The Tried and Truth Podcast with Annica Fischer

Jodie Berndt - The Greatest Thing You Can Do for Your Marriage

Jodie Berndt joins us this week to share marriage insights, encouragement, and honest truths about the “perfect" soulmate. She has so much wisdom on how we can love our spouses better and make enjoying them a priority. You’ll hear the greatest thing you can do for your marriage and even a few tips on parenting priorities. She's bringing her humor and wisdom to this life-giving conversation to encourage you today! 
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EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
3:25 40 years of marriage - marriage insights and does the perfect soul mate really exist?
6:57 The greatest thing we can do for our marriage 
8:39 You don't get very far into marriage before you realize you need some help.
20:14 parenting priorities 
22:15 Word of encouragement for marriages based on your work with so many couples 
22:54 Your spouse is not a mindreader 
38:45 Guest perspective: What does success look like to you?
41:36 Truths & Takeaways
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
> You can learn more about Jodie, her Praying the Scriptures series, and access more resources at jodieberndt.com
(my favorite downloadable resource: 31 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR YOUR MARRIAGE)
> Follow Jodie on Facebook @jodieberndtwrites or on Instagram @jodie_berndt
> Jodie’s Latest Book: Praying the Scriptures Over Your Marriage:  Trusting God with Your Most Important Relationship

Rebekah Lyons - Building a Resilient Life

Rebekah Lyons joins us this week to talk all about building a truly resilient life in this must-listen episode. She shares some of her own personal experiences with emotional health and anxiety and will guide you through  the five rules of resilience so you, too, can thrive in difficult times. You’ll hear more on the power of community and adversity and how they can awaken us to greater things as we build resilience together. 
>>>EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[1:38] More on Rebekah’s story past and present
[8:54] Rules of Resilience
[10:52] Rule #1 PLUS the free therapy available ot you
[12:38] Rule #2
[13:41] Rule #3
[13:54] Treat anxiety as your friend
[14:46] Anxiety does not define you
[15:57] The fancy word for “fear”
[16:16] Rule #4
[16:26] Rule #5
[17:29] Adversity - the teacher 
[20:47] “...Resilience is getting comfortable with pain.”
[23:25] There’s no shame in feeling what you’re feeling
[27:25] Guest perspective - What does success look like to you?
[30:44] Truths & Takeaways
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ABOUT REBEKAH LYONS
Rebekah is a national speaker, host of the Rhythms for Life podcast, and bestselling author of Rhythms of Renewal, You Are Free, Freefall to Fly, and Building a Resilient Life: How Adversity Awakens Strength, Hope and Meaning. Rebekah is a mom of four, two of whom have Down syndrome. An old soul with a contemporary, honest voice, Rebekah reveals her own battles to overcome anxiety and depression--and invites others to discover and boldly pursue their God-given purpose. You can follow along on her website at rebekahlyons.com  or on Instagram and Facebook @rebekahlyons.
 
---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! 
 
 

Bonnie Gray on Soul Care and Transforming Life’s Chaos into Calm

Soul Care Mentor, Bonnie Gray, walks you through how to transform life’s chaos into calm. If you’re tired of feeling anxiety, overwhelm, and have found yourself running on empty far too often, you’re not alone and this conversation is for you.  Bonnies shares practical tips on how to enter into a space of rest and prepare yourself to face life’s challenges with renewed well-being, confidence, energy and gratitude.  She’ll reveal why soul care and self care both matter, why you can’t think your way out of stress, how to rewire your brain for emotional well-being, and 3 lies that trigger anxiety and 3 truths to set you free. 
About Bonnie: 
Bonnie Gray is a Soul Care mentor and the author of Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm, Whispers of Rest, Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Sweet Like Jasmine. Having healed from PTSD, Bonnie is passionate about helping thousands of listeners detox stress and flourish in emotional wellness with God’s love through soul care, Bible Study and prayer. Bonnie is mom of two teenage boys and resides in Silicon Valley. 
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[2:10] Bonnie’s story
[7:45] About Breathe - why she wrote it and why it matters
[13:44] Soul care coaching
[19:48] Panic attacks, “be still”, and trusting
[27:43] When you don’t feel like your cheerful self 
[34:57] Absorbing others stress, panic attacks and seeing a therapist 
[39:14] Ambitions scripture calls us to
[40:49] You can’t think your way out of stress
[43:05] lies that trigger anxiety and 3 truths to set you free
[49:23] Go get yourself some flowers 
[51:43] Being emotionally honest is…
[58:30] How do you teach your kids what you’ve learned about anxiety, soul care, and self care?
[1:07:00] Social media, how our brain interprets it and healthy rhythms to establish 
[1:18:55] Truths & Takeaways
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MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Soulcarequiz.com
Follow Bonnie on Instagram @thebonniegray
---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! 
 

The Brushstrokes of Life with Anne Neilson

Artist Anne Neilson invites us to experience the brushstrokes of life on the canvas of our lives in this conversation - allowing brushstrokes, textures, and explosions of color that come through every trial, joy, heartache, and hope we encounter to shape us and create beauty. Through sharing her own personal journey, she’s coming alongside of your in yours as you uncover the gifts within you, right where you are, even in the messes, the mundane, and the mistakes. You’ll hear more about creating impact with whatever you have, taking leaps of faith, not being afraid of failure, staying true to who you are and what you’ve been called to and the power of a heart and life surrendered. 
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[1:35] Brushstrokes of Life & Anne’s story 
[1:26] The “D-” in 10th grade art
[4:31] Your life as a blank canvas
[6:56] The message in our messes 
[9:47] When the voice of discouragement sneaks in
[14:29] Lesson learned along the way - drown out the doubts and naysayers
[16:05] Stay true to what God has called you to
[17:31] The small whisper that led to her next step
[19:26] Selling the first 1500 copies - from Oprah to Kathy Lee Gifford and beyond
[21:40] When hobby turned ministry 
[24:28] The power of surrender and contribute right where you are
[27:03] It’s hard to partner with God when our fists are clenched
[28:22] One step at a time 
[29:36] “We could change the world with that” &  the leap of faith moment
[31:37] Challenges and obstacles in staying true to our vision
[32:40] What advice would you give someone trying to figure out what’s next?
[36:40] What does success look like to you?
[38:44] Comparison is the thief of joy 
[42:21] Truths & Takeaways
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ABOUT ANNE NEILSON
Well known for her ethereal Angel Series, which are inspiring reflections of her faith and recognized for their stunning use of color. In response to demand for more access to her acclaimed Angel paintings, Neilson published two coffee table books and launched Anne Neilson Home, a growing collection of luxury home products, including candles, note cards, Scripture cards, prints, and journals. Neilson also owns Anne Neilson Fine Art, a gallery located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Representing more than 50 talented artists from across the world, the gallery is dedicated to being a lighthouse in Charlotte and beyond, illuminating the work of emerging and established artists and is the author of the newly released book, The Brushstrokes of Life. Find Anne on her website at www.anneneilsonhome.com or on Instagram @anneneilsonhome AND @anneneilsonfineart.

The Art of Authenticity and Purposeful Living with Lauren Fuhr

Lauren Fuhr, artist and designer, joins us on the podcast to talk all about creating something original, meaningful relationships, purposeful living, and the art of boundaries. Lauren shares tips on building genuine connections with people, entrepreneurship, and the importance of enjoying the season that you’re in. After this conversation with Lauren, you’ll be inspired to notice more of the small things around you, recognize your limits and perhaps set some boundaries in your life, chase a definition of success that actually aligns with who you are, and have some practical tips on personal and professional growth. 
-About Lauren Fuhr-
​​Based in Denver, CO, designer and artist Lauren Fuhr has worked with notable brands both locally and nationally, including Magnolia, Amber Lewis Interiors, House & Garden Magazine, and more . She creates paintings, home décor, and apparel that promote an artful, beautiful and purposeful lifestyle.
Follow Lauren and her work on Instagram @laurenfuhrdesign.co or visit her website at www.laurenfuhrdesign.com
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EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[1:43] The story behind the art 
[4:36] Did you begin with the confidence to do your own thing or did you work for someone first?
[4:48] Taking the pressure off with a day job 
[9:32] What is purposeful living?
[11:29] Is your art a true outflow of something that's happening in your own life or inspiration that you received somewhere else? How do you start a creative endeavor?
[14:10] The importance of boundaries 
[16:47] Lessons learned in building relationships and building a brand
[19:45] Building authentic and genuine relationships
[21:09] How do you stay true to who you are and what do you wished you'd learned sooner?
[21:45] Enjoying the season that you’re in
[24:05] Spouses fingerprints on the work we create 
[27:46] How can we really begin to see greater art and wonder all around us? 
[30:30] A tip for anyone who wants to start a business without a business background
[35:35] What does success look like to you?
[40:15] Truths & Takeaways 

Lauren Chandler - Pursuing Dreams and Finding Inspiration

This week, we’re talking with Lauren Chandler about pursuing our dreams and sharing our gifts AND how to come alongside our spouses as they pursue theirs, too! We’re talking about the inspiration behind her work, growing together with our spouses, and knowing when to rest and take a step back from what's before us. Lauren shares insights on her love for stirring people's hearts, advice for anyone with a dream or desire who feels like now isn't the right time PLUS you won’t want to miss her top 3 parenting tips - yes, please! 
Learn more about Lauren’s work and what she’s up to on her website at laurenchandler.com 
Or you can follow along on Instagram @laurenchandler
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EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[4:25] Lauren on being a beauty seeker 
[5:06] How do you infuse the idea of stirring up beauty and stirring up people's hearts into each of the areas of your life? 
[10:40] The art of creating based on what we’re learning
[11:17] My sob story from their marriage conference 
[17:00] When we let the walls down 
[17:16] Tips for when both spouses have dreams, desires and vocation/calling to pursue 
[19:17] No season is wasted - The gifts and the dreams He has put in your heart - He will grow them even there in those maybe more hidden places for the time when it's your turn to have the room be made for you.
[24:05] How do you know when to take a step back and rest?
[29:15] For someone who has dreams, desires, or there is something that they want to go back to school to do, or work to create, or a business to start, or a ministry to start BUT they feel like now is not the time, what would you advise?
[30:42] Planting the seeds for our dreams
[33:33] 3 Parenting Tips for parents today 
[46:52] What does success look like for you or your home?
[49:51] Truths & Takeaways

From Triggered to Transformed: Marriage, Relationships, and Life with Amber Lia

Do you feel like emotions get the best of you when you’re triggered? Do you simultaneously desire stronger, richer, healthier lives and relationships - especially the one with your spouse? Amber Lia joins us this week to talk all about flipping the switch on how we view marriage “triggers” and leads us into a conversation all about opportunity for growth in our homes and lives. She invites us into her own journey and work around marriage, parenting, and health triggers, what she’s learned, what they signal, and how to use them to create transformation in our own hearts and minds.  She reminds us of an important truth - whatever you’re going through today is not the end of the story. 
We unpack two of the most common marriage triggers - being too busy & idolizing expectations we place on our spouses. Amber talks about success and the grittiness and resilience it requires, who modeled it best, how the obstacles before really can be the way. 
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 
[2:53] Amber’s story/not alone in your struggles
[6:03]the desire to protect our reputation 
[8:12] Flipping the switch: triggers are opportunities
[10:20] What level of frustration and anger is okay?
[10:50] Applying truth “in our own backyard”
[12:34] Not alone in your struggles 
[13:34] Triggers are a signal for growth 
[14:46] Marriage triggers
[17:11] Two of the most common marriage triggers
[19:26] The idol of "spouse expectations" 
[24:04] The legacy of our marriage - practical tips
[26:53] What you do today matters
[28:20] What do you wish you’d learned sooner?
[33:35] We're here for a reason
[37:00] The obstacle is the way 
[40:00] Truths & Takeaways
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Mentioned in this episode: 
Find Amber Lia at amberlia.com or on Facebook or Instagram @therealamberlia
Facebook Group - Gentle Parenting w/ Amber and Wendy 
Books mentioned in this episode >>> 
Marriage Triggers: Exchanging Spouses' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses
Food Triggers: Exchanging Unhealthy Patterns for God-Honoring Habits
Triggers: Exchanging Parents' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday 
--> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! 

Life’s Ups and Downs and A Faith That Will Not Fail w/ Michele Cushatt

Michele Cushatt joins us this week and we're talking all about life's ups and downs and everything in between. An honest, inspiring, and vulnerable conversation you didn’t even know you needed.
Michele is a three-time head and neck cancer survivor, four-time author, leadership and executive coach, international speaker, and mom of six kids. She’s the (reluctant) expert of trauma, pain, and the deep human need for authentic connection and enduring faith. 
In this conversation, she's sharing more on how to maintain a solid belief in a good God when life feels like it's falling apart, the difference between joy and toxic positivity, and the destructive power of shame. Plus, Michele shares simple truths that will remind you that you're not alone on your journey.  A conversation filled with hope, mentorship and practical tips that don't require more "work". 
_______EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[1:50] Michele’s story 
[10:35] "I get what it feels like to be like at the end of your strength and to not know up from down anymore and to not know what you believe anymore."
[11:27] Suffering - what it is and what it does
[14:27] Space for BIG feelings
[16:12] The Practice of perspective 
[17:32] How do you come alongside of people whose faith is failling?
[18:16]  You're not alone in feeling like you don't have it together
[19:36] Being a mom is the hardest thing
[20:13] Vulnerability is so critical - we cannot endure real life in isolation
[24:10] Shame steals significance 
[29:27] What do you wish you'd known sooner?
[32:17] Mistakes are a fantastic classroom
[35:16] Truth vs. toxic positivity 
[39:28] What does success look like to you?
[42:05] Truths & Takeaways
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MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE >>>>
Michele's new book - A Faith that Will Not Fail  
Michele’s Website:
Follow Michele on Facebook @michelecushatt
on Instagram @michelecushatt
---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! 
 

Tara Sun: How to Surrender Your Striving and Find Freedom from Control

Podcaster, author, wife and mom, Tara Sun joins us this week on the podcast. She is sharing more on her latest book release all about surrendering your story and more on her journey towards freedom from control.  In this conversation, Tara talks about trading control for greater peace and joy, reminds us of what there is to gain in the “waiting” and how your story is still being written even in those seemingly quiet seasons. If you find yourself anxious and gripping control often, worried that you don’t have a five year plan mapped out, or feel like you’ve run yourself ragged in trying to figure it all out, you’ll be encouraged by this episode. 
Follow Tara on Instagram @misstarasun
Check out Tara’s Podcast > Truth Talks with Tara
Check out Tara’s latest book > Surrender Your Story
Website: tarasunministries.com
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EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[3:40] Freedom from control & surrendering your story
[4:50] When our stories don’t play out the way we expect 
[5:34] The journey towards finding freedom
[9:12] The hard part about surrendering... 
[10:08] What does trusting God with our stories look like?
[14:25] What God can do with our trust vs. what we can do with our life
[18:04] Waiting vs. manipulating the timing of things 
[21:25] your story is written in the waiting too
[25:00] Impatience is the antithesis of surrender and here's why
[28:00] Tara’s hope for her new book > Surrender Your Story
[29:10] Guest Perspective: What is one thing you wish you’d known sooner?
[31:22] Guest Perspective: What does success look like?
[35:17] "Truths & Takeaways"
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---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! 

A Business Built on Celebrating Others with Elizabeth Newton (enewton)

In this Behind the Brand episode with enewton, founder Elizabeth Newton shares her tips on pushing through the hard things, the value in who you surround yourself with, how we rise by lifting others up, and some of her lessons learned along the way.  If you love a good story about something ordinary turning into something extraordinary, you'll love this conversation. 
You’ll hear Elizabeth share how her business was built one relationship at a time and the true gift found in celebrating others.  Whether you simply love a good brand story, are in the middle of chasing a dream, or are uncertain of what you even want to do, she’s got something for you! 
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MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Enewton Website
Shop local - find the local retailer nearest to you here
---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here!