Have you ever felt you had to put on a mask to fit in or meet others' expectations? In this powerful episode of the "I Used to Think" season, Lisa Whittle sits down with KayDianna MacKenzie, whose journey as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and social media personality vividly illustrates the struggle between societal pressures and authentic self-expression.

What you'll learn in this episode:

(0:45) - Meet KayDianna and how her journey unfolded on social media
(2:50) - The transition from rookie to veteran on the DCC team
(5:00) - KayDianna’s unexpected path to recognizing God’s plan in her life
(7:12) - Growing faith through trials—how obstacles lead to deeper trust 
(10:45) - Vulnerability in sharing insecurities and struggles with self-acceptance
(14:33) - Image vs. identity—how KayDianna encourages women to focus on what's inside
(18:01) - The role of mentorship—and how you don’t need to have all the answers
(22:05) - Challenges of maintaining a curated image and the true essence of beauty
(25:27) - Reflecting on the significant misconceptions that shaped KayDianna’s beliefs
(28:45) - KayDianna’s advice to young women

 

Mentioned in the episode:

Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/Plus

Prep Dish: https://prepdish.com/JOE

The Hard Good: https://www.lisawhittle.com/good

Resources:

Special thank you to this season’s sponsors of the Jesus Over Everything show:

Crossway: “The Story of Jesus: A Guided Journey Through the Gospel of John” shares the gospel message in an inviting, book-like format that's accessible for both nonbelievers and new Christians. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit the link above to learn how you can get 30% off with a Crossway+ account. 

Prep Dish: Prep Dish is the best way for busy people to get nourishing meals on the table, without the stress. Listeners of the JOE Show can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Prep Dish meal plans by visiting the link above.

Connect with KayDianna:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaydiannamackenzie

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Have you ever felt that keeping your family’s secrets equates to love? In this compelling episode, Lisa Whittle discusses how the lines between secrecy and privacy can often blur within families. Through her own personal experiences, Lisa reveals the lie that loyalty means covering for others’ sins. With candidness and vulnerability, she emphasizes the importance of bringing the truth to the forefront and allowing God to work in the midst of our family dynamics. Keeping secrets can weigh heavily on our souls—this isn’t the freedom Jesus desires for us. If you find yourself wrestling with the complexities of loyalty and truth, this episode is packed with essential insights you won’t want to miss!

Listen in to learn more:
(0:39) - What God dropped on Lisa’s heart
(2:15) - Should truth tellers share other’s business?
(3:17) - Trust in a pastor’s family
(4:37) - Mistaken beliefs
(7:24) - Secrecy vs. privacy: defining the difference
(10:37) - When privacy becomes more…
(15:14) - Family secrets don’t equal love
(16:35) - Getting out of God’s way

Get ready to challenge your beliefs and embrace the freedom found in truth!

Mentioned in the Episode:

Prep Dish: https://prepdish.com/JOE
Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/Plus
Jesus Over Everything book: https://www.lisawhittle.com/joe
Jesus Over Everything 6-Week Bible Study: https://shopstyle.it/l/bObaO

Resources:

Special thank you to this season’s sponsors of the Jesus Over Everything show:

Prep Dish: Prep Dish is the best way for busy people to get nourishing meals on the table without the stress. Listeners of the JOE Show can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Prep Dish meal plans by visiting the link above.

Crossway: “The Story of Jesus: A Guided Journey Through the Gospel of John” shares the gospel message in an inviting, book-like format that's accessible for both nonbelievers and new Christians. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit the link above to learn how you can get 30% off with a Crossway+ account. 

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Ever feel like you need to downplay your accomplishments to be truly humble? Do you ever worry that sharing your passions and talents makes you appear prideful or self-focused? Lisa Whittle gets super honest in this episode, sharing how she used to believe minimizing her work and giftings was a sign of humility. Unpacking the difference between "false humility" (where you focus on not talking about yourself), and true humility (where you focus on recognizing your true identity and purpose in Christ). Lisa shares her own personal experience with both. Get ready to learn how Holy Spirit self-awareness can help you understand what real humility looks like in your own life – tune in to discover a more authentic way to live!

Listen in to learn more:

(0:58) - Lisa shares her personal experience of false humility
(2:26) - Deliverance from a mistaken mindset
(3:29) - Boundaries and ministry 
(6:27) - What is true humility? Let’s define it 
(9:55) - False humility and who we are fooling 
(12:45) - Five symptoms of false humility…plus some
(17:51) - Very demure, cute trends and the pride it reveals 
(22:10) - What does false humility point to?

Mentioned in the episode:

Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/Plus

Prep Dish: https://prepdish.com/JOE

The Hard Good: https://www.lisawhittle.com/good

Resources:

Special thank you to this season’s sponsors of the Jesus Over Everything show:

Crossway: “The Story of Jesus: A Guided Journey Through the Gospel of John” shares the gospel message in an inviting, book-like format that's accessible for both nonbelievers and new Christians. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit the link above to learn how you can get 30% off with a Crossway+ account. 

Prep Dish: Prep Dish is the best way for busy people to get nourishing meals on the table, without the stress. Listeners of the JOE Show can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Prep Dish meal plans by visiting the link above.

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

**LISTENER NOTE: This conversation contains details of physical abuse and childhood trauma. We encourage you to listen with care and discretion.**

Have you ever questioned whether the love of God truly extends to you, especially in the midst of personal pain or trauma? In this poignant and inspiring episode of the “I Used to Think” season, Lisa Whittle welcomes Pastor Maria Durso, who bravely opens up about her tumultuous past, revealing how the transformative power of God’s love can heal deep wounds from childhood loss, physical abuse, alcoholism and more. Together, they delve into the essential relationship between belief and experience, reminding listeners that it is not merely about knowing God intellectually but truly believing in His unfailing love.

Maria’s incredible story of overcoming adversity serves as a powerful testament to the healing process and the importance of faith. Tune in to discover the importance of believing God loves you, no matter your past.

Listen in to learn more:

(4:03) - Maria’s story of pain and resilience

(6:54) - The challenges of starting school and finding acceptance

(10:11) - A new beginning and what a broken bone taught Maria

(15:06) - The truth about instant transformation vs. the journey of healing

(19:09) - Understanding the foundational love of God

(22:55) - The intricate connections between our hearts and minds

(24:49) - Lisa’s reflections on Biblical literacy and belief

(27:49) - Exploring if anyone can truly comprehend the love of God

(30:58) - A transformative experience in Mexico

(35:58) - The power and purpose of prayer in healing

Mentioned in the Episode:

Prep Dish: https://prepdish.com/JOE

Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/Plus

Jesus Over Everything book: https://www.lisawhittle.com/joe

Jesus Over Everything 6-Week Bible Study: https://shopstyle.it/l/bObaO

Resources:

Special thank you to this season’s sponsors of the Jesus Over Everything show:

Prep Dish: Prep Dish is the best way for busy people to get nourishing meals on the table, without the stress. Listeners of the JOE Show can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Prep Dish meal plans by visiting the link above.

Crossway: “The Story of Jesus: A Guided Journey Through the Gospel of John” shares the gospel message in an inviting, book-like format that's accessible for both nonbelievers and new Christians. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit the link above to learn how you can get 30% off with a Crossway+ account. 

Connect with Maria:
Website: http://www.mariadurso.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariadurso129

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Have you ever felt inundated with Biblical information, yet still unsure about your grasp of Scripture? Has a lack of understanding ever created a lack of confidence in your faith? In this enlightening episode of the “I Used to Think” season of Jesus Over Everything, Lisa Whittle examines why biblical literacy may not be the primary issue facing believers today but rather a deeper crisis of faith.

Drawing from current research to highlight how this crisis is shaping the Western church, Lisa unpacks four ways believers are affected by this problem, and offers one crucial question you must ask to strengthen your faith.

Key Moments:
(0:40) - Revealing crucial evidence of a widespread problem
(4:07) - Is knowing more the answer?
(5:50) - Is biblical literacy truly our biggest challenge?
(4:28) - Do we need more knowledge of the Bible?
(6:46) - Insights from Pew Research, Barna, and WSJ on Bible consumption trends
(10:34) - What we can learn from James Chapter 1
(14:45) - Why clarity is essential in the face of confusion
(16:43) - Exploring the depth of belief and what it means for your faith
(18:43) - The impact of false doctrine on belief systems
(20:16) - Addressing exhaustion — “It's more than just being overscheduled…”
(23:53) - Why we question our faith when we struggle?
(27:58) - What are the consequences of unfaithfulness and compromised offerings?
(29:19) - A question to ask ourselves about belief 

Mentioned in the episode:

Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/Plus

Prep Dish: https://prepdish.com/JOE

Coaching: https://www.lisawhittle.com/coaching-with-lisa

Resources:

Special thank you to this season’s sponsors of the Jesus Over Everything show:

Crossway: “The Story of Jesus: A Guided Journey Through the Gospel of John” shares the gospel message in an inviting, book-like format that's accessible for both nonbelievers and new Christians. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit the link above to learn how you can get 30% off with a Crossway+ account. 

Prep Dish: Prep Dish is the best way for busy people to get nourishing meals on the table, without the stress. Listeners of the JOE Show can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Prep Dish meal plans by visiting the link above.

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Is there something you used to think—perhaps about faith, life, or relationships—that you now see differently?  In this brand-new season of the Jesus Over Everything show, titled “I Used to Think,” Lisa Whittle unpacks popular misconceptions she’s held in her own life and offers insight on how God can transform perspectives over time.

Opening the season by tackling the sensitive subject of women and anger, Lisa shares vulnerably from her own experience and examines the difference between those who express their anger and those who suppress it.

Lisa reveals how she used to believe anger wasn’t a problem for her. But now, with a fresh Biblical perspective and some eye-opening insights from a poll she shared on social media, she offers insight on valuable questions like: Why do Christian women avoid anger? How important is it to identify the source of your anger? If Jesus ever expressed anger, what can you learn from it?

Drawing on scriptural truths, Lisa outlines what the Bible says about anger, teaches how to differentiate between righteous and self-absorbed anger, and discusses why you may need to reevaluate your perspective on women and anger. 

This season opener is packed with valuable questions for reflection and practical antidotes to help you navigate anger when it arises—so don’t miss out!
 

Listen in to learn more:

(1:05) - “I used to think I didn’t struggle with anger…how about you?”

(1:52) - How does society view women and their anger?

(3:24) - Results from a poll on social media—what are women saying about anger?

(4:24) - Express vs. suppress—understanding that all anger comes out.

(8:21) - What does the Bible say about anger?

(9:56) - Jesus as our example of righteous anger.

(14:11) - The reality: Anger that is not a sin.

(15:56) - The purpose of anger: It’s all about kingdom matters.

(20:10) - Practical antidotes to manage your anger effectively 

Mentioned in the episode:

Prep Dish: https://prepdish.com/JOE
Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/Plus

Resources:

Special thank you to this season’s sponsors of the Jesus Over Everything show:

Prep Dish: Prep Dish is the best way for busy people to get nourishing meals on the table, without the stress. Listeners of the JOE Show can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Prep Dish meal plans by visiting the link above.

Crossway: “The Story of Jesus: A Guided Journey Through the Gospel of John” shares the gospel message in an inviting, book-like format that's accessible for both nonbelievers and new Christians. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit the link above to learn how you can get 30% off with a Crossway+ account. 

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

In this concluding episode of the “Love & Clarity” season for The Jesus Over Everything podcast, Lisa Whittle dives deep into the challenge of finding true joy during difficult seasons, especially around the holidays. With her signature honesty and insight, Lisa explores how chronic perfectionism and a tendency to overanalyze can steal your ability to experience the present moment. 

She also reveals how shifting your focus from “what was” or “what if” to “what is” can unlock a new perspective on life—one that allows you to embrace the joy you’ve been missing. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling stuck in your circumstances or letting past disappointments define your present, this episode is for you. Lisa will help you see beyond the fog of perfectionism and disappointment, offering a fresh lens through which to view your life, your struggles, and the good that is still waiting to be discovered!

Listen in to learn more:

(0:49) The challenge of finding joy when life "should" be joyful  

(2:04) How chronic perfectionism can trap you in a cycle of overthinking  

(3:01) Shifting your focus from "what was" and "what if" to "what is"  

(5:58) The difference between things working out and things working together  

(7:29) How God helps you see the good, even in difficult times  

(9:29) Finding peace when life’s circumstances feel unfair or wrong

RESOURCES

Thank you to this season's sponsor, Dwell. Dwell is offering you 25% off yearly access to Dwell or 50% off of Dwell for life! Both are such incredibly low prices – it’s well worth it. Go to dwellbible.com/JOE to receive your discount today. 

Mentioned in the episode:

Dwell Bible App: https://get.dwellbible.com/joe/

The Hard Good: https://shopstyle.it/l/bJp1l

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

In another powerful conversation of the “Love & Clarity” season, Lisa Whittle sits down with Ian Simpkins, internet personality and Lead Pastor of Bridge Church in Nashville, to explore the deep truths of what it means to be an image-bearer of Christ versus a work-doer. Together, they tackle the tension between spiritual hunger and productivity, discussing how both intimacy and humility require intentionality. Ian opens up about the struggles of balancing family, ministry, and self-care while offering practical insights into building deeper connections with God and others. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of life, work, or faith, or are grappling with bitterness or isolation, this conversation will offer you hope and real-life tools to navigate those challenges. Listen in to discover how you can radically shift the way you live, love, and serve.

Listen in to learn more:

(4:00) How to stay spiritually hungry in ministry

(7:49) The real challenge of true humility

(14:34) Production vs. consumption in faith

(20:16) Are you a “work-doer” or “image-bearer?”

(32:58) What are the hidden effects of bitterness?

(40:03) The difference between solitude and isolation

(47:16) How listening can actually be an act of love

(49:48) What is the last thing Ian would say about Jesus?

RESOURCES

Thank you to this season's sponsor, Dwell. Dwell is offering you 25% off yearly access to Dwell or 50% off of Dwell for life! Both are such incredibly low prices – it’s well worth it. Go to dwellbible.com/JOE to receive your discount today. 

Mentioned in the episode:

Dwell Bible App: https://get.dwellbible.com/joe

Bridge Church: https://www.bridge.tv

One-on-One Coaching: https://www.lisawhittle.com/coaching-with-lisa

Connect with Ian:
Website: https://iansimkins.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iansimkins/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iansimkins1/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@iansimkins

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Are you the type of person who tends to see the glass as “half-full” or “half-empty?” In a culture where cynicism is widely accepted, and even admired, it can be tempting for believers to fall into negative thought patterns as well. In this episode of the “Love & Clarity” season, Lisa exposes the hard truth about cynicism and skepticism – offering a deeper look at the meanings, motivations, and impacts of each. When trust is broken and life disappoints you, there is a way out of cynicism. Pull up a chair and listen in to discover lasting hope that cannot be shaken.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

(1:16) Optimism: A natural trait or an intentional choice?

(3:43) How to distinguish cynicism from skepticism

(6:28) What is at stake when you have a cynicism outlook

(8:43) The secret ingredient to transform your thinking

(10:46) What comparison and purpose have to do with cynicism

(14:21) Lisa shares her own journey with cynicism and offers a way out

RESOURCES

Thank you to this season's sponsor, Dwell. Dwell is offering you 25% off yearly access to Dwell or 50% off of Dwell for life! Both are such incredibly low prices – it’s well worth it. Go to dwellbible.com/JOE to receive your discount today. 

Mentioned in the episode:

Sharron Miller: https://sheworships.com/

Bob Goff: https://www.bobgoff.com/

Dwell Bible App: https://get.dwellbible.com/joe/

Speaking: https://www.lisawhittle.com/speaking

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Has a specific piece of your story – positive or negative – become a “label” you wear as your identity? Lisa sits down with long-time friend, Erin Kelly-Bean to discuss the truth about labels and what God has to say about them. Erin is a New York Times best-selling author, co-host of the Immeasurably More Podcast, and daughter of football legend, Jim Kelly. She shares her journey of growing up, “Kelly Tough,” her family’s experience of tragic loss, and her personal battles with addiction, eating disorders, and mental health. Erin explains the secret to her transformation and healing, and offers hope to anyone struggling in isolation and silence. If you’re ready to drop the labels and embrace your true identity in Christ - this episode is for you.

Listen in to learn more:

(3:55) What Erin experienced as the daughter of a Hall of Fame quarterback 

(7:17) How loss and tragedy led the Kelly family toward God 

(16:34) Erin’s battles with mental health and addiction 

(26:02) The role of treatment and medication 

(31:13) The path to healing and freedom 

(47:48) Why you don’t need to be defined by a label 

RESOURCES

Thank you to this season's sponsor, Dwell. Dwell is offering you 25% off yearly access to Dwell or 50% off of Dwell for life! Both are such incredibly low prices – it’s well worth it. Go to dwellbible.com/JOE to receive your discount today. 

Mentioned in the episode:

Dwell Bible App: https://get.dwellbible.com/joe/

Called Creatives: https://www.calledcreatives.com

Book - Kelly Tough: https://a.co/d/c1as8ye

Book - The Hard Good: https://shopstyle.it/l/bJp1l

Book - Jesus Over Everything: https://shopstyle.it/l/bOa4E

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.lisawhittle.com

Substack: https://letsbeclear.substack.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial