Spark Directory

How can we break barriers for women in God's service?

In this episode, host Tina Yeager sits down with husband-and-wife co-authors Amy and Rob Dixon to explore the important topic of breaking gender barriers in church leadership and service. Drawing from their experiences, latest picture book Penny Preaches, and years of ministry, Amy and Rob share compelling stories and practical insights about empowering both women and men to use their God-given gifts fully within the church. Together, they discuss the power of seeing role models, the impact of tradition and history on church culture, and how to have healthy, grace-filled conversations around challenging topics. Whether you’re a church leader, parent, or someone wanting to better understand the value of egalitarianism in faith, this episode will encourage you to rethink how we can all flourish by embracing the diverse callings God places on each of our lives.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

• The Power of Models: Amy and Rob remind us how critical it is for children—especially girls—to see women in leadership roles within their faith communities. “It’s hard to be what you can’t see,” Rob shares, highlighting how exposure and representation fuel confidence and ambition.

• Gifts Without Gender Limits: The church thrives when everyone is able to use their God-given gifts freely, regardless of gender. Amy notes, “God has gifted us each individually with good gifts, and they’re not sectioned off by gender.” Imagine the impact if the whole team was on the field, not just half!

• Moving Beyond Fear: The resistance to women in leadership often stems from fear—fear of change, of lost power, or simply the unknown. Rob reflects on how churches can move forward together and men can serve as allies, supporting rather than fearing women stepping into their callings.

• Healing from Past Wounds: Amy’s openness about her own wounds from the church is a powerful reminder that you’re not alone—and that healing comes, in part, from supportive communities and looking at the “fruits” of service.

• Creating Space for Dialogue: These conversations aren’t always easy, but the key is humility and honest, scripture-centered discussion. The church has a unique opportunity to model healthy disagreement and mutual respect to the wider world.

For Parents and Leaders:Penny Preaches isn't just for girls—it's for every child (and parent) eager to see what happens when everyone is empowered to serve God. Boys, too, benefit from seeing strong, Spirit-led women in their midst.

Ready to Get Involved?

• Grab a copy of Penny Preaches at IVPress.com, AmyDixonBooks.com, or wherever books are sold.

• Stay connected with our guests:

  • Amy Dixon: amydixonbooks.com

  • Rob Dixon: doctorrobdixon.com

Final Thought Let’s keep the conversation going—with courage and humility—as we build faith communities where every person’s gifts can truly flourish. Whether you’re stepping into leadership or cheering others on, remember: the church is at its best when all its members are included.

We're thrilled to accompany you on this journey of faith, growth, and transformation. As always, we appreciate your support! Please subscribe and share this episode. We can't wait for you to join us for future episodes of Flourish-Meant.

To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website: https://tinayeager.com/

Optimize your mind and body wit

Join host Dana Grindal in this compelling episode of the Fearless and Free podcast, where she sits down with Elizabeth Stewart, a wife, mother, and a living miracle. Elizabeth shares her incredible journey of faith, resilience, and healing as she navigates life with her children, against overwhelming medical odds. Her story is a testament to the human spirit and the power of prayer in times of adversity.

Outline:     
00:00 Instant Friendship through Bible Study

08:30 Family's Struggle and Mayo Clinic Help

13:32 "Health Crisis Prompted Return to Houston"

19:37 "Against All Odds: Thriving Twins"

21:49 Caring for Child with Special Needs

28:58 Defying Limits, Embracing Miracles

33:01 Faith Tested by Crisis

41:34 "Coping with Life's Chaos"

46:43 Cancer Battle Ends Abruptly

49:29 Medical and Emotional Struggles

53:08 "The Power of Prayer and Advocacy"

01:00:22 Sharing Struggles: Embrace Vulnerability

01:05:34 "Life's Journey: A Nonfiction Memoir"

01:09:25 Prayer of Gratitude and Guidance

Guest Insights/Recommendation:
Leading Ladies
Whitestone Ministries
teachingfellowshipinstitute.org
fearlessandfreecommunity.com
danagrindal.com

About The Host:
Dana Grindal is the dynamic host of the "Fearless and Free" podcast, where she promotes a holistic approach to healing and wholeness, encompassing spirit, soul, and body. As the founder of Whitestone Ministries International, Dana is committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for Christians to connect and embrace the abundant life offered by Christ. Her mission is to challenge believers to live fearlessly, tapping into the full potential of their faith. After a brief hiatus, Dana is eager to re-engage with her audience, bringing fresh insights and updates to the new season of her inspiring podcast.

Summary:

PODCAST INTRO:

What is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

Treatment-resistant depression is a severe form of major depressive disorder. Ron explained that clinically, it is defined as depression that does not respond to at least three different classes of antidepressant medications. Ron also shared that this condition is not merely about resistance to therapy but is specifically linked to the ineffectiveness of psychotropic medicines.

The Struggle with Traditional Treatments

Ron describes the frustration of navigating the medical system, which often prioritizes treating symptoms over addressing root causes. He likens the process to taking aspirin for a headache without investigating the underlying cause. He even pointed out that this approach can be disheartening, especially when medications take weeks to show results, if at all.

A Journey of Identity and Faith

Throughout his journey, Ron emphasizes the importance of understanding one's true identity. He believes that much of mental illness stems from a misalignment between who we are and who we perceive ourselves to be.

For Ron, this journey of self-discovery was deeply intertwined with his faith, which provided a foundation and a source of hope. This foundation withstood 13 years of struggling AND also provided room for growth and intimacy with Christ as he searched how to get out from under his depression. As shared in then opening clip….Ron was desperately clinging to hope God and yet had no hope.

Steps Toward Healing

Ron offered practical steps for those struggling with depression:

Evaluate Your "Have To's": Examine the non-negotiables in your life that might be contributing to your stress and consider whether they are truly necessary.

Identify Primary Lies: Reflect on the negative emotions you feel most often and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the first time you felt this way.

Listen for the Holy

This episode is part of our Conversations series, Messengers: Live from the NRB Conference, which features insightful interviews with influential Christian leaders who inspire biblical action across generations. In this episode, Ben Quine sits down with Dr. Michael Farris—founding president of the Home School Legal Defense Association and Patrick Henry College, and former CEO of Alliance Defending Freedom—to explore the essential role of godly leadership, religious liberty, and Christian education in preserving a free society and shaping the next generation.Conversations with Christians Engaged | Hosted by Bunni Pounds and Ben QuineListen, watch, and subscribe: https://christiansengaged.org/conversations-showChristians Engaged exists to awaken, educate, and empower believers in Jesus Christ to:▪️ PRAY for our nation and elected officials regularly▪️ VOTE in every local, state, and national election to impact our culture ▪️ ENGAGE our hearts in civic education or involvement for the well-being of our local communities and our nationLearn more: ⁠⁠https://christiansengaged.org/⁠⁠Support our efforts: ⁠⁠https://christiansengaged.org/donate⁠⁠Take the PLEDGE to PRAY, VOTE, & ENGAGE: ⁠⁠https://christiansengaged.org/pledge⁠