What the Passing of My Mom Has Taught Me About Pain (A Hard and Honest Conversation We Need to Be Willing to Have)

<div>Today's episode is very personal for me. We often hold onto pain because it reassures us paradoxically, convincing us to guard our hearts and mistrust the world around us. Pain can trick us into believing that love and trust will only lead to more suffering, pushing us into isolation and away from peace. Reflecting on my journey, especially during the time I became my mother's medical power of attorney after 14 years of no contact, I've come to realize how pain can dominate our lives. My mother's passing brought to light the enduring impact of her pain, which kept her from embracing love and reconciliation. This experience taught me the importance of confronting and challenging our pain rather than letting it define us. In this episode, I share these insights to encourage you to reevaluate how pain might be influencing your life and to inspire you to open up to healing, love, and peace. <br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:17:03

K-LOVE Radio Interview: How to Walk Through the Pain You Feel

<div>You're going to notice something a little different today! This episode is extra special because I’m sharing an interview I had with K-LOVE, a nationally recognized Christian radio station. I was honored to be featured in their “Positive People” segment, which aired locally in Pittsburgh, PA.  <br /> <br /> In this conversation, we dive into the theme of walking through pain—what it means to face it, hold it, and ultimately grow through it. I share parts of my journey, my work as a Christian Mental Health Coach, and how I help women untangle the thoughts that hold them back.  <br /> <br /> We also discuss how our beliefs about God shape how we experience life, why it's essential to reconcile pain with faith and the power of addressing root issues without dwelling in the past. <br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:22:21

Do You Think God Wants You to Suffer? A Discussion on God's Sovereignty and Our Free Will (Why Would He Allow This to Happen)

<div>Suffering is one of life’s hardest realities, but it’s important to know that God never chose suffering for us. His original design was perfect, free from pain and brokenness. Suffering entered the world through humanity’s choice to sin, not because it was part of God’s plan.  <br /> <br /> In this episode, we explore where suffering comes from, why God allows it, and how He uses it for His purposes. We discuss the role of free will, different views on God’s sovereignty, and how suffering impacts our faith. While pain is a consequence of living in a broken world, God can use it to refine us, strengthen our character, and teach us to rely on Him.  <br /> <br /> Above all, we’ll share the hope found in God’s redemptive plan. He is close to us in our pain and promises to restore all things through His love. <br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:20:51

Breaking Free from the Need to Be Liked (When the Need for Other People's Approval Keeps You Stuck and Quite Frankly Exhausted)

<div>Today I'm delving into a common yet often unspoken struggle: the need for approval. For many, this desire becomes so ingrained that it can feel impossible to escape, creating a sense of entrapment that often goes unnoticed. <br /> <br /> In this episode, I’ll explore the root causes of approval-seeking behavior, why it’s so challenging to break free, and the steps we can take to overcome it. I'll also give an overview of attachment styles and the impact they have on our relationships and self-worth. Let's unpack how we can start shifting from a need for others' approval to living with confidence in who we are in Christ.<br />  <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:20:20

How to Hear God's Voice When It Feels Like Your Mind is Racing (All Over the Place and Overwhelmed)

<div>Ever feel like God is trying to get your attention, but you're not sure how to listen? Today, we’re exploring practical, down-to-earth ways to recognize His voice—even in subtle, everyday moments that we might easily overlook. While we often expect bold signs or clear words, God’s communication can come as a gentle nudge, a persistent thought, or a sense of calm amid the chaos. We’ll dive into both biblical insights and clinical strategies for quieting the mind, grounding ourselves in Scripture, and creating a heart that’s open to listening. <br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:20:30

What is the Role of a Christian Mental Health Coach? (How I Help My Clients Achieve Breakthrough and Get Unstuck)

<div>Last month, I talked about the difference between a mental health coach and a counselor, and today, I want to take it a step further. We’re diving into what it really looks like to work with a Christian mental health coach.  <br /> <br /> As a trauma-informed life coach, my goal is to help my clients grow emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Coaching is all about meeting you where you are, setting goals, and taking real steps toward the life you want. It’s different from counseling—I don’t diagnose or treat things like PTSD or bipolar disorder—but I do help you tackle everyday challenges, whether that's setting boundaries, managing stress, or navigating relationships.  <br /> <br /> Every client I work with gets a personalized action plan. We also talk through tough stuff—like those moments when you’re frustrated with God—and create space where you can be real, without any judgment.  <br /> <br /> Sometimes, we touch on past pain, but the focus is always on moving forward. And if we come across areas where more specialized support is needed—like nutrition or therapy—I’ll help you connect with the right professionals.  <br /> <br /> If this sounds like what you’ve been looking for, I’d love to chat! <br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:11:22

Walking Through The Dark Night of the Soul (A Time When You Feel Distant and Abandoned by God)

<div>Today, we’re diving into a topic that many believers experience - the dark night of the soul. If you’ve ever felt distant from God, like your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling, or that you’re spiritually wandering through a desert, this episode is for you. In this episode, I'll define "the dark night of the soul," some reasons we go through it, and share some uncommon, yet powerful, ways to walk through this challenging season. <br /> <br /> Remember, this isn't the end of your story. God is with you, even in the silence, and He’s doing a deeper work in you than you may realize. Embrace the stillness, care for your body, lament honestly, and let go of the need to ‘do’ more. Trust that in time, the light will break through.<br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:19:06

The "Good Child" Struggle: Healing from Neglect and Breaking Free from Approval-Seeking (A Root That Could Be Driving You to Perform to Receive Love)

<div>In today’s episode, I delve into the experiences of those who grew up as the ‘good child’—the one who followed the rules, stayed out of trouble, and asked for little, yet often felt neglected or overlooked. As adults, many of these individuals find themselves in a constant cycle of seeking approval and validation. We will explore the reasons behind this, its roots in past experiences, and, most importantly, how to heal from it with Christ.<br /> <br /> Other episodes that would be good to listen to:<br /> <br /> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-truth-about-people-pleasing-the-struggle/id1493189231?i=1000666090937">The Truth About People Pleasing </a><br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:22:51

Feeling Distant from God? Break Free from Self-Punishment and False Beliefs (Biblical, Clinical, and Practical Approach)

<div>Pain, whether physical or emotional, can lead us to question God’s goodness and presence in our lives. We might wonder, "Has God abandoned me?" or "Why is this happening to me?" These doubts can leave us feeling isolated from Him. <br /> <br /> In this episode, I explore the false beliefs that can arise from pain, such as thinking it's a form of punishment or that we're unworthy of God’s love. These distorted thoughts often keep us stuck in a cycle of guilt, shame, and self-punishment, but there is hope! Listen as I explain how to replace these lies with biblical truth, using both scripture and practical tools like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe our thoughts and reconnect with God.<br /> <br /> Rooting for you,<br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a><br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a><br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:22:40

What Is the Difference Between a Christian Mental Health Coach and a Counselor? (How to Identify If You Need a Counselor or a Coach)

<div>One of the most common questions I'm asked during consultations is, "What's the difference between mental health coaching and counseling?" So in this episode, I'm breaking down counseling vs. coaching. <br /> <br /> Whether you're curious about which path might suit you best or are currently navigating your own mental health journey, this episode will help clarify the unique roles and approaches of a coach versus a counselor. We’ll also explore how both can work together to support your personal growth and healing. <br /> <br /> Rooting for you, <br /> Jessica<br /> <br /> Next steps:<br /> <br /> Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/">https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/</a><br /> <br /> Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching">https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching</a> <br /> <br /> Or book your free 20-minute consultation <a href="https://wonderfullymadellc.hbportal.co/public/661e8edd107340002bf790c3">here</a>!<br /> <br /> Check out my biblical studies: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop">https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop</a> <br /> <br /> Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: <a href="https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal">https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal</a><br /> <br /> Email me at >> <a href="mailto:jessica@jessicahottle.com">jessica@jessicahottle.com</a><br /> <br /> <em>The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.</em> </div>

00:18:11