PODCAST · society
Taking It Off-Topic
by Amanda Rankin
Taking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, faith, and personal growth. I’m Amanda, and together with friends and guests, we share real experiences, encouragement, and humor while exploring life’s ups, downs, and lessons.Join us to laugh, reflect, and build a supportive community where honesty and faith guide the conversation.Let’s talk about it.
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Continuing The Conversation: Checking the Board: A First-Quarter Reflection on Faith, Patience, and Trusting the Process
In this bonus episode, Akosia and I continue the conversation by looking ahead to quarter two with expectation and faith. Building on our earlier reflection, we shift our focus toward what’s to come—holding onto the belief that God will continue to move in powerful and purposeful ways.We talk about the tension between anticipation and trust, learning how to remain hopeful without trying to control the outcome. As we step into a new season, this episode invites listeners to stay expectant, remain grounded, and keep their hearts open to what God is doing—both seen and unseen.Website: Akosia Robinson - Legacy Minded ParentingSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Checking the Board: A First-Quarter Reflection on Faith, Patience, and Trusting the Process
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my guest, Akosia Robinson (CEO, Legacy Minded Parenting), and I pause to reflect on the first quarter of the year through a faith-filled lens. At the beginning of the year, we created a “bingo board”—a visual and intentional way to capture what we felt God placed on our hearts, trusting God to move in throughout the year.Now, a few months in, we revisit that board and have an honest conversation about what’s unfolding, what’s still in progress, and what may not look the way we expected. We talk about alignment, patience, and what it means to trust God’s timing—even when it doesn’t match our own.This episode is a reminder that growth isn’t always linear, and faith isn’t always about immediate results. It’s about staying anchored, remaining open, and recognizing the small (and big) ways God is working—even when it’s unexpected.Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts: Woman Evolve ConferenceSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Beyond the Smile: Understanding Oral Health and Its Impact on Your Whole Body
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, I’m joined by Kayla Dorrance, and we’re diving into a conversation that goes beyond brushing and flossing—oral health. We discuss common misconceptions about dental care and explore how oral health connects to overall wellness.Together, we talk about hereditary dental traits, the importance of gum health, and how factors like diet, stress, pregnancy, and other life stages can affect your oral health. We also highlight the impact poor oral health can have on the rest of the body and why prevention matters.For those who feel anxious about dental visits, we share practical ways to manage fear, advocate for yourself, and find a dentist who is the right fit. This episode offers helpful insight to help you better understand and take charge of your health—starting with your smile. Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Continuing The Conversation: Walking In Your Purpose: Faith, Clarity, and Growth
In this bonus podcast, Terikka discusses the importance of women in the second season of life, taking time to define who they are, embracing both their strengths and their struggles, and intentionally envisioning where they want to go in this new chapter.Mobile App: The Clear SchoolSubstack: Clear School for MessengersSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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20
Walking in Your Purpose: Faith, Clarity, and Growth
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, I’m joined by Terikka Faciane, MEd, founder of The Clear School, for a faith-filled conversation about what it really means to walk in your purpose. Together, we explore how to define purpose practically, debunk common misconceptions, and clarify the difference between your purpose and your gifts—and how they work together.We talk honestly about what to do when you feel unsure about your calling, how limiting beliefs can cloud your vision, and whether purpose evolves. Through reflection, biblical perspective, and personal insight, we discuss natural and intentional ways to nurture and grow into the purpose God has placed on your life.If you’ve ever questioned where to start, wondered if you’re “missing it,” or needed encouragement to take your next step in faith, this episode is for you. We hope that you leave reminded that you are called — and that walking in your purpose begins with trusting the One who gave it to you.Mobile App: The Clear SchoolSubstack: Clear School for MessengersSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Continuing The Conversation: Treat It Like the First Day of School: Growing in Unfamiliar Spaces
In this bonus episode, I build on the message from Treat It Like the First Day of School: Growing in Unfamiliar Spaces by exploring what new experiences and opportunities can awaken within us. When we approach unfamiliar spaces with curiosity instead of fear, we often uncover gifts, strengths, and perspectives we didn’t even know we had.I also share a recent “first day of school” experience of my own—one that reminded me how powerful it can be to stay open, teachable, and willing to begin again. If you’re stepping into something new, feeling stretched, or wondering what’s waiting for you on the other side of discomfort, this episode is an invitation to trust the process and keep showing up.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Treat It Like the First Day of School: Growing in Unfamiliar Spaces
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, I explore how our earliest “first-time” experiences can remind us that growth doesn’t require perfection—just patience, practice, and trust. From fear and uncertainty to confidence and clarity, I reflect on how unfamiliar spaces often become the very places where we grow the most.This episode is for anyone facing something new, feeling unsure of their next step, or needing encouragement to move forward despite fear. It’s a reminder that growth takes time—and that fruit comes from staying planted, even when the space feels unfamiliar.Taking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.Podcast episodes that were mentioned:Taking It Off- Topic: Butterfly Season with Lakesha GatesTaking It Off-Topic: Legacy-Minded Parenting with Akosia RobinsonSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Continuing The Conversation From Four to Three
In this bonus clip, I share a surprise encounter with someone who knew our brother back in elementary school. What started as a random moment turned into a heartfelt reminder of how small—and sweet—the world can be. This unexpected connection warmed our hearts, and especially those of our parents.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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From Four to Three: Grief Is Like A Wave
In this deeply personal episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my siblings and I share our journey of navigating grief after the loss of our brother. We reflect on our love for him, the memories that sustain us, and the waves of emotions that come with such a profound loss.Grief is an inevitable part of life, and we all experience it in different ways. Through our conversation, we hope to provide a space of community, understanding, and encouragement for anyone walking through loss.This episode is for anyone processing grief, seeking comfort, or wanting to know they’re not alone in the midst of life’s hardest moments.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Contiuning The Conversation with Lakesha Gates
In this bonus episode, Lakesha and I discuss her inclusion of an outline for creating your prayer board in the book. Lakesha facilitates an annual Dream It Retreat where participants develop a vision and prayer board for the upcoming year. We discuss the importance and power of prayer boards. Amazon: Butterfly SeasonInstagram: DreamitretreatInstagram: Lakeshagatesdotcom Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Butterfly Season
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, I’m joined by Lakesha Gates, author of Butterfly Season, for an honest conversation about seasons of growth, transformation, and personal evolution. We discuss the challenges of change, embracing discomfort, and trusting the process that shapes us into stronger, wiser, and more resilient people.Lakesha shares insights from her book Butterfly Season, exploring how life’s transitions can feel uncertain yet hold the potential for profound growth. This episode is for anyone navigating change, personal development, or seeking encouragement to embrace the journey of transformation with faith and hope"When God is ushering you into a new season, comfort becomes your cage."Amazon: Butterfly SeasonInstagram: lakeshagatesdotcomStan.Store: Lakesha GatesSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Continuing The Coversation with Akosia Robinson
In this bonus episode, Akosia and I continue our discussion on limiting beliefs and the importance of honest communication with your children. Website: Legacy Minded ParentingSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Legacy-Minded Parenting: Raising Kids with Purpose and Faith
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my guest Akosia Robinson, the CEO and founder of Legacy Minded Parenting, whose mission is to support single mothers in raising their children with love and joy through spiritual guidance—the path from healing, not hustle. We discuss how our choices as parents today can influence the character, faith, and future of our children, and why intentional parenting calls for reflection, consistency, and grace.This episode is for parents seeking to be mindful of the example they set, the lessons they pass on, and the legacy they leave behind. We talk honestly about challenges, growth, and the importance of parenting with intention and faith at the center.Correction: The wrong parable was referenced in this episode. It's the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), NOT the Parable of the Sower.Website: Legacy Minded ParentingPastor Sarah Jakes Roberts Women EvolveButterfly Season by Lakesha GatesSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Seaons 2: We're Back!
We're back for another season. Let's take a second to catch up and provide some information on what's to come.Butterfly Season by Lakesha GatesPastor Sarah Jakes Roberts Woman EvolveSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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More Than Words: Thank You
As we close out this first season, I want to pause and say... thank you.This episode isn’t packed with conversation or interviews—just an honest moment from my heart to yours. Whether you listened to one episode or all of them, shared the podcast with a friend, or sat with the truths we unpacked, this space wouldn’t be what it is without you.This season was about more than just talking. It was about showing up in faith. Holding space for what’s real. And trusting that healing could happen when we stop walking through hard things alone.So today, I want to honor that. To honor you. Let’s reflect, celebrate, and give thanks together. God’s not done — He’s just getting started. 🗣️Season Two premieres September 10, and I can’t wait to walk into the next chapter with you.♥️ In the meantime, stay connected with me on Instagram for updates, encouragement, and behind-the-scenes.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Addiction, Recovery, and Redemption: Faith, Healing, and Hope
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, I sit down with LaTanya Cole, RN, author of Reclaiming Me: A Journey to Recovery and Redemption, for a raw and honest conversation about addiction, healing, and hope.LaTanya shares her personal story of how upbringing challenges, heartbreak, abandonment, and the stress of being a single mother created a fertile ground for her spiral into opioid addiction. She recounts the struggles she faced, the turning points in her journey, and the steps she took toward recovery and redemption.This episode is for anyone navigating addiction, supporting a loved one, or seeking encouragement that healing and transformation are possible, even in the midst of life’s most difficult circumstances. Amazon: Reclaiming Me, A Journey to Recovery and RedemptionTikTok: LaTany Cole, RNSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Taking Time to Recharge: Why Rest Is Spiritual
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my guest Melisaa and I talk about the importance of taking time to recharge—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We explore why rest isn’t a luxury, but a necessary part of living intentionally, maintaining balance, and showing up fully in our lives and relationships. We discuss the challenges of setting boundaries, letting go of guilt, and creating space for yourself in a world that often glorifies busyness. This episode is for anyone feeling burned out, overwhelmed, or in need of a reminder that rest is vital for health, growth, and spiritual well-being.The conference mentioned in this episode, Woman EvolveThe book mentioned in the episode, I Surrender All, by Priscilla ShirerSend us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Pathway to Motherhood: Isn't Alway Straight
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my guest Rachel and I have an honest conversation about motherhood and the realities behind the journey. We discuss the common misconception that motherhood will happen “whenever you’re ready,” and why the pathway to becoming a mother is often not as straightforward as we were led to believe.We talk about the emotional challenges, the waiting, and the unexpected turns along the way, as well as how faith, patience, and self-compassion can guide us through this journey. This episode is for anyone navigating infertility, adoption, surrogacy, or the waiting seasons of life—where hope, growth, and faith intersect.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Prioritizing Your Health: Faith, Movement, and Taking Care of Your Body
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my guest Genny and I discuss prioritizing your health and recognizing movement as a gift, especially as we grow older.We talk about how fitness begins to shift with age—becoming less about appearance and more about long-term strength, mobility, and range of motion. This conversation highlights the importance of caring for our bodies so we can continue to show up for everyday tasks, responsibilities, and the people we love.This episode is for anyone rethinking their relationship with fitness, learning to move with intention, and understanding health as a form of stewardship rather than pressure or performance.If you want to learn more about Genny and her movement/fitness journey, follow her on Instagram at @genny_empoweredbygrace. Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Friendship There’s Layers to It: Navigating Adult Relationships with Faith
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, my guest, Gina, and I have an honest conversation about friendship and the many layers within it—especially as we grow, change, and move through different seasons of life.We talk about the complexities of adult friendships, how to cultivate healthy relationships, and the hard but necessary discernment of knowing when it may be time to let certain friendships go. This conversation explores boundaries, growth, and the emotional weight that comes with choosing peace, maturity, and alignment.If you’ve ever struggled with maintaining friendships, outgrowing relationships, or navigating change with grace, this episode creates space for reflection, honesty, and faith-centered perspective.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Co-Parenting
I want to expand on Episode 1, Parenting: The Highs and Lows, and talk specifically about co-parenting. Parenting can be difficult, but co-parenting can take a difficult situation to the next level. In this bonus clip, I share my experience and the changes I’ve had to make in my co-parenting journey. Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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The Highs and Lows of Parenting: Honest Faith-Based Conversation
In this episode of Taking It Off-Topic, I’m joined by my guest Aviana for an honest conversation about the highs and lows of parenting and what it really looks like to co-parent, grow, and adapt along the way.We talk about how parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all—what works for one child may not work for another—and why flexibility, humility, and growth are essential as our children change and mature. As parents, we’re constantly learning how to adjust our expectations, communication, and parenting styles, even when it’s uncomfortable.This conversation is for anyone navigating the realities of parenthood, learning to co-parent, or trying to grow in patience and faith while raising children in different seasons of life.Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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Introducing: Taking It Off-Topic
Amanda, her friends, and Guest share their experiences to provide encouragement, life lessons, humor, and community. The goal is to create a community where we have honest conversations about life and all the ups and downs that come with it. Send us Fan MailSupport the showTaking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, growth, challenges, and the seasons that shape who we are.If this conversation resonates with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. Join me on TikTok for deeper conversations and real-time engagement around each episode—and be sure to follow along on all our social platforms to stay connected.Follow us:Instagram: Taking It Off-TopicTikTok: Taking It Off-TopicSubstack: Taking It Off-Topic
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Taking It Off-Topic is a faith-based space for honest conversations about life, faith, and personal growth. I’m Amanda, and together with friends and guests, we share real experiences, encouragement, and humor while exploring life’s ups, downs, and lessons.Join us to laugh, reflect, and build a supportive community where honesty and faith guide the conversation.Let’s talk about it.
HOSTED BY
Amanda Rankin
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