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The Sister Circle Podcast

Author: Chrystal Evans Hurst

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Real. Authentic. Practical. Thoughts on faith, family, food, fitness, fun, and living with focus.
306 Episodes
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Do you feel like what you have to offer isn’t enough? If you wish you had more to do more in your life, then this episode will encourage you to shift your perspective and focus on stewarding the small things well. In this episode, I discuss the power of using what you have to cultivate seeds right where you are. This message will encourage you to embrace small beginnings and make room for God to multiply every seed you faithfully sow. Highlights from Today’s Episode Participating in God’s plan Building capacity through consistency Implementing rhythms and routines Related Resources Check out this podcast episode to hear more about The Importance of Small Great Things. Listen to this podcast episode to learn How to Build Habits That Last. Read more about “doing what you can with what you have” in chapter 14 of my book She’s Still There.   CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #558 – When God Multiplies the Little Things first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
Today I’m talking with Ashley Menzies Babatunde—lawyer, DEI leader, storyteller, and host of No Straight Path. Ashley shares how striving, achievement, and perfection shaped her early years…and how failure, burnout, and grief invited her to slow down and rediscover who she really is. We talk about knowing when you’re striving, how to reconnect with your purpose, the healing power of journaling, and navigating big feelings while becoming a new mother without your own mom here. Ashley also introduces the concept of “time affluence” and how to create space in your life for the things that actually bring joy. It’s honest, warm, insightful, and full of permission to breathe. Highlights from Today’s Episode Simple signs you’re striving instead of living intentionally How journaling helps uncover your passions The power of mentorship and sharing your network Related Resources Connect with Ashley on Instagram or her website. Listen to Ashley’s podcast “No Straight Path” here.  Check out Happier Hour by Cassie Holmes, PhD CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #557 – When Striving Steals Your Joy with Ashley Menzies Babatunde first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
In this episode, I sit down with investor and educator Ange Matthews, founder of The Happy Investor Method, to talk honestly about money, mindset, and what’s possible when you believe God cares about your financial life. Ange shares her journey from making $40K a year with six-figure debt… to becoming a multimillionaire investor before age 40. We talk about investing while paying off debt, shifting from survival mode to possibility, and why Christians shouldn’t feel guilty about stewarding wealth. If you’ve ever felt behind or overwhelmed by money, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and practical steps to take right now. Highlights from Today’s Episode Breaking old money mindsets  Building wealth from scratch  Seeing money as stewardship Related Resources Connect with Ange on Instagram or her website. Get Your 150 Investment Ideas Download Check out more podcast episodes on money here! CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #556 – Faith and Finances Ange Matthews first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
The joy of the holidays can often overshadow any moments of grief and sadness we experience. In this episode of the podcast, I share my practical guidance for allowing grief, loss, and sadness to flow, specifically during the most wonderful time of the year. My own journey of loss has taught me that even in sorrow, there is still room for joy, but we must first give ourselves permission to exhale. Here’s your invitation to make room for healing this holiday season. Highlights from Today’s Episode Remembering what was Recognizing your emotional capacity Releasing the pressure to pretend Related Resources Listen to this encouraging episode about The Gift of Grief. Feeling uneasy about holiday obligations? Listen to this episode for Tips for Coping with Holiday Stress. Connect with a Bible study through Bible Study Fellowship Prepare your heart and mind for the year ahead with the Write It Down guide and the free Dream Builders Workshop. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #555 – When the Holidays Hurt first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
In this episode, I get to the root of that oh-so-uncomfortable word: codependency.  If you’ve ever felt like you were losing yourself in a relationship, this chat will encourage you to value God’s approval above anyone else’s, and to lean into His plan for your life. You’ll leave feeling motivated to require mutual respect and a sense of independence in your relationships. Highlights from Today’s Episode Pursuing personal peace Pleasing God instead of people Putting relationships in proper perspective Related Resources Ready to prioritize your peace? Listen to this podcast episode on Building Better Boundaries. Need help putting yourself first? Listen to this podcast episode and practice The Art of Saying No. Check out my conversation with Nona Jones on Overcoming Rejection. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #554 – The Truth About Codependency first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
What does it mean to “rebrand the church”? In this conversation with Dr. Eric Mason, founder of Epiphany Fellowship and author of Rebranding the Church, we talk about how believers can restore the church’s witness in a world that has lost trust in Christianity. We cover church hurt, discipleship, generational shifts, and why authentic community still matters. If you’re wondering how to heal from disappointment and help the church be healthy again, this episode will encourage you to press in. Highlights from Today’s Episode Returning the church to Gospel roots. Healing hurt without leaving community. Moving from consuming to contributing. Related Resources Connect with Dr. Mason on Instagram @pastoremase. Grab a copy of Guest’s book:  Rebranding the Church: Restoring the Image of God’s People in the World  Listen to The Sanctuary podcast with Dr. Mason. Enjoy this episode from Nona Jones on Navigating Change, Church, and Culture CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #553 – Rebranding the Church with Dr. Eric Mason first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
#552 – Breaking Busy

#552 – Breaking Busy

2025-11-1023:34

Do you make time to appreciate the very things you once prayed for? Sometimes, chasing the next thing can cause you to miss out on the moments that were once out of reach. In this episode, I uncover the gift in letting go of busyness and embracing stillness. Burnout may be your norm now, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. I can’t wait for you to take back your time by slowing down. And even if it takes longer to reach your destination, you’ll enjoy the journey along the way. Highlights from Today’s Episode Engaging with your life Leaning into solitude Clearing your calendar Related Resources Ready to cultivate a rhythm of slowing down? Listen to this podcast episode for motivation When It’s Hard to Rest. Need more encouragement? Check out this conversation with Asheritah Ciuciu on Rest for the Weary. Grab the 2026 Full Circle Planner and schedule time to be still. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #552 – Breaking Busy first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
The holidays don’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful. In this episode, I’m inviting you to trade the pressure of “doing it all” for the peace of simply being there. Together, we’ll talk about what it really means to practice hospitality that reflects God’s heart—choosing presence over perfection, connection over performance, and joy over exhaustion. Because at the end of the day, the best memories aren’t made in flawless spaces—they’re made wherever love and grace have room to gather. Highlights from Today’s Episode Releasing perfection Making memories Creating connection Related Resources Ready to prepare for the season ahead? Listen to this podcast episode to learn how to plan for the holiday season. Check out this podcast episode for my tips for coping with holiday stress. Listen to my conversation with Sarah Harmeyer on hospitality and the heart of the home. Intentionally plan for the holidays with the 2026 Full Circle Planner, which is currently 15% off! CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #551 – The Holy Work of Hospitality first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
Are you tired of being consumed by everything happening around you? The constant distraction of social media posts, online shopping carts, and nonstop phone notifications is difficult for even the most disciplined person to ignore. In this episode, I share my steps for guarding your heart against consumption and embracing contentment and gratitude. You only have so much time, energy, and money. Why not spend it on what matters most? Highlights from Today’s Episode Paying attention to patterns Redirecting limited resources Focusing on what matters most Related Resources Ready to implement gratitude into your daily rhythm? Listen to this podcast episode on taking care of your soul. Check out this oldie-but-goodie episode on using your time well. Not sure how you’re spending your time? Monitor your moments with the 2026 Full Circle Planner and the Daily Tracker. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #550 – How to Break the Consumption Cycle first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
What if rest isn’t a break from real life—but the key to living it well? In this episode, I sit down with Ruth Chou Simons, artist and bestselling author, to talk about rest, dependence, and freedom in God’s timing. Together, we explore how to stop striving, embrace your limits, and live with a heart at peace even when life feels busy. If you’ve ever struggled to slow down or felt guilty for resting, this conversation will remind you that rest is worship—and that your worth isn’t tied to your productivity. Highlights from Today’s Episode Reframing rest as worship, not weakness Learning to trust God’s timing instead of forcing outcomes Discovering freedom in living unhurried and fully dependent Related Resources Grab a copy of Ruth’s book: The Way of the Wildflower Connect with Ruth on Instagram and her website. For more encouragement, check out this podcast episode on When it’s Hard to Rest Download your Wildflower Declarations CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #549 – Learning to Rest: How to Depend on God in Every Season with Ruth Chou Simons first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
How do you remain hopeful while waiting on God? When life feels insufferable, there’s no better time to release disappointment and choose joy. In this episode of the podcast, I share a few ways that I’ve held on to joy at difficult moments in my life. If you’re losing hope in your waiting, the sound advice and Biblical wisdom that I share will encourage you to keep going. Highlights from Today’s Episode Pouring into passions Holding on to hope Doing away with distractions Related Resources Check out this episode on Delayed Dreams.  Listen to this episode on Redeeming Your Dreams. Ready to shift your mindset? Hear my advice for Growing in Gratitude. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #548 – Waiting on God Without Losing Your Joy first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
Brands shape our lives. Top brands like Nike and Apple have one thing in common: they use their analytics to level up their product. What would happen if you used your personal analytics to improve your personal brand? In this episode of The Sister Circle Podcast, I discuss how to gather personal data, embrace your unique design, and live a life of intention. When you commit to representing yourself and God well, you will begin to live a life that is on-brand with the woman you were created to be. Highlights from Today’s Episode Showing up with integrity Embracing your unique personality Using your influence well Related Resources Grab my devotional, 100 Days to Discovering the Gift of You. Find inspiration for looking at your story with my Write It Down video. For more encouragement, listen to episode #324-How to Leave a Legacy. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #547 – Becoming a Woman of Authenticity first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
I sat down with Hannah Keeley, America’s #1 Mom Coach, to talk about how to thrive in motherhood—even when life feels overwhelming. Hannah is a mom of seven and the founder of Mom Mastery University, and she knows the struggle is real. We dive into “Mom Brain” (and why it’s a superpower, not a flaw), the three biggest traps moms face, and how small routines can lead to big breakthroughs. If you’ve ever felt stressed, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode, this episode will encourage you to stress less and love more. Highlights from Today’s Episode Naming the three biggest traps moms face Building routines that actually work for moms Seeing Mom Brain as a superpower Related Resources Connect with Hannah Keeley on Instagram, YouTube, and at hannahkeeley.com Download Hannah’s free Mom Brain Survival Guide at chrystalevanshurst.com/mombrain Learn about Mom Mastery University, Hannah’s year-long coaching program for moms CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #546 – How to Manage Stress, Mom Brain & Faith with Hannah Keeley first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
When was the last time you focused on your dreams? As a woman, you may find yourself helping everyone around you to fulfill their dreams, until one day you look up and wonder what happened to your dreams. In this episode, I’ll share my honest perspective on persevering through the pain, as well as encouragement for revisiting your dreams with a renewed mind and hopeful heart. Highlights from Today’s Episode Trusting the developmental process Setting up supportive systems Consulting with God first Related Resources Listen to my previous podcast episode on dreaming again. Find even more encouragement in this podcast episode on delayed dreams. Check out my book, She’s Still There, and rediscover the desires of your heart. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #545 – How to Stop Quitting on Your Dreams first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
How do you keep the faith when it seems God is silent? If you’ve been searching for His voice in the chaos of life, then my friend, you might be closer to Him than you think.  In this episode of The Sister Circle Podcast, I share practical steps for holding on to God when it feels like He’s let go of you. I know this one is going to encourage you to hang in there and pursue God in the midst of your waiting. Highlights from Today’s Episode Surrendering unanswered prayers Avoiding the comparison game Overcoming seasons of spiritual dryness Prospering in the midst of suffering Related Resources Learn how to tap into the power of silence (Podcast episode #427. Listen to my four ways to find rest (Podcast episode #380) Check out my podcast episode #084 on trusting God when life is tough CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #544 – Trusting God When He’s Silent first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
I’m joined by my friend Valorie Burton, best-selling author and coach, to talk about her new book Rules of Resilience. We unpack what resilience really means—beyond pushing through—and how to bounce back with strength and faith. Valorie shares her 3 pillars of resilience, how to know when to grit or quit, and why authenticity and community matter for thriving in tough seasons. If you’ve faced setbacks or stress, this episode will give you practical tools to grow through what you go through. Highlights from Today’s Episode Releasing what you can’t control  Building strength through authenticity Knowing when to let go Related Resources Connect with Valorie Burton on her website, Instagram, or YouTube. Grab Valorie’s book: Rules of Resilience: 10 Ways Successful People Get Better, Wiser, and Stronger Learn more about the Coaching and Positive Psychology Institute (CaPP Institute) CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #543 – Building a Resilient Life You Can Love with Valorie Burton first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
What would it look like for you to prioritize peace over productivity in your life? With so many demands fighting for your attention, the ability to find rest in a busy world can feel nearly impossible. But my friend, I’m here to remind you that rest can be your portion, even in the busy seasons of your life. In this episode, I tap into the importance of finding rest and placing your confidence in God. You don’t have to wait for life to settle down before you get still. You can make room for this eye-opening conversation. Highlights from Today’s Episode Replacing busyness with being still Finding identity outside of accomplishments Placing confidence in God Related Resources Check out my chat with Asheritah Ciuciu on rest for the weary. Listen to my previous talk on four ways to find rest. Pre-order The Full Circle Planner so that you can schedule time for rest. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #542 – When It’s Hard to Rest first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Awtrey—author, speaker, and host of Real Talk with Rachel Awtrey. Together, we dive into what it means to love your life even when it feels messy or mundane.  This conversation is full of wisdom and practical encouragement for anyone longing to create rhythms that bring joy, rediscover the gift of play, and cultivate authentic community. If you’ve ever wrestled with feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or stuck in the ordinary, Rachel’s insights will inspire you to wake up to God’s goodness and embrace joy right where you are. Highlights from Today’s Episode Navigating motherhood, rhythms, and Sabbath rest in a busy season Redefining play, creativity, and home as pathways to joy Building community by going first and choosing love over impression Related Resources Connect with Rachel on Instagram, her Podcast, or Pinterest Grab a copy of Rachel’s book: Love Your Life (Even When You Don’t Like It All the Time): A Realistic Guide to Unlocking Joy in Life’s Messy, Mundane, and Magnificent Moments CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #541 – Finding Joy in the Messy & Mundane with Rachel Awtrey first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
Are you struggling with parenting your adult children? If their need for independence creates tension in your home, then I’ve got some advice and encouragement for you. In this episode, I share my journey from parenting little ones to coaching adult children. The lessons I’ve learned along the way are too good not to share with you. Whether you’re a new mom or a veteran parent, there is something for everyone in this insightful conversation. Highlights from Today’s Episode Parenting with presence Coaching with compassion Letting the Holy Spirit lead Related Resources Listen to my conversation with Mary DeMuth on parenting adult children. Hear from Alli Worthington on embracing imperfect motherhood. Grab my book She’s Still There to remember the girl in you, even as you raise your children. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #540 – How to Parent Adult Children Well first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
Feeling rejected? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m diving into the truth about rejection – how it impacts our identity, relationships, and faith in God. If you’ve ever been left out, overlooked, or told “no” by someone you cared about, this conversation is for you.  Rejection is painful, but it doesn’t have to define you. I’m sharing my personal journey with rejection, how I’ve learned to reframe it as redirection, and why God’s “yes” is always louder than man’s “no.” Whether it’s a closed door, a failed relationship, or a missed opportunity, remember: there is purpose in the pain. Highlights from Today’s Episode Facing rejection with courage Reframing rejection as redirection Allowing rejection to refine Related Resources Learn how to practice the presence of God in this episode. Listen to Nona Jones talk about overcoming rejection.  Need to get back into community after experiencing rejection? Listen to this episode. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #539 – How to Heal From Rejection first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.
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Comments (7)

Delois Pearsall

Thank you, thank you. thank you!. Sitting here in tears. So many revelations about managing my time. Meaningful over urgent!! I just completed the YouVersion reading plan on Sunday, so I was thrilled to learn about your interview. Need to listen again and take notes.

May 21st
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Tara Hollingsworth

Such a powerful, much needed episode!! Thank you for this!! ❤❤❤

Jan 16th
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Mika T

Loved this podcast! I could totally relate to Talisha in that real or imagined disappointment causes me to back away from planning events. We have a tradition of allowing the kids to open gifts then take individual family photos. It's so hard watching them open gifts because they've bought for their kids and although I enjoy their reactions, there is usually a hint of sadness that grips me because I don't have kids of my own. Once it's time for family photos, I disappear because I don't particularly care to take the photo alone. So I may have to figure out a way to incorporate my nieces and nephews or my siblings in my photo. One thing I do enjoy is planning the holiday menu and cooking for my family/close friends. Anyways... thanks for sharing ladies! Enjoy your holidays!

Nov 14th
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Mika T

Loved this! It was as if you were reading my mind when you mentioned speaking to singles who are waiting to make a house their home. I didn't want to buy a home until I got married; something that I saw my husband and I doing together. But I think that I will strongly consider the purchase for myself and allow God to work out the rest.

Nov 6th
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Mika T

The mirror is a GREAT idea!!!

Oct 23rd
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Mika T

Loved the discussion on doing what you can, where you are! I am in this place of restlessness/anxiousness because I feel like I'm supposed to be doing something else but it's a premature moment. This was a great reminder!

Oct 19th
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Mika T

Loved this podcast! As an introvert it was very refreshing to hear how Morgan manages some of those challenges in life associated with this. Great discussion!❤️

Oct 19th
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