Listen Linda! Hosted by Jacquiline Cox

Send us Fan MailSome of the harshest judgment doesn’t come from “the streets” it comes from people who know how to look holy while refusing to heal. I’m Dr. Jacqueline Cox, aka Listen Linda, and today’s word cuts straight through church performance: Pharisee. We talk about what happens when someone masters church language, scripture, and public praise, but still treats people with cruelty behind closed doors. If you’ve ever wrestled with church hurt, religious hypocrisy, or spiritual abuse, this conversation puts real words to what you’ve felt.We break down the difference between being spiritual and being performative, and why real transformation changes your character, not just your vocabulary. I ask the questions that expose fruit: how you treat broken people, newcomers, and folks who can’t benefit you; what you do when nobody’s watching; and how you respond when it’s someone else’s turn to be blessed. These are the everyday markers of spiritual maturity that no title can replace.We also go there on false prophecy and manipulation. Not everyone saying “God told me” is sent by God, and using fear, control, or ego in God’s name leaves real damage. Finally, we draw a bright line between correction and cruelty by contrasting conviction versus condemnation, because healthy accountability should pull people toward healing, not humiliate them for someone else’s ego. Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this helped you put language to what you’ve seen, and tell me in the comments: have you met someone who looked spiritually mature publicly but treated people horribly privately?Support the show

Send us Fan Mail“God told me, you better obey” can sound like faith, but it often functions like control. We talk about spiritual manipulation as a toxic trait that has harmed a lot of people, especially in church spaces, and we draw a clear line between spiritual guidance that helps you grow and spiritual control that keeps you emotionally dependent. If you’ve ever been pressured by guilt, fear, titles, or “touch not my anointed,” this conversation gives you language for what you felt and permission to take it seriously.We break down the red flags: prophecy that creates confusion instead of clarity, leaders who demand total access to your choices, and the way jealousy can hide behind spiritual talk. We also name a hard truth: charisma and character are not the same thing. Someone can be gifted but not healed, talented but toxic, and still use religious authority to shame boundaries, punish questions, and call your growth “betrayal.”We get honest about church hurt and religious trauma, especially for people raised to respect leadership at all costs. Fear-based loyalty can keep you stuck in a spiritually abusive environment, but a healthy space should never require you to lose your voice, identity, peace, gifts, or mental health to stay connected. We also share how your body often senses manipulation first through anxiety, pressure, confusion, and emotional exhaustion.If any part of this hits home, share your story in the comments, subscribe, and pass this along to someone who needs clarity. If you found it helpful, leave a review and share the episode so more people can recognize the difference between faith and control.Support the show

Send us Fan MailYou can be a great writer and still publish a book that looks rushed. That’s the uncomfortable truth we dig into, starting with a simple question: do you really need an editor if you already know how to write? We say yes, and we explain why without sugarcoating it. When you read your own manuscript, your brain auto-corrects what’s on the page into what you meant to say, which is exactly how missing words, repeated sentences, plot holes, confusing timelines, and inconsistency slip through. We also talk about the part people don’t want to hear: readers can be unforgiving. Typos, formatting issues, sloppy chapter titles, and clunky flow don’t stay private anymore. A single bad reading experience can stop someone from recommending your book and can turn into an Amazon review or a social media post fast. Editing isn’t an attack on your intelligence. It’s the polish that protects your message and your author credibility, the same way coaching supports athletes and producers sharpen artists. Then we get practical about professional book editing. “Editing” isn’t just running Grammarly. We break down developmental editing (structure, clarity, story flow), copyediting (grammar, punctuation, consistency), and proofreading (final error catch before publishing). We also address cost head-on: editors are trained professionals doing skilled labor, and while you don’t need the most expensive option on earth, you do need trained eyes before you release your work publicly. If you care about self-publishing the right way, manuscript quality, and building long-term reader trust, hit play. Subscribe, share this with an author friend, and leave a review, then drop your next question so we can tackle it next.Support the show

Send us Fan MailBeing the black sheep can feel like you’re getting punished for telling the truth. When you’re the one who finally notices the dysfunction everyone else has normalized, you don’t just stand out you become the “problem,” the “difficult one,” the “too sensitive” one. I’m putting language to that experience and naming what’s really happening when growth collides with denial.We talk about why families and communities often protect unhealthy patterns before they protect the truth, and how the person who chooses healing gets isolated for setting boundaries. If you’re the cycle breaker, you know the weight: you’re the first to say the trauma stops with me, the addiction stops with me, the abuse stops with me, the silence stops with me. That choice can make people uncomfortable, especially the ones who benefited from things staying the same.Then we go to Genesis 37 and look at Joseph, who was rejected by his own brothers because he carried vision, favor, and purpose. His story is a reminder that rejection isn’t always a sign you’re wrong sometimes it’s proof that your difference is your assignment. If you’ve been shrinking yourself to fit into spaces you’ve outgrown, let this be your permission slip to stop apologizing for becoming who God created you to be.If this hits home, subscribe, share it with a fellow cycle breaker, and leave a review so more people can find the conversation. What’s one boundary you set that changed your life?Support the show

Send us Fan MailSomebody in your life keeps making you the problem, and deep down you can feel it: the real issues are never addressed, only your reaction to them. We get honest about scapegoating, the toxic group habit of projecting frustration, anger, insecurity, and dysfunction onto one person so everyone else can dodge accountability. If you have ever been labeled “difficult” for speaking up, “messy” for defending yourself, or “disrespectful” for setting boundaries, this conversation puts language to what you have been living through.We also talk about why the scapegoat is often the truth teller, the emotionally aware one, the cycle breaker who refuses to keep pretending. When your healing exposes what others normalized, you become “threatening,” and the room tries to restore comfort by making you carry the blame. That pattern can crush self-esteem over time, leaving you second guessing your personality, your voice, even your appearance, just to keep other people from feeling challenged.Then we take it to scripture with John 8 and the woman caught in adultery, where Jesus flips the focus from public punishment to personal accountability: “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” We unpack how hypocrisy fuels scapegoating, how healthy environments handle conflict differently, and how to stop carrying guilt for dysfunction you did not create alone. If this message hits home, subscribe, share, and leave a review, then tell us in the comments: have you ever been the scapegoat while the bigger picture got ignored?Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe hardest part of launching a book is not writing it. It’s realizing the people closest to you might never be your biggest buyers, loudest sharers, or most consistent readers. We get honest about the question authors keep asking: should friends and family automatically support your book, or is that expectation setting you up for disappointment and unnecessary conflict? We talk through why “no support” is not always rejection. Sometimes people are dealing with money stress, mental load, or they simply are not book people. That truth stings, but it also frees you to stop building your author confidence around who claps first. From there, we shift into practical book marketing and audience building: how to find real readers who value your message, why relying only on people you already know limits growth, and how consistency and visibility create momentum over time. We also address the habits that quietly sabotage a book launch, like guilt-tripping on social media, posting shady statuses, and expecting big results with low effort. If you want professional outcomes in self-publishing or traditional publishing, you need professional inputs: editing, design, branding, and a real marketing plan. We even dig into why “free publishing” is often a myth and why analytics can reveal an audience in places you never expected. If you’re ready to market smarter and keep creating even when your circle stays quiet, listen now, then subscribe, share this with an author friend, and leave a review so more writers can find the support they actually need.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe hardest part of growth is not the work, it is the reaction. When you finally stop asking for permission and start walking in purpose, some people do not just disagree, they take it personally. We talk about that shift and why it happens when God gives you a vision directly, especially if someone has gotten comfortable acting like the “middleman” to your gift.We unpack the word of the day, “anointed,” and get honest about the blurry line between mentorship and control. Support is healthy. Community is healthy. But when guidance turns into ownership, the relationship starts demanding compliance instead of celebrating maturity. We bring Scripture into it, including John 10:27, to ground the core message: God can speak to us directly, and obedience to God can offend people who benefited from our hesitation.We also revisit David’s anointing in 1 Samuel 16 and Joseph’s dream in Genesis 37, because this pattern is not new. People misjudge who God selects. People cling to the old version of you. And when your gift starts making room for you, some folks only reveal their true posture when they can no longer manage your movement. If you have felt the pressure of gatekeepers, shifting goalposts, or spiritual control dressed up as “covering,” this conversation gives language, clarity, and a path forward rooted in discernment.If you’re ready to stop shrinking and start building what God told you to build, press play. Then subscribe, share this with a friend who needs freedom today, and leave a review that helps more people find the show.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe moment you start healing, somebody close to you might call it “acting different.” We get real about generational sabotage, the kind of toxicity that hides behind family titles, fake loyalty, and tradition. When you refuse manipulation, gossip, emotional abuse, and control, your boundaries don’t just protect you, they expose what others have normalized for years. We talk about why families often say they want healing until you become the one who names the dysfunction out loud. That’s when the “curse” can seem like it fights back through familiar faces, through shame, guilt, and that loaded line: “You think you’re better than us.” We also speak directly to the so-called black sheep, the one who questions unhealthy cycles, chooses therapy and growth, and stops surviving what should’ve been healed generations ago. Along the way, we connect the cycle-breaker journey to powerful faith examples and the hard truth that being the blueprint can feel lonely. Obedience and wholeness can cost relationships that only worked when dysfunction was the price of admission, but freedom is still possible, and peace is still worth it. If you’re breaking generational trauma patterns and building a healthier legacy, press play, then subscribe, share with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review telling us what cycle you’re refusing to repeat.Support the show

Send us Fan MailGetting published should not feel like a high-pressure sales call. We hear from first-time authors all the time who are trying to figure out whether they are talking to a legitimate hybrid publisher or a vanity press dressed up with big promises and shiny branding. So we get specific about what “hybrid publishing” really means, why paying for services is not automatically a scam, and where the line gets crossed into secrecy, manipulation, and exploitation.We walk through the red flags that show up again and again: emotional pressure instead of professional education, control of ISBNs and royalties without transparency, no real access to your KDP or sales reporting, and the nightmare scenario where you pay but cannot leave with your files. We also talk about “receipts” and why a publisher’s track record matters more than their titles, their hype, or their claim that they can guarantee bestseller status. If marketing is included, we explain the kinds of questions you should ask so you know what you are actually buying and what results are realistic.You will also hear why communication is a non-negotiable. When deadlines get blurry and responses get quiet right after the invoice clears, that is not normal business, it is a warning sign. Our goal is to help you protect your book, your brand, and your intellectual property with clear contracts, clear access, and clear expectations.If this helped you, subscribe, share it with an author friend, and leave a review so more writers can avoid expensive mistakes. What publishing question do you want us to answer next?Support the show

Send us Fan MailYour book isn’t frozen in time just because it already hit publish. We kick things off by celebrating Fee Davis and the breakout success of Alabaster Heart Deluxe Edition, then we answer a question we hear constantly from authors: can you republish your own book as a deluxe edition if you previously used a different publisher?We walk through what republishing really means and why it’s often a sign of author growth, not a mistake. If you’ve outwritten your first version, found typos, outgrown your original cover, or finally understand your voice, audience, and branding, a revised edition or expanded edition can be the clean, polished version readers deserve. We also talk about what makes a deluxe edition worth buying: updated content, bonus chapters, exclusive material, stronger formatting, and a more intentional design and story experience.Then we get practical about author rights and publishing contracts. We explain why owning the rights to your story and controlling your royalties changes everything, and why you should clearly label the release so readers aren’t confused. We also touch on what to do if you don’t have rights or you had a bad publishing experience, including safer ways to revamp without crossing legal lines.If you found this helpful, subscribe, share it with an author friend, and leave a quick review so more writers can find Ask the Publisher.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve been praying for more, but your life still feels stuck on the same loop, we get into the uncomfortable reason why: alignment. We talk about the gap between what we ask God for and what we keep allowing around us, from distractions and confusion to old doors we keep reopening. Alignment isn’t perfection. It’s intentional movement where your spirit, your decisions, your environment, and your assignment finally point the same way, and that kind of clarity can cost comfort, access, and old versions of you.We also push the question that makes everything real: does my current lifestyle align with the life I keep praying for? That means looking at toxic communication, gossip, how we treat people, and even money habits when we’re asking for financial relief but still overspending. We reflect on seasons that are over and how maturity looks like stopping the grief for what already expired. Sometimes growth is letting go, sometimes it’s letting other people learn, and sometimes it’s admitting we’re not ready yet.Then we shift to gifts, because too many people hear “gift” and only think platforms, followers, or popularity. We break down the quieter gifts that still change lives: encouragement, writing, teaching, listening, creating, praying, leading, surviving, and making people feel safe. We talk Romans 11:29, why your gift survived every version of you, and why restlessness might be purpose trapped under fear, insecurity, or exhaustion.If this hits, subscribe for more, share it with someone who needs a reset, and leave a review with the word you’re focusing on right now.Support the show

Send us Fan MailBetrayal doesn’t always come from an obvious enemy. Sometimes it comes from the people who sit closest to you, clap the loudest in public, and quietly resent you in private. We get real about what “betrayal disguised as support” looks like when someone wants your updates, your secrets, and your access, but can’t bring themselves to celebrate your growth. If you’ve felt the energy change the moment you started winning, this conversation will put language to what you’ve been sensing.Then we pivot into family trauma and the dangerous comfort of normalized dysfunction. We talk about households where yelling becomes “how we communicate,” where the silent treatment becomes control, where nobody apologizes, and where boundaries get treated like disrespect just because you share DNA. We also unpack how people twist loyalty, religion, and “honor your parents” into a lifetime pass for emotional damage, and why healing sometimes includes grieving what you deserved but never received.If you’re the black sheep, the scapegoat, or the one trying to break generational cycles, you’ll hear the reminder you needed: you’re not wrong for wanting peace, asking hard questions, and protecting your children from repeated harm. Listen through to the end, then subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review with the boundary you’re choosing next.Support the show

Send us Fan MailPeople are giving up on love fast, but real covenant does not fold the first time life gets loud. We sit down with best-selling author Dr. Velma Bagby to talk about the kind of lasting love you cannot fake for social media, the kind built over 50 plus years through prayer, patience, and a whole lot of fight. Her book, *My 70s Love Story 50 plus Years Later*, is a reminder that enduring marriage is not a fantasy. It is a decision, a discipline, and a faith walk.We go back to the beginning: who she was as a focused teen, why she wrote a “husband prayer list,” and how she learned the difference between surface preferences and the character that actually sustains a relationship. From intentional dating and old school courtship to a yearbook moment that felt like a movie, we talk about what makes connection deeper than attraction and why preparation matters as much as chemistry.Then we get into the reality most people skip. Dr. Bagby shares the sting of financial pressure and bankruptcy, the humility of starting over, and the spiritual lens that helped them keep moving. We also unpack a powerful turning point she calls “moving out so God can move in,” plus what it means to be “refined by fire” when you are emotionally tired and ready to quit. If you want practical, faith-based relationship advice on forgiveness, communication, and commitment, this conversation brings it home.Subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a review if it speaks to you. Do you believe old school love still exists today?Support the show

Send us Fan MailYour heart can be breaking and still be holy. We sit with poet and author Fe Davis as she opens up about Alabaster Heart, a faith-based poetry book born from real journal entries, real heartbreak, and a real decision to let God use the story instead of burying it.We talk about the meaning behind “alabaster” and why pouring out your alabaster heart is a sacred offering, not a public performance. Fe gets honest about writing while still hurting, the fear of feeling exposed, and the wisdom it takes to share your truth while protecting your privacy. Along the way, we dig into Christian healing as a process: surviving vs healing, moving from fight-or-flight to peace, learning forgiveness without pretending it didn’t hurt, and trusting God when the situation doesn’t match the promise.We also go practical with boundaries and discernment: outgrowing people, praying at a distance, setting cutoff times, and recognizing when community helps and when isolation is doing its quiet work. If you’ve been navigating a situationship, grief, betrayal, co-parenting stress, church hurt, or you’re simply tired of “smiling through it,” this conversation offers language, hope, and next steps.Listen, then share it with someone who needs it, and if the message lands, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us what line or takeaway stayed with you.Support the show

Send us Fan MailOne choice can split a life into before and after. We sit with author and poet Thomasine Kitt, a truth teller who turned family loss into pages that carry both warning and hope, and we don’t rush past the hard parts. Her upcoming book I Came Off The Porch Too Soon tells a heartbreaking story from the voice of the one who didn’t make it back, and the message lands like a siren for the youth and for the adults trying to protect them: stay on the porch until you’re really ready.We talk about what it takes to write through grief without being swallowed by it, and why Thomasine calls writing “medicine.” That leads us into the “waiting room,” the season where you’re still functioning but still unpacking, still learning how to breathe after loss. We also go deeper into faith when God feels quiet, what patience looks like in real life, and how silence can carry purpose when you let it shape you instead of break you.Then we shift into her inspirational poetry project The Power Of God, where worship and warfare meet on the page. Thomasine shares how she dug deeper than ever before, how God redirected her words, and why her story is ultimately about legacy and restoration, not just pain. If you care about grief healing, Christian encouragement, inspirational poetry, or storytelling that can save someone else, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who’s waiting on a breakthrough, and leave a review with the line that hit you the hardest.Support the show

Send us Fan MailListen Linda Presents:International Black Womens History Month Special Guest Rev. Margaret Williams Walker and her book Ninzi's SecretSupport the show

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Send us Fan MailHost: Dr. Jacquiline Cox aka Listen LindaKeynote Speakers: Christal Y. Scott, Dr. Rhonda Lawson, Mary L. BealFeatured Speakers: Dr. Stacy Shepard & Lissette HidalgoSupport the show

Send us Fan MailSilence can feel safer than truth until you realize it is the thing slowly tearing you apart. We sit down with memoir author Tia Strickland to talk about Echoes In Her Bones: Memoirs of the Old Me, a deeply personal survivor story that faces childhood sexual abuse, trauma, pregnancy resulting from assault, infant loss, courtroom moments, and the mental health aftermath that so many people are forced to manage in private.We also get real about what trauma does to identity. We unpack “performance” as a trauma response, the way survivors learn to smile while they are falling apart, and the long road of reclaiming body autonomy and self-worth. Faith shows up here not as a shortcut, but as an anchor, a way to keep breathing when answers do not come and the memories still hurt.If you are a writer, this conversation doubles as a practical masterclass on writing a memoir with care. We talk sensory detail, cinematic storytelling, and how editing can polish raw truth without taking away the author’s voice, so a book can reach more readers and still stay honest. We also name the reality of pushback, sometimes from your own circle, and why telling your story can still be the most loving, life-saving choice.If this resonates, subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a review so more survivors and memoir writers can find this conversation.Support the show

Send us Fan MailA blank page can feel loud with doubt, but the moment you finish a book—and own the path to readers—everything changes. We sit down with author and host Danny Nicole to trace that journey from childhood stories to a romantic drama debut, then onward to a purpose-driven platform that helps other writers claim visibility with confidence. Along the way, we unpack the emotional high of holding a first novel, the honest reality that publishing is more than pressing upload, and the mindset shift from “being discovered” to “building discovery.”We take a clear-eyed look at publishing models—traditional, hybrid, and vanity—so you understand who pays for what, and who keeps the royalties. If you’re self-publishing, guard your income: connect your book to your own KDP or distributor accounts, route deposits to your bank, and treat any request to collect royalties “on your behalf” as a red flag. We talk NDAs, clean contracts, and intellectual property protection, with practical scripts and steps you can use before you ever send a manuscript. Protecting your work is not paranoia; it is professional.Then we get scrappy about selling. Visibility grows where readers gather: QR codes on shirts that point to your buy link, paperbacks in your trunk for spontaneous signings, free or low-cost events at Kroger or Barnes & Noble, and podcast appearances that fit your genre. Budget matters, but momentum matters more. Vetted freelancers can help you polish covers, editing, and formatting on a tight spend; AI can draft copy you refine with heart; and fair-paid placements respect the labor of platforms amplifying your voice. Danny’s north star is service—build the space you wish existed and invite others in. If you’ve waited for permission to start, this conversation is it.If this resonated, follow, share with a writer who needs a push, and leave a quick review so more authors can find tools to finish, publish, and be seen.Support the show

Send us Fan MailGrowth can feel like betrayal to people who only loved the smaller version of us. We open with a grounding prayer and move straight into a clear, challenging word: you didn’t lose a friend—you outgrew a version of love that demanded competition. Drawing from the story of Leah and Rachel, we examine how comparison distorts community, how “monitoring spirits” turn support into silent rivalry, and how God’s unique assignments remove the need to race anyone else.We share how different blessings can coexist without conflict and why insecurity often turns gifts into threats. If you’ve felt applauded but not celebrated, hugged yet not held, this conversation will name what your heart already suspects. You’ll hear practical wisdom on recognizing counterfeit support, releasing relationships that thrive on parity instead of purpose, and choosing boundaries that honor your calling. Most of all, you’ll be reminded that your identity is not up for a vote and your path can’t be diluted by someone else’s pace.Across this episode we keep returning to one charge: keep becoming. No grand confrontations, no lengthy explanations—just a steady commitment to grow where you’re planted. We pray for the courage to forgive, the clarity to repent of our own comparisons, and the grace to attract friends who clap in public and invest in private. If you’re in a season of release, take heart: you didn’t lose them; you gained yourself, and that exchange is holy.If this message resonates, share it with someone who needs the reminder and leave a review so more people can find the show. Subscribe for tomorrow’s live “Listening Room” open mic with award-winning artists and authors, and join a community that celebrates without keeping score.Support the show

Send us Fan MailStart where it hurts. That’s where Dr. Brandi Florence found a new life—tilting canvases in her garage after losing a cousin, watching color teach her what structure never could. Our Women’s Month spotlight turns into a masterclass in reinvention as Brandi shares how a healthcare executive, researcher, and best-selling author became a multidisciplinary artist whose work charts a five-part journey: breaking, surrender, healing, rise, becoming.We move through the rooms she knows best—hospital corridors and leadership meetings—naming the quiet friction that keeps women of color from senior seats. Brandi breaks down why sponsorship outperforms mentorship, how she built the FLOW method to move women from insight to influence, and what it takes to stop downplaying your own resume. Then we step into the studio. She explains pour painting as a practice of trust, why “mistakes” become masterpieces to other eyes, and how resin brings depth and light to finished pieces. Pricing, debut-show strategy, and Etsy plans get practical attention, because creativity deserves clarity as much as it craves freedom.Threaded through is faith, agency, and a refusal to stay small. We talk circles that applaud your floating but resist your sailing, the courage to pivot after 15 years in one lane, and the simple daily choices—time, attention, boundaries—that build a freer life. Brandi’s mantra lands like a bell: see what you can do when you bet on you. If you’ve felt that tug to paint, write, launch, or start over, consider this your sign.Join us for the LA debut show—tickets are in Brandi’s bio—and explore her work at drbrandyflorence.com, with originals heading to Etsy after the event. If this story moved you, tap follow, share with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review so more people can find the show. Your voice and your gifts belong out loud.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the rain wasn’t punishment but preparation? We gathered a powerhouse circle of women to tell the unpretty truths behind their breakthroughs—stories of church hurt that cut deep, manipulation dressed up as ministry, leaks that became collapses, grief that emptied the room, and domestic violence where home turned hostile. Each voice stands its ground and shows how God didn’t always calm the storm, but He never left us in it.Dr. Audrey Moses opens up about separation, church wounds, and the slow work of restoration after decades apart. Prophetess Leah Kelly unmasks spiritual manipulation, reminding us that discernment isn’t cynicism—it’s stewardship of your soul. Myla Marie brings movement into the conversation, framing dance as embodied prayer when words fail and shame tries to sink you. Natasha Hagins paints a vivid picture of “leak to liberation,” moving from silent pride to practical help and a rebuilt sanctuary that mirrors her renewed heart.We also go tender and brave with grief and survival. Dr. Leanne Hendrick shares what it means to be drenched in grace after losing a child—how strength and softness can live together without apology. Tia Strickland breaks decades of silence on sexual assault by her biological father and steps forward as an advocate for survivors, proof that beauty after the rain doesn’t erase the storm but reclaims the future. And Yolanda Adams tells the hardest truth: when a mother’s hand becomes a weapon, God becomes a shelter. Accountability replaces secrecy, and a new legacy begins.This conversation is raw, faith-forward, and fiercely practical—full of scripture anchors, healing habits, and sisterhood that won’t let you drown. We also celebrate a milestone: our devotional anthology through Listen Linda Publishing is a #1 bestseller and just lit up Times Square. That billboard isn’t vanity—it’s visibility for stories that needed the biggest possible sky.If you’re carrying church hurt, navigating toxic authority, rebuilding after loss, or facing a quiet leak in your life, press play and find your people. Subscribe for more truth-telling, share this with someone who needs courage tonight, and leave a review to help these testimonies reach the next woman standing in the rain.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe bravest moment isn’t the breakthrough; it’s the decision to stop pretending. We sit down with author and prophetess Leah M. Kelly to trace a raw arc from generational trauma and domestic violence to faith-led healing, clean boundaries, and an unshakable sense of worth. Leah’s story dismantles the “pretty face” myth with startling honesty—soaked pillows, secret wars inside a divided home, and the heavy cost of keeping up a facade. Then she shows the pivot: surrender, therapy, and the courage to say, “This is not acceptable,” even inside ministry spaces that often prioritize titles over fruit.We dig into how discernment protects the heart when charisma and platforms can mask impure motives. Leah explains why representatives show up first, how to test for fruit over time, and how to honor God without excusing harm. Her testimony reaches beyond one family or one church; it resonates globally, with readers across cultures recognizing the same patterns of silence, shame, and spiritual confusion. The response to her memoir, A Pretty Wreck: From Trauma to Triumph, sparked unexpected reconciliation within her own family and signaled a wider need for honest, spiritually grounded conversations about abuse, recovery, and identity.Leah also shares what’s next: Kingdom Voices TV—a platform for women in ministry, authors, and creators—to take their message to the masses with excellence, plus a monthly Zoom class designed to move women from surviving to overcoming with practical tools and faith-centered support. If you’ve ever wondered whether God can redeem your wreckage, or if you’ve questioned the gap between public titles and private truth, this conversation offers clarity, comfort, and a roadmap. Start with one step: come out of denial, name what’s real, and choose worth over silence.Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations, share this episode with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review to help others find these stories of healing and hope.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you finally decide to stop letting others define who you are? In this powerful conversation with Lady Charise King, we dive deep into her transformative memoir "Sir, I'm Not Her, She's Not Me, We Are Not the Same" – a bold declaration of self-definition that's changing lives.Charise shares the raw, unfiltered story behind her empowering mantra and how it emerged from moments when she needed to establish clear boundaries with people who misunderstood or misjudged her. "Sometimes people will project on you their insecurities," she explains, revealing how learning to correct others' perceptions became a crucial part of her personal growth journey.With remarkable transparency, Charise unpacks how vulnerability after personal loss sometimes led her to accept treatment she shouldn't have. "People will see that you are in a situation in your life where you're vulnerable, where you may end up going the extra mile that you should not have gone," she reflects, offering listeners profound insights into recognizing when relationships are exploitative rather than nurturing.The conversation takes an especially powerful turn when Charise discusses how some people "don't like you, they just like what you have to offer. They're jealous of you, but they want your blessing." This keen observation about human nature helps listeners identify potentially toxic relationships in their own lives while giving them permission to establish healthier boundaries.Ready to step into your own power and define yourself on your terms? Grab your copy of "Sir, I'm Not Her" and join the movement of people refusing to be limited by others' perceptions. Visit www.whatshesaid.biz today and discover why this book is becoming a battle cry for authenticity and self-definition.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your gift for numbers meets your passion for storytelling? Natasha D Frazier knows exactly how that feels. Despite holding a master's degree in accounting and working as a CPA, she couldn't ignore the persistent call to write that kept tugging at her heart."How long are you going to wait before you take possession of the land the Lord, your God, has already given you?" This powerful question from Joshua 18:3 became the catalyst for Natasha's writing journey. After years of procrastination, she finally embraced her creative calling, publishing her first devotional before venturing into Christian romance fiction.Her novel "Love Between the Pages" follows Lisa, who inherits her family bookstore only to face a crippling tax debt that threatens everything. Meanwhile, her lifelong best friend Jaden harbors two secrets: his feelings for Lisa and his hidden identity as a romance novelist. Their journey from friendship to romance unfolds with authenticity, respect, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries while exploring new feelings.What makes Natasha's perspective so unique is her ability to blend real-world financial expertise with heartfelt storytelling. Drawing from her accounting background, she creates characters and situations that feel genuinely grounded. Her approach to intimate scenes maintains respect and appropriate boundaries, demonstrating that Christian fiction can address real-life situations authentically without compromising faith values.For aspiring writers, Natasha offers practical wisdom: "Set a timer for 30 minutes. Even if you get one line on the page, that's something." She reminds us that we don't have to choose between our practical skills and creative passions—we can embrace both as part of our unique purpose.Connect with Natasha at NatashaFrazier.com or on social media to discover her books, including her upcoming Four Kings series. Whether you're seeking clean romance with depth or inspiration to finally pursue your own creative calling, Natasha's work offers both entertainment and encouragement to take possession of the gifts God has already given you.Support the show

Send us Fan MailRain can destroy, but it can also nourish—this profound paradox forms the heart of "Through the Rain," a groundbreaking devotional anthology curated by Dr. Jacqueline Cox. The collection features raw, powerful testimonies from women who've weathered life's most devastating storms and emerged not merely surviving, but transformed."This devotional is for the woman hiding her tears from her kids, the man who's afraid to admit that he's tired, the teen who feels like no one hears them," shares Dr. Cox, revealing that this project was born from her own seasons of storm—loss, betrayal, grief, illness, and heartbreak. When God whispered "write, heal, and release," she answered the call, bringing together voices that speak authentically to pain and redemption.What makes this anthology extraordinary isn't polished perfection but its raw honesty. Contributors like Prophetess Leah M Kelly who teaches discernment in downpours, Dr. Audrey M Moses who vulnerably shares her marriage dissolution and restoration, and Elena Maria who honors her sister lost to domestic violence—each brings their unique perspective on weathering storms. Their chapters don't just tell stories of survival; they offer spiritual anchors for readers facing their own tempests.The devotional, releasing winter 2025, stands as testament that our most painful seasons often yield the most profound growth. As Dr. Cox beautifully puts it, "The rain did not ruin you, it revealed you and baby, you didn't just survive the storm, you became someone brand new in it." Pre-order your copy from any featured co-author for $30 (shipping included), or if you have your own storm testimony to share, reach out about becoming one of the final three contributors. Remember, God's glory always grows in wet soil.Support the show

Send us Fan MailHave you been measuring your worth by your achievements? Are you exhausted from trying to earn your place at tables where you don't truly belong? This soul-stirring conversation with author Amber Wiegand Buckley might just be the permission slip you need to put down that heavy tiara.Amber opens her heart about the years she spent equating her value with checked boxes and completed tasks, only to discover that God never tied His love to her performance. With refreshing candor, she shares her journey through lupus, fibromyalgia, thyroid cancer, and mental health challenges that led to the birth of her book, "Flowers Find a Way." Her story reminds us that even in life's hardest soil, God's light finds a way to break through.The conversation takes powerful turns as we explore how women often dim their light to accommodate others, why God frequently chooses the "disqualified" to carry His message, and how to discern between divine assignments and distractions disguised as opportunities. Amber's vulnerability about her own psychiatric hospital experience and her upcoming book on mental health brings a deep authenticity that resonates with anyone who's ever felt broken or unworthy.What emerges is a liberating truth: you are not your accomplishments, your failures, or others' opinions of you. You are a daughter of the King, fully loved and purposefully designed. As Amber beautifully puts it, "If you could see how heaven sees you, you would see a well-decorated soldier, a well-decorated princess."Ready to release your authentic voice and bloom where you're planted? This episode offers practical wisdom for women tired of performance-based identity and eager to walk in their God-given purpose. Join us for a conversation that might just change how you see yourself—and give you permission to put down that checklist once and for all.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe moment when five women transformed from aspiring writers to published authors crackles with electricity in this emotional graduation celebration. Listen as tears flow, laughter erupts, and powerful testimonies unfold when these courageous storytellers reveal how they completed their books in just 16 days through the Listen Linda 21-Day Author Boot Camp.Each graduate's journey brims with vulnerability and triumph. Cherise King's raw memoir "Sir, I Am Not Her" boldly declares independence from others' perceptions with quotable "Cherise-isms" that will have you snapping in agreement. Pamela Nance Johnson's devotional tackles the excuses we make when neglecting our spiritual lives. Dr. Leanne Cerise Hendrick serves up "Just a Cup of Holy Tea," replacing worldly gossip with divine wisdom. Seventy-three-year-old Myra Cook proves it's never too late with her touching romance "Finding Love After 70." LaShawn Fernandez rounds out this phenomenal cohort with her "Book of Divine Devotions," born from personal transformation.Beyond celebrating their publications, this episode offers invaluable insights into the creative process itself. The authors candidly share their obstacles, breakthroughs, and what sustained them through moments of doubt. Host Dr. Jacqueline Cox reveals why she's keeping this transformative program affordable at just $600 despite pressure to charge more: "Your story might be the very thing that saves somebody else's life, and cost should never be the barrier between someone's testimony and someone's healing."Whether you're harboring a book idea or simply love witnessing moments of breakthrough, this graduation showcase delivers equal parts inspiration and practical wisdom. These women didn't just write books—they birthed a movement that proves obedience produces legacy. Ready to turn your story into a book that outlives you? The next bootcamp cohort is forming now.Support the show

Send us Fan MailHave you ever had to grieve someone while they were still breathing? Found yourself stuck in a waiting room while everyone else seemed to move forward? Sacrificed your peace because you thought being Christ-like meant being constantly available?Dr. Jacqueline Cox (ListenLinda) takes us on a transformative journey through chapters 4-6 of her book "If I Were to Write a Book in the Bible," addressing the profound challenges many women face on their spiritual journeys. With raw honesty and prophetic insight, she creates a sacred space where healing doesn't require anyone's apology—just your permission.In "Fine Like China, But Flawed, Like Me," Dr. Cox unveils the complicated grief of having a mother present in body but absent in nurturing. She speaks directly to daughters carrying the weight of honoring parents who also hurt them, offering the revolutionary truth that being both healing and holy is possible.The discussion flows into "The Watch Tower of the Waiting Room," where Cox reframes seasons of delay not as punishment but as divine proving grounds. With poignant vulnerability, she shares her experience of watching others receive blessings she fasted for while trusting God's precise timing in her own life.Perhaps most revolutionary is "Standing in My Peace at All Costs," where Cox dismantles the misconception that Christianity demands endless availability. "You are not their trash can; you are my temple," she declares, encouraging women to stop lying with their yeses and start honoring God with their nos.The episode features a lightning round with Mama Myra, who recently authored "Finding Love at 70," where both women exchange profound insights about giving from guilt, grieving relationships, and guarding peace.Whether you're navigating mother wounds, waiting seasons, or learning to protect your peace, this episode reminds you that you're not behind, forgotten, or disqualified—you're becoming. Join the conversation that's helping women reclaim their stories and stand firm in their God-given purpose.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a nurse with four decades of experience picks up a pen? Magic. Carolyn Coleman transforms her wealth of bedside wisdom into powerful storytelling in "The Stethoscope is for More Than Listening," and she joins us to share how her journey unfolded.Carolyn opens up about the patient encounters that shaped not just her nursing career, but her identity as a writer. One particularly moving story involves sitting with a patient during his final moments, creating a profound connection that would stay with her forever. "To be there with him and for him and to hold his hand as he transitioned," she shares, "it gave me purpose." These intimate moments at the threshold between life and death reveal the sacred trust placed in healthcare professionals—and the weight of responsibility they carry daily.Beyond her nursing scrubs, Carolyn wears many hats: author, podcast host, and community leader who even answered the call to run for political office. She talks candidly about stepping outside her comfort zone when she felt divinely prompted to serve in new ways, reflecting, "Not my will, but let Your will be done." Through her global podcast "Gentry's Journey," she's connected with voices from around the world, breaking out of what she calls our individual "silos" to embrace diverse perspectives and stories.What stands out most about Carolyn is her insistence on finding joy amidst life's heaviest moments. "If I can't kiki and kaka, what am I doing here?" she asks with characteristic warmth. Her philosophy reminds us that even in serious professions, laughter remains essential medicine—for both caregiver and patient. Whether you're in healthcare, struggling through personal storms, or simply seeking inspiration, Carolyn's wisdom offers a perfect blend of compassion, humor, and profound insight.Ready to experience Carolyn's unique voice yourself? Find her podcast on all major platforms and grab her book at www.cpwbookshelf.com. Your heart and mind will thank you.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when nine extraordinary women decide to bare their souls and share the storms that nearly destroyed them? "Through the Rain" isn't just another anthology—it's a spiritual lifeline for anyone drowning in their own downpour.From the moment you open this labor of love curated by Jacquiline Cox (ListenLinda), you're invited into sacred spaces where vulnerability becomes strength. Each contributor brings a unique testimony that will leave you breathless: Dr. Katrina Fuller reveals what happens when the support person everyone leans on finally breaks; LeShawn Fernandez chronicles her daughter Miracle's journey from a one-pound preemie given no chance to a child who didn't just survive but thrived beyond all medical predictions; and Dr. Velma Bagby—a relationship coach married for over 50 years—courageously shares how her own marriage nearly ended before God intervened to "burn off what He couldn't use."The stories continue with Denise Walker explaining why "The Rain Is Necessary" for growth, Dr. LeAnn Hendrick demonstrating what "Mustard Seed Faith" truly looks like when facing impossible medical diagnoses, and ListenLinda herself revealing how she "Prayed for Rain and Got Mud" but found purpose in that very mud. Each testimony flows beautifully into the next, creating a powerful narrative arc from darkness to deliverance.What sets this anthology apart isn't just the raw honesty of each story, but the intentional care taken in its creation—from the custom graphics and AI photography for each chapter to the inclusion of helpline resources for readers triggered by similar experiences. These aren't just stories; they're invitations to healing, proving that your darkest moments might become your most powerful ministry.Ready to find hope in your own storm? Contact any contributing author directly for a signed copy that means more than just a book—it's evidence that survival is not only possible but can become your greatest testimony.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a woman decides she's done negotiating her worth with people who can't afford her? LeShawn Fernandez's story isn't just about survival—it's about becoming a warrior who conquers everything sent to defeat her.With raw authenticity, LeShawn takes us through her journey from childhood sexual abuse to finding her voice as an author, podcast host, and champion for healing. The breaking point came in 2021 when she finally said "enough" to the toxicity and dysfunction she had normalized throughout her life. "I truly was that caterpillar that went in a cocoon and turned into this beautiful butterfly," she reveals, describing the painful but necessary transformation that led to genuine healing.The centerpiece of our conversation revolves around Miracle—LeShawn's daughter who wasn't supposed to exist according to doctors, and certainly wasn't expected to survive when born four months premature at just one pound nine ounces. With paper-thin skin and countless medical challenges, every prediction was that she wouldn't make it. Yet today, Miracle is not only thriving but testing as gifted academically. This testimony becomes a powerful metaphor for LeShawn's approach to life's obstacles: "If Miracle can go through it and get through it, I definitely can."LeShawn's wisdom shines brightest when discussing self-worth and boundaries. "Until you love yourself, you can't love anybody else. You can't even love God the way He deserves to be loved," she explains, challenging listeners to examine where they might be compromising their value. Her perspective on faith is equally compelling—"We walk by faith, not by sight" isn't just a catchphrase but a lived reality that everything must happen in the spiritual realm before manifesting physically.As the host of the Wounded Warrior podcast and author of "Story of a Warrior" and her chapter "Look at God" in the bestselling anthology "Through the Rain," LeShawn now uses her healed heart to guide others through their storms. Her parting message resonates with anyone facing seemingly impossible circumstances: "Don't give up. The blessing is right on the other side."Ready to start your own healing journey? Connect with LeShawn through her website or social media channels and discover how your wounds can become the source of your greatest strength.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when we choose to speak life over ourselves? In this soul-stirring conversation, author Angela Anderson reveals how the simple words "I am" can transform our entire reality. Her book "The Power of I Am: 21 Days of Affirming You" offers a practical pathway to breaking negative thought cycles—requiring just three minutes each day.Angela shares the divine inspiration behind her affirmation journey, explaining why she chose the 21-day format specifically for busy people who struggle to make time for self-care. "You cannot pour from an empty cup," she reminds us, challenging the notion that taking time for ourselves is selfish.The conversation takes an inspiring turn when Angela reveals one of her favorite affirmations: "Be the original masterpiece that you are created to be." This statement resonates deeply with host Jacqueline Cox, sparking a passionate discussion about authenticity in a world full of copycats. As Angela puts it, "Nobody can beat you being you."Beyond her role as an author, Angela opens up about her work as a podcaster, literary event host, and mentor. Her pre-pandemic "Literary Café" events featuring author-inspired painting sessions and character-based fashion shows showcase her creativity in bringing books to life in community settings.For anyone feeling stuck in negative thought patterns, Angela offers a simple but powerful reset affirmation: "I am enough." This three-word declaration challenges the root belief behind most insecurities and opens the door to genuine self-acceptance.Ready to transform your self-talk? Visit angelaandersonpresents.com to order your signed copy of "The Power of I Am" and join Angela's journey of daily affirmation. Your words create your world—make them powerful.Support the show

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what happens when someone plays with the wrong person's heart? Dr. Rhonda Lawson's romantic suspense novella "Trust" explores this dangerous territory with a page-turning intensity that keeps readers riveted from the very first scene.In this illuminating conversation with Dr. Jacqueline Cox, Rhonda reveals the careful craft behind her compelling storytelling. Drawing from her 23-year career as an Army journalist, she shares how military training taught her to make readers feel emotions rather than simply telling them what to feel. This show-don't-tell approach creates the rich character development and authentic tension that have become hallmarks of her 23 published works.The discussion takes fascinating turns as Rhonda explains her technique of leaving narrative "breadcrumbs" throughout her stories—a method learned from the late Eric Jerome Dickey that allows plot twists to surprise readers while still feeling earned. She also opens up about balancing her Christian faith with mentoring writers across all genres, maintaining that creativity flourishes best without judgment.Looking toward exciting new projects, Rhonda shares plans for the revival of her powerful stage play "Twilight" addressing teenage sexual assault, and the upcoming 10th anniversary of the Black History Month Literary Weekend returning to New Orleans in 2026. Her three-step approach when doubt creeps in—"Remember your why, always pray, and stay focused"—offers wisdom applicable far beyond the writing world.Whether you're an aspiring author seeking guidance or a reader curious about the mind behind the stories, this conversation offers rare insights into the delicate balance of craft, faith, and authenticity that creates truly compelling fiction. Connect with Dr. Rhonda Lawson on social media or at www.mtwimagesolutions.com to discover how she can help elevate your literary journey.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail"The grave has so much potential in it." Those powerful words from Allaina Maria 360 capture the essence of this riveting conversation about refusing to leave this world with your gifts still inside you.When multi-hyphenate author Allaina Maria 360 steps into the ListenLinda Book Club Live space, the energy shifts immediately. As number five on our 25 Awesome Authors of 2025 list and a familiar voice to our listeners from previous appearances, Allaina brings both warmth and wisdom to this discussion of her raw urban novel "Fat Baby."The title itself—drawn from Black cultural experiences where childhood nicknames stick for life—creates an immediate connection with readers. Allaina masterfully balances authentic street storytelling with redemptive perspectives, explaining that "when you write in truth, there's not much room for error." This commitment to honesty without exploitation guides her approach to difficult subject matter, creating a space where readers facing similar circumstances can find themselves represented with dignity.The conversation takes an unexpectedly personal turn when Allaina shares about her healing journey after losing her sister to murder just over a year ago. In a haunting twist, Allaina had unknowingly written aspects of her sister's story into her previous book before her passing. Despite this profound loss, she remains anchored in faith, frequently returning to Psalm 23 during difficult creative moments.For writers and creative spirits, Allaina offers practical wisdom about self-publishing through KDP, from formatting challenges to marketing strategies. Her advice blends nuts-and-bolts knowledge with inspirational perspective: "It's going to cost you something, but if there's anybody worth investing in, it's you, because nobody can do you like you."The most powerful moments come when both women discuss refusing to dim their light despite criticism. As Allaina puts it, "Decorate your own house... I build my house and I decorate my house, and then I'm very selective of who I allow in." This perfect metaphor for authentic living reminds us all to pursue excellence without seeking approval.Grab "Fat Baby" on Amazon today and leave a review! And don't miss Allaina's upcoming projects including her poetry collection "Beauty for Ashes" and new musical EP. Follow her journey at allainamaria.com or @allainamaria on social media.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a Brooklyn girl who society labeled a "statistic" refuses to accept limitations? Meet Lakeasha "Shine Shine" Williams, the powerhouse whose transformational journey from teen motherhood to bestselling author is redefining authentic leadership.In this soul-stirring conversation, Lakeasha reveals the profound story behind her "Let It Go" devotional series that topped the charts on release day. She doesn't just talk about transformation – she embodies it. Growing up during the crack epidemic of the 1980s, raising children while pursuing education, and eventually turning around one of the lowest-performing schools in her district, LaKeisha's life demonstrates that your past doesn't determine your destiny."When you live right every day, you never have to perform," Lakeasha shares, cutting through leadership clichés with hard-earned wisdom. Her refreshing take on authenticity challenges us to embrace every facet of ourselves rather than conforming to narrow expectations: "I can be this AND that, not this OR that." This philosophy has powered her approach to leadership development, where she focuses on healing the person before tackling organizational challenges.The conversation takes a vulnerable turn when Lakeasha discusses stepping away from career success to address her own depletion. "You cannot pour from an empty cup," she reminds us, explaining how her own healing journey birthed resources now helping thousands. Her mantra "Speak what you seek until you see what you said" offers a practical approach to maintaining faith through difficult seasons.Whether you're struggling with personal healing, seeking authentic leadership principles, or simply need inspiration from someone who's defied every statistical prediction, Lakeasha's story proves that with faith and determination, transformation is always possible. Join the 30-day transformational journey with Lakeasha on Instagram @coach_shine_on_lakeasha or visit BrickHouseUnlimited.com to access her books and upcoming Leadership Masterclass.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a podcaster and a novelist share their mutual passion for using stories to draw people to Christ? In this powerful conversation, Jacquiline Cox (ListenLinda) welcomes Pat Simmons, Christian romance author of 18 years, to explore spiritual storytelling as ministry.Simmons opens her heart about the Intercessors series and her latest release "Day of Salvation," revealing how these books visualize spiritual battles happening around us daily. "Show my people the spiritual battles I fight for them every day," God instructed her—taking her writing far beyond her usual romance genre comfort zone. The result? Fiction that readers describe as "riveting," "eye-opening," and "a challenge to all believers."With remarkable candor, Pat shares how the character Catherine Kincaid represents prayer warriors everywhere—those dedicated intercessors in churches who fight unseen battles. Drawing from Ephesians 6:12, she crafts stories that make spiritual warfare tangible while encouraging readers to become more spiritually vigilant.The conversation takes a particularly moving turn when both women discuss protecting children through prayer. Pat shares a touching story about praying for six young boys she met randomly at a restaurant, adding them permanently to her prayer list because "our boys are in trouble." Her testimony illustrates how fiction can illuminate biblical truths and inspire readers to become more dedicated prayer warriors in their own lives.This episode isn't just about books—it's about using our voices to share God's goodness. As Jacqueline powerfully states, quoting Romans 10:14-15, "How can people believe in what they have not heard, and how can they hear without someone preaching?" Whether through novels, podcasts, or personal testimonies, this conversation challenges us all to share our stories of faith.Ready to experience spiritual fiction that strengthens your walk with Christ? Discover Pat Simmons' Intercessors series and join the movement of believers using their voices to bring others closer to God.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your name symbolizes neglect instead of love? When the people who should protect you dismiss your very existence? In this deeply moving conversation, author Dr. Audrey Ann unpacks the powerful journey of Jane—a character whose story continues to resonate with readers discovering their own worth.Dr. Ann reveals the intimate inspirations behind "Jane's Journey," explaining how Jane's character emerged from her passion for people identified only by their names. While celebrities might welcome name recognition, Jane's name represents hurt, distrust, and alienation. This storyline mirrors the reality many face when caregivers provide basic necessities but withhold emotional connection—what psychologists identify as the most damaging parenting style: neglect and avoidance.The author's candor about her personal struggles with invisibility gives profound depth to this discussion. "I went through that in a crowded room and nobody even knew I was there," she shares, detailing how these experiences shaped Jane's authentic journey toward self-acceptance. Listeners will find themselves nodding in recognition as Dr. Ann describes learning that "my voice is valid, whether anybody sees me or not"—the core transformation Jane undergoes.Faith weaves throughout Jane's development, not as an instant solution but as a gradual unfolding that begins with learning to trust others before trusting an "unseen God." The conversation explores how Jane's spiritual growth parallels her emotional healing, offering a realistic portrayal that avoids simplistic religious tropes.Most compelling are the author's reflections on writing the emotionally challenging scenes where Jane confronts her mother's unexpected reappearance and discovers her sister's ultimate betrayal. These raw moments in the narrative force both character and reader to wrestle with profound questions about forgiveness, boundaries, and reclaiming one's story.Ready to continue this journey with Jane? Dr. Ann reveals details about the upcoming third installment, "Silver Moon," releasing this summer. Connect with her work at transitionlifecoach4you.com and discover why readers keep returning to Jane's world—a place where every voice matters, where healing happens in messy but beautiful ways, and where your name can finally mean what you choose it to mean.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a Navy veteran with a PhD in psychology turns novelist? Stories that heal, characters who transform, and readers who find themselves within the pages.Dr. Audrey Ann Moses doesn't just write fiction—she creates psychological roadmaps disguised as compelling stories. In this heartfelt conversation with Dr. Jacqueline Cox, Moses reveals how her eight published novels, including the "Saved by Grace" series and "Earl Grey Chronicles," each tackle specific mental health challenges through vibrant, authentic characters."I let my characters write themselves," Moses explains, describing her immersive approach to developing personalities like Jane Doe from "Dead Girl Walking"—a woman whose parents named her as a cruel joke, marking her entire existence as a mistake. Through Jane's journey, readers witness the painful struggle to escape "living in the muck" and the transformative power of realizing "there is light outside the tunnel."The conversation takes us behind the writer's curtain, exploring Moses' journey from reluctant journaler (who once burned five years of diaries from her darkest times) to published author. Her turning point came through a friend's challenge: "How do you know nobody wants to read your words if you don't give them the chance?"Moses' unique blend of psychological expertise and deep faith infuses her approach to storytelling and her work as a Christian life coach. "Without God, nothing happens correctly," she reflects, while explaining her coaching philosophy of "unsticking" people rather than creating dependency.Whether you're struggling with your own writing journey, searching for authentic representation of mental health in fiction, or simply craving stories with genuine spiritual depth, Dr. Moses offers wisdom that extends far beyond the page. Her mission? Creating books where readers see themselves, find practical solutions, and witness characters evolving across generations—breaking chains of negativity at their core.Ready to turn your story into a bestselling book? Don't miss the 21-Day Author Bootcamp starting August 1st. Visit listenlinda1.com to secure your spot and transform your manuscript into a published legacy.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when virtue meets style in a world gone "ratchet chic"? Find out as Dr. Jacquiline Cox welcomes her newly-discovered cousin Dr. Nakia Young to kick off Season 8 of Listen Linda Live!Dr. Young's story begins with profound loss - her mother's passing when she was just 14 years old. Yet those formative years with a deeply faithful mother planted seeds that would later bloom into her bestselling book "Virtue Chic: Classy Takes Center Stage." With warmth and wisdom, she dismantles the false choice between being virtuous or stylish, showing Christian women how to embrace both their faith and their fashion sense.The conversation takes a powerful turn when discussing education and advocacy for Black children. As the first Black speaker to deliver a TEDx Talk on normalizing homeschooling, Dr. Young doesn't hold back about why she chose this path: "The cost of letting our kids get eaten alive by this demonic system is too great." Both women share raw experiences navigating educational systems and standing firm in their parental authority, offering listeners practical wisdom about knowing their rights and options.Throughout their dynamic exchange, Dr. Young reveals how she balances her roles as homeschool mother of three, bestselling author, mental health coach, TEDx speaker, and entrepreneur. Her refreshing "done is better than perfect" approach has helped her overcome perfectionism and take action despite fears. For single Christian women specifically, she delivers a game-changing perspective: pursue virtue because it's right, not because it guarantees a husband.Whether you're seeking guidance on faith, parenting, education, relationships, or pursuing your purpose, this conversation delivers heart, humor, and actionable insights. Don't miss Dr. Young's exciting announcement about her upcoming 21-Day Author Boot Camp where you can become a published author in just three weeks!Ready to live with more virtue, purpose, and authenticity? This episode is your blueprint for shining with grace in a complicated world. Subscribe now and join the conversation!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when teenage love stands the test of time? Dr. Velma Bagby's bestselling memoir "My 70s Love Story" reveals the beautiful journey of faith, patience, and divine timing that turned a tenth-grade connection into a 50-year marriage that still thrives today.During this special Listen Linda Book Club meeting, host Jacqueline Cox welcomes Dr. Bagby to share the intimate details of how she met her husband in high school and the spiritual principles that guided their relationship. As an award-winning author of nearly 25 books, certified dating coach, and ordained minister, Dr. Bagby brings profound wisdom about what truly matters in finding and sustaining love.The conversation takes unexpected turns as Dr. Bagby reveals how she wrote a list of qualities she wanted in a husband and gave it to God—never expecting the shy church girl she was would catch the eye of the handsome boy in her class. Her story challenges today's dating culture with timeless truths: focus on character over conditions, substance over style, and partnership over appearances.Listeners will be moved by powerful insights about maintaining identity within marriage, the importance of being equally yoked in faith, and recognizing that the real enemy of marriage isn't your spouse but spiritual forces working against your unity. Through audience questions and Dr. Bagby's transparent answers, we explore how couples can fight together in prayer rather than fighting against each other.Whether you're single and waiting, dating and discerning, or married and growing, this episode offers a blueprint for God-centered relationships that honor both individuals while creating something stronger together. Join us next week as we continue exploring this remarkable love story that proves when God sends the right person, you won't have to question it.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe caterpillar must die before the butterfly can emerge. This profound truth anchors "Jane's Journey," Dr. Audrey Ann Moses' powerful sequel to the bestselling Christian novella "Dead Girl Walking."When we last met Jane Doerr, she stood at a crossroads – finally free from her abuser but still carrying the weight of fear, trauma, and a lifetime of rejection. Now pregnant with her second child and determined to protect her daughter Ruth, Jane makes the brave decision to leave everything behind. With nothing but a binder full of "Jesus papers" from her mentor Mrs. Johns, Jane boards a plane to Beaufort, South Carolina, to live with a sister she barely knows.Throughout our conversation, Dr. Moses reveals the delicate balance she struck in portraying Jane's spiritual growth alongside her very human struggles. The relationship between Jane and her young daughter Ruth illuminates the book's deepest theme – breaking generational cycles of pain. Where Jane's own mother offered no love or protection, Jane commits to showing Ruth unconditional love, even as she navigates the uncertainty of starting over.The scripture 2 Timothy 2:15 emerges as Jane's spiritual compass, challenging her to "study to show herself approved" as she builds a new identity beyond "Dead Girl Walking." Yet perhaps the book's most challenging aspect is Jane's wrestling with forgiveness – that "hard pill to swallow" that requires divine intervention to truly embrace.Dr. Moses doesn't shy away from difficult truths about toxic relationships, the struggles of single parenthood, and the importance of establishing boundaries even with family. Her narrative reminds us that healing isn't linear and transformation takes time, but with faith and supportive community, we can indeed become the people God designed us to be.Ready to continue Jane's powerful story? Purchase your autographed copy of "Jane's Journey" at TransitionLifeForYou.com, where you'll also find the first book in this moving series. What parts of yourself need to die before your own butterfly can emerge?Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhen tragedy strikes through domestic violence, the ripple effects extend far beyond the immediate victim. In this raw and powerful conversation, Alana Maria opens up about the life-altering moment she received news of her sister Yolanda's murder at the hands of her husband."I felt everything and nothing at all, all at the same time," Alana shares, describing her three-and-a-half-hour drive home after receiving the devastating call while on a film set. This heartbreaking account illuminates how domestic violence creates what she calls a "tsunami" of trauma—affecting not just the victim but entire families and communities.Alana's 14-year-old nephew witnessed the horrific event, adding profound trauma to his grief. Her mother struggles daily with the loss of her daughter. The extended family works to maintain connections while navigating uncomfortable new dynamics with the perpetrator's relatives. Through it all, Alana emphasizes how togetherness and professional therapy have become essential coping mechanisms: "All of us are in therapy. That is the healthiest thing that we could have ever done."The conversation takes a powerful turn as Alana discusses breaking the silence around domestic violence, especially in communities where family matters traditionally remain private. "Change some of our language," she advises, noting how communities can place resources in churches, gyms, and gathering spaces to reach those suffering in silence.Despite her grief, Alana continues pursuing her creative passions—writing, acting, singing, entrepreneurship—guided by her powerful motto: "I refuse to give the grave any of my potential." She carries her sister's ashes in a necklace on film sets, transforming profound loss into motivation and purpose.Ready to break the silence around domestic violence in your community? Subscribe to Speaking with Sandra for more conversations that bring patient experiences to the forefront and highlight how we can all make a difference through simple acts of kindness.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when brave women decide to break their silence? Rising Above Narcissistic Abuse Volume 3 brings together survivors who've transformed their pain into purpose, offering hope to anyone trapped in the isolating cycle of narcissistic relationships.These powerful stories reveal the many faces of narcissistic abuse - emotional manipulation, gaslighting, financial control, and psychological warfare - tactics designed to keep victims disoriented and dependent. As anthology creator Ina Johnson Myers explains, many victims don't recognize what's happening to them, thinking they're "just being too sensitive" while their sense of reality is systematically dismantled.The authors share intimate details of their journeys: how Eula recognized God's voice telling her "you need to get out," how Regina's unexplained physical ailments mysteriously vanished after leaving her abuser, and how Vicki found herself financially trapped despite previously being independent. Each story illuminates the gradual, insidious nature of narcissistic control, where what begins as love transforms into a cage.What sets this anthology apart is its unflinching honesty about the recovery process. These women don't just tell you about the abuse - they reveal the exact strategies that helped them heal. From practicing gratitude and "scrubbing your mind daily with the word" to using poetry as a way to reclaim their voice, their practical wisdom serves as both validation and roadmap.Most powerfully, these stories demonstrate how sharing your truth creates ripples of healing that extend far beyond yourself. As these brave authors step into their authentic power, they create permission for others to do the same.Are you ready to break the silence around narcissistic abuse? Whether you're personally affected or supporting someone who is, this anthology offers the validation, strategies, and hope needed to move from surviving to thriving. Available May 15th on Amazon - let these voices guide you toward reclaiming your own.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it truly mean to be a strong woman? The answer goes far deeper than cultural stereotypes or social media buzzwords – it's about resilience, grace under pressure, and the ability to thrive while lifting others.Throughout history, women have carried extraordinary burdens. We're expected to maintain households, nurture families, advance careers, and navigate social expectations that demand we be simultaneously resilient and gentle, assertive yet never aggressive. For women of color, these challenges multiply exponentially, requiring them to work five times harder for the same recognition afforded to others.The civil rights movement gives us powerful examples of this strength in action. Visionaries like Ella Baker understood that real change comes from empowering communities, not individual heroics. Fannie Lou Hamer's declaration "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired" became a rallying cry against voter suppression. Diane Nash's strategic leadership during the Nashville sit-ins demonstrated how principled resistance could dismantle entrenched segregation. Literary giants like Maya Angelou, Zora Neale Hurston, and Nikki Giovanni transformed personal trauma into art that continues to inspire generations.Today, women continue facing significant challenges: economic inequality, health disparities, and intersectional discrimination. Yet the five remarkable winners of the Listen Linda Women of Excellence Awards show us what modern strength looks like. From Pastor Akilah Hart's spiritual leadership to Leanne Hendrick's community service through Beyond the Call, these women exemplify the transformative power of resilience paired with compassion. They remind us that true strength isn't just about personal achievement – it's about creating pathways for others to rise alongside you.Ready to connect with a community of strong women? Contact me through Facebook or email at [email protected] to be featured in the Listen Linda magazine, appear on the podcast, or join our upcoming "Through the Rain" anthology project. When strong women unite, there's nothing we cannot overcome.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe episode emphasizes the importance of faith in navigating political turmoil, underscoring how it can anchor us amidst uncertainty. With practical insights on activism and maintaining unity, the conversation inspires listeners to actively engage in their communities with a spirit of love and courage. • Discussion on the role of faith over fear in challenging times • Biblical insights on governance and transformative faith • Exploring community activism rooted in spiritual principles • The significance of prayer for leaders and communities • Strategies for fostering respectful dialogue and unity • The power of collaboration within faith communitiesSupport the show

Send us Fan MailAfter navigating my own suicide attempt during pregnancy, I'm honored to welcome Cyrus Webb as the first male guest on "Listen Linda". Our conversation is both a celebration of breaking boundaries and a heartfelt exploration of resilience in life's darkest chapters. Cyrus bravely shares his transformative journey from surviving multiple suicide attempts to finding healing through faith and the supportive words of friends. Together, we uncover the power of shared experiences and highlight how pivotal moments can become sources of strength and empowerment.Family and community play a pivotal role in our stories. We explore the profound impact of unwavering parental support, even when career paths aren’t fully understood. Through personal anecdotes, we reflect on the sacrifices made by loved ones and the nurturing of dreams that shape our lives. The importance of community is further emphasized as I share my own journey of finding support through social media, transforming virtual connections into real-life friendships that provided solace during times of profound loss.The episode also touches on self-discovery and valuing one's worth. I recount a personal experience of recognizing the importance of setting boundaries and charging what I'm truly worth for my professional services. Cyrus Webb, a media personality and author, joins us to discuss how his creative journey has been a source of healing and inspiration. His story underscores the importance of acknowledging emotions and embracing positivity. As we wrap up, we reflect on the enduring themes of love, resilience, and faith as cornerstones in overcoming adversity, encouraging each listener to stand strong and embrace their journey.Support the show

Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered how one person can impact so many lives? Join us for an emotional and empowering episode where we honor the remarkable Yolanda Williams, whose life and legacy continue to inspire. We kick off with "No More Drama," reflecting on the importance of self-reliance and supportive friendships, and the freedom that comes from releasing past burdens. Through a heartfelt prayer, we honor Yolanda’s memory and advocate for victims of domestic violence, emphasizing the creation of safe spaces and raising awareness for those in need.In "Honoring Yolanda," we are joined by her sister Allaina and mother Annette, who share touching stories that highlight Yolanda's unwavering commitment to excellence and her impactful community projects. Their anecdotes paint a vivid picture of a devoted caseworker, doula, and community advocate whose kindness left an indelible mark. As we share memories of Yolanda, we celebrate her legacy of love, hope, and resilience, reminding us all of the importance of community support and advocacy.Finally, we focus on "Combatting Domestic Violence Through Community Support," exploring the urgent need for community action and the profound pain faced by those who lose loved ones to domestic violence. Through the Yolanda Williams Foundation, we aim to spread awareness and provide support for those in need. We also celebrate Yolanda's legacy with special recognitions and launch the Yolanda C. Williams Foundation to continue her impactful work. Concluding with a special tribute from her mother, this episode is a testament to the power of resilience, community support, and the enduring legacy of a remarkable woman. Thank you for joining us, and may Yolanda’s story inspire and empower you.Support the show