave the man who killed her father just like he did for her. If Jesus could forgive this man, Shelby believed she could too. As Shelby began this journey she was able to express her forgiveness through her father’s eulogy and her victim impact statement. Through this process God birthed in her a passion for ministry to men and women in prison.  Since then, Shelby has traveled internationally speaking at conferences, gatherings, and prisons - sharing her story of forgiveness. Her mission is for people not only to know, but truly understand the freedom and forgiveness found in Jesus. SHOW LINKS:San Quentin State PrisonThe Green Mile Wild At Heart

After a series of unfortunate events newlyweds filled with hopes and dreams found themselves in a desperate situation and needing to provide for their family. Fox and Rob Richardson decided to take matters into their own hands and after a botched bank robbery this couple found themselves behind bars and separated from their children. Once Fox served her time and reunited with their boys, she began the long journey to fight for her husband who was facing a 60 years sentence. After her valiant charge, in June of 2018 Governor John Bel Edwards granted clemency to Rob and after 21 years apart their family was finally reunited. Their story is told in the acclaimed, award-winning documentary Time. They have also written a book together about their experience. Today Fox and Rob along with their sons continue their advocacy for incarcerated families through the NOLA chapter of the Participatory Defense Movement. They are dedicated to changing lives and laws through love and empowering families and marriages to thrive!In today’s episode we'll explore the aftermath of the 13th Amendment, the complexities of mass incarceration, and how these issues disproportionately affect the African-American community. I encourage you to check out the links in our show notes to learn more about this topic as we grow and learn together!  SHOW LINKS:13th FilmFox & Rob's WebsiteLouisiana State PenitentiaryTIME the bookTIME documentaryJesus Listens by Sarah Young

After enduring years of physical, verbal, and emotional abuse Lacey packed up her four children and ran to freedom while being chased by a knife. Ya’ll this is no movie script, this is real life! On Wednesday you heard from Branden Terrell, a man who spent 11 years in San Quentin State Prison for taking the life of another man. When I met Branden and asked him to come to the Happy Hour, his first words were, “you need to talk to my wife, she’s the real hero.”Today I sit down with Lacey Terrell as she shares how God freed her from her traumatic life and the role Branden played in her healing process. Lacy shares with us the trauma she’s overcome, the struggles she still faces today, and speaks hope to those who may currently be in an unsafe relationship. 1 in every 4 women in America have experienced physical violence by an intimate partner. Statistically, that means it’s likely that a woman in our Happy Hour community is hurting. If you or if someone you know would like more information on how to get help and reach safety, we encourage you to dial 1-800-799-7233 or visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline. SHOW NOTES:It Didn’t Start With Me

In 2012 Branden found himself alone in a prison cell facing life in prison after murdering his close friend. After battling years of anger, addiction, and living a life of rebellion, in a solitary confinement cell in a maximum security prison, Branden met Jesus. It was in that cell that the course and purpose of his life was forever changed. I’m thrilled to welcome Branden Terrell to The Happy Hour today. I first met Branden when I visited San Quentin State Prison for the first time. On today’s show Branden shares with us how his life has transformed over the last decade in prison and how he strives to overcome the barriers and labels that he faces as a free man today. Branden emphasizes the need for rehabilitation programs and redeeming systems in place for prisoners. With over 92% of prisoners returning home after a served sentence, it’s important to remember that “today’s prisoners are tomorrow’s neighbors” and their redemption matters! Branden’s story was a great reminder to me of the redemptive nature of our loving Father. You’ll want to join us for Friday’s episode as we hear from his wife, Lacy Terrell. Thanks for listening and as always, we’d love for you to share with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Friends of San Quentin NewsCoaching 4 LifeForwardThis ProductionsSan Quentin Incarcerated Baseball Team

In a post Roe Vs. Wade society the question remains, “Now what?” How will christians in America continue fighting for every life made in the image of God? How can churches and christians have a womb to tomb pro-life ethic? Is it possible to break through political barriers and culture wars to love and serve those in need?I am thrilled to have this conversation with former NFL player Benjamin Watson. Along with being a former tight end, Benjamin is a writer, a speaker, and an activist. He is a college football studio analyst with the SEC Network, and he serves as VP of strategic relationships with the Human Coalition, one of the largest pro-life and pro-women organizations in the country. Along with his wife, Kirsten, he is the founder of The Watson 7 Foundation, a nonprofit focused on strengthening families. They currently reside in Georgia with their seven children.On today’s episode Benjamin and I discuss his new book, The New Fight For Life. Abortions in America disproportionately affect African-American women with 76% of abortion-determined women saying they would prefer to parent if their circumstances were different. You’ll hear practical ways churches and christians can serve women facing unplanned pregnancies, and the importance of churches providing post-abortion counseling and care. Friends, as we look through scriptures it’s easy to see that God has called us to have a pro-life commitment to justice for His image bearers. I pray you lean in and listen and respond to how God moves your heart.

Hey friends, Mother’s Day is right around the corner and today’s conversation with Katie Faris is an important conversation about the hardships, sorrows, and grief that can come with motherhood. Katie Faris is an author, married to a pastor, and mother to five children. Katie lives with her family in New Jersey. Her most recent book, God Is Still Good: Gospel Hope and Comfort for the Unexpected Sorrows of Motherhood acknowledges that while there is so much joy and love that comes with motherhood, there are also challenges that can bring pain and heartbreak. Katie encourages mothers to embrace the grief that comes from motherhood and experience God’s comfort as you put your hope in Christ during the unexpected trials of parenting. God is Still Good offers a biblical context for suffering and hope, addresses common questions, and addresses temptations and lies that mothers likely face. Today Katie reminded me that God is still good even when life feels hard. With today’s conversation, I hope you know that there is hope and you are not alone. Share this episode with a mother that needs to hear that today! SHOW LINKS:God Is Still GoodLittle WomenMarmee

​​Hey friends! Today’s episode is a conversation I’ve been wanting to have for a long time. Today’s guest is Tish Harrison Warren. If you’ve been around since 2021 I guarantee you’ve heard me talk about her book Prayer in the Night. Tish Harrison Warren is a priest in the Anglican Church. She is an author of several books, as well as contributes to the New York Times in a weekly newsletter and is a columnist for Christianity Today. For over a decade Tish has worked in ministry settings as a campus minister with InterVarsity Graduate and Faculty Ministries. Through various churches and non-profit organizations Tish has passionately served the marginalized. She lives with her husband and three children in the Austin, Texas area.On today’s episode we focus heavily on grief and suffering. I pray you listen with care and find encouragement in our conversation today.  SHOW LINKS:Liturgy in the OrdinaryPrayer in the Night Tish Harrison Warren

Hi friends! Today on the show we have a Happy Hour first-timer, Bethany Barnard. Bethany is a contemporary Christian music artist who was signed to Sparrow Records in Nashville, TN, under the stage name Bethany Dillon at just 14 years old! For the last 15 years, Bethany has been a Dallas resident and married to her best friend, Shane. They have four daughters and live in the Richardson area. Bethany continues to lead worship and songwrite and enjoys being a stay-at-home mom. She is passionate about sharing her story of how Jesus set her free and seeing Him do the same in others’ lives.Today we dive into Bethany’s new album, All My Questions. She shares what inspired her songs, mental health, her battle with OCD and depression, and how we have freedom in Christ! We wrap up our conversation with Bethany sharing what the body of Christ can do to help those in dark seasons.Too often shame is attached with mental health and getting the help needed. I truly appreciate how open Bethany was about how she can walk in freedom in Christ while also having OCD and depression be part of her story!  Make sure to check out her website, Bethanybarnard.com and share this episode with a friend who could use the encouragement!SHOW LINKS:All My QuestionsYou KnowEverything Sad Is UntrueSermons of Charles SpurgeonLord of the Rings

Do you struggle with living in the past? Do you find yourself worrying about the future? I’m sure at some point in your life you would answer those questions with a big YES! Today I sit down with Jeanne Stevens and discuss how it’s possible to find truth and peace by living in the present.Jeanne Stevens is the founder and co-lead pastor with her husband of Soul City Church in Chicago, Illinois. Jeanne seeks to live healthy rhythms while being a wife, mom, speaker, author, and leader. She is passionate about helping people wake up to their purpose as they pursue a life of wholehearted freedom. Jeanne shares how blame, shame, guilt, grief, and bitterness draw us back to our past, make us worry about the future, and keep us from living in the present. She encourages us to take our thoughts captive and dwell with God who is always in the present. Jeanne and I talk about the reality of this in our parenting journey and in our marriages. I’m so thankful for this conversation and for Jeanne’s work. I encourage you to check out the links from the show and grab yourself a copy of What’s Here Now?: How to Stop Rehashing the Past and Rehearsing the Future. SHOW LINKS:Soul City ChurchSpeed of TrustSmart Brevity: How to Say More with LessThe Psychology of MoneyTime: The Untold Story of the Love that Kept us Together when Incarceration Kept us Apart IVEY MEDIA PARTNER

Have you ever asked yourself if you’re worshiping God with your physical body? Have you wondered if the body is important to Jesus? On today’s show I sit down and answer these questions with author of A Body of Praise: Understanding the Role of our physical bodies in Worship, David Taylor. David is no stranger to The Happy Hour and you may remember him from last December when we discussed Advent. Today David and I talk about our bodies being used as an expression of praise and worship. We discuss how worship has very little to do with how we are raised, or our personality type, and instead has everything to do with what the scriptures commands of us. David draws on the wisdom of the Bible, church history, and theology. He takes a unique insight into the arts and sciences, ethics, and spiritual formation. David tells us there is something for our physical bodies to do that decisively forms Christlikeness in us within the context of corporate worship. I encourage you to listen to this episode with an open mind and ask God how you can bring all of yourself to worship him!  SHOW LINKS:The Last Duel Film 2021The Body Keeps the ScoreWhat Happened to You?Prayer in the NightWhy Humans Like to CryChrist the Lord: The Road to Cana  Christ the Lord: Out of EgyptHandle with Care: How Jesus Redeems the Power of Touch in Life and MinistryEpisode 299 w/Lore Ferguson Wilbert  IVEY MEDIA PARTNER 

Happy Friday, friends! Today is the final episode in our Unreached People Groups series. Today’s guest is founder of Activate Global and creator of Elevate,  Jessica Hotz. Activate Global is a ministry committed to taking the love of Jesus to the most challenging places around the world. This mission is accomplished through the planting of sustainable churches and providing resources for people to create kingdom-minded business, like Elevate, that focus on empowering families. Today, Activate Global serves in the world’s 15 most challenging nations. It’s currently engaging with 142 people groups, has launched over 200 businesses, trained more than 600 leaders, and has planted 568 churches! On today’s episode Jessica shares how this journey started in her twenties, how she knew God was calling her to the nations, and the adventure she and her husband have been on for the past decade. In the end, we talk about some of the products that Elevate is creating and the giveaway that’s happening on my instagram! If you missed any episodes in this series – please go back and listen. I’m so proud of this series and would love for you to share them with friends. My biggest prayer is that God has awakened your heart for the nations and unreached people living without the knowledge of a Savior who loves them deeply. SHOW LINKS:Watch Jamie on YouTubeActivate GlobalElevateJoshua Project Finishing the TaskDon’t Hold Back Up From Slavery Women Who Risk

Hey friends, today is part three of the four-part series of reaching Unreached People Groups. If you haven’t listened to our first two episodes, go back and listen to David Platt and Steven Morales to hear how God is moving around the world! Today’s episode is with my friend Andy Kampman. Andy is a pastor at my home church, The Austin Stone, and leader of Launch Global. To know Andy and his family is to know his heart and passion for the Gospel to spread to the Nations. Launch Global’s mission is to mobilize churches to develop laborers and leaders who multiply healthy churches among unreached people groups. On today’s episode  Andy shares more about how to get connected to Launch Global and how we can be intentional in reaching the nations within our very own communities. This conversation challenges all of us to be intentional in cultivating hearts and lives that show the nations God’s heart for them. Check out all the links provided to find valuable resources for kids, young adults, and families! SHOW LINKS:Launch GlobalWeave FamilyThe Traveling Team 6 Lessons on God's Heart for the World State of the World Red Zones with David PlattUnreached People Groups Reaching the Unreached What is Unreached People Groups? for Kids 

Hey friends! Welcome back to part two of our four part series, Unreached People Groups. Last week you heard how over 3 billion people around the globe have never heard the name of Jesus. Today I’m excited to sit down with Steven Morales and discuss the fastest growing church in the world! Steven is an amazing storyteller and pastor based in Guatemala City. He is passionate about spreading the Gospel around the nations and currently serves as content director for Radical. Steven hosts the documentary series, Neighbors and Nations, and friends if you haven’t seen this series, click the link below and go watch it now! In today’s episode Steven shares how the Gospel is spreading to the nations, and how the Iranian church is considered the fastest growing church in the world. Despite the possibility of losing their businesses, being kicked out of school, and even being disconnected from their families, Iranians are choosing to spread the good news of Jesus! Hearing the stories coming out of Iran was so encouraging to me, and also convicting! Would I chose this life of Christianity if I knew there was so much to lose? Would I be able to endure what the persecuted church is enduring? I’m excited about this series, and I hope the episodes are moving your heart like they’re moving mine! I pray our hearts are pushing towards loving God’s people more and living bold and courageous lives for the sake of the Gospel! Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend and catch all of our interviews on YouTube.SHOW LINKS:Neighbors and NationWatch Jamie on YouTubeNoonday CollectionRadicalRadical’s Secret ChurchThe 50 Countries Where It’s Hardest to Follow Jesus in 2022The Power of Geography Everywhere Everything All At Once

Hey friends! I pray Easter weekend was a blessing for you and your people! We enjoyed a Good Friday service where we reflected on the sacrifice of Jesus, and then celebrated his resurrection on Sunday with our family and friends.Today’s episode is the first of a four part series: Unreached People Groups. Our first guest is new to the Happy Hour but a long time friend, David Platt. David is a best-selling author, former president of International Missions Board, and currently pastoring in the Metro D.C. area. David’s mission is to equip the American church to reach unreached people groups around the globe.  On today’s episode David teaches us exactly what it means to be part of an unreached people group, and shares heroic stories of persecuted christians who are spreading the Gospel around the world. Friends, today’s conversation is both challenging and humbling as we dive into what it means to be a christian in America. How are we stewarding our resources and freedoms? Are we choosing to live bold lives in our communities and workplaces for the sake of the Gospel? Is knowing and sharing the Word of God worth our life to us? I don’t know about you, but when I get to the end of my life I want to have confidence that it was all about Jesus! Grab a copy of David’s new book Don’t Hold Back: Leaving Behind the American Gospel to Follow Jesus Fully, and share today’s episode with a friend!SHOW NOTES:Don’t Hold Back: Leaving Behind The American Gospel to Follow Jesus FullyThe ChosenSecret ChurchRadical on YouTubeWaiting on God

Hey Friends! Happy Good Friday! As we enter this weekend reflecting on Easter and the miracle of the cross, I’m thrilled to welcome back a long time friend to the Happy Hour, Rebecca McLaughlin. Rebecca McLaughlin is an award winning author and today we dive into her book, Is Easter Unbelievable? Four Questions Everyone Should Ask About the Resurrection Story.  Let me ask you this, does your belief in Jesus being the Son of God, dying on the cross, and his resurrection change the way you live? Do these truths penetrate your heart to the point where your life looks radically different from those around you? In today’s episode Rebecca shares why and how they should. We discuss how Jesus’ love for us displayed through his death is even more stunning than his love for us shown through his life, how the Gospel gives us 4 pieces of evidence of his resurrection, and how our earthly relationships point us to reunification with our Savior! Friends, this is an important conversation to me. Wherever you are in your life right now, my prayer is that Jesus is appealing to you and that the miracle of the cross resonates with you. If you would like to talk more about what this means in your life or if you don’t have a Bible, please reach out to [email protected]. We’re here for you and we’re thankful to be on this journey together. Make sure to grab a copy of Rebecca’s book and share this episode with a friend.SHOW LINKS:Is Easter Unbelievable? Four Questions Everyone Should Ask About the Resurrection StoryNavigating Gospel Truth Bible StudyBorn Again This WayA Secular AgeBiblical Critical TheoryEpisode 314 with Rachel Gilson

​​Hey friends! Today I sit down with my long-time friend, Lisa Whittle. For those that don’t know, Lisa does all the things! She is the founder of Called Creatives, Bible teacher, best-selling author, and host of podcasts Ministry Strong and Jesus Over Everything. On today’s episode we discuss Lisa’s newest book releasing April 18th, God Knows.God knows where you are weak and where you are strong. God knows your future, and he knows your pain. He knows where you seek vindication and where you need healing. Today Lisa shares with us how she learned to walk through this life with rest and reliance on trusting that God knows! Lisa and I share personal stories on how we are releasing bitterness and the need to seek vindication as we practice trusting that we are seen and known by our loving Father. Friends, this conversation with Lisa is so good, and I hope it provides encouragement to your life. Make sure to order her book on Amazon and tune into Season 2 of our podcast Launch! SHOW LINKS:God Knows

Let’s be honest, relationships are complicated. Whether it’s a relationship with a family member, a church, or even food, relationships are layered with complexities! On today’s episode I discuss these complexities with Kendall Vanderslice.Kendall is a professionally trained baker, author, and founder of Edible Theology. She is passionate about helping people heal their relationships with food, their bodies, and the Body of Christ. In today’s episode you’ll hear Kendall’s take on why the best community happens around a table, and how the science of bread teaches us about growth and strength! If you’ve ever struggled with your relationship with food, family, or community, this episode is for you!SHOW NOTES:Edible TheologyBy Bread AloneThe Lives We Actually HaveTogether Ivey.Media/Partner

Hey friends! I am thrilled to have a conversation with a first time guest to the Happy Hour and a new friend, State Representative Trenee McGee. I first heard of Trenee while attending the Stand For Life conference and knew pretty quickly I wanted to learn more about her. Trenee McGee is the youngest black woman in the General Assembly for the state of Connecticut representing the 116th district. Trenee is a Whole Life advocate who is passionate about educating others on the history of abortion and its impact on the black community. She is also deeply entrenched in theatre and explains to listeners the relationship between arts and politics and how one prepared her for her main role today! On today’s episode we get to know Trenee a little better as she informs listeners on how we can advocate for unborn babies and their mothers from a whole-life perspective. You'll hear four practical actions listeners can take to bridge the gap between the pre-born and their mothers:Build community relationshipsAttend local meetingsOffer prayerRedirect our financial loyaltyI hope today’s episode encourages you and equips you with ways you can put your beliefs into action!   Ivey.Media/Partner

Hey, ya’ll! Today I’m excited to welcome Katie Davis Majors back to the Happy Hour! Katie was on episode 208 and we always have the best conversations!In today’s episode we covered some important topics including her transition to living back in the United States after living in Uganda, dealing with anxiety, and a few practical ways she stays grounded when her anxiety is in full force. Katie also shares all about Amazima Ministries, a nonprofit dedicated to providing basic needs and school attendance to the people of Uganda. Katie’s latest book Safe All Along: Trading Our Fears and Anxieties for God’s Unshakable Peace, releases on March 28th – make sure to grab a copy!I hope today’s episode reminds you that if you struggle with anxiety, you are not alone, and God is with you every step of the way! SHOW LINKS:The Happy Hour Episode 208 with KatieAmazima MinistriesSafe All Along: Trading Our Fears and Anxieties for God’s Unshakable PeaceRuthless Elimination of HurryHinds’ Feet on High Places Ivey.Media/Partner

Hey Friends! Welcome back from our little Spring Break! We missed you! Our family rested well and spent quality time together outside, around the dinner table, and in downtown Austin! I had a great conversation with author of Redeeming Your Time: 7 Biblical Principles for Being Purposeful, Present, and Wildly Productive, Jordan Raynor. This was the first book my team and I read for our Lunch & Learn in January and February, and I highlighted a ton of stuff! This book isn’t only for those in the workplace but for anybody with time to manage, so ALL OF US!Jordan Raynor is a leading voice of the face and work movement. Through his bestselling books, podcast, and devotionals, Jordan has helped missions of Christians in every country connect the gospel to their work. In addition to his writing, Jordan serves as the Executive Chairman of Threshold 360, a venture-backed tech startup which Jordan previously ran as CEO following a string of successful ventures of his own.In today’s episode, we talked about how this book is different from any other time management book published, how people can make their workplace sacred, and Jordan’s three-step method on taking control of your emails and texts! I hope this conversation is as encouraging to you as it was to me. Grab a copy of Jordan’s book and let me know which methods you’re incorporating into your life! SHOW LINKS:Redeeming Your TimeWord before WorkThe Lego StoryDopesick on Hulu

Question for you. If the enemy was going to try to take you down today, how would he do it? Today I sit down with friend, pastor, and author JP Pokluda to discuss his new book, Why Do I Do What I Don’t Want to Do?: Replace Deadly Vices with Life-Giving Virtues.JP Pokluda is the lead pastor of Harris Creek Baptist Church in Waco, Texas. JP became a Christian in his early twenties and has a passion to inspire young adults to radically follow Jesus and unleash them to change the world around them. In his new book, JP challenges his readers to survey their life and recognize their vices. He reminds us that as we pursue Christ and holiness, we are not striving to not do certain things, but instead we are striving to become Christ-like. In today’s honest conversation, you’ll hear how JP has overcome addiction, how we can identify the idols in our life, and how all of us can grow and change.Click here for all show linksIvey.Media/Partner

Ya’ll, grab your sweet tea or coffee or whatever it is you drink and get comfortable for a possibly very uncomfortable conversation with our guest today, KB! I am thrilled to have him on the show and discuss his new book, Dangerous Jesus: Why the Only Thing More Risky Than Getting Jesus Right is Getting Jesus Wrong.Kevin Burgess, aka KB, is a husband and father of three children. He is an award-winning rapper, winning a Dove Award for Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year in 2020. KB is also a speaker, host of the popular podcast Southside Rabbi, and author. He is a studier of the Word and in his latest book, KB challenges us to look at Christianity as being more than our traditions, perceptions, and denominations, and look more like Christ!With a published study recently revealing that with every one person who joins the church, four leave, KB and I sit down to talk about the hard topics Christianity in America is facing. We discuss topics surrounding pro-life, race, success and wealth, and what it means for Christians to be dangerous. I want to encourage all of us to enter into the challenging spaces of this conversation because I truly believe there is goodness on the other side! Click here for show linksIvey.Media/Partner 

Happy Friday ya'll! On today's episode my husband, Aaron Ivey, and I sit down on the anniversary of our book Complement: The Surprising Beauty of Choosing Together over Separate in Marriage. In all honesty, this book was written in one of the toughest seasons of our marriage. But nonetheless, we love marriage, value marriage, and have a passion to teach others how to have a healthy view of marriage! In today's episode we break down four tips to have a healthy view of marriage:Who and how you date matters to God.Don't act like you're married before you are.There is no such thing as casual sex.Your relationship should look different than the world's dating relationships.We dive into boundaries, sex, how to recognize red flags, and how contentment is key to healthy relationships. So buckle up and get ready for some real talk! Click here for show notesIvey.Media/Partner

Happy March friends! We have an amazing lineup of guests on the show this month and I'm so excited for the episodes ahead. Today I sat down with Jinger Duggar Vuolo and discussed her new book, Becoming Free Indeed: My Story of Disentangling Faith from Fear. Truthfully, when I first heard of this book, I didn't think I would be interested. After several friends encouraged me to give it a read, I was shocked! This is no "tell all", but instead Jinger does an amazing job of pointing us to Jesus as the Gospel is woven through every page! Jinger Duggar Vuolo grew up on television from the young age of ten years old. For almost 18 years she appeared on TLC's reality show, 19 Kids and Counting. Jinger has always been vocal about her faith, even as she entered into adulthood and began the terrifying process of detangling everything she had ever been taught. As Jinger watched lifelong friends leave God and christianity altogether due to church hurt and leadership abuse, Jinger felt compelled to share her story of how detangling her rigid childhood teachings actually led her to freedom in Christ. In today's episode you'll hear more about Jinger's journey, what she's still learning to let go of, and how every morning she reminds herself of how loving and gracious our God is. I hope you're encouraged by listening and remember to go grab yourself a copy of her new book!Click here for all show notes.Ivey.Media/Partner

Happy Friday, friends! Cancel your plans and head to the theater TONIGHT for the release of the movie “Jesus Revolution.” I had the opportunity to view this movie and you can trust me when I say you don’t want to miss out! As someone who didn’t have the privilege of living through the Jesus Movement during the 60s and 70s, it was an honor to hear first-hand testimony from someone at the very center of this film, and today’s guest, Cathe Laurie. Cathe Laurie was raised overseas and her family moved to California during the hippy era. In searching for something more, Cathe looked in all the wrong places; that is, until a friend introduced her to Jesus. From there, Cathe and her husband Greg courted, married, and began a church in 1974 that they still pastor to this day! Cathe and her husband have been married for almost 50 years, have three children, and multiple grandchildren. This woman has lived a full life and remains faithful in finding ways to point people to Jesus! Cathe brings an honest and refreshing perspective on Christian life and ministry. On today’s episode, you’ll hear more about her thoughts in making the “Jesus Revolution” film, her conversion to Christianity, her prayer for revival, and how no one is outside the possibility of Jesus changing their life!Click here for show notesIvey.Media/Partner

Y'all, I am THRILLED to have Beth Moore on today's episode! This will be Beth's 4th time as a guest on my show, and I swear each time gets better and better! Beth Moore was an inspiration to me as a young believer and her teachings continue to challenge and encourage me. Beth's memoir, All My Knotted-Up Life, released yesterday, and let me tell you, you want to run, not walk, to pick up your copy! Even after following Beth for decades, I learned so much about her that I never knew.Incase you're unfamiliar with Beth, she is an author, speaker, and founder of Living Proof Ministries. Her dynamic teaching and conferences take her all over the globe. She's authored several bestselling books and Bible studies and was Lifeway Christian's first official published Bible Study. Beth has been married to her husband Keith Moore for 45 years, and she's a mother of two daughters. Beth has faithfully served her local community and church for decades!As I finished Beth's memoir, tears rolled down my face. Today you'll hear how Beth knew the timing was right to author a memoir, the struggles their family has endured with mental illness, and how Beth looks back on hardships with the perspective that "surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (Psalm 23:6). I pray the vulnerability of today's episode encourages you. Thanks for listening!Click HERE for show notes.Ivey.Media/Partner

I am so excited to introduce ya’ll to a new podcast joining Ivey Media! This podcast is special to us as this couple went through our podcast course where we team up and support people who have a passion for podcasting. At the end of the course we chose one student to be part of Ivey Media and that leads us to Chelsea and Layton Boeve with Liberator Podcast. Chelsea and Layton currently reside in Michigan where they love their dog and are avid hikers. Layton lives and dies with Michigan football while Chelsea loves a strong black coffee! Chelsea and Layton are passionate about healthy relationships and strong marriages. Their podcast aims to bring the perspective of both men and women who have engaged with or been hurt by the use of pornography.Liberator Podcast has a goal of making people feel safe, find community through brokenness, and to equip people who have been hurt by or who struggle with pornography. Chelsea and Layton break down the science of addictive behaviors and how to find freedom. Chelsea and Layton’s goal is to help people break free from the stigma of pornography and create a new narrative of finding freedom. This podcast is for everyone and anyone. Whether you have personally been affected by pornography, or know someone who is, this podcast is a great tool to learn from and share with your friends!Click HERE for Show Links

Not too long ago a friend asked me, “Jamie, what is your assignment? What are you pouring your heart into?” and those questions changed my life. Today I sit down with that friend, the amazing Dr. Alicia Britt Chole.Alicia is a people grower who walks alongside people in the health of their soul and their nearness with Christ. She believes that reality is a friend (and denial is an enemy) of intimacy with God. She is a wife of 32 years of Dr. Barry Jay Chole and mom of Jonathan (25), Keona (19), and Louie (16), all through the miracle of adoption. Alicia is passionate about offering others a framework for processing spiritual pain as a friend of--not a failure of--intimacy with God.Buckle up for today’s episode because we dive in DEEP! We discuss how less is more, reality is our friend, the observance of Lent, and how we walk alongside the disciples in their most delusional space in their entire life. Alicia challenges us to break free from the “God if you do this, I’ll do that'' mentality and allow God to be the good Father He is.Click here for all show notes

Happy Friday friends! Today we are diving into Part 2 of my conversation with Jasmine Holmes. We've been discussing women from her book, Carved in Ebony, and learning about remarkable women who changed the lives of the people in their corner of the world. Today we cover two more women who couldn't have come from more different backgrounds. Charlotte Forten Grimke, a born-free woman from the north, and Maria Fearing, a woman from the south born into slavery, lived lives that remind us that God can use anyone in BIG ways! Jasmine L. Holmes is an educator, research assistant, and the author of Carved in Ebony and Mother to Son. She creates public history resources for teachers and lifelong learners. Jasmine and her husband Phillip live in Jackson, Mississippi with their three sons. I am so grateful for the work Jasmine is doing and the way she encourages us to remember our past. Her resources and books help us remember that God can use anyone no matter who they are, where they're from, or what their past is. Charlotte and Maria were women who faithfully followed God and made a difference with whatever they were given! I hope you enjoyed this two-part series as much as I did! If you haven't yet, make sure to go back and listen to Part 1 of this amazing conversation!Click for all the  Show Links Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram  // YouTube

Every month is a good month to learn about Black History, and in the special month of February I'm sharing with you some amazing people who have incredible resources we can learn from. Today I am SO excited to have Jasmine Holmes on The Happy Hour for the very first time! I'm so excited about it that I've actually invited her to be on TWO episodes this week!Jasmine L. Holmes is an educator, research assistant, and the author of Carved in Ebony and Mother to Son. She creates public history resources for teachers and lifelong learners. Jasmine and her husband, Phillip, live in Jackson, Mississippi, with their three sons. I am so grateful for the work Jasmine is doing and the way she encourages us to remember our past. Her resources and books help us remember that God can use anyone no matter who they are, where they're from, or what their past is. On today's episode we talk about Black history in America and two incredible women that changed the future for generations to come. Elizabeth Freeman and Frances Ellen Watkins Harper were courageous, smart, bold, and understood the dignity of people who were born in God's image. Don't forget to come back Friday for part 2 of this amazing conversation! Click for all the  Show Links Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram  // YouTube

Have you ever felt like you don’t belong? Like you don’t have a seat at the table? Have you ever felt lost? If you have, this is the episode for you. Today I sit down with Ann Voskamp as we remember that we all need to sing a brave song over ourselves and our children. Ann Voskamp is a wife to The Farmer and a mother of 7 children. She is a New York Time’s Bestselling author and speaker. She has authored multiple books including One Thousand Gifts, The Greatest Gift, Unwrapping the Greatest Gift, and her newest children’s book, Your Brave Song. Your Brave Song is really for all ages as we all need reminding that we are chosen not for what we do, but for who we are… for WHOSE we are!Click for all the  Show Links Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram  // YouTube

Today we’re celebrating Angie Elkins' 1 year Anniversary with The Happy Hour. For those of you who don’t know, Angie is The Happy Hour’s editor and Director of Podcast for Ivey Media. She resides in Florida with her husband and three kids where she loves studying God's Word, serving in the local church, and visiting Disney World. Angie is also the host her own podcast, Chatologie, a faith based podcast that invites guests to share how God has been present in their lives, what they are currently working on, and how their ministry is going out into the world.Today Angie sits down with singer/actress, voice of The Little Mermaid, and now author, Jodi Benson. Jodi challenges us to lay down comparisons and discover your own giftedness and passions. She shares about how one small decision changed her life forever!GO SUBSCRIBE TO CHATOLOGIE!Click for all the  Show Links Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram  // YouTube

This week we have a special episode with a fellow podcaster, Paul Hastings, who has a unique way of immersing listeners into people's life changing stories. He is the host of "Compelled", a podcast sharing stories about God transforming Christians around the world. Paul is an award-winning podcaster, filmmaker, speaker, entrepreneur, and proud husband and father.On this episode we remember the Space Shuttle Columbia crew and talk more about Compelled Episode #46 with Evelyn Husband Thompson, the wife of the shuttle Commander. Evelyn's story moved me deeply and was a great reminder that because we have hope in Jesus, there is life after tragedy.Listen to the rest of the Evelyn's StoryClick for all the  Show Links Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram  // YouTube

Tiffany Daniels is the Founder and Director of THERE{4} Teen Gathering. Tiffany has a passion to see the hearts of high school girls transformed by the gospel of grace. Since 2016, God has used THERE{4} Teen Gathering’s 11 conferences (nine in the US and two in Kigali, Rwanda) to reach tens of thousands of girls in all 50 states and upwards of 30 countries worldwide via livestream.Tiffany lives in Arlington, Texas with her husband, David, Lead Pastor of Central Bible Church. Their three grown children are spread out between Fort Worth, Seattle and Nashville and she has 2 amazing little grandkids!Tiffany is as genuine as they come. One of those people who if she says she’s praying for you, you better believe she means it! In today’s episode we talk all things raising teenagers, a few upcoming trips we have together, and how no season is waisted by God! Be ready to be challenged in taking your next best step as you listen!Click for all the  Show Links Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram  // YouTube

Collectively, we can look back on the year 2020 and remember how tough it was for everyone! But one thing I look back on with joy is how Carlos Whittaker emerged as a hopeful and steady voice online, walking us through tough conversations and being a true leader for many in what felt like a dark time. I am THRILLED to have Carlos back on the show today as we reflect on his journey over the past few years. Plus, we talk all about his new book, How to Human: Three Ways to Share Life Beyond What Distracts, Divides, and Disconnects Us.If you aren’t familiar with Carlos Whittaker, let me introduce you! Carlos is a podcaster, author, global speaker, and a follower of Jesus who desires to make people feel seen and cared for. His motto in life is, “Don’t stand on issues. Walk with people.” He lives in Nashville, Tennessee where you can find his family farming and dancing to Beyonce (seriously, Google it!). In How to Human, Carlos takes us through a three-part journey: “Be, see, and free.” BE fully who God created you to be. SEE humans around you, particularly those who feel invisible. Lastly, FREE humans through service! Through looking at the example of Jesus’ life, we can gain a fresh vision of exchanging a culture of division for real relationships. This book is for everyone and anyone who needs reminding that we can navigate hard times with grit, kindness, and a good joke or two!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

We are THRILLED to announce today the newest member of the Ivey Media Podcasts collective, Debra Fileta, and her show Love & Relationships!Debra is a licensed professional counselor who believes that “healthy people make healthy relationships.” Love & Relationships is a hotline-style show where listeners call in with questions about dating, marriage and singleness. Debra also focuses a lot of her show on mental and emotional health so that each of us can become healthy individuals. Love & Relationships is impromptu, raw and unedited, just like a counseling session. The beauty of Debra’s podcast is that we can learn and grow through hearing other people’s growth. In today’s episode of The Happy Hour, you’ll hear a clip of Debra’s “Are you really okay?” series where she talks with Christine Caine about her journey of mental and emotional health. If you love it, also go check out similar conversations Debra has with faith leaders like Louie Giglio and Levi Lusko! Debra has her “Couples Therapy” series starting in February, and you’ll want to hang on until the end of the episode to hear about a new series of 5-minute episodes she’ll be releasing on Thursdays, too! Go subscribe to Love & Relationships, and follow Debra on Instagram! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTube 

When Breonna Taylor was killed, her police report was virtually blank. Feeling as if she was suffocating in the initial silence and lack of public outcry, anti-racism educator and activist Faitth Brooks wondered, “Would the world care about and remember me if I was killed?”My guest today is Faitth Brooks. We don’t waste any time  jumping into why her new book, “Remember Me Now” is incredibly needed in all our lives, but is written specifically for Black women. It is a love letter celebrating and caring for the fullness of living Black Women.This love letter is celebrating and caring for the fullness of living Black Women. Faitth is honest and transparent with her experiences as a Black woman in the Christian space. She shared how often there was no celebration or care for her and how she was kept painfully silenced. I hope you will listen with a posture to learn and curiosity for celebrating the Black women in your path. Faith Brooks is a writer, speaker, social worker, activist, and co-host of the “Melanated Faith” podcast. She engages in activism to find sustainable solutions to systemicALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HEREConnect with Faitth:  InstagramListen to Faitth's podcast:  Melanated Faith PodcastBooks by FaitthRemember Me Now, A Journey Back to Myself and a Love Letter to Black Women The Anti-Racism Journal: Questions and Practices to Move Beyond Performative AllyshipWhat Faitth is Reading and WatchingLeadership on the LineWhat Matters MostListening for GodSeveranceConnect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTube

In 2020, I launched Ivey Media, the company that contains everything I do – writing, speaking, and yes, podcasting. We thought as a team, “What if we had more podcasts that we could help, supporting people as they dream about and host their shows, and find advertisers so these hosts can make podcasting their jobs?” It’s from that place that the Ivey Media Podcasts collective was created and it launched last summer! One of the shows on our network is Ministry Strong. Ministry Strong exists to strengthen and encourage ministry leaders to serve Jesus with integrity for the long haul. Ministry Strong is hosted by my friend, Lisa Whittle, who you probably know if you’ve been a long-time listener of The Happy Hour. Lisa also co-hosts our new parenting show, Launch, with me. The second half of Ministry Strong’s first season is live TODAY, and I want to play an episode for you so you can get a sense of the conversations that take place on that show between Lisa and her Season 1 co-host, Joel Muddamalle.The episode you will hear today is episode five. Lisa and Joel tackle the topic of church hurt and spiritual abuse in this episode. They talk about the importance of clearly defining these terms and how to tell the difference. As a bonus, Lisa and Joel discuss how “honor culture” and entitlement fit into the equation. Take a listen. You won’t regret it! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The same way you fall in love with your favorite authors and storytellers, whether it’s through movies or podcasts… allow God to become that again in your life” – Kat Armstrong If you are like me walking into the year, you have all these thoughts about wanting to eat better, exercise more, and maintain great friendships. Or maybe you are saying, “I want to get back into God’s Word.” If that is you, I have a great show for you today!My guest is Kat Armstrong and she is one of my favorite Bible teachers. Not only that, but she’s in the running for the guest we’ve maybe had on more times than anyone else – five times! Kat is wise, she is genuine, and she has two new Bible studies releasing next week. What I love about these studies is that they can be done individually or with a group. The “Storyline Bible Studies” will guide you through the storylines of scripture as they each follow people, places, or things in the Bible. Kat and I spend time today talking about the first two studies, Mountains and Valleys. We talk about what it means to get back into God’s Word if you’ve been afraid, if you’ve been hurt, or if you have felt unwelcome because of His Word. Kats shares how she would introduce someone who’s scared or overwhelmed to start reading the Bible. She says to keep reading until you run into a rabbit trail, and if you find yourself overwhelmed, pause your plan and give your brain a break to help dive in again. We really want to encourage you to look at God’s Word as one whole big story, telling God’s story of love toward us.   Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey friends, and happy Friday! Cheers to the second episode of The Happy Hour 2023! I have a first-time guest on today, Ericka Anderson, and she has listened to all five hundred and fifty-one episodes of The Happy Hour! Ericka is a mom, wife, freelance writer, and podcaster who recently wrote a book called “Reason to Return,” focused on the topic of women leaving the church. 16 million American women have left the church in the last decade, and Ericka shares a few reasons why. Some of these reasons include trauma, busyness, and church hurt. Other women may leave the church because they feel unseen or alone in their current season of life, such as single women not feeling like their needs are being met. Erica even shares her story of church trauma. I’m telling you, her experience is something worth listening to, even if it’s really hard to hear. For most women that walk away from the church, it’s not usually because they have a problem with God; it’s the people who have hurt them. After all, churches are full of broken, sinful people  – you and me included! But Ericka’s hope in writing “Reason to Return” is to help draw women back to a body of believers, one that is good and healthy for them to be a part of. Ericka and I wrap up our conversation with a beautiful story about the friend Ericka had in mind when she wrote this book. This specific person was absent from the church completely. While Ericka was still writing the book, that woman walked into a church one day and gave her life to Jesus! What an answer to prayer! While Ericka’s friend didn’t read “Reason to Return” before that day, I pray this story brings you hope that there are Jesus-loving people in a church somewhere, ready to welcome you (or someone you know) into their church family. If you or a loved one is in hard church season, I pray you’ll pick up a copy of “Reason to Return” and see how Ericka’s story might minister to you. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Happy New Year! I cannot believe we are entering another year! Welcome to the very first episode of The Happy Hour in 2023. It may be a little early in the year to declare this, but my conversation today is probably going to be one of my favorite episodes when I do a “2023 year in review” in December!  The team and I thought about doing something different to start the new by letting my dear friend Jackie Hill Perry interview me. I think we all know who Jackie is, but if you’re not familiar, I’m delighted to introduce you! Jackie is a wife and mom, the author of Gay Girl Good God and Holier Than Thou, co-host of the Thirty Minutes with The Perrys podcast alongside her husband Preston, and a gifted preacher. I have never been interviewed on my show but this was so much fun!Jackie puts me in the hot seat, for sure! She’s asking all the questions and she does not hold back. We talk about me preaching for the first time in a church on a Sunday morning. We discuss the topic of women in leadership, as well as my obsession with watching “Sister Wives.” I even get very vulnerable about something that until this conversation, I had only shared with five people. You will definitely want to push play to hear what I share. Jackie leaves us with great wisdom with the reminder that God’s ‘no’ is not mean. His ‘no is never wasted or lacking in love, but when He says ‘no,’ it is training and disciplining us to trust the Father. Friends, I hope your new year is off to a great start! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Can you believe Christmas is this Sunday?! What a year this has been! I cannot believe this is the final episode of 2022. I’m closing out December with a conversation with my dear friend Vivian Mubani! Vivian is no stranger to The Happy Hour – she was my guest on Episodes #59 and #251. Today we talk about her podcast, Someday Is Here (which is on our Ivey Media Podcasts network!), her hope for the Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) community, her cancer journey, and why representation matters. Vivian’s podcast is targeted towards Asian Americans, and she shares about the AAPI community and how the intersection of the eastern and western worlds impacts our faith, our leadership, and how we do life. Although Someday Is Here is meant to speak to the unique experience of Asian Americans, Vivian also welcomes those who do not identify as such, because Vivian understands that we are better when we are learning together. I have learned so much from my dear friend about the AAPI community and I hope you will join me in learning more about why the representation of these brothers and sisters really matters. A big THANK YOU to all of our Happy Hour listeners this year! This show wouldn’t be possible with you all, and I am so grateful that you take time out of your day to listen!Have a Merry Christmas, friends! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK! It is so very true, and today you get to meet my whole team! My heart overflows with love for each of the ladies you will hear from today. The gifts, talents, voices, and personalities they bring not only make our company better, but they make me better as well. Ivey Media has been through so much growth this year. It has also been so sweet to merge so many beautiful people together in one company!I ask each woman about four things: What they love about working at Ivey Media, their personal and/or professional goals for 2023, their favorite book they read in 2022, and their favorite episode of The Happy Hour from this past year.First up is Lyndsey Sweeney! Without Lyndsey, this show simply would not function. Lyndsey is our Director of Operations and she has been with me for five years now. Lyndsey shares how she has seen the company grow and how God moved her own personal story and giftings into the Ivey Media space. I am so honored to have Lyndsey on this team. Second up is Angie Elkins. Angie is our Manager of Podcasts, which means she edits all the episodes and makes sure they are ready for our listeners. Angie has been with Ivey Media for one year now and we are all so thankful for the joy she brings to work! Third up is Amanda Reed! Amanda manages our partnerships and she loves that her role helps bring podcasting conversations to life. Amanda and her husband also introduced me to Austin FC and let me just say, I’m a true soccer fan now because of the Reeds. I’m grateful for all the work Amanda does to keep Ivey Media moving forward. Fourth up is Shannon Stone! Shannon handles all things dealing with finances, HR, and insurance. Although Shannon is not in the office very often, I’m always mentioning her name in the office and want her input on many more things besides finances. Shannon is such a gift to me and our whole team!  Fifth up is Ashley Colwell! Ashley recently joined our team as the Podcast Production Assistant, which means she talks to all the guests, does the scheduling, and does a whole lot of communicating via email. Fun fact: Ashley has listened to The Happy Hour since the very first episode, and even before then, she would read my blogs! It’s so fun to have her here now helping us to produce the show! And last but not least, Ashley Minor! Ashley’s role is Podcast Assistant, and she writes our show notes and schedules the episodes to go out on the blog and Simplecast so that they can then be downloaded or streamed by our listeners. Ashley was on The Happy Hour back in October of this year, when we talked about the Texas Longhorns and college ministry. Ashley, thank you for all you do! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

With the big day right around the corner, today is our last episode for our Characters of Christmas series! I personally feel like I have grown and learned so much with each conversation about Jesus’ birth, and my heart feels more ready to anticipate and celebrate on Christmas Day.Today’s guest is no stranger to The Happy Hour and he is going to end our series by sharing about the Wiseman – how they point us back to Jesus and how we can see the character of Jesus through them. Preston Perry is a poet, Bible teacher, and podcaster, and he gives us great insight about how we should imitate the Wisemen’s faith in Jesus. He said the Wiseman are wise not because of their own knowledge, but because their wisdom is rooted in their faith in God. They had to have a measure of faith to have traveled all that way to believe in the prophecy that the Messiah would come. Another thing Preston said that struck me was when he pointed out the 900 miles (!!) the Wiseman traveled to see Jesus. Preston said that causes him to observe his own life and ask the question, “How far am I willing to go to meet Jesus?” We ended our conversation by discussing the joy the Wisemen had when they finally laid their eyes on Jesus, and how we too should have great joy when we enter into His presence. What a series this has been! I am so thankful to be reminded of the real reason why we celebrate. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The holidays can be a tough time for people, but what we can find in today’s story is that God is faithful no matter what you are going through. God is faithful to His Word, He keeps his promises, and when we act in faith, we can know that He will always respond. Today my guest is Pastor Bryan Carter, senior pastor at Concord Church in Dallas. We are continuing our Characters of Christmas series, and today we are talking about the Shepherds. I ask Pastor Bryan why it’s important that the Shepherds were the first to hear about Jesus, and how their character points us back to Jesus. Considered unclean and without status, the Shepherds are included in the announcement of Jesus Christ. For us, that is good news because it shows us that God sees all people no matter their popularity. This shows Jesus as a Shepherd by choosing the Shepherds to be a part of the announcing of His birth. Pastor Bryan mentioned how the Shepherds did not delay going to Bethlehem, and that shows us their confidence and faith in God. We too should hear the voice of God and not delay when He calls us. Pastor Bryan also mentioned how this story links us to Jesus not only being a shepherd but also the Lamb who washes away all of our sins, which means that we can have hope that He will shepherd and restore His people.  Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

I hope y’all are enjoying these seasonal episodes about the Characters of Christmas! Today we’re focusing on the angels, and there is no other person that I think fits this topic than my friend Ellie Holcomb. Ellie has been on The Happy Hour before and she also recently released her latest children’s book, Sounding Joy.Sounding Joy goes hand in hand with today’s show. I read a little of her book at the end of the episode, and I think after listening that you will want to buy a copy! We talk about how remembering the angels points us back to Jesus, what Ellie sees about the character of Jesus through the angels, and what stands out about the angels when Ellie thinks about the birth of Jesus this year. Ellie discusses a moment from her childhood when she remembers singing “Joy to the World” that led her to think about what it truly means to“Repeat the sounding joy.” Ellie shares how this song shows the heart of God – because the angels are the ones singing it, we are invited into the songs as well. Today’s episode ends with Ellie challenging us to think about what it would look like to continue to sing that song the angels sang all those years ago. Doing so points us back to being peacemakers, to being people who are about reconciliation, and being the hope for people who are in a time of suffering. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

We are continuing our Characters of Christmas series with today’s guest Ross Lester. Ross is a friend of mine, he’s the campus pastor at one of our locations of The Austin Stone Community Church, and he is no stranger to The Happy Hour. Ross was on Episode #375, and I’m excited to have him back to talk about Joseph, the father of  Jesus’ during His time spent on earth. Listen, you are in for a great episode! Ross and I talk about the relationship between Joseph and Jesus, and you guys, I’m really curious if Jesus gave Joseph a few secrets while they were working in the shop together. I wonder if they talked about all the daddy-son things. I ask Ross the same questions I have asked our previous guest during this series: How does Joseph point us back to Jesus, and what do we see about God’s character through Joseph and Jesus’ relationship? One thing I’ve never thought about that Ross mentioned is that when Mary, Joseph’s fiance, comes to him saying she’s pregnant as a virgin, Joseph could have immediately put her before the court. In that time, Mary would have been stoned to death publicly. But instead, Joseph is so Christ-like that he lives out the story of the woman caught in adultery in John 8, instead wanting to divorce Mary privately instead of having her tried. Ross says he believes Joseph wanted to release Mary and actually give her another opportunity to rebuild her life instead of being put to death. The Bible describes Joseph as a righteous man and we see that all throughout the Bible when his name is mentioned. Joseph models Christ by being obedient. He kept the law, which is all about mercy. He signs up to take on a child that’s not his own biologically. He eventually has to move his young family to Egypt to protect Jesus. And Joseph is full of humility – he doesn’t center himself in the story. I don’t know about you, but my desire is to live a righteous life devoted to God like Joseph.After listening to today’s episode, you are going to love Jesus more as you learn more about the people who surrounded him at His birth.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hi friends! We are continuing our Characters of Christmas series with my guest Jami Nato. Jami was on The Happy Hour back in 2016. We re-aired that episode in 2021 during our Flashback Friday podcast series, and now Jami is back with us to talk all about Mary, the mother of Jesus. Maybe December is a hard month for you or maybe 2022 has been a particularly challenging year for you. I want to encourage you to lean into this last month of the year standing on something that is unshakeable: Jesus Christ. On today’s episode, Jami and I talk about how Mary’s character points us to Jesus, and Jami tells us what she observes about the character of God through Mary’s role in His birth. Jami talked about how God built a community for Mary because He knew she would be afraid, and how even during His death, He provided for Mary. The beautiful thing is that Jesus is doing the same thing for us today. He knows that we are afraid of certain things, so He creates community for us. Then, with the Holy Spirit living inside of us as believers, He still guides us and gives us provision. That is the hope that you can stand on in this season. I hope you were encouraged during this episode and that you walk away from listening knowing that even during the hard days, you can still have joy, hope and peace through Jesus Christ.   Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hi Friends! I have loved this last year with our rhythm of episode series, bringing you conversations all centered around a specific topic or theme. Today, we’re starting our next series, called Characters of Christmas! Today’s guest is my friend Rebecca McLaughlin who is no stranger to The Happy Hour. Some of you may remember Rebecca from Episode #402 when we talked about her book Confronting Christianity. Rebecca holds a Ph.D. from Cambridge University and a theology degree from Oak Hill College. Her first book, Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World’s Largest Religion, was named Christianity Today’s 2020 Book of the Year! In this episode, we talk about Rebecca’s latest book, Jesus Through The Eyes of Women. We discuss why we as Christians believe what we believe, because what we believe should inform the way we approach Christmas to honor and celebrate the birth of Jesus! There are four questions Rebecaa asks in this book that are very helpful if you are engaging with nonbelievers on the topic of Christmas. These questions are: Was Jesus a real person? Can we take the gospels seriously? How can you believe in a virgin birth? And finally, why does it matter? We’ve got even more Christmas conversations coming your way, and this episode with Rebecca really helps to set the scene for what’s to come. Enjoy!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey you guys! Today my guest on The Happy Hour is someone new to me, and that’s Rich Villodas. Rich is from New York, has been married to his wife Rosie for 16 years, and they have two children together, Karis and Nathan. Rich has been at New Life Fellowship Church for 15  years, 10 of those spent as head pastor. New Life Fellowship Church was founded in 1987 and there are over 75 nations represented in his church, in an area where 123 languages are spoken! Rich and I talk about his latest book that he released this past summer, Good and Beautiful and Kind: Becoming Whole in a Fractured World. This is a book we all need, because we are definitely living in a fractured world and we see those fractures around us all the time. Rich explains the three fractures he has seen in his church and fractures he sees happening all around the world. Rich says we are living in C.P.R. world: Covid, Political, and Racism. We are having a hard time breathing, and our hearts are whaling. In his new book, Rich starts with sin, reframing it in a way that would lean toward beauty, goodness, and kindness. Becoming whole is something we have been longing for as people since Genesis 3, and in Rich’s new book, he helps and guides us back to experiencing being whole again.We all long for beauty, goodness, and kindness, but we will not get there by accident. Transformation won’t take place without us actually doing the work. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Make connection today to a child through compassion. CLICK HERE TO SPONSORI love any time I get to sit down with my friend Jonathan and talk about Compassion International, so today is automatically up there in my list of favorites. After my conversation with Jonathan, stick around for Angie Elkins’ conversation on this episode with Dr. Yannely Suero, another former Compassion child who is now a pediatrician! Compassion International’s mission is to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name. During the episode, Jonathan and I talk about what Compassion does for children in the Dominican Republic, what happens when we say ‘yes’ to sponsoring a child, and how families and generations are changed forever through Compassion sponsorships. Jonathan shares his amazing story about what Compassion did for him! His sponsor, Jamie from Michigan, would write letters to him saying simple things like, “I’m thankful for you and I’m praying for you,” and that helped him to feel as though God had placed people around him for love and support, even thousands of miles away. Now Jonathan’s family – because of his sponsor Jamie’s $38 monthly gift – live a completely different life. He and his children are not enslaved to poverty, because of Compassion. Jonathan says Compassion is more than people writing a check: it’s about people truly joining in God’s mission. As a sponsor, I totally agree with Jonathan! My family and I sponsor four kids in Kenya, Haiti, Peru and Mexico City – it has not only been life changing for each of them but for my family as well. The second part of today’s episode is a conversation between Ivey Media’s own Angie Elkins and Yannely, another former Compassion child. Yannely also had an incredible sponsor, Dorothy, who encouraged her greatly, even prophesying that Yannely could be an amazing doctor – and now Yannely is a pediatrician! If you are not already sponsoring a child, I hope that you will pray about taking the next step to help another child who is waiting for sponsorship to change their life too. You never know what your $38 dollars can do for a child and for an entire generation. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It’s time again for one of my favorite things we do all year – the Holiday Gift Guide! Our team has been in the Christmas spirit since August as we’ve worked to pull together this year’s Gift Guide, and we’re thrilled to share it with you today.This year’s Gift Guide includes small and woman-owned businesses, ethically made products, companies with give-back models, and cause- or faith-based companies. As you’re planning your holiday shopping, our hope is that you’ll shop small and support these incredible people!We had the best time in early October at our Holiday Gift Guide LIVE! Event, and we captured all the fun through a podcast recording and YouTube video. In listening or watching, you’ll learn even more about these amazing brands and their products… plus these brands have exclusive discounts mentioned ONLY in the podcast + video content, so you’ll want to be sure and write those down too!Happy shopping, friends, and merry (early) Christmas!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

If you’re not quite in the Christmas spirit yet, I think this episode will get you there, especially as we keep our focus on the birth of Jesus. In today’s episode, I interview four people, plus I’m giving away a ton of things (!!) so you want to stick around until the end! My first guest is David Taylor and let me just say, after talking with David, I’m inspired to go and get my doctorate degree. David is a professor at Fuller University and he teaches about the Trinity, the Bible, and creation. His ultimate goal is for his students to know and love God. In this episode, David defines the meaning of Advent, discusses why it matters, and stresses the importance of churches and followers of Jesus committing to the practice of Advent.My second guest is Clayton Greene. Clayton helps us to uniquely anticipate the days leading up to Christmas with our kids – not for the gifts they’ll receive but in anticipation of the birth of Jesus. I asked Clayton why Advent is so important to him and his family, and I think we can all relate to his story. In explaining to his five-year-old daughter that Christmas is all about Jesus, Clayton was met with her actual perception of the holiday, as she vocalized to him that Christmas felt like it was all about receiving presents. That’s when Clayton said he had to do something about his family’s priorities, so he created Advent Blocks. Advent Blocks are a way for kids to anticipate the story of Jesus leading up to Christmas instead of anticipating what gifts may be under the tree. When Clayton first started Advent Blocks, there were five families participating – today, around 16,000 families use Advent Blocks each year to observe Advent as a family! My last guests are Raechel and Amanda, founder and co-founder of She Reads Truth. If you have been listening to the show for a while, you know these two are no strangers to The Happy Hour! Raechel and Amanda’s desire is for every person to have a heart that longs for Jesus. They have written serval great resources, and we talk about their most recent resource, “Joy of Every Longing Heart.” We end our conversation by sharing how we can look at the Christmas story and focus on our Savior’s return.These resources that my friends have created are very helpful and they remind us what this Christmas season is all about: the birth of our Lord and Savior. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about pornography and sex addictions.This Boundaries series has been a fun and meaningful one for us to put together, and I can’t believe we’ve reached the end of these episodes! For our final interview of the series, Jim Cress closes us out, and there couldn’t have been a more perfect person to wrap it all up. Jim is a father, a husband of almost 38 years, a licensed professional counselor and certified sex addiction therapist, as well as an ordained minister through Dallas Baptist Seminary.  Jim and I talk about boundaries within a marriage, why boundaries in a marriage are necessary, defining what a boundary is, and what it looks like for a parent to walk through a pornography addiction with their child. Boundaries can seem like a scary thing but my hope for you is that you see boundaries as good things. Boundaries are to keep us safe, which is an example of agape love because we are called to love our neighbors as we love ourselves – we can only do that if we are setting good boundaries. Jim defined a boundary as, “Not controlling the other person but controlling ourselves,” and when we understand this, we begin to set boundaries more frequently.We wrapped up our conversation discussing how spouses should address one another when one may be struggling with pornography, along with practical ways to be proactive with your kids about their sexual life. These are not easy conversations, but if we declare what is true and seek help, we can have hope that things will change.I hope you have enjoyed this series as much as I did. Now let’s go out and live healthier lives by setting good boundaries with our spouses, kids, friends, co-workers, and our technology. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey friends! I hope you are enjoying our Boundaries series as much as I am. Today is special – we have two interviews in one show, with three total guests! The focus of these conversations is boundaries with technology. I know this can be a touchy subject, but I encourage you to really lean in and examine your own relationship with technology as you listen.  First up is Tracy Foster, co-founder and executive director of Screen Sanity. Screen Sanity’s main focus is to maximize the benefits of technology while minimizing the side effects for kids. The second half of today’s episode is with Heath Wilson and Joey Odom, co-founders of technology company Aro. Their mission is to help people experience life uninterrupted by reducing time spent on devices.I think we can all agree that technology can be detrimental to family time, self-time, and even our ability to focus at work. In fact, I learned through today’s conversations that technology is one of the biggest obstacles families are facing right now, more than sex more than drugs. Tracy and I talk about boundaries with kids and social media, and about the playbook that Screen Sanity created for kids. We talk about how parents, adults, and teachers can help create healthy boundaries around technology. Tracy even walks us through how online companies target our kids to get as much time from them as possible, and encourages an emphasis on family values to help children understand why boundaries are put in place.Heath and Joey talk about one of the main reasons technology is a problem for us today – it’s because we don’t have a place for it. Defining the proper place for technology is the first step to cutting back on time spent on our phones. We talk about how Aro got started as a company, and the story is one I’m sure we can all relate to. When Heath’s son was five, he was playing in a soccer game and had not scored a goal all year. Until one day Heath’s son’s soccer dream came true and he scored a goal. But Heath missed the moment because he was looking down at his phone! It was at that moment Heath knew he had to come up with a solution for experiencing life uninterrupted with our cellular devices, and Aro was born. This Boundaries conversation is a good one! I can’t wait to hear what you think.   Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

We are continuing on in our new Boundaries series and it just keeps getting better! Today on the show is my friend, Dr. Alison Cook. Alison is a psychologist, has her own private practice, writes, coaches, and has worked as a therapist for women for approximately 20 years. Alison and I talk about how embracing healthy boundaries sometimes starts with setting initial boundaries for ourselves. She explains what it means to get to know the state of our soul, taking those parts of us that were formed when we were younger and what keeps us from moving past those wounds and burdens. We talk about why doing the internal work is so important and we end our conversation with Alison explaining the difference between codependency versus healthy dependency. Alison says boundaries aren’t primarily the exercise of saying ‘no’ to other people. Rather, boundaries are about saying yes to yourself and your own work of healing. It takes a lot of courage to say there is a wound inside of us that needs healing, but until we can understand ourselves more fully, we will be unable to create good boundaries. Alison believes our own internal work precedes the work of boundaries. The degree to which we are dealing with our own souls and the woundedness is the capacity with which we will be able to show up with others. Boundaries are not an easy thing, but as Alison will help you to see today, boundaries are meant to protect our beautiful souls.   Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey friends! We are starting a new series today called Boundaries, and as hard as boundaries may be for some of us, I really think you’re going to enjoy these conversations. I’m starting off the series with my dear friend, Lysa Terkeurst. Lysa is no stranger to The Happy Hour, and I’m sure many of you know her name. She is an author and speaker, not to mention an impactful communicator of God’s Word. Lysa recently wrote a book called Good Boundaries and Goodbyes, which I had the privilege and honor to endorse. Let me just say, you need to grab yourself a copy!In addition to talking about the new book, Lysa and I also have a discussion about the fact that people don’t understand that it’s perfectly okay to set healthy boundaries. We don’t know when it’s time to say goodbye, or what it truly means to love one another. And many of us have believed the lie that it’s un-Christian to put boundaries in place. Lysa wrote Good Boundaries and Goodbyes as a follow up to another of her books. She realized after writing Forgiving What You Can’t Forget that she needed to work on boundaries in her own life and get to the root issue of why she struggled to do so. Lysa says she was afraid to make boundaries because it could possibly disappoint people and they may walk away or stop providing what she thought only they could provide to make her feel okay in this world. Truth be told, when we set boundaries with people, sometimes it does upset them. But Lysa says, if we are afraid that someone is going to reject us or be upset with us, that person already had a high likelihood of eventually rejecting us one day. Boundaries aren’t just a good idea; they’re God’s idea. Join me today for a great conversation with my friend, Lysa Terkeurst. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

I’m sad to say that we’re wrapping up our Collaboration Over Competition series, but we are finishing strong! My guests today are two of my dear friends, Lisa Whittle and Alli Worthington, founders of the organization Called Creatives. Called Creatives is a private coaching community with hands-on training for those who want to write and speak with influence and impact. With a growing membership base of more than 500, Called Creatives provides opportunities for mastermind groups, publishing support, private events, and so much more! In today’s episode, we talk about how Alli and Lisa meld their gifts together, how they work to overcome any feelings of jealousy, and what it looks like for them to collaborate with one another. I asked Lisa and Alli how the idea for Called Creatives came to be, and let me just say, I wish I had a personality like Alli. Alli decided she wanted to do a membership site for creative women who wanted to write and speak because nothing like it existed for women in that area. With no fear or hesitation, Alli immediately got started but she didn't want to do it alone. Alli prayed about the idea, and less than five minutes later, the Lord spoke very clearly to her: “It’s Lisa”. Lisa, on the other hand, was a bit more hesitant about collaborating with anyone because she said she really struggles to trust others. In fact, Lisa told Alli that she did not trust her when Alli first asked! Lisa says although she was afraid, she knew she just needed to take one step. Lisa reminds us that initial fear and not feeling “all in” in the early stages of something doesn’t mean we shouldn’t just start. See how it goes! Do it afraid.  Together, Alli and Lisa are thriving as teammates. Within their community of 500 members, more than THIRTY books will be published by the end of this year! That’s what intentionally choosing to collaborate can do! I hope you have enjoyed this series and that you have a new perspective on the decision to choose collaboration over competition, wherever in your life competition may start to creep in.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My next two guests are mastering collaboration over competition. Together, they have written several books, including Are My Kids On Track, and Intentional Parenting. They are also the hosts of the Raising Boys & Girls podcast. Sissy Goff is the Director of Child and Adolescent Counseling at Daystar Counseling Ministries for more than thirty years. David has been at Daystar for 25 years, now serving as the Director of Family Counseling. Have you enjoyed our Collaboration Over Competition series so far? If so, it only gets better! On the episode today, David and Sissy talk about the fear of someone liking the other person’s books more than they like yours, and how we can benefit from each other’s strengths. We also have a discussion on what Sissy and David say are the greatest struggles parents today face, and whether or not parents are responding adequately to kids who might be dealing with depression. David mentioned that he has only authored one book by himself, and he believes collaborating with others makes him a better writer. He says it is so much better when we work together and surround ourselves with people who outpace us. We talked about anxiety and the stress kids experience today as they apply to get into college, and that is something I’ve only recently come to learn in starting to launch my own children. When I was applying to get into college, it was not competitive – now, kids are up against so many other applicants just to get into their college of choice, and it is causing anxiety to rise dramatically. Sissy says, “Reminding them of their courage in the moments of anxiety starts with us. We have to use wise words to help our children get through the pressures that are weighing down on them.” Enjoy today’s show! If you find it encouraging, share it with a friend.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

If you are an HGTV home renovation fan, you’re going to know exactly who my guests are today. Dave and Jenny Marrs are the stars of HGTV’s “Fixer to Fabulous.” Dave is the builder while Jenny supports the design side of the business. They live on a farm, have five beautiful children, and are currently filming season four of their show! On this episode, we talk about what it’s like to work together as a married couple, both in parenting their kids and within their business. Plus they share with me how they remember and celebrate each other’s strengths, and tell the story of how “Fixer to Fabulous” came to be. Jenny and Dave live in Bentonville, Arkansas, one of my favorite places, and it is also where they renovate all of their houses. Do you ever think, “I’ll try this for a little while and then move on to something else after a while”? That’s exactly what Dave and Jenny thought when HGTV approached them about filming a show, but here they are, five years later, still sharing their renovation projects with the world on TV. While Jenny and Dave are thankful for “Fixer To Fabulous” and the meaningful work they get to do together, prioritizing their family-first mindset and keeping Jesus at the center is their main priority. Dave and Jenny are using their platform to shine their lights in a darkened world. Join me for another fun conversation on collaborating over competing! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I want people to hear and know that you don’t have to be afraid of ruptures (in a relationship). When you rupture and you’re committed to repairing, what is built on the other side of that is actually more powerful, more intimate, and more committed.”We are continuing our Collaboration Over Competition series, and my guests today are no strangers to The Happy Hour. Jessica Honegger and Liz Forkin Bohannon recently merged their two awesome companies together! Jessica is the founder of Noonday Collection and Liz is the founder of Sseko Designs. On this episode, we talk about what that process and decision was like for them, being that their companies were each other’s competition in the ethical fashion space. We cover a lot in our conversation. Like how Liz moved to Uganda with a passion and desire to build a community and gain a deeper understanding about issues impacting women and girls living in extreme poverty. And how Jessica believes that relationships are a part of who we are all created to be.  Jessica talked about how she wanted Liz to come on her podcast and how it was not an easy decision to invite Liz into her space where she would talk about her company. We talk about jealousy, not valuing each other’s decisions, and the power of merging their companies for collaboration, not competition. Together Liz and Jessica really care about global poverty and cleaning up the fashion supply chain, and I’m excited for you to hear from them today! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today we are starting a new series called “Collaboration Over Competition,” and I’m super excited about my guests. I’m joined by my husband Aaron and my dear friend Jaleesa McCreary. Aaron and Jaleesa work together at The Austin Stone Community Church, and in this episode we talk about how they collaborate in the workplace.In addition to leading worship at our church’s downtown congregation, Jaleesa is the worship team manager, overseeing all of the worship leaders across our six different campuses. As the pastor of worship and creativity, Aaron leads and serves the creative teams at all six locations, supporting the people tasked with design, film, and production. Aaron and Jaleesa share their story, the journey they’ve taken to get where they are today, and what it’s like working together. We talk about the dynamics of the relationship between males and females, how they work through conflicts when things arise, and why it’s hard for people to collaborate, especially working in the church. We talk about how Jaleesa has felt championed by Aaron, and what it looks like for Aaron to empower women. Jaleesa says what helps her in her role is thinking of herself less as the person who leads the worship leaders and more as the person who serves the worship leaders. You’re going to love this conversation, and we’ve got more episodes on “Collaboration Over Competition” coming your way next week, too! Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It’s not often you hear me say, “Sic’em Bears,” but today is one of those days. My guest is Scott Drew, and if you are a fan of college basketball, I’m sure the name is very familiar to you. I know some of you are probably thinking, “Is this becoming a sports podcast?” But whether you like sports or not, you can get something really meaningful from this episode.Coach Drew is the head men’s basketball coach at Baylor University. We talk about how he manages the tension of talking about Jesus, others, and yourself (J.O.Y.) with players who aren’t Christians. We discuss his golden season winning the NCAA National Championship in 2021, what he does to make sure his wife and kids know that they have his undivided attention, and how he led his student-athletes through a COVID year. Although it’s every coach’s dream to win a national championship, Coach Drew’s main priority is to keep Jesus at the center of his team. He does that is by having team Bible studies, enforcing a no-cussing policy in practice, and starting and finishing every practice with prayer. If you’re not a Baylor or basketball fan, I strongly believe that after you listen to today’s episode you will be a Scott Drew fan!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

*Trigger warning – Suicide is very briefly discussed in this episode, along with a story of infidelity.*Gosh, what a deep, authentic and vulnerable episode this was with my guest Manda Carpenter. Manda is the author of Soul Care To Save Your Life, which was released in August of this year. Manda opens up about her infidelity and how it almost stole her marriage. Not only that, her infidelity almost caused Manda to take her own life. Just as she does in her book, Manda gets very personal about what led to her affair and how she immediately felt ashamed. Manda had believed her whole life that infidelity was an unforgivable sin, which made it very difficult for her to tell her husband. Then one day, the Lord brought a mentor into her life who would help Manda to confess to her husband and then encouraged Manda to seek counseling. I know some of you may be thinking you can’t relate to the topics discussed in this episode, but don’t skip this one. Our stories may be different, but I think we can all relate to the vulnerability, shame, and humility Manda expresses through our conversation. Or maybe your life, or the life of someone close to you, has been impacted by unfaithfulness. Should you choose to listen, I hope you walk away feeling seen and encouraged, not alone. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

If you have been listening to my show for a while now, you may be familiar with today’s guest. Shannan Martin joined me back in 2015 on Episode #45 to share about her family’s life and mission. Today we talk about a number of things, including the practice of waking up and how Shannan defines ‘neighbor,’ plus systematic injustice and the black squares that everyone posted on social media in 2020. Shannan is the author of The Ministry of Ordinary Places, Falling Tree, and her newest book, Start With Hello, which releases October 11. Connecting with neighbors in intentional ways is something that screams “Shannan and Corey Martin.” Shannan says Start With Hello started in her family’s neighborhood as she found her heart gravitating toward connecting with the people around her, especially people who don’t look like her. Shannan says her calling is to live as a neighbor, which she defines as anyone who her life intersects with. Everything she knows about living as a neighbor she said she learned from her neighbors. We can love our neighbors like Shannan by being intentional, starting with hello. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“You don’t have to be gifted with hospitality because it’s a command given to us by God.” -Amy Hannon Ouch! Amy Hannon may have convicted a lot of us with that statement. I’m not sure about you, but my hospitality is great when my clothes are folded and put away, the sink isn’t full of dishes, and the house is clean. On this episode, Amy reminds me that everyday hospitality is not photogenic and that inviting people into my messy spaces creates the common ground we’re all dying to find. When it comes to hospitality, my dear friend Amy does it well. I don’t just say that because she’s on the podcast – I have actually visited her home and experienced her hospitality firsthand. Amy recently wrote a book that releases on October 18 called Gather and Give: Sharing God’s Heart Through Everyday Hospitality. Amy shares why hospitality is not a gift that some of us have but it’s a command given to us by God. Biblical hospitality is not overwhelming and you don’t have to be good at it. Biblical hospitality understands that a simple invitation for connection and community creates the perfect opportunity for emotional, relational, and spiritual transactions to take place. What a convicting but encouraging episode! Join Amy and me as we talk about how we can bring hospitality into our everyday lives.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The church needs to be the safest place on earth where you don't have to whisper about anything. It is the place God intended for you to find life, love, relationship, comfort, and strength.” - Kay Warren I want to provide a warning that for the majority of this episode, our conversation is centered around mental health and suicide. Today my guest is author, speaker, advocate, and pastor’s wife, Kay Warren. We talk about mental health, suicide, our Enneagram numbers, and the church she and her husband Rick founded and pastored for more than 42 years. Yes, you read that right – four decades serving at the same church! Kay discusses their intentionality and how she and Rick made it to the end of their pastoral journey with integrity, humility, and generosity. There is a moment when we get very personal and Kay opens up about the loss of her son, the 27 years God gave her with him, and how she found herself thrust into being an advocate for people with mental illness. Out of her experience, she founded an organization called Breathe, which provides a safe and welcoming community for families who have a child of any age with mental health challenges. Despite the hard nature of the topic, I hope you feel encouraged today by my conversation with Kay!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“We’ve been fighting to save girls’ lives and end gendercide in India” - Jill McElya Today’s show is not like many others that I have recorded so I want to warn you before pressing play that there are some triggering stories. My guest on today’s episode is Jill McElya, President and Co-Founder of the Invisible Girl Project. IGP rescues girls in India from the danger of female gendercide, advocates for their healing, and empowers them through education. Jill shares with me the story of when she moved to India to work with IJM,  the moment God laid on her and her husband’s heart to start The Invisible Girl Project, her heart to end gendercide in India, and how she met her husband Brad while on a mission trip in India. There is a point in this episode when Jill tells a story about a woman and her husband that left me heartbroken but hopeful because of the work that’s being done with The Invisible Girl Project. What is happening to women and young girls in India is heartbreaking and I am so thankful for people like Jill, her husband, Brad, and many others who are empowering other women and men to fight against female gendercide and feticide in India.  Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The Holy Spirit is not promoting self but He is promoting Christ so that we may know Him” -Max Lucado The past couple of years have not been easy for many people. There has been a lot of grief, unexpected career changes, family conflict, and the list goes on. When life throws us curve balls it can bring on stress, weariness, and burnout. These places are not fun but the good news is that you are not alone and there is a helper (The Holy Spirit) waiting to help you. On today’s episode is my friend, Max Lucado and we talk about his new book, “Help Is Here”,  how he developed insomnia in his early twenties from his busy lifestyle, and the moment he first developed a relationship with the Holy Spirit. Max shares how he felt the Holy Spirit’s presence and how at that moment he was convicted in his teachings, and how things became clear about what they should and should not do within his church. Max traces his walk with Christ, through the Holy Spirit, back to his younger dark days as a pastor and he says those days were a game-changer for him.  Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Sometimes he’s down and I’m up but I think it’s more important than ever that we stay focused and keep perspective about things being idols in our life” - Kristi Malzahn If you know me you know one of my favorite things is college football. My guest on today’s show is Kristi Malzahn. Kristi is the wife of head coach, Gus Malzahn at The University of Central Florida. Whether you like football, love football, or even if football is not your thing, you will love this episode. Kristi talks about the family affair of coaching, knocking down idols to maintain that she and her family are focused on an audience of One, knowing when it’s time to walk away, and Kristi’s health scare. After talking to Kristi I learned that she is far more involved in the team than I thought any coach’s wife would be. Kristi plays a massive role in recruiting and treats every player like her own. One of the things I loved that Kristi shared is that she does not let her husband get too low or too high. That is the accountability we all need so that we will not live in our mess ups but also continue to walk in humility.Join me for a great conversation with my dear friend to hear what behind-the-scenes being a coach’s wife looks like.  Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“God is seen in ordinary places, in small stories and in the random-weird stories, but we often miss him because we think that He is only a part of the epic faith stories” - Melissa ZaldivarWe have all lost someone we love too early and it is never the best feeling. In fact, it sometimes leads us to our lowest moments and grieving in ways we never imagined, but it also marks us in ways that end up helping others who are in similar situations. On today's show, I sat down with my good friend, Melissa Zaldivar and we talked about her newest book, “What Cannot Be Lost”. Melissa shares about grief, loss and sorrow and how losing a close friend reminded her to pause and say what a gift and honor it is to have friendships and not just treat them like an obligation. Melissa reminded us that death hurts and death reminds us how much we are  out of control, but as Christians we do not have to be afraid of it. She says death is something we can pause and think about and as we mourn our loved ones we can be reminded that one day we will get to see them again. Melissa’s book, “What Cannot Be Lost”, is a book I did not know I needed. I am certain that you will be blessed by our conversation and as you move forward in whatever grief that you are experiencing, I hope you will have opportunities to help someone else along the journey. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The enneagram is like an observation but the transformation is the Holy Spirit’s work -Beth McCord Guess who's back on The Happy Hour? You guessed it, Beth McCord. If you know me you know that I love talking Enneagram numbers. I know some of you are totally against The Enneagram, but don’t skip this episode too fast. Beth McCord and I talk about her new book, More Than Your Number: A Christ-Centered Enneagram Approach To Becoming Aware of Your Internal World. That’s right, a Christ-Centered Enneagram approach. Beth’s new book is faith filled and she talks about how the Enneagram is like an X-ray machine, it shows you clearly what’s going on internally, it helps you name things, but it can’t do the changing because only the Holy Spirit and the gospel can transform us. You are going to  enjoy this episode and you will have a different perspective on Enneagram types, whether you are for them or against them. Press play and join me in  celebrating Beth on her new book, More Than Your Number Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Everybody is either in a battle, on their way to a battle or they just got out of one" -Jonathan EvansToday I sat down with Jonathan Evans and we talked about his new book, Fighting Your Battles: Every Chrisitan Playbook for Victory. Jonathan is a husband, father of five beautiful children, brother to Priscilla Shirer, Chrystal Evans Hurst and Anthony Evans and the son of Dr. Tony Evans. Jonathan is a former NFL player and he is now the chaplain of the Dallas Cowboys football team. Jonathan shares some of his personal battles on today's show and how he and his wife have preserved through them all. I know can we all agree with Jonathan that everyone is either in a battle, coming out of a battle or going through a battle so we need to know how to fight our battles so that we can be victorious. His new book Fighting Your Battles teaches us that the storm does not always stop when you take the faith step. We see this in Peter’s story, he was walking on a storm when Jesus called him forward. As you trust God, Jonathan reminds us that it may still be stormy, but as you remain consistent in God's Word,  prayer, and worship, your yoke will be easier and you will experience less burden. You will be ready to fight your spiritual battles and know that you can be victorious after listening to today's episode. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE 

“What starts here changes the world” -The University of Texas On today's show I sat down with Ashley Minor, The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Representative at The University of Texas. Ashley and I talked about all of my favorite things, Jesus, football, and the Longhorns. If you are a college student, have children in college or you're not in the college world at all, there is something for you in this episode. Ashley talks about the pressure student-athletes face and how she brings the gospel into their world. She also shares her testimony - how she came to know Christ through FCA and how God said to her, “You will work with FCA”. When she heard the call, she immediately changed her major to Sports Ministry. Ashley recently started her own podcast, Come Like A Child where she talks about, desiring more while in the waiting. If you know anything about Texas, you know their famous slogan, “What starts here changes the world”. While Texas may say those words for many reasons, Ashley says them from a spiritual view, every faith seed planted at UT will one day change the world. Press play, laugh with us, and be encouraged on your faith journey.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

God doesn't give us control but he does give us agency. - Sharon MillerIf you have never known that you struggled with control, I think we can all agree that in 2020 we realized how much we struggle with control. On today's show I sat down with Sharon Miller, author, friend, mom, wife and pastor. Sharon's new book, The Cost of Control”, hits home for all of us because it unpacks why we want control and where this sin first started. Whether it's our job titles, our children, our staff, our families or even practicing the prosperity gospel, we want some form of control. If you are struggling with control you are not alone. Sharon's new book gives us some practical ways for us to move forward. How do we put down control and pick up the agency gift God has given us? We name and order the things that are causing us to want control because that's what  God does, it’s what he commanded Adam to do and it’s what we as believers in Jesus are to do as well.  Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE 

In this episode Kirsten shares about her experience mothering seven kids, being a wife to her husband, and maximizing her God given talents. Not all of you are wives or have children, but I’m sure all of us can relate to the challenges of figuring out a great work life balance. The truth of the matter is, we all can pause and take a breath as we maneuver through our busy lives.  Kirsten gives us some practical ways she slows down to invite God in every area of her life.Press play, take notes, expect to laugh and make sure to check out all the show links here.

I am so glad that we get to share this conversation with you. I sat down and talked to Justin Giboney last Spring for a breakout at the IF: Gathering. Our talk was so good I asked them if I could share it with you all and they said YES!Living with Compassion and ConvictionIn an extremely divisive world, what if there was a “third way” that would show the world God’s heart for humanity? What if our greatest evangelical tool was how we responded to today’s cultural issues with grace, love, and truth? Join Justin Giboney, founder of the AND Campaign, and Jamie Ivey, as they discuss how to live with conviction and lead with compassion. 

As I think about raising kids from birth through high school, this is the thing that sticks out the most for me. My worries about them and for them have evolved so much over the years. It seems like worry is a natural part of parenting. But, what good does worry do for us? Usually, we are worrying about something we actually have no control over. In this episode of Launch, Jamie and Lisa unpack the deep shadows of worrying about our kids, how it's often a reflection of our own insecurities, and how we can bury our worries by clinging to the only thing we need. Resources:Subscribe to LAUNCH so you never miss an episodeKids: What do I do with Worry? By Josh & Christi StraubTeen girls: Brave by Sissy GoffRaising Worry-Free Girls by Sissy GoffOvercoming Fear, Worry, and Anxiety by Elyse FitzpatrickFierce Faith by Alli WorthingtonAfraid of all the things by Scarlet Hiltibidal

I can not believe it, but yesterday my youngest child started high school.  You guys, I’m surrounded by BIG KIDS and I love it! I thought to celebrate back to school I’d bring my daughter, Story, on to The Happy Hour. You guys submitted questions and we answered them! We had so much fun recording this show. Story is hilarious as usual. When she described what it’s like to be a 14-year-old girl I almost cried. She was so honest and it’s truly insightful. She answered hard questions and silly questions, and I was just one proud mama at the end. If you too are parenting or mentoring or around teen girls, here are some great resources for you. Check them out here!

There are millions of things I love about Jackie & Preston’s podcast, and one of them is how they tackle hard subjects that matter to us all. Most of us either have or will one day experience friends leaving the faith. I’m grateful for the way the Perry’s handled this conversation today.  Subscribe to Thirty Minutes with the PerrysEP7: When friends leave the faith  Friends are like family. Especially friends that have the same faith as you. So it can be  devastating when a friend leaves the faith they once represented. On today’s episode, we will  talking about how to deal with it, including how to walk with friends that are “deconstructing”.  To get early access to 30 Minutes with The Perrys and other With The Perry’s content, join us  on patreon.com/withtheperrys www.withtheperrys.com www.jackiehillperry.comwww.preston-perry.comALL THE SHOW LINKS

I can think of no better way to start your day than with this conversation! My friend Toni launches her brand spanking new podcast into the world today and she asked me to be her first guest! What an honor!On the show I talk about how there was a season in my life where I believed my brokenness disqualified me from the love of God and others. I thought if people knew some of my secrets they would not want me, love me, or like me.  🚨Good news alert your brokenness doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love. God is in the business of using and healing broken people, and brokenness is inevitable in every season of our life. Our past sins don’t define our worthiness of something good. He is our redeemer and loves us in spite of what we have done because we are His daughters and sons.🎧Got some brokenness? Ever been afraid of being judged? Go right now and subscribe to the #StillColoringPodcast with @tonijcollier Welcome to the very first episode of the Still Coloring Podcast! During this conversation, Toni Collier & Jamie Ivey discuss “if only you knew moments” in life. What would people think if they knew certain parts of your story? How would it change their perspective and trust in you? Jamie talks about how our past sins don’t define our worthiness of something good. God is always in the business of using broken people, and brokenness is inevitable in every season of our life. He is our redeemer and loves us in spite of what we have done because we are His daughters and sons.

Click HERE for all the show notes for this episode. 

“You don’t win the battle by fighting the enemy. You win the battle of your mind by absorbing and embracing the truth of God.Today’s guest is Louie Giglio - Pastor of Passion City Church, and Founder of the Passion movement. Every time I get to talk to him, it is a big circle moment for me. Louie's ministry is a huge part of my story of how I encountered Jesus. His ministry has changed so many lives over the years, and in this episode we get the honor to hear about Louie’s story and what his first “Encounter” with Jesus was like.We also talk about the importance of telling yourself what is true in your life as a follower of Christ, parenting, and more.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey friends! On this episode of our “Encounter” series, we welcome back to the show our guest Bonnie Gray, author of “Sweet Like Jasmine”. Bonnie comes from a background of a lonely and a broken home, but God placed key people in her life that introduced her to the love of Christ and invested in her faith journey. She met Jesus in a lonely season and at a young age. Bonnie has always been drawn to reading and to stories. She encountered Jesus as she heard His story being told in a unique way at a church retreat. We also talk about the Asian-Christian community, the importance of sharing Jesus with the younger generation, and how we can meet Jesus in unusual places. I hope you enjoy this episode, and that you too are inspired by her story. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE 

“Jesus, I want to believe you. I think that you are real, and I don't know what that means.”These are the bold and sincere words that today’s guest prayed at the very moment she encountered Jesus for the first time. As we continue with our “Encounter” series, today you will get to meet our guest Phaedra Taylor. She is kind, and a very talented artist located in Austin, TX. I could talk to her for hours. Her story is so incredible and so powerful. Phaedra was raised in a cult as a Jehovah's Witness. For years she lived an oppressed and controlled life, and that was the only way she knew how to live it. Until one day, when her life was completely falling apart, she had an encounter with Jesus. This encounter was a fruit of prayers and intentionality from Christian friends she met in college. Grab some tissues, go listen, and make sure to check out Phaedra’s work linked in this episode’s  show notes.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Our new series “Encounter” is all about how Jesus can change lives. Today’s guest is Pastor Joshua Broome, and his story reminds us that no one is too far gone from the Love of God. After years of pursuing different ways to find self validation, Joshua found himself deep into the adult movie industry, living a life of shame and isolation. Until one day, a complete stranger asked him a question that made him drop everything and run towards change. That question opened the door for different and new opportunities that lead him to meet a very important person (listen to find out who! Such a beautiful story!) that would point him to the freeing and redeeming love of Jesus. Joshua’s “Encounter” with Jesus turned his life around, and today he lives to share the Gospel and help others find freedom. His story is so unique and powerful, and I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“It is impossible to say that we love God without a growing awareness of loving our neighbors as we love ourselves because God first loved us.”Today’s conversation is with Pastor Derwin Gray, and we are talking about what it truly means to love your neighbor as yourself. Not just the ones who are part of our everyday lives, but also those whom we may disagree with, those who look different than us, and those whom we may not know (or may never come to know). This conversation is rich in knowledge, and filled with SCRIPTURE and PRACTICAL ways that we can love our neighbors everywhere, all around the world. There is so much opportunity to self reflect and to learn as you listen. I hope you enjoy this conversation and that it helps you to love God and your neighbors more.Be sure to check out Pastor Derwin Gray’s new book “How to Heal our Nation Divide”. His best book yet, and such a great resource for you to continue to learn, grow, and act in love in your day-to-day life.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Friends, today’s episode is all about loving God with our mind. Do you ever find yourself desiring to learn more about Jesus and His word but not knowing where or how to start? Do you ever read the Bible and find it overwhelming or confusing to understand? You are not alone! A lot of us feel this way.Today’s guest is Kristie Anyabwile, and she beautifully explains and helps us understand how ALL of the Bible goes together and points to ONE BIG STORY. Kristie breaks down how we can use Bible genres to help us understand what we are reading, and how to interpret it. We also talk about the importance of discipleship in the church, and how the Holy Spirit helps us understand God’s word.Kristie loves God and loves studying His Word. She recently released a book called “Literarily: How Understanding Bible Genres Transforms Bible Study”, and I highly recommend you pick it up. Check out the link below to order your copy today!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Do you find yourself wondering what it looks like to love God with your body? Does loving God with your body mean finding time to work out more or implementing a diet to be a certain weight? Today’s guest is Alisa Keeton. She is such a voice of encouragement to me. In this conversation, we talk about what it truly means to love God with our body and how you don’t need to do a certain number of “jumping-jacks for Jesus” to get there. Culture teaches us a lot about our bodies and the way it should look, but God’s Word teaches us how we can use our bodies to walk in freedom and in love by partnering with our community - the Body of Christ - as we share the Gospel and serve together. Alisa Keeton has a deep desire for people to love God and teaches a lifestyle of loving Him with all of our bodies. She started her personal wellness journey in 1985 and today it has become her ministry. Alisa is the founder of “Revelation Wellness”, a nonprofit ministry that uses fitness as a tool to spread the Gospel.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Sometimes we lose sight of the value of actually working on the hard things”Today’s guest is “soul expert” Trina McNeilly, author of “Unclutter Your Soul: Overcoming What Overwhelms You” and founder of the popular La La Lovely blog. We will be talking about how we can love God with our Soul- your mind, your will, and your emotions. Trina shares wisdom and insight on how choosing vulnerability can be hard, but when we bring things to light, it can open the gates for us to experience healing and freedom. This topic is so important and I am so glad that we get to have real conversations like this one to remind us that we are not alone. Loving God is courageous work and we believe that you can do it!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It takes a lot of courage to love God with all that we have. How can we truly love Him with ALL of our heart, when our heart is occupied with so many other things that we love? Today, we are kicking off the first episode of our new five-part Summer series “Love The Lord”. This series is inspired by the passage in Luke 10:27, and we got some super fun shirts to go with it too. You are going to love them!In this episode, we are bringing back one of our favorites, Scott Sauls. He is the Senior Pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, and a dear friend of my husband and I. We talk about what it looks like to love God with all our heart in the highs and lows of life, through our emotions, and the example that the Apostle Paul sets for finding joy through disappointment. Scott’s new book “Beautiful People Don’t Just Happen” comes out on June 14th, so make sure to check it out and pre-order your copy.Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey Friends! Welcome to the 500th episode party! It is the big 500. Wow! What an incredible milestone. Today, we are bringing you an amazing, surprise filled, celebratory episode. You will get to hear from some very special guests (some familiar voices, some new) as we share memories and incredible stories with you. We are throwing it all the way back to the very first episode all the way to a HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT of what is to come around here. Here is to 500 more and beyond!Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Friend of The Happy Hour, Dustin Nickerson is back and he brought his super kind wife, Melissa. This conversation is all about their story, what life has been like being married to one another, as they have learned how to best care for one another, know one another, and serve one another, all while raising kids and building a career in Stand-Up Comedy. This is one of my favorite happy hours, there are lots of laughs (Dustin is cracking jokes all the way), there are deep thoughts on raising teens during an age with so much information accessible to our kids, and such an encouraging reflection on what it looks like to have a shared goal in supporting one another in their work. Connect with JamieFacebook //  Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Summer is here, our oldest son is graduating High School tonight, and we are days away from an epic family vacation adventure!! There was no one better to sit down with me for the second Tell Me About conversation than my favorite person, Aaron Ivey. Aaron is my husband, co-creator of Ivey Media, Pastor, worship leader, and my best friend. This episode is all about SUMMER. Tell me about childhood summers, plans for summer,  sabbatical, family time,  and well, things go off the rails a bit, too. This happens anytime my husband, Aaron Ivey,  joins me, but the conversations with him are always a favorite because you get a little sneak peek of what our friendship is like. Grab your koozie, pull up a backyard chair, and let us tell you about Summer!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE 

“When God allows us to walk [in] these hard seasons, it gives us so much compassion.”Yes and Amen to that! I am so excited for today’s conversation with my guest, Angela Perritt. Angela Perritt is the founder and director of Love God Greatly, a nonprofit online women's Bible study ministry aimed at fighting Biblical illiteracy around the world in over 40 languages. Angela is passionate about God's Word and believes one woman in God's Word can change a family, community, and ultimately a nation. Her greatest joy is to encourage her children and others to love God greatly with their lives one day at a time.In today’s show, Angela shares about a journey of learning where she stored her treasures and realizing that God’s faithfulness didn’t stop when the Bible ended. Angela also dives into all of the wonderful resources provided by Love God Greatly and how deeply women can impact communities by engaging with scripture. I just love organizations that are committed to transforming the world through the love of Christ and power of scripture. So thankful for all that Angela and Love God greatly is doing!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE  

Have you ever gone through seasons where you want to believe that God is good, but your circumstances are telling you that He’s not? This conversation is for you.My guest for today’s episode is Alexandra Hoover. Alexandra is a sought-out speaker, Bible teacher, and Author of "Eyes Up" How To Trust God's Heart by Tracing His Hand. She's passionate about communicating the gospel's beauty and hope, and her words spur people on to hope and healing. Also, she serves on staff at Transformation Church with Pastor Derwin Gray!Friends, there is way too much goodness in this conversation - I truly could have spent hours talking to Alexandra. She walks us through what an ebenezer is, and the beautiful biblical story of Hannah. Alexandra also dives into how we sometimes allow our circumstances to inform the way we see God. But here’s the solution: When we sit with God, we begin to trust God. Even if we don’t see hope, we know hope is near because we know who God is. We don’t always feel or see God in the way that we want because life is so hard and foggy, but we have a beautiful invitation to sit with Him and weep with Him and be reminded of His goodness.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

What a word from today’s guest, Rev. Dr. Angela Williams Gorrell. Angela Gorrell is a speaker and writer about Christian spirituality, joy, meaning, and the interconnected nature of mental and spiritual health. She is Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Baylor University and author of The Gravity of Joy: A Story of Being Lost and Found.Shortly after being hired by Yale University to study and teach the beauty of joy, Angela stepped into the hardest season of her life losing 3 people she loved within 4 weeks. She went on a journey to find out joy’s place in a suffering world, and found the answer in the most unlikely of places: While volunteering at a women’s maximum-security prison. Isn’t that so like Christ to show up in unexpected places? We talk about the suicide and addiction crisis, and how to allow joy in without betraying our grief. This is such an incredible conversation and one that I hope reminds you of the beauty of joy. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

9 years ago, Whitney placed her son for adoptionRaised in a Christian home, she was adopted herselfShe fell away from her faith, dated someone in college for several years, after they broke up they had one more fling and she got pregnantShe wanted her son to have all of the things that she had and more, and she did not have the skillset or resources to provide thatWe talk about how a lot of times people don’t know what to say when it comes to adoptionShe now has an open adoption and she wanted to be involved in his life to correct any potential narratives that could come up about feeling unloved or unwantedShe became a believer during her pregnancyAcknowledging all members of the triadHow to be there for people who feel deep pain on mother’s day“These people are humans and they need Christ just as much as the next person - so how can we make sure that we’re honoring them and loving them and meeting them on their level?”What important words from today’s guest, Whitney Furrh. We are wrapping up our four-part series for foster care month with this conversation from a birth mother. It is so important for us to include all members of the triad and we’re so thankful that Whitney came on to share her story with us. Whitney’s story is unique because she was adopted herself, so she has a lot of personal connections to this topic. When Whitney was 21-years-old, she became pregnant and placed her son for adoption. She wanted her son to have all of the things that she had and more, and facing the reality that she did not have the resources to provide that. We talk about how a lot of times people don’t know what to say when it comes to adoption, and how important it is to acknowledge that all adoption stories involve loss. We even chat about how to be there for people who feel deep pain on Mother’s Day. Our prayer is that this conversation can help us know better so that we do better.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I surrender and trust what I desire, and walk with the Lord in what He’s calling me to do.”What would it look like if we all lived life this way? We’re continuing our series on Foster Care with the lovely, PaToya Hall. PaToya Hall is a writer, speaker, new mom and devoted follower of Jesus. She currently lives in Waco, Texas with her daughter Adelline. PaToya shares with us what her life began to look like after choosing to say the next “yes”. PaToya is a single woman who felt a calling to open her home to children through foster care. Just a few days after becoming a certified foster parent, she received a call about a 4-day-old baby named Adelline with nowhere to go. Four hours later, that sweet baby was in her home, and just six months later, PaToya adopted her. She shares some of the challenges of single parenting and navigating the assumptions people make. Something I really appreciate about PaToya is that she did not foster because she wanted to be a parent, but rather because it was true surrender. I’m so thankful for PaToya sharing her and sweet Adelline’s story with us.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I want people to see that their identities can be rewritten no matter what they’ve done or no matter what’s been done to them.”We have another great episode for you in our Foster Care Series! Ever since I found out about today’s guest, I cannot stop learning more from her, about her, and diving into her story. Tori Hope Petersen is a lover of Jesus training to be a lover of people. She spent years growing up in the foster care system and now educates, advocates, and ministers to those in the foster care community. Her first book Fostered will be released this August, and I truly had to stop myself from quoting this book 100 times in our interview.In this episode, Tori not only shares her story with us, but provides so much hope and wisdom along the way. We talk about how trauma rolls over from generations, and how important it is to listen to the voices of children in foster care. She also dives into the hope of Christ and how even when we feel unwanted and rejected, we’ve already been adopted in the Kingdom. Today, Tori is married with 3 kids and she and her husband are certified foster parents. I am so proud of the work she is doing, and I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for us to hear stories like hers. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“[Foster care] is not just about bringing a child into your home. It’s about bringing your family into another family.”I could not think of a better way to say it than Jamie Finn’s words. Friends, we are kicking off a 4-part series for National Foster Care Month and I am beyond excited to welcome Jamie Finn of Foster The Family on The Happy Hour. Jamie C. Finn is the author of Foster the Family and executive director of Foster the Family. Her social media accounts offer a glimpse into the real life of a foster parent and provide encouragement to thousands of foster parents. Jamie is passionate about encouraging and equipping foster and adoptive parents and advocating for vulnerable children and families.Y’all, Jamie shared so many truth bombs so I’m giving you a heads up right now to grab a pen and paper. We talked about hard things like the joy of loving a child and the pain of saying goodbye, repenting of sinful thoughts relating to parents of foster children, and how important it is to be trauma-informed when stepping into these broken places. Anything that involves Kingdom work will have suffering, but we have to trust what God says about suffering. Foster care is God using people to play a part in families being healed. This is important work, and I can’t wait to share the rest of these conversations with you.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Did you know that over 400,000 kids are in foster care in the United States? That means there are hundreds of thousands of personal stories. Hundreds of thousands of children are without a place to call home permanently. This need is ginormous, and I subscribe to the idea that we all play a part. I don’t subscribe to the idea that all families should adopt. However, I believe we should all care for vulnerable children. It’s not an option to not care. I’m excited to share a two-week series on The Happy Hour about foster care. May is National Foster Care Month, and we want to highlight some of the different people who play a role in foster care. Foster Care advocate, a survivor of the foster care system, a foster/adoptive momma, and the story of a birth mom who placed her son for adoption.Wherever you are in your world, I want you to know and believe that these stories matter to you. The reason they matter to you is because they deeply matter to God. Listen to these four women share their stories and allow God to change you because of them. 

Have you ever wondered “Can God handle my mess?” If your answer is yes, or you know someone whose answer is yes, you’re in for a treat today. My guests for this episode are Walker Hayes and Craig Cooper. Walker Hayes is a pop-country singer who went viral for his song “Fancy-like” which has a fun little dance to it! Craig Cooper is a gifted storyteller and Bible teacher. In today’s episode, we get a glimpse into the beautiful story of Walker and Craig’s friendship, more of which is shared in their upcoming book “Glad You’re Here”.Walker met Craig during an unlikely time in his life, and the two jumped right into doing life with one another, which eventually led to Walker having a renewed relationship with Christ. They share how real friendship gives us permission to be weak, and what a treasure it is to show up as our full selves, not our best selves. This story is going to point so many people to Jesus, and I know you will leave encouraged by our conversation today.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Isn’t it crazy how in the midst of grief and tragedy, God can call us towards our purpose?This is exactly the story of today’s guest, Anne Wilson. For much of her life, Anne had plans and dreams to become an astronaut, making moves to pursue opportunities with NASA. But in 2017, her life shifted after the unexpected passing of her older brother. The lyrics of Hillsong Worship’s “What A Beautiful Name” became a lifeline for Anne and she turned to worship as comfort in her grief, something she had never done before. The very first time Anne ever sang in front of an audience was at her brother’s funeral. It was at that moment that she realized what she was born to do.Anne is just 20-years-old but truly has wisdom beyond her years. I was so encouraged by our conversation and how God is using her to change lives. She just released her first full-length album, My Jesus, and I cannot recommend it enough!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

How do we commit to community as a part of looking more like Jesus? Y’all, I am so excited to share this conversation with you! Today’s guest is Joel Smallbone, one-half of the Australian Christian duo For King and Country. I had the opportunity to speak with his lovely wife, Moriah, and sister, Rebecca St. James on recent happy hour episodes and I am just the biggest fan of this whole family!In today’s episode, we chat about what it looks like to rest and lean into Sabbath as a command. We also talk a lot about how to commit to community within the Kingdom of God and why our differences allow us to highlight different attributes of God. We’re often so focused on our boycotts and things we disagree with, that we miss things that bring harmony amongst us. I love how Joel put it when he said “The beauty of God is found in diversity. Diversity of expression, diversity of ethnicity, diversity of thought, diversity of gender.” What an incredible reminder to walk with today and every day.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Do you ever feel like you live as though only half of the Gospel is true? If the answer is yes, this conversation is for you. Today’s guest is Pastor Joby Martin of Church of 1122 in Jacksonville, Florida. His book If The Tomb Is Empty talks all about why anything is possible because of the resurrection of Jesus. In our conversation, Joby breaks down why the resurrection is the entire foundation of our faith. The fact that Jesus died for us is incredible, but the tomb being empty is why we should live with the truth that we’ve been imputed with His righteousness. Joby says, “He knows you, He loves you, He delights over you, He dances over you. That’s why the empty tomb matters.” This, friends, is the good news. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Before we can get to what’s good about the cross, I think we have to deal rightly and honestly with the horror and the tragedy and the defeat of what the cross would’ve meant for the people of Israel.”Y’all. This is one of the most helpful and educational conversations on Good Friday and I am so dang excited to share it with you. Dr. Joel Muddamalle serves as Director of Theology and Research at Proverbs 31 Ministries and works directly for Lysa TerKeurst. He is also on the speaking team at Transformation Church with Derwin Gray!Alright, here’s what I love about Joel. He is one of the smartest people I know and dissects so many great things about theology in a way that we can truly understand. I always feel like I walk away knowing so much more! In this episode, we answer some of your questions like why do we call Good Friday “good” when it is so painful? What is the history of the cross? How do we talk to our kids about Good Friday? I love how he says that we should never disconnect what is hard with what is hopeful. This is SO TRUE. Joy, pain, and hope can all live together. Let’s walk into Good Friday and Easter with this reminder.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Us sharing stories of what Jesus has done is so powerful.”The Happy Hour podcast is slowly becoming the official sponsor of The Smallbone Family! Today’s guest is Christian singer-songwriter, Rebecca St. James. We absolutely loved having her sister-in-law Moriah Smallbone on back in November, and will have her brother Joel on in just a few weeks! I am so excited to have Rebecca here to talk about her newest project, Kingdom Come.In today’s episode, we chat about what it looks like to do ministry for 20 years and what truly keeps us still wanting to follow Jesus. We talk about family relationships and what a beautiful thing it is to invite our children into hard journeys so that they can see the goodness of God come through. We also really dive into winter seasons and why sharing our stories with one another produces deep community and prepares us for the spring. Our stories matter because they point people to the goodness and faithfulness of God - so thankful for that reminder today!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Tears of joy and tears of sorrow, they all taste the same.”What powerful words by today’s guest, Pastor John O. John O is the pastor of Cornerstone Church in Atlanta, and the author of We Go On. He also runs a coffee business called Portrait Coffee based out of the West End of Atlanta!Friend, this is such a profound conversation about holding joy and sorrow together and I am always so blown away by how pastoral John O is. He shares about a breaking point when grief snuck up on him nearly a year after losing his brother, and the journey he took to heal. He also talks about infertility and the painful process of waiting to adopt their daughter. Life is full of so much pain and heartache, but it’s also loaded with the goodness of God. So while outsiders may think it’s crazy for us to keep following Jesus, for us, there is truly no alternative. He is the only way.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

We’ve got such a fun episode today, friends. It’s all about Children’s books! I think one of the reasons why even adults love children’s books is because they are oftentimes packed with messages and reminders that we need as adults. Children’s books help us dream, but also help invite kids to deeper words and thoughts. Our guests for today’s show include Jena Holliday, Sally Lloyd Jones, Esau McCaulley, Laura Wifler, Annie F. Downs, and Emily Lex! I asked them why they wrote these children’s books, what they want little ones to learn from it, and why they find children’s books to be so special and important in a child’s life. Writing for children is a different kind of challenge because we have to get the message across in fewer words, so every word has to be intentional. But WOW are we so dang thankful to be given the beautiful responsibility of speaking into the next generation and reminding them how unique they are and how much God loves them. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The problem is when we take a good thing and start serving, and we make it about us.”Friends, this conversation is loaded with truths that challenge us. Brittany Salmon is a professor, writer, and Bible teacher. She is super passionate about taking theology and applying it to everyday lives, and I value her words and perspective so much. Her upcoming book, It Takes More Than Love, embraces both the beauty and challenges of transracial adoption in a raw and authentic way and I highly recommend it!Something that I deeply appreciate about Brittany is how open she is about things she would’ve done differently, and using that to help others know and do better. She also pushes against the idea that everyone should adopt, and that might come as a shock to some people. Adoption is a beautiful but incredibly hard thing for all involved, and not every person who loves Jesus will be equipped to do so. It’s so important to listen to adult adoptees and learn from them how our language and views on these topics matter. Brittany’s book is not here to bring shame to others but to act as a resource and catalyst for change in our hearts.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“God can only get all the Glory when I tell the whole story.”Today’s guest is Ann Voskamp, my dear friend who is truly one of the most prolific writers I know. She is the author of several books including One Thousand Gifts and her newest book WayMaker, which I am confident will be one of my favorite reads of this year.This conversation really dives into what it looks like and feels like to hit rock bottom, and yet discovering that God is there with us. Sometimes we buy the lie that life isn’t supposed to be hard, but the truth is that we don’t get the way of Jesus without having to pick up a cross. Ann shares with us that peace is not a place, but a person - and we will not get out of that pit until we are fully honest with God. Waymaker is a book that asks us “who are we really turning towards?” And Ann reminds us that even though we cannot control the wind, we can control the way of our sail and turn it towards Christ.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The God of my yesterdays is working in my now, and the God of my now has already gone into my next.”Praise God for that, friends! My guest today is author and founder of Coming Alive Ministries, Jennifer Hand! Her book My Yes Is On The Table is so inspiring and a reminder to come with our hands empty and simply say yes to God.Okay, one thing you should know about Jenn is that she has the BEST stories - I’m talking *leading someone to Christ in a nude Japanese spa* kind of stories so definitely don’t skip out on this one! She also talks about the practical ways we can say yes to God in our day to day, and how our yesses look different from one another based on our seasons of life. One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that we don’t have to be unafraid to say “yes”, we just need to be willing to trust God in the next step.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“God is over all of the transitions that we face. He has used all of the transitions that we see to bring about His purpose.”I have been wanting to have Hunter Beless on the podcast for years, and she is also a long-time Happy Hour listener so this was all a huge win! Hunter is the founder and host of Journeywomen podcast and the author of a children’s book releasing so very soon "Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible".Hunter talks with us about homeschooling her children through Covid and walking through the unexpected loss of her father after just weeks of learning that he was diagnosed with cancer. Through this season, she wanted her children to see how much she needs God’s word which led to her integrating Bible literacy into her family time. She breaks down the whole journey for us of how she has walked through repetition and scripture memorization with her children. It is so beautiful and meaningful to see how much little ones really do retain God’s word and Hunter is stewarding that so well. Her children’s book comes out next month so be sure to check it out!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Alright, y’all. Today is a different kind of Happy Hour episode. Welcome to “Tell Me About It!” The Happy Hour started as a way for me to talk about things we’re loving, things that matter, and just the kind of conversations you would have with a friend over dinner! I wanted to bring back that kind of conversation and since I’ve been absolutely obsessed with the Netflix show CHEER, I asked my friend Jackie Hill Perry to come on and chat about it with me!We break down the whole show so if you haven’t seen it and don’t want spoilers, come back to this one later! We talk a lot about what it must feel like for these kids to come from a small town in Texas and then rise to fame almost overnight. We also have a really deep conversation on cancel culture and holding people accountable. This episode was so fun to record and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did!Also, stay til the end of the show because we play Austin Stone Worship’s brand new song called Hope Is Awake!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I still struggle, I still fail, I still get overly emotional and overreact…but grace is real. And how beautiful is that?”It’s been way too long since Scarlet has been on the show and I’m so excited to have her back! Scarlet Hiltibidal is the author of Afraid of All the Things, the Anxious Bible Study, and her upcoming book, You're the Worst Person in the World.Interesting book title, right? Well, Scarlet breaks down why this is such great news. A lot of times we say “I’m the worst” or “I’m a mess” and then we just stop there. But the fact that we're the worst and Jesus is the best is so freeing - He was glad to die for us.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“For those of us who follow Jesus, there is a specific calling for us to care about what’s going on in our world.What’s happening in Ukraine is so big, and at times can feel impossible to wrap our brains around. The last couple of weeks has felt heavy and difficult to know how to engage, how to demonstrate I care, and what to pray. I’ve invited my friend, Jenny Yang, onto the show for a special episode on how to learn, pray, and take action on this issue as believers.Jenny Yang works as the Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Policy for World Relief. World Relief is an incredible organization that works through the church to serve the vulnerable. Jenny states that what’s happening in Ukraine is the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II and as believers, we’ve been called to come near to those in need. She talks with us about how and what to pray for people in both Ukraine and Russia - she even challenges us to pray for Putin to have a change of heart because God commands us to love and pray for our enemies. This is a crisis that can potentially go on for a very long time so she talks us through how to fight compassion fatigue. This conversation was so helpful for me to learn how to pray and engage with what’s happening. There are a lot of great organizations and resources in the show notes if you’re interested in donating or learning more.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

​​“The truth of the Gospel is that we belong to each other and that there are not people who are more reflective of the image of God than other people.”Let’s allow that statement to guide us through every interaction we have with others. Dominique Gillard lives in Atlanta and serves as the director of racial righteousness and reconciliation. I listened to Dominique’s book Subversive Witness and while sitting at the nail salon, I wept. I was so moved by his words and intention on how to leverage privilege.There are people who became instantly uncomfortable by that word: privilege. But what does that word really mean? Dominique breaks it down for us with so much gospel kindness and shares that privilege is a result of a world tainted by sin. It’s not just about race, it’s about so many different groups and elements that make up our broken world. If our flourishing comes at the expense of other people’s lives, are we willing to not flourish in that manner? This conversation is a beautiful reminder that the flourishing of all God’s people matters.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“We can miss out on such a beautiful, God-given life because we’re preparing for the worst.”Okay, any enneagram 6’s relate?! Y’all, this is such an important topic and I’m thankful Nicole is here to talk about it! Nicole Zasowski is a marriage and family therapist in Connecticut, and her newest book What If It’s Wonderful released yesterday. I was so blown away by her words and the practice of celebration as a spiritual discipline.Nicole shares that this book was birthed out of a realization of her inability to embrace joy because she was too afraid of worst-case scenarios. She gives us practical steps on how to make celebration a rhythm, and even doing so when we’re suffering. The thing about life is that seasons are seldom all pain or all joy – they usually go in both directions. And a lot of times we are afraid to embrace the joy because if we do, then we are vulnerable to losing it. But we can celebrate because we have a past record of God’s goodness. Friends, this episode has the potential to impact how you embrace your daily life. Listen well. I hope it’s something we can all practice together.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Fear often leads us to neglect before hate.”This is one of those episodes that will likely make my top 2022 list. I met Catherine McNiel on a Women of Welcome trip to El Paso. She is an author, writer, editor, and speaker who wrestles with the creative, redemptive work of God in our ordinary lives, and truly living as Jesus commanded us to live.Her newest book, Fearing Bravely, was birthed after seeing a discrepancy between how we’re living and talking, and the way Jesus talks and acts. She talks about fear as a frenemy, that while it is something that can protect us, it is also something that people can exploit for their own benefit. It can cause us to neglect the very people that God called us to love. We hear over and over in scripture that perfect love casts out fear. Maybe what we really need is to ask God to turn our fear into compassion, and take seriously what He has commanded us to do. This book and conversation was so convicting for me - I know you’ll walk away with something to chew on!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Am I willing to grow with this person and am I willing to love this person as they grow?”Happy Birthday to Complement! The marriage book we wrote together on the surprising beauty of choosing together over separate. My special guest is my favorite person in the world to not just record with but really to do anything with - Aaron Ivey! To celebrate Complement’s first birthday, we wanted to dive a bit more into the topic of marriage by having a fun Q&A session!We talk about overcoming the wrong ways that marriage was modeled for us, remembering pain without rehearsing pain, and what it looks like to love someone that is not the same person you said “I do” with at the alter. We hope this episode is as fun to listen to as it was for us to record!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Even in the hurt and the mess, it’s actually what makes great friendships.”My dear friend, Jennie Allen, hardly needs an introduction to The Happy Hour community but if you’re new around here, let me fill you in! Jennie Allen is the founder of IF:Gathering and author of so many great books, including her newest one Find Your People! We dive head first into this topic and this is a conversation you’re going to want to take notes on.Jennie shares that this was the hardest book for her to write because being vulnerable and saying the things that you’re afraid to say is something she is still working on in her life. We talk about the importance of conflict and that although it can feel scary and awkward, it is safe when you both are committed to the friendship. This message is not just about having 3-5 best friends, but about building a village of friendships where we can truly be there for one another.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Ask God to turn your fear into curiosity.” It’s been way too long since Trillia Newbell has been on The Happy Hour, but better late than never! Trillia Newbell is the author of several books including her newest children’s book The Big Wide Welcome. When she isn’t writing, she’s encouraging and supporting other writers as the Acquisitions Director at Moody Publishers.Trillia and I dove right in today and talked about the conversation of race within the church. Trillia shared that in a lot of ways, this topic became harder to address after she became a Christian. She says that one of the biggest problems is a lack of discipleship which often leads to apathy or fear. Fear keeps us from engaging and if Christ has given us nothing to fear, then what are we afraid of? Trillia shared so many thought-provoking statements and I’m so thankful for her heart.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“When you’re honest about how desperately you wish that God had acted differently in your story and in your loss, and yet still go back to Him, that is the ultimate expression of faith.”Mattie Jackson Selecman is a podcaster and best-selling author of the book Lemons on Friday. Her father is Alan Jackson, so good storytelling has always been in her blood. Tragically, she lost her husband of less than a year, Ben, in September 2018 after he suffered a traumatic brain injury. Despite her grief, Mattie is pushing forward and has dedicated herself to helping others.In today’s show, we talk about how while she has wanted to be an author for a long time, this is the book she never wanted to write. Going through this kind of grief feels truly unbearable, and we don’t talk enough about the spiritual letdown when the miracles we want don’t happen. I really appreciated the honesty when Mattie shares that sometimes we hate what God does with our story, but we still need Him to walk with us through it.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

"We really aren't fighting anxiety. It's a God-given gift that Satan has twisted."That is such a powerful way to look at anxiety and something a lot of us should write on a post-it note so we can always remember. My guest today is Shawn Johnson who serves as lead pastor of Red Rocks Church in Denver, Colorado, a community he and a small group of people started in 2005. His newest book Attacking Anxiety just released yesterday and it is loaded with truth and encouragement for those struggling with anxiety or walking through it with a loved one.We talk about humility and having to be vulnerable with our pain to those around us. It’s not easy to be the person who feels like they are always the one battling, but God gives us community to help us get through moments we never imagined. God offers us freedom, and we can go get it. I also love Shawn’s reminder that we’re not going to get healthy but healthier because we will not be made perfect until we reach eternity. So thankful for Shawn’s vulnerability in this conversation.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Faith is not an eraser for our past. Faith gives us the ability to go into our past to rewrite it with God.”*Trigger warning: Mention of sexual assaultBonnie Gray is an author, an inspirational speaker, and podcast host of Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast. Bonnie touches thousands of lives using storytelling, soul care, and prayer. I’m so excited to have Bonnie here to talk about her most recent book, Sweet Like Jasmine.Bonnie grew up as a Chinese-American daughter of a mail-order bride and spent much of her childhood never feeling like she belonged. She talks about going on a journey to learn her own story and going through life with an emotionally abusive mother. There can be so much fear in both learning and sharing our stories because we don’t know what people will think of it. But our brokenness is what brings us closer to God and others. I am so thankful to Bonnie for choosing vulnerability in her story and encouraging us to do the same.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The enemy loves to keep us in shame because then we won’t think strategically.”Ben Stuart is the pastor of Passion City Church, Washington D.C, and author of Single, Dating, Engaged, Married and Rest & War: Rhythms of a Well-Fought Life. I am so grateful for Ben’s pastoral guidance and passion for leading people towards freedom.We talk about how the atmosphere has changed in our culture, churches and country in the last several years, and what it was like to pastor his congregation through January 6th, 2021. We also talk about how well the enemy knows us and our tendencies, and how God has given us an opportunity to be victorious. Sometimes the environment around us gets extreme, but God has given us everything we need to excel.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“It’s not just the fact that God cares about Black people. He does, He cares about who we are. But He also cares about the rest of the world, too and He wants to create a family.”I truly could’ve talked to today’s guest for hours and I’m so excited for you to hear this conversation. Esau McCaulley, PhD is an assistant professor of New Testament at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. His book Reading While Black was released in 2020 and is such a beacon of hope - I highly recommend it!In today’s show, we chat about how important it is to sit, read, and listen to stories and experiences that may not affect us. We always have an easy way out of conversations that don’t directly impact our lives. But Jesus calls us to compassion and empathy and to love one another through joys and pains. I love the reminder from Esau that everything we need to love one another well is in scripture - what a blessing it is that we truly have the answer.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“That is the facade of anxiety. It’s that it will tell you things that are not true or are partly true. But never the full truth.”A lot of us need that reminder. My dear friend Gloria Umanah is back on The Happy Hour and not only am I excited to share this conversation with you, but I’m so thrilled for Gloria to share the wonderful project she is working on.Gloria launched her most recent initiative, Hope Booth: A 3-minute interactive immersive experience that delivers poetic messages of hope in the form of remodeled phone booths strategically placed throughout our cities around the globe. We talk about how the idea for this wouldn’t have happened without the difficulty of the last several years. Gloria also shares that the average person living on the street goes 3-6 months without someone looking them in the eyes, and Hope Booth truly has the potential to change this by reminding people that they are seen and loved. I’m so proud of Gloria for launching this vision that God placed in her heart. Listen to her story and learn how we can come alongside her to make this happen!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It’s been four years since the release of my first book If You Only Knew, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. Back in 2018, we did a mini-series where I interviewed several people and asked them about their “If you only knew…”. An “if you only knew” is something in your life that you feel people would think less of you if they knew about it. We’ve all got one of those, I’m sure. BUT here’s the good news: there’s truth and forgiveness and freedom from shame through Jesus. He will use these things as part of our story. Heather Macfadyen and Lisa Whittle are amongst a few of the people who shared their stories so to celebrate the birthday of my first book, we are bringing back these two conversations and talking about being free from the shame of our past. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

I know it’s only January but this episode will probably go down as my favorite interview of 2022! Two of my favorite people, Dr. Russell Moore and Beth Moore (nope, they’re not related!) are here to bring you a WORD today. We all know that the last 2 years have been hard and messy, but the three of us chat about the hopeful things that have happened in the midst of it all. We also talk about what it looks like to be a faithful follower of Jesus, what keeps us here loving the Church, and why we should never feel guilty obeying where God is calling us - even if those around us don’t understand. I don’t want to give too much away because this episode is loaded with encouragement and hope. I’m so thankful I get to learn from these two! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

When we can love people and not understand them, it allows so much freedom.” Those words sum up this interview so well. Taylor Tippett is an Instagram friend and I’m so happy we finally got to chat in real life! Taylor is a flight attendant who is known nationally for leaving random notes on airplanes to make people's day, which eventually inspired her book Words From The Window Seat. When not living out of her suitcase, Taylor lives full time in Los Angeles with her husband Joseph, dog, Howdy, and her wide collection of houseplants! We talk about the unique ways that she gets to enter into people’s stories through her job. Being a flight attendant doesn’t really allow for normal church schedules and small group, so Taylor has come to realize that the plane is her “church” and she can spread God’s love in the air. She also talks about her difficult journey of learning to love people even when we can’t understand them. It’s not something that’s natural for us - sometimes it’s a daily choice we have to make. But praise God that His mercies are new every morning, and we can keep trying to love the people He calls us to love. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“It’s healthy for me not to unlock that [phone] until I spend some time in the Word and in prayer.” This episode came at the perfect time and I can’t wait for you to hear it. Justin Whitmel Earley is a lawyer, author and speaker who is passionate about habits and friendship. I was so intrigued by the title of his book Habits of the Household so I dove right in! What I love about his book is that it’s not just for parents who are trying to build good habits in their family - it’s really about anyone who comes in contact with your household and developing habits that improve your quality of life. He talks about practical signals and queues you can set into place to remind you to focus on what’s important, and how goals are often impossible to reach without setting good habits in place. This is a great time to think of a habit you want to invest in! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The worst thing that could’ve possibly happened just happened, and you’re okay.” My dear friend Morolake Akinosun is BACK! In December, we shared her Jamie Ivey Show interview that originally aired on YouTube in February of 2021, but today is her official Happy Hour debut! Morolake Akinosun is a professional track runner, Olympic Gold medalist, and most recently an Emmy Award winner for her work on Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man! We chatted about where we were on March 13th, 2020 and her recent move to LA! She also opened up about training for the Tokyo Olympics and the disappointment of not getting a spot on the Olympic team. We’ve all had a dream that didn’t happen, and it takes time to grieve the loss of that dream. But I love when she shared that while failures don’t define us, neither do our successes. What a powerful reminder that our worth has never and will never come from our accomplishments. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“It’s not about who we are - it’s about who Jesus is because when we discover His identity, that informs ours. I think I learned the most “fun facts” in this interview than any one I’ve ever done! Pastor Levi Lusko is my guest today and I’m so excited to have him on the show. I was first introduced to him from his book Through The Eyes of a Lion. I remember weeping so much at his words so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his new book. We talk about the 40s being the most fun and productive decade, and how motivated we feel at this stage to fully step into our purpose. We also dive into Levi’s newest book The Last Supper on the Moon where he discusses the importance of communion and breaks down how similar we are to the moon (you’re going to want to hear this metaphor!). This is such an awesome conversation and you will leave with your mind blown! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

HAPPY 2022! Here is part two of our conversation on goals and dreams! In today’s episode, we continue the conversation with Michelle McKinney and we chat about the difference between good goals and great goals, and being honest with ourselves about boundaries and the season we’re in. We also start a new conversation with my friend, Jennifer Allwood! I am always so inspired by her and she offers such great encouragement for the working mom. She talks about how so much more is caught by our children than taught to our children, meaning that they learn more when they see us living it out. There is so much goodness in this conversation so make sure you bring a pen and notepad! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Confident doesn’t mean you’re not scared. It means you’re going to feel the fear and you’re going to do it anyway.” HAPPY 2022! We want to start off the year a little differently. Back in 2019, we did a mini-series for our Patreon community on goals and dreams. They were such great conversations and are still relevant today, so we want to share them with all of our listeners as we begin to plan and dream for this year and beyond. These episodes will be a little longer than usual, but what I love about these conversations is that it’s not about how to achieve more. It’s about confidently pursuing dreams, while also looking at what we already have and using that well! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I’m not looking back to change something, I’m looking back to learn, to take notes, to be a kind friend to myself so that when I turn around and look forward, I can do it with more intention and more purpose.” We are closing out 2021 with the one and only Emily P. Freeman! Emily is another Happy Hour veteran and this conversation is the perfect guide to looking back and moving forward. For those who may not know Emily, she is a writer, creative director, and wonderful listener. She is passionate about helping people make good decisions and do the next right thing. We bonded over both being parents of high school seniors and remembering the small things that make up beautiful moments in our lives. We also chat a lot about the nuance in decision-making and why she no longer uses pros and cons lists. Life is made up of so many daily decisions and we can sometimes risk making the wrong decision just to check it off the list. But I love how Emily reminds us that making small decisions every day leads us to make the big decision that once seemed overwhelming, but is now attainable. Thank you for another great year with The Happy Hour! We cannot wait to show you what we have for 2022! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It’s that time of year, friends! The Ivey Media team is back to recap 2021, tell you our favorite episodes, what we learned about ourselves, and what we love about working together! I always love doing this episode because it’s so cool hearing about different conversations impact each of us in a unique way. We make it a priority to value the quality of content vs. people, meaning some of the greatest conversations we have might be from a guest you’ve never heard of before. Our mission has never changed - to glorify God and tell stories that matter. Thank you so much for listening and supporting this mission. We couldn’t do this without you! Tell us your favorite episodes from this year! Who do you want to see in 2022? What conversations are you itching to hear? We wanna know all the things! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“One of the unique things about Christmas is that you can bring your joy and your sorrow.” I’m so excited to have Dan Darling on the show today! Daniel Darling is a bestselling author of several books, ​​a columnist for World Magazine, and a contributor to USA Today. His book The Characters of Christmas was a game-changer for me in having a fresh look at The Christmas story by seeing how all the minor characters played a part in Jesus’ birth. The Christmas season always feels so busy and it’s easy to forget how beautiful and miraculous the Christmas story is. Jesus, the Son of God and Savior of the world, was born to very normal, unlikely people. God is using ordinary people to do great things in the world, and ordinary people have both joy and sorrow. We can bring it all to Him. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned about God in the last 20 years it’s that He makes beautiful things out of our messes and out of our ashes.” Some of you are probably really familiar with my friend Holly Hayes. Her story is full of redemption and she is celebrating 20 years of sobriety, out of trafficking, and a new life in Christ. Holly is a living example that God can not only transform anyone but use anyone to bring Him glory. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today’s guest is Mitchell Johnson, who works at The Austin Stone as a college director! Mitchell was just 12-years-old when he was caught in the middle of one of the worst natural disasters in the U.S.: Hurricane Katrina. He shares about his experience of not yet knowing how severe the situation was, and within moments the entire first floor was submerged in water. It took four days to be rescued and he had to be separated from his mom so she could seek help. He walks us through his journey from waiting to be rescued on a bridge to being taken to safety in Wichita Falls, Texas. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Motherhood and careers - we know how hard it can be to balance both and Lauren Petrowski is here to break down this journey for us. Lauren Petrowski is a former host of Good Day Austin and has 15 years of experience as a news anchor. She is now a digital content creator and covers topics from food, home, and fashion. In this episode, Lauren gets vulnerable about motherhood, work-life, and asking herself if she really can have it all. She shares about the loneliness of having a baby during a pandemic, and then after 12 years of working as a morning news anchor, she made the hard decision to step away from her role and stay home. We make challenging decisions in life that we know are ultimately for the best, but it’s also okay to grieve the life we had because it mattered to us. This is a conversation that women need to hear more. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I have no aspirations to be in any title or role other than ‘student of Jesus’ and His way.” What I love about my friend Kat Armstrong is how much she has overcome to be a faithful follower of Jesus. She is passionate about seeing women come to know the scriptures and show up to learn more about His holiness every day. Kat heard the Gospel through a working woman, later sat under Beth Moore’s teaching, and eventually attended seminary where she fought negative stereotypes and established herself as a woman who wants to deeply know and love Christ with her whole being. Kat also gets vulnerable about losing her father to suicide and his long battle with mental illness. She shares about the in-between place of making peace with the past and stepping into the future that allows us to accomplish the goodness Christ has planned for us. I’m so inspired by Kat’s strength and devotion to Jesus in every aspect of her life, and this conversation is a constant reminder of how much Jesus is truly for women. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“All of this obsession about trying to be thin, making myself small (both figuratively and literally) is not bringing the joy and fulfillment into my life that I want.” Isabel Garza is a registered dietitian who is on a mission to help women nourish their bodies with confidence. I am so thankful for the work Isabel is doing and her passion to see women find freedom. Isabel talks about how to learn more about our own bodies and get rid of all the rules that we make about eating. She breaks down the difference between emotional hunger and physical hunger, and giving women the power to make good decisions about the foods that make them feel good. If you are curious about women’s hormones, disordered eating, or working through your relationship with food, give this a listen! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Maybe the Giver of existence is the one who led you to this place. Maybe the dream needed to die because there is a deeper desire in you.” Profound and brave words from the talented Scott Erickson, also known as @scottthepainter. I love this interview because it speaks to something so many of us have felt at some point in our lives: Realizing that the life you have is not the life you imagined for yourself. He shares about the reality of dreams dying in us. And even if it is ultimately for our own good, it’s still painful and something worth grieving. He also shares about the problem of seeing Jesus as a product to fix our pain and sadness because when the product doesn’t work in the way that we expected, we throw it away. This conversation is raw and real and something that I’m confident you will find encouragement in. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I love track and field and when it’s time for me to walk away, I have so much more in life that I can do. But I am not done yet.” This is what it looks like to trust in God’s timing! Morolake Akinosun is a professional track and field athlete, and also a Rio 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist. Earlier this year on The Jamie Ivey Show, I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Morolake about the Olympics, her professional training, and the 2018 achilles tendon injury that almost ended her career. She dives into the healing and recovery process and how she not only overcame the obstacle but finished 10th in the world at a 2019 competition. Morolake is an exceptional woman who gives her all into everything she does. I can’t wait to see what her future holds! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“38 dollars is beyond 38 dollars - it’s a discipleship opportunity to make these children followers of Christ.” I was absolutely giddy to step into this interview. My guest Jonathan Almonte works with Compassion International as the manager of supporter engagement. Last year, I had the opportunity to talk with Jonathan on the podcast and I’m so happy we got to catch up a year later! Jonathan shares about his childhood growing up in poverty and how a 26-year-old college student sponsoring him changed his life forever. It’s easy to think that $38 a month doesn’t do much, but it truly has the power to change the trajectory of a family and give them an opportunity to hear the Gospel of Jesus. This is Kingdom work, friends! We have a goal to sponsor 400 kids over the next year and I know we can do it! Pray about what it would look like for you to take part in this beautiful mission. Go to compassion.com/ivey! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“You do not have to be perfect before you are honest.” Leading a fashion lifestyle brand might be an unlikely role for someone self-described as “not a fashion guy,” but that’s exactly where ABLE CEO Barrett Ward finds himself. As the visionary behind the rapidly growing Nashville-based company disrupting the fashion industry with a social conscience, Ward was inspired to start ABLE with the mission of creating sustainable economic opportunities for women. While living in Ethiopia, Ward and wife Rachel saw firsthand how extreme poverty forced many young women to make difficult choices for money. They wanted to give women the chance to earn a living with dignity. In 2010, they began ABLE by employing women who had overcome the sex industry to make handmade scarves, and it has since grown into a lifestyle brand carrying all kinds of accessories and apparel. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Holiday Gift Guide is HERE! We held our very first live podcast show for our annual Holiday Gift Guide and it was absolutely wonderful! I was joined by my cohosts Jessica Honegger and Jena Holliday to share about 13 incredible small businesses that we think you should shop from this holiday season. Every single vendor has some kind of discount to offer our listeners so grab a pen and paper and get ready to check off your shopping list! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“These people in the first century had the same issues, the same struggles, the same questions, the same concerns that we do now. And if you can identify with those struggles and concerns then ideally, you’ll identify with the solution.” If you don’t know about the television series The Chosen, you need to know about it! Dallas Jenkins is the creator, director, and co-writer of The Chosen, and I’ve been excited to talk with him for a long time! Dallas comes from a creative background and his dad, Jerry Jenkins, is actually the writer of the Left Behind series! I loved getting to hear about how they use creative storytelling to highlight the truth of scripture, and all of the details they include to remind us that these are real stories that happened to real people. Their goal is to err on the side of humanity and truth, and I truly think they are nailing it. So thankful for this conversation with Dallas! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“It’s okay to name your desire to the Lord, and it’s okay to speak your disappointment to Him.” Mitchel Lee is a Maryland native and has served as Lead Pastor since August 2016. His passion is to be a bridge-builder between generations and ethnicities both in the US and internationally through leadership development and church-planting. Mitchel’s first book, Even If, was released in August of this year! This conversation cuts deep. We talk through a lot of “Even if” scenarios and how important it is to decide that God is good before the outcome. We dive into grief and lament and being open about our disappointments with God. When we want something, when something matters to us, we don’t have to pretend like it doesn’t. We don’t have to brush it off and say “oh, it’s fine.” We can feel and express that disappointment to Him, but proclaim “Even if...you are still good.” I needed this reminder today. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“If you don’t believe that you’re known, seen, loved, if you feel like God doesn’t see you, you’re gonna look to be seen by others.” That one line can pretty much wrap up this whole interview. MŌRIAH is a Latinx recording artist, actress and academic born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. At age 17, she left a pre-law program in California to free fall into pursuing music in Nashville. Since then, she has released several albums and has become a champion for seeing diversity in the industry and making room for the next generation of creators. MŌRIAH gets vulnerable about writing from a place of pain in order to help process hard things, and the journey that took her on. I love seeing God use our pain and creativity to minister to others. I’m so thankful for this conversation and loved getting to know MŌRIAH! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Jesus gave up being adored by the crowds for the sake of something better and truer. And that ‘better and truer’ was to love you and to love the people around you more faithfully than the crowds could ever allow Him to.” That was just one of the many times Jesse Eubanks’ words helped me see a deeper version of Christ, and I have a feeling you’ll love this conversation as much as I did. Jesse Eubanks launched Love Thy Neighborhood in January 2014 and amongst all the things they do, I love that they really tackle what it looks like to follow Jesus in this culture. In this episode, Jesse breaks down why and how we can truly trust Jesus with who we are, and how our enneagram type factors into both the way we see Jesus and our understanding of our life story. I hope you walk away from this with so much clarity and encouragement! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Productivity is not about doing more, it’s doing what is most important.” Let me tell you right now - this conversation with Tanya Dalton shook me to my CORE. What I love about this episode is that Tanya talks about something so many of us experience - wanting to dive into our purpose but not knowing what that is. I think so many of us go through life without taking a moment to think about the things that naturally fulfill us and how the strengths God gave us can lead us into a deeper purpose. I just love Tanya’s desire to help women step into the greatness that they were designed for. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“We’re the already-reached, but not reaching for our Bibles.” What powerful and convicting words. I always love chatting with the ladies at She Reads Truth and hearing about what they’re doing to develop a community of women who are committed to reading their Bibles together every day. Raechel Myers joined me on this episode and breaks down elements of the church calendar, such as Lent and Advent! SRT has so many incredible resources to dive into the Word and take time to remember and worship. We also talk about how there’s a lot of scripture-adjacent things that feel like you’ve spent time with God, but you’ve really just heard someone else’s experience of spending time with God. While these things are helpful resources, we never want to use them as a replacement for our own quiet time with the Lord. Thankful for all that She Reads Truth is doing to build a community of bible-reading believers! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

*TRIGGER WARNING: This episode mentions sexual abuse, assault, and suicide. Please listen with caution. “The walk has not been easy, but there’s nowhere else I’d rather be. With everything that comes with the walk, this is where I want to be.” No matter what we’ve been through, our walk with Christ is never easy - and Rosie Rivera’s story is a clear example of that. Rosie Rivera is a speaker and preacher, mom of 3 and married to a worship leader. Her newest book God Is Your Defender shares her beautiful story of redemption and how God picks up the broken pieces of our lives. Rosie has overcome more by age 15 than some of us will go through in our whole lives. When she recounts the moment God saved her, I was overwhelmed with the love and mercy of our God. When I asked Rosie what is the biggest difference between a life with God and a life with God. She answered, “The peace.” There is no greater peace than knowing our Savior. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Confession is not a ‘guilt’ confession. It’s an ‘aligning with God’ confession. I want to get in line with what is true so I am confessing that this has been untrue, and now I want to believe truly from this core place.” Heather MacFadyen wrote online before Facebook existed. After years of blog entries, in 2013 she launched a trailblazing podcast called God Centered Mom. In 2018, the show rebranded to the Don’t Mom Alone podcast, and she has a book out NOW of the same name! What I love about Heather is that her content isn’t just for moms. Yes, moms can get so much out of this, but this episode is really about community, listening to the Holy Spirit, and healing - something that can be applied to so many situations and areas of our lives. It’s about confronting and confessing the lies we tell ourselves so that we can align with the truth of who God says we are. This is not the episode to skip, and check out her new book Don’t Mom Alone! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The goal is not to have a perfect teenager...our goal was that they’d love Jesus and love their neighbor.” This was the interview I needed. Dave and Ann Wilson, founders of a multi-campus church and family coaches, talk all about parenting and launching kids into their identity. Their newest book No Perfect Parents shares easy-to-apply principles that can help foster strong parent-child relationships through adulthood. I always say that being a parent will go down as my hardest job ever, and it’s easy to get caught up in judging my “success” as a parent based on how well my kids turn out. But this episode was a reminder that the best thing we can do for our kids is to not only love them but also constantly remind them of who they are in Christ and what God has the power to do in their lives. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“These deep cries of our heart, these places of pain, anguish, hurt, anger. The place to bring that, first and foremost, is to God in prayer.” Jamin Goggin serves as a pastor at Mission Hills Church in San Marcos, California. Back in 2017, Jamin released the book "The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb" with his co-author Kyle Strobel. When they first released the book, it was after a journey of realizing that maybe their whole approach to ministry was actually at odds with the heart of God because it was driven by a sense of power. After the release, news broke that one of the people they highlighted as a model for the way of Jesus had a dark secret and downfall. This caused Jamin to not only reassess the book but also face a lot of disappointment and confusion. He has a lot of great insight on how to come before God in our hurt and anger, while also never forgetting to lament over the direct victims of these situations. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Jesus came as a teacher to give us new mental maps to reality so that we can follow Him, live under His teaching, and show up to reality in such a way that we flourish and we thrive and we have eternal life.” What a beautiful reminder from today’s guest, John Mark Comer. John Mark Comer is the founding pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland, Oregon, and the bestselling author of The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry and recently released Live No Lies: Recognize and Resist the Three Enemies that Sabotage Your Peace. John Mark is passionate about truth versus lies and understanding how it affects the people of God. When we allow lies to seep into our mental map, we start believing and living as if those are true. This is an incredibly insightful conversation that you don’t want to miss. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today's episode is a special sneak-peek into the podcast that I co-host with Aaron, On The Other Side! We were so blown away by this conversation that I decided to share it with my happy hour listeners! 30 years ago, Amy Grant released her iconic album Heart In Motion, which launched her career into new heights. Her music is a huge reason for the rise of the contemporary Christian genre and became the first artist in Christian music to have a platinum record. This is Amy’s story of being on the other side of Heart In Motion. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My very first kids’ book is officially out in the world! God Made You To Be You released yesterday and I am so proud of this work. People have asked what inspired me to write a children’s book and it was actually the book I released last October, You Be You! Chapter 8 of You Be You is all about blooming where you’re planted, and that chapter sparked an idea for sharing this message with children. I want the kids in your life to know that God made them with a purpose to fulfill, and it’s important to their friends, family, and community. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, aunt, uncle (honorary counts), I’m so excited for y’all to read this to your little ones! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“No healing takes place without side effects.” A true and powerful statement from today’s guest, Dr. Curt Thompson. Curt is a professional psychiatrist with who I became friends recently after joining his confessional community. I was so blown away by his community and the work he’s doing to help people tell their stories more truly. Whether it’s overcoming shame, childhood wounds, or the stories we’ve told ourselves, Curt’s passion is to remind you that you are never completely alone. I had to try really hard not to make this episode a therapy session for myself (ha), but this conversation will encourage you and challenge you and remind you that Jesus does not represent the traumas in our life. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #429 is Skye Jethani. Skye Jethani is the host of The Holy Post podcast and an author of several incredible books, including What If Jesus Was Serious? In today’s show, Skye dives into how crucial discipleship is in the church and why homogenous communities cause us to miss out on the ways God can change us through other people. So many things we consume form our views, and it causes us to look for excuses to dismiss the teachings of Christ. I really appreciated when Skye said “The real problem we’re facing today is not that our culture doesn’t take Jesus seriously, it’s that the church doesn’t. And if the church doesn’t take Him seriously then why would we expect the culture to?” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Jackie Hill Perry is back for The Happy Hour #428! In today’s show, Jackie and I chat all about the holiness of God, what it means, and why it’s important to understand. I love how Jackie reminds us that understanding God’s holiness changes the way we see Him. She says, “If God can’t sin against me, that means that all of His dealings towards me are good. All of His words towards me are wise and perfect.” Seeing Him as holy truly reminds us that He is a good, good God. For full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #427 is Clarissa Moll. Clarissa Moll is an award-winning writer who helps grieving people find flourishing after loss. She co-hosts Christianity Today's "Surprised by Grief" podcast and hosts hope*writers' "The Writerly Life" podcast where she encourages writers to craft their own joyful new stories. Clarissa dove into how her life pivoted after her husband’s sudden death, and her journey through grief. She shares that grief is a companion that shows up unwelcomed but eventually helps us walk through life. We often don’t want to talk about it because we truly want to believe it will never happen. But I love the encouragement she shared: “Not only are we walking with grief beside us, but we are walking with Jesus beside us.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #426 is Dustin Nickerson! Dustin Nickerson is a stand-up comedian and SUCH a delight to have on the show - I needed a good laugh! He has a comedy special that’s now available on YouTube and I HIGHLY recommend it. In this episode, Dustin talks about his past in ministry and how he picked up stand-up on a whim! He spent years traveling to cities for shows, sleeping at airports, but always made it back home in time for work on Monday mornings. Laughter is such an important part of life and it’s so cool seeing people committed to creating more of that. For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #425 is Mike Todd, pastor of Transformation Church! His newest book Crazy Faith comes out next week and is loaded with truth and encouragement. Mike joined me on the podcast last year and it was such a blast, I just had to have him back! We caught up on the importance of sabbatical, and welcoming his new daughter into the world! Mike also dives deep into the concept of crazy faith, what it looks like and why we do it. Crazy faith feels scary because sometimes we think we need to be 100% sure about decisions, but the reality is that is not faith. If you take away any of Mike’s words from this episode, let it be this: “People think you live in faith for the outcome. You live in faith for obedience.” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #424 is Max Lucado. Max Lucado is a San Antonio-based pastor and best-selling author with more than 145 million products in print. His latest book is You Were Made for This Moment: Courage for Today and Hope for Tomorrow, which comes out next week! In today’s show, Max dives into what it really looks like to stand up for our faith and how we sometimes use that as a reason to be hostile to others. We see it a lot online and in conversations with the heaviness of the world, but I was so encouraged when Max said “Taking a stand for our faith is loving people who are hard to love. Forgiving people who are hard to forgive.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #423 is Mike Cosper. Mike Cosper is the Director of Podcasts at Christianity Today and the creator and host of The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill. In this episode, Mike breaks down the premise of the podcast and what the overall goal is for sharing the story of Mars Hill. We talk about church wounds and why our culture continues to platform people whose charisma outweighs their character. We also talk about some of the backlash Mike has received by sharing this story, and people claiming that it is gossip and hurts the reputation of the church. I really appreciated that Mike stood his ground by saying, “What hurts the reputation of the church is abusive leaders.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #422 is Jeannie Cunnion. Jeannie Cunnion is a Jesus lover and a grace clinger. She is the author of Don’t Miss Out and Mom Set Free. In today’s episode, Jeannie dives into her newest book, which is a whole book about The Holy Spirit: who He is, what He does, and why it matters so much. It’s beautiful to know that The Holy Spirit is always working in our lives, even when we don’t know He’s working. I love when she says “The same Holy Spirit who empowered Jesus is the same Holy Spirit that rose Jesus from the dead, is the same Holy Spirit that failed the disciples and radically transformed them...that’s the same Holy Spirit that is in you and is in me.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #421 is my dear friend, Lisa Whittle. Lisa Whittle is an author, speaker and ministry leader. She has written several books and bible studies, including her newest book The Hard Good, which releases next week! Lisa dives into grief and loss, and the reality that life is hard and good. The thing about “hard” is that it doesn’t care if it’s an inconvenient time or if you’ve invested so much into something - it just comes because it’s a part of life. But we also have to be reminded of what is good. And I love when Lisa says “God is good - it’s who He is. So things that draw us to Him are good for us.” Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #420 is Rasool Berry. Rasool Berry serves as teaching pastor at The Bridge Church in Brooklyn, New York. He also is the Director of Partnerships & Content Development with Our Daily Bread Ministries. We dove into the intersection of faith and culture, and how important it is for the Church to celebrate the diversity of cultures within the body of Christ. The reality is that it’s hard work to remove ourselves from the bubble of our own culture, traditions and practices. But I love when Rasool says “The goal is not to avoid conflict, but to lean into spaces where we can learn from that conflict. And the best way to fix that is not to start with the issue… but to start with the story of that person.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The Happy Hour #419 is a special episode in partnership with Love Thy Neighborhood! I had the opportunity to guest host, and we talk about where the Gospel meets human trafficking. Christians say we should care for the vulnerable, but what happens when the vulnerable are being exploited in our own communities? The story of a Christian boys choir that wasn’t what it seemed and how one seminary student is fighting back. This episode features Nita Belles, Rebecca Bender and Raleigh Sadler. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #418 is Rachel Jones. Rachel Jones is the author of A Brief Theology of Periods (Yes, Really), and Is This It? In this episode, Rachel talks about what scripture says about women’s periods and how we’ve been culturally raised to be secretive about it. Rachel also dives into the topic of another book she wrote called Is This It? which talks about the infamous quarter-life crisis and feeling like “is this really all there is?” It’s easy for us to be unhappy or dissatisfied when we have high hopes and big dreams, and we feel like we’re living this monotonous life. But I love when Rachel says “Life is short and eternity is long, and it’s very easy to get swept up in what now looks like or even what the next 50 years look like. But if we really believe that we’re headed to this glorious future with the Lord Jesus, then we’re not going to sweat the next 50 years.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #417 is Kaitlyn Schiess. Kaitlyn Schiess is the author of The Liturgy of Politics: Spiritual Formation for the Sake of Our Neighbor, and her writing has appeared at Christianity Today, The New York Times, RELEVANT, and more! In this episode, Kaitlyn shares about the ways that theology affects the solutions we pursue on political topics and problems, and the reality that Christians have always had Bible verses to back up bad theology. I love when she speaks directly to women and says “You are made in the image of God just as much as men are. And the commission that’s given to you at the beginning of creation - to rule and reign and steward creation, to be God’s representatives on earth - that’s the same commission for you. And we are going to do that poorly if we are not well-trained in scripture.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour 416 is Lolo Jones. Lolo Jones is an Olympic athlete in Bobsledding and Track & Field. She is currently training for the 2022 Winter Olympics which will take place in Beijing! Lolo also recently released a book called Over It which is loaded with encouragement, overcoming failure and pursuing thankfulness. In today’s episode, Lolo shares about her childhood that led to her Olympic journey - from running personal bests in 2008 Beijing to losing the gold medal after hitting the 9th hurdle in the race. She also shares about social media and the press having a huge impact on her mental health. But I love how much she relied on her faith, she says “So many things in life will try to break you. But try. And you’re still here.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #415 is Hosanna Wong. Hosanna Wong is an international speaker, author, and spoken word artist sharing captivating stories of a powerful God with churches, conferences, prisons, & other events around the world. Her latest book How (Not) to Save the World releases next week, 8/17! In this episode, Hosanna shares about her father who was a heroin addict and pimp, and the radical way that God transformed his life. She also talks about how her book How Not To Save The World was inspired by her relationship with her brother, and the ways that she fell short in loving him well and pointing him to Christ. I love when Hosanna says “Why would they believe that the God we're talking about wants to be with them if we don’t even want to be with them?” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #414 is Kelli Masters. Kelli Masters is an attorney and sports agent. She has represented athletes in every NFL Draft since 2005! Kelli was named by Bleacher Report as one of the 25 Most Influential Women in Sports Business, and her first book, High Impact Life, just released! In this episode, she shares how Christ became real to her, winning the Miss Oklahoma Pageant to pay off law school (respect!), and pouring everything she had into becoming a certified NFL agent. Kelli also talks about the moment one of the top agents, someone she truly admired from afar, told her she did not belong in the industry. It’s a tough pill to swallow when the most successful person at the time attacks you with the lies you are fighting against in your own mind. But I love when Kelli says “I knew I would be victorious and it wasn’t because I was so great, it was because I was right where God said to be.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #413 is Kara Powell. Kara speaks regularly at parenting and leadership conferences, and is the co-author of a number of books including 3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager, which just released yesterday! In this episode, Kara talks about how teens often feel that being heard and being loved are the same, and how important it is to have empathy in order to ask the right questions. Kara also shares details about the 3 big questions and what it looks like to pursue warm relationships with youth. She says “A warm relationship is one that doesn’t judge but journeys with them through their future.” Friends, youth are longing for these relationships and desire for us to hear and guide them as they continue writing their story. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Y’all - how much have you loved our Flashback Friday episodes?! It’s been so fun bringing back some of my favorite conversations over the years. We’re closing it out with a fan favorite - Tara-Leigh Cobble! Tara has been on The Happy Hour several times and it’s always such a joy having her. Tara was actually in Israel when we caught up, and I get to join her there this fall! We talked about how much The Bible Recap has grown and people’s lives being changed through scripture coming alive. It’s so beautiful and humbling to see Christ use us to help people fall more in love with him. In her flashback episode, you’ll get to hear Tara talk about first launching The Bible Recap and how her passion for God’s Word has helped listeners dig deeper into their knowledge of the Bible. So thankful for the work that she is doing for the Kingdom! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for today’s Encounter episode is Matt Krieg. In this show, Matt shares his story of growing up in a Christian home, but realizing at 29 years old that he didn’t really know Jesus - he only knew about Jesus. Matt talks about his struggle with comparison to his brother, worth and value. At 11 years old, he was introduced to pornography and fell into a secret addiction for nearly two decades. Matt dealt with so much self-loathing that he truly wanted to take this secret to the grave. One day, he had a moment where he finally handed his lies and shame over to God, and the Lord just took them. He says “His response to me wasn’t ‘Matt, you’re worthless.’ His response to me was ‘Matt, know that I love you.’” For the full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today’s Flashback Friday guest is the one and only, Jackie Hill Perry! Since 2018, Jackie started a podcast with her husband, wrote several books, and went from a family of 3 to an (almost) family of 6! While Jackie is so thankful for the opportunities to share the Gospel, she continues to ask God that her giftings would not triumph over character. In her 2018 episode, Jackie and I covered some challenging topics like homosexuality, racial injustice and how our indifference to the things Jesus cares about shapes the future generation of believers. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for today’s episode is Chris Terry. Chris is a strength and conditioning coach for football and Women’s swimming at Rice University. He also played four years of football for the Texas Longhorns! In this episode, Chris shares about his background growing up in a Catholic home. He considered it much more about earning love, which caused him to struggle deeply with affirmation. After several years of fighting to know his purpose, using alcohol and sex to try and find his identity, he came to the end of himself. Two women shared the gospel with Chris at a summer camp, and he put his faith in Jesus Christ summer of 2011. For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today’s Flashback Friday guest is none other than Ellie Holcomb! Y’all, four years later and I still have people tell me how much that episode impacted them. It was truly one of the most vulnerable episodes we’ve ever done. Before jumping into Ellie’s Happy Hour episode #162, we caught up for a bit on what’s happened since 2017, her advocacy for counseling, and the importance of lament. We covered so much in our chat! In her 2017 episode, Ellie and I talked about going through tough seasons in marriage and seeking counseling and had a very real conversation about mental health and the life of being a family with two traveling musicians. I love this episode so much and I hope it impacts you in the same way it did for me all those years ago! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for this episode is Mo Isom Aiken. Mo Isom Aiken is a wife, a mom of 4, a New York Times bestselling author, a nationally sought-after speaker and a teacher of the Word. She’s also a former All-American goalkeeper for LSU’s women’s soccer team. In today’s show, Mo shares with us that cultural Christianity was the stamp of her younger years, just something that was part of a routine. While feeling like nothing in her life was going as planned, Mo eventually developed a severe eating disorder, went through a tragic loss in her family, and turned to alcohol and partying to numb her grief. Until one day, she encountered the very presence of God in the most unlikely moment. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Welcome back to another episode of Flashback Friday, where we bring back some of our favorite Happy Hour episodes from the past, invite the guest back on, and catch up on what’s happened since we last chatted! Today’s flashback guest is Bianca Olthoff, and today is her FOURTH time on the podcast. The episode we’re flashbacking today is #103, which was originally released in August of 2016. In her episode, we talked about her life as a stepmom, meeting her husband on eHarmony, and working with A21! Before jumping into #103, we kicked off the show with updates from the last few years and even got to celebrate God bringing to fruition some of the dreams that were mentioned back in 2016! For the full episode and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for this episode is Erin Weidemann. Erin is the founder of Truth Becomes Her, which equips moms and women to step into unique leadership roles. She is also the author of 12 books, and a 5-time cancer survivor! In this episode, Erin shares about a period in her life from ages 16-26 where she completely rejected God. She considered herself an atheist, and led a life of making any and every decision that she wanted. After a deadly cancer diagnosis, being forced to move out of the home she had just bought, and lying face down on the bathroom floor at rock bottom, Erin begged God to help her. And He showed up. Erin’s story is one of beautiful healing and redemption - I hope it encourages you as much as it did for me. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Welcome to Flashback Friday! A new series where we bring back some of our favorite Happy Hour episodes from the past, invite the guest back on, and catch up on what’s happened since we last chatted! Today’s flashback guest is Jami Nato, whose show originally aired in January of 2016! In her episode, Jami dove into an extramarital affair that rocked her world 7 years ago and how it deeply changed her perspective on suffering and God’s love for her. Today’s show starts off with Jami looking back on the last 5 years and all that’s changed and grown. In the midst of something so difficult, Jami has consistently modeled the love of Jesus and the Gospel. I love when she says “Don’t underestimate the change that God can bring about in your heart.” All these years later, there is still so much to learn from Jami and I know you will walk away encouraged by her words, both past and present. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #403 is Rebecca McLaughlin. Rebecca McLaughlin holds a Ph.D. from Cambridge University and a theology degree from Oak Hill College. Her first book, "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion" was named Christianity Today's 2020 Book of the Year! In this episode, we talk a lot about her book Confronting Christianity and how some parts of it wrestle with difficult history and topics. Rebecca also dives into conversations about LGBTQ+, and how it is an area that many Christians choose to bury their heads in the sand with. She talks about her own experience with same-sex attraction and how she reconciles her devotion to Christ with a desire she never asked for. I love when Rebecca says “One of Satan’s greatest tools against any of us is to make us feel like our particular temptation is one we can’t talk to our friends about.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for this Encounter episode is Liz Curtis Higgs. Liz Curtis Higgs loves the Lord, loves His Word, and loves His people. In this show, Liz shares about growing up attending church as more of a small town ritual, but when she turned sixteen she chose to live her life as she wanted. Liz got caught up in the “sex, drugs and rock n’ roll” lifestyle for years, until meeting a couple who were new believers and consistently reminded Liz of Christ’s love for her. That was the beginning of Liz eventually giving her life to Christ. I love the way Liz talks about the couple that she became friends with - they never forced anything on her, they simply loved her. This is something that Liz believes wholeheartedly, she says,“We don’t need to actually put a Bible in their hands straight up at the start. First we need to love them, and then we can introduce them to this love letter from God.” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #401 is Jess Connolly. Jess Connolly is a woman who wants to leave her generation more in awe of God than she found it. She is passionate about family, God's Word, and seeing women take their place in the kingdom. She's an author, a church leader, and a coach. Jess’ book, Breaking Free from Body Shame, just released yesterday and it is such an important message - so thankful we’re talking about it today! In this show, Jess dives into what inspired her to write this new book and overcoming body shame. There is so much goodness in this episode so I don’t want to give too much away, but I absolutely love when she asks this question: “Are we trying to make our bodies good, or are we treating our bodies like they are good?” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today is a BIG day - it’s episode #400 of The Happy Hour!!! Can you believe it?! I never would have imagined that when I sat down with a friend 7 years ago, it would turn into this. I feel so blessed that God entrusted me with this platform to share stories that matter, and I want to thank each and every one of you for listening! Today’s episode is a fun one! We recap how far we’ve come since 2014, some of our all-time favorite episodes, and even took listener questions and stories. Make sure to listen to see if your question or story made it on our show! We love getting to do this every week. I say it all the time, but our stories matter. Jesus actually takes all of these things and He uses them for our good and His glory. Thank you for being a part of it! Here’s to 400! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #399 is Alyssa Bethke! Alyssa and her husband, Jeff are an incredible duo who are passionate about Jesus, family, and scripture. Alyssa released her first solo book just yesterday called Satisfied and it is a MUST read. I’m so excited to have Alyssa on the show today, and feel so honored to celebrate her first book release! In today’s show, Alyssa dives into what inspired her book and her journey of fighting for contentment within the mundane. If we learned anything during quarantine it’s that it is easy to feel like every day is the exact same - and for Alyssa, motherhood began to feel that way. But Alyssa shares how she asked God to stir something up in her, and to love and serve with a passion only He can give. She says “It’s out of His love that we love. So we need to fill up with His love to give love.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for this Encounter episode is Dr. Derwin Gray. Dr. Derwin Gray is the pastor of the multiethnic, multigenerational church Transformation Church in South Carolina. In this show, Derwin tells us about his childhood growing up around violence and trauma, and how he used football as an escape from the things around him. While playing in the professional league, a teammate of his (nicknamed “The Naked Preacher”) shared the Gospel with him in the locker room. It was at that point that the wheels began to turn in his mind and he committed his life to Christ, having no background of Christianity whatsoever. From that moment on, Derwin’s life was forever changed. He says “For the first time in my life I felt loved, and the love was not a love I earned. It was a love I was given.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #397 is my dear friend, Christine Caine! Christine Caine is a sought-after international speaker, author and activist. Known for her ability to effectively communicate a message of hope, Christine has a heart for reaching the lost, strengthening leadership, and championing the cause of justice. Together with her husband, Nick, she founded the anti-human trafficking organization, The A21 Campaign. I always love getting to chat with my friend and I’m so happy she’s joining me today! In today’s show, Chris dives into the shifting currents of our culture and how easy it can be to drift away from Christ. She says “If your anchor is not deeply embedded in Christ, you are going to drift.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today is our very first episode of our summer series, Encounter! We have so many fun guests coming up this summer and I can’t wait for you to hear these stories. In this episode, I actually share some of my story with you of how I encountered Jesus. I read a bit from my first book, If You Only Knew which talks about how I came to Christ after a life of living for myself. I also got to talk with an incredible young woman, Sidney Runeburg. Sidney is a student at the University of Texas, and the first time I saw her was actually at a baptism service at our church, The Austin Stone. Sidney did not grow up as a follower of Jesus and struggled a lot with performance and perfection. After starting at UT, she decided to join a sorority and girl named Kristen asked her if she wanted to join a Bible Study! They built a friendship and eventually Kristen played a huge part in Sidney accepting Christ and the journey that followed. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #395 is Dane Ortlund! Dane C. Ortlund is the author of Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers and Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners. Dane and his wife, Stacey, have five children. In today’s show, Dane dives into the message of his book, and how much God moves towards us rather than fleeing from our grossness and sin - something that no one else does for us so perfectly. It was so powerful when Dane said “All you have to do is collapse to get to Him (Jesus). The way you get to Him isn’t by climbing a ladder - it’s by falling down. All you do is fall into Him, but most of us are too proud to do even that.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #394 is Michael W. Smith! Michael W. Smith is a multi-platinum recording artist, has won 3 Grammy Awards, 45 Dove Awards, an American Music Award, and has sold more than 15 million albums. He has also given back to the global community in so many ways, including through Compassion International! He recently released his first book on fatherhood, The Way of the Father! Y’all, I feel like such a fangirl having Michael W. Smith on the podcast and I’m not mad about it. In this episode, Michael really dives into the message of his new book, which is inspired by his relationship with his late father. Michael shares about how he was raised by parents who loved the Lord, and yet he went through a season of completely walking away from him. After experiencing a near drug overdose in 1978, Michael’s dad was there for him, loving him, and pointing him towards his Healer. Michael truly had such a special relationship with his father, a man who always gave himself to love others. I love when Michael says "Some of the happiest people I know are the ones who give themselves away.” What a beautiful picture of the Gospel. Do NOT miss this episode and don’t miss all the fun things Michael has coming up in the next few months!! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #393 is Mark Clark. Mark Clark is the founding pastor of Village Church in Canada and its passion is to reach skeptics and challenge Christians. He is the author of The Problem of Jesus and The Problem of God, both wonderful books that I would highly recommend! In today’s show, we talk about things like deconstruction and North American Christianity. Mark also really dives into the problem of people using Jesus as a label to stroll through life with. But Mark shared something that really stopped me in my tracks. He said “The issue isn’t if we’re following Jesus, it’s why.” I started to ask myself “why am I choosing to follow Jesus?” because truly, it’s an answer I should know. We have to know the why, because if we don’t understand that, we may not truly understand who Jesus is. I’m really thankful for the way Mark challenged me in this interview. Don’t miss this one! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour today is Pastor Louie Giglio. Louie Giglio is Pastor of Passion City Church and the original visionary of the Passion movement, which exists to call a generation to leverage their lives for the fame of Jesus. He is also the national-bestselling author of over a dozen books including his newest release, Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table! In this show, Louie talks a bit about Passion being entirely God’s idea and vision, and I share with him how both Aaron and I were saved at the conferences and it completely changed the trajectory of our lives and family. Louie also dives into the message of his book Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table and what it really looks like to reject the enemy’s presence in your life. Rather than being fixated on the Enemy, we should be focused on the Shepherd sitting with us at the table, fighting our battles for us. Louie really gave a powerful statement when he said “Nothing gives God glory more than your enemies watching you be satisfied in Him in the middle of the battle.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #391 is Natalia Kohn Rivera. Natalia Kohn Rivera is an Argentine Armenian American, born in Argentina and raised in Los Angeles, California. She's a Bible teacher, writer, speaker, teacher, and coach. Natalia also released a book back in 2019 called Hermanas, a beautiful book written for Latina women to deepen their identity. This interview has been a long time coming and I’m so thankful we could finally make it happen! In today’s episode, Natalia dives into ethnic identity, and her passion for loving the Muslim community and seeing them come to Jesus. There has been an elephant in the room for a long time about how Christians can be in Christ-loving relationships with people of other religions. It can seem uncomfortable, but Natalia shares that it doesn’t need to be. Wherever we encounter people, whether it’s a neighbor or someone overseas, let’s turn to prayer instead of fear. I love when Natalia says “We don’t need a passport to pray.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #390 is Jon Acuff. Jon Acuff is a New York Times bestselling author of seven books, including his newest release, Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking. He lives just outside of Nashville with his wife and two teenage daughters. This conversation was such an encouragement to me and I hope it will be the same for you! In today’s show, Jon talks about growing up as a pastor’s kid and how often we can obsess about overthinking. He also dives into the topic of his new book, Soundtracks and how to fight the problem of overthinking and instead use it to drive yourself closer to your dreams and creativity. So often we listen to false thoughts about ourselves and we genuinely believe they’re right about us. But Jon says, “The broken soundtracks will never tell you who you are.” YES. I needed that. This episode is loaded with goodness so don’t skip it! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #389 is Elizabeth Passarella. Elizabeth Passarella is the author of the essay collection Good Apple: Tales of a Southern Evangelical in New York. She has been a magazine writer and editor in New York for more than 20 years. She grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, and now lives with her husband and three kids in a two-bedroom apartment in Manhattan. So many people told me to read Elizabeth’s book and I’ll admit - I was nervous when I read the subtitle but I’m so glad I went for it anyway. It was wonderfully written and something I know so many of you will enjoy. In today’s episode, she dives into the experiences that inspired her book, and how growing up as a southern evangelical helped shape so much of her current life in New York. There’s definitely a bit of a stigma with how southern evangelicals view new yorkers and vice versa! But I love when she says “I wanted both of those groups of people to challenge their assumptions about a certain type of new yorker, and challenge their assumptions about a certain type of Christian.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #388 is the wonderful Toni Collier! Toni Collier is the founder of an international women’s ministry called Broken Crayons Still Color, which helps women process through brokenness and get to hope. She serves alongside her husband Sam who is the Lead Pastor of Hillsong Atlanta. She is a speaker, host, and is teaching people all over the globe that you can be broken and worthy and unqualified and still called to do great things. Building a friendship with Toni was probably my favorite part of 2020 and I’m SO happy she is joining me on the podcast! In today’s episode, Toni dives into her difficult childhood and overcoming church hurt due to following a pastor instead of focusing on Jesus. We’ve all seen it happen, and the problem of putting pastors and leaders on a pedestal. But I love when Toni says “A pastor is in the four walls of a church. A Savior is everywhere.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #387 is Debra Fileta. Debra is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, relationship expert, and author of several books including Choosing Marriage, True Love Dates, and Are You Really OK? which comes out on the 18th! May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Debra is the perfect person to have this conversation with. In today’s show, Debra gets vulnerable about a traumatic loss she experienced and the grieving process she walked through. She also dives into the importance of mental health check-ups and how the church has often responded to topics surrounding mental and emotional wellness. Debra has a very true reminder for us. She says, “Just because we’re Christians, doesn’t mean we’re healthy.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #386 is Sam Allberry. Sam Allberry is a pastor, apologist, and author of books such as Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With? and 7 Myths About Singleness. He is from the UK and is in the process of moving to Nashville and serves at Immanuel Church Nashville! I’ve been wanting to chat with Sam for a while and I’m so glad we finally made it happen! In this episode, Sam really dives into some of the myths of singleness. Y’all, let me tell you. If you’re married, you may think this episode is not for you but I’m telling you right now, this episode is for everyone. He talks about how we’ve made marriage and the nuclear family the basic unit of church life. We build the church around nuclear families and we try to fit singles into that, as if our full selves and calling in Christ cannot be achieved without another person. But I love when Sam says “Whatever we’ve got wrong about singleness, we’ve probably got the equivalent wrong about marriage.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #385 is Amanda Bible Williams. Amanda is the author and cofounder/CCO of She Reads Truth! From She Reads Truth Bibles and studies to Kids Read Truth Bibles and podcasts, Amanda is passionate about building a community of women who read God's word every day together! In today’s episode, Amanda talks about She Reads Truth turning 10 years old soon, and the Faithful Project, which is a wonderful collaboration of ministry partners including a book, album, and tour of live events! Amanda also dives into her family’s journey of parenting a medically fragile child and the hard seasons that have come from it. I’ve definitely had times in my life where I’ve wondered if a situation was truly God’s plan because it’s so hard in the moment, and feels like we’re walking down the wrong road. But I admire when Amanda talks about the song The Detour and the encouragement it offers: “The Detour we are walking, that IS the road.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #384 is Ginny Owens. Ginny has had an award-winning career that includes two decades as a singer/songwriter, recording artist, author and speaker. During that time, Ginny has released 10 albums, five EPs and two Christmas projects! Ginny currently lives in New York City and is in her final year of a Master of Biblical Studies at seminary! I’ve been listening to Ginny’s music for years so I’m thrilled to have her on today! In this episode, we talk about her background in music, losing her eye-sight at the age 2 and how it has affected her story. Ginny also dives into her newest book, Singing in the Dark which talks about how to cultivate hope and have joy no matter what challenge we’re facing. I love SO much when Ginny says “[Jesus] is a God that is very familiar with our suffering.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #383 is Lauren Chandler. Lauren is an author and worship leader at The Village Church where her husband, Matt Chandler, is the lead pastor. Lauren is a mother of three and their family currently lives in Flower Mound, Texas. She also recently released a Bible Study called With Us in the Wilderness which walks through the book of Numbers - it’s so encouraging and well-worth your time! In today's episode, Lauren dives into what it was like walking through her own seasons of wilderness in ministry and family, and how crying out to the Lord helped her move forward one step at a time. Friend, the book of Numbers is such a profound book to study because every single one of us can relate - all of us have had a wilderness season in our lives. You may wonder if that’s ever been you, but I love how simply Lauren puts it: “A wilderness season is anything that leads us into something uncomfortable.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #382 is Kat Harris. Kat Harris is a Brooklyn-based educator, podcaster, + her first book Sexless in the City will be released on April 20th! She is Co-Founder of the online publication The Refined Woman, and host of The Refined Collective Podcast. In today’s episode, Kat dives into changing the narrative around purity culture, not only to equalize men and women’s responsibilities in it, but also to remove the stigma of shame within conversations about sex. There are certain things about sex that aren’t talked about enough in the church to both single and married people, and we should acknowledge that being informed on this topic from both biblical and scientific perspectives is not sinful - it can truly be so helpful in fostering healthy conversations around sex. I love when Kat says “Any story that starts and ends with shame, I can know right off the bat that is not God’s heart for me.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #381 is Arden Bevere. Arden Bevere is the youngest son of John and Lisa Bevere and the cofounder of Sons & Daughters, a movement committed to raise up a generation of uncompromising followers of Christ who will transform our world. Arden also released a book earlier this year called Redefined: Confronting the labels that limit us. In today’s episode, he gets vulnerable about his season of walking away from Christ, learning from regret and how to earn back trust. Arden also dives into what it’s like being a millennial, and the problem of labels as opposed to identity and calling. It’s so easy to view ourselves through the lens of our failures and feel as though we are unworthy of being used by God because of that. But I love so much when Arden says “Through scripture, God never labels His people. He only calls them.” He has called every single one of us to make Him known and bring Him glory - He will not leave any one of us out. So thankful for that reminder today! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #380 is Bri Stensrud. Bri is the director of Women of Welcome, a Christian community that pursues Christ-like welcome to immigrants. Bri has so much experience in many different human justice and advocacy spaces. From protecting the unborn to adoption to holistic pro-life views and immigration, Bri is someone who leads with compassion. Bri is a dear friend and someone I admire so much for the work she is doing for vulnerable populations. I love getting to talk with her as she challenges me to look at things harder and longer, and it always shows me that there is more than meets the eye. In today’s episode, we talk about her expanded view of pro-life and what it means to act as different parts of the body of Christ. Bri also touches on some of the criticism and loneliness of having a holistic pro-life view, and the strains it can cause in relationships, churches and families. The holistic pro-life view tends to be criticized because of a political gap - people who advocate for social justice generally tend not to advocate for the unborn and vice versa. But Bri teaches us that it can truly be both/and. I love so much when she says “You’re going to confront people in your family, people in your church, people in your community who are not going to understand what the love of God compels you to do. But you should do it anyway.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #379 is Amy Wolff. If you have been listening to the podcast for a while, then Amy Wolff is a familiar name to you. Amy is a speaker coach, motivational speaker, author and founder of Don’t Give Up Movement. Amy also just released her newest book Signs of Hope which is beautifully written and a must-read for anyone and everyone! In today’s show, Amy dives into the story of Signs of Hope and how it was the start of a journey - not just one of encouraging people who are like her, but also encouraging those who are very different from her. It’s easy to say “You matter,” to someone just like you; it’s a lot harder to tell someone they matter (and truly mean it) if they believe, vote, speak, and live differently than you do. But I love so much when Amy breaks down the difference between empathy and endorsement and says “We don’t have to agree. That is not a prerequisite to love.” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #378 is Francis Chan. Francis Chan has been a pastor for over thirty years. He is a New York Times–bestselling author of several books, including Crazy Love and Letters to the Church. He and his wife, Lisa, have been married nearly thirty years and co-authored You and Me Forever. Currently, Francis and his family split their time between ministry and church planting in Northern California and Asia! First off, Happy Good Friday! I am so thankful to be joined by Francis on this important day leading up to Easter. Friends, I feel like I cannot say enough good things about this conversation and yet I’m speechless at the same time. I walked away from this knowing that it may be my favorite interview of the entire year. Francis’ newest book, Until Unity, just released yesterday and it could not have come at a better time. At this moment in time, we see over and over that we’re willing to sacrifice unity to pursue truth or vice versa, and we’ll come after one another trying to convince ourselves that we’ve got it right. Not only does this tear apart the body of Christ, but it shows how shallow our love is and how much we are lacking the Holy Spirit. I love so much when Francis says “If the Holy Spirit is truly in us and God is grieving some of the words that come out of our mouths, we’ll know it - because we ourselves will feel that grief.” For the full summary and bonus content from this episode, click the links to the show below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #377 is Gretchen Saffles. Gretchen is the founder of the online community Well-Watered Women, and author of The Well-Watered Woman, leading readers to discover the refreshing well of God’s Word so they can experience fullness and peace beyond their circumstances. The Well-Watered Woman and the companion devotional journal, The Well-Watered Life, are releasing next week! In today’s episode, Gretchen talks about society’s criteria of a “good Christian woman” and how to combat that with God’s word. Gretchen also dives into the true meaning of a well-watered woman, and what it looks like to really be with Jesus. I love when she says “The goal of the well-watered woman is not to become this perfect person. It’s to know Jesus and to become like Him together.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #376 is Richard Lui. Richard Lui is a journalist and News Anchor on MSNBC and NBC News. He just released a book called Enough About Me: The Unexpected Power of Selflessness which talks about his journey of exploring selflessness amidst his father’s Alzheimer's diagnosis. In today’s episode, Richard shares what it’s like to care for an aging, sick parent while also being on a fast career track, and the beauty of growing through hardship. Richard also talks about how our society is so deeply affected by selflessness or lack thereof. Exploring selflessness is not something that is inherently natural for us as human beings - it’s truly something we need to constantly exercise. I love when Richard says, “It’s okay not to be perfect, but to strive for the perfect opportunity.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #375 is Ross Lester. Ross is the Pastor of Preaching at The Austin Stone Community Church. He is originally from South Africa, and has now been in the states for three years with his wife, Sue and children. I’m so thankful for Ross’ voice and his perspective on the world as a Christ follower who grew up overseas. In today’s episode, we talk about the American Church vs. American Culture, and his experience of learning what it looks like to be a pastor in the states through an international lens. Ross also dives into the problem of Christian nationalism, and lays out 10 signs of it at play. It’s not an easy or comfortable thing to talk about, but it’s so important to address as followers of Christ and be aware of what we put our faith into. Ross says, “The problem with Christian nationalism is that it is framed as a culture war, rather than a call to follow Jesus.” Oof. What I respect most about Ross is that he knows the potential cost of speaking on these topics, but knows his calling to obey and honor Christ is so much greater. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #365 is Carlos Whittaker. Carlos Whittaker is an author, speaker, and self-professed hope dealer. He speaks at some of the largest churches in the country and at conferences including the Orange Conference, Catalyst, MomCon, and many others. He is also the author of Moment Maker and Kill the Spider, and his newest work Enter Wild. Carlos lives with his wife, Heather, and their three children in Nashville. In today’s episode, we talk about the problem of finding our identity in what we do, and overcoming lies from the enemy. Carlos also talks about stepping into hard conversations in order to better love and understand one another. It’s no secret that there’s a lot of division in our world today, and sometimes it feels like disagreeing with people and loving them well have to be mutually exclusive. But I love so much when Carlos says “We’ve got to learn to not stand on issues, but walk with people.” What an important reminder. I’m thankful for Carlos’ passion to love and walk with people through their individual journeys and experiences. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #373 is Aarti Sequeira. Most people know Aarti as winning season six of The Next Food Network Star, and hosting her own cooking show Aarti Party. Aarti is married to Brendan and together they have two daughters, Eliyah and Moses. They recently moved to Raleigh, NC after living in LA for two decades. Y’all, this was a really special episode and Aarti has a WORD for us. In today’s episode, Aarti talks about how growing up in Dubai during the Gulf War sparked a deep passion for news and journalism. She eventually got a job at CNN and although it was her dream on paper, she always felt like something didn’t fit. Aarti ended up moving across the country, and through a long season waiting for another job opportunity, she found comfort in cooking AND later accepted Christ as her personal Savior. How amazing is it that God truly meets us in any season? Sometimes we end up in places or paths that we never expected, but I LOVE when Aarti says, “His dreams for me have always been more delicious and rich and huger than I have always imagined, and I just follow the breadcrumbs.” WOW. There is SO much more to this episode that you need to hear. Don’t skip out on it! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #372 is Mike Nawrocki. If you’re unfamiliar with the name, I know what might ring a bell: VeggieTales! Mike is the co-creator of VeggieTales and the voice of Larry the Cucumber! In today’s episode, Mike talks about how we came to meet Phil Vischer (voice of Bob the Tomato), and what led them to starting VeggieTales. Can you believe they were only in their mid-20s when it launched?! Mike also talks about how he initially went to college for biology with hopes of doing medical missions, and somehow ended up completely changing his plans. Sometimes we have goals in life that result in a massive change, and it can make us feel guilty for not accomplishing what we originally set out to do. But I love when Mike says, “There’s nothing wrong with a goal, but always be mindful that God may have something else in store for you.” What a great reminder. Have goals, but be open and willing to God moving you where He wants you to go. For links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #371 is Jemar Tisby. Jemar Tisby is the CEO of The Witness Inc, an organization dedicated to Black uplift from a Christian perspective. He writes about race, religion and culture in national news outlets and his newsletter, Footnotes. He is the co-host of the Pass The Mic podcast and a PhD candidate in History at the University of Mississippi. This is SUCH an important conversation and one that we can learn a lot from. In today’s episode, Jemar answers questions like what we can do about racism and why it’s important to care about it. He tackles hard topics like the death penalty, mass incarceration, and the importance of justice. He also dives into the difference between racial justice and racial reconciliation, and the church’s role in valuing both diversity and justice. Jemar says, “Christians have been such a big part of racism, that they have to be a big part of dismantling it.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #370 is Jonathan “JP” Pokluda. JP is the Lead Pastor of Harris Creek Baptist Church in Waco, TX. Author of best-selling "Welcome to Adulting," and newly released "Outdated", JP seeks to offer Millennials and Gen Z a roadmap for dating in a world that desires to find love that lasts when dating has changed. JP has such a great word for both young people and parents as we talk to our kids about dating. This episode is so timely with the release of both of our books! In today’s show, we talk a bit about JP’s past before choosing Jesus at 21 and the life transformation that followed, as well as what it looks like to be a Christian in today’s world without the culture and motions. JP also dives into some of the misconceptions of dating, singleness and marriage and how we can honor God in any stage we are in. I love when he says, “We’re not looking for the one, we’re looking for someone as a follower of Jesus who is also a follower of Jesus.” SO true. I’m so thankful for the ministry JP is doing, and helping people approach dating and singleness in a healthy, God-honoring way. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #369 is my favorite person and partner: My husband Aaron Ivey! For those of you who are new around here, Aaron and I have been married for almost 20 years! He leads the creative team at The Austin Stone and is the head worship pastor. He’s a songwriter, mentor, amazing father and author - he truly does all the things! Aaron is my most favorite person to talk to so I love whenever he joins me on the podcast! We talk about SO many great things in this episode so make sure you listen to the whole thing! In today’s show, Aaron talks about feeling called to build relationships with people who don’t know Jesus, and focusing on who we want to be rather than what we want to do. Aaron also dives into why we felt led to write COMPLEMENT, and his experience in the last year of being diagnosed with clinical depression. It’s not an easy thing to walk through mental illness or walk through it with a loved one, but it’s so important to have these conversations to remind ourselves that it’s not our fault and we are not less than because of it. I love so much when Aaron says “You’re not flawed because of any sort of mental illness. It’s actually just a part of your wiring, it’s a part of the way that you were formed. And God even wants to restore that - He might not fix it, but He wants to do something in and through you.” What a beautiful encouragement, that even in our brokenness God wants to make it matter. I’m so proud of Aaron’s passion for who he wants to be and his commitment to allow God to lead him every step of the way. So thankful we get to share this project together! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #368 is Emily Lex. Emily is a talented artist and passionate about sharing truth. Her first book, Freely & Lightly: God’s Gracious Invitation to a Life of Quiet Confidence, releases on March 2nd and it is absolutely filled with beautiful words of encouragement. Emily is a long-time friend and has probably been on The Happy Hour more than any other person! In this episode, Emily dives into the challenge of having to pivot her business and how her change of interests affected her brand. She talks about how sometimes we do things that we were never meant to do, and how she came to a point of having to block everything out and just focus on God. I love when she says, “It required risk and obedience, but what it did was put my soul at rest which is really what I was after. And that’s what I think obedience will do.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #367 is Christy Nockels. Christy Nockels is an author, worship leader and singer-songwriter with a passion to help others understand how to communicate with God. Her podcast, The Glorious in the Mundane, inspires listeners to find the wonder of God at work in their everyday moments. She also just released her first book, The Life You Long For. I cannot believe Christy has never been on The Happy Hour but I’m SO thankful we finally made it happen! In today’s episode, we talk about preparing to launch our kids into adulthood, inviting the glorious into the mundane, and the importance of rest. Christy also dives into this idea of surrendering the outer rings of our life to God and living from the bullseye instead. We sometimes feel this need to manage our lives because not knowing can make us restless. But I love when Christy says “That’s life with God - it’s the mystery rather than us managing. It’s the supernatural principles of His word and they actually work.” This conversation was so needed for me - it’s always a great reminder to know what God can do in our lives if we just surrender. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #366 is Kait Warman. Kait Warman is an inspirational speaker, a popular relationship coach, and the host of The Heart of Dating podcast. She helps thousands of men and women on their journeys through the conversations on her podcast, social media platforms, one-on-one relationship coaching, and online courses. Kait also recently released a book called Thank You For Rejecting Me which is about transforming pain into purpose. Make sure you check it out! Kait is an absolute joy to talk to and I’m so excited for you to hear our conversation today. In this episode, we talk about things like purity culture and ways that the church can improve this conversation. I absolutely LOVED when she mentioned her exercise of helping women write out what they bring to the table in their relationships - we need more of that! Kait also dives into the message behind her book of finding purpose in rejection. Married, single or dating, we all fear rejection. It is a totally common human response which is why it’s so important to talk about. But Kait worded it so well when she said “One day, through time - through pressing in - even in all the muck and all the hardness, there will be beauty brought in its time.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #365 is Scott Sauls. Scott is senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church, a multi-site community in Nashville, Tennessee. He has also published five books, including 'Jesus Outside the Lines' and his latest, 'A Gentle Answer.' You may recognize Scott from our Faith & Politics special in the fall, and I’m so thankful he is joining us again! Y’all, Scott dropped so many gospel-filled words in this conversation, summarizing it just won’t do the show justice. In today’s episode, we talk about the timeliness of his book A Gentle Answer during a year like 2020, and the difference between American and Global Christianity. Scott also dives into what we can do to make sure we have the gentleness of Jesus, and fighting against our natural pull towards self-righteousness. He says “Don’t look for a bypass road around Jesus to get to character. You’re never going to become gentle without going straight through Jesus.” OOF. Grab and pen and paper for this interview - you’re going to need it. Scott has the most pastoral spirit and I always walk away feeling challenged to become more like Jesus. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #364 is Lisa Harper. Lisa Harper has been involved in ministry for 30 years as a Bible teacher, director of women’s ministry and writer of 12+ published books. Her newest devotional Life: An Obsessively Grateful, Undone by Jesus, Genuinely Happy, and Not Faking it Through the Hard Stuff Kind of 100-Day Devotional is not only fantastic, but probably my favorite subtitle I’ve ever heard! In today’s episode, we talk about Lisa’s adoption journey with her sweet daughter and the struggle of missing community through the isolation of COVID (I know we talk about it a lot but it's truly a sign of the times!). Lisa also dives into the importance of intimacy with Jesus and the hunger of wanting to know Him deeper. I love when she says “It’s not enough to go to church on Sundays. It’s not enough. We need to know Jesus through His love letter of scripture.” I am so thankful for Lisa’s constant authenticity and passion for helping people know Jesus deeper. Pick up a copy of her devotional Life! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guests for The Happy Hour #363 are Matt and Laurie Krieg. Matt and Laurie are the authors of the book An Impossible Marriage, and hosts of the Hole in my Heart podcast. I’ve had their book for a while and finally dove into it last month. Guys, this is one of the best books I’ve ever read on marriage - I devoured every single word. In this episode, they share their story of Laurie’s same-sex attraction, and yet their commitment to fighting for their marriage. Matt and Laurie are so vulnerable about their challenges, and the importance of taking moments to remember that God truly sees us. I loved when they talked about allowing God to work through us to meet the needs of others, and the wonderful gift that marriage is to show people the Gospel. They say “When we die to self, we show the world how Jesus died to be one with us as we be one with our spouse.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #362 is the wonderful Faitth Brooks. Faitth Brooks is a writer, speaker and anti-racism educator. Faitth also works as the director of programs on Be The Bridge, and is also the host of the Melanated Faith Podcast. Faith currently resides in Atlanta, GA. Y’all. I am so very excited to share this conversation with you, and am beyond thankful for Faitth’s willingness to be both vulnerable in her experiences and gracious in educating us on Black History. In today’s episode, we answer questions like “What is the big deal with Black History month?” and “Why is it important to learn about it?” I’ll admit that I was uninformed as a high-schooler in understanding Black history, and I’m so grateful for people like Faitth who explain why it is SO important for Black people to share life from their point of view - and how much more important it is for us to love them by actively listening. I really appreciated when she said “When it comes to loving people and people of color, allow us to show up as our full selves…” It sounds like it’s such a small ask, but it is truly so profound. I hope this challenges us to lay down our pride, listen to and engage with people’s experiences and resist the urge to apply one person’s story to an entire people group. It’s not always easy and it’s certainly uncomfortable, but WOW is it worth it to love people the way Jesus has called us to. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #361 is Annie F. Downs! I know for a lot of you, Annie needs no introduction - she is a bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host of That Sounds Fun. Annie is based out of Nashville and just released her newest book, That Sounds Fun! Y’all, Annie is such a dear friend of mine and talking with her is always a joy. I was on her podcast a few months back and we had a BLAST so I’m very excited that she’s joining me today! In this episode, Annie shares about how she is someone who loves big and felt shame for that in the past because she couldn’t hide the fact that she loves the people in her life. Sometimes we have this thing in our lives that we feel like is a missing chip, but it’s really such an intentional gift that allows us to bless others. I LOVE when Annie says “Every single one of us feels like we have a missing chip. A missing thing that God did not include when He made us. And the reality is that is your superpower. That is the thing you were born to tell us about and to show us and to give to the world.” PREACH. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #360 is Sissy Goff! Sissy is a counselor in Nashville at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville, Tennessee. Since 1993, she has been helping girls and their parents find confidence in who they are and hope in who God is making them to be, both as individuals and families. Sissy is a sought-after speaker for parenting events and the author of twelve books, including her newest, Brave: A Teen Girl's Guide to Beating Worry & Anxiety. This conversation was SO helpful for me, both as a parent and an individual. In today’s episode, Sissy talks about her experience as a counselor for young girls, how adolescents are struggling with isolation during the pandemic and what we can do to help! She also dives into practical steps on how to be present for our children as they go through teenage years during this unique time in our world. I really appreciated when she mentioned that sometimes our children’s anxious feelings can translate into anger because they haven’t learned how to express those feelings yet. She says, “Anger is a secondary emotion. There’s typically something under the anger.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #359 is Amy Crouch. Amy Crouch is currently a junior at Cornell University studying linguistics and English! She is also the co-author of the book My Tech-Wise Life which she wrote with her dad, and talks about how to pursue digital wellness in teens and families. In this episode, Amy talks about what she’s looking forward to in 2021, the beauty of the sabbath as a way to rest from technology, and helping teens learn useful digital habits. Amy also dives into the importance of focusing on real human connections in both others and ourselves before turning to social media. I absolutely loved when she said “I think social media is about creating a brand. It’s about creating a version of yourself that appeals most to an algorithm, that appeals most to the people who are seeing it. You’re given the opportunity to create the version of yourself that you want to be, that you want others to see. And that is so powerful and so tempting, but it is so far from who we actually are and from what real connection is.” What a truth-bomb. For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #358 is Nate Knapper. Nate Knapper is the Founder & CEO of The Joseph Project, a nonprofit organization that connects human trafficking survivors with pro bono legal counsel. As a federal law enforcement officer, he served on a Detroit-based anti-trafficking squad, where he investigated human trafficking and child exploitation matters. In today’s episode, Nate tells us what domestic trafficking is and what it isn’t, and the common misconceptions about trafficking. Nate also talks about his organization The Joseph Project and the unbelievable story that led him to starting it through simple acts of obedience. I love when Nate says, “Sometimes what God is asking me and what He is inviting me into is this invitation to see the big within the small." For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #357 is Dr. Tony Evans! Dr. Tony Evans is the founder and senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas. He just released a new book called U-Turns: Reversing the Consequences in Your Life. Y’all. I don’t normally get nervous for interviews but I was SO excited to talk to Dr. Evans. He is truly such a wise leader and I’m honored he is joining me on the podcast today.In this episode, he talks about finding true rest and hope in the person of God rather than our own solutions, and what it looks like to align our life choices with the word of God. Dr. Evans also dives into what is going on in our world right now and the problem of attaching Jesus to our culture and agendas. It feels like there is just as much division in the church as there is in our nation and it can cause us to lose sight of the Kingdom by focusing on saving our culture. Dr. Evans dropped SO many truth bombs in this interview, but he really impacted me when he said “God is not going to skip the church house to fix the White House.” Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #356 is Hannah Brencher. Hannah Brencher is an author, TED speaker, and online educator with a heart for advocating for mental health and the power of discipline in daily life. In this episode, Hannah tells us about balancing being both a new and working mom, leaning into our strengths, and creating boundaries for social media - you have to hear about her phone box! Hannah also gets vulnerable as she shares about going through a season of life-threatening depression, which led her to write the words from her newest book, Fighting Forward. She had to truly fight to show up for herself, and recognize the people who were showing up for her. I love so much when she said “The lies are loud...and sometimes the only way to combat those on top of truth is to say ‘Okay - the evidence is right here that I’m showing up, there’s evidence that I’m moving forward. But I can’t reflect on that evidence or rehearse that evidence if I don’t know what it is.’” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #355 is Rachel Cruze! Rachel Cruze is best-selling author, financial expert and host of The Rachel Cruze Show. Since 2010, Rachel has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches people to avoid debt, save money, budget and how to win with money at any stage in life. Her latest book Know Yourself, Know Your Money: Discover WHY You Handle Money the Way You Do and WHAT to Do About It just released - make sure you check it out! In today's episode, we talk about the blessing and challenge of family in 2020 and working on boundaries for 2021! Rachel also dives into the WHY behind our money. It’s easy to learn the how, but it’s so important to know the why and how the why relates to our personality and desires. I really appreciate when Rachel says “Control can be a bad word. But what you can control is a good thing - that you need to be wise and steward it.” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #354 is Ben Higgins. Ben Higgins is best known from season 20 of ABC's hit series, The Bachelor. I am such a fan of the work that Ben is doing and I’m so glad he joined me on the podcast today! In this episode, he tells us about his excitement for his wedding this year, as well as his upcoming book Alone in Plain Sight which gets vulnerable about feelings of loneliness. He also dives into his transition of going on missions trips with a hero mentality to developing true kinship with people, leading him to start his organization Generous Coffee! I really loved when he said “The world you are comfortable with is not the world that most are used to.” It’s really easy to forget that how we serve is just as important as the serving itself. For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #353 is Amy Ford. Amy Ford is the President of Embrace Grace, Inc., a non-profit organization formed for the purpose of providing curriculum and leadership support for churches nationwide to open their arms to young women with unplanned pregnancies. Embrace Grace is utilized by over 700 churches across the nation and world. She is also the author of Help Her Be Brave: Discover Your Place in the Pro-Life Movement. My friend, Bri, connected Amy and I a few months ago and I am so happy she did! In today’s episode, we talk about our new goals for 2021, the work that Embrace Grace is doing to empower women with resources, and her own story of going through an unplanned pregnancy. Amy also tells so many incredible stories about encountering women with unplanned pregnancies in the most unlikely places, and the importance of pro-love action beyond the pro-life stance. She worded it so perfectly when she said “You can’t just vote a certain way. You have to be able to walk alongside her and put our actions to our beliefs. If you’re pro-life, where’s the action behind it? Because that’s where the radical change is going to happen.” For the full summary and links to the show, click below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #352 is Emmanuel Acho! Emmanuel Acho is a former NFL player, host of Speak for Yourself talk show, but most people know him from his viral YouTube series Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man which launched in 2020. He also released a best-selling book of the same title that I’ve been absolutely raving about since I read it! Make sure you pick up a copy if you haven’t yet! I can’t think of a better way to kick off the new year than with Emmanuel Acho! In today’s episode, Emmanuel talks about looking back to find the beauty in the chaos of 2020, the lifetime opportunity of partnering with Oprah, and writing his book in SIX WEEKS. Y’all. Can you believe that?! He also dives into the topics we talked about on our family’s episode of his YouTube show, and what it really means to maintain Black culture. The number one question I received after our episode aired was “What does it mean to maintain Black culture?” This is personal for me as a mom raising Black children, and Emmanuel really challenged me when he said “You can raise a Black child, but raise them white-cultured.” I always want to make sure that I am not only exposing my kids to white culture, but to Black culture, too. I want to create a safe space for them to be who they are. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Jamie had the opportunity to co-host an episode with the Love Thy Neighborhood team this month. We don't want you to miss it, so we are dropping it here for you to enjoy! Be sure you check out more from Love Thy NeighborhoodChristians believe God made women, but what happens when that identity gets twisted by both the church and the culture? A single mom, a pastor’s wife, and a feminist all wrestle with what it means to be a woman. This episode is produced in partnership with The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey. Featuring Wendy Alsup (Is the Bible Good for Women?), Lisa Bevere (Godmothers), and Courtney Reissig (The Accidental Feminist). Co-hosted by Jamie Ivey.

Today is the last episode of 2020! My guests for today are my wonderful team members, Lyndsey and Abby! If you’ve been listening to The Happy Hour for a while, you probably know who Lyndsey is - she has her hands on anything and everything coming through Ivey Media. We couldn’t do this without her! Abby is our newest team member and content manager! She writes all of our show notes, and manages content for a few of our social platforms. We got together to do a Year in Review for you, and we had the best time doing it. We talk about our favorite episodes of the year, some big wins for Ivey Media, most listened to episodes, and more. We also tease at some fun projects coming up in the new year. Here’s a hint: Go subscribe to my YouTube channel - you’ll learn more about it there! Two big wins I have to acknowledge from this year - 1. We released DOUBLE the episodes! 2. We started having men on the podcast! We also got into some incredible conversations, some of which can even be uncomfortable, but I’m always so proud of my listeners for being willing to go there with us! This has been a crazy, eventful year. But in the midst of it all, I never take for granted what an honor it is to share these conversations with you. Our team is so hopeful and excited for 2021, and we can’t wait for you to join us along the way! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Merry Christmas from the Ivey’s!!! Today’s episode features all of Team Ivey! That’s right - Aaron, Cayden, Amos, Deacon & Story all join me for today’s Happy Hour Christmas Special! If you know anything about the Ivey crew, it’s that it always gets a little wild when we’re all together and today is no different! We read from our absolute favorite Jesus Storybook Bible, talk about our favorite Christmas traditions, sing Christmas carols - all the fun things! We also play a Christmas trivia game, and let me tell you - it gets pretty competitive. I love when the fam joins me on the podcast, and whether you’re listening on Christmas day, the day after, a week later, whenever - we hope our fam brings you a laugh today! Have a very special holiday with family and friends, and we pray that you would be reminded of Christ’s love for you today and every day. Merry Christmas from our family to yours! Song: Ikson - Christmas (Vlog No Copyright Music)Music promoted by Vlog No Copyright Music.Video Link: https://youtu.be/25YY3RKGZZE Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #349 is Francine Rivers. Francine Rivers is a New York Times best-selling author. She’s written over 30 books, her most well-known work being Redeeming Love. My mom is absolutely giddy that Francine is joining me on the podcast today - we’re big fans and I’m sure so many of you are, too! In this episode, Francine tells us about everything from the importance of friendship in marriage to her excitement for her upcoming 2021 film Redeeming Love! She also talks about transitioning from writing steamy romance novels to Christian fiction, and the process of growing in her faith to understand the depths of God’s love for us. I love when she says, “With Christian fiction, it’s never meant to replace the real thing. It’s an introduction so that it hopefully makes people hunger and thirst for that kind of love.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #348 is Alli Worthington. Alli Worthington is an author, speaker, podcaster and business coach for entrepreneurs. Her most recent book, Standing Strong, is such an encouraging message about living with confidence and becoming great women of God. Fun fact: Our books actually released in the same week! I love sharing these moments with friends and seeing other women step into obedience in what God has called them to share. Alli Worthington is a long time friend and a Happy Hour OG and I’m so excited she is back on the podcast today! In this show, she talks about leaning into the dreams God has placed in our hearts, the difficult decision she made to leave a job she loved, and the importance of trusting God to come through the way He always does. She also dives into the idea that there is room for all of us to step into the spaces we feel called to, even though there is nothing new under the sun. Sometimes we feel like we can’t do that thing that we feel called to do because so many other people are doing it, too. But I love so much when Alli says “God has us do things, similar things, in our own version of it because only we can have our life experience. Only we can put a certain spin on things that will resonate with our little piece of the pie. But the pie is big enough for everybody.” Y’all. That is SO GOOD. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #347 is Jonas Myrin. Originally from Sweden, Jonas Myrin is a Grammy and Billboard Music award-winning singer, songwriter and producer. If you think you’ve never heard his work, there’s a good chance you have! He’s made an incredible impact with several chart-topping songs, including “10,000 Reasons” with Matt Redman. Y’all. This is probably one of my favorite interviews we’ve done this year, and I am so excited to share it with you. In this episode, Jonas tells us about life as a missionary kid and what brought him to the States, the meaning of success as a follower of Christ, and learning to be his true-self as a believer within the music industry. Jonas also shares about unexpectedly losing his dad to COVID-19 earlier this year, and the beautiful moment when he led his dad in worship as he left this earth and met his Maker. We have all experienced our own kinds of grief and loss this year, and it can feel so overwhelming to make sense of it and feel peace through such a difficult time. But Jonas worded it so perfectly - he says, “Even in loss, even in going through the darkest night, God is still there. And He wants to be there with you in the darkness.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #346 is Rondell Treviño. Rondell Treviño is the Founder and Director of The Immigration Coalition—a faith-based non-profit providing clean drinking water to Latino, Immigrant, Migrant, and Asylum-Seeking communities along the U.S.-Mexico Border. Rondell speaks on issues of Immigration and engaging in politics from a biblical perspective at Churches, organizations, and conferences around the United States. I have been wanting to chat with Rondell for a long time and I’m so happy we made it happen! In today’s episode, we talk about the sanctifying rollercoaster of 2020, what led him to starting the Immigration Coalition and how we can partner with them to provide clean water at the border! Rondell also talks about how to engage with politics in healthy and biblical ways, remembering that we are citizens of heaven above all. I love when he says “People feel like you have to choose a side. You don’t have to choose an extreme side. There’s always a balance that Jesus brings to the table.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #345 is Lysa TerKeurst. Lysa is someone who needs no introduction, but in the off chance that you are new to this space, let me tell you about my dear friend! Lysa TerKeurst is a best-selling author, speaker and president of Proverbs 31 Ministries. Her books include Uninvited, It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way, and most recently Forgiving What You Can’t Forget. Lysa has continued to be a leader for Christ-following women, and I’m consistently blown away by her words and faithfulness to God’s mission. Lysa is a Happy Hour veteran and I’m so thankful she is back on the podcast. In today’s episode, Lysa talks about leaving room for God to move, what God revealed to her about forgiveness, and partnering with Harper Collins publishing to give people a place to share their stories! Lysa also goes into depth about the message of forgiveness and hurt, and why it was such a difficult message to write because it’s such a difficult message to live. But I love so much when she says, “We don’t conjure up forgiveness from inside of us. We simply throw our arms up, and we receive forgiveness from God.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #344 is Terence Lester. Terence Lester is a minister, speaker, community activist, author, and founder of Love Beyond Walls, a not-for-profit organization focused on poverty awareness and community mobilization. He is also the author of I See You: How Love Opens Our Eyes to Invisible People. Terence is an incredible example of what it looks like to be a doer, and I’m so excited to share this episode with you today. In this show, Terence talks about growing up in Atlanta, running away from home at sixteen years old, and the man who discipled him and changed his life. Terence also talks about the common misconceptions about people experiencing homelessness, and the importance of seeing people by building relationships in our communities. I love so much when he says “Home goes beyond just four walls and a roof. Home is community and belonging.” Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #343 is Jamie Grace. Jamie Grace is a contemporary Christian music artist who started her career at age 14. She has made several albums, and recently released a book called Finding Quiet: My Journey to Peace in an Anxious World. In today's episode, Jamie talks about finding quiet through seasons of change, growing up in the public eye as a teen star, and the process of transitioning her image from child fame to a grown, married adult with a family. She also shares about her experience with mental illness and postpartum depression, and how important it is to seek help when we need it. I think in a lot of ways we all struggle to ask for help because it makes us feel inadequate or less than, but I love when Jamie says “I cannot rely on my feelings, which are so inconsistent. I have to rely on the truth.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #342 is Colton Dixon. Colton Dixon is a musical artist who earned his professional start on American Idol. Fun fact: Colton is now the third American Idol contestant I’ve had on the podcast, how cool is that?! In today’s episode, he talks about the hurt and bitterness he felt after being cut from American Idol, unexpectedly being dropped from his label a few years later, and the terrifying delivery scare he and Annie experienced with their girls. Colton also talks a lot about stepping into new seasons and how those difficulties really shaped him. I love when he says “Without those trials, our faith would be so watered down. Not that God is the source behind the trial, but that He will use it to build our faith.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #341 is Jonathan Almonte. Jonathan was registered in Compassion’s Child Sponsorship Program when he was seven years old. Today, he is a manager of Supporter Engagement for Compassion Dominican Republic, serving donors and sponsors of Dominican children. In today’s episode, Jonathan talks about his childhood growing up in deep poverty with a single mother, and how he got connected with a sponsorship program through the local church. He also dives into how sponsorships provide more than basic needs, but also provide a way for children to be introduced to the Gospel. I love when he says, “It’s more than just the $38. It’s making a child a disciple of Christ.” To learn more about how to sponsor a child, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It’s that time of year again! Holiday Gift Guide is one of my favorite things we do all year, and I cannot wait to share this year’s amazing vendors and products with you! My dear friend, Mica May and I had the best time learning about these incredible companies and small businesses, and we are so confident you’ll have plenty to choose from for your Christmas shopping! We love supporting businesses that are small, women-owned, give-back, or ethical brands, and we have such a special round-up for you this year. Make sure to listen to the full podcast episode to get all the discount codes for the vendors! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #340 is Tracy Foster. Tracy Foster is co-founder and Executive Director of START | Stand Together and Rethink Technology which brings parents and community leaders together to develop "digital health" for raising kids with healthy screen habits. Tracy has SO much knowledge around this topic that is so helpful to me as a mom of four. I’m so thankful she is sharing her wisdom with us today. In this episode, she talks about how to navigate digital health during COVID-19, being a safe place for your kids to talk to about harmful images, and practical steps to protect children from the dangers of pornography. The difficult thing about technology is that it’s a great tool when used well, but it can also be a harmful obstacle. Tracy says “For most of our kids, their screens are probably at risk of being the biggest things standing in the way of themselves actually achieving the goals that they care about most in life.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #339 is Daniel Hill. Daniel Hill is the author of White Awake, White Lies, and 10:10: Life to the Fullest. Daniel is the Founding and Senior Pastor of River City Community Church, located in the West Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago. Friends, I cannot fully put into words how excited I am that Daniel is joining us on the podcast today. I completely devoured his book White Awake earlier this summer and have been wanting to chat with him ever since. In today’s episode, Daniel dives deep into his journey of coming face to face with a culture of white supremacy and realizing how many things in his life he never had to think about as a white male. I really appreciated Daniel’s words when he said “Racism is built on a set of lies, and lies belong to the evil one.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #338 is Lisa Bevere. Lisa Bevere has spent nearly three decades empowering women to find their identity and purpose. She is a cancer survivor and a New York Times bestselling author. In today’s episode, she talks about working hard to create a healthy family foundation and her early days as a Christian woman who wanted to be poured into. She also talks about the hard journey of fighting for her place as a woman in the church and her desire to share what God has done in her life. It’s no secret that there is still controversy over the voice of women in some churches and beyond, but I love so much when Lisa says, “God would not have given women a voice if He did not intend them to use it.” For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #337 is Sam Acho. Sam Acho is an NFL player, writer, public speaker, and humanitarian. It’s awesome people like Sam that make me so happy to have men on The Happy Hour! In today’s episode, we chat about fun Super Bowl predictions, the process of transitioning to new seasons, and releasing his new book! He also dives into his journey of learning not to hide his emotions and allowing people to see him for who he is, the same way that The Lord sees us. I love when he says, “When I showed people ‘me’, I wasn’t shunned or rejected or tossed aside or thrown away or cast out. Instead I was embraced. I was loved. I was accepted. I was welcomed.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #336 is Jeff Bethke. Jeff Bethke is the author of several books, including Jesus > Religion, and his most recent book To Hell With The Hustle. I have so much respect for Jeff and the whole Bethke crew, and I’m so excited to have him on the podcast today. In this episode, Jeff dives into his passion for helping families lean into their purpose of glorifying God as a unit and being called to mission as a family. Not necessarily in the sense of a nuclear or corporate family, but rather in the multigenerational family that is the body of Christ. I love when Jeff says, “The picture of family in scripture is such a big table, there’s no one that doesn’t have a seat.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #335 is Mary Marantz. Mary is the author of the book “Dirt” about growing up in a single wide trailer in West Virginia before going on to Yale. She is also the host of The Mary Marantz Show. In today’s episode, Mary talks about reconciling her childhood and the pressure she put on herself to achieve, as well as what it’s been like to walk through infertility. She also dives into the journey that inspired her book: facing the shame that she carried from her past, and coming to a place of embracing it as a huge part of the story God is writing for her. I love when she says “The story that you have was never a shackle. It was never this thing holding you back and disqualifying you from things before you even begin. It’s getting to this place where you actually not only embrace the story, but you’re willing to put it out front and center.” I love that so much. For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #334 is J.D. Greear. J.D. Greear is currently serving as the 62nd president of the Southern Baptist Convention and is pastor of one of the fastest-growing churches in North America, The Summit Church, which is located in Raleigh-Durham, N. C. In this episode, we talk about the challenge of parenting teenagers as we get ready to launch them into the world, and how to lead Christ-followers to a state of unity without uniformity as we face sin and injustice. He also dives into a very important topic about the problem with teaching children to ask Jesus into their hearts, and what coming to salvation really looks like. I definitely used those terms in the past as a parent and was also taught similarly to myself growing up. But I love so much when pastor J.D. says, “Conversion is a posture you begin to take for the finished work of Christ. You assume that posture in a moment. You hold that posture for a lifetime.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #333 is Ian Morgan Cron. Ian Morgan Cron is a psychotherapist, Enneagram teacher, and host of the popular podcast, Typology. He's also the author of the best-selling book, The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery. I had the honor of being a guest on Ian’s Typology podcast recently, and I am so thankful he is joining me on The Happy Hour today! One thing I really loved that he shares is how to be better consumers of people’s views even when we don’t know or understand how they see the world. It’s easy to make a quick judgment and villainize one another for our differences, but this is where the beauty of self-awareness steps in. I love when he says, “It’s a big mistake to think that your way of seeing the world is normal and that any other view is abnormal. It’s even worse to think, without any self-interrogation, that your way of seeing the world is right and the only right way of seeing the world.” I don’t know about you, but that was definitely convicting for me. For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #332 is Alena Pitts. At just 16-years-old, Alena is an actress, singer, writer and speaker, most known for her role in the movie War Room. In today's episode, Alena tells us what it was like to walk-through her biggest challenge: unexpectedly losing her mom and how it became bearable solely because of Jesus. As a fellow enneagram six, I definitely relate to Alena in a lot of ways, especially worst case scenarios. But I love so much when Alena says, “What I had imagined as the worst case scenario was the worst case scenario at one point in my life. And I survived.” I am consistently impressed by Alena’s wisdom and strength at such a young age, and I am always cheering her on as a role model for Christian girls. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

On today’s show my friends Amy Wolff and Eugene Cho join me. We talk about how to engage in the nuance of political policies, and being careful not to dehumanize those we disagree with. I really value the way Amy and Eugene pursue unity in Christ above all, and how they allow that truth to shape the way they engage in these conversations. For the full episode and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #331 is Mandisa! For the few people who may be unfamiliar with her, Mandisa is a gospel and contemporary Christian recording artist. She came to the spotlight on the fifth season of American Idol, and was given an incredible opportunity to share publicly about her faith. In this episode, Mandisa talks about learning how to lovingly disagree with one another and washing the feet of our enemies. Mandisa also gets vulnerable about her journey to pursuing mental and physical health by healing from depression and working through childhood wounds. She shares about times where she was trapped in a deep, emotional pit, and how she has learned to find her comfort in Christ rather than temporary things. I love when she says “I used to say that God doesn’t call us to comfort, but now I actually believe He does. He calls us to His comfort. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter.” For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Text YOUBEYOU to 33777 Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #330 is Karen Swallow Prior. Karen Swallow Prior, Ph. D., is Research Professor of English and Christianity and Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In today’s episode, Karen talks about her experience of going from a private person to a public person, the stigmas and baggage that come with remaining a southern baptist, and some of the downsides of having a visible platform. She also gets vulnerable about some of the recent challenges she is facing around leaving her employer of 21 years, and the corruption of power that we see within the evangelical world. For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Text YOUBEYOU to 33777 Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Surprise! We have a Monday episode for you! On today’s show my friends Kathryn Freeman and Scott Sauls join me. You will enjoy hearing from both of them as we talk about things like how to engage in policy work that may not fully align with our Christian worldview, and how to fill a hostile world with gentleness. We jump right into these conversations and our hope is that you would be encouraged to view every issue through the lens of God’s word. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #329 is Lori Champion. Lori and her husband, Joe, co-founded Celebration Church in Austin, TX. In today’s episode, Lori dives into being a woman in church leadership, and the journey she walked through beforehand of feeling trapped in the desert and incapable of being used by God. It’s easy to feel lost or forgotten in the Lord’s plan for our lives, especially when we know that we’ve been equipped for so much more than we’re currently doing, or more than our culture has told us. But I love so much when Lori says, “God has a way to find you. He’s not going to waste you.” I don’t know if you needed that reminder today, but if you ever feel like God has forgotten to use you, remember His promises in the desert. He is not going to waste you. For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Text YOUBEYOU to 33777 Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #328 is Dr. Derwin Gray. Dr. Derwin L. Gray is the lead pastor of Transformation Church in South Carolina. In today's episode, Pastor Derwin dives into what it really looks like to find true happiness in the midst of tragedy and sin. I love when he says, “The happiness that Jesus wants to give us is not a happiness that’s based on our circumstances. The happiness that Jesus wants to give to us is a happiness of becoming who we were meant to be.” That is such an important reminder. It is easy to think that we will be happy if everything in our life is in line with what the world deems is successful. Pastor Derwin reminds us that happiness is not found in those worldly successes, but rather in fully stepping into our role as Christ followers, and falling deeply in love with who Jesus is. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #327 is Kim Walker-Smith. I definitely had a fan-girl moment the first time I met Kim in person, and I am so happy she is joining us on the podcast today! In this episode, Kim talks about the importance of finding our identity in more than just what we do, the process of writing and recording her album, and her testimony of coming to know Christ. Kim also dives heavily into how much church and leading worship has changed as a result of COVID-19, and what living a life of worship truly means. She is so transparent about how easy it can be for churches and leaders to hide behind the so-called “production” of it all. I love when she says, “When you take it all away, do you still have Jesus to offer?” That is such an important question to ask. I’m so grateful for Kim’s transparency and faithfulness to rooting her identity in what Christ has done, and who He is. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #326 is….ME! My sweet husband, Aaron, is the host for today’s show and we talk all about my new book, You Be You! In today’s episode, we talk about the meaning of You Be You through a biblical and godly lens, and even dish out on some of the pros and cons of having a public platform. We also talk about what it looks like to live a life that is committed to what’s been placed in front of us, while also living open-handed to what God may have for us. I’ve said it time and time again: I want women to really believe that they matter right where they are and the voice that God’s put in them. It’s not less than mine because I speak into a microphone every week. It’s just different, and it matters. When you read this book, I truly pray that it is a reminder for what has always been true - that God has touched you and equipped you for a life of glorifying Him exactly where you are. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #325 is Andrew Peterson. Some of you may know Andrew as simply a musician or artist, which is true. But it is much deeper than that. For more than twenty years now, Andrew has been about the business of quietly changing lives in four-minute increments. In today’s episode, Andrew shares about his experience growing up as a pastor’s kid and nominal Christian, coming face to face with childhood wounds, and dismantling the superiority of “creatives” by redefining its meaning. Andrew also went into detail about what it’s like transitioning from parenting your children to stepping into friendship with them. This was a conversation I didn’t know I needed, but I’m so thankful it happened. I hope you walk away from this episode feeling less alone and more understood. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #324 is Melissa Zaldivar. Melissa is a writer, podcast host and author. Melissa has such an important message for listeners and I’m so excited for you to hear it. She tells us about the importance of knowing the meaning of scripture and translations, and that good theology is the lens to the way we view the world. She also talks in depth about how we learn through loss, and the way God meets us before the victories just as much as He does after the victories. For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guests for The Happy Hour #323 are Stevie & Sazan Hendrix. This power couple have become some of my dearest friends, and they are actually the very first couple to be interviewed together on The Happy Hour! Stevie & Sazan work in the content creation space, and have built their own personal brand through YouTube, Instagram, podcasts and blogs. In today’s episode, they talk about how this 2020 season has forced them to slow down, shifting their business from makeup/beauty to a motivational platform, and feeling led to leave LA behind. For the full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #322 is Brooke Ligertwood. Brooke is a songwriter, musician, producer and head of worship for Hillsong Worship. In today's episode, we talk about what repentance and revival looks like in 2020 through everything happening in this season of life. It’s no secret that we’ve all been unexpectedly stripped of our systems and patterns, and possibly came to realize that these things were idols in our lives. I love when Brooke says, “We need to be prepared to have our hands open and our hearts open to stop clinging to our systems.” For the full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #321 is the ever-so-talented musical artist, Lecrae. Apart from being a Grammy award winning artist, Lecrae is an author, actor, and founder of the Christian hip-hop music label, Reach Records. Lecrae also recently released an album called Restoration, and has a book called I Am Restored that is set to release next month! In this episode, we talk about being an artist in the age of social media, racism in the church, and overcoming depression. For the full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #319 is Stephanie May Wilson. Stephanie is known as the go-to guide for 20 & 30-something women as they navigate their most important relationships. In this episode, Stephanie shares about her journey with unexplained infertility and IVF, trusting the character of God while walking through difficult seasons, and her thankfulness for having the opportunity to walk others through those same experiences once she’s on the other side of them. I love when she says “When we go through something hard, that experience transforms us into the person that is uniquely qualified to help someone else through that exact thing.” What a great reminder that is. I hope you walk away with the steady truth that God truly knows what is good for His children. For the full summary and show links, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #318 is Caitlin Crosby. Caitlin Crosby is the founder and CEO of The Giving Keys, an organization that engraves inspirational words as a way to pay it forward and encourage people who need words of truth. In today’s episode, Caitlin dives into her fight with mental health and normalizing failure as part of being human. She says, “My mind isn’t going to tell me what to think. I’m going to tell my mind what to think.” It is such a good reminder to know that we don’t have to give into the lies we tell ourselves, but instead take it captive and pour truth over it. For the full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #317 is Kayla Stoecklein. In August of 2018, Kayla lost her husband, Andrew—pastor of Inland Hills Church in Chino, California—to suicide. In the wake of the tragedy, she embarked on a brave journey to better understand his harrowing battle with mental illness and, ultimately, to overcome the stigma of suicide. She also has a book releasing on September 8th called Fear Gone Wild. For the full summary and details on pre-ordering Kayla's book, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #316 is Anna Golden. Anna is a 24-year-old worship pastor at Relentless Church in Greenville, South Carolina. In today’s episode, Anna talks about what it was like growing up as a show-biz kid in a creative family, navigating leading worship as a young person, and some of the stigmas surrounding being a single worship pastor. Anna also opens up about the level of responsibility that comes with leading worship for a congregation, and the importance of accountability from someone who knows you deeply. I love when she says, “being a worship leader is actually 10% of what you do on-stage and 90% of what you do off-stage.” For the full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #315 is Amy Julia Becker. Amy Julia is such an advocate for social justice, and we dive into how her experience as a mother to a child with down syndrome really opened her eyes to the privilege she has had in her life. For full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #314 is Rachel Gilson. In today’s episode, we talk about Rachel growing up in a non-religious home, finding Christ in the midst of same-sex attraction, and ways that the church can come alongside the LGBTQ+ community. Rachel also tells us about the challenge of trusting God even when we don’t understand, and how this affects our pursuit of self-desires. I love so much how she worded it by saying, “We cannot trust in the most tender places and the riskiest places unless the person asking us is someone who has proven beyond a doubt that they are trustworthy.” For full summary, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #313 is Eugene Cho. Eugene is the President and CEO of Bread for the World, a Christian advocacy organization urging our nation’s decision-makers to end hunger at home and abroad. He is also the founder/visionary of One Day’s Wages, as well as the founder and former Senior Pastor of Quest Church. Eugene lives in Seattle with his wife of 24 years and three children. He released a book earlier this year called Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian’s Guide to Engaging Politics. Friends, I am beyond excited to share this episode with you. It’s thought-provoking, encouraging, and challenging which is the perfect blend for a great conversation. Eugene talks about fighting against the stereotypes surrounding poverty in the U.S., starting a new job and leaving his home of Seattle behind, and engaging in civic duty beyond voting. He also gets into the effects of political tension in our nation and how we can often place our allegiance to political parties above the kingdom of God. Division is never easy or light, but I love it when Eugene says, “To be a Christ-follower is to be faithful amid tension.” Wow. I know the world sometimes feels like it’s crumbling, but I’m so thankful for Eugene’s reminder that we are called to love God and love people through the tension. I hope you walk away from this conversation feeling as encouraged as I did. To connect more about Jamie’s book, text YOUBEYOU to 33777. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #312 is Pastor Mike Todd. Mike Todd is the lead pastor of Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Pastor Mike and his wife, Natalie, have been married since 2010 and live in Tulsa along with their three beautiful children: Isabella, Michael Jr., and Ava, affectionately known as “The Todd Squad”. Pastor Mike is also the author of the book Relationship Goals, which ended up becoming a New York Times bestseller. His driving passion is representing God to the lost and found for transformation in Christ. Friends, Pastor Mike is the real deal and I could not be more excited that he is joining us on the podcast today. In this episode, we talk about finding the pace of grace, being faithful stewards of what God has given us, and the story of how Mike went from being the sound guy to the lead pastor at Transformation Church. Pastor Mike also opens up about being transparent in our struggles in order to find healing in Christ and community, more specifically within the topic of pornography. He talks about how people often view pastors as being inhuman, but we need to be aware that all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God, and in order to be transformed, we need to be transparent. I love when he says, “Honesty is telling the truth when somebody asks you. Transparency is offering up your truth.” It’s scary to think about how we might be perceived, but Pastor Mike reminds us that our freedom is so much more valuable than the opinions of others. I hope this conversation helps lead you closer to finding freedom in Christ from whatever struggles you are facing today. To connect more about Jamie’s book, text YOUBEYOU to 33777. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #311 is Sophie Hudson. Sophie has been a long time guest on the podcast and we are so happy to have her back for the fourth time! She currently lives in Birmingham, Alabama with her husband and son. Sophie is the co-host of The Big Boo Cast and author of five books, including her most recent release Stand All The Way Up: Stories of Staying In It When You Want to Burn It All Down. Friends, Sophie is truly such a joy to talk to and I am always so encouraged by her heart and honesty. In this episode, we talk about everything from our life-changing safari in Kenya to navigating trauma in the midst of the world’s unusual circumstances. Sophie also dives into finding encouragement in a world where you feel like you want to burn it all down. As the Enneagram 9 that she is, Sophie is a natural peacemaker. Like most of us, conflict feels very disruptive to her, and yet it has become our norm. She talks about the hope of knowing that Jesus operates in the middle of conflict and fear and reminds us that “When He is with us in the boat, He will get us to the other side.” When all we want to do is scream at the waves, Jesus has always been the calm that we need. I hope this conversation reminds you of the truth that Jesus is and always will be steady and sure. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #310 is Sam Collier. Today’s episode is a special one because Sam is our very first official male guest on The Happy Hour and we are so excited to have him! Sam is a pastor, author, speaker, and host of the TV Show/Radio-Podcast A Greater Story with Sam Collier. He also released a book yesterday called A Greater Story: My Rescue, Your Purpose, and Our Place in God’s Plan. In today’s episode, Sam and I talk about meeting his biological family at the age of 25, trading music for ministry, and finding our purpose in the mess of life. Sam also dives into laying down our desires for God’s glory, and how he never planned to do ministry, write a book, or share about his adoption story. I love when he shares about the moment God said to him, “I need to strip you of your ‘desires’...would you be willing to trade your desires for mine, and your dreams for mine?” Y’all, what a great reminder that is! Laying down our desires in order to build a new identity and pursue God’s purpose for our lives. To read more of Sam’s encouraging words, be sure to check out his book, A Greater Story: My Rescue, Your Purpose, and Our Place in God’s Plan. Want to connect more about Jamie’s book? Text YOUBEYOU to 33777. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for Happy Hour #309 is Morgan Harper Nichols. Morgan is a popular Instagram poet and artist who has created her life’s work around the stories of others. Each poem she shares is created in response to the personal stories submitted by her friends and followers. Her creativity and gifted artwork seems to express exactly what I am feeling, and I know so many of you have felt the same way. Friends, I have been a long time admirer of Morgan for so many reasons and I am so excited to share our conversation with you today. In this episode, we talk about her upbringing in a family of creatives, how she’s pursuing community in 2020, and how her love for music led her to poetry. We also dove into using art for a purpose, and how she has been learning to see her art as a gift to others rather than something she feels required to create. She says “What I love about gifts is that it’s not necessarily about the talent or perfection of it. It’s about the heart of the person that gave it to you wanting to share their heart with you.” As creatives, it’s easy for us to feel the pressure to constantly put out our best work. Morgan reminds us that sometimes we create art that resonates with people so much, even when we think it’s not our best. I hope you walk away feeling encouraged by her reminder that God can truly use what we think is unusable to meet people where they’re at. I’m so thankful for Morgan sharing her gift of words with us today! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The Happy Hour #308 is a special one! You’ve probably heard me mention our Patreon Party by now, but you might not be so sure if you really want to join. That’s why we decided to share with you some of our favorite episodes from our Patreon Party for the past three weeks! We’ve shared from our marriage mini-series, After the Show, and now you’re getting a sneak peek at UNPlugged: LIVE with the Iveys! This episode, like every other episode of UNPlugged, gets a little wild. You truly never know what you’re going to get with this crew! Aaron, Story, Lyndsey, and myself dive into a Q+A section of the show where we answer your questions from the chat like where we want to go as soon as quarantine is over -- spoiler alert: Story said MEXICO! A girl after my own heart. We chat about all of the silly things in quarantine like whether our kids our arguing more or less being home all the time, how I haven’t taken my Birkenstocks off in 15 weeks, what it will be like to eat at a restaurant someday, and how things actually get done around Ivey Media. More than anything, this episode is a BLAST! I hope you have even half as much fun listening as we have recording it for our Patreon Party! To learn more about Patreon and how you can join check out jamieivey.com/patreon! When you sign up for our $6 month VIP party membership, you get weekly Patreon versions of The Happy Hour shows, a monthly After the Show with me and a guest answering your questions, and the monthly UNplugged: LIVE with the Iveys! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest for today’s episode is Preston Perry! Preston is a spoken word poet, father, apologist, and is married to a friend of the show, Jackie Hill-Perry. In this episode, Preston and I dive into his last 10 years. We chat about meeting Jackie for the first time at a poetry event and their subsequent friendships, how Preston was exposed to the Gospel and led to Christ by the radical transformation in his friend Gary’s life, and how he is carrying on that legacy as a father to his girls. Preston also shares about how he and Jackie are trying to avoid the burnout with their kids that can happen growing up in a Christian home. He says, “We don’t want to hand our kids our religion, we want to display it for them, allow them the free-will that God gave them...and give them space to seek God.” Friends, Preston is wise beyond his years and I’m so grateful for the ways in which he defends the faith “with gentleness and respect” and continues to be vulnerable in his relationships and with us today. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Today’s episode is the second in a series of three episodes we’re sharing with you from our Patreon Party! It’s from a series called After the Show where we invite our Patreon listeners to submit their questions about one of the Happy Hour episodes and it is one of my very favorite parts of the Patreon Party. Today’s episode is with my real life friend, Dr. Andrea Holman. Andrea serves as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Huston-Tillotson University where she teaches, conducts research, and gives talks and trainings around the city about race, racism and privilege and their impact on interpersonal relations. She also uses her expertise to assist foster/adoptive parents pursuing interracial adoption through the local foster agency through which she and her husband are currently licensed foster parents. In this episode, Lyndsey and I get to talk with Andrea about some of the questions you guys had surrounding foster care, advocacy, and beauty standards in the church, just to name a few. We talk about the goal of fostering to always be reunification, how important it is to name our pride, and humanize the parents while allowing humility to be the bridge between birth-families and foster-families. Andrea shares with us so transparently about the weight of holding space for herself and other people of color in predominantly white spaces and the impact it can have if it’s not balanced with life-giving people and events. I love the advice Andrea communicates when we were talking about how white women can approach interpersonal relationships and advocacy. She says, “rather than making the interaction about you, because that’s what privilege allows you to do, make it about them. See them, ask them, be okay holding and maintaining your own emotional response, because that is work for the person of color to hold your emotional response.” Friends, I am so grateful for Andrea, her experience, expertise, and the time she shared with us today! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to head over to our Patreon Party and check out more of what we have going on there, including a brand new show I’m launching with Aaron called On the Other Side. It’s going to be a good time! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest for today’s episode is Dr. Russel Moore! Russell Moore is president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, the moral and public policy agency of the nation’s largest Protestant denomination. Dr. Moore is the author of several books, including Onward: Engaging the Culture without Losing the Gospel and The Storm-Tossed Family: How the Cross Reshapes the Home. A native Mississippian, he and his wife Maria are the parents of five sons. At the beginning of today’s episode, Dr. Moore and I chat about his past 10 years and I’m not exaggerating when I say that I needed a nap after hearing all of the things he has walked through and accomplished. In 2010 alone, he and Maria had four boys and a fifth on the way. He was the Chief Academic Officer at a theological seminary, a full-time pastor, and was teaching a full load of classes! That’s a lot. We then got to chat about how he managed stress through those seasons and how hindsight really is 20/20. We also talk about the ERLC and their commission to equip churches and families making ethical and moral decisions, which can be anything from adoption and foster care to end of life hospitalization issues and everything in between. Dr. Moore shares with us how relevant and important this is right now as the world is wrestling with racial injustice, especially within the church. I loved his response when I asked him where the hope is in this season. He says, “the hope in it is that you have more people across the board...seeing that this is a problem and that this has a set of biblical answers and a way that the bible forms our consciences and intuitions to be able to bear one another's burdens.” Friends, I am so grateful for Dr. Moore’s leadership -- especially right now as we’re all wading through rough waters. I hope today’s episode was as enlightening and encouraging for you as it was for me! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The Happy Hour #306 is a special one! You’ve probably heard me mention our Patreon Party by now, but you might not be so sure if you really want to join. That’s why we decided to share with you some of our favorite episodes from our Patreon Party for the next three weeks! In this episode, you will hear a conversation that my boo, Aaron and I had with the enneagram fairy godmother, Susanne Stabile, and her “arm candy” husband, Joe Stabile. Suzanne is a highly sought after speaker and teacher, known for her engaging laugh, personal vulnerability and creative approach to Enneagram instruction. She is the co-author The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self Discovery with Ian Cron and she followed that with her second best seller, The Path Between Us: An Enneagram Journey to Healthy Relationships. Reverend Joe Stabile is a United Methodist Church pastor as well as Co-Founder in the Trinity Ministry, in Dallas, Texas. In our time together, the four of us talk about everything from family night and the enneagram to building marriages and navigating the world of church leadership. Joe shares about how he entered seminary at 14 years old and his following decades as a celibate Catholic priest. He and Suzanne tell us about how their stories came together and the hard work and spiritual practices that have lent to the beauty of their marriage. We talk a lot about marriage -- the good, the bad, the ugly and how one way or another, sitting face-to-face with your knees touching your partner’s leaves almost no space for conflict. Suzanne and Joe explain how marriage, much like our relationship with God, is “one long obedience in the same direction” and a matter of making the next right decision. I especially love when Suzanne, speaking on the hard work of marriage said, “[chemistry] is lovely, but chemistry won’t get you through sick kids and drama and recovery and tragedy...sometimes being in love is a decision.” Friends, this conversation from 2019 (which feels like 100 years ago!) is so rich! I promise you could listen to it five different times and hear something new each round -- and I’m absolutely speaking from experience! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest today is Barnabas Piper. Barnabas is an author, a podcaster, and serves on staff at Immanuel Church in Nashville, TN. He currently lives in the Nashville suburbs with his two daughters and their dog, and is getting married this month! Friends, today’s conversation was so refreshing. In this episode, Barnabas and I talk all about life growing up in the church, what faith has looked like for him over the past decade, and some really exciting things for him on the horizon. Barnabas talks about starting this past decade by losing his job and the eventual collapse of his first marriage. He shares openly about what it was like to navigate divorce in the context of the church and the ways in which God has been working through his story. We chat about the tendency to be both judge and jury when dealing with painful things because, like Barnabas says, “It’s much easier to be emotionally and relationally disengaged, dealing only with the facts of the matter rather than sitting in the pain [of the other person].” You guys, I love the way he talks about the friends who wouldn’t let him go over the past decade -- the way God holds on to us is so dear. I am also so grateful for the vulnerability Barnabas offers us in this conversation and I think you’ll really be blessed by this conversation. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #305 is Megan Lively. Megan has worked in social media marketing and management since 2008. In 2019, she transitioned away from that and is now using her experience, education, and love for the church to equip the church in the area of social media through Relevant Reach. I first met Megan at an ERLC (Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission) Conference in Dallas where we were both invited to speak. While I was there to talk about how to care for friends as they heal from abuse, Megan was there to share boldly and for the first time about her own story of being raped while in Seminary and the subsequent trauma and retraumatization she has endured and begun to heal from. In today’s episode, Megan shares her story with us much like she did that day in Dallas. We discuss how we process trauma and PTSD, the effects shame has on victims of abuse, and how these events have shaped her relationship with God and with the church. Megan tells us about the healing ways people have responded to her story, like her husband and her pastor and, unfortunately, how she encountered times where “Instead of people viewing [her] as an image-bearer, they viewed [her] as someone who was there to make life messy for the church -- and the church needs to be protected.” Friends, today’s episode is important for so many reasons. I’m incredibly grateful for Megan’s vulnerability, bravery, and willingness to share with all of us today! My prayer is that if you or someone you know has experienced or is experiencing abuse, you will be encouraged to reach out to a loved one and a counselor. This should not happen to you and it’s not okay. If you are someone who has been told of abuse, I pray that you can be an empathetic listener and take action to support them.

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest today is Sharon Miller. Sharon leads Bright City Church in Durham, NC with her husband Ike. She is the author of 2 books--Free of Me, and Nice--and has a PhD on women and calling. She is also a mother of three! In 2010, Sharon’s life looked very different. She and her husband, Ike, were newly married and about to move to Chicago where they would begin their PhD program at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Since then, she has had 3 babies, published 2 books and a bible study, planted a church, AND become a pastor! Quite the decade if you ask me. In this episode, Sharon and I talk about life as women in ministry, navigating what it means to be a “nice Christian woman” and what we are really called to in this life. She poignantly shares about the personal reckoning she had when she was hesitant to speak about race during the Ferguson protests and how she felt convicted about something Jesus would not have hesitated on. Ultimately, she realized that she had discipled herself into a false discipleship and had “to grapple with what we’re called to. Are we called to this nice chrisiaity that looks a lot like the real thing...or are we called to be like Jesus?” If you enjoy our conversation today, I would highly suggest checking out Sharon’s book, Nice: Why We Love to Be Liked and How God Calls Us to More! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 304 is Jill Dobrowansky. Jill uses her gift of conversation to host the Feed Your Spirit Podcast -- a space where she talks to friends about how God has brought them through difficult seasons and what they learned about God during and after this time. She and her husband Eric eside in New Jersey – where during the summer months, you can find her on the beach with a book in her hands or out for a nice long run. You guys, getting to talk with Jill was SO encouraging! In today’s episode, Jill and I talk about her experience with the Your Story Matters study and how she created the Facebook page, Our Story Matters, to further connect women in the YSM study. Jill shares so vulnerably with us about her own story of her years of running from God and finding herself pregnant at 19. Then, how God showed His love and grace to her by placing steadfast people in her life to care for her deeply. We also got to talk about leading a study like Your Story Matters and how important it is to care for people’s stories well by being an active listener and stepping into difficult or emotional places with them. Jill reminds us that while the enemy might be good at making us feel shameful, God does not judge us. What a gift that reminder is! Friends, I hope today’s episode is as refreshing for you as it is for me! If you’re interested in learning more about Your Story Matters, be sure to go to Jamieivey.com/YourStoryMatters. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! In today’s episode, we’re going off the beaten path to celebrate. That’s right, it’s Your Last Decade: Graduate Edition!! My first guest today is Caitlin Smith. Caitlin is a native Austinite (aka a unicorn!) and a recent Texas Ex. She just graduated with her Masters of Science in Marketing and has been a sports photographer for UT Women’s Basketball. In this episode, Caitlin and I talk about what it’s been like living in a missional community, how “vulnerability breeds vulnerability,” and how we need to learn how to love mercy not just for ourselves, but for others as well! You guys, Caitlin is so wise and I loved our conversation today. She has navigated graduation in such a tricky season and done so with grace and understanding. I love her advice to college-aged women, to “be confident in who you are and who God created you to be uniquely.” In the second half of the episode, I chat with Holly Norris. Holly lives in Georgia with her husband and just graduated from nursing school. She was nominated to be on the show by her friend Amber -- thanks Amber! In our time together, we got to talk about her time in high school and the ways she believed that nursing was out of her reach and how she trusted in God’s faithfulness and that He would fulfill her dreams and purposes. She tells us about how her passion for nursing is driven by connecting with other people and how she loves that she gets to show Jesus to the people she treats and works with. Her advice is to “never feel like you’re less-than...because God’s going to be there with [you]!” so good! I love how clearly God’s steadfastness shines through Holly’s story and how deeply she has embraced it -- it’s so encouraging. Happy graduation to all of the 2020 grads this year! I’m so excited to see your next 10 years!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 303 is Anjuli Paschall. After graduating from Point Loma Nazarene University, Anjuli earned her master’s degree in spiritual formation and soul care from Talbot Seminary. She currently lives in Southern California with her husband and their five children. Anjuli is the founder of The Moms We Love Club and writes regularly for (in)Courage. Her first book, Stay: Discovering Grace, Freedom, and Wholeness, Where You Never Imagined Looking released in March 2020. Friends, getting to talk with Anjuli was such a treat! In this episode, we chat about everything from homeschooling kids and the surprising effects of COVID-19 on our family dynamics to navigating friendship as adults and sitting with difficult emotions, whether that is how we see ourselves in motherhood or the fear of allowing ourselves to truly be seen by those around us. Anjuli also dives into the difficulty and beauty of slowing down and getting to know yourself in place without producing anything. I love when she says, “We’ll never be able to know the love of God in our heart until we’re able to go into our heart. We wonder about that disconnect -- ‘Why do I know God loves me, but I don’t feel God loves me?’ -- it’s because you have to know your heart...so pay attention to the [difficult emotions] you’re resistant to.” Y’all, so good!! To read more of Anjuli’s words, be sure to check out her book, Stay. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! In today’s episode, we’re going off the beaten path to celebrate. That’s right, it’s Your Last Decade: Graduate Edition!! Not only do I have two separate guests, but I also have two different kinds of graduates. My first guest today is EJ Priest. EJ is a recent high school grad from Indiana who was nominated to be a guest by her Aunt Lori! In this episode, We talk about her past 10 years, the challenges she has faced, including her type 1 diabetes diagnosis, and how she has navigated celebrating her senior year in such an unprecedented season. She shares with us how she’s been able to maintain her passion for serving others during quarantine and what it looks like to love others well who might receive a similar diagnosis. I love when she says, “questions don’t offend me, questions show me that you care...and you want to listen.” Sometimes the best way we can love people is by asking questions and listening well. In the second half of the episode, I chat with Christian Huff. Christian is a recent college grad from Auburn University (War Eagle!) and the husband of my dear friend, Sadie Robertson! In our time together, we got to chat about his time in college, how God spoke to Christian in meaningful ways and the effects that has had on his life since. From winning the little league state championship at 12 years old to moving to Louisiana during quarantine, and recently transitioning into marriage, Christian’s past 10 years have been nothing short of eventful. While EJ and Christian might have different experiences and different backgrounds, one thing that is constant between the two is the ways in which God has made himself evident in their lives and is continuing to write their stories. Happy graduation to all of the 2020 grads this year! We at the Happy Hour are so grateful for you!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 302 is Gena Thomas. Gena is a writer, a faith wrestler, a wife, and a mom. She and her husband, Andrew, have been married for 11 years and they have two children, an 8-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl. Gena has published two books, A Smoldering Wick: Igniting Missions Work with Sustainable Practices and Separated by the Border: A Birth Mother, a Foster Mother, and a Migrant Child's 3,000-Mile Journey. You guys, I have been eager for Gena to be a guest on The Happy Hour since I read her book, Separated by the Border. I originally read the book before my trip to the border last year with Tess Clark and the women of Welcome and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. Today’s conversation with Gena is so rich and I’m really grateful for her time. In this episode, we talk about lament as a spiritual discipline, her time as a missionary in Mexico, and her unique path to fostering her daughter from Honduras. Gena also shares about the policies that directly affect families at the border and the action she and other women are taking to influence legislative change. I hope this conversation was as encouraging and enlightening for you as it was for me. We can learn so much through proximity and listening to others' stories. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today, I’m talking with Jimmy McNeal. Jimmy’s energy and passion for God is contagious, and he leads worship out of an overflow of his love for Jesus. Serving as one of the Worship Pastors within Austin Stone Worship, God continues to challenge Jimmy to live out his life with purpose, while loving and serving others in the process. 10 years ago, Jimmy was living his best single life and serving on the worship team at Austin Stone. Then in 2013, he and his wife, Staci, started dating, got engaged, married and then got pregnant! Y’all -- what a year! In this episode, we talk about Jimmy’s new album and the creativity behind it. Jimmy also shares so vulnerably about the pain of grieving 2 miscarriages in the past decade and what it’s been like walking through the loss of 3 family members due to COVID-19 and the real impact the global pandemic has had on his family. Friends, I have so much respect for Jimmy and I know this episode is going to be a gift for you. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 301 is Danielle Coke. Danielle is the incredibly talented artist behind @OhHappyDani on Instagram where she makes doodles designed to encourage faith, inspire justice, and guide us as we love our neighbors well. You guys, Dani is one of a kind! In our conversation today, we talk about her recent thrust into the social media limelight with her illustrations that have gone viral in light of recent events. She shares about her upbringing in a Jamaican family in New York, navigating spiritual abuse in the church, and how God redeemed her relationship with Him and showed Dani His true character through scripture. We talk about how to handle the hateful comments on social media and doing the inner work necessary to address bias in all of us. I love when Dani says, “Often surrounding the conversation surrounding race, we encourage people to pull up a seat to the table, to sit with us and join the conversation...but I don’t see this as a table discussion anymore. I see it as a moving train...so please get on board, but know the train is moving...it’s not slowing down.” Friends, I’m so grateful for my conversation with Dani today and I hope you are as blessed by it as I am. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest today is Derek Minor. Derek has earned the title of veteran in the game not only as a rapper but also as a producer and businessman. After a decade of making music, the award-winning artist has established himself as a leading voice of hope in the midst of darkness. Friends, Derek is a light and I so enjoyed our conversation today. In this episode, we chat about his last 10 years, starting his own record label, Reflection Music Group, his introduction to the white Evangelical church, and navigating the tightrope of being Black, Christian, and a Hip-Hop artist. He also shares transparently about his struggles in a predominantly white church during the shootings of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Philando Castile, and other Black men lost to police violence. I found it especially moving (or convicting?) when Derek says, “The version of unity that [the church] is asking for always involves the Black people being quiet about their pain and the white people getting to move on.” I am so grateful for Derek’s voice and the way he uses his platform so honestly; the world is better for it. To see some of Derek’s other ventures, check out Ownership is the New Black -- a movement promoting and supporting black ownership, shifting our consumer power to ownership power. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hello friends and welcome to The Happy Hour’s 300th episode! Between this milestone and celebrating our 6th birthday in May, it feels like it’s been a big month around here. I am so grateful for my past guests and each of my listeners, I truly couldn’t do this without you. My guests for today’s episode are 4 of my favorite people on the planet -- my kids! Last year, in an episode over on our Patreon Party, my son Deacon predicted that they would be back for the 300th episode, and it has turned out to be more than a little prophetic. In today’s episode, my kids, Cayden, Amos, Deacon, and Story join me to answer the questions that you all submitted last week. We touch on a range of topics including race, adoption, transracial adoption, sex, porn, social media, and faith. My kids share their thoughts about living in a biracial family, tips for how parents can best cultivate open relationships with their kids, and where they each see themselves in 10 years; I’m crossing my fingers for grandkids! You guys, this was such a joy for me to do and I hope this conversation encourages you to talk with your kids, relatives, and friends about topics that can feel awkward or uncomfortable and normalize topics that have traditionally been off-limits. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest today is Katie Wussow. Katie is a Christian, wife, mother of two, and native Texan living in Washington, D.C. She is also a business coach for creative entrepreneurs, helping them build profitable businesses that allow them to make a full-time living doing what they love. You guys, Katie is one of my dear real-life friends and I had a great time talking to her today. We talk BIG faith and BIG transitions over Katie’s last 10 years and how God encourages us specifically according to our dreams, ambitions, and paths. Katie dives into how God stripped away all the earthly identities she had invested in to stretch her faith in Him and refine her vision for what she has to offer the world. In this episode, she reminds us that, “There are a million paths and you can only walk the one the Lord is asking you to walk.” Friends, I love this simple encouragement that we can all apply to our own lives. If you loved this conversation as much as I did, be sure to check out Katie’s podcast, The Game Changer. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 299 is Lore Ferguson Wilbert. Lore is a writer on spiritual formation, faith, culture, and theology in life and recently released a book titled, Handle with Care: How Jesus Redeems the Power of Touch in Life and Ministry. Friends, my conversation with Lore today is so rich. She speaks beautifully and honestly about the redemption and attention that Jesus brings to the theology of touch and how that influenced her exploration into this topic and subsequently her book, Handle with Care. We also dive into her fundamentalist upbringing, how that shaped her doubts as a 20-something, and her experience with the gospel. There are so many things that have stuck with me about our conversation, but I especially love when Lore references Aimee Byrd and says that “avoidance is not purity.” The topic of physical touch is so important, especially for those in the church, and I hope you are encouraged by Lore’s words today. Be sure you check out Lore’s new book, Handle with Care: How Jesus Redeems the Power of Touch in Life and Ministry. Handle with Care is the book you need to dive into the theology of touch and know that “somewhere in the mess of our assumptions and fears about touch, there is something beautiful and good and God-given.” Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #298 is Lauren McAfee. Lauren is a speaker, writer, connector, and coffee enthusiast with a heart to engage others in the Bible. With her husband Michael McAfee, she is the author of Not What You Think: Why the Bible Might Be Nothing We Expected Yet Everything We Need. In today’s episode, Lauren and I talk Hobby Lobby, the Museum of the Bible, and getting her PhD in Ethics and Public Policy at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Lauren also shares so vulnerably about her tumultuous path toward motherhood, her family’s adoption story with their daughter Zion, Zion’s cancer diagnosis, and how she tethered herself to the Word. I was so moved when Lauren told the story of her friend reassuring her with Lauren’s own words -- that “even if we never have this longing for children fulfilled, Jesus is enough.” Friends, Lauren has fought so courageously to stay close to God through difficult seasons and she is a great encouragement to all of us that we find contentment in Christ and not our circumstances. Be sure to check out Lauren’s book, Not What You Think: Why the Bible Might Be Nothing We Expected Yet Everything We Need. Not What You Think is the book you need to clear the deck on your preconceptions of the Bible and encounter it anew. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! My guest today is Lyndsey Sweeney. Lyndsey is Ivey Media’s Operations Manager, Podcast Producer, and the reason anything ever gets done around here -- seriously. Today is also her birthday! Make sure you send her some love over on Instagram. This podcast was recorded for our Patreon Party in May 2019 and it’s such a joy to look back and see how things have changed and, now, to chat this week about what Lyndsey is looking forward to in her next decade. In this episode, we talk about some of the painful things that Lyndsey has walked through in the last 10 years including her dad’s untimely death, the closed doors to pursuing a dream, the struggles of having an auto-immune disease, and how she is fighting for joy and contentment despite life’s difficulties. Friends, I am so grateful for Lyndsey’s transparency and faithfulness. I love when she says that “[God] has been so constant when I have been so distant, and I cannot ignore His constant faithfulness to me in any of the things I do moving forward.” What an encouragement for all of us! I hope you’re as blessed by this conversation as I was. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #297 is Paula Faris. Paula is an Emmy-nominated journalist and television correspondent for ABC News. She is known for her tenure as co-anchor of Good Morning America Weekend from 2014–2018 and as co-host of The View from 2015–2018. Y’all, this conversation is the first time I met Paula and it did not take long to know that this lady is the real deal and someone I am so happy to call a friend. In this episode, Paula and I talk about how God asked her to walk away from what the world sees and, if we are honest, what we see as a wildly successful career. We also chat about imposter syndrome, living in the space of faith and media, and how she’s navigated those waters. Paula is so full of wisdom and I just love when she says that you can’t control what people think of you, but what you can control is your attitude and how you respond to a situation. Because when you’re faced with something difficult, “it reveals your character, it doesn’t define it.” I adore stories like Paula’s because it is such an example of God's kingdom ways overriding those of the world we live in for now. Paula’s book, Called Out: Why I Traded Two Dream Jobs for a Life of True Calling is available now. And be sure you check out Paula’s podcast, Journeys of Faith with Paula Faris, to learn a bit more about the faith stories of the influencers in our world. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I’m talking with Rhett Barrett. Rhett is married to Happy Hour veteran, Jenn Jett Barrett, who was my guest on the If You Only Knew Miniseries. Together, they live in Springdale, Arkansas where Rhett teaches middle school and loves to travel, scuba dive, and eat good food -- can I get an AMEN? In 2010, Rhett was in a toxic relationship that was ending disastrously and was coming to the close of a decade spent running from the Lord. In this episode, we talk about what it felt like for Rhett to feel far from God, how he turned marriage into an idol and identity, and ultimately, the power and kindness God has to restore both our faith and our hearts. Friends, Rhett’s story is such a beautiful picture of God’s grace for every single one of us and it was an honor to hear him speak so vulnerably and authentically today. I love what Rhett’s dad told him all those years ago -- “When something is wrong, something is NEVER better than nothing.” -- SO GOOD! I think you’re really going to love this episode. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 296 is Samantha Ponder. Sam has been the host of Sunday NFL Countdown since 2017. She is the third host in the 34-year history of the show and the show’s first female host. Prior to joining Countdown, Ponder was a host and reporter on the Emmy-award winning College GameDay for four years and the sideline reporter for Saturday Night Football on ABC. A wife and mother of three, Ponder is a native of Phoenix and currently resides in New York City. You guys, my conversation with Sam has been a long time coming and I’m so grateful we finally got a chance to chat in the midst of all this chaos. In today’s episode, we talk about her love story with husband Christian Ponder, being a woman in a male-dominated field, navigating the public sphere as a Christian, and obviously, our love of football (and the hope we have for a 2020 fall season!). Sam speaks so articulately about approaching headlines as humans and controversy with kindness and respect, without having to sacrifice justice. I so admire her commitment to living and speaking authentically, with both grit and grace. She is such a joy and I just know you’ll love this episode! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I’m talking with Emma Mae Jenkins. Emma Mae is currently a student at Liberty University studying Church Ministry and Women’s Leadership, and get this -- 10 years ago, she was only 11 years old! In this episode, we talk about her experience with cyber-bullying and growing up in the age of social media, what it looks like to seek out and rest in the Word of God, what she’s looking forward to in her 20s, and the idea that our identity is rooted not what we do, but who created us. Friends, Emma Mae is such a ray of sunshine and I hope you feel as encouraged as I do after speaking with her. I loved it when she said, “God will be the same, even in different places.” If you loved this episode, be sure to check out her devotional, All-Caps YOU on Amazon, available May 5th of this year. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour #295 is Gloria Umanah. Gloria Umanah is the Founder and Executive Director of The Ex-Nihilo Collective, a collective of creatives on a mission to illuminate Jesus through words, poetry, and storytelling. When Gloria isn't leading The Collective, she is known for her powerhouse stage presence as she travels the world to communicate the Gospel and lead in creative directing helping ministries, churches, and communities tell the story of Jesus in a way that the world has yet to hear. Friends, Gloria is such a joy and I’m so happy to share our conversation with you today. In this episode, we talk about her journey with spoken word, her upbringing in a strict Nigerian home, and the ways those things have shaped the woman she is today. I loved hearing about Gloria’s heart for the kingdom and how passionately she believes in the power of surrender. Her reminder that “It’s true, [we are] not enough, and that is enough to be used by God” is so helpful for our current context. Gloria’s passion for the Church is so evident and I hope you feel encouraged by her charge to lean into diversity, not just the appearance of diversity, and seek out the ways you are playing into the story that God is writing. I’m so thankful for Gloria’s giftings and how she is sharing them with the world, and us, today! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I’m talking with Bob Goff. Bob is a New York Times Best-Selling Author, lover of balloons, cake pops and helping people pursue their big dreams. In 2010, Bob was commuting from his home in San Diego to his law firm in Seattle every single day. It soon became clear that it was time to land the plane on that chapter of his life, and he began working on his first book, Love Does. In this episode, Bob talks witch doctors, being a grandpa, making yourself available to God’s plan, and learning how to love people well. He reminds us that, although “sometimes we think we need to go across an ocean to make a difference, the message in the scripture is to go across the street; to love our neighbors.” I am so grateful for Bob’s time, his infectious energy, and his encouragement to lean into our moment, be fully present, and identify who we are, where we are, and what we want. Be sure you check out Bob’s new book, Dream Big: Know What You Want, Why You Want It, and What You’re Going to Do About It. Dream Big is the book you need to uncover the wild and exciting dream for your life you’ve hidden from yourself--and help you take the steps necessary. Bob’s book releases in June 2020, you can pre-order now. Send us your shout outs and grad guest recommendations: [email protected] with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 294 is Lisa Whittle. Lisa is an author, Bible study teacher, podcaster, and insanely committed to Jesus and family. Her newest book and Bible study, Jesus Over Everything, reminds us that when we put Jesus first, we can find the meaning and peace we long for. Lisa is one of my very favorite people, and I’m so happy she’s back on the show today. Lisa and I talk about how many of us believe that our desire for more simplicity in our lives and the desire to put Jesus first are somehow opposed. Lisa explains how they’re not and I loved her words, “the steady way is the Jesus way” – don’t we all wish for more steadiness in our lives these days? You’ll also hear Lisa and I discuss the hard work of asking ourselves what in my life is putting chains on me that prevent me from being obedient to God. You guys, those are tough questions, but so important and so powerful. I think what I loved most about my conversation with Lisa was that I was reminded over and over again that Jesus is better, and when we put him first, we find meaning, rest, and freedom. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I'm talking with Kathryn Freeman. I was introduced to Kathryn by my friend Lyndsey who works with me, and you guys, when we first asked Kathryn to come on the show her first reaction was that she didn’t feel like too much happened in the last decade. As you’ll hear today, this is absolutely not the case! Kathryn has experienced and accomplished so much in the last ten years. Kathryn began the decade serving as a press secretary for a state senator, and now she’s preparing to finish seminary in 2021! What I loved most about my conversation with Kathryn was hearing the different ways she said yes to God, and how she has learned to sit in the uncertainty through trusting Him. It was so encouraging for me to hear and I think you’re going to love our conversation today. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 293 is Beth McCord. Beth is an author, speaker, coach, and founder of Your Enneagram Coach, a community designed to be a safe place for individuals to explore the Enneagram. Beth has a passion for sharing the deep truths of the Enneagram from a Biblical perspective so that personal awareness and growth are accessible for everyone, anywhere. Friends, I think you are going to love hearing about the Enneagram from Beth today. Beth's approach utilizes the Enneagram as a powerful tool, but centered on the truth that the gospel is what heals and transforms. Beth shares how she and her husband started learning about the Enneagram while he was in seminary, and that drove their focus of studying the Enneagram through the lens of the Gospel. In these times when we are all living a new normal and experiencing all of the feelings and reactions, Beth reminds us of our anchor in Christ and how we can see the world from our unique perspectives while rooted in the truth of the Gospel. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I'm talking with Herbie Newell, the President and Executive Director of Lifeline Children's Services. The mission at Lifeline is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Herbie and I talk about the shift that happened in 2010 when not only did they move to their first real office space, but they recognized that to accomplish their mission Lifeline must expand to serve both vulnerable families as well as vulnerable children. As you can imagine, this led to incredible growth and challenges over this past decade. Herbie says that if he could have shared any advice with his 2010 self, it would be to find ways to be present in the moment and for the people in your life even amidst uncertainty or challenges. Herbie’s encouragement is so timely for us all in these times, and I’m so thankful for the work Herbie and his team at Lifeline are doing in the world. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 292 is Melanie Shankle. Melanie writes regularly at The Big Mama blog and is a New York Times bestselling author of four previous books. Melanie is a loves writing, shopping at Target, and trying to find the lighter side in every situation. Most of all, she loves being the mother of Caroline, the wife of Perry, and the official herder of two wild dogs named Piper and Mabel. You guys, Melanie is a Happy Hour veteran and I was so happy to talk with her, especially in the midst of quarantine! While Melanie had no idea what our world would look like when she wrote her newest book, On the Bright Side, I am so thankful that her message is heading out into the world in these challenging times. Today, Melanie and I talk about so many things including parenting teenagers, marriage, our love for college football (and our hopes that it’s still on for 2020!), and the importance of loving each other even when we may disagree. It is always a joy when Melanie comes on The Happy Hour and I think you’ll love hearing from her today! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I’m so happy to welcome Becca Harris back to the show. Becca is my real-life friend and the KIDS Director at the St. John Congregation of our church. In 2010, Becca had just moved in with some friends as the Lord had been stirring in her heart to get involved with foster care. Becca shares how she began that journey with an idea in mind, but God had other plans that didn’t quite line up with what Becca had imagined. You’ll hear about the challenges she faced, how she wrestled with God, and the incredible. tangible ways God faithfully showed her He never left her side. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 291 is Rebecca Bender. After escaping nearly six years of human trafficking, Rebecca received the kind of restoration that only God provides. Rebecca is now the CEO & Founder of the Rebecca Bender Initiative, a non-profit that works with law enforcement, VICE, FBI, Homeland Security and aftercare programs to provide expert testimony, trainings and consultation. Rebecca earned her Master’s in Christian Thought and is passionate about teaching biblical truths to encourage all people to pursue the call of God regardless of their past. Friends, I know the topic of the show today is heavy, but it is such an important one for all of us. I believe we all need to lean in to become educated about trafficking because you guys, it’s a multi-million-dollar industry in our country alone. Rebecca and I talk about the fact that trafficking probably looks different than we have in our heads, the effects of our hyper-sexualized culture, and ways we can be educating our kids. Rebecca also shares her heart about her own experience through such dark times. You will also hear how fiercely God pursued Rebecca, and how he has led her through the hard, hard work of re-entry after trauma such as this. I am so thankful for Rebecca and the work she is doing, and I’m so honored to have her on the show today! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I’m talking with Van Tracy and I think you’re going to love hearing about Van’s last decade. Van’s passion has always been acting and musical theater, but much of his last decade he spent working as an attorney. While the work was good, it wasn't soul satisfying and the passion for the arts remained. You’ll get to hear how an unexpected opportunity arose that led him to begin a completely new career at age 47. Friends, I love Van’s story, and was so encouraged hearing how God’s timing worked perfectly to bring him to his new job where he’s able to use his passion and gifts. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 290 is Jen Fulwiler. Jen is a standup comedian, SiriusXM talk show host, and the mom of six kids. She's a bestselling author whose new book, Your Blue Flame, comes out April 28. Friends, do you have a passion or dream that you can’t seem to shake but it feels improbable or impossible to chase after? Today, you will hear my friend Jen tell the story of how she became a radio show host and stand-up comedian, not because she was an expert, but because she felt that nudge you just can’t shake and she went for it. Jen is passionate about all women embracing and living out our gifts because they can change the world – it doesn’t matter if it’s big, small, in the public eye or not. Jen also shares about the sudden loss of her father, and I am so thankful for Jen’s honesty about the challenges and blessings she’s experienced in this grief. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, their dreams and goals, things they would have done differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I get to welcome my real-life neighbor and friend Julia Barnett-Tracy to the show. Julia is not only the International Choir Operations Director for the African Children’s choir, but she’s also an established writer and actress. Julia talks to us today about the different changes she’s seen happen in her life the last ten years as she transitioned from life in New York to Austin, and launching into a new avenue of her career in entertainment. We also take a 20 year jump back and get to hear about what it was like for her living in NYC on 9/11. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 289 is Jo Saxton. Jo is a Londoner born to Nigerian immigrants (to which she credits her tenacious spirit), an author, speaker, podcast host, and leadership coach. She has spearheaded an initiative aimed to help women grow in leadership, and has written books on leadership, identity, and legacy. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband, Chris, and their two daughters. Today, Jo and I talk about showing up for the life God’s given you. Amen to that! If you’re asking yourself what your purpose is, or you struggle to see the gifts God has given you, I know you will be so encouraged by our conversation. As we are facing uncertain times, I especially loved hearing Jo tell the story of how her foster mother found her purpose during the war when everything about her current reality changed and was turned upside down. Jo and I also talk about how we need community that gives you roots and gives you wings. Friends, if you believe your gift isn’t valid or important enough, I hope you hear today that your voice matters! I love how Jo challenges us to lean into God and think about how we can speak life to those around us. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today, I'm talking with my friend Katherine Wolf about her last decade. Katherine is a survivor, communicator, and advocate. At the age of 26, Katherine’s life nearly ended with a catastrophic stroke (you can hear more of her story in The Happy Hour #98). Ten years ago, Katherine was transitioning from two years of intense rehab living in hospitals to learning how to live her new normal. Through this last decade, Katherine and her husband Jay have started a ministry, Hope Heals, written two books including their latest, Suffer Strong, had a baby!, and created a camp for families affected by disabilities. You guys, Katherine has lived through so much in these last ten years, and her joy and her love for God is overflowing. I am so thankful for Katherine, and what she teaches us about the visible and invisible wheelchairs of this world, and that joy can be found amidst it all! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Noom Ettitude Bamboo Sheets - text 64-000 to get 20% off and free shipping off their sheet set!  GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 288 is Jennie Allen. Jennie is an award- winning and bestselling author of Bible studies, many books including her most recent Get Out of Your Head, and is the founder and visionary for the IF: Gathering. Jennie is a passionate leader following God’s call on her life to catalyze a generation of women to live what they believe. Jennie has a master’s in Biblical studies from Dallas Theological Seminary and lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband, Zac and their four children. It has been way too long since I’ve had my friend Jennie on the show, and I’m so happy to welcome her back. Today Jennie and I talk about the fight all of us are in to take every thought captive and remember who God is. Jennie shares her own story of some of her darkest months living with lies that produced fear, anxiety and doubt. Things started to change when Jennie began treating it like war and fighting the lies head on. Jennie and I also discuss how Biblical community isn’t optional, and we have to fight for it as well - it doesn’t just happen automatically. You guys, I think this may be one of those shows where you’ll want to go back and listen with pen and paper ready. I hope you will be as encouraged and fired up as I was! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Dave's Killer Bread Third Love - get 15% off your first purchase! UNICO 20°87° GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today, Kat Smith shares the incredible journey God has taken her on in the last decade. Kat tells us how she started out the decade as a teacher, and now she and her husband Jordan are the co-founders of Mudleaf Coffee in Plano, Texas. I loved hearing how God used different people to speak into the dream that seemed impossible, and hearing about the ministry that's now been created. I think you'll be moved listening to Kat describe how God so tangibly showed her that He saw her, and the way He equipped she and her husband with exactly what they needed when the time was right to open Mudleaf. I loved hearing how God has worked in Kat's life this last decade, and I'm excited to visit Mudleaf the next time I'm in the area! .Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube   Sponsors Pine Cove - use code HAPPYHOUR250 for $250 off a first time, overnight youth camp registration Abide App - get 25% off a premium subscription   GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 287 is Nancy Mattingly. Nancy is a wife, mother, and grandmother. Nancy and her husband Mitch relocated to the Nashville area from Houston, Texas, two years ago, after living there all their lives. Nancy spent twenty years at Living Proof Ministries and now works at a beautiful retail store in historic downtown Franklin, TN.I’ve never felt more prayed for than I have by Nancy, and I am so honored to have her on the show today. Nancy is one of the strongest prayer warriors I know, and you’ll hear how God began nudging her to pray for people, and she gives such encouragement for how we can pray for each other. Nancy and I also talk about mental illness, and she speaks about the grief she’s been walking through after the loss of her son Kyle to suicide. Nancy reads from a letter she wrote from a parent’s perspective on suicide, and she shares so many important messages about mental health, suicide, and grief. Friends, I know some of you have lost a loved one from suicide, and you either know someone or may be battling with mental illness yourself. I pray that this show would be a source of comfort and hope for you as you hear Nancy speak with love and faith in Jesus amidst such a tragic loss.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeSponsors Butcher Box - use code HAPPYHOUR and get $20 off your first box and 2 lbs of ground beef for free in every box for the life of your subscription! Zip Recruiter - try for free!  UNICO 20°87° GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today I’m talking with Liz Forkin Bohannon, the founder of Sseko Designs and author of Beginner’s Pluck. In 2010, Liz was a year into starting Sseko Designs and had been able to fulfill the promise of sending three women to college in Uganda. Liz and her husband were at a crossroads of deciding whether or not to go all in with Sseko Designs or not. Liz describes how they made their decision, sold everything, and lived out of their car to pursue the cause they believed in. I appreciate Liz’ perspective and honesty on the realities of life starting a company and what kept her going. You’ll also hear how those experiences influence her views about the future and things unknown, and what she hopes for in the next ten years. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 286 is Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien. Tarah-Lynn is the creator of Adorned in Armor, the Dressed for Battle Podcast, and author of Claim Your Crown. The Teen Vogue "It Girl" turned Teen Vogue fashion writer was crowned Miss Black New Jersey in 2018, and is dedicated to encouraging and equipping women to fully grasp their worth in Christ. You guys, Tarah-Lynn is such a joy and I’m so happy to share our conversation with you today. Tarah-Lynn and I start off talking about life growing up in New Jersey, and how she connected her love of writing, fashion, and Jesus to create her ministry. You’ll hear how God ignited her love for her home country of Haiti, and her passion for inspiring women to claim the crowns that God has already adorned you with. Tarah-Lynn also tells us about her incredible mother and the pain she lives with every day while clinging to Jesus as her joy.  At the end of the show, I also ask Tarah-Lynn what dreams and goals she has for the next decade of her life!   Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Samaritan Ministries Dave's Killer Bread Rothy's  UNICO 20°87° GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today, I get to talk with my best friend Amy Gayhart! Amy talks about raising three kiddos and navigating life as momma to her special needs daughter, Mabry. After many years of living without a diagnosis, Amy shares the emotions she felt when they were finally given one. In the last ten years, Amy also developed a special needs day program for adults and became the Executive Director at Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding and Respite. You guys also need to check out The Totally Worth It Podcast she and her husband John just started! I am so proud of my friend Amy and honored for her to be on the show today to share her last decade with us! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 285 is Courtney Reissig. Courtney is an author and Bible teacher living in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is the proud momma of four sons, and happy wife to Daniel. Her newest book, Teach Me To Feel: Worshiping Through the Psalms in Every Season of Life released this January.  On the show today Courtney shares her story of how God brought her to Him, and how each step of obedience deepened her faith and desire to be in God’s word. Courtney and I talk about the struggle when emotions feel so overpowering. We discuss how emotions are good and part of who we are, but Courtney reminds us they aren’t our truth. Courtney shares how she faced the fragility of life head on through the traumatic birth of her youngest son. Courtney is honest in describing how dark her world felt, and can still feel at times, but how God has brought healing, light, and the strength to hope even in the hardest of circumstances. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Samaritan Ministries Third Love - get 15% off your first purchase Ritual -get 10% off your first three months  UNICO 20°87° GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! I’m so happy to welcome Kelly Stamps to the show today! Kelly lives in northwest Arkansas and is a wife, momma, blogger, and matchmaker (yes, you read that right)! Kelly and I reflect back to 2010 when Kelly was transitioning from the workplace to being a stay at home mom. In this new rhythm of life, she began blogging as an outlet, and it opened doors to several things – including helping singles find each other! Kelly tells us she set up her first Single’s Day on a whim, and now it has become a part of her ministry she hosts every year! Kelly and I also talk about singleness and feeling seen and known by the church. I hope each one of us will remember Kelly’s encouragement that no matter our lane in life looks like, it’s important! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 284 is Cheryl Luke. Cheryl is a teacher and aspiring writer with over 35 years in ministry. Cheryl is committed to help people live with intention, embrace the story of your life, and connect with God, others, and your circumstances in a healthy manner. **A note: early in our conversation, Cheryl speaks about the abuse she endured from her ex-husband. I recognize this topic could be a trigger for some of you, so please note that around minutes 10-11 she describes what happened that caused her to leave, and feel free to skip the first part of the show. Today Cheryl and I talk about the changes that can happen when we identify and confess the issues we uniquely face each day. Whether it’s an addiction, being a fixer, needing control, lying, or any other challenge that takes you away from the truth of what God says, healing and freedom is possible. Through her work with Celebrate Recovery and using the Relate model, Cheryl shares the ways she has experienced healing in her own life, and how she’s witnessed it in others as well. Cheryl and I also chat about times of transition and leaving a legacy, and she even turns the tables and starts interviewing me! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today, I'm so happy to welcome Erin H. Moon to chat with us about her last decade. Erin is the COO of the Popcast Media group, the resident Bible scholar for the Bible Binge, a wife, and a momma. Erin shares how in 2010 she was pregnant with her first baby and also struggling with feeling like "burnt bacon" with church. Erin talks about God sustaining her personal faith as she walked through this time of burn out, and how she ultimately found a nourishing church experience in a different denomination. You'll also get to hear how the last ten years brought about a career change she never could have imagined! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 283 is Esther Fleece Allen. Esther loves to connect people to practical, faith-centered tools for living through every season, good and bad. She’s the author of two books (Your New Name and No More Faking Fine), a graduate of the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, and is currently in seminary. When she's not traveling to speak or teach, she enjoys making a home with her husband and children. On the show today, Esther and I talk about releasing labels we attach to ourselves that aren’t rooted in our God-given identity. Esther explains how these false labels from our circumstances, the past, shame, or even labels others have given us can make us miss the truth of our identity. Esther shares her own experience fighting to stay in the faith and live in the name God has given her as she endured abuse, broken family relationships, and years of stalking from her father. I loved Esther’s message to embrace all seasons of life, including times of lament as well as celebration, and through all of it, we can take it to the Lord. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today, I am talking with "James" (a pseudonym), who shares his last decade which includes an amazing transformation of faith from atheist to being a devoted follower of Jesus. James' last decade found him living at his parents' home where he grew up with his mother secretly sharing the gospel with him for fear of retribution from his Hindu father. In 2010 James considered himself an atheist, and I know you'll be blown away as you hear James speak of how God pursued him, the miracles he witnessed in his mother's life, and the path he's on now as we enter 2020. I am so thankful for James' bravery in sharing his story, and I know you will be so encouraged by the show today! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Know someone who’d be a great guest for Your Last Decade? Email us at [email protected] and let me know! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Everyone has a story, and some parts of those stories may feel too hard to tell. You guys, today is the second birthday of my book If You Only Knew, where I go first and tell my story of stepping out of shame and into the freedom of the gospel. For this special "book birthday" episode of The Happy Hour I thought what better way to celebrate than to hear two of my friends, Shawn and Ginger, share their If You Only Knew stories. You'll first hear from Shawn as she opens up about how her secrets of abortion and struggling with alcoholism kept her sick for so long. Shawn describes how it wasn’t until she told her story fully and walked with Jesus through all of it, that she finally began to heal. My friend Ginger then shares her story of struggling with social anxiety. Ginger lost her hearing literally overnight when she was just 4 years old, and over time her hearing loss provoked so much fear and anxiety about social settings. These two interviews are part of a special If You Only Knew: A Mini-Series, where nine women speak about their If You Only Knew stories. I know you'll love hearing the rest of this special series, so come take a listen! You can find all the interviews on the mini-series blog post. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Nick Runyon + Jamie Ivey

My guest for The Happy Hour # 281 is Nona Jones. Nona is Founder and CEO of Nona Jones Ministries, CEO of eChurch Partners and serves as the Head of Global Faith-Based Partnerships at Facebook. She has been profiled by ESSENCE Magazine as an “Under 40 Woman to Watch," Florida Trend Magazine as one of Florida’s “30-Something All Stars," and has been recognized as an Outstanding Young Alumnus at the University of Florida. She and her husband, Tim live in Florida, and are the proud parents of Timothy, Jr. (9) and Isaac (6). Friends, on today's show, Nona shares her story which includes childhood sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Nona does not describe the abuse in detail. However, I want you to be aware of the topics we discuss in case those are triggers for you, so you can decide if you need to skip this episode. What Nona endured as a child and growing up is horrific, and Nona speaks about how the trauma from the broken relationships and abuse affected her in learning what being wanted and successful truly meant. In the midst of so much darkness, I got teary hearing how God showed up for Nona through the invitation of a friend in 6th grade, and when God sustained Nona through his word. As Nona puts it, her story is marked by abuse, but her life, her identity, and her purpose are all from the redemptive work of God. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! On today's show, my friend Laura Tremaine joins me to talk about her last decade. Laura grew up in small town Oklahoma and moved to Los Angeles at 22, sight unseen! Laura is a writer, blogger, podcaster, and momma, and you guys, most of those things Laura dove into just as she entered this last decade. Laura shares with us how in 2010 she had recently left a career in film and television production. She was a new mom, and was struggling with feelings of being lost and lonely. Laura began her first blog, the Hollywood Housewife which opened doors to what would become her next career. I loved Laura's honesty when she talks about how it took the last decade to get where she is today - we "all want to skip the lame stuff", but we all have to take those first steps! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 280 is Raechel Myers. Raechel is founder and CEO of She Reads Truth - an organization that, for more than 7 years, has been helping women (and men, and kids!) to be in the Word of God every day. Raechel lives outside of Nashville with her husband and two kids, and just loves the beauty, goodness, and truth of God and His world. My friend Raechel is a woman who loves the Word of God, and we start off the show talking about the different barriers we may see to being in the word every day and even about starting or joining a Bible study! Raechel shares with us about one of her proudest accomplishments at He Reads Truth, and the difficult road she and co-founder Amanda Bible Williams walked this past year as Amanda's son Toby was critically ill throughout 2019. Raechel shares openly how she and Amanda navigated tragedy, friendship, business, and the need for rest by walking humbly in truth and love. In the last part of the show, Raechel reminds us how so important it is to listen for the truth in a world filled with so many sound bites and messages that are almost true. You guys, I told you that Raechel is a woman who loves God's word, and I hope you're inspired to try out a plan and dig into the word every day! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you’ll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they’re most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we’ll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! Today my friend Colt McCoy is joining us to talk about his last decade. In 2010, he was a senior at The University of Texas and his team went undefeated and faced Alabama in the National Championship Game in Pasadena, CA at the Rose Bowl. During that game, Colt was injured in the first half and never returned. His team ended up losing the biggest game of his career so far. Colt got married to his wife Rachel, and was drafted by the NFL that same year. Over the past decade, Colt has played for 3 different NFL teams, and he and Rachel now have 3 children. We look back today on Colt’s last decade, and no matter if you are a football fan or not, you will enjoy hearing his perspective on how he has managed the mountain tops and valleys that come from playing football for a living. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 279 is Natalie Green. Natalie is a connector of people and lover of Jesus. She is the Director of Strategic Partnership & Development for Africa New Life. Rwanda is her second home as she has taken more than thirty trips to the land of a thousand hills, leading hundreds of donors and sponsors on visits to Rwanda alongside her Rwandan colleagues. Natalie is also a Senior Director of Beautycounter. Her greatest adventure, without a doubt, has been her journey to motherhood. On the show today, Natalie and I talk about Africa New Life: the incredible story of how it was founded, the work they're doing, and the trip to Rwanda I'm about to take with Natalie to see it all in person! I loved hearing Natalie speak about Rwanda and her heart and passion for the country and the people. Natalie shares about the need for funding to provide food for the children and how you can help (be sure to check out the links from the show!). I also got to talk with Natalie about her journey to motherhood. Natalie honestly shares about life as a single momma and each of the beautiful stories of how she became mom to her three boys. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Welcome to the first episode of a special edition of The Happy Hour called Your Last Decade. As we enter this new decade, I thought it would be fun to talk to a few friends and reflect back on what life was like 10 years ago. In these conversations, you'll hear guests speak about what God has done in their life, dreams, goals, things they would have differently, and things they're most proud of. And, looking back always causes me to look forward, so we'll also chat about dreams for the next ten years! For the first episode of this special series, I thought it only fitting that I bring back my man, Aaron Ivey. Aaron and I reflect back on what life was like for us in 2010, and how that year stands out as such an incredibly hard year as we brought home our children from Haiti. Aaron shares about the goals he set for this last decade and how those goals were accomplished. Aaron and I also share what we learned about hospitality in those years, and that it doesn't matter what kind or size of house you have, it's how you make people feel by welcoming them in. I also end up feeling all kinds of emotions as we talk about the next ten years which includes launching all of our children out on their own! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 278 is Beth Moore. Beth is an author, speaker, and dynamic teacher whose conferences take her across the globe. She has written numerous bestselling books and Bible studies, and she is also the founder and visionary of Living Proof Ministries based in Houston, TX. Friends, I can not think of a better way to start off 2020 than by having my friend Beth Moore on the show! Beth talks about how she looks at the new year as an opportunity to look at life in a fresh way, and to spend time reflecting with God sharing hopes for the coming year. Beth and I then talk about how she so intentionally speaks into the next generation and her passion to prepare others. You'll get to hear more about Beth's upcoming book, Chasing Vines, and that we are meant to be fruitful including when the fruit may come through suffering. One of my favorite parts of our conversation was Beth's reminder that the absolute number one thing we can pray for someone is that they love Jesus - it changes everything! In the last part of the show, Beth shares her heart and passion behind the issues she has raised concerns about, and why she believes it's so important that we talk about what it means to be Christ-like and not simply Pro-Christian. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 277 is my husband, Aaron Ivey. I love when Aaron comes on the show, and today you'll get to hear us reflect back on 2019. We chat about some of The Happy Hour episodes you should be sure you listen to (check the links on the side!), my experiences on tv and Austin Woman Magazine, as well as memories from our family. Aaron and I give a few bonus tips on how to travel with friends and how we travel with our kids - yes, phones are put to the side for our trips! Aaron and I also share some news about what's coming up in 2020: a special series on The Happy Hour where I look back at the last decade with my guests, a new podcast, On The Other Side, with Aaron and I, new books, and upcoming travel that we're excited about! Friends, I just can't say thank you enough for listening to The Happy Hour, and I hope that each week in 2020 we continue to encourage, inspire, and point to Jesus! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors THERE{4}Teen Gathering - use code HAPPYHOUR for $10 off Compassion International - text HAPPYHOUR TO 83393  Sips By - use code HAPPYHOUR for 50% off your first Sips By box Prep Dish - text MEALPREP TO 33777 for a free meal plan GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 276 is Tara-Leigh Cobble. Tara-Leigh is the founder of D-Group, an international network of weekly Bible studies that meet in homes and churches around the world, as well as the founder and host of the daily podcast, The Bible Recap. Tara-Leigh has a passion for helping people not only read their Bible, but LOVE reading it! You guys, we have a three-peat! Tara-Leigh's episodes are consistently named as one of listeners' favorite shows, and I know so many of you are following along The Bible Recap like me. On the show today, I get to catch up with Tara-Leigh and hear all about this past year of her life since she launched The Bible Recap. Tara-Leigh tells us some of the behind the scenes of making the podcast, what she's learned, and the incredible stories of how people's lives are being changed by digging into God's word. You'll also get to hear about Tara-Leigh's new project for 2020 called The Bible Kneecap: a daily prayer podcast that helps listeners learn more about who God is and dig deeper into responding to Him. Friends, it is always such a joy to have Tara-Leigh on the show as her passion for God and God's word is so contagious. Be sure to check out all the links and learn how you can get connected and read your Bible along with us! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Amanda Porter's course: Dear Anxiety, Let's Break Up! - get $10 off with code HAPPYHOUR Third Love - get 15% off your first order Rothy's IF: Local  - sign up to host, find a location, and learn more! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 275 is Becky Kiser. Becky is committed to seeing women fall in love with God’s Word, then feel equipped and empowered to live it out—both in the holidays and all the ordinary days in between. Becky is an author, speaks at women’s events and prisons, and in 2020 she will begin hosting her own events and launch a podcast! Becky and her husband, Chris, live in The Woodlands, Texas, with their three girls. I love talking with my friend Becky because she always points me to Jesus no matter if we’re talking about the craziness of the holiday season or the comparison trap! Today, Becky and I chat about so many things including the important message that it isn't about getting it perfect, it's about connecting with Jesus. We also talk about the fight to let go of thinking and feeling like your life must look like someone else's, and instead living in freedom to do what God's called you to.  Friends, I hope you hear Becky's message when she says "you don't all of a sudden become qualified....you're qualified right where you are." It's about starting and taking those small, faithful steps led by the Lord. Becky offers so much wisdom and truth today (including advice on if its ok to read your daughter's journal, which I may or may not have done!). I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Rattlesnake Ranch Pecans - use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off your purchase Molekule - use code JAMIE10 for 10% off your first air purifier order ThredUP - get 30% off your first order  GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 274 is Elisabeth Jordan. Elisabeth grew up in Dallas, TX where she now works on the streets with the homeless. It was never a future she imagined for herself, having grown up in an affluent community on the other side of town from the homeless. Starting as a volunteer, she observed a gap in the homeless care system and founded an organization called The Human Impact to bridge that gap: loving the homeless through friendship. You guys, one of the best parts of my job is that I get to listen in on how God is moving in women's lives, and I can't wait for you to hear the incredible ways God is working in Elisabeth's life. Elisabeth shares how she went from working at her dream job in entertainment, to unemployed and at a point where she felt her marriage was dead. Feeling aimless and lost, Elisabeth prayed a prayer of surrender, and God answered. Elisabeth explains that God called her to pray for the poorest in Dallas, and those prayers took her to the homeless. I loved hearing how the relationships she made changed her faith "from head knowledge to experience", as well as challenged her view on how she defined success. Friends, Elisabeth reminds us that relationships matter and that when we recognize the humanity in someone and take time to hear their story, walls break down and doors can open up. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Rattlesnake Ranch Pecans - use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off your purchase Compassion International - text HAPPYHOUR to 83393 Stamps.com - click on the microphone at the top of the homepage and enter code HAPPYHOUR  to get a 4-week trial plus free postage and digital scale Rothy's  GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 273 is Susie Davis. Susie is an author, speaker, podcaster, and in all things she is an encourager and mentor. Susie has a passion for writing and her hope is to encourage you to love God more and live your one beautiful life. Susie is often called a spiritual mama because of her God-given desire to reach out to the 'dear daughters' around her. Susie and her husband and high school sweetheart Will have been married and in ministry for over thirty years. Friends, I am so thankful to have Susie back on The Happy Hour! Susie has a gift for making you feel seen, celebrated, and encouraged and I know you will hear that throughout our conversation today. Susie and I talk about how our roles change over time, the losses we may feel in these transitions, and the importance of healing so that we can embrace our next role. I hope you will be inspired to find a mentor and be a mentor as you hear Susie demystify what mentoring looks like. It's not about a special curriculum or meeting spot, but instead it's about being present and "asking questions and listening for God."  I could sit and talk with Susie all day and I know you'll feel like you just had a virtual hug from this spiritual mama after listening to the show! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Rattlesnake Ranch Pecans: use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off your purchase Compassion International or Text HAPPYHOUR to 83393 ThredUP - get 30% off your first order Flamingo - get the Flamingo Shave Set for $16 + free shipping GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The 2019 Holiday Gift Guide is here! This is seriously the most fun episode to record each year! I can't wait for you to hear my friend Ruth Chou Simons and I fill you in on some amazing gift ideas from great companies. I'll just say it now - I'm pretty sure you'll be able to knock out a few gifts of your list from this show!  On the show today we feature thirteen companies that offer gifts from beautiful handcrafted jewelry, delicious snacks (including snack-tivities!), brilliant products based on Scripture, inspired art, and so much more! So go grab your favorite fall beverage, and cozy up to listen to this special episode! Also, be sure to go follow me on Instagram where I'll be showing you these products plus, we will have 12 days of giveaways! I know, Christmas is coming early and I am here for it. I can't wait for you to know more about these incredible businesses! Click here for all the links and discount codes included on the gift guide.

My guest for The Happy Hour # 272 is Whitney Capps. Whitney is a speaker, author, wife, Mom and friend. Her favorite assignment is wife to Chad, and mom to Cooper, Dylan, Ryder and Tate. Her book, Sick of Me, and her bible study curriculum, We Over Me were released in early 2019. Additionally, Whitney is the founder of Simple Seminary and speaks with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Alright you guys, get ready to be fired up and excited after the show today, and maybe grab a pen and notebook too because Whitney shares so many words of wisdom! Whitney and I dive right in and talk about finding and using your spiritual gifts, whether that's for 4 people or 4,000. We discuss the often overlooked spiritual discipline of silence and solitude and listening for the Holy Spirit. I loved our discussion on what biblical community is supposed to be. "The end game is to help me live and look and love like Jesus" - yes, friend, yes! We also chat about how self-help can leave us feeling frustrated instead of sanctified and bearing fruit. At the end of the show we get to hear more about Simple Seminary, which I am so excited about! Go check it out and The Happy Hour Listeners get early access to the Winter 2020 class, plus a bonus teaching, and Christmas lock screen for your phone! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors The Happy Hour Shop Third Love - get 15% off your first order! Rothy's GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 271 is Laurie Crouch. Laurie is the host of TBN’s Better Together and leads Trinity Broadcasting Network alongside her husband, Matt. She is the mother of two sons and patiently waiting for her next title of Grandmother.  You guys, during my conversaton with Laurie today, I felt like I was watching a movie as Laurie described different milestones in her life and the ways only God could orchestrate it. Laurie and I start off talking about how she and Matt met and got married, and I'm telling you now, it's incredible - I was pretty much on the edge of my seat while listening. Laurie shares how she and Matt began working at TBN after they were married, created their own production company, and then returned to TBN to carry on the legacy and start the next chapter of the network. You'll also hear how Laurie's show Better Together came to be, and friends, once again, the story is just amazing. I loved talking with Laurie today and be sure to check out Better Together - you will be inspired and encouraged by these women's conversations! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Prep Dish - Text MEALPREP to 33777 and get a free meal plan! LOLA - get 30% off your first month's subscription with code: HAPPYHOUR30 Sips By - get 50% off your first box with code HAPPYHOUR ZipRecruiter - Try it for free!  GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 270 is Rachel Proctor. Rachel is a Texas-bred entrepreneur who has a goal to revolutionize the way women lead in business, ministry and public service. Rachel previously served as the Mayor Pro Tem for the City of DeSoto, Texas. Rachel is also the co-owner of an Early Childhood Learning Center, an author, and the creator of the eMErge Online Devotional App. Friends, through my conversation today with Rachel, I hope you hear that you do have a voice, and God can show you how to use it. Rachel and I start off the show talking about her time in public service as Mayor Pro Tem as well as what it was like running for Mayor. Rachel describes how each step and transition in her life has served as ways God helped her discover her own voice, and uncover the gifts and passions that were always in her. Listen in as Rachel speaks truth that ministry is not confined to the traditional roles we may think about. If you have a dream or passion but feel too overwhelmed to start, Rachel has practical advice for you! In the last part of the show, Rachel shares her perspective on being single, and how she's learning to live out her calling while also making room and preparing for what she hopes to see. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Abingdon Press: I'm Waiting, God: Finding Blessing in God's Delays - Sample Week 1 of this study and video sessions AWAY -  get $20 off a suitcase with code HAPPYHOUR Rothy's   GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 269 is Ashley McCrary. Ashley who goes by "Mac", is a teacher and recipe creator and developer of Healthy Little Peach, a health and lifestyle blog. Ashley and her husband Joel live in Missouri and have 2 beautiful little girls, Eloise and Eleanor. Friends, I just loved talking with Mac today, and I hope you are as encouraged as I was by her story. Mac shares how childhood wounds from verbal abuse made her believe she was unworthy and unlovable. Mac describes how this led to a dysfunctional relationship with food and feeling like she had to achieve so that maybe then, she could be loved. Mac vulnerably shares the moment when the Lord met her, opened her eyes to His love for her, and set her free. Mac also tells us about the challenging road of navigating PCOS, including how hard it can be to get a diagnosis. You'll also hear how changing the way she saw food grew into not only improvements in her PCOS symptoms, but also to the creation of Healthy Little Peach!  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Joybird - use code HAPPYHOUR25 for 25% off your first order ThirdLove - get 15% off your first order  STUNN Collective - use code HAPPY to receive 20% off your first order ZipRecruiter - Try for free! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 268 is Dr. Lina AbuJamra. Lina is a Pediatric ER doctor, Bible teacher, author, podcaster, and founder of Living with Power Ministries. Her vision is to bring hope to the world by connecting biblical answers to everyday life.  You guys, get ready because Lina’s excitement and energy are contagious, and I know you’re going to be so inspired by our conversation. Lina and I start off talking about the moment she knew she would be living her life for God. Lina shares stories of doors closing and doors opening as she said yes to God, and how He used all of it to lead her on the path of He's called her to. Lina tells us the amazing story of how she began working with Syrian refugees, and how God has grown this ministry in incredible ways. I appreciated Lina’s honesty about her prayers of heartache and questioning God’s plan, and was so encouraged hearing how she continues to say yes to God. Lina says, “hope is my currency” and when we tell God yes, He will lead and provide every time. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Rothy's ThredUp - get 30% off your first order! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 267 is Mercedes Cotchery. Mercedes is wife to Jerricho, momma to 5, home stylist and furniture shop owner, and loves sharing about adoption, homeschooling, and marriage. Mercedes is passionate about encouraging women to discover and celebrate the gifts God's given them and families growing phenomenally in Christ.  Mercedes and I start off the show talking about rejecting the pressure to achieve perfection and becoming comfortable recognizing we are flawed people pursuing God. Mercedes shares with us how she was born without a uterus, and how she's come to view her being born barren as God saving her. In seeking to grow her family, she paused and thought, "maybe God made me this way for a purpose." Mercedes says that pause changed her life in how she seeks God and her relationship with Him - and she now has 5 kids through adoption! Mercedes also opens up about her faith journey and how God revealed to her that she must make a paradigm shift from idolizing her husband above all else to putting Jesus above all else. I loved so many things about my conversation with Mercedes and I hope you're as encouraged as I was! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Greenlight Molekule - get 10% off your first air purifier order with code JAMIE10 Stamps.com - get a 4-week free trial, plus free postage and digital scale with code HAPPYHOUR (click on the microphone at the top of the page) Stories from the Austin Stone Podcast - Expectant Series GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 266 is Jaci Velasquez. Jaci released her first album at just 16 years old and is a multi-platinum selling, Grammy nominated artist as well as author, actress, wife, and momma to two boys, Zealand and Soren. Her newest book When God Rescripts Your life: Seeing Value, Beauty, and Purpose When Life is Interrupted releases this week! Jaci and I start off the show talking about what makes us nervous, and Jaci shares how she has learned to pause, let go of control, and ask the Holy Spirit to do the work. You'll also hear how much Jaci loves being involved at her boys' schools because you guys, she was always on the road and never got to experience it! Jaci opens up about what it was like to start recording so young, and reaching her darkest place where she felt the only option was to run away. I think we can all relate when Jaci speaks about God rescripting life in ways we hadn't planned or expected such as learning what were God dreams vs. "me" dreams. In the last part of the show we talk about trust, and I know you will love and be so, so encouraged that God cares about the big things and the small things when you hear her story of the bus driver Mr. Fred. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors STUNN - get 20% off your first order with code HAPPY Greenlight  ThirdLove - get 15% off your first order  IF:Gathering 2020 - get your tickets a day early! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 265 is Latasha Morrison. Latasha is a bridge-builder, reconciler, and a compelling voice in the fight for racial justice. She is the founder of Be the Bridge, a non-profit organization equipping people to serve as ambassadors of racial reconciliation. LaTasha has been recognized as a leading social justice advocate by organizations such as Facebook’s Community Leadership Program, Forbes, and EBONY magazine.  You guys, Latasha is my real life friend and she challenges, encourages, and inspires me. Our topics of conversation today are ones that are important to me and should matter to us all. As Latasha says, "if we are followers of Jesus Christ, then we have skin in the game." Latasha and I start off the show talking about how she started Be the Bridge with just 8 people and her Latasha vision. She talks about the need to create "brave spaces" for conversation and how humility, listening, and leveraging privilege are critical.  We also discuss how racial reconciliation is about having a Kingdom perspective on dignity and humanity. I loved how Latasha said, "we all have to be teachable", and that means opening our hearts, learning the historical context, and taking this on as all of our responsibility. In the last part of the show, Latasha and I discuss feeling marginalized as a single in church. She speaks of the need to create "brave spaces" in churches as well to have real, non-traditional conversations about singleness.  Friends, I could talk with Latasha for hours, and I hope you'll check out the links from the show to learn more about how to continue this conversation.    Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Bona Rothy's Flamingo - Get the Flamingo Shave Set, a $22 value for only $16! IF Gathering February 7-8, 2020 - Get your tickets a day early on October 14! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 264 is Rebekah Lyons. Rebekah is a national speaker, bestselling author, and podcaster. Rebekah is as an old soul with an honest, contemporary voice, and she invites others to discover and boldly pursue their God-given purpose. Alongside her husband, Gabe, Rebekah finds joy in raising four children, two of whom have Down syndrome. Friends, I'm so happy to welcome back my friend Rebekah to the show. She is wise, funny, and always points me to Jesus, and I know you're going to love our conversation. We start off the show talking about the amazing story of how God brought their youngest daughter, Joy, to their family through adoption. Rebekah then shares openly about her struggle with anxiety and depression. I appreciated her honesty so much when she tells us how after years of no panic attacks, she had her worst one yet and then felt such shame from it. Rebekah offers wisdom and encouragement as she speaks of God's reminder that when fear comes knocking, He will always be with us and He will always provide a way out. Rebekah also shares how from this experience she realized areas of her life that needed renewal and you'll hear how she's changed rhythms in her life to prioritize time to rest and restore. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 263 is Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith. Saundra is an author, speaker, and board-certified internal medicine physician with an active medical practice near Birmingham, AL. Saundra has been featured in many media outlets including Redbook, Daystar, Women's Day, Prevention, and MSNBC. Her newest release is Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity. A little note for the show today: at the end of our conversation we talk about how rest impacts marriage and sex. It's all appropriate (and encouraging!), but just a heads up in case little ears are listening. Saundra starts off stating the importance of being aware of our mental health. Saundra shares the story of laying on her kitchen floor when she hit complete burn out. Saundra tells us how she realized her perspective on rest needed to change, and we must fight against what our culture promotes. You guys, we don't need to earn rest, we need to work from rest. I'm still thinking about the different ways Saundra finds rest now, including social rest. Saundra also explains how much sensory overload impacts us (including becoming a barrier in the bedroom!), and offers suggestions for how to manage it. Friends, I'm pretty sure we all need to learn how to rest better and I'm thankful for Saundra's perspective and encouragement! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 262 is Sarah Mae. Sarah is the author of The Complicated Heart: Loving Even When it Hurts, the story of how Sarah learned to love and forgive her alcoholic mother. She also hosts The Complicated Heart podcast, and speaks all over the country encouraging women to walk in freedom. Sarah lives in Lancaster, PA with her woodworker husband, Jesse, three kids, and two new puppies.  On today's show you'll get to hear the incredible story of what God has done in the lives of Sarah and her mother. Sarah shares when she learned her mom was an alcoholic, and how the wounds of their relationship left her searching for love, affection, and security. Sarah tells us about her pregnancy and abortion at 16, and the moment she knew she had to get out of that destructive environment. You'll hear Sarah speak of how she came to know Jesus at 19, and I loved hearing how she saw God pursuing her throughout her life. We then discuss what it looked like for Sarah to confront her pain and grief, uncover the lies she believed, and learn to love and forgive her mother.  You guys, Sarah so graciously and openly lets us into her story, and she speaks such encouragement and hope that God is always there waiting, even in the pit.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Beholding and Becoming by Ruth Chou Simons Visit Ruth Chou Simon's Website Greenlight ZipRecruiter - Try for Free! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 261 is Kat Armstrong. Kat is a ministry leader, speaker, and author of No More Holding Back.  She has a Master's from Dallas Seminary, and is also the co-founder and Executive Director of Polished Ministries. She and her husband Aaron live in Dallas, TX with their son Caleb. Friends, one note about the beginning of our conversation. Kat and I talk about losing her dad to suicide and her walk through grief. If this topic could be a trigger for you, we only mention it in the early part of our conversation so feel free to skip over or wait another day to listen. I appreciate Kat's honesty in sharing how this loss has changed her and how she also has become an advocate to encourage women to "get all the helps" when we need them.  Kat and I then dive into talking about what I love, which is encouraging women in their faith and giftings, and running with it! Kat tells us how she kept hearing women struggle with finding their place in the world, and friends, you are going to be so encouraged as you hear Kat remind us of who God says we are and what we are called to do. Kat also shares important messages of how we speak about a woman's value, and how she’s heard women say they feel left out of the Scriptures. In the last part of the show we talk about the enormous impact that you, me, all of us can have on someone's life. As you hear her story of being discipled at 18 by a friend who was 20 and how it literally changed her life, I hope you are encouraged and inspired to go anywhere in your influence. As Kat says, "we can have such a radical impact on someone's life." Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Panama City Beach LOLA - get 40% off your first month's subscription with code HAPPYHOUR40 Beholding and Becoming by Ruth Chou Simons Ruth Chou Simon's Website GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 260 is Tess Clarke. Tess is the co-founder of Seek the Peace and the Director of We Welcome Refugees. She has a passion to see refugee and immigrant women protected and empowered along with helping the American church recognize and revere the image of God in these women.  Friends, if you hear the topic of this show and think this episode might be a political one, let me just tell you it isn't. Through our conversation I know you will see Jesus in the stories Tess shares, and the ways she encourages us to find the humanity in one another. Tess starts off telling us how she and her husband began working with refugees. We get to hear some of their stories, what they've been through, and how "refugees are ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances."  We also learn about Tess' ministry Project Shine that equips pre-teen and teen refugee girls to understand their own worth, strength, and purpose. I know that these stories of suffering can be hard to listen to, but Tess describes how every single one of us can participate in the ministry of presence. She encourages us to go and find those who look, live, and sound different than you and to challenge our own bias. Tess says, God is calling us is step in and listen, and we are all invited to "come and be." Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Beholding and Becoming by Ruth Chou Simons Third Love - get 15% off your first order! Panama City Beach thredUp - get 50% off your first order (on select items)   GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 259 is Bianca Olthoff. Bianca describes herself as a passionate Jesus-loving, Bible-teaching, book-writing MexiRican who loves to help people navigate life, connect in community, and live significantly. Bianca's new book, How to Have Your Life Not Suck: Becoming Today Who You Want to be Tomorrowcomes out August 27. I always love a chance to talk with my friend Bianca, and I know you're going to love this show. Bianca starts off telling us some crazy stories about being a twin - including a time she pretended to be her sister! Bianca and I discuss some of the amazing women out there who we'd love to be taken under their wing, and about building up the future generation of leaders. We then talk about one of Bianca's passions: prison ministry. You guys, Bianca shares that the next campus of their church will be at a prison!  As you hear her speak about all that they're doing, I know you're going to get goosebumps just like I did. In the last part of the show, we talk about the current dating culture, and how many people are living with sexually transmitted demons (yes, you read that right!). I could talk to Bianca for hours and I hope you were as fired up and encouraged as I was by our conversation! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Beholding and Becoming by Ruth Chou Simons Rothy's  Panama City Beach   GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 258 is Emily Maynard Johnson. While many of you may know Emily from The Bachelor and Bachelorette, Emily is an author, mom and wife to Tyler. Emily and her husband Tyler are parents to four children, Ricki, Jennings, Gibson, and Gatlin.  Emily and I start off talking about how her friend's nomination helped land her a spot as a contestant on The Bachelor. Emily also shares how she said no the first time they asked her to be The Bachelorette! We then get to hear Emily and her husband's Tyler love story and the different peace she felt about him that she hadn't experienced before. Emily and I chat about what it's like to be in the crazy season of life with three littles under the age of 4 and a teenager. I loved hearing her speak about how she's come to embrace the season of life she's in and have peace about how God uses us in different seasons and life experiences. And you guys, I didn't get a pregnancy announcement on the show, but Emily did share with us how she'd love to have more kids! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Panama City Beach ZipRecruiter - Try for free! Butcher Box - use code HAPPYHOUR and get 2 pounds of ground beef and 2 packs of bacon AND $20 off your first box! The Long Walk Home by Matt Carter GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 257 is Becca Matimba. Becca is a visual storyteller and captures and creates honest, compelling narrative through her work in production, photography and acting. Becca describes herself as a lover of film, people, and culture and currently resides in Austin. You guys, I loved having my friend Becca on the show today! Becca and I talk about what it was like to grow up in Texas as a first generation daughter to parents from Zimbabwe. Becca then shares about the years of pain and sadness she experienced after her parents divorced when she was 13. Becca tells us how she didn't realize that depression was even part of her story, nor that she had so much unforgiveness inside. I loved hearing her speak of how the Lord showed how much He saw her and loves her as she navigated finding healing and the ability to forgive. In the last part of the show, Becca opens up about her experience being black in predominately white churches and culture. I appreciate so much Becca's willingness to honestly share her journey and the encouragement she brings when she reminds us that we all are first a child of God. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 256 is Kim Lewis. Kim is a "Little lady with Big ideas!" and is best known for her work as the Lead Designer behind ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and Founder of Kim Lewis Designs. Kim's work has been featured on ABC, HGTV, TLC, National Geographic, Spike TV and FYI's "Tiny House Nation." Most recently she designs restaurants, boutiques, and hotels around the world, but Kim's passion is in building therapeutic art centers for rescued children in Ghana, Cambodia,Thailand and Honduras. Kim and I start off talking about how the job offer call she received on her wedding day led her to design over 120 homes in 43 states on the show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Kim shares some of the hard places she's walked through, including the loss of her mom and the end of her first marriage. Friends, Kim has gone through difficult suffering throughout her life, but you'll hear tell story after story that will give you the chills of how God showed up, and when Kim leaned in and listened, He answered. I was so inspired hearing her talk about how in the midst of hardships she would ask "how can God be glorified in this valley?" At the end of the show we get to hear about Kim's design business, her growing family, and the creative and fun ways she and her husband Joey are sharing their stories on their YouTube channel. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors  Panama City Beach Rothy's Zip Recruiter - try for free! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 255 is Lauren Eberspacher. Lauren is a wife to her farmer husband Eric and mom to her three farm babies. They live in Milford, Nebraska where they own and operate a fifth generation grain farm. When Lauren isn't busy doing all things farming, she is a blogger and speaker, and author of her first devotional, Midnight Lullabies - Moments of Peace for Moms. Lauren and I start off the show chatting about how she went from city girl to farm wife, where she says her life "is kind of like a country song". Lauren opens up about post partum depression that she experienced with her third child, and that the lack of desire to dwell with the Lord was one of the biggest red flags that something wasn't right. We also talk about the importance in investing in friendships built on truth and trust. Lauren and I then discuss fighting for contentment in all circumstances, including fear, suffering, and when things aren't going our way. In the last part of the show, we get a little spicy and talk about sex and finding redemption in the bedroom. Nothing we discuss is inappropriate, but this is an episode you may want to save and listen to when little ears aren't around. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 254 is Dr. Andrea Holman. Andrea serves as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Huston-Tillotson University where she teaches, conducts research, and gives talks and trainings around the city about race, racism and privilege and their impact on interpersonal relations. She also uses her expertise to assist foster/adoptive parents pursuing interracial adoption through the local foster agency through which she and her husband are currently licensed foster parents. Friends, get out the pen and paper now because I'm telling you there are so many things you're going to want to write down from the show today!  Andrea and I start off talking about foster care and "naive altruism".  Andrea shares some research findings including what foster/adoptive kids say they needed most in their homes but often didn't receive. We then dive into the subject of beauty, and the value and standard that is pervasive in our culture. Andrea tells us how the words we use often communicate a person's worth with the lens of beauty, and it's so normal that we don't even realize we're doing it. You'll hear Andrea take this a step further and show us how the language we use with relationships can convey someone's value as the relationship instead of their true value a child of God. You guys, I'm still thinking about so many things from my conversation with Andrea. I'm convicted and encouraged by what Andrea's pointed out, and thankful for her wisdom and practical steps we can take to start making changes.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Kendra Scott - Use code HAPPYHOUR online or in-store for 20% off, valid until 9/1 Rothy's  Third Love - get 15% off your first purchase GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 253 is Stevie of Built by Stevie. Stevie was born and raised in South Florida and describes herself as a long, windy road Christ follower. Stevie now lives in Nashville where she is a #carpentHER and designs and makes furniture full time through her all female run company, Built By Stevie. Stevie and I start off the show talking about how learning to install a ceiling fan led Stevie later create her woodworking business, Built By Stevie. Woodworking started out as just something on the side, but after some unexpected and tough situations, God nudged her through a good friend to start Built by Stevie. Please note in the second half of the show, Stevie and I talk about sexual abuse which I want to be sure I warn you about in case it could be a trigger point for you. No details of the abuse are shared, but Stevie honestly shares her journey of the road of healing from the sexual abuse that she endured as a child. I am so thankful to Stevie for her vulnerability and how she points to the hope we have with Jesus in the midst of suffering and when life is messy and hard.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Just. You. Wait. by Tricia Lott Williford LOLA - use code HAPPYHOUR40 get 40% off all subscriptions Zip Recruiter - try for free! Life is Good Ping Podcast   GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 252 is Darbie Angell. Darbie describes herself as a confident girl entertaining with style and consumed with wanderlust. At 20 weeks pregnant and put on bed rest, Darbie started her luxury dinnerware business. Darbie's products can be found in Macy's, Bed Bath and Beyond, Dillard's, Bloomies, Kendra Scott stores, Amazon, and many more. Darbie's company also employs 3,000 women artisans in underdeveloped countries, and her main goal is to impact the world one plate at a time! Have you ever asked yourself the question, "how do I invest in what God's given me?" You're going to be inspired to dig into that question after you hear Darbie's story. Darbie starts off telling us how she made the decision to start her business when she was 20 weeks pregnant and put on bed rest. You'll hear her talk about her side hustle selling diamonds that provided the capital she needed to ramp up her business. With a legal pad, tenacity, and following the path God was calling her to, Darbie (still on bed rest!) got her business off the ground. Darbie openly shares how the road hasn't been easy, and there have been roadblocks and challenges. We also get to hear about the impact she's making in Bangladesh at her factory through providing employment for women, access to healthcare, and creating a safe home/orphanage to help children escape from exploitation at brothels. You guys, Darbie didn't start her business when everything was "perfect", and I hope after hearing her story you're inpsired to ask God what you can start doing now with what's He's given you! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Unum - check out Unum's free parental leave guide! Rothy's Away - use code HAPPYHOUR for $20 off a suitcase Life is Good Ping Podcast GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 251 is Vivian Mabuni. Vivian is a national speaker and writer with a passion to share the hope and life found through intimacy with God. With 30 years of ministry experience on staff with Cru (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ), she loves teaching about the Bible and providing practical applications. I'm so happy to welcome my friend Vivian back to the show! Vivian starts off telling us about when she became a Christian, and how she thought it might be just a phase of her teenage years. Obviously, it was not a phase and Vivian shares how the phrase, Open Hands, Willing Heart has become almost like a mantra in her life (and is the title of her newest book!). I loved hearing her speak about the freedom we experience when we loosen our grip on self-reliance and control, and instead practice obedience, dependence and surrendering to God. Vivian also opens up about what it's looked like embracing when God says "no." She reminds us, "No" is not an absence of love." Lastly, Vivian makes my momma heart weepy when she describes motherhood as "just one long goodbye", but I loved hearing her wise words about sending off our children well. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Kendra Scott - use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off any full price item online or mention code in store, valid until 9/1/2019 Stamps.com - get a 4-week free trial by clicking the microphone on top of the homepage and type in HAPPYHOUR Third Love - get 15% off your first order Life is Good Ping Podcast GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 250 is Elisabeth Hasselbeck. Elisabeth is an Emmy Award–winning talk show host, former broadcaster, and New York Times best-selling author of The G-Free Diet and Deliciously G-Free, and her latest book Point of View. Elisabeth is married to former NFL quarterback and current ESPN NFL analyst Tim Hasselbeck, and they have three children—Grace, Taylor, and Isaiah. You guys, I am so excited about today's show! We are celebrating the 250th episode of The Happy Hour, and I got to interview one of my dream guests. I'm just plain giddy about it! Elisabeth and I start off the show talking about how we can fall into the trap of attaching to jobs, things, and/or roles as our identity, instead of remembering who God says we are. Elisabeth shares stories from her twenty years in broadcasting including those hard topics that came up on her shows. I loved hearing her speak about how she learned that these hard topics are really heart topics, and God cares more about relationship than us proving ourselves right. In the last part of the show, Elisabeth lets us in on what God taught her through her transition from The View, to Fox, and then to stay home with her family. I could have talked with Elisabeth for hours, and I know you're going to love our conversation. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Nations Photo Lab: use code HAPPYHOUR15 for 15% off Zip Recruiter Job Search App thredUp - get an extra 30% off GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 249 is Allie Casazza. Allie is the host of The Purpose Show podcast, course creator & world-renowned mom inspirer. Allie spends her days working from home with her husband, Brian, playing Super Nintendo with their four kids, and reading loads of books. She's been featured for her realistic philosophy of minimalism on popular media like Good Morning America, ABC News, and The Jenny McCarthy Show. Allie and I start off the show talking about decluttering! You are not only going to love hearing Allie's tips for simplifying dishes and laundry, but we also discuss how decluttering your life physically can impact your life spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. You'll be so inspired hearing her own story of how decluttering didn't just make her house neater, but created more space and time for the things that truly matter. After hearing the stories she shared of the impact of delcluttering on her clients' marriages, careers, and joy in the everyday, I pretty much told Allie she must come hold my hand to do all these things! Allie then opens up about her struggle with post partum depression and how she worked through it. I am so thankful to Allie for sharing her story and her important message that we need to talk about post partum depression and how we can check in with the new mommas in our lives. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Kendra Scott - use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off (online and in-store) until 9.1.19 Molekule - use code JAMIE and get $75 off your first order Butcher Box - use code HAPPYHOUR for $20 off your first box and free bacon for the life of your subscription! Life is Good Ping Podcast GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 248 is Pam Tebow. Pam encourages women to use the incredible influence God has given them to eternally impact their world. She has appeared on Good Morning America and has won national awards for her ministry work, including Commission for Women's Inspiring Woman of the Year in 2013, Extraordinary Woman of the Year in 2015, and the National Pro-Life Advocate of the Year in 2017. Pam and her husband, Bob, live in Florida; they have five grown children and eight grandchildren. On the show today, Pam shares amazing God stories from her life, and I know you'll be inspired, like I was, to know Scripture better because of Pam's infectious love of the Word. Pam starts off telling us about her family's time in the Phillipines and how they navigated fear through the power of Scripture. You are going to love, love, love the story of how a tune she made up for her kids using Psalm 56 has made a ripple effect in her family's next generation. Pam and I talk about how our children and people we interact with are looking at how we trust God in the situations we face. Pam then shares the story of how she and her family prayed for their fifth child, the doctor's advice to terminate the pregnancy, and how the decision to continue the pregnancy altered the trajectory of so many areas in her life. In the last part of the show, we talk about spheres of influence, and Pam encourages all of us that God will provide what you need to make an impact where He's called you. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Unum - Check out their parental leave guide Rothy's  Third Love  - Get 15% off your first order GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 247 is Alia Joy. Alia is an author and speaker who believes the darkness is illuminated when we grasp each other's hand and walk into the night together. Alia writes poignantly about her life with bipolar disorder as well as grief, faith, marriage, poverty, race, embodiment, and keeping fluent in the language of hope. She lives in Oregon with her husband, her mother, her three kids, a dog, a bunny, and a bunch of chickens. In Alia's book, Glorious Weakness, she puts forth the question, "What if weakness was a spiritual gift?" and you guys, I am so thankful to Alia for coming on the show. Her message is so important and brings great insight into mental illness. Alia shares her story that includes dark places such as abuse, leukemia at age 5, her brother's attempted suicide and her own struggle with suicidal ideation, and her diagnosis with bipolar disorder at age 30. Alia tells us how God made Himself known to her during thoughts of suicide and how He brings hope amidst the struggles she still deals with today. We also talk about when the church treats mental illness as sin and how it can push people to feel as though they must keep it private and alone. I appreciated hearing Alia speak about specific ways we can ask how to best walk alongside those living with mental illness, and that we need to start with having compassion built into mental illness like we have compassion for other illnesses. We also discuss what it's been like parenting her children, and that God loves us in our weakness, meets us in our brokenness, and how that's taught her and her children that "no one is going to meet them the way God can." Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Nations Photo Lab - use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off your order Bolster Sleep Company - use code HAPPYHOUR for 10% off Stamps.com - Click on the microphone at the top and enter code HAPPYHOUR to get a 4 week free trial plus free postage, and a digital scale. GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 246 is Jordan Lee Dooley. Jordan is an author, podcaster, and lifestyle entrepreneur whose mission is to equip women with the tools they need to show up for what they’re made to do. Jordan's first book, Own Your Everyday, released last week and is a great encouragement for women to find purpose in their everyday, right where they are. Jordan is happily married to her college sweetheart, Matt, and they are now business partners who work side by side from their farmhouse in the Indiana countryside — and raise chickens in their free time. Jordan and I start off the show talking about being coachable and that no matter what your age, we always have something to learn. Jordan tells the story of how winning her third grade handwriting contest provided the inspiration for her hand-lettering business in college. It was this side hustle that led to many late nights packaging up her products with her sorority sisters talking about the big and small things in life. Jordan shares that these conversations helped her realize the opportunity to connect her passion for ministry and business. No matter how small what you're doing may feel like, God can use your voice and skills for great things. Jordan describes how we can change our perspective on failure, prepare strategically, and "take a leap with faith". We also dive into those uncomfortable feelings such as jealousy and insecurity. But, you guys Jordan is about action. She tells us how we can equip ourselves with the tools we need to fight it by identifying and owning the root cause of these feelings. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Movement Watches Zip Recruiter - Try for free! Thred Up - get 30% off your first order GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 245 is Jasmine Star. Jasmine is a photographer and business strategist who dropped out of law school to pursue her dreams. Jasmine built an internationally recognized and award-winning photography business, and also founded Social Curator. Through Social Curator, Jasmine empowers entrepreneurs to build a brand, market it on social media, and create a life they love. Some days you'll find her featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and INC magazine, but her favorite days are spent with her dog and her high-school sweetheart, eating tacos. Jasmine and I start off the show talking about her family which of course includes some stories of her twin sister Bianca Oltoff. I was cracking up hearing the story of how they said they'd never go to the same college and the crazy way they ended up as roommates! Jasmine then opens up about her journey with depression and the importance of getting help and support. May is Mental Health Month and I am so thankful to Jasmine for sharing honestly about what it's been like for her, and her encouragement that it is okay and necessary to talk about it. Jasmine also describes how the shift from asking "Why is this happening tome" to thinking "this is happening for me" was a game changer especially in her darkest times. In the last part of the show we talk about social media, and I loved, loved, loved her analogy of treating social media like we treat fire - we have to be intentional, aware, and careful of how we interact with it. Jasmine also gives an update about her journey to adoption including the ups and downs, the long wait, and how the bumps in the road have taught her so much. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

On today's show, Episode #244, I'm celebrating the 5th birthday of The Happy Hour! My guests for this special show are two of my team members: Amanda Brown and Lyndsey Sweeney. My team and I thought what better way to celebrate five years of The Happy Hour than to answer questions from you! You guys sent in some really great ones, and we tried to cover it all. On the show today you'll hear us chat about The Happy Hour team and what everyone does, and get some behind the scenes details on what it looks like to get one of these shows into your earbuds each week. I answer questions on how we choose guests, why I decided to start recording only in-person, and how I prepare for shows. Be sure to check out all the links for this week's show because we also talk about favorite podcasts, what we're loving, and of course our favorite episodes of The Happy Hour.  Friends, when I started this show five years ago I couldn't imagine where it would take me and I want to express my sincere thank you for listening each week, and allowing me the opportunity to share the stories of so many incredible women. I am truly honored to do this job, and my hope is that each show will inspire, encourage, and point you to Jesus.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors hope*writers - Take the free 30 second writing journey quiz! Rothy's Flamingo - Get a $22 shave set for $16 with free shipping! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 243 is Kate Merrick. Kate is an author, speaker, mom of three, and the cofounder of the Reality family of churches with her husband Britt. She also specializes in making up dances to The Greatest Showman soundtrack, riding a surfboard, horse, or roller skates, and adding more butter to pretty much everything. She lives in Carpinteria, California with her family, five chickens, two goats, and two miniature donkeys. I'm so happy to welcome Kate back to the show this week. If you missed her the first time she was on The Happy Hour, you definitely need to take a listen. On that show, Kate and I talked through what it was like losing her daughter Daisy in 2013. On today's show, we dive into what she learned about being fully present while in Israel for treatments for Daisy. Kate shares why she and her family are not on social media, and why they left their smart phones in America when they traveled to Israel. Kate brings up such good questions to consider when she encourages us to look at life as a collection of moments instead of focusing only on the "big" things. When we think of life as a collection of moments, then how should we spend our time? I loved talking with Kate about the importance of reflecting on how we spend our time and honestly asking ourselves if it drains us or lifts us up. I am such a big fan of Kate's and I know you will be encouraged by our conversation today.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors  Nations Photo Lab - Get 10 Free 5x7 prints using the Nations Photo Lab App Molekule - Use code JAMIE for $75 off Away luggage  - Use code HAPPYHOUR for $20 off a suitcase GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 242 is Lincee Ray. Lincee is an author, speaker, and accidental blogger from Texas who now writes for Entertainment Weekly and the Associated Press. She can be found at her popular website iHateGreenBeans.com, where she makes it clear that she believes it's important to tell your story -- even if it makes you seem a little crazy. Lincee and I start off the show chatting about how she started writing recaps of The Bachelor. What she thought was just an email to a few friends quickly grew to a list of 1,000 people! Lincee explains how those emails landed her a job writing for Entertainment Weekly and the Associated Press - I mean, can we say coolest jobs ever? Lincee shares that she started writing the show recaps as she was going through the hardest time in her life, and I loved hearing her speak about how God used this crazy tv show in her story. It is such an encouragement of how God can use all things for His purpose.  Lincee and I also talk about dealing with that feeling of "something's missing". In the last part of the show, we get to hear about the Bible study Lincee leads, her newest book It's A Love Story, and the little ways she finds to point people to Jesus. I had so much fun with Lincee today and I know you're going to enjoy this show! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Bona Premium Spray Mop Third Love - get 15% off your first purchase Zip Recruiter - Try for Free!  GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 241 is Jada Edwards. Jada is a Bible teacher and discipler. She has committed her life to equipping women of all ages, at all stages, with practical, biblical truth to help them live authentic and transparent lives. Jada currently serves as the Creative Services Director and the Women's Director for One Community Church, where her husband Conway serves as the Lead Pastor. Jada and I start off the show talking about what reconciliation looks like when things are messy. We also dig into something we all need to examine in our hearts - are we maximizing someone else's sin and minimizing our own? I loved hearing Jada's story of how she asked God simply "show me how do I do this", and the changes she saw happen in her life. We then dive into discussing how we "set up people for failure, when we're waiting for them to be something they're not". Lastly, we talk about what it looks like to truly live the Gospel and have it influence everything you do. As Jada stated so well, "your job doesn't have to be in ministry, but ministry needs to be in every job."  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Bona Premium Spray Mop Zip Recruiter - Try for free! Thomas' English Muffins - Try the Tex Mex English Muffin GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 240 is Nicole Unice. Nicole is a Bible teacher, author, and passionate communicator who delights in bringing God’s Word to life in a personal and relevant way. Her training as a counselor informs her work, as she emphasizes the importance of facing our own reality and embracing the transforming power of God’s grace. Nicole serves as a pastor on staff at Hope Church. Nicole and I start off the show chatting about kids starting to drive and I just loved Nicole's idea of how to use the family car. We then dive into talking about the struggles with contentment. She describes how we are so often trying to get to the next thing that we don't see what God has put in front of us today. I loved hearing her prayer to live each day as an adventure that God is partnering and leading us on. Nicole then speaks of how the past can impact our present reality, but it does not have to define it. She encourages us to stop saying "but, it's not a big deal", and instead confront the past to allow opportunity for healing and true freedom in Christ. Lastly, we chat about leadership, and no matter what your sphere of influence looks like, we can all be conduits for reconciliation for others. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Podcast Survey Bona Premium Spray Mop Thomas' English Muffins - Tex-Mex English Muffin recipe (add Mayo like I do, if you want!) GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 239 is Audrey Roloff. Audrey is passionate about motivating women to always believe in the more that is within them through Christ. She spreads this mission through her devotionals, Always More clothing line, and blog. Audrey is also the co-founder of beating50percent.com, a marriage ministry, with her husband Jeremy. The couple also hosts the top-rated Behind the Scenes podcast. She’s an 8 on the Enneagram, mom to Ember, drinks her coffee beige, loves all things floral and the Pacific Northwest. Audrey and I start off the show talking about she and her husband's love story through 3 years of long distance, writing love letters, to deciding it was time to step away from the reality show, Little People, Big World. Audrey shares why she and Jeremy are so passionate about marriage, and the motivation and hope behind their book, marriage journal, and ministry. Audrey also tells us how writing the phrase "Always More" on her arm during her time as a track runner, led to her create her business Always More. Audrey and I also talk Enneagram, and she shares something I never had heard about it! Lastly, Audrey opens up about learning what she needs in a community and how it can be difficult to find or create that community in different seasons of life. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Panama City Beach Thomas' English Muffins Third Love - Get 15% off your first purchase! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 238 is Jennifer Welker. Jennifer is a former Neonatal ICU nurse turned founder and designer of the jewelry brand, Golden Thread. Golden Thread is a luxe line of personalized and dainty jewelry that's been featured in magazines like Vogue, In Style, & People Style Watch, and is a celebrity favorite. Jennifer and her husband Ellis reside in Houston with their three children (and one on the way!) Jennifer and I start off the show talking about how her business Golden Thread started out as an outlet to deal with the grief she encountered while working in the NICU. Jennifer then opens up to share how deep wounds in her childhood led her to live life with a self savior mentality - one where on the outside everything looked "normal", but on the inside she was empty. She tells us how this spiraled downhill fast as she entered into an affair that would last years. I appreciated so much that Jennifer gives us the raw truth about the darkness, codependency, and toxic addiction that the affair was. I know you will be so moved as you hear Jennifer speak of when she hit her lowest, and the moment she tangibly felt God remove the scales from her eyes. Infidelity is not something that is often openly talked about, but friends, let us not get trapped in the lie that it only happens to "those" people. We are all in this boat together, and Jennifer's story is one we can all relate to, because her story speaks the truth that we are all in need of our savior, Jesus. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Thomas' English Muffins Bolster Sleep - Use code HAPPYHOUR for 10% off your purchase Zip Recruiter - try for Free! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 237 is Lara Casey. Lara is a mom to 3, a grateful wife, and an unlikely gardener. She's the creator of PowerSheets goal planner, founder of Southern Weddings magazine, and author of Make It Happen and Cultivate. If you are part of our Happy Hour Party on Patreon, you heard Lara's amazing episode in our mini-series about dreams and goals. Today, I am so thankful to have Lara on the show as she shares her journey of faith and how God has changed her life in so many ways. Lara and I start off talking about taking the time to really slow down. She tells us about a recent neck injury that has brought about suffering, but God has shown her how it is an opportunity to live each moment well. Lara then shares the story of how she and her husband struggled and fought for their marriage through deployment, infidelity, differing faiths, and more. You will absolutely see God's hand all over her story, and how He made what seemed impossible, possible. Lara also talks about people who bore witness to what God could do when she couldn't believe it, and it renewed in me the commitment to seek out others and ask about their heart. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Panama City Beach LOLA - use code HAPPYHOUR40 get 40% off all subscriptions Thomas' English Muffins - Check out the Tex-Mex English Muffin Recipe GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 236 is Shruthi Parker. Shruthi is a professional blogger and event host. Shruthi recently hosted Keep Austin Warm in December 2018 which benefited three Austin nonprofits. Shruthi is passionate about connecting people together and sharing different perspectives with different crowds. Shruthi and her husband live in Austin along with their two rascal dogs. Whether you love it or hate it, social media can bring people together. I met Shruthi through social media and it turns out we go to the same church and live in the same city! After having coffee, I knew I wanted to bring her on the show to share her story. Shruthi and I start off talking about her conversion from Hindu to Christianity that started with a friend named Faye in the 8th grade who invited her to small group. Shruthi shares how this started her down a path that, years later, would bring her to praying "who is God? I need to know who you are, and I need you to be over my life". I got tears in my eyes as Shruthi told me how God revealed His truth while she listened to her boyfriend recite Romans in a Barnes and Noble. She tells us how she hid her faith from her family for fear of disapproval, and how the secret was finally revealed and caused a deep divide. You'll also get to hear about Shruthi's blog and how God used a job that fell through for an even better plan that He had for her. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 235 is Emily P. Freeman. Emily is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Simply Tuesday and A Million Little Ways, and her newest book, The Next Right Thing. As host of The Next Right Thing podcast, she helps create space for the soul to breathe, offering fresh perspective on the sacredness of our inner life with God. Emily and her husband live in North Carolina with their three children. I am so happy to welcome Emily back to the show today! Emily and I jump right in to discuss how unmade decisions can hold so much power in our lives, but Emily offers a game-changer. Emily describes how we can develop spiritual routines and habits that put ourselves in God's path - intentionally and on purpose! - every single day. When these become part of our days, it helps us see unmade decisions as hopeful opportunities to interact with God and our communities. Emily and I also chat about parenting teenagers and how we react when they make mistakes. Emily shares about her passion of encouraging women to go after their dreams, and you'll get hear about the amazing writing community, hope*writers, that she co-founded. CONNECT WITH JAMIE Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube SPONSORS Bona Premium Spray Mop Smilo - use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off Thomas' English Muffins - try out the Tex-Mex English Muffin recipe! GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 234 is Scarlet Hiltibidal. Scarlet is a wife, mother, and author of Afraid of All the Things and He Numbered the Pores on My Face. She also writes a regular column for ParentLife Magazine. Scarlet loves sign language with her daughters, nachos by herself, writing for her friends, and learning how to be a pretend-farmer with her husband in Middle Tennessee. Scarlet and I start off the show talking about anxiety. We discuss how it can sometimes be glossed over, how some don't even realize they struggle with it, and how anxiety can be absolutely debilitating. You'll hear Scarlet share how she realized she was afraid of all the things which led to an eating disorder, declining health, secrets, and living a life she was praying God would heal. Scarlet's story of how God called her to bring her secret into the light gives such encouragement to anyone feeling shame or hiding something you think could never be told. Scarlet then tells us how she began to truly rest in Jesus and realize that instead of focusing on all the things, she needed to look up, at God. Scarlet says, "if we are looking at Him, we see life, and hope and love." In the last part of the show, Scarlet shares with us the story of the adoption of her daughter Joy. You guys, adoption was one of the things Scarlet had always been afraid of, and you're going to love hearing her speak of the incredible things God did through their adoption journey. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Panama City Beach Smilo Baby - use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off  Bolster Sleep  - use code HAPPYHOUR for 12% off Zip Recruiter - try for FREE GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 233 is Lisa Leonard. Lisa is a momma, author, and business owner. Together with her husband Steve, they built a thriving jewelry business, Lisa Leonard Designs. Lisa and Steve have been married 20 years, and have two boys, David and Matthias. Steve and Lisa live in California and her first book, Brave Love, came out in January!  Lisa and I start off the show talking about how she started her business. Lisa then opens up about how she felt like the true Lisa was disappearing in efforts to accommodate others. I appreciated her honesty when she spoke about the fear of rejection she felt when she decided that she wouldn't hide the true Lisa anymore. Lisa and I then talk about what it's been like parenting a special needs child. You will love hearing her story of how God prepared her heart for having a special needs child in the most incredible way through a non-verbal second grader.  Lisa also shares about the grief she's been through. I think we can all relate when you hear her speak of the struggle of confronting dark places of grief instead of putting on a happy face and pretending we're okay. At the end of the show, I had Lisa do something I've never done on my show - read aloud from her book! I loved hearing her words, and I know you'll be encouraged to live life with Brave Love.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Bolster Sleep - use code HAPPYHOUR for 10% off Joy Bird - use code HAPPYHOUR for 25% off Third Love - get 15% off your first order GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 232 is Jonathan Pitts. Jonathan is the Executive Pastor at Church of the City and husband to my friend Wynter Pitts, who God called home July 24, 2018. Jonathan and Wynter have four daughters, and on the show today I had the honor to talk with Jonathan about what life has looked like since her passing. Jonathan starts off sharing how the ministry Wynter started, For Girls Like You, is continuing and growing. We then get to hear so many incredible stories of how God has shown Jonathan and his family that He's always been with them as they've walked this road. He talks about learning how God is with us in the present, and because of this truth it is possible to grieve and experience joy in the same space. My faith was so encouraged listening to Jonathan speak about hope amidst suffering. I was reminded that even when there is pain now, it is not wasted. God can use all things for His good and His glory, and there is joy coming in the end because of the cross. Friends, I loved Wynter and am so honored to get to share Wynter's life. If you aren't familiar with her and her ministry, please check out the links from the show - I know you will be encouraged, inspired, and pointed to Jesus. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Nations Photo Lab Prints use code HAPPYHOUR15 for 15 free prints thredUP - get 30% off your first order ButcherBox - get 2 free filet mignons, free bacon, and $20 off your order with code HAPPYHOUR GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 231 is Nicole Walters. Nicole is a former six-figure corporate executive who woke up every morning feeling stuck in the life she built for herself. Using her corporate skills, she took to the internet and built a multi-seven figure business showing others how they can build a life they love. Nicole and her husband reside in Atlanta and are parents to their beautiful girls.  You guys, Nicole is a rock star with her business, but what I think you're going to love about our conversation today is her encouragement that we can let our light shine no matter where God has placed us. Nicole and I start off the show talking about her first side hustle that began with shaving her head, plus more side hustles all leading to a live stream of her quitting her corporate job. Nicole also shares how in the midst of all of that craziness, she and her husband came to adopt their three daughters. Nicole then opens up about her faith journey and what it's been like to be a "faith-forward" business owner. I loved hearing her speak about how her faith is simply how she does business. In our culture where we may feel uncertain how to share our faith, Nicole encourages authenticity, honesty, and vulnerability. I think she summed it up pretty well when she said, "If I can tell you what type of undies I wear, why can't I tell you I pray."  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Nations Photo Lab Prints - Get 15 Free Square Prints with code HAPPYHOUR15 Bolster Sleep Company use code HAPPYHOUR for 10% off Prep Dish - $4 for a Month-long trial GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 230 is Margaret Feinberg. Margaret is a Bible teacher, speaker, author, and leader at conferences such as Catalyst, Thrive, and Women of Joy. Her books, including The Organic God, The Sacred Echo, Scouting the Divine, Wonderstruck, Fight Back With Joy, and their corresponding Bible studies, have sold more than one million copies and received critical acclaim. Margaret lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband, Leif, and their superpup, Hershey.  You guys, I learned so much from my conversation with Margaret that I just can't stop thinking about! On the show today, Margaret and I talk about her journey across the world as she dove into learning about certain foods from the Bible and examining them in light of Scripture. Margaret shares so many amazing stories, each of which opened up the Scripture to me in a brand new way. I especially loved hearing her tell how the Lord led her to fish in the Galilee. What began as a short trip to find a fisherman, turned into spending Passover with the fisherman's entire extended family!  In every one of her stories, the insight she learned about these different foods provides even more insight into the Bible and what God is teaching us. It's truly amazing, and I know you will be as blown away as I was.  Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube Sponsors Nations Photo Lab - use code HAPPYHOUR15 for 15 free square prints! Zola - $50 off wedding registry Third Love - get 15% off your first order Click HERE to Get All the Links from the Show!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 229 is Susan Seay. Susan is a wife and mom of 7 who is fiercely committed to being a voice of encouragement to moms in all stages of motherhood. She and her family make their home in Austin Texas, but her message reaches all across the country and internationally through her podcast, speaking, book, and coaching. You guys, I could have talked to Susan for hours, and I know you’re going to love our conversation no matter what season of life you’re in. Click HERE to read more and get all the links from the show! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour # 228 is Jen Wise. Jen holds an MA in Theology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and serves as a child advocate with Compassion International as a part of their Artist and Speaker Team. Jen is happy to spend most days rotating between friends, family, writing, cooking, her neighborhood yoga studio, and being an active part of her home church. Jen and I start off the show talking about how we're all walking around exhausted! It doesn't have to be this way, and Jen gives us practical tips on how we can lessen the weight we all feel, all the time. I loved hearing her share about how her own process of letting things go, and fully resting in the grace God has provided. We also chat about friendships, and how in different seasons it can be hard to prioritize, but that it's possible to continue to nurture those relationships. In the second half of the show, the topic of control takes center stage, and we also talk about eating right, getting enough sleep, and all those "taking care of yourself" things that we tend to push to the side. Don't worry friends, our conversation isn't about shaming - it's just the opposite. Jen encourages us that loosening our grip, trusting God more, and taking care of ourselves, helps us live the meaningful life God intends. Links from the Show Jen's Website Jen's Book: The Bright Life Voxer The Quest by Beth Moore Seamless Bible Study by Angie Smith What Jen's loving: Cam & Jeff, Fordite nail polish, Keds by Kate Spade, everything at Madewell What Jen's reading: Awed to Heaven, Rooted in Earth: Prayers of Walter Brueggemann, It's Not Supposed To Be This Way by Lysa Terkeurst, and Thoughts to Make Your Heart Sing by Sally Lloyd-Jones Lysa Terkeurst on The Happy Hour Sally Lloyd-Jones on The Happy Hour The Story of God's Love for You by Sally Lloyd-Jones Come join The Happy Hour on Patreon If You Only Knew Connect with Jen Twitter// Instagram // Facebook Connect with Jamie + The Happy Hour Twitter // YouTube // Instagram // Facebook See all the links from the show HERE

My guest for The Happy Hour # 227 is Rachel Joy. Rachel is a pastor's wife, mom to four and the Founder & Executive Director of Sparrow Women. Sparrow Women exists to catalyze the next generation of reconcilers. Rachel is a believer in strong coffee, long dinners, and spontaneous dance parties. On today's show Rachel shares the story of how she came to start Sparrow Women and the Sparrow Conference. Rachel and I talk about what it was like for her when she first started to dig deep and ask questions about racial equality, reflect on her own privilege, and examine how the world is truly set up. I love how Rachel says we are all Kingdom Cultivators, but to do the work, we must first understand what God's kingdom is. Rachel and I discuss how the topic of racial harmony and reconciliation can seem overwhelming at first, and she provides some first steps to take. Rachel also honestly shares how the walk can be messy, the conversations difficult, and we're not promised that it will be easy. But, we are called to be peacemakers and reconcilers, and with Christ, it is possible. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #226 is Lysa TerKeurst. Lysa is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of over twenty books, international speaker, and the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries. Her passion is teaching the Bible in vulnerably realistic ways that help others personally engage with God by connecting His truth to their everyday lives. You can find her most days writing from her sticky farm table in Charlotte, NC and enjoying life with her husband Art and the families of her 5 grown children. You guys, I cannot think of a better way to start off The Happy Hour in 2019 than this episode. Get your tissues and your pen and paper ready for this one. Lysa and I start off the show talking about how she began working with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Lysa tells us about writing her latest book in real-time as her world was turned upside down by a marital affair, and being diagnosed with significant medical issues. We talk about being in the "messy middle" place of life, and the importance of creating safe spaces and community to discuss disappointment in our lives. Lysa speaks about how God helped her hear His truth so she could face her fears, leaning on friends' faith when we feel so shaken, and the struggle of when our feelings and faith come in conflict. Lysa tells us how it wasn't clear to her how this story would end, but she realized redemption is available now, whether there's reconciliation or not. She speaks such encouragement to us when she says, "Redemption is based on my choices - I can choose to have redemption with God today." Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 225 is my man, Aaron Ivey. On this week’s show, we look back and chat about some of the highlights of 2018, including the launch of my book If You Only Knew! Aaron and I talk about how we’ve done our best to manage family, work, marriage and everything in between as this year has been the busiest for us travel-wise. Aaron shares about getting shingles, and we give updates on our kids’ latest adventures. We also fill you in with more information about our new Patreon community. I am so excited about this and can’t wait for you to join the party! It’s been a phenomenal year, and I’m so thankful for all of it and for all of you! Here’s to 2018 and I wish each of you a Happy New Year! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 224 is Amy Wolff. Amy is a TEDx Speaker Coach and Executive Coach for a consulting company she co-owns with her father in Portland, OR. She accidentally started a global movement in 2017 through simple yard signs. But what currently thrills Amy the most is engaging in difficult conversations with unlikely friends and leading teams to Rwanda to experience the global family of God. Amy and I start off talking about jealousy and how this show almost didn't even happen. Amy gives us some great tips about speaking, whether that's at Sunday School, at the PTA, or in front of a large crowd. We then talk about grief and the loss of her brother Jeremy. Amy talks about how it has influenced her life, and the peace and wrestling with God she has experienced. In the second half of the show, Amy tells us how she and her family decided to take action using yard signs when they learned of the suicide rate in their area. What began with driving around asking neighbors if they could place a sign in their yard, has turned into a global movement. We also learn about an unexpected friendship with a witch (yes friends, a witch) that has provided the opportunity to have difficult conversations publicly, but done so in love. And lastly - because we discussed all the things on this show! - we talk about sin, looking at our own sin, and how it influences how we love people. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 223 is Julianna Zobrist. Julianna is an author, speaker, music artist, fashion muse, social media influencer, and wife of Chicago Cubs World Series MVP Ben Zobrist. Zobrist has performed at numerous charity and professional events nationwide, and has been featured in Forbes, PARADE, CBS, and Sports Illustrated. She divides her time between Nashville and Chicago, traveling through life with her husband and three kids. Julianna starts off telling us the crazy (and I mean crazy!) story of how her husband's team won the World Series, they unexpectedly had to move, she released a single, and her baby was born pretty much all at the same time. We talk about her journey of discovering what it truly means to be created in the image of God, and how that has transformed her entire perspective on life. Julianna and I then talk about how we all have the tendency to deny or hide who we are, and can tie our identity to something or someone. I loved hearing her speak about how we need to stop apologizing for who we are, and stand confidently in our identity in God. In the last part of the show, we get to hear about life on the road for Julianna and her family, and how they set boundaries and fight for quality time. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 222 is Mary Beth Chapman. Mary Beth is President and Co-Founder of Show Hope, wife to Steven Curtis Chapman, a New York Times Best Selling author, speaker, advocate, and momma. Steven and Mary Beth reside in Tennessee and have six children: Emily, Caleb, Will Franklin, Shaoey, Stevey Joy, and Maria. Mary Beth and I start off the show talking about Mary Beth's current season of life and she is living my dream - her kids and grandkids all live in the same city as her! Mary Beth shares the story of how they came to adopt three of their children as well as creating Show Hope, a non-profit that seeks to care for orphans by engaging the church and reducing barriers to adoption. In the second half of the show Mary Beth opens up about the pain and grief she and her family have walked through in losing their daughter Maria. I appreciated her honesty so much as she described her relationship with God as knowing she fully trusts Him while simultaneously having the emotions, questions for God, and pain. Mary Beth and her family have endured a terrible tragedy, but amidst the pain, you'll hear Mary Beth describe so many ways God has continued to pursue them, shown such kindness, and brought hope and encouragement. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 221 is Melissa Radke. Melissa is a singer, speaker, author, and momma. Melissa and her family will soon be featured on a reality show that, in her words, "will probably horrify her mother". Melissa and her husband David live in Lufkin, Texas with their two kids, Remi Hope and Rocco Cooper who they fought so hard for during 12 years of infertility. Friends, get ready because on today's show you're going to laugh, cry, and love hearing my conversation with Melissa! We start off the show talking about being brave while also feeling anxiety and fear. Melissa discusses how we learn so much through taking self-inventory and fighting the urge to point the finger outward instead of looking within ourselves. She also talks about how the reality tv show came to be and never in a million years did she think this would be part of God's plan! Melissa then shares the story of how she and her husband started out in Nashville and wound up in Texas, and faced infertility, loss of dreams, miscarriages, and broken trust in their marriage. She tells us how vulnerably sharing both sides of the story of her marriage brought healing. She says, "our most vulnerable stories are our most powerful thing", and I couldn't agree more. Hearing her story brought me to tears, but Melissa brings such encouragement as she talks about how our God is always faithful, and how He is constantly, always working for our good. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

The Holiday Gift Guide is always one of my favorite shows, and this year did not disappoint! Amy and I had so much fun chatting about these fabulous companies and products and I'm pretty sure we'll help you knock out some of your Christmas shopping. All the company info, links, and special offer codes are listed out for you down below, so enjoy and happy shopping!   ABLE ABLE is a lifestyle brand on a mission to end generational poverty by providing economic opportunity for women. Their product line of jewelry, apparel, shoes, and leather goods are made locally in Nashville and globally in partnership with entrepreneurs in Ethiopia, Mexico, Peru, and Brazil. In August 2018, ABLE became the first company to publish their lowest wages because they believe complete transparency is the only way to protect and empower the industry's vulnerable workers, most of whom are women. Use code HAPPYHOUR for 30% off, valid through 11/30 The Shop Forward/Espwa The Shop Forward® is a way to get all your holiday shopping done with fun + unique gifts while knowing that you are paying-it-forward with each purchase. Since launching a few years ago, The Shop Forward has partnered with various causes to raise over $2.7 million dollars. The Shop Forward is the home of the CHOOSE JOY tees + hoodies that support cancer care, 'mama.' tees that help out moms-in-need, and Espwa® products that spread hope in Haiti including our Born Year hats or custom 4 Things® Tote bags (w/ YOUR favorite 4 things on them!). The iconic #4ThingsTote has become our most in-demand item & most fun gift-giving item! Shop + Pay-It-Forward! Euna Mae's Euna Mae’s is the retail expression of Amy Hannon’s biblical hospitality brand. Euna Mae’s, a one-of-a-kind kitchen-y boutique, came into being following Amy’s growing awareness that women had gotten away from opening their homes and hearts to others. She felt the Lord stir her to encourage and equip women to embrace the simple-yet-significant hospitality commands of 1 Peter 4:8-11 - Love. Welcome. Serve. The Euna Mae’s store features pretty and purposeful kitchen and home goods with a select few best-sellers featured online, including Amy’s comfort food cookbook “Love Welcome Serve”! Amy uses every opportunity — whether hosting events, speaking to groups, visiting inside her store, in her cookbook or on social media — to share her Love Welcome Serve ™ message of intentional kitchening so that in all things God may be praised. Waterloo Style At Waterloo Style we love our products and know that once you put our earrings on and feel how comfortable they are, it's hard to wear anything else! Our earrings are made from top quality leather and they come in a variety of styles and colors. We make it easy for you to rock yoga pants and a baseball cap, your favorite jeans and boots, or a dressed up evening out on the town. We also have a heart to cheer our tribe on to see beauty in yourself and in others...and to speak that truth to each other. Whether it is how we feel physically or how we see people & circumstances in our lives, we have a choice to make... we can choose to see BEAUTIFUL! We hope as your wear your Waterloo Style earrings, you are reminded of your beauty and you take courageous adventure to see BEAUTIFUL in your own life and those around you! #adventuresinbeautiful Use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off Scout & Cellar Scout & Cellar offers clean-crafted, organic, bio-dynamic, vegan, no sugar added wine hand picked by a Level 3 sommelier. The wine is sourced from boutique wineries around the world and have been tested to ensure no pesticides or chemicals have been added. The wine is clean and you can truly tell the difference. It's a great gift for those who have everything, for clients, and for lovers of all things organic! Holiday packages, gifting options and gift cards are available as well as wine clubs or individual bottle purchase. Club members receive 5% off their purchase Cultivate What Matters With an ever-growing list of to-dos, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and dispassionate by the tasks on your plate and disappointed you're not spending enough time doing the things you love and caring for the people you love. The ladies at Cultivate What Matters want to press the reset button! For seven years, the PowerSheets(R) Intentional Goal Planner and their best-selling tools have helped thousands of women across the world live the life they want and can help you do the same, too! Cultivate What Matters was created to give you the community, resources, and encouragement to realize that you can make great things—big or small—happen! Check out their website on Black Friday to see their special deal! Primally Pure Primally Pure handcrafts skincare products that are truly natural and non-toxic, using ingredients like tallow from grass-fed cows, organic and fair trade coconut oil and organic essential oils. In addition to being safe to use, their products also provide users with real, noticeable results. Primally Pure offers everything from their best selling natural deodorant that actually works, their incredible blue tansy beauty cream, and so much more including a baby line and a bundle of products to gift the men in your life too! Use code HAPPYHOUR for 10% off your purchase Starfish Project Starfish Project is a nonprofit jewlery company serving victims of human trafficking and exploitation. At Starfish Project, trafficked women experience freedom, establish independence, and develop careers. Women at Starfish Project grow to become accountants, photographers, and managers. When you purchase jewelry from Starfish Project, more women get to experience freedom from sexual exploitation. Use code HAPPYHOUR for 25% off all necklaces through 12/31 Grace Notes Most people think it's hard to read the Bible every day. Grace Notes makes it easy to surround yourself with Bible verses so you can transform your mind with the power of God’s Word! Our beautifully designed monthly subscription includes a 5x7” print, a small print, and a sticker that feature the same design and verse. Our subscribers use their these to read, study, memorize, meditate, and be encouraged! We also include a card that you write on: one side what you’re praying about that month and the other side to write out the verse to help with retention. As a fun surprise we include a coordinating paper clip. It costs $10/month and the design and verse change every month so it’s always a surprise! Use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off your first envelope subscription Go Rings Go Rings was originally created as a way to fundraise for an 11-month mission trip to 11 countries. We’re committed to creating handcrafted, ethically-made jewelry, while equipping those who are going out and spreading some light across our world. Our collection is handmade in both Haiti and Austin, using high-quality metals that won't turn, tarnish, or react with your skin. 30% of each purchase goes to individuals & organizations who partner with us monthly, raising money to "Go make disciples" (Matt. 28:19). We've teamed up with over 500 women who have used Go Rings to fundraise for mission trips, unpaid internships, and other ventures to Go Do Good. Use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off through 12/15 Mercy Candle Co. Mercy Candle Co. is a small business with a heart for savoring the beauty in life’s everyday moments. On each candle you’ll find scripture or an inspiring message to serve as a reminder to take time out for what matters most. At Mercy Candle Co, we believe that details matter, and you will see our dedication to detail all the way from our quality, non-toxic ingredients to our thoughtful packaging. Your purchase makes a difference: Fifty cents from the purchase of every mason jar candle is donated to help fight the battle against human trafficking. Use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off through 12/31 laurelbox   laurelbox is an online gift shop offering beautiful sympathy gifts for the modern woman, propelled by the mission to help women acknowledge loss and start conversations that facilitate healthy grieving. Co-founders Denise Wolfe and Johanna Mutz were inspired to start laurelbox when friends of theirs lost children, siblings, and parents. Many items in the laurelbox shop are handmade, and each laurelbox is hand packed and customized with premium packaging. Each purchase includes a hand-written gift message on a complimentary card. A portion of the proceeds from the In Memory Feather ornament benefit High Risk Hope, an organization that provides support to women and families who are experiencing a high risk pregnancy. Use code HAPPYHOUR for 20% off 11/23-28; 10% off after 11/28 Purpose Mercantile @ Blue Sky PURPOSE Mercantile is part of Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding & Respite. Blue Sky provides weekly individual therapeutic horseback riding lessons, in a structured learning environment, to special needs citizens. These handmade tic-tac-toe game bags are created by the special needs citizens who participate in the PURPOSE program (Providing Unique and Realistic Possibilities and Opportunities for our Special Needs Equestrians). Not only our special needs citizens accomplished equestrians, they are also skilled artisans. The PURPOSE program gives them the ability to create and find their purpose while being in community with their friends. Your purchase supports a program that is providing high quality opportunities for special needs children and adults. The Happy Hour Shop   The Happy Hour Shop is ready and stocked with so many fun things! You'll love our new items such as the Be Kind sweatshirt which is super soft and what you'll want to wear all winter long, our new Wild Kind of Beauty baseball tee, and the When I Grow Up I Wanna Be a Podcaster baseball tee for the favorite kiddos in your life. We've also restocked all of your Happy Hour faves including koozies, t-shirts, and the Jesus Is Better necklace from ABLE. You can also purchase my book If You Only Knew, and through the end of the year, I'll be signing all copies purchased through the Happy Hour Store. Use code HOLIDAY2018 for free shipping through 12/31   A Few Other Links From the Show The Cradle & The Cross by Austin Stone Worship  The Happy Hour #195 Amy Hannon

My guest for The Happy Hour # 220 is Tara-Leigh Cobble. Tara-Leigh is the founder of D-Group, an international network of weekly Bible studies that meet in homes and churches around the world. Today she is launching a short, daily podcast called The Bible Recap to help people not only READ the Bible but LOVE reading it! On today's show, I'm catching up with Tara-Leigh since she last visited The Happy Hour in 2016. One thing I hear from so many listeners is how they were encouraged to read their Bible after listening to Tara-Leigh on the show. Well, you're going to love this news, Tara-Leigh is launching a new podcast called The Bible Recap where she will take listeners chronologically through the Bible, and summarize and highlight the day's reading. And you guys, Tara-Leigh is about to celebrate 10 years of D-Group! Tara-Leigh then opens up about the suffering and trauma she's been through in the last few years including emotional and physical wounds. She shares how God has been faithful and kind and stayed so near even when she withdrew. Tara-Leigh also talks about how she's heard God call her to lay down her dream of marriage, and how she has changed her perspective to actively pursue singleness - including her Nunnymoon! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #219 is Blythe Hill. Blythe is the CEO/Founder of the Dressember Foundation and is passionate about ending human trafficking. What started as a personal style challenge in 2009 to wear a dress each day for a month, Dressember grew beyond her immediate circle and five years later, thousands of people across the world have helped raise over $5M toward the fight to end human trafficking. Blythe and I start off the show talking about how Blythe's eyes were opened to human trafficking. She describes how she felt an overwhelming sense of urgency to do something combined with an overwhelming feeling of powerlessness. Blythe describes how she even considered going against her internal "wiring" to start a new career in hopes to make a difference. But, instead she put the talents God gifted her with to use and started Dressember. I loved hearing Blythe talk about how Dressember took off. Her first campaign goal in 2013 was $25k, but you guys they reached that in just 3 days! And now Dressember 2018 hopes to raise $3 million to fight human trafficking - how incredible is that? We get to hear about the amazing partners she works with and how they fight trafficking from so many angles. Blythe also shares her own story of abuse and how Dressember and #metoo has all intersected for her. I really appreciated hearing her discuss the spectrum of consent, the shame women feel, and how we have to be women who believe and trust each other and not be afraid to get help. Friends, I loved my conversation with Blythe for so many reasons, and I am so proud of the work she's doing. I've included resources below that can help in educating yourself more about human trafficking - it truly happens everywhere. And there are so many ways to be involved with Dressember - join a team, wear a dress, raise awareness, and more! I also hope that if you have an idea or feel God nudging you in a direction, you feel encouraged to follow that nudge - God can do so much more than we could ever imagine. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #218 is Myquillyn Smith. Myquillyn, also known as the “The Nester,” has been encouraging women to embrace their home—imperfections and all. Her home has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Cottages & Bungalows and Ladies’ Home Journal. She’s the author of The Nesting Place and was chosen by Christianity Today as one of the top twenty creatives in 2016. Myquillyn lives in a fixer-upper on 12 acres with her husband Chad, their three teenage boys, two cats, a dog and a rooster. Friends, it's time to get cozy! Myquillyn and I start off the show discussing imperfect hospitality, and how we get so stuck on our homes being "perfect", that we never even invite anyone in. Myquillyn sums it up so well when she says if we instead "set up our houses to foster connection, perfection isn't even part of the story." Myquillyn then shares how she started inviting hundreds of people to her home through Nest Fest - even though she's an introvert! We also talk about saying 'no' at the right time. Myquillyn suggests finding a "no" mentor to help us see what it looks like to say "no", so that we can say "yes" to others. In the last part of the show, Myquillyn tells us how moving so much (13 times!) taught her so much about design. Money, time, creativity, and limitations are the most common barriers she hears from women. But, instead of waiting until we have it all, she says, focus on what you have the most of, and go for it! Friends, I just loved my conversation with Myquillyn. I hope you feel encouraged that your home doesn't have to be "perfect", but that it's the imperfect hospitality that brings people together. And you guys, I had never thought of having a "no" mentor before, but I love the perspective that can bring! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #217 is JJ Heller. JJ is a singer/songwriter committed to spreading a message of hope and peace to women in an increasingly complex, competitive and confusing world. JJ has developed an iconic and unmistakable style of her own, and her music inspires listeners to embrace the beauty and brokenness of life with a whole heart. JJ and her husband Dave reside in Nashville with their two daughters. JJ and I start off the show talking about comparison. Friends, we all do it and we all know we need to stop! God gave JJ a new perspective to consider when the internal comparison talk starts, and it's something we can all remember and use. JJ then shares how the life and dreams she had as an athlete suddenly came to a close. Feeling unsure of what was next for her, God planted the seed in her heart for music while she was singing a song washing dishes in the bush of Africa! JJ then opens up about suffering from panic attacks and anxiety. JJ speaks about how it was difficult to share her story, but God nudged her to use her voice - and in a big way! She speaks about the freedom she felt after telling her story, and you will absolutely love hearing the many ways she has seen God use her story of brokenness to bring healing to others. In the last part of the show, we hear more about JJ's music and how a conversation with Bob Goff (yes, THE Bob Goff), changed her view on what success looks like. Friends, I absolutely loved talking with JJ and could have talked with her for hours. If you are struggling with fear and anxiety, my hope is that you heard that you are not alone, and that God can bring healing and use our brokenness for good. I also hope you feel encouraged to share your story with a trusted friend and together we can support each other on our journeys. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #216 is Landyn Hutchinson. Landyn is a lifestyle influencer/blogger and creator of Living With Landyn. Landyn is an expert on home aesthetic, beauty, and fashion and provides her followers with genuine, authentic recommendations. Landyn has created an incredibly engaged community and her passion is to help women feel confident, empowered, and inspired. Landyn and I start off the show talking about her life's journey including working as a nurse, momma, wife to an NFL pro, and now business owner of Living with Landyn. We talk about the changes that happened as her husband retired from the NFL and her role from stay at home momma transitioned to working momma and now traveling momma with her Hey Landyn Live tour. As many of you know, Landyn gives great tips about recipes to home decor and entertaining, and skin care - including shaving your face! Yes friends, I'm serious - just check out the link below! I appreciated Landyn's honesty when she spoke about how she and her family have managed this transition, including a really challenging time she faced. Landyn shares how she's learned to let the village help and that we can't do it alone. We also chat about the looks we both get when we say that we love our husbands more than our kids! Ladies, we have to invest in marriage and continue to date our husbands! Landyn was a joy to talk to and just like chatting with the best girlfriend you didn't know you needed. I hope you enjoyed our conversation as much as I did! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #215 is Dorena Williamson. Dorena is a bridge builder and author of ColorFull, ThoughtFull and GraceFull, children's books that celebrate God's diverse kingdom. This series is inspired from twenty-three years as first lady of Nashville's Strong Tower Bible Church, a multiracial faith community Dorena and her husband Dr. Chris planted in 1995. Dorena and her husband have four wonderful children. Dorena and I start off the show talking about how a move to Nashville to further her husband Chris' rap career, ended up leading them to found a multi-racial church in a civil war rich town! Dorena shares how she had no idea that God would use all her years raising kids and leading worship to combine her passions and experiences into something bigger down the road. When we're itching to jump to the finish line because we want to know where God is leading us, Dorena encourages cultivating faithfulness, and describes how this can bring renewal of faith. Dorena and I then discuss the importance and value of having honest conversations about race, and recognizing the diversity of colors God created vs. being "colorblind". We also talk about how we as parents should be the first voices to talk about race with our kids, and the different ways we can make this happen. Friends, my hope is that through the show today you feel encouraged and empowered to have conversations about racial equality and bridge building. Check out the resources below, including Dorena's fantastic books, and connect with Dorena and me as well! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #214 is Alex Seeley. Alex is a passionate communicator who speaks the truth in love. Alex is the Lead Pastor of The Belonging Co Church, and author of Tailor Made. Alex and her husband Henry have two children, Holly and Taylor, and reside in Tennessee. Alex and I start off the show talking about her across the globe move from Australia to Tennessee knowing that God was leading them, but not knowing what would come next. Alex describes how she was convinced she was done pastoring churches, but God had other plans. What started out as simply inviting 5 friends to their home on Tuesday nights, became an "accidental" church plant and has grown into the church Alex and her husband lead today. I loved hearing Alex share the way God reminded and encouraged her of how we can be the bride He's coming back for. In the second half of the show, Alex and I talk about the lies we encounter in our daily lives that distract from the truth of what God says. Alex reminds us that it's a choice we must make every day to "pick up His word and actually believe it." We also talk about those times we are in the wilderness. Alex provides so much encouragement when she speaks of the wilderness as an opportunity for more: in the wilderness God shows us what we truly believe about Him when there is nothing else, and this true presence of God can change everything. Friends, my hope is that every one of us will go to God and ask Him to show us the lies we are believing, and be reminded of the truth of what He says. Seek out a trusted friend, share what you learned in your time with God, and together we can help point each other to Jesus. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #213 is Jessica Turner. Jessica is the author of the newly released Stretched Too Thin: How Working Moms Can Lose the Guilt, Work Smarter, and Thrive and The Wall Street Journal bestselling book The Fringe Hours. She is also an award-winning marketing professional and speaker, and the founder of the lifestyle blog The Mom Creative. She and her husband, Matthew, live with their three children in Nashville, Tennessee. I am so happy to welcome my friend Jessica back to the show! Jessica and I start out talking about books, which if you love books you need to follow her Instagram profile where she shares about what she's reading! We then dive in and talk about the concept of mental load. Friends, I know we all suffer from the stress of mental load - coordinating, managing, analyzing, and juggling in our minds ALL THE THINGS, am I right? Jessica shares practical tips for managing mental load and reminds us that self-care is not selfish, it's necessary. We also discuss how we need to stop separating ourselves based on where/what/when we work. I love how Jessica says whether you're a stay at home mom or a working mom, "we are all moms who love our kids"! In the second half of the show, Jessica shares the story of when her husband Matthew (a published author) wrote his first children's book, he was turned down a dozen times. Instead of letting that stop them, Jessica and Matthew self-published the book, it sold out, and now it's sold 100,000 copies! You guys, I loved talking with Jessica today and I know that through our conversation I was reminded of the grace God gives us every single day, and how we can extend grace and care to each other and to ourselves. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #212 is Nicole Zasowski. Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Connecticut where she lives with her husband, Jimmy and her son, James. As an old soul who wears her heart proudly on her sleeve, Nicole also enjoys writing about her story and the way she sees God moving and molding her through it. Her first book is due to come out in January 2020! Alright friends, get your hearts ready because on today's show Nicole and I talk about feelings. Whether you're cringing or leaping with joy at this news, I promise this show is for you and you will be encouraged by her words. As Nicole shares at the start of the show, we can't believe the lie that no one can understand our pain because we all at some point experience pain ... and, we all have strategies we use to try protect ourselves from pain. Nicole shares her own story of how she realized her self-protection strategies were no longer working. It started with a cross-country move 7 years ago, and since then she has also had to walk through 5 miscarriages in just 4 years. She admits that it was hard to face that her strategies weren't the answer, but when she was truly honest with herself and others, she started to "find a way through, not a way out" of the pain. Nicole also offers specific advice on how to walk along side a friend going through hard times. In the second half of the show, Nicole explains more about the Restoration Therapy model she uses that focuses on how we each have encountered love and trust. She also fills us in on what those protection strategies we use can look like. You guys, I think we can all identify ways we stuff our feelings or protect ourselves from pain. But, as Nicole said, our short term solution is just creating long-term pain. God does not love us any less when we grieve or hurt. He loves us through ALL of it, and He already knows our hearts. I loved talking with Nicole today, and I hope that you feel encouraged in the freedom you can experience when we are honest with God, ourselves, and each other! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #211 is Sanya Richards-Ross. Sanya is a 4-Time Olympic Gold medalist in track and field, NBC Sports Analyst, Nike brand ambassador, entrepreneur, speaker, and author. Sanya still holds the fastest American record in the 400! If you've listened to the show for a while, you guys know my love of sports. But, you may not know that I was in the Olympics for track and field... ok, ok, so it was the Junior Olympics in 9th grade, but still! You can imagine my excitement to have Sanya on the show today - I was so giddy I even showed her my Junior Olympics medals! Sanya tells us about what it was like to be a professional athlete and compete in 3 Olympic Games. Sanya also tells us how she made the decision to retire at the Olympic Trials before Rio due to injuries. Sanya speaks of God's faithfulness in how she was still able to be a part of the Rio games as a sports analyst, and became the first woman in the commentator booth in 20 years. Sanya and I then talk about her walk with Jesus including the day she crossed a line she never thought she would and had an abortion. Sanya shares how she felt unredeemable and completely broken. She then describes a bus ride where she ended up lost and alone in China at the Beijing Games, and Jesus met her exactly where she was and helped her know He still loved her and that He forgave her. I enjoyed talking with Sanya today so much, and I hope that through our conversation you see how God loves His children, and through the giftings He gives as well as in our brokenness, He is always faithful and always good. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #210 is Taylor Nichols. Taylor is one of the kindest friends I know, and I'm so honored to have her on the show today. Taylor is momma to two boys and a girl, with another sweet baby girl on the way! Taylor will soon be launching a podcast called Speak Life with Taylor Nichols so be sure to keep an eye out for that. You guys, I have been wanting to bring my friend Taylor on the show for a while now. She has an incredible story and speaks such hope and encouragement - I just know you're going to love our conversation. Taylor and I start off the show talking about her beautiful family, and how their daughter through adoption and her baby girl will be just 11 months apart! Taylor then shares her story of her childhood church experience that resulted in a great deal of hurt for her and her family. Taylor speaks of the challenges she dealt with regarding faith and the church once she was able to leave. Taylor admits that her walk with God has been hard, but she is so thankful for the gift of faith in Him that has remained throughout. In the second half of the show Taylor opens up about losing her father. Taylor talks about learning to have grace in grief and the importance of walking through every part of it. I loved hearing her describe how her dad never missed a chance to "love big" and share his heart, and how that has impacted how she lives her life today. Taylor offers such wise encouragement when she says, with grief, "you don't get over it, you learn to walk through it.". I am so proud of my friend and am so thankful to her for sharing her story. Life is messy and it's hard, but what stands out to me in all of the stories is that when we look closely, amidst the mess, God is always there, with us and for us. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 209 is Jenna Kutcher. Jenna walked away from her corporate office job with nothing more than a camera from Craigslist, and turned that investment into a 7-figure photography and education business. Jenna also runs and hosts the Goal Digger Podcast, an authentic, business-focused show that caters towards women entrepreneurs. Her biggest passion is to invest in entrepreneurs so that they have the tools to authentically grow their businesses. On today's show Jenna shares with us how she bought a camera, claimed her new title of "wedding photographer", and pursued her dream to spend her time doing what her heart valued. Jenna dispels the myth that work and passions can't align, and encourages us to find what inspires and energizes us and go after it! If you don't follow Jenna on Instagram, you should. Jenna has beautiful pictures that aren't just a highlight reel, but walks through the ups, downs, and everything in between! Jenna tells us why she decided to post pictures that show her in real life and how she hopes to encourage women to embrace and love who they are, just as they are. In the last part of the show, Jenna opens up about her walk through infertility, miscarriages, and her current pregnancy. Jenna describes the anger she felt after the miscarriages and how she realized her need to surrender and trust God. I think we can all think of a situation where you "knew there was a bigger plan, but it's sometimes hard to believe" amidst the circumstances. I loved my conversation today with Jenna and her encouragement to pursue what we value, embrace who we are, and to surrender and trust God! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 208 is Katie Davis Majors. Katie is an author, speaker, blogger, and founder of Amazima Ministries, an organization that cares for vulnerable children and families in Uganda. Katie moved to Uganda over a decade ago with no idea that this would be the place that God chose to build her home and her family. Today, she is a wife to Benji and mama to her fourteen favorite people. Katie and I start out the show talking about Katie's journey to Uganda and adoption of her 13 girls. When Katie was 18, she made her first trip to Uganda and knew she'd be back. Katie tells us how 80% of East African children are in orphanages not because of lack of family, but due to poverty. Katie learned that in some cases simply paying for school would allow those children to stay with their families. Katie kept sponsoring more kids, and more and more people joined in to support these kids and Amazima Ministries was born! Katie then shares how she came to know and foster 3 girls. When it became clear that there was no family for these children to be reunited with, they became Katie's daughters through adoption. The stories continued and by age 23, Katie was now mom to her 13 beautiful girls. We then talk about the difficult season she walked through facing multiple losses. Katie speaks about the loneliness, pain, and questions she had and describes how near God was to her in that time. She reminds us, "we can bring our hearts to God, He sees them anyway, and He loves us regardless." I also appreciated her honesty in talking about challenges that can happen in adoption with connecting with your children. In the last part of our conversation, we get to hear the story of Katie and her husband Benji and their family of 13 daughters and a son. You guys - it is the sweetest and includes both of them declining dates with each other at one point! I loved my conversation with Katie so much. I was encouraged, inspired, and reminded of how when we say yes, whether it's moving overseas or sponsoring a child's education, God does amazing, incredible things! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 207 is Liz Vice. Liz began her career in film and video, only to accidentally find herself behind the mic. Liz' signature soulful sound is deeply rooted in spirituality and she released her sophomore album Save Me in June. A Portland native, Liz now resides in Brooklyn. Liz and I start off the show talking about how she never intended to be a musician. Liz' background was in film and video and she even had a full ride to film school. Due to a variety of factors, she declined the scholarship and continued work in tv/film. But, she kept feeling nudges toward music. Liz describes how she was certain that becoming a musician was not for her, but that God pursued her and how she said yes to her new path. In the second half of the show Liz and I talk about how her new album Save Me, and what it's like to share her music with the world. She describes her shows and music as the story of her testimony, and that it is a sacred time for her when she's on stage. I loved hearing her share stories of people she's met and how Jesus has guided her and the songs she creates. You guys isn't it so amazing - so many times on the show we've heard women tell us how God has nudged them into things they would have never expected or originally said yes to! Then, we get to hear how He continually pursues us and does such incredible things like in Liz' story today - I love it! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 206 is Jessica Honegger. Jessica is an award-winning social entrepreneur with a passion for catalyzing others to step outside their comfort zones and live lives of purpose. Jessica is the founder and co-CEO of Noonday Collection, a social impact fashion brand dedicated to designing and selling an inspired collection of jewelry and accessories made by Artisans in vulnerable communities. Noonday Collection was featured in Inc. magazine’s 2015 list of the 5,000 fastest growing companies in America at number 45. Jessica won the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year for central Texas in 2017. You guys know I am a fan of all things Noonday, and I'm so happy to welcome Jessica back to The Happy Hour as we discuss leadership, showing up for each other, being more present, and celebrate the launch of her first book! Jessica and I start off the show talking about leadership. Jessica talks about how leadership can happen in the everyday. Friends, this means each one of us has the capacity to lead. Leadership is about recognizing what we see in others and helping each other feel seen. This is such an encouragement - every single one of us has the power to lead, every day. Whether it's a note to a friend recognizing what they're doing or telling your neighbor or co-worker what you appreciate about them, we can all do this for each other! We talk about the struggle in our culture to be present, and the need for time to rest. Jessica shares her own challenges with finding balance. I think we can all relate to feeling like it's impossible to take a break, and it seems like the answer should be to work harder to get it all done, right? But, as Jessica describes, what we actually need, and what can help us truly be more productive is if we take time to rest. Jessica and I also talk about her hopes and desires for her book Imperfect Courage. We talk about handling criticism, and I appreciate Jessica's strength in creating spaces to have meaningful dialogues where it's okay to disagree. In the last part of the show, we have a ton of fun doing Q&A from you! As always, I loved having Jessica on the show and know you'll be encouraged by our conversation. And I'm putting forth a challenge: let's ask ourselves, how can we show up for someone this week? We all can do it - so let's make it happen! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 205 is Suzanne Stabile. Suzanne is an internationally recognized Enneagram Master, author, and speaker. As an Enneagram Master, she has conducted over 500 Enneagram workshops over the last 25 years to many audiences including churches, colleges, and hospitals. Suzanne is mom to four, and grandmother to seven, and when she's not on the road teaching, she resides in Dallas with her husband Rev. Joseph Stabile. Friends, I am so excited and honored to share today's show with you. Suzanne is so gracious and full of wisdom - I know you're going to love our conversation as much as I did! Suzanne starts off the show sharing some history about the Enneagram including how it can be most helpful and ways to utilize it most effectively. She shares her thoughts on the prevalence of the Enneagram lately and reminds us that the Enneagram is a tool to help understand the motivations of our own and others' behaviors and "offers us nine ways of seeing the world." Suzanne and I then talk about the Enneagram with children, parenting, and adoption. She is often asked about using the Enneagram in parenting. Suzanne tells us that a person's number can be well determined by just 5 years old, but she urges caution and believes it should not be taught until 16. But don't worry if you're wondering, but what can I do now? She gives us wise advice and encouragement for a place to start: "If you want to use the Enneagram for parenting, then be the healthiest person in your number." Suzanne also shares that she was adopted, and how that has influenced her work. Suzanne speaks truth when we talk about adoption, trauma, and how wounds can heal, but we must recognize they are always part of the person. You guys, there are so many great things in this show that I want to include it all! So go back and listen again or better yet, learn more by checking out the links below. But one last thing - it came up a few times during the show - Suzanne stresses the importance of doing the work to figure out your Enneagram number, and don't rely on simply taking a test. As Suzanne states, "There’s no reason to take a shortcut with something that is so valuable." Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 204 is Elyse Fitzpatrick. Elyse is an author of nearly 2 dozen books on the gospel and Christian living, renowned speaker, and hosts a podcast with her family. Elyse is passionate about delivering the gospel to women and helping women see Jesus' love everywhere in the Bible. Elyse is mom to 3 marrieds, and mimi to 6 grands, and she and her husband Phil reside in Southern California. I am so happy to welcome Elyse back to The Happy Hour! Elyse is always a joy to have on the show and I know you will be so encouraged to dive into the Word after our conversation today. Elyse and I start off the show talking about her motivation to write her most recent book: Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation. Elyse describes how she wants women to see how every part of the Bible is pointing to Jesus and His love for us. Elyse gives us several great examples of how we can see God interacting with women right from the beginning in redemptive ways - you guys, there were definitely parts of our conversation where I just had to take a moment because of the awesomeness and love God shows us through His word! In the second part of the show Elyse and I talk about how women may have felt dismissed or that theology was just "for the guys". Elyse explains how Jesus not only tells us the Word is absolutely for all of us - women and men-, but she also points out specific ways Jesus calls us to know and love the Scripture as He did. We also talk about seeing women leaders rise up in the church and that no matter if you're in a full-time vocational ministry or not, that we can know and love the Scripture - and as we do, we will understand more and more of Jesus' love for us! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 203 is Jamie Grace. Jamie is a 2-time GRAMMY nominated singer-songwriter who started out sharing a mixture of improv comedy, cover songs and sharing her life story on YouTube at just 14 years old. At the time, Jamie was newly diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD and Anxiety. Twelve years later, Jamie is a touring artist as well as podcaster, and author. But Jamie says at the core of it all she's still an awkward kid on YouTube hoping to inspire others -- and make friends :) You guys have been asking and asking and it's here!!! On this week's show I get to talk with the amazing Jamie Grace and I know you are going to love this Happy Hour. Jamie and I jump in and start talking about how it all started - she tells us about when she was 14 years old, she posted a video on YouTube as a way to channel her energy and creativity. Between the ages of 9 -13 years old, Jamie struggled with her emotions, friendships, and the diagnoses of Tourette Syndrome OCD, ADHD, and Anxiety. She realized creative outlets were a path to freedom and discovery about God's purpose for her, and how she could rebuild her life. Of course, I had to ask her what her parents thought of her posting videos on YouTube when she was just 14! Jamie tells us how they immediately shut it down, but that when they rebooted it, and to this day, her parents are her managers! In the last part of the show, we get to hear the love story of Jamie and her husband Aaron. You're going to love hearing her describe how she knew she was going to marry him the night she met him (even though she didn't even get his name!), and how they didn't reconnect for a year! As many of you know, Jamie has shared so much on being single and living in a season of waiting, such as on her podcast Wait It Out, and she talks openly about what was challenging. Jamie reminds us that no matter what your season of waiting is for, and no matter what the outcome, we can remind ourselves and each other of the joy, peace, and promises that God has for us. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 202 is Brittany Price Brooker. Brittany is mom, widow and remarried, singer, and speaker passionate about making Jesus known! Together with her husband Daniel, they are raising five children and they've come to be known as the Brooker Bunch! Brittany starts out sharing with us how when she was 25, she lost her husband Patrick and was left a widow with three young children under the age of 3. It was unimaginable, but Brittany describes how even starting with the night before Patrick died, she can see how God was preparing the way for her to be able to walk through her worst nightmare. Brittany tells us about the pain of not only losing her husband, but having to see her children grieve. She so honestly shares her cries out to God. You guys - it will give you chills as you hear how God answered prayer after prayer, and people kept showing up. It is such an encouragement to all of us that we can show up for one another -- even what may seem too small or too crazy can actually make a huge impact in someone's life. In the second half of the show, Brittany describes how God brought her to meet her husband Daniel, who is also a widow. After about a hundred emails they finally had their first phone conversation -- which of course lasted 5 hours! Brittany talks about the tender navigation of bringing two grieving families together. She stresses the importance of grace, therapy, community and allowing everyone to process their feelings and know it's okay to feel sorrow and joy at the same time. Brittany has gone through much suffering in her short life, but in her story you can so clearly hear how Jesus continually brings hope and provision, and that we all have opportunities to show up for each other! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 201 is Priscilla Shirer. Priscilla is a wife, mom, and Bible teacher. She and her husband, Jerry, lead Going Beyond Ministries through which they provide spiritual support and resources to the body of Christ. They count it as their greatest privilege to serve every denomination and culture across the spectrum of the church. Friends, Priscilla is a joy to talk to and you are going to love hearing her speak about her ministry, her family, and how God has led her down paths she never would have imagined (such as how she flat out said No! the first time she was asked to be in a movie!) For the full summary and links to the show, Click Here!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 200 is my all-time favorite guest on The Happy Hour, my husband Aaron Ivey. Friends, I cannot believe that The Happy Hour is celebrating its 200th episode!!! I want to thank each and every one of you for listening, sharing the show, joining us in Book Club or Happy Hour Live, and supporting If You Only Knew. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I'm honored and humbled to be able to share so many women's stories. These stories made us laugh and cry -- sometimes at the same time! -- and have encouraged, inspired, and most importantly pointed us to the Gospel. On today's show Aaron and I share some favorite moments from The Happy Hour. We hear a little bit from twelve different episodes and we get to talk about everything from the single life, married life, kids, how men and women look at approval, diversity, creativity, and more. I would have loved to share clips from every single episode, but if you want to catch up on any shows you missed, maybe a Happy Hour podcast binge is in order! Thank you again to each and everyone of you for listening, sharing your stories, giving feedback, and building this community. I truly thank you from the bottom of my heart and here's to the next 200 shows! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 199 is Liz Curtis Higgs. Liz is an author, speaker, and has three abiding passions: encouraging her sisters in Christ, exploring the stories of women in the Bible, and writing novels set in Scotland of old. Liz has written 37 books and travels around the world speaking and encouraging women. Liz is mom to Matthew and Lillian (recent college grads!) and when she's not traveling she loves being home with her husband Bill and her twin tabby cats Boaz and Samson. Friends, I am so excited to share today's episode with you and I know you are going to love hearing from Liz about her story, how she came to write about the "Bad Girls" in the Bible, and her current fight with cancer. No matter what the circumstance, Liz brings hope and encouragement for us all. Liz starts off the show sharing how she came to know Jesus and how He saved her from a life she knew was leading her towards a dead end. She tells us how a couple who had newly come to know Jesus "loved her into the Kingdom" by simply sharing what they had so recently learned. I love that so much because it affirms that we can't know it all, but that doesn't mean God can't use us in ways that impact others. We also talk about shame and how it can stop us from telling our stories or truly experiencing freedom. Liz tells us how she never intended to write "Bad Girls of the Bible" and how God led her down a path that opened more doors than she ever could have imagined. In the last half of the episode, Liz talks about her current fight with cancer - her "annoyance" she calls it. She candidly talks about what it's like to face less than promising news and how even amidst this suffering she sees God's faithfulness each day. She says "no matter what tomorrow brings, God will not be shaken." Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 198 is Michelle McKinney. Michelle defines herself as a Dream Architect and she brings her 20-years experience working alongside senior executives at companies such as Starbucks, American Express, Fannie Mae and Zion, to help women design, construct and bring their God-given dreams to life. Michelle and her husband, Tony, reside in Maryland with their 4 children - Caleb, Mekhi, Anthony and Selah. I knew Michelle and I would get along when I saw her dance onto the stage at Shine, and she brings her joy and energy to the show today - I know you're going to love it. Michelle believes that every woman can fulfill her God-given purpose, and on today's show we talk about how women can discover those dreams and move through the restlessness, yearning, and transition of when God is transplanting us to something new. We discuss the struggle of finding contentment in a season instead of only focusing on what's next. I love her idea of keeping a journal to write down your wins each day - it's such a great way to celebrate and look back and see how God has been working in your life. In the second half of the show we discuss one of my favorite topics - marriage. Michelle speaks about marrying for love and purpose. She says, "marriage is about partnership and being able to build something to advance God’s kingdom even more than what you could do alone." Lastly, Michelle tells us about what is now my new favorite idea for a party - a bridal shower reboot for her 20th wedding anniversary! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 197 is Amena Brown. Amena is a poet, speaker, author, and event host. Named one of Rejuvenate Magazine’s Top 40 under 40 Changemakers, Amena is the author of five spoken word CDs and two non-fiction books. She has performed and spoken at events across the nation, and she and her husband, DJ Opdiggy, live in Atlanta. On the show today, Amena and I talk about everything from grief, infertility, ministry, and the creative process she goes through to bring a poem to life on stage. One thing's for sure - I could never do her job! Amena and I dive right in and start talking about the feelings of living a life you didn't think you'd live. Amena shares how she learned to grieve the loss of expectations, and how she realized, "to experience joy most fully, I had to also experience the grief." We also talk about the importance of finding those people who will walk beside you and be truly present with you amidst different seasons of life. In the second half of the show Amena describes her creative process as a poet and you guys, it's incredible. We talk about performance as a craft and ministry, and she tells us how we can find spoken word in our own communities. Amena then discusses her involvement in international ministry. Amena reminds us how important it is to really know the organizations you're going with, what they represent, and most importantly who and how they're partnering and led by those in that country. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 196 is Rachel Henry. Rachel is wife to her high school sweetheart, Simon, and they have six beautiful children whom she's home-schooled for the last two years. Rachel and her family reside in Florida where they like to live like they're on vacation every day! Friends, I'm going to get straight to it - today's show is difficult to listen to. It's difficult, but incredibly powerful and full of hope and healing amidst tragedy. A few warnings: in the episode today Rachel talks about the night that her home was broken into and she was raped. I encourage younger ears to have an adult listen first. Also, if you struggle with fear around these topics, have a trusted friend listen first and guide you on if you should listen and/or any parts you should skip. What Rachel has experienced is absolutely horrific. As you listen to her share her story, you will also hear loud and clear the hope she carries, and how God has been with her and her family through their journey. I was floored listening to her describe the trial and how she faced her attackers and told them she forgave them, and how she's prayed for them. In the last part of the show, Rachel talks about her journey of healing and how crucial it was to find the right therapy. Rachel describes the effectiveness of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with traumatic experiences and how it could help others. I am incredibly grateful to Rachel for her vulnerability and sharing her story so that others would be encouraged and have hope. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 195 is Amy Hannon. Amy is the owner of Euna Mae's, a kitchen boutique that is not only is a special place to locals, but has also become a destination shop for many around the country. You can also find Amy on her cooking show on Northwest Arkansas' NBC affiliate, a food blog, and her recently published "Love Welcome Serve" cookbook. I know many of you are familiar with Amy's super cute shop Euna Mae's - and don't worry if you thought her name was Euna Mae (she gets that a lot)! Amy and I begin today's show talking about the bittersweet emotions that come when your kids begin to leave the nest. Amy is momma to three and she shares about her youngest graduating just this past weekend! We then talk about what hospitality means to her. Amy has never met a stranger and and that "hospitality is making people feel like they matter" - I love the way she describes that. Amy and I also discuss how in our culture we can get the meaning of hospitality wrong and shift the focus inward instead of serving others from the heart. In the last part of the show, Amy shares how she never intended to be a shop owner, cooking show host, or write a cookbook. But, when she asked herself what her God dream was, God answered her prayer in big ways! I had so much fun talking with Amy today. She shows that we all can show hospitality to anyone and everyone, and her story is an encouragement to ask ourselves what our dreams are and not be afraid to go to God with those dreams. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 194 is Ruth Chou Simons. Ruth is an artist, writer, entrepreneur, and speaker. As author of the bestselling book GraceLaced and creator of the GraceLaced online shoppe, blog, and Instagram community, she shares scriptural truths daily through her hand-painted artwork and words. Ruth and her husband, Troy, live in Colorado and are grateful parents to six sons—their greatest adventure. Today's show was one of those conversations where we could have kept talking for hours. Many of you may know Ruth from her beautiful art and from Instagram, and you're going to love her even more after listening to today's show. Ruth and I start out the conversation talking about how she got her name when she immigrated to America - you may not believe this but, it came from a man who didn't even know her and he named her parents at the same time as well! We discuss the importance of teaching culture to our children, and making sure it doesn't get in the way of learning about God's grace. Ruth then shares the amazing story of how her mom came to know Jesus and how a woman she barely knew invested in her mom. It's such an encouragement that our actions can make a bigger impact than we may ever realize! In the last part of the show, we discuss the different strategies Ruth follows in how she runs her business and how she decides what gets posted on Instagram. We also talk about fighting for our marriages. No matter what the situation, we always need to remind ourselves of what is true and tell ourselves the Gospel. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 193 is Lynsey Kramer. Lynsey is a photographer turned farmer and lives in Fayetteville, TX a tiny town of 200 people. Lynsey and her husband Jason work together on their farm, Yonder Way Farm, with their four daughters. You guys, I'm going to warn you now - after you listen today's show you're going to want to pack up your things and start a farm! Lynsey and I start out our conversation Lynsey giving me great advice on how I can be a better mama to my mama cat and her new kittens. It turns out that I may have more kittens at my house than I thought! Lynsey shares how she and her husband Jason went from firefighter and photographer to full-time farmers. For any of you thinking of starting something new or following a dream, you're going to be so encouraged as you hear her describe how they started from scratch, had many failures, and then mastered the ways of farming (You Tube may have been involved!). At the end of the show Lynsey tells us about her amazing barn and the supper club events they will be hosting at the farm. You're going to want to take part in one of these events so be sure you follow Lynsey on Instagram! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 192 is Mo Isom. Mo is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, blogger, and former All-American goalkeeper for the Louisiana State University soccer team. Mo has been featured in Sports Illustrated, appeared on ESPN SportsCenter Top-10 Plays, Ellen, ESPN, CBS, The 700 Club, and countless other platforms. She, her husband, Jeremiah Aiken, and their two children live in Atlanta, Georgia. When I received Mo's new book, Sex, Jesus, and the Conversations the Church Forgot, I wasn't sure what to expect. But you guys, I loved this book and the message she brings. A little note about the show today - we discuss the issues of sex and pornography so mommas, you may first want to take a listen to the show on your own. Mo and I dive right into the hard stuff and start talking about sexual sin. In Mo's book she discusses her past and struggle with sexual sin. At 19, she felt Jesus calling her to an intimacy fast. Mo describes how the fast reset her heart, but also when she started dating again (her future husband!), she saw how quickly the temptations could set back in and we must continually fight against our sins. We then discuss the problems of pornography and the truth that so many women are silently struggling with this addiction. Mo describes the problem so well when she says, "it fulfills our instant urge, our instant want, but it never satisfies." Mo and I both get fired up talking about having this conversation with our children. We both believe so strongly in the importance of heart transformation and relationship so we can be ready when the world throws out all its "false sexpectations". I could have talked with Mo for hours and I know you're going to love our conversation too! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 191 is Christine Caine. Christine is an Australian-born, Greek-blooded activist, author and international speaker. Christine has a passion for justice, and together with her husband, Nick, founded the anti-human trafficking organization, The A21 Campaign, which received The Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice in 2017. In 2015, they founded Propel Women, an organization designed to honor the calling of every woman, empower her to lead, equip her for success, and develop a sense of purpose. Christine and her family make their home in Southern California. Christine has been one of the most requested guests for me to have on The Happy Hour, and I am so excited for you guys to hear the show today. Christine's passion is contagious, and I know you will be encouraged, energized, and inspired! Christine and I start off talking about what it means to speak truth in love, and how proclaiming the truth with boldness should not be out of the ordinary. Christine shares her story including how, at 33, she found out she was adopted, and the impact of enduring 12 years of abuse. She vividly describes the moment when Jesus began the transformation of her life. She says, "Jesus saved my soul...the Word renewed my mind and changed my life." Christine and I then talk about how our lives look when we live with an orphan spirit instead of truly believing our identity as daughters of a king. We talk about how we react to the unexpected shows truth about our faith. She reminds us as we all face hurt and troubles in our life that what Jesus did for us is bigger than what people have done to us - Jesus is better! You guys, there is so much good stuff in this show that you'll want to jot down - so grab your pen and paper and get ready to hear some powerful truths! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 190 is Jackie Hill Perry. Jackie is a writer and artist whose work has been featured on such publications as the Washington Times and The 700 Club. Since being saved from a lifestyle of homosexuality, she has been compelled to use her speaking and teaching gifts to share the light of the gospel of God as authentically as she can. She is signed to Humble Beast Records and released her debut album, The Art of Joy, in 2014. At home, she is a wife to Preston and Mommy to Eden. For two years I've been working on getting Jackie on the show, and I am so excited to share our conversation with you today. On today's episode we cover some challenging topics: racial issues and homosexuality. I know these topics can bring us into uncomfortable or tense spaces, but I believe talking about hard issues is valuable and important, and my hope is that we can all be listeners and learners in these spaces. Jackie and I begin the show talking about gospel diversity and the power of indifference. She describes how we can gain knowledge about the issues, but not take that knowledge and change how we live out our lives. The perspective she gives about the impact of indifference and inaction is powerful. In the second half of the show, Jackie shares her story of how she was living a life of homosexuality and how God pursued her and saved her in a way only God could. You are going to love hearing her talk about how her public ministry began just FIVE months after she decided to follow Jesus - her first public testimony was all because she wanted a free t-shirt! You guys, Jackie is bold and she speaks some powerful truths. When I asked her if she was afraid to fail, she said "Either I trust God or I don't... If I fall, then I fall and I get up and trust God some more". For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 189 is Tova Sido. Tova is a Jesus lover, author, speaker, and mom who lives in Dallas. Tova is passionate about helping others see God's incredible healing power for their lives and encourage them to become the people God created them to be. When asked what Tova wanted to be when she grew up, she always knew her answer: Mom. On today's show, Tova shares her story of becoming mom to six children - three children who are in heaven, and three children she adopted from Ghana. As you can imagine, Tova's story of becoming a mom did not unfold as she expected. Tova talks about the births and losses of her three beautiful children and when it seemed the sadness would overwhelm her. Tova speaks honestly about how she felt isolated - she wasn't sure how to interact with the world, and the world didn't know how to interact with her. But, an unexpected job offer at the end of what she thought was simply a counseling session with her pastor, started her on a path to regaining her joy. At the end of our conversation, we hear how a mission trip to Ghana became the starting point for how Tova brought home three of her children. You guys, listening to Tova's story today was such an encouragement when we feel like we just can't make it through. Tova tells us "If you allow it, the joy will always supersede the pain", and with the Lord it will truly be a peace and joy that surpasses all understanding. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 188 is Layla Palmer. Layla is a storyteller/photographer whose passion is sharing home and lifestyle inspiration. She is a contributor for HGTV.com, and her home and work have been featured in numerous publications including HGTV Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, and Good Housekeeping. Layla starts out the show telling us how in efforts not to fall for her now husband Kevin while they were working together, she kept herself quietly busy in a corner painting pictures of cartoon cats (yes, you read that right). After they got married, Kevin started passionately seeking Jesus, and she talks about how watching him simply being a child of God made her take notice. I love her story of the moment she felt changed everything when in the darkest season of their marriage, she and Kevin encountered Jesus in the drive-thru of a Krystal Burger. Layla and I both have adopted children from Haiti, and at the end of the show we talk about some of the challenges we've seen our children face - including wanting them to recognize their preciousness and the difficulty in establishing that feeling of permanence for them. I loved my conversation with Layla and also love following her on Instagram - her intention of educating, entertaining, and encouraging comes through all of her stories and posts. And speaking of Instagram, come find me @JamieIvey! I've partnered with Starfish Project to host a contest that will begin April 12 where five winners will receive a signed copy of If You Only Knew and $100 gift certificate to Starfish Project! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 187 is Courtney Wetzel. Courtney is a senior at Texas A&M University and believes in empowering, equipping and encouraging individuals even in the mundane. Through her gift of storytelling, she is able to empathize and rally behind her generation. Courtney is the youngest guest I've had so far on the Happy Hour, and I loved our conversation, her energy, and enthusiasm, and I know you will too. Courtney and I talk about her current season of transitioning from college and how important it is for women to cheer each other on. Courtney is speaking my language when she talks about the importance of women saying to each other "I'm on your team". Courtney then shares how she developed the habit of looking for "dimes", or unexpected joys in each day. It started with a writing assignment during a season where it seemed joys would be few. I love how she has committed to finding her "dimes" in each day and that you can always "fight to find what was good about today". At the end of the show, Courtney will prove anyone who has preconceived notions about millenials wrong, because this gal is doing great things to develop community and creativity! But, we also talk about the danger in this age of hustle, and feeling like we need to keep pace with those we see around us instead of remaining grounded in where our true identity lies. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 186 is Carrie Rozema. Carrie is co-author of 'The Least of These', a personal testimony of the redemptive power of Christ in the face of her husband's heroin addiction. Carrie and her husband Neal share their personal testimonies in hopes of bringing insight and freedom to those held captive by drug abuse and incarceration. In today's episode, Carrie says "God is in the business of redeeming broken people", and throughout our conversation today, I know you'll hear so many examples of how God will pursue us no matter what the circumstances. Carrie begins by sharing how God rescued her from an unsafe marriage, and how she came to know God through His Word. As Carrie was healing and growing more in her faith, in walks Neal - the exact opposite "type" of man Carrie thought God would pick for her. You guys, she even told him on the first date that she wasn't the girl he was looking for. Carries describes how a few months into the relationship, he admitted he was on parole. She tells us how she finally learned the truth about his heroin addiction when he was sent to prison. She first told Neal to lose her number, but instead throughout Neal's years in prison, God continually pursued both of them, and they ended up married just ten days after Neal was released. At the end of our conversation, Carrie gives a convicting challenge to the church: she encourages us to step out and welcome people who come from hard situations such as abuse, addiction, or prison. I loved how she said even if it seems messy or hard, we should "roll out the red carpet". Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 185 is Holly Christine Hayes. Holly is an author, world-renowned recovery ministry expert, and founder/CEO of Sanctuary Project, a social enterprise bringing hope and healing to survivors of trafficking, violence and addiction. Holly was recently chosen as a new Voice for Women of Faith and is passionate about sharing her radical salvation story in safe houses, churches, conferences and recovery communities all over the world. I know that after listening to my conversation with Holly, you are going to love God more and be affirmed in how much God can redeem in our lives. Holly and I start out the conversation talking about what it means to hit rock bottom, and no matter what your story is, pain is pain. Holly shares her story of abuse, addiction, abortion, and trafficking that led her to the moment when she prayed the words, "God help me." Holly shares her journey of becoming sober and getting to know the God that saved her. I cannot stop thinking about when she told me the amazing story of how God met her in the Word when she sought to know Him better by opening up her Bible. At the end of show, we talk about her passion for helping women gain freedom from shame and her new nonprofit, Sanctuary Project. Be sure to come find me on Instagram tomorrow (3/22) because we will be giving away a necklace from Sanctuary Project! A note about our conversation today: we discuss several mature topics including abortion, abuse, trafficking, and addiction which may not be appropriate for young ears. Connect with Holly Facebook // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour # 184 is Marshawn Evans Daniels. A former sports attorney, Miss America finalist, and competitor on The Apprentice, she left a high-powered law firm and turned her passion for people into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Marshawn is a reinvention strategist and life coach mentoring women to live bolder in the areas of faith and business and turn ideas into income and faith into action. On today's show, Marshawn shares the story of how living out faith in her daily life led her to where she is today, coaching and empowering women. Marshawn tells us about how she competed in Miss America, The Apprentice, and discovered her talent for business. After launching her own book on business and creating a successful sports agency, Marshawn faced crisis: the week she was set to be married, she called off her wedding. Marshawn describes this as her "split rock" moment and that God used this crisis to move her through what she calls divine reinvention. I know that Marshawn inspired me when she said that we should all believe bigger and be awakened in boldness to use the gifts that God has given us, and I hope that you are inspired too! A note about our conversation today: you may want to be aware of little ears that are listening when Marshawn and I discuss the topic of infidelity. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour # 183 is Andi Andrew. Andi is the author of She Is Free, and cofounder and copastor with her husband, Paul, of Liberty Church. In 2015 she launched the She Is Free Conference in order to equip and activate women to walk in freedom, spirit, soul, and body, and see others set free in their sphere of influence. A frequent speaker all over the world, she lives in Brooklyn with her husband, Paul, and their four children. You guys, I am so excited to share with you my conversation with Andi. Her message of freedom and replacing lies with truth aligns so much with what I am passionate about. We cover so many topics from the lessons learned from sharing rooms with your siblings, to how the lies we believe will alter our perspective on the world. Andi also shares her story of moving to Australia where she unexpectedly met and married her husband, and the amazing story of how God led her and Paul to start Liberty Church in NYC. We then dive into the lies we cling to that disconnect us from God and each other. Shame, anger, control - do those sound as familiar to you as they did for me? Andi and I talk honestly about how these can manifest in our own lives and how we can work to dismantle the lies and live in the truth. One note about our conversation today: Andi and I do talk about some mature topics related to marriage, so you may want to be aware of little ears that are listening. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

In the last episode of this series, I talk with my friend Jenn about her divorce. Jenn talks about the stigma about divorce in the church, and her fear that people would only see the divorce and suffering and not see Jesus. She also talks about her fear that if she shared her story, people would use it as permission to give up on marriage when she so strongly believes in marriage and God’s ability to redeem and restore. I appreciated it so much when Jenn shared her commitment that “I am going to walk through this story, I’m going to lean in. This is what God has for me, and I’m going to be ok. He has covered me…He has gone before me.” Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour # 182 is Emily Thomas. Emily is the host of the Mom Struggling Well podcast where she employs humor and candor to share the encouragement from God’s word and her personal motherhood misadventures in an effort to build up worn-down moms everywhere. On today's show, Emily and I start off talking about parenting challenges and Emily shares her story of infertility that led her to adoption. I appreciated Emily's honesty so much as she tells us about the difficulties she faced in connecting with her daughter and how they are fostering a healthy relationship together. Emily then shares the incredible story of her first marriage that began with an engagement after the first date, moving overseas, and ended with Emily fleeing for her safety. I loved the end of our conversation when Emily and I talk about the importance of recognizing when how we feel about God doesn't line up with what is actually true about God. This is such a great encouragement for all of us that no matter how unusable by God we may feel, the truth about who God is and how He loves us is greater! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

In this episode of If You Only Knew, Jessica shares her story of struggling with body image. Jessica describes how body image became her reason for any rejection or feelings of isolation, and the lie we all can believe that “if I only could be this or if I only could have that, then I wouldn’t have pain or rejection”. I love Jessica’s message of how she learned to reframe how she sees herself, and that we are all truly loved and accepted by Jesus. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour # 181 is Jennifer Allwood. Jennifer is a wife, a mother and a creative turned business coach. She is “Facebook famous” according to her teenage boys with over 300K followers on that platform and she teaches women how to create a beautiful home and build a creative business. If you have been feeling God nudge you to do something new but you've felt afraid or uncertain, then this show is for you. No matter what stage of life you're in, I know you're going to be encouraged by our conversation today to get out there and use your giftings. Jennifer and I begin the show by discussing the joys and challenges of raising teenage boys including the new freedom she's loving with having a teenager in the house that can drive. Jennifer then shares how she transformed her painting business to a successful online platform. Through this shift, Jennifer has been able to reach an even broader audience than before, and she now also coaches thousands of women on how to maximize their talents through social media. She shares some of her tips with us and I know that I learned some things today that I'll be implementing ASAP! What I loved most about our conversation today was her encouragement for all of us. She reminds us that we all share the feeling of being afraid, but that doesn't release us from our calling. God has given us giftings and He has equipped us to use them, so don't let fear stop you when you feel him giving you a nudge! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Bailey’s If You Only Knew is her struggle with grief. After her husband passed away 4 years ago from cancer, Bailey started her life as a single mom and championing her husband’s legacy. However, it wasn’t until she was forced to be still that she realized that there were parts of her grief she hadn’t dealt with. I love Bailey’s message when she describes her realization of “if I press into the very thing I’m afraid of, maybe there’s something there for me”. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour # 180 is Sonja Overhiser. Sonja is an author, recipe developer, podcast host, and healthy and sustainable food advocate. She and her husband Alex have created the A Couple Cooks website and the A Couple Cooks podcast that together provide recipes, conversation, and inspiration for healthy and sustainable eating. Sonja and I start off talking about how she discovered her passion for cooking through trying out recipes from cookbooks with her husband. We talk about the power of sharing a meal with others, and the walls that come down and community built up by breaking bread together. You'll be moved by Sonja's journey to becoming a momma as she takes us through her cancer diagnosis, infertility, and the road to bringing home her son. She shares about the difficulty of being in a "liminal space" where you're in transition, waiting and uncertain what God is leading you to next. Sonja and I got to chat about so many things on the show today from how what we eat connects to our faith, to the amazing and bittersweet moments that can happen in adoption. I'm so excited to share our conversation with you and know you're going to love it. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

In this episode of this series, Alli shares her story of walking through bankruptcy and losing their home. When it happened, she didn’t want to tell a soul, and she talks about her feelings of shame and embarrassment. Alli speaks such truth when she says “when you’re in it, the furthest thing in your mind is that God is going to use it”, but that she has seen how He has used that time in her life for so much good. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour # 179 is Candace Payne. On the show today, you'll get to know the woman behind the Chewbacca Mask whose video became a viral sensation and the most-viewed Facebook Live video to date. Candace is a speaker and author of Laugh It Up: Embrace Freedom and Experience Defiant Joy, and the small-group curriculum, Defiant Joy: What Happens When You’re Full Of It. Candace and I start the show discussing all things movies by playing "Skip It or Ticket" and you'll learn how much I know about Star Wars (hint: I may have fallen asleep during one of the movies!). Candace shares how posting her Chewbacca Mask video changed her life literally overnight, and what it has been like to experience fame so quickly. Candace opens up about struggles her family has endured, including a time when they were homeless. Candace reminds us that through God we always have access to joy and freedom no matter the circumstances, and it's up to us to choose to fight for it. Candace will make you laugh and encourage you to embrace and experience joy, and I know you'll love my conversation with her. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS TO THE SHOW HERE

Ginger’s If You Only Knew is her struggle with social anxiety. Ginger talks about how she lost her hearing literally overnight when she was 4 years old and how she found herself pulling back and avoiding social settings. I loved when Ginger reminds us that “God’s in control of not just the big things, but the small things too… He’s the one that holds every bit of this in His hand”. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

We're switching things up a little bit today on The Happy Hour. My husband and best friend, Aaron, is guest hosting and interviewing ME. My very first book, If You Only Knew, released yesterday and I am feeling every possible emotion about the whole thing. On today's show, we talk about the book writing process and my heart behind the message of the book. Aaron also asks me about the most vulnerable chapter in the book, where I share a recent struggle. I'll be the first and last to say vulnerability is hardly ever easy, but always worth it. Guys, I really can't believe this book is finally out into the world. I cannot thank you enough for your support and you cheering me on. This has been such a labor, and such a joy, and such a rollercoaster and you guys have been amazing through it all. I am so so grateful. And if you haven't already, I would love for you to pick up a copy of the book today for you and a friend. You can do that right now right here! {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} If You Only Knew Connect with Aaron Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

In my conversation with Shawn, she shares her story of how the secrets of abortion and struggling with alcoholism had kept her sick for so long. Shawn describes how she would share parts of her story, but it wasn’t until she told her story fully and let herself walk with Jesus through all of it, that she could start to receive healing. “God has used the darkest, saddest, the most horrible time of my life, and He has redeemed those things and now He is using those things for His glory”. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

Kat Harris joins me today for The Happy Hour #177. Kat is a Brooklyn-based photographer, educator, and Co-Founder of the online magazine The Refined Woman. Her mission is to empower women to embrace their beauty, identity, and value through the art of story telling. As you'll hear in our conversation today, Kat believes life happens in the in-between, and that there is no such thing as having 'arrived'. We talk about the idea of sustainable transformation and how she believes every opportunity is an opportunity for growth if we choose it to be. Kat shares all about being single and a virgin In New York City and how she fights to trust God in her singleness. She talks about her conviction to abstain from sex until marriage, what the Bible says, and how she plans to endure in a culture and city where it's not celebrated. I loved my conversation with Kat so much, and I just know you will too. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

In the third episode of this series, I talk with Lisa about her struggle with shopping. I think it will sound familiar to all of us when she describes how we can rationalize what we’re doing and try to place sin on a scale instead of just recognizing sin as sin. Lisa says, “bottom line, if anything gets between you and God, it’s gotta go.” Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube

My guest for The Happy Hour #176 is Candace Cameron Bure. Candace is an actress, producer, New York Times bestselling author, and loved by millions worldwide from her role as D.J. Tanner on the iconic family sitcoms Full House and Fuller House, Hallmark Channel movies, former co-host of The View, inspirational speaker and Dancing with the Stars Season 18 finalist. Candace is both outspoken and passionate about her family and faith. Guys, if you thought you loved Candace before, you are going to love her even more after listening to our conversation. She is as warm and genuine as we all imagined her to be. In our conversation, we talk about growing up on screen, taking a 10 year break to focus on her family, and the challenges of living a life of faith in the TV and film world. You'll hear about how she makes decisions on roles she plays in an effort to stay true to herself and honoring to God. We also talk about her book writing career and her newest book, Kind is the New Classy, releasing on April 24. Make sure to head over to Amazon to pre-order and reach out to Candace to let her know how much you loved hearing her on The Happy Hour! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Heather’s If You Only Knew is how she has struggled with anger. Heather shares how she wasn’t an angry person growing up, but began struggling more and more with feelings of anger. Through prayers, sharing with community, and counseling God helped her see it wasn’t anger she struggled with, but fear. I know I was encouraged when she said “admit you’re struggling and know that it doesn’t identify you at your core”. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #175 is Alisa Keeton. Alisa is a leading certified wellness professional with more than 20 years of experience. She is passionately dedicated to serving the Lord and is the founder of Revelation Wellness, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to educating and inspiring people to live healthy and whole lives in Christ. I just know you guys are going to love my conversation with Alisa. We talk about how her relationship with Jesus began and took a serious toll on her marriage. Alisa shares how God redeemed her marriage and how she and her husband are both living lives surrendered to Jesus. You'll also hear about Alisa's decision to have her breast implants removed. If you want to read more about that story, you can do so here. We talk all about holistic health and what motivates us and what drags us down. In her new book, The Wellness Revelation: Lose What Weighs You Down So You Can Love, God, Yourself, and Others, Alisa takes an in depth look at what it means to be transformed by God’s love, from the inside-out. After our conversation, I know you'll want to go check that out. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Melanie shares her story of struggling with an eating disorder. Melanie describes how it looked like on the outside she was doing all the right things, leading ministry and loving Jesus, but on the inside she was struggling so much. She shares the baby steps she took to opening up and I love when Melanie said “our love for one another can help us receive God’s love for us”. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #174 is Mica May. Mica is the Founder and CEO of lifestyle brand, May Designs. She believes every day life should be lovely, and is on a mission to make all of life’s normal activities just a little bit more magical - from paper goods to her new apparel line. Her notebooks just launched in Target stores nationwide, were named one of Oprah’s favorite things and have been featured on The Today Show and Good Morning America. Mica lives in Austin with her best friend and husband, Jonathan and their three kids. On today's show she tells us exactly how her love for pretty paper transformed into the company that we know and love today! Mica shares candidly about the moment she had to make the decision to keep moving through the hardships of starting a business, or deciding to throw in the towel and quit. On behalf of all of us that love our May Designs books, we're glad she continued moving forward with her business. The final part of our show was powerful as Mica and I discussed the moments when she was told that her son had Down's Syndrome. Her thoughts on borrowing grief and guilt were moving to me, and I'll never forget our conversation. I know that you'll love the show! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My girl Amanda Brown joins me today for The Happy Hour #173 – our last show of the year. Together, we cover the highlights of 2017 in our personal lives and the show. You’ll hear about our favorite shows from the year – the ones that made us laugh, the ones that inspired us and who we got star struck about. At the end of our conversation, we talk about what’s coming up for 2018. And you are not going to want to miss that because you’ll hear the dates for our next live events! As we’re wrapping up another year, I want you to know how much I appreciate you listening week after week. I know you have endless choices for podcasts and I can’t possible tell you how grateful I am that you have chosen The Happy Hour. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guests for The Happy Hour #172 are Polly Conner and Rachel Tiemeyer from Thriving Home blog, where they write about parenting, recipes, and most importantly freezer cooking. They've just released their first cookbook, From Freezer to Table. After listening to our conversation, I just know you're going to be so inspired to go grab a copy and take a good swing at this freezer cooking movement. I was so intrigued with these ladies for a few reasons. First, they are women just like you and me chasing their dreams and making them happen. They have real lives, families and normal hurdles that we're all trying to navigate. Secondly, they are providing great recipes with whole foods that you will feel confident in serving your family. And lastly, freezer cooking - tell me more! In today's show, you'll hear all about freezer cooking - the myths, the advantages, and how to start a freezer club. At the end of our conversation, Polly and Rachel share about walking through suffering within their families and with their kids. If you are suffering or know someone that is, I think our conversation will be such an encouragement to you. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Jena Holliday is my guest for The Happy Hour #171. Jena is a full-time artist, wife and work-at-home mother who loves Jesus and storytelling. She has a heart for encouraging women and mothers to go after their God-given dreams in whatever season they are in. On today's show, Jena and I spend a little time reminiscing on mix tapes, nokia phones and AOL dial up. Jena shares about growing up in the church and walking away until God called her to Himself intimately and individually. We talk about creativity, staying in your lane, and embracing the gifts that God has uniquely given you. Jena is giving Happy Hour listeners a generous discount from her shop using the code JIVEY30. So, make sure to go poke around her shop to make your last minute Christmas purchases! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #170 is Tricia Goyer. Tricia is a USA Today best-selling author of 70 books, a wife, mom of 10, and host of her podcast Walk It Out. Tricia lives near Little Rock, Arkansas where she leads a teen mom support group. Tricia and I cover just about everything today. We talk about abortion, teen pregnancy, how she had a 2-week-old baby on her first date with her husband (!!!!), adoption, mothering 10 kids, writing an unbelievable amount of books, feeding 11 people every day and somehow managing all of it with a lot of grace. Finally, we talk about how easy it is to believe that our experiences and sin define us and disqualify us, but Tricia has been so faithful to use her experiences with abortion and teen pregnancy to now minister to other women in similar circumstances. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #169 is my friend, Kat Lee. Kat is passionate about teaching others how to jump-start each day with a grace-filled, life-giving morning routine. She and her husband, Jimmy, live in Waco, Texas, with their three children. She is a writer, speaker, podcaster and founder of HelloMornings.org. On today's show, Kat and I talk about podcasting, our new favorite shows and how she has earned the title of being my Podcast Mom. Kat shares about her new book, Hello Mornings. She's super passionate about waking up for your life, rather than to your life and she's taken the time to write about it. If you're anything like me, this conversation might be a tiny bit convicting to a comfort idol that begs for me to stay in bed as long as possible. Kat shares about her experience in learning to wake up earlier than she had to, to meet with God and get her head on straight. Her book tells of her journey and about getting the most out of your sleep. I am such a big fan of Kat and the work that she is doing. Make sure to hop over and pre-order a copy of Hello Mornings for you and a friend. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #168 is Abbie Kampman. Abbie is a Midwestern "city" girl and mother of four boys just outside Des Moines, Iowa. She's a bookworm, a coffee snob, a mountain-lover, and a passionate pursuer of deep relationships built over shared stories. Abbie joins me today to share her story of losing her mom and stepsisters in a tragic drunk driving accident. The accident happened when she was 13 years old, and she is finally feeling freedom to share her story. I am over-the-moon proud of her for having the courage to share. It may not be anything like your story, but I am confident you will love hearing how the Lord has used and redeemed her story, and may just see a little bit of yourself in her as well. I will warn you that today's interview may not be appropriate for the the children in your life. Abbie shares some details about the accident that you may want to wait to listen to without any little ears. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Episode #167 is our Holiday Gift Guide! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Episode #166 is a special edition of The Happy Hour with two very special guests – Kathie Lee Gifford and my main man, Aaron Ivey. If you’ve been listening to the show for any length of time, you know Kathie Lee has been one of my bucket lists guests for a while now. I am just completely overjoyed to finally have her on the show today. And after our conversation, my husband and best friend, Aaron, joins me to chat about his book, Steal Away Home. In my conversation with Kathie Lee, we talk about how she has been so bold about her faith with such a huge platform. She shares about her experience sharing her faith on national television after her husband, Frank, passed away. She recently had a record breaking performance on The Today Show of her newest song, He Saw Jesus. She talks about the songwriting process and how she was able to make it through such a heartfelt performance. Kathie Lee also shares about her latest project: The Little Giant. Aaron joins me for the second half of the show. We talk about his new book, Steal Away Home, a historical fiction story of the life of Charles Spurgeon. I am such a huge fan of the book (obviously), but I promise you will love it. It’s truly an incredible story of love and friendship and freedom. We also take some of your questions about how we manage two careers, stress, a family of six, dinnertime and what irritates Aaron. It’s fun for the whole family. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #165 is my friend, Bri McKoy. Bri serves as the visionary and leader for Compassion International’s blogger program. She writes regularly at OurSavoryLife.com, a food blog with recipes and stories from around her table, and is a regular contributor to the award-winning Compassion blog and GraceTable.org, a community blog about food and faith. Bri and her husband Jeremy live in Hermosa Beach, California. On today's show, we talk all about gathering people around the table. Bri and I are both big believers in opening our home to share a meal and our lives with one another. Bri is a pro at this and writes all about it her new book, Come & Eat. We talk about how she started cooking with an onion casserole dish, and started hosting people at our house - moving from a late night meeting to a dinner time gathering and the doors it opened for honest and vulnerable conversation. Bri shares about being a military wife and what transition is like for her and her husband after his return from deployment. She shares the most helpful advice she has been given about transitioning together. Finally, we chat all about Compassion and the blogger trips that Bri leads all over the world. Bri shares how you can be involved in a trip or by sponsoring a child. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #164 is Lisa Lloyd. Lisa is a charismatic actress, speaker and writer, dedicated to helping women break free of the lies that convince us we don’t have a purpose, when in fact God has created us to herald His fame. She is the author of the new book, Chasing Famous. On today's show, we cover it all. We talk about our deep rooted desires for fame, and how God created us that way - not for our own fame, but for the name of Jesus. We talk about messy pasts - sex and abortions - and how God was relentless in his pursuit of us in our worst messes. We talk about parenting and the challenge of keeping our cool when our kids come to us with something big. I think this show has something for just about everyone. I hope you enjoy it and make sure to listen next week when I chat with my friend, Bri McKoy. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Sharon Hodde Miller joins me today for The Happy Hour #163. Sharon is the author of Free of Me and speaks regularly on topics ranging from leadership to motherhood to Scripture. She’s a pastor's wife and mother to two small boys. In addition to earning her PhD, Sharon has blogged at SheWorships.com for nearly ten years, making God's Word accessible to women everywhere. She lives with her growing family in the Raleigh/Durham area. In our conversation today, Sharon shares her hilarious story about meeting her husband at a date auction - which includes a mechanical bull, a shirtless man and push-ups. She shares about getting her PhD, which I feel automatically makes her the smartest woman we've ever had on the show. And we talk about what Sharon does best - supporting women in ministry and cheering others on in their unique giftings. You'll love Sharon's favorite things, and I'm guessing you'll be making a stop at a Starbucks this week with a new order. I hope you love the show today, and make sure to pop over to wherever you like to buy your books and grab a copy of Free of Me. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #162 is singer-songwriter Ellie Holcomb. Ellie is a Nashville native, and began her musical career by touring the country with her husband in Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors. After 8 years, and with the birth of their daughter, Emmylou, she opted to step out of the role of heavy touring. From that space came her debut solo album, As Sure As The Sun, which charted at #1 on the iTunes Christian chart and helped deem her the “Best New Artist” at the 2014 Dove Awards. Since her first album, Ellie has been walking an unexpected path, one of suffering and loss but also peace and joy. And it is from that place—of finding God in the dark and unexpected—that she wrote and recorded Red Sea Road released earlier this year. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Lisa Whittle is my guest for The Happy Hour #161. Lisa is a leader, author and speaker with a heart and passion to communicate one thing: Jesus is everything. Her love runs deep to see people pursue Jesus for life, grow deep roots of faith, and walk strong in the midst of a world that so often seems to have gone crazy. She is the author of seven books, including her latest Put Your Warrior Boots On and Five-Word Prayers, and a sought out Bible teacher for her wit and bold, bottom line approach. She is a wife and mother of three who currently resides in North Carolina. Lisa and I kick off our conversation talking about The Office's best episodes. Duh. From there, the conversation naturally transitions into parenting older children, keeping our marriages a priority while dedicating time spent as a family. We chat all about her newest book, Put Your Warrior Boots On, and how the Lord birthed in her a desire to see women that were stronger in what God says than what culture and news say. And finally, I think you'll love hearing her story about trying to orchestrate a date with her son and Harry Connick Jr.'s daughter. You know - normal mom stuff. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Osheta Moore joins me today for The Happy Hour #160. Osheta is an pastor’s wife, a mom of three kiddos, and the author of Shalom Sistas: Living Wholeheartedly in a Brokenhearted World. She believes everything is better after a nap, brunch with her girlfriends is a necessity, and nothing beats a good Netflix binge. She’s passionate about encouraging women to be peacemakers in their everyday lives. In our conversation today, Osheta and I talk about when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and how it shifted their entire lives. We get into a funny slash serious conversation about strangers asking us questions about our families since we both have families that look a little different than the average American family. We both agree that we used to get angry over silly questions and comments, but now we feel differently - now we both feel like it’s an opportunity to educate and help them know how to talk about a child's birth parents, or interracial family. I even shared with Osheta the comment that used to drive me crazy. Osheta and I also have a serious conversation about raising our black and biracial kids in a predominately white area. We joke about it, and not in a disrespectful way, but in a way that we both get because we both live it. Osheta opens up about her own journey with being a black woman, and I was thankful for her honesty and willingness to be vulnerable. And of course, like any good happy hour, we cover body image and sex. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Amanda Jones joins me for The Happy Hour #159. Amanda is a Jesus-loving gal from Texas, married to a preacher boy from Missouri. She's the daughter of Beth Moore, and mom to four kids. Amanda first joined me for episode #66. If you missed that, you can catch up here. She's back today to catch up and talk about Hurricane Harvey and the devastation it caused in Houston. Amanda and her husband help to lead Bayou City Fellowship, a church that has been hugely instrumental in the disaster relief in the areas affected. She shares the most pressing needs they have and how you can be a part. Amanda also shares briefly about her struggle with depression - shedding light on a topic that can be so taboo, especially in the church. My hope for today's show is that you feel encouraged to do what you can, wherever you are, to serve the people devastated by Hurricane Harvey. Whether that means getting on a plane to serve on a demolition crew or by sending money and supplies, please consider how you can help today. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS TO THE SHOW HERE!

Raechel Myers is my guest for The Happy Hour #158. Raechel is the co-founder and CEO of She Reads Truth, and leads the She Reads Truth community and staff out of her deep love of God’s Word and the firm conviction that all of Scripture is good news. She is the co-author of Open Your Bible: God’s Word Is for You and for Now and She Reads Truth: Holding Tight to Permanent in a Word That’s Passing Away. Raechel lives south of Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband and their two children. In our conversation today, Raechel and I chat about how she's leading a Bible study for the first time with the ladies in her neighborhood. We also talk all about She Reads Truth - about how quickly it's grown and how one of their employees is now Raechel's husband, making her his boss (which would never work in the Ivey household, but Raechel makes it sound like a dream). And finally, we talk about God's faithfulness through good times and hard times and how to be a friend to someone walking through the trenches. In the show, Raechel and I talk briefly about the She Reads Truth Bible. Y'all, I can't recommend this Bible enough. It's so beautifully put together. Because of it's crazy popularity, the Bible sold out very quickly, but the reprint has recently been released and you can grab your copy here. I promise, you will LOVE it. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #157 is Catherine Lowe. You may recognize her from a little show called The Bachelor. Catherine met and fell in love with her now husband, Sean Lowe, on season 17. Millions (self included) tuned in to watch them tie the knot on national television in 2014. They now live in Dallas with their adorable son, Samuel. On today's show, Catherine and I visit in person and cover so very much. We cover all things related to The Bachelor - how she was casted, her journey of falling in love and getting engaged while the world watched. She gives some behind-the-scenes scoop - like how you might find some of the women doing Bible studies, instead of running around in their tiny bikinis. But, somehow, that kind of drama doesn't make the final cut. Catherine shares about how difficult it was transitioning from finally being publicly engaged to watching her fiancé dance on Dancing with the Stars. You'll love hearing her story of following Jesus, after Sean made an 11th hour visit to her hotel room the night before he proposed. As a bonus, we also talk TV and movies, and what it's like to have an angel for a mother-in-law. You are not going to want to miss this show. Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #156 is Andrea Lucado. Andrea is a freelance writer based in Austin, Texas. As the daughter of bestselling author and pastor Max Lucado, Andrea inherited an obsession with words and their arrangement. She has a master’s degree in English literature from Oxford-Brookes University and contributes regularly to online and print publications such as Relevant magazine and SheReadsTruth.com. She recently released a book, English Lessons. In our conversation, we chat about Andrea growing up as a preacher's kid. She shares about her journey in owning her faith - not because it was what was expected or what was culturally acceptable, but because she had a personal, authentic relationship with Jesus. Andrea also shares about her routine to abstain from social media on the weekends - taking apps off her devices on Friday and re-d0wnloading on Monday. You'll hear about how social media can trigger some major sin struggles in both of us. And if you can relate, maybe you'll consider joining us in creating some boundaries around time spent on social media. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Today, Sara Hagerty joins me for The Happy Hour #155. Sara is wife to her best friend Nate, and a mother of six, including four children adopted from Africa and two through natural childbirth. Her first published book, Every Bitter Thing Is Sweet, found her a worldwide audience, drawn to the authentic voice heard in her emotive and Scripturally-based writing style, as she searches to find God in the midst of questions and brokenness. Her second book, Unseen: The Gift of Being Hidden in a World that Loves to be Noticed, comes out next week. In today's show, Sara and I chat about how God built their family after a long journey of infertility. She shares how that and other pieces of her story left her feeling alone and how that became the impetus for her new book, Unseen. Sara talks about her fight to believe that God sees her, understands her, knows her, hasn't forgotten her - and how that truth is better than being seen by anyone else. Sara's newest book is available to pre-order today. Make sure you grab a copy here. You will not regret it. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My friend, LaToria Wilson, joins me today for episode #154 for of The Happy Hour. Let me tell you - her amazing hair and big personality aren't all she has to offer. LaToria has an energy that's all her own and brings an eclectic feel to the hip hop music she makes. Through her music, LaToria aims to offer hope, light, and truth while providing an unforgettable experience. She was nominated for Christian Female Hip Hop minister of the year in 2016. Her latest single Pushin Light is now available, and she's set to release her next project, volume 2 of her The Long Walk series, later this year. In our chat today, we talk about how she started pursuing the music industry. We chat about strong female influences and what it was like for her to grow up without her father present. I teetered on the line of talking politics on The Happy Hour as we discussed what this year has been like for her - living in America as a woman of color. And she gives me some great advice, that I think any parent could benefit from, for raising a strong daughter. This interview was recorded several months ago, and the timing couldn't be better in light of this weekend's events in Virginia. I hope you're able to listen and soak in LaToria's story, her experiences and her perspectives. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Shauna Shanks joins me for a special live edition of The Happy Hour - recorded in my backyard in the sweltering July heat for our Summer Book Club. Shauna is the author of our second book, A Fierce Love. She's also a wife, mother, and entrepreneur. Shauna and her husband, Micah, have been married for more than a decade, and they're currently building a house out of shipping containers with their three boys on an Ohio farm. A Fierce Love is Shauna's story of fighting for her marriage through her husband's infidelity. In our conversation, we chat about how her journal entries became the framework for her book and the processes through which she went to get her story published. Shauna also graciously answers some of the questions our book club members and I had about her story. She shares about how she and her husband are fighting for their marriage today and the sacrifices they're making to connect with each other. And finally, we chat all about their latest venture and what Shauna describes as marriage bootcamp - building a house out of shipping containers. She describes their house, but I thought a picture was the best way to go. Check out their awesome new digs. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My friend Chrystal Hurst joins me today for episode #152 of The Happy Hour. Chrystal is a writer, speaker, and worship leader in addition to serving as the chief executive operating officer in her home as a wife, mother of five and grandmother to one. Chrystal is co-author of, Kingdom Woman and her second book, She’s Still There coming out next week. She also blogs and podcasts regularly at Chrystal’s Chronicles where she poignantly reflects her thoughts about her faith and day-to- day experiences. In our conversation today, Chrystal and I talk about her new role as a grandmother and how she still doesn't have a grandmother name (!!!). We chat about the sacrifices she has made to pursue her calling and gifts. She shares such valuable nuggets of wisdom about being present in the season you are in and not chasing after someone else's story. We talk about her new book, She's Still There - a book about rescuing the girl that is still inside of you. I have read every page and I can't wait for you to get a hold of it. And Chrystal does a fabulous job explaining why pre-ordering a book is important. This conversation was so good for my soul, and I hope it is for you too. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Angela Lanter is my guest for The Happy Hour #151. As one of the hot new trendsetters in the beauty and fashion blogging community, Angela has established a credible reputation and sizable social media following in a short period of time. The founder of Hello Gorgeous blog and Youtube channel, she was named a finalist for the Allure magazine’s Beauty Blogger of the Year Award and was honored with the “Spotlight Award” for Blogger of the Year by PopSugar. She has served as brand ambassadors for brands such as Paul Mitchell, Laneige and Garnier. Angela enjoys DIY crafts, cooking and spending time with her husband, 90210 and NBC’s Timeless actor Matt Lanter, at their home in Los Angeles, CA. In today's conversation, Angela and I chat about her life being married to a Hollywood actor, walking the red carpet, moving all over the country for acting jobs and their recent surprise cancellation-turned-noncancellation of her husband's hit show, Timeless. Angela shares about Hello Gorgeous, how she got started, how she and Matt work together and how she incorporates her faith into the work she does. And finally, we Angela shares a little of her story and struggle with endometriosis - a disease that affects countless women, but one that is rarely talked about. If this is your first introduction to Angela, be prepared to get sucked into hours of her YouTube channel and feel like you have a new best friend and makeup artist. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #150 is Christy Wright. Christy is both entertaining and inspiring, and presents messages that educate and give hope to audiences all over the country. As the creator of Business Boutique and through her podcast and sellout live events, Christy has equipped thousands of women to successfully run and grow a business so they can make money doing what they love. Since joining Ramsey Solutions in 2009, she has spoken to audiences across the country at women’s conferences, national business conferences and Fortune 500 companies. Her new book, Business Boutique, released April 2017. Y'all, I so loved my conversation with Christy. I get so many emails from women all over the country with dreams - some of them new and exciting ideas, and some of them have been growing and evolving for years. If that's you, I just feel so confident that this conversation is going to help you to feel more confident making the next step towards that dream. Christy is so inspiring and such a cheerleader for women following their passions and working within their gift sets. She does such a great job of helping to reframe moments of failure to being an event, rather than an identity. And she helps to combat some of the most common fears and lies that keep women from taking steps towards their dreams. Connect with Christy Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsors Rent The Runway // HelloFresh // Third Love For the full summary and links to the show, click here!

Virginia Cumberbatch joins me today for The Happy Hour #149. Virginia serves as the Director of the Community Engagement Center and Social Justice Institute at The University of Texas at Austin and is a co-founder of HUX STORYHOUSE, a creative strategies collective that uses culturally relevant storytelling to help organizations engage thoughtfully and authentically with markets across the Black Diaspora. Her first book, As We Saw It: The Story of Integration at The University of Texas at Austin will be released in 2018. In today's conversation with Virginia, we chat about the intersection of culture and social justice. She shares about her family life when she was growing up, and how her family modeled an integrated life for her. We talk about the importance of storytelling to personify issues and policies that may feel so distant. And finally, we hit a very light and noncontroversial topic - feminism! I hope you love getting to meet Virginia and enjoy our conversation. Do yourself a favor today and call a friend and grab a happy hour. It's hotter than heck and we need to stick together. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #148 is Lisa Harper. Lisa is a master storyteller with a masters of Theological Studies from Covenant Seminary. She’s lauded as an engaging, hilarious communicator as well as an authentic and substantive Bible teacher. She’s been in vocational ministry for thirty years and has written fifteen books and Bible study curriculums but says her greatest accomplishment by far is that of becoming Missy’s (her adopted daughter from Haiti) mama! They live on a hilly farmette south of Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoy eating copious amounts of chips, queso, and guacamole. And then diving in the pool immediately afterwards instead of dutifully waiting the recommended thirty minutes. Oh my gracious, getting to talk with Lisa was such a delight. You guys are going to love her so much. Other than the fact that I forgot to press record at the beginning of our conversation and missed 15 minutes of chatter, this is such a fun episode. Lisa and I chat about her newest book, The Sacrament of Happy, and the misconceptions surrounding happiness for Christians. We talk all about her adoption of her sweet little Missy from Haiti. And you'll hear her tell a story that I am certain is going to make you want to punch someone. Lisa is the best, and I know you'll love to getting to know her. Make sure to grab a copy of her book. You will not regret it. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #147 is Kristin Schell. Kristin is an established speaker and blogger on the subjects of food, faith, and hospitality. As founder of the Turquoise Table and Front Yard People movement, Kristin travels the country speaking at conferences and events with an encouraging word on how to open our lives and homes to others. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband, Tony, and their four children. Kristin and the Turquoise Table has been featured in a wide variety of media outlets including the The Today Show, Austin American-Statesman, KEYE-TV/CBS Austin, MOPS International. Today's show is a little different with a live recording of our summer book club. Kristin and 50 other ladies joined me in my back yard for a conversation about The Turquoise Table. We chat about opening our lives up to the people around us and loving where we live. We talk about practicing hospitality in every life stage and no matter what your space looks like. I absolutely loved Kristin's book and loved being able to chat with her in person about how she champions the front yard people movement in her life. If you haven't already read her book, make sure to grab one here. You won't regret it. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

The very hilarious Sophie Hudson is back today for episode #146 of The Happy Hour. Sophie joined me for episode #54 and for The Happy Half Hour #8. She's one of my favorite guests and she's back today to chat about our recent travels to Kenya with Compassion International. On today's show, Sophie and I recount several of our favorite stories from Kenya and how they impacted our lives. We chat about visiting the slums (you'll find some pictures below), meeting our sponsored children and their families and seeing how Compassion is changing the lives of children all over the world through the local church. And of course, we can't talk to Sophie without a few hysterical moments - so you'll hear her story of monkeys robbing her pistachios, a van ride neither of us will soon forget and my inability to control my bladder. It's a show you won't want to miss. And again, I strongly encourage you to consider sponsoring a child through Compassion. For just $38 a month, you can change the course of a family's lives forever. Go here to sign up today. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Maria Goff is my guest for The Happy Hour #145. Maria has made a career out of loving her family and neighbors, raising her children, and turning houses into homes. She is married to national bestselling author of “Love Does” Bob Goff. Together, they operate Love Does, an organization dedicated to helping kids in conflict areas around the world including Uganda, Nepal, India, Iraq, and Somalia. The Goffs have three adult kids who are starting families of their own. They live in San Diego, where they continue to dream about and plan new adventures yet to be had with their growing family. Maria’s first book, Love Lives Here, was published in earlier this year. In our conversation, we chat about raising children and how fast the little years fly. Maria shares about her book and how she works to make her home comfortable, inviting and a place of peace. She talks about how she views her role in supporting her husband, Bob, in his very successful career. And finally, Maria shares about the fire that consumed their property in Canada and how they are moving forward. I know many of you are probably familiar with Bob Goff, but I just know you're going to fall in love with Maria. She was such a joy to chat with and I was so encouraged by her and her wisdom in being a helper to her husband, parenting and taking on new challenges. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Sarah Harmeyer is my guest for episode #144 of The Happy Hour. Sarah is the founder of Neighbor’s Table, a concept born from her personal passion for gathering people, and her desire to get to know her own neighbors. She has personally witnessed how lives are transformed when people gather around the table and share their stories. Sarah asked her father to build a cedar farmhouse style table big enough to seat 20. They placed it under the oak tree in her backyard in Dallas, dropped chandeliers overhead, and started inviting. Sarah set a goal to serve 500 that year, one dinner party after another. The 500th guest walked up her driveway on Thanksgiving Day. Now five years later, more than 2500 people have celebrated at the original Neighbor’s Table. The power of community that now regularly happens at the original Neighbor’s Table has spurred a desire to launch a movement – a love mission, if you will. Sarah’s vision is to have tables in backyards across the US, placing them in every state by 2020. Together, Sarah and her father are building more than custom handcrafted tables. They are growing a Neighbor’s Table family nationwide. Sarah and I met several years ago on a trip to Uganda. I love so many things about Sarah, but the thing that I love most about her is how comfortable and important she makes people feel. In every conversation I have had with her, she makes me feel like I am the only person in the world at that moment. In our conversation today, you'll see her giftings naturally flow right out of that quality. She has an amazing knack for making people feel cared for, seen and important. We talk all about community, gathering people, and her secret undercover restaurant in college. We also chat about the barriers that keep us from hospitality. To make hosting maybe just a skosh easier for you, Sarah is offering 10% off her shop using the code HAPPYHOUR. So, make sure to check her site out and snag you a few hosting goodies. And as you may have heard, I am currently galavanting through Kenya with Compassion International, you can follow my trip here. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #143 is Angie Smith. Angie is married to Todd Smith, of the Christian group, Selah, and mom to five daughters. In 2008, the Smiths received news that their 4th daughter, Audrey, would not survive, and Angie began blogging as a means of communication with friends and family during those difficult days. Angie now writes books and Bible studies, and teaches around the country, but the heart of her ministry is the same as it was when her fingers typed the very first words on her blog years ago: Angie's greatest passion is to make the Bible feel accessible and relevant and to encourage others in their faith journey. Angie holds a Master’s Degree in Developmental Psychology from Vanderbilt University and is a best-selling author of multiple adult and children’s books. She and Todd (and their house full of daughters) live in Nashville, TN. I have known and loved Angie for a few years now and am way overdue on having her join me on The Happy Hour. In today's conversation, we talk about the loss of her newborn daughter just hours after she was born. She writes about her story in her book, I Will Carry You, which will captivate you from the very beginning. And finally, we talk all about Compassion International and the trip that I am able to take with them to Kenya. If you're not familiar with Compassion, they are an incredible organization offering child sponsorship all over the world in third-world countries. Angie and I have both been supporters of Compassion for a long time, and we're excited to introduce you to them and good work they are doing. For just $38, you can change a child's life forever - offering them all of their basic needs, education, and access to the gospel. If you are interested in sponsoring a child, please use this link. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

One of my all-time favorite guests, Bianca Juárez Olthoff, is back today for episode #32 of The Happy Half Hour. If you missed Bianca's first appearance, you must catch up here.  Bianca is back to fill us in on the latest happenings in her life - including a pretty major life transition with prison ministry. She also answers the how she recharges, where she'd live for a year, her biggest pet peeve and how she defines success. You're going to love catching back up with her. If you're interested in prison ministry and how you might be able to link arms with Bianca, make sure you check out her site here. {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show Bianca's Book: Play With Fire Bianca's Prison Ministry Initiative 13th 13 Reasons Why Music from Jason Poe Connect with Bianca Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: PrepDish Prep Dish wants to help you with mealtime sanity this summer! Chef Allison created a fun 21-Day Meal Prep Challenge to motivate and encourage you to get started meal prepping and gain control of healthy meals for the summer. When the Challenge starts, you will get an easy-to follow guide for prepping all of your meals- breakfast lunch dinner & snacks for the full 21-days. They’re throwing in lots of goodies too! Checklists, bonus recipes, a guide to eating out, a Facebook group page for accountability, and more. For only $1/ day, you can delegate the worry and stress of mealtime this summer...your sanity is worth $21! The 21-Days start June 3rd. Register today at prepdish.com/happyhour21

My guest for The Happy Hour #142 is Cheryl Scruggs. Cheryl is a Biblical counselor with her husband, Jeff. She is the mom to adult twin daughters - Brittany Morgan and Lauren Scruggs Kennedy (who joined me for episode #132). She's also the co-author of I Do Again and Still LoLo. Cheryl and her husband live in Dallas, where they run a marriage ministry called Hope Matters Marriage Ministries. I have been so anxious to get a chance to chat with Cheryl. You may remember part of her story from Lauren's interview a few weeks ago. After her own extramarital affair, Cheryl filed for divorce from her husband. She shares about the Lord saving her in the years of their divorce, and calling her to restore her marriage. After 7 years of divorce and a beautiful story of reconciliation, Cheryl and Jeff got remarried. They are now passionate about marriage ministry and helping couples to find hope in their marriages. I absolutely loved hearing Cheryl's story. Marriage is hard, really hard. There are marriages all around me that are in hard places. Cheryl's story is evidence of how our marriages are never without hope with the gospel as a foundation. In today's show, I also had a short chat with Kristin Schell, the author of The Turquoise Table. Her book will be our first read for our Happy Hour Summer Book Club! For more information on that, please click here. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Amber Newberry is my guest for The Happy Hour #141. Amber embraces her calling as wounded healer and seeks to show all people that they are beautiful and beloved. Through sharing her story, Amber hopes to begin to free people that have been living in the bondage of shame in their own stories. You can find Amber at beautifulandbeloved.com where she shares not only her stories, but the ways that God has given her redemption and healing through meditation, yoga, oils, and prayer. In today's show, Amber shares her story of sexual assault and rape as a teenager, leading her to an abortion at the age of 19. She talks about hearing the gospel for the first time when she was 24 - learning that the love and forgiveness of God through Jesus was available to her. And she tells about her passion now to see men and women set free from the bondage of shame and secrecy by sharing her story first. On a lighter note, our conversation closes with talk about essential oils, the perfect concoction for allergies and Holy Yoga. My heart (and Amber's heart) for today's show is that if you have experienced sexual assault or have an abortion in your history, that God would start to bring healing to your heart through our conversation. You are not alone, and you are not beyond the reach of God's grace and mercy towards you. Also, in today's show, I announced that we are started a Happy Hour Summer Book Club! For more information on that, please click here. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Half Hour #31 is my friend, Alli Worthington. Alli is the author of Breaking Busy and Fierce Faith, business coach, advisor and Executive Director of Propel Women. Alli’s no-nonsense, guilt-free take on business, family, and balance has lead to appearances on The Today Show and Good Morning America. She loves to speak at women's conferences and business events. Alli, her husband, Mark, and their five sons live outside of Nashville, TN. Alli was on The Happy Hour for episode #114. If you missed her then, make sure to catch up here, as she was one of our most popular guests in 2016.  She's back today to catch up, report back on her personal mantra, the advice she loves to give out, her personal goals for the year and her pet peeve. Alli is also graciously giving away her 52 Ways to be Happier, Healthier and Enjoy Life More Series. Make sure you check that out here. {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show Alli's 52 Ways to be Happier, Healthier and Enjoy Life More Series The Way Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron Guardian of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Common Sense Media Music from Jason Poe Connect with Alli Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: PrepDish Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. After a couple of hours on the weekend, you'll have all of your meals ready for the entire week. You'll save time and have some amazingly delicious meals like Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs with Roasted Carrots, Parsnips & Fennel or Turkey & Zucchini Lasagna. Allison is offering listeners one month for just $4! You can't beat it. Check out PrepDish for this amazing deal! Use code: happyhour

The Happy Hour is THREE! To celebrate, I invited some of my closest friends and biggest encouragers to join me for a real life happy hour. We met at Chicon, one of my favorite restaurants in Austin and celebrated all that The Happy Hour has become over the last three years. In today's show, you'll get an inside peek into the celebration and my relationships with some of my favorite people. I pull a few friends in to ask me a few questions that you sent in. We cover my tattoos, the best conferences I have been a part of, my indecision of being an introvert or extrovert, and of course, my eyelashes. We really cover the good stuff. More importantly, I want to thank YOU, the listener. You are really the ones that make this show possible. You're the ones that keep listening and keep us going. I can't believe this life, and am so thankful that you have helped to make it possible. From the bottom of my heart, thank you SO much. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

It's May y'all! I don't know what it's like where you are, but May is starting off beautifully in Austin, TX. The weather is perfect, every thing is green and baseball season is in full gear. To kick the month off, Megan Tietz is joining me for episode #139 of The Happy Hour. Megan served as the soothing voice and spirited pen behind SortaCrunchy – blog hub for all things faith, family, and natural living from 2006-2014. She is also co-author of Spirit-Led Parenting: From Fear to Freedom in Baby’s First Year. In 2015, she launched Sorta Awesome and discovered she was born to host a podcast what with having that unique creative chemistry that thrives on in-depth analysis of pop culture, all things intentional living, and the next big thing you didn’t know you couldn’t live without. On today's show, we talk all about podcasting, which we're both obviously passionate about. Megan shares her latest favorites and we discuss the newest podcast craze, S-Town (don't worry...no spoilers this time). Megan is also a personality guru and shares her assessment of my personality type, and explains why she has found personality types fascinating and helping in interpersonal relationships. And finally, we talk about Megan's travels to Lebanon, the refugee crisis and how her perspective has shifted after her travels. There are a lot of links below if you are interested in learning more about how you can be involved. Enjoy your week, and make sure to join us next week for a very special edition of The Happy Hour as we celebrate our third anniversary! For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Wynter Pitts + Jamie Ivey

My guest for The Happy Hour #138 is Lauren Casper. Lauren is the author of It's Okay About It: Lessons from a Remarkable Five-Year-Old about Living Life Wide Open, and founder of the internationally read blog laurencasper.com. Lauren is a top contributor to the TODAY Parenting Team and has had numerous articles syndicated by The Huffington Post, the TODAY show, Yahoo! News, and several other publications. She and her family live in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Lauren is an adoptive momma of two kiddos from Ethiopia. On today's show, she shares about her adoption journey, including their struggle with infertility. She also shares about the unique experience of adopting from Ethiopia and how they decided to keep their children's birth names. Lauren's son was diagnosed with autism when he was 2 years old. In our conversation, she shares about that life-changing diagnosis and how she has learned to reshape her expectations and see the beauty in the brokenness. Lauren's book about the lessons she has learned from her son is coming out next week, so make sure you scoot over and grab a copy here. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

Lauren Scruggs Kennedy is my guest for The Happy Hour #137. Lauren is a Texas girl who was swept away to California by the love her life. She has a love for fashion that has been tightly sewn through interning in wardrobe for the CW’s Gossip Girl, the Michael Kors showroom in New York City, and reporting for New York, Paris, and Montreal Fashion Weeks. She’s the author of two best-selling books and keeps up with a lifestyle blog that ignites honest talk and community by sharing stories rooted in balance. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Half Hour #28 is Latasha Morrison. Tasha is a bridge-builder, reconciler and a compelling voice in the fight for racial justice. A native of North Carolina, Tasha attended East Carolina University, earned a Masters in Business from Liberty University. She has served as Children’s and Next Gen Director and recently joined staff at Gateway Church Central in Austin, Texas as the Director of Operations. In Addition to her church positions, she has simultaneously cultivated Be the Bridge; a ministry to equip and provide tools for those who are actively involved in taking the next steps toward racial solidarity. Tasha first joined us for The Happy Hour for episode #44. It was one of the very best shows from the early days. So, if you haven't listened to it, make sure to catch up here. Today, Tasha is back to catch up on what's new in her world, an update on Be the Bridge and to share what she hopes her legacy will be, the advice she loves to give out and what her definition of success. I am such a huge fan of all the things that Tasha has her hands in, and am so thrilled to have her back today. I hope you enjoy the show and have an incredible Easter celebrating the resurrection of our King. {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show Good Friday Service with Kirk Franklin Sparrow Conference Born a Crime by Trevor Noah + Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi My Blog Post: Raising Black Boys Music from Jason Poe Connect with Tasha Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: PrepDish Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. After a couple of hours on the weekend, you'll have all of your meals ready for the entire week. You'll save time and have some amazingly delicious meals like Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs with Roasted Carrots, Parsnips & Fennel or Turkey & Zucchini Lasagna. Allison is offering listeners one month for just $4! You can't beat it. Check out PrepDish for this amazing deal! Use code: happyhour

My guest for The Happy Hour #136 is Lisa-Jo Baker. Lisa-Jo has been the community manager for (in)courage, an online home for women all over the world, for nearly a decade. She is also the author of Surprised by Motherhood, and her most recent book, Never Unfriended. She lives just outside Washington, DC, with her husband and their three very loud kids, where she connects, encourages, and champions women in person and through her blog, lisajobaker.com. Lisa-Jo is a dear friend of mine, and I have been so anxious to have her on the show for a while now. I am so thrilled to have her today, after her recent release of her newest book, Never Unfriended. Before we get to the book talk, we chat about Aaron Sorkin, movies, Ryan Gosling and his Girl Scout Cookies escapade. We also discuss my family's media fast, and her family's media feast. Finally, we talk about Lisa-Jo's new book and the lengths to which God went to be a friend to his enemies. Lisa-Jo discusses the impact of championing the people around us. I know you're going to love this interview and if you'd like to join me and a handful of others for an online book club for Never Unfriended, it's going to be a real party. You can find more information here. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #135 is Jenny Randle. Jenny is a Creative Ninja, a speaker, art director and Emmy-winning video editor. She’s collaborated on billion dollar franchises in the heart of Hollywood and currently specializes in design and advertising. Jenny has a passion for empowering others to understand their God-given identity, purpose and creativity. She lives in Upstate New York with her husband, Matt, and two young children. Jenny’s preferred creative fuel is Jesus, lattes and freestyle rap battles with her family. In our conversation, Jenny and I chat about how adults seem to let their creative sides fizzle, and how she's committed to bringing that back to life. She does that through some creative exercises that she subjected me to. I won't spoil the big moment, but I'll just say I think you're going to love my impression of a household appliance. Jenny also talks about her husband's battle with depression - how it started, when they sought help and where they are now. I am always so grateful for women share stories like this, because I know how lonely stories like this can feel. Jenny does such a great job of talking about their journey and offering hope to those that are in their own fight. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Half Hour #28 is Shay Shull. Shay is a cookbook author, blogger, world traveler, baseball lover and mom to four. With her husband, Andrew, they live in McKinney, TX, where they each own their own businesses, drink way too much coffee and argue over whose baseball team is superior (she loves the Sox, he's a Yankee fan). Shay's passionate about food, family, faith, travel and adoption. Shay was on The Happy Hour exactly one year ago for episode #82. If you missed that show, make sure to catch up here. Since then, she and her husband have adopted another baby and she's written a second cookbook: Mix-and-Match Mama Kids in the Kitchen. In our chat today, we talk about the latest goings on of the Shull family, resolving that we should catch up more than once a year. Shay shares her newest obsession - her Sleep Number bed. And she answers what she'd like her legacy to be, the advice she loves to give out and where she'd love to live for a year. I know you'll love catching back up with Shay. Make sure to keep an eye out for her on the next Sleep Number Bed campaign. {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show Shay's Cookbooks: Mix-and-Match Mama Eats + Mix-and-Match Mama Kids in the Kitchen Sleep Number Bed Gossip Girl Music from Jason Poe Connect with Shay Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: PrepDish Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. After a couple of hours on the weekend, you'll have all of your meals ready for the entire week. You'll save time and have some amazingly delicious meals like Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs with Roasted Carrots, Parsnips & Fennel or Turkey & Zucchini Lasagna. Allison is offering listeners one month for just $4! You can't beat it. Check out PrepDish for this amazing deal! Use code: happyhour

My guest for The Happy Hour #134 is Tsh Oxenreider. Tsh is the author of Notes from a Blue Bike and Organized Simplicity, and is the founder of the community blog The Art of Simple. She’s the top-ranked podcaster of The Simple Show, and her writing has been featured in The Washington Post, CNN, Real Simple magazine, and more. A graduate of the University of Texas, where she studied English and anthropology, Tsh currently lives near Austin, with her family and eats tacos several times a week. A girl after my very own heart. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Half Hour #27 is Logan Wolfram. Logan would give you full access to her pantry if you lived next door. She is a plate-juggling mom and interior decorator turned author, speaker, and host of the Allume Conference. She is a passionate leader who desires to see women live fully in Christ. Logan is the author of Curious Faith; Rediscovering Hope in the God of Possibility. She is currently working on her second book which is set to release in Fall 2018. Along with her husband, Jeremy, she divides most of her time between wrangling two inquisitive boys and a 175-pound dog named Titan.  Logan was first on The Happy Hour for episode #57. If you missed her then, make sure to catch up here. In our conversation today, Logan shares about traveling to China with her young kids and consequently, a truancy report. We also talk about our Voxer mastermind group, which we both use to bounce ideas off each other, ask questions and encourage one another in our work.  And Logan gets the usual Happy Half Hour routine, with questions like what advice she likes to give out, what success means to her and where she'd like to live for a year. Y'all enjoy catching back up with Logan, and have a great weekend! {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron Logan's Post: A Life Hack That Saves My Sanity (and my leftovers!) Music from Jason Poe Connect with Logan Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: PrepDish Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. After a couple of hours on the weekend, you'll have all of your meals ready for the entire week. You'll save time and have some amazingly delicious meals like Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs with Roasted Carrots, Parsnips & Fennel or Turkey & Zucchini Lasagna. Allison is offering listeners one month for just $4! You can't beat it. Check out PrepDish for this amazing deal! Use code: happyhour

My guest for The Happy Hour #133 is Kate Merrick. Kate is a writer, speaker, pastor’s wife, mama of a teen and a toddler, surfer, part-time cowgirl, and self-proclaimed chicken whisperer. She has been married to Britt for 19 years, and they live in Carpinteria, California, where they founded the Reality family of churches. In 2013, she endured the death of her daughter, Daisy Love, after suffering through cancer treatment for three and a half years. Kate is making her way back toward laughter, and finding life to be filled with good things. In today's show, Kate and I chat about her new book: And Still She Laughs. I have read through most of the book already and was so impressed and surprised by the approach she took to write it. Instead of it being primarily the story of her grief, she details the stories of several women in the Bible who have suffered and persevered. We also talk about her decision to get off social media preceding her daughter's death, and what led her to that decision. We chat about the tension between perspective and comparison - and how comparison robs us of our joy in living the life God has planned for us. And finally (because what happy hour would be complete without it?), we discuss shark attacks and my paralyzing (and very rational) fear of being devoured by a shark. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #132 is Heather Avis. Heather is wife to her man Josh, and mother to the adorable Macyn, Truly and August. After working as an Education Specialist she found herself as a full-time stay-at-home mom when she and her husband adopted their first daughter, Macyn, in 2008. Shortly thereafter, in 2011, they adopted their second daughter, Truly. And in 2013, their son August was born and came home to be theirs. Heather currently resides in Southern California where between oatmeal making, diaper changing and dance parties, she just finished writing her first book and uses her hit Instagram account @macymakesmyday, to share the awesomeness of all things Down syndrome and adoption. In my conversation with Heather, I learn all about the journey that God took Heather and her husband on to bring home their three gorgeous children. Heather shares about how God changed her heart to pursue adopting a child with Down Syndrome. She talks about some of the misconceptions and the language people use when talking about children with special needs. And she also shares the staggering statistics on doctors recommending aborting babies with Down Syndrome. It took my breath away, and I imagine it will for some of you too. This was my first time meeting Heather, and I absolutely loved getting to know her. She cares fiercely for and advocates for the underdog, and she believes God's goodness and beauty are found in the seemingly uncomfortable places. Coming up next week, on World Down Syndrome Day, Heather will release her very first book. I can't wait to read it, and I know you'll love hearing more of her story as well. Make sure to pre-order your copy here. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #131 is Haley Robison. Haley Robison is the CEO at Kammok, a outdoor gear company that designs technical, performance gear for the everyday adventurer. Haley believes in the power of well-designed product to enable life changing experiences, and she aspires to increase outdoor engagement by building a brand that encourages a city-to-trail lifestyle and makes the outdoor experience accessible for everyone. In today's conversation, Haley and I talk about what it's like to be a 31-year-old CEO of a very popular and successful company. Haley shares a bit about the pressures of being a young female executive. We share about our very similar (insert eye roll) experiences camping and brushes with death. She explains the differences between Type 1, Type 2 and the dreaded Type 3 fun. Haley also opens up about singleness and her contentment in this life stage. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Half Hour #26 is my husband, the one and only, Aaron Ivey. Aaron is the only man allowed on the show, unless one of you can connect me with George W. Bush. Aaron is making his fourth appearance on The Happy Hour. You can listen to his previous interviews here: #39, #70 and #100.  In today's show, we give you some sneak peaks into The Happy Hour LIVE! You're not going to want to miss. We have some really fun surprises and an unforgettable night planned for you. You have just a couple more hours to snag your ticket. So, go go go right now and grab one.  We also hear Aaron's latest recommendations on TV and podcasts, the advice he loves to give and what he's aiming for in 2017. We also get an earful of his pet peeves - he's pretty peevey. Peeves and all, he's my favorite guest of all time, and I am pretty sure he's gotta be yours too. Y'all enjoy the show and make sure to hurry over and grab one of the last few tickets for the live shows! {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show Aaron's Upcoming Book: Steal Away Home Chef's Table How I Built This Sleeping At Last Silence by Shusaku Endo Music from Jason Poe Connect with Aaron Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: Noonday Collection Noonday Collection is a business that uses fashion to create meaningful opportunities around the world. When you purchase Noonday accessories, you create a marketplace for artisan businesses, enabling them to provide dignified jobs in vulnerable communities. They develop artisan businesses through fair trade, collaborative design, responsible financing, capacity building and long-term partnership. On February 16, Noonday releases their newest line! If you host a Noonday Trunk show between February 16-28, you could earn gifts from some of their partners over at Lindsay Letters and The Object Enthusiast. Plus, with a qualifying show you'll be entered to win a trip for 2 to Austin! Contact your local Ambassador to book a show today. If you don't have an Ambassador, go to the here and you'll find a match with someone in your area!

My guest for The Happy Hour #130 is Joy Eggerichs Reed. Joy is the Founder of Punchline Speakers, a new agency connecting communicators to opportunities, and vice versa. Joy has also been a speaker herself over the last decade. Between 2005 and 2015 Joy worked as Conference Director for her parents Love and Respect marriage conferences. Then she created the Love and Respect Now website and The Illumination Project small group study as resources for her generation on the topic of singleness, dating and marriage. In 2014, Christianity Today named Joy one of 33 leaders under the age of 33 shaping the next generation. In our conversation today, we chat about Joy's love for the art of improv, while she educates me on some of the theater lingo. We talk all about her latest venture, Punchline Speakers, and where they're heading and how you might be able to be a part. Joy and her husband are in the process of moving to Paris, France, so she shares what she has learned about French culture and American perceptions. We also chat about our possible diagnoses of Worst Case Scenario Disorder (WCSD) and our mutual experienced fear of sharks in swimming pools. Oh, this conversation has it all. We end with one of my favorite dinner table questions - would you rather be rich or famous? Joy tried her best to wiggle herself out of that question, but she finally caved after some pressure. I loved loved loved having Joy on the show. I think you will love hearing from her, her contagious laugh and what she's up to these days. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Hour #129 is Rebekah Lyons. Rebekah is the author of Freefall to Fly: A Breathtaking Journey Toward a Life of Meaning and now You are Free: Be Who You Already Are. She is a mother of three, wife of one, and dog-walker of two living in Franklin, TN. Alongside her husband, Gabe, she serves as co-founder of Q Ideas, a nonprofit organization that helps Christian leaders winsomely engage in culture. When she's not busy writing killer books, you can find her reading and sipping a discriminating cup of coffee. In today's show, we cover it all. We start where all happy hours should start - a review on jumpsuits. If you don't know, Rebekah can rock a jumpsuit better than just about anyone out there. I later learn that one reason she can pull them off so effortlessly is because she's riding a bike with her son for about an hour every day. So, if you need a new goal, there you go. Riding a bike may just earn you a jumpsuit. In less trivial conversation, Rebekah shares about her newest book, You Are Free, which was just released yesterday. Y'all have heard me (at nauseam) talk about book covers, and this one is one of my favorites. It even feels good. Rebekah talks about the process of writing the book and battling the lies of the enemy to walk in obedience and write her story. She also shares about her family and their move to New York City with three kids, and how her son very cleverly caused himself to be sick at school day after day to communicate to his parents that it was time to move on. I am majorly inspired by Rebekah, and I hope that you are too. Make sure you hurry over and grab a copy of her latest book. For the full summary and links to the show, click the link below! Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube GET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE!

My guest for The Happy Half Hour #25 is my friend, Jennie Allen. Jennie is a speaker, author, teacher and the founder and visionary of IF:Gathering. IF: Gathering has since become one of the fastest growing conferences and movements in the world, empowering women across continents and denominations to live honestly and deeply. Just a few weeks ago, Jennie published her highly anticipated third book, Nothing to Prove. Jennie lives with her husband Zac and their four children in Austin, Texas. Jennie has made previous appearances on The Happy Hour #12 and The Happy Half Hour #4. She's back today to catch up, chat about her newest book and the latest IF: Gathering. She also answers our newest half hour questions, including her favorite meal, what she'd tell her 30-year-old self and the advice she usually gives. Y'all enjoy catching back up with Jennie. Hope you have a great weekend, and have a happy hour with a friend! {You can listen to the show HERE. And of course, I would love if you would share with your friends. Just use the FB & Twitter links at the end of this post!} Links from the Show Jennie's Book: Nothing to Prove IF: Gathering Beth Moore's LIT Grit by Angela Duckworth The Crown Lush's Bath Bombs Music from Jason Poe Connect with Jennie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Connect with Jamie Facebook // Twitter // Instagram Sponsor: PrepDish Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. After a couple of hours on the weekend, you'll have all of your meals ready for the entire week. You'll save time and have some amazingly delicious meals like Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs with Roasted Carrots, Parsnips & Fennel or Turkey & Zucchini Lasagna. Allison is offering listeners one month for just $4! You can't beat it. Check out PrepDish for this amazing deal! Use code: happyhour