PODCAST · education
Dear Annie Joy
by Annie Joy
Honest conversations for LDS women about real life and experiencing the joy of the gospel without all the pressure. Because following Jesus shouldn’t feel so heavy.
Episodes
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Receiving Joy Instead of Chasing Happiness
If joy is something God promised… why does it sometimes feel so hard to actually experience it? In this episode, my dear friend, Chelsey Seibold, and I talk about why so many faithful women secretly feel like they’re doing everything right but still feel emotionally heavy, disconnected, or afraid...
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51: Love Hits Different When You Feel Seen
In this episode, we're talking about authenticity, emotional healing, and what it really means to be seen with co-founder of The Glory Retreat, Tricia Emmett. So many Christian women carry invisible masks, or coping patterns that once created safety but now keep us from experiencing deeper...
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50: Dysregulation Is Not the Enemy
What if emotional dysregulation is not s sign that something is wrong with you, but a signal inviting you into compassion? In this episode, I’m joined by my dear friend Laura Dugovic for a powerful, honest conversation about reframing dysregulation as information, not failure. We talk about what...
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49: Balance Was Never the Promise
What if balance was never the goal? In this episode, I sit down with Becky Squire to talk about why the pressure to “do it all” quietly exhausts so many faithful women, and what God actually offers us instead. We talk about the difference between good, better, and best, why letting something wait...
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48: Turns Out, God’s Been Playing the Long Game
What if some of the hardest stories in scripture are actually meant to give us hope? In this episode, we talk about a powerful reframe of the Flood story—one that moves it away from fear and punishment and toward mercy, patience, and eternal progression. Instead of seeing the Flood as God giving…
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47: Say Yes Like You Actually Mean It
I used to think saying yes was always the right answer. If I could do it, I should do it. But over time, I realized some of my yeses weren’t coming from peace, they were coming from pressure. And my body knew it long before my mind did. In this episode, I sit down with my friend and Human Design...
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46: Worry Isn’t a Warning, It’s an Invitation
If you’re a Christian mom who feels like you have a PhD in worrying, this episode is for you. 🫶 In today’s conversation, my dear friend and God-centered intuitive healer, Kenzi Fackrell and I, are talking all about worry, anxiety, and what it really means to trust God in the middle of the mental...
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45: What My Miscarriages Taught Me About Prayer
I’m opening up about the miscarriages I experienced during my first marriage, and how they changed the way I understand prayer, peace, and God's presence in pain. For a long time, I believed that if I prayed hard enough and had enough faith, I could control the outcome. But when my prayers didn’t...
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44: You Don’t Have to Perform to Be Loved: Finding Joy After Falling Apart
He was the fun one. The loud one. The light in every room. But behind the smile, he was quietly falling apart. In this vulnerable and powerful conversation, we explore what happens when the version of you that everyone loves stops working—when the mask slips, and the pain finally surfaces. My...
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43: Confessions of a 43-Year-Old
I turned 43 this week—and in a twist of timing (or divine alignment?), it just so happens this is also the 43rd episode of Dear Annie Joy. So I'm opening up with 3 honest confessions about the things I used to believe, the stories I’m unlearning, and the freedom I’ve found on the other side. In...
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42: That Was Not the Plan
When life takes a turn you never asked for, what happens next? In this conversation with Amber Jackson, we talk about grief, growth, and how joy still shows up — even when nothing looks like it was supposed to. If you're holding heartbreak and hope at the same time, this one’s for you. Amber is a...
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41: The Embarrassing Childhood Story that Changed How I Parent
This is a story I never thought I’d share publicly. It involves my bladder, a lot of childhood shame, and how one of my most embarrassing struggles ended up making me a softer, more compassionate mom. In this episode, I open up about what it was like to deal with bladder issues well into…
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40: What My Suicide Attempt Taught Me About Radical Joy
Twenty‑three years ago, I didn’t know if I’d see another birthday. I was lost in self‑loathing and loneliness, and I tried to end my life. That moment became the start of learning how to care for my own soul, and eventually, how to choose radical joy. In this episode, I share the full story for…
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39: 7 Ways to Support Our Friends from Different Faith Traditions
Today I am sharing powerful stories of interfaith kindness, including the recent passing of President Russell M. Nelson and how people outside my faith offered love and support in deeply meaningful ways. I'm unpacking why spiritual empathy matters, telling a moving story about a Muslim leader’s...
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38: How to Build Bridges in a Culture of Conflict
The recent Charlie Kirk shooting has left many of us wondering how we got here — and how we can move forward in a culture of conflict. Outrage and division are everywhere, but what if we chose a different path? In this episode, we explore what it takes to build bridges when division feels like…
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37: You're Invited. Now What?
You open your phone. There it is — a text, a DM, an invite. And suddenly you’re spiraling: Should I go? Should I stay home? Am I tired, or am I scared? Will I regret it if I say no? Will I regret it if I say yes? If you’ve ever wrestled with the internal debate that comes with invitations…
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36: Fun Called. She Wants You Back.
🎙 Fun Called. She Wants You Back. If life’s felt like one long to-do list lately, this episode is for you. I’m sharing why fun isn’t a luxury—it’s part of your healing. Not just the science (though it’s real), but the real-life magic of what happens when we stop ghosting joy and start inviting…
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35: Let Them Be Disappointed
This week on Dear Annie Joy, we’re diving into one of the hardest things for recovering people pleasers and boundary beginners—what to do when you say no and someone is clearly disappointed in you. I know that ache. I’ve seen the face drop. I’ve heard the “oh… okay” that’s loaded with silent...
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34: You're Not Lazy, You're Leaking Energy
If you’ve ever wondered why you feel so exhausted even when you’re “doing all the right things,” this one’s for you, my friend. Today, I’m joined by my real-life friend and powerhouse encourager, Erika, who is on a mission to help moms (and honestly, all women) stop merely surviving and start…
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33: Worship Was Never Meant to Be a Checklist
If you’ve ever felt disconnected from God while sitting in a pew, or hollow while going through the motions of church, this episode is for you. I'm sharing the raw and redemptive story behind creating my Worship Journal—born from single motherhood, spiritual burnout, and a longing for a more...
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32: What You’re Afraid to Lose Might Be What’s Keeping You Stuck
Letting go can feel like losing a piece of yourself—but what if it’s actually an invitation to meet a deeper version of you? In this episode, I get real about the fears we face when we release things that no longer fit—jeans, jobs, friendships, even old versions of ourselves. I’ll walk you…
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31: Rethinking Disrespect: What Your Kids Are Really Trying to Say
Hey friends—this episode is so close to my heart. I invited my dear friend and parenting coach, Amy Fraughton, onto the show to talk about something I hear from moms all the time: “My kid is being so disrespectful. What do I do?” Whether you're parenting tweens, teens, or even adult children…
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30: How Small Talk Is Actually the Foreplay to Real Connection
You’ve probably said it too: “I hate small talk.” But what if we've misunderstood its purpose? In today’s soul-stirring episode, I'm reframing small talk as emotional foreplay—the sacred warm-up that paves the way for real intimacy and deep connection. I'll explain how small talk—when done with...
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29: Nobody Cares What You Meant: The Truth About Real Apologies
In today’s episode, I'm diving into the art of apology—why “I’m sorry you feel that way” doesn’t cut it, and what to say instead to create genuine healing and connection. Whether you're navigating a tough conversation with your child, partner, or friend, this episode is your guide to emotional...
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28: The Hidden Cost of Performance Over Presence
If you’re constantly trying to get it right, be liked, or keep it all together, you’re not alone. But when we’re performing, we’re not present. And without presence, we miss real connection. In this episode, I talk with two brilliant improv trainers and actors (and longtime friends, Julie & her...
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27: Spiritual Starvation: Why the Hustle Won’t Heal You
In this episode, I’m talking about why hustle culture leaves so many high-achieving women spiritually starving. I share how slowing down, reconnecting with God, and building personal spiritual practices can help you heal, feel whole, and rediscover your joy. You’ll get three simple, powerful…
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26: What to Say to Yourself in a Dressing Room
Today we’re diving into a conversation so many women avoid — how to face yourself with kindness in the dressing room mirror. If you’ve ever felt dressing room anxiety, battled negative self-talk, or struggled with body image after life changes (hello, postpartum body!), this episode is for you.…
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25: Why I Don’t Teach "Coping Skills" Anymore
Today I’m sharing why I’ve stopped using the term coping skills—and what I believe we actually need instead. For women like us—deep feelers, people-pleasers, moms carrying too much—coping often feels like white-knuckling. Like surviving, not healing. In this episode, I talk about: Why your…
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24: She's Just Not That Into You
Hey beautiful soul. Let’s talk about something tender: when a friendship no longer fits, and you’re left wondering if you did something wrong. In this episode, my radiant friend Chelsey Debruin-Colbert joins me for a heart-to-heart on what it really means when “she’s just not that into you.”…
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23: Why I Rebranded to Dear Annie Joy
In this deeply personal episode, I share why I rebranded my podcast from Overcoming Loneliness for Christian Moms to Dear Annie Joy—and how it reflects my own journey back to finding my joy, my voice, and my self-worth. This isn’t just a new name—it’s a soulful return to who I really am, and an...
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22: How Forgiveness Heals Loneliness for Christian Moms
Episode 22: How Forgiveness Heals Loneliness for Christian Moms As a Christian mom, I know loneliness can feel heavy, but forgiveness can change that. In this Holy Week episode of Overcoming Loneliness for Christian Moms, I share how forgiveness heals loneliness and builds deeper connections with...
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21: When God Feels Silent: Finding Faith and Support in Lonely Seasons with Chris Huntsman
In this episode of Overcoming Loneliness for Christian Moms, I sit down with Chris Huntsman, an entrepreneur and missionary from Gilbert, Arizona. We talk about what it really looks like to deepen our faith through adversity, how to balance surrender and action, and how to notice God’s hand even...
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20: What to Say When Conversations Get Tense
Tense conversations happen, especially with family and friends. In this episode, I’m sharing simple ways to stay calm, connected, and full of grace. With a little preparation—prayer, journaling, and a shift in mindset—we can handle tough moments with confidence. From unsolicited advice to…
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19: How to Prepare Your Heart for Hard Conversations
Today on Overcoming Loneliness for Christian Moms, I’m sharing a simple three-step framework to help you approach tough conversations with love and grace. 1. Identify what is going on with you and what it's bringing up for you. 2. Pause and wonder—what might they be going through? This opens your...
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18: How Trauma Impacts Loneliness with Hailee Mae
In this episode, I’m joined by trauma coach Hailee Mae to talk about honoring trauma and triggers—and how understanding them can ease feelings of loneliness. Haley shares insights on trauma coaching, somatic healing, and practical tools for managing trauma responses in daily life. What We Cover:...
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17: Stop Settling for Surface-Level Friends
In this episode, I’m talking about why we shouldn’t settle for surface-level friendships. Real, meaningful connections require trust, emotional safety, and shared values. I’ll walk you through what truly matters in friendships and how to find friends who align with your core values. Many moms…
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16: 5 Signs a Friendship Is No Longer Serving You
Sometimes, friendships change, and it’s hard to admit when one is no longer good for you. In this episode, I’m sharing five signs that it might be time to re-evaluate a friendship, plus how to navigate the grief and move forward without bitterness. ✨ Signs to Watch For: *You feel drained instead…
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15: How to Make Mom Friends Without Overthinking It with Kara Kull
If making mom friends feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m joined by Kara Kull, a coach and cheerleader for moms, to talk about how to make friendships easier and more natural. We chat about the mindset shifts that help, practical ways to put yourself out there, and why...
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14: How Liking Yourself Helps You Feel Less Lonely - Part 2
Today we’re continuing our conversation about how learning to like yourself can ease loneliness. When you change the way you talk to yourself, everything shifts. I’ll be sharing some powerful mindset shifts that have helped me feel more confident, stop seeking approval, and build a life that…
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13: How Liking Yourself Helps You Feel Less Lonely Part 1
In this episode of Overcoming Loneliness for Christian Moms, I’m breaking down why liking yourself is a game-changer for overcoming loneliness. We’ll talk about what confidence really is (and what it’s not), how self-criticism keeps us stuck, and why learning to enjoy your own company leads to...
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12: Ministering Makeover: Turning Obligation into Inspiration
Ministering isn’t meant to feel like a chore—it’s an opportunity to serve, connect, and truly make a difference. In this episode, I’m breaking down what ministering really means in the LDS church, why we all need to feel needed, and how to shift our mindset so it feels more inspiring than...
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11: Why Vulnerability is the Key to Feeling Understood and Connected
Hi, I’m Annie Joy! In this episode of Overcoming Loneliness for Christian Moms, I’m talking about the power of vulnerability. Sharing our struggles helps us build deeper connections, grow in faith, and find community. I’ll share stories and tips to help you face fears like rejection, judgment, or...
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10: Loneliness Isn't a Curse-It's a Call to Your Creator with Kenzi Fackrell
In this episode, I chat with Kenzie Fackrell, an intuitive energy healer, about overcoming loneliness by aligning with God. We dive into how meditation, intuition, and faith can work together for deep healing. Kenzie shares her personal journey as a single mom, how she’s strengthened her…
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9: Joy in January: Overcoming the Post-Holiday Blues
Feeling a little down after the holiday rush? You’re not alone! In this episode, I’m sharing gentle ways to beat the post-holiday blues and bring more joy into January. We’ll reflect on the good moments, create a simple joy plan, reconnect with friends in low-pressure ways, and focus our prayers…
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8: Screw New Year's Resolutions: Gentle Steps for 2025
Forget the pressure to reinvent your entire life this January. In this episode, we’re tossing out the all-or-nothing mindset and replacing it with gentle steps that actually bring peace and progress. Here’s what we’ll cover: Why typical resolutions just pile on stress (and how to break that…
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7: 5 Lies That are Keeping You Lonely: How to Break the Cycle
In this episode, I’m sharing five common lies that keep us feeling stuck in loneliness. Here’s what I cover: Lie #1: If they wanted to be my friend, they’d reach out. Lie #2: It’s too late for me to have a friend group. Lie #3: I’m not the kind of person who makes friends easily. Lie #4: No one...
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6: Finding God in Your Loneliness: How to Feel His Presence Again
Hey friends, it’s Annie! In this episode, I’m getting real about loneliness and how God meets us in it. I share a raw moment from my own life as a single mom, when I felt completely alone—and how God showed up right in the middle of my mess. We’ll talk about Elijah hearing God’s whisper, David...
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5: 3 Steps to Overcoming Loneliness
Loneliness can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. In this episode, I share three simple steps to help you move from isolation to genuine connection. Together, we’ll reflect on your current support system, explore how to evaluate and adjust your relationships, and find simple...
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3: Building Friendships: Why It's Worth Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
Making new friends as an adult can feel awkward, scary, and honestly exhausting. In this episode, I talk about why it’s still worth it and how stepping out of your comfort zone can open the door to genuine, life-giving connection. We’ll look at the fears that hold us back, what faith has to do…
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2: Loneliness & Motherhood: You're Not Alone in Feeling Alone
Loneliness in motherhood is more common than anyone admits. In this episode, I get honest about the quiet ache so many moms feel—the exhaustion, the lack of support, and the unspoken pressure to look like we have it all together. But you’re not alone in feeling alone. We’ll talk about what’s…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Honest conversations for LDS women about real life and experiencing the joy of the gospel without all the pressure. Because following Jesus shouldn’t feel so heavy.
HOSTED BY
Annie Joy
CATEGORIES
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