By Design Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dannette Gora
Today we’re taking a deeper look at BREATH and what it means to us physically and spiritually. I share scripture, some inspiring quotes, and connect the dots between the Holy Spirit and the breath of God. This episode is part 1 on “the breath of God”. Look for another episode next week! xo, Dannette { […]
On this episode I share some ideas on how to make your own lemonade stand. I recently made one for a client, and totally FELL IN LOVE with it. I’ve been seeing lots of them at parties and receptions lately, so I thought I’d share some of my favorite diy’s with you so you could […]
Today’s episode is an intro to a new series on the Holy Spirit. I map out what the series will entail, talk bible verses, and get into some of the good stuff about why and who and how important the Holy Spirit is in our lives as followers of Christ. Thanks so much for listening! […]
Viv Mabuni is on the podcast today, and she’s telling us all about her new book “Open Hands Willing Heart: Discovering the Joy of Saying Yes to God“!!! Viv draws on the example of biblical heroes, particularly Esther, to share life-giving wisdom about what it looks like to surrender all in the midst of uncertainty […]
Episode #89 is all about re-purposing the bi-fold doors that you don’t use anymore. I share a diy on how to make a bench and also lots of other good options for re-purposing them. Be sure to check out the By Design Podcast pinterest board to see all the fun ideas. I’m really pretty specific […]
A new episode is here guys! Today I’m giving a little back story on where the podcast has been since it’s been m.i.a for a few months now. I also dig in to scripture and share a story about how God is always with us, even when we’re feeling lost in the space in between […]
Hey friends! We have SHANNAN MARTIN on the podcast today! Ya’ll know how much we love her. Shannan’s new book “The Ministry of Ordinary Places” is out in the world so of course we had to get this gal on the show. We chat about Goodwill, the underground code of smoking, and Shannan’s mug obsession. […]
In episode #86 we’re talking with author Heather Holleman about her new book Chosen for Christ: Stepping Into The Life You’ve Been Missing. And you guys, we could not be more excited!!! Heather is our people. She is passionate about God’s word, and it’s a wonder to listen to her rattle off scripture and connect […]
In this episode we talk about cultivating rhythms in daily life so that we can grow spiritually. We chat about creating space for God in our lives, the struggle to get there, and how to set ourselves up to win. Lyn also shares about training for a recent marathon (a literal one!). We talk about […]
Episode #84 is all about the dance we do in front of the mirror. We talk about body image and that inner struggle we all seem to have trying to find adequate coverings for our souls. We share a few personal stories, discuss lots of scripture, and do our best to get to the heart […]
Hey there all! Today we are FINALLY sharing the playroom project we designed for beautiful friends of ours awhile back. They recently expanded their family, and we were able to sneak into their playroom and jazz it up as a surprise before their homecoming. This was a darling little project with lots of fun details […]
In this episode Dannette shares a DIY she just finished using pallets to make outdoor an outdoor sofa and chair. Be sure to check out the By Design Pinterest Board for links to some sweet outdoor projects! OUTDOOR PALLET DIY: Here are a few finished images. The pallets haven’t been painted yet (will soon be […]
In this episode Lyn shares about her family trip to Memphis to see the Civil Rights Museum. We talk about being intentional as parents and putting the time into some of the things that could help build character. We also chat cell phones, boundaries, and finding ways to actually challenge our kids, not pacify them. […]
Today we’re chatting about spring, the beauty of the still life and the masterpiece of God hidden within the growing things that surround us. We talk about the process of renewal and how nature mimics life and reveals the redemptive plan of God. Dannette also wrote a little on this, check out her post on […]
Episode #79 is going to be a fast favorite because we have Lina Abujamra with us again! She recently spoke at one of the Pursuit Event’s that our own Lyn Felsman hosts, and we were sure to hit the record button knowing Lina would BRING IT as only she can. Lina shares a beautiful message […]
This week we chat with Meghan Meredith, founder of HomeBodySoul, a lifestyle wellness brand for women. Meghan uses her expertise as a Certified Health/Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer to educate and inspire women how to best steward their homes, bodies, and souls. She is passionate about helping women love their home and find ways to effectively use it for the […]
Hey friends! We’re back this week with episode #77 and continuing our conversation about King Saul. We talk through 1 Samuel 9, the context of the story, and discuss beginnings and heart of King Saul, weighing in on his humility and pride. We talk about how sometimes we end up like Saul, seeing more of […]
Today we’re continuing our series on the book of 1 Samuel. We get into the story of Eli and the mistake he made by not dealing with the disobedience of his sons. We chat about shining the light in the darkness, the struggle to stand for what it is right, and how we sometimes choose […]
In this episode we talk about what WE SEE when we look at others and what GOD SEES. We talk a little bit about the superficial stuff, some of our insecurities, and how we sometimes make decisions about who we want to know and be friends with based on how the package looks, not the […]
Today we share a wreath diy because Spring is almost here, and we needed some light and airy inspiration ? Dannette shows us how to make a tissue wreath using coffee filters, and she also shares a little bit about what she’s been learning about the Lord’s Supper as she re-reads Tim Keller’s book “The King’s […]
This week we get to hear all about Dannette’s recent mission trip to India. We talk about the stretch it was to say yes to India, the beauty of the people, and how it’s changed her life forever. Dannette will also be writing about her trip over on her blog, so be sure to check […]
We’ve been waiting for this episode friends — today we chat with the lovely Vivian Mabuni! She shares a bit of her cancer journey with us and we get to hear how God used that painful season to kindle the writer within. We chat about raising kids, the writing process, some of our design loves, […]
On this episode Dannette shares a word from the story of the woman at the well in John 4. We talk about God’s pursuing love, the beauty of community and inviting others to the well with us, and all sorts of amazing-ness relating to LIVING WATER. xo, Lyn & Dannette LINKS & THINGS Liz Curis […]
We’re back! We took a short and much needed break over the holidays to regroup and are excited to be back in front of microphones again. Today we talk about our unplanned hiatus and share an encouraging word for those who feel like they are in the desert places of life. The moral of this […]
Today we share a little of what we’ve been learning as our life group works their way thru Matt Chandler’s study on the book of Philippians. We discuss the account in Acts 16 where Paul witnessed to Lydia, the possessed girl, and the jailer and how he humbly met each person where they were as […]
Today we chat washi tape and share all our favorite uses for this magical mini tape! We cover walls, art, keys, cords, books, doors, headboards…and a lot of other wonderful randomness. Washi tape is a great way to add some color and interest to all things bland and generic. It’s also super easy to use […]
Today we chat with the lovely Holley Gerth about her new book “Fiercehearted”. Holley is a best selling author, speaker, life coach, counselor and she also co-founded the wonderful online community (in)courage. Whew, right? This sweet lady has leaned in and embraced her calling fully, and she shares a few of the highs and lows […]
On today’s episode we chat girls trips, heart checks, and what it means to be IN Christ. We dig in to the truth of who we are “in Christ”, how the Father sees us because of it, and ultimately how living from that truth can change not only the way we see ourselves, but also […]
Today we talk about what happens when we encounter Jesus. This type of encounter is not just something that happens at the moment of salvation when the scales are removed from our eyes and we believe and turn to Christ. It’s also something for those of us who already believe and yet are still living […]
On today’s episode Lyn gives some tips for staging your home, and we share a few guidelines to help get you moving in the right direction. We also chat books — what we’re reading and about to pick up. And don’t forget about our up and coming Gift Giving Guide! We’re in the process of […]
Today we chat about running our race, doing it well, and making our days count. Like REALLY count in light of eternity. Lyn shares about a friend who recently lost a loved one, and we discuss the mix of feelings and emotions and ultimately what that can point us to. We also talk about doing […]
Today we share a few of our sentiments as we discuss some of the hard and ugly things happening in the world these days. We chat about God’s desire for us to be one in Christ, the beauty of creation in all it’s diversity, and we share a few ideas on how to stand in […]
Today we talk about embracing your season of life and living fully right where you are. We encourage you to press into where God has you in this season, because we believe he wants to do a work in you and through you, right where he has you. We also chat a bit about the […]
Today on the podcast we chat about the hard to believe truth that we are the BELOVED of God. We discuss a little about the book that inspired this conversation, a few scriptures that Dannette is all excited about, and what it looks like to really take hold of this truth and live as the […]
Today is a really special episode! Many of you know Lyn hosted a women’s event in her backyard with a panel of women discussing what pursuing God looks like. WE RECORDED IT, and now you can listen along even if you weren’t there! It was such a magical evening, full of rich conversation, encouragement, and […]
Have you guys ever been a little scared to do something new and out of your comfort zone? On today’s episode we talk about some new and exciting steps of faith for us. Lyn has her first speaking engagement this fall, and she’s still kinda shocked! Dannette is embracing her calling as a writer, and […]
On today’s episode we catch up on some things going on in our lives, {like PURSUIT in Lyn’s backyard THIS THURSDAY!! YOU should come!!} and what God’s been growing in us. We share how hope, real lasting hope has helped us both in the darkest hours of our lives. We know all to well that […]
Keep your eyes on God. I’ve had someone ask me before what that really means. Because apparently, I say it often. So what does that really mean? And what does that look like? EYES ON HIM. It’s sort of become my life mantra after the rolling seas of 2014. It’s when I learned to keep […]
Today we finish up our series on Kitchen Reno’s with some advice on tile backsplashes. We chat about the best tile sizes to use, whether or not to run your countertop up the wall, and all our favorite options as far as tile style goes. We also talk a little about modesty and not just […]
We’re continuing with our Kitchen Reno Series and today is all about PAINTING CABINETS. We talk thru all the necessary steps, share some of the products we use, and offer some encouragement to get you painting. Thanks so much for listening! xo, Lyn & Dannette ••• LINKS & THINGS {by design} pinterest board: https://www.pinterest.com/bydesignpodcast SEE BEFORE AND […]
We’re continuing with our Kitchen Reno Series and today we talk about COUNTERTOPS. Lyndsye shares more about her kitchen reno and why they chose the counters they did. We talk about all the options, types and some of the pros and cons. Thanks so much for listening! xo, Lyn & Dannette ••• LINKS & THINGS […]
Today we start a new series on Kitchen Reno’s and to kick things off we’re chatting about kitchen hardware…aka knobs and pulls. There are lots of funny stories in this one, not to mention a few good tidbits to help you pick out your cabinet hardware. Lyndsye is also talking about her latest kitchen renovation […]
Today we talk about the topic of PURSUIT and what that looks like in terms of our faith. We discuss how God is after our hearts, how he pursues us, follows after us, and how he is forever longing to heal and restore the broken within us all. We chat about the things we find ourselves chasing, […]
Alright guys… so today is episode 50 for us…and we’re probably more excited about our GUEST than we are about it being #50!!! Today we have LINA ABUJAMRA on the show, and if you haven’t heard of her yet, you need to listen in because she is doing some amazing things in the name of Jesus. Lina […]
Dr. Heather Holleman is back in this episode to discuss the verb CHOSEN. As we’ve mentioned before, Heather has a PhD in English Literature and has been teaching writing at Penn State for 10+ years. She also writes books (like life changing ones!) and we’re excited to share her passion for verbs and knowledge of God’s word […]
Today we get to talk with one of our favorite ladies! Shannon Courtaney has mentored Lyn in SO many ways over the years and has always pointed her to truth both in her words and by modeling it in her own life. She’s a mom to four sweet kids and is someone who many of us […]
Since this weekend is Mother’s Day, we thought we’d treat you all with a BONUS episode! We’re chatting with the lovely Lisa-Jo Baker in this one, and seriously, who better to encourage us all for Mother’s Day than this gem?! Lisa tells us all about her new book Never Unfriended and unpacks the beautiful and sometimes […]
We’re just starting to dig in to the gospel of Mark and today we chat about what the Holy Spirit is bringing to the forefront for us as we begin to comb thru this book. We talk about the great compassion Jesus had for those who crossed his path and how his heart for them was […]
Today’s episode was such an honor to record. We chat with the radiant Kay Warren about her new book Sacred Privilege, which releases TODAY! Kay shares a bit of her journey as a pastor’s wife with us (Kay and her husband Rick Warren co-founded Saddleback Church in California) and she even shares a few of the […]
Today we’re chatting about our marriages. We talk about what we’ve learned, some of the best advice we’ve been given, and what it looks like to love well even when circumstances make it difficult. We also have some fun chatting about Lyn’s ongoing home renovation. We chat about the shiplap they’ve added, the walls they’ve opened […]
On today’s episode we chat with one of our favorite writers and humans, Kristen Welch! Kristen blogs at www.weareTHATfamily.com, she’s written a couple of books {two of which are on Lyn’s list of the BEST books eva!} Rhinestone Jesus and How to Raise Grateful Kids in an Entitled World, AND she founded a non profit in Kenya […]
Spring is in the air, and we’re so excited to share a new project with you all! CUTTING GARDENS!!! Join us as we chat flowers, the diy basics of a cutting garden (because hello, some of us aren’t flower gurus!), and be sure to check out our website for some helpful links to get you started. This […]
On today’s episode we share some decor ideas to freshen up your homes for Spring. We chat wreaths, terrariums, and few simple diy’s to bring some life and greens into your spaces. Happy Spring! xo, Lyn & Dannette ••• LINKS & THINGS {by design} pinterest board: https://www.pinterest.com/bydesignpodcast Spring Decor Ideas Add a boxwood or magnolia wreath to your wall […]
This week we’re talking with one of our favorite people, Dr. Heather Holleman! We’re starting a new segment on By Design called The Verb with Dr. Holleman where we’ll chat with Heather about a specific “verb” used in the Bible and how that one word can change both the way we live and how we […]
Today we have none other than Christina Stembel – founder, CEO and creative genius behind Farmgirl Flowers! We chat with Christina about her company and how they got started, her love for business, knack for creating beauty, and she even offers up some advice for would be entrepreneurs. And seriously, this gal is a GEM. […]
This week on { by design } we chat with the brilliant Josh Reasoner about repentance and what that looks like in the life of a believer. Josh is the Pastor of Family and Children’s Ministries at Calvary Church in Valparaiso, IN where he lives with his wife Christy and their three sweet kiddos. Josh […]
Dannette and I are so humbled to be in your ears every week! This episode we talk about some burning questions we’ve both had on our heart. God’s been showing and growing us in what it means to truly believe and have faith that God will provide, no matter the circumstance or need. We chat about how […]
On today’s episode we chat with the lovely Rebekah Lyons about her new book You Are Free…which releases TODAY! This is such a great book, friends!!! We devoured it, giving air high fives and crying tears of conviction. Yep, it’s THAT good. We chat truth and get to hear about a few of Rebekah’s design loves. […]
IT’S VALENTINE’S DAY YO! On this episode we chat about the things we love to do to celebrate our loved ones. We chat marriage, movies, our favorite date ideas and of course…tacos. We also talk about painting brick, in particular fireplaces, because YES. It sounds daunting, but it’s really not that hard to tackle. AND it […]
Hey friends!! Today’s podcast is super exciting for us as Lyn is finally back and telling us all about her family’s trip to Kenya!!! You won’t want to miss it… especially if you’ve ever wanted to do something that has forever impact. She shares all about Kids Alive International {kidsalive.org} and how they’re doing an incredible […]
Today we talk about what it means to be in community with others. We’ve touched on this subject before, but today we dig a little deeper and talk about how important this idea of community is for us to grow and mature in our faith. And it’s hard, right? To invest in relationships for the long […]
On this week’s episode we hear from Mary & Sandy at Resource Global. They share the heart and vision of this unique nonprofit and how they are working to equip and charge young leaders all over the world to live more fully for the Lord. They currently have groups in Chicago and Jakarta, Indonesia and are […]
Today we talk about being small and abiding. These are the words we’ve chosen to wear for the year (you know how we love our giving keys)! We talk about perspective and what it means to each of us to live out these words. We also chat about Lyn’s up and coming trip to Kenya with […]
On today’s episode we chat about the new year. We toss around a few resolutions, chat about setting goals, and share some of what God has put on our hearts for 2017. We also talk books and share a few up coming releases that we’re excited to get our hands on! There are lots of […]
On today’s episode we chat with Sarah Bragg. This wife and momma of two writes, works in ministry, has her own podcast, and also has a little decorating business on the side! ? {Yep, she’s awesome.} She’s also a wealth of knowledge, has a heart to encourage, and we just love her to bits. We chat about […]
This week we chat with our friends at Rooted Chicago. This is a group that we have grown to love and appreciate so much! Their mission is to encourage & connect women to the movement of God in the city of Chicago and beyond. They truly are women who want fewer things, deeper roots & grounded lives. Today you’ll meet […]
In this week’s episode we chat with the amazing Heather Holleman. This woman is brilliant, beautiful and brave — and we know you’ll be SO DANG BLESSED by her! She’s a wife, a mom to two girls, an accomplished professor, has a PhD in English literature, AND has penned some pretty incredible books. She has […]
Today we FINALLY get to talk about Christmas decor!!! We’re guessing most of you have already busted out those holiday bins and are starting to the deck the halls anyway, so we thought it’d be a good time to share a few ideas. We chat our favorite looks for the holidays season, share lots of […]
Thanksgiving is here!!! So today we chat food, family, some favorite holiday movies, and most importantly, how to cultivate a heart of thanksgiving this holiday season. We’re hoping this one sets the tone for the week ahead and inspires you to extend love and grace, even when it’s difficult. Happy Thanksgiving! xo, Lyn & Dannette And […]
With Thanksgiving being right around the corner, we thought we’d sneak in a bonus episode to give you all some inspiration for your centerpieces! This way you don’t have to put much effort into it…just listen in and head over to our website for some easy and really pretty ideas to make your Thanksgiving extra […]
In this episode we chat about how God actually wants to use our failures — and the very things we think we need to HIDE about ourselves — to encourage and love on the people around us. Dannette shares from her heart about a broken time in her past and how God is using and redeeming some of that […]
This episode is all about tables! We share some of the tables we’ve re-purposed in our homes and a few that have inspired us. Some of our finds come from garage sales, the neighbor’s trash (yikes), and some are just re-thought items that we painted or are using differently than they were intended. We share all […]
Today’s episode is all about shopping with purpose! With the holidays being just around the corner, we thought this little gift guide would help you find that special gift and also give back at the same time. We share a few of our favorite fair trade businesses that support women artisans in impoverished countries and even share […]
This week we get to hear Part 2 of Joanna Ivey’s ah-mazing adoption story. Joanna shares all about the few unbelievable days she spent in the hospital with the birth mom and how God orchestrated the details in a crazy-beautiful way. She also shares her heart for adoption and specifically why they chose to adopt { and seriously, […]
In this episode we chat with Joanna Ivey about her awe-inspiring story of adoption. And yes, it’s awe-inspiring dear friends! Joanna shares her family’s over two year journey thru domestic adoption to bring home their sweet son Sutton Justus. {and isn’t that just the best name ever?!!!} We talk with Joanna about the long road they walked waiting, […]
This week Lyndsye shares what she’s been learning about being seated with Christ. We talk about what that looks like for us as brothers and sisters in Christ, and the freedom that comes from realizing there’s a seat at the table for each of us, that we’re worthy of it, and we don’t have to strive to […]
On today’s episode we talk with Shannan Martin, author of the new release, Falling Free: Rescued From the Life I Always Wanted. Shannan is a blogger, speaker, and writer who found her voice in the country and her story in the city. She and her jail-chaplain husband have four funny children who came to them across […]
On today’s episode we share an encouraging word for mommas of little ones. We chat about what we wish we knew and share some funny stories about potty training, family pictures, and feeding our kids cheese and crackers for dinner {because that totally counts we’re told}! We do dig a little deeper though and try to […]
Today we chat with Pastor Lionel Young about God’s design for design… and how it’s grounded in beauty, just like God himself. Pastor Lionel unpacks the significance of that and what it means for us as image bearers, and in essence gives us permission to enjoy beauty as God intended. (Which I think some of us […]
In this episode we chat about all things Fall! We don’t know about you, but we’re ready for cooler evenings, sweaters, scarves, boots, and soup!!! We share how we decorate for Fall {including some great tips for designing on a budget}, chat about a few diy’s we love, and even squeeze in a quick moment with our friend Matt […]
In this week’s episode we chat about anxiety. Who hasn’t at some point struggled with this, right? ! Us girls chat it up about times we’ve done battle with anxiousness and fear, and we share some of the things that have helped us along the way. We’re hoping it encourages you today! We also talk area rugs! […]
In this week’s episode we chat about waiting… and not just in line at the store… but in those seasons of our lives when all we can do is WAIT. Be it in a relationship, a job, or really any circumstance, how we react in those times says a lot about our view of God. […]
Hey friends…SO on today’s episode we laugh alot! Dannette shares a snake story, attempts a Chewy impression, and we discover that Lyn had a wrong and hilarious understanding of “stoning” in the bible…for what, 25 years??? a.k.a. “Hans Solo-ing”… {Seriously, we don’t make this stuff up!} We do get serious and talk about a friend’s very real struggle with family […]
Hi friends! Can you believe that we’re at Episode 10?!!! Seriously…we are having SO much fun! Today’s episode is about resting our very busy minds and hands and truly learning how to be still. We talk about spending time with God in the quiet and how hard it is to really settle in to those moments, unplug, and embrace […]
Hey friends! This week is an easy one for us all… we keep things light and chat about color and how it can affect our moods. Although there’s deep science that proves much of this, we just graze the surface a bit, and Dannette shares some of her experiences using color in the design field. Don’t forget […]
In this week’s episode we talk to our dear friend Kelly Lackey about the design of our bodies and why we need to take care of them. She is a Revelation Wellness instructor and truly has a great balance of wellness in her home and her life. She shares a bit of her inspiring energy with us and gives […]
Today we chat about surviving the summer with our kids home… {can I get an amen?!} and how much stock we put into our body image. Lyn discusses her struggles with overcoming anorexia, and we talk thru how our thoughts on our negative appearance can skew our view of God and who he has designed […]
In this episode we talk about parenting and Dannette shares her very real struggle as she parents a strong willed child. We talk about how it truly does take a village to parent well and share some resources to turn to for encouragement and direction. We also chat about all the clutter and “stuff” that comes with having […]
In this episode we talk about identity and what really defines who we are. Lyn also shares a little bit about a time in her life when she was broken and hurting and caught up in believing that she would never be more than her past. So many of us can relate to that, right??? We chat about some of […]
It’s wedding season friends! And on today’s show we chat about some of the good and hard things involved in the planning process, wedding favors, some “musts” for the bride, and lastly, what’s really important for your big day! Whether you’re a bride to be, hope to be one soon, or a mother of children […]
Hey Friends!! This is a great day because today on the show we get to talk to the CalvaryLIVE worship band who just today released worldwide their new album “Who You Are”! These guys { Kurt, Matt and Gabe } were so much fun and gave such great insight into what corporate worship was designed by God for. […]
So I like control. Shocker, I know. Know what else I think though…? I’m not alone. Today on the podcast Dannette and I chat about keeping our hands open, and how saying yes to the right things takes courage. We chat about how we aren’t to please everyone with just being a “yes man”. We […]
Welcome friends! Yep, we’re crazy…we’re starting a podcast!? We know… you’re confused. And to be honest, we were a little at first, too. BUT GOD. Right? We believe God has called us to encourage women and part of that somehow includes us wearing goofy headphones and talking into microphones while wearing our pajamas. Who knew? Our […]