That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs

Oh y'all. This is a special one. You know we love to kick off the holidays with a good convo with our friends Amanda Bible Williams and Raechel Myers from SheReadsTruth-- they tell THE TRUTH about what's going on in their own lives and why the Advent season leading up to Christmas means so much to them this year particularly. I'm so ready for December 1! And don't forget that you get 15% off all the Advent goods at shopshereadstruth.com using the code "TSFAdvent"!! . . . . . 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

Thinking today about how grateful we are as Americans for our veterans- those who have served our country through a branch of the military, those who are serving now, those who are serving by being at home while their loved one is abroad. The perfect guest for today is my sweet friend Kristen Strong. As a wife to an Air Force Veteran, Kristen understands so much and speaks with such kindness and authority. We talk about all sorts of things that you are going to love. Her new book Back Roads to Belonging is perfect for you! You're gonna love it. . . . . . 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

One of our all time favorites is back today! I love (and y'all love) when Jefferson Bethke comes and hangs out with us and teaches us all the things we do not know. One of the smartest dudes we get to have on the show, Jeff and I get to chat a lot today about Sabbath, rest, work, family, and the way Western culture is doing it right and doing it wrong. Lots to learn, lots of laughs, sure to be one of your new top episodes. Jeff's new book To Hell With the Hustle is a must read for all of us. Grab it today. . . . . . 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

Y'all just get ready to fall ALL THE WAY IN LOVE with Emily Ley. You probably already adore her products that help keep us all organized, but her friendship is next level, as is her newest book When Less Becomes More. As we continue this un-planned fall theme of slowing down and being intentional, Emily comes right along and helps us not only know why to do it, but how. 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 sponsors of today’s podcast! Flamingo: Get the Flamingo Shave Set for just $16 + free shipping today when you visit shopflamingo.com/annie Liquid IV: Get 25% off anything when you use code THATSOUNDSFUN at checkout! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This one made all of us tear up behind the scenes, so consider that an endorsement and a warning. :) Andrew Peterson is profoundly interesting and tells us some of my new favorite stories about family, writing, creativity, being a person of faith and just human. Not only is he celebrating 20 years of Behold The Lamb of God, but he also has a new book Adorning the Dark that you ALL are going to just loooooove. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on this one. . . . . . 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're already big fans of John Mark Comer here at the pod, but his new book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry and this conversation are both next level good. We have a brand new (and super excellent) conversation about the enneagram, talk about parenting our phones, and the power of slowing down and eliminating hurry. Grab his new book (well, grab all of them) and make sure you tell your friends to listen to this episode! . . . . . 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

If you listened to Christian music in the 90s, no way is this name new to you. Jaci Velasquez is an award winning Christian artist with an INCREDIBLE voice and a powerful story. I loved sitting down with her and hearing all that God has been up to in her life, her family, her marriage, her parenting. We talk all about her son's autism, her life as a Mexican American, her history with God and where He is taking her next. It's a good one, y'all. Make sure you grab a copy of her new boo When God Rescripts Your Life. . . . . . 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

Y'all. Just get ready. This episode is unlike any we have ever had before. Dr. Matthew Sleeth tells us all about the importance of trees in our world and in our Bible- his new book Reforesting Faith is such an interesting read and SO. IS. THIS. CONVERSATION. The last fifteen minutes? Yep. I was in tears. I think you're going to love this one and love this guy and love this book. . . . . . 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

My gracious I enjoyed this interview. Getting to sit down with one of my favorite pastors, Mark Batterson, was an absolute podcasty highlight. Mark's work as an author and a pastor has impacted me greatly and getting to chat with him is such an honor. This convo is full of laughs and wise moments and quotable lines. I think you're gonna love it. His new book Double Blessing is such a great read and I think every one of us will benefit from reading it. Yay for great pastors who love their church and love their readers and love their families and love God this much. What a good dude. . . . . . 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

One of my favorite things about Kelly Minter is her garden. (Yes, duh I love her Bible teaching and I love her friendship and I love her nonprofit work, and we talk about ALL of that.) But her garden is something special. The way Kelly tends to her vegetables and focuses on their growth is how she is in every relationship as well. I admire her so much. Her newest book, A Place at the Table, is one I've been WAITING for. A cookbook with memoir moments, this one is a must have. . . . . . 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

Wow. That's my main feeling after this episode- Latasha Morrison is just WOW and her wisdom is WOW and her friendship is WOW. She's one of a kind and I feel so lucky to know her. Her new book Be The Bridge is such a gift- walking us all through how to better engage in racial reconciliation and make space at the table for all sorts of friends. Tasha has done it for me, and I'm really grateful. . . . . . 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

I think Brian Dixon is one of the smartest and most authentic friends we have. His growth and kindness and wisdom all come together in this episode and it really encouraged me and taught me. I hope it will do the same for you. His new book Start With Your People is so so good- grab a copy today! (And here's how you can sign up to read Tyler's DudeNotes!) . . . . . 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

Dustin Nickerson has quickly become one of my favorite friends. In the year we've known each other, I have been so grateful for his wisdom, his jokes, and his deep love for God and other people and making fun of me in public. :) Don't forget you can use the code "THATSOUNDSFUN" to get $5 off your ticket to see him headline this month- I'm looking at YOU, Dallas and Houston and Tampa and Atlanta! https://www.dustinnickerson.com/shows He's just one of the best and I know you're gonna love him. . . . . . 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

Our dear friend Rebekah Lyons is back on the podcast today talking all about adoption, their new daughter Joy, Rhythms of Renewal, and all the ways she has found freedom and life and Joy (literally!) in the last few years. I love love love this woman and her family- I think you will too! Her new book Rhythms of Renewal releases this week! Make sure you grab a copy! . . . . . 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

I have always hoped Mandisa and I would get along, but when she showed up in my office with a glitter backpack and hot pink shoes, I KNEW IT. Our conversation jumped from here to there to everywhere and I would do it all over again- it was THAT GOOD. She is exactly who you would hope- honest, kind, hilarious. And the depth of her truth-telling was so moving to me. Cannot wait to hear your thoughts on this one! . . . . . 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

Okay I only say this if I totally mean it. Y'ALL GET READY TO TAKE NOTES. Jess Connolly is absolutely one of my favorite leaders and voices right now- she is writing and speaking and coaching women towards exactly what God has for them. You will laugh, you may cry, but I promise by the time you're done listening, you'll be ready to go after your thing- You Are The Girl For The Job! . . . . . 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

Oh y'all. This one is special. I didn't know much of Sarah Mae's history- we've been friends for a while but haven't dug into some of the things we learn today- and this entire conversation moved me to tears. Her newest book A Complicated Heart is a deep dive into one of the most important relationships that each of us has. I think it will speak to you in a deep deep way. And yes. The pink flamingo made the move with me to my new office. (Little warning for your littles, and your own heart: this conversation has some complicated and painful mother/daughter relationship parts, so know going into it. Wouldn't want you to be surprised.) . . . . . 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've got another one of my favorite Georgia Bulldogs for the podcast today. David Platt is a bestselling author and well known (very gifted!) preacher and pastor. Today we're gonna talk all about Jesus, what the Gospel really means, the power one life can have in the lives of many others, and rollercoasters and airplanes and sports... and a special pop-in from Pastor Kevin, pastor of the pod! David's new book Something Needs To Change is one of my top three favorite reads in the last year. Please buy it. I think you'll be moved by what you read. . . . . . 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

I played it much cooler than I felt when Melissa d'Arabian sat down at the podcast table. I watched her on Food Network any chance I got and have continued to follow her career. Her new book Tasting Grace is healing and generous and important. I think it will matter to you, too. This conversation is so fun- I felt so honored to sit and talk to someone I've admired through the television. If you loved her before, like me, you're gonna just implode with joy hearing her talk about faith and food and life. She's just the best. . . . . . 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

I have been such a huge fan of Ruth Chou Simons for so long. Her art is extraordinary (I've given her pieces as gifts a million times), but her writing is also amazing. Make sure you grab a copy of her new book Beholding and Becoming. We talk all about our social media use (and how to stay healthy in it), traveling to Europe, creating, and on and on and on. She's just so wise, I could have listened forever. . . . . . 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

I have been DYING to get Jenn Jett, one of my absolute besties, on the show. She is one of the bravest and best women I know. She's an enneagram teacher, a dream defender, a coach, a great friend, an awesome wife, and the woman behind Camp Well (which you're gonna hear all about). AND DO NOT FORGET! If you want to go to Camp Well, use the code "THATSOUNDSFUN" and get $100 off. thewellsummit.com And make sure you check out Come To The Table Tour and come hang with Angie Smith, Danielle Walker, and I at the end of September! . . . . . 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

I really love listening to anything Sharon Hodde Miller says... from a stage or a book or like today, on the other side of a microphone. She is wise and kind and a truth teller. Her newest book Nice: Why We Love to Be Liked and How God Calls Us To More is a strong read that I think you'll love. (UGH YOU GUYS. ALSO. This episode was recorded the same day at Drew Holcomb and Sheri Lynn which means I SCREWED UP RECORDING IT just like those two. Sheesh. I'm so sorry. So lean in and listen because the sound is a little off but the content is *spot* *on*.) . . . . . 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

I am so so happy to have Bianca Juarez Olthoff back on the podcast today! She's one of my very favorite friends and someone I trust to tell me the truth in just about every area of my life. And you will hear her do that today! Her new book How To Have Your Life Not Suck just released this week and my mom still doesn't like it when we use the word "suck" but luckily this book does not suck, it's incredibly good, so no worries there. I think you're going to love this conversation about leadership and the church, the book of Ruth and church planting, and a good bit about dating in 2019. . . . . . 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

Such an honor to have Priscilla Shirer on the podcast today from her home in Texas! I loved getting to talk with her- to hear her thoughts on boundaries, raising the next generation, helping all people feel safe in our churches, and just plain catching up! She is in the new movie Overcomer and her new book Radiant just released! Check them both out and make sure you hear Priscilla teach soon- she's absolutely amazing. . . . . . 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

I have been so so excited about having this conversation- so many of us know and love Jennifer Rothschild from her work and interviews on television and hearing her speak on stages, but this is so personal and special for us. As you will hear, she is every bit as kind and lovely and wise and fun as I thought she was from afar. Her Psalm 23 Bible Study is really excellent and her book Lessons I Learned in the Dark is a great place to start in her library of work! . . . . . 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

There are so many things I love about hosting this show, but one of my favorites is getting to introduce you to some of the best music. And today Drew Holcomb is with us, talking all about his new album Dragons (that I've listened to about three times a day since it came out), his favorite fan story, the loss of his brother and why he hasn't talked about it until now, and about fifty other topics. Also, I'm so grateful to Drew for letting us use music from Dragons for the show this fall! Make sure you grab a copy of the whole album- I think you'll love it. I SERIOUSLY CANNOT QUIT IT. (Also Drew is the dearest and best friend for recording this show with me TWICE since I messed up when we were behind the microphones the first time. And for real, trust us, this conversation is better than the first one we did. So everyone wins!) . . . . . 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

After an incredibly fun couple of weeks talking about the enneagram, you guys submitted a LOT of questions about your own enneagram journey. One of my favorite experts, Seth Abram, joins us to go through your list of questions and give us an Enneagram 201 next level class. Your brain is gonna love this. And remember- this is a journey for all of us. Give yourself time to learn and search out your own number, wing, etc. You can follow Seth and learn tons at @integratedenneagram. All the books and resources listed by Seth are available on my website- head to the podcast tab and search for this show! . . . . . 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

Sherri Lynn and I met a few months ago at an event and I liked her a TON immediately and I wanted y'all to meet her! So she flew to Nashville and we sat in my office and chatted for a good long time and this conversation is super special. AND. Your friend Annie majorly screwed up in the recording. (UGH YOU GUYS. I AM SO SORRY.) So Producer Chad worked incredibly hard to make this one sound good enough for y'all to hear- and he did a magical job. Sherri and I both listened to the quality of this and while it isn't the best (again, 100% my fault), it is too good a conversation to not share it. Good thing she is a comedienne and can laugh off dealing with my mistakes. Make sure you grab a copy of her book I Want To Punch You In The Face But I Love Jesus. :) It's legit funny. . . . . . 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

Y'all just buckle up. Lauren Daigle is here with stories and preaching and heart and SINGING and she is kinder to us than we deserve. Her writing and her music have changed so many of our lives, today's in depth convo behind the words and music will do the same, I think. Her latest album Look Up Child is an absolute smash and she's headed out on a world tour, playing in some of the coolest arenas and venues. Make sure you check out her new video for Rescue! It's unreal. And if you get a chance today, maybe remind Lauren via social media how much her music, her life, and this conversation meant to you. Let's flood her with reminders that her work matters. . . . . . 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

I've been a longtime fan of Tenth Avenue North and Mike Donehey's singing, but so stoked to actually get to listen to Mike talk! This guy showed up AND SHOWED UP. I laughed, I cried, I said OKAY YOU BETTER PREACH more than once. This dude is amazing. His new book Finding God's Life for My Will: His Presence Is The Plan is really great- you should grab a copy. It's like this conversation but way more words and way less interrupting by yours truly. :) Also please stick around to hear the Irish and Scottish accents that Mike can do FLAWLESSLY. . . . . . 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

I could barely listen to the edit of this episode because I sound like such a super fan, y'all. :) LOL SORRY. But literally I have been cheering for Benjamin Watson for almost twenty years now- as a Georgia Bulldog and as he continued into the NFL. Not only is he an outstanding football player, he's an incredible family man, dedicated man of faith, and smart smart thinker. I am so so excited for y'all to hear this conversation about family and faith and race and leading well and with highest integrity. Benjamin's book Under Our Skin is a really excellent read, I hope you'll check it out. (And he has a dad book too!) And also I can't believe I'm saying this as a Falcons fan :), but I'm excited to cheer for the New England Patriots this year.... well, for ONE Patriot at least. :) Grateful for you, Benjamin! . . . . . 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

Heather Avis is absolutely one of the most inspiring and strong voices that I follow. When I heard her speak a few years ago, I was blown away and so grateful for her story and her passion. I've been DYING to chat with her for the show, so I'm just so happy it worked out today! Her new book Scoot Over And Make Some Room is almost anthemic in it's storytelling and direction and we will all benefit from reading with it. I think you'll love it. . . . . . 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

Chris Rice is one of the friends in Nashville I have known the longest (and no, I don't mean back to when I would listen to his songs in middle school, I mean since I moved to town). And he is just as brilliant and kind and thoughtful and fun and you would have hoped he would be as a fan of his music. He's also full of wise words and beautiful music and just one of the best men I know. I know you already probably know him, but I hope today's conversation makes him feel like a new friend. Make sure you go listen to his new album Untitled Hymn... it is just beautiful. . . . . . 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

I just absolutely love when a friend shows up in the podcast studio and seeing Lisa Jo Baker just about made me tear up. I just love her. We jumped right in and totally went to all the places (and then some) and talked a ton about her new book The Middle Matters. It's fantastic. She is such a gift and if you don't love her yet, get ready! She's just the best. . . . . . 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

FAN GIRL ALERT. You guys. I have loved Robin Jones Gunn's writing for over twenty years. One of her main characters in over 50 of her novels- Christy Miller- felt like one of my best friends in middle school and high school. Robin has been a mentor from a distance for years and a friend that I do not deserve and I am so so honored she would take time and join us on the show today. While you may know her name from Father Christmas books (and Hallmark Christmas movies!) but her newest novel Becoming Us was a favorite vacation read for me this summer. Make sure you grab Becoming Us and really any and all of Robin's novels. You guys have got to meet Christy. She's the best. :) . . . . 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

My friend Andrew Osenga mentioned Casey J to me a few months ago, asking if we were friends. I LOVE her music, but we had never met. But as soon as he told me we were both Georgia Bulldogs, I knew this friendship was meant to be. So last month when she was passing through Nashville, we sat down and made it happen! We go deep into a lot of topics, including her new album The Gathering, and I think you are going to love this conversation (and this woman and her music)! . . . . 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

Summertime is only complete for me when the peaches come in and they get ripe and the smell fills my life. Leaving Georgia meant leaving the best peaches until The Peach Truck came along. Stephen and Jessica Rose have created the best company- Georgia peaches delivered all over. Their new cookbook just released and it is absolutely full of recipes that will do the best by every peach you bring into your kitchen. I adore adore adore these friends and I’m so happy to introduce them to you! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This one is a special one. Hillary Scott was one of the first friends I met when I moved to Nashville eleven years ago. To watch her career grow and build, as part of Lady Antebellum and also the music she makes with her family, has been a joy. Y'all have requested her and there is no better friend to walk with me, on the very first day, into a new year of my life than Hill. Make sure you check out Lady A's new song and tell me what you think! It's a tear jerker FOR SURESIES. (And just in case you missed it- make sure you listen to yesterday's special Sunday episode- lots of cool updates!!) . . . . 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 never do Sunday shows but here is the thing: TODAY IS MY BIRTHDAY and it's OUR 200TH EPISODE (or it just was and the numbers don't match and etc etc etc just forgive me and let's move forward) and we have some VERY FUN UPDATES INDEED. So get ready to hear from Andrew Ripp, Ginna Claire Mason Moffett, my friend Kelli, and Tina from Christian Appalachian Project. http://christianapp.org/anniefdowns . . . . 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

I am SUCH a super fan of Shannon Sedgwick Davis and having her on the show today, on Independence Day, felt just absolutely right. She has spent her life making freedom a reality for so many others. Shannon's book, To Stop A Warlord, is moving and shocking and will call you to action in your own life. What a read. When you think today of the freedom we have as Americans, I hope it reminds you to think and pray and act on behalf of those- in our own country and around the world- who are not free. Happy 4th of July, friends! . . . . 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

With the US Women's National Team through to the semifinals of the Women's World Cup, let's talk about soccer! This is a super fun time to jump into enjoying the sport as we cheer for our women as they make a run at repeating their 2015 World Cup Championship! Today's guest- Lauren Holiday- was a major part of that team in 2015 and a major part of the history of women's soccer in the USA. She tells us her story today and gets us ready for the rest of the World Cup tournament. I think you're going to love her- an incredible story of highs and lows and what nearness to God looked like in all of it. (And tons of soccer talk. YES AND AMEN.) . . . . 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

I won't say we saved the best for last because this whole series has been extraordinary because each set of guests has been extraordinary. But Sonnie and Jason, our enneagram 9 friends, have finished this EnneaSummer2019 so well. I've long loved nines, but this invitation into their minds and hearts brought (many) tears to my eyes. Oh enneagram 9 friends, thank y'all for how selflessly you live and love. You think of the rest of us so much. Thank you thank you thank you. May God remind you how much your presence matters in our lives- not for what you do, but for who you are. . . . . . Q&A EPISODE COMING SOON! Have a question you want answered by an enneagram expert (not me!)? Email us! [email protected] . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Strong hearts and soft hearts. That's what you are going to experience today in our Enneagram 8 episode. Patrick and Annie let us in to a deeper understanding of what it is like to challenge, to battle, to walk with justice at the front of your mind. I am so thankful for these two friends and what they offer to those that they love- protection, truth, vulnerability, loyalty. Enneagram 8s, thank you for being strong when it isn't always easy. Thank you for leading and serving, often at the same time. Here's to all the ways you care for the rest of us and all the ways we can care for you. . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well DON'T YOU KNOW I've been waiting on this one. :) As your resident enneagram 7, I feel like y'all know this number pretty well because you put up with me every episode. But having Drew and Cait in the room around microphones with me made for triple the fun. I love the way this conversation went- yes to lots of laughs, but also lots of honesty about our fears, anxiety, and the power of perseverance in our lives. I learned a lot in this episode and I'm grateful for how honest everyone was. (And YAY I GOT TO ANSWER THE FUN QUESTION. LOL.) Grateful for these two 7s and how they bring FUN and JOY to my life. . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You guys. I got SUPER into Food Network's Spring Baking Championship a few months ago. Like SUPER into it. I watched every episode, DVRed it when I was on the road, cared DEEPLY about the winner, and then proceeded to tweet the winner and beg him to be on my podcast. Meet Chef Cory Barrett. :) ... the chef your friend Annie stalked to be on her podcast and also (more importantly) the WINNER of Food Network's 2019 Spring Baking Championship! If you've wondered about the behind the scenes of these shows, how Cory got on it in the first place, where they film (you won't believe it), when they film (also surprising), and lots and lots of other great stories about baking and life- today's show is for you. Y'all are gonna absolutely love this guy! Congrats again on the win, Chef Cory! https://www.facebook.com/chefcorybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/chef_cory_barrett/ . . . . 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 are about to learn next level safety tips from our enneagram 6 friends. :) JUST KIDDING. But yes- we are about to talk a lot about feeling safe yourself and creating safe environments for the people you love. Kate and Josh kindly invite us into the minds of the loyalist- their fight against anxiety, managing fears, and trusting God. Also Kate gives THE MOST EXCELLENT tip to enneagram 6s. Seems incredibly helpful for us all, actually! (And you know how I feel about journaling anyways...) :) Thank God for enneagram 6 friends who fight the fear, step out in courage, and make us all feel more cared for and safe. . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gracious this episode with our enneagram 5s is special. People with this personality type usually doesn't like to be the center of attention, so Emily and Goose really took one for the team this week being on the show. I am so so grateful for them- they both helped me to fall more in love with the 5s in my life and see them for who they really are (even if Goose doesn't *totally* love the enneagram.) :) Enneagram 5s, thanks for all you learn and know and research so that we can all grow. I'm thankful for your thoughtfulness and kindness and the ways you collect information for the good of others. . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I didn't want to miss the chance to celebrate Father's Day in the middle of #EnneaSummer2019, so my friend Kevin Madsen, one of the HeyDad podcast hosts, stopped in the office and we did a little deep dive on dad-ing. I'm not a dad (duh), but gosh this convo made me laugh and moved me to tears. If you love a father, you're gonna love this show. And don't forget to grab your favorite dad a Father's Day gift and get 20% off the HeyDad subscription box when you use the code ANNIE. https://heydad.com And thanks to my dear friend (and one of my favorite dads) Harry for calling from Scotland right as the show was ending! :) That sounds fun to me. . . . . 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

Grab tissues because you KNOW these fours are going to make you tear up! Matt and Marissa (a different Marissa that the enneagram 3 obviously) join me today as we talk about life in a world where it may be true that no one really gets you and what that experience is like. To be seen and known is what our four friends are looking for, and my hope is that today you will gain new insight into this super special and very important enneagram type. Matt and Marissa are two of the best- and this show is extra cool because they are already friends! (You're gonna love what they say about each other!) . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let me lead with this: I owe threes an apology. I haven't been thoughtful about their pain and struggles because of my own experience with men in leadership who self-identified as threes. I've been working towards loving them better, but this conversation changed me. I see threes so differently now, and I'm so thankful for Marisa and Nick sitting down with me, opening their hearts and stories, and letting us see what it is really like to be a three, on your best and worst days. Thank God for threes and what they build and create and how they honor the rest of us by helping us dream and succeed. . . . . . Music from Ryan O'Neal : http://www.sleepingatlast.com Expert words from Beth McCord : http://yourenneagramcoach.com Our hashtags : #EnneaSummer2019 #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... join in the conversation wherever hashtags are welcome. :) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices