In Episode 124 I share a beautiful poem that struck a chord with me this morning. It talks about savoring the remaining "sweets" of life, embracing maturity, and surrounding ourselves with genuine human connections. It aligns with my mission for this season of life. Also, I'm thrilled to announce a free virtual workshop called "Thrive Under Pressure."

In the midst of feeling overwhelmed, I ask myself two crucial questions: What can I control right now? And what can make this moment better? These questions cause me to pause and reflect. Around here, we talk a lot about the power of the pause, right? Well, turns out, it's a game-changer. It's not about having all the answers but finding those small actions that bring you back to center. We need to always focus on progress over perfection.

So many of us are looking for a framework so we can know our next steps toward feeling better and healing. I get it; so many of us feel stuck or numb, and sometimes, we need some guardrails or a framework to navigate it all. THAW is a tool I’ve developed to help us.

Get around people who appreciate you! In Episode 121, we talk about struggling internally or dealing with our own negative self-talk. We need to be uplifted and supported. When we're around people who nitpick us, it's extra hard to get out of that rut and get into a better heart and mindset with positive thinking.

Episode 120 talks about how many of us approach life like a museum. Maybe we demand quiet tiptoeing around our past, avoiding certain aspects of the present, or welcoming others into a cold and serious life we have where we’ve worn masks or hidden parts of our authentic selves. We've tucked away our stories, regrets, and grief, creating an almost sterile atmosphere.

Navigating the holiday season can be rough when hectic schedules and family and friend interactions can be high. The emotional struggles that often arise during this time of year can take a toll on us. So, how do we thrive through it all?

It is natural to hope that those who have hurt us can be the source of our healing. A heartfelt apology or a change in their behavior could sometimes mend wounds. However, when it comes to more significant hurts like child abuse, betrayal from a spouse, or rejection from close friends, the healing journey may take a different path

13 years feels different.

It feels like I'm at home now in my sobriety.

13 hits different because 13 is how old I was when I had my first real drink. I should have known then. That drink felt so good, too good.

In Episode 117 of A Holy Mess Podcast we discuss how if you feel disconnected from Father God, the Holy Spirit, or Jesus it may connect back to your experiences and wounds.

Have you ever felt like a moment in your life, a past event, or a deep-seated wound defined you, derailed your purpose or stole your hope, joy, and connection? If you've ever grappled with these feelings, Episode 116 is for you.

Hi friends. In Episode 115, I wanted to take a moment to give you all a virtual hug. We all have permission to care for ourselves, but sometimes, it's not easy to navigate. And for those of us who are sensitive caregivers, it can be even more of a challenge. I hope this short episode blesses you and gives you a few helpful tips to thrive in this season.

Hi friends! Episode 114 is a short episode where I share a recent story of when I was hit by rejection. Rejection and I have a long and complicated relationship, and it's a soft spot in me, that's for sure. I know so many of us are affected by our history, and I think awareness of our 'soft spots' is half the battle. I hope this episode encourages you. -Dani

In Episode 113 of A Holy Mess Podcast, Dani dives into a soul-stirring conversation about life's highs and lows, including her journey through depression and despair. Life is a mix of extraordinary moments and downright challenging ones. With a spirited call to practice joy intentionally, love passionately, find peace, and accept both ourselves and those around us, the episode explores the essence of what makes life, well, life.

In Episode 112 of A Holy Mess Podcast, Dani talks about how many of us carry private pain – those deep, hidden struggles that we find challenging to share with others, even our closest friends. It is easy to feel isolated in our struggles, especially in a world moving 1000 miles per hour.

Ever find yourself in life’s waiting room? That awkward “in-between” space where everything seems uncertain, and you’re just trying to keep it together? Well, you’re not alone. In Episode 111 Dani and therapist Jim Beebe dive into the art of navigating these challenges and finding wisdom in times of uncertainty.

Dani Sumner and Counselor Jim Beebe discuss helpful practices to increase self-awareness, boundaries, inner child, mindfulness, and Christian meditation.

In Episode 109 of A Holy Mess Podcast Trenton talks about the impact of grace on his life and how it is one thing to read about grace but living it out and experience it in person takes work. He is a successful man with a beautiful family. He struggles with internal tension that prohibits his peace and feeling comfortable in his skin, especially as a sensitive guy.

In Episode 108, I talk about three types of friendship and community we need--and HOW to find them. It's not easy to put ourselves out there again after a painful experience, BUT it can be easier than we think. You deserve a deep, rich community cheering you on! I hope this Podcast feels like that for you.

HALT. The program of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is full of simple tools that can make a HUGE difference in our lives! I don't know where this acronym originated, but AA is where I first heard it, and they're famous for one-line helpful phrases.

If you give and give to everyone else but feel like a dry well inside at times--I'd encourage you to take 20 minutes right now and listen to this podcast episode--a conversation with me and my new friend Teri Gibler about priorities.