The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey

If you are an HGTV home renovation fan, you’re going to know exactly who my guests are today. Dave and Jenny Marrs are the stars of HGTV’s “Fixer to Fabulous.” Dave is the builder while Jenny supports the design side of the business. They live on a farm, have five beautiful children, and are currently filming season four of their show! On this episode, we talk about what it’s like to work together as a married couple, both in parenting their kids and within their business. Plus they share with me how they remember and celebrate each other’s strengths, and tell the story of how “Fixer to Fabulous” came to be. Jenny and Dave live in Bentonville, Arkansas, one of my favorite places, and it is also where they renovate all of their houses. Do you ever think, “I’ll try this for a little while and then move on to something else after a while”? That’s exactly what Dave and Jenny thought when HGTV approached them about filming a show, but here they are, five years later, still sharing their renovation projects with the world on TV. While Jenny and Dave are thankful for “Fixer To Fabulous” and the meaningful work they get to do together, prioritizing their family-first mindset and keeping Jesus at the center is their main priority. Dave and Jenny are using their platform to shine their lights in a darkened world. Join me for another fun conversation on collaborating over competing! Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I want people to hear and know that you don’t have to be afraid of ruptures (in a relationship). When you rupture and you’re committed to repairing, what is built on the other side of that is actually more powerful, more intimate, and more committed.”We are continuing our Collaboration Over Competition series, and my guests today are no strangers to The Happy Hour. Jessica Honegger and Liz Forkin Bohannon recently merged their two awesome companies together! Jessica is the founder of Noonday Collection and Liz is the founder of Sseko Designs. On this episode, we talk about what that process and decision was like for them, being that their companies were each other’s competition in the ethical fashion space. We cover a lot in our conversation. Like how Liz moved to Uganda with a passion and desire to build a community and gain a deeper understanding about issues impacting women and girls living in extreme poverty. And how Jessica believes that relationships are a part of who we are all created to be. Jessica talked about how she wanted Liz to come on her podcast and how it was not an easy decision to invite Liz into her space where she would talk about her company. We talk about jealousy, not valuing each other’s decisions, and the power of merging their companies for collaboration, not competition. Together Liz and Jessica really care about global poverty and cleaning up the fashion supply chain, and I’m excited for you to hear from them today! Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It’s not often you hear me say, “Sic’em Bears,” but today is one of those days. My guest is Scott Drew, and if you are a fan of college basketball, I’m sure the name is very familiar to you. I know some of you are probably thinking, “Is this becoming a sports podcast?” But whether you like sports or not, you can get something really meaningful from this episode.Coach Drew is the head men’s basketball coach at Baylor University. We talk about how he manages the tension of talking about Jesus, others, and yourself (J.O.Y.) with players who aren’t Christians. We discuss his golden season winning the NCAA National Championship in 2021, what he does to make sure his wife and kids know that they have his undivided attention, and how he led his student-athletes through a COVID year. Although it’s every coach’s dream to win a national championship, Coach Drew’s main priority is to keep Jesus at the center of his team. He does that is by having team Bible studies, enforcing a no-cussing policy in practice, and starting and finishing every practice with prayer. If you’re not a Baylor or basketball fan, I strongly believe that after you listen to today’s episode you will be a Scott Drew fan!Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

*Trigger warning – Suicide is very briefly discussed in this episode, along with a story of infidelity.*Gosh, what a deep, authentic and vulnerable episode this was with my guest Manda Carpenter. Manda is the author of Soul Care To Save Your Life, which was released in August of this year. Manda opens up about her infidelity and how it almost stole her marriage. Not only that, her infidelity almost caused Manda to take her own life. Just as she does in her book, Manda gets very personal about what led to her affair and how she immediately felt ashamed. Manda had believed her whole life that infidelity was an unforgivable sin, which made it very difficult for her to tell her husband. Then one day, the Lord brought a mentor into her life who would help Manda to confess to her husband and then encouraged Manda to seek counseling. I know some of you may be thinking you can’t relate to the topics discussed in this episode, but don’t skip this one. Our stories may be different, but I think we can all relate to the vulnerability, shame, and humility Manda expresses through our conversation. Or maybe your life, or the life of someone close to you, has been impacted by unfaithfulness. Should you choose to listen, I hope you walk away feeling seen and encouraged, not alone. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

If you have been listening to my show for a while now, you may be familiar with today’s guest. Shannan Martin joined me back in 2015 on Episode #45 to share about her family’s life and mission. Today we talk about a number of things, including the practice of waking up and how Shannan defines ‘neighbor,’ plus systematic injustice and the black squares that everyone posted on social media in 2020. Shannan is the author of The Ministry of Ordinary Places, Falling Tree, and her newest book, Start With Hello, which releases October 11. Connecting with neighbors in intentional ways is something that screams “Shannan and Corey Martin.” Shannan says Start With Hello started in her family’s neighborhood as she found her heart gravitating toward connecting with the people around her, especially people who don’t look like her. Shannan says her calling is to live as a neighbor, which she defines as anyone who her life intersects with. Everything she knows about living as a neighbor she said she learned from her neighbors. We can love our neighbors like Shannan by being intentional, starting with hello. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“You don’t have to be gifted with hospitality because it’s a command given to us by God.” -Amy Hannon Ouch! Amy Hannon may have convicted a lot of us with that statement. I’m not sure about you, but my hospitality is great when my clothes are folded and put away, the sink isn’t full of dishes, and the house is clean. On this episode, Amy reminds me that everyday hospitality is not photogenic and that inviting people into my messy spaces creates the common ground we’re all dying to find. When it comes to hospitality, my dear friend Amy does it well. I don’t just say that because she’s on the podcast – I have actually visited her home and experienced her hospitality firsthand. Amy recently wrote a book that releases on October 18 called Gather and Give: Sharing God’s Heart Through Everyday Hospitality. Amy shares why hospitality is not a gift that some of us have but it’s a command given to us by God. Biblical hospitality is not overwhelming and you don’t have to be good at it. Biblical hospitality understands that a simple invitation for connection and community creates the perfect opportunity for emotional, relational, and spiritual transactions to take place. What a convicting but encouraging episode! Join Amy and me as we talk about how we can bring hospitality into our everyday lives.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The church needs to be the safest place on earth where you don't have to whisper about anything. It is the place God intended for you to find life, love, relationship, comfort, and strength.” - Kay Warren I want to provide a warning that for the majority of this episode, our conversation is centered around mental health and suicide. Today my guest is author, speaker, advocate, and pastor’s wife, Kay Warren. We talk about mental health, suicide, our Enneagram numbers, and the church she and her husband Rick founded and pastored for more than 42 years. Yes, you read that right – four decades serving at the same church! Kay discusses their intentionality and how she and Rick made it to the end of their pastoral journey with integrity, humility, and generosity. There is a moment when we get very personal and Kay opens up about the loss of her son, the 27 years God gave her with him, and how she found herself thrust into being an advocate for people with mental illness. Out of her experience, she founded an organization called Breathe, which provides a safe and welcoming community for families who have a child of any age with mental health challenges. Despite the hard nature of the topic, I hope you feel encouraged today by my conversation with Kay!Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“We’ve been fighting to save girls’ lives and end gendercide in India” - Jill McElya Today’s show is not like many others that I have recorded so I want to warn you before pressing play that there are some triggering stories. My guest on today’s episode is Jill McElya, President and Co-Founder of the Invisible Girl Project. IGP rescues girls in India from the danger of female gendercide, advocates for their healing, and empowers them through education. Jill shares with me the story of when she moved to India to work with IJM, the moment God laid on her and her husband’s heart to start The Invisible Girl Project, her heart to end gendercide in India, and how she met her husband Brad while on a mission trip in India. There is a point in this episode when Jill tells a story about a woman and her husband that left me heartbroken but hopeful because of the work that’s being done with The Invisible Girl Project. What is happening to women and young girls in India is heartbreaking and I am so thankful for people like Jill, her husband, Brad, and many others who are empowering other women and men to fight against female gendercide and feticide in India. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“The Holy Spirit is not promoting self but He is promoting Christ so that we may know Him” -Max Lucado The past couple of years have not been easy for many people. There has been a lot of grief, unexpected career changes, family conflict, and the list goes on. When life throws us curve balls it can bring on stress, weariness, and burnout. These places are not fun but the good news is that you are not alone and there is a helper (The Holy Spirit) waiting to help you. On today’s episode is my friend, Max Lucado and we talk about his new book, “Help Is Here”, how he developed insomnia in his early twenties from his busy lifestyle, and the moment he first developed a relationship with the Holy Spirit. Max shares how he felt the Holy Spirit’s presence and how at that moment he was convicted in his teachings, and how things became clear about what they should and should not do within his church. Max traces his walk with Christ, through the Holy Spirit, back to his younger dark days as a pastor and he says those days were a game-changer for him. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Sometimes he’s down and I’m up but I think it’s more important than ever that we stay focused and keep perspective about things being idols in our life” - Kristi Malzahn If you know me you know one of my favorite things is college football. My guest on today’s show is Kristi Malzahn. Kristi is the wife of head coach, Gus Malzahn at The University of Central Florida. Whether you like football, love football, or even if football is not your thing, you will love this episode. Kristi talks about the family affair of coaching, knocking down idols to maintain that she and her family are focused on an audience of One, knowing when it’s time to walk away, and Kristi’s health scare. After talking to Kristi I learned that she is far more involved in the team than I thought any coach’s wife would be. Kristi plays a massive role in recruiting and treats every player like her own. One of the things I loved that Kristi shared is that she does not let her husband get too low or too high. That is the accountability we all need so that we will not live in our mess ups but also continue to walk in humility.Join me for a great conversation with my dear friend to hear what behind-the-scenes being a coach’s wife looks like. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“God is seen in ordinary places, in small stories and in the random-weird stories, but we often miss him because we think that He is only a part of the epic faith stories” - Melissa ZaldivarWe have all lost someone we love too early and it is never the best feeling. In fact, it sometimes leads us to our lowest moments and grieving in ways we never imagined, but it also marks us in ways that end up helping others who are in similar situations. On today's show, I sat down with my good friend, Melissa Zaldivar and we talked about her newest book, “What Cannot Be Lost”. Melissa shares about grief, loss and sorrow and how losing a close friend reminded her to pause and say what a gift and honor it is to have friendships and not just treat them like an obligation. Melissa reminded us that death hurts and death reminds us how much we are out of control, but as Christians we do not have to be afraid of it. She says death is something we can pause and think about and as we mourn our loved ones we can be reminded that one day we will get to see them again. Melissa’s book, “What Cannot Be Lost”, is a book I did not know I needed. I am certain that you will be blessed by our conversation and as you move forward in whatever grief that you are experiencing, I hope you will have opportunities to help someone else along the journey. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

The enneagram is like an observation but the transformation is the Holy Spirit’s work -Beth McCord Guess who's back on The Happy Hour? You guessed it, Beth McCord. If you know me you know that I love talking Enneagram numbers. I know some of you are totally against The Enneagram, but don’t skip this episode too fast. Beth McCord and I talk about her new book, More Than Your Number: A Christ-Centered Enneagram Approach To Becoming Aware of Your Internal World. That’s right, a Christ-Centered Enneagram approach. Beth’s new book is faith filled and she talks about how the Enneagram is like an X-ray machine, it shows you clearly what’s going on internally, it helps you name things, but it can’t do the changing because only the Holy Spirit and the gospel can transform us. You are going to enjoy this episode and you will have a different perspective on Enneagram types, whether you are for them or against them. Press play and join me in celebrating Beth on her new book, More Than Your Number Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Everybody is either in a battle, on their way to a battle or they just got out of one" -Jonathan EvansToday I sat down with Jonathan Evans and we talked about his new book, Fighting Your Battles: Every Chrisitan Playbook for Victory. Jonathan is a husband, father of five beautiful children, brother to Priscilla Shirer, Chrystal Evans Hurst and Anthony Evans and the son of Dr. Tony Evans. Jonathan is a former NFL player and he is now the chaplain of the Dallas Cowboys football team. Jonathan shares some of his personal battles on today's show and how he and his wife have preserved through them all. I know can we all agree with Jonathan that everyone is either in a battle, coming out of a battle or going through a battle so we need to know how to fight our battles so that we can be victorious. His new book Fighting Your Battles teaches us that the storm does not always stop when you take the faith step. We see this in Peter’s story, he was walking on a storm when Jesus called him forward. As you trust God, Jonathan reminds us that it may still be stormy, but as you remain consistent in God's Word, prayer, and worship, your yoke will be easier and you will experience less burden. You will be ready to fight your spiritual battles and know that you can be victorious after listening to today's episode. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“What starts here changes the world” -The University of Texas On today's show I sat down with Ashley Minor, The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Representative at The University of Texas. Ashley and I talked about all of my favorite things, Jesus, football, and the Longhorns. If you are a college student, have children in college or you're not in the college world at all, there is something for you in this episode. Ashley talks about the pressure student-athletes face and how she brings the gospel into their world. She also shares her testimony - how she came to know Christ through FCA and how God said to her, “You will work with FCA”. When she heard the call, she immediately changed her major to Sports Ministry. Ashley recently started her own podcast, Come Like A Child where she talks about, desiring more while in the waiting. If you know anything about Texas, you know their famous slogan, “What starts here changes the world”. While Texas may say those words for many reasons, Ashley says them from a spiritual view, every faith seed planted at UT will one day change the world. Press play, laugh with us, and be encouraged on your faith journey.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

God doesn't give us control but he does give us agency. - Sharon MillerIf you have never known that you struggled with control, I think we can all agree that in 2020 we realized how much we struggle with control. On today's show I sat down with Sharon Miller, author, friend, mom, wife and pastor. Sharon's new book, The Cost of Control”, hits home for all of us because it unpacks why we want control and where this sin first started. Whether it's our job titles, our children, our staff, our families or even practicing the prosperity gospel, we want some form of control. If you are struggling with control you are not alone. Sharon's new book gives us some practical ways for us to move forward. How do we put down control and pick up the agency gift God has given us? We name and order the things that are causing us to want control because that's what God does, it’s what he commanded Adam to do and it’s what we as believers in Jesus are to do as well. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

In this episode Kirsten shares about her experience mothering seven kids, being a wife to her husband, and maximizing her God given talents. Not all of you are wives or have children, but I’m sure all of us can relate to the challenges of figuring out a great work life balance. The truth of the matter is, we all can pause and take a breath as we maneuver through our busy lives. Kirsten gives us some practical ways she slows down to invite God in every area of her life.Press play, take notes, expect to laugh and make sure to check out all the show links here.

I am so glad that we get to share this conversation with you. I sat down and talked to Justin Giboney last Spring for a breakout at the IF: Gathering. Our talk was so good I asked them if I could share it with you all and they said YES!Living with Compassion and ConvictionIn an extremely divisive world, what if there was a “third way” that would show the world God’s heart for humanity? What if our greatest evangelical tool was how we responded to today’s cultural issues with grace, love, and truth? Join Justin Giboney, founder of the AND Campaign, and Jamie Ivey, as they discuss how to live with conviction and lead with compassion.

As I think about raising kids from birth through high school, this is the thing that sticks out the most for me. My worries about them and for them have evolved so much over the years. It seems like worry is a natural part of parenting. But, what good does worry do for us? Usually, we are worrying about something we actually have no control over. In this episode of Launch, Jamie and Lisa unpack the deep shadows of worrying about our kids, how it's often a reflection of our own insecurities, and how we can bury our worries by clinging to the only thing we need. Resources:Subscribe to LAUNCH so you never miss an episodeKids: What do I do with Worry? By Josh & Christi StraubTeen girls: Brave by Sissy GoffRaising Worry-Free Girls by Sissy GoffOvercoming Fear, Worry, and Anxiety by Elyse FitzpatrickFierce Faith by Alli WorthingtonAfraid of all the things by Scarlet Hiltibidal

I can not believe it, but yesterday my youngest child started high school. You guys, I’m surrounded by BIG KIDS and I love it! I thought to celebrate back to school I’d bring my daughter, Story, on to The Happy Hour. You guys submitted questions and we answered them! We had so much fun recording this show. Story is hilarious as usual. When she described what it’s like to be a 14-year-old girl I almost cried. She was so honest and it’s truly insightful. She answered hard questions and silly questions, and I was just one proud mama at the end. If you too are parenting or mentoring or around teen girls, here are some great resources for you. Check them out here!

There are millions of things I love about Jackie & Preston’s podcast, and one of them is how they tackle hard subjects that matter to us all. Most of us either have or will one day experience friends leaving the faith. I’m grateful for the way the Perry’s handled this conversation today. Subscribe to Thirty Minutes with the PerrysEP7: When friends leave the faith Friends are like family. Especially friends that have the same faith as you. So it can be devastating when a friend leaves the faith they once represented. On today’s episode, we will talking about how to deal with it, including how to walk with friends that are “deconstructing”. To get early access to 30 Minutes with The Perrys and other With The Perry’s content, join us on patreon.com/withtheperrys www.withtheperrys.com www.jackiehillperry.comwww.preston-perry.comALL THE SHOW LINKS

I can think of no better way to start your day than with this conversation! My friend Toni launches her brand spanking new podcast into the world today and she asked me to be her first guest! What an honor!On the show I talk about how there was a season in my life where I believed my brokenness disqualified me from the love of God and others. I thought if people knew some of my secrets they would not want me, love me, or like me. 🚨Good news alert your brokenness doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love. God is in the business of using and healing broken people, and brokenness is inevitable in every season of our life. Our past sins don’t define our worthiness of something good. He is our redeemer and loves us in spite of what we have done because we are His daughters and sons.🎧Got some brokenness? Ever been afraid of being judged? Go right now and subscribe to the #StillColoringPodcast with @tonijcollier Welcome to the very first episode of the Still Coloring Podcast! During this conversation, Toni Collier & Jamie Ivey discuss “if only you knew moments” in life. What would people think if they knew certain parts of your story? How would it change their perspective and trust in you? Jamie talks about how our past sins don’t define our worthiness of something good. God is always in the business of using broken people, and brokenness is inevitable in every season of our life. He is our redeemer and loves us in spite of what we have done because we are His daughters and sons.

Click HERE for all the show notes for this episode.

“You don’t win the battle by fighting the enemy. You win the battle of your mind by absorbing and embracing the truth of God.Today’s guest is Louie Giglio - Pastor of Passion City Church, and Founder of the Passion movement. Every time I get to talk to him, it is a big circle moment for me. Louie's ministry is a huge part of my story of how I encountered Jesus. His ministry has changed so many lives over the years, and in this episode we get the honor to hear about Louie’s story and what his first “Encounter” with Jesus was like.We also talk about the importance of telling yourself what is true in your life as a follower of Christ, parenting, and more.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey friends! On this episode of our “Encounter” series, we welcome back to the show our guest Bonnie Gray, author of “Sweet Like Jasmine”. Bonnie comes from a background of a lonely and a broken home, but God placed key people in her life that introduced her to the love of Christ and invested in her faith journey. She met Jesus in a lonely season and at a young age. Bonnie has always been drawn to reading and to stories. She encountered Jesus as she heard His story being told in a unique way at a church retreat. We also talk about the Asian-Christian community, the importance of sharing Jesus with the younger generation, and how we can meet Jesus in unusual places. I hope you enjoy this episode, and that you too are inspired by her story. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Jesus, I want to believe you. I think that you are real, and I don't know what that means.”These are the bold and sincere words that today’s guest prayed at the very moment she encountered Jesus for the first time. As we continue with our “Encounter” series, today you will get to meet our guest Phaedra Taylor. She is kind, and a very talented artist located in Austin, TX. I could talk to her for hours. Her story is so incredible and so powerful. Phaedra was raised in a cult as a Jehovah's Witness. For years she lived an oppressed and controlled life, and that was the only way she knew how to live it. Until one day, when her life was completely falling apart, she had an encounter with Jesus. This encounter was a fruit of prayers and intentionality from Christian friends she met in college. Grab some tissues, go listen, and make sure to check out Phaedra’s work linked in this episode’s show notes.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Our new series “Encounter” is all about how Jesus can change lives. Today’s guest is Pastor Joshua Broome, and his story reminds us that no one is too far gone from the Love of God. After years of pursuing different ways to find self validation, Joshua found himself deep into the adult movie industry, living a life of shame and isolation. Until one day, a complete stranger asked him a question that made him drop everything and run towards change. That question opened the door for different and new opportunities that lead him to meet a very important person (listen to find out who! Such a beautiful story!) that would point him to the freeing and redeeming love of Jesus. Joshua’s “Encounter” with Jesus turned his life around, and today he lives to share the Gospel and help others find freedom. His story is so unique and powerful, and I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“It is impossible to say that we love God without a growing awareness of loving our neighbors as we love ourselves because God first loved us.”Today’s conversation is with Pastor Derwin Gray, and we are talking about what it truly means to love your neighbor as yourself. Not just the ones who are part of our everyday lives, but also those whom we may disagree with, those who look different than us, and those whom we may not know (or may never come to know). This conversation is rich in knowledge, and filled with SCRIPTURE and PRACTICAL ways that we can love our neighbors everywhere, all around the world. There is so much opportunity to self reflect and to learn as you listen. I hope you enjoy this conversation and that it helps you to love God and your neighbors more.Be sure to check out Pastor Derwin Gray’s new book “How to Heal our Nation Divide”. His best book yet, and such a great resource for you to continue to learn, grow, and act in love in your day-to-day life.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Friends, today’s episode is all about loving God with our mind. Do you ever find yourself desiring to learn more about Jesus and His word but not knowing where or how to start? Do you ever read the Bible and find it overwhelming or confusing to understand? You are not alone! A lot of us feel this way.Today’s guest is Kristie Anyabwile, and she beautifully explains and helps us understand how ALL of the Bible goes together and points to ONE BIG STORY. Kristie breaks down how we can use Bible genres to help us understand what we are reading, and how to interpret it. We also talk about the importance of discipleship in the church, and how the Holy Spirit helps us understand God’s word.Kristie loves God and loves studying His Word. She recently released a book called “Literarily: How Understanding Bible Genres Transforms Bible Study”, and I highly recommend you pick it up. Check out the link below to order your copy today!Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Do you find yourself wondering what it looks like to love God with your body? Does loving God with your body mean finding time to work out more or implementing a diet to be a certain weight? Today’s guest is Alisa Keeton. She is such a voice of encouragement to me. In this conversation, we talk about what it truly means to love God with our body and how you don’t need to do a certain number of “jumping-jacks for Jesus” to get there. Culture teaches us a lot about our bodies and the way it should look, but God’s Word teaches us how we can use our bodies to walk in freedom and in love by partnering with our community - the Body of Christ - as we share the Gospel and serve together. Alisa Keeton has a deep desire for people to love God and teaches a lifestyle of loving Him with all of our bodies. She started her personal wellness journey in 1985 and today it has become her ministry. Alisa is the founder of “Revelation Wellness”, a nonprofit ministry that uses fitness as a tool to spread the Gospel.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Sometimes we lose sight of the value of actually working on the hard things”Today’s guest is “soul expert” Trina McNeilly, author of “Unclutter Your Soul: Overcoming What Overwhelms You” and founder of the popular La La Lovely blog. We will be talking about how we can love God with our Soul- your mind, your will, and your emotions. Trina shares wisdom and insight on how choosing vulnerability can be hard, but when we bring things to light, it can open the gates for us to experience healing and freedom. This topic is so important and I am so glad that we get to have real conversations like this one to remind us that we are not alone. Loving God is courageous work and we believe that you can do it!Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

It takes a lot of courage to love God with all that we have. How can we truly love Him with ALL of our heart, when our heart is occupied with so many other things that we love? Today, we are kicking off the first episode of our new five-part Summer series “Love The Lord”. This series is inspired by the passage in Luke 10:27, and we got some super fun shirts to go with it too. You are going to love them!In this episode, we are bringing back one of our favorites, Scott Sauls. He is the Senior Pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, and a dear friend of my husband and I. We talk about what it looks like to love God with all our heart in the highs and lows of life, through our emotions, and the example that the Apostle Paul sets for finding joy through disappointment. Scott’s new book “Beautiful People Don’t Just Happen” comes out on June 14th, so make sure to check it out and pre-order your copy.Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Hey Friends! Welcome to the 500th episode party! It is the big 500. Wow! What an incredible milestone. Today, we are bringing you an amazing, surprise filled, celebratory episode. You will get to hear from some very special guests (some familiar voices, some new) as we share memories and incredible stories with you. We are throwing it all the way back to the very first episode all the way to a HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT of what is to come around here. Here is to 500 more and beyond!Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Friend of The Happy Hour, Dustin Nickerson is back and he brought his super kind wife, Melissa. This conversation is all about their story, what life has been like being married to one another, as they have learned how to best care for one another, know one another, and serve one another, all while raising kids and building a career in Stand-Up Comedy. This is one of my favorite happy hours, there are lots of laughs (Dustin is cracking jokes all the way), there are deep thoughts on raising teens during an age with so much information accessible to our kids, and such an encouraging reflection on what it looks like to have a shared goal in supporting one another in their work. Connect with JamieFacebook // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Summer is here, our oldest son is graduating High School tonight, and we are days away from an epic family vacation adventure!! There was no one better to sit down with me for the second Tell Me About conversation than my favorite person, Aaron Ivey. Aaron is my husband, co-creator of Ivey Media, Pastor, worship leader, and my best friend. This episode is all about SUMMER. Tell me about childhood summers, plans for summer, sabbatical, family time, and well, things go off the rails a bit, too. This happens anytime my husband, Aaron Ivey, joins me, but the conversations with him are always a favorite because you get a little sneak peek of what our friendship is like. Grab your koozie, pull up a backyard chair, and let us tell you about Summer!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“When God allows us to walk [in] these hard seasons, it gives us so much compassion.”Yes and Amen to that! I am so excited for today’s conversation with my guest, Angela Perritt. Angela Perritt is the founder and director of Love God Greatly, a nonprofit online women's Bible study ministry aimed at fighting Biblical illiteracy around the world in over 40 languages. Angela is passionate about God's Word and believes one woman in God's Word can change a family, community, and ultimately a nation. Her greatest joy is to encourage her children and others to love God greatly with their lives one day at a time.In today’s show, Angela shares about a journey of learning where she stored her treasures and realizing that God’s faithfulness didn’t stop when the Bible ended. Angela also dives into all of the wonderful resources provided by Love God Greatly and how deeply women can impact communities by engaging with scripture. I just love organizations that are committed to transforming the world through the love of Christ and power of scripture. So thankful for all that Angela and Love God greatly is doing!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Have you ever gone through seasons where you want to believe that God is good, but your circumstances are telling you that He’s not? This conversation is for you.My guest for today’s episode is Alexandra Hoover. Alexandra is a sought-out speaker, Bible teacher, and Author of "Eyes Up" How To Trust God's Heart by Tracing His Hand. She's passionate about communicating the gospel's beauty and hope, and her words spur people on to hope and healing. Also, she serves on staff at Transformation Church with Pastor Derwin Gray!Friends, there is way too much goodness in this conversation - I truly could have spent hours talking to Alexandra. She walks us through what an ebenezer is, and the beautiful biblical story of Hannah. Alexandra also dives into how we sometimes allow our circumstances to inform the way we see God. But here’s the solution: When we sit with God, we begin to trust God. Even if we don’t see hope, we know hope is near because we know who God is. We don’t always feel or see God in the way that we want because life is so hard and foggy, but we have a beautiful invitation to sit with Him and weep with Him and be reminded of His goodness.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

What a word from today’s guest, Rev. Dr. Angela Williams Gorrell. Angela Gorrell is a speaker and writer about Christian spirituality, joy, meaning, and the interconnected nature of mental and spiritual health. She is Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Baylor University and author of The Gravity of Joy: A Story of Being Lost and Found.Shortly after being hired by Yale University to study and teach the beauty of joy, Angela stepped into the hardest season of her life losing 3 people she loved within 4 weeks. She went on a journey to find out joy’s place in a suffering world, and found the answer in the most unlikely of places: While volunteering at a women’s maximum-security prison. Isn’t that so like Christ to show up in unexpected places? We talk about the suicide and addiction crisis, and how to allow joy in without betraying our grief. This is such an incredible conversation and one that I hope reminds you of the beauty of joy. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

9 years ago, Whitney placed her son for adoptionRaised in a Christian home, she was adopted herselfShe fell away from her faith, dated someone in college for several years, after they broke up they had one more fling and she got pregnantShe wanted her son to have all of the things that she had and more, and she did not have the skillset or resources to provide thatWe talk about how a lot of times people don’t know what to say when it comes to adoptionShe now has an open adoption and she wanted to be involved in his life to correct any potential narratives that could come up about feeling unloved or unwantedShe became a believer during her pregnancyAcknowledging all members of the triadHow to be there for people who feel deep pain on mother’s day“These people are humans and they need Christ just as much as the next person - so how can we make sure that we’re honoring them and loving them and meeting them on their level?”What important words from today’s guest, Whitney Furrh. We are wrapping up our four-part series for foster care month with this conversation from a birth mother. It is so important for us to include all members of the triad and we’re so thankful that Whitney came on to share her story with us. Whitney’s story is unique because she was adopted herself, so she has a lot of personal connections to this topic. When Whitney was 21-years-old, she became pregnant and placed her son for adoption. She wanted her son to have all of the things that she had and more, and facing the reality that she did not have the resources to provide that. We talk about how a lot of times people don’t know what to say when it comes to adoption, and how important it is to acknowledge that all adoption stories involve loss. We even chat about how to be there for people who feel deep pain on Mother’s Day. Our prayer is that this conversation can help us know better so that we do better.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I surrender and trust what I desire, and walk with the Lord in what He’s calling me to do.”What would it look like if we all lived life this way? We’re continuing our series on Foster Care with the lovely, PaToya Hall. PaToya Hall is a writer, speaker, new mom and devoted follower of Jesus. She currently lives in Waco, Texas with her daughter Adelline. PaToya shares with us what her life began to look like after choosing to say the next “yes”. PaToya is a single woman who felt a calling to open her home to children through foster care. Just a few days after becoming a certified foster parent, she received a call about a 4-day-old baby named Adelline with nowhere to go. Four hours later, that sweet baby was in her home, and just six months later, PaToya adopted her. She shares some of the challenges of single parenting and navigating the assumptions people make. Something I really appreciate about PaToya is that she did not foster because she wanted to be a parent, but rather because it was true surrender. I’m so thankful for PaToya sharing her and sweet Adelline’s story with us.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“I want people to see that their identities can be rewritten no matter what they’ve done or no matter what’s been done to them.”We have another great episode for you in our Foster Care Series! Ever since I found out about today’s guest, I cannot stop learning more from her, about her, and diving into her story. Tori Hope Petersen is a lover of Jesus training to be a lover of people. She spent years growing up in the foster care system and now educates, advocates, and ministers to those in the foster care community. Her first book Fostered will be released this August, and I truly had to stop myself from quoting this book 100 times in our interview.In this episode, Tori not only shares her story with us, but provides so much hope and wisdom along the way. We talk about how trauma rolls over from generations, and how important it is to listen to the voices of children in foster care. She also dives into the hope of Christ and how even when we feel unwanted and rejected, we’ve already been adopted in the Kingdom. Today, Tori is married with 3 kids and she and her husband are certified foster parents. I am so proud of the work she is doing, and I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for us to hear stories like hers. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“[Foster care] is not just about bringing a child into your home. It’s about bringing your family into another family.”I could not think of a better way to say it than Jamie Finn’s words. Friends, we are kicking off a 4-part series for National Foster Care Month and I am beyond excited to welcome Jamie Finn of Foster The Family on The Happy Hour. Jamie C. Finn is the author of Foster the Family and executive director of Foster the Family. Her social media accounts offer a glimpse into the real life of a foster parent and provide encouragement to thousands of foster parents. Jamie is passionate about encouraging and equipping foster and adoptive parents and advocating for vulnerable children and families.Y’all, Jamie shared so many truth bombs so I’m giving you a heads up right now to grab a pen and paper. We talked about hard things like the joy of loving a child and the pain of saying goodbye, repenting of sinful thoughts relating to parents of foster children, and how important it is to be trauma-informed when stepping into these broken places. Anything that involves Kingdom work will have suffering, but we have to trust what God says about suffering. Foster care is God using people to play a part in families being healed. This is important work, and I can’t wait to share the rest of these conversations with you.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Did you know that over 400,000 kids are in foster care in the United States? That means there are hundreds of thousands of personal stories. Hundreds of thousands of children are without a place to call home permanently. This need is ginormous, and I subscribe to the idea that we all play a part. I don’t subscribe to the idea that all families should adopt. However, I believe we should all care for vulnerable children. It’s not an option to not care. I’m excited to share a two-week series on The Happy Hour about foster care. May is National Foster Care Month, and we want to highlight some of the different people who play a role in foster care. Foster Care advocate, a survivor of the foster care system, a foster/adoptive momma, and the story of a birth mom who placed her son for adoption.Wherever you are in your world, I want you to know and believe that these stories matter to you. The reason they matter to you is because they deeply matter to God. Listen to these four women share their stories and allow God to change you because of them.

Have you ever wondered “Can God handle my mess?” If your answer is yes, or you know someone whose answer is yes, you’re in for a treat today. My guests for this episode are Walker Hayes and Craig Cooper. Walker Hayes is a pop-country singer who went viral for his song “Fancy-like” which has a fun little dance to it! Craig Cooper is a gifted storyteller and Bible teacher. In today’s episode, we get a glimpse into the beautiful story of Walker and Craig’s friendship, more of which is shared in their upcoming book “Glad You’re Here”.Walker met Craig during an unlikely time in his life, and the two jumped right into doing life with one another, which eventually led to Walker having a renewed relationship with Christ. They share how real friendship gives us permission to be weak, and what a treasure it is to show up as our full selves, not our best selves. This story is going to point so many people to Jesus, and I know you will leave encouraged by our conversation today.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Isn’t it crazy how in the midst of grief and tragedy, God can call us towards our purpose?This is exactly the story of today’s guest, Anne Wilson. For much of her life, Anne had plans and dreams to become an astronaut, making moves to pursue opportunities with NASA. But in 2017, her life shifted after the unexpected passing of her older brother. The lyrics of Hillsong Worship’s “What A Beautiful Name” became a lifeline for Anne and she turned to worship as comfort in her grief, something she had never done before. The very first time Anne ever sang in front of an audience was at her brother’s funeral. It was at that moment that she realized what she was born to do.Anne is just 20-years-old but truly has wisdom beyond her years. I was so encouraged by our conversation and how God is using her to change lives. She just released her first full-length album, My Jesus, and I cannot recommend it enough!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

How do we commit to community as a part of looking more like Jesus? Y’all, I am so excited to share this conversation with you! Today’s guest is Joel Smallbone, one-half of the Australian Christian duo For King and Country. I had the opportunity to speak with his lovely wife, Moriah, and sister, Rebecca St. James on recent happy hour episodes and I am just the biggest fan of this whole family!In today’s episode, we chat about what it looks like to rest and lean into Sabbath as a command. We also talk a lot about how to commit to community within the Kingdom of God and why our differences allow us to highlight different attributes of God. We’re often so focused on our boycotts and things we disagree with, that we miss things that bring harmony amongst us. I love how Joel put it when he said “The beauty of God is found in diversity. Diversity of expression, diversity of ethnicity, diversity of thought, diversity of gender.” What an incredible reminder to walk with today and every day.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

Do you ever feel like you live as though only half of the Gospel is true? If the answer is yes, this conversation is for you. Today’s guest is Pastor Joby Martin of Church of 1122 in Jacksonville, Florida. His book If The Tomb Is Empty talks all about why anything is possible because of the resurrection of Jesus. In our conversation, Joby breaks down why the resurrection is the entire foundation of our faith. The fact that Jesus died for us is incredible, but the tomb being empty is why we should live with the truth that we’ve been imputed with His righteousness. Joby says, “He knows you, He loves you, He delights over you, He dances over you. That’s why the empty tomb matters.” This, friends, is the good news. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Before we can get to what’s good about the cross, I think we have to deal rightly and honestly with the horror and the tragedy and the defeat of what the cross would’ve meant for the people of Israel.”Y’all. This is one of the most helpful and educational conversations on Good Friday and I am so dang excited to share it with you. Dr. Joel Muddamalle serves as Director of Theology and Research at Proverbs 31 Ministries and works directly for Lysa TerKeurst. He is also on the speaking team at Transformation Church with Derwin Gray!Alright, here’s what I love about Joel. He is one of the smartest people I know and dissects so many great things about theology in a way that we can truly understand. I always feel like I walk away knowing so much more! In this episode, we answer some of your questions like why do we call Good Friday “good” when it is so painful? What is the history of the cross? How do we talk to our kids about Good Friday? I love how he says that we should never disconnect what is hard with what is hopeful. This is SO TRUE. Joy, pain, and hope can all live together. Let’s walk into Good Friday and Easter with this reminder.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Us sharing stories of what Jesus has done is so powerful.”The Happy Hour podcast is slowly becoming the official sponsor of The Smallbone Family! Today’s guest is Christian singer-songwriter, Rebecca St. James. We absolutely loved having her sister-in-law Moriah Smallbone on back in November, and will have her brother Joel on in just a few weeks! I am so excited to have Rebecca here to talk about her newest project, Kingdom Come.In today’s episode, we chat about what it looks like to do ministry for 20 years and what truly keeps us still wanting to follow Jesus. We talk about family relationships and what a beautiful thing it is to invite our children into hard journeys so that they can see the goodness of God come through. We also really dive into winter seasons and why sharing our stories with one another produces deep community and prepares us for the spring. Our stories matter because they point people to the goodness and faithfulness of God - so thankful for that reminder today!Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

“Tears of joy and tears of sorrow, they all taste the same.”What powerful words by today’s guest, Pastor John O. John O is the pastor of Cornerstone Church in Atlanta, and the author of We Go On. He also runs a coffee business called Portrait Coffee based out of the West End of Atlanta!Friend, this is such a profound conversation about holding joy and sorrow together and I am always so blown away by how pastoral John O is. He shares about a breaking point when grief snuck up on him nearly a year after losing his brother, and the journey he took to heal. He also talks about infertility and the painful process of waiting to adopt their daughter. Life is full of so much pain and heartache, but it’s also loaded with the goodness of God. So while outsiders may think it’s crazy for us to keep following Jesus, for us, there is truly no alternative. He is the only way.Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE

We’ve got such a fun episode today, friends. It’s all about Children’s books! I think one of the reasons why even adults love children’s books is because they are oftentimes packed with messages and reminders that we need as adults. Children’s books help us dream, but also help invite kids to deeper words and thoughts. Our guests for today’s show include Jena Holliday, Sally Lloyd Jones, Esau McCaulley, Laura Wifler, Annie F. Downs, and Emily Lex! I asked them why they wrote these children’s books, what they want little ones to learn from it, and why they find children’s books to be so special and important in a child’s life. Writing for children is a different kind of challenge because we have to get the message across in fewer words, so every word has to be intentional. But WOW are we so dang thankful to be given the beautiful responsibility of speaking into the next generation and reminding them how unique they are and how much God loves them. Connect with JamieFacebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTubeGET ALL THE LINKS FROM THE SHOW HERE