Season 3 Finale!!! It’s just you and me today, friends, as we wrap up this incredible season together. I’m catching you up on my most recent event, The Prepare for Peace Workshop, and sharing why peace doesn’t just happen—it takes intentional effort. I also take a moment to reflect on this year, the lessons learned, and the heart behind “less is more” as we’ve explored together this season. And of course, I’m dropping a big announcement about my big goal for 2025—you won’t want to miss it! As we close out this season, I want to encourage you to soak up the holiday moments, whatever they may look like for you and your family. Let’s lean into the joy that comes not from doing more but from truly being. See you back here in 2025, friends. Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
What a j o y this episode is. This week, I’m joined by my sweet friend, Carolyn Soto Jackson, a Houston pastor and avid adventurer with a heart for Jesus. And BONUS-she loves coffee! We talk about setting holiday boundaries, the dangers of burnout, and the beauty of pruning our schedules and thoughts. Carolyn’s wisdom will inspire you to slow down, reclaim your voice, and embrace a more intentional pace this season. IG | carolynsotojackson WEB |carolynsotojackson Try Aro FREE | Code: ANNIE
Have you ever met someone new and say, "I think we're supposed to be friends"? Meet my dear friend, Carly, a licensed therapist who loves working with teenagers, families, and young adults. Carly and her mom co-founded The Well Counseling Center, where they’ve grown their team to nine therapists. Alongside counseling, Carly hosts mental health events and workshops, supporting our community with her passion and heart. We do a full dive into journaling as a path to self-discovery and discuss the idea that maybe our cups are TOO full, rather than empty. Carly shares a refreshing perspective on finding freedom by embracing our unique selves instead of comparing. Join us as we talk about finding purpose in pain, believing in our worth, and the powerful impact that self-acceptance can have on our teens.
When I tell you I could sit and talk with my dear friend, Kirsten, about the world of emotions all day...I really could! In this episode, therapist and mom Kirsten Vadelund shares her journey of embracing the full range of human emotions and healing the inner child. We discuss how emotions like anger don’t define us, why healing isn’t linear, and how making space for what truly matters sometimes means letting go of “good.” Inspired by the movie Inside Out, Kirsten reminds us that embracing all parts of ourselves — including the messy and imperfect — is key to showing up authentically in the world. A candid conversation about choosing your "hard" and letting go of judgment on the path to growth. Try ARO for FREE | code ANNIE Connect with Kirsten | @confidently.kir
I’m THRILLED to welcome Drew, a friend and kindred spirit with a heart for helping others experience God in the everyday moments. Drew shares his journey from his roots in Colorado to theological studies across the globe, now serving as an Assistant Pastor in Georgia. Together, we explore the simplicity and depth of prayer—how something so gentle and accessible can carry profound power and impact. Pour yourself a warm drink, get cozy, and join us as we talk about taking the step of obedience, feeling weird, and reaching into your own pockets to find the gold.
In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend Meghan Robb, who shares her powerful journey after her child was diagnosed with autism before age 2. Meghan talks about how she researched and discovered that many autism symptoms are linked to inflammation, leading her to make the tough decision to cut out food dyes, gluten, and dairy from their diet. The result? Remarkable—she saw a completely different child emerge. On top of being a full-time mom, Meghan runs a thriving sourdough bread business right from her kitchen. And, of course, true to form, I couldn’t resist drawing a metaphor between life and sourdough. Just like the bread, life needs time—you have to knead, feed, and rest. You can’t rush the process, whether it’s bread or life itself. Try ARO for Free | Code ANNIE
Sunshine in a bottle. That is my good friend, Louise. She's a mother of five, and shares how she's finding her way through the chaos, juggling the demands of motherhood while keeping her heart grounded in purpose and grace. Open Hands>>Clasped Hands What a beautiful reminder that when we let go and open our hands, we make room for both giving AND receiving to flow in and out of our lives. This conversation is filled with warmth, faith, amd lessons on embracing joy in everyday moments. Try Aro for Free | Code ANNIE Books Mentioned | Gifts of the Sea Praise of Slowness
Have you ever heard the saying "protect your peace"? But what if I never had it to begin with? Creating peace involves dedicated effort and sometimes means stepping back from technology (mainly our phones) to reconnect with what truly matters. The constant exposure to screens and digital devices can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Preparing for peace to me, is detoxing from my phone. This behavior has quite literally changed my life and I hope you will leave encouraged to start, even for 5 minutes today! Try it! The first step is always awareness. Let us be present in the moment, fostering deeper relationships, and taking back time and space for what brings you joy and fulfillment. Prepare for Peace Packet Prepare for Peace Packet Phone AD INFO | @littlebiblestories | Little Bible Stories| CODE | ANNIE
Do you have someone in your life where you've seen and actually witnessed a COMPLETE transformation..a new person? Or are YOU that person? Progression often involves leaving behind "good" to discover what is truly great. Why do we feel like in order for us to earn or be worthy of something, anything, it has be hard? A struggle? Friends...Let. It. Be. Easy. Every new transformation is just the beginning again.
Taking time to reflect, journal, and compile a list of 35 things I've learned, found unrefined joy in, or am still working on that have brought me IMMENSE joy over my 35 years on this earth and I'm so excited to share this with you! Many of you already know decluttering and putting my phone away in my Aro Box made the list, but SO did plenty other things I'm passionate about. Some might even surprise you. I hope you'll come on over to YouTube with me HERE try Aro out for yourself HERE - get a free box + a discount using code: ANNIE ________________________________________ follow @unrefinedjoypodcast on IG! Annie's free monthly virtual mom's group want even MORE BTS / love notes? subscribe to Annie's "friends made family" email list - click HERE schedule a 1:1 deep dive coaching call with Annie - click HERE for more info or email coachanniegrassi@gmail.com
Having a "Becky" in our lives can be so valuable, providing support and understanding amidst a landscape often marked by lack of education, communication, and an over-abundance of fear. Rebecca's goal is to meet mothers where they are, both during and after childbirth. Every parent deserves a special moment and voice in their childbirth experience. Midwifery is rooted in evidence-based practices honed globally, and offers a pathway based on knowledge and experience, not just tradition. There's no right or wrong way to bring a baby into the world. When we trust in the natural process and empower women, allowing THEM to naviagte this journey with strength and reclaim their power, the results can be truly magical.
Embracing the journey of life often means we don't and won't have all the answers from the outset. We figure out as we go, trust God's plan, and grow by stepping into discomfort. Love, in its truest form, is not about constant happiness. The pursuit of happiness can be fleeting, but JOY stems from an internal source and connects to something greater, focusing on the *E-Ternal*. Whether it's creating a harmonious home, fostering meaninful connections, or seeking growth, the choices we make and the values we uphold play a pivotal role in our journey. Consume things and people that have fertilizer for YOUR roots.
Embracing the path of the unknown ignites souls, inspiring individuals to follow their passions fearlessly. And that's exactly what Mari did when she left the Sheriff's Department to pursue being a fulltime doula. Not all doulas are created equal, but each brings a unique touch, recognizing that it's not just about the birth process but post birth and the profound emotions felt upon meeting the newborn. A doula, like any tool, enhances the journey, emphasizing the invaluable emotional support they provide. Opening up to others' care enriches lives (Please Accept Help and Ask for Help), and as a doula, forging meaningful connections is at the heart of the role. Connect with Mari Here: Boston Birth Associates The Boston Doula Connect with Host: follow @unrefinedjoypodcast on IG! Annie's free monthly virtual mom's group want even MORE BTS / love notes? subscribe to Annie's "friends made family" email list - click HERE schedule a 1:1 deep dive coaching call with Annie - click HERE for more info or email coachanniegrassi@gmail.com use code URJOY at checkout for $10 off
My journey has shaped who I am today and where I stand today. Growing up Catholic, I never struggled with believing in God, but I lacked a personal relationship with Him. Over time, I've come to understand that God works through the broken, the wounded, and the imperfect. My hope and prayer are that everyone experiences the transformative fire of God's love, igniting their hearts and souls with faith and purpose. ________________________________________ follow @unrefinedjoypodcast on IG! Annie's free monthly virtual mom's group want even MORE BTS / love notes? subscribe to Annie's "friends made family" email list - click HERE schedule a 1:1 deep dive coaching call with Annie - click HERE for more info or email coachanniegrassi@gmail.com
Living in autopilot often leaves no space for self-awareness, and sometimes, we actually prefer it that way to avoid confronting emotions. Our brains operate on a "use it or lose it" principle, leading to emotional disconnection when not actively enagaged. To regain awareness, practice slowing down and make friends with emotions like anger, while focusing on the 3 R's: Regulate, Relate, and Reason.
Slow living is crucial for reclaiming our freedom and finding greater joy in life. It involves challenging cultural norms that glorify busyness and the constant pursuit of productivity. Transitioning from being a people pleaser to learning to say no is a fundamental aspect of this shift. Slow living is a continuous process of learning and intentional living, embracing the idea that it's okay to do less and to slow down. Many people are depleted and burnt out due to the relentless pace of modern life. By prioritizing slow living, we can nurture ourselves and our relationships more effectively. There's often a fear associated with prioritizing our homes and families over work, but this shift can be incredibly liberating and valuable. Slow living encourages us to work deeply and passionately, recognizing that rest is essential for sustainable productivity and well-being. By embracing this lifestyle, we not only improve our own lives but also contribute to creating a more balanced and fulfilling society. connect with today's guest: Madisun Gray Instagram | YouTube | Podcast - Spotify | Podcast - Apple | website check out Madisun's Wholehearted Course here! ________________________________________ follow @unrefinedjoypodcast on IG! Annie's free monthly virtual mom's group want even MORE BTS / love notes? subscribe to Annie's "friends made family" email list - click HERE schedule a 1:1 deep dive coaching call with Annie - click HERE for more info or email coachanniegrassi@gmail.com use code URJOY at checkout for $10 off
In a society where "balance" is overly saturated and preached, I'm going to challenge you to shift towards embracing and chasing Harmony over juggling endless social expectations. Admist the noise, it's crutial to discern what truly matters to YOU and here's your reminder that our phones, often seen as extensions of ourselves, should be tools, not crutches. By creating boundaries, we carve out space for ourselves to flourish and discover the beauty of living in harmony with the world around us. ________________________________________ follow @unrefinedjoypodcast on IG! Annie's free monthly virtual mom's group want even MORE BTS / love notes? subscribe to Annie's "friends made family" email list - click HERE book your 1:1 coaching call with Annie - click HERE for more info or email coachanniegrassi@gmail.com use code URJOY at checkout for $10 off
Despite facing overwhelming hardship and enduring immense stress and worry, Brent's unwavering faith in God remains steadfast. Having navigated through countless trials and tribulations, including his wife's near death car accident, he finds solace in surrendering everything beyond his control to God. Through his journey, Brent has come to realize that nothing catches God by surprise, and he has witnessed the reassuring presence of God's hands and goodness amidst life's challenges. Believing in God's unfailing support, he draws strength not only for his emotional well-being but also for his physical endurance. He advocates for acknowledging God's glory even in the midst of imperfection, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and praise regardless of the circumstances.
In this episode, Meg communicates the importance of understanding the distinction between sharing and being vulnerable, while also embracing authenticity and finding one's community. She emphasizes the reciprocity in friendships, starting with being a friend first and practicing active listening. Showing one's true self and journey (even the messy, raw parts) is encouraged, alongside being open to constant growth and change. There's a recognition of the art of sharing from wounds verses sharing from healing, and an acknowledgement that sometimes the path to fulfillment may involve supporting others rather than leading the way yourself. Let this episode encourage you to find "your" tribe, and what the value of genuine connections, personal growth, and mutual support within a community can bring to your life. We need more of it.
S2E2. If you had any idea how much I was nodding my head during this whole interview..Parents who feel as if their marriage has taken a hit or back seat since having kids? Um yes… that’s all of us.. No matter how much we love our spouse! This isn’t a conversation / topic that needs to be hidden or make all of us feel stranded on an island like we’re the only ones struggling.. Aaron has an INCREDIBLE approach towards this topic with his years of experience as a couples counselor. From arguments over dirty dishes, lulls in sex life, subtle battles over who’s “more tired”, to general drifting apart.. I can’t wait for you to turn in, feel normalized but also learn SO much about HOW to approach these things inside your own home. Thank you for listening & be sure to share with a friend! If you share on your socials, be sure to tag us - @UnrefinedJoyPodcast and @BabyproofingYourRelationship with your biggest takeaways! ____________________________ Aaron F. Steinberg, MA, PCC is a relationship coach, group facilitator, and father of two young boys. He is the Co-Founder of a relationship education and support organization, Babyproofing Your Relationship. In addition to his MA in Psychology, he has certificates in leadership development and sex education, is a NARM Complex and Developmental Trauma Practitioner, and is trained in couples counseling through the Gottman Institute and the Couples Institute. He has helped thousands of people learn to feel truly fulfilled in romantic relationships through individual and couples counseling, group workshops and courses, and his guidebook to working through romantic conflict called The Honesty Practice. @BabyproofingYourRelationship / www.babyproofingyourrelationship.com Connect Through the Chaos https://www.babyproofingyourrelationship.com/CTTCcheckout 25% OFF DISCOUNT CODE: unrefined ____________________________ TRULY gentle sleep coach, Kaila Nickel with “Rest Easy Mama” @RestEasyMama Book a free 20min consultation call with Kaila on her website & tell her I sent you! www.resteasymama.com ____________________________ Come follow (@unrefinedjoypodcast) on Instagram! Join my free monthly virtual mom's group, click HERE. Want even MORE BTS / love notes? Subscribe to my "friends made family" email list, click HERE. Interested in working 1:1 together? click HERE or email me at coachanniegrassi@gmail.com ! For 10% off, use code urjoy at checkout 🫶🏼