We’re closing out the Real Estate Series with a conversation that’s less about contracts and closings—and more about purpose. I’m joined by Jessica and Kenyala as we unpack why we really chose real estate (and no, it wasn’t for flexible schedules or million-dollar paychecks). We share some hilarious and humbling stories from the field while talking honestly about what it looks like to be faith-led in this business. From clients who turned into lifelong friendships to deals that nearly broke us, we’re digging into the heart behind the hustle and the scriptures that keep us grounded when everything goes sideways. Whether you’re in real estate or just trying to do your work with meaning, this episode will remind you why serving people always comes first. 

What really happens during a home inspection? This week on The Beauty in Burnt Toast, Jade sits down with home inspector Josh Trotter for Confessions of a Home Inspector.

From strange finds to funny moments on the job, Josh shares what it’s like to see the hidden side of houses every day. He also opens up about the scripture that keeps him grounded and a “burnt toast” moment that shaped his life and work.

Tune in for laughs, encouragement, and a behind-the-scenes look at a job most of us only see once in a lifetime.

 So your loan got denied—and no, it’s not always the bank’s fault. Sometimes the hard truth is… it’s you. In this episode, we break down the real (and often hilarious) reasons people sabotage their own mortgage dreams, from Amazon splurges to “forgetting” about that shiny new car payment. Get ready for a little tough love, a lot of laughs, and some practical wisdom to help you get it right next time. 

Clarissa Curbow’s journey is proof that no one is too far gone for God’s redemption. Once trapped in addiction and sentenced to prison, she hit rock bottom—but her story didn’t end there. Through faith in Christ, Clarissa found freedom, restoration, and a new purpose.

Today, she serves in jail ministry, bringing hope to women walking the same hard road she once walked. In this powerful conversation, Clarissa shares her testimony of transformation, the moment God turned her life around, and how she continues to live out her calling.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, wrestling with shame, or wondering if God can redeem your story, this episode will remind you of the God of second chances.

How do you talk to your child about loss, grief, or a parent’s illness? It’s a question no parent wants to face—but it’s one of the most important conversations we can have with our kids.

Our guest today is Kim O’Leary—a child life specialist, a mom, and a cancer survivor. Kim is currently the BandAids & Butterflies Child Life Specialist and Grief Educator, as well as the Founder of the nonprofit Bridges to Healing Project, which supports families through illness, grief, and difficult conversations.

In this conversation, Kim shares how children understand loss at different ages, how parents can guide them through big emotions, and why honesty and presence matter more than perfect words. She also gives practical ways to start these tough talks and explains how parents can recognize when their child might need extra support.

If you’ve ever wondered how to prepare your kids for life’s hardest moments, this episode will give you both wisdom and hope.

 So much of life’s struggle happens in places no one else can see. In this episode, Jade and Jamie sit down with Alisha Phillips to talk about the unseen battle of spiritual warfare—how it shows up in our daily lives, the ways it impacts our thoughts and relationships, and how faith equips us to stand strong. Together, they share real stories and encouragement for anyone walking through hidden battles. 

 What does it take to raise kids who respect others and live with purpose? In this episode, student minister, coach, and dad of five Leonard Morris shares how teamwork, sports, and faith can shape kids into strong leaders. With practical parenting wisdom and a burnt toast moment you won’t forget, this conversation is all about raising team players who are ready for life. 

Back-to-school season is here — which means color-coded calendars, Pinterest-perfect lunches… and moms everywhere quietly wondering if they’re getting any of it “right.” In this episode, we’re talking about the mom guilt that ramps up this time of year, the double standards that will judge you no matter what you do, and why “perfect” was never the goal anyway.

We’ll unpack the real pressure behind the highlight reels, share stats that prove you’re not alone in feeling the weight, and remind you that your kid doesn’t need a superhero — just you, showing up in whatever form you can that day (cape or no cape).

In this special bonus episode of The Beauty in Burnt Toast, Jamie Reeves sits down with attorney Doug Bachuss to talk about adoption—from two deeply personal perspectives.

As an adoptive father, Doug knows the emotional highs and lows of building a family through adoption. As an attorney, he’s guided countless others through the legal side of that same journey. In this conversation, he shares what it’s like to stand in both places—with a heart that’s been changed and a seat at the table where those decisions are made.

Whether you’re navigating adoption or just want to understand the system better, this episode brings clarity and perspective.

Adoption isn’t just paperwork and prayers—it’s a journey marked by detours, heartbreak, and unexpected beauty. In this episode of The Beauty in Burnt Toast, Jade Chowning sits down with Jamie Reeves, Vickie Wright, and Sarah Shaneyfelt to talk about The Long Way Home—the emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal path each of them walked to build their families through adoption.

With honesty and heart, they open up about infertility, waiting seasons, the complexity of attachment, and the kind of faith it takes to keep showing up. This episode is a reminder that love doesn’t always arrive the way you expect—but when it does, it can rewrite everything.