Everything Made Beautiful with Shannon Scott

I almost didn't record this episode. I've been sitting with these thoughts for weeks, wrestling with whether to speak, when to speak, and how to speak about the cultural moment we're in.I've been thinking a lot about September 11th lately, about who we were in those days and how we were. Republicans and Democrats wept together. Strangers helped strangers. We saw each other as Americans first, humans first. For all the horror of that day, there was something unexpectedly beautiful about how it stripped away our superficial divisions and revealed our shared humanity.What a stark contrast to where we find ourselves now.In this episode, I'm wading into some deep waters about the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the response from our culture, and the heartbreaking disunity I've witnessed even among believers. I share why I've drastically limited my social media intake and why I believe we were never intended to bear the weight of the world on our shoulders. I talk about the sacred rhythm of listening first, pondering deeply, and responding with compassion and intention.I also get vulnerable about my own convictions... why I'm choosing to be a hope-bringer rather than adding fuel to the flames, and what it means practically to guard our gates, embrace the power of the pause, and look for the image of God even in those who make our blood boil.Everything is on fire, but we don't have to add fuel to the flames. We can choose to carry water instead of matches.This one's personal, friends. And I'm grateful you're here for the journey.Chapters00:00 | Introduction: A Call to Reflect03:34 | The Weight of Words: Navigating Anger and Grief06:45 | The Impact of Digital Overload on Compassion09:38 | The Importance of Silence and Listening12:41 | Shared Humanity in Times of Crisis15:10 | Rejecting Dehumanization: Embracing the Imago Dei18:06 | Practical Steps to Foster Hope22:21 | Navigating Cultural Moments with Wisdom25:14 | Personal Reflections on Recent Events29:16 | Choosing Hope in a Divided WorldShannon's Website: shannonsuzannescott.comShannon's Instagram: instagram.com/shannonsscott

Today I sit down with Carl and Heather Cartee, married 26 years and hosts of their own marriage podcast, for our first deep dive into marriage on Everything Made Beautiful. This conversation is for every couple - whether you're thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between.Carl and Heather get real about the biggest challenge they see in marriages today: the epidemic of busyness that leaves couples drifting apart without even realizing it. They share the crucial distinction between marriage as contract versus covenant, and why understanding that difference can transform how you approach conflict and commitment.This conversation tackles practical tools for reconnecting when you feel like roommates, including their wisdom to "act your way into a feeling instead of feeling your way into an action" and "be interested, not interesting" when drawing out your spouse. We dive into why regular maintenance matters more than crisis intervention and how their own seasons of struggle led them to normalize therapy and community support.With four teenage boys at home, they offer insight into how their marriage has evolved through different seasons and why the things that initially drew them together also became sources of conflict. They share vulnerable stories about learning to use words as tools for connection rather than weapons, and how God has refined their strengths without diminishing what makes them unique.Whether your marriage needs a tune-up or major repair, this conversation offers hope, practical steps, and the reminder that if you're not intentionally working on your marriage, you're naturally drifting apart. Their message is clear: don't ever be discouraged - God is fighting for your marriage.Carl + Heather's Website: https://www.carlandheather.com/Carl + Heather's Podcast: https://www.carlandheather.com/podcastCarl on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlcartee/Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heather.cartee/

I sit down with author Jen Thompson to discuss her book "Return to Jesus: An Invitation to Abide with Him in Every Beautiful, Stressful or Tedious Moment." This conversation is for every woman who feels overcommitted before her feet hit the floor in the morning.Jen opens up about what prompted her to write the book... that post-pandemic season when life went from zero to 100 mph and she desperately wanted to carry the lessons of stillness into the chaos. We dive into what it really means to abide with Jesus throughout ordinary, overwhelming, and mundane moments rather than compartmentalizing our faith into just the "holy" parts of life.The heart of our conversation tackles the plague of overcommitment that so many women face. Jen shares practical wisdom about taking your calendar before the Lord, learning to say no without explanation, and why scheduling "no plans days" might be the most counter-cultural thing you can do. We explore why our worth often gets tangled up in our productivity and how saying yes to everything might be robbing someone else of their opportunity to serve. Jen vulnerably shares about her own struggle with shame and how Jesus meets us exactly where we are - no cleaning up required. We discuss why the voices telling us to get ourselves together before coming to God sound nothing like how our Father actually speaks to us.Whether you're drowning in expectations, numb with busyness, or simply trying to figure out how to meet with Jesus in your current season of life, this conversation offers hope, practical tools, and the reminder that you are seen, loved, and held by God in every moment.Chapters00:00 | Introduction and the Cost of Writing02:59 | The Heart Behind 'Return to Jesus'06:02 | Abiding in Busy Seasons of Life12:33 | Navigating Overcommitment and Saying No18:44 | Meeting Jesus in Ordinary Moments22:07 | The Impact of Shame on Our Relationship with God26:39 | Disrupting Patterns for an Eternal Perspective27:23 | Disrupting the Mundane: Finding Spiritual Rhythms30:40 | Seasons of Restoration: God’s Work in Our Lives37:03 | Recognizing and Embracing Life's Seasons40:47 | An Invitation to Grace: You Are Seen and Loved44:01 | Designing Your Perfect Day: A Reflection on JoyJen's Website: http://www.jenthompsonauthor.comJen's Blog: http://www.trulyyoursjen.comJen's Facebook: facebook.com/trulyyoursjenJen's Instagram: instagram.com/trulyyoursjenJen's Podcast: https://jenthompsonauthor.com/the-podcastJen's Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/747877/return-to-jesus-by-jen-thompson/

I sit down with Pastor Tony Calabrese, lead pastor at The Gathering in Spring Hill, Tennessee, for a conversation that ranges from his admittedly bougie coffee habits to the deep spiritual work that happens in seasons of transition.Tony shares how his passion for prayer was shaped by watching his single mom depend on God through difficult circumstances, and why he believes prayer begins with understanding God as Father rather than taskmaster. We dive into his journey of saying yes to his biggest no - church planting - and how God often calls us out of our comfort zones to step into His purposes.The heart of our conversation centers on transition as spiritual invitation. Tony offers profound insight for anyone feeling stuck between what was and what's to come, explaining why God's perceived absence in difficult seasons might actually be the prime condition for His breakthrough. We explore how the greatest demonstration of God's power at the resurrection was actually what was missing from the tomb, not what was there.Tony also shares about The Gathering, the church he recently planted after a previous church planting season ended during COVID. He describes this new venture as the most freeing and joy-filled season of his 19-year ministry. Whether you're in a season of transition, struggling with prayer, or simply need encouragement to trust God in the unknown, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom for following Jesus through every season of life.Chapters00:00 | Introduction and First Impressions04:42 | Transitioning Through Life's Seasons05:11 | The Coffee Journey09:12 | The Power of Prayer14:27 | Personal Stories of Prayer19:13 | Saying Yes to Our Biggest No23:07 | Encouragement for Prayer29:02 | Navigating Transitions30:14 | Navigating Transitions: The Spiritual Journey37:01 | The Power of Dependence in Transition41:29 | God's Silence: A Test of Faith47:34 | The Gathering: A New Church Community54:45 | Designing a Beautiful Day: Simple JoysTony's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_calabrese_The Gathering Website: https://www.thegatheringchurch.co/Tony on QAVA: https://qava.tv/teachers/tony-calabrese/

We're back! I brought all three of my kids onto the podcast for an unplanned family conversation about the whirlwind of changes hitting the Scott family all at once. Maggie's thriving in Orlando at Disney World, Jack just moved to Chattanooga for new opportunities, and Ali surprised us all by getting accepted to a ministry internship in Norwich, England after feeling God's call during a school trip.With all three kids officially launched, Jeff and I made the decision to sell our Franklin house and pursue financial freedom for the first time in our marriage. I'll be honest... having the house on the market feels invasive, and my kids definitely called me out for my magic eraser obsessions during showings.We dive into the realities of adulting (spoiler: everything is expensive), how faith becomes your own when you leave home, and why people don't grieve change itself but rather what they're losing. The Scott family will be scattered across the globe now, but we trust God with wherever He's leading us next. This episode is raw, real, and full of the chaos you'd expect from an organic family conversation - including dog interruptions and sibling roasting.Chapters00:00 | Introduction to Change03:35 | Navigating Life Transitions05:45 | Allie's Move to England08:51 | Jack's Journey to Chattanooga11:05 | Maggie's Experience of Adulthood14:01 | Challenges of Independence16:50 | Embracing New Opportunities18:30 | Reflections on Family Dynamics29:17 | Finding Personal Space and Adjusting to Change31:34 | The Decision to Sell the Family Home33:23 | Navigating the Emotional Toll of Selling37:02 | Reflections on Family Dynamics and Memories40:31 | Embracing Change and New Beginnings50:49 | Personal Growth and Faith Journeys56:30 | Trusting God Through Transitions

In this deeply encouraging episode, I sit down with my dear friend Margaret Feinberg to discuss her powerful new book, "The God You Need To Know," which explores the Holy Spirit throughout the Old Testament—a perspective many of us have never considered.Margaret vulnerably shares about the grueling journey of writing this book, including mysterious physical symptoms that only appeared when she sat down to write, countless setbacks, and what she calls "spiritual static" that seemed to oppose this message at every turn. But the result is a revolutionary look at how the Holy Spirit has been actively working since Genesis 1:2, not just appearing for the first time at Pentecost.We dive into why so many believers feel disconnected from the Holy Spirit—often seeing Him as ethereal, less relatable than Jesus, or reserved for "special" Christians. Margaret unpacks beautiful imagery from scripture like the Spirit "hovering" over the deep, using the same Hebrew word that describes an eagle brooding over its young, providing warmth, protection, and provision in our uncertainty.This conversation is filled with practical wisdom for recognizing the Spirit's work in everyday moments—from simple breath prayers to keeping a daily journal with one question for Holy Spirit. Margaret shares incredible stories of God's surprise and delight in ordinary circumstances, like buying a purse that perfectly matched a grieving friend's Easter dress, reminding us that the Spirit-led life is accessible to all of us.Whether you've felt the Holy Spirit is silent in your life, wondered how to access the power that raised Christ from the dead, or simply want to live with more intentional awareness of God's presence, this episode offers hope and practical steps for experiencing the fullness of who God is—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.This isn't about becoming super-spiritual; it's about recognizing how the God who created you is already uniquely working in your life.Margaret's Website: https://margaretfeinberg.com/Margaret's Book: https://www.margaretfeinbergstore.com/collections/all/products/the-god-you-need-to-know-experience-the-holy-spirits-power-and-presence-today-bookMargaret's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mafeinberg/Margaret's Other Resources: https://www.margaretfeinbergstore.com/collections/all

In this delightful episode, I sit down with my daughters Ali and Maggie for another surprise guest reveal featuring our beloved friend Jordan Hester—complete with confetti and celebration, as always! Jordan is a professional home organizer in the Sarasota area and a certified leadership coach who has become like family to us.We dive into Jordan's journey from six and a half years in church ministry to finding his calling in home organization, where he combines his gifts of hospitality and encouragement to help people during some of life's most overwhelming transitions. Jordan shares candidly about navigating a "desert season" in ministry, losing his father in 2020, and how grief shifted his perspective on work, life, and heaven.This conversation covers the art of biblical community during hard seasons, what it takes to be a great leader, and how Jordan has cultivated his remarkable ministry of presence—including why he always carries confetti and never misses an opportunity to celebrate others. We also explore how he's learned to ask for help and find his own sources of encouragement while pouring into so many others.Whether you're in ministry, going through a difficult transition, or simply need encouragement about finding purpose in unexpected places, Jordan's story is a beautiful reminder that God uses every season—even the desert ones—to shape us for His purposes. Plus, you'll want to grab some confetti after listening to this one!

In this episode, I share about one of the loneliest and weirdest seasons I've walked through in recent years—the strange territory of being nobody where you used to be somebody. It's been over a year since I stepped away from church staff, and I'm only now finding words for this peculiar experience.When you transition away from ministry leadership, you don't just leave a job—you lose your immediate answer to who you are and what you do. You enter an awkward no man's land where you're still supposed to show up every week because it's "church family," but your role and relationships have fundamentally changed in ways nobody really prepared you for.I talk honestly about the identity earthquake that happens when your name is no longer attached to a spiritual job description, the grief of going from essential to optional, and why learning to be a normal person is harder than it looks. I also share about the unexpected freedom I've discovered in functional obscurity and why I now pray for this gift for all my ministry friends.This episode is for anyone navigating the awkward dance of staying put when everything has changed, for those wondering if they've made a terrible mistake or discovered a beautiful freedom, and for ministry leaders who need to know they're not crazy for feeling what they're feeling during transition seasons.Sometimes the most profound spiritual formation happens not through addition but through subtraction—and sometimes God reveals who we are not by giving us more responsibility but by taking away what we thought defined us.

In this tender episode of Everything Made Beautiful, I sit down with my dear friend and beloved worship leader Christy Nockels to talk about transitions, lullabies, and the sacred art of letting go. Christy has just released her second lullaby album, "King Who Never Sleeps: Anthems for Rest," and our youngest daughters have just graduated high school—flying the nest together just like they started preschool together 14 years ago.This conversation is for anyone navigating the bittersweet beauty of seasons ending and new ones beginning. You are seen in every season! We dive deep into why lullabies aren't just for babies (trust me on this), the unexpected emotions of empty nesting, and how to cultivate identity beyond the daily rhythms of motherhood. Christy shares the story behind her newest songs, including one called "Fly The Nest (Carry You)" that she wrote specifically for this season of releasing our children into the world.Whether you're a young mom wondering who you'll be when the daily parenting season ends, or you're already walking through the tender transition of kids growing up, this episode offers hope, wisdom, and the reminder that God has beautiful things ahead in every season. Plus, Christy sings a lullaby over all of us at the end—and it's absolutely perfect.If you've ever needed permission to have a good cry over the passage of time, or if you're looking for encouragement that your faithfulness in the hidden seasons will bear fruit, this conversation is for you.Christy's Website: https://www.christynockels.com/Christy's New Record: https://cnock.lnk.to/kingwhoneversleepsChristy's Book: https://tinyurl.com/9x97y42xChristy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christynockels/

In this powerful episode of Everything Made Beautiful, I sit down with marriage and family therapist Kimberly Haar to discuss her extraordinary journey from trauma to triumph. Four years after Kim's divorce, when she thought she was ready for a new beginning, an unimaginable night changed everything. What started as the worst night of her life became the catalyst for one of the most remarkable redemption stories I've ever heard.Kim vulnerably shares how she moved from victim to survivor, the sacred space where her healing began, and the choice to forgive the unforgivable—not just once, but over and over again. As both a trauma survivor and professional therapist, she offers wisdom that can only come from someone who's walked through the valley and emerged whole.This conversation tackles the hard questions: Where is God when bad things happen? How do we not get stuck in victimhood? How do we choose healing when we've been shattered? Kim's story is proof that no one is too broken for God's redemption, and that beauty truly can emerge from the deepest ashes.Whether you're walking through your own dark valley or simply need a reminder of God's faithfulness, this episode will challenge your heart and strengthen your faith in ways you don't expect.Be advised: This episode discusses domestic violence and gun violence, but culminates in the hope of Christ.Kimberly's Website: https://kimberlyhaar.comKimberly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Kimberly.haarKimberly's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimberlyJHaar/Kimberly's Book: https://kimberlyhaar.com/healing-from-lifes-deepest-hurts-book/

It’s hard to believe we’ve reached 40 episodes of Everything Made Beautiful. This one feels different—because it is.In today’s episode, I’m sharing a personal update and reflecting on what it looks like to intentionally press pause. Lately, the Lord has been inviting me to slow down, to be fully present for the season I’m in, and to make space for rest, reflection, and renewal.I talk about the significance of the numbers 7 and 40 in scripture, why I’m stepping back from the podcast for a little while, and how I’m leaning into a quieter rhythm—both for my family and for my soul. I also share where I’ll still be writing during this time and how you can stay connected.This isn’t goodbye—it’s just a sacred pause. And maybe, just maybe, it’s an invitation for you too.If you’ve been feeling the pull to breathe, recalibrate, or listen for God’s leading in a noisy world, I hope this episode encourages you to do just that.Let’s embrace intentional presence together.

In this episode of Everything Made Beautiful, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with author, speaker, and all-around kindred spirit, Rebecca George. From the moment I picked up her book Do the Thing, I knew we shared the same heartbeat for helping women discern God’s calling and walk it out with bold, gospel-centered obedience.Rebecca shares how her life mission—to leave people better than she found them and help them know Jesus more fully—shapes every part of her ministry. We talk about her newest book You're Not Too Late (and the surprising backstory behind that powerful title), what it looks like to pursue our God-given callings without shame or hesitation, and how to navigate the “meanwhile” seasons of life—those liminal spaces of waiting, longing, and not-yet.We also explore how unmet desires can either drive us to resentment or draw us closer to God, and how things like envy and comparison often creep in when we’re longing for what we see others receive. Rebecca offers practical wisdom on pre-deciding how we’ll respond in those moments, and we even talk about the necessity of “chill hours”—those hard, cold seasons that actually prepare us to bear fruit.Whether you’re just starting to sense a nudge from God or you’ve been sitting on a dream for years, this episode is for you. It’s a tender, hope-filled conversation about obedience, timing, and the truth that you are not too late for the good works God prepared in advance for you.Rebecca's Books(NEW!) You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up WorldBefore Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of LifeDo the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter GirlPrepare Him Room: Radical Radiance Interactive Advent DevotionalPassionate Prayer: Radical Radiance Podcast Companion GuideConnect with Rebecca:SpeakingCreative Business CoachingCamp for CreativesListen to Radical Radiance on Apple PodcastsListen to Radical Radiance on SpotifyTake the FREE Waiting Personality QuizTake the Why are you stuck in your calling? Quiz

Friend, if you’ve ever felt like your story was too broken, too messy, or too far gone to be made whole again—this episode is for you.I had the absolute joy of sitting down with my friend Meshali Mitchell, a gifted photographer, writer, and storyteller whose heart beats with hope and healing. Her book Restored: Partnering With God In Transforming Our Broken Places is more than just a story about renovating an old Texas farmhouse—it’s about the slow, sacred, sometimes painful process of partnering with God as He restores what’s been lost, broken, or buried deep within us.Meshali shares so honestly about the wounds she carried from childhood, the fear and perfectionism that shaped her early years, and the lies she once believed about herself and her story. But she also shares how God, in His kindness, began to rebuild her life piece by piece—teaching her that restoration isn’t just possible, it’s promised.This conversation felt like balm to my own soul, and I pray it will feel the same for you. So wherever you are—driving, walking, folding laundry, or curled up on the couch—I hope you’ll join us. Because restoration is real. It’s happening. And yes, it’s for you too.Meshali's Website: https://www.meshali.co/Meshali's Book: https://www.meshali.co/restoredMeshali's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meshali/

In this episode of Everything Made Beautiful, I sit down with my longtime friend, David Nasser — a powerful communicator, gifted evangelist, and someone whose personal journey has impacted thousands. David shares his compelling story of fleeing Iran as a child, finding faith in Jesus at 18, and discovering that pastoring wasn't just a profession, but a natural extension of who he is.We talk about what it means to live on mission, no matter your vocation, and the importance of embracing how God uniquely hardwires each of us for Kingdom work. David reflects on his years leading the world’s largest collegiate ministry and how young adults are uniquely positioned to discover their calling.We also dive into the brand-new From Grief to Glory Holy Week video series we recorded together with QAVA — a journey through the final days of Jesus' life, one day at a time. David shares what surprised him most as he revisited these familiar stories, how his personal grief brought new depth to Silent Saturday, and why we can't afford to skip over the harder moments on our way to resurrection.This conversation is real, rich, and rooted in the reminder that we are resurrection people — not just on Easter Sunday, but every day. I can’t wait for you to hear it.David's Website: https://www.davidnasser.com/David's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidnasser/David's Resources: https://www.davidnasser.com/#booksFrom Grief to Glory Holy Week Series: https://qava.tv/from-grief-to-glory-david-nasser/

In this episode, Maggie and Ali take over the podcast to kick off something new—our very first “Surprise Guest” episode—and they couldn’t have picked a more perfect guest than our dear friend (and ride-or-die) Kasey Ridling.Kasey has been part of our family for 15 years. From helping build a children’s ministry from the ground up to Braves games and breakups, she’s been right in the middle of it all with us. She’s not just someone we know—she’s family.In this episode, we talk about:How Kasey became such a pivotal part of our livesHer honest and beautiful reflections on singleness and the churchWhat teenage girls are really struggling with (and what moms need to hear)Why social media is shaping—and shaking—the next generationThe deep grief of losing her mom, and how God is still making that part of her story beautifulWe also laugh a lot. (Like, a lot.) And if you're a Braves fan, you’ll want to hear the story of the once-in-a-lifetime night we got to watch a World Series grand slam in person. Pure magic.Kasey is one of the most thoughtful, wise, and hilarious people I know, and I’m so glad she’s part of my girls' lives—and mine. Whether you're a mama, a mentor, or navigating your own season of waiting, I think you’ll find something special in this conversation.

In this episode, I sit down with my 22-year-old daughter Maggie to talk about something so many of us have experienced—heartbreak. Maggie recently walked through her first serious breakup, and we had an honest, emotional, and surprisingly hopeful conversation about what that process looked like for her.We talk about why Jeffrey and I chose to hold off on dating during our kids’ high school years, what Maggie learned as she navigated her first relationship as a young adult, and how deeply painful and disorienting it was when it ended. Maggie shares how she processed the grief (spoiler: video diaries and lots of tears), how God showed up for her in unexpected ways, and what healing has looked like on the other side.If you're a mom walking through something similar with your daughter—or you're someone healing from heartbreak yourself—this conversation is for you. We hope it brings you comfort, encouragement, and maybe even a few laughs. Hearts may not be built to be borrowed, but I believe God meets us right in the middle of the breaking. And He’s always making something beautiful, even here.Chapters00:00 | Navigating Breakups: An Introduction03:58 | The Impact of High School Dating Restrictions06:46 | First Love: The Significance of Maggie's Relationship10:00 | Realizations and Challenges in the Relationship12:51 | The Breakup: A Sudden Shift15:54 | Processing Grief and Emotions18:50 | Finding Healing and Moving Forward28:29 | Navigating Heartbreak Together33:11 | The Role of Faith in Healing38:06 | Emotional Growth Through Breakups40:07 | Advice for First-Time Heartbreakers44:40 | Supporting Daughters Through Heartbreak47:02 | Setting Standards in Relationships48:59 | Reflections on Maturity and Growth

Grief is not something we would ever choose, and yet, at some point, we all find ourselves walking through it. Maybe it’s the loss of a loved one, the shattering of a dream, a shift in relationships, or even the realization that life doesn’t look the way we thought it would. Grief comes in many forms, and sometimes, we don’t even recognize we’re grieving.In this episode, I want to have an honest conversation about grief—what it is, what it isn’t, and how, in the hands of our Shepherd, it can actually be a gift. I know, that may sound impossible, especially if you’re in the middle of deep sorrow. But grief invites us to know God in ways we never would otherwise. It teaches us to lament, to remember, to heal, and ultimately, to trust that even in our pain, God is present and at work.If you’re carrying grief today—whether it’s fresh or something that’s been with you for a long time—I hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone. The Shepherd walks with you through the valley, and even when you can’t see it, He is making all things beautiful in His time.Grief can be a gift that reveals God's character.Lament is an essential part of processing grief.Grief is not just about loss; it's about love and value.Grief can transform us and deepen our relationship with God.God's comfort is most profound in our moments of grief.Grief allows us to remember and honor what we've lost.Healing comes from engaging with our grief.Grief can lead to personal transformation and growth.We are invited to grieve together as a community.Grief ultimately points us to hope and redemption.Chapters00:00 | Understanding Grief as a Gift07:02 | The Pain of Grief16:47 | Grief as a Sacred Tool27:02 | Grief: A Tool for Healing and Transformation

Today’s episode of Everything Made Beautiful might wreck you in the best way. I’m joined by two of my dear friends, Malorie Elrod and Katelyn Duckworth, who are on a mission to love on adoptive families and birth moms through Funding Love. And before you think, "Well, I don’t have an adoption story, so this episode isn’t for me," let me stop you—because, as believers, our whole story is one of adoption into God’s family.Mal and Kate are here to share about the heart behind Funding Love, an organization that provides all-expenses-paid Disney vacations to adoptive families and birth moms. But this isn’t just about Mickey ears and fireworks—it’s about creating space for healing, bonding, and community for people navigating the complexities of adoption.We get honest about the unspoken struggles—the loneliness that can follow adoption, the misconceptions about birth moms, and why the enemy loves to isolate us when we’re most vulnerable. You’ll hear powerful stories, laugh, and maybe even consider how you can step into the adoption space somehow.Also, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have your heart entirely undone by the love of God, imagine being a birth mom who has spent years feeling unseen—only to be lavishly loved, with no strings attached. That’s what Funding Love is doing, and I can’t wait for you to hear about it.By the end of this episode, you might just be looking up flights to Orlando for the Funding Love Gala at the Four Seasons in April—because, listen, we are all about this sweet organization. If you’re looking for a way to love on families, support women, and be a part of something beautiful, this is it.keywordsadoption, birth moms, Funding Love, community support, open adoption, Disney World, post-adoption support, family bonding, motherhood, emotional healingtakeawaysAdoption is a calling that can transform lives.Open adoption allows for ongoing relationships with birth families.Birth moms deserve support and recognition in the adoption process.Funding Love provides unique experiences for adoptive families and birth moms.Shared experiences can foster deep connections and healing.Disney World serves as a magical backdrop for family bonding.Post-adoption support is crucial for families adjusting to new dynamics.Community is essential for both adoptive families and birth moms.Every adoption story is unique and deserves to be heard.Love and support can come from unexpected places.Chapters00:00 | Introduction to Adoption and Its Importance07:03 | Understanding Open Adoption10:00 | The Birth Mom Perspective13:03 | Introducing Funding Love15:59 | Challenges Faced by Adoptive Families19:07 | The Role of Birth Moms in Adoption23:02 | The Burden of Shame and Guilt24:02 | The Power of Community for Birth Moms25:19 | Understanding the Purpose of Disney Trips26:53 | Creating Magical Experiences for Adoptive Families31:16 | The Role of Magic Makers in the Experience33:03 | Lavishing Love on Adoptive Families34:16 | Pampering Birth Moms with Unique Experiences38:58 | Stories of Transformation from the Trips41:14 | The Power of Shared Experiences43:02 | Full Circle Moments in Adoption45:19 | Building Trust Through Fun47:10 | The Importance of Support for Birth Moms49:27 | Imagining a Perfect Day53:25 | The Call to Action for Supporting Adoption58:31 | New ChapterLinks:Funding Love Website: https://www.fundinglove.com/Funding Love Donations: https://www.fundinglove.com/donateFunding Love Gala: https://www.fundinglove.com/funding-love-galaFunding Love Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fundinglove/Malorie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malyourpal/Katelyn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katedawnduck/

Everything Made Beautiful is shaking things up! In this episode, we kick off something brand new—introducing my daughters, Maggie and Ali, as occasional recurring co-hosts! We dive into girl talk, covering everything from Maggie’s dream of swimming with sharks to Ali’s rekindled love for reading. We laugh about my not-so-secret pedestrian rage (yes, I have opinions on slow walkers), get real about the misconceptions of growing up in a ministry home, and share what it looks like to take ownership of our own faith. And because we’re not about pretending life is perfect, we also open up about lessons learned the hard way—mistakes, growth, and God’s grace in the middle of it all. This is the start of something special, and we can’t wait to take you along for the ride. So grab your coffee, settle in, and join us for this honest, hilarious, and heartfelt conversation.takeawaysMaggie is an event producer at Walt Disney World.Ali is a senior in high school and aspires to be a cosmetologist.Family quirks can be both funny and cringe-worthy.Growing up in a Christian family comes with misconceptions.Finding personal faith is a journey for both Maggie and Ali.Mistakes can lead to valuable lessons and personal growth.Guilt is often unhelpful and can hinder progress.High school drama fades in importance over time.Friendships remain strong despite physical absence.Advice to younger selves emphasizes perspective and self-worth.Chapters00:00 | Introducing the New Co-Hosts04:07 | Life Updates from Maggie and Allie05:58 | The Decision to Co-Host08:45 | Surprising Facts About Each Other11:37 | Misconceptions of Growing Up in a Christian Family14:32 | Personal Faith Journeys17:18 | Navigating Church Life as Kids20:16 | Awkward Church Kid Moments24:48 | Navigating Guilt and Responsibility28:01 | Lessons from the Past31:13 | Advice to Our Younger Selves32:44 | Fun Rapid Fire Questions34:22 | Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations35:12 | New Chapter

In this episode of the Everything Made Beautiful podcast, Shannon interviews author Krystal Ribble about her book 'Love Me in the Waiting.' They discuss the challenges and lessons learned during seasons of waiting, particularly in the context of faith and adoption. Krystal shares her personal experiences with loss and the importance of trusting God's timing, emphasizing that waiting is not a passive experience but a time filled with purpose. The conversation highlights biblical examples of waiting, the intimacy that can be developed with God during these times, and the legacy that can be left for others through how we navigate our waiting seasons.takeawaysWaiting seasons can deepen our faith and trust in God.God's timing is often protective and purposeful.We can find purpose in our waiting by shifting our perspective.Biblical characters provide examples of enduring waiting.Intimacy with God grows through honest communication during waiting.Our experiences in waiting can help us support others.God's plans are ultimately for our good and His glory.We should remember the lessons learned during waiting.Waiting is not a passive experience; it is filled with purpose.The legacy we leave can inspire others in their waiting.Chapters00:00 | Introduction and Background05:43 | The Journey of Waiting08:55 | Understanding the Purpose of Waiting11:54 | Biblical Examples of Waiting14:58 | The Impact of Waiting on Trust18:02 | Intimacy with God Through Waiting25:26 | Authenticity in Spirituality28:07 | Understanding Self-Love and God's Unconditional Love32:30 | The Voice of God vs. Negative Thoughts35:00 | Trusting God's Timing40:13 | Lessons from Waiting SeasonsLinksKrystal's Website: https://www.krystalribble.com/Krystal's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystalribble/Krystal's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deposit-your-doubt/id1783612184Buy Krystal's Book: https://a.co/d/6JuBYJU