That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs

I am SO EXCITED to talk to Pastor Rich Villodas about Advent and the Christian calendar. Advent officially started yesterday and Rich is helping us better understand why the Christian calendar even matters and what Advent means to our relationship with God. We’re going to talk about what it looks like to wait well (which I don’t like to do!), and we unpack the reality of living in the middle of both pain and rejoicing. Advent is all of it, right?  If you’re looking for a study to go through this Advent, it’s not too late to start one. You can grab it today and jump right in. Our Stay Tuned series is available to download now at shopanniefdowns.com AND you’re going to love hearing about Rich’s Advent devotional, Waiting for Jesus, today. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, We’re on page 127. As always, the guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons. . . . . .  Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guest If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love: Advent Makes Space for our Grief, but Christmas Makes Space for our Joy with Lanier Ivester- Episode 943 Episode 500: She Reads Truth + Advent . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Our Place: Our Place is having their biggest sale of the year right now! Save up to 35% site-wide through December 2nd. Shop the Our Place Black Friday Sale right now, no code needed at ourplace.com. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. AG1: If you go to drinkag1.com/soundsfun you’ll get the welcome kit, a Morning Person hat, a bottle of Vitamin D3+K2, an AG1 Flavor Sampler, and you’ll get to try their new sleep supplement AGZ for free! WayFair: Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. Capstone Wellness: Learn more at ⁠capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun⁠. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide.  Wonder Project: Start your free trial and make sure to choose the annual subscription at watch.thewonderproject.com/thatsoundsfun. When you pick the annual plan, you save money and directly support their mission to bring more of these stories to the world.  NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the ⁠NIV Application Bible⁠! Antique Candle Co: Use code “thatsoundsfun” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more through Dec 15 at ⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠.  NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all my friends here in the U.S. I hope you’re running turkey trots or watching the parade or serving at a food bank or seeing family you haven’t seen in a while. Today on the show, me and my pal Eddie do what we do best…we keep talking. In this Thanksgiving installment of Annie and Eddie Keep Talking, we talk about… A new thing my family is doing today for Thanksgiving Our thoughts on Costco and the day I sobbed my way down the aisles Eddie’s job update & his thoughts on the John Candy documentary (did you watch it too??) And then do not miss the end - because Eddie may have phoned a friend about the definition of a panini If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, you’ll find a note-taking on page 125. You can find all the info at anniefdowns.com/seasons. . . . . . Find the show notes here Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . .  Thank you to our sponsors! Antique Candle Co: Use code “thatsoundsfun” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more through Dec 15 at ⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠.  Capstone Wellness: Learn more at ⁠capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun⁠. Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at ⁠Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the ⁠NIV Application Bible⁠! Our Place: Our Place is having their biggest sale of the year right now! Save up to 35% site-wide through December 2nd. Shop the Our Place Black Friday Sale right now, no code needed at ourplace.com. Helix Sleep: Go to⁠ helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun⁠ for 20% off sitewide. . . . . . ⁠Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email⁠ and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I get to talk to one of my favorite worship artists, Jon Reddick! Jon is a worship pastor and songwriter, and has a heart for the church and the songs that pour out from congregations into the world. He's been a part of the CAIN tour with me this fall, and we recorded this one on the road a couple of weekends ago, so you’re in for a treat. But it also means your girl Annie was both your host AND your audio engineer... whoops! So this episode is only available in audio today! We talk about what it's like being a part of this tour together, being present where God has us, his meet-cute story with his wife... all the things! We also answer the question, “What if I don’t love the fall?”  His latest album, No Fear, is out now. You’ve got to listen to it if you haven’t heard it yet. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 124. The guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons. Find the show notes here . . . . . If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love: In Every Season, the King is Still the King with Chris Tomlin- Episode 1008 What God Can Do in Your Life with CAIN- Episode 1006 Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. AG1: If you go to drinkag1.com/soundsfun you’ll get the welcome kit, a Morning Person hat, a bottle of Vitamin D3+K2, an AG1 Flavor Sampler, and you’ll get to try their new sleep supplement AGZ for free! Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at ⁠Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. Our Place: Our Place is having their biggest sale of the year right now! Save up to 35% site-wide through December 2nd. Shop the Our Place Black Friday Sale right now, no code needed at ourplace.com. Capstone Wellness: Learn more at ⁠capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun⁠. Helix Sleep: Go to⁠ helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun⁠ for 20% off sitewide. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the ⁠NIV Application Bible⁠! Antique Candle Co: Use code “thatsoundsfun” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more through Dec 15 at ⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠.  NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. . . . . . Spread the Word. Leave a Rating and Review. It would mean the world to me if you would rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review! You can do the same on Spotify as well. Your ratings and reviews help us spread the word to new friends! And your feedback lets me know how I can better serve you. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re answering the question, “How do I shape my life for a new year?”As we start to think about changing seasons and a new year ahead of us, we’ve got an incredible guest with us today to help us figure out how to do all of this well-- Jeff Henderson.  Jeff is an author, speaker, incredible leader and all-around wealth of wisdom, who’s going to help us think about our transition into the end of the year. How do we process and deal with change? When do we celebrate? What can we control and what can’t we control? And if you’re trying to make a decision about something right now, I think you’d also love Jeff’s book, What to Do Next. In your TSF Seasons Guidebook, We’re on page 123. The guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons. Find the show notes here . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe! . . . . . If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love: Don’t Rush Your Reset with Emily Ley- Episode 1003 Navigating Transitions, Laying Aside Every Weight, and Finding Peace in the Present with Levi Lusko- Episode 972 Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. WayFair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to Wayfair.com to shop deals for up to 70% off.  Our Place: Our Place is having their biggest sale of the year right now! Save up to 35% site-wide through December 2nd. Shop the Our Place Black Friday Sale right now, no code needed at ourplace.com. Ritual: My friends get early access to their Black Friday sale for 40% off your first month at Ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Antique Candle Co: Use code “thatsoundsfun” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more through Dec 15 at antiquecandleco.com.  Capstone Wellness: Learn more at ⁠capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun⁠. Helix Sleep: Go to⁠ helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun⁠ for 20% off sitewide. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the ⁠NIV Application Bible⁠! Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at ⁠Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lysa TerKeurst is back for the *5th* time today, and we’re going to talk about how to walk through a season full of more loss than beauty. Her brand new book, Surviving An Unwanted Divorce releases tomorrow, and this book is such a helpful tool for those of you walking through a divorce or those of you that want to know how to help someone who is.   Whether you know you’re about to enter a winter season or one is thrust upon you, figuring out how to navigate the trauma, grief, and healing can be so overwhelming and Lysa’s experience and wisdom is SUCH a gift. I think this is one of those episodes you’re going to want to text to a friend. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 121. The date is different because we moved this one up, but the question is there for you. The guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons! View the show notes here If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also like to hear Episode 479 with Brandi Wilson when she also talks about finding hope and healing after a divorce. . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. AG1: Head to drinkag1.com/SOUNDSFUN to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! KiwiCo: Get up to 50% off your first crate at kiwico.com, promo code THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.  Capstone Wellness: Learn more at ⁠capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun⁠. Helix Sleep: Go to⁠ helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun⁠ for 20% off sitewide. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the ⁠NIV Application Bible⁠! Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at ⁠Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we wanted to bring you into a conversation we’re having with Single Purpose League about loneliness, but specifically the level of loneliness for women in leadership. Whether you’re single or married, I bet you can relate to this conversation. What we’ve noticed is that Single Purpose League consists of a LOT of leaders, and many of whom are leading in ministry. So, we recently started the SPL Leadership Mastermind, where our single friends in ministry have a place to be encouraged and talk about the complexities of it.  If Single Purpose League or the SPL Leadership Mastermind would serve you or a friend, head over to ⁠singlepurposeleague.com⁠ to learn more and sign up, PLUS our very first Lunch and Learn from Leadership Mastermind is happening tomorrow, November 5th at 12:30pm CT, so it’s a great time to get signed up today so you can join us for that tomorrow. Find the show notes here . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or ⁠head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!⁠ ⁠Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email⁠ and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I get to talk with my friends, Dallas and Amanda Jenkins. Dallas is the creator, director and producer of the tv show The Chosen, and Amanda writes Bible studies and content that goes along with the show. They just finished shooting Season 6 of The Chosen -- Jesus's crucifixion. I think you’re really going to love hearing what they are learning about Jesus and how we can find strength in Him in this season. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 119. You can order your copy–with all 4 seasons–at anniefdowns.com/seasons! . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe! If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love: Red Sea Moments Leading to a Dream of Producing The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins- Episode 935 Episode 447: Jonathan Roumie on Surrendering to Jesus, Balancing a Public and Private Faith, and How His Catholic Background Influences His Work . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. WayFair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday deals for up to 70% off. Our Place: Save up to 35% sitewide now through December 2nd. Head to fromourplace.com to see why more than a million people have made the switch to Our Place kitchenware. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. Capstone Wellness: Learn more at capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this month’s installment of Annie and Eddie Keep Talking, we talk about…what special day we are celebrating today, Eddie’s new preferred shirt, Annie's current life on tour with CAIN, paninis versus grilled cheese, and some things we’re going to research so we’re ready to keep talking about them in November! Eddie shared on the show about his love for Three Roots International and their work helping families in Ethiopia overcome poverty through education, health, and income programs. When you give, you’ll support that impact—and be entered to win a virtual call with Annie and Eddie!Give and enter to win today at TSF.threeroots.org. No donation necessary to enter. Email info@threeroots.org with “TSF Call” in the subject line by November 13, 2025. . . . . . If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, you’ll find a note-taking page for all the profound and life-changing things Eddie said on page 117. There’s a really fun Fall “This or That” activity on the next page…and I want to see your answers to that one! Take a pic and tag @thatsoundsfunpodcast on IG once you fill it out! Find the show notes here . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide! NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. Brave Books: Head to Bravebooks.com/TSF and use the code TSF for 20% off your first order. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Platt is here today, and I’m SO excited about this conversation. He recently got back from Brazil and shared some incredible stories from his time there, and we talk about the role we play in the Gospel reaching every nation, including unreached people groups. We were never meant to watch the harvest from the sidelines. We were created to experience life by leading others to life. The harvest isn’t just a mission—it’s an invitation. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 116 (the guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons).  Find the show notes here . . . . . If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love our last episode with David Platt, episode 857, where we talked about singleness and the Church. In fact, if you’re single today or you have a friend who is, we’d love to invite you to come be a part of Single Purpose League. It’s a community of women who are finding their single purpose and their purpose while single. The price goes up to $9/month starting November 1st, but if you join this week, you’ll lock in our OG price of $7/month (or it’s 10% off if you pay for a full year). This community is so special and we’d love to have you! We've also just announced a brand new level of Single Purpose League that’s specifically for single, Christian women in ministry. It’s called the SPL Leadership Mastermind and we’re so pumped about this! It includes a monthly zoom call with me and Katy and our first one is next week. You can find all the information you need at singlepurposeleague.com. . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. Ritual: My friends get early access to their Black Friday sale for 40% off your first month at Ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide! NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. Brave Books: Head to Bravebooks.com/TSF and use the code TSF for 20% off your first order. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fall is so packed full and it can be hard to prioritize our bodies. And what does it even mean to be a good steward of our bodies without obsessing over them? Jordan Lee Dooley is back to help us with that today! She’s in a totally new season of life — mom of three under three. She opens up about how so many of us wrestle with this idea that our bodies are failing us and this new understanding of what it really means to steward our bodies — not just like them or fix them, but truly honor them as part of the calling God’s given us. Her new book, Be Good to Your Body, dives deep into that idea. I can’t wait for you to hear this conversation. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 114. As always, the guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons! Find the show notes here! . . . . . If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also like: Episode 303: Jess Connolly + Breaking Free From Body Shame Living Crunchy with Emily Morrow – Episode 897 . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. AG1: If you’re ready to turn down the stress, and focus on the rest, head to drinkag1.com/soundsfun to get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ. Our Place: Visit fromourplace.com/TSF and use code TSF for 10% off sitewide. WayFair: Get organized, refreshed, and ready for the holidays for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Brave Books: Head to Bravebooks.com/TSF and use the code TSF for 20% off your first order. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide! . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Spread the Word. Leave a Rating and Review. It would mean the world to me if you would rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review! You can do the same on Spotify as well. Your ratings and reviews help us spread the word to new friends! And your feedback lets me know how I can better serve you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re re-airing a special conversation that I got to have with my sister, Tatum Green, and our friend and counselor, David Thomas. We first shared this conversation back in February when Where Did TJ Go? released, and it’s one that so many of you have told me has stayed with you. Today on October 15th — Infant Loss Awareness Day — we wanted to bring it back, to honor the families who have walked through loss, to hold space for your stories, and to remind you that you’re not alone. This is a tender and honest conversation — we talk about grief, faith, and what it looks like to keep trusting God when life doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would. David offers such wise, gentle guidance, and I’m just so grateful for how he helped us put words to what can feel impossible to say. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, you’ll find note-taking pages for this episode back in the winter section, on page 19.  Find the show notes here . . . . . If you found this episode helpful or healing, you might try Episode 1002- Kate Edwards shares her story of losing her adult son and the hope she’s been able to find again through the grief. . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Brave Books: Head to Bravebooks.com/TSF and use the code TSF for 20% off your first order. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. WayFair: Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. If you’d like to partner with Annie as a sponsor for the That Sounds Fun podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form! . . . . . ⁠Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email⁠ and ask questions to future guests! . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do I do with my fears in this season? Today I to talk to my friend Caroline Shankle and her mom, who you know already and LOVE, Melanie Shankle! So many of our friends are battling seasons of fear or seasons of anxiety, especially Caroline’s generation and her first book, written with her mom, is called The Lion and the Bear and comes out tomorrow. If you have a teenager or college girl and grab a copy for them to start during fall break or save it for a Christmas gift. This 100-day devotional would be a great way for your girls to start the new year. Today, Caroline gives advice for college students and to parents with kids in college, talks about what God is up to at Texas A&M, and of course we talk about SEC Football. We had this convo in early August and gave some predictions of how these teams would be doing!  If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 112. The guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons! Find the show notes here . . . . . If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love: Healing from Generational Trauma and Mean Girls with Melanie Shankle- Episode 971 Women Embracing Their Roles As Leaders with Sophie Hudson- Episode 918 . . . . . I'm on the road with CAIN for 40 shows this fall-- do you have your tickets?! Go to anniefdowns.com/events to find a list of all of the cities and dates! . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. AG1: If you’re ready to turn down the stress, and focus on the rest, head to drinkag1.com/soundsfun to get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. KiwiCo: Get up to 50% off your first crate at kiwico.com, promo code THATSOUNDSFUN.  Our Place: Visit fromourplace.com/TSF and use code TSF for 10% off sitewide. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide! Brave Books: Head to Bravebooks.com/TSF and use the code TSF for 20% off your first order. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. WayFair: Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal, my friends must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re answering the question, “How do I worship in every season?”  Chris Tomlin's songs are part of worship services all over pretty much every Sunday - from How Great is Our God to Holy Forever. He’s someone whose music has been a meaningful part of my life since college.  He is a GRAMMY Award Winning CCM artist, and his new album, 'The King Is Still The King' just released and it is just so beautiful. You're going to love this album and this conversation. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, get those note-taking pages ready. We’re on page 111. As always, the guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons . . . . . I'm on the road with CAIN for 40 shows this fall-- do you have your tickets?! Go to anniefdowns.com/events to find a list of all of the cities and dates! . . . . . Find the show notes here⁠ Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. WayFair: Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Our Place: Visit fromourplace.com/TSF and use code TSF for 10% off sitewide. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal, my friends must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide! Brave Books: Head to Bravebooks.com/TSF and use the code TSF for 20% off your first order. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You hear him every time you turn on the pod and listen to our theme song... and now Ben Rector is in the building again today! We talk about the golden days with young kids, what it's like for creatives being online and keeping up with algorithms, excellence in building a set list, and the way writing music marks milestones and seasons in our lives. His album The Richest Man in the World came out a few months ago and it is SO good. You'll definitely want to listen, as it's also our soundtrack for the Fall season.  We're on Page 109 in our TSF Seasons Guidebook if you're following along with us!  And if you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love episode 407 with Dave Barnes.  . . . . . I'm on the road with CAIN for 40 shows this fall-- do you have your tickets?! They’re currently just $25 and I promise this is a night you can bring your whole family to. Head to anniefdowns.com/events to find a list of all of the cities and dates! . . . . . Find the show notes here Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN.  AG1: Head to drinkag1.com/soundsfun to get a FREE frother with your first purchase of AGZ. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.  Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide! Boll and Branch: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at BollAndBranch.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tonight is the first night of the CAIN Live And In Color tour, so clearly we had to have my honorary siblings, Logan, Madison, and Taylor, from the band CAIN, come join us on the show as we kick off this tour! You’re going to get to hear some of the behind the scenes of planning and preparing for the tour, and they open up about their new song "I Made It"- a song has been special to them after a hard year. We’re on the road for 40 shows-- do you have your tickets?! They’re currently just $25 and I promise this is a night you can bring your whole family to. You don’t want to miss it! Head to anniefdowns.com/events to find a list of all of the cities and dates and we’ll see you there! In your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 108 today. Don’t have one? You can always purchase and download yours at: anniefdowns.com/seasons Also, we also could use your input as we think about the podcast next year! Would you fill out our survey and help us as we build and dream for next year? We’re going to choose one of you to send a $150 gift card of your choice as a thank you.. . . . .If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love Episode 925 with Mack Brock or Episode 979 with Christy Nockels.. . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!. . . . .Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests!#thatsoundsfunpodcast. . . . .Thank you to our sponsors! AG1: If you’re ready to turn down the stress, and focus on the rest, head to drinkag1.com/soundsfun to get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide! Boll and Branch: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at BollAndBranch.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re trying to sort out some hard things this fall, if you’re trying to figure out what you need to store up for the winter, if you’re wanting to hang out to the changing leaves as long as possible before they die…. Well, I really think you’re going to love this one. Today we'll answer the question, “What is the fall and how do I define it in my life?” Pastor Mike Kelsey's wise voice is helping us think about the beauty we can find in the fall even when things feel like they’re changing so much. We’re starting to look at what things to store up for the winter and ultimately asking God what it looks like to flourish in every single season, including the fall. We’re on page 107 in your TSF Seasons Guidebook (You can order and download your copy at anniefdowns.com/seasons).  ALSO, we could use your input as we think about the podcast next year! Would you fill that out this survey today and help us as we build and dream for next year? We’re going to choose one of you to send a $150 gift card of your choice as a thank you! . . . . . Find the show notes here Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: Our friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Our Place: Visit fromourplace.com/TSF and use code TSF for 10% off sitewide.  Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Boll and Branch: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at BollAndBranch.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we get to this part of the year, I think we often look around and wonder how it came so fast. How is it that the leaves are about to change colors and we’re going to start talking about the holidays? Why did the winter feel eternal back in January and now we’re not sure how the year is almost over? But what I love about what we’ve been doing on That Sounds Fun this year is getting a chance to actually be present in each season and think about where we are today—to stop and define the realities of the shift in our own lives.  So what IS fall? What does it mean for our everyday lives? Our spiritual lives? Does it bring up stress for you because it’s marked with a lot of busyness? Does it spark idyllic dreams of lattes and pumpkin patches? Is there relief for you that you’re back in a routine after summer was more relaxed? Does it bring up fear because things are changing and moving so fast? On Monday, September 22nd, we’re starting our last season of 2025 together, here on That Sounds Fun as we step into the fall, and we’re going to talk about all of it. We’re going to explore what the harvest looks like and how we can be a part of it. We’re going to talk about how to be the healthiest versions of ourselves even when we start running out of steam at the end of the year. We’re going to talk about how to prepare for the next right thing. We’ve got some really incredible guests coming to help us finish the last 3 months of the year really well. Guests we’ve hand picked for this specific season—many you know and love—because we knew we’d need them to help us with some intentional steps this fall. And, as always, Eddie and I are going to keep talking once a month BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT WE DO. The fall pages in our TSF Seasons Guidebook have everything you need to take notes and process questions from each episode. And we’ve thrown in a gratitude journaling page, fun fall recipes, and some sabbath and self-care ideas to help you make space for rest in the middle of all the busyness. If you don't have a copy yet this year, head over to anniefdowns.com/seasons to purchase yours and you’ll get the full guidebook including all four seasons from the podcast this year. Pastor Mike Kelsey, our Pastor of the Pod this year, will help us kick off the fall on Monday, September 22nd so make sure you’re subscribed to That Sounds Fun so you don’t miss a single episode. We’ll see you then. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You never know what conversation Eddie and I are going to get into, and today is no different. If you want to hear the ideas we have about a Christmas episode, the instagram account I was so surprised Eddie was following, or the diabolical way Eddie transitions his wardrobe from summer to fall…well, just keep listening. As always, we have some note taking pages for you for this episode over in our TSF Seasons Guidebook, so you can find that on page 94, and if you need a copy of the guidebook, BECAUSE THE FALL SEASON STARTS ON MONDAY, then head over to anniefdowns.com/seasons! . . . . . Find the show notes here Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at shopify.com/soundsfun.  Boll and Branch: Go to bollandbranch.com/thatsoundsfun for 15% off and free shipping! NIV Application Bible: Save an additional 10% on any NIV Application Bible and NIV Application Commentary Resources by visiting faithgateway.com/NIVAB and use promo code THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a FREE $60 gift. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide. Make sure you enter our show name after checkout so they know we sent you! NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the show, we’re answering the question, “How do I prepare for the work of the fall?” I know the changing of a season can make us want to rush the transition, but this conversation today is going to help you think intentionally about not rushing your reset. If there’s anyone who knows how to set themselves up well for organization and a reset, it’s Emily Ley. Her Simplified Planner is my absolute favorite (she’s giving my friends 20% off in September when you use the code THATSOUNDSFUN).  We’re on page 93 in your TSF Seasons Guidebook! You can order and download your copy at anniefdowns.com/seasons. Find the show notes here . . . . . If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love:  Discernment and Decisions with Emily P. Freeman – Episode 869 . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: Our friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. KiwiCo: Get up to 50% off your first crate at kiwico.com, promo code THATSOUNDSFUN. Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide! Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Boll and Branch: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at BollAndBranch.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many of us have walked through unexpected seasons of grief and loss. When those seasons hit, it feels impossible to know how to put one foot in front of the other or we don’t know how to best support our friends through it. Today we answer, “What do I do when my season suddenly shifts?” Kate and I met a couple of months ago when I was on the road for a speaking event. She has walked through the tragic death of her adult son and has SO generously agreed to share with us what she wished someone had shared with her when that pain was fresh. Whether you’ve dealt with a similar situation or you’re close to someone who has, I encourage you to lean in to the perspective and encouragement Kate shares with us about what it looks like to honor and grieve and keep living and keep loving even when we don’t think we have it in us. If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 92 (*we moved this date*). The guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons. Similar episodes you may find helpful: When Winter is Breaking Your Heart with Lindsay Sherbondy- Episode 952 Trusting God with Open and Closed Doors with Craig Thompson- Episode 986 . . . . . Find the show notes here Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!  . . . . . Join us in reading the Gospels together this month over on the Let’s Read the Gospels podcast! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . .   Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: Our friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. AG1: If you’re ready to turn down the stress, and focus on the rest, head to drinkag1.com/soundsfun to get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ.  Wayfair: From comfy recliners to cozy bedding and autumn decor, find it all for way less at Wayfair.com.  Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN.  Our Place: Visit fromourplace.com/TSF and use code TSF for 10% off sitewide. Boll and Branch: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at BollAndBranch.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun. NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible! Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide! Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices