That's Just What I Needed Podcast

Can love and faith really turn a life around after addiction? On this episode of That’s Just What I Needed,  I sit down with Taylor and Tessa Armstrong to hear their incredible story. Taylor, once a member of a popular hard rock band, opens up about his struggle with addiction and feelings of self-worth, even though he grew up in a loving Christian home.

This conversation is real and raw as we dig into the tough parts of addiction and recovery and the deep faith that helped them both pull through. Tessa shares the fine line between loving someone through their struggles and knowing when to set healthy boundaries. Her story reminds us of the power of prayer, faith, and love—even in the messiest of times.

You'll hear about Taylor’s wake-up call—a moment captured on video by Tessa—that set him on the path to sobriety and a fresh start in Christian music. They share how love, faith, and a supportive community can lead to real transformation.

If you or someone you love is navigating the challenges of addiction, this episode is filled with hope, practical insights, and the reminder that recovery is possible. Join our community for continued support, and be inspired by their journey of faith and redemption.

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: 

Connect with Taylor and Listen to His Current Songs; https://open.spotify.com/artist/5I5UvpmpcsTd7tln4yuCgm

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Can you spot manipulative behavior in your relationships? Or even in yourself? 

No authentic believer wants to be manipulative or to be manipulated, yet it happens. All, The. Time.

It’s time to uncover the subtle and not-so-subtle ways manipulation can creep into our lives so we can course correct, guided by God’s Word.

In this episode, we explore how to identify and address our own susceptibility to manipulation and the manipulative tendencies we might unknowingly exhibit. Reflecting on Philippians 1:27 and Philippians 2, we delve into conducting ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel, prioritizing humility and the well-being of others over control. 

We define the difference between manipulation and healthy influence or persuasion and provide practical strategies to spot manipulation. 

Join us as we dissect 8 common manipulation tactics, from dishonesty to weaponizing scripture and playing the victim. Learn how to maintain your composure, assert boundaries, and navigate these power dynamics without losing peace. 

By embracing honest communication, engaging in self-examination, and growing in spiritual maturity, we can tackle manipulation head-on and live by God’s mandate to speak the truth in love. 

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: 

(0:03:18 - 0:06:18) Recognizing Manipulative Behavior

(0:14:36 - 0:17:36) How to Combat the  8 Common Manipulative Tactics

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Ever wonder how shame can silently shape our lives and how to break free from its grip?

Join me for a powerful conversation with award-winning author Joy Schneider as we unravel the origins of shame, from Lucifer's fall to Adam and Eve's experiences. Joy shares her journey and offers profound insights into the pervasive issue of shame, revealing its deep-rooted impact on human nature and on our lives as  individuals.

Joy helps us distinguish between guilt and shame and shares how Jesus' sacrifice enables believers to live unburdened by these feelings. Our discussion delves into practical advice for parents on correcting their children’s actions without instilling shame fostering a nurturing environment of forgiveness and restoration.

Joy vividly explains how Satan manipulates shame to control individuals while Christ’s anointing brings liberation. This episode is packed with actionable tips on spiritual warfare, including vocal affirmations to reject shame. We also have a heartfelt conversation about the importance of receiving God’s forgiveness, and the importance of forgiving ourselves so we live in the freedom Christ came to bring!

Don't miss out on this enriching episode designed to help you overcome spiritual battles and live a life free from guilt and shame.

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: Navigating Shame and Spiritual Battles (0:00:18 - 0:06:34) Breaking Free From Shame and Guilt (0:06:35 - 0:13:58) Releasing Shame and Embracing Forgiveness (0:13:59 - 0:24:33)

Connect with Joy : Website - https://www.wateroflifeunlimited.com/ 

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/

You’ve had one and so have I–a totally crazy week! Can you imagine finding peace amidst the stormiest weeks of your life? 

How do we find peace in seasons like this? That’s the question on the table in this week’s episode. 

Discover how to maintain serenity even when facing the chaos of a packed schedule and looming threats. We explore the profound message of John 15 from the Bible—where Jesus speaks about being the true vine—offering insights that have brought immense peace and guidance to my life, and I hope will bring peace and perspective to your life as well.

 Listen to learn how John 15 can become a cornerstone of comfort and direction for you.

This heartfelt conversation (it was recorded during a week of wildfires near my home!) reminds us that we are chosen to be fruitful and that our ability to thrive relies on abiding in Him daily. Join me for an episode filled with inspiration, encouragement, and practical advice on cultivating peace and fruitfulness in your life.

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: 6:32- 8:30  - Connection With Jesus Is Essential

13:21-14:42 - Bearing Fruit Through Christ

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/   

Hey Friend!

Busy. Exhausting. Confusing. Complicated. These adjectives describe modern life, don’t they? And yet….most of us long for a little more simplicity and a little more balance.

In today’s episode, I chat with the fabulous  Brenda Yoder, a counselor, career woman, and mother, as she shares insights from her new book, Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life. Drawing from her experiences on a dairy farm and her observations of the Amish in Shipshewana, Indiana, where she makes her home, Brenda highlights how embracing timeless principles and practical problem-solving can help navigate life's complexities.

Brenda discusses the importance of balanced thinking and a growth mindset, warning against the all-or-nothing mentality that fuels anxiety. Additionally, Brenda emphasizes the significance of essential life skills like foresight and prudence, simplifying decision-making and reducing stress. 

Whether you aim to create a lasting legacy or simply handle daily challenges more effectively, this episode is filled with practical tips and thoughtful insights you can apply immediately. 

Join us to learn how to uncomplicate your life and find balance and fulfillment through simplicity.

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: (01:32 - 02:40) Life-Changing Podcast Reviews

(04:13 - 05:59) Overcoming Life's Challenges Through Practicality

(07:40 - 08:56) Life Lessons From Living Among Amish

(11:38 - 13:03) Simplicity in a Digital World

(27:24 - 28:15) Setting Achievable Exercise Goals

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Brenda 

Website - https://brendayoder.com/ 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brendayoderspeaks/ 

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Hey Friend!

Do you ever grapple with shame and guilt? The answer for most of us is “yes” at least on some level. 

My guest today knows all about the bondage guilt and shame brings. But she also knows how we can be set free! 

Join me as I sit down with Sarah Ferraro from MomCo, formerly Mops International, to hear about her courageous journey through an unplanned pregnancy at 18 and the subsequent decision to have an abortion. Sarah’s story is a powerful testament to the complexities of faith and the transformative power of grace. 

Raised in a Christian environment, her path to healing began at Biola University, supported by her now-husband and her church community. Sarah's involvement in MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) and her bravery in sharing her story brought her overwhelming love and grace.. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on embracing God's forgiveness and finding peace and true freedom from the bondage of shame. 

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: (06:07 - 08:23) Journey of Healing and Redemption

(10:19 - 12:16) Healing Through Sharing Vulnerability

(15:50 - 17:07) Navigating Difficult Conversations With Grace

(20:04 - 21:36) Path to Forgiveness and Freedom

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Sarah

Instagram : @sarahroseferraro

Anyone interested in starting a MomCo group can visit Grow the Church or email [email protected]. There’s a dedicated team ready to assist them. If moms are looking to find a group, they can go to MomCo’s website.

Connect with Donna

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Hey Friend!

What would you do if your partner revealed a heartbreaking secret that shattered your trust? 

This episode features a compelling story of resilience and transformation as marriage mentors Jill and Mark Savage take us through their 41-year journey, marked by Mark's struggles with depression, anxiety, and a midlife crisis that led to an affair. Jill opens up about the divine guidance she received to love Mark unconditionally at his lowest point, which became the cornerstone for their healing and growth. Their candidness and vulnerability offer a beacon of hope for couples navigating their marital storms.

Discover how Mark and Jill turned their painful experiences into a mission to support other couples. After sharing their story through a blog series, they found themselves on an unexpected path to becoming full-time marriage coaches. 

From understanding different attachment styles to establishing healthy communication rhythms, Mark and Jill provide invaluable tools for overcoming past patterns and fostering a resilient partnership. This episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to enhance their relationship. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation that promises to enrich your marriage journey.

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more: (00:17) Marriage Mentors Overcoming Adversity

(14:59) Transforming Lies Into Truth for Hope

(19:20) Breaking Free From Past Patterns

(26:16) Developing Communication and Understanding in Marriage

(30:52) Strengthening Marriages Through Communication and Rhythms

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Jill and Mark 

Website - https://jillsavage.org/ 

Pick up a copy of their book - No More Perfect Marriages 

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones   

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Hey Friend!

What if your relationships could improve by simply shifting your focus? 

This week, I went deep into the podcast vault to re-air one of my favorite episodes.  Featuring insights from Bob Hughes, a seasoned marriage and family therapist, and Judy Hughes, a life coach, the episode explores how shifting from a need for specific outcomes to a focus on genuine love can transform relationships and spiritual lives.

We also delved into the challenges of meeting our emotional needs while protecting ourselves from pain. We chat about neediness in various aspects of life, such as parenting, marriage, work, and friendships. We discussed the benefits of trusting in God's love and provision and shared three simple prayers to help cultivate this trust. 

This episode is full of wisdom that is guaranteed to open your eyes to your motivations in your relationships and offer real wisdom on how to become a more loving person.

Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more with Rob and Judy: 

- Love-focused living and its impact on our relationships

- The difference between being “love-focused” and being “outcome-focused.”

- The challenges of getting our emotional needs met while also protecting ourselves from pain and hurt

- The importance of looking to God for the fulfillment of our emotional needs rather than seeking validation, love, and acceptance from others

Bob and Judy’s Book, Love Focused: www.lovefocused.com

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones   

Website:

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Hey Friend!

It’s back-to-school season, which means whether we have kids or not, our attention turns to children. Sadly, we look around our culture and see throngs of kids who aren’t flourishing, they’re floundering.  Anxiety. Depression. Loneliness. Aimlessness. 

We don’t want the children we know to struggle like this. 

So, what can we do? 

How can we help the kids we know (our kids and other kids, too!) become healthy, happy, caring, Christ-like adults? 

The answer (or at least a good part of the answer) is found in one simple verse that describes Jesus’ own growth as a child. 

On today’s episode I discuss how healthy human beings grow in four key areas, just like Jesus did: “And Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, favor with God, and favor with man.” (Luke 2:52) 

Join me as we explore how to be intentional in helping kids develop mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially. 

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or simply someone who loves kids, you'll find valuable takeaways to help you navigate the complexities of today's world with intentionality and faith.

Don’t miss a single episode. Hit the “subscribe” button now!

Xo,

Donna

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones   

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/  

Hey Friend!

If you’ve ever said, “I’m exhausted!” You’ll love this episode! 

Rest isn't just about sleep, and Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a board-certified internal medicine physician, knows this first-hand. After battling burnout, she discovered that true restoration involves seven distinct types of rest (who knew?). This is why we can get a good night’s sleep and still feel tired!

Join me as Dr. Dalton-Smith shares her journey and demystifies each type of rest, offering us valuable insights into achieving balance and increasing our spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health and well-being.

You’ll learn what type of rest you need most, and Dr. Saundra shares tips on how to make simple shifts so we can enjoy our life more fully, love more deeply, and work more effectively. Our chat is a must-listen for every woman in every season. Trust me. 

Tune in to this episode for actionable tips on integrating moments of rest into even the busiest schedules. 

Don’t miss a single episode. Hit the “subscribe” button now!

Xo,

Donna

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and

Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith or Christianity or simply want to strengthen your knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith.

Connect with Dr. Saundra

https://www.drdaltonsmith.com/

Pick up a copy of one of her books: https://www.drdaltonsmith.com/publications 

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones 

Website: 

www.donnajones.org   

Twitter:@donnajonesspeak  

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/   

For a copy of “15 Things Jesus Would Say to You if You Met Him for

Coffee,” go to 

www.donnajones.org/blog