Join us for an insightful chat with Jim Burns, founder of Homeward and author of A Student's Guide to Sexual Integrity: God's Plan for Sex and Your Body. Jim shares his wisdom on discussing sexual integrity from a Christian perspective, offering guidance for parents and grandparents to support young people in navigating sexuality with faith and moral clarity.

We tackle the challenges of talking to teens about sexuality, and Jim offers practical, do-able advice: frequent, brief conversations at home, starting early (though it's never too late!). This approach helps normalize these discussions, making parents trusted sources on sensitive topics. Jim also highlights the important role grandparents can play, offering a safe, approachable presence for kids facing tough questions.

I'm giving away a copy of Jim’s new book. Simply post a picture of this podcast on social media, mention the name of the show (That's Just What I Needed) and tag me @donnaajones so I'll know you posted. 

Speaking of social media, remember to connect with me on social media for additional resources and upcoming speaking events. You'll find me on Instagram, @donnaajones.

Xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more:

(07:38) Speaking About Awkwardness and Sex 

(10:46) Addressing Adolescent Sexuality and Pornography 

(15:07) Talking to Kids About Sexuality

(17:28) Showing Christian Love to LGBTQ Individual 

(22:25) Accessing the Master Designer's Word 

(26:05) Teaching Biblical View of Sexuality 

(30:16) Parenting Seminars and Resources Highlighted 

xo,

Donna

Episode 93: How to Have a Healthy Relationship with Your Adult Children with Jim Burns

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 Jim 

Website - https://homeword.com/ 

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/drjimburns/?hl=en 

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s easy to allow Jesus’ love to flow through us when everything is going our way, right? But what about those times when people, circumstances, and just plain ‘ole life is tough?

On today’s episode, I sit down with Marnie Swedberg, a dynamic mentor, speaker, author, and founder of the world's largest Christian Women’s Speaker resource. Marnie shares how we can be a “flow-through” vessel of Jesus’ mercy, love, and grace. 

Marnie shares her remarkable journey and examines how to seamlessly integrate faith into everyday life, especially when confronted with modern-day challenges.

We dive into the transformative practice of "Prayer Breathing," which encourages maintaining a spiritual connection akin to dolphins surfacing for air. We explore how this practice fosters spiritual vitality and resilience, especially during tough times like the back-to-back hurricanes Marnie faced recently at her home in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area. Her personal stories of evacuation and loss showcase the profound impact of relying on spiritual guidance instead of conventional defense mechanisms during life's inevitable storms.

Cultivating a consistent connection with God is at the heart of this episode. We introduce the "four R's"—  Recognize, Release, Receive, and Respond—as a practical guide to transitioning from self-reliance to divine dependence.

Join us in this heartfelt conversation. I loved it, and I think you will, too!

Also, remember to connect with me on social media for additional resources and upcoming speaking events. On Instagram, you'll find me @donnaajones.

Xo,

Donna

Listen in to learn more. 

(03:20) Multifaceted Mentor and Ministry Resource 

(08:13) Flow Through Vessel Book Discussion 

(12:54) Seeking Divine Guidance Through Dolphin Analogy 

(19:25) Navigating Chaos and Toxicity 

(23:32) Finding Peace in the Midst 

(26:50) The Power of Surrender and Faith

(30:37) Developing a Habit to Trust God 

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 Marnie

Website - https://www.marnie.com/ 

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Emotional scars. We all have them.

Whether they’re wounds we can trace back to childhood or recent hurts we’ve just gotten past, we all need to know how to deal with our scars and, even better, how they can be redeemed for good.

Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Michelle Bengston, a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist and best-selling author. Together, we explore how her expertise in neurology, and psychiatry meets the profound depths of faith to provide healing paths for those struggling with emotional, spiritual, and relational woundedness. 

Dr. Bengston opens up about her new book, "Sacred Scars," in which she passionately uncovers how the physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds we carry can become marks of profound purpose and divine transformation. Her journey from suffering to healing is not just a personal narrative but a beacon of hope for anyone feeling trapped by their scars.

This episode tackles the daunting topics of shame and fear of rejection, revealing how sharing personal scars can forge deep connections and foster healing. Dr. Bengston's candid reflections on her battle with clinical depression illuminate the power found in vulnerability—how opening up those hidden parts of ourselves can offer real hope and inspiration for others.

Don't miss a minute of this heartfelt, wisdom-filled conversation. It’s a great one for anyone on a journey of healing (and honestly, aren’t we all?)

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. Michelle Bengtson

Website - https://drmichellebengtson.com/ 

Listen to her podcast - Your Hope-Filled Perspective https://drmichellebengtson.com/podcast/ 

Pick up a copy of her book, Sacred Scars

https://amzn.to/4hdenge

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do we truly see beyond the surface of our lives?

On this special episode for National Blindness Awareness Month, I’m joined by two amazing guests—legally blind author Judy Kirby and voiceover artist Annie Donnellan. Judy shares the profound spiritual lessons she’s learned from her vision loss, as detailed in her book Blurred Vision. Anne brings an extra layer of humor and insight from narrating the audiobook.

Our conversation encourages looking beyond appearances to appreciate the inner beauty and unique journeys of others. Reflecting on writings like "Heart Eyes" and "Bear Not Compare," we focus on living with more compassion and grace. 

Tune in to be inspired, learn, and gain a fresh perspective on the world around you. Hit the “subscribe” button now so you don’t miss a single episode!

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 Judy and Anna 

Visit Judy’s website and pick up a copy of her book, Blurred Vision https://blurredvisionbooks.com/

Annie’s website 

https://anniedonnellon.com/

Connect with Donna 

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: 

www.donnajones.org    

Donna’s speaking schedule:

https://donnajones.org/events/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/   

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/    

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.