That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs

Gracious I adore Ellie Holcomb, and getting to chat with her in these uncertain and sometimes scary days is such a gift. She's homeschooling her kids, like many of y'all, and trying to balance all the things. Ellie gives so much hope today for all of us, no matter what our shelter-in-place situation is like. (And a few fun pop-ins from her kids!) Ellie's new children's book Don't Forget To Remember is a favorite of our #miniBFFBookClub and is perfect to read to your children right now. . . . . . #thatsoundsfunpodcast (We're still rolling with the #TSFQuarantine podcasts every morning until Friday with Eddie Kaufholz! Check those out for a few laughs and a little hope!) Thank you to our sponsors! Ritual: Receive 10% off your first three months at ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN Liquid IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquidiv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Of course we had to talk about Tiger King, 7 serious minutes about the beginning of a new week, some real life heroes, and how Eddie would excel at Shark Tank. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sabbath talk, hero talk, cameo talk, and some great updates after yesterday's show. (Reminder: we Sabbath/rest on Saturdays, and we talked too long today so you're a little ready for a break from us but we'll be back on Sunday!) @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we help doctors and nurses? 7 minutes of serious that goes longer than 7 minutes. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I fangirl hard today on this episode with John Eldredge. His writings, his podcast, his teachings- his work has shaped my heart for two decades and I'm so grateful. While we recorded this conversation before COVID19 was the pandemic it is today, these words were perfectly meant for today. John is about to invite you to think through the importance of whole-heartedness and what it is like to be a human right now. His new book Get Your Life Back is an absolute gift. Here are the other resources that I think will help you right now: John's website John's podcast One Minute Pause App . . . . . #thatsoundsfunpodcast (We're still rolling with the #TSFQuarantine podcasts every morning with Eddie Kaufholz! Check those out for a few laughs and a little hope!) Thank you to our sponsors! International Justice Mission: Watch these amazing videos of hope at IJM.org/hopewithus Flamingo: Try the Flamingo shave set for just $16 with FREE shipping today when you visit shopflamingo.com/annie See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jokes from the girls, tons of fruit talk, and while my quarantine is officially over, these shows will keep going... but we won't be starting any small businesses. See y'all tomorrow! @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The real question remains- does Producer Chad wear joggers or leggings? And we lament the loss of sports, particularly the Olympics 2020 (news hot off the presses), and what I will do as soon as quarantine ends tomorrow (though "shelter in place" continues). @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two adorable sweet guests, breakfast talk, a baseball mystery to be solved, and some big heroes. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For starters, I just want to be real clear that Lisa and I recorded this episode when she was in Nashville two weeks ago, before corona virus was the center of all conversations and before I was quarantined. So please forgive the moments that sound a bit tone deaf, we had no idea what today would bring when we were together two weeks ago. Lisa Whittle is one of my favorite voices in the faith space right now. Her new book Jesus Over Everything is honestly exactly what we need right now. I think this book will really give you some hope and some help. Grab a copy today! . . . . . #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsors! International Justice Mission: Go watch Bablu eating his first birthday cake at IJM.org/hopewithus and share his hope with your community. People need it! ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun to find your perfect-fitting bra… and get 15% off your first purchase! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk a little longer than usual today, cleaning up some old news, bringing some new news, and planning for our week! @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finally, I cried. LOL. Pizza talk and exercise talk and some heroic heroes and Eddie's daughters make a guest appearance. And we both get turns being the people we REALLY wish we were. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the sixth day of recording, we discuss early mornings and brownies and why we fight with people we love and thank the grocery store workers. It's a mess. You're welcome. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Y'all have yelled at me, in very sweet ways, to have Morgan Harper Nichols on the podcast and YOUR WISH IS MY COMMAND! Her art and poetry is literally breathing life into my bones this week. Her new book is a must-order for us in this season on the planet- All Along You Were Blooming. It's gorgeous- just like the heart in this friend. . . . . . . . . . . All parts of this episode were recorded before I was quarantined to my house by the health department. But Eddie Kaufholz and I are talking all about that on our daily show TSF Quarantine. Enjoy it while it lasts... is what I'm saying to myself about these next seven days in my house. :) #TSFQuarantine #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsor, Brooklinen! Get 10% off your first order + free shipping when you use promo code "soundsfun" at Brooklinen.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seven serious minutes about handling disappointment with your kids, heroes we didn't know we needed, and figuring out which marine animals self-identify as which enneagram numbers. And we need to know about your best/worst couple fights. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine #thatsoundsfunpodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A couple of minutes of how we're really feeling, then lots of space talk, a little Germany talk, Bachelor talk, and Happy St. Patrick's Day, everybody! @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine #thatsoundsfunpodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk about toilet paper again what is wrong with us. But we also cover what's in a stranger's shopping cart, challenges for today, and want you to tell us what game console is best. @anniefdowns @edwardoreddie #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is SUCH a fun episode for the middle of the weirdest thing we've all lived through together- Katie Peslis is an absolute GEM and one of the most talented vocalists I've ever known. She sings SPOT ON like Karen Carpenter, hence the entire tribute album. (And yes, her husband was just on tour with me so may the circles of friendship be unbroken and TIGHTLY KNIT.) Make sure you check out Katie's music and follow her for upcoming tour dates! . . . . . All parts of this episode were recorded before I was quarantined to my house by the health department. But Eddie Kaufholz and I are talking all about that on our daily show TSF Quarantine. Enjoy it while it lasts... is what I'm saying to myself about these next nine days in my house. :) #TSFQuarantine #thatsoundsfunpodcast Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Rothy’s: Go to Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN to get your new favorite flats! Stamps.com: Get a special offer that includes a 4-week trial + free postage AND a digital scale without any long-term commitment. Go to Stamps.com click on the Microphone at the TOP of the homepage and type in SOUNDSFUN. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some church talk and LOTS of toilet paper talk. Send us your toilet paper substitutes, hot take topics, and general feedback by tagging us on twitter (@anniefdowns and @edwardoreddie) and the hashtag is #TSFQuarantine See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am quarantined to my house until Monday, March 23. I know many of you are at home by force or by choice as well. To fight some of the loneliness, I'm going to talk to Eddie every day for 30 minutes. Act 1: How are you? Act 2: Hot Takes Act 3: Homebound Challenge Send us your hot takes on Twitter! (I'm @anniefdowns and he is @EdwardorEddie) See you tomorrow! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robin Dance is one of my first friends in the blogger space, way back in the 2000s. She brings a fun conversation, some brave words, and lots of good thoughts and I think you're just going to love her. Her new book For All Who Wander is a great read. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsor, Liquid IV! Get 25% off when you go to liquidiv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is no one I know that is as much an expert on raising kids as Sissy Goff. Over twenty years of counseling children and loving families and she knows what to say to us, what to say to kids, and what to say to ourselves about raising kids in 2020. Her book, Raising Worry-Free Girls, is great for any of us that are a part of a kid's village (boys or girls!). I cannot wait to hear your thoughts on this one. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our podcast sponsors! Ritual: My friends get 10% off during your first three months at ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN Abide App: Get started now with 25% off a premium subscription by downloading the Abide app at Abide.co/soundsfun. You’ll get additional stories and meditations, premium music, soothing sounds, and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to laugh, y'all. Melanie Shankle cracks me up more than most do (and y'all know I'm an easy laugh). We've been friends since before we had these jobs and it's always fun to talk to someone you've walked over a decade with. Her new book, On The Bright Side, is a real special thing. I think you're going to love it. (Because we recorded this show before Monday, there is no mention of the tornado that passed through Nashville this week. But thank you for all your kind words and prayers as our church and city begin a rebuilding and healing journey we didn't ever expect.) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to the sponsor of this episode! Glossier: All new customers will get 10% off their first order on Glossier.com/podcast/thatsoundsfun! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been such a while that I've wanted to sit down and talk with David Kinnaman. He's the president of Barna Group, he writes books I ABSOLUTELY LOVE, and he's just brilliant. I love stats and I love talking about faith and I love talking about culture and David brings all those things together in some amazing ways. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this one! And you can keep up with their family- https://www.prayforjill.com . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Prep Dish: all you need to do is text the word “mealplan” to 33777 to get a free week! Grove.co: For a limited time, go to grove.co/soundsfun to receive a FREE FIVE PIECE Cleaning Set from Mrs. Meyer’s and Grove – a THIRTY DOLLAR value! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This one is just sweet and special and inspiring and I absolutely LOVE when Sadie Robertson Huff and I get to chat... this one is extra awesome because her new husband Christian Huff is here with us as well! We talk dating and God and marriage and then we get a special visit from an office friend who eavesdropped and had some thoughts to include. It's a packed show, y'all! Sadie also has a new book out called LIVE- make sure you grab a copy today! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Rothy’s: Go to Rothys.com/SOUNDSFUN to get your new favorite flats! ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun to find your perfect-fitting bra… and get 15% off your first purchase! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I have long long long wanted to have Propaganda on the podcast, and this was just perfect to have him for Couples Month, since his wife Dr. Alma Zaragoza-Petty was available to hop on the microphones with us too. Marriage, family, boundaries, we go to all the places in this conversation. (And we're giving this one a PG rating, so for my miniBFFs out there, maybe Mom and Dad should give a listen first.) Prop and Alma have their own podcast- The Red Couch Podcast- that you should give a listen! Can't wait to hear your thoughts on this one! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors! Pine Cove: Register NOW to get in on an affordable monthly payment plan at pinecove.com and use the code ANNIE250 for $250 off a first time, overnight youth camp registration. Your Enneagram Coach: Use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout to get $200 off the course! Learn more and sign up for a free webinar with Beth McCord at yourenneagramcoach.com/bec. Enrollment closes on February 28th, 2020, but don’t worry! You can sign up to be notified next time it opens later this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Y'all I am so in love with this episode. Addison Bevere swung through the studio when he was in Nashville and we planned to release the show in March... well then his wife Julianna was with him and we turned her microphone on and MY GOSH it is a brilliant show. His recently released book Saints is one of my favorite new books- I think you'll totally love it. Buckle up. This is the best hour of your day. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors! Stamps.com : Get a special offer that includes a 4-week trial + free postage AND a digital scale without any long-term commitment. Just go to Stamps.com click on the Microphone at the TOP of the homepage and type in SOUNDSFUN. Your Enneagram Coach: Use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout to get $200 off the course! Learn more and sign up for a free webinar with Beth McCord at yourenneagramcoach.com/bec. Enrollment closes on February 28th, 2020, but don’t worry! You can sign up to be notified next time it opens later this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We ticked off all the boxes on this one- yes, a couple so that works for February (AND I LOVE JACKS AND SHAWL!) and a Hallmark conversation like we talked about having more than just at Christmas, lots of laughs and great conversations and Brendan Penny talk, so all is well. Learning how to work together and laugh together and build a project together (like The Bubbly Sesh!) is pretty impressive- I love what I get to learn from these two! Definitely check out their podcast and listen, I just watched The Secret Ingredient and it may be my new favorite. HALLMARK I LOVE YOU MORE EVERY DAY. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors! Indeed: Post your job today at Indeed.com/soundsfun and get a free sponsored job upgrade on your first posting. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Offer valid through March 31, 2020. Flamingo: Try the Flamingo shave set for just $16 with FREE shipping today when you visit shopflamingo.com/annie See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Put this episode in the most requested guest category because Y'ALL LOVE THE WOLFS. Of course I wanted to have them on- so your wish is my command! We had the best time chatting, me in Nashville and them in Atlanta, about our friendship history, how they met, life before and after her stroke, and what it really means to suffer strong. These folks are two of my heroes. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors! Ritual: Get 10% off during your first three months at ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN Liquid IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquidiv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am so so thrilled to have amazing singer/songwriter Matthew West and his wife Emily on the podcast today. (It's Emily's FIRST EVER POD INTERVIEW so y'all be extra sweet to her.) But that will be easy because she is amazing. This whole conversation is. From dating to Nashville, from picking a church (I think many of y'all will relate to the fears of vulnerability we talk about there) to praying for your kids to songwriting to the Grammys... we go all the places. Matthew has a new album releasing Friday that I think you're going to love called Brand New. Make sure you grab a copy! And yes. I had one major complaint with Matthew, but we saved that for YouTube... go check it out! :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Imperfect Foods: Go to Imperfectfoods.com/soundsfun and use code “soundsfun” at checkout for $10 off your next 4 orders! Pine Cove Camps: Register NOW to get in on an affordable monthly payment plan at pinecove.com and use the code ANNIE250 for $250 off a first time, overnight youth camp registration! Be the Bridge by Latasha Morrison See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love having Amanda Bible Williams and Raechel Myers on the podcast- especially when we get to celebrate couples (co-workers definitely count!) and with the season of Lent approaching, we have A LOT to discuss. I just love love love having Amanda and Raechel on the show. I think this is our best one yet. (And just to note, towards the beginning of this one, we talk about the loss of a child and how to parent the other children when there is a tragedy or loss. Was reminded by a listener friend that some of y'all may want a heads up about that. <3 ) As always these sweet friends showed up with an excellent discount code for you- FUN20 will get you 20% off of everything (except subscription boxes) at shopshereadstruth.com! Grab your Lent studies and She and He Bibles and prep for those Easter baskets and graduations! And don't forget we've got a few more questions, specifically about EASTER BASKETS!, with the SheReadsTruth gals over on the AFD YouTube page! Check it out! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsor Glossier! Go to glossier.com/podcast/thatsoundsfun to get 10% off your first order! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Couples Month is one of my favorite series of the year and this first episode of February is a excellent way to start. Chris and Emily Norton are known for their viral videos, but gracious after an hour with them it's so clear they are so much more. Their book The Seven Longest Yards is such an interesting read. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this conversation and these amazing people. And don't forget we've got a few more questions with the Nortons over on the AFD YouTube page! I think you'll enjoy this continued conversation... . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to ThirdLove for sponsoring this episode! Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun for 15% off your first purchase. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What an absolute honor to have Beth Moore on the podcast today. Y'all have requested this conversation since about day 1 and I've hoped for it about that long, too. Beth has been one of the most influential voices in my life when it comes to faith and spiritual growth, and this conversation changed me. Her new book Chasing Vines is an excellent read and I think you will learn so much from it. Please take time today to thank Beth for her investment in your life and the ways her work and this conversation have helped you. She's sure helped me. I'm forever grateful. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to Rothy’s for sponsoring today’s episode! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am so so happy to have my friend Jennie Allen back on the podcast today! We have lived a lot of life together and I am just so grateful for her voice in my life. You are going to absolutely FALL ALL THE WAY INTO this conversation about the power of our thoughts and what God is saying to us today. Her new books Get Out of Your Head is a must read. Can't wait to hear your thoughts about this one! And make sure you join us for IF:Gathering February 7-8, 2020. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsor, Indeed! Post your job at indeed.com/soundsfun today at get a free sponsored job upgrade on your first posting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We seem to have fallen into a pretty cool theme of prayer lately, and today is going to help us with that for sure. Whether you are new to prayer or have spent lots of time doing it already, Jarrett Stevens has some amazing thoughts and challenges for us. This one conversation has already pretty massively affected my prayer life. His new book Praying Through would be a great resource for anyone thinking of growing or changing their prayer habits. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors! Stamps.com: Go to Stamps.com, click on the Microphone at the TOP of the homepage and type in SOUNDSFUN. You'll get a special offer that includes a 4-week trial PLUS free postage and a digital scale. Grove Collaborative: For a limited time, when my listeners go to grove.co/soundsfun , you will get a FREE FIVE PIECE Cleaning Set from Mrs. Meyer and Grove – a THIRTY DOLLAR value! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You guys. Welcome Anthony ONeal, our newest best friend, and I think y'all are going to fall in love with him as quick as I did. He is passionate about helping young adults learn how to make smart decisions with their money, relationships and education in order to live a well-balanced life. His book Debt-Free Degree is such a helpful resource- I hope you'll grab a copy. Buckle up- this conversation goes every single way and it's the most fun. Don't forget you can watch some of my conversation with Anthony over on my YouTube page! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors! Imperfect Foods: go to Imperfectfoods.com/soundsfun and enter the code “soundsfun” at checkout through 2/16/20 to get $10 off your next four boxes! Ritual: Go to ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 10% off during your first three months! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of my favorite parts of this pod life is sharing music that I absolutely love, and Tauren Wells is at the tip top of that list. I love that his new song Citizen of Heaven is our intro and outro music and the album by the same name is coming out next week. Chatting with Tauren about theology and friendship and marriage and how to read the Bible... gracious this one is gold from start to finish. Make sure you grab a copy of his new album to play as quick as possible! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Flamingo: Try the Flamingo Shave Set for just $16 + FREE shipping when you visit shopflamingo.com/annie Liquid IV: Get 25% off when you go to liquid-iv.com and use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm so excited to be headed out on tour with Jonathan Pokluda, Mike Grayson, and Cheryl Stark. We were in the office planning for the tour and I said, "you guys, let's just go sit down in the podcast studio and record this!" So that's what we've got for you- the conversation we were having around the table eating barbecue. What it means for us to love better, why we want to tour together, and dating thoughts... we've got lots of them. :) We'd love to have you join us on the tour- grab your tickets here! Here's our Love Better Tour Playlist if you want a sneak listen to the songs we will be singing! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to Rothy’s for sponsoring this episode! Go to rothys.com/soundsfun for your new favorite flats. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation is another breath of fresh air for us. Aundi Kolber came into the podcast studio and was a gift from minute one, and I think you will agree. Aundi is a Licensed Professional Counselor (MA LPC), writer, and speaker in Castle Rock, Colorado. She specializes in trauma- and body-centered therapies and is passionate about the integration of faith and psychology. Her new book Try Softer just released and it is going to help you in a million ways. (She's pretty brilliant, y'all.) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to Third Love for sponsoring this episode! Go to thirdlove.com/soundsfun for 15% off your first purchase. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another year and we are here together and I am so grateful. And why not kick it off with an incredibly vulnerable and personal episode? LOL. Seth Haines joins us to talk about all the facets of sobriety, how to face your desires, what to do next, and it all is just a step towards who we want to be in the next decade. His new book The Book of Waking Up is a beautiful, helpful, and life-giving read. Hope you're joining us for #100DaysToBrave2020! It's not too late- grab a copy of 100 Days To Brave and jump in with us! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Class Pass: Go to classpass.com/newyears for your first month free! Prep Dish: Text the word “mealplan” to 33777 to get a free week! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What choice did we have but to have Eddie Kaufholz back on the podcast to help us wrap up 2019? We talk down all the big topics that matter and don't matter and pretty much sort out everything about the last decade as we head into the next one. Always grateful for when Eddie makes me laugh AND cry. (We also have a little drop in from our buddy Andy Barron... so that's a special year end treat!) Happy New Year, friends! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to Ritual for sponsoring this episode! Get 10% off during your first three months at ritual.com/THATSOUNDSFUN See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone's favorite big guy is back on the show today, ready to really process through the day after Christmas, his biggest and most important work day. What an honor to have Santa Claus land the sleigh here at the That Sounds Fun Studio at Downs Books HQ. And remember to check out my youtube page for a follow up question with Santa! Totally unrelated: http://davebarnes.com . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We finish this year's 12 Days of Christmas with my parents! They always show up at my parties and I'm so glad. Enjoy the Christmas stories from a lot lot lot of our 2019 guests! Have a very Merry Christmas, friends. Thankful for you! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Molly Reed Grayson is by far my favorite instagram baking follow! Every week with her #SundayBakes shows she entertains and teaches and I absolutely love it. As you are preparing for time in the kitchen the next few days, this episode will help you do it well! (And definitely stick around to the end... we have a moment that has NEVER HAPPENED before on the show! And I totally cried and it's awesome.) Enjoy the Christmas stories from 2019 guests Raechel Myers, Amanda Bible Williams, Jeff Henderson, and Jaci Velasquez. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What a gift to have the pastor of the pod back with us today! Kevin Queen talks to us about transitions, prayer, church life around Christmas, and how to pray for your city. Enjoy the Christmas stories from 2019 guests Bianca Oltoff, Mark Batterson, and Heather Land. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This may be one of my favorite episodes this year. Melinda Doolittle is every bit as fun as she sounds from start to finish. She is kind and hilarious and thoughtful AND A CHRISTMAS TREE UP YEAR ROUND? Yeah, we need her. And now we can't WAIT for her Christmas album in 2020! Enjoy the Christmas stories from 2019 guests Clay Scroggins, Hillary Scott, and Dustin Nickerson. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victoria Duerstock and I jumped RIGHT ON IN to friendship as soon as she walked into the podcast studio. I love love love having someone at our Christmas party that talks about holiday decor- and this conversation combines the importance of purpose behind your decorating, staying on budget, and why it all matters. Her latest book Heart & Home for Christmas- is such a sweet read with daily devotionals combined with beautiful home decor. Such a great gift. Enjoy the Christmas stories from 2019 guests the Bethkes, the Dickersons, and Louie Giglio! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ted Dekker is the first guest EVER on this podcast (he's really the reason I started podcasting in the first place!), so it's such a joy to have him and his daughter Rachelle Dekker on the podcast today! I'm devouring their new book The Girl Behind The Red Rope- it's a novel I think you'll enjoy! Can't wait for you to hear the Christmas stories from 2019 guests Casey J, Mike Donehey, and Jess Connolly. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) Thank you to our sponsors of this episode! Literati Books: Go to literatibooks.com/THATSOUNDSFUN for $20 off your first box. Plus, kids three and up get a special blacklight pen. Samaritan Ministries See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Y'all request Food Network star Aarti Sequeira ALL THE TIME and MERRY CHRISTMAS she came to the party! I just adore Aarti and have loved her every minute since we met on the set of Hallmark Home and Family! Today, Aarti gets very honest about God and the holidays and family transitions. What a gift she has given us today. Also enjoy the Christmas stories from 2019 guests Benjamin Watson, Kristen Strong, and Kevin & Rea Queen. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we recorded EnneaSummer2019 episodes (which you can go back to June 2019 and listen to), I asked each enneagram pair to tell us about what they'd like for Christmas. Today, my three lifelong best friends- Molly, Misti, and Enneagram Coach Haley Watkins- sit down in the studio with me and we talk through each of the nine types of the enneagram and what they each would like for Christmas! Enjoy these Christmas stories from 2019 guests Andrew Peterson, Trudy Cathy White, and Brian Dixon. . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It has been far too long since Sarah Bessey and I caught up and it's most definitely time for her to be on the show! Her calm presence and kind voice felt just perfect for our Christmas party. So many topics, not enough time, but gracious and I grateful for her honesty and stories and heart. Make sure you grab a copy of her latest book Miracles and Other Reasonable Things! Stick around for Christmas stories from our 2019 guests John Mark Comer, Chris Rice, and the Roses from the Peach Truck! . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices