Wonderfully Made

In our closing episode for 2024, Allie shares a ministry update, her HUGE news, and an end-of-year reflection and prayer. Thanks for joining us for another year of our podcast. Look out for powerful episodes in the new year to help you reach your full potential. See you in 2025, friend! Join our love her a'latte campaign and make this podcast possible for the cost of a latte a month. Visit Allie's website.  Join our list. 

Are your days filled with stress, busyness, and striving? Do you long to live a life of peace, but it feels impossible? In this re-released episode, Allie talks with author Ann Swindell, who shares wisdom and practical tips for how to experience the peace of God. Our culture tells us we will find peace by escaping our lives or numbing out. However, the peace God gives us is available every moment. It is steadfast and unchanging through the highs and the lows of life. Learn how to cultivate a more tranquil life through habits and spiritual practices. Be encouraged so that you can experience unshakeable peace and have a soul at rest.  Join our Love Her A'Latte campaign and make all we do possible for the cost of a latte a month. Join our list.

Do you or someone you love battle depression? Do you struggle with suicidal thoughts? You are not alone, and there is hope for you. In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and Julie Davies discuss the profound impact of depression and suicidal thoughts, sharing their personal journeys of struggle and recovery. They emphasize the importance of community, self-worth, and faith in the healing process while also addressing the complexities of mental health and the ongoing challenges that can arise even after recovery. Julie and Allie provide hope and encouragement to those facing similar battles, highlighting the significance of seeking help and understanding one's value. Do not lose hope. God can carry you through, and brighter days can come.   Visit our website. Get Allie’s book “Wonderfully Made”   Join our Love Her A’Latte campaign — make our podcast possible.   Get the show notes

Are the holidays hard for you? Are you having anxiety or disappointment as the holidays draw near? In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and Diane Arnold discuss the importance of caring for one's soul during the holiday season, addressing challenges such as loneliness, grief, and family dynamics. They emphasize the need for self-care, setting priorities, and finding connection through faith and service to others. The conversation provides practical advice for navigating the emotional complexities of the holidays while encouraging listeners to focus on the true meaning of the season.   Takeaways   -Caring for your soul is essential, especially during the holidays. -The holidays can be difficult due to unrealistic expectations. -Loneliness is a significant issue that many face during this time. -Faith can provide strength and comfort during challenging moments. -Grief is a natural part of life and should be acknowledged. -It's important to allow yourself to feel and process grief. -Finding connection through serv

Do you crave more joy or better mental health? In this episode of the Wonderfully Made podcast, Allie Marie Smith speaks with licensed professional counselor Diane Arnold about mental health, identity, and the importance of understanding one's purpose. They discuss Diane's new book, '12 Habits for a Sound Mind and a Joyful Life,' which offers practical strategies for healing and flourishing. The conversation delves into the significance of a sound mind from a biblical perspective, the impact of shame on mental health, and the role of relationships in maintaining well-being. Listeners are encouraged to cultivate self-awareness and apply the practical steps outlined in Diane's book to enhance their mental health and joy.   Takeaways -Mental health is essential for thriving and living out your purpose. -A sound mind involves having a healthy identity and self-esteem. -Practical application of wisdom is crucial for transformation. -Understanding one's identity and purpose is vital for mental health. -Shame often

Do you ever feel unworthy because of your past?  Have things people done or said left you with wounds and low self-worth? Do you believe that if someone knew the truth about you, they wouldn’t love you? In this powerful conversation, Morgan Krueger, author of “Goodbye Hiding, Hello Shame,” talks to us about the complex topic of shame and the journey towards freedom and redemption. Morgan talks about the origins of shame, its impact on personal identity, and the importance of community and support in overcoming feelings of unworthiness. Morgan shares her personal story of struggle and healing, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus and the necessity of empathy and compassion in relationships. The conversation provides practical steps for listeners to find their own paths to freedom, encouraging them to seek connection and share their stories.   Takeaways -Shame is a lie that attacks our true identity. -We have the freedom to choose how we respond to shame. -Isolation can exacerbate feelings of shame. -C

Do you struggle with viewing pornography or sexual brokenness? In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and Dr. Joy Skarka discuss the sensitive and serious topic of pornography addiction. They highlight the prevalence of pornography among women and the various forms it takes, such as online videos, TV shows, movies, and erotica. Dr. Skarka shares her personal story of finding freedom from pornography addiction and emphasizes the importance of discovering one's identity in Christ and seeking support from a safe Christian woman. They also address the lies women can believe about sexuality and the need to break free from them. The episode concludes with a discussion of Dr. Skarka's book, 'Her Freedom Journey,' and information about her ministry, Authentic Intimacy.   Visit our Website Join our online community   Get Allie's Book: “Wonderfully Made: Discover the Identity, Love, and Worth You Were Created For”   Shownotes direct link  

Do you struggle with self-doubt? Do you dismiss your gifts or downplay your accomplishments despite your successes? Do you ever feel like a fraud in your own life or that you are going to find out that you aren’t who you are supposed to be? In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and guest Robin Graham discuss overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt in order to step into our full God-given potential. They explore the importance of understanding our identity in Christ and relying on His power to transform our lives. Robin shares practical strategies such as catching and challenging negative thoughts, journaling, and starting the day with God. They emphasize the need to surround ourselves with affirming relationships and to focus on the truth of God's Word. Learn to embrace your uniqueness and trust in God's plan for your life.   Takeaways Imposter syndrome and self-doubt are common experiences, especially for high-achieving women. Understanding our identity in Christ and relying on His power can help us overcom

In this episode, Allie Marie Smith interviews Cynthia Garrett about reclaiming true sexual freedom in a culture of lies and how it is different from the sexual freedom the world promotes. Cynthia shares her powerful story of transformation and how she found Jesus while imprisoned in Italy for a crime she did not commit. They discuss the damaging effects of the party scene and hookup culture, the myths of the sexual revolution and modern feminism, and the failures of the purity culture movement. Cynthia emphasizes the importance of purity in mind and the need to clean up our thoughts and environment. She encourages women to embrace their true identity as daughters of God and to trust in His plan for their lives.   Visit our Website Join our online community   Get Allie's Book: “Wonderfully Made: Discover the Identity, Love, and Worth You Were Created For”   Shownotes direct link  

Lex Renick shares her powerful story of transformation from living as a trans man for 14 years to embracing her identity as a woman. She talks about the struggles she faced growing up in an abusive household and the lies she believed about herself. Lex emphasizes the importance of knowing and believing that God created each person wonderfully and intentionally. She discusses the dangers of social media and the pressure it puts on young girls to conform to certain identities. Lex encourages those who are struggling with their gender identity to seek God, trust Him, and find their true purpose in Him. Visit our Website Join our online community   Get Allie's Book: “Wonderfully Made: Discover the Identity, Love, and Worth You Were Created For”   Shownotes direct link  

Sarah Dubbeldam, founder of Darling Magazine and Darling Society, shares her journey of creating a platform and business that celebrates women's worth and beauty. She discusses the importance of authenticity and the impact of the modeling industry on body image. Sarah also introduces Darling Society, a clothing line that aims to combat negative self-esteem and promote self-love. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to start small, have a clear mission, and focus on their unique worth and gifts.   Visit our Website Join our online community   Get Allie's Book: “Wonderfully Made: Discover the Identity, Love, and Worth You Were Created For”   Shownotes direct link  

Scars are permanent. Whether they are physical, emotional, spiritual, or other, they are a perpetual part of us. They are reminders of the pain and suffering we have endured, and as such, can bring us shame, rejection, and pain. Allie Marie Smith interviews Dr. Michelle Bengtson about turning pain into purpose. They discuss the concept of scars and how they can lead to feelings of shame and fear. Dr. Bengtson shares her personal story of enduring physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational scars and how she found healing and purpose through her faith. They also explore the themes of redemption and the power of surrendering one's life to God.  Takeaways   -Scars are the end result of the healing process after a wound has occurred, and they can be physical, emotional, spiritual, or relational. -Scars can lead to feelings of shame and fear, which can isolate us and prevent us from living in our true purpose. -God can use our scars to bring healing and purpose to our lives, and he offers forgiveness and redemp

In this conversation, Allie Marie Smith and Robin Ryan McDonald discuss the importance of optimal health in body, mind, and spirit. They emphasize that body size is not an accurate indicator of overall health and that grace-based decisions should be made to improve health. Robin shares her personal journey of struggling with body image and finding healing through nutrition. They discuss the impact of knowing one's worth and value on overall health and well-being. Robin provides practical tips for creating a grace-based healthy lifestyle, including staying hydrated, eating enough food, and getting outside for a 15-minute walk. She encourages every girl and woman to prioritize their health because they are precious and valuable.   Takeaways   -Body size is not an accurate indicator of overall health. -Grace-based decisions should be made to improve health. -Knowing one's worth and value has a positive impact on overall health and well-being. -Practical tips for creating a grace-based healthy lifestyle include s

The dignity of girls and women is under attack. In this conversation, author, speaker and former model Jennifer Strickland talks about the dignity of womanhood and biblical womanhood. She talks about the cultural attack on womanhood, the power embedded in the name woman, and the role of women as life-givers and protectors. Jennifer shares her personal journey from being a former model to becoming a speaker and author dedicated to helping young women see their value and identity in God's eyes. They also address the current issues of gender confusion, the importance of speaking up and taking a stand, and the role of the church in addressing these issues. The conversation ends with a call to action for women to mentor and invest in younger girls and to be truth-tellers in a world that often distorts the true identity of women.   Takeaways   -Womanhood is under a cultural attack, and it is important for Christians to uphold the dignity of womanhood with clarity and compassion. -The name woman carries power and me

Have you experienced trauma at the hands of others? Are you having a hard time healing and finding forgiveness? In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and guest Susannah Griffith discuss the topic of forgiving after trauma. They explore the intersection of Biblical forgiveness and trauma. They discuss the common ways girls and women have been traumatized, and the harmful ways forgiveness has been weaponized. They also discuss the importance of acknowledging and processing anger, the concept of trauma-informed forgiveness, and practical steps for healing and biblical forgiveness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of putting the survivor first and allowing them to heal at their own pace. If you have experienced trauma we hope this conversation will help you heal and move forward.    Takeaways -Trauma is an adaptive reality of how our bodies, emotions, and spirits seek to survive in a world shattered by circumstances outside of our control. -Many girls and women have been traumatized by others, especially s

Do you ever experience emotions that leave you paralyzed and confused? In this conversation, Allie Marie Smith interviews Dr. Allison Cook about conflicting thoughts and emotions. Dr. Cook shares the core message of her book, 'I Shouldn't Feel This Way,' which focuses on naming and understanding complicated emotions. She emphasizes the importance of getting curious and compassionate with ourselves, as well as the process of framing and braving our emotions. Dr. Cook introduces the MEPS exercise as a practical tool for self-reflection and communication. She also discusses the concept of gaslighting ourselves and the need for self-compassion. The conversation concludes with a reminder of God's desire for healing and the importance of knowing our worth.   Takeaways   -Name and understand your emotions, especially the complicated ones. -Get curious and compassionate with yourself, allowing for the coexistence of conflicting feelings. -Practice the MEPS exercise (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Spiritual) for self-re

Do you ever make progress in an area in your life only to self-sabotage? In this conversation, Dr. Alison Cook discusses the topic of self-sabotage and provides insights into why we undermine our own success and well-being. She explains that self-sabotage is like sabotaging someone else, but directed towards ourselves. Common ways women self-sabotage include procrastination, negative self-talk, and thinking traps. Women are particularly prone to self-sabotage due to guilt messages and societal expectations. Dr. Cook emphasizes the importance of getting curious and compassionate with ourselves, reframing negative self-talk, and taking small brave steps towards change.   Takeaways Self-sabotage is when we consciously or unconsciously undermine our own success and well-being. Common ways women self-sabotage include procrastination, negative self-talk, and thinking traps. Women are particularly prone to self-sabotage due to guilt messages and societal expectations. Getting curious and compassionate with ourselves

There has never been and there will never be another you! God is glorified when you shine your light with confidence and show up as your authentic self. In this episode, Allie Marie Smith interviews Dee Cekanor, a retired Paralympian who is passionate about shining the light of Jesus. Dee shares her journey of faith, her experience in the Paralympics, and her radical story of prayer and redemption. She encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness and remember that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. Dee's message is one of hope, reminding everyone that they have a light to shine in the world.   Takeaways   -Embrace your uniqueness and remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. -Shine your light for the glory of God and make the world brighter. -God can redeem painful situations and change the trajectory of your life. -Your identity is secure in God, regardless of your achievements or circumstances.   Visit our Website Join our online community   Get Allie's Book: “Wonderful

Cultivating healthy boundaries can change your life and protect your soul and well-being. In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and Colleen Blake Miller discuss the importance of setting boundaries in various areas of life. They explore the challenges people face in establishing boundaries and provide examples of specific boundaries that can be set. They also discuss the difference between assertiveness and aggressiveness when communicating boundaries. The intersection of faith and boundaries is explored, highlighting the need for balance and harmony. The conversation concludes with a reminder of the importance of knowing one's value and identity in setting boundaries and taking care of oneself.   Takeaways   -Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining healthy relationships and personal well-being. -Recognizing the need for boundaries requires self-awareness and paying attention to imbalances or feelings of overwhelm. -Boundaries can be established through clear communication and setting limits on what one

In this episode, Allie Marie Smith introduces the community and encourages listeners to join. She then welcomes Colleen Blake Miller, a registered psychotherapist, to discuss cultivating confidence. Colleen defines confidence as knowing who you are and not allowing external factors to diminish that. They explore the difference between self-confidence and confidence in God, emphasizing that both are important. Colleen shares her personal journey of cultivating confidence and offers practical steps for others to do the same. They discuss the importance of embracing imperfections and how it impacts confidence. They also highlight the power of quiet confidence and deliver a message of worth and capability to all girls and women. Listeners are invited to connect with Colleen on Instagram and join the online community.   Takeaways   -Confidence is knowing who you are and not allowing external factors to diminish that. -Both self-confidence and confidence in God are important and can coexist. -Cultivating confidence