A Woman’s Heart with Lisa Granger

In this powerful episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with Lady Jen Du Plessis—speaker, author, and business leader—to talk about transformation, identity, and living a life led by inspiration rather than pressure. Lady Jen shares the story behind her childhood nickname, “Jenny Who Ain’t Got a Penny,” and how that early identity shaped her drive and work ethic. Lady Jen opens up about her struggle with workaholism and the pivotal moment that changed everything—realizing she was missing meaningful family time while consumed with business. That wake-up call led her to develop her life-changing philosophy: shifting from hustle to harmony. Together, Lisa and Lady explore: Breaking free from hustle culture without sacrificing success Why clarity often comes after taking action, not before Learning to trust your intuition when God is calling you forward Lady Jen Du Plessis is a globally recognized business scaling expert, media personality, and host of three top-ranked podcasts, including Mortgage Lending Mastery. With over 40 years in finance and $400M+ in revenue generated, she’s known for her 5-Step Hustle to HarmonEY system, helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses while reclaiming their time. A bestselling author and international speaker, she equips leaders to elevate their influence and impact through media and relationships. 🔗 Learn more about Lady Jen and her work: www.ladyjenduplessis.com  To connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

Have you ever experienced church hurt or struggled to share your story? In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa Granger talks with Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch—Founder and CEO of Altered Stories Ministry, host of the Altered Stories Show podcast, and author of The Story Within You: The Healing Power of Your Story. Mischelle shares her personal journey of healing from church hurt, abuse, and the pain of being a childhood cult survivor. Through prayer, forgiveness, and trusting God’s leading, she found freedom and purpose—and now helps other women share their God stories. In this episode, you’ll hear about: ✨ The power of sharing your testimony ✨ Forgiveness and letting go of unforgiveness ✨ How God can use your story for His glory Mischelle is a speaker and ministry leader passionate about helping women embrace the healing power of their stories. She’s a wife, mother to her adult daughter, Gigi, and dog mom living in Missouri. Learn more about Mischelle and Altered Stories Ministry: https://alteredstories.org/ Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What does it look like when God rewrites your story? In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with Carol McCracken—speaker, author, Bible teacher, and podcaster—to talk about redemption, second chances, and the faithfulness of God through life’s hardest seasons. Carol shares her deeply personal journey from what she once considered a “boring” life to navigating overwhelming challenges, including raising a child with special needs, struggling with alcohol addiction, and walking through divorce. But her story doesn’t end there. Through the support of community and the life-changing impact of AA, Carol found healing and freedom. In a beautiful display of God’s redemption, she and her ex-husband reconciled and remarried—something they both believe was divinely orchestrated. This conversation is a reminder that no season is wasted. God can use every struggle to shape our purpose and draw us closer to Him. Key Takeaways: God does not waste our pain—He redeems it Isolation can deepen struggles, but community brings healing God equips you for the calling He places on your life About Carol McCracken Carol Ogle McCracken is a podcaster, speaker, Bible teacher, and author who brings the written Word of God to life, inspiring women to pursue a personal and vibrant relationship with Him. Through her authentic storytelling—including her journey through alcoholism—Carol shares Biblical truths with real-life application and humor, helping women connect to their God-given purpose. 🌐 Learn more: https://www.carolmccracken.com/ Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What if your story—no matter how ordinary it seems—holds the power to impact someone’s eternity? In this inspiring episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with Christian comedian and storyteller Cherie Nettles to talk about faith, healing, and the life-changing power of sharing your story. Cherie opens up about her incredible journey, including a 24-year battle with rheumatoid arthritis and a shocking ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2002—when doctors gave her just 90 days to live. Yet today, more than two decades later, she is cancer-free without treatment, boldly declaring the goodness and power of God. Cherie Nettles is a Southern born and raised knee-slapping, belly-laughing people magnet. She is a comedienne, humorist storyteller, Certified Laughter Leader, Bible teacher, motivational speaker and writer. Cherie is a hilarious overcomer. From overcoming an abusive childhood, being diagnosed in her teens with a crippling disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and being a 22-year Ovarian cancer survivor, she learned quickly that sorrow brings sickness while joy brings healing.  💛 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Cherie responded to a life-altering cancer diagnosis Why your personal story is one of the most powerful ways to share your faith How God can use humor and storytelling to bring healing and hope Cherie reminds us that while people may debate theology, they cannot deny a transformed life. Your story matters—and it might be exactly what someone else needs to hear. 🔗 Connect with Cherie Nettles: https://www.cherienettles.net/ 🎧 Listen & Share: If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs hope today. You can find more episodes at lisagranger.com and wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this heartfelt episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with author Deena Adams to talk about her powerful debut novel, Stronger Than the Storm—a story rooted in real-life experiences and deep faith. The book explores themes of family, forgiveness, identity, and redemption. Deena opens up about the personal journeys that inspired the story, including her daughter’s prodigal path and her own emotional experience of discovering her biological father. This conversation is a powerful reminder of the healing that comes through honesty, vulnerability, and trusting God in the midst of life’s storms. Deena also encourages listeners to step into their God-given passions, reminding us that it’s never too late to use your story to help others find hope and healing. As a Jesus girl for over thirty years, and a pastor’s wife for most of those, Deena Adams understands how important hope is to daily life. This belief fuels her passion to inspire others through hope-filled fiction based on true-life stories. She is a Certified Mental Health Coach, a multi-award-winning author, an active ACFW member, and a six-year ACFW Virginia board member. Key Takeaways • God can bring redemption from even the most painful situations • Freedom comes when we release the opinions of others • It’s never too late to pursue what God has placed on your heart Learn more about Deena, her book, Stronger Than the Storm, and her ministry by visiting her website and connecting with her on social media. https://deenaadams.com/ If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs hope today. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review A Woman’s Heart so more women can be inspired and uplifted. www.lisagranger.com

What if your “word of the year” became more than just inspiration…what if it became a process for transformation? In this solo episode of A Woman’s Heart, I’m sharing the story behind my 2026 word: SOAR. What started as a simple, inspiring word turned into something much deeper—an acronym that reflects a daily, intentional walk with God: Surrender. Obedience. Action. Results. This wasn’t a flashy, instant decision. It was a slow burn—filled with overthinking, prayer, and God patiently nudging me toward clarity. And in a moment (yes, even in the shower!), God revealed that SOAR wasn’t just about rising higher… it was about how to get there. In this episode, we talk about: What it really means to surrender (and why it’s not as scary as it sounds) The difference between obedience and just “doing the right thing” Why action is where faith becomes real How to trust God with the results, even when they don’t look like what you expected If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re going in circles, this episode will encourage you to take the next step—no matter how small—and trust God with the process. Reflection Questions: What is God asking you to surrender? Where might He be calling you to greater obedience? What action have you been putting off? Are you trusting Him with the results? Shows on Surrender: Mary DeMuth: Finding Genuine Freedom in God Through Surrender Natasha Lynn Daniels: The Unexpected Beauty and Peace Found in Surrender Shows on Obedience: Joni Topper: Yes to God for a Surprisingly Joy-Filled Way Jen Hand: Step Out in Faith, Say Yes to God Shows on Action: Lisa Granger: Are You Willing to do What it Takes to Live a New Life Karen Ehman: Reclaim a Life of Priorities and Passions Let’s Connect: If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and let me know your word of the year! Visit: lisagranger.com

What does it really mean to live a life that matters? In this episode of A Woman’s Heart I sit down with Bible teacher and author Crickett Keeth to talk about her latest Bible study, Living Out a Life That Matters: A Study of 2 Timothy. Together, we explore how the apostle Paul’s final words challenge us to live with purpose, faithfulness, and eternal perspective. Crickett shares her heart for writing Bible studies that help women go deeper into God’s Word and why she is so passionate about encouraging others to live intentionally for what truly lasts. This conversation is both practical and inspiring as we talk about the power of our words, the call to remain vigilant and diligent in our faith, and how everyday faithfulness can leave a lasting legacy. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a difference that goes beyond this life, this episode will encourage you to step into your God-given purpose. In this episode, we talk about: Her passion for helping women engage deeply with Scripture The importance of faithfulness, vigilance, and diligence Being intentional with our words and influence About Crickett Keeth: Crickett Keeth is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and the author of several women’s Bible studies, including On Bended Knee, Before the Throne, and Living Out a Life That Matters. She has served in women’s ministry for decades with Cru and large churches in Dallas and Memphis, where she also served as a Women’s Ministry Director. Today, she teaches at her church in Memphis and equips women’s ministry leaders around the world. Crickett is a sought-after speaker for conferences and retreats. Find free resources to encourage your walk with God at: www.crickettkeeth.com To connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

It’s March Madness season, and we’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Jerry Howard that connects the excitement of basketball and sports with the deeper meaning of faith and community. In this replay, Jerry shares how the principles we see on the court—teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and unity—mirror what it means to live as part of the Body of Christ. Just like a winning team relies on each player fulfilling their role, we are each called to contribute uniquely within our relationships, our churches, and our walk with Jesus. Jerry Howard is the founder of the iNTREPID iMPACT Team, a comprehensive leadership coaching and business consulting agency. His speaking and coaching engagements span faith, leadership, healthcare and business management. Jerry’s primary mission is to rekindle faith in leadership. He is married and lives in Virginia. Whether you're a sports fan or not, this conversation offers meaningful insight into how God uses everyday experiences—even basketball—to teach us about unity, purpose, and spiritual growth. 🎧 Tune in and be reminded: we’re all part of something bigger—and together, we can run the race set before us. Connect with Jerry at https://jerryhowardinternational.com/ Check out his book Faith Driven Leadership. Connect with Lisa at www.lisagranger.com

Life can feel like a constant rush—work, family, ministry, responsibilities, and endless to-do lists. But what happens when our schedules become so full that our time with God gets pushed aside? In this episode we talk with Karynthia Phillips about her book Press Pause: Making Time for God in an Overscheduled Life. Together they explore the power of intentional pauses and how stepping away from the noise of life can deepen our relationship with God. Karynthia shares how sacred pauses aren’t simply about rest—they are acts of trust. When we pause to spend time with God, we’re acknowledging that He is ultimately in control of our responsibilities and our future. Key Takeaway Sacred pauses create space for God to speak, guide, and restore us. When we intentionally step away from our busyness to spend time with Him, we often return with greater clarity, renewed energy, and a deeper sense of purpose. Learn more about Karynthia Phillips and her book Press Pause: Making Time for God in an Overscheduled Life. www.karynthiaphillips.com  Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What if the key to spiritual growth isn’t striving harder—but walking alongside someone who has already walked faithfully with Jesus? On this episode we welcome author, spiritual director, and retreat leader Lori G. Melton to talk about her book Journey with a Giant. Lori introduces a powerful spiritual practice: learning from faithful Christian men and women throughout history in order to deepen our own walk with Christ. It’s not about idolizing them—it’s about observing how they pursued Christ. Their examples can help us cultivate spiritual maturity, strengthen relationships, and grow in love. In This Episode, We Discuss: • What it means to “Journey with a Giant” • Lori’s initial hesitation about the practice—and how she came to embrace it • Why the focus must always remain on Jesus, not the individual • The importance of silence, slowing down, and intentional reflection • The personal impact of walking with different giants, including learning to love and accept others more fully • Taking courageous next steps in the areas where God is calling you If you’ve ever longed for deeper spiritual growth, richer faith practices, or a fresh way to connect with Jesus, this conversation will inspire and equip you. Lori G. Melton is an author, spiritual director, retreat leader, and member of Hope Writers. She is the host of the Sanctuary Stirrings Podcast and co-founder and director of The Sanctuary at Bear Creek Retreat Center in Allegan, Michigan. She and her husband are the parents of six children and grandparents to three. To learn more about Lori and her Spiritual Giant Quiz: https://www.lorigmelton.com/ To connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What happens when the house grows quiet and the children are gone? For many parents, the empty nest years can feel uncertain—but they can also become one of the most meaningful and purpose-filled seasons of life. On this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Charlotte Guest shares her heart for encouraging others to embrace their encore years with faith, courage,  and expectation. Charlotte opens up about her personal journey into writing and podcasting, reminding us that God is always calling us forward. Together, we talk about what it looks like to live life fully, stay spiritually equipped by putting on the full armor of God, and remain open to the new passions He places within us. If you’re navigating the transition of an empty nest—or sensing God calling you into something new—this conversation will encourage you to move forward with confidence, purpose, and joy. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: How to embrace the empty nest years as a season of opportunity Why God continues to invite us into new callings at every stage of life The importance of putting on the full armor of God About Charlotte Guest: Having a passion for people and a desire to encourage others during the encore years, Charlotte Guest hosts the international podcast ministry Empty Nest Guests. She is an author and creator of four YouVersion Bible plans, including The Blessed Empty Nest. Charlotte and her husband are preparing to release an empty nest devotional and serve together as marriage mentors. Charlotte lives in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area with her husband, Gordy. They enjoy time with their three adult children, their spouses, and four grandchildren. Charlotte is energized by sunshine, serving others, prayer, pet therapy, publishing, and helping people uncover their personal mission statement. 🔗 Learn more: https://charlotteguest.com Resources mentioned: Empty Nest, Full Life by Jill Savage Captivating by Stasi Eldredge Jim Burns with HomeWord Podcast interview with Joni Topper: Yes to God for a Surprisingly Joy-filled Way To connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

Change is one of the few guarantees in life—and yet it’s something we often resist, fear, or fight. In this encouraging episode of A Woman’s Heart, host Lisa Granger welcomes pastor, author, and podcaster Courtney Ellis to talk about her book Weathering Change and how we can learn to move through life’s transitions with greater peace and purpose. Together, Lisa and Courtney explore how to “weather” change through intentional preparation, curiosity instead of fear, adaptability in uncertain seasons, and resilience rooted in faith. They also acknowledge an often-overlooked truth: every change carries some element of grief. Naming that grief, honoring our limits, and leaning into community can help us navigate transitions with honesty and hope. Courtney Ellis is a pastor at Presbyterian Church of the Master in Mission Viejo, California. She is the author of six books, including Weathering Change and Looking Up: A Birder’s Guide to Hope Through Grief. Courtney also hosts The Thing with Feathers, a podcast about birds and hope. She lives in Orange County, California, with her husband and three children. courtneybellis.com To connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

Most people don’t like the word surrender. It feels like losing. Giving up. But what if surrender isn’t about loss at all? In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, I’m joined by author, speaker, and podcaster Mary DeMuth to talk about her newest book, The Freedom of Surrender, and the way letting go can actually lead to deeper freedom, healing, and peace. Mary shares why surrender feels so threatening, how control can quietly keep us stuck, and what it looks like to place our lives — including finances and past trauma — back into God’s hands. We also talk about the deeply personal artwork woven throughout her book and how God used creativity as part of Mary’s own healing journey. If you’ve ever struggled to release control, trust God with uncertainty, or wondered if surrender means failure, this conversation offers a gentle and hope-filled reframe. In this episode, we discuss: • Why the word surrender feels so uncomfortable for so many of us • How creativity and art played a role in Mary’s journey • How true freedom is often found on the other side of release Mary DeMuth has written over fifty books, including The Most Overwhelmed Women of the Bible and 90-Day Bible Reading Challenge. Through her podcast Pray Every Day and her speaking events around the globe, Mary helps people heal from past trauma and live re-storied lives as followers of Jesus. Mary is married to Patrick and has three adult children. Connect with Mary DeMuth: • Website: MaryDeMuth.com • Book: The Freedom of Surrender (wherever books are sold) Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, we welcome author, speaker, and certified teacher Joy Scott, whose passion is helping women break free from the places that keep them stuck. Drawing from her book Flow, Joy shares how painful circumstances don’t have to define us—instead, they can become part of God’s greater purpose for our lives. Together, we explore what it means to live in spiritual “flow” and how emotional wounds, unforgiveness, and false beliefs can block the work God wants to do in and through us. Joy offers practical, faith-filled steps to help you move toward healing, freedom, and renewed purpose. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your past, unsure of your next step, or longing for deeper spiritual growth, this conversation will encourage you to trust God’s process and move forward with confidence. In this episode, you’ll discover: • How unforgiveness keeps us stuck—and why forgiveness brings freedom • The meaning behind FLOW: Filter your thoughts and emotions. Let God love you. Order your thoughts to the truth. Willingly repent. • How to recognize when your spiritual life feels “clogged” and how to restore healthy flow About Joy Scott: Joy Scott is an author, speaker, and certified teacher with a burning desire to influence those who feel stuck. By sharing her own story and the obstacles she has overcome, Joy encourages others to pursue healing, freedom, and purpose. Learn more about Joy and her ministry: https://www.joyscott.me/ Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, we sit down with Heather O’Brien for a powerful conversation about spiritual growth, healing, repentance, and staying moldable in God’s hands. Heather shares how our hearts can either stay soft and teachable—or become hardened over time—and why daily habits rooted in faith matter more than we realize. Together, we talk about what it truly means to put God first, how seasons of life require different rhythms, and why understanding sin is essential to real repentance and freedom. This episode is an invitation to examine what’s filling your heart, what no longer belongs there, and how God uses your passion to serve others. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: • Why Bible, worship, prayer, and community are foundational—not optional. • How being full of God leaves no room for what doesn’t belong. • Why habits must change with each season you walk through. About Heather O’Brien: Heather O’Brien is a prophetic healing coach, minister, author, and speaker who helps Christians heal with God by learning how to hear His voice. She is the author of No Fear Allowed and the host of the top-ranked podcast Heal with God. Heather believes that with God’s help, it is possible to forgive the unforgivable and experience deep healing from trauma. https://heatherobrien.net/ To connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this encouraging episode of A Woman’s Heart, we welcome author, speaker, and storyteller Joni Topper, also known as the GloryTeller. Joni joins us to share insights from her book, The Power of a Well-Placed Yes: God’s Abundant Faithfulness in a Small Church, and reminds us that every yes matters in the Kingdom of God. Through heartfelt stories and lived wisdom, she shows how God honors faithfulness in small, unseen moments in ways we could never imagine. This conversation is filled with hope, encouragement, and practical reminders that faithfulness to small tasks truly matters—and that God’s goodness is always at work, even when we can’t yet see it. In this episode, you’ll hear about: • Why every “yes” to God matters, no matter how small it feels • The joy that comes from leaving the results in God’s hands • Why faithfulness to small tasks is deeply important Joni Topper, also known as the GloryTeller, radiates the glory of God by sharing everyday moments in compelling storyteller fashion. A Granna, author, worship leader, speaker, and cofounder of Uprooted Women, a Spirit-filled one-day women’s event, Joni is passionate about “being” the Church. She and her pastor husband, Ernest, have faithfully served in the same church for over thirty years. Learn more at www.jonitopper.com . Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What if the very thing weighing down your heart is something you were never meant to carry? In this powerful episode of A Woman’s Heart, we’re joined by author and speaker Alexandra Hoover to talk about her book, You Can Let Go, and the freedom that comes when we release offense instead of holding onto it. Together, we explore how easily offense can take root and how carrying it impacts our relationships, our emotional health, and our spiritual lives. Alexandra gently helps us understand the difference between experiencing hurt and carrying offense, reminding us that healing doesn’t require denial, but intentional release. We also unpack what it truly means to set healthy boundaries without building walls that isolate us, and how learning to “live loved” changes the way we navigate conflict, disappointment, and connection. In this episode, we discuss: • The difference between acknowledging hurt and holding onto offense • Healthy boundaries vs. emotional walls that isolate • What it means to “live loved” instead of guarded Alexandra Hoover is a compassionate writer, sought-after speaker, and the author of Eyes Up, Without Wavering, and You Can Let Go. A proud Latina, Alexandra serves her local church and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Women and Theology at Northern Seminary. As a wife and mother of three, she treasures balancing family life with ministry and finds joy in serving and encouraging others to live anchored and free. 🔗 Learn more at AlexandraVHoover.com 📲 Connect on social media: @AlexandraVHoover Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

When life feels heavy and your energy is low, even opening the Bible can feel overwhelming. In this encouraging episode of A Woman’s Heart Matters, host Lisa Granger welcomes Lynn Jackson to talk honestly about weariness—and the simple, grace-filled way God still meets us there. Lynn shares her heart for women and her deep desire for them to know that God is lovingly present and actively at work in their lives. We talk about her book, The Recipe, and a practical, bite-sized method for engaging Scripture when you’re too tired to do “all the things,” but still hungry for spiritual nourishment. This conversation is filled with hope, permission to slow down, and reassurance that even small moments with God matter deeply. In this episode, we discuss: Why so many women feel weary in their walk with God The Recipe and how it offers simple, nourishing time in Scripture How God meets us in small, faithful moments About Lynn Jackson: Lynn finds deep joy in encouraging and challenging women. Her greatest desire is for women to know that God is lovingly present and active in their lives. Together with her husband, Scott, Lynn co-founded Thrive Leadership Foundation, a ministry of encouragement to couples and individuals serving in full-time ministry. Their hearts are full with their four adult children, three married-ins, and eight grandchildren. Learn more about Lynn and her ministry at: 👉 https://thrivelead.org  Book Mentioned: The Recipe: Food for Your Soul by Lynn Jackson Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

We often begin the New Year with big goals, only to lose momentum and find ourselves discouraged or frustrated. In this encouraging episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa welcomes Marnie Swedberg—international leadership mentor, speaker, and author—to talk about both the challenges and solutions to navigating purpose in today’s fast-paced world. Marnie shares practical wisdom on setting meaningful goals, managing time wisely, and cultivating a mindset rooted in joy, flexibility, and faith. Whether you’re balancing personal and professional responsibilities or seeking fresh inspiration to walk more fully in your God-given purpose, this conversation offers encouragement and actionable insights for the year ahead. Marnie Swedberg embodies faith in action while creating powerful “aha” moments of perspective transformation. An author of 14 books, mentor to millions, and host of one of the largest online directories in the world, Marnie brings joy, energy, and clarity to every conversation. Her life story includes navigating fires, floods, a tornado, car wrecks, business setbacks, burglary, a lightning strike, sudden loss in her family, and more—modeling resilience, possibility thinking, and deep trust in God. 🎧 Want more New Year encouragement? Be sure to check out additional New Year conversations with Cheryl Anderson and Darlene Larson and all of these episodes are also available in the New Year playlist on the A Woman’s Heart with Lisa Granger YouTube channel. Connect with Marnie Swedberg www.marnie.com Connect with Lisa / A Woman’s Heart www.lisagranger.com

In this final episode of our Christmas series, Pastor Brian Johnson helps us explore the powerful connection between Jesus and the ancient promise God made to Abraham — a promise to bless and redeem the entire world. We discuss how Jesus is the fulfillment of that promise, the true substitutionary sacrifice who pays the price for sin and keeps both sides of the covenant on our behalf. Through this conversation, Brian invites us to see Scripture — and our own lives — with Christ-centered eyes. Key Themes & Quotes • Blessed to bless: “God says I’m calling you to be a blessing for the whole world.” • Christ in all of Scripture: “The early church was so obsessed with Jesus that they read their Bible, the Old Testament, and saw Jesus everywhere.” • A Jesus-shaped lens for life: “What does it mean to look at life and be so obsessed with Jesus that we see Jesus everywhere?” • God’s faithful love: “God is always faithful and faithfulness doesn’t always look like what we want it to look like… faithfulness can sometimes be painful.” • Jesus as covenant-keeper: “Jesus is the one person who can keep both sides of the promise.” About Pastor Brian Johnson Brian Johnson serves as Lead Pastor at Williamsburg United Methodist Church. Whether organizing local service projects or crafting meaningful sermon series, Brian’s heart is to make the gospel tangible through both words and action. He lives in Williamsburg with his wife and their two sons. Together, they love sports, Star Trek, Tex-Mex nights, exploring historic trails, and adventuring through Busch Gardens. Connect with Williamsburg UMC Visit: williamsburgumc.org Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, we continue our Christmas series, The Promises of Christmas, by exploring “Christ in the Fire” with Pastor Dean Woodward, lead pastor of Eastside Church in Williamsburg. Dean helps us revisit the powerful story of the three men in the fiery furnace from Daniel 3—and how Jesus met them in the fire. Their courage didn’t come from sheer willpower but from a deeper, truer worship. As Dean says, “The reason they wouldn’t bow was because they already had something in that place. They were already worshipping something so much more wonderful.” We talk about how these men lived in a world surrounded by idols, temptations, and cultural pressure—much like the world we live in today. And yet, their steadfast love for God preserved them. Dean reminds us, “We live in the midst of a place where we need Jesus to preserve us.” Together, we explore what it means to walk through our own “fiery trials” with Jesus right beside us: “I remember when there used to be that fire… and Jesus, you walked with me then.” And how God can redeem what feels destructive: “He turns a fire that could destroy you, into a fire that could warm you.” You’ll be encouraged to love Jesus above all else because, as Dean puts it, “God is that good. He’s better than our life. He is the best, so we should love Him the most.” “Jesus is so good. He’s worth dying for.” We also discuss how God works uniquely within each of our lives— “God deals with us all differently. The results should be similar… but not the experience.” This conversation will strengthen your faith, deepen your love for Jesus, and remind you of the promise that He is always with us—even in the fire. About Pastor Dean Woodward Dean Woodward has been a pastor for 38 years and currently serves as the lead pastor of Eastside Church in Williamsburg. He and his wife, Lynn, have been married for 42 years and have three children and seven grandchildren. Learn more or connect with Eastside Church at eastsidechurchwmbg.org . Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this Christmas series, The Promises of Christmas, we continue exploring the ways Jesus is revealed throughout the Old Testament. In this episode, Pastor Hunter Ruch helps us look deeply at Christ in the Tabernacle—the sacred place where God dwelt with His people in the wilderness. Hunter explains the purpose and design of the Tabernacle, how it represented God’s desire to be present with His people, and how every part of it ultimately points to Jesus. We reflect on the truth that God’s heart has always been to dwell with us, and that Christ fulfills every promise of God’s presence. Key Themes & Highlights • The Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God among the Israelites—and a foreshadowing of Jesus. • God’s consistent heart across Scripture: “That’s always been His heart. To dwell with His people.” • Jesus as the fulfillment of every Old Testament symbol and promise: “Jesus Christ is better. He is the better priest, and the better King, who brings better promises.” • The challenge and beauty of living humbly: “Humility is the most important virtue in the Christian life, but the least practiced because it’s hard.” • The incredible reality of God’s nearness today: “The person of the Holy Spirit, God is personally present within each of us.” • The message of Emmanuel—God with us at Christmas and always: “God with us. That’s the beauty of Emmanuel and the season of Christmas, but all the time as well.” • Hunter’s three simple, powerful truths for believers: “Jesus loves you. Jesus is with you. Jesus is the King.” • A reminder to stay rooted in Scripture: “If you want to get to know the heart of the Father, read His love letter to us. Read the Scriptures.” About Pastor Hunter Ruch Hunter Ruch is the Associate Pastor of Care and Connection at Williamsburg Community Chapel, where he serves alongside a dedicated team helping people grow as disciples of Jesus Christ by connecting them to God’s Word and His body. He holds degrees from the University of Virginia and Dallas Theological Seminary. Hunter and his wife of over 25 years are parents to four children and the owners of a very energetic golden doodle. Connect with Williamsburg Community Chapel • Website: https://wcchapel.org/ • The Chapel Institute: https://wcchapel.org/resources/the-chapel-institute// Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, we continue our Christmas series, The Promises of Christmas, by looking back into the Old Testament to see how Christ’s coming was woven into God’s story from the very beginning. My guest, Colin Curtis of Coastal Church, helps us uncover the history and significance of Passover—and how it points directly to Jesus. Colin explains how God’s pattern of salvation is revealed through it. As he shares, “God in instituting the Passover is laying out for us His pattern of salvation.” We talk about Christ as our Passover Lamb, the meaning of the blood, the role of a substitute, and God’s desire to bring His people out of bondage. Colin reminds us that: “God saves through a substitute, through the shedding of blood, and by bringing us out of bondage.” “Jesus has come to be the ‘Yes’ and ‘Amen’…to every single one of the promises.” “Our salvation is not dependent on the strength of our faith, it’s dependent on the object of our faith.” Colin encourages us to faithfully steward the gifts God has given us—without letting our gifts take priority over Jesus Himself: “God has wired us up differently…our job is to steward those giftings for His glory.” “We don’t pursue our passions or our giftings more than we pursue Jesus himself.” To find out more about Colin and Coastal Church: https://gocoastal.org/williamsburg/ Show notes and links can be found at: www.lisagranger.com

In this special Christmas series kickoff, Promises of Christmas, Lisa welcomes Pastor John Morgan, Lead Pastor of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. With a heart for preaching and a love for restoring his classic 1960 Austin Mini, John brings warmth, clarity, and deep biblical insight to this conversation as we look for Christ throughout the Old Testament. John begins the series in Genesis, exploring Christ's presence in creation and reminding us that the story of Jesus didn’t begin in Bethlehem—it began “in the beginning.” Together we talk about how Christ has always been part of God’s plan and what it means for us to bear the image of God in our everyday lives. Key Themes • Christ was present in creation—“Jesus was not an afterthought of God, but actually part of the whole beginning of creation and God’s plan for us all along.” • God brings order out of chaos—“Before God came to bring order and form to creation, things were in chaos.” • Even in a chaotic world, God is near—“There’s a lot of chaos and things going on but the Spirit is still present with us.” • The miracle of the Incarnation—“He knew that one day, He would enter that fragile flesh to show us what the image of God is like.” • Our identity and calling—“We have the image of God in each of us… We were created to be image bearers of God in this creation, in this world.” • Faithfulness in daily life—“Each and every day follow that passion even if it’s just for a few moments. Keep it the main thing in your life.” About Pastor John Morgan John serves as Lead Pastor of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. After pastoring congregations in New Jersey, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, he continues to live out his passion for preaching and shepherding people. He and his wife are proud parents of two married daughters and grandparents to one beloved granddaughter. https://www.mywpc.org/

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, I sit down with Amanda Hope Haley, biblical scholar, author, and the Red-Haired Archaeologist® for a fascinating conversation about how archaeology brings Scripture to life. Amanda has devoted her career to helping people understand the Bible within its historical and cultural context. With an MTS in Hebrew Scripture and Interpretation from Harvard, and experience contributing as a translator, writer, and editor for The Voice Bible, she brings deep insight into the world behind the text. Amanda explains how biblical archaeology isn’t about proving the Bible but about contextualizing it—helping us see Scripture within its original culture, language, and landscape. Amanda shares insights from her newest book, Stones Still Speak and opens up about the moments in her faith journey when learning history challenged long-held church traditions and assumptions. Throughout our conversation, she invites us to read the Bible not as isolated stories, but as one unified narrative of God’s work. She reminds us that the beauty, complexity, and even the “human-looking imperfections” of Scripture point to its divine origin. Key Quotes from Amanda “I desperately want people to dive in and learn more about what God says in the Word.” “God gave us this [Bible] so that we could interact with Him more.” “Scripture is very complex when you try to break it down… but the way it all came together really could only be the work of God.” About David & Goliath: “God spent years preparing him for exactly this scene.” “When God places something in your heart, you are not going to be happy doing anything else.” Amanda’s passion is clear: she wants people to dive deep into the Bible, explore its historical context, and discover a deeper, more grounded faith. You can dig into it with Amanda: https://redhairedarchaeologist.com/ Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What does success look like in God’s Kingdom? It may not match the world’s definition — and that’s a good thing. In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa talks with Andrea Lende, founder of Beatitude Publishing and compiler of the upcoming devotional anthology Successful in His Eyes, which Lisa is honored to be part of. Andrea shares her heart for helping women tell their stories and reminds us that true success is found in doing what God has called us to do — not in numbers, titles, or recognition. She offers encouragement for those who feel called to write, including practical places to start and words of wisdom for when resistance makes the journey tough. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that God loves you right where you are, and you are already successful when you’re walking in His will. Connect with Andrea: BeatitudePublishing.com Book Launch: Successful in His Eyes https://a.co/d/eXTjXGj

This week on A Woman’s Heart, Lisa talks with Donna Barber, author of Enough for Today: 40 Reflections for Surviving the Wilderness. Donna is a contemplative writer, preacher, educator, and co-founder of The Voices Project, where she mentors and promotes leaders of color. Together, Lisa and Donna explore what it means to walk through the wilderness seasons of life—those times of uncertainty, waiting, and transformation—and how God meets us there with daily grace and purpose. Donna shares wisdom and reflection on what the wilderness teaches us about God and ourselves: “We don’t like not knowing where we’re going to end up.” “[God] cares for us enough to not allow us to stay the same.” “The wilderness is a place where God calls us into His office sometimes.” “We’re never giving God new information.” “I suspect that God doesn’t tell us or ask us to do things until He knows that we are ready to say yes.” They also talk about remembering our first love—when we first met God—and letting go of the “fig leaves of busyness” that keep us from the deep relationship He desires with us. If you’re walking through a season of waiting or uncertainty, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone and that God’s presence is enough for today. 👉 Learn more about Donna and her work at donnambarber.com 👉Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa talks with author and speaker Tera Elness about her daily habit of reading the Bible and how it has become a living, breathing relationship with God. What began as reading a book has grown into an ongoing conversation with the Author Himself. Tera shares insights from her devotional Sitting with Jesus: A Yearlong Faith Journey, and how getting to know the people in the Bible can teach us how to live, love, and walk in faith today. She reminds us that “God knows where to find you,” and that learning to recognize His voice transforms our hearts and lives. Together, Lisa and Tera discuss the importance of caring for both body and soul—because as Tera says, “If you neglect either one, you are only going to be half living.” They also reflect on how God can use each of us in ways “far more mighty than we could ever ask for or imagine.” Join this heartfelt conversation and be encouraged to open your Bible, sit with Jesus, and discover the beauty of daily time in His Word. Guest Bio: Tera Elness is a writer, speaker, and proud 80’s girl who loves Jesus with all her heart, soul, and mind. She writes daily devotions for her followers on Instagram and Facebook and serves as the Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries at her home church. Tera and her husband, Kent, live in Minnesota and have two adult children, one teen still at home, and one perfect grandson. Learn more at www.TeraElness.com. Find previous shows and connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com Biblica Fiction writers that have been on the show, Barbara Britton, Heather Kaufman, Tessa Afshar, Mesu Andrews.

In this heartfelt episode, Lisa talks with Darlene Larson, founder of Hearts with a Purpose, Christian Life Purpose Coach, and Grief-Loss Coach. Darlene shares from her latest book, Leading You Through the Valley: A Personalized Grief-Loss Coaching Book, a deeply personal and practical guide to walking with God through seasons of sorrow. Together, they discuss what it means to “gut it out with God” during life’s hardest seasons and how to move from pain to purpose. Darlene shares how grief can be a place of molding when we stay close to God and invite Him into our hurt, reminding us that “We get stuck if we have not processed it and invited Jesus in to heal us.” 💬 Quotes to remember: • “Timing is up to God because we know He is always at work.” • “Do I want full healing? Because it’s a really vulnerable, naked position.” • “The only way we’re never going to be not hurt is to never love.” • “Grief doesn’t come with a timetable; it doesn’t come with a scheduler.” 🌐 Connect with Darlene: darlenelarson.com 🌐 Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com Previous show that was mentioned about Man at the Pool of Bethesda: https://www.lisagranger.com/shownotes/are-you-willing-to-do-what-it-takes-to-live-a-new-life Previous show with Darlene on Resolutions. https://www.lisagranger.com/shownotes/darlene-larson-resolutions-or-purpose-in-the-newyear

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, Lisa talks with author and speaker Jody Allen about her new book Hidden Heartache: Finding Courage When Your Husband Struggles with Pornography. Jody shares her story of walking through the pain of a broken marriage, navigating the fallout of her husband’s addiction, and finding courage and hope on the other side. Together, they talk about: • Healing and growing even when someone else’s choices caused the hurt • Why being honest about our pain is essential to our healing • The difference between being a peacemaker and a peacekeeper • How to take responsibility for our own healing journey • Praying boldly with confidence that God is good, He loves us, and He can be trusted This conversation is for every woman who has faced heartbreak, betrayal, or disappointment—and needs the reminder that God can bring beauty even from the hardest places. Key Quotes: • “Sometimes some of our deepest wounds do come from somebody else’s choices.” • “The Bible calls us to be peacemakers, not peacekeepers. And if we’re just keeping peace for the sake of keeping peace, it’s really not peace at all.” • “Our healing is our healing.” • “It’s important when we go through something hard, that we be students of ourselves. That we learn, because that’s how we grow as a person.” • “God loves me. I can trust Him. He is good.” Guest Bio: Jody Allen is a writer, speaker, and women’s ministry leader who isn’t afraid to talk about hard stuff. After her marriage ended following years of her husband’s struggle with pornography, Jody found herself navigating heartbreak, questions, and a story she never asked for. Instead of keeping it hidden, she chose to speak up—so other women wouldn’t feel so alone. Her debut book, Hidden Heartache: Finding Courage When Your Husband Struggles with Pornography, offers honest, hope-filled support to women facing similar battles. Jody lives in North Carolina and works on staff at her church. She’s a fan of a good mystery, Sunday naps, and chunky ice cream—and she believes that even when life doesn’t turn out the way you hoped, it can still lead somewhere good. Connect with Jody: https://www.jodyallenwrites.com/ Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com 

On this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with Kris Reece, Christian author, toxic relationship coach, and manipulation tactics specialist, to talk about her new book Breaking the Narcissist’s Grip. Kris equips believers to break free from controlling and emotionally destructive relationships—whether it’s a narcissistic spouse, an enmeshed parent, or a manipulative leader—and to reclaim the peace, identity, and confidence God intended. In this powerful and hope-filled conversation, Kris shares how God brought healing to her own heart and how we can walk in freedom, even when we can’t yet escape difficult circumstances. She reminds us that true peacemaking isn’t about enabling dysfunction—it’s about pursuing truth and wholeness. Some highlights from the conversation: 💬 “It’s about letting God mend those broken places and teach me how to guard my heart with wisdom, not with fear or ferocity.” 💬 “When we enable dysfunction, we enable manipulation…when we do that, we enable evil, and now we’re working against God.” 💬 “Unless you’re secure in who you are and whose you are, manipulators will get you every single time.” 💬 “Healing isn’t a luxury…it is central. It’s crucial to your calling.” If you’ve ever felt confused, controlled, or spiritually guilted in a relationship, this episode will bring both clarity and compassion—and remind you that God desires your wholeness and peace. For more resources and to connect with Kris, visit krisreece.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, I’m joined by Rachael Groll—pastor, missionary, author, and host of the Hearing Jesus Podcast. We dive into the role of women speaking in the church, what prophecy and a prophet truly mean, and how we can discern God’s voice in our everyday lives. Rachael shares wisdom from her new book, Knowing God’s Voice: What Female Prophets of the Bible Teach Us About Recognizing, Trusting, and Obeying God. Together, we explore how God uses women for His kingdom work, why obedience matters, and how stepping out in faith—even when it doesn’t make sense—can transform our walk with Him. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re really hearing from God or struggled to trust His direction, this conversation will equip and encourage you. 💡 Quotes from Rachael • “God’s voice is never going to contradict God’s Word.” • “There will be a lot of people in heaven because of the work that women have done for the sake of the Gospel.” • “Delayed obedience is still disobedience.” • “God is at work…and He doesn’t have to use us; it’s often for our own benefit that we get to be used.” • “We don’t have to have it all figured out because He already does.” 📖 About Rachael Groll Rachael Groll is a pastor, missionary, and author. She is the host of the popular Hearing Jesus Podcast and the Hearing Jesus for Kids Podcast. The Hearing Jesus Podcast has been in the TOP 25 Christian Podcasts for over a year and has ranked in the TOP 3 globally! Her daily devotional-style teaching helps women grow in confidence in their relationship with the Lord and hear His voice more clearly through Scripture. 👉 Learn more at rachaelgroll.com Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com

What if hospitality is less about perfectly folded napkins and more about opening your heart to others? In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa welcomes author and speaker Abby Kuykendall to talk about the beauty and challenge of Biblical hospitality. Abby unpacks the difference between entertaining and true hospitality, reminding us that hospitality is not about impressing others but about serving them. She shares insights from her upcoming book, Let the Biscuits Burn: Cultivating Real-life Hospitality in a World Craving Connection, and explains why hospitality is a spiritual discipline, not just a personality trait. Together, Lisa and Abby explore: • Why hospitality is an expression of the character of God • How simple acts of obedience can open the door for deep, life-giving relationships • The freedom of letting go of perfection so you can experience God’s Presence in the ordinary moments • How hospitality can become one of the most powerful conduits for community and connection 📖 Quotes from this conversation: • “Entertaining is really all about impressing others.” • “Hospitality is when we are serving others.” • “Hospitality is the number one conduit to forming those tight, very close relationships.” • “If you try to put on this air of perfection, you miss God’s Presence in it all.” ✨ About Abby Kuykendall: Abby Turner Kuykendall is a writer, home cook, and founder of A Table Top Affair. After years of singleness and spiritual growth, she discovered the power of the table in building God-centered community. Her first cookbook, The Living Table, reflects that journey. Abby lives in northwest Arkansas with her husband, Kyle, and their son, John Maverick. Her next book, Let the Biscuits Burn, releases in September 2025. 🌐 Connect with Abby: • Text “Biscuits” to 501-833-6045 • Instagram: @abby.kuykendall

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa Granger welcomes photographer and author Meshali Mitchell to share her story of heartbreak, healing, and hope from her book Restored: Partnering with God in Transforming our Broken Places. Meshali opens up about how the physical restoration of her farmhouse mirrored the restoration of her own heart and soul. Once hiding behind masks of perfectionism and performance, she now speaks with honesty about the pain she carried, the power of community in her healing, and the hope she found in God’s promises. Through her story, Meshali reminds us: 💬 “Instead of healing, I hid behind a mask of perfectionism and performance.” 💬 “In our weakness, that is where He’s strong, not in our strength.” 💬 “Waiting is not inactive, waiting is active.” 💬 “Don’t miss the miracle that God’s doing in your life because it looks different. He’s doing it through a process and not a moment.” Her words call us to believe that restoration is not only possible but promised, and to simply start where we are and say “yes” to the Lord. If you’ve ever felt unworthy, weary in waiting, or wondered if healing could truly happen for you—this conversation will encourage you that God is still in the business of restoration. 🔗 Learn more about Meshali and her book at meshali.co

What if the empty nest season didn’t have to feel empty at all? Author and speaker Linda Hanstra joins me on A Woman’s Heart to share wisdom from her new book, Empty-Nest Joyride: Hope, Love and Purpose on the Road to Contentment. Using the metaphor of biking and parenting, Linda helps us see this stage of life as a chance to embrace joy, strengthen relationships, and step into God’s calling with fresh perspective. In this conversation, we talk about: • Why the “empty nest” can actually become a “mighty nest.” • The importance of keeping your relationship with your spouse strong before and after the kids leave. • How struggles can shape your skills and deepen your dependence on God. • Why parenting doesn’t end when kids move out—it simply shifts. • Practical encouragement for finding joy, trying new things, and trusting God with this season. You’ll be inspired by Linda’s reminder that the best adventures often come after the kids launch. Memorable Quotes from the Episode: • “It’s important to have more than just the kids to focus on.” • “Even after they leave home you don’t stop parenting.” • “Sometimes it’s through those struggles that you gain new skills or you find your strength in God.” • “If you sense God’s calling for something, go for it. Just try it.” Meet Linda Hanstra: Linda Hanstra is a semi-retired speech-language pathologist who writes about what brings joy to her empty nest—her faith, family, cycling, traveling, grandparenting, and more. She is the author of Lent through the Little Things and her new release, Empty-Nest Joyride: Hope, Love, and Purpose on the Road to Contentment. Linda and her husband, Tom, live in southwest Michigan and spend summers “Up North” in Minnesota—their home away from home. With four adult children, a daughter-in-law, a soon-to-be son-in-law, and two adorable grandchildren, Linda is cruising along on her own “empty-nest joyride!” Connect with Linda: • Website: www.lindahanstra.com • Free Resource – 52 Date Night Ideas: lindahanstra.com/date • Book: Empty Nest Joyride 

What if one encounter with Jesus could change everything? In this solo episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa takes us through the powerful story of the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). While many think of healing in terms of the physical—blind eyes opened, the lame walking, the dead raised—this encounter shows us that Jesus also brings emotional, relational, and spiritual healing. Together, we’ll explore: Who the Samaritan woman really was and why her story is so significant. How Jesus broke cultural, social, and religious barriers to meet her where she was. What “living water” means and how it brings wholeness and abundance to our lives. Why Jesus chose her—a woman, an outcast, and brokenhearted—as the first evangelist. What this story reveals about Jesus’ love for us and His desire to heal us in ways we may not expect. Whether you’ve felt excluded, rejected, or broken, the story of the woman at the well reminds us that Jesus sees us, loves us, and offers living water that restores and heals. 👉 Listen in for encouragement, fresh perspective, and an invitation to encounter Jesus for yourself. For more healing stories, visit lisagranger.com   or find past episodes wherever you listen to podcasts.

Have you ever wondered where Holy Spirit fits into everyday life? Without Holy Spirit, we can miss out on the power, wisdom and peace that is available to us as believers. In this episode we welcome author and speaker Jenny Randle for a heartfelt conversation about Holy Spirit’s role in our everyday lives. Jenny shares the inspiration behind her latest book, The Promised Presence, and why she felt called to study and write about Holy Spirit in such a personal way. We talk about: • What it means to truly invite the Holy Spirit into every area of your life—as if He were a houseguest in every room. • How to find healing and wholeness even when our stories don’t end the way we hoped. • Why embracing the presence of God is not about performance, but about surrender and relationship. • How to trust God's presence in the tension, the waiting, and even in the pain. Whether you’re longing for deeper spiritual intimacy or wrestling with disappointment, this episode will encourage you to experience God’s promised presence in a fresh and real way. Jenny Randle went from a career in the heart of Hollywood to an author and ordained minister with the Holy Spirit Ministry Center. Her search for meaning in the everyday moments of life has led her to write her newest book, The Promised Presence. In it, readers discover the transformative, supernatural power of the Holy Spirit, even in life’s brokenness, to find restoration and purpose in a world that feels out of control. • Website: www.jennyrandle.com Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/@AWomansHeartwithLisaGranger 

Does the world seem rather chaotic these days? Have you faced a crisis that leaves you hanging on to your last thread of hope? Left unchecked, thoughts of hopelessness can spiral into despair, leaving us isolated, drained, and ready to give up. We may even start to believe the lie that our suffering has no purpose. In this Flashback Favorites conversation, I revisit my interview with Grace Fox, author of Finding Hope in Crisis. Grace shares the story behind her book and the personal seasons of pain that shaped her message of encouragement. She opens up about the times she felt ready to give up, and how God met her in those deep, dark places with His sustaining strength. Grace Fox is the award-winning author of fifteen books and a member of the “First 5” writing team (Proverbs 31 Ministries). She’s a popular media guest and sought-after Bible teacher at international women’s events. Grace and her husband co-direct International Messengers Canada, a missionary sending agency with 300 staff serving in more than twenty-five countries. Career missionaries for more than thirty years, they live aboard a sailboat in Vancouver, British Columbia. Married over 40 years, they celebrate three grown kids and thirteen grandchildren. For more on Grace and her books: https://www.gracefox.com/

Summer Reading Series with Tamera Alexander, A Millions little Choices. In this final episode of our Summer Reading Series this year, I’m joined by best-selling author Tamera Alexander for a heartfelt conversation about the choices that define us and relationships. We dive into the themes woven through her novel A Million Little Choices—friendships with women, the ups and downs of marriage, the power of forgiveness, and the ways God’s faithfulness is present through every season of life. Tamera shares the inspiration behind her book, why even the smallest decisions can have a lasting impact, and how relationships—whether with a spouse, a close friend, or God Himself—are worth nurturing with intentionality. Whether you’re a fiction lover, a believer seeking encouragement, or someone reflecting on the choices you’ve made, this conversation will inspire you to walk forward with hope and purpose. USA Today bestselling novelist Tamera Alexander is one of today's most popular writers of inspirational historical romance and contemporary women's fiction. While being Gram Tam is her current favorite role, she’ll never turn down a stroll through an old cemetery or browsing through antique shops. Tamera and her husband live in Nashville, Tennessee. She views her writing as a way to grow closer to the Lord Jesus Christ—and her desire is that those who read her novels will take steps closer to Him as well. Connect with Tamera: https://tameraalexander.com/ For Summer Reading list: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading

In this Flashback Favorites episode of A Woman’s Heart, we revisit a conversation with author and speaker Shannon Popkin, centered on her book Comparison Girl: Lessons from Jesus on Me-Free Living in a Measure-Up World. If you’ve ever struggled with comparing yourself to others—whether it’s your appearance, success, spiritual life, or even your relationships—this episode will resonate deeply. Shannon shares how comparison quietly creeps into our thoughts and relationships, and how Jesus offers a better way: live by “pouring out” instead of “measuring up”. Shannon Popkin is a wife and mom, author, speaker and podcaster. Her passion is to invite people to open their Bible, drink deeply of the Story, and live like it’s true. She and her husband enjoy having their three adult children close by while two adorable Shih Tzu’s still live with them. Key quote from Shannon: “Jesus invites us to pour ourselves out—not to measure ourselves against each other. That’s where true freedom is found.” To connect with Shannon: https://www.shannonpopkin.com/comparison-girl/ For the freebies that were mentioned go to: https://www.subscribepage.com/comparisongirl_2

In this Flashback Favorites episode, we revisit one of my favorite conversations with author and Bible teacher Erica Wiggenhorn, centered around her powerful book Letting God Be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck and How Surrender Sets You Free. We talk about the deep struggles so many of us face—fear, insecurity, imposter syndrome, and that constant feeling of not being enough. Erica draws wisdom from the life of Moses, who dealt with many of the same doubts. And yet, God used him powerfully—not because Moses was perfect, but because he was willing to surrender. 💬 “The reality is that we often face situations in life where by ourselves we are not enough. We need a big God.” 💬 “Our lack is not something we need to worry over, instead it is something we can rejoice over.” 💬 “All of our flaws are an opportunity for God to step in and do His greatest work.” A national speaker with Aspire Women’s Events, Erica Wiggenhorn also speaks at women’s retreats, large conferences or her own kitchen table. Erica longs to bring Scriptural Truth and see lives transformed. Erica also serves on the Proverbs 31 Ministries writing team. An award-winning author with Moody Publishers, she wants people to discover delight in God’s Word as they become equipped with tools to read it with confidence. You can also find her almost every day on Instagram where she shares Phoenix life with her best friend Jonathan, and their four children– two of which are human and the others furry and adorable. 📚 Learn more about Erica and her book: Letting God Be Enough – Available wherever books are sold https://ericawiggenhorn.com/home/ .

In this powerful Flashback Favorites episode of A Woman’s Heart, we revisit a conversation with author and speaker Robyn Dykstra, diving into the heart behind her devotional book Growing Your Faith. Robyn shares how her personal journey with God has deepened her trust, how storytelling unlocks healing and connection, and why it’s vital to speak out about what God has done. Robyn Dykstra is a dynamic speaker, author and coach. Being widowed twice within 4 years gives her a unique voice to speak on the faithfulness of God, the power of prayer, and finding joy in difficult circumstances. Amazingly enough, she married again and Dave has been holding up remarkably well for over 19 years. Her favorite pastimes are reading, baking, and watching videos (as long as she controls the remote). You can find out more about Robyn at https://robyndykstra.com/ With warmth and wisdom, Robyn reminds us that our faith isn’t meant to be managed alone—and that there’s beauty on the other side of hardship when we’re willing to walk through it with God. ✨ “It’s so good to be on the other side of it, you just can’t stop sharing it.” We talk about: • Why storytelling is a powerful tool for spiritual growth • The lies we often believe—and how to replace them with truth • How to cling to faith in hard seasons • Why “decorating the pit” won’t heal your heart • What it means to say, “I hate the situation, but I love and trust You, God” 🔁 Whether you’ve read her devotional or are just discovering Robyn’s voice, this episode is packed with encouragement for women navigating faith, healing, and everyday life. 🌟 Quotes to Remember “I believe in the power of story.” “It’s very important for us not to be deceived into thinking that we can manage this life on our own.” “It’s okay to say I hate the situation but I love and trust You [God].” 📚 Listen now and grow your faith—one story at a time. 💻 Find our Flashback Favorites at: www.LisaGranger.com

Summer Reading Series with Laura Frantz, The Indigo Heiress Have you ever felt like God has given you a gift—but you’re not sure how to use it, or if you're even the right person for the job? When we struggle with God it can feel like a wilderness season, but when we surrender, we can experience reward that only God can provide. We welcome beloved historical fiction author Laura Frantz to share her journey from private writer to published writer. Laura opens up about how God called her to write—and how she’s learned to partner with Him, even when it’s uncomfortable. We dive into her latest novel, The Indigo Heiress, a rich and immersive story set in colonial Virginia and 18th-century Glasgow. Laura reveals the historical research behind the book, the spiritual themes woven throughout, and how her characters often remind us that we can’t always see someone’s full story at first glance. This episode is a beautiful reminder that God has gifted each of us uniquely, but it's up to us to step forward in faith, trusting Him with the process—and the outcome. Laura Frantz is a Christy Award winner and the ECPA bestselling author of numerous historical novels. When not reading and writing, she loves to garden, cook, take long walks, and travel. She is the proud mom of an American soldier and a career firefighter. Though she will always call Kentucky home, she and her husband live in Washington State. Learn more at LauraFrantz.net . Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com For complete Summer Reading List: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading

Summer Reading Series with Lynette Eason, Serial Burn and Final Approach. Known for her gripping plots and faith-filled characters, Lynette Eason opens up about why she writes romantic suspense and how her stories are designed to do more than entertain—they equip readers to live out their faith in the middle of real-life challenges. We talk about what it means to live with purpose, the importance of pursuing the passion God has planted in you, and the deep peace that follows when you're walking in His plan. Lynette’s characters face danger, tension, and high-stakes drama, but they also reflect how everyday believers can cling to their faith through it all. If you’ve ever wondered how fiction can fuel your spiritual walk—or if you just love a page-turner with purpose—this conversation will inspire and encourage you. 🎯 You’ll hear about: • Why Lynette writes romantic suspense with a faith-forward message • How she weaves spiritual truth into high-stakes fiction • Her encouragement to follow God’s calling with courage and peace • The heart behind her newest book and how it fits in your summer reading list About Lynette: Lynette Eason is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of over sixty books. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award and the inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master’s degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband. They have two adult children. Learn more at www.LynetteEason.com . 📚 Don’t forget to grab your Summer Reading Guide at LisaGranger.com and discover more uplifting stories that speak to your heart. Where to get the books: https://bakerbookhouse.com/ Other romantic suspense author mentioned Lynn Blackburn https://www.lisagranger.com/shownotes/lynn-blackburn-trusting-god-with-every-twist-in-life

Summer Reading Series with Katie Reid, A Very Bavarian Summer. Communication challenges can create misunderstandings and distance in relationships. When communication breaks down, relationships suffer. Misunderstandings grow, frustrations build, and conflicts become harder to resolve. This is one of the things we talk about with Katie Reid and her latest book, A Very Bavarian Summer. We highlight the importance of open and honest communication, along with how growth happens in layers. Just because we face repeated struggles doesn’t mean healing isn’t occurring. Katie M. Reid is the author of Made Like Martha, God, What Do I Do?, A Very Bavarian Christmas and A Very Bavarian Summer. A dynamic speaker, Katie inspires audiences around the country. She also enjoys coaching creatives. Katie has a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education and is a fan of iced tea. Connect with Katie at: katiemreid.com In This Episode, We Discuss: • The difference between writing fiction and non-fiction. • Why communication is key in relationships, whether long-distance or in-person. • How struggling with the same issues doesn’t mean there’s no growth—healing often happens in layers. • The unique gifts God gives each of us to encourage others. Lisa’s podcast that was mentioned: Soak, Wrap, Repeat: How to Heal From the Inside Out https://www.lisagranger.com/shownotes/soak-wrap-repeat-how-to-heal-from-the-inside-out For complete Summer Reading List: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading

Summer Reading Series with Heather Kaufman, Before the King. Heather shares her powerful journey from aspiring writer to published author of biblical fiction, focusing on her newest novel about Joanna — a courageous, often-overlooked woman in Scripture. We dive deep into the unique tension Joanna experienced as both a supporter of Jesus and the wife of a high-ranking official in Herod Antipas’ court. Heather’s writing brings Joanna’s inner conflict, faith, and bravery to life, reminding us that God pursues us relentlessly and provides what we need—one day at a time. 💬 “There will be manna in the morning. When you wake up, He will give you exactly what you need.” — Heather Kaufman Highlights from the episode: • Heather’s call to write stories that glorify God • Why she chose Joanna and what we can learn from her life • The importance of stewarding our healing • How we can rewrite painful narratives with God’s truth • Courage, obedience, and the power of God’s presence 💬 “Anything we do that is for Him… is going to be hard.” Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books and devotions, praised by Kirkus Reviews for writing “a charming and well-crafted tale.” She delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling. When not reading, writing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her husband and three children near their home in St. Louis, Missouri. Whether you're facing a hard season or simply needing daily encouragement, this episode will remind you that you are not alone, and He is enough. To connect with Heather Kaufman: https://www.hmkstories.com/ For complete Summer Reading List: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading Other show mentioned: Are You Willing to do What it Takes to Live a New Life? https://www.lisagranger.com/shownotes/are-you-willing-to-do-what-it-takes-to-live-a-new-life

Summer Reading Series with Irene Hannon, Sunrise Reef. If you ever wondered if you could trust God with your gifts and talents, you will not want to miss this conversation with award-winning author, Irene Hannon. We talk about her journey from corporate stability to full-time author and what it looks like to discern God’s direction, step out in faith, and trust that He will use the gifts He placed in you for a greater purpose. Irene Hannon is the bestselling author and award-winning author of more than sixty-five contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Key points: • Her beloved Hope Harbor series and her latest release, Sunrise Reef • How faith guided her leap from a corporate job to a creative calling • The importance of developing the gifts God has given us • The power of keeping an open heart to truly understand others Whether you're a longtime fan of Irene's books or just looking for an encouraging story of trusting God with your path, this episode will uplift and inspire you. 👉 Learn more about Irene and her books at www.irenehannon.com 👉Complete Summer Reading List: www.lisagranger.com

Summer Reading Series with Deborah Raney and Who Touches the Mountains. Looking for some hope that there is healing and redemption after the storms of life? We welcome beloved author Deborah Raney to share the inspiration behind her latest novel, Who Touches the Mountains — a deeply moving story set in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, a region that holds personal significance for her. This special book goes beyond storytelling: a portion of the proceeds supports recovery efforts in the Blue Ridge region, following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Deborah opens up about how themes of redemption, healing, and second chances thread through her novels and reflect the real-life strength and beauty of the communities she writes about. 📚 What We Talk About in This Episode: • The real-life inspiration behind Who Touches the Mountains • Why the Blue Ridge Mountains are close to Deborah’s heart • The power of redemption in fiction and in life Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Deborah’s work for the first time, this episode will leave you inspired to embrace hope, restoration, and the healing power of story. Deborah Raney has dreamed of writing books since childhood. Her 40+ books have garnered multiple awards and a movie based on her first book, A Vow to Cherish. Deborah is on faculty for several national writers’ conferences. She is a transplant to Missouri with her husband to be closer to kids and grandkids. They love road trips, garage sale dates and breakfast on the screened porch overlooking their wooded backyard. Visit Deb on the web at www.deborahraney.com For the complete summer reading list: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading

Summer Reading Series with Lynn H. Blackburn, Break My Fall What if the winding path you're on isn't a detour—but divine direction? In this episode of our Summer Reading Series, we're joined by the incredible Lynn H. Blackburn to talk about how God truly uses everything—every season, every twist in our journey—for His purpose and glory. Lynn opens up about her own path to becoming a writer and how following God's call isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. We also dive into her latest romantic suspense novel, Break My Fall, and hear about some of the books she's enjoying right now. Lynn H. Blackburn loves writing swoon-worthy Southern suspense because her childhood fantasy was to become a spy, but her grown-up reality is that she’s a chicken and would have been caught on her first mission. She prefers living vicariously through her characters by putting them into terrifying situations while she sits at home in her pajamas. She lives in Simpsonville, SC, with her true love, Brian and their three children. Learn more at LynnHBlackburn.com . Connect on social media with Lynn @LynnHBlackburn Other Summer Reads recommended: Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham and First Love, Second Draft by Becca Kinzer

Summer Reading Series Kickoff: Jill Eileen Smith, Dawn of Grace What if your past didn’t define you—and Jesus met you right where you are, with love and purpose? If we get stuck in the past we cannot walk into our future. Bestselling author Jill Eileen Smith brings Mary Magdalene’s story to life in a way that reminds us: God can use every part of your story in her book Dawn of Grace. We dive into: 💬 Jill’s path to becoming a successful author 📚 Why she chose to tell Mary Magdalene’s story ❤️ How Jesus honors women and meets us exactly where we are 🔥 The importance of aligning our passions with God’s will before pursuing them This conversation will inspire you to reflect, connect deeper with Scripture, and remember the beauty of how God uses our stories—right where we are. Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling and award-winning author of the biblical fiction series The Wives of King David, Wives of the Patriarchs and Daughters of the Promised Land, along with more. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in biblical times. Jill lives with her family in Michigan. Learn more at https://JillEileenSmith.com Facebook: @JillEileenSmith Instagram: @JillEileenSmith Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com