Faith Over Fear

Do you lie awake replaying conversations… wishing you’d said no instead of yes?Do you feel responsible for everyone else’s happiness and so bogged down by other's expectations that you've lost your sense of self? Are your relationships filled with more takers than givers? Do friendships tend to bring you more anxiety than joy? If so, Jennifer Slattery's conversation with author and podcast host Jennifer Renee Watson will encourage you. In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jennifer Slattery sits down with author and speaker Jennifer Renee Watson to unpack the emotional roots of people-pleasing, codependency, and the deep fear of not being “enough” or "doing enough." Together, they explore how trauma, anxiety, and unhealthy relationship patterns can shape our identity—and how God leads us toward healing, clarity, and freedom. Jennifer Watson shares her personal story of growing up in instability, navigating ministry pressures, and learning—one fumbling step at a time—how to set boundaries, recognize harmful patterns, and rediscover her voice. This conversation offers practical encouragement for anyone struggling with approval-seeking, emotional exhaustion, relational confusion, or the pressure to always keep others happy. You’ll learn why people-pleasing often grows from survival patterns, how resentment can signal deeper wounds, and why healing takes time, support, and truth. Most importantly, you’ll be reminded that your worth isn’t defined by others’ approval—but by God’s steady love and presence. This episode is for you if you: Struggle to say no without guilt Feel drained by relationships or expectations Carry anxiety about disappointing others Want healthier boundaries rooted in faith Long to rediscover your identity and confidence in Christ Resource referenced: What If You're Doing Better Than You Think?: Finding Courage and Confidence When Life Gets Messy  Key truth to hold onto: [God] is your constant source of stability; he abundantly provides safety and great wisdom (Isaiah 33:6, NET) Next step: Pay attention to your yeses and nos this week. Notice what drives them—and invite God into the healing process. Discussion/Reflective Questions: When do you feel the strongest pressure to please others—and what fears tend to drive that response? How has your past (family, church, relationships, or trauma) shaped your current boundaries or lack of them? What lies about your identity or worth have fueled anxiety or people-pleasing in your life? Where might resentment or emotional exhaustion be signaling a need for healthier limits? What would it look like to anchor your sense of safety and worth in God rather than others’ approval? What is one small, practical step you can take this week to honor your emotional and spiritual health (a boundary, a conversation, a pause before saying yes)? Who are the safe people in your life that can support your healing and growth? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Jennifer Renee Watson: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Follow her writing on Amazon Check out the podcast she cohosts with two other speakers, "More Than Small Talk" Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many believers feel torn between loving others and protecting their hearts. We’re taught to include everyone, forgive quickly, and keep our doors open—but Scripture also calls us to wisdom and discernment in who we allow to shape our thinking, emotions, and spiritual direction. In this conversation, we explore the difference between loving people and trusting them equally—and why healthy boundaries aren’t unloving, but deeply biblical. Author Becky Harling joins us to unpack what emotionally healthy, Christ-centered friendships look like, how to recognize unsafe relational patterns, and how to heal when relationships wound us. Together, we examine how grounding our identity in Jesus frees us to love generously without becoming drained, resentful, or spiritually pulled off course. This episode provides clarity on: why loving everyone doesn’t mean giving everyone equal access to your heart how to identify safe, reciprocal friendships warning signs of codependency, control, gossip, and emotional imbalance how prayer shapes wise relational decisions what loyalty and long-term friendship look like in a Christ-centered life how to set boundaries without becoming guarded or cynical steps toward healing after relational hurt Resource referenced: Friend-Wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships Discussion/Reflective Questions: Where have I confused loving people with trusting them equally? Which relationships currently strengthen my walk with Christ—and which leave me spiritually drained? Do I have a small circle of safe, reciprocal friendships where I can be fully known and prayed for? What boundaries might God be inviting me to set so I can love others from a healthy place rather than from exhaustion or fear? When I’ve experienced relational hurt, have I brought that pain honestly before Jesus for healing and wisdom? Who are the voices currently shaping my thinking, emotions, and spiritual direction—and are they aligned with God’s truth? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Becky Harling: On her website On Instagram On Facebook Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When headlines, social media, and everyday stress collide, anxiety can easily take over. In this episode, Jennifer Slattery and Carol McCracken explore why our minds and bodies respond so strongly to cultural chaos—and how God gently leads us back to peace. Download the free companion guide for this episode here: Finding Peace in a Chaotic World: A Faith-Based Guide to Quieting Anxiety and Re-centering Your Heart You’ll hear: how stress and overstimulation affect the brain why anxious thoughts spiral so quickly practical grounding tools rooted in faith how Jesus modeled withdrawal and reconnection with the Father why joy, Scripture, and community strengthen emotional resilience If you’ve felt overwhelmed lately, this conversation will remind you: you’re not broken—and you’re not alone. God meets us right where we are and leads us toward calm, clarity, and renewed trust. Scripture referenced in this episode: Proverbs 3:5–6“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Isaiah 26:3–4“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You… The Lord Himself is the Rock eternal.” Psalm 46:1–2“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” Psalm 91:1–4God as refuge, shelter, and covering. Isaiah 41:10“Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Colossians 3:15“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” Gospel accounts of Jesus withdrawing to pray(Mark 1:35-39; Luke 5:15-16; Luke 6:12) Reflective Questions: Use these for journaling, small groups, or personal reflection. When I feel overwhelmed, what tends to trigger my anxiety most—noise, conflict, social media, uncertainty, or something else? What physical signs tell me I’m becoming dysregulated or stressed (sleep disruption, tension, racing thoughts, irritability)? Which grounding practice helps me reconnect with God most easily—breathing, Scripture, silence, journaling, nature, prayer, or community? Where might God be inviting me to “withdraw” from input right now so I can hear His voice more clearly? What truth from Scripture do I need to return to when my thoughts begin to spiral? What is one small step I can take this week to pursue peace intentionally instead of waiting for my circumstances to change? If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who may be feeling overwhelmed. And don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—it helps others find hope and practical help when they need it most. Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’ve prayed for peace but still feel anxious, overwhelmed, or discouraged, you’re not alone—and you’re not failing spiritually. In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jennifer Slattery is joined by Jamie Hampton, co-host of the Praying Christian Women podcast, for a compassionate and honest conversation about anxiety, prayer, and God’s peace. Jamie shares a season of debilitating anxiety and what that taught her. Together, she and Jennifer explore what Scripture—especially Philippians 4—really teaches about anxiety, why peace is often a process rather than an instant fix, and how God meets us in our physical, emotional, and spiritual realities. This conversation is for anyone who loves God but feels confused, exhausted, or ashamed by persistent anxiety—and longs for a gentler, grace-filled way forward. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why anxiety is rarely just spiritual—and why that matters What Philippians 4 does not mean about “being anxious” How praise and prayer can calm both the heart and nervous system Why honest, unfiltered prayer leads to deeper freedom Practical ways to interrupt anxious spirals with compassion How God’s peace grows through presence, not pressure Scriptures Referenced: Philippians 4:4–9 1 Peter 5:7 Download this episode's free companion guide HERE. Resources Referenced: She Prays Like a Girl: Discover the Joy and Power of Praying Like You (and no one else!) So Much More Scripture Meditation (podcast) Hearing Heart Biblical Meditation App Featured Guest: Jamie Hampton, Christian author and co-host of the Praying Christian Women podcast, shares vulnerably from her own journey through anxiety and healing.  NOTE: if you enjoyed this episode, visit Jamie and Alana's podcast Praying Women to hear Jennifer's conversation with Jamie on their show. Find it HERE.  Encouragement for Listeners: If prayer hasn’t taken your anxiety away, that doesn’t mean God is distant or disappointed or that your prayer practice isn't helping. God gradually cultivates peace in your soul as you walk with Him. Reflective Questions: When anxiety rises, what assumptions do I tend to make about myself or my faith? Are there physical, emotional, or situational factors contributing to my anxiety that I may have overlooked? What does it feel like to hear that God’s peace is often a process rather than an instant result? When prayer feels difficult, what gentle ways might help me orient my heart toward God? Are there fears or questions I’ve been hesitant to bring honestly to God? What might it look like to release those to Him? Which one small practice from this episode—praise, journaling, or honest prayer—feels most accessible to try this week? Connect with Jamie Hampton: On her and her cohosts website On Instagram On Facebook On Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you lie awake at night worried about money?If financial stress has left you feeling anxious, ashamed, or trapped, this episode will encourage you and help alleviate some of your fear.  In today’s Faith Over Fear conversation, host Jennifer Slattery sits down with Todd Moore, Director of Education at Trinity Debt Management, to talk honestly about financial fear, scarcity mindsets, and the emotional weight money struggles carry—especially in today’s economy. Todd shares his powerful story of growing up with scarcity, accumulating debt as a first-generation college student, and eventually discovering that financial hardship doesn’t define your future. Together, Jennifer and Todd explore why money anxiety impacts our sense of safety, how past trauma can intensify present fear, and why struggling financially is far more common—and far less shameful—than many realize. You’ll also hear practical, grace-filled encouragement for anyone who feels overwhelmed or stuck, including: Why financial hardship doesn’t mean you’ve failed How fear affects the brain—and why support matters Small, doable steps you can take right now to regain clarity How God’s compassion meets us in seasons of financial uncertainty Why asking for help can be the turning point toward freedom If you’re facing job loss, debt, rising expenses, or lingering fear rooted in past instability, this episode offers both biblical reassurance and practical hope. Resources Mentioned: Trinity Debt Management: https://www.trinitycredit.org Free companion resource You are not alone. You are not stuck. And God is still leading you toward freedom. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548. https://trinitycredit.org/  Reflective Questions (For Show Notes, Companion Guide, or Journaling) What emotions surface when you think about your finances right now—fear, shame, exhaustion, or uncertainty?How might God be inviting you to bring those emotions honestly to Him? Can you identify any past experiences (childhood scarcity, instability, job loss, homelessness, or debt) that may be fueling your current financial anxiety?How does recognizing this change the way you view yourself? Where have you been tempted to believe that your financial situation defines your worth, faith, or future?What truth from Scripture counters that belief? What would it look like to stop facing financial stress alone?Who might God be inviting you to reach out to for support, guidance, or education? What is one small, manageable step you could take this week to move toward clarity rather than avoidance?(Tracking expenses, making a call, praying honestly, or asking for help.) How does this conversation reshape your understanding of God’s compassion and provision—not just for today, but for the future He sees and prepares you for? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“When You’re Not Out of Control—Just Tired of Surviving”  In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Christy Osborne, author of Love Life Sober, for an honest, compassionate conversation about exhaustion, emotional numbness, and the quiet ways many women cope just to get through the day. This isn’t a conversation about hitting rock bottom or losing control. It’s about the woman who looks “fine” on the outside—but feels tired, flat, and disconnected from joy on the inside. Christy shares her personal journey through an alcohol fast—not as a self-improvement project, but as a brave act of curiosity and care. (Download the free companion guide for this episode here.) Together, Carol and Christy explore: Why alcohol (or other numbing habits) often function as a solution, not the real problem What surfaces emotionally and spiritually when numbing is removed How grief, fatigue, and long-buried feelings often point to unmet needs—not personal failure The lies that grow louder in silence—and how awareness and Scripture can interrupt them with grace Where Jesus meets us most clearly when we feel exposed, weary, and emotionally honest How joy can return—not as escape, but as presence, embodiment, and safety If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not out of control—I’m just so tired,” this episode is for you. Resource referenced: Love Life Sober: A 40-Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind Listener Reflective Questions  Where in my life have I been using something—even something socially acceptable—to soften, numb, or survive instead of truly rest? If I’m honest, what emotions do I work hardest to avoid feeling—and why might those emotions feel unsafe to me? Have I been interpreting my exhaustion as failure, when it may actually be information about my soul’s needs? What lies get loud for me when life slows down or distractions are removed—and how do those lies shape my sense of identity? How has my definition of joy been shaped by escape rather than presence—and what quieter forms of joy might God be inviting me to notice? What would it look like to believe I can feel deeply and be safe with God—right here, not after I “fix” myself? Connect with Christy Osborne: On her website On Instagram On Facebook Find her work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many people know God is loving and kind—but struggle to feel or trust that love in their most wounded places. For those impacted by trauma, religious abuse, legalism, or deep loss, God can feel distant, harsh, or unsafe. In this moving conversation, host Jennifer Slattery sits down with author Sherri Hughes Gregg to explore how Jesus consistently reveals Himself as tender, compassionate, and near to the brokenhearted. Drawing from Sherri’s book The Compassionate Christ, her personal journey through divorce and cancer, and powerful Gospel narratives—including the leper, the grieving widow, and the Samaritan woman—this episode gently challenges fear-based views of God and invites listeners into healing truth. Together, Jennifer and Sherri model how we can wrestle respectfully with Scripture, release shame-laden interpretations, and encounter Christ as He truly is: the One who comforts, restores dignity, and brings beauty from ashes. Download this episode's free companion guide with Scripture and journal prompts here. Resource referenced: The Compassionate Christ: Draw Near to the Risen Savior (A 31-Day Devotional Retelling of Stories from the Life of Jesus)  Discussion/Reflective Questions: When you think about God’s posture toward you, what emotions surface most easily—fear, comfort, suspicion, hope? Why do you think that is? How have past experiences (family, church culture, trauma, or suffering) shaped the way you interpret Jesus’ actions and words in Scripture? Which Gospel story mentioned in this episode—the leper, the widow, or the Samaritan woman—do you most relate to right now? What about it resonates with your current season? Are there moments when suffering or disappointment has caused old fears or shame-based beliefs about God to resurface? How have you responded to those thoughts? What would it look like to intentionally observe how Jesus interacts with wounded people in the Gospels, without filtering His actions through fear or self-condemnation? Where might God be inviting you to receive comfort before resolution—to trust His nearness even while you wait for healing or answers? What is one lie about God’s character you feel prompted to gently release—and one truth about His compassion you want to sit with this week? Connect with Sherri Hughes Gregg: On Instagram On Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you struggle with prayer—what to say, how to say it, and whether God will respond? Does God ever feel distant or silent when you cry out to Him? In this episode, guest Rachel Britton shares why prayer often feels difficult, especially when we feel fearful, disappointed, or anxious, and she explains how simple, guided prayers can help us open our hearts wider to the Lord. (Download this episodes free companion guide here.) Together, Carol and Rachel explore what we can learn from biblical women who prayed through some of Scripture’s most painful and complicated moments: Rachel, a person of deep sorrow Leah, a person overlooked Jochebed, a person in the background Sarah, a person who doubted Their lives reveal that God hears those of us who feel unseen, afraid, or unsure. Through their stories, Rachel invites us to grow in confidence—not by having perfect words, but by remembering we are perfectly loved. Resource referenced: Pray Naturally: Finding Your Spiritual Confidence as a Woman Loved by God by Rachel Britton  Reflective/Discussion Questions Which part of prayer feels hardest for you right now—finding the words, believing God hears you, or trusting Him with the outcome? Why? When you think of praying bold prayers, what emotion rises first—fear, excitement, skepticism, or hope? What might God be inviting you to explore in that? Is there a biblical woman’s story (Rachel, Leah, Jochebed) that mirrors a season you’re in? What does her journey teach you about God’s character? In what ways have fear, disappointment, or past pain shaped the way you pray—or the way you avoid praying? Rachel talks about being honest in prayer, even messy or raw. What would it look like to tell God the truth about something you’ve been holding back? Where do you sense God inviting you to trust Him more deeply—not someday, but today—as you learn to pray more naturally? Find Rachel Britton: On her website On Instagram On Facebook Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When anxiety tightens your chest and fear whispers that you’re alone, knowing who God is can steady your heart. In this deeply comforting conversation, Jennifer Slattery sits down with author and ministry leader Grace Fox to explore how the names of God reveal His nearness, power, and peace—especially in seasons of uncertainty, trauma, and unanswered prayer. Grace shares how understanding God as Yahweh Shalom, Abba Father, Yahweh Roi (the Lord my Shepherd), and the God who is Light can reshape how we walk through hardship. From cultivating daily time with God in busy seasons to experiencing supernatural peace in the middle of a medical crisis, this episode gently reminds listeners that fear is not a sign of failed faith—but often a signal that we were never meant to carry our burdens alone. In this episode, guest Grace Fox shares practical tools to quiet anxious thoughts, anchor themselves in truth, and learn how God often reveals His heart most clearly in life’s darkest caves. (Scroll down to download a free companion guide designed to help you process this episodes content more deeply and for more information on today's guest, Grace Fox.) Key Topics Covered in today's episode: Why fear doesn’t mean you’ve disappointed God How the names of God reveal His character and care Finding peace while still “in process” God as Father for those wounded by earthly relationships How God brings light and beauty even in dark seasons Practical steps to experience peace amid chaos Resource Referenced: Names of God: Knowing Peace: Devotional Study with Video Access (Names of God Devotional Studies Book 2) by Grace Fox Download this episodes free companion guide HERE. Discussion/Reflective Questions: When anxiety rises, what does your first response tend to be—problem-solving, worrying, withdrawing, or turning toward God? Which name of God discussed in this episode resonates most deeply with your current season, and why? How might viewing God as a perfect Father challenge or heal wounds shaped by imperfect human relationships? Where do you feel like you’re “in process” right now, tempted to believe you should be further along? What would it look like to ask, “God, what do You want to teach me here?” instead of “Why is this happening?” Are there areas of chaos in your life where you need to invite God’s light to bring clarity or order? How might intentionally renewing your mind change the way you experience fear or uncertainty this week? Connect with Grace Fox:   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

(Scroll down to download a free companion guide designed to help you more deeply process this episodes content.) In today’s episode, Carol is joined by author and Bible teacher Melissa Spoelstra for a powerful conversation about fear, spiritual warfare, and the God who reigns over both heaven and earth. Drawing from her new Bible study, Melissa helps us understand why the Bible talks about angels—not so that we’ll become preoccupied with supernatural beings, but so our view of God will grow larger, stronger, and more hope-filled. Together, Carol and Melissa explore what Scripture reveals about the unseen spiritual realm: angelic hosts, messengers, cherubim and seraphim, fallen angels, and even Satan. But more importantly, they highlight the character of the God who commands the angel armies, sets boundaries on evil, strengthens His servants through suffering, and offers refuge in moments of fear. This episode gently but boldly addresses questions many believers wrestle with:• What battles am I facing that I can’t see? • How do I fight fear without becoming fearful of spiritual warfare? • Why does God allow testing, and where is He when life feels heavy? • How do angels reveal God’s heart, His protection, and His authority? Through practical insight and biblical clarity, Melissa reminds us that although our battles are real, our God is sovereign, present, and victorious. We don’t fix our eyes on angels—we fix our eyes on the God who created them. And in doing so, we find the hope and courage we need for whatever we’re facing right now. Whether you’re wrestling with anxiety, fear of the unknown, spiritual attack, or simply longing to understand God’s supernatural care more deeply, this conversation will breathe peace and truth into your soul. Key Scriptures Discussed 2 Kings 6 – Elisha’s servant sees the chariots of fire• Hebrews 1 – Angels as ministering spirits• Psalm 91 – God’s promise of protection• Ephesians 6 – Our battle against spiritual forces• Luke 2 – God sends an angel to outcasts• Revelation – Angels in worship and judgment Themes Covered✓ Spiritual warfare without fear✓ God’s sovereignty over heaven and earth✓ Discernment, deception, and truth✓ How angels reveal God’s character✓ The limits God places on Satan Discussion/Reflective Questions: Where in your life right now does fear feel louder than your confidence in God’s reign—and what does remembering the spiritual realm change for you? Which aspect of God’s character, revealed through the ministry of angels, brought you the most comfort or clarity today? How have you sensed spiritual warfare in your thoughts, relationships, or emotions recently—and what truth about God’s authority helps you fight back? What lies or subtle deceptions tend to trigger anxiety for you, and how can Scripture help you recognize and counter them? When have you felt strengthened, protected, or supported by God in a way that you couldn’t fully explain? What did that reveal about His presence? What one step can you take this week to shift your focus away from fear of the enemy and toward a greater trust in the God who rules over everything? Resource referenced: Angels - Bible Study Book for Women with Video Access: Finding Hope in God Who Reigns over Heaven and Earth Download this episodes free companion guide here. Connect with Melissa Spoelstra: On her website On Facebook On Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

(Scroll down for resources, including a link to a free downloadable resource.) So many of our deepest anxieties come not from circumstances—but from people we love. Broken trust. Emotional betrayal. Confusing mixed signals. Fear of being hurt again. In this episode, Jennifer Slattery talks with Matthew and Joanna Rapsmith and therapist Dan Drake about why relational wounds cut so deeply, how they affect our nervous system and emotional health, and how God compassionately leads us toward healing, safety, and renewed connection. Whether you’re trying to heal a relationship, rebuilding trust after betrayal, or carrying hidden wounds you’re afraid to name, today’s conversation offers compassionate truth and practical guidance to help you breathe again. You’ll Learn Why relational pain can feel overwhelming How betrayal and fear impact the brain and nervous system Why emotional safety is essential for healing What emotional intelligence really looks like in relationships How to unlearn unhealthy coping responses What to do if you’re willing to heal—but the other person isn’t How God meets us in relational heartbreak and restores hope Key Themes • Honesty and truth-telling• Emotional and relational safety• Healing from shame and fear• Restoring trust• Christ-centered restoration• Personal healing even when relationships don’t rebuild This Episode Is For You If… ✔️ You’ve experienced betrayal or broken trust✔️ You long for connection but fear being hurt again✔️ You struggle with anxiety in relationships✔️ You want emotional maturity and healing✔️ You desire hope, clarity, and Christ-centered encouragement Resource referenced: Building True Intimacy: Creating a connection that stands the test of time by Dan Drake, Joanna Raabsmith and Matthew Raabsmith. Faith Over Fear podcast episode: Does Conflict Make You Anxious? Practical Steps to Increased Relational Peace Free Downloadable Resource: Healing for Painful Relationships Connect with Joanna and Matthew Raabsmith on their ministry website Connect with Dan Drake and learn more about his and the Raabsmith's work on the Intimacy Pyramid website. Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discussion/Reflective Questions: When have you felt the most emotionally unsafe in a relationship, and how did your body and heart respond? What story do you tend to tell yourself when conflict happens—“I’m failing,” “I’m unlovable,” “They’ll hurt me,” etc.? Where might unhealed past experiences be shaping how you see and react to present relationships? What would emotional safety look like for you? What boundaries, support, or healing might God be inviting you toward? Where do you sense God calling you to honesty—either with yourself, Him, or someone else? If your current relational or emotional patterns remain the same, where might they lead you? What could healing change? How does it encourage you to know that God does not shame your pain—but meets you in it with compassion and restoration? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you feel emotionally overwhelmed—like you’re carrying more than you can handle and one more hardship or problem might break you? Have stress, anxiety, or burnout caused you to react in ways that don’t feel like you? In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jennifer Slattery and Carol McCracken talk honestly about emotional overwhelm, emotional capacity, and why prolonged stress and hardship can push even faithful, capable people past their limits. Through personal stories of caregiving, trauma triggers, disrupted sleep, ministry pressure, and relational strain, they explain why “pushing through” often leads to exhaustion, shame, and broken connections. Turning to Scripture, they explore the life of David—a man after God’s own heart—who also experienced seasons of intense fear, grief, and emotional overload. His story shows us that overwhelm is not a spiritual failure and that God meets us with grace, not condemnation, when we’re in survival mode.  This conversation offers biblical encouragement and practical tools to help you recognize when your emotional capacity is maxed out, calm anxiety throughout the day, reduce unnecessary stress, and reconnect with Christ’s presence in the middle of overwhelming seasons. If you’ve been feeling worn down, reactive, or ashamed of how you’ve been coping, this episode will remind you: you’re not weak, you’re human—and you’re not alone. Download a free resource designed to help you experience the peace of Christ in Your Most Emotionally Overwhelming Seasons. Reflective/Discussion Questions: Where do you currently feel emotionally overloaded?What circumstances, responsibilities, or unresolved stressors might be adding weight to your “emotional bridge”? How do you typically respond when your emotional capacity is exceeded?Do you tend to withdraw, lash out, numb, overwork, or push through—and what has that response cost you? What stood out to you about David’s responses to overwhelm?How does his honesty with God challenge or free you in the way you pray, lament, or express emotion? Are there stressors in your life that could be reduced, paused, or removed—at least temporarily?What might it look like to honor your limits instead of judging them? What helps calm your body and mind throughout the day?Which practices—movement, rest, prayer, breathing, joy, community—might God be inviting you to return to or begin? Is there an area where shame has followed your past reactions to stress?How does this episode reshape your understanding of God’s grace toward you in survival seasons? Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If the holidays leave you overwhelmed, overstretched, or anxious, you’re not alone. In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jennifer Slattery and guest Kelly Hall unpack the story of Mary and Martha to reveal practical, grace-filled ways to reduce holiday stress, avoid codependent patterns, set healthy boundaries, and re-center on what matters most. Whether you’re navigating grief, family tension, perfectionism, or people-pleasing, this conversation offers gentle guidance to help you enter Christmas with more calm, clarity, and joy. You’ll learn how to: Recognize your emotional capacity Resist the pressure to meet everyone’s expectations Simplify your celebrations Experience deeper peace by staying aligned with Jesus rather than holiday chaos Scripture discussed: Luke 10,  Mark 1:35-39 Resources Recommended: Courageous Faith by Kelly Hall, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy with God in the Busyness of Life by Joanna Weaver Free Bible Reading Plan: "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Free Resource: Practical Steps to Reduced Anxiety and Overwhelm This Christmas Find Kelly Hall: On her website Instagram Facebook Unshakable Hope Podcast Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discussion/Reflective Question: What resonated with you most in this episode Where do I feel the most pressure during the holiday season—and whose expectations are driving that pressure? What signs tell me I’m reaching or exceeding my emotional capacity? How can I respond with grace rather than reacting from overwhelm? In what situations do I tend to “Martha”—trying to control people or outcomes rather than pausing to sit at Jesus’ feet? Where might I be slipping into codependent behavior (fixing, appeasing, rescuing) instead of allowing others to own their emotions? What boundaries do I need to set this holiday season to protect peace, joy, and emotional/spiritual health? What one simple shift could help me keep “the most important thing” at the center of my celebrations? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this inspiring conversation, Jennifer Slattery and guest Dawn Cazedessus explore how God heals the generational wounds, shame, and limiting beliefs to create a life of influence, purpose, and freedom. Dawn shares her journey from a trailer park in rural Louisiana to leading thousands as a CEO and regional director. Her story reveals how early adversity shaped her work ethic—but also how God transformed survival-driven striving into purposeful, Spirit-led leadership. Listeners will hear Dawn’s vulnerable reflections on her positive and challenging childhood influences, scarcity versus abundant mindsets, and the emotional work required to renew her thinking and embrace her true Christ-centered identity. She speaks honestly about the discomfort of stepping into unfamiliar environments, the power of God-given hope, and the role of community in healing. Together, Jennifer and Dawn unpack how Scripture, neuroplasticity, and intentional growth plans help us move from “trailer park thinking” to the abundance mindset God desires for His children. Whether you’re navigating hardship, battling internal lies, or longing to step into God’s purpose for your life, this episode offers practical wisdom, biblical encouragement, and life-changing hope. Resource Referenced: Trailer Park CEO: 12 Leadership Cornerstones to Become a Godly Woman of Influence – A Diverse Leadership Tool Kit for Christian Women in Business by Dawn Cazedessus Discussion/Reflective Questions: Dawn shared how leaving the trailer park immediately didn't remove her "trailer park thinking". Where do you feel free externally but still stuck mentally or emotionally? What limiting belief from your past most affects how you see yourself today? What does the truth of Scripture say regarding that belief? What recurring thought patterns in your life need to be held up to God’s truth? When have you felt uncomfortable entering a new environment or opportunity? What helped (or could help) you stay present and keep moving forward? Who in your life models the kind of thinking, stability, or faith you want to grow into? What are some ways you can actively learn from them? What situations trigger a scarcity mindset for you?What would it look like to adopt an “included” or abundance mindset based on Ephesians 3:20? Dawn said Jesus was the first Person she could fully trust. How has trusting—or struggling to trust—God shaped your own story of growth? What's one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Find Dawn Cazedessus: On Instagram On Facebook Follow her writing on Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

 Faith Over Fear Episode Summary Guest: Mary DeMuth Topic: The Freedom of Surrender: 40 Devotions to Let Go and Live Free What if the peace you’re craving isn’t found in control, but in letting go? In this episode, Carol McCracken talks with author and speaker Mary DeMuth about her new devotional The Freedom of Surrender. Together, they explore what it means to release the hidden parts of our lives—our past, our relationships, our daily struggles, and our deepest worries—to a God who can handle them better than we can. Mary shares how surrender became a life-changing spiritual practice, one that moves us from striving and fear into trust and rest. She offers honest insights about how to identify areas of resistance, what healthy surrender looks like, and why God often meets us most powerfully when we finally stop trying to manage everything ourselves. Whether you’re carrying regret, trying to fix relationships, or simply exhausted from worry, this conversation reminds you that freedom begins where self-reliance ends. Resource Referenced: The Freedom of Surrender: Forty Devotions for a Joyful Life in Christ by Mary DeMuth Download your free faith-building resource for all November's Faith Over Fear episodes here Discussion/Reflection Questions: When you hear the word surrender, what emotions rise up first—fear, relief, resistance, or trust? Mary talks about surrendering our inner life—our thoughts, wounds, and private battles. Which part of your inner life might God be inviting you to release today? How can you tell when you’ve picked something back up that you once laid down before God? What’s one relationship where you sense God asking you to trust His timing and work rather than your own effort? Mary reminds us that surrender and freedom are connected. What would “living free” look like for you this week? Which Scripture verse helps anchor your heart when surrender feels scary or uncertain? Connect with Mary DeMuth: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Find her writing on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do long waiting seasons leave you feeling anxious, disoriented and discouraged, particularly when they involve something for which you deeply long? Obviously, we can't "hurry" God along or "force His hand," but we can learn to wait in a way that strengthens our faith, deepens our relational intimacy with Christ, and prepares us for the very good plans He's forged uniquely for each of us. In this episode, Dove Award nominee, singer/songwriter Jamie Jangochian shares how God used her long battle with Lyme disease to bring about growth and reveal the new dreams He had for her. She also shares how to recognize the lies that hold us back, find inner healing through our interaction with Christ, and view our waiting seasons not as disappointments but divine appointments that prepare us for our next assignments. Resource Referenced: Sacred Surrender: The Practice of Waiting Well with God Reflective/Discussion Questions: What resonated with you most in this episodes? Why might God use waiting seasons to grow us, our faith, and our relationship with Him? What do you typically find most challenging when it comes to waiting well? When have you endured a waiting season that caused you to question God's goodness or His plans for you? How did God use that situation to deepen your faith, clarify or expand your calling, or bring soul-deep healing? Which of God's character traits can increase your faith during waiting seasons? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Jamie Jamgochian: On her website On Instagram On Facebook Follow her music on Spotify Follow her writing on Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When faith and mental health collide, many believers feel caught between shame and silence. In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol McCracken talks with Chris Morris, author of Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward. Chris shares his raw and redemptive story of battling depression, walking through a crisis of faith, and discovering that God’s grace meets us even in the darkest places. Together, they explore how to dismantle harmful theology, find freedom through honesty, and experience hope that outlasts despair. Resource Discussed: Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward Discussion/Reflective Questions: Chris talked about trying to “power through by sheer will” before realizing something had to change. When have you reached the end of your own strength and discovered the freedom of surrender? Many people tie their identity to productivity or performance. How has God been reshaping your understanding of worth apart from what you do? Chris described a “crisis of faith,” not a loss of faith. What’s the difference for you—and how have moments of doubt actually deepened your faith journey? What are some “theological traps” you’ve encountered—beliefs that sounded spiritual but actually created fear, guilt, or shame rather than freedom? Chris’s friends later asked, “Why didn’t you tell me?” Who in your life could you safely open up to about your struggles, and what would it take to start that conversation? Paul’s story of the “thorn in the flesh” reminded Chris that God’s grace is enough, even when healing looks different than we hoped. How does that truth speak to your current season of pain or waiting? What is one practical step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this podcast episode?   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

People often say, "Don't talk about religion and politics in polite company," and for good reason. These types of discussions tend to hit our deepest values. Yet, Jesus also told us to share the gospel to the ends of the earth. We want to live lives of impact, to obey Christ's command to bring His light to the darkest corners of the earth, and to see our family, friends and loved ones transformed by grace. But many of us have ample reasons to experience fear and anxiety when engaging in spiritual conversations. (Or any tense discussion with those who view the world, and issues, differently) As a result, we might find ourselves either shrinking back in self-protection or getting sucked into arguments that quickly devolve and turn ugly. Both responses challenge our ability to fulfill the greatest call Jesus gave us–to share the gospel with those who don’t yet know Christ. In this episode, host Jennifer Slattery speaks with apologist, pastor and church planter Dave Montoya on all the reasons these conversations feel so difficult and have the potential to turn so hostile, how to analyze our unique triggers, and create more fulfilling and fruitful discussions with those who hold a vastly different view of our world than we do. (While Jennifer and Dave's discussion center on the gospel, they believe you'll find the tips shared helpful in most challenging and uncomfortable conversations.) Discussion/Reflective Question: What resonated with you most in this episode? When it comes to discussing big truths with those with whom you disagree, do you most frequently tend to get sucked into a tense argument or try to avoid the discussion, and why do you think this might be? Consider a "truth discussion" when you became reactive or withdrawn. What factors might have impacted your reaction? How difficult do you find it to see commonalities between yourself and those with whom you disagree on issues about which you feel deeply passionate, and why do you think this is? According to Dave Montoya, we should approach anger with caution. Why did he suggest this, and how do you feel regarding his perspective? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Dave Montoya on his church's website Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol talks with pastor and author Terry Crist about his new book, Now You Can Stop Running. Together, they unpack what it means to stop fleeing from pain, purpose, or even God—and instead face what’s been chasing us with courage and grace. Terry shares his own story of reaching a breaking point when he could no longer outrun what God wanted to heal, revealing that running often masks deeper fears of rejection, failure, or being truly known. Through candid conversation, Terry and Carol explore the connection between honesty, healing, and spiritual rootedness. They discuss how facing our inner struggles can restore connection with ourselves, others, and God—and how spiritual practices like solitude, Scripture reflection, and prayer can ground us when we feel the urge to escape. If you’ve ever found yourself avoiding hard conversations, hiding behind busyness, or believing you don’t deserve to rest, this episode will help you recognize the subtle ways you might be running—and offer practical tools to stop, stay, and be fully present to God’s transforming grace. Resource Referenced: Now You Can Stop Running: Finding the Rest Your Soul Desperately Needs What are some ways you might be running from pain, purpose, or vulnerability in your own life—perhaps without realizing it? When have you felt God gently calling you to stop running and face something hard? What happened when you did? What fear tends to drive your fleeing behaviors—fear of failure, rejection, being known, or something else? How might slowing down and telling yourself the truth—about your emotions, motives, or needs—open the door to healing? Which spiritual practices (solitude, journaling, Scripture, community) help you stay grounded when you want to escape? Do you believe you’re worthy of rest and belonging? What would change if you lived like that truth was real? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Find Terry Crist: On his website On Instagram Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jonathon M. Seidl joins Carol McCracken to share his powerful story of recovery, identity, and hope from his book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. Jonathon opens up about the lies he believed, the role shame played in keeping him stuck, and how redefining alcoholism as a “misordered relationship” helped him name the problem honestly. He talks candidly about faith struggles and the importance of recognizing that while our mistakes describe us, they do not define us. Listeners will be encouraged by Jonathon’s reminder that freedom in Christ doesn’t mean perfection—it means learning to run to the One who redeems us, even in our weakest moments. Resource referenced: Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic: A Candid Conversation on Drinking, Addiction, and How to Break Free Discussion/Reflective Questions: Jonathon says, “our mistakes describe us, but they don’t define us.” How do you see that truth reflected in your own life story? He describes alcoholism as “a misordered relationship with alcohol.” What other misordered relationships—whether with food, work, approval, or something else—might we need to name honestly? Jonathon admitted that the only drink he could say no to was the first one. What does that statement reveal about the nature of temptation, and how can it apply to other struggles we face? How has shame kept you stuck at times, and what practical steps help you break free from its grip? Identity is a central theme in recovery. How have you learned—or how are you learning—to root your identity in Christ rather than in mistakes, achievements, or struggles? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Jon Seidl On his website On Instagram On Facebook Subscribe to His podcast, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.