That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs

Oh I cannot wait for y'all to hear this amazing story from my friend and one of my favorite singer/songwriters, Thad Cockrell. You may have seen him recently on The Tonight Show or on The Today Show, both of which we talk about today. What a beautiful and encouraging conversation you are about to hear. I'll never forget it. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair quiz and get 15% off your first order today! Go to Prose.com/thatsoundsfun. ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/SOUNDSFUN now to get 20% off your first purchase. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Y'all aren't READY for how funny and profound Tim Timmons is... this dude is just one of my absolute favorites. His new album HERE is so special, as is this convo. It's my favorite type of combo- deep and wide. What a great musician and man. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Raycon: Go to buyraycon.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 15% off your entire Raycon order. Rothy's: Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's start here: what's a podcast network? Well, the That Sounds Fun Network is an amusement park of podcasts created to entertain, impact, help and bless you and the people you love. So if you love TSF the show, we think and hope you'll love all the shows on the TSF Network. Today we get to welcome our TENTH!! show to the network- Live in Love Podcast with Lauren Akins! Lauren is the New York Times bestselling author of Live in Love, mom of three, loves her family and friends, married to a country music star, and she deeply loves God and loves talking about Him. We get to meet so many of her dearest people in these episodes, it's so special. I really think this is a podcast that y'all are absolutely going to love. Go subscribe today! This season is eight episodes and the first one is ready for you RIGHT NOW and new shows will release every Tuesday! . . . . . #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yep. THIS Matthew McConaughey. It was such a joy and such an honor to get to chat with Matthew. His book Greenlights released a few months ago and talking to him about God and open doors and green lights and how to know the path that is for you- it was really moving to me. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this conversation! (There’s a little grownup language in this show, so miniBFF ears proceed with caution.) . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Satisfied by Alyssa Bethke Feetures: Get $10 Off Your First Pair of Feetures when you go to feetures.com/SOUNDSFUN. Flamingo: Get your Flamingo shave set today for just $16 + shipping at shopflamingo.com/ANNIE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This show is for every woman. For all the ways you mother, whether you are raising children or not. And please PLEASE stick around until the VERY end for a special moment, just for you. Our guests today- Jada Edwards Kiley Dean I hope you all feel seen and loved and full of purpose this Mother's Day! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Ritual: Get 10% off during your first 3 months. Visit ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to start your Ritual today! Indeed: Get a FREE $75 CREDIT at Indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Offer valid through June 30th. Terms and conditions apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the week of Mother's Day, so let's talk about being grounded, making time for yourself, and being close to God- whether this Mother's Day is your best yet or a heartbreaking thought. Gretchen Saffles, author of The Well-Watered Woman, is here to talk to us through this season and the importance of being in the Word of God on a daily basis. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Curology: Go to Curology.com/thatsoundsfun for a free 30-day trial, just pay for shipping and handling. Indeed: Get started with a FREE $75 sponsored job credit to upgrade your job post at indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dear friends, today we have a conversation about suicide. I want you to know that up front, so that you can listen without miniBFFs and know going into it what the topic is. One of your (and my!) favorite guests, Dr. Matthew Sleeth, is back today talking all about his new book Hope Always (it releases May 4, but go ahead and order today so it shows up for you next week!) and about how to be a force for life in a culture of suicide. This is an important conversation and one I think it very hope-filled. Listen and share it widely- let's be a part of saving lives! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners of the show! Thistle Farms: Go to thistlefarms.org and use the code "thatsoundsfun" for 15% off! Brooklinen: Go to brooklinen.com and use promo code "thatsoundsfun" to get $20 off any purchase of $100 or more. Modern Fertility: Modern Fertility is offering our friends $20 off the test when you go to Modernfertility.com/thatsoundsfun. Ancient Nutrition: Get 20% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com and enter promo code "thatsoundsfun" at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've seen the instagram account, but it's time to meet Ben Kirby, the guy behind PreachersNSneakers! He's funny and wise and one of YOUR questions gets us both teary! His new book releases tomorrow, his new baby was just born, and this is a really fun conversation! Can't wait to hear your thoughts! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun to get 20% off your first purchase! Rothy's: Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN. Green Chef: Go to https://GreenChef.com/90thatsoundsfun and use code 90thatsoundsfun to get $90 off including free shipping! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us have found Every Moment Holy to be a profoundly helpful resource in our own lives. Volume 2 has just released with a focus on grief and today the author, Douglas McKelvey, joins us for an honest conversation about the power of written down prayers, the need for prayer in grief, and how to create something that will outlast you. This is a beautiful conversation that I think you will love. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Enneapath: To become a member of Enneapath, just go to www.yourenneapath.com/join. It’s only $14.99 per month at to join or $9.99/month for founding members who join the week of April 19th! KiwiCo: Get 30% off your first month plus FREE shipping on ANY crate line with code THATSOUNDSFUN at kiwico.com. Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market today to get 25% off your first order AND an exclusive FREE gift! Go to Thrivemarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When word got around that Harry Connick Jr had a faith-inspired album releasing, my ears and my interviewing heart both perked up. What an absolute HONOR to have him on the podcast, to talk about his new about Alone In My Faith, and to learn so much about his faith and family and now I for sure want to get his dad on the podcast! (You'll hear why and totally agree with me!) Can't wait to hear your thoughts! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Enneapath: To become a member of Enneapath for just $14.99 a month, just go to yourenneapath.com/join. OR its $9.99/month for founding members who join the week of April 19th! Liquid IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquid-iv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout. Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair quiz and get 15% off your first order today! Go to Prose.com/thatsoundsfun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What a legit joy to release a book twin with Laura Tremaine! We have been DYING to get on the pod together so it's finally the day! I learn a lot from her, and her book Share Your Stuff. I'll Go First, about friendship and hope and how to do life really well. I can't wait for y'all to join in this conversation with us! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Raycon: Go to buyraycon.com/thatsoundsfun for 15% off your order! StitchFix: Get started today at StitchFix.com/thatsoundsfun and you’ll get 25% off when you keep everything in your Fix! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is a spiritual experience and I think you'll be as grateful for it as I am! Pastor Francis Chan is an absolute hero and a legend in our faith. Our conversation changed how I think about love and how I think about the church and my neighbors. His new book Until Unity is so timely and important- I hope you'll grab a copy today. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Feetures: Get $10 Off Your First Pair of Feetures when you go to feetures.com/SOUNDSFUN. Flamingo: Get the shave set today for $16 plus FREE shipping! Get yours today at shopflamingo.com/ANNIE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the soundtracks you are hearing in your mind? My good pal Jon Acuff is back today, talking about what you hear in your head, how to change it, how to use the soundtracks in your mind to shape your life, your family, and your work. THIS ONE, y'all. THIS ONE is an absolute pile of quotable moments, so plan to take notes! And grab a copy of Soundtracks today! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/SOUNDSFUN now to find your perfect-fitting bra... and get 20% off your first purchase! Brooklinen: Go to Brooklinen.com and use promo code "thatsoundsfun" to get $25 off when you spend $100 or more, PLUS free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oh let us get ready to LAUGH, my friends! Mike Goodwin is here with us for the first time (but as you'll hear in the show, it is the EXACT BEST TIME!), but gosh he feels like an old friend, doesn't he? Mike is one of the good guys, y'all. You're going to love him!! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Ritual: Ritual is offering my friends 10% off during your first 3 months. Visit ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to start your Ritual today. Rothy's: Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Like an actual embodiment of spring time, Sally Lloyd-Jones joins us today and the whole conversation is such a gift. She has written a literal library worth of children's books, including the Jesus Storybook Bible, and her latest- Near- is about Psalm 139. Also make sure you've listened to John Eldredge and Lauren Daigle this week too.... unknowingly to any of them, God definitely has a theme for us this week. Wow. (Just a reminder, we will not have episodes next week as we celebrate Holy Week and look forward to Easter! He is risen indeed!) . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. KiwiCo: Get 30% off your first month plus FREE shipping on ANY crate line with code THATSOUNDSFUN at kiwico.com. Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair quiz and get 15% off your first order today! Go to Prose.com/thatsoundsfun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MY GRACIOUS HOW MUCH DO I LOVE LAUREN DAIGLE. From her family's land in Louisiana, Lauren checks in with us, tells us what she learned in the last year, how it has changed her for good, why she almost quit music, and we have a great Taylor Swift Side Bar. Make sure you check out her new song Hold On To Me. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsor! Ritual: Get 10% off during your first 3 months. Visit ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to start your Ritual today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Right before things shut down last year, John Eldredge came on the podcast and told us how to get our lives back, how to slow down, how to love beauty and rest. And then, COVID-19. So today, as we pass a year anniversary, John is back to talk to us about how this particular pandemic has affected men and women differently, how the One Minute Pause App is changing lives, and what we can do to be healthy coming out of this. His popular book Wild at Heart is expanded and rereleasing- grab a copy! And make sure you check out the Wild at Heart Experience and the Captivating Experience! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Flamingo: Get the Flamingo Shave Set with everything you need for a luxurious, smooth shave at shopflamingo.com/ANNIE Liquid-IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquid-iv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout. Indeed: Get a FREE $75 CREDIT to upgrade your job post at indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Offer valid through March 31. Terms and conditions apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am SO HAPPY to have my dear friend Emily Ley back on the podcast today, talking invisalign (we are not great at it LOL) and perseverance and lots of insider talk about building a business and how to run it well. (I learn so much from Emily!) Her new book Growing Boldly is an excellent read as you are continuing on the path of becoming who God made you to be! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun Brooklinen: Go to Brooklinen.com and use promo code "thatsoundsfun" to get $25 off when you spend $100 or more, PLUS free shipping. Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market today to get 25% off your first order AND an exclusive FREE gift! The ONLY way to get this offer is by going to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our good friend Angie Smith is back on the podcast and she came in HOT with stories and thoughts and pleads for a new best friend named Hill (LOLOL). Angie is literally one of the easiest people to love. Her new book Woven is going to be your new favorite read and resource. I cannot wait to hear your thoughts on this episode! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Kencko: Go to kencko.com/thatsoundsfun, pick out your flexible monthly plan and the FIRST 100 friends will get 25% OFF your first order. ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun and get 20% off your first purchase! Rothy's: Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

YES THAT JENNIFER GARNER. You guys. We got to chat for a just a few minutes this week and I cannot wait to share this conversation with you. Jenn (SHE TOLD ME TO CALL HER JENN) has a new movie out today on Netflix called YES DAY. It is really good- family friendly, great message, pretty funny. I think y'all will really love it. (Surprise Friday episode! YAY!) . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am a fan of talking about healthy things, and what it looks like for us to be our healthiest selves. I've really enjoyed following Dr. Josh Axe on social media and taking the tips of his that feel the healthiest for me in my life and adding them to my day. His new book Ancient Remedies is full of fascinating ideas about food and supplements and how we can care for our bodies. This convo was so fun! (TW: This is a conversation about food and health. If that isn't a conversation you enjoy thinking about or hearing, I totally get it. Just wanted you to have all the info up front. Do what is healthiest for you today. Much love.) . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Flamingo: Get Flamingo’s award-winning Shave Set for just $16 at shopflamingo.com/ANNIE. Indeed: Get a FREE $75 DOLLAR CREDIT at Indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Offer valid through March 31. Terms and conditions apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gosh I love how musicians are often poets and some of my favorite people to talk with. Marc Scibilia fits that bill times a million. His newest album, Seed of Joy, will have a huge re-release in the next few weeks and y'all are gonna love it! Stick around for the QUOTE OF THE YEAR from Marc towards the end of this conversation... I'm still thinking about it. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsors! Curology: Go to Curology.com/thatsoundsfun for a free 30-day trial, just pay for shipping and handling! Ritual: Get 10% off during your first 3 months. Visit ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to start your Ritual today. Feetures: Get $10 Off your first pair when you go to feetures.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's start here: what's a podcast network? Well, the That Sounds Fun Network is an amusement park of podcasts created to entertain, impact, help and bless you and the people you love. So if you love TSF the show, we think and hope you'll love all the shows on the TSF Network. Today we get to welcome our NINTH show to the network- Human Hope with Carlos Whittaker! Carlos is an all-time favorite around here and we have been DYING for his podcast to come to life! He is a hope guy, a teacher, a preacher, a writer, a farmer, a dad, a husband, a justice advocate- and we'll hear ALL these topics on his new podcast! Go subscribe today! New episodes start dropping TODAY and continue every Thursday! . . . . . #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Raycon: Go to buyraycon.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 15% off your entire Raycon order! StitchFix: Get started today at StitchFix.com/thatsoundsfun and you’ll get 25%off when you keep everything in your Fix! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Okay times for the nuts and bolts of dating. For my married friends, listen close for how you can love and support your single friends and hear the ins and outs of dating in 2021. And to my single friends, LETS TALK ABOUT IT! Jonathan Pokluda is the right dude for this conversation and I can't wait for you to hear this conversation! His new book Outdated is a MUST READ for all of us. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Prep Dish: Go to PrepDish.com/Thatsoundsfun for your first 2 weeks, FREE! Nutrafol: Go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code "TSF" to save 20% OFF your first month’s subscription! Indeed: Get a FREE $75 dollar credit to upgrade your job post at indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A football player turned farmer? A family with EIGHT KIDDOS? This is quite a story and the perfect way to end Couples month! Jason and Tay Brown are new friends but I am VERY EXCITED to visit the farm and continue to get to know them! His new book, Centered, just released! Make sure you grab a copy! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun! Liquid IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquid-iv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout. Brooklinen: Go to Brooklinen.com and use promo code thatsoundsfun to get $25 off when you spend $100 or more, PLUS free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two of my dear pals are back and I am so stoked for you to hear this conversation. Mack Brock and Meredith Brock have been on the show together before but this is a new day, with new stories, new family members, new dreams, and new ALBUMS! Lots to learn and lots to enjoy in this conversation. Make sure you grab Mack's new albums today!! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsors! Third Love: Go to thirdlove.com/SOUNDSFUN now to find your perfect-fitting bra... and get 20% off your first purchase! Rothy's: Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I left this conversation changed. Tim and Elisabeth Hasselbeck are just two of my all-time favorites and hearing from them both, different personalities, different styles of communication, but over half their lives together, these are the conversations I LIVE for. Elisabeth's new children's book Flashlight Night is one that should be in every home. Can't wait to hear your thoughts after you listen! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! KiwiCo: Get 30% off your first month plus FREE shipping on ANY crate line with code THATSOUNDSFUN at kiwico.com. Indeed: Get a FREE $75 credit to upgrade your job post at indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's start here: what's a podcast network? Well, the That Sounds Fun Network is an amusement park of podcasts created to entertain, impact, help and bless you and the people you love. So if you love TSF the show, we think and hope you'll love all the shows on the TSF Network. Today we get to welcome our EIGHTH show to the network- We're Going There with Bianca Juarez Oltoff. Y'all already know and love Bianca- she's been on the show before but is also an incredible preacher, author, friend, and conversationalist. I've been a fan of her show for a while so to have it now as a part of our network feels like such a huge honor. Go subscribe today! New episodes start TOMORROW! . . . . . #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsor! Kencko: Go to Kencko.com/THATSOUNDSFUN, pick out your flexible monthly plan and the FIRST 100 friends will get 25% OFF your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm SO EXCITED for y'all to hear this conversation about love that has lasted a lot of years. Nathan and Christy Nockels are two of my all-time favorite musicians, and Christy has a new book out this week called The Life You Long For. Get you a copy today! It is incredible. Just like this chat. Enjoy both, friends. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market today to get 25% off your first order AND an exclusive FREE gift by going to thrivemarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair quiz and get 15% off your first order today! Go to Prose.com/thatsoundsfun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our TSF friend Mike Kelsey gave me a heads up about this couple- Jordan and Jessica Rice- and as soon as I heard parts of the story, I knew I wanted to hear more more more. And this conversation was so moving to me. When two widowed 20somethings meet and fall in love? Wow WON'T HE DO IT. Make space to listen to this one all the way through... it's a special story. . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Raycon: Go to buyraycon.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 15% off your entire Raycon order. Indeed: Get a FREE $75 CREDIT at Indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Offer valid through March 31. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's that time of year again where we get to talk about Lent and the Christian calendar! No matter your current faith life, this show is for you! Amanda Bible Williams and Raechel Myers from She Reads Truth are BACK to tell us all the things we don't know.... and tie together two books of the Bible that I never imagined connected! Get your 2021 Lent Collection at shopshereadstruth.com and use the code ANNIE15 for 15% off! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Flamingo: Get the Flamingo Shave Set with everything you need for a luxurious, smooth shave at shopflamingo.com/ANNIE. Indeed: Get a FREE $75 CREDIT at Indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Offer valid through March 31. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To celebrate the launch of That Sounds Fun this week!, here's a chapter excerpt titled Book Club from the Why You Need A Hobby section! Get your copy of That Sounds Fun today! If you've already listened to the audiobook, please leave a review of the book on Amazon today! :) www.anniefdowns.com/tsf-discussion-guide . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast #thatsoundsfunbook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm just so happy to kick off another month of shows featuring some of my favorite couples! Today on the show is Ben Higgins and his fiance Jess Clarke! Both of these fine folks have become dear friends and I'm so pumped that Ben and I have book twins born this week! Grab a copy of his new book Alone in Plain Sight- it is really good, y'all! And we cover lots of ground in the convo about the new book and God and being engaged! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners of the show! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Feetures: You can receive $10 Off Your First Pair of Feetures when you go to feetures.com/SOUNDSFUN. Brooklinen: Go to Brooklinen.com and use promo code "thatsoundsfun" to get $25 off when you spend $100 or more, PLUS free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To celebrate the launch of That Sounds Fun TODAY (EEK!), here's a chapter excerpt titled The Little White Kitchen from The Power of Falling In Love section! Get your copy of That Sounds Fun today! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast #thatsoundsfunbook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To celebrate the launch of That Sounds Fun TODAY (EEK!), here's a chapter excerpt titled That Sounds Fun Podcast Studio from The Joys of Being An Amateur section! Get your copy of That Sounds Fun today! If you've already listened to the audiobook, please leave a review of the book on Amazon today! :) . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast #thatsoundsfunbook See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To celebrate the launch of That Sounds Fun, I invited two of my friends- Knox McCoy and Jamie Golden from The Popcast- to interview ME. This one is wild and hilarious and exactly how I want to kick off the launch of this new book! Buckle up. :) Today is the LAST DAY you can get the That Sounds Fun audiobook for FREE! Pre-order the book from Amazon and then head to thatsoundsfunbook.com to redeem your free audiobook! The offer ends at 11:59pm on Monday, February 1, 2021! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast #thatsoundsfunbook Thank you to our sponsors of the show! Third Love: Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun now to find your perfect-fitting bra... and get 20% off your first purchase! Rothy's: Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/soundsfun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our friend Jemar Tisby is back on the podcast today to be our professor in some real specific ways we are trying to be learners! He was first on the show last spring with Mike Kelsey, but he's back today to talk all about his new book How To Fight Racism and what we can be doing in our awareness, relationships, and commitment to better love our neighbors and friends. Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! KiwiCo: Get 30% off your first month plus FREE shipping on ay crate line with code THATSOUNDSFUN at kiwico.com. StitchFix: Get started today at Stitchfix.com/thatsoundsfun and you’ll get 25% off when you keep everything in your Fix! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy to have our friend Tim Tebow back on the podcast today! You know him as an incredibly talented athlete, a sports commentator, an author, an activist, and now he's a husband too! So much to catch up on! His new children's book Bronco and Friends: A Party To Remember is a special book to read with your kiddos. In fact, we'll be reading it tonight on #miniBFFbookclub at 6pmCT on my instagram! (@anniefdowns) Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Better Help: Receive 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Liquid IV: Get 25% off your order when you go to liquid-iv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout. Indeed: Get FREE $75 CREDIT to upgrade your job post at indeed.com/soundsfun. Offer valid through March 31. Terms and conditions apply Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded last week, I wanted to pull in two friends, who share my faith but are from different political parties, to chat with us about where we go from here. There are things I agree with that each of these friends believe, and there are things I don't agree with. I bet that will be true for you too. But I hope you will listen with open ears and open hearts to both Allie Beth Stuckey and Michael Wear. Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Raycon: Go to buyraycon.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 15% off your order! Nutrafol: Go to Nutrafol.com and use the promo code SOUNDSFUN for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, as we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr Day and begin Inauguration week in 2021, two of my very favorite pastors have joined us. Dr. Tony Evans is here, discussing his new book U Turns, our current climate, the power of repentance, and pastoring in 2021. Then to walk us towards Wednesday, Pastor Scott Sauls pastors us in how to pray, how to process going into this week, and what God may be up to in us. His most recent release, A Gentle Answer, is the perfect book to read this week. Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun! Ritual: Get 10% off during your first 3 months at ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN! Indeed: Get a FREE $75 CREDIT at Indeed.com/SOUNDSFUN. Offer valid through March 31. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oh we LOVE when Pastor Mark Batterson joins us on the show! Today we're talking about habits that will help you with today and also who you will be in the future! His new book Win The Day has so much helpful info! I think you'll love it! Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Brooklinen: Go to Brooklinen.com and use promo code "thatsoundsfun" to get $25 off when you spend $100 or more, PLUS free shipping! Flamingo: Right now, you can get Flamingo’s award-winning Shave Set for just $16 at shopflamingo.com/annie! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing beats having a BFF on the show! Rachel Cruze and I sit down and talk all about money, how to get it all done, and who we are becoming. Make sure you get a copy of her new book Know Yourself, Know Your Money. It's SUCH a great resource! Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Third Love: Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun to get 20% off your first purchase! Prose: Go to Prose.com/thatsoundsfun for your FREE in-depth hair quiz and 15% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You guys have asked a lot of questions about reading the Gospels in a month and though I am not an expert, I did try to answer them as best I could! If you want to download a plan for reading the Gospels in a month, we created it for you! https://shopanniefdowns.com/collections/books/products/read-the-gospels-digital-download Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! PS- let us know your thoughts on having some Q&A episodes drop every now and again? . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here we really kick into 2021 with some tips on better ways to live our lives, organize our linen closets, prioritize what matters most, and stop SHOULDing each other. And a whole conversation about body shame. Kendra Adachi is amazing and her book The Lazy Genius Way is absolutely a favorite and a great way to kick off 2021! Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Liquid IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquid-iv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout! Thrive Market: Go to Thrivemarket.com/thatsoundsfun. Join today to get 25% off your first order AND a FREE gift! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EXACTLY how we want to start 2021- with one of our favorites, Charles Martin! Let's talk about Jesus and the disciples, God as our Father, and how 2020 shaped 2021 and how God has been in all of it. In the month of January, I will be reading They Turned The World Upside Down. Join me? Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of my friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Ritual: Ritual is offering my friends 10% off during your first 3 months at ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN! Feetures: Receive $10 Off Your First Pair of Feetures by going to feetures.com and using my code SOUNDSFUN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, Eddie Kaufholz and I chat two times a week over on Annie and Eddie Keep Talking, but the Year in Review is a whole different thing. We talk through all the topics that matter and a lot that don't. We're making plans and bringing some of the best from 2020 with us into 2021. Lots of laughs. A few minutes of serious. A great conversation to get us ready for what God has for us next! Happy New Year, friends! See you on January 4th! Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! Headspace: Go to headspace.com and use promo code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout for a FREE ONE-MONTH TRIAL with access to Headspace's full library of meditations for every situation. Curology: Go to Curology.com/thatsoundsfun for a free 30-day trial! Thrive: Go to Thrivemarket.com/thatsoundsfun. Join today and you’ll get a FREE gift of your choosing, up to $24 dollars in value. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's all about Jesus. Merry Christmas, friends. . . . . . If you're just joining the party, it's over! :) But you can back up and listen to the previous 11 days worth of episodes from December 7-18! Twelve days of (Podcasting) Christmas! Need more stories in your ears? You can listen to Annie's new book, That Sounds Fun, TODAY even though the book doesn't come out until February 2, 2021. All the detail at thatsoundsfunbook.com! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! IF:Gathering: IF:Gathering is March 5th and 6th, and digital passes are on sale now at if2021.com! Simplified Planner: You can find all of these amazing tools at emilyley.co/thatsoundsfun! Blendjet: Go to blendjet.com/thatsoundsfun to save an extra 12% on top of their already discounted price! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to laugh? Need to lighten things up a bit at the end of this party? There is no one finer in the land than actress and comedian Anjelah Johnson. You are probably already a fan (Nail Salon? Bon Qui-Qui?) but being friends with Anj is totally next level. Sit back, relax, this isn't a note-taking episode but I will warn you instead it may be a spit-take episode if you're sipping on a drink and bust out laughing. That's your warning. :) Remember we have episodes for you EVERY DAY between December 7-18! Twelve days of (Podcasting) Christmas! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of our friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun! Third Love: Right now they are offering my friends 10% off your first order at thirdlove.com/soundsfun! ABLE: Right now, ABLE is offering our friends 20% off when you go to livefashionable.com/thatsoundsfun and use the code TSF20! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well listen. If there is one episode that is DEEPLY RESEARCHED (and there is literally ONE that is researched every year), it is this one. My BFFs and PhD candidates in Hallmarkology, Jen and Jami, are back to tell us about the lineup of Hallmark Christmas movies for 2020. We also get an incredibly special and fun visit from Hallmark star Nikki DeLoach and if you're sure you are ready to hear Jami fangirl for 40 seconds, here it is. :) (Even if you aren't a Hallmarkie, I think you'll love the humor and friendship and interview! Even if you don't know the movies, you'll love this one!) Remember we have episodes for you EVERY DAY between December 7-18! Twelve days of (Podcasting) Christmas! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of our friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Nutrafol: Go to Nutrafol.com and use promo code SOUNDSFUN, and new customers will get 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your favorite and my favorite Ben Rector is back to party with us today! Of all my friends y'all request to chat with, Ben is at the top of that list. His new Christmas album, A Ben Rector Christmas, is one of our faves around the office and one I can't quit at home, too. Enjoy this convo! Remember we have episodes for you EVERY DAY between December 7-18! Twelve days of (Podcasting) Christmas! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our partners! BetterHelp: As one of our friends, you’ll get 10% off your first month by visiting BetterHelp.com/thatsoundsfun. Honey: Get Honey for free at joinhoney.com/fun. Causebox: Check them out at causebox.com/thatsoundsfun and use my code fun20 to get 20% off your first box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices