4.1K
Downloads
56
Episodes
Everyone has a unique story of how the Lord has touched their hearts and shaped their journeys. The ”Women Behind the Words” podcast highlights women who have bravely navigated life’s challenges, harnessing the strength and courage to answer God’s calling. Listen to inspiring accounts of overcoming fears and achieving more than they ever imagined possible. These personal narratives will inspire, uplift, and offer hope, changing the course of history, which will affect the outcome of eternity, one heart at a time.
Episodes
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Episode 24 - Seeing Through the Darkness with Laurie Devernoe
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Date: March 5, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Laurie Devernoe
Story Highlight: Welcome to this episode of The Women Behind the Words, where we delve into the profound story of my courageous friend, Laurie Devernoe. Join us as she shares her narrative of unwavering faith tested by unforeseen adversity. Despite the challenges she faced, Laurie's resilience and faith, though tried, shine through her story.
Through the loss of her vision in one eye and the absence of expected miracles, Laurie faces the depths of her faith with authenticity and raw emotion. Her willingness to confront doubt and disappointment with vulnerability is truly inspiring. She shares her struggles openly, providing us with a roadmap to navigate our own relationships with God when faced with days of unexpected difficulty.
Despite the darkness surrounding her, Laurie emerges from her struggles with newfound clarity. Her insights offer reassurance that even in the depths of despair, God's light shines brightest. Laurie’s story is a testament to the enduring presence of God in life's darkest moments. Her account serves as a beacon of light, reminding us of God's faithfulness and the transformative power of hope. Laurie Devernoe's life message is a powerful testament to the resilience of faith in the face of adversity. Through her poignant narrative, Laurie offers readers a profound opportunity to explore their own relationships with God and find hope in the midst of life's trials. Join us on this journey of faith as we uncover the light that shines through even the darkest of times.
About the Guest (Bio): Laurie Devernoe is a long-time Jesus lover and coffee enthusiast. To her, they go hand in hand. An author, dynamic speaker, ordained minister, and board-certified mental health coach, Laurie is dedicated to serving families and individuals of all backgrounds. She is passionate about helping people access their faith, strengthen their relationships, and be equipped to live impactful lives.
Laurie discovered how sharing her favorite seasonal coffee drink and her faith in Jesus with others fueled her to keep up with her children—eighteen-month-old triplet daughters and infant son. Eight years later, her second son was born. Married to Ron for over 25 years and living in Upstate New York, Laurie draws from her decades of parenting experience and education to pour into the lives of others in her community as she hosts prayer initiatives, home groups, and individual prayer and counseling ministry. Laurie founded Coffee House Parenting, LLC, and wrote her first book, Coffee House Parenting, where she shares from the heart practical means to pour your faith back into your families while making time to connect with God.
Her second book, Seeing Through the Darkness, will be released in early 2024. In it, Laurie shares candidly about her journey of losing her vision in one eye and how the broken pieces of her faith lay before her—pieces she would find in the darkness that now enabled her to see.
Connect with Laurie:
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Episode 23 - Praying Through the Hard Times with Linda Shepherd
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Date: February 27, 2023
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Linda Shepherd
Story Highlight: In this episode of The Women Behind the Words, we are joined by Linda Shepherd, a remarkable woman whose enthusiasm for prayer defines her journey. As an international speaker and the author of 38 books, Linda's life is a testament to the transformative power of prayer. With infectious joy and a profound love for Jesus and His people, Linda recounts her numerous encounters with prayer that have left indelible marks on her audiences worldwide. Having weathered personal trauma and heartbreak, Linda intimately understands the profound changes when hearts pray to God. Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to a rollercoaster of emotions as Linda seamlessly weaves together moments of laughter and tears, inviting us all to experience the wonder, the beauty, and the potency of a life committed to prayer. Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Linda Shepherd, where you'll find inspiration, encouragement, and a deeper understanding of the profound impact of prayer in our lives.
About the Guest (Bio): Linda Evans Shepherd author of 38 books, returns with her latest bestseller, Praying Through Hard Times from Baker Revell. A former TV host, Linda's profound insights, love for her audiences, as well as her humor, and compelling stories, make her a great interviewee. Her YouTube show, "The Prayer Investigator," shows the world how to talk to God as she investigates the prayer stories of her guests. As the publisher of Leading Hearts magazine, Linda earned Evangelical Press Awards for her articles and prayer column and took home the 2023 Award of Excellence for Christian Digital Ministry Magazine. Founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, she leads and mentors 1000 Christian authors and speakers in a vibrant community.
Book Spotlight: Praying Through Hard Times: How to Give Your Worries to God and Rediscover Hope
Where is God when life comes crashing down? In Praying Through Hard Times, Linda Evans Shepherd shows you how to see God in times of trouble. With compassion born from her own experiences with tragedy, Shepherd offers you practical strategies for surviving difficult times, giving your worries and sadness to God, praying through the pain, and finding peace, hope, and joy once more. Praying Through Hard Times shows you how tough experiences can draw you closer to God than ever before. No matter what the hurt, there is always, always hope. God's answers to prayer may not come packaged in the ways we would expect, but they do come in ways that will transform our lives.
Connect With Linda:
Arise Esther Evening: AriseEstherEvening.com
Books: GotToPray.com
Speaking: LindaEvansShepherd.com
Magazine: LeadingHearts.com
Devo: AriseDaily.com
YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@gottopray
Author/Speaker's Association: AWSA.com
Nonprofit: RightToTheHeart.com
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Episode 22 - Finding Your Natural Prayer Style with Janet McHenry
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Date: February 20, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Janet McHenry
Story Highlight: In today's episode of The Women Behind the Words, we are joined by Janet McHenry, a dedicated prayer walker who has been fostering hope in others through her passion for prayer since 1998. Today, Janet brings her wealth of experience and insights to the table as she delves into two particularly helpful topics for women.
Firstly, she discusses the importance of discovering one's natural prayer style. Understanding how we individually connect with the Lord can greatly enhance our prayer lives, leading to a deeper sense of fulfillment and connection. Janet offers guidance on how to identify and embrace our unique approaches to prayer, allowing for a more authentic and meaningful spiritual experience.
Additionally, Janet explores the concept of making peace with one's prayer life. Many women struggle with feelings of inadequacy or guilt regarding their prayer practices, often comparing themselves to perceived standards or struggling with consistency. Janet offers compassionate advice on releasing these burdens and finding contentment in our personal prayer journeys, emphasizing self-acceptance and grace. Through her wisdom and empathy, Janet McHenry provides valuable insights that empower women to cultivate richer, more fulfilling prayer lives, ultimately fostering a deeper relationship with Jesus.
About the Guest: Janet McHenry is a national speaker and the author of 27 books, including the bestselling PrayerWalk (WaterBrook) and The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus (Bethany House). She directs the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno and serves on the California leadership team for the National Day of Prayer. The leader of the hundreds-strong Bible Girls and a long-time prayer walker, Janet has helped others foster a hope-filled, purposeful lifestyle built on prayer and God's Word.
Book Spotlight: Prayer Personalities - Finding Your Natural Prayer Style
Some say you should have a prayer closet and go there every day for an hour to pray. Some say you should write all your prayers out in a journal. Some say you should keep an organized notebook for all prayer requests others give you. But none of this feels like you.
Perhaps it's time to step away from “the shoulds” and discover a praying lifestyle that syncs with your God-given personality.
In Praying Personalities, Janet McHenry explores biblical praying styles, numerous personality assessments, learning styles, the spiritual differences of the generations, and spiritual gifts to help you find a praying lifestyle that makes sense for you and the life you lead.
Connect with Janet:
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Episode 21 - Growing a Joyful Heart with Karen Whiting
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Date: February 13, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Karen Whiting
Story Highlight:
In this episode of "The Women Behind the Words," we are privileged to have Karen Whiting as our guest. Karen's life journey is marked by resilience and a deep sense of joy despite facing numerous challenges. As a Coast Guard family, Karen and her loved ones have weathered literal storms such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and fires, yet they have maintained smiles throughout their journey. Twelve years ago, Karen tragically lost her husband to cancer. Still, amidst the sorrow, she found solace in the precious moments they shared, thanks to an unexpected extension of time granted by the grace of Jesus. Her husband's selflessness during his illness, leaving behind hidden notes and gifts for their family, left an indelible mark on Karen, inspiring her to choose joy and laughter even in the face of adversity. Karen's latest book, co-authored with Pam Farrel, focuses on cultivating a life of joy, drawing from their own experiences of overcoming struggles. Through her conversation, Karen shares invaluable insights on encountering the Lord and embracing the joy-filled life He intends for us. She emphasizes the importance of joyfully navigating each day and becoming vessels of love and compassion to those around us. As listeners, we are encouraged to find hope in living a life that radiates joy and peace, knowing that by extending kindness to others, we too can experience the abundant joy from a heart filled with love.
About our Guest (Bio):
Karen Whiting is an international speaker, former television host, and award-winning author of thirty-four books for women, children, families, and the military. She has the heart to help families thrive and build strong, wholesome bonds.
As a Coast Guard wife, Karen lived in many states, almost always near the water. She experienced the trauma of natural disasters in various homes including category four hurricanes, lightning strikes, an earthquake, derechos, and spontaneous combustible fires. She is a widow, a mother of five, including two rocket scientists (yes, for real), and a grandmother.
She enjoys adventure and has ridden a camel in the Canary Islands; white-water rafted in Australia; ridden horseback in the ocean in Jamaica; and enjoyed scuba diving off the coast of Bermuda. She’s spoken in such faraway places as Russia and Malaysia. She loves Zumba, baking, and creating new crafts. And she loves seeing what God does when she chooses joy!
Book Spotlight: In a tumultuous world we can Rejoice!
You CAN choose joy and have a heart filled with joy!
Joy is a gift from God, a fruit of the Holy Spirit. We choose joy as we focus on what God has done and will do, rather than our circumstances.
We start the process of being joyful by developing our sense of inner joy. Then we can bring joy into our relationships to have more meaningful connections with the people in our lives.
We choose to respond with joy in all circumstances, even amid our grief and pain, through trusting that God is working in our lives with a plan and purpose. Once joy overflows in our hearts, we share that abundance and become joy givers.
Karen and her co-author, Pam Farrel, have faced many stresses and challenges in their lives but made the decision to choose joy and that’s made all the difference in their lives.
Media Experience:
Karen Whiting is a former television host of Puppets on Parade (Miami Educational Television) and has been a guest on more than one hundred radio shows including Moody Radio in South Florida.
Whiting is a guest on several TV stations where she has new books and one hundred radio shows including Moody Radio in South Florida.
Whiting is a guest on several TV stations when she has new books, including Club 36, TCT Network’s Julie and Friends, Atlanta Live, Nightline, and Babbie’s House.
Connect with Karen:
Links to articles/interviews with Karen:
https://www.crosswalk.com/family/parenting/how-to-make-your-home-more-peaceful.html
https://www.crosswalk.com/family/parenting/lessons-from-9-great-peacemakers-to-teach-children.html
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Episode 20 - A Journey Back To The Father with Sandra Flach Part. 2
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Date: February 6, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Sandra Flach
Story Highlight:
In today’s episode of our podcast, we warmly welcome back Sandra Flach, who, alongside our host Debbie Dufek, delves into the profound topic of walking in the calling the Lord has given us. Their conversation starts with an agreement that everyone indeed has a calling, paving the way for a deep dive into the nuances of living out this purpose. Sandra, using her rich personal experiences, illuminates that the journey of our calling may often appear illogical or unclear from a human perspective. However, she reassures listeners that a life led by faith and under the guidance of Jesus will have each step revealed in His perfect timing.
The dialogue progresses to emphasize the importance of obedience in pursuing our calling, with Sandra sharing poignant lessons from her life. She candidly discusses the sacrifices involved in this pursuit, noting that following the Lord's calling often means giving up our comfort, convenience, and personal desires for something much greater. Sandra does not hesitate to speak on the challenges and opposition encountered while walking in her calling, yet she highlights the peace and protection granted by the Lord, who opens the right doors at the right time.
A key moment in the conversation is Sandra's reflection on the insight that without Jesus, fulfilling our calling is impossible, underlining our complete reliance on Him. This segues into a discussion about the unexpected nature of God’s plans, encouraging a shift from personal desires to aligning with God's greater purpose. The notion that callings are progressive and often seasonal is beautifully described as ascending a staircase, with each step marking a phase in the grand journey of fulfilling our purpose.
Listeners will leave with a message of hope and encouragement, reminded that as long as we have breath, our lives hold significant value and purpose. The episode wraps up with the inspiring thought that living in alignment with His plans for our lives is both an honor and a gift, allowing Jesus to use us and our stories to impact others, one heart at a time.
About Our Guest (Bio):
Sandra Flach, a return guest to our podcast, is an esteemed advocate, author, and speaker within the foster and adoption community. Her personal journey of extending her family through adoption provides her with a deep well of understanding and insight into the challenges and joys this path entails. Beyond her personal story, Sandra reaches out to the broader community through her weekly Adoption & Foster Care Journey Podcast, offering stories, resources, and support to adoptive and foster parents. As a certified facilitator of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, and through leading workshops and support groups, Sandra demonstrates her commitment to making a meaningful difference. Her book, "Orphans No More: A Journey Back to the Father," mirrors her dedication to sharing hope and guidance with those navigating their way through adoption and foster care. Residing in upstate New York with her husband, Sandra finds joy in spending quality time with her family, including her beloved grandchildren, living her calling with dedication and resilience.
Connect with Sandra:
Email: sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org
Phone Number: +1(518) 779-2279
Website: justicefororphansny.org
Instagram: Justicefororphans and sandraflach_jfo
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
Episode 19 - A Journey Back to the Father with Sandra Flach
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
Date: January 30, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Sandra Flach
Story Highlight:
Welcome to The Women Behind The Words, a platform where faith, hope, and the transformative journey of adoption intertwine. In this special episode, we are joined by Sandra Flach, author of "Orphans No More: A Journey Back to the Father." Sandra, along with her husband Wayne, shares their heartwarming adoption story of four siblings from Ukraine, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and victories they encountered. Her narrative is a testament to the divine interventions and realizations of God’s guiding hand at every turn.
The episode takes a deeper dive into Sandra's book, revealing the miraculous instances where faith opened doors and the profound meaning behind the title, which symbolizes the transition from orphanhood to finding a true identity in God. Sandra also delves into the concept of living with an orphan spirit, exploring the unnoticed bondage that affects many and the path to freedom through recognizing our belonging to God.
Further, Sandra shares her insights on embracing one's divine calling, highlighting the joy and fulfillment that comes from aligning with God's plans. The couple's commitment to both adoption and leadership is a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating their living out of this calling. The episode concludes with Sandra's reflections on waiting for Jesus' guidance and how she and Wayne were equipped for the plans God had for them. This story is a beacon of hope, emphasizing that God has a unique plan for everyone.
The heartfelt discussion aims to touch hearts and inspire listeners to seek God's plan for their lives, reminding us that God's guidance is sufficient for all He has in store. Sandra's journey is a powerful reminder of the chapters God writes in each of our lives.
About Our Guest (Bio):
Sandra Flach, a mother of eight, with five of her children adopted and two diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, has dedicated her life to supporting foster and adoptive families. As the host of the weekly Adoption & Foster Care Journey Podcast and a blogger at SandraFlach.com, she provides valuable insights and resources. She is also a certified facilitator of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model and conducts FASD workshops. Co-leading the Hope for the FASD Journey online support community, Sandra co-founded Justice For Orphans and authored "Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father." With her husband Wayne, she celebrates 36 years of marriage and resides in upstate New York, where they cherish time with their family, especially their eight grandchildren.
Book Highlight: Orphans No More–-A Journey Back to the Father
Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father is part adoption memoir and part lessons learned about the spirit of adoption from the lens of an adoptive parent. Buckle up for the adventure and discover how you also can be healed of an orphan spirit mindset and live in your full identity as a child of God.
Orphans No More: A Journey Back to the Father has been awarded the Golden Scroll Award for Memoir of the Year 2022 and is now available wherever good books are sold.
Connect with Sandra:
Email: sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org
Phone Number: +1(518) 779-2279
Website: justicefororphansny.org
Instagram: Justicefororphans and sandraflach_jfo
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Episode 18 - He Makes All Things Beautiful in His Time with Michelle Rohlf
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Date: January 23, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Michelle Rohlf
Story Highlight: In today's episode of The Women Behind the Words, we delve into Michelle Rohlf's powerful story of estrangement and ultimate reconciliation with her daughter, Naomi. Michelle's journey is marked by deep emotional struggles, rooted in her own challenging childhood experiences.
Michelle recounts the early days of what was perhaps the beginning of estrangement, triggered when her 3-year-old daughter was sent to stay with her biological father for the summer. Despite not knowing her father well, it was determined Michelle’s daughter remained with her father for the summer. The separation from her mother had a profound impact on their relationship which Michelle realized as the years went on.
Michelle reflects on how her daughter became the center of her world, leading to a codependent relationship. Her protective nature unintentionally hindered her daughter's growth, fostering fear of life's challenges for Naomi and Michelle. She wanted to shelter her daughter from ever facing any conflict.
Michelle opens up about her own difficult childhood, marked by rejection from her grandmother and father. Constant criticism and body-shaming left Michelle feeling unworthy and affected her parenting approach.
Michelle realized her daughter, at age 17, was grappling with abandonment issues. Her daughter's marriage to a controlling older man further strained their relationship, leading to a prolonged separation, resulting in years-long estrangement.
Michelle's wake-up call came with the recognition of her own co-dependency and the decision to seek therapy. Embracing a spiritual journey, Michelle found solace and transformation through a relationship with Jesus.
Both Michelle and her daughter have experienced a wonderful transformation through their faith in Jesus and the blessing of a helpful therapist. Their mother-daughter relationship is restored, and they now walk together in the beauty of reconciliation.
Michelle's story is a testament to the power of God working in her life, self-awareness, therapy, and spiritual growth in overcoming deep-seated wounds. She gives all the glory to Jesus for her healing and reconciliation with her daughter! Today, Michelle and Naomi share a healthy, balanced relationship, with Jesus at the center.
About the Guest (Bio): Michelle has spent a lifetime focusing on relationships and encouraging others to cultivate their own healthy relationships by speaking at retreats, women’s meetings and Bible Studies. She has a passion for mentoring and discipleship whether it be one-on-one or in small groups. Married to a wonderful man since 1995, Michelle resides in Phoenix, Arizona. She has two daughters, two grandsons, and two small, fluffy dogs. Losing Her, Finding Me is her first book.
Book Spotlight: Losing Her, Finding Me
Finding hope amidst estrangement…
How does a mother who put her entire identity into her baby the moment she came into the world find herself again when, years later, her grown child cuts all ties?
Michelle Rohlf’s unwanted estrangement from her daughter, Naomi, strips her of everything . . . her grandchildren, her peace of mind, and most of all, herself. In spite of her broken heart and broken spirit, she embarks on a three-year journey of healing and forgiveness, discovering the impact her own upbringing had on her attachment to her daughter. But just as Michelle learns that her life isn’t over because her daughter walked away, Naomi shows up again, without apology or explanation.
Much to Michelle’s surprise, this reappearance challenges her own recovery from codependency. She finds herself in a struggle to hold on to the sense of self she fought so hard to gain. This is the story of a woman who had to lose her daughter in order to find the identity she’d never really had.
If you are a parent who has become estranged from your child, there is hope. You are not alone in this journey of rejection. The first step toward healing is to work on yourself. Find your own life apart from your child, because you are valuable and the world needs you.
Connect with Michelle Rohlf:
Website:michellerohlf.com
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Episode 17 - Is It Hard to Make a Difference? with Rachael Adams
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Date: January 16, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Rachael Adams
Story Highlight: Welcome to another wonderful The Women Behind the Words episode! In a world that often celebrates grand gestures, it's easy to underestimate the significance of life's simpler moments. Join us as we welcome Rachael Adams to our show and dive into the true meaning of living a significant life. In a culture where bigger is seen as better, it’s easy to wonder if your quick prayer between errands or the short note you text a friend means anything in God’s kingdom. Contrary to how you may feel, everything you do can go a long way in God’s hands. Partnering with Jesus in making a difference in lives unlocks the eternal significance of the smallest act. Author, Rachael Adams’ life exemplifies this empowering truth! Encouragement will fill your heart as she shares personal stories of how God values each deed, imparts actions for the lasting impact that matters, and leaves us with fresh oil, ready to be the one who sends out the invitation. Watch God take your everyday actions and transform them for His eternal purposes.
About the Guest (Bio): Writer and podcaster Rachael Adams started her ministry to help women realize their God-given purpose and significance. She and her husband, Bryan, run a family business and farm in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate, and two doodle dogs. Connect with her through her website (rachaelkadams.com), social media (@rachaeladamsauthor), or podcast (The Love Offering).
Book Spotlight: A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life by Rachael Adams, (BroadStreet, October 2022)
A significant life is more simple than you think.
In a culture where bigger is seen as better, it’s easy to wonder if your quick prayer between errands or the short note you text a friend means anything in God’s kingdom.
Contrary to how you may feel, everything you do can go a long way in God’s hands. Partnering with God unlocks the eternal significance of the smallest act. Rachael Adams exemplifies this empowering truth in fifty-two devotions and shares personal stories of how God values each deed, practical actions for lasting impact, and encouraging prayers that reveal how much your contributions matter.
Watch God take your everyday actions and transform them for His eternal purposes.
Connect with Rachel: