Dear Daughters

There is so much more good in the world than there is bad. Let’s find the bright side.  Melanie Shankle thought she was too far gone. She wasn’t shown the grace and mercy aspect of being a Christian, so by the time she got to college she felt like there was no hope and no going back. Then God met her in a bar in a bathroom, and he pursued her patiently and faithfully and showed her that no daughter of his has ever too far gone…and how to look on the bright side. Melanie is a speaker, the author of four New York Times bestselling books, and the creator of The Big Mama Blog. She lives in San Antonio with her husband, Perry, and daughter, Caroline. In 2006, she felt God’s call on her to be a full-time writer after pouring over parenting blogs and starting her own while on maternity leave. Her newest book, On the Bright Side: Stories About Friendship, Love, and Being True To Yourself, is described as “the ultimate guide to help you discover the power of relationships, the unchanging truths of life, and importance

We want to leave our kids with more than just memories, we want to leave them with a legacy.   Rodney and Michelle Gage have always been all about family. When their oldest was 6 or 7 years old, they had a family pow-wow to decide what their family would be all about…and they want you to know it’s never too late to do that with your family, too. Rodney and Michelle are the founding and lead pastors of ReThink Life Church in Orlando, FL. They have been married for over 28 years and have devoted more than 25 years to full-time ministry. They co-authored a new book, Family Shift: The 5-Step Plan to Stop Drifting and Start Living with Greater Intention that seeks to help families find God’s best possible life for them and get back to the basics of what’s really important. Michelle tells us these four things about herself: “I grew up in Oklahoma. I’ve got roots where I’ve loved riding horses…cowboy-cowgirl back roots.” “I’m the oldest of four girls and I love the position of being the oldest.”  “We moved to Orlan

What if our eyes shifted from what we need to what we already hold in our hands? Meredith McDaniel is all about experiencing the hope and peace of God here and now by looking for the manna in her life and being a “manna maker” for others. Meredith is a licensed professional counselor in Davidson, NC, and owner of her private practice Milk + Honey. She just wrote her first book, In Want + Plenty: Waking Up to God’s Provision in a Land of Longing. Inside the pages, she takes us alongside God’s people as they escape from Egypt and wake up each morning to manna, God’s provision for them in desert places. Meredith tells us these four things about herself: “I love music. It is a daily part of my life.” “I really love Havarti dill cheese.”  “Right now I have a thing for blue leather.”  “Books have always been something I’m really drawn to…because of the stories that are inside.” Meredith and I talk about the longing that everyone feels and how it can unravel us, but that God is always pouring out abundance on our

You have been given a gift and it’s up to you to decide how you use it. And if you decide to use it to love on others and to be present with others, that matters. Morgan Harper Nichols has loved making art since she was five-years-old. From an early age, her parents encouraged her that she was created to create, but it took much longer to feel like she had permission to share her art with the world … and now she uses it to bring encouragement and extend grace to others. Morgan is a writer, artist, and musician. All of the work she creates is inspired by people and their stories … how  is that? Her new book, All Along You Were Blooming: Thoughts for Boundless Living, is a gorgeous collection of illustrations, poetry, and prose meant to share hope, grace, restoration, and freedom. Morgan says these four things about herself: “I’m sarcastic which tends to surprise people.” “Most of the movies and TV shows I consume are super light-hearted.”  “I love cheese. I’m a huge cheese fan. All the kinds. My mom loves sha

The start of healing is embracing it is a process and experiencing God through that process. We get to participate with God in writing a new story. He is the author of all our healing. Aundi Kolber grew up walking on eggshells and white-knuckling her way through life. She never imagined as a twenty-year-old that she would be the person she is now … free, healthy, healing. Aundi is a new author and seasoned licensed professional counselor (MA, LPC) in Castle Rock, CO. She specializes in trauma and body-centered therapy and is passionate about the integration of faith and psychology. Her first book, Try Softer: A Fresh Approach to Move Us Out of Anxiety, Stress, and Survival Mode—and into a Life of Connection and Joy, helps equip people like you and me to stop pushing through feelings and start understanding and processing emotions in healthy ways. In her own words, Aundi says these four things about herself: “I’m only 5’4″ but I played college basketball and I’m still the leading scorer at my high school and

Your God-given identity is the truest thing about you. No matter your past, God has a new name for you. It’s deeply personal and it’s beautiful, better than any name you could choose for yourself. What is it?  Esther Fleece Allen hid a deep, dark, painful past and lived out so much trauma. God was the only constant in her life…so she hung on to Him and lives out her new name. Esther is an author, speaker, millennial leader, and Founder & CEO of L&L Consulting, Inc., where she helps Christian ministries develop innovative strategies for sustainability, development, outreach, and marketing. She also is a graduate of the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics Business Program, has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Oakland University, and is currently in Seminary studying Women’s Leadership. In her own words, she says these four things about herself: “I’m probably more serious than I should be. I really do study the Bible in my free time. I really do love it.” “I have laugh attacks. I jus

Who are you comparing yourself to and what kind of heartache is it creating in your life? Richella Parham is a spiritual mama with all kinds of hard-earned wisdom on learning how to be free from the comparison trap that wrecks so many lives.  Richella is an author, on the Board of Directors  at Renovaré and is a member of Redbud Writers Guild.  In her own words, she had these four things to say about herself: “I am one of three sisters. And I have three sons.” “I am a military trivia/history nerd.” “My oldest son is a naval aviator.” “My home is neat but my desk is a mess and my closet is a catastrophe.” Today, Richella and I talk about finding freedom from constant comparison in real and practical ways based on her new book, Mythical Me. I think you’ll be challenged and encouraged by her wisdom.  SHOW NOTES Discover more about Austin Christian Fellowship Wind River Ministry Getaway Info Wind River Family Camp Richella’s Website Her new book, Mythical Me: Finding Freedom from Constant Comparison   The Art

“I’ve done something terrible.” Becky Powell faced the unthinkable on May 16, 2013, when her husband Mark called and confessed he’d done something awful. Within hours, she learned that he had taken his own life and, over a period of several years, millions of dollars from friends and colleagues. Everything she believed to be true, the very fiber of her marriage, was called into question. Within a week, rather than planning carpool runs and volunteer fundraisers, she owed almost one hundred creditors millions of dollars and had her own team of ten lawyers. She was also the subject of open FBI, SEC and DOJ investigations-and faced potential criminal charges. And, although she instantly denounced every cent of Mark’s $15M in life insurance and promised to repay every penny taken, her lawyers knew that in reality she faced years of court battles and lawsuits, and possible jail time. Yet from that first horrific moment, God was there. He showed up in his Word, in Becky’s friends, in her lawyers and in the generosi

Do you need some rest for your weary soul? Taking time for yourself, even a few days, can make a big difference in your life. Find the clarity you’re looking for and the rest your soul craves. Reclaim your God-given vision and live your one beautiful life!⁠  Last weekend, I hosted a dozen women in my home for the very first Soul Care Weekend. You might think, “Yes, I need rest for my soul … but what exactly does Soul Care Weekend look like?” Good news, Maddie Dyess is here today to talk about what SCW did for her as a busy college student – and what it can do for you. We talk about what soul care looks like in a practical way and Maddie talks vulnerably about how Soul Care Weekend helped her and her mom connect in a deeper way. Here are four interesting things about Maddie: “I’m a college student at Ole Miss.” “I’m the oldest of four siblings.” “I like flowers and taking care of plants.” “I’m in a sorority and that’s a big part of my life.” I know you’ll love meeting Maddie and you’ll be so encouraged by ou

Throughout our busy and distracted days we hear so many different voices. What would happen if we slowed down, and listened to what God is saying to us? Leighton Ford describes himself as an “artist of the soul and a friend on the journey.” Leighton is an author, evangelist, mentor to emerging Christian leaders across the world, President of Leighton Ford Ministries, and in his own words, these four things: “I have a very long name.” “I have very long legs.” “I’ve lived a very long life.” “We haven’t known each other for very long.” Today, Leighton and I talk about his passion for mentoring and his new book “A Life of Listening: Discerning God’s Voice and Discovering Our Own”. I think you’ll be smiling through tears just like me, as you hear stories from his beautiful life. I’m so thankful for my conversation with Leighton, and I know you’ll be so encouraged by his message. SHOW NOTES Leighton’s Website Leighton Ford Ministries Whole Life Mentoring His New Book A Life of Listening: Discerning God’s Voice a

Are there wounds or losses from your past that seem too big or too complicated to be healed? Are there difficult people in your life that continue to create drama and pain? What if healing could be possible? Sarah Mae’s passion is to encourage women to walk in healing and freedom, even when the wounds are still open. Sarah Mae is a mom, teacher, author, podcaster, and in her own words, these four things: “I can tie my hair in a knot with one hand.” “I have a motorcycle license.” “I was never the cool girl.” “I have two puppies – a yellow lab and an elkhound husky.” Today, Sarah and I talk about her newest book, The Complicated Heart: Loving Even When It Hurts. Sarah shares her story of learning to love and forgive her alcoholic mother, and her journey of healing and grieving the wounds from her childhood.  SHOW NOTES Sarah’s Website Her New Book The Complicated Heart: Loving Even When It Hurts The Complicated Heart Podcast Sarah’s book: Having a Martha Home the Mary Way: 31 Days to a Clean House and a Sati

Do you feel like it’s a struggle sometimes to see God in the everyday, ordinary moments? How could we be transformed if we took a breath of fresh air and lingered a little longer in the Scriptures? Ruth Chou Simons shares her journey of God’s grace intersecting daily life with word and paintbrush. Ruth and her husband, Troy, are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure. Ruth is a mom, artist, author, speaker, and entrepreneur and in her own words, these four things: “I was born in Taiwan and immigrated to the U.S. when I was three years old. So, English is my second language (Mandarin is my first language).” “I was a biochemistry major before I studied art.” “I never intended on having six children, and I never thought I could be a mom to boys.” “I love all weird and ethnic food. I love to try any food – the strangest food possible.” Today, Ruth and I talk about the importance of community and doing life together. Ruth also shares how we can find beauty in the everyday moments, and the ways we

What do you do when fatigue or discouragement creeps in your life? Or what about when anxiety hits? How do you find and sustain emotional, relational and spiritual health? An old soul with a contemporary, honest voice, Rebekah Lyons revealed some of her own battles to overcome anxiety and depression—and invites us to discover and boldly pursue own God-given purpose from a place of freedom. Rebekah Lyons is a mom, teacher, author and in her own words, these four things: “I LOVE starting the day with a walk outside.” “I have been on a journey working on my energy level for the last couple of years.” “I don’t really watch TV.” “I grew up in Florida, St. Petersburg, and I love going to the beach.” Today, we’re talking about her latest book, Rhythms of Renewal: Trading Stress and Anxiety for a Life of Peace and Purpose.  Rebekah vulnerably shares how she purposefully took time to seek rest and respite in her professional and personal life. I just loved my time with her, and I know you will love her too! SUBSCRIB

We are called to do everything to the glory of Christ, including friendship.  Meet Kelly Needham. She’s a mom, author and in her own words, these four things: “I’m a classically trained violinist and that’s how my husband and I met.” “I love jigsaw puzzles.” “We had a jigsaw puzzle table growing up – and I have one in my home today.” “I love making Indian food.” Her short online bio reads like this: Kelly Needham is an author, speaker, and blogger and hopes to convince as many people as possible that nothing compares to knowing Jesus. Today, we’re also talking about her latest book, Friendish. I’m grateful for Kelly’s insightful words and encouragement to make our friendships God-honoring relationships. I’m sure you will feel grateful too! SHOW NOTES Kelly’s website here. Her new book, Friendish: Reclaiming Real Friendship in a Culture of Confusion. The interview with my daughter, Emily Boone. New music on the podcast via my own daughter, Sara Regan Davis Want to find a mentor? Sign up here for The Mentor

Never for a moment think that God has forgotten you.  Meet Lisa-Jo Baker. She’s a mom, author and in her own words, these four things: “I am a motherless daughter. I am always on the lookout for mother nourishment.” “God who loved me through the dark seasons and filled the motherly role.” “I swore I would never have children and yet I am a mother to three children.” “I’m originally from South Africa which explains the accent.” Regarding this interview she also said, “Scooch up a little closer friends, if your mom passed away or left or is emotionally unavailable or in whatever way possible has left a mom-shaped hole in your heart. Here’s the thing —we have a father God who also beautifully and tenderly and wholly mothers us. This has been my story. He has mothered me and then also consistently brought women into my life who fill that mom hole in so many different ways. With their laughter and their questions and their caring and their gift packages and the way they help with my kids and champion my work. I

This is the 100th episode of the Dear Daughters Podcast recorded live just last week in Springdale, Arkansas. First I have to say that I’m blown away and entirely grateful to God for his ever present help on this journey. From the very start of this show, my end goal was to encourage you with helpful, practical advice on how to live a godly life. And I have to say, every guest on this show has brought so much wisdom to that conversation. It only seems fitting that the 100th episode takes place in my dear friend, Amy Hannon’s kitchen at Euna Mae’s because that’s where my passion for mentoring started – in my kitchen. I loved making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for my children and their friends. I loved asking them questions and hearing about their lives and their thoughts about God. Mentoring for me was organic. It started in my home with my own children – and then it extended to their friends. Isn’t it beautiful the way God develops ministry out of home and overflow? When I gathered with the women at Eu

Do you long to create a home that offers both beauty and comfort? A space that offers both respite and connection?   Meet my new friend, Kennesha Buycks.  She is the creator of Restoration House, a home and lifestyle brand/blog that focuses on creating spaces that go beyond merely the aesthetic and focus on creating soulful, restorative aspects of home. When Kennesha is not busy being a wife to her amazing husband or a mama to her four kids, she spends her time writing, blogging, and encouraging others to live life uniquely and with passion. Her new book, Restoration House: Creating a Home That Gives Life and Connection to All Who Enter, demonstrates how to embrace both your story and your home. Here is our interview, recorded live in a special format called Dear Daughters Coffee and Conversation that was recorded right here in my home, with a handful of wide-eyed listeners, just like me. SUBSCRIBE IN ITUNES SHOW NOTES Join my newsletter to hear all about upcoming events! Restoration House: Creating a Home T

Meet my dad, Bob Gerrie. He is an inspiration to all who come in contact with him. People often joke about ‘getting Bob-ed’ by his enthusiastic, warm welcome. In celebration of Father’s Day, I asked my dad to come on the podcast this week. We talk about family legacy, about what real wealth means to him, oh and of course we cry all the tears! I’m so deeply grateful to have a father like Bob Gerrie. I know you'll be inspired. Here's my dad!  SHOW NOTES Here’s the video: Don’t Let the Old Man In  Download Real Wealth by Jay W Gerrie Listen to the episode with my mother here. Dear Daughters: Love Letters to the Next Generation La Grange, Texas Book Signing at The Busy B Come see me in Springdale, Arkansas at Euna Mae’s. Join my email list to hear all about upcoming events and receive The Grace Guide free!

Over the years mentoring women, I’ve started to see reoccurring themes in our conversations. As well, Bailey Greenlees (my magnificent ministry assistant), has also seen these same themes while mentoring college women. Today on the podcast, Bailey and I share our three must-have conversations while mentoring women. We touch on ideas that we talk about with our dear daughters frequently, and we share some great books and tools to take with you as you love others well! I’ve linked below all the books and tools that Bailey and I chatted about on today’s episode. Bailey is a cutie and I just adore her, I know you will too! SHOW NOTES God Calling My Utmost for His Highest Dear Daughters: Love Letters to the Next Generation The Gift of Wonder: Creative Practices for Delighting in God The Book of Comforts: Genuine Encouragement for Hard Times Catching Contentment: How to Be Holy Satisfied Life of the Beloved: Spiritual Living in a Secular World Gift of the Sea As I Recall: Discovering the Place of Memories in Our S

Parenting in today’s world is always rapidly changing, so it makes me grateful to have a friend that’s a parenting expert. My friend, Vicki Courtney, is speaker and an author of many books about parenting including 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter and 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Son.  Vicki is a wife of 31 years, a mother of 3 grown children who all have families of their own, and she's a grandmother of 6. OH JOY! So she’s a spiritual mama with some homegrown experience. Together, we generated 6 secrets to being a good mom. I think you’ll like them. I’m so thankful for Vicki. Her experience and wisdom is needed in today’s ever-changing culture. SUBSCRIBE IN ITUNES SHOW NOTES Vicki’s website Find Vicki on Instagram 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Son Vicki’s first episode on the Dear Daughters Podcast The Grace Guide The Dear Daughters signed book + bistro mug bundle is here for a limited time! Dear Daughters Coffee & C