My Southern Godmother

What if one of the most familiar parts of the Bible… is actually the one we’ve overlooked the most?In this episode of My Southern Godmother, Jena sits down with Brad Gray — founder of Walking the Text — to talk about the power, depth, and daily impact of the Lord’s Prayer.Brad shares the incredible story behind his new documentary and series on the Lord’s Prayer, including how a private project unexpectedly caught the attention of Hollywood producer Mark Burnett… and the wild, faith-stretching journey that followed.But more than that, this conversation will challenge how you think about prayer, Scripture, and your daily rhythms with God.Together, they explore: Why the Lord’s Prayer is more than something we memorized as kids  How familiarity can keep us from transformation  What it actually means to pray “your kingdom come”  How small, daily rhythms can radically deepen your faith  Why obedience doesn’t always feel safe — but is always worth it If you’ve ever felt like your spiritual life is dry, rushed, or surface-level, this episode will invite you into something deeper — without adding more pressure.Go watch The Lord's Prayer on AngelLearn about & watch The Sacred ThreadMeet Brad GrayReflection Question: What is one small way you can begin incorporating the Lord’s Prayer into your daily life?🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

Fear has a sneaky way of showing up everywhere — in big decisions, small decisions, motherhood, work, uncertainty, and all the “what ifs” we carry around without even realizing it.In this episode of My Southern Godmother, Jena and Debbie talk honestly about what it looks like to trust God when fear feels loud. Jena shares about declaring this her “no fear year,” only to quickly realize how often fear still bubbles up in everyday life. Debbie offers wisdom from her own journey with fear and explains why the goal isn’t to never feel afraid — it’s to know what to do when fear shows up.Together, they talk about:Why fear doesn’t mean you’re failing at faithHow fear can quietly make your decisions for youThe importance of bringing fear into the light instead of keeping it hiddenThe comfort of knowing God goes before you and stays with youWhy Hinds’ Feet on High Places is such a powerful picture of trusting God through the unknownIf you’ve been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disappointed in yourself for still struggling with fear, this episode is a gentle reminder that God is not asking you to fake bravery — He’s asking you to trust Him on the path.Question to reflect on: Where are you feeling afraid right now — and are you willing to let God go before you there?🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

What do you do when things don’t go your way?If you’re being honest… Do you ever wonder:Is this my fault? Is this God’s fault? Why isn’t He fixing this?In this episode of My Southern Godmother, Jena and Debbie have a real conversation about what it looks like to wrestle with God — without walking away from Him.From Debbie’s emotional week thinking her 97-year-old mother was about to pass… to Jena admitting she sometimes feels like a “grumbling Israelite,” this episode dives into the tension between faith and frustration.Together, they unpack Philippians 3 and explore:Why Paul called all his accomplishments “rubbish”The difference between shallow roots and deep rootsWhy we’re quick to blame God when things go wrong (but slow to credit Him when they go right)What it means to know Christ as the “surpassing greatness”How to stay tender toward God in seasons of sufferingIf you’ve ever felt disappointed, confused, or even angry with God… this conversation is for you.--🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

Change is inevitable… but bitterness doesn’t have to be.In this episode, Jenna and Debbie talk about what it looks like to respond to change with faith—especially when it’s unwanted, unexpected, or uncomfortable. Debbie shares a vulnerable personal update (and a reminder to take your health seriously), and together they unpack why some people get stuck looking backward while others learn how to embrace what God is doing next.You’ll hear:Why change can feel extra hard when you’re wired for routineThe difference between resisting change vs. adapting with trustHow bitterness can block blessings (and how to shift your posture)A powerful story of faith after a life-altering setbackThe anchor verse for every season: Hebrews 13:8 — “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”Question to reflect on: How do you typically respond when change shows up in your life—fear, frustration… or faith?--🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

In this week’s Philippians study, we’re diving into Philippians 2—the chapter that lovingly (and painfully 😅) calls all of us out:“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit…”We talk about what humility actually looks like in real life—not the Pinterest version. The kind that shows up in marriage, leadership, friendships, church life, and even the way we walk into conversations asking, “What do you need?”In this episode, we unpack:Why selfish ambition is sneakier than we thinkHow to do a “calendar audit” that reveals what you really prioritizeWhat it means to “consider others more important than yourself” (without becoming a doormat)The powerful relationship Paul had with the believers in Philippi—and the words he used to describe themWhy Paul says, “Honor men like him”—and how to identify the people in your life who are worthy of honorAnd we end with a simple but challenging question: Who in your life is worthy of honor… and do they know it?🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

Spiritual warfare can sound intense… but it’s also incredibly practical.In today’s episode, Debbie and I break down what spiritual warfare actually is, what the Bible says about it, and what to do when you feel stuck, anxious, or under attack — mentally, emotionally, or spiritually.Debbie shares a powerful story and visual from history — the Berlin Wall — to explain what Scripture calls strongholds (a “wall of resistance”) and how those walls can build up over time in our lives. Then we walk through the weapons God gives us to tear them down — not worldly weapons, but ones with divine power (2 Corinthians 10:3–5).In this episode, we talk about:What spiritual warfare is (and what it isn’t)What a “stronghold” means and how it formsWhy the battle is often won or lost in the mindHow fear, anxiety, and mistrust can become “walls of resistance”The 4 weapons God gives us: the Word of God, the Armor of God, Praise, and PrayerA simple question to help you identify what wall might need to come down in your lifeQuestion for you: What’s one “wall of resistance” you sense in your life right now — and what would it look like to start tearing it down, brick by brick?----🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

Life is still hard — even when you’ve walked with Jesus for a long time.In this episode, Jena and Debbie settle into a real, honest conversation about the season they’re in right now — motherhood messes, busy weeks, Scripture, and the challenge of keeping an eternal perspective when life feels loud and heavy.They talk through Philippians 1, reflecting on Paul’s ability to hold joy and suffering at the same time, what it means to live as citizens of heaven, and how to stay grounded in faith when circumstances don’t feel joyful at all.This episode is part Scripture study, part life catch-up, and part gentle reminder that joy doesn’t mean ignoring reality — it means anchoring yourself in something deeper.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why joy and happiness are not the same thingHow Paul’s imprisonment reframes our perspective on sufferingWhat it looks like to live with heaven in mind while handling everyday lifeA simple, no-pressure way to study Scripture in busy seasonsWhy community and spiritual rhythms matter more than everIf you’ve been feeling stretched, distracted, or spiritually dry, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, open your Bible, and remember where your hope comes from.---🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

Some songs are just… songs.And then there are the ones that mark you forever. In this episode, Jena and Debbie swap stories about the worship songs that literally stopped them in their tracks - pulling over on country roads, kneeling on the den floor with a laundry basket, and meeting God in unexpected places.They share:The Larnelle Harris songs that helped Debbie experience God’s grace in a whole new wayThe Good Friday service where one lyric made her sit in silence for 20 minutes while the Holy Spirit worked on her heartThe simple camp song Jena still sings over her kids every night at bedtimeHow a Phil Wickham song became the soundtrack to Jena’s single years and her walk down the aisleWhy God often meets us in the mundane - like doing laundry, driving to church, or walking the West Side HighwayA gentle encouragement to start looking for God in the small, ordinary moments of your lifeWe’d love to hear from you: 💬 What are the top 1–2 worship songs that have shaped your faith story? Send us a note or DM - we might share some of them in a future episode!---🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

What happens when you tell God “I’ll go anywhere. I’ll do anything” — and mean it?In this episode, Debbie shares one of the most pivotal stories of her life. After a sermon on Romans 12, she and her husband stood up in church and said the boldest prayer a believer can pray: “Here am I, Lord. Send me.” Within days they had their house on the market, preparing to follow God anywhere He wanted to send them.But what happened next was nothing like they expected.This episode explores: ✨ What it really means to surrender your plans to God ✨ Why God’s direction often looks completely different than you imagine ✨ How He brought the mission field straight to their doorstep ✨ What obedience looks like in the everyday… not just overseas ✨ Why saying “Send me” is the most life-changing prayer you can prayThis story will challenge you, encourage you, and inspire you to ask the same question:What if God is calling you somewhere — and it’s closer than you think?QUESTION FOR YOU: Where do you sense God is trying to send you in this season?--🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

If life feels like a lot right now, you’re not alone. Between travel, kids out of rhythm, tech chaos, exhaustion, and trying to hold everything together, Jena and Debbie sit down to process a month that felt like too much — and to read the passage that’s been anchoring Debbie’s heart for weeks: Psalm 103:1–13.In this episode, they talk about:The five small words that change everything: “forget not all His benefits”Why God disciplines but never punishes His childrenWhat Scripture actually means when it says He is “slow to anger, abounding in love”How to let the peace of Christ blow the whistle in your heartWhy “east from west” forgiveness is something you can actually rest inSimple micro-habits that make spiritual life doable in a full seasonAnd of course… stories from NASCAR to the Biltmore to toddler meltdowns to white pants postpartum. 😅If you’ve felt overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like you’re barely holding it together, this conversation will remind you of who God is, what He’s already done, and why you don’t have to carry all of this alone.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: What is one benefit of God you don’t want to forget this week?—🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

It has been a journey y'all! But we are finally here. After months of planning, loads of tech issues....we've finally launched the video version of the My Southern Godmother podcast on YouTube.On today's episode we talk through why we're doing video, what to expect for the future - and even go through Debbie's skincare routine. (It will have you in stitches!)If you've ever wondered what Debbie and Jena look like, now's your opportunity. Head on over to our YOUTUBE CHANNEL and hit subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmotherWe'll also be actively posting to Instagram now that we have content and we would be SO honored if you would repost our clips! As always, thanks for joining us on this journey. And welcome to another week of My Southern Godmother.—If this episode encouraged you:🤍 Leave a rating or review 📲 Share it with a friend or family member 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @MySouthernGodmother ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@MySouthernGodmother 📩 Email us at [email protected] with topics you'd love us to cover

Have you ever wondered why certain patterns seem to run in your family—fear, anxiety, striving, or even silence around faith? And have you ever hoped, deep down, “Lord, let it stop with me”?In this episode we talk about generational curses and generational blessings—what they are, how they show up, and how, in Christ, you can partner with God to build a new legacy for your family line.Starting in Psalm 103:17–18, they unpack the promise that God’s righteousness extends to our children’s children and talk about what it practically looks like to sow spiritual blessings into the next generation through:Stories of faith – honestly sharing where God has met you in real lifePrayer over children and grandchildren – not just for safety and success, but for hearts that love GodScripture woven into everyday life – from simple reading plans to Scripture set to musicDebbie shares honestly about a generational pattern of fear on her dad’s side of the family and how she has intentionally confronted it—recognizing fear is not from God, praying through it, and sometimes quite literally “waging war” in prayer over her home and family.Jena talks about wanting her kids to inherit more than financial stability—she wants them to inherit a rich spiritual heritage of prayer, blessing, and freedom. Together, they explore how to identify unhealthy patterns, break them in Jesus’ name, and replace them with truth, peace, and purpose.If you’ve ever felt the weight of your family history—or the desire to create something different for your children—this episode will give you hope, language, and a place to start.QUESTION OF THE WEEK What is one generational pattern you want to break in your family, and what is one blessing you want to intentionally sow into future generations?—If this episode encouraged you:🤍 Leave a rating or review📲 Share it with a friend or family member📩 Email us at [email protected] and tell us how we can be praying for your family and future generations.

Do you ever feel like you’re too busy for Jesus… but also too tired to do anything about it?This week we dive into the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38–42 and talk about what it really looks like to “choose the better part” when life feels full, loud, and overwhelming.Debbie shares how she recently taught this passage to teen girls and adult couples - all wrestling with the same thing: distraction. From school and social media to work, family health, and the pressure to “get it right,” we’re all carrying more than we were meant to.Jena opens up about a week that got completely blown up by a sick kid, a family wedding, and a full workload....and how God surprised her with unexpected provision while she was sitting on the floor playing Magnatiles with her daughter.In this episode, we talk about:Why Jesus says only one thing is needed—and what that actually isThe difference between sitting at His feet to talk vs. sitting at His feet to listenReal-life distractions for teens, parents, and grandparents (it’s shockingly similar)Debbie’s powerful backpack + rocks visual for casting your cares on JesusJena’s practical “Cast All Your Cares” jar you can recreate at homeIf you’re tired, overwhelmed, or feeling like you “don’t have time for God” in this season, this conversation will gently invite you back to His feet.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: What is one distraction you need to name and hand over to Jesus this week?—Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe🤍 Share this episode with a friend (or a tired mama who needs encouragement)📩 Email us at [email protected] and tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

What if the best years of your life are still ahead of you?This week on My Southern Godmother, Debbie shares a story (and a hilarious but powerful scripture from Joshua) that completely shifted her perspective when she thought God might be “finished” with her. We talk about:How to recognize when you’re in a preparation seasonWhy your gifts never age - even if your body doesThe difference between being “put out to pasture” and stepping into new purposeWhat it means to take new territory in your life and faithIf you’ve been feeling like your time has passed, this episode will remind you: God’s not done with you yet. There’s much more territory to take.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Where in your life might God be inviting you to step back in and take new territory?--Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected] - tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

Ever wondered how Paul could say, “I’ve learned to be content in all circumstances”… while sitting in prison?This week on My Southern Godmother, Debbie and I dig into what true biblical contentment really means....and how it’s not the same as complacency. We share:The big difference between contentment and complacencyWhy our wants can quietly steal our joyA story about a professional athlete learning to see his blessings differentlyPractical steps to cultivate peace no matter your circumstancesIf you’ve been longing for “more” and finding yourself restless, this conversation might just be the reset your heart needs.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Where in your life do you feel discontent—and what might God be inviting you to learn in that place?----Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected] - tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

To be honest friends, Debbie and I had some scheduling issues and couldn't get out our new episode in time this week.BUT! We wanted to reshare one of our most popular episodes from the past year. This episode is rich with advice, scripture, and a great analogy about a cruise ship. I needed to hear this message again. We'll be back next week with a brand spankin' new episode for you!-Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendFollow us on Instagram @mysoutherngodmotherShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories! 

Have you ever felt like your prayers were just… bouncing off the ceiling?Same.This week on My Southern Godmother, Debbie and I dive into the real talk of unanswered prayers: How we wrestle with them, what they reveal about our trust, and what it means to pray even when we don’t see results.We talk about:The season I spent begging God for a husband (and what finally shifted)Why “I’m living in answered prayers” might just be our next piece of merchThe teenager prayer trap we all fall intoA practical 5-minute prayer challenge that could change your lifeIf you’ve ever felt like God was silent, this episode is for you.✨ Challenge of the Week: Take 5 minutes to pray—without asking for anything. Just praise. Just thanks. Just time with Him.Try it. Then email us or DM @mysoutherngodmother and tell us how it went. We’d love to hear from you.

Have you ever wanted to tell someone about Jesus but didn’t know how to start?You’re not alone. I didn’t grow up knowing how to share my faith. I worried about saying the wrong thing… offending someone… or messing it up completely.But this week on My Southern Godmother, Debbie shares one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever heard (literally sobbed during this convo!) about a young woman she met in Ghana and how a simple invitation changed everything.We talk about:The woman at the well and what she teaches us about evangelismHow to share your faith without a script or pressureWhy your story is the most powerful testimony you haveThe lie that you have to “close the deal”And how my toddler reminded me what it means to simply say, “Come and see”QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Who’s on your heart this week and how could you share Jesus with them?And if someone came to mind as you listened, email us at mysoutherngodmother.com so we can pray for them by name.-----Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected] - tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

When I was in college, I thought about my body constantly.Am I pretty enough? Skinny enough? Worthy enough?For over a decade, I let those questions define how I saw myself and how I showed up in the world. The scale became my mirror. Control became my coping. And the voice in my head was one I’d never speak to my daughter.But God didn’t leave me there.This week on My Southern Godmother, Debbie and I have a tender and honest conversation about body image, control, and identity: how the world shapes us, and how Jesus restores us.In this episode:How body shame showed up in my story - and how God met me in the middle of itWhy Debbie never struggled with this (and what we can learn from that)What Psalm 139 really means when it says you’re “fearfully and wonderfully made”The moment I realized I’d never say to my daughter the things I used to say to myselfWhy this struggle can be the “good girl’s addiction” - and what to do about itQUESTION OF THE WEEK: What are the things you’re saying to yourself that you’d never say to someone you love?-----Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected] - tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

Honestly, I hate the word submission. So I asked Debbie about it.In this week’s episode of My Southern Godmother, Debbie and I get into it. What does biblical submission actually look like in a healthy marriage? How does mutual respect play into it? And - most important of all - what does the Bible say about our submission to Christ?In this episode:The story of how Debbie didn’t budge - and what God revealed through itWhy submission doesn’t mean control or silenceWhat mutual submission in a Christian marriage looks like....And what it doesn'tThe one question Debbie’s friend asked her husband that I’ll never forgetHow growing up shaped the way I think about respect (and what I want to pass on to my kids)QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Are you submitting to your spouse - and more importantly, are you submitting to Christ?Please note: There are nuances around this topic and we understand people may be coming from various backgrounds and situations. Take care while listening.-----Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected] - tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

There’s a verse in Matthew that hit me like a ton of bricks:“But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:15)I had to ask Debbie if that was really in the Bible. Spoiler: it is. 😳This week on My Southern Godmother, we’re talking about forgiveness: the kind that feels impossible, the kind you want to avoid, and the kind that sets you free. Debbie shares a powerful story about someone she genuinely struggled to love, and how God broke through in the most unexpected way. And I share how some of my dreams (yes, literal dreams) revealed unforgiveness I didn’t even realize I was still holding onto.In this episode:Why forgiveness isn’t just spiritualThe unexpected way bitterness shows up in your everyday lifeA moment in Debbie’s car that changed everythingHow to forgive someone who never said “I’m sorry”Why letting go doesn’t mean pretending it didn’t hurtQUESTION OF THE WEEK: Who do you need to forgive?-----Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected]—tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

I’m not proud of it - but I’ve judged people for things I had no business judging.And wouldn’t you know… it came right back around. 😬This week on My Southern Godmother, Debbie and I talk about the kind of judgment Jesus warns us about - the kind that says more about us than the person we’re criticizing. We dig into a verse I thought I understood…until God used a house project, a newborn, and a very humbling moment to show me otherwise.In this episode:The verse that hit Debbie differently after 30+ years of faithThe story of how I judged a stranger… and then found myself in their shoesWhat to do when your reaction is bigger than the offenseHow to check your own heart before checking someone else’s behaviorQUESTION OF THE WEEK: Has there ever been a time you judged someone and then found yourself in the same situation?----Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church📬 Email us at [email protected]—tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

We’ve all had something said to us that stuck.Sometimes it was life-giving.Other times? It became a label we’ve carried for years.This week on My Southern Godmother, Jena and Debbie talk about the power of words - how they shape our identity, influence our parenting, and reveal what’s in our hearts.In this episode:A bedtime story gone sideways (and the words that brought it back)The comment that made Jena question who she really wasWhat Jesus’ question - “Do you want to be healed?” - means for us todayWhy our words to kids matter more than we thinkHow to speak life when you’re exhausted and overstretchedDebbie and Jena talk about potential merch!QUESTION OF THE WEEK: How are you storing up God's word in your heart?---Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe 📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary 👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church 📬 Email us at [email protected]—tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

Sometimes, it’s hard to believe that God actually loves us.We say it. We sing it. We know the verses. But deep down? Many of us still wrestle to believe it’s true—for us.This week on My Southern Godmother, Jena and Debbie talk honestly about what it means to be loved by God—and why it’s so hard to grasp sometimes.In this episode:Mother’s Day reflections (and why it’s a complicated day for many women)The cracks in our hearts where God’s love wants to goWhy “Even if…” faith matters more than “What if…” fearHow to build a home where love is felt, seen, and safe---Encouraged by this episode? Help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:✅ Leave a review and subscribe 📤 Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling weary 👩‍👧 Share it with the Women’s Director at your church 📬 Email us at [email protected]—tell us your God stories or what stood out to you in this episode!

We believe a crazy thing. We believe that a man died on a cross to save us from our sins and then three days later he rose from the dead to conquer death. It's a crazy thing. But if we really believe that.... If we really believe that God did this because He loves us - it changes everything. This week Debbie and Jena talk about:- Funny things they believed forever that weren't true (involves pickles and Italian names and French babies!)- Faith isn't based on what we feel- Scriptures to help you with your unbeliefQUESTION: Where do you need to reevaluate what you believe?P.S. We had some audio issues this week, so bear with us!---Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Are you in the middle of a hard time? Maybe it's financial uncertainty. A health crisis. Job loss. A friendship that feels beyond repair. Most times, we can't predict when the storms will arise, but we can prepare for how we will respond to them. In this episode, Jena shares about the "hurricane" of an eating disorder that rocked her 20s and Debbie talks about a storm that turned her and Steve's life upside down over the past couple of years. Join in if you need encouragement during the hard times.--Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

What an episode!We bring our first guest Southern Godmother on the podcast - Maria - to talk through her cancer journey and how the Lord was near through it all.Even if you aren't in the midst of a health crisis, this episode will encourage you to believe in God's goodness, come nearer to Him, and have hope for your future. --Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

It's really easy to sit in your past or worry about your future. On today's episode, we talk about removing shame and entering into the new things God has for your life. We also have a giggle about:"socially acceptable sins"tornadosJena's lack of gardening knowledgeIf you've ever dwelled on the past, sat in shame, or dwelled on all the bad things in your life - this episode is for you.QUESTIONS OF THE WEEK: Where are you dwelling in the past and is it distorting your vision of new growth in your life?-----Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

WE ARE BACK! After Jena took some time to welcome her son into the world, we are back and ready to share more encouraging stories of God's goodness. On today's episode:Jena shares Beckett's birth storyDebbie shares what she's been up to How to balance joy and sorrowDo you believe that God loves you?We missed y'all and are so glad to be back recording. QUESTIONS OF THE WEEK: Where are you not believing that you are loved? What cares do you need to fling into the arms of Jesus?-----Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Merry Christmas y'all! Thank you for joining us this year on the My Southern Godmother journey. In today's episode we talk about settling into the Christmas season and not getting wrapped up in all the pomp and circumstance, but rather sitting at the feet of the King. We also share some updates on the future of MSG and what's ahead for 2025! --Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

This episode is so practical. Jena and Debbie talk about the importance of female friendships, how to identify a good friend, and when it's time to reevaluate some relationships in your life. We also talk about Steel Magnolias, Christmas preparation, and the benefits of cross-generational friendships.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: How can I be a better friend to the friend's that I have?--Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Ever wonder if God is there? Like, does he really see YOU? Debbie asks a thoughtful question using the story of the Road to Emmaus that pushes back at this fear: "How many times do you sense the presence of Jesus, but you're in a hurry?"It's a doozy folks! Especially as we enter the Christmas season which seems like busy busy is the name of the game, Debbie reminds us that pausing to be with Jesus is the best thing we can do.(Plus! We'll give you some laughs as Jena shares her potty training woes!)--Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Did you ever play hide & seek when you were little?Debbie shares a story of hide & seek that will help you see God in a different light. Especially if you are in a season of "hiddenness", this episode will be encouraging, thought-provoking and fun.QUESTION OF THE WEEK:  What does it mean to seek God?---Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

A couple of weeks ago, we talked about getting out of the PEWS and into your PURPOSE. But what does that mean? How do you uncover God's purpose for your life? In this episode, we talk about:Different purposes in different seasonsSpiritual Gifts vs. TalentsChatGPT (which hilariously Jena ALSO got wrong) Practical ways to live out your purposeQUESTION OF THE WEEK: How will you use your talents or spiritual gifts today?---Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Waiting is hard. Maybe you're waiting on a job. Or good health news. Or a baby. Or a spouse. Or breakthrough in your marriage. Everybody is waiting on something.But, what does it mean to wait thou only on God? Debbie tells a story of waiting that will change your perspective on how to wait well.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: What are you waiting for? And how are you waiting? Do you wish you could shift the way you wait?-- Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Anyone else feel intimidated by the Bible? Or maybe you've quit reading it altogether because it just feels so overwhelming. In today's episode, Debbie walks through how she reads the Bible and we discuss practical ways to walk through Scripture. This is a really practical episode that we know will be extremely helpful in your spiritual formation! Resources Mentioned:The Bible RecapLectio DivinaThe Bible ProjectQUESTION OF THE WEEK: What is one thing you're going to implement this week? How do you read the Bible? (psst! we want to know! email us at [email protected])-- Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear how you read the Bible!

If you feel like you're just going through the motions of life - this episode is for you. Debbie gives us a great framework for how to get out of the PEWS and into God's PURPOSE no matter how he has gifted you. You'll leave this episode feeling inspired to ask God how he has wired you and feeling compelled to use those gifts for His glory.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Do you feel as if you're growing and flourishing? Are you willing to let God transplant you?-- Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed out, and weary? Do you feel like you are at capacity? As women, it's so easy to stretch ourselves beyond our limits - with kids, family, work, marriage, activities....you name it. We're a tired bunch!Join Debbie and Jena as they talk through encouraging Scripture for those seasons and how to identify if you're at capacity in your life. P.S. This episode also involves some chats about cruise ships, cursive, and husbands who cook! QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Are you in a season of life where you need to offload some cargo?-Are you encouraged by these episodes? Here's how you can help us spread the My Southern Godmother message:Leave us a review and make sure you subscribe!Share with a friendShare with the Women's Director at your churchShoot us an email at [email protected] - we'd love to hear your God stories!

Stepping out in faith - what does it actually mean and how do you do it?Debbie tells one of her stories of saying YES to God, even though she was terrified. Be encouraged that even though saying yes may not be easy - God will be with you every step of the way.QUESTION OF THE WEEK: What box is the Lord asking you to check?--Are you encouraged by these episodes? Please please please leave us a review and share with a friend!Do you have a story of how God provided for YOU? Shoot us an email at [email protected]. We'd love to hear it!

Singleness can be no joke. Whether you're not-yet-married, divorced, or widowed - singleness is a topic that holds a lot of emotion, especially for Christian women.Join Jena and Debbie as they chat through their own seasons of singleness, what they learned and how to be contentment even in your desire to find or meet your spouse. QUESTION OF THE WEEK: "What does contentment look like for you in this season?"--Are you encouraged by these episodes? Please please please leave us a review and share with a friend!Do you have a story of how God provided for YOU? Shoot us an email at [email protected]. We'd love to hear it!

Debbie flips the microphone and asks Jena about HER stories of how God showed up financially for her and her family. Jena shares about a layoff, living with an inconsistent income and her journey of releasing control and fear about money.This is great episode for anyone who wants to feel encouraged that at no matter the age or stage, God is a God who sees you during times of uncertainty.-Are you encouraged by these episodes? Please please please leave us a review and share with a friend!Do you have a story of how God provided for YOU? Shoot us an email at [email protected]. We'd love to hear it!

Grab the tissues because this episode will have you weepy from God's kindness.The second in a two-parter story, Debbie continues to share her journey of losing everything in her 40s...and how God provided. This episode is full of twists and turns and gentle reminders that God is a God of details. Tune in if you need the reminder that you are not your provider, that God has a bigger plan, and that He cares for the little things.--Are you encouraged by these episodes? Please please please leave us a review and share with a friend! Do you want to share a God story of your own? Shoot us an email at [email protected]. We'd love to hear it!

In this two-parter story, Debbie shares what it was like to lose everything in her early 40s. Despite losing their home, businesses and livelihood, she shares the ways God showed that He saw her, cared for her and was her ultimate provider. (It involves some jello and tomatoes!)This episode will be encouraging to any person who is currently or who has ever walked through financial hardship and had to learn, "Do I really trust that God will provide for ME?"Tune in next week to see what how God provided for Debbie and her family. It involves two weddings, job loss, and a miraculous utilities bill.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of My Southern Godmother. In this episode we talk through:How Debbie and I met (and how you could meet your older, wiser, mentor!)Debbie's story of how she came to ChristMy story of how I met Jesus on Wall StreetEncouragement for if you're feeling down in your faithDo you love this episode? Make sure you: Subscribe to our podcastLeave us a reviewSend to a friend!See you next week!