Real Talk with Rachael Podcast

This month, we're in a series about attachments. We've already examined a few attachment types and why I addressed this topic in the introduction of my book, Image Restored. Then we discussed secure attachment to Christ and our call. This week and next, I felt led to give you a glimpse of the private Image Restored podcast, available to those who preorder the book. While the whole book aims to deepen your secure attachment to our Creator, I've selected a few chapters that I feel will encourage you to grow in your relationship with Him in a new way. This week we're digging into chapter 8 which deals with emotions. As a bonus, we are giving downloads of the chapter coloring pages that line up with these episodes. To grab those, head to ImageRestoredBook.com, preorder the book, then input your receipt for access to all the goodies so you can use the therapeutic coloring sheet with today's episode.

This month we're in a series about attachments. Last week, we examined a few of the different types of attachments and why I addressed this topic in the introduction of my book, Image Restored. If you missed that episode, please go back and listen to see the foundation upon which this series is built. For this episode, I felt the Holy Spirit ask me to share a prophetic word He gave me in worship last week and how it applies to our secure attachment to Christ and our call. PROCESS: What area of my life feels heavy? Is it due to wearing armor that's not mine to wear? MY STONE: Today's episode is brought to you by my book, Image Restored, which releases next month on March 7th, but you can preorder now and get the special price on Amazon of $13.99 (which is 30% off retail price). When you preorder, you automatically get the lowest price it dips to on Amazon. PLUS, you can access the private Image Restored podcast. To learn more and access preorder bonuses, visit ImageRestoredBook.com.

This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm talking with Dr. Mary Dainty. Dr. Dainty is a fully licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a board-approved counselor supervisor. She operates a private practice in Fort Worth that focuses on trauma-related problems using EMDR. Additionally, Dr. Dainty works for Baylor Scott & White All Saints as a PRN intake and assessment clinician and is an adjunct professor at The King's University in Southlake. When She's not working, she loves to spend time with her husband and son. Her favorite past times include sitting outside with a warm cup of tea and chitchatting with friends in the court, traveling to see friends and family, and any opportunity where she can sit on the beach curling the sand between her toes. Key Points from Our Conversation: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps retrain the brain's response to trauma by unblocking neurological pathways that help us process in a healthy way. EMDR is effective for both "small t traumas" (adverse events) and "big T traumas" (substantially traumatic events) that have happened at any point in your life. The number of sessions needed will vary for each person and everyone will require some sort of maintenance. Your brain has a phenomenal capacity to keep you safe. One of the ways it does this is by collecting information that might prevent harm in the future. However, it sometimes collects information that is not helpful, causing confusion. If you have tried therapy or EMDR before and it wasn't effective for you or you had a bad experience, it's worth trying again. Different counselors use different methods and our needs change with our seasons of life. As Christians, when something good happens as a result of an event, we don't want to consider the event traumatic because we've been taught to "count it all joy." However, it's worth reexamining those events and processing any complex emotions so we can heal. Connect with Dr. Mary Dainty: website | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

It's February which, to some, means the month of love. This month, I felt God say it's time to dive into attachment. In this episode, we will look at a few of the different types of attachments and why I addressed this topic in the introduction of my book, Image Restored. In secure attachments, individuals feel safe expressing emotions, communicating with others, and setting boundaries. An insecure attachment style may develop from abuse, abandonment, or a rocky relationship with a caregiver or parent. Bottom line: When we are operating primarily from a place of insecure attachment, we cling to anything and anyone that gives us hope of love and security. The problem is that no man or achievement can ever fill a hole in our soul that only God can fill. PROCESS: How is my attachment style? Is it secure or insecure? If insecure, what have I been clinging to? God, how do you want to improve my attachment to You? RESOURCE My book, Image Restored, releases on March 7th, 2023. When you preorder, you can access the private Image Restored podcast with short teachings, coaching calls, and other exclusive content. To learn more and access preorder bonuses, head to ImageRestoredBook.com.

God put it on my heart to dedicate the first month of this new year by hosting a "First Fruits" podcast series. In this podcast series, we've taken every Monday and given the first of a different area of our lives to the Lord. Last week we gave the first of our time and energy to God. In the last episode of this series, we're dedicating our finances to Him. READ: Matthew 6:21, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Proverbs 3:9-10, "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine." Malachi 3:10, "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." PROCESS: Lord, what has my heart? How am I stewarding my finances? Anything I need to change? RESOURCE: The Blessed Life by Robert Morris Pastor Robert is also my uncle and he wrote the foreword for my book, Image Restored. To learn more and access preorder bonuses, head to ImageRestoredBook.com. The book trailer is now available on that page, as well!

This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm talking with actor Kevin Sorbo about his new movie Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist. Kevin is most known for the lead role in "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" which became the world's most-watched TV show. Following that success, he has been in over 90 movies and TV shows including God's Not Dead, Soul Surfer, Reagan, "Two and a Half Men," "Psych," "Hawaii 5-0," and "The OC". In this interview, we discuss his heart behind joining the latest Left Behind sequel, what he hopes people will take away from the movie, and the impact his faith-based films have had on audiences. He also shares his salvation story and how he got into acting, as well as some advice for Christians who want to pursue acting as a career. Let's Get Real Practical: Read the book of Revelation Connect with Kevin: website | Instagram Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

God put it on my heart to dedicate the first month of this new year by hosting a "First Fruits" podcast series. In this podcast series, we will take every Monday and give the first of a different area of our lives to the Lord. Last week we gave the first of our health and wellness to God. This week we are dedicating our time and energy. READ: Psalm 143:8, "Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life." PROCESS What can I do to ensure I give the first of my day to the Lord? What is taking my energy that is not fruitful? What is a time thief in my days? PRAY Lord, I yield to you as my shepherd today. Thank you for your goodness, mercy, love, and supernatural favor and wisdom that follows me everywhere I go. Enlarge my family's territory in all that we do. Keep your hand upon us and deliver us from evil. Show us the way we should go, for to you we entrust our lives. In Jesus' name, amen. RESOURCE: This is the final week my book launch team is open and I would love for you to join! To learn more and register, head to ImageRestoredBook.com. You can also see the book trailer and register to claim the preorder bonus, one of which is access to a private podcast series all about body image.

God put it on my heart to dedicate the first month of this new year by hosting a "First Fruits" podcast series. In this podcast series, we will take every Monday and give the first of a different area of our lives to the Lord. Last week we gave the first of our health and wellness to God. This week we are dedicating our plans. Just recently I experienced the difference between plans submitted to God and those that aren't submitted to Him. I prayed about the timing of releasing something, felt peace to move forward, and God blessed it. A few days later I was in a hurry to check something off my to-do list, didn't talk to God about it, and moved forward, and you could hear the crickets chirping from the lack of response. The difference? One was submitted to God and His timing and the other was not. READ: Proverbs 19:2, Psalms 33:11, Exodus 33:15 PROCESS God, what plans do I need to submit to You? Think of a specific plan you have in mind. Ask God for His timing on moving forward with this plan. God, show me any of my plans not from You. I don't want to move forward if you aren't in it. RESOURCE: My book launch team is open and I have space to lead a group of women through an early-release copy of my book, Image Restored. The first 100 to register get a physical advanced reader copy of my book. Anyone after that will get a digital copy. To learn more and register, head to ImageRestoredBook.com.

This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with Amanda Pittman. Amanda is the author of Stand in Confidence and the devotional 100 Days of Life-Changing Confidence, speaker, entrepreneur, and the Founder of Confident Woman Co., a ministry that equips women to stand confidently upon the finished work of Jesus. Through Confident Woman Co., Amanda hosts retreats, conferences, online events, podcasts, videos, and more. Amanda lives near Dallas, Texas with her husband, Michael, and her two children, Elijah and Lily. Key Points from Our Conversation: Our job is obedience, God's job is the outcome. Our job is faithfulness, God's job is fruitfulness. Clarity leads to confidence and confusion leads to insecurity. Many times we lack clarity because we lack connection to God. We're more connected to the world so we can't see God or ourselves clearly. The more connected to God we are, the more confident we are. You can find confidence that lasts in a standard that never changes – the sacrifice of Jesus. 4 components of confidence – Clarity – knowing your identity and design will help you know what to do Connection – first with God, then with others. Involve God in who you surround yourself with Competency – the more competent you are, the more confident you are. Do the work of healing and finding freedom from your past by renewing your mind Conviction – It's the "why" that drives you. We need to be others-focused. We get insecure when we focus on ourselves. As Christians, we don't have to discover who we are - we are a new creation, children of God - you just have to embrace it. We don't have to search within ourselves to find meaning - we find meaning in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ which demonstrates His love for us. We must internalize it. Instead of attempting to change your behavior, focus on reorienting your identity. Renew your mind by identifying yourself with righteousness rather than sin. God does not have a speaking problem, but we often have a listening problem. If you are a child of God, you can hear His voice if you will create a space that allows you to tune out others and hear His still, small voice. Let's Get Real Practical: When praying about this section, God gave me two things to focus on - "rest and hear." Rest is a commandment for our well-being. It's a gift and where we can best hear God's voice. This week ask: How can I rest in my work? "God, show me pockets of rest in my day." What does a Sabbath day of rest look like in this season? "Holy Spirit, what are you whispering to me today?" Connect with Amanda: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

God put it on my heart to dedicate the first month of this new year by hosting a "First Fruits" podcast series. In this podcast series, we will take every Monday and give the first of a different area of our lives to the Lord. We started the series by talking about rest. This week, we are dedicating our health and fitness. I realize this is the biggest area many of you recommitted to this year, but will you join me in doing it God's way? READ: 1 Corinthians 3:16-23; Romans 12:1-2 PROCESS: Jesus, what does honoring my body look like in this season? What is a simple step you are asking me to take that will improve my health this year? What habit do I need to start or stop this year, as an act of worship to You? Resource: My book launch team is open and I have space to lead a group of women through an early release copy of my book, Image Restored. The first 100 to register get a physical advanced reader copy of my book. Anyone after that will get a digital copy. To learn more and register, head to ImageRestoredBook.com. The book trailer is now available on that page, as well! Our integrated medical practice BBC (Building Better Care) Health (formerly known as the Back & Body Clinic)

Welcome to the first episode of 2023! God put it on my heart to dedicate the first month of this new year by hosting a "First Fruits" podcast series. In this podcast series, we will take every Monday and give the first of a different area of our lives to the Lord. The first area God put on my heart was rest. Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. This is not a religious checklist; rather, it's a gift from God. PROCESS with these 3 Rs: Repent: "God, I repent for not taking a Sabbath day of rest. Please forgive me for not receiving this gift of rest. I receive your grace and forgiveness today." Rejoice: Thank God for rest. It was His idea. Revisit: What does rest look like for me in this season? Resource: My book launch team is unofficially open and I have space to lead a group of women through an early release copy of my book, Image Restored. The first 100 to register get a physical advanced reader copy of my book. Anyone after that will get a digital copy. We will cap the group so I am giving time for my people, that's YOU, to sign up and be part of that launch before I announce anything publicly. To learn more and register, head to ImageRestoredBook.com. The book trailer is now available on that page, as well!

Back by popular demand is our third annual Process and Pray series. Each December, we spend every Monday morning in a series where we process and pray through the year. Each week the focus will be different, but the theme of processing, praying, and praising will remain the same. I asked the Lord to show me four areas he wants us to process before we move into the new year. In this episode, we're finishing the series by giving God the dreams and desires of our hearts. Process the following questions throughout the week in a journal - What dreams or desires of your heart came to pass this year? What dreams are still in your heart, but don't seem to be coming to pass? Is it time to let that dream go OR do I need to stand in faith for it? What dream do you want to deposit in my heart for 2023? Resource: I have a private invitation for my podcast listeners only. My book launch team is unofficially open, and I have space to lead 100 women through an early release copy of my book, Image Restored. I am giving time for my people, that's YOU, to sign up and be part of that launch before I announce anything publicly. To learn more and register, head to ImageRestoredBook.com. The book trailer is now available on that page, as well!

Back by popular demand is our third annual Process and Pray series. Each December, we spend every Monday morning in a series where we process and pray through the year. Each week the focus will be different, but the theme of processing, praying, and praising will remain the same. I asked the Lord to show me four areas he wants us to process before we move into the new year. In this episode, we're evaluating if our values lined up with our resources in 2022. Resources are anything we have in our hand - time, money, energy, and influence. Values are the core of who we are and what we do. Everyone has values, but we don't always stop to ask what they are and if they are biblical. Process the following questions throughout the week in a journal - What are my values? Are those values biblical? Did my values align with how I used my resources in 2022? God, what values and resources do you want me to take into 2023? Resource: I have a private invitation for my podcast listeners only! My book launch team is unofficially open, and I have space to lead 100 women through an early release copy of my book, Image Restored. I am giving time for my people, that's YOU, to sign up and be part of that launch before I announce anything publicly. To learn more and register, head to ImageRestoredBook.com. The book trailer is now available on that page, as well!

Back by popular demand is our third annual Process and Pray series. Each December, we spend every Monday morning in a series where we process and pray through the year. Each week the focus will be different, but the theme of processing, praying, and praising will remain the same. I asked the Lord to show me four areas he wants us to process before we move into the new year. In this episode, we are looking at what worked and what victories we experienced in 2022. Jesus cares about our past, present, and future. Let's welcome Him into this journey. Pray, "Jesus, what victories do you want to remind me of from this year?" Process these questions throughout the week in a journal: What victories or breakthroughs came in 2022? What went well that I want to carry into 2023? Thank God for these victories with your voice Tell someone about the goodness of God Resource: Would you like to hear behind-the-scenes footage and content that didn't make it into my book? When you pre-order Image RESTored on Amazon or other retailers, you get access to a private podcast all about body image and other health-related topics. Head to imagerestoredbook.com to learn more, preorder, and join the email list so you can access that private podcast when it releases in the new year.

Back by popular demand is our third annual Process and Pray series. Each December, we spend every Monday morning in a series where we process and pray through the year. Each week the focus will be different, but the theme of processing, praying, and praising will remain the same. I asked the Lord to show me four areas he wants us to process before we move into the new year. As a therapist, I like to start by looking back and processing the hard things so we can embrace the present and look forward to the future. In this episode, we are going to start by processing disappointments. We will also look at what didn't work this year so we can let that go as we move into the new year. Jesus cares about our past, present, and future. Let's start by welcoming Him into this journey. Process these questions throughout the week in a journal: What disappointments did I experience in 2022? What didn't work in 2022? Consider schedules, expectations, etc. Have I grieved this disappointment or numbed the pain with passive activities like eating, shopping, social media, or other avoidant activities? God, what do you want to redeem that was stolen in 2022? Resource: Would you like to hear behind-the-scenes footage and content that didn't make it into my book? When you pre-order Image RESTored on Amazon or other retailers, you get access to a private podcast all about body image and other health-related topics. Head to imagerestoredbook.com to learn more, preorder, and join the email list so you can access that private podcast when it releases in the new year.

This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with artist and author Matthew West about his new book The God Who Stays. Matthew is a five-time GRAMMY nominee, a multiple ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year winner, and a 2018 Dove Award Songwriter of the Year (Artist) recipient. He has received an American Music Award, a Billboard Music Award, a K-LOVE Fan Award, and named Billboard's Hot Christian Songwriter of the Year. Apart from his successful career as a musician, he is also an accomplished author, passionate father, and husband. Key Points from Our Conversation: In some seasons it can feel like God is distant, but He is the God who stays. Not only does He stay, He actively desires to spend time with us because He doesn't just love us, He likes us as well. The thing we need, don't deserve, and that gives us hope is the grace of God. He is present in our failures. Our imperfections don't disqualify us from His perfect love. When we know that God is with us regardless of the situation, we are called to stay with others in their times of need. Let's Get Real Practical: Reflect on your own "blue couch moment" - the moment you accepted the love of Christ. He was the God who stays then and He's the God who is with you now. Remembering our "blue couch moment" is a reminder of His unfailing faithfulness. Connect with Matthew: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This month we aren't in a specific series. Instead, I feel the Lord directing me to share what He puts on my heart for the week. Today's word is "you are secure." Maslow's hierarchy of needs is as follows: physiological needs, safety, love, belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. Security is a basic need of all humans, especially women. As a Christian counselor, I see many women, myself included, who do not doubt our salvation, but we doubt our worth. We sing the song, "I am a child of God," but we don't act like it. Process: In the introduction of my book, Image Restored, I shared about a study that found a secure attachment to our creator improves body image and other insecurities. Spend some time today evaluating your secure attachment to God. Then start a servant versus secure list and allow God to reveal the places He wants you to trust in Him. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This month we aren't in a specific series. Instead, I feel the Lord directing me to share what He puts on my heart for the week. Also known as "a word in due season." Today's word is "expect a miracle." Here's the Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary definition of a miracle: "The definition of miracle in the Bible, then, is a literary definition: an extraordinary occurrence, attributable to God's hand (which at times disrupts the order of creation), and which leaves a marked impression in the text; the criteria for determining what is to be considered a miracle are literary in character." I am hungry to see miracles and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This week, try these two prayer prompts: God, open my eyes to miracles all around me. (Consider keeping a "miracle journal.") God, how can I play a part in a miracle that You want to do in someone else's life? Open my eyes to people around me who are praying for a miracle. In most miracles, both man and God take part in the performance of the miracle such as in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7–11) or in bringing forth water from a rock (Exod 17:1–7). God wants to partner with us to perform miracles, He's just waiting for us to say yes. God blesses obedience. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with author Grace Valentine about her book "What Will They Think?". Not only is Grace an author, she's also a blogger, podcast host, and speaker. Her readers love that she is so relatable. They say her fresh voice helps them navigate their own faith and life, which in turn helps fulfill her mission to show others that Christianity is an adventure worth living. After growing up outside New Orleans, Louisiana, Grace attended Baylor University, graduating in 2018 with a degree in journalism. She now resides in Orlando, Florida, where she enjoys running and eating lots of sushi. Grace loves connecting with readers, so send her a message! Key Points from Our Conversation: Most of the younger generation of women don't have a healthy view of women in the Bible. Religion has made us believe that women are less, but there are multiple examples of powerful women in the Bible, some in status and some in faith. We can learn from them about how we are designed to have a voice and that God doesn't overlook us. We don't have to be the best to be used by God, we just need to be eager to serve Him with a bold heart. No matter how old your voice is, it has value. If you're a loud person, you're not too much. Allow God to refine that gift and use it. If you're quiet, be bold and have confidence that the Holy Spirit is speaking through you and you will do amazing things. It's okay to be ordinary. Your life isn't about proving you're worth loving, it's about your character and kindness. Regardless of status, you can speak love to the overlooked. If you find yourself getting stuck by comparison, remember that you don't have to prove yourself to anyone when you're fulfilling God's purpose. Run your race. You miss out on your blessings when you get too distracted by what other people think. Being obedient to God isn't boring. He isn't holding good back from you, He wants you to experience the fullness of life. Success is obedience. Every generation can learn from one another. We're experiencing the same experiences in different ways. Let's Get Real Practical: In her book "What Will They Think?", Grace has a list of 40 things to remind you not to miss out on God's best for your life. I go through a few of them in this section, so your Get Practical application this week is to ask the Holy Spirit which one or two you need to take to heart and apply in your life today. Connect with Grace: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This month we aren't in a specific series. Instead, I feel the Lord directing me to share what He puts on my heart for the week. Today's word is "I Choose Joy". As counterintuitive as it sounds, joy is not determined by our circumstances. Joy is a choice. It's a choice to be joyful despite our circumstances. When we look at the scripture, joy is a fruit of the spirit. It's what separates us as believers in Christ and draws people to Him. On the surface, joy might seem like it's about your circumstances, but in reality, it's a state of being rather than an emotion. It's a result of choice. Joy is a gift from God. We can't always explain it, but just like any gift, we have to choose to accept it. Ask God today, "What area of my life do I need to choose joy?" Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This month we aren't in a specific series. Instead, I feel the Lord directing me to share what He puts on my heart for the week. Today's word is "persistent prayer." 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, "never stop praying." (NLT) other translations say, "pray without ceasing." Something happens when we pray. What have you grown weary in praying for? The salvation of a loved one? Healing in your body? Restoration of a relationship? Marriage reconciliation? Financial breakthrough? Freedom from bondage? Take it to God in prayer today. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

In this episode of Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with Jennifer Tucker. Jennifer is an illustrator, graphic designer, and author of Breath as Prayer: Calm Your Anxiety, Focus Your Mind, and Renew Your Soul. She creates graphics and art for Ann Voskamp and works for various clients including DaySpring, HarperCollins, and Ink & Willow. Her personal art and work reflect her journey towards health and healing, and she creates art to remind her own soul that God is with us, that we are loved and held and never alone. She lives in central Georgia with her husband, Mark, and daughters Emma and Lilly. Jennifer is a devoted follower of Jesus and an advocate for mental health. Key Points from Our Conversation: Breath prayer has been around for centuries. It combines deep breathing (which calms our nervous system) and marries it with prayer (which connects our hearts to God). If you were raised in a Christian household, you may feel shame around anxiety stemming from not being able to "cast all our cares on Him." Things changed for Jennifer when she recognized that there are physical symptoms of anxiety that show up in the body due to God's design of the nervous system. There is no shame in that. God loves us and is always compassionate. Reading the scriptures through the eyes of a loving mother concerned for her daughter struggling with anxiety made it clear that the scriptures about anxiety were not a condemnation of her, but rather an invitation to rest in the peace and love of Christ. She began reading the Bible from a perspective of compassion rather than condemnation. Breath is the source of our life. Scripture says God breathed life into us; now it's a gift that we can control to calm our minds to focus on Truth. Breath prayers are not only for states of anxiousness, but a routine to develop in our daily lives. In life, we tend to get busy and forget to slow down and focus on the truth of God's Word. Breath prayers are not a way to look inward to solve our problems, but rather upward to our Heavenly Father as our source of wisdom and guidance. It is also not a way to empty our mind of all thoughts, but rather to repeat the truth of the scripture to root in our hearts. Let's Get Real Practical: Practice breath prayer this week. If you are suffering, you do not suffer alone. Jesus is close when you are crushed. Make this your breath prayer this week: (Inhale) You are close to the brokenhearted. (Exhale) You rescue crushed spirits. Connect with Jennifer: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This is the last episode in our mini-series on Coping Skills to Calm your Nerves and Retrain your Brain. Our final episode happens to be airing on Halloween, so I felt led to discuss the power of worship and shifting the atmosphere in our hearts, home, and workplace. Worship is a weapon. Worship releases worry. Worship shifts the environment. Worship sends the enemy running. Ways to worship: Praise and worship. Even if you can't sing it, let it play quietly in the background. Words as worship. Thank God throughout the day. Actions as worship. What do you spend the most time and energy worshipping? Dance, workout, work, whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. Resources:Pre-order Image RESTored Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

So far in The Coping Series, we have discussed bilateral stimulation, verbal and written processing, and exercise to calm your nervous system and reign in the runaway brain. Please go back and listen if you missed any of those episodes. In this episode, we are discussing a coping skill that is a God-given way to cope with mental and emotional stress - Bible verse meditation. Damage is done when people receive the message "If you would just pray more…" or "Here is a Bible verse." Let's look at both sides of this coin. To the person giving the advice: Remember, this recipient is hurting. Listen first. Express empathy. Pray for them (no need to share you're praying unless you feel led to). If you do bring up a verse, be sure it's thoughtful and not condemning. To the person receiving: If the takeaway message is full of shame, remember that's not from God. Whether the person did or didn't intend to relay that message, you get to choose what you receive. God's word and prayer are the most powerful coping tools we have been given. It's just like the enemy to twist words so we pull back from something that could help. It's not an either/or when it comes to mental health. It's a both/and. Jesus heals and God's Word comforts, and sometimes we also need professional help, and that's ok. Extend grace to yourself and others. Resources:Pre-order Image RESTored Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with the author of A Little Goes a Long Way and host of The Love Offering podcast, Rachael Adams. Rachael hopes to help women realize their God-given purpose and significance. She and her husband, Bryan, run a family business and farm in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate, and two doodle dogs. Her work has been featured on Crosswalk, iBelieve, Today Parenting, and YouVersion. Key Points from Our Conversation: Women in particular struggle with wondering if the mundane things they're doing actually matter. The truth is that we are inherently significant because God created us, not because of our works. Jesus did mundane things that significantly impacted the people around Him. We get to partner with Him to call out the gifts in the people around us and make mundane things extraordinary. We tend to value the "highlight reels" of our lives and ignore the ordinary moments, but we often don't see the impact we have daily. Be faithful to do the little things every day and trust God to use them. Little actions build on one another - that includes poor choices. If we justify the "little sins" in our lives, they will compound. God purposefully chooses to do things little by little. We all start at zero, the important thing is to keep building. Ask the Lord what He wants you to begin. The more time we spend with God in prayer, reading His Word, and worshiping, the more we will begin to find power in the mundane. Let's Get Real Practical: Write out Zechariah 4:10 and put it somewhere you can read it daily: "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." Connect with Rachael Adams: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael Gilbert: website | Instagram | Facebook

So far in our new mini-series on coping Skills to calm your nerves and retrain your brain we have discussed bilateral stimulation and verbal and written processing to calm your nervous system and reign in the runaway brain. Please go back and listen if you missed either of those episodes. This week we are reclaiming territory on a coping skill that is a God-given way to cope with mental and emotional stress - exercise. Benefits of Exercise Regular exercise can have a positive impact on depression, anxiety, and ADHD. It also relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood. Exercise is a powerful depression fighter for several reasons. Most importantly, it promotes all kinds of changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being. Exercise is a natural and effective anti-anxiety treatment. It relieves tension and stress, boosts physical and mental energy, and enhances well-being by releasing endorphins. Since the body and mind are so closely linked, when your body feels better so will your mind. Evidence suggests that by really focusing on your body and how it feels as you exercise, you can actually help your nervous system become "unstuck" and begin to move out of the immobilization stress response that characterizes PTSD or trauma. Practical Tips to Add Exercise Diversity is key. Go for a walk and talk to God, a friend, or your spouse Make it enjoyable. Be a kid again. Examples: trampoline, jump rope, dice games, ride bikes, collect shells on the beach, go for a hike Skip the elevator and take the stairs Park at the back of the parking lot Go to Costo with no list Walk during your lunch break or while your child is at soccer practice Call it your "get to," not a "have to" Submit it to the Lord. Since our body is His temple, let's ask Him to show us How to move in love. Your body needs to move but LISTEN to it. Years of silencing our bodies cause us not to trust what it needs. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Resources:Pre-order Image RESTored The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise download Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

We are in a new mini-series on coping skills to calm your nerves and retrain your brain. In the last episode, I introduced the concept of bilateral stimulation to calm your nervous system and reign in the runaway brain. Please go back and listen if you missed it because I will reference that more throughout this series. This week I want to bring up the most underrated coping skill - verbal and written processing. Why processing through journaling or talking is powerful: It gets it up and out. If you can't talk about it, it owns you. When we stuff emotions, they find their way out somewhere. Bottling up your emotions can drain your physical energy. Your organs, tissues, muscles, endocrine glands, and skin are receptive to your emotional experiences, causing memories to be stored in your brain and your body. It helps you spot inaccurate thoughts. Sometimes just saying or writing it, we recognize it's not true. It lets God and trusted loved ones into our struggle. It grows our faith to look back on old journal entries and see how God took what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good. Here are 3 ways you can healthily process thoughts and emotions, plus a practical tip to implement each: Pray. In other words, talk to God. Practical tip: Talk to God throughout your day. In the car, showering, walking, cooking, or folding laundry. Seek wise counsel (a counselor or a trusted friend who won't judge) Practical tip: How to be someone a friend can process with in a healthy way: Ask, "do you want me to listen or give feedback?" Be slow to give advice. Most people just need a listening ear and a hug. Keep their information safe. The quickest way to break a relationship is to reveal information that isn't yours to share. Expressive writing - AKA JournalPractical tip: Try bullet point journaling, writing a note on your phone, put it in a Word document, add dates to reflect, use a coloring book that makes you happy and write shorthand notes on the sheets, or use a journaling Bible. Resources:Pre-order Image RESTored Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm talking with the author of Take Back Your Joy: Fighting for Purpose When Life Is More Than You Can Handle, Nicole Jacobsmeyer. Through her authenticity and the sharing of her own struggles, Nicole encourages women to keep going when all seems lost. She believes that it's possible to find lasting joy and purpose in Christ and that He is good no matter what life brings our way. She and her husband Andrew have 4 kids and reside in NC. They love being outdoors, baking chocolate chip cookies, and playing sports. Key Points from Our Conversation: Finding joy is a process. Nicole found healing from her brokenness through serving others. Your brokenness doesn't disqualify you, it enables you to help other broken people. We often don't share our deepest pains, so we feel isolated. The Bible calls us to share in one another's sufferings. When we are honest, people experiencing pain around us feel seen and we can heal together. Sometimes you won't be able to find joy and that's okay. In those seasons, give yourself grace. "You can have joy in the worst seasons because joy isn't being fake happy; it's this assurance that God is with us regardless of what we go through. That He is our rock and will equip us. He is extending grace, love, freedom, and healing – all we need comes from knowing His assurance brings us that joy." Joy and happiness are different. Happiness is fleeting, but joy offers stability. Thinking of our purpose during pain is virtually impossible. In retrospect, you can see some of how God is working to use the trauma and pain for His glory. That's all we could pray for. It's easy to talk about Him when things are great, but when we see Him in the hard times, that's a testimony. Be encouraged, this season won't last forever. It's a journey and it's hard, but a new chapter is coming. Keep enduring because you're pushing people to the Lord in the season you're in now. Let's Get Real Practical: Why is processing through journaling or talking so powerful? It gets it up and out. When we stuff our emotions, they come out somewhere. So why not let them out in a controlled manner? It helps you spot inaccurate thoughts. It lets God and trusted loved ones into our struggle. Go to God first. It grows our faith to look back and see how God used evil for Good. Connect with Nicole: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This month we are starting a new mini-series on coping skills to calm your nerves and retrain your brain. In this series, I will teach practical coping skills you can implement into your daily routine. I encourage you to try them, even if they feel silly. Figuring out which coping skills work for you might take time and experimentation. I am not your counselor; these are simply ideas, so be sure to talk with your counselor about which coping skills are right for you. As an EMDR-trained therapist, incorporating bilateral stimulation with coping skills is one of my favorite things to do with my patients. In this episode, I want to teach you how to use butterfly hugs to calm your nervous system and reign in the runaway brain. Butterfly hugs explained: Place your right hand on the left side of your chest and your left hand on the right side of your chest. Begin to tap, slowly and gently, right and left on your chest. Focus on taking deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. If you're able to, please close your eyes. Resources: EMDR Pre-order Image RESTored Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: Did you know that you have the power to control your thoughts? In this episode of Talk Therapy, I'm talking about changing the channel in your mind because our thoughts control our feelings and our feelings control our actions. 2 Corinthians 10:5, "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." The Battlefield of the Mind Devotional Connect with Rachael on the website, Instagram and/or Facebook.

This week on Real Talk with Rachael features a very special guest, my daughter, Ellie. Ellie Gilbert is a sophomore in high school who loves using her voice wherever God plants her. She loves to cheer, compete in speech and debate tournaments, and preach the gospel at youth events. In her downtime, you can find her working on her latest crochet project. Key Points from Our Conversation: Creating a safe space for teens to have open conversations with their kids about hard topics means they're not relying on the internet and peers to be the authority in their lives. It gives the child the ability to ask more questions to find true understanding. Awkwardness keeps teens from feeling safe to have hard conversations with their parents. Allow them to say it "wrong," then help them find the right words to express their thoughts and feelings. It's hard for teens to bring up an opinion or thought that may not align with their parents. Teens should approach these sensitive topics with respect and feel comfortable asking the why so they can make decisions with better understanding. Finding identity and the fear of making the wrong choices in the process is a teen's hardest struggle. What they need is someone to guide and encourage them that their circumstances don't define them - God does. Teens have a stubbornness that can make it hard to receive encouragement. Pray that God changes their heart posture to receive the truth. Teens should remember that this phase of life is not forever. It's a time to learn, grow, and connect. Encourage them to keep their eyes on the big picture. The mother-daughter relationship is just that - a relationship, not a dictatorship. We should desire to build each other up and help one another, learn from each perspective. Let's Get Real Practical: Ways to invest in a relationship with anyone from another generation who doesn't think or act like you: Don't take yourself or each other too seriously. Have fun and teach each other new things. Have real talk. Be honest and speak the truth in love. Listen more than you speak Be a safe space. Refrain from overreacting. Ask - Do you want me to listen or problem-solve? Invest in the relationship. (Try reading a book together.) Pray together. Seek therapy for yourself to get healing. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: In this episode of Talk Therapy, I'm talking about the one thing that may be missing from your life - Jesus. If you're a follower of Christ, I encourage you to lean into Jesus more this week. There is power in His name. Whether it's a work situation, a struggling marriage, or a health challenge - whatever it is you're facing, say the name of Jesus. He is our counselor, our healer, and our peace. If you don't know Jesus, at the end of this episode I offer a simple prayer to invite Him into your heart. If you make that decision or have more questions, please reach out to me. I'd love to welcome you into the body of Christ and get you connected with more resources! One Minute Pause app Connect with Rachael on her website, Instagram and/or Facebook.

In this week's Talk Therapy episode, I want to talk to you about something I've wrestled with for much of my life - fear of man. It's another layer of image. "What do they think of me?" Not just appearance, but the root question is, "Am I enough?" "If we look beneath the surface of the fear of man (a.k.a. people pleasing), we often find pride, false humility, and an obsession with self-image. Verses to stand on: Proverbs 29:25: Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." Psalm 25:15: My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only He will release my feet from the snare." Resource: I want to invite you to join our JOYmail community. Once a month, I send a brief newsletter with faith-filled encouragement, my favorite finds, and therapy resources. Go to rachaelgilbert.com to join or click the link in today's show notes. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm talking with Anthony Evans about his book When Faith Meets Therapy. For two decades, Anthony has voiced the gospel with a melodic, thought-provoking style, and has emerged as one of Christian music's premier worship leaders and singers. Along the way, Anthony has released ten solo projects (the last two climbing all the way to #1 on Billboard's Top Gospel Album charts), released his first two books (Unexpected Places and Divine Disruption), produced numerous music videos, acted in four movies, and even performed as "Beast" in Disney's Hollywood Bowl production of Beauty and the Beast. In addition, he has created inspirational events in collaboration with his father, beloved pastor and international speaker, Dr. Tony Evans; his sisters, Priscilla Shirer and Chrystal Evans Hurst; and his brother, author and speaker Jonathan Evans. In more recent years, Anthony has been working and producing in Los Angeles, where he appeared on NBC's The Voice. His time on the show led to him being discovered and asked to perform and produce vocals for various major artists and networks. In addition to vocal production, Anthony has been enlisted as a talent producer for an assortment of popular reality and competition shows. This sojourn in LA has led him to think more progressively about his music and ministry—he desires to communicate in terms that connect with people spiritually, no matter where they are in their journey with the Lord, without compromising his own faith and message. This focus has allowed Anthony to use his one-of-a-kind voice to reverberate through the church and out its doors to impact the world beyond. Key Points from Our Conversation: Sometimes our faith can keep us from addressing the root of our problems. We feel shame that praying and reading the Bible aren't changing us, but we need practical tools to process our thoughts and emotions. The church is often not seen as a safe place for people struggling with their mental health because of a lack of empathy and authenticity, which creates shame. We can create a safe space when we find empathy by understanding their story. When people show you who they are, believe them. Don't be a victim of your own compassion. When we experience pain and grief, it's natural to want to numb those feelings, but you must feel to heal. Feelings aren't good or bad, they're indicators. Therapy is a safe place to experience your feelings without judging them. Feelings are valid but temporary. We can trust in God's truth. "When you start walking in the truth in spite of how you feel, your feelings will follow your feet." Be as kind to yourself as you would be to someone else who is struggling. Give yourself grace. It's about progress, not perfection. Making mistakes is a sign you're trying. Do what you can and God will do what you can't. Let's Get Real Practical: Tips for finding a therapist - Pray for the right therapist Look at fees and consider your budget. Many therapists have interns with reduced rates that are supervised by licensed therapists. Some offer payment on a sliding scale. Make sure they're licensed (or under someone licensed) in your state. Read the bio on their site and see if what matters to them matters to you. (If you're looking for a Christian counsel, check AACC.net) Tips for getting the most out of therapy - Ask questions that matter to you. Be vocal about techniques that work and ones that don't. Ask for book and podcast recommendations. Keep a journal and include thoughts, feelings, dreams, and anything you'd like to process in your session. Set recurring appointments. Therapy is not just for people going through a crisis, it's a lifestyle. Connect with Anthony: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

Usually each month I start a new series, but for this episode, I felt the Lord ask me to pivot to a message focused on taking action. Are you in or out? Hot or cold? Yes or no? God has been convicting me to stop spewing lukewarm water. I'm so afraid of offending that I've stopped standing up boldly for Christ. This in and out wreaks havoc on our mental health. The back and forth is exhausting and causes confusion within us. Reflect: Are you in or out? What area is God calling you to stand up and say, "I'm in"? Resource: For more resources on grace, faith, and therapy visit rachaelgilbert.com. There you will find free downloads, resources, and information about my counseling services. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This is the final episode in my mini-series all about faith and mental health and this time I'm discussing diagnosis versus identity. "Mental illness is a diagnosis, not an identity or destiny." - Holley Gerth The purpose of a diagnosis is to establish a treatment plan. Otherwise, we are just throwing darts at a board that we can't see. But the diagnosis is NOT an identity or a destiny. In fact, faith and mental health mean hope and a future. The enemy gives a snapshot of the now and says "this is it" while God sees the whole, big picture and says, "look up child, it's not over." Reflect: Have you received a mental diagnosis that left you feeling shame or hopeless? Have you extended grace to someone in your life who received a mental diagnosis? Please remember to approach this subject with grace, humility, and surrender to the Trinity. Healing comes through wisdom, understanding, doctors, therapy, medications, natural supplements, AND Jesus, scripture, and prayer. It's not an either/or, it's a both/and. Resource: For more resources on grace, faith, and therapy visit rachaelgilbert.com. There you will find free downloads, resources, and information about my counseling services. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm talking with my friend, Karen Harmon. Karen is a wife, homeschool mom, business owner, physical therapist, speaker, and writer who also serves her local church on the worship team, as a leader over several small groups, and in the media department doing on-camera work and voiceovers. She owns Function360 which provides specialized physical rehabilitation and wellness consultations for a variety of patients. Karen has spoken at conferences and seminars and has sat on several live events and curriculum panels discussing anything from leadership to motherhood to ministry. She has also contributed several articles for various publications and websites. With transparency and humor, Karen loves to encourage and empower women to passionately pursue Jesus and their God-given dreams and callings through all their many roles. Key Points from Our Conversation: Being multi-passionate about things doesn't mean you do everything at the same time. Instead of balancing, ask what it looks like to prioritize and merge different roles. If you struggle to define your priorities, ask what cost you're willing to pay and what the Lord wants you to pursue. If you wake up miserable every day, your priorities are out of order. When we're faithful to keep our priorities in line, God is faithful to bless every other area around us as well. Don't look at the outcome as success, look at obedience as success. "Kingdom currency is obedience." Are you living in a state of striving or a state of surrender? Check your motivation. Are you doing it for the Lord and to serve His people? Think about how you can serve. It will bring humility. Ask what God has for you in this season instead of comparing yourself to others. God can use your missteps; take the step anyway and ask what you can learn from the experience. Obedience brings blessing. To pursue multiple passions well, pray, plan, then pursue. It's important to find systems that work for you and your family through each season. You can have a good dream that is also a God dream, but it's not the right time. Don't feel like you're behind, enjoy where you're at. God has not forsaken your dreams or forgotten your calling. He sees you. He's faithful. Resources Mentioned: 3 Action Steps to Overcome Fear & Pursue your God-Given Dreams Let's Get Real Practical: To help determine what stays and what goes when you're entering a new season, work through these steps – First, write down everything you're committed to in the coming months, then circle the non-negotiables. Next, cross out things you can delegate or things you simply don't feel at peace to continue doing and make a plan to exit that commitment graciously and with excellence. Whatever items are left, seek prayer and wise counsel. Connect with Karen: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

In the first week of this series, we discussed how faith is your foundation for solid mental health. Last week our topic was grace-based faith and your mental health. Today our topic is learning how to activate the trinity. Our cognitive triangle and the Holy Trinity reflect one another - Cognitive triangle: your thoughts affect your feelings, and feelings affect your behaviors. Trinity effect: Father (the foundation), Son (shame carrier; grace), and Holy Spirit (our helper). Three in one, yet each plays a unique role in our lives. "The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace." Romans 8:6 Reflect: What part of the trinity do you need to activate in your mental health? Resource: For more resources on grace, faith, and therapy visit rachaelgilbert.com. There you will find free downloads, resources, and information about my counseling services. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

Last week we discussed how faith is your foundation for solid mental health. This week our topic is grace-based faith and your mental health. Faith without grace will wreak havoc on your mental, emotional, and spiritual health. In Ephesians, the Bible reminds us that we're saved by grace through faith so that no one can boast. Beware of boasting that points the glory back to you. If I take the shame when I fall I will also take the credit when I stand. God is the only one worthy of honor. It is by grace through our faith that we are able to stand. May we never lose sight of that. Reflect: What's your definition of grace? What's the Bible's definition of grace? Resource: For more resources on grace, faith, and therapy visit rachaelgilbert.com. There you will find free downloads, resources, and information about my counseling services. Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm chatting with bestselling author and speaker, Nicki Koziarz. As a part of Proverbs 31 Ministries, she speaks nationally at conferences, retreats, and meetings and hosts her own podcast. An evangelist at heart, Nicki inspires others to become the best version of who God created them to be. Nicki and her husband and three girls run a small farm just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, which they affectionately call The Fixer Upper Farm. Key Points from Our Conversation: "The timing of God is never rushed by the impatience of man." Although the idea for Flooded was the concept for her first book, it was rejected several times. Instead, she wrote it in the midst of deep loss, grief, and stress. After losing her mom to cancer and her brother to suicide just two years apart, Nicki's faith was shaken. Doubt started stirring inside of her and she wondered how she could trust God again. When it comes to our faith, we have to be intentional about making decisions that strengthen us and combat the doubt inside of us. Wishful thinking uses scripture as a band-aid by applying promises God made to others to our situations. Biblical hope is taking the time to understand the scriptures, which promises are for us, and what we can claim through faith today. For every struggle we face, there's someone in scripture who's gone through it who can teach what it's like to overcome with faith in God. She was drawn to the story of Noah who made 5 steps of faith. Noah's first step was walking with God. Walking with God is a private, holy place where we decide to get into the trenches with God. This is where we get our strength. Noah's second step was listening to God. It's easy to use the noise around us as comfort or distraction. It's an incredible spiritual discipline to practice being still with God. The voice of God will never tell you anything that contradicts scripture or anything that goes against His character. The brain never stops changing – you can stop believing something at any point. Rising above doubt will require you to retrain your brain. You can't protect yourself from naysayers, but it's up to you what you do with their words. If you're struggling with doubt, you're not alone. "God, if I have it wrong show me the right way. But if I have it right, help me to stand still until I have this promise fulfilled." There are times when we get it wrong and we should admit that. We need to do the hard work of being still and wait for growth. Let's Get Real Practical: When your emotions are flooded, start by taking time out and doing something to calm down, then practice deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation. Connect with Nicki: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

This week we're starting a new mini-series all about faith and mental health. Faith is your foundation for solid mental health. No matter your beliefs, everyone has faith in something or someone. Even atheists have faith in themselves. I have a simple question for you today. Your answer will lay the foundation for this entire series and your mental health. What's your faith in? What would you like your faith to be in? Resource mentioned: 3 action steps to get unstuck so you can move forward toward your dreams Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with author Charlotte Gambill. Charlotte has an infectious love for life, a deep love for people, and zealous love for God's House. Her passion is to build the local church across the earth, to see people reach their full potential, and to develop and strengthen leadership. Charlotte is known for her practical, humorous, and passionate application of God's Word. Charlotte is an author, speaker, pastor, and mother, she leads Life Church in England with her husband Steve and together they have two children, Hope Cherish and Noah Brave. Key Points from Our Conversation: Charlotte was inspired to write Today I Choose after her everyday choices became restricted because of the pandemic. Instead, she chose her confession, her attitude, and her actions. What started with her making videos on her phone became a gathering point for people all across the world to daily join in and together choose faith over fear, connection over isolation, and trust in the trials. We are being fed by fear through the news and media, but we have the choice of how we respond to what we hear. We also have the power to make better choices about what information we allow in our lives. Little, deliberate choices change the atmosphere of our homes. The pandemic exposed that our online and shallow connections are not enough to sustain us. Connection won't just happen, we have to do the work of being open, vulnerable, and committed. Connections don't develop overnight. Invest in the people who are willing to walk with you. Assess where you are and where you're going and listen to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Each friendship plays a role in the story of our lives. Sometimes releasing someone makes room for someone else to take that role in your life. We may think we don't have time for connection, but that person may be an answer to prayer for our time management. Everyone is a leader, but your leadership doesn't show up until you decide to show up. Decide to lead today. Resources Mentioned: The Collective Mentorship Program: The Collective is the opportunity to choose your company, cultivate your conversation and deepen your commitment to gaining the wisdom you need for the road ahead. Let's Get Real Practical: I have 2 questions and one action step for you today. What area of your life feels heavy today? What are you choosing to believe around that area? Now, reframe your choices around the area you identified. Connect with Charlotte: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm excited to talk with Dr. Caroline Leaf about her new book Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess. She is a communication pathologist and cognitive neuroscientist with a Masters and Ph.D. in Communication Pathology and a BSc Logopaedics, specializing in cognitive and metacognitive neuropsychology. Since the early 1980s, she has researched the mind-brain connection, the nature of mental health, and the formation of memory. She was one of the first in her field to study how the brain can change (neuroplasticity) with directed mind input. Dr. Leaf is also the bestselling author of Switch on Your Brain, Think Learn Succeed, Think and Eat Yourself Smart, and many more. She teaches at academic, medical, and neuroscience conferences, churches, and to various audiences around the world. Dr. Leaf is also involved in the global ECHO movement, which trains physicians worldwide on the mind-brain-body connection, mental health, and how to avoid physician burnout. Dr. Leaf is currently conducting clinical trials using the 5-step program she developed while in private practice to further demonstrate the effectiveness of mind-directed techniques to help relieve mental ill-health problems such as anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts. The primary aim of these trials is to make mental health care more affordable, applicable, and accessible worldwide, and to reduce the stigma around mental health. Key Points from Our Conversation: The benefit we get from exercise is determined by our minds. The book was inspired by the research Dr. Leaf did to determine what can actually change when we renew our minds, as well as how that impacts the brain, body, and how we function in life. Mind and brain are separate. Your brain is physical; your mind is your thinking, feeling, and choosing. Your mind produces thoughts in your brain. A neurocycle helps allow you to track thoughts and behaviors. Once we connect with wisdom, we can better observe our behavior and then analyze it. Like a tree has branches, thoughts have memories. If you want to find the root, look for warning signals like frustration, irritation, depression, and anger. Don't push them aside – inspect them. Suppressing warning signals causes physical damage to the brain. Analyze your physical symptoms like stomach problems, tension, and rushing adrenaline. Also, check behaviors like non-verbal communication. Mental health is not a disease. The label is leading is mismanagement of health. Misery has become medicalized and treatment is typically symptom-focused, which is great for the body, but not the mind. The quick-fix mentality of symptom treatment has led to suppression. We are wired for love. Negative thoughts physically vibrate incorrectly in the brain and cause inflammation that affects the immune system and how we function. Jesus modeled pushing through and digging into the difficult. There is not a quick fix. The only way out is through. Embrace, process, and reconceptualize. Don't be scared of depression and anxiety. Instead, see them as helpful messengers. Renewing your mind is a lifestyle. Switch - 21-Day Brain Detox App Dr. Leaf's 5 Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking: Gather awareness - become aware of emotional and physical warning signals Reflect - ask, answer, and discuss. Get to the core. Write it down. It helps you get into the depths of why you think this, what you're doing, and how you feel. Recheck Activate mental reach - bringing order out of the chaos Let's Get Real Practical: Let's get practical by addressing one area of your life that you know God is calling you to take your thoughts captive. Action steps for this week: Identify what area of your life in which you feel stuck. Ask if your thinking in that area is toxic. Then write down the thought and replace it with the truth. Connect with Dr. Caroline Leaf: website | Instagram | Facebook | podcast Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking with international minister and best-selling author, John Bevere. He and his wife, Lisa, are the founders of Messenger International--a ministry committed to developing uncompromising followers of Christ who transform our world. John's heart to strengthen the local church has led to over 40 million translated resources being given to pastors and leaders in developing nations. When he's home in Colorado, you can find John playing card games with his family or trying to convince Lisa to take up golf. We're talking about: Everyone has been given unique gifts to fulfill the calling on their life. Your goal should be to identify your gifts, develop them, then multiply them. There's no a separation between secular and sacred ministries. The anointing is the enhancer of our gifts. We may be very gifted, but without anointing, we can't move people at their core. It's the difference between natural impact and eternal impact. God anticipates that we multiply our giftings. Over 50% of Christians don't know they're supernaturally gifted. If they do, they think it's automatic. "In serving God, there is always a testing period before we are anointed or appointed." We need to study the word to understand the inner workings of the body of Christ. The parts of the body that are unseen are more valuable than the parts that are seen and the entire body must work together. God equates faithfulness with multiplication and laziness with maintenance. He doesn't micromanage us, He has made us stewards of our gifts. We multiply our gifts when we ask God every day what He would have us do. Let's get real practical: This week's exercise is included in my Intentional Influencer workbook. Ask yourself what gifts, passions, and talents you possess and look for threads. Don't forget to tag me on Instagram so I can see what you learned! Don't forget to text the phrase "RealTalkGiveaway" to the number 44222 to be entered to win giveaways from show guests and sponsors! Connect with John on his website, Instagram or Facebook Connect with Rachael on her website, Instagram, or Facebook

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael we talk with Alli Worthington about her new book "Standing Strong: A Woman's Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence". Alli Worthington's goal is to help women live the life they were created to live. She lives outside Nashville with her husband, Mark, their five sons, and the only golden retriever who refuses to retrieve. She's a popular Christian women's speaker who travels the country sharing her humor, practical advice, and encouragement. She hosts her top-rated weekly podcast, The Alli Worthington Show, and brings us friends she loves, experts to learn from, and coaches listeners in life, business, and faith. We're talking about: Self-empowerment can be as crippling as self-doubt. You can't let everything rely on your ability to hustle, God is the one that helps you across the finish line. Make sure the people you're listening to are pointing the way to Jesus. God's vision for us is not passive, but strong and active. Disappointing others is not a sin, sometimes it's exactly what God needs you to do. Alli counts down from 5 when trying to get herself to do something unpleasant, learned from "The 5 Second Rule Book" by Mel Robbins. There's a process from the anointing to the appointing. If your thoughts are shaming or critical, it's not of God. Playing small is not being humble and can sometimes be an act of disobedience. To find out more about Called Creatives, visit their website. Don't forget to text "Superpower" to 55444 to get a free quiz from Alli! Text the phrase "RealTalkGiveaway" to the number 44222 to be entered to win giveaways from show guests and sponsors! Connect with Alli on her website, Instagram, or Facebook Connect with Rachael on her website, Instagram, or Facebook

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm chatting with author Lisa Whittle about her new book The Hard Good: Showing Up for God to Work in You When You Want to Shut Down. Lisa has published eight books and her wit and bold bottom-line approach have made her a sought-after Bible teacher. She is also the creator of a companion video Bible study for Jesus over Everything. A pastor's daughter and longtime ministry leader in issues relevant to the church, Lisa is the founder of Ministry Strong and the popular Jesus over Everything podcast, which debuted in the top 25 of Christian podcasts. Her love runs deep to see people pursue Jesus for life, grow deep roots of faith, and walk strong in the midst of a world that so often seems to have gone crazy. She and her family live in North Carolina. Key Points from Our Conversation: "The Hard Good" is the stuff that is hard and most spiritually transformative if we allow God to use it and the emotions/feelings that thwart us in the process of change. "God anoints and appoints, but usability is up to us." Some things are just hard, but not spiritually transformative. The things God wants to use in our lives are often the hard things. But we can better endure the hard when we know there's a purpose behind it. We tend to live ignoring our feelings or feeling controlled by them. People of faith have often struggled in this area because of the false idea that it dishonors their faith. But the creator of the universe made us with emotions and feelings, so He's the one to help us regulate them. We need to have more hard conversations in the church about abuse, widows, refugees, race, etc. When the church won't have tough conversations, the world leads the conversation and the church is left to respond when it should be leading. As a Christian, you are called to make disciples wherever you have influence. Encourage hard conversations in the church and pray for your leaders. If you feel your church isn't aligning with your values, it may be time to leave. "Instead of silencing tough conversations, let's silence the fear of taking them on." We all fear getting into a hard conversation because we don't know how it will turn out. If something continues to compel you after praying about it, it's probably time to address it. Praying and being in tune with the Holy Spirit is the best way to ensure a good conversation. Before engaging online remember that anything that offers help apart from the power of God is not helpful. It will end in disaster because it's a human providing a solution. Take time to process and pray before posting. Let's Get Real Practical: It's time to face hard conversations head-on without fear. Ask God to show you what tough conversations He's inviting you into and use these 3 tips to engage - pray, listen to the other person, and reflect what they said for clarification. Resources Mentioned: Episode 60: Jesus Over Everything with Lisa Whittle Connect with Lisa: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

REBROADCAST: I don't know a person who has never dealt with jealousy. In fact, most of us think it's cute to say "Oh my goodness I am so jealous of your shoes…where did you get them?". However, God showed me 3 problems with jealousy that when left unresolved will wreak havoc in our life: Jealousy is "me" minder rather than "kingdom" minded. Jealousy robs us of our joy and blessings. Jealousy keeps us from entering into intimate relationships with those with whom we are jealous. NEW INSIGHT: we can rebuke a jealous spirit! It's not from God and we do not have to receive it. Verses to meditate: Then I observed all the work and ambition motivated by envy. What a waste! Smoke. And spitting into the wind. (Ecclesiastes 4:4) Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself to others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the best you can with your own life. (Galatians 6:4-5) Surely resentment destroys the fool, and jealousy kills the simple. (Job 5:2) A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones. (Proverbs 14:30) Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, but jealousy is even more dangerous. (Proverbs 27:4) Be sure to download this resource I have created that is FREE to download for a limited time only. It is a Biblical Body Image coloring book! To download it, head to rachaelgilbert.com/biblicalbodyimage.

REBROADCAST: This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm chatting with Pastor Tim Ross about his new book Upset the World. Tim is the lead pastor of the multi-ethnic, multi-generational Embassy City Church in Irving, TX. Tim speaks both nationally and internationally strengthening believers with the Good News of Jesus Christ. He began preaching at the age of 20 years old and has already impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. His dynamic teaching style and uncanny ability to make people understand the gospel message is the reason why he has been such an asset to ministries across cultural and denominational lines. Tim is happily married to Juliette, his bride since May 1st, 1999 and they have two sons, Nathan and Noah. We're talking about: Tim's background and how he came to Christ. Asking God to help us crave His word like we crave whatever we're addicted to. How a verse in Acts inspired him to write his book Upset the World. Jesus upsets people's worlds with His message of love and hope. Connecting personal trauma to the trauma of salvation - both upset our lives "Once [Jesus] has upset your life, He'll ask you to upset others." The biggest way we can upset people's lives as part of our day-to-day rhythm is to do good. 2 keys for recognizing the Holy Spirit's nudge - the suggestion is really good and it's intimidating, but keeps pressing. Fall in love with planting the seed of God's love in people's lives. You're not responsible for the harvest, only the sowing. Upset means "to turn over," but from heaven's perspective, when things are upside down, they're right-side up. You break down barriers and build relationships with you destroy stereotypes by listening and meeting people where they are. Using social media to spread hope instead of debating over opposing viewpoints. Encouragement to open your heart and let God upset you again. Connect with Tim on his website, Instagram or Facebook Connect with Rachael on her website, Instagram, or Facebook

In the first two episodes, we discussed the real reasons we avoid hard conversations and why we need to have them. This week we are diving into how to have healthy and hard conversations. All the tips I am going to share today are simple and practical but may take time and practice to implement. It's okay if you don't nail them all the time but circle back to them before having a hard conversation to see if there is one you would like to improve on for that situation. Here are 10 simple steps to have a hard yet healthy conversation: Pray first and always Start simple (Discuss ONE problem at a time and be SPECIFIC.) Ask for a good time to talk (choose calm moments rather than when either of you is stressed, tired, or hungry) Try your best to do it in person or on the phone. Emails and texts often get misinterpreted Come with an open and teachable heart Use "I statements". This takes away the blame of "you never". Use this simple sentence structure "I feel (insert emotion) when you (insert situation or behavior)." Here is a YOU vs I example, "You're so closed off. We need to talk more." With "I" statement: "I feel lonely when we don't talk." Avoid words like "always" and "never" Avoid hurtful body language (eye-rolling, scowling, mocking, crossed arms) Tell them you value the relationship too much to not bring up this thing that is coming between you. Thank them for listening. Conversation Challenge: Go back to where we started: do you struggle with avoiding these hard conversations? Be brave and choose to have one hard conversation this week. Remember, start simple and small. Don't practice all 10 steps at once. If all you can do is pray and ask the Holy Spirit to give you the words you need to say…that will be enough. Share this episode with a friend. You might even share it with someone with who you need to have a hard conversation. You can let them know it would mean a lot to you if they listened before you talked. Then your first conversation could be about what God spoke to you in this series. Resource mentioned: Communication guide Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook

We are in the middle of a mini-series all about hard conversations. Last week we discussed the real reasons we avoid them. This week we are diving into why we need to have them. I'm coming to you today from the place of both a therapist and a person with personal experience in this area. Why we need them: Debunk assumptions and expose invisible walls Restore relationships Release relationships Conversation Challenge: Think about one relationship in your life that matters to you. It matters because God has put that person in your life and He has asked you to invest in the relationship. Do you feel a distance in that relationship? Would you like to be closer? Ask God to highlight one thing you could bring to attention in that relationship. Pray over that relationship this week. Resource mentioned: Communication guide Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook