Resting Church Face with Amanda Allen: Recent Episodes
Amanda Allen
Did your parents take you aside before church to remind you that the argument they had on the way to Sunday School was “family business”? Have you been told more than once that you need to control your facial expressions? Do you know every word to both Michael W. Smith’s “A Place in This World” and Coolio’s “Gangsta’s Paradise”? Do you love a good deep dive on movies and books and music? Yeah? Me too. Hello. I’m Amanda, and we’re going to be friends. Let’s talk about all the good stuff.
Aaaaand we’re back, friends! I’m so pumped to start recording new episodes of Resting Church Face again, and what better way to start than talking about my favorite season of all time? That’s right - it’s autumn! So let’s talk about all the best movies, music, books, and tv shows that are just waiting for us out there in the melancholy and cozy weather.
Last week, I asked all of you on Instagram and Facebook to send me some of your favorite vacation and travel memories and you sent me some great ones! So let’s talk about all the best places we’ve been and the places we want to go. Also, Tina Arena.
I think everyone would agree - the world is cuh-razy right now (I’m looking at you, America), and I don’t know about you, but I need to get out of my own head for maybe an hour. Or 2. Or 24. So let’s talk about things that make us laugh - like, out loud - and make life just a little more bearable. And fun!
There are so many tropes (recurring themes) in books and movies. A lot of them are good, but some of them are just awful. Like, really awful. So let’s talk about them! Also, dinosaurs.
Secondhand embarrassment is defined as happening “when someone feels embarrassed or uncomfortable after witnessing another person experience something embarrassing.” Or, as the youths say, CRINGE. So let’s talk about the things that make us blush for other people. Also, The TikTok.
Summer is here! It is definitely hot, but not necessarily miserable. This week, let’s talk about summer glimmers - those little moments every day that just ignite a little spark of joy inside us. Also, tea that tastes like foggy rain. It’s a thing.
This week, I want to tell you a story about a new phobia that was unlocked for me - a skink got into my house (not a skank - that would be a very judgmental phobia), and it has almost made me…unhinged. Let’s talk about it.
Here’s the second part of our roundup of spring books! Settle in and let’s talk about books 16-31 (even though I’m off by one number for the majority of the episode - but don’t worry, I figure it out at the end!)!
🎵 June is bustin’ out all oooooover 🎵 and it’s time for our roundup of books I read this spring. I feel like I’ve been on a good book streak for the past couple of months, and I can’t wait to share them with you! (And yes, there are some ghost stories. Because it’s me.)
This past weekend was Mother’s Day, and I thought it was a perfect time to continue our series on Aging Like Fine Grape Juice and having a good conversation with my mom, Alana Allen! I loved doing this so much, and as much as I thought I knew about my mom, she surprised me with stories I’d never heard (and isn’t that the way it always works with our parents?). She’s also a really smart lady, so I think she sprinkled in some great advice into this chat, too. And…The Beatles!
Oof. This was a hard episode to record. The Met Gala was this week, and once again, we are being bombarded with critiques of women’s bodies. Are they too fat? Too thin? On Ozempic? Did they get plastic surgery? Was it good plastic surgery? Was it bad? And so on and so on until - seemingly - the end of time. And guys? I’m sick of it. Why can’t we just stop talking about women’s bodies? So let’s talk about that.
Get the Kleenex ready guys - we’re doing a deep dive on the second half of Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Dept. Anthology! And just trust me. We are going to feel everything. And we’ll (mostly) like it, because melancholy can be fun when it’s done well!
Love her or hate her, Taylor Swift is probably the biggest star in the world right now. And she has a new album with 31 songs on it (yes - 31!) Oh my word, all the feelings. And I do mean AAAAALL the feelings. Let’s do a deep dive on why we all have an opinion about this music and the woman behind the music - and warning - you might need a nap afterwards. To paraphrase our Millennial Poet Laureate, we love her, but it might be ruining our lives (but in a good way?).
Life is hard. And as much as I think Killers of the Flower Moon is an excellent piece of cinema, sometimes I don’t want to be reminded that people can be awful and everyone was sweaty in the 1930s because there were no air conditioners. Sometimes I want to be transported to a place that is totally and completely unlike my everyday reality. So let’s talk about movies that sweep us away and make us happy at the same time.
A few days ago, Catherine, Princess of Wales (or as we all call her, Princess Kate), announced that she was undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. The world was stunned, and most were rightly ashamed, since the conspiracy theories surrounding her public “disappearance” had reached fever pitch. And everyone was wrong. How did we get here? Why did we go after Kate and her family the way we did? How do we keep it from happening again? Let’s talk about it.
Spring is finally here! Trees are green again, flowers are blooming, and let’s just decide to ignore the pollen for a while. On this week’s episode, let’s talk about the little moments of joy that spring is…springing on us. I had to. And I’m not even sorry.
It’s time for part 2 of the roundup of books I read this winter! The latter part of the season was a little hit or miss for me, but there were still a lot of really good reads. And honestly? Some of these “bad” books were so bad they were…good? You know what I mean. So let’s discuss!
It’s booooook tiiiime! (I hope you sang that.) I read 35 books this winter, so this roundup will be split into two episodes. I have some good ones for us (and a few duds), so let’s talk about it!
I consider myself a (usually) upbeat person. But sometimes, it feels good to let it out and rant a little bit. So this week, we’re talking about pet peeves - specifically, my pet peeves. It’s possible that my pet peeves are yours too, and if they are, let’s be best friends! Just don’t chew anything around me, ok?
Guys. I recorded this because I need you to share in the hilarity of this soon-to-be-leaving movie on Hulu called “Among the Shadows.” It has everything: Lindsay Lohan as a VAMPIRE. Werewolves. Age confusion. Green screens. The President of France! It’s too good not to share.
Are you in the mood to binge some good tv (and one movie)? You have come to the right place! I have some recommendations that I think will satisfy your entertainment itch (and none of it involves Travis Kelce or Taylor Swift)!
My dad passed away on January 18th. I am by no means an expert on grieving the loss of a parent, but there are some lessons I’ve taken away from these past few weeks while I’ve been processing aaaaaall my emotions (I’ve had a lot), and I want to share them with you. Because you are My People. ❤️
Happy New Year! To kick off the first episode of the year, let’s talk about the best books I read in 2023. It was HARD to narrow them down to a manageable list, but I think I did it! So get cozy and let’s chat about my favorite subject ever - books. All the books.
We are less than a week away from Christmas, and this week, I have some special guests joining me to tell me about what makes Christmas so magical when you’re a kid! If this doesn’t put you in the Christmas spirit, then your heart is just two sizes too small.
Sometimes we’re in a jolly and festive Christmas mood, but sometimes we want to embrace our humbug natures, so good news! I’ve got movie recommendations for all our different holiday feelings - from happy to sappy and everything in between. And believe it or not, The Holiday isn’t on this list. Well. Barely.
This is Part 2 of our fall book roundup, and there are some good ones in here! Get those Amazon Christmas gift cards out and put them to some good literary use by stocking up on your TBR pile of books. You know you have one.
I read almost 30 books this fall, so I’m breaking this book roundup into two episodes - make sure to come back on Thursday for the second installment! There are some super good books (and some not so good duds), so get out your TBR list and let’s talk about it.
Christmas is upon us! And for some of us, we feel that very literally - it is UPON US. So in this episode, let’s discuss how we can enjoy the festive season in a calming and comfortable way. As Kathleen Kelly famously said, “It will all shake out. Meanwhile, I’m putting up more twinkle lights.” Also, Rooms to Go Christmas movies.
Thanksgiving is tomorrow! Let’s talk about all the fun (and maybe not so fun) traditions that make Thanksgiving really feel like Thanksgiving. Also, robotic dogs from 2001.
This week, we’re continuing our series Aging Like Fine Grape juice, and I got to talk to my friend, Layne Abbott. Layne is one of my favorite people, our first bona fide millennial, and she’s the Worship Coordinator at the Huntsville, AL campus of Church of the Highlands. I love this conversation. It’s a little bit of a longer episode, but I really want you to hear what she has to say. A lot of it is lighthearted and fun, just like Layne, but we had a frank discussion about what it is like to lose a parent, and I’m so thankful she was willing to be so open and honest about that experience. If you’ve gone through something similar or if you are going through it now, no matter what age you are, I think you will glean so much wisdom and comfort from what she has to say.
The holidays are here…but so is holiday anxiety. This week, we’re going to talk about practical ways to manage stress and maintain our sanity. Also, The Last of the Mohicans.
Today is Halloween! I know I said last week would be our last Halloween episode, but I just couldn’t help myself. Halloween in the 80s and early 90s was a completely different type of weird. Nicotine inspired candy? Check. Unsupervised minors wielding chainsaws (this actually happened!)? Check. Me dressing up as a gender conflicted samurai? Also, and I have no real explanation for this one, check. So, yes. It was weird. But it was a fun kind of weird and we need to discuss it.
We are wrapping up our month of Halloween themed episodes with a list of the spookiest books I’ve ever read. These stories are perfect for curling up in front of your fireplace (or your YouTube tv fireplace) during a stormy night, and giving yourself a good old fashioned scare. If you dare [insert ominous “bwah ha ha ha” laugh here].
Most kids’ movies are happy and joyful and just good, innocent fun - but if you were a kid in the 80s and 90s, a lot of them were also TERRIFYING. Do you still shudder when someone mentions The Wheelers? Did a cartoon about people turning into blocky puppets give you nightmares? Were you traumatized by Jim Henson creatures? Well, have we got a show for you! This episode also features a special guest appearance by my sister, Holly Jo Flora, another victim of spooky 80s children’s films. Let’s discuss it all!
October is here! And it’s the month of all things spooky and I LOVE IT. Now, you know I only get scared by truly creepy movies - not gross ones or super violent zombie flicks - so this list is made up of only the most chilling pieces of cinema I’ve ever seen. That’s right. As Vincent Price so eloquently put it in the 80s, I have been “sent to terrorize y’all’s neighborhood.” So let’s talk about it (with all the lights on!).
Everyone I know (including me) is a little stressed right now. School is back in session, football teams are battling it out, and Taylor Swift might be dating Travis Kelce. We need a break! So let’s revisit one of my favorite topics: Glimmers. Glimmers are the opposite of triggers, and if we can find a few to focus on every day, it can help us find little moments of joy. So let’s talk about them! Also, confusing a supplement for a hallucinogen.
We’ve all heard the saying “The book was better,” and 9 times out of 10, I’d agree with you. But sometimes, you come across a movie that outshines its source material, and I want to talk all about it with you! Also, cinnamon stick crosses.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year - that’s right, fall is upon us (finally)! Let’s get cozy and talk about all the music, books, movies, and activities that make us feel like most everything in life can be solved by a nice walk in the crisp air and a latte with lots of cinnamon.
Our first Resting Church Face Book Club pick was Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld, and we are going to DISCUSS it all - the good, the not-so-great, and the Danny Horst Rule-ness of it all (IYKYK)!
This is part 2 of our Summer Reading Roundup - make sure to check out Episode 34 for Part 1!
It’s that time of year again! Let’s talk about the books I read while I was inside, trying to avoid the Sun, who teamed up with his buddy Humidity, and attempted to murder me. I read more books than I realized this summer, so we’re splitting this one into two episodes. Look for Part 2 on Thursday!
I loved Barbie when I was a kid. My sister and I played with them a LOT, and we had some pretty intricate storylines. I was a little worried that the movie might fall short of the hype, but guys. The hype is justified. I have a lot of thoughts! Also, Ryan Gosling (because he’s RYAN GOSLING!).
This week, we’re going to revisit a topic from way back in episode 15 - people pleasing. We’ve talked about how people pleasing starts, but now that we’re working on recovery, how do we begin to advocate for ourselves, especially when we’re worried about disappointing other people? It’s hard, but it can be done. Let’s talk about it. Also, baby pictures.
We all have movies we watch over and over again, but what about books? They can be just as comforting and familiar, and in this episode, we’re talking about all the books we revisit throughout the years. Also, I think I use the word “fantastic” about 8 zillion times. My apologies. (But, in my defense, all these books ARE fantastic!)
This week’s episode is another installment of the new monthly series “Aging Like Fine Grape Juice,” and I got to sit down and chat with Kam Walker, who is one of my oldest friends (not age-wise - I mean, he is a year older than me and I will remind him of that until we’re in our nineties - but oldest in that we’ve known each other since 1999). He’s smart and funny and down-to-earth, and I know you’ll all love him as much as I do. Even though he wouldn’t sing part of a Ricky Skaggs song for me to record.
I’ve been reading some good books, watching some fantastic tv and movies, and listening to some super music this month, and I want to share it with you! And also, as always, Steve Martin and Martin Short - my GOAT(s), as the youths say.
I went to see The Holiday eight times in the theater. That’s right. Eight times, and I feel no shame. But what is it about Nancy Meyers movies that draw us in? Is it the cozy aesthetics? The plots? The characters? Is it the meet-cutes? Of course it is! But there’s so much more. Let’s talk about it!
I shared a poem I wrote in 9th grade on social media this past Sunday - what I originally intended to be a funny memory turned into something that really affected me and reminded me that life is short and it is precious. I want to tell you about it and I want you to know just how much you matter. You really, really do.
According to USA Today, the opposite of triggers (things that spark anxiety) are “glimmers” — little moments throughout our day that give us a sense of calm and happiness. What do our own unique glimmers look like? Let’s talk about them! And DMB (if you know, you know).
I love podcasts (and it’s why I started one!)! This week, let’s talk about all the different fantastic podcasts out there - from true crime to comedy and everything in between. Also, Templeton from Charlotte’s Web.
This week, we’re starting a new monthly series centered on a quote by Madeleine L’Engle: “I am still every age that I have been.” As we age, what changes and what stays the same? Do we really know the people we grew up with? Also - it’s my birthday! And we’re launching our very own Resting Church Face Book Club! Whew. This episode has ALL THE FUN!
I have two important announcements on this mini (mini) episode! One is a small tweak to the episode release dates (but don’t worry - there will still be a new episode every week!), and one is a super fun bit of info I’ve been dying to tell you!
It’s that time again! Let’s talk about all things books - this discussion has mysteries, memoirs, and family dramas. And sharks. So make some room on your bookshelves and let’s dive in!
Let’s talk about the tv shows that are just as good, if not better, on the second round of viewing. We’ll dive into dramas, sitcoms, action, and nostalgic small screen gems and figure just out what it is that makes them so rewatchable! Also, unexpected passion about Dawson’s Creek.
Luke Skywalker may have been my first crush, but Flight of the Navigator’s Joey Cramer was definitely my second! Let’s talk about the best 80s Disney sci fi movie ever, because it had EVERYTHING — flying saucers, The Beach Boys, and Sarah Jessica Parker with pink hair. Also, comebacks and second chances. And 80s fashion (duh!)!
Self care isn’t just about face masks and cucumber slices on our eyes (although that sounds pretty great) - it’s actually a whole bunch of disciplines and routines that add up to making us feel like the best versions of ourselves. So let’s talk about all of it! Also, Documentary Now! on Netflix.
I’m so excited about this episode, because I got to sit down with my sister, Holly Jo Flora, and talk about her brand new book! It’s called “Same God, New You,” and it’s a wonderful devotional for all women, no matter what stage of life. We got to chat about what inspired Holly Jo to write a devotional, and what her biggest prayers are for the women who read it. Also, The New Mickey Mouse Club. (Because we had to talk about that, too.) You can find “Same God, New You” on all the e-book platforms, and you can also order it in paperback or hardcover at www.amazon.com (just search for “Same God, New You”) or at www.hollyjoflora.com.
Our gut can tell us it’s time to walk away from a situation or a relationship, but sometimes we may need a little more prodding. How do we really know when we need to leave? How do we do it in the best way? Let’s talk about it. And let’s involve one of the wisest people we know - Taylor Swift.
I am a serial faller. Show me a set of stairs or a lonely patch of ice, and I will somehow manage to land on my derrière. Or face. But since I’m pretty much an expert at tumbling, I’ve learned some lessons on preserving your dignity, and I’m happy to share. So gather ‘round! Also, BJ Novak.
This week, let’s talk about movies that lift us out of a bad mood. You know - the ones that we can quote from start to finish, where the guy always gets the girl, and there are zero tears involved! Also, Fat Boy ice cream sandwiches.
Whew, this is a tough one for me. I’ve had a lifelong struggle with people pleasing, and I’m just now beginning to find my way out of that habit. I think it’s a topic a lot of us can relate to, so let’s settle in and talk about it. Also, Jennifer Paige and the PTSD I still suffer from her song “Crush.” It’s a very specific PTSD, but IT IS REAL!
Let’s talk about books! This episode launches a seasonal series where we’ll dive into all kinds of books - murder mysteries, political thrillers, science fiction suspense, and heartwarming tearjerkers, just to name a few. Or 16. So get out those TBR lists - it’s time to add some titles!
Is this Heaven? No, it’s Iowa. But it’s a PERFECT MOVIE and we’re going to discuss all of it - the cast, the music, time traveling, corn, and of course, baseball! And my apologies to Tom Hanks, but in this case, there IS some crying in baseball.
We’ve reached the end of our middle school conversation! This week, we’re going to tackle middle school romance, the evangelical bullies (and I am raising my own hand here), the pressures kids face today, and of course, 90s fashion. So dig out your Hypercolor shirts, and let’s get started!
I had an entirely different podcast episode ready to release today, but then I watched The Oscars. You guys. It was such a surprising delight and we just have to talk about it! There was dancing, a donkey, and of course, my beloved Brendan Fraser rounding out the best comeback story of the year. Joy can be found in completely unexpected places - even real-life Hollywood. Let’s discuss!
Brendan Fraser could win the Oscar on Sunday night, and he SHOULD! His comeback story has made me so happy, and I think it goes beyond just a feel-good celebrity moment. Let’s have a quick chat about it!
Let’s continue our middle school conversation! This week, we’re covering the President’s Fitness Test, health class revelations, and body image issues. Also, Noxzema and Nate Bargatze (but not together).
Middle school was…tough. There are mean kids, we suddenly need to shave, and we only have 3 minutes in between classes to figure everything out. So let’s talk about it in part 1 of this 2 episode discussion. Oh, and also Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn.
This week, let’s continue our discussion about movies that shaped me with a classic masterpiece - Titanic! I went to see this movie way more than once, and I was personally wounded by Jack Dawson’s fate. I rewatched it this week and I took notes - let’s talk about it! Also, Reba McEntire.
Happy Valentine’s Day! I just wanted to check in with you guys and remind my single friends that it can be a fun day for everybody - so here are my favorite things about rocking that Lone Reed lifestyle. Also, because you know I have to, more wisdom from The Holiday.
It’s time for Taylor Swift’s long list of Starbucks lovers to unite! We’re talking about song lyrics we all thought we were singing correctly, but spoiler alert! We weren’t. Let’s discuss (and sing along)! Also, the Quadratic Formula.
This week, we’re talking about friendships - how we keep the good ones, when and how we need to walk away, and what to do if you’ve been left behind. Also, the English dubbing on Netflix.
We’re starting a new series on RCF - The Movies That Shaped Me! And we’re going to begin with the first movies I remember watching - STAR WARS. Let’s talk about everything - my love for Return of the Jedi Luke, the trauma of having your sibling kiss you in a serious way, and the positive messages that still hold up! Also, the life changing magic of plugs with timers.
I was convinced that quicksand was a real threat as a kid. I also just assumed someone would attempt to kidnap me or force me into drug addiction, and I HAD NO CHOICE. I asked you guys for your childhood irrational fears, and boy, did you deliver! Let’s discuss them all from the safety of adulthood. And The Neverending Story. And I made us a playlist!
Let’s spill some proverbial tea, shall we? Prince Harry is all over the news right now, and his memoir has definitely ruffled some feathers. More than anything, it’s made me think about the ways we share our stories and the repercussions that can come from how (and with whom) we choose to go about it. Is there a healthy way to share? When does it cause more trauma? Let’s talk about it. And The Crown.
I read a lot - like, a LOT - of books last year. (I promise I do have a life.) I won’t talk about all of them, but let’s chat about the really good books I read in 2022 (spoiler free!). And also Wednesday Addams.
I have a podcast! I’m so excited! On this episode, let’s talk about church in the 90s, what “resting church face” means, and what needs reinventing in 2023. Oh, and also The Holiday. And Top Gun.