Ditching Perfection: Recent Episodes
Carly Bartlett
Welcome to the “Ditching Perfection” podcast with Carly Bartlett. Each week, this podcast will help you pursue wholeness in Jesus rather than trying to have it all together. Along the way, you will hear raw conversations and practical tips that will remind you to throw some confetti and celebrate yourself! Your inner critic doesn’t have to be the dominant voice in your life anymore.
This week, Mike and I share about the third portion of our trip in Germany & France, including these memorable experiences:⚽️ Watching a rowdy professional soccer game,💛 Visiting Mike’s sister and her family in their hometown,✝️ Celebrating Easter with our pastor friends in Germany, 🏰 Spending three days at Disneyland Paris, 🥐 Eating our way through neighborhoods in Paris, 🫧 And running through magical bubbles outside the Louvre. We also talk about how we often experienced the goodness of God through the goodness of people. Thanks for joining us for this fun conversation! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Highlights of our second leg of our European adventure was full of fairy tale vibes… and a few mishaps. 🤪
Today on the podcast Mike and I are sharing about:
🏰 Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle — the castle that served as the inspiration for the Walt Disney’s castle,
👀 How we found a super affordable Airbnb with castle views,
🍫 Our delicious tour at the Lindt Chocolate Factory,
🏔️ And the magical town of Hallstatt, which influenced Disney imagineers as they dreamed up Frozen’s town, Arendelle.
On this portion of the trip, we also ran into a major mishap with our rental car reservation—and it was our fault. It was definitely stressful, but before we left, we had told ourselves this: “At some point, things won’t go as planned. So, when that happens, we will know we will be okay and we will be equipped to figure it out.”
It was anticipatory grace, and when the mistakes happened, we were able to be patient with ourselves more quickly, and trust that we’d be able to navigate the challenge in front of us.
So, as you listen to this episode this week, we hope that you give yourself anticipatory grace too. You will make mistakes. Things will happen that you didn’t plan. Instead of beating yourself up, normalize the experience of being imperfect and then trust that God will help you weave your way through the unexpected. 💛
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This week, Mike and I are talking about the three weeks that our family spent in Italy! We are reflecting on:🎂 our unforgettable birthday party with nuns, 🖼️ our favorite art pieces in Rome & Florence,👀 how we got to see the Pope, 🪦 visiting where Paul & Peter were buried, 🤤 and where you can find the best tiramisu in Rome! We also talk about how seeing a painting of Thomas helped us reshape the way we talk about him… not as Doubting Thomas, but as Courageous Thomas! Our ten week trip to Europe helped us learn so much about God, ourselves, one another, and others around us. We are grateful to share these reflections with you! 💛--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Hope can feel elusive. Sometimes we chase after it, only to feel like it is out of our reach. Other times, we feel like we have a little hope, but we don’t feel like we can share it. What if there isn’t enough hope to go around?
In this sermon from Ezekiel 37, we will be reminded today that God’s hope is most clearly experienced in community. God’s hope is for the whole neighborhood.
This sermon was originally preached at Nampa College Church in the summer of 2023.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
I am convinced that security and joy are connected. So, what do I mean by joy? From my perspective, joy is a SETTLED GLADNESS— rooted in finding our security and our identity in God, who is trustworthy, faithful and unchanging. But this whole thing isn’t easy right? So, in today’s sermon, we are talking about the invitation to travel light so that we can make room for God to bring deliverance, peace, righteousness, justice, light and joy in ways we don’t expect.
This sermon was originally preached at Northwest Nazarene University in the winter of 2022 as a part of their Advent series.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
In today’s day and age, a teeter-totter mentality dominates our culture and can even weave its way into our closest relationships. We buy the lie that “when I go up, you go down” and “there can only be one winner.” This breeds habits of hostility, but when we follow the example of Jesus, we are empowered by the Spirit to cultivate habits of humility. When we live that way, we move from self-promotion to asking the question, “How can I lift others up?”
This sermon was originally preached at Eagle Nazarene Church in the fall of 2018.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram Carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Kids ask questions... all the time. They wonder why the sky is blue, they want to know the story behind their middle name, and they want to know what is on the agenda after dinner. Unfortunately, as we grow up we lose our sense of curiosity. We feel like asking questions is wrong, and instead we feel like we have to have it all figured out. We establish rhythms, routines, and habits that make us feel established… and secure… but in the process we lose our wonder.As we dive into this sermon today, I believe that God is inviting us to take on the posture of an inquisitive six year old. As we grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus, I believe a sign of spiritual maturity is curiosity. God is inviting us to choose curiosity over comfort.This sermon was originally preached at Eagle Nazarene Church in the spring of 2021.—— I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
We all long for peace… especially in times of uncertainty and waiting… but what if what our heart longs for isn’t found in convenience and comfort zones?
What if true peace is found not in spectating… but through fully participating in the new thing that God is doing?
This sermon was originally preached in December 2023 as a part of the Advent series at Nampa College Church.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
We live in a culture where trying hard, climbing the corporate ladder, working, checking off boxes, and abiding by the rules are celebrated and rewarded. Is it overachieving really that harmful? To us? To the people around us?
Often the very hands that God invites us to raise in joyful, peaceful, surrender, end up being the instruments for our striving.
But the good news is that we don’t have to chase sufficiency. Instead of trying to be good enough, Paul’s words in Galatians 2 will remind us to trust in the sufficient grace of Jesus.
This sermon was preached at Nampa College Church in the summer of 2023.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Whether we like to admit it or not, we often judge a book by its cover right? From these preconceived ideas, we decide if we can risk trusting someone.
But what if God is inviting us to uproot those deep, preconceived ideas and see the fingerprints of God in everyone around us? What if we were to call out the goodness in others so that they can see it in themselves?
Today we are unpacking the story of “The Good Samaritan.” As we dive in today, I believe that Jesus’ words are inviting us to see not only the Samaritan as good, but another unlikely character as good. In the process, I believe that Jesus is inviting us to 1) shatter our stereotypes, 2) take risks to trust, and 3) to shuffle along with unlikely, misfit world changers in our midst.
The world is waiting for wildly generous compassion!
This sermon was originally preached at Nampa College Church in the summer of 2022.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
We all wear labels. Some of the labels we are proud of, and others bring us a lot of shame. Because of the labels we try to hide, we are quick to put labels on other people.
In the parable of the prodigal son, the father invites both brothers—the rebellious younger child and the performance-driven child to see themselves as beloved.
Jesus invites us to see ourselves as beloved too. When we understand how loved we are, we are able to walk through the doors of grace and forgiveness… and then extend that grace and forgiveness to others.
This sermon was originally preached at MidAmerica Nazarene University in the fall of 2023 as part of their series on the Lord’s Prayer.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram Carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Hearing confirms what we think. Seeing challenges us to think differently. 👀
What we hear is all filtered through our past experiences, perceptions, ideas, fears, beliefs, and expectations. Hearing keeps us comfortably at an arm’s length, but seeing causes us to be up close and personal…. As we will learn from Revelation 7 today, seeing moves us to link arms with people who are different than us and calls us away from a life of power and prestige, and often into a life of suffering and sacrifice. God is inviting us to get close and see, even though it will cause us to leave our comfortable zones.
This sermon was originally preached at Nampa College Church in the fall of 2021.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
We want to feel our worth. We want to know that we are loved, significant, and valued. We desire this, but because there are so many messages competing for our attention, we can easily forget that we are worthy of love. In this unexpected passage in Matthew, we will realize that Jesus invites us to be a part of the family, frees us from what is holding us back, and gives us hope for the future. Through all of this, Jesus will remind us that we have great worth. This sermon was originally preached at Northwest Nazarene University in December of 2023, as part of their Advent series. ——I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Our family is preparing for a trip of a lifetime. We are going to explore the different places with no agenda except a plan to rest, enjoy each other's company, and learn from people in cultures different than ours. In this episode, Mike and I share a glimpse of our travel plans, how we packed for ten weeks in one carry-on each (truly miraculous), and what we believe that God is going to teach during our time away.
Also, we want to give a special shout out to our dear friends and family who are caring for our house and our dog, Shirley, while we are away!
If you're interested in following along on our travels, connect with me on instagram @carlycommunicates. I will be sharing updates there!
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Do you ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels, but not necessarily moving forward? What if rest is actually the answer?
In today’s episode, my friend and colleague, Pastor Ryan Gage, is here to reflect with us about his recent sabbatical and what God taught him through his season of rest. He will share with us:
💡the importance of untethering yourself from your schedule,
💡how oftentimes maintaining things actually gets in the way of us co-creating with God, and
💡how you don’t have to go on an extravaganttcruise to find rest… you can find rest right where you are.
Ryan serves as the Worship Arts Pastor at Nampa College Church of the Nazarene, and is involved in various local non-profit organizations that advocate for the foster care community and mentorship efforts. Ryan is married to Ashley, and they have four children. The Gages love singing together, decorating, designing, laughing, and enjoying good food!
To connect with Ryan and learn more about his sabbatical, music ministry, etc. you can find him on instagram @ryangage79.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry and access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
This week on the podcast, my friend, Tone Marshall, is here to share with us about:💡how the intersection of caring people and basketball led him to a relationship with Christ during his college years,💡the importance of discerning what is good and what is God, and,💡how daily repetition is actually long-term formation. Let me tell you about my friend, Tone…Antonio (Tone) Marshall is the Chaplain at Olivet Nazarene University, which is where he earned his degree and played collegiate basketball. He has a passion for youth sports and runs a nonprofit organization called MAN on FIRE, where he uses his experiences to help the next generation find authentic freedom in Christ . Antonio is married to his lovely wife, O’Malley, and dad to three kids, Daxton, Barrow & Haynes. ——I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry and access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Do have dreams or a vision to make a difference in the world, but you feel like your perfectionism and fear of failure is holding you back? If so, this episode is for you!
My friend, Liza Chitwood, is here to share with us:
✨how a “performance fast” helped her ditch perfectionism,
✨how understanding her identity as beloved by God freed her to adventure with God, and
✨how that freedom led her to spend three years in Lebanon, where she watched God heal Syrian refugees through art workshops that she led alongside Lebanese and Syrian friends.
Liza founded a social enterprise, called the Art of Hoping, that provides economic empowerment and emotional healing for refugee women. You can check out the amazing stories and handmade textiles from the Art of Hoping by visiting https://artofhoping.com/ or connecting with Liza on instagram @artofhoping.
Liza Chitwood hales from the Midwest, lives in Idaho with her husband Matt where they enjoy fry sauce on their potatoes and hot springs on the weekends.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry and access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
What do you love about your faith community, and how can you make that experience something others can stumble upon?
In part 2 of our conversation with Danny Atkins, he will remind us that missional living looks like taking the rhythms of what we already do in our faith communities and making them public. Relocating, rather than re-strategizing, will bring us into friendship with others who can experience the hope of the Jesus through our lives together.
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Danny Atkins currently serves as an executive pastor at Nampa College Church and as a part-time professor at Northwest Nazarene University. He is currently working on a PhD at Nazarene Theological College, studying Paul’s theology of mission.
Prior to his current ministry context in Nampa, he served for five years in Germany as a missionary with the Church of the Nazarene. That experience helped shape his calling to help the church be a missionary in its own context.
Danny loves to spend time with his wife and daughter, and together they love to be outdoors and travel to new places.
If you’d like to talk with Danny about living on mission, feel free to reach out to him at datkins@nampaccn.com
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry and access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
For those of us who are Jesus followers, we often hear the call to share the Gospel and to live on mission, but we may ask ourselves, “How do we do that?”
In this 2 part conversation that we’re starting today, my good friend, Pastor Danny Atkins is here to remind us that “we’re not trying to take something from God to people. Instead we’re trying to put flesh on what God is already doing.”
So, friends. You can throw your check-lists and attempts at strategic plans out the window. God isn’t asking for our plans. God is inviting us to participate. I think that is pretty exciting and freeing… and I can’t wait to hear all of the insights and encouragement that Danny has to share with us.
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Danny Atkins currently serves as an executive pastor at Nampa College Church and as a part-time professor at Northwest Nazarene University. He is currently working on a PhD at Nazarene Theological College, studying Paul’s theology of mission.
Prior to his current ministry context in Nampa, he served for five years in Germany as a missionary with the Church of the Nazarene. That experience helped shape his calling to help the church be a missionary in its own context.
Danny loves to spend time with his wife and daughter, and together they love to be outdoors and travel to new places.
If you’d like to talk with Danny about living on mission, feel free to reach out to him at datkins@nampaccn.com
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry and access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Episode 91: The Surprising Inbreaking of God | Reading Matthew 2 with Garret ShelstaMy friend, Garret Shelsta is here to remind us to: ✨ Choose to stay curious rather than feel threatened when something new arises✨ Look for God’s fingerprints in the most unexpected places and most unexpected people✨ Recognize that Jesus, who is the perfect combination of both truth and love, disrupts faulty systems of this world and faulty systems we’ve constructed in our own lives. We also talk about the fact that God doesn’t look for particular boxes to be checked, or for things to be nice and neat in order to pursue us. The God meets us right where we are — no matter how broken, messy, or confused we may be. God’s desire is always for us to respond to God’s invitation to holy and holistic restoration.——If you’d like to connect with my guest, Garret Shelsta, you can find him on instagram @gshelsta. You can also check out the devotional book he wrote here: https://www.amazon.com/Over-Top-Devotional-Generous-Teenagers/dp/B0CGLCCSVL/ref=sr_1_12?crid=50IVUCCXLB1O&keywords=stuff+you+can+use&qid=1702941328&s=books&sprefix=stuff+you+can+us%2Cstripbooks%2C171&sr=1-12——I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunictes. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry and access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
The weeks leading up to Christmas can be wild, chaotic, and full. Even if our schedules are full of good things, this season can still be exhausting. So, this conversation today with my friend, Bri Johns, is timely. As we look at Mary’s life in Scripture, Bri reminds us of God’s beautiful invitation to JUST BE.
Bri also helps us think about how to:
✨intentionally & consistently connect with our neighbors,
✨check our motivations as a means of ditching perfection, &
✨measure our bandwidth and know it is okay to say “this is too much.”
If you’re feeling exhausted or weary for any and every reason… this episode is for you!
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Thanks to Bri Johns for being my guest today. If you’d like to chat with Bri further about anything she mentioned in the episode, you can reach out to her on instagram at _brijohns.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Are you in a season of waiting? Are you wondering how to move forward out of a painful situation? Are you doubting if God can ever bring good out of sadness or hurt?
God doesn't cause the pain or hurt we experience, but Pastor Shane Lima reminds us that “God’s grace can weave together pain into triumph, and trauma into testimony.” As we unpack Matthew 1 together, and look at the women in the genealogy of Jesus, we can see great hope come out of devastation.
This Advent season, as we sit in waiting, may hope be the fuel that carries us forward. The light will break forth. God is with us.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
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We are in our final week of our fall series called “In This Together.” We’ve talked about how to cultivate healthy relationships with others, but it is also so important to talk about how to care well for yourself.
I am thrilled that psychologist and theologian, Dr. Karen Hurula, is here to lead us through this valuable discussion. Dr. Hurula is the Director of the Center for Counseling at Wheaton College, and in this episode, she shares with us:
✨ how she is helping the church have more holistic conversations about mental health,
✨ why not neglecting our basic physical needs is of utmost importance, &
✨ the three questions we need to ask in order to foster healthy inner dialogue.
You can learn more about Dr. Hurula and her ministry at https://drkarenhurula.com/.
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you'd like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Stop and think about five people outside of your family who have impacted your life the most. Are they all in the same age range as you? My guess is that those people represent a wide range of ages. Intergenerational connections are vital to our growth as individuals and the health of our communities. In a world that is fractured and compartmentalized, we can uniquely grow through relationships with people in different phases of life.I asked my friend, Dr. Michael Johnson, to come and share with us about intergenerational connections. Michael has been serving at Trevecca Nazarene University for thirty-four years, and through his experience in higher education and deep investment in the Church, Michael has valued and prioritized intergenerational relationships. I met Michael and his wife, Sarah, when I was in college. They became cheerleaders for me and I know that they’ve done this for countless others. I couldn’t think of a better person to help us lean into a conversation about the gift of intergenerational connections.——I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com.I send out a FREE weekly devotional on Fridays, so make sure to sign up for that as well! 📖--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Today is our (Mike & Carly’s) 14th wedding anniversary. So, we hopped into the podcast studio to chat all about our relationship and some fun memories. In this episode, we talk about:
❤️ how we knew (and how soon we knew) we wanted to get married,
❤️ how asking questions & staying curious has been an integral part of our marriage, and
❤️ how we’ve learned more about God from one another.
We also talk about how we’ve learned to appreciate each other’s hobbies… and Mike quizzes me on NBA players and their respective teams… 🏀👀
Grab an iced gingerbread chai and join us for this fun anniversary episode conversation! We’re thrilled to celebrate with you! 🎉
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I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com.
I send out a FREE weekly devotional on Fridays, so make sure to sign up for that on my website as well! 📖
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
You’re in for a treat today, my friends! Brothers and collegiate basketball teammates, Gabe and Aaron Murphy are here to share with us about their relationship. They are truly “in this together,” as they do life together both on and off the court.
In today’s episode, Gabe and Aaron share with us about:
🏀 the value of risk & vulnerability,
🏀 how healthy competition between the two of them fuels their growth, and
🏀 how the people who love you the most see the potential in you and call you to be better.
You are going to love this conversation with these hilarious and insightful brothers!
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✨I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycomunicates.com
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Rick and Nancy are celebrating 50 years of marriage this year. These two love each other well and love their community well. I am grateful to have learned from them for the past several years, and I can’t wait for you to learn from them today.They will be talking with us about how challenging seasons can bring you together, the power of an apology, and how they have nurtured a sweet friendship in their marriage.Whether you are married or hope to be married someday, these relational words of wisdom will be applicable to you. ——I’d love to connect with you throughout the week on instagram @carlycommunicates. If you’d like to learn more about my speaking ministry or access my Bible study resources, visit carlycommunicates.com--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
College and young adult years are some of the most formational times of life . . . so the friendships we make during that time are formational too!
Today, Keziah, Kendrey, and Shelby are here to talk about finding quality friends in college, how social media both helps & hinders friendships, the importance of praying for friendship, and they teach me about beige flags… Have you heard about this before? I am such a millennial apparently. HA!
If you find this episode encouraging, please share it with a friend or family member. If there is any way I can cheer you on in your ditching perfection journey, reach out to me on instagram @carlycommunicates.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Here is the episode so many of you requested... a conversation about adult friendships. Finding and maintaining friends can be really hard. The truth is, many of us are lonely, isolated, and not sure how to make friends when we are juggling work, families, and paying the bills. So, my friend, Elise Snowden is here to 1) normalize the fact that adulting and friendship can be challenging, 2) share some of her experience with friendships in this phase, and 3) help us look to Jesus' friendships as an inspiration for our own relationships.
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Several years ago, Cherie asked Joy to be her mentor, not just for a season, but for LIFE. The consistency, intentionality, and vulnerability that these two cultivate is inspiring and encouraging. Everyone needs someone who is investing in them, and everyone needs to be investing in someone else. Mentoring matters.
Cherie Reiter is an avid God-chaser, wife to Chris, mom to four kids, and co-pastor of The Connection Church of the Nazarene in Castle Rock, Colorado. Cherie is a singer/songwriter and has written and recorded music with a new album releasing soon. J
Joy Streight is married to Dave, mom to three adult children, and grandmother to three young grandchildren. She is the lead pastor of Boise Castle Hills Church of the Nazarene, and she enjoys painting, singing, reading, and writing.
You can reach Cherie at pastorcherie@connectionnaz.org and Joy at joy@castlehillsnaz.com.
I'd love to hear how you're ditching perfection in your season of life! Let's connect on instagram. You can find me at @carlycommunicates. To learn more about my speaking ministry, visit http://carlycommunicates.com
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We are kicking off our relationships series today, "In This Together," with a darling mother-daughter duo... Sandy and McKenna Kipp! We chat about how they navigated through the almost-always-challenging middle school years, how intentional time together during Covid deepened their friendship, and how they prepared for McKenna to go away to college. Whether you are a teenager or young adult at home, or a parent of a kid at any age, this episode will encourage you and serve as a reminder to give yourself lots of grace. Perfection doesn't exist in parenting or growing up... but intentionality, kindness, and healthy conflict resolution can. /// Sandy Kipp is a Christian humbly attempting to serve God and seek His direction in her life. She is the proud wife of an incredible man, Mike, and mom of two great kids, Spencer and McKenna (now both in college!). Her passion for nutrition has found her a career and ministry as a dietitian nutritionist helping individuals navigate health issues through diet and lifestyle changes. She loves exploring both nationally and internationally and during the warm weather enjoys lake surfing with friends and family and getting lost out in the garden especially when she is joined by their frolicking kitties, DJ and Zoe. But her happiest place is sitting around a table for hours with family and friends, enjoying delicious food and great company. /// McKenna Kipp is a freshman in college at Point Loma Nazarene University, studying graphic design. She is originally from Nampa, Idaho, where she was raised by two amazing parents, Mike and Sandy, and with an older brother, Spencer. She’s passionate about the Lord and helping bring the good news of Christ to others. When she’s not doing homework, McKenna loves to play volleyball, go on hikes, and go to the beach! /// I'd love to hear how you're ditching perfection in your season of life! Let's connect on instagram. You can find me at @carlycommunicates. To learn more about my ministry, visit http://carlycommunicates.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Going it alone is really tempting, right? We want to prove ourselves, show that we're capable, and not appear weak... but in today's conversation with my new friend, Danielle Zapchenk, she and I are chatting about why inviting others in can truly transform us and those around us. Danielle is a mom, wife, speaker, ministry leader, and the host of two podcasts: The Parable Podcast & Together We Rise. You can learn more about her ministry at https://www.daniellezapchenk.com/.------I'd love to hear how you're ditching perfection in your season of life! Let's connect on instagram. You can find me at @carlycommunicates. To learn more about my ministry, visit http://carlycommunicates.com.
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Today, we are diving into a back-to-school conversation with my dear friend, Jamie Lubiens, who is an extraordinary and dedicated educator. We talk all about the challenges and joys of being a teacher… especially in the last few years! Jamie also shares with us a bit about her family’s adoption stories, how she is learning to deal with people pleasing in healthy ways, and… you have to wait until the end to hear two epic facepalm moments—and they both have to do with elementary school gymnastics. Just wait. -------Jamie is a wife to an imaginative dreamer and continual reformer, mom to two amazing kids, and a Student-Centered Learning Coach in Boise, ID. She is passionate about empowering students to break cycles of poverty through education. Jamie is also a committed follower of Jesus, and along with her husband, Trevor, is part of a team helping to launch Midtown Church, a new church plant in Boise. When she is not working in the public school system, Jamie loves to sing, bake, and play golf.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
This is the LAST episode of Jesus Q&A. It has been such a transformative series for me. I hope it has been for you too. We are finishing our series hearing the first words of the resurrected Jesus documented in the Gospel of John... and His words come as a question full of empathy, compassion, and understanding. Jesus meets Mary right in the middle of her deep emotions and empowers her to be the first preacher of the message of resurrection.
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It is often easier to go along with the crowd than it is to stop and listen. Listening takes intentionality. It means carving out time and space to hear someone’s perspective. It means setting aside our desire to be heard so that we can truly understand someone else’s story. In our cultural moment, we are quick to “cancel” people who have different perspectives, beliefs, opinions, and backgrounds… When did we lose the ability to appreciate someone, even if we don’t hold all of the same perspectives? When did we decide that we can only be friends with people who think exactly like us?
If we truly listen, show value to the stories of others, and seek to know the source of information… then I think the way we interact with others will shift and soften. It is easy to toss someone aside when we don’t know them… but once we’ve connected personally, heard someone’s story, and understand why they think, act, vote, believe, or live a certain way, we are less likely to throw our hands up and say, “Well I don’t know! I’ll just listen to the crowd.”
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There is a lot of conflict, division, and violence in the world right now. It is easy for us to get swept in the finger pointing, us vs. them narratives. It is easy for us to view others as threats and want to do anything we can to secure and protect ourselves. But if we are going to be a part of the restoration story that God is writing in the world, we are invited to follow in the footsteps of the Slaughtered Lamb… Following the Lamb means that we will walk the road of victory, while simultaneously walking the road of suffering.
So, Jesus’ question in Matthew 26:55, “Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me?” leads us to consider these questions for ourselves: Are we allowing culture to determine how we follow Jesus, or is following Jesus determining how we engage with culture?
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It is easy to get our wants and needs mixed up. We say we need a coffee to get us through the mid-afternoon slump... We say we need a new pair of shoes before the school year, but are those true needs? In Luke 22:35-38, Jesus' question reminds us that sometimes the stuff we want can actually get in the way of what we truly need.
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We have just walked through an exciting month so we want to share some fun behind-the-scenes stories from NYC, Disney World, and CIY camps... along with some fun family stories. We have lived so many answered prayers and moments of celebration, so we want to invite you into the party!
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Is it hard for you to accept help from others? In John 13, when Jesus was washing the disciples’ feet, Peter was like, “No way, man.” He may have been ashamed of his grit and grime, or he may have felt like he had the right answer… I shouldn’t let Jesus wash my feet! But Jesus said, “Unless I wash you, you have no part of me.” Jesus’ actions and His words remind us that - Being connected to Jesus and His mission, begins simply with receiving from Him, not achieving for Him. The world tells us that we have to work hard to earn love, to earn our way to approval, to clean up before we show up… but the opposite of true with Jesus. We are invited to receive first so that we can share that foot-washing, meet you in the mess kind of love with others.
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Jesus asks this question of the skeptical Pharisees, “If one of you has a child or an ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it out?” And they don’t have anything to say to this question.
When it becomes personal, they would obviously act. They wouldn’t let a rule inhibit them from saving someone they loved or an animal that was connected to their well-being. So, in asking this question, Jesus is reminding us that we are all connected. Everyone’s needs should impact us in a personal way.
We are invited to think about the rules that dictate our day to day lives: Are those guidelines and boundaries rooted in compassion or legalism?
Jesus’ question reminds us to be guided by the heart behind the rules rather than becoming laser-beam focused on the rules themselves.
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When we elevate ourselves, rather than elevate Christ, it is actually a sign of shaky trust. Underneath self-preservation and self-promotion is a distrust that God will care for us, guide us, and give us a purposeful life. God wants what is best for us. When Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, it is because the most peaceful, purposeful life is found when we depend first on Jesus rather than ourselves.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at https://carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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In Mark 8:29, Jesus asks Peter: “Who do you say that I am?” Who do you say that Jesus is? Is Jesus your friend? Is He your comforter? Or is Jesus someone who seems far away and distant?
Jesus cares about what we think and how our experiences have shaped our understanding of who He is. Sometimes the pain or the brokenness of our stories can alter the way we see Jesus… and He isn’t offended by that. That doesn’t cause Him to walk away.
Peter and the disciples didn’t fully understand who Jesus was either. Just as He didn’t give them on them, Jesus is committed to us. He meets us right where we are, acknowledges how we feel, and envelops us with His compassion. His continued compassion is what brings us clarity.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at https://carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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In this passage, we read 8 questions! WOW! That’s a lot. Some of them are rhetorical, and some Jesus pauses for the disciples’ response. Why did Jesus ask so many questions? And why did He specifically ask them to recall the amount of leftovers in the miraculous feedings?
Jesus was asking the disciples questions to help them remember… because remembering helps bring clarity in times of confusion.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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Sometimes, we hear stories of people getting healed when they were at the end of their rope and had lost hope that they’d be healed… and God healed them! We’ve also heard many stories, and probably have been disappointed and hurt personally because we’ve known people who were full of faith that they’d be healed, and they weren't. Maybe we even prayed with full confidence saying, “Yes, Lord, I believe you can do this,” and the healing never came… for us or someone we love. This is hard to reconcile, isn’t it? I am on the journey with you, friends. I hope you'll join me for a raw conversation about prayer, belief, doubt, and more... The good news is: God isn't offended by our questions. Instead God meets us right in the midst of them. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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I am intimidated by a lot of things, to be honest. After watching the news, I used to tell my husband, “I just want to move off the grid and live like Laura Ingalls Wilder in Little House on the Prairie.” But as I’ve felt that, Jesus whispers to me, “Don’t let fear and intimidation be your boss.” Fear and intimidation are natural responses, but as one of my fav podcasters, Annie F. Downs says, “Emotions can be in the car, but they shouldn’t be in the driver’s seat.” I appreciate that, because I don’t know if I will ever get rid of feelings of fear or intimidation… but they don’t have to be my boss or drive my car.
In today's passage when Jesus is interacting with the demoniac, Jesus asks, “What is your name?” That question leads me to an important answer that my soul craves… Jesus’ name is greater than any other name. I can know that in my head, but I am working on learning to live like that is true with my whole heart.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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Jesus isn’t shaken by what shakes us. This doesn’t mean He doesn’t care. Oh, He certainly cares about us, but when storms come, His confidence and peace are totally secure.
When Jesus asks, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” I think He is reminding the disciples, and us today, to follow His lead. Where is Jesus in the storm? What is Jesus’ posture? Instead of fixing our eyes on the waves, we are invited to fix our eyes on Jesus… the one whose peace is more powerful than the storm.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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Jesus asks, "Do you see this woman?" because He realizes that our perspectives and perceptions shape how we interact with the world. God is inviting us to see others and ourselves not by what we’ve done or not done, but by who we are… beloved children of God. We’re all seated at the same table.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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Today, we're talking about disappointment, so I am sharing my most cringey dating story EVER. It was the worst Valentine's Day ever...
We’ve all been disappointed, had our feelings hurt, or been crushed when people have not kept their word. Sometimes, then, we project our past hurt onto Jesus, closing ourselves off from vulnerability and trust. We set our expectations of Jesus too low, because we just can’t stand to be disappointed again.
But what Jesus is saying here is that He’s not like people. God’s trustworthiness and reliability goes beyond human capacity. To know that true is an incredible gift, but to act like it is true requires a step of courage. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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Shame shouldn’t hold a megaphone in our lives. Yes, we all deal with shame from time to time, but hiddenness only makes the voice of shame louder.
So, Jesus’ questions invite us to take off our masks and address the plank in our eye. We are safe to be vulnerable with Jesus. Jesus doesn’t invite us to talk about mess because He wants to shame us. Jesus wants to free us, clear our vision, and take away distractions so that we can show up for the world with confidence and humility.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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Vulnerability alert: In my experience, worry is often perpetuated by my desire for self-preservation, safety, and control. I want to flourish so desperately that my worry actually robs me of peace, joy, whimsy, and hope. In Matthew 6:27, Jesus asks the question, "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" This question, and the surrounding words of Jesus from this section of Scripture, point us to some important promises and practices. I am sharing with you some of the rhythms that I have personally utilized to help me in times of anxiety. If you have swirling thoughts centered on worry, I believe you'll find this episode extremely helpful.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is ever any way that I can link arms with you in ministry though speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
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There are so many things that cause us to not feel valued. We question our value if we don’t get the promotion at work, don’t get into the top choice college, miss a catch at a game, lose our temper with our kids, don’t see a number go down on the scale, or if we see on social media that our friends hung out last weekend and we weren’t invited. But Jesus' question in Matthew 6:25-26 invites us to sink into what is true. We are deeply loved, adored, and valued because we are God's children.
I'd love to connect with you on instagram! You can find me @carlycommunicates. Each Friday, I send out a bite-sized Bible study to my friends on my email list. Sign up here to subscribe!
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It is tempting to play the inferiority / superiority game, or to point fingers at people who are “lesser than,” but in asking the questions in Matt. 5:44 & 46, Jesus is reminding us that we ALL need help in loving our enemies. It isn’t something that we can do on our own. No matter who we are, we need God’s love to flow through us so that we no longer dehumanize or minimize someone, but we see all people through God’s lens of love.
I'd love to connect with you on instagram! You can find me @carlycommunicates. Each Friday, I send out a bite-sized Bible study to my friends on my email list. Sign up here to subscribe!
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It is easy for us to feel disqualified. Like the thirsty woman at the well in John 4, it is easy for us to feel like we have nothing to offer. We may cling to the words that people have said about us, or hold tightly feelings of rejection, abandonment, or betrayal. The experiences we’ve had or the pain we carry may make us feel like we have no value to offer to others… but Jesus says, “I see you, and you have something valuable to share with the world.” ..... I'd love to connect with you on instagram! You can find me @carlycommunicates. Each Friday, I send out a bite-sized Bible study to my friends on my email list. Sign up here to subscribe!
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Jesus asked over 300 questions in the Bible. Instead of coming to hold lectures, Jesus came to have conversations. In this first episode of Jesus Q&A, Jesus' question, "What do you seek?" reminds us that Jesus cares about what we care about. We're all looking for something... and even if we're searching for satisfaction in all the wrong places, Jesus invites us to walk with Him one step at a time. As we do, our desires will align with God's good intentions for us.
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What if, amidst the uncertainties and complexities of life, we discover that the answers we seek are hidden within the questions Jesus asked?
Join me on Tuesdays AND Thursdays for 10 minutes of Scripture study, real talk conversation, and prayer.
Let's keep pursuing wholeness in Jesus rather than trying to have it all together.
.....
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @carlycommunicates. If there is any way that I can link arms with you in ministry through speaking or worship leading, let me know at carlycommunicates.com/contact/.
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
Today, my friends, Matt Beltman and Molly Wighaman are here to chat with us about how music unites us with others, grounds us in difficult times, and seeps into our souls to create meaningful anthems for our lives. You’re going to love this conversation with these two thoughtful college students who are studying ministry, and serving in the local church. They each are clearly devoted to Jesus, have natural talent in the area of music, and care deeply about discipling the generation after them. Mike and I are grateful to call Matt and Molly friends, and cheer them on as they pursue Jesus.The color I chose for this week is a gorgeous teal called "Barrier Reef." I found an incredible article from Harvard International Review about how playing symphonies of aquatic creatures in damaged coral reef areas is bringing new life and restoration. Isn't that amazing? In similar ways, music can permeate the places in our lives that are in need of healing. Melodies have a way of ministering to us when words fail us. God uses music to somehow, some way restore us.You can connect with Matt and Molly on instagram at @beltman.matt & @mollywig. I'd also love to stay connected with you on instagram @carlycommunicates.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/carly-bartlett/support
I am so excited to welcome my new friend, Herminia Esqueda to the pod. Herminia is a pastor, multicultural director, and an Equity, Diversity, Access and Inclusion Administrator in state government. She is an incredible communicator of the Gospel and reminds us of the important call to be a people of reconciliation and peacemaking.
So, in today’s conversation, she encourages us to partner with God, and what God is already doing in our communities through being a consistent and present listener. So often we feel like we have to have ideas, strategies, and agendas — but God is inviting us to love our neighbors by being present.
Today, I have chosen the color “Vivacious” from the Pantone guide book. It is a maroon color, and I chose it because of the name. Vivacious means to be full of life, and in order for us to live into the fullness of who God intended us to be, I believe that we need to cultivate rhythms of listening and learning, in order to love our neighbors.
Herminia Esqueda serves as the Multi-Cultural Ministries Coordinator for the Northwest District Church of the Nazarene, and is an Associate Pastor, alongside her Lead Pastor husband, at the Wapato Church of the Nazarene. In addition to her ministerial roles, Herminia works full-time as an Equity, Diversity, Access and Inclusion Administrator in state government. Herminia is pursuing her Master of Arts in Christian Ministry at Point Loma University, and serves as a founding member of the NOW Movement Network—a coordinated effort of Nazarenes in USA and Canada who are emboldened by the Spirit to pursue racial justice in our churches, communities, districts, and institutions now. She is a teacher, speaker and facilitator, and in her spare time, she enjoys traveling to California to visit family, where she goes by “Lita,” short for abuelita. You can connect with Herminia on instagram @herminia.esqueda
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Today, we are talking about prayer and Scripture, which are often some of the first spiritual practices that come to mind when we think about ways to connect with God… Yet, engaging with prayer and Scripture are often some of the most challenging rhythms for us to maintain.
In this week’s episode, my new friend, Rachael Wade is here to give us ideas and inspiration from her own journey about how to experience God’s presence through prayer and Scripture.
The Pantone color that I chose for this week is Lime Punch. It is fabulous and bright, because prayer and talking with God throughout our days can vibrancy to the most mundane days. Prayer and Scripture change the way we see ourselves, others, and our circumstances, helping us see light where the world sees darkness. So, that is why I chose one of the brightest colors in the Pantone guide book for next week!
Rachael is a wife, mom of two, seminary student, writer, and teacher who is passionate about encouraging & equipping men & women with the word of God. She believes in the power of the "in process" everyday story. For this reason, she created Olive Us a ministry where women recount to remember the goodness & faithfulness of God. Rachael faithfully serves at Epic Church in San Francisco, where she leads small groups and is on the teaching team. When Rachael isn't leading, teaching, and writing on her "Seeds of Encouragement" blog, she's hanging out in her comfy pajamas at home with her family, enjoying a nice charcuterie board, laughing at something because what is life without laughter, or riding/running with her Peloton people.
*Rachael's 'Olive Us' interviews drop on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and all Major Podcast platforms on the 1st of every month. *
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The day that Jesus was crucified was one of the darkest days in history. In the midst of Jesus' crucifixion, He cried out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" These words were filled with anguish, but also with a startling glimmer of hope.
You may be experiencing unexpected darkness in your life too... and the good news is that we don't serve a God who runs from suffering. We serve a God who runs toward it, for our sake... and because we know that God is with us in our darkest moments, we can have the courage to look for unexpected light.
To learn more about Carly, check out her website: https://carlycommunicates.com/ or connect with her on instagram @carlycommunicates.
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In today's conversation, my friend and licensed counselor, Alaina Henry is here. In this important conversation, we chat about:
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Mindfulness as a way to stop the flurry in our brains to become more aware of God's presences,
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How we've both benefited from therapy and anxiety medication, and
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How seeking help from mental health resources does not make you a less faithful follower of Jesus.
The Pantone color that I chose for this week is “deep lake,” because pursuing wholeness is deep work. For those of us who struggle with perfectionism, we often keep things on the surface, because we don't want to unearth our struggles or weaknesses. But when we slow down and become mindful of the present moment, we realize that with God's help, we can dive deep... because on the other side of the deep dive is holistic healing.
Alaina Henry is a Clinical Director for a local counseling center and a university adjunct professor of psychology. She has her MA from George Fox University in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling, and double bachelors degree from Multnomah University in Biblical Studies/Theology and Communications. She has trauma training in EMDR, and works with teens and adults. In the past, her work has included a mobile crisis response team, agency work with children and families, and mental health assessing for children who had recently been brought into CPS care. She has also served in ministry as a youth pastor, and about every church ministry position you can imagine. She has been married to her husband, who is a hospice chaplain, for sixteen years, and together they have three kids. For fun, Alaina loves attempting to cook gourmet meals, drinking coffee, getting outside, and daydreaming about future travel.
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If you…
- are a strategist who loves to launch new things,
- feel more connected with God as you connect with others, or
- are feeling stuck and need inspiration about how to make a broader impact in your community…
This episode will ignite passion and purpose in you as we learn from my friend, Katie Castro, about living with an ethic of we!
Katie Castro is a speaker, strategist, and serial entrepreneur. Since her youth, she has been building ideas and micro-movements toward a big mission: flourishing for all. You can catch Katie in a variety of contexts as she serves businesses, nonprofits, churches, and academic institutions alike. She stewards all opportunities through a lens of innovation, collaboration, and optimism.
Katie currently leads Ally Co as Founder and CEO, is on the Preaching Team at Zion Covenant Church, and partners with local agencies in her hometown of Jamestown, NY as board member, volunteer, and coach. Katie is mom to four, wife to Javi, and a church planter who is always on the lookout for the growing edge of the Kingdom of God.
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My dear friend, Lauren Willis, is my guest on the podcast today. She and her husband, Joel, are some of our closest friends. This fall, Lauren chose to step away from her very successful corporate career as she and Joel moved to Paris, where Lauren is now training to be a pastry chef at Le Courdon Bleu. During our conversation today, Lauren shares with us how movement and creativity help her connect deeply to our moving, creating God. Lauren is a sister, wife, friend, daughter, auntie, baker, and a social worker with over 15 years experience in healthcare, most recently working as an executive in the oncology and cardiology treatment before leaving for Paris. Lauren’s favorite thing is eating something new and interesting with people she loves - especially if everyone is crowded in the kitchen, cooking together.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
On today’s episode, we will be chatting about warning signs of burnout, how to practically structure our days around what really matters, and God’s invitation to be still.
This week, the Pantone color that I chose is called Ibiza Blue. It is an island off the coast of Spain with the most beautiful waters. When I think of an island vacation, I think of rest, reprieve, and retreat... and stillness can bring us those gifts in our day to day lives.
My guest this week is April Wahl. April is a middle school ministry director at Century Baptist Church in Bismarck, North Dakota, where she lives with her husband and her two boys. April has a master’s degree in Bible & Theology, and has served in youth ministry for fifteen years. When she has a free minute, she’s either working on her long-boarding skills, writing, shopping for her next pair of Vans, or planning her next trip to Disney World. You can connect with April on instagram @shehasgoneawahl.
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My friend, Pastor Jeni Hall, is here to talk to us about how repeated patterns in our lives form and shape us. She shares ideas with us about how to create rhythms of connection with God centered around the activities we participate in every day… like drinking coffee! :) She also shares with us about fasting. This is timely, because this episode is airing during Lent. We often give things up during Lent, but we may not always understand the WHY behind fasting. Jeni gives us an incredible explanation of fasting, beginning with how fasting is a response to something, rather than a tool to get something.
The Pantone color I chose is a lovely deep purple called “Chive Blossom.” I chose purple, because purple is often connected with royalty and luxury. When we fast, we give up what makes us feel comfortable (like food). We choose to trade our own richness in response to the lavish grace of God.
Jeni is the Lead Pastor of NewportNaz in Newport, Oregon where she serves alongside husband who is a gifted worship pastor. Together they have an 8 month old daughter, Collins, and two cats! Jeni LOVES coffee, reading, and learning everyday to follow the way of Jesus more passionately.
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Ryan and Ashley Gage are back this week to chat with us about how to be bridge builders, and what it looks like to see and value each other. If you didn’t hear part 1 of our conversation, I highly recommend that you go back and listen to episode 45.Friends, I want to let you know that I am on this journey with you. I have a lot to learn about the centuries and centuries of racial injustice, and the racial injustice that continues to happen today. I am committed to do whatever I can to be a part of the ministry of reconciliation that Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 5. Like Ashley said in Episode 45, the work of reconciliation is messy and it is a marathon, not a sprint. So, I’ve got my sneakers on and I’m ready to run for the one haul. But the beautiful gift is that the marathon is being flooded by people like you, who are linking arms and running together to see restoration, healing, and reconciliation happen in our communities and around the world.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
The birthday celebration continues today! I am announcing the giveaway winners, continuing the conversation with Sister Maria Juan, and spilling the beans about the new series that we're launching in March! To learn more about Carly and her ministry, visit carlycommunicates.com.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
The Ditching Perfection podcast is 1 year old, so we are throwing a party! My dear friend and Catholic nun, Sister Maria Juan, is here to share with us about choosing celebration and finding joy in simplicity.Truly, this party is for YOU! I am so thankful for the community we are building together in our little corner of the internet. You are sharing hope, love, and light in a world where people are so hungry for connection and meaning. So, let's keep widening our circle and inviting others to our little online neighborhood where throwing confetti is the norm!For the podcast birthday, there are several giveaway opportunities, because who doesn't love some party goodies?!FOLLOW ME ON TIK-TOK (@carlycommunicates) to enter to win a $25 Crumbl cookie gift card!SHARE ON INSTAGRAM: Share one of my posts or reels this coming week to enter to win another $25 Crumbl cookie gift card! CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: Everyone who follows my Facebook page in the next week will be entered to win a $50 Cheesecake Factor gift card!!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
My friends, Ryan and Ashley Gage, are here to help us kick off Black History Month! We are talking about the gift of listening to one another's stories, widening our lenses, and how God invites us to be ministers of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-19). I am so thankful for my friends, Ryan and Ashley, and I am excited for you to become friends with them too!The Gages live in Nampa, Idaho where Ryan serves as Worship Arts Pastor at Nampa College Church of the Nazarene. Ashley serves on the campus of Northwest Nazarene University as the Associate Chaplain. They are involved in various local non-profit organizations that advocate for the foster care community and mentorship efforts. They have four children and they love singing together, decorating, designing, laughing, and enjoying good food!Find Ryan and Ashley on instagram: @ryangage79 & @ashleydon34-----Check out my new Bible Study, "The Gift of the Unexpected," at carlycommunicates.com/resources.Are you looking for a speaker for your next conference, retreat, or church event? If so, I'd love to chat about how I could partner with you in that way! Send me a note at carlycommunicates.com/contact to tell me about what you've got cookin'!As always, I love connecting with you on instagram. You can find me @carlycommunicates.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
Have you ever asked any of these questions:
- What in the world is God doing?
- Where is God?
- How does this challenging season fit into the bigger picture of my life?
If so, today’s episode is for you!
My friend, Laurie Short is here — and she wrote a book about how to hold onto faith when things don’t seem to be adding up. And today is so special because her book, “Faith, Doubt, and God’s Mysterious Timing” comes out today!!
Laurie Short is a speaker, author, wife, and stepmom. She is a graduate of Fuller Seminary and has served on staff at four churches over the last thirty years. Laurie has spoken to more than 500,000 people at conferences, colleges, and churches around the country. Her popular studies on Right Now media have over half a million views.
To connect with Laurie, visit laurieshort.com.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
Have you ever found yourself totally knocked down by something unexpected? It may be a text from a friend, or feeling ghosted by another friend. Maybe it was just one piece of constructive criticism from your boss that sent you over the edge? I’ve been there, and surprisingly, what we need most in those moments are some snacks and a nap!
We are talking all about this as we look at Elijah’s story in 1 Kings 19. Today, I am going to share with you Week 6 of my Bible study, “The Gift of the Unexpected,” because I think this particular topic hits home for a lot of us: unexpected anxiety. The surprising invitation that God offers to us in those moments is unexpected rest. In Elijah’s case, when he was at the end of his rope, God sent an angel that gave him something to eat and told him to lay down.
I hope this conversation reminds you that your physical well-being is intertwined with your spiritual well-being. In our go, go, go culture, we often forget that, but it is truly essential that we take care of ourselves physically so that we can be healthy spiritually.
If you were encouraged by this episode, check out the rest of “The Gift of the Unexpected” series! The eight-week video Bible study is created for both individuals and groups. Check it out at carlycommunicates.com/resources.
Are you looking for a speaker for your next conference, retreat, or church event? If so, I'd love to chat about how I could partner with you in that way! Send me a note at carlycommunicates.com/contact to tell me about what you've got cookin'!
As always, I love connecting with you on instagram. You can find me @carlycommunicates.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
To kick off 2023, my husband, Mike, is hosting the show and interviewing me! In this episode, we chat about Top Golf, my slight (okay, maybe not so slight) obsession with brightly colored clothes, and how trying new, hard things is a necessary part of our spiritual growth. We are excited to invite you to the Bartlett fam table for this conversation!
Check out my new Bible Study, "The Gift of the Unexpected," at carlycommunicates.com/resources.
Are you looking for a speaker for your next conference, retreat, or church event? If so, I'd love to chat about how I could partner with you in that way! Send me a note at carlycommunicates.com/contact to tell me about what you've got cookin'!
As always, I love connecting with you on instagram. You can find me @carlycommunicates.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
I am very excited to introduce you to our guest today: Kat Armas. Kat holds a Mdiv and MAT from Fuller Theological Seminary. She is the host of the Protagonistas podcast, where she highlights stories of everyday women of color. She has written for Christianity Today, Sojourners, Relevant, Christians for Biblical Equality, Fuller Youth Institute, and Missio Alliance. She also speaks regularly on race and justice.Kat wrote a book called “Abuelita Faith: What Women on the Margins Teach Us About Wisdom, Persistence, and Strength.” I read it and have been going through it chapter by chapter with a class at our church this fall. It has been challenging for me in so many good ways. Kat’s writing has reminded me to be aware of the lenses through which I view Scripture, and to do my best to read Scripture in a way that honors the whole the story — not just the parts with which I am familiar or most comfortable. Throughout her research and writing, Kat also reminds us that God lifts up women to be world-changers and culture-shapers. We see this in Scripture, in the lives of women throughout history, and in the lives of women today.To connect with Kat, you can find her on instagram @kat_armas or on her website katarmas.com.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
The last couple of years have been marked with such division and polarization. Almost everyone I know has had relational tension because of politics, current events, and differing worldviews.
Today, on the podcast, my wise, thoughtful friend, Rev. Christine Youn Hung is here to talk with us about the THIS AND THAT of necessary healthy tension and peacemaking. As we dive into Isaiah 11:1-10, she and I discuss the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking, what it means for the wolf to live with the lamb, and how Isaiah’s vision in chapter 11 can change the way we view Christmas this year.
Rev. Christine Youn Hung is a pastor, writer, speaker, and the Director of Pastoral Development for the Northern California District Church of the Nazarene. Prior to joining the Northern California District Staff, Christine served as pastor of Trinity Church Rowland Heights Campus, a multi-site, multi-ethnic church serving in the Los Angeles area. Christine also served as a missionary teacher in Taipei, Taiwan for three years. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Ministry at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Ecclesial Mission and Leadership. Christine is the founder of NOW Movement, a grassroots initiative coordinating efforts of Nazarenes in USA and Canada who are emboldened by the Spirit to pursue racial justice. She is a frequent guest speaker for conferences, workshops, college campuses, retreats, and pastor-training days. Christine takes deep joy in her husband, Albert, and their 4 amazing children.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
Christmas is often thought of as the season of joy. There are twinkly lights, joyous carols, and delightful sweets around every corner... but for many, this season brings about different emotions: frustration, loneliness, or sadness. If you aren't feeling so "sparkly" and joyful this season, you aren't alone. Jesus has come to meet you right where you are... in the middle of this AND that.Today, my friend, Nancy Hicks is here to share with us about holding both grief AND hope. Nancy lost her son, David, at the age of 28, about 18 months ago. She vulnerably shares with us about her grieving process, the questions she's asked of God, and the thread of hope she's clinging to.Nancy Hicks is a dynamic, relevant Christian speaker, teacher and writer whose passion is to ignite women to confidence and power in Christ.Nancy has been in professional communication her entire career. From singing on the main stage in concert and musical theater across Canada to spokesperson on QVC, she has used these gifts of communication to serve her local church through preaching, teaching and leading.After earning her master’s degree in theology from Palmer Seminary of Eastern University, Nancy launched her international speaking ministry, Nancy Hicks Live. Today, Nancy inspires women by equipping them to be grounded in Jesus Christ while wrestling with the often uncomfortable intersection of faith, organized religion and the realities of this world.The author of Meant to Live: Living in Light of the Good News, Nancy has been featured on Hallmark’s Home & Family, The Jesus Calling Podcast, Trinity Broadcast Network, 100 Huntley Street, as well as in Relevant Magazine, Propel Women, Publishers Weekly, The Christian Post, Christian News Journal, Philadelphia Weekly and more.She and her husband, Cam, have been married since 1990 and have two sons—Aaron, who is married to his darling wife, Rachel, and their beloved David who now lives in heaven after a long, courageous battle with cancer.For more information: Visit nancyhickslive.com Like her on Facebook @nancyhickslive Follow her on Instagram @nancyhickslive--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
On the podcast this Advent season, we are going to be diving into the weekly Old Testament lectionary passages from the book of Isaiah. As I've been reading and researching for this series, I've noticed that there are contrasting images and themes throughout the passages: Dark and light Joy and sadness Conflict and peace Brokenness and restoration Wastelands and wildflowersMost of the seasons of our lives aren't defined by “This OR That" but “This AND That.”So, during this Advent series, we will be discovering how to hold the tensions of both the hardships and the gifts of life. I hope that you will make it part of your Advent season to tune in each week to the Ditching Perfection podcast. Let's learn to live together in the messy middle… and to find the beauty of “This AND That.”To sign up for Carly's weekly email, visit carlycommunicates.com/resources.Are you interested in having Carly come speak at your church or event? You can connect with her at carlycommunicates.com/contact.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
It is our last installment of the Enneagram series, and my friend, Matt Chitwood is there to chat with us about: 💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 9, 💡 How his time living in rural China taught him that loneliness is not to be feared, and 💡 How God has helped him see that healthy conflict can actually foster closer connections. Matt is a writer and speaker focused on U.S.-China relations, economic development and communications. He spent fifteen years living in China, including two years researching rural issues while living in a remote village of 350 tea farmers in Yunnan. He has written for Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy and the Los Angeles Review of Books and worked in international trade, public health and higher education, including with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and, currently, with Edelman Global Advisory as Director of China and Global Voice. He studied economics at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and business at Northwest Nazarene University, and speaks native English, fluent Mandarin and proficient Spanish. Matt lives in the Pacific Northwest where he plays pickleball, hunts hot springs and — like any good "Type 9,” — avoids conflict with his wife of two months, Liza.
Are you interested in more resources from Carly? Visit carlycommunicates.com/resources. Do you want to take a free Enneagram assessment? Visit https://coach.yourenneagramcoach.com/karissa-harrison
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
This week, we are diving into a conversation on the Enneagram 7, with my friend, Liberty Fleming! Liberty will be chatting with us about: 💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 7, 💡 How questioning the status quo has paved a way for a life of adventure, and 💡 How learning from people from different cultures all over the world has deepened her understanding of God. Liberty Fleming is the founder and creative director of a marketing agency, The Freelance Market. She recently launched All for All, a travel photography magazine inspired by her love for travel and human connection. She learned the word “entrepreneur” in the fourth grade and always knew that would be the route she would take! When she's not hopping on a plane, you can usually find her playing a pick-up sport, creating with friends, or reading a philosophical book. Liberty Fleming Instagram: @libertyfleming All for All Co. on Instagram: @all.for.all.co How We Love by Milan and Kay Yerkovich
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
This week, we are diving into a conversation on the Enneagram 6, with my friend, Zach McCauley!
Zach shares with us about: 💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 6, 💡 How “God with us,” compels us to be with others, and 💡 What wake surfing has taught him about living in the present (rather than withdrawing in fear).
Zach McCauley is an industrial engineer, avid reader, and urban farmer from the Pacific Northwest. Originally from the Seattle area, Zach spent a large portion of his childhood on the mission field in Thailand, where his family ran a home for vulnerable girls, protecting them from the threats of human trafficking. After graduating from Seattle Pacific University with a degree in linguistics, Zach spent nine years working with homeless youth and pastoring in downtown Seattle. A few years ago, God invited him to pivot and be on mission in a new vocation: engineering. Zach and his wife, Melissa, have three amazing kids, eight chickens, and two cats.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
Hannah shares with us about:
💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 8,
💡 The difference between transparency and vulnerability, and
💡 How God has helped her realize that not only does God carry her burdens, but God also carries her.
Hannah Helwege is the High School Pastor at Fellowship Monrovia, a Gospel-centered, multi-ethnic, intergenerational church near Los Angeles. When she's not at church, you can find Hannah outside with an adventure on her mind, on a couch with a good book in her hand, at home with her husband cooking a new recipe, or surrounded by friends with a smile on her face. Yes, Hannah is aware that that was the cheesiest bio line you could ever read.
You can connect with Hannah on Instagram @hannah.helwege. I'm also on instagram @carlycommunicates! I'd love to connect with you there!
Perfectionist Character Quiz: carlycommunicates.com/resources
Enneagram Assessment: https://coach.yourenneagramcoach.com/karissa-harrison
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
James Austin will be my guest on the podcast next Tuesday!
He will be chatting with us about:
💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 5,
💡 His voracious love of learning, and
💡 How God has helped him move from “I need to know more,” to “I am enough."
James Austin is the Pastor of Camas Church of the Nazarene in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. He is a graduate of Northwest Nazarene University and a lifelong student and practitioner in the Christian contemplative traditions. In addition to being a seeker of truth and wholeness, James also seeks out the best coffee wherever he is. James is married to Stephanie and they have three incredible kids.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
My friend, Ali Gentry is here to talk with us about: 💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 4, 💡 How what you've thought of as “too much” is actually your superpower, and 💡 How God sits with us in our emotions, right where we are.
Ali Gentry is the CEO and Founder of Vibrant Ministries, a speaker, preacher, and radio show and podcast host of “The Vibrant Life Show.” Ali is also the Women’s Ministry Lead and on the Teaching Team at Renovation Church in Phoenix, AZ. Along with traveling and speaking, Ali founded a monthly women’s event in Phoenix called ARISE. This event is for women across all ages, churches and backgrounds to come together, connect, worship, and serve! Adventure is her love language, while her passion is to see people live fully into the gifts God has given them, so that they can serve the church and the world!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
Today, my friend, Bre Cairns Sheldon is on the podcast to share with us: 💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 3, 💡 How to recognize signs of stress and overwhelm, and 💡 How God has helped her recognize the difference between healthy rest and avoidance. We also talk about the best member of *NSYNC, our experiences leading worship together, and the gift of a weekly Sabbath. Bre Cairns Sheldon is the Executive Director for Midtown Church, a church plant in Boise, ID. After graduating with a degree in Communication from Northwest Nazarene University, Bre spent a year in the business world before entering into church ministry. Bre loves making new friends and creating spaces where people can thrive. She has a passion for encouraging and inspiring others to become healthy & whole in all aspects of life. Bre's deepest desire is for people to see themselves the way that Christ does, and to live into the joy and confidence that comes through a relationship with Jesus. In her spare time, Bre loves playing volleyball, watching baseball (go Giants!), spending quality time with her husband Jared, and prepping the nursery for their little one who is due in February. Are you interested in learning about your Enneagram type? Here is a reliable & free Enneagram assessment: https://coach.yourenneagramcoach.com/karissa-harrison Have you taken my Perfectionist Character Quiz? You can access it here: https://carlycommunicates.com/resources/ As always, I'd love to connect with you, so feel free to reach out to me online at carlycommunicates.com/contact or on instagram at @carlycommunicates.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carly-bartlett/support
Kylee Pearson Rincones is my guest on the podcast! She is here to chat with us about: 💡 What it is like to be an Enneagram 2, 💡 How to become courageous in naming your needs, and 💡 How God has equipped her to care deeply for people in the midst of pain. We will also talk about playing shuffleboard, our friendship that goes back to elementary church camp days, and the memorable 21st birthday party that she threw for me! 🎂 Kylee is a licensed professional counselor and educator who knows the west coast is the best coast AND yet has been learning and loving the Midwest for almost 10 years. She enjoys creating art, music, and community in Kansas with her husband, Daniel. Kylee loves to play games, whether it be cards, strategy games, or pickleball, and she also enjoys appreciating God's creation on a walkabout outside. Kylee believes that through relationship, healing and growth flourishes.
People who identify as Enneagram 1s are known to be ethical, responsible, and principled people. Enneagram 1s are often called “Perfectionists,” but a more wholistic name for these amazing individuals is the “Reformers.” Enneagram 1s see the potential in the world and commit themselves to seeing the good come to fruition in their own lives, their work, and in the world around them.
One of the downsides that Enneagram 1s experience is the presence of their inner critic, who often dominates one’s inner dialogue — reminding the Enneagram 1 what is wrong, where they have fallen short, and what they need to do to be better. Enneagram 1s find the inner critic to be deflating and exhausting.
My friend, Trevor Lubiens is my guest on the podcast this week, and he will be chatting with us about:
- What it is like to be an Enneagram 1,
- How to utilize the voice of the inner critic in healthy ways, and
- How God has used the Enneagram to deepen his prayer life.
Trevor and his wife Jamie have been friends of mine since I was in college and Trevor and I had a chance to work together for several years on the same church staff. Trevor is now the lead pastor of Midtown Church, a new church plant in Boise. Trevor is a lifelong student, avid reader, golf pro (in his dreams), and sushi enthusiast. More than anything, Trevor is passionate about seeing people grow into more engaged and loving followers of Jesus.
Trevor graduated from Trevecca Nazarene University with a degree in Business and also worked as the university's Creative Director. Trevor has spent the last 15 years in church ministry and is currently working to reimagine church and what it looks like to be a follower of Jesus in the 21st century.
Trevor and Jamie, have been married for over 15 years, and they have two kids, Kellom & Taiya. They moved back to Boise from Nashville 6 years ago and love serving in their respective fields to bring the love of Jesus to every person they meet.
To hear more from Trevor, check out the Midtown Podcast: Conversations for Curious People.
Are you signed up for my email list? I send a Bite-Sized Bible Study to your inbox every Friday. If you are stuck and don’t know where to start with Scripture study, join my email list by visiting carlycommunicates.com/resources.
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I am excited to kick off our Enneagram series! A few months ago, I put out an instagram poll, asking what you most wanted to hear on the podcast in the future, and the overwhelming majority of you said you’d love a series on the Enneagram... So, here it is!
In case you are unfamiliar with the Enneagram, it is a personality typing system that can help us better understand ourselves, others, and our relationship with God. It is a tool to keep in our tool belt to help us understand our motivations, fears, and desires. Enneagram coach Beth McCord describes it like an X-ray. It can help us see what is under the surface, revealing areas of strength and weakness, but it is not the instrument of healing. Only God can bring about restoration and healing… but I do believe that the enneagram is one of many tools and resources that God can use to help us as we pursue wholeness in Jesus.
Today on the podcast, my friend, Karissa Harrison is here.
Karissa is an Executive Pastor and Certified Enneagram Coach who is passionate about helping leaders use the Enneagram and spiritual formation practices to execute a plan for personal and spiritual growth. She has served in pastoral ministry for over 16 years, and enjoys every opportunity to serve individuals and teams through coaching, consulting, and spiritual direction. She's been married to Ryan, they have 3 school age kids, and live in Murrieta, CA. She prefers a great book to Netflix and quiet conversations over large crowds.
Karissa provided a link to an amazing Enneagram assessment, and I highly encourage you to check it out: https://coach.yourenneagramcoach.com/karissa-harrison
Here’s a link to an article about seeing the Enneagram through the lens of the Gospel: https://www.yourenneagramcoach.com/blog/the-enneagram-and-gospel-freedom/
In Romans 7:15, Paul writes: “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” Isn’t that so relatable? Sometimes we find ourselves getting frustrated at our loved ones, exaggerating the truth, or trying to escape a difficult situation, and we wonder what is motivating our behavior.
Today, my friend, Steve Carter, is here on the podcast to talk with us about his book, “The Thing Beneath the Thing.” In it, Steve talks about triggers, habits, and narratives that are powerfully rooted beneath the surface, how we can recognize them, and step into greater levels of wholeness.
I think this is super applicable for us perfection-ditchers, because I don’t think we really want to be perfectionists, right? We don’t want to give people pleasing power in our workplaces, friendships, and families. But those sneaky habits weave their way into normalcy. So, I think this episode will be helpful and encouraging… and I hope you pick up his book if you haven’t read it already!
Before we dive into the conversation, I want to tell you a little bit about Steve. Steve Carter is someone who I have learned from and respected for a long time. I listened to him regularly while he was the Teaching Pastor at Willow Creek. I watched him, from afar, handle difficult situations in his church with great integrity and honor.
Then, a few years ago, Steve came and spent a week with us at the church where I was serving at the time. Mike and I picked him up from the airport, took him out to lunch, and chatted for a few hours about preaching, supporting women in ministry… and of course, he and Mike chatted A LOT about the NBA. :)
Steve is the real deal. He’s authentic. He’s willing to make hard choices to stand with those on the margins. He’s one of the most incredible communicators of the Gospel I’ve ever heard. He’s quick to encourage and call out the best in others. And I am grateful to call him my friend.
There is so much division right now. We see it on the news, on social media, and around our holiday dinner tables. Today, on the podcast, I will be talking about Step 1 in dealing with difficult people. I am no expert; I am in the trenches with you, but God has used Romans 12:1-2 to guide me to the initial stop on the journey toward relational bridge building: and that’s self-reflection and self-awareness. YES. We can’t control others, but we can control ourselves. So, instead of pointing the finger at others, God is inviting us to look in the mirror. ///// Do you want more Bible study content delivered to your inbox each week? Sign up for Carly’s weekly emails at carlycommunicates.com/resources.
Today’s conversation is a special one. My friend, Dr. Mike Kipp, is here to share with us, and let me tell you what… I am so thankful for this conversation. Mike is a devoted follower of Jesus and an avid wake surfer. He loves his family deeply, he is a beloved professor of practical theology and someone who dives in to love on the often forgotten people in our community…
And…. Mike has gone through some really tough times. In fact, he went through a time several years ago when he felt like God was absent… Yes. A leader in the church felt this way and I am just so grateful that he is willing to share his story, because oftentimes we feel like we can’t voice our hardships or speak up about our crises of faith. Today, Mike will share what his season of darkness was like and how he sifted his way through with vulnerability, authenticity, and the faith and love of his community.
We can make it through the dark, but we can’t do it alone. So, as we dive into this episode, I hope you are reminded that there are others who are with you on the journey. I also hope that you are reminded today that you are seen and known by God…. The God who doesn’t run from suffering, but runs toward it for our sake.
Mike Kipp has served young people in various roles for the past 30 years in California, Kansas and Idaho. He's been a youth pastor, professor, pastor of intergenerational connections and public school board member. For the past 18 years he has taught at Northwest Nazarene University and is a professor of practical theology. Mike has degrees from Cal Poly SLO, Nazarene Theological Seminary and Fuller Theological Seminary. Mike is also the author of the several works, including his latest book, Making Room: The Purpose and Practice of Youth Ministry.
Mike is married to Sandy and they have two kids, Spencer and McKenna, with whom they love to adventure. Mike loves the academic calendar because all summer he gets to mountain bike, camp, wake surf, and read the daily newspaper with a cup of coffee.
Do you feel unsure of your calling? Are you in a season where you are getting by, but your heart is not on fire with purpose? Looking back at your childhood self—your dreams, your gifts, your passions— may give you clues as to how God has wired you and what steps to take next. My friend, Danika Langley is on the podcast today. I’ve known Danika since she was born. Our families are dear friends. I’ve gotten to watch God clarify Danika’s passions since she was a kid. Danika started going to Kenya as a 12 year old with her family, through partnership with Expansion International… never knowing that she would eventually be a leader in that same organization! God’s fingerprints are over the whole thing! So, if you are young (or young at heart), and asking God what is next, this episode will remind you that your passions have been hidden in your heart all along. Danika Langley is a friend, daughter, sister and auntie. As the assistant director at Expansion International she is dedicated to seeing people set free from poverty, lifted to opportunity and transformed by the love of Jesus. Jumping back and forth between East Africa and the US, Danika enjoys traveling and seeing life through the perspective of the many different ways it is lived! More than anything, she wants to usher in the presence and love of Jesus in every interaction she has.
Today, my Pastor, Scott Daniels, is on the podcast. Scott is one of the most well-respected theologians in our denomination (and beyond) globally. He is also a beloved college professor, a deeply invested pastoral leader, and a mega sports enthusiast. I am so grateful for Pastor Scott’s investment in my life and ministry… As a young leader, trying to figure out what it looks like to be obedient to God’s call on my life, it has been amazing to have mentors, like Scott, as examples in my life, but also voices of encouragement. As you will hear, Scott has served in a variety of leadership roles. Leadership can bring pressure, loneliness, and discouragement from critics… but those themes don’t have to be the dominant narratives. Today, Pastor Scott shares with us about his journey… and how he has stayed rooted in the knowledge of God’s love and God’s best for him — which has allowed him not to cave to the unhealthy pressures of leadership. Dr. Scott Daniels is senior pastor at Nampa College Church of the Nazarene and Pastoral Scholar in Residence at Northwest Nazarene University. Scott has also pastored in Pasadena, California and Richardson, Texas and served as the dean of School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University and Seminary. He is a frequent guest speaker and lecturer at churches, camp meetings, and college campuses. He received his MDiv and PhD in theology and ethics from Fuller Theological Seminary. A contributorto several books, journals, and magazines, he is the author of The First 100 Days: A Pastor’sGuide; Seven Deadly Spirits: The Message of Revelation’s Letters for Today’s Church; and TheCycle of Victorious Living: Commit, Trust, Delight and Rest in Jesus Christ. His most recent book is Embracing Exile: Living Faithfully as God’s Unique People in the World. Most importantly, Scott is married to Debbie and they have four adult children… and a very well loved doodle named Henley.
I know I talk about rest all of the time on the podcast, so I decided to practice what I preach by stepping away from excessive technology use for a whole month!
I am taking the instagram app off my phone and will be saying goodbye to social media for the next few weeks. I will also not be releasing any new podcasts until August 16. So, this month is a perfect time for you to catch up on podcast episodes you may have missed!
I will still be sending out emails each week with a bite-sized Bible Study and a few other things that are giving me joy right now. So, make sure to sign up for my weekly email updates at carlycommunicates.com/resources.
See you in a month!
Today, on the podcast, my friend Ruthie Kim is here! After years of leading a thriving non-profit organization, Ruthie felt God compelling her to pass on the baton. She realized that sometimes stepping away makes room for others to step fully into their potential. She was willing to move on so that others could move up. How incredible is that? Ruthie shares what that discernment process was like, how she combatted perfectionism in the midst of the transition, and how she desires to help everyone around her unlock their potential. You're in for a treat today, my friends! Ruthie Kim is an executive coach, an ordained minister, and a member of the teaching team at Reality SF church. She is a prophetically gifted and sought-after speaker and a relentless advocate for women and girls. Having grown up in the UK, Ruthie traded in the English countryside for the inner city of San Francisco, where she founded Because Justice Matters, an organization building pathways to brighter futures for women and girls in urban communities. Ruthie’s passion for unlocking potential led her into the world of executive coaching, where she now specializes in working with influential leaders at key moments of transition. Ruthie loves taking her rescue pup, Callie, for walks on the beach and hunting for travel deals to satisfy her desire to explore and experience new places. Ruthie’s life and work are greatly inspired and enriched by being a wife to Brian and mom to two boys.
Have you ever chased after an idea, goal, or title, only to realize that it isn’t what you really want?
Brooklyn Lindsey is back this week to remind us to step back and assess our desires. Once we peel back the layers, and understand what we are passionate about, we can take steps to align what we want with what we do. The powerful reminder in all of this is that we can’t do it alone. We need a crash (which is a what a group of rhinos is called) to help us move past what seems immovable. We need people in our corner who lovingly, but firmly, remind us purpose and calling when we get turned upside down.
Brooklyn is the co-founder of Somos Church in Lakeland, FL where she solves problems and celebrates her community with her husband, Coy Lindsey. She has been serving in youth ministry since 2001 and currently works as the Director of Content Development at Stuff You Can Use—an organization that helps ministries grow! She is the owner of an online and pop-up bookstore called Crash Bookshop and is a volunteer volleyball coach at Southwest Middle School and Lakeland High School (Beach) where she spends time with her teenage daughters Kirra and Mya.
You can check out several of Brooklyn’s books, including Confessions of a Not-So-Supermodel and The Kingdom Experiment, Youth Edition, along with many other resources from other authors at www.crashbookshop.org. You can also learn more about Brooklyn’s work on instagram at @somoschurch, @crash_bookshop, and
@stuffyoucanuse.
Have you ever been deeply invested in an idea or project, but you just can’t seem to ever see it through to competition? To be honest, I have found myself in this situation TOO MANY TIMES to count.
Today on the podcast, one of my mentors, Brooklyn Lindsey is here to remind us to keep pursuing our purposes! Brooklyn is one of the most creative people I know and her vulnerability and unique perspectives will cause you to spit out your coffee and laugh out loud, while simultaneously inspiring you to run after your dreams with greater courage.
Brooklyn is the co-founder of Somos Church in Lakeland, FL where she solves problems and celebrates her community with her husband, Coy Lindsey. She has been serving in youth ministry since 2001 and currently works as the Director of Content Development at Stuff You Can Use—an organization that helps ministries grow! She is the owner of an online and pop-up bookstore called Crash Bookshop and is a volunteer volleyball coach at Southwest Middle School and Lakeland High School (Beach) where she spends time with her teenage daughters Kirra and Mya.
You can check out several of Brooklyn’s books, including Confessions of a Not-So-Supermodel and The Kingdom Experiment, Youth Edition, along with many other resources from other authors at www.crashbookshop.org. You can also learn more about Brooklyn’s work on instagram at @somoschurch, @crash_bookshop, and @stuffyoucanuse.
I also have some free resources to share with you! Go to www.carlycommunicates.com/resources to take the "Perfectionist Character Quiz" and to to download the "Weekly Celebrations Worksheet." I want to help you pursue wholeness in Jesus rather than trying to have it all together!
Several years ago, we struggled with secondary infertility. It was one of the most challenging seasons of our lives that was a rollercoaster of emotions. Some of you may have ridden this same lonely, tear-filled ride as well. In the midst of my frustration and disappointment, God walked with me so closely. I slowly but surely learned to relinquish control and in doing so, I learned that God's goodness is not tied to a specific outcome or circumstance. You may not have experienced infertility, but I would guess that you have gone through seasons where things just didn't turn out in the way that you had hoped. For us recovering perfectionists who love to plan, this can be extremely difficult. So, I hope that this episode will peel back some layers and help you sit in God's goodness when you can't walk forward in the direction you planned. When we sit in God's goodness and let it seep into our hearts, we will realize that we are part of a story that is bigger than us.
My favorite person on planet earth is here on the podcast today—my husband, Mike! Not only is Mike an amazing husband and Dad, but he is an accomplished graphic designer and artist. Mike worked for Carhartt for several years, has designed for hundreds of freelance clients, and for the last eight years, he has taught graphic design and digital media as a university professor. So much of the life of a designer centers around receiving feedback and constructive criticism… which may seem like a perfectionist’s nightmare! However, Mike sees the good in it, and has learned not to let his value be rocked by other people’s opinions. Mike’s identity is rooted securely in the love of God and not in his performance. When Mike was in high school, he was in a terrible boating accident. As a top-tier high school athlete, this accident not caused severe pain physically, but it also changed the trajectory of his future aspirations. Instead of giving into bitterness, Mike allowed for God to shape his heart and dreams in new, profound ways.
Do you struggle with making decisions? I struggle to pick a restaurant to go to on Friday night, let alone making decisions that will impact my loved ones and my future! It is easy to get stuck in overanalyzing, fear of the unknown, & trying to balance the opinions of all of the people who care about us. Even people with the best of intentions may end up making our decision making process all the more difficult — especially for us who struggle with pleasing people! Today on the podcast, my friend, Sheena Marquis is here to share her personal experience about hearing God’s voice in times of decision making… and how to honor the voices of others, but ultimately how to discern where God is leading. She also shares about what practices have helped her as she has taken steps to follow God — even in the unknown. Sheena is a former pastor, current social worker and aspiring counselor passionate about people finding hope and healing for their minds, bodies, and spirit. Sheena is also a gifted writer, speaker, and singer, striving to offer every gift in worship to the Lord and encouragement to others. She currently lives in Dallas, TX with her husband, 6-year old son, American white shepherd, and mini Goldendoodle. You can connect with Sheena at sheenamarquis.com or on instagram @sheenajmarquis.
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Prayer can be confusing at times, right? Sometimes our prayers are answered in the way we hoped, and other times, we are left perplexed, hurt, and disappointed. We can’t help but wonder, “Does prayer work? Does God really hear our prayers?”
In today’s episode, Carly talks about how a Paul McCartney concert and Revelation 8 teach us that God indeed hears our prayers. Even in the moments when it seems that God is silent, God is not still.
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I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Why is asking for help so hard? As kids, it was a norm to ask for help, but as adults, we see asking for help as a sign of weakness. Why is that?
On today’s podcast, my friend Ashley Somers is here to help us learn to get vulnerable, lean on our community, and ask for help. She also wisely shares that so often we miss being present in the present because we are so busy hustling and trying to force our hopes into reality. She helps us learn to live open-handed, ready to ditch our expectations for what God has for us in the here and now.
Ashley is a friend of mine from college who has had a very successful career in the corporate world. She has worked for three large global companies — Walmart, Campbell Soup, and she currently works for Unilever. She is married to her husband, Chad, who has a doctorate of musical arts and is a professional opera singer and professor of applied voice. Together they have two children. Their son was born with a rare genetic disorder called Phelan McDermid Syndrome and has a co-diagnosis of Autism. Ashley says, “He has opened our eyes to an entire world of beautiful people with disabilities and the caregivers that help them thrive. We will spend our whole lives seeing, loving and caring for Bear and this special community of people.”
To connect with Ashley, feel free to reach out to her @ashleyannesomers on Instagram.
As always, feel free to reach out to me -- Carly -- on Instagram as well at @carlycommunicates and for more information on my speaking, writing, and worship leading, check out my website carlycommunicates.com.
Mother Teresa said, “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”
What would it look like if we truly live like we belong to each other? How would our friendships transform? How would this change how we interact with those on the margins?
Today, on the podcast, Miley Waterman is here… and her life says to the world, “We belong to each other.” Miley fiercely listens to, and advocates for those the world often undervalues. In this conversation, Miley will remind us of the importance of intentionally creating connections with people who will teach us and transform us. We can’t follow Jesus alone; we really need each other.
Miley Waterman is the CEO of Brave Global, a strategy to empower vulnerable youth. She is passionate about advocating for female voices and survivors by giving a platform to their stories of overcoming. Miley lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, son and two adorable dogs.
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
In this week’s episode, my friend, Linda Moon and I talk about lessons for the perfectionist from the cutest Disney movie ever—Encanto! We DO talk about Bruno (#sorrynotsorry), Mirabel, Abuela, and Luisa, and how they teach us so much about our own struggles with people pleasing, hiding our flaws, and not wanting to rock the boat. Linda and I talk about how easy it is to entangle perfectionism with our identity, but how God is reminding us that our value is not wrapped up in what we do. Today’s episode is pure gold! I can’t wait for you to listen in! Before you dive into the episode, let me introduce you to Linda: Linda Moon the Director of Grow Kid Curriculum for Stuff You Can Use and the Director of Education and associate pastor at her church in La Cañada, California. She has been a children's pastor for 15 years, but has served in kidmin ever since the 7th grade! As such, she has experience in nearly everything from leading Bible Study to volunteer training to... worship song... choreography. She has a bachelors degree in biological sciences, masters degrees in theology and in cross-cultural studies, and a doctorate degree in educational leadership, with a concentration in educational psychology. She and her husband have two sons, ages 8 and 4. You can find Linda on instagram @_lindaluna. To learn more about Stuff You Can Use, visit stuffyoucanuse.org.
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Fear is something that we all deal with from time to time. However, sometimes when fear seems to get a grip on us, we feel like we have failed. When this happens, we are slammed with anxiety and shame, which is absolutely miserable. Today, on the podcast, Dr. Doug Hardy is back to remind us that being fearful is not a character flaw. Instead of trying to push fear aside, God is inviting us to acknowledge it and redirect our focus to God's welcome and embrace.
Doug Hardy serves as Professor of Spiritual Formation at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO where he helps students who are preparing for pastoral ministry to pray as they learn. He is a spiritual director in addition to teaching and leading retreats and pilgrimages. Dr. Hardy is familiar with the complexities of perfectionism in his own life, and now is able to come alongside and encourage others to notice and respond to the God who loves them unconditionally. Doug is married to a hospital chaplain; together they have three grown children. The Foundry Press has published two of his small group studies geared for use in local churches: Christian Disciplines: Creating Time & Space for God (2013) and Prayer: Sharing Intimate Space with God (2015).
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Do you struggle with a pesky inner critic? I do!! Sometimes the negative self-critical voice becomes so loud that it is easy for us to confuse that voice with the voice of God. On today's episode, Dr. Doug Hardy will remind us that God is not shaming us or disgusted with us. God is a "capital C Compassionate God" who invites us to root ourselves in God's loving voice. From that place of love, we are compelled to courageously let go of things (and voices!) that may hold us back.
Doug Hardy serves as Professor of Spiritual Formation at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO where he helps students who are preparing for pastoral ministry to pray as they learn. He is a spiritual director in addition to teaching and leading retreats and pilgrimages. Dr. Hardy is familiar with the complexities of perfectionism in his own life, and now is able to come alongside and encourage others to notice and respond to the God who loves them unconditionally. Doug is married to a hospital chaplain; together they have three grown children. The Foundry Press has published two of his small group studies geared for use in local churches: Christian Disciplines: Creating Time & Space for God (2013) and Prayer: Sharing Intimate Space with God (2015).
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
We can easily become near-sighted—cautious, hesitant, and consumed with what is right in front of us. When everything is in a blur, it is difficult for us to see the future with hope and expectation. Maybe you’ve been there… Maybe you’re there right now. If so, you aren’t alone. The Easter story reminds us that Jesus meets us right in the midst of our grief, fear, and anguish, and invites us to see the future from His perspective. Jesus doesn’t expect us to fix or control our circumstances. Instead, we are invited to call to Jesus for help and recognize Him as our Teacher. Just like Jesus met and empowered Mary Magdalene, Jesus empowers us to upgrade our vision and share the Good News with the world. Jesus believes in us and invites us to be far-sighted followers of Jesus.
We often feel like we have to be the sparkly one in the room. We feel the pressure to always put a smile on our face, while under the surface, we may be experiencing deep brokenness and pain.
On this week’s episode, my friend, Mimi Page is here to remind us that as perfection-ditchers, we are free to experience a whole range of emotions. We don’t have to have it all together, and in fact, God meets us right in the middle of our sadness, grief, and pain.
Mimi Page a Brazilian naturalized American who currently lives in Thailand as a cross-cultural worker. She is a wife to an amazing man, Jake, and mother to two wonderful children. Mimi is no stranger to grief as she lost her mom to Covid last year. In the mountains and valleys, joy and grief, she is learning to lean on Jesus’ perfection, not her own.
You can connect with Mimi on instagram @mimipage or on her website: www.4w7s.com
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I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
This week on the podcast, my friend Lexi Tubbs-Wood is here. Lexi was a two-sport collegiate athlete and now works for WNBA team, the Seattle Storm. Lexi is no stranger to the pressures of competition. Yet, she has been able to find her value and significance not in her performance, but in her identity as a loved child of God. Lexi is passionate about seeing women rise in leadership. She is someone who will continue to break through barriers and open doors for women who come after her. She is a vivacious young leader with a heart to serve. You can find Lexi on instagram @lexi_moze.
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
This week, my daughter Lulu is on the podcast! She is a dazzling sparkler who loves Chick-Fil-A, whale sharks, her family, and Jesus. Lulu believes that every day is “the best day ever” and she carries wisdom well beyond her years. I’m absolutely convinced that this episode will leave you with a smile on your face and a renewed sense of gratitude for all of life’s gifts.
In our conversation, Lulu talks about Jesus’ healing in Luke 17. Her thoughts inspired me to think about my own practices of gratitude and how I look for God in unpredictable people and places. I hope this episode reminds you that despite the bleakness of the world around us, God’s light continues to break forth. There really is so much to be thankful for. The question is: Are our eyes open to see it?
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
We live in a Pinterest-perfect world where we are told we have to “have it all together.” For many of us, feelings of comparison and inadequacy creep in… especially as we try to balance family and professional life.
On this week’s podcast, my friend and mentor, Toni Nieuwhof is here to help us ditch perfection and embrace vulnerability as we try to balance the various roles in our lives. I look up to Toni immensely; she walks out what she teaches. She has balanced her family and professional roles with grace and a clear reliance on Jesus. Toni is very familiar with what it feels like to wear many hats. She’s a family law mediator, former divorce attorney, author, speaker, and co-host of the Smart Family Podcast. She is married to leadership expert, author, speaker, and former pastor, Carey Niewhof. Carey and Toni have two adult sons. To connect with Toni, visit her website www.toninieuwhof.com and check out her book, “Before You Split.”
Anxiety stinks. Plain and simple. I have struggled with anxiety for years and I know that I am not alone. I talk often with friends who are dealing with anxiety too. Anxiety robs us of our joy and forces us to carry pressure that we aren’t meant to pack around.
Today on the podcast, I am opening up about my struggle with anxiety, and how my counselor helped me realize that perfectionism was actually fueling my anxiety. There aren’t any quick fixes or easy answers. I still deal with anxiety, but I am thankful to have tools that help me not land flat on my face (as often).
On this episode, I'll tell you about “10 Signs That You May Be Struggling with Performance-Driven Anxiety” that I've discovered in my life. Think of these as a “check engine light” in your car that can help you change directions in hopes of preventing further damage.
I will also share “Eleven Practices To Help You When You Experience Performance-Driven Anxiety.” Eleven because… hello… There needs to be more helpful practices than warning signs! :)
I hope this episode will remind you that you aren’t alone in your struggle with anxiety, and give you hope that you don’t have to be stuck in the anxiety pit forever. I am with you and cheering for you as we walk this road toward wholeness together.
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
We live in a fast-paced world that can often cause us to feel exhausted, burnt out, and anxious. We clamor to keep up with others, wondering when “enough will be enough.”
On today’s podcast, my dear friend, Sister Maria Juan, is back to encourage us to reimagine our daily rhythms. Sister Maria Juan shares with us about her daily schedule as a Catholic nun. In our personal contexts, we may not be able to replicate her routine. . .but we can take the insights she shares and apply them to our lives. Let’s not let our busy schedule boss us around. Let’s reimagine our rhythms and center ourselves around simplicity.
Sister Maria Juan Anderson (formerly known as Amanda Anderson) is a Religious Sister of Mercy of Alma, Michigan. After studying music at Benedictine College, she served in various ministry roles until she entered the convent in 2012. She has been missioned as a Sister throughout the United States and Europe, and currently serves in East Tennessee. Sister Maria Juan has a heart for evangelization, a contagious joyful spirit, and wisdom that is much needed in our fast-paced society. For more information on Sister and the Religious Sisters of Mercy, visit rsmofalma.org
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed with the weight of the pressure to meet everyone’s expectations? Do you feel like you are juggling way too much and all of the balls are about to drop? Today, one of my best friends, Sister Maria Juan, is here to share with us about ordering our lives around God’s peace. She will remind us that we not slaves, but we are entrusted kids of God!
You all are going to LOVE Sister Maria Juan. She is one of the funniest and most profound people I’ve ever known. She is a walking confetti popper: She is quick to celebrate others, she bubbles over joy, and she makes a positive impact wherever she goes. Get ready, my friends! You are about to meet your new BFF.
Here’s a little background on Sister… Sister Maria Juan Anderson (formerly known as Amanda Anderson) is a Religious Sister of Mercy of Alma, Michigan. After studying music at Benedictine College, she served in various ministry roles until she entered the convent in 2012. She has been missioned as a Sister throughout the United States and Europe, and currently serves in East Tennessee. Sister Maria Juan has a heart for evangelization, a contagious joyful spirit, and wisdom that is much needed in our fast-paced society. For more information on Sister and the Religious Sisters of Mercy, visit rsmofalma.org
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Oh my friends—I can't wait for you to hear this conversation with my friend, Kenton Lee! If you have have been dreaming with God about how to make a positive difference in the world, but you aren't sure where to begin, this is your episode! Perfectionism doesn't have to paralyze us anymore. Kenton Lee is the founder of Because International and the creator of their first project The Shoe That Grows. After spending time living at a small orphanage in Kenya he had the idea for a shoe that could expand its size. It took six years to work on the idea, but he and his friends succeeded in developing a shoe that can grow five sizes and last for years. The cause accidentally went viral in 2015, and now there are over 350,000 pairs of The Shoe That Grows on the feet of kids in over 100 countries. To learn more about Kenton's work and Because International, visit https://becauseinternational.org.
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I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts are making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Are you tired of hearing the voice that says, "You can't fail"? Are you sick of feeling the pressure to perform? If so, you are in the right place! Now is the time to ditch perfection and celebrate yourself. Throw yourself some confetti, and pursue your purpose, rather than trying to please people. In the first episode of the Ditching Perfection podcast, Carly will share about her struggle with perfectionism, and how she is on the journey to pursue wholeness in Jesus rather than trying to have it all together. Today's key idea is this: Because God is with us, we can have the courage to take risks.
I always love connecting with you and hearing how the podcasts making a difference in your pursuit of wholeness! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @carlycommunicates. If there is any way I can support you or your organization through speaking or worship leading, feel free to reach out to me at carlycommunicates.com/contact.
Welcome to the “Ditching Perfection” podcast: A podcast that will help you pursue wholeness in Jesus rather than trying to have it all together. Along the way, you will hear raw conversations and practical tips that will remind you to throw some confetti and celebrate yourself! Your inner critic doesn’t have to be the dominant voice in your life anymore.