That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs

I am SUCH A FAN of enneagram twos (and have A LOT to learn about them as you will hear here). And I'm particularly partial to the twos I get to introduce you to today. Nate and Jenn are two of the very best humans and serve with their whole hearts. I hope this episode helps you fall in love with twos in a way that helps you help them to help well. :) . . . . . 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

Time to fall in love with the enneagram ones in our lives! Lee and Jami are here to tell us their experiences from their own point of view. I ask them all sorts of questions, fail them by not giving them the questions ahead of time, and find myself teary at the end because we are just so lucky to have enneagram ones in our lives. . . . . . 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

Friends. Get ready to spend the next few weeks learning about the enneagram! We kick it all off with one of my very favorite (and one of the very smartest) enneagram experts, Suzanne Stabile! This is the episode that will get you ready for the focus this whole month- answering your questions about how you start to journey toward your own number, where the enneagram came from, what we can learn from studying all the numbers (not just our own), and https://www.theenneagramjourney.org We'll be using #EnneaSummer2019 as our hashtag this month, so as you discover your number and dig in deeper- include the hashtag so we can learn along with 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

Y'all. Why are comedians the VERY BEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD? Every time we get lucky enough to have one stop by the office to record a show, I am better for it. Heather Land is no exception- this one will be a great travel companion for you this weekend and anytime you are laying by the pool and need a laugh. And make sure you grab a copy of her new book I Ain't Doin 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

We are a people who LOVE to talk about books, so today I brought the expert in to talk to us about what we should be reading this summer. Anne Bogel, many of you know her as Modern Mrs. Darcy, talks reading and books better than any other friend I've got. Her latest book, I'd Rather Be Reading, is just one of the most fun and inspiring books I've read in a while (if you want to be inspired to open up more books). She has two book-centric podcasts of her own that I think you'll love. I can't wait to hear what you are going to read this summer and what book clubs you have joined! If you want to read along with me, I'm starting this summer reading The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay. . . . . 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 I cannot tell you what an honor it was to sit down with Louie Giglio, a man who has been pastoring me through his teachings and books for twenty years. (I worked real hard to be appreciative but not "Between Two Ferns" level fandom, so forgive me if I got weird at any point.) We dive in on perseverance, leadership, influence, family, and La Croix. Obviously. :) His new book Not Forsaken: Finding Freedom as Sons & Daughters of a Perfect Father has just released and it is a powerful piece of work that I think you will love. . . . . 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 is ABOUT TIME we had Margaret Feinberg on the show! She's a long time friend, an incredible author, a writing coach to many, and just one of the all around best people. Her latest book Taste and See is a journey though the foods of the Bible and the book, and this episode, will just make your mouth water. . . . . 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 many of our friends graduate this month, I thought it would be fun to bring on an expert in transitions. (So this show isn't JUST for people finishing school- it's for all of us as we figure out how to go from HERE to THERE.) Andrew Osenga hosts The Pivot podcast, all stories of people who have had a transition in their life and how they have maneuvered it. After you listen to this show, share it with your favorite graduate and make sure you've subscribed to The Pivot! . . . . 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

Who better to share her wisdom about being a mom than Pam Tebow?!? RIGHT? You know we love her son Tim around here, but now we get to hear from her! I've never been more inspired to memorize scripture and notice where I'm affecting others. This one is so so inspirational! Her new book Ripple Effects is out now- so make sure you grab a copy for yourself and your favorite mom! . . . . 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 Heather saw Ryan Hall's new book on my desk- Run The Mile You Are In- and after she told me about him for a few minutes, I thought, "yep, that's our kind of guy" and I knew I wanted to have him on the show. I'm so glad, too. HE IS AWESOME. Y'all are going to love this conversation all about health, wellness, PERSEVERANCE (which you know I LOVE) and the power of God in our every day lives. I'm so glad we get tto call Ryan a friend now AND don't you KNOW we'll be cheering for Sara Hall like crazy as she tries out for the 2020 Olympics! . . . . 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

Endless summer. Essential winter. This is a conversation I will not soon forget. Amanda Cook is an incredibly gifted singer/songwriter and worship leader. Her songs have been a soundtrack to much of my healing and growth in my relationship with God, particularly in the last four years. Her newest album House On A Hill is VERY VERY GOOD, y'all. While sometimes I tell you to be ready to take notes, today I'd encourage you to be outside while you listen, go on a walk or sit on your porch or just be in a place where you can let these words fall on you. It's special. . . . . 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 a long fan of the Bachelor series, I'm really excited for y'all to hear this conversation with Ben Higgins. For those of us who have watched the show, I think you're going to love the MORE of who Ben is. Honest, kind, smart, funny, and full full full of wisdom. But whether you've been a fan of his for a while or this is a first introduction, you're welcome! He's awesome! (This may be one where you scribble down some notes- don't say I didn't warn ya.) Make sure you check out Generous Coffee too! . . . . 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 a tear-jerker YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. If you are moved by talk of family, adoptions, orphans, and the love and grace of God, this one may get ya. My friend Emily Chapman Richards is the newly appointed executive director of ShowHope and I think she's just one of the best and brightest and most inspiring women I know. If you'd like to know more about ShowHope, just head to their website! https://showhope.org . . . . 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'm so so happy to have Jeremy Cowart back on the show! We have lots of topics to cover (as you will see) including an update on The Purpose Hotel and his new amazing book I'm Possible. We also spend some time on Santa Claus and and adoption and chronic pain so yeah, we're something special. :) http://jeremycowart.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

It all started when one of you sweet friends handed me a novel by Charles Martin. Then I saw I had another on my book shelf from my mom. Then I read them both and now I'm a massive fan and I pretty much begged Charles Martin to come be on the show because FAN GIRL STATUS IS REAL. His new book, What If It Is True?, is my companion for the next week as we walk towards Easter. (This episode will tell you why and why you should join me!) (Quick reminder: we are taking next week off the show to celebrate Holy Week. I hope you will take the time you usually spend here with us and use it to read, listen, and learn about why Easter week changed everything for us.) Happy Easter, friends. He is risen indeed. See you Monday April 22nd! . . . . 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 episode is like a little love letter to us all! Jeremy and Audrey Roloff are as amazing and kind and fun to be around as you would guess based on watching their family's hit reality show Little People, Big World. We talk a lot about enneagram and relationships and soccer so what I'm saying is this may be the apex show of my life. :) Their new book A Love Letter Life is already getting incredible feedback - I think you'll love it too. . . . . 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

Emily P. Freeman is so dear to me. Getting to talk to her, listen to her, learn from her, it's quite a gift. I'm so honored to have her on the show today, to get to share her with you. Her newest book just released this week- The Next Right Thing- and along with her podcast, this work is just totally changing me. I bet it will change you too. . . . . . 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 do not like April Fools so this is no joke: you guys have been BEGGING me to have Ben Rector on the show and we finally made it happen today! He shows up in a million ways- in humor, in kindness, in wisdom. He's a great musician but an even better man. His latest album Magic is an absolute favorite and if you get a chance to see him on tour, TAKE IT. His live show is so so good. . . . . . 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 love being friends with Elisabeth Hasselbeck. She is every bit as genuine and kind and truth-telling as you expect her to be. You'll hear in this conversation all about her prayer life, her family life, her television life, and her author life. Her new book Point of View just released this week and I think you will really love it. Get your journal out, there are nuggets galore in 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

I've been a fan of David Crowder for about as long as I've been buying music. He is one of my favorite musicians, one of my favorite writers (y'all have GOT to read some of his prose), and now one of my favorite dudes. This conversation was incredibly fun and entertaining for me across the table, I cannot wait to hear how you feel about it too! Crowder's newest album I Know A Ghost is a really good one. Father, Son, Holy Spirit- that part of this convo stuck with me. What a genius. I think you're going to love 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

You probably recognize Trudy's maiden name- Cathy. Like Truett Cathy. Like CHICK-FIL-A. Trudy Cathy White is way more than fried chicken, though. Over the last few years as I have gotten to know her, she has taught me faithfulness, joy, long obedience in the same direction. Every conversation moves me to be better. Her new book Climb Every Mountain will walk you through the harder days. It's so so beautiful. Enjoy this convo and tell me your favorite Chick-fil-A order! :) . . . . . 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

Gracious I love Lysa TerKeurst. What an honor and a joy to have her on the podcast. If you haven't heard her speak live, GO DO IT. If you haven't read her books yet, WHY NOT. If you haven't heard a conversation with her recorded with you in mind, you're welcome. :) Make sure you grab a copy of her new book It's Not Supposed To Be This Way. It is so moving and inspiring and I'm sure you will connect with it in your own way, just like I did. . . . . . 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 in the whole world is introducing my friends to my friends. I bet many of you already know Trey Kennedy from his comedy and videos and killer voice- he's the best. But hearing more about his life and spiritual disciplines and faith experience is going to be the best part of your day. Trey is one of my friends that I look forward to living life with over the next few decades to see how his discipline and heart and talent shape his life. Three cheers for great (and FUNNY) humans like Trey Kennedy! https://shop.treykennedy.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

MY GIRL MERE! I've been WAITING to get her onto the podcast. Meredith Andrews has been dear to me for years- it's been long overdue to bring her to meet you. Her new live worship album Faith & Wonder just released last week and it is on repeat nonstop in my house. I think you're gonna love it, too. And Mere. She is a GIFT. . . . . . 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

For 30 days in 2019, over 400 churches in the greater Nashville area prayed and fasted together for revival in our city. Pastor Dave Clayton from Ethos Church and Cross Point Pastor Kevin Queen (pastor of the pod, duh) came into my office to chat about Awaken Nashville- answer questions about why/how it got started, tell stories about what we've seen so far, and talk about what the first steps are for you to start this in your city. http://awakennashville.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

I only know how to play three songs on the guitar, and Julie Roberts's song "Break Down Here" is one of them. I've never met her before but WOW am I glad to have met her. This conversation- about growing up, country music, marriage, and an MS diagnosis- runs the full gamut. Her new book Beauty in the Breakdown is an amazing and inspiring read. You're gonna love this woman and 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

It's a special day here on the podcast as we welcome Jonathan Pitts- pastor, author, and husband to my friend, the late Wynter Pitts. The very day she passed away, Jonathan and Wynter turned in a book on marriage called Emptied. I thought talking about this book, and Wynter, and Jonathan's transition to Nashville, would be great at the end of TSF Couples 2019. Hope you'll enjoy this very moving and honest conversation with Jonathan. (We love you, Wynter. You are missed here.) https://twitter.com/PittsTimes6 https://forgirlslikeyou.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

To finish out our couples month on the podcast, I got two of my favorites around the microphones... Pastor Kevin Queen and his wife Rea! It's right to end the month with a seasoned couple (married 19 years!) who can walk us through some of the hard seasons of marriage. So many of my questions are answered in this one. I'm so grateful. This one is for you, husbands. (Kevin gives the best piece of advice I've maybe ever heard to men.) This one is for you, wives. (Rea shares some deeply important ideas.) This one is for you, friends who want to be married someday. (Their dating advice to me has stayed with me.) Hope you love this one as much as I do! . . . . . 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

Andrew East is an NFL long snapper. Shawn Johnson East is an Olympic gold medalist gymnast. POWER ATHLETE COUPLE FOR REAL. Together they are one of my very favorite couples (in real life and on instagram). I have loved watching their marriage grow and change via the internet, and this conversation is a special one - about how to meet the right person, how to persevere in your dreams, and how to make patterns and decisions that will make you who you want to be in the long run of life. Y'all are gonna love these people. https://www.instagram.com/andrewdeast/ https://www.instagram.com/shawnjohnson/ . . . . . 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

The stars of Flip or Flop Atlanta, Ken and Anita Corsini have an incredible story of God opening doors for them, how He ordered their steps, and how He sustained them when their son had cancer. This is far more than a story of HGTV celebs (though they are that too!)- it's deep and beautiful. We've been friends since college- over 20 years- and this is one of my favorite conversations with them ever. . . . . . 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'm a little without description on this one, I'm just so happy about it. Mack and Meredith Brock are two strong leaders who have found home in each other. The depth of their communication and relationship is so dang inspiring to me (and wait until you hear how they talk about fasting and praying!). Mack Brock's most recent album Greater Things is an ABSOLUTE FAVORITE. Make sure you grab it! Grateful for these two. The fact they are also HILARIOUS seems borderline unfair- people shouldn't be this all around awesome. Makes the rest of us look bad. ;) http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... hashtag along with us! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It wouldn't be TSF Couples month here in Nashville without a country music super-couple! So here we are with Russell Dickerson and his amazing wife Kailey. I only cry once in this one... it's just so special, y'all. Make sure you check out Russell's music- truly one of my favorite voices in the country space right now. Even if you aren't totally a country fan (yet!), he might be the one to win you over. https://russelldickerson.com (PS- I love TSF Couples month SO SO MUCH. I hope y'all are enjoying it too!!) . . . . . http://anniefdowns.com #thatsoundsfunpodcast ... hashtag along with us! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I know this is one of your favorite "couples" that come on our show- MINE TOO! This episode is perfect combination of a friendship we want to get to know AND the start of Lent season leading towards Easter! The SheReadsTruth girls and I talk all about healthy friendship with women, but we also talk about the next reading plans- four weeks of Job and four weeks of the Easter story (then Revelation eek). https://www.shopshereadstruth.com Remember to use the code "thatsoundsfun" to get 15% off your Job and Easter studies- Hes, Shes, and Kids! (Because of the limited run on the linen cover, that one isn't included in the 15% off, but hurry and get one before they sell out!) Thankful for a chance to hear the heart behind these studies, to hear an update on Amanda's son Toby, and just to get to know Amanda and Raechel better. Hope y'all will join us in these studies! . . . . . 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

TSF Couples Month continues with Jeff and Alyssa Bethke. These are two of my favorite friends to follow on socials and keep up with as their marriage and family grows and changes and strengthens. And they live in Maui so who wouldn't want to see that life on the regular? :) This episode brings up some important practices and disciplines to survive those young toddler years (three under five? THESE PEOPLE ARE BRAVE!) and these two are so honest about their joys and struggles. For many of you right in the middle of that place, these are your people. (For the rest of us- good news! Jeff and Alyssa are our people too.) :) . . . . . 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

TSF Couples Month REALLY kicks off today with these two adorable and amazing humans- newlyweds Jessica Mack and Dre Plackis. Jess and I have known each other for a while here in Nashville, she's a gifted singer/songwriter and one of the cast members of CMT's Music City, a reality show based here in town. Dre and Jess met between the two seasons of Music City (you're gonna hear the whole story and IT IS AWESOME) and their wedding was featured in the last two episodes of Season 2 of Music City! I hadn't heard the story first-hand of how they met and fell and love and Y'ALL just hearing how God orchestrated every step is so so cool and encouraging for all of us... singles, moms, friends. All the ways you are waiting, I think this episode will remind you that GOD IS AT WORK. Pretty fun, huh? . . . . . 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

No better way to kick off our month of couples than with these two (who are actually, in fact, not a romantic couple). Knox McCoy and Jamie Golden are the hosts of The Popcast and Bible Binge, as well as some very very fun side shows they offer their Patron community. You can find everything you want to know about them over at KnoxandJamie.com! We fling from here to there in this convo and I wouldn't trade it for the world. I've been DYING to be friends with these two and now they are so totally stuck with me for all our days. I adore them. I think you will too. . . . . . 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 just so excited to have my longtime friend Lisa Leonard on the podcast. I have been wearing her jewelry for almost a decade, and reading her words on her blog, but her book is a whole new thing. (It's amazing.) Lisa is so creative and wise and honest. Her new book Brave Love is just beautiful. You're gonna love it. We had some tech difficulties so we didn't get to talk as long as I wanted to, but I think you will love what we got! . . . . . 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 love love love having pastors on the show- they just always have some nuggets for us that will lead to good growth and change. Scott Sauls is one of those pastors to me- he is an expert on faith and culture and where those meet, as well as just a kind, generous, and thoughtful human. I'm grateful for where this conversation went as we talked all about struggles and faith life and changes and HOPE. His new book Irresistible Faith released this week. Make sure you grab a copy- it's so so good. (And, as we promised, let's continue to keep Scott in our prayers as he sorts out the insomnia issue.) . . . . . 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 girl Hollyn is on the show today and y'all just aren't even going to believe this story. What I thought was a simple, "update me on life" question led to a whole episode of how God writes stories that are unlike anything we could do for ourselves. To finish up the Next Gen series, another expert from inside the Next Gen camp, reminding us that God is at work in all of our lives, no matter your age, and if you seek Him you WILL find Him. Pretty fun one. Can't wait to hear your thoughts. . . . . . 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. This one surprised me. I called a couple of my favorite gals- Camden (13), Raleigh (15), and Katie Marie (19)- to see if we could talk all about being a teenager. Because all of our experts this month have been experts BUT who knows teens better than teens. And these young women BLEW MY MIND. Buckle up for an incredibly beautiful and profound conversation. (Also dear adults, here's a spoiler: we still don't need to be on snapchat- teens think that is weird, but we need to understand it.) . . . . . I also have a new book releasing this week for young women- A Life of Lovely- a younger version of Looking For Lovely, specifically edited and specifically re-written with younger gals in mind. I will be reading you a few pages from this book today on the podcast as well. . . . . . 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

Pretty often, JP Pokluda's name crosses in front of me, so I've known of him for a long time. But this was our first time getting to be friends. But I knew when I was gathering up experts on the next generation, he was one of the dudes I wanted to speak into this series. So far our experts have been talking to us about middle and high schoolers (mostly), but JP is here to talk college (mostly). :) We're also gonna hit a few other topics I think you will love- like hearing God, accountability, and JP's next steps. His new book Welcome to Adulting: Navigating Faith, Friendship, Finances, and the Future is SUCH a gift for anyone walking through that young adult life phase. . . . . . 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

Fifteen years ago, Drew Hill and I served in the same student ministry. He and his wife Natalie moved to Athens, Georgia and became the leaders of the student ministry where I was volunteering. I learned so so much from him the year we served together. Impacted me forever. Drew has been committed to investing in the next generation for twenty years and he's finally (literally FINALLY) written a book called Alongside: Loving Teenagers with the Gospel. When I think of who loves teens well, and shows them the Gospel life, it's Drew. Grab this book for yourself, for your youth pastor, and for every parent you know. . . . . . 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 taking a few episodes to talk about the next generation- what it looks like to invest in them, how to care for them, and how to love them well. When I think about who speaks teenage the best and can teach us a whole lot, it is Amy Byrd. She is the director of girls ministry at Hunter Street Baptist Church and also an absolutely brilliant writer, gifted speaker, and excellent friend. I think you're just gonna love her and her thoughts. Whether you are friends with a teenager, raising a teenager, leading teenagers, or just surrounded by them on this planet, I think this conversation will open up your eyes and thoughts to some new things. http://amybyrd.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

HAPPY NEW YEAR, friends! So glad to be kicking off another season with you. We have some fun plans in the next few weeks, and I wanted to start the year by having a conversation with Carey Nieuwhof. Pastor, teacher, author, podcast host, leadership expert, Carey has a lot of right answers for the questions we are asking right now about how to start 2019 in a way that leads us to the healthiest year yet. His newest book, Didn't See It Coming, is helping me to navigate some important things this season- I think it will help you too! Let's jump into 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

There was no other way to end the year than having our old pal Eddie Kaufholz back on the show. We talk about 2018 like it can't hear us- the things we loved and hated, the ways it surprised us, Eddie's big changes this year (and he parents his daughters a few times), and we dive deep into plans for 2019. This is a thinker and an LOLer. Of course it is. Thanks for an amazingly fun year, you guys. I wouldn't do this without you. Over 5 million downloads and 70+ shows in 2018, and still the best part is when you come up to me at a restaurant or airport and tell me your favorite episode. So THANK YOU SO MUCH. Y'all are better friends than I deserve. Here's to 2019- a year full of great shows (we already mostly know the first three months and it's LEGIT) and lots of new friends and having more fun than we did in any year before. That's my goal for us, at least. :) . . . . . Quick reminders: 1. No new show on New Years Eve but we'll be back on January 3! 2. We are reading 100 Days to Brave together starting January 1! Join us!! All the details on my instagram. . . . . . 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 never gotten to do a Christmas Eve show until this year, AND I AM SO THRILLED ABOUT IT. I imagine this being the episode you listen to as you drive home, or cook for your people, or out on a walk with your pup to get a little break from family time, or driving to and from the golf course. Or maybe y'all turn on the tree and gather around, old school style, and listen together. Loads of people on this one- the Downs Books team, lots of my #miniBFFs, Pastor Kevin, AND MY MOM AND DAD. This is a fun one. A little gift from me to you. Merry Christmas, friend. . . . . . 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 Nicolle Galyon throws incredible parties. Never stressful, never stuffy, always welcoming and incredibly fun. So when we planned our Hallmark Movie watching party for Saturday night (remember we're all watching Jingle Around The Clock on 12/22 at 8pm/7pmCT), I knew I wanted Nicolle to come and teach me how to throw a party like she does! Also. I should mention. She is a Grammy-nominated, award-winning songwriter with five number one hits. CASUAL, NICOLLE. (Here is the playlist of the songs she's written.) And she's a wife. And a great friend. And a strong business woman. And a mama. You are about to fall in love with your new pal Nicolle. And throw the best girl party of your life on Saturday. :) . . . . . 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 had some huge stars on the podcast this year, but today exceeds them all. Santa Claus is here. Parents- I *think* it's okay for your kids to hear this one, we didn't say anything that would lead to heartbreak, except for Santa's dislike for mall Santas. But just heads up that I know some of my pals who listen are under the age of 12 and I wouldn't want you to proceed without a tiny warning that, well, Santa tells us some behind the scenes of the North Pole and we hear from an angry elf. (Also. Total side note. VERY unrelated. I'm a huge fan of Dave Barnes and Aaron Chewning. Just wanted you to know.) . . . . . 2 things to remember! 1. We are tracking our time this week using Jessica Turner's Stretched Too Thin Time Log. Download it here and join us from yesterday (Dec 16) to Saturday (Dec 22)! 2. We are all gonna gather with friends and watch Jingle Around The Clock on Hallmark on Saturday (Dec 22) and 8pm/7pmCT. Join us! . . . . . 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 cannot keep up with my lists and calendars and THINGS TO DO before 2019. I don't want to miss the beauty of this season because of the crazy I feel in my schedule. So Jessica Turner was just the woman to call upon to help us all find a little mores space and balance. Jess juggles a million things- family, full time job, author life, speaking, blogger, THE LIST KEEPS GOING. And somehow she still gets so much done and has a great spirit about her. I think you're gonna love some of her tips and ways that she has prioritized certain things to make space for other things. Already feels like my Christmas is getting less stressful. Here is the Stretched Too Thing Time Log that we talked about in the show. If you want to do it with us, start on Sunday (Dec 16)! And make sure you grab Jess's new book Stretched Too Thin to gift to the women on your Christmas list. . . . . . 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

Epic may be the right word for this particular episode- in length as well as in content. :) Y'all know I love a Hallmark Christmas movie and talking about the 2018 offerings was bound to happen. This show comes to you in four parts. Part 1. My gals Jami and Jenn are back to tell you their thoughts on the new movies for 2018. Part 2. Candace Cameron Bure joins us to talk about her new movie A Shoe Addict's Christmas, getting out of the Christian bubble, and the enneagram (and I PROMISE she brought it up not me!). Part 3. My buddy Drew tells us his thoughts on the ONE Hallmark Christmas movie he's watched from start to finish, Let It Snow. Part 4. Jami and Jenn are back to complete a Hallmark Christmas mad-lib. :) It's a doozie, but that's what Christmas parties so fun- sometimes you get into the party and you planned to leave after an hour but you're having such a good time you're still there an hour and a half later! hahahaha! I love this episode. Hope you will too. . . . . . 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