Bookish Talks with Lia

Motherhood was never meant to be a solo sport, yet many of us find ourselves navigating it alone. Today, I’m chatting with Ashlee Gadd, founder of Coffee + Crumbs and editor and contributor of You're in Good Company. This book is a collection of essays about friendships, food, hospitality, and the kind of community so many moms are longing for. It’s full of real-life stories, practical ideas, and encouragement to show up consistently—even when life is messy.In our conversation, we talk about why motherhood wasn’t meant to be a solo sport, simple ways busy moms can build meaningful friendships, and why showing up in real life still matters—even in a digital world.I also want to note that I reference something Ashlee said related to Sarah’s essay Collateral Damage. That comment isn’t actually in the essay itself—it came from a separate Coffee + Crumbs conversation here.In this episode:Why motherhood isn’t meant to be a solo sportHow to build meaningful friendships as a busy momRedefining hospitality in everyday lifeSimple ways to gather and create communityWhy showing up in real life still mattersConnect with Ashlee & Coffee + CrumbsCoffee + Crumbs website: https://www.coffeeandcrumbs.netCoffee + Crumbs Podcast: Apple PodcastsInstagram: @coffeeandcrumbsAshlee Gadd on Instagram: @ashleegaddAshlee Gadd website: https://www.ashleegadd.comBuy the book: You're In Good Company: The Gift of Friendship, Motherhood, and Showing Up

In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I’m joined by Dr. Natalie Brand to discuss her new book, From Crimson to White: Finding Gospel Joy at Calvary. You might remember Dr. Brand from Episode 5: Ladies Love Theology, and it was such a joy to welcome her back to the podcast.Many Christians struggle with guilt, shame, and the constant pressure to perform. Add the busyness of everyday life, and it’s easy to lose sight of the joy that is ours in Christ. In Crimson to White, Dr. Brand takes us back to the heart of the gospel, showing how the truth of the cross frees us from striving and reminds us that we are fully loved and clothed in Christ’s righteousness.In our conversation, we talk about how performance-based thinking steals our joy, why so many believers feel spiritually weary, and how returning to the cross helps us rediscover the deep, lasting joy found in Christ.If you’ve been feeling weighed down by guilt, shame, or the pace of life, this episode is a beautiful reminder of the freedom and joy we have because of what Jesus accomplished at Calvary.In This EpisodeWhy so many Christians struggle with guilt, shame, and spiritual exhaustionHow performance-based faith steals our joyWhat it means to be clothed in Christ’s righteousnessHow the truth of the cross restores real gospel joyBook MentionedCrimson to White: Finding Gospel Joy at Calvary by Dr. Natalie Brand

Have you ever opened your Bible and wondered, Where do I even start? Or maybe you’ve felt unsure if you’re “doing it right.” In this episode, I’m talking with Kelly Needham, author, Bible teacher about her new study, See for Yourself: How to Study Your Bible with Confidence and Joy.We cover practical tools for studying Scripture, what to do when a passage feels confusing or hard to apply, how to make time in the Word even when life feels full, and how to move from simply gathering information to experiencing real transformation. Whether you’re a longtime Bible reader or someone who struggles to even open it, this episode is a warm invitation to see the Bible as God’s living Word and to study it with confidence and joy.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Kelly Needham’s new study: See for Yourself: How to Study Your Bible with Confidence and Joy

In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I’m talking with the team behind Redeemed Reader, a ministry helping Christian parents and educators confidently choose books for children and teens.We dive into their book, The Redeemed Reader: Cultivating a Child’s Discernment and Imagination Through Truth and Story, discussing:Why stories matter in shaping kids’ hearts and mindsHow to shepherd your children’s imaginationsTips for choosing books with both literary excellence and a biblical worldviewWhy Redeemed Reader engages with both Christian and secular booksRedeemed Reader’s mission is simple: “We’re reading ahead for you so that you can confidently choose books for your children and teens.” Their reviews, book lists, news, and resources equip parents and educators to raise thoughtful, discerning readers.Whether you’re a homeschool parent, a teacher, or just a book-loving mom, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical guidance for raising readers who engage both heart and mind.Connect with Redeemed Reader: https://redeemedreader.comGet their book: The Redeemed Reader: Cultivating a Child’s Discernment and Imagination Through Truth and Story

In this episode, we’re talking about walking by faith when suffering touches every part of life and has no clear end in sight. My guest is Karrie Hahn, author of Limping Heavenward: Living by Faith in Comprehensive and Chronic Suffering. Karrie is an editor, writer, and biblical counselor who serves as associate editor for Ligonier Ministries and Tabletalkmagazine. She brings both wisdom and compassion to this conversation.Together, we discuss what it means to hold grief and faith together during seasons of comprehensive and chronic suffering, how believers can persevere even when life feels overwhelming, and ways the church and loved ones can walk alongside those experiencing long-term hardship. Karrie also shares practical guidance for trusting God and keeping faith alive when there seems to be no end in sight.Whether you’re personally facing chronic illness or long-term struggles, or supporting someone who is, this conversation is full of encouragement, insight, and biblical hope.Resources and Links:Grab Karrie’s book: Limping Heavenward: Living by Faith in Comprehensive and Chronic Suffering 

In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I am joined by Bible teacher and author Elizabeth Woodson to talk about her new book, Habits of Resistance. We dive into how culture subtly disciples us through false gospels, why so many of us feel spiritually stuck, and how we can intentionally practice habits that form us more into the image of Christ.Elizabeth helps us think clearly about the tension between the story culture tells and the story God tells, how to recognize when we are being spiritually malformed, and what it looks like to step into God’s true story in everyday life. This conversation is rich, practical, and full of hope for anyone longing for greater wholeness in Christ.In this episode, you’ll hear about:How Elizabeth came to know the Lord and into ministryWhat inspired her to write Habits of ResistanceThe seven cultural “false gospels” shaping us todayHow to recognize when culture is forming us more than ChristWhat it looks like to engage culture without being consumed by itThe role of community and accountability in spiritual formationWhich chapter and which habit most impacted Elizabeth personallyOrder the book: Habits of Resistance: 7 Ways You're Being Formed By Culture and Gospel Practices to Help You Push Back by Elizabeth Woodson

Music is a powerful part of corporate worship—but it can also be a source of tension in many churches. How can we engage in singing that truly glorifies God and strengthens the body of Christ?In this episode, I’m joined by Ryanne J. Molinari, pianist, organist, worship director, and author of Spirit-Filled Singing: Bearing Fruit as We Worship Together. Ryanne shares a biblical framework for Spirit-filled worship, exploring how the fruit of the Spirit can shape the way we sing and worship together. We talk about cultivating intentional worship, encouraging congregations and worship teams, and growing in Christlikeness through song.Ryanne also shares her favorite worship artists, books that have shaped her faith and ministry, and insight for anyone seeking to deepen their worship life. Whether you lead worship, sing in the congregation, or simply want to grow in Spirit-filled singing, this episode is full of encouragement and practical takeaways.Topics We Cover:What Spirit-filled singing looks like in practiceHow the fruit of the Spirit applies to corporate worshipEncouragement for worship teams and congregantsRyanne’s favorite Christian books and worship musicGrowing in Christlikeness through worshipResources & Links:Buy the book: Spirit-Filled Singing: Bearing Fruit as We Worship Together by Ryanne MolinariRyanne’s website: https://ryannemolinari.com/writing/Spotify PlaylistFollow Ryanne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanne_molinari/

On today’s episode I’m chatting with Carolyn Lacey, a writer, speaker, and pastor’s wife based in the UK. We dive into her newest book, Amazed: 30 Days of Growing in Awe of God, a devotional designed to help us lift our eyes off ourselves and focus on God’s glory, power, kindness, and wisdom.Carolyn shares the heart behind the book, the Scriptures that shaped her writing, and why cultivating awe of God brings freedom from fear, comparison, and spiritual weariness. We also talk about practical ways to experience awe in everyday life and how we can encourage one another to keep our eyes fixed on Christ.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why growing in awe of God matters for your daily lifeHow awe brings freedom from fear, comparison, and spiritual “meh” seasonsPractical ways to cultivate awe in work, parenting, and ordinary momentsThe Scriptures that inspired Carolyn as she wrote AmazedHow we can help each other grow in awe of GodResources & Links:Follow Carolyn Lacey on InstagramAmazed: 30 Days of Growing in Awe of God – Link to purchase

Do you ever feel like your Bible study has to look a certain way—or that you’re falling short if it doesn’t? In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I’m talking with Christine Gordon and Hope Blanton, co-founders of At His Feet Studies, about how women can approach Scripture without burden, performance, or guilt.Christine and Hope share their journey of starting At His Feet Studies, how their Bible studies are designed to be practical, approachable, and life-giving, and tips for women in every season of life to engage with God’s Word in a meaningful way.In this conversation, we explore:How to study the whole Bible—even the hard or overlooked parts—without feeling overwhelmed.Tips for women returning to the Word after a dry season.Their favorite Bible study tools, personal habits, and encouragement for daily Scripture engagement.Grab their studies: www.athisfeetstudies.com

Has your attention felt scattered lately? In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I’m joined by author and ministry leader Aimee Joseph to discuss her new book, Look, Listen, Live: Cultivating Attention in a Distracted Culture.Aimee explores how we can move from distracted living to deeper devotion by practicing presence, noticing beauty, and even allowing pain to shape our attention in life-giving ways. Drawing from Scripture, neuroscience, and personal experience, she offers practical and spiritual guidance for cultivating holy attention in a world full of distractions.We also dive into Aimee’s journey of faith, her experiences in ministry and motherhood, and how her own life has shaped her approach to attention, worship, and spiritual growth. Whether you’re seeking to be more present with God, your family, or your community, this conversation is full of encouragement and challenge for living with focused, meaningful attention.Grab the book here

Have you ever felt like your sense of awe has faded? In this conversation, Lia sits down with Alicia Hamilton, author of Wonder: Rediscovering Our Awe of God and Reclaiming a Childlike Faith, her new devotional with Hosanna Revival. Together, they talk about what it means to rediscover the majesty of God, how to cultivate wonder in everyday life, and how Scripture—especially the Psalms—helps us reclaim a childlike faith.Alicia also shares how Wonder came to be, how her time in the Word deepened her awe, and practical ways we can slow down and delight in who God is.Connect with Alicia: InstagramThreadsSubstackBook link: Wonder: Rediscovering Our Awe of God and Reclaiming a Childlike Faith Connect with Lia:Bookstagram: @liarossreadsInstagram: @bookishtalkspodcast

In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I sit down with Whitney K. Pipkin, wife, mom of three, and author of We Shall All Be Changed: How Facing Death with Loved Ones Transforms Us. Whitney wrote this deeply personal and honest book after walking with her mom through the final season of a long cancer journey. Named the 2024 TGC Book Award winner in the First-Time Author category, her story points readers to truth, hope, and the presence of God even in grief.We talk about the heart behind her writing, the surprises she encountered in the process, and the hope she wants readers to carry away. Whether you’re walking through grief, caring for a loved one, or simply wanting to approach conversations about death with courage and faith, this episode offers encouragement, insight, and hope.Grab the book

In today’s episode, I’m joined by author and speaker Marissa Henley to talk about what it looks like to truly thrive after cancer and how we can love others well through that journey.Marissa was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive cancer in her 30s, and she shares how God met her in that season and how it transformed her view of faith, suffering, and community. We also discuss what inspired her to write After Cancer: Thriving with Hope and Loving Your Friend Through Cancer, and the lessons she’s learned about walking alongside those who are hurting.If you’ve ever wondered how to support a friend facing illness—or you’re in a hard season yourself—this conversation offers both compassion and practical guidance.Grab your coffee or tea, and let’s get started.How Marissa came to faith and began writingWhat her cancer journey taught her about God’s characterEncouragement for survivors learning to live beyond treatmentPractical ways to love a friend walking through cancerHow the body of Christ can better support one another in sufferingWhat to avoid saying when you want to helpMarissa Henley is a writer, speaker, and the author of After Cancer: Thriving with Hope and Loving Your Friend Through Cancer. She holds a graduate certificate in systematic theology from Reformed Theological Seminary and serves the body of Christ through her local church and ministry efforts. Marissa lives in Northwest Arkansas with her husband, where she loves annoying her teenage daughter with Gen Z slang and trying to lure her two sons home from college with offers of food and laundry.After Cancer: Thriving with Hope by Marissa HenleyLoving Your Friend Through Cancer by Marissa Henley

Today, I am joined by Alyson Punzi, author of the new picture book He Always Hears, published by Crossway. Her book helps children understand grief and sadness through biblical lament, teaching them that God hears their prayers and meets them in their emotions.In this episode, we talk about what biblical lament really means, why it matters for children, and practical ways caregivers can have honest, faith-filled conversations about sadness, hope, and God’s promises. This conversation is full of encouragement and practical insights for anyone helping kids navigate big emotions, and you will walk away inspired and equipped.Alyson has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Cedarville University and is passionate about discipleship and theology. After the sudden loss of her husband, who died of leukemia and was a pastor, she began writing about grief, lament, single motherhood, and guiding children through difficult emotions. Alyson and her daughter live in small-town Ohio.Connect with Alyson Punzi:Book: He Always Hears (Crossway)Substack: substack.com/@alysonpunziInstagram: @alysonpunziUse my code ROSSREADS for 5% off any resource on Westminster Books website. Link to shop

In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, we sit down with Darby Strickland, author of When It's Trauma: A Biblical Guide to Understanding Trauma and Walking Faithfully with Sufferers. Darby shares her expertise on trauma from a Christian perspective and offers practical insights on how we can support those who have experienced trauma. Whether you’re a counselor, a friend, or someone who simply wants to understand trauma better, Darby’s wisdom will help you walk faithfully alongside those who are hurting.In This Episode You’ll Learn:The biblical approach to understanding trauma and its effects.How to recognize the signs of trauma, even when they’re not obvious.Practical ways to support trauma sufferers with compassion and care.The importance of offering Christ-centered support in the midst of pain.How the local church can play a vital role in trauma recovery.How to navigate the balance of spiritual encouragement and practical support.Buy Darby’s Book:When It's Trauma: A Biblical Guide to Understanding Trauma and Walking Faithfully with SufferersUse my code ROSSREADS for 5% off any resource on Westminster Books website. Link to shopCounseling Resources:Christian Counseling Education FoundationAnchored VirtualFieldstone Counseling Counseling Books - Access the full list here

Today I’m joined by author Hunter Beless, wife and mother of four, who is passionate about helping women and children know and love God—especially through His Word. You probably know her best as the founder and host of the Journeywomen Podcast, and she actively serves in her local church.In today’s episode, we talk about her newest children’s book, Jesus Loves You More, and explore practical rhythms you can create at home and in everyday life to help your children know, understand, and love God’s Word. This conversation is full of encouragement and ideas parents can start using today.Resources Mentioned:For Kids & Families:Jesus Loves You More by Hunter BelessJohanna Musgraves – Lamplighters SongsTiny Theologians Fighter Verses for Kids CardsDiscovering the Bible by Mary WileyThe Christian Focus Story Bible by Carine Mackenzie365 Great Bible Stories by Carine MackenzieThe Big Picture Story Bible by David HelmsTraining Young Hearts by Abbey WedgeworthThe Biggest Story Bible by Kevin DeYoungRead It, See It, Say It, Sing It by Hunter BelessLia Ross Reads’ Books for Your Children Amazon ListFor Parents & Adults:Titus Bible Study by Hunter Beless and Courtney DoctorHumility by Andrew MurrayThe Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim KellerA Little Book on the Christian Life by John CalvinWomen of the Word by Jen WilkinThe Green Ember by S.D. SmithFinding Freedom in Christ: An 8-Week Study of Galatians by Portia Collins by Portia CollinsPortia Collins – Unseriously Podcast EpisodeConnect with Hunter Beless:Hunter’s WebsiteJourneywomen PodcastInstagramConnect with Lia:Bookstagram: @liarossreadsInstagram: @bookishtalkspodcast

In this episode, Julie shares her story of childhood trauma, emotional neglect, and grief—and how learning to lament became the pathway from sorrow to hope. Through Scripture and her personal journey, she reminds us that it’s okay to bring our pain before God and that healing often begins when we do.We talk about:How childhood experiences shape the way we relate to God and othersWhat emotional neglect looks like and how it impacts faithPractical steps to face past pain, build hope, and break unhealthy patternsHow the church can support those who have experienced childhood woundsListener questions on trusting God when earthly love has failed and how to grieve without shameJulie also shares about the inspiration behind her book, the hardest chapters to write, and what she hopes readers walk away with. Resources & LinksJulie Busler, Hopeful Sorrow: Turning to God in Hope When Childhood Wounds Have You Turning Away

Today I’m chatting with Laura Wifler, a wife, mother, and founder of The KidLit Lab, where she helps authors create true, beautiful, and helpful picture books that children will return to again and again. Many of you know her from her previous ministry, Risen Motherhood, and today we’re talking about her newest picture book, Your Worth Never Wavers: Discover True Beauty as a Girl Made by God.In this episode, Laura and I dive into how we can help the girls in our lives grow up with a secure sense of worth and identity—not chasing cultural standards of beauty, but resting in the truth that they are made in God’s image. She shares insights from her book, practical ways parents can start conversations with daughters about identity and worth.If you’re looking for guidance on talking with girls about body image, identity, and confidence rooted in how God created us, this episode is for you.Purchase your copy of Your Worth Never Waivers Connect with Laura:Wesbite: laurawifler.comInstagram: @laurawiflerSubstack: Laura WiflerConnect with Lia:Bookstagram: @liarossreadsInstagram: @bookishtalkspodcast

Anxiety can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting—but it doesn’t have to keep us from experiencing God’s peace. In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I’m joined by Blair Linne—Bible teacher, author, spoken word artist, and co-leader of the Family Worship Micro Conference with her husband, Shai. Blair’s new book, Made to Tremble: How Anxiety Became the Best Thing That Ever Happened to My Faith (Sept 2025), shares her journey through crippling anxiety and panic attacks, and how God met her in the middle of fear.Blair opens up about the challenges and lessons of walking through anxiety, the Scriptures that anchored her, and how her faith deepened in unexpected ways. We also talk about her upcoming children’s book, Yara the Brave and the Swirling Worry, and the importance of teaching kids how to navigate fear with God’s help.Whether you’re wrestling with anxiety yourself or walking alongside someone who is, this conversation offers encouragement, practical insight, and a reminder that God is present—even in the midst of trembling.In this episode, you’ll hear Blair share:How anxiety became part of her story and faith journeyWhat a panic attack actually feels like—and what helped her through themThe Scriptures and practices that brought peace in the middle of fearWhy she wrote a children’s book about anxiety and what she hopes kids take awayBooks that have shaped her faith and theology

In this episode of Bookish Talks with Lia, I sit down with Courtney Reissig, author of Someone to Believe In: Embracing the Savior Who Stays the Same When Everything Else Changes. Courtney shares her journey of faith through seasons of doubt, burnout, and disappointment—and how she learned to trust the unchanging nature of Jesus even when everything else in life feels uncertain.We dive into:The story behind her book and what inspired her to write itHow to navigate feelings of hurt when spiritual leaders let us downEncouragement for walking with Jesus when it feels easier to walk awayFinding hope in the One who never changesWhether you’re facing doubt, navigating spiritual disappointment, or just need a reminder of God’s steadfast love, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical wisdom for every season of faith.Book Mentioned: Someone to Believe In: Embracing the Savior Who Stays the Same When Everything Else Changes by Courtney Reissig Buy here | Grab your copyConnect with Courtney ReissigWebsite: courtneyreissig.comInstagram: @courtneyreissigTwitter (X): @courtneyreissigFacebook: Courtney Reissig AuthorTune in and get encouraged to trust Jesus when everything else changes.Connect with Lia:Bookstagram: @liarossreadsInstagram: @bookishtalkspodcast