The Speakeasy

In this episode, Rachel Van Kluyve joins the conversation to share how God built her family in ways she never expected. What began as a discussion about transracial adoption—how God brought her two beautiful daughters into her family and the challenges that came with it—became a powerful reflection on obedience, trust, and doing the next right thing when God calls you into the unknown. Rachel opens up about how her journey from DIY influencer to advocate, mother, and author has reshaped her understanding of faith and surrender. From walking through backlash and uncertainty to experiencing God's unmistakable hand in the details, she reminds us that His plans are always better than our own—and that His timing is perfect. Whether you're navigating adoption, stepping into a new calling, or learning to trust God in unexpected turns, this conversation will encourage you to take the next faithful step and watch Him write a story far greater than you imagined. This episode is brought to you by Angel Studios, whose mission is to tell stories that amplify light. Their newest family movie, SKETCH, captures the magic of imagination and the power of love and courage as a family faces challenges together. When you become a Premium Angel Guild member, you'll receive two free tickets to see SKETCH in theaters and gain full access to their streaming library of inspiring films and series. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more inspiring conversations: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ 👉 Become a member at Angel.com/blake

Welcome back to the Ending Well series. This is week five of looking back over the year, letting God redeem the hard parts, and choosing who we want to become as we step into a new season. Today's episode is all about marriage — but even more specifically, the kind of wife you want to be. Not the Instagram version. Not the performance version. The real, healed, whole version. This year, God radically reshaped how I see myself as a wife. I didn't set out to "become a better wife," but as He broke my addiction to productivity and constant performance, it transformed our marriage into an even safer place, a deeper gift, and a stronger home base. Episode Snapshot In this conversation, I share honestly about: The "strong, high-capacity, always-on" identity I lived in for years How that mindset spilled into our marriage and made me controlling, critical, and exhausted The follower's question that changed everything: "What did you do to change that brought this out in him?" Why sometimes you have to go first in doing the inner work The difference between survival-mode marriage and a marriage built on connection How God used pruning, slowing down, and healing my nervous system to completely shift my role as a wife We also name an important reality: There are marriages where abuse, betrayal, or deep harm is present, and "trying harder" as a wife is not the answer. I am not speaking into those situations; I am sharing from a context where I am married to a good man, and our biggest battles were often with our own mindsets, wounds, and habits. Key Shifts God Made In Me This Year Letting him lead Moving out of constant control mode Asking for his thoughts and actually listening Giving him room to step forward in decisions and in parenting Becoming less reactive, less critical Recognizing how perfectionism makes you hard on yourself and everyone around you Learning the difference between reacting and responding Owning moments where I project my own embarrassment or anxiety onto him Allowing myself to be supported Letting him help with dishes, laundry, the mental load, and home life Receiving service as an expression of love instead of proof that I am failing Integrating my calling and my home No longer seeing ministry or work as competition with being a wife and mom Letting God reorder my priorities: Jesus, marriage, children, then everything else Moving from "two separate versions of me" to one whole, integrated person Underneath it all, God shifted me from: "More of me, doing more, performing more" to "Less of me, more of Him — loving from abundance instead of exhaustion." A Scripture to Sit With "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." Psalm 127:1 This is true of literal houses and of marriages. Reflection Questions Take these to prayer, to your journal, or into a gentle conversation with your spouse: What kind of wife do I actually want to be — if no one were watching but God? Where am I over-functioning, trying to hold everything together in my own strength? Do I criticize my husband more than I pray for him? Where might God be inviting me to soften, slow down, or make space for him to lead? Am I willing to let Jesus make me whole, instead of just more productive? Sponsor: PreBorn So many women walk into an abortion clinic afraid and alone, about to make a life-altering decision. PreBorn meets them there by offering free ultrasounds, which doubles the likelihood that they will choose life. This year alone, thousands of babies have been rescued through PreBorn's work. They also provide counseling, classes, and practical support for moms up to two years after the baby is born. You can sponsor an ultrasound for 28 dollars and literally help save a life. Visit: preborn.com/speakeasy Sponsor: CrowdHealth Health insurance can feel like a rigged game. CrowdHealth offers a totally different way: a community of people funding each other's medical bills directly, without networks or middlemen. With CrowdHealth you get: Bill negotiators fighting for lower costs More affordable labs and prescriptions A vetted list of doctors And if something big happens, you pay the first 500 dollars and the community helps cover the rest During open enrollment, you can opt out of the old system and take your power back. Get started for 99 dollars for your first three months at: joincrowdhealth.com with code: speakeasy

December is here, Advent is upon us, and while the world is speeding up, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, breathe deep, and remember that anxiety does not magically clock out for the holidays. In this episode, we talk with Ruth about what it looks like to set the tone for the month of Advent with intention, slowness, and a heart that is more focused on Jesus than on performance, expectations, or a perfectly curated Christmas. Episode Overview So often, December becomes a pressure cooker: Packed calendars Parties and performances Family expectations Untended relationships Mom guilt and spiritual guilt If we are honest, it is easy to end the month exhausted, anxious, and wondering if we missed what Advent was really about. This episode is a gentle reset. Together we talk about: Why your anxiety around the holidays is understandable How to set expectations and boundaries without guilt How to stop treating December like a spiritual performance review How to carry Advent rhythms into January, February, and beyond Practically preparing Him room in your actual life, not just your ideal one And underneath all of it: the reminder that God really does see you, loves you, and is not grading your Christmas performance. Key Themes From the Conversation Advent as a beginning, not a box Instead of cramming all spiritual depth into four weeks, we talk about Advent as the starting line for rhythms that can continue all year. The goal is not a perfect December, but a reoriented heart that remembers Emmanuel, God with us, in every season. Letting go of holiday perfectionism Naming how much of our striving is actually about approval, worth, and wanting to be seen as a good mom, good host, or good Christian. Asking honest questions: What do I think I will gain from doing all of this? Is this truly about honoring Jesus or about proving something? Heart clutter and preparing Him room Ruth shares how her work on Advent came out of her own struggle to feel like everything had to happen in December. The phrase "prepare Him room" assumes there is clutter in our hearts that needs to be cleared, not just in our schedules. Permission to say no You do not have to say yes to every party, event, or opportunity, even if they are all good things. Sometimes the holiest thing you can do is guard a blank square on the calendar as "occupied by rest, family, and presence." Repairing relationships without putting all the pressure on one month We often try to fix a year's worth of tension or distance in a single holiday season. Advent is a beautiful time to begin the work of reconciliation, but not a demand to tie everything up with a bow by December 25. Parenting, anxiety, and what our kids actually see Our kids are learning what Christmas is by watching us. When they see us frantic, angry, and stressed, they learn that "this is what Christmas feels like." When they see us repent, reset, and re-center on Jesus, they witness the Gospel in real time. Scripture Threads in This Episode 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. Luke 12:27 Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. We talk about how Jesus pointed anxious hearts to birds and flowers as living reminders that the Father is not forgetful, and that our worth is not held together by our hustle. Practical Ways To Set the Tone for This Month Here are some simple, realistic practices that came up in the conversation: Decide your non negotiables A daily or weekly family moment to pray, read a verse, or use an Advent resource. A small rhythm that fits your actual life: after dinner, Saturday mornings, or before bed. Mark the "nothing" days on your calendar Literally block off blank days as taken. Protect margin so there is room for real conversations, unhurried play, and quiet with God. Saturate your environment with reminders of Jesus Scripture on the walls, art that points your eyes up, worship and Advent music playing in the background, an open Bible on the table. Let what you see, hear, and read pull your attention back to Him throughout the day. Practice quick repentance, not long self condemnation When you catch yourself spiraling, snapping, or worshiping your to do list, pause. Talk with Jesus first: Lord, I put this party, this list, or this image of myself on the throne. I am sorry. Please reorder my heart. Then talk with your people: Hey, I am sorry for how I just acted. That is not what I want this season to feel like for us. Can we reset and try again? Pay attention to embodied people, not just online life Online community is a gift, but the people under your roof and the ones who know your everyday life matter first. Ask God to help you see them, listen to them, and be fully present with them. Reflective Questions For You You might want to jot these down in a journal or talk them through with a friend or spouse: What is my real emotional temperature going into this month: anxious, hopeful, numb, overwhelmed? Where am I secretly hoping that a "perfect" Christmas will heal or fix something that actually needs long term tending with God? What are three things I can say no to this month so I can say a deeper yes to Jesus, my family, and rest? How can I build in daily "touch points" with God's Word that fit my real life, not my ideal life? Where do I need to humble myself, apologize, or reset the tone in my home? Sponsor: CrowdHealth It is open enrollment season, which is exactly when traditional health insurance hopes you will just click "renew" on high premiums and confusing fine print. CrowdHealth is a refreshingly different alternative. With your monthly membership you get: A team that helps negotiate medical bills Lower lab tests and many prescriptions Access to a network of vetted doctors And when something major happens, you pay the first 500 dollars and then the rest of the community steps in to help This is not insurance, but it is a way to opt out of a broken system and take some power back over your health care. To get started: Visit joincrowdhealth.com Use the code speak easy Pay just 99 dollars for your first three months Again: joincrowdhealth.com, code speak easy. Sponsor: PreBorn PreBorn is doing incredible, life saving work by providing free ultrasounds to women considering abortion. Women are about twice as likely to choose life after seeing an ultrasound or hearing a heartbeat. This year alone, PreBorn has helped rescue tens of thousands of babies. Their care does not stop at birth: they offer counseling, classes, and even practical help up to two years after the baby is born. You can literally be part of saving a baby's life today: 28 dollars funds one free ultrasound Go to preborn.com slash speak easy That is preborn.com slash speak easy Thank you for standing in the gap for moms and babies.

Week four of the Ending Well series lands right at the halfway mark. This episode is a look back over a three-year road (starting in 2022) of how God helped me fight inflammation, feel like myself again, and regain my "glow." This is not a weight-loss talk, not a quick-fix list, and not medical advice. It's a redemption story about healing from the inside out — spiritually, emotionally, and physically. "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." — 3 John 1:2 Key Themes Redemption doesn't just cover salvation; it keeps working through sanctification and healing. Inflammation wasn't just a food problem — it was also a soul and nervous system problem. Real health change is slow, layered, and personal. Your timeline will not look like mine. The glow came as a byproduct of feeling better and living freer, not chasing beauty. Important Disclaimers This episode is descriptive, not prescriptive. Not medical advice. Always talk with a qualified professional for your situation. Do not try to do everything at once. This was a year of foundations plus a total three-year process. One percent better beats perfect overnight. The Story: How the Dominoes Fell 1. August 2022: Stepping Back From Fear-Driven "Crunchy" Culture I was drowning in rules, guilt, and constant fear of what might be harming me. The anxiety and striving became more toxic than the ingredients I was avoiding. First domino: I quit trying to do it all perfectly and started living with grace, budget reality, and peace. Lowering my standards for myself lowered my inflammation. "Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28 2. October 2022: A Major Boundary With a Toxic Relationship I set a serious boundary with someone whose presence fueled self-hatred. Went no contact for about six months. The inner tape of shame and criticism began to quiet. I learned that giving up self-hatred is profoundly anti-inflammatory. Recommended resource mentioned: When to Walk Away by Gary Thomas (plus podcast interview) "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." — Proverbs 4:23 3. Early 2023: Changing How I Worked Out I stopped high-intensity workouts that were spiking cortisol daily. Switched to lifting heavy and slow, more functional strength training. Worked out less, recovered more. Energy improved, inflammation eased, confidence rose. Current favorite: Nourish Move Love workouts on YouTube. Big takeaway: exercise is a gift, not punishment. 4. February to May 2023: Going Gluten-Free and Cutting Back on Alcohol Grain Brain by Dr. David Perlmutter was a turning point. I tried going gluten-free (cold turkey, not ideal but it worked). Brain fog cleared, bloat dropped, inflammation noticeably reduced. Cutting alcohol alongside gluten made a huge difference. I don't need to understand every mechanism to honor what clearly helps my body. Reminder: everyone has a "thing" — gluten, dairy, sugar, alcohol, stress. Find yours with grace. 5. August 2023: Getting Off SSRIs After 15 Years A massive milestone with a full story in episode 267. For me, SSRIs were not helping inflammation or overall vitality anymore. The drop in facial inflammation from August to December was dramatic. I'm not shaming anyone on SSRIs — I was on them a long time. This was my path. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free." — Galatians 5:1 What Actually Healed Me This part matters: the glow wasn't mainly from products. Lowering impossible expectations Creating boundaries Learning to like myself Getting out of fight-or-flight Moving my body in a gentler way Removing gluten and minimizing alcohol Walking in obedience even when it felt backwards Healing was spiritual and emotional first, physical second. "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." — Romans 12:2 Simple "Glow Back" Skin Habits These are the practical, easy wins that helped the outside catch up to the inside. Dermaplaning at home Removes dead skin and peach fuzz. Skin care and makeup apply better. Big difference in glow and smoothness. Learn carefully through YouTube tutorials and use a quality razor. Stopping skin picking Picking was aggravating redness and irritation. I prayed about it and replaced the habit. New habit: brush my hair when the urge hits. Asking God for help in small things counts. Sponsor Spotlight: PreBorn A free ultrasound can double a mother's chance of choosing life. PreBorn offers ultrasounds plus ongoing support for mothers for up to two years. It costs 28 dollars to sponsor one ultrasound. Donate at preborn.com/speakeasy. Takeaways to Sit With If you're overwhelmed, start with one domino. God often heals from the root, not just the symptom. Your body listens to your beliefs. Peace, obedience, and self-kindness are deeply practical health tools. The goal isn't prettier; it's freer, healthier, and more whole. Reflective Questions What is one area where fear or perfectionism is inflaming your life? Who or what might need a boundary so you can heal? What small change feels like the next right step, not the whole staircase? How would your health shift if you treated yourself like someone God deeply loves? Closing Encouragement This glow-back story is really a "come back to life" story. It wasn't a sprint; it was obedience in baby steps. If you're in the thick of it today, don't despise the slow fade. God redeems years, bodies, minds, and hearts — and He's patient in the process. "He restores my soul." — Psalm 23:3

The day before Thanksgiving, we hit pause together for a short "FaceTime-style" heart-to-heart. Whether you're bracing for tricky family dynamics or you're the holiday superfan, this mini-episode gives you a simple, grace-filled plan to enter the day grounded, intentional, and at peace—without pretending or performing. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." — Proverbs 3:5–6 What We Talk About Two honest camps we tend to fall into for Thanksgiving (dreaded & pressured vs. excited & overamped) — and how intention bridges both. The 2023 burnout story that led to boundaries, fewer yeses, and clearer expectations. A 5–10 minute grounding ritual you can do today (journal-optional) to shape tomorrow. Why your presence > performance — and how to carry peace into complicated rooms. Gratitude as an anchor, not a performance — practical ways to spot "small gifts." Navigating family roles, old wounds, and people-pleasing without losing your growth. "Touch grass" breaks and mini-Sabbaths that reset your nervous system mid-chaos. Scripture Anchors Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trust > understanding; acknowledge > control. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 — "Rejoice… pray… give thanks… for this is God's will." Philippians 4:6–7 — Prayer + thanksgiving → peace that guards your heart. Colossians 3:15 — "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… and be thankful." The 5–10 Minute "Pre-Game" (Do this today) Name it honestly. Write how you actually feel about tomorrow (the good, the hard, the mixed). No bypassing. Three clarifying questions: What do I want to carry into tomorrow? What do I need to leave behind? What kind of presence do I want to bring? (peace, presence, wholeness, gentleness, curiosity, simplicity) Gratitude that isn't performative. List 3–5 specifics: Where has God sustained me lately? What tiny gift have I been overlooking? Where can I choose wonder over worry today? Pray it in. "Jesus, I acknowledge You here. Set my pace. Guard my tone. Keep me rooted." "Be still, and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10 Day-Of Rhythm (Quick Guide) Before you step in: step outside, touch grass, breathe, pray a verse (Prov. 3:5–6). Alarms as mini-Sabbaths: try 11:45 / 2:30 / 6:00 — step out, breathe, reset. Protect your growth: You can show up as who you are now, not who you used to be or who they expect. Boundaries are love: You're not responsible for others' perceptions; you are responsible for your presence. Gentle Prompts for the Table (or your journal) Where did I see a small mercy today? What pressure can I lower by 20% without harming the moment? If peace walked into this room, what would it sound like from me? Sponsor Messages PreBorn An ultrasound can double the chance a mom chooses life. This year alone, more than 38,000 babies were rescued through PreBorn's work, with moms supported through counseling and tangible help for up to two years after birth. $28 sponsors one ultrasound. Be the first voice of hope: PreBorn.com/Speakeasy CrowdHealth Open enrollment got you stressed? CrowdHealth is an alternative: pay a monthly advocacy fee for bill negotiation, affordable labs/prescriptions, and a trusted network of low-cost, high-quality doctors. If something big happens, you pay the first $500; the crowd helps with the rest. Start for $99 for your first 3 months with code speakeasy at joincrowdhealth.com. Disclaimer: CrowdHealth is not insurance.

Welcome back to week three of our Ending Well series — a journey to close out 2025 by reclaiming what's been hard, remembering what God has done, and letting Him renew our perspective before the year ends. In this episode, we're talking about something that hits close to home for so many of us — the addiction to productivity. This one is for the hustlers, the people-pleasers, and the high achievers who have built their worth around being useful, helpful, or constantly "doing." You're in good company, friend. Blake shares honestly about how God revealed her own dependence on productivity — how the need to "produce" had quietly become an idol — and how He's been peeling back layers of identity, performance, and striving to reveal something better: rest, surrender, and abiding. This conversation is a gentle but powerful reminder that: Rest isn't laziness — it's obedience. You are loved apart from what you produce. Productivity can serve you, but it was never meant to define you. God doesn't need your performance — He wants your presence. Through scripture, reflection, and a few hard-won lessons from this past year, Blake unpacks what it means to live from overflow rather than output. From redefining success in motherhood and work to learning that obedience sometimes looks like slowing down, this episode will meet you right in the tension between doing and being. "We were never meant to live as output machines. We were created to work from rest, not for it." If you've been running on empty, struggling to stop striving, or wondering why slowing down feels unsafe, this episode will help you rediscover the peace that comes when you let God set the pace. This episode is brought to you by: PreBorn — Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound for a woman considering abortion. When she hears her baby's heartbeat, everything changes. This year alone, over 38,000 babies have been rescued through PreBorn's work, and mothers receive the support they need through counseling, financial aid, and care for up to two years after birth. Be the first voice of hope. Sponsor an ultrasound today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that inspire reflection, rest, and renewal:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

Welcome back to The Speakeasy Podcast! In this episode, I'm joined by one of my closest friends—and one of my favorite people to learn from—Amy Bernhardt. I call her my "continuing education friend" because she's always learning, growing, and sharing wisdom that hits deep. Amy recently shared something online that stopped me in my tracks: "What if your weight loss journey isn't about losing weight at all, but about God teaching you about yourself and preparing you for what's next?" That idea launched one of the most honest and powerful conversations we've had—about what happens when we stop chasing perfection and start letting God use our health journey to heal our hearts, renew our minds, and strengthen our spirits. Amy shares her story of going from extreme fitness culture and burnout to walking in balance, fasting, and freedom. She opens up about breaking cycles of self-sabotage, learning discipline through small daily choices, and discovering that getting healthy can be one of the holiest things you ever do. We also talk about: The false identities that keep us stuck in shame and failure How fasting revealed spiritual strongholds, not just physical habits The connection between physical healing, emotional renewal, and obedience What it means to start before you "feel ready" and trust God with the process This conversation is both real and redemptive, reminding us that God cares about every part of us—body, mind, and spirit—and He's in the details of your healing journey. This episode is brought to you by: PreBorn — Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound for a woman considering abortion. When she hears her baby's heartbeat, everything changes. You can be the voice of hope that helps save a life and support a mother in need. 💛 Give today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy CrowdHealth — It's open enrollment season, and if health insurance makes you want to scream into a pillow, you're not alone. CrowdHealth is the better way—no insurance, no hidden fees, just a community that helps cover medical costs together. Pay a low monthly fee, get transparent pricing, and take your power back. Get started for just $99 for your first three months with code SPEAKEASY at joincrowdhealth.com Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that blend real life, healing, and hope: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this episode, we continue our Ending Well series by diving into what it really means to go a different way—to stop running on self-reliance, striving, and noise, and instead return to the quiet confidence of walking with God. This has been one of the hardest years of my life, but also one of the most redemptive. Through heartbreak, pruning, and wilderness seasons, God has been dismantling old patterns and showing me that His way—the quiet, trusting, restful way—isn't weakness. It's strength. God led me to Isaiah 30:15: "In returning and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength." It's a verse that has completely reframed my year and the way I view obedience. In this conversation, we unpack what those four words—returning, rest, quiet, and trust—look like in real life. From letting go of the need to hustle, to learning to rest when it feels unsafe, to finding courage in stillness, this is a roadmap for ending the year not just reflective—but renewed. If you've been wandering, striving, fighting, or doubting, this episode will remind you that God's invitation is simple: Come home. Rest. Be still. Trust Me. Because the way you've always done things isn't the way God is asking you to end this year. He's calling you to go a different way. This episode is brought to you by: PreBorn — A ministry rescuing babies and supporting mothers in crisis. Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound for a woman considering abortion—and when she hears her baby's heartbeat, everything changes. Be a voice of hope. Sponsor an ultrasound today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy CrowdHealth — Healthcare shouldn't be confusing or crushing. CrowdHealth is a community-based alternative to insurance that helps you take back control. Pay a simple monthly fee, get your bills negotiated, and join others sharing costs when life happens. Get started for just $99 for your first three months with code SPEAKEZ at joincrowdhealth.com Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations about surrender, strength, and walking with God: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this episode, I sit down for the third time with one of my all-time favorite authors, Gary Thomas, whose books have radically shaped my faith and perspective on life, relationships, and spiritual growth. From When to Walk Away to Sacred Marriage and Sacred Pathways, Gary's writing has helped countless believers understand what it means to live a life rooted in truth and grace. His newest book, The Life You Were Reborn to Live, takes that even deeper—calling out the spiritual lies that keep us buried beneath the surface of God's best. These lies are subtle, familiar, and often sound like wisdom—but they quietly rob us of peace, purpose, and abundance. In this conversation, Gary and I unpack three of the most powerful lies from his book that hit me straight in the heart (and probably will for you, too). We talk about: Dismantling Restlessness — learning to live in peace, not panic. Dismantling the Comfort Lie — seeing affliction as God's loving pruning, not punishment. Dismantling Complacent Ignorance — rekindling a hunger for wisdom that transforms how we think and live. Gary helps us see how many of these lies have even slipped into church culture—convincing us to chase comfort, control, or comparison instead of the freedom and renewal Christ offers. This episode will help you identify where the enemy has kept you "underground" and remind you that you were reborn to live in the light. It's the perfect conversation to help us end the year well—tearing down what's false and walking boldly into the truth. This episode is brought to you by: PreBorn — A ministry rescuing babies and supporting mothers in crisis. Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound for a woman considering abortion—and when she hears her baby's heartbeat, everything changes. Be a voice of hope. Sponsor an ultrasound today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy CrowdHealth — Take your power back from broken health insurance. For a simple monthly fee, CrowdHealth connects you to a community that shares medical costs while negotiating lower bills on your behalf. With CrowdHealth, you can finally get quality care at a fair price—no surprises, no insurance middleman. Get started for just $99 for your first three months with code SPEAKEZ at joincrowdhealth.com Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that challenge, encourage, and inspire: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this special bonus episode, we close out the year by slowing down and reflecting on what it means to end well — not by hustling harder, but by listening closely to the voice of God. After a year marked by pruning, change, and growth, [Host] shares how the Lord has used silence, stillness, and surrender to shape her faith and restore her peace. This heartfelt conversation is an honest look at what it's like to walk through a season of refining — where God asks you to lay things down, quiet the noise, and trust His timing. From learning to discern His voice through Scripture and the Holy Spirit's promptings, to recognizing His confirmation in everyday moments, this episode will help you reclaim ground that's been lost and realign your heart with His for the year ahead. If you've ever wrestled with the question "How do I know it's God's voice?" or felt weary from a year that didn't go as planned, this episode will meet you right where you are. Together, we'll end the year well — remembering His faithfulness, celebrating His pruning, and preparing to hear Him more clearly in the new year. This episode is brought to you by PreBorn, a ministry rescuing babies and supporting mothers in crisis. Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound for a woman considering abortion — and in that sacred moment when she hears her baby's heartbeat, everything changes. 💛 Be the first voice of hope she hears. Sponsor an ultrasound today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that inspire reflection and renewal: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this episode, Hannah Morgan joins the conversation to share her powerful story of faith, suffering, and redemption. Hannah is a wife, mom, and the author of The Vial: A Memoir of Survival and Faith. Her journey began after she experienced a severe adverse reaction to a vaccine in high school—an event that changed every part of her life and led to years of physical pain, unanswered questions, and wrestling with God in the dark. Through years of illness, misdiagnoses, and loss, Hannah's faith was tested in ways that most of us can only imagine. Yet through every setback, she discovered the unmistakable hand of God—working through her family, her husband, and a relentless hope that refused to die. Her story is a reminder that even when our faith feels fragile, God is still faithful, still near, and still writing redemption into our pain. This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply moving. It's about finding purpose in suffering, holding tension in controversial spaces, and trusting God when you can't see the way forward. Whether you're walking through your own season of uncertainty or simply need a reminder that hope is real, Hannah's story will encourage you to keep believing when everything in you wants to give up. This episode is brought to you by PreBorn, a ministry that helps rescue babies and support mothers in crisis. Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound that can save a life. In that moment—when a mother hears her baby's heartbeat—everything changes. Be a voice of hope. Sponsor an ultrasound today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more powerful conversations of faith and redemption: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this episode, Mandy Arioto—CEO of MomCo (formerly MOPS)—joins the conversation to remind us that motherhood isn't just about raising kids. It's about raising the Kingdom. Together, we talk about how motherhood is the holiest ground many of us will ever stand on—where God refines us, redefines us, and shows us what really matters. From sleepless nights and endless laundry to the deep spiritual work of shaping little hearts, Mandy helps us see that motherhood is not a distraction from important work—it is the important work. We discuss how surrendering control, slowing down, and embracing fun can transform our homes and our hearts. And we explore how to quiet the world's noise and remember that God delights in the details of our daily lives. Whether you're in the trenches with littles, navigating the tween years, or preparing for an empty nest, this conversation will remind you that God is using every moment to build His Kingdom through you. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that inspire, encourage, and refresh: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this episode, Tilly Dillehay joins the conversation to talk about something that touches every one of us—spiritual warfare—and how it plays out in the most ordinary parts of our lives. From our attention spans to our homes to the hidden battles of motherhood, Tilly helps pull back the curtain on how the enemy works to distract, divide, and destroy the good things God has given us. Tilly is the author of My Dear Hemlock, a reimagining of C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters written from a female perspective. Through that lens, she explores how temptation, distraction, and deception uniquely target women—especially in their marriages, motherhood, and daily habits. Together, we talk about the spiritual war being fought over our focus, our peace, and our homes, and how confession, presence, and awareness become our greatest weapons. This conversation reminds us that not every hard moment is random—there's a battle for your attention, your joy, and your family. But even more important, we have a Savior who's already won the war. This episode is brought to you by Angel Studios, creators of films and series that shine light in a dark world. Their newest movie, SKETCH, is a heartwarming adventure that celebrates imagination, family, and faith. Become a Premium Angel Guild member today and get two free tickets to see SKETCH in theaters, plus full access to Angel's inspiring streaming library. 👉 Join today at Angel.com/blake Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that inspire and encourage: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ

In this episode, Emily Berning, co-founder of Let Them Live, joins the conversation to share how one act of radical obedience turned into a national movement that has helped hundreds of women choose life. Emily and her husband started with nothing but conviction—emptying their own bank account to meet the needs of one mother in crisis. From that single step of faith, God multiplied their "yes" into an organization that's now rescued over a thousand babies from abortion. Our conversation isn't just about the incredible work of Let Them Live—it's about what it means to say yes to God when it feels terrifying. Emily's story is a testimony to how obedience, even when it doesn't make sense, becomes the catalyst for miracles. We talk about the power of meeting people where they are, how God provides when the numbers don't add up, and what it looks like to keep walking when fear tells you to stop. Whether you're passionate about defending life, feeling called to start something new, or simply need a reminder that God honors faith over comfort, this episode will challenge and encourage you to step out and trust Him with what you have. This episode is brought to you by Nutrafol and Angel Studios—two brands that share our mission to inspire, strengthen, and restore hope. Support our sponsors: ✨ Nutrafol – Thinning hair doesn't have to be permanent. Improve hair growth and strength naturally with Nutrafol, the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement. Visit Nutrafol.com 🎬 Angel Studios – Makers of uplifting, family-centered stories like The Chosen and Sketch. Become a Premium Angel Guild member to get two free tickets to Sketch and full access to the Angel streaming library. Join at Angel.com/blake

In this episode, Abby—known online as M is for Mama—returns to the show to talk about her newest book, You Bet Your Stretch Marks, the third installment in her motherhood series. With honesty, humor, and a heart deeply rooted in scripture, Abby encourages moms to see that the hard seasons are not wasted and that motherhood, even in the trenches, is profoundly worth it. From battling doubt and comparison to learning how to surrender control to God, Abby shares her own stories of raising ten children—including twins twice—and offers wisdom that applies to every stage of parenting. She reminds us that motherhood is a calling, not a punishment, and that Jesus meets us in both the victories and the struggles. Whether you're a new mom, a grandmother, or simply someone feeling stretched thin, this conversation will remind you that your sacrifice has eternal significance. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors: Angel Studios and Olive App. Their support makes these conversations possible and gives you tools to live more intentionally every day. Don't miss this uplifting discussion that will inspire you to see your daily work as a legacy worth investing in. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel at: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ Go to the app store today and download the Olive holistic food scanner app to start eliminating harmful ingredients from your family's diet: 👉 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/olive-holistic-food-scanner/id6739765789 Become a Premium Angel Guild member today to get your SKETCH tickets & more movies that inspire, uplift, and leave you better than they found you: 👉 Angel.com/blake  

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson join the conversation to talk about their new book How to Speak Life to Your Husband. With honesty, humor, and decades of marriage ministry experience, they share why our words carry the power to either breathe life into our marriages or quietly chip away at them over time. From their own struggles—including seasons where they almost lost their marriage—to the transformative changes they experienced through choosing encouragement over criticism, the Wilsons offer practical tools and biblical wisdom for every couple. They unpack the hidden ways our words can wound, how tone and timing shape conversations, and how small daily choices can shift the entire atmosphere of your home. Whether your marriage feels strong or you're searching for fresh hope, this conversation will encourage you to believe that God really does use our words to bring life. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors: Olive App, Nutrafol, and Angel Studios. Their support makes these conversations possible and gives you resources for a healthier body, mind, and spirit. Don't miss this practical and hope-filled discussion that will equip you to strengthen your marriage starting today. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel at: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ Go to the app store today and download the Olive holistic food scanner app to start eliminating harmful ingredients from your family's diet: 👉 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/olive-holistic-food-scanner/id6739765789 Visit Nutrafol.com and use promo code BLAKE for $10 off your first month's subscription plus free shipping: 👉 https://www.nutrafol.com Become a Premium Angel Guild member today to get your SKETCH tickets & more movies that inspire, uplift, and leave you better than they found you: 👉 Angel.com/blake

In this episode, Erin Lynam joins the conversation to share a powerful perspective on rest—why God created it, how we see it modeled in scripture, and even how creation itself points us to rhythms of work and rest. Erin is a certified master naturalist and the host of the Nat Theo kids' podcast, which blends science and theology in ways the whole family can enjoy. She explains how rhythms in nature—like hibernation, dormancy, and even the patterns of trees—reveal God's intentional design for us to embrace Sabbath. Together, we talk about the cultural lies that view rest as laziness, the struggle of slowing down in hustle culture, and how choosing to rest is actually an act of faith that God will keep things moving even when we stop. Whether you're a mom, an entrepreneur, or someone trying to find peace in a busy world, this conversation will encourage you to see rest not as optional, but as essential for your soul, your family, and your faith. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors: Olive App and Angel Studios. Their support makes these conversations possible and provides you with tools to live healthier and more intentional every day. Don't miss this refreshing discussion that will inspire you to reframe rest as a gift from God. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ Go to the app store today and download the Olive holistic food scanner app to start eliminating harmful ingredients from your family's diet: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/olive-holistic-food-scanner/id6739765789 Become a Premium Angel Guild member today to get your SKETCH tickets & more movies that inspire, uplift, and leave you better than they found you: Angel.com/blake

In this episode, Ben and Corey Spell—the founders of Good Ranchers—join the conversation to share their remarkable journey from ministry to building a company that's reshaping the food industry. They open up about the leap of faith it took to start, the challenges of bringing transparency and integrity to meat sourcing, and the hurdles they've faced along the way—including Corey's personal battle with cancer and the powerful healing testimony that has marked their family's story. From navigating industry standards to standing firm on faith when the path ahead seemed impossible, Ben and Corey show how God has used their obedience to create a business that impacts families, communities, and churches across the country. Their story is both educational and deeply inspirational—encouraging dreamers, entrepreneurs, and parents alike to trust God with the big leaps and the small steps. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors: Angel Studios and Olive App. Their support makes these conversations possible and gives you resources to live with greater health and hope every day. Don't miss this powerful discussion that blends practical wisdom, family values, and faith that perseveres. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel at: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ Go to the app store today and download the Olive holistic food scanner app to start eliminating harmful ingredients from your family's diet: 👉 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/olive-holistic-food-scanner/id6739765789 Become a Premium Angel Guild member today to get your SKETCH tickets & more movies that inspire, uplift, and leave you better than they found you: 👉 Angel.com/blake

In this episode, Pastor Zach Windal joins the conversation to share how he's making scripture accessible for everyday life. From his personal journey of discovering truth to the practical ways he helps people connect with God's Word, Zach brings clarity and encouragement for anyone longing to strengthen their faith. He breaks down the barriers that often keep people from engaging with the Bible and offers insights that inspire listeners to approach scripture with confidence and joy. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors: Angel Studios, Soul, Nutrafol, and Olive App. Their support makes these conversations possible and gives you resources to live with greater purpose and health. Don't miss this discussion that will equip you with simple yet powerful tools to grow spiritually and stay encouraged in your daily walk. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ Go to the app store today and download the Olive holistic food scanner app to start eliminating harmful ingredients from your family's diet: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/olive-holistic-food-scanner/id6739765789 Become a Premium Angel Guild member today to get your SKETCH tickets & more movies that inspire, uplift, and leave you better than they found you: Angel.com/blake Shop at SOUL.com and use promo code BLAKE at checkout for 30% off your order: https://www.getsoul.com Visit NUTRAFOL.com and use promo code BLAKE for $10 off your first month's subscription plus free shipping: https://www.nutrafol.com

In this episode, Pastor Dawnchere Wilkerson joins the conversation to share her journey of faith, leadership, and the challenges of building a life centered on purpose. She opens up about the lessons she has learned through ministry, family, and serving her community, offering encouragement for anyone navigating seasons of growth and transition. With her unique blend of honesty and hope, Dawnchere inspires listeners to stay grounded while chasing the calling on their lives. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors: Go to the app store today and download the Olive holistic food scanner app to start eliminating harmful ingredients from your family's diet: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/olive-holistic-food-scanner/id6739765789 Save 25% on your first Masa order with the code BLAKE: https://masachips.com/BLAKE Become a Premium Angel Guild member today to get your SKETCH tickets & more movies that inspire, uplift, and leave you better than they found you: https://angel.com/blake Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ