What if “I’m sorry” isn’t enough?

In this thought-provoking episode of The Collide Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Thomas to talk about how to give and receive apologies that actually heal. Together, we unpack the power of restoration through meaningful apologies, explore why forgiveness is essential to our faith, and learn how understanding The 5 Apology Languages™ can completely transform how we mend relationships. Whether you’re longing to repair a friendship, rebuild trust in your marriage, or simply communicate better with the people you love, this conversation will remind you that grace and humility can turn brokenness into healing.

Dr. Jennifer Thomas is a best-selling author, psychologist, and sought-after speaker who has spent decades helping people navigate the beautiful and sometimes messy work of relationships. She co-authored The 5 Apology Languages™ with Dr. Gary Chapman, creator of The 5 Love Languages®, and is one of a handful of approved presenters for his global teaching series. Through her research and writing, Dr. Thomas equips individuals, couples, and organizations to communicate more effectively, repair broken trust, and extend forgiveness rooted in biblical truth.

• Why “I’m sorry” often isn’t enough to repair broken relationships
• The 5 Apology Languages™ and how to identify your own
• How to ask for and offer forgiveness in ways that build true reconciliation
• What Scripture teaches about humility, confession, and grace
• Practical steps to turn hurt into healing and conflict into connection
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How This Episode Will Encourage You

If you’ve ever struggled to move past hurt, wished someone’s apology felt more genuine, or wondered how to forgive when it feels impossible, this episode will offer hope and clarity. You’ll be reminded that God calls us not just to say the right words—but to live out forgiveness that restores hearts and rebuilds trust.

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What if the way to heal our divided world starts with simply walking with people?

In this inspiring episode of The Collide Podcast, we sit down with Carlos Whittaker to talk about what it means to truly connect with others—even when we don’t see eye to eye. Carlos shares his passion for bringing hope and humanity to the forefront of our conversations and challenges us to live out empathy in action. From stories of kindness sparked by his “Instafamilia” to moments of faith and vulnerability that have shaped his journey, Carlos reminds us that walking with people in love and grace can change lives—ours included.

Carlos is an author, podcaster, and global speaker on a mission to bring hope to humans everywhere. Known for his authenticity and compassion, Carlos has built a massive online community that rallies around doing good and living connected. Whether he’s writing best-selling books, leading meaningful conversations, or dancing to Beyoncé with his family in Nashville, Carlos brings joy and purpose to everything he does. His motto—“Don’t stand on issues, walk with people”—beautifully captures his heart for unity and understanding in a divided world.

• How walking with people (not standing on issues) can transform relationships
• Why empathy is the key to healing our communities
• The power of showing up authentically, even when it’s uncomfortable
• How faith fuels Carlos’s passion for connection and hope
• Practical ways to bring more kindness and courage into everyday life.

How This Episode Will Encourage You

If you’ve ever felt weary from the world’s division or unsure how to make a difference, this episode will lift your spirit and renew your sense of purpose. You’ll be reminded that the greatest impact often begins with one small act of love—and that when we choose to walk with people, we walk closer to the heart of God.

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What if your “yes” to God changed everything?

In this inspiring episode of The Collide Podcast, we sit down with author, speaker, and God Hears Her podcast host Vivian Mabuni to talk about the beauty and bravery of saying yes to God. Vivian shares how surrendering to God’s leading has shaped her story—from ministry and motherhood to surviving cancer—and why the risks of obedience are always worth it. Whether you’re standing at a crossroads, holding tightly to control, or longing to trust God more deeply, this episode will remind you that saying yes to Him is never wasted.

Vivian Mabuni is an international speaker and writer with a passion for helping others experience the hope and life found through intimacy with God. With over thirty years of ministry experience on staff with Cru, she brings a depth of biblical wisdom and practical insight to her teaching. Vivian is a cancer survivor, co-host of the Our Daily Bread Ministries podcast God Hears Her, and the author of Open Hands, Willing Heart. She lives in California with her husband, Darrin, and their three kids.

• What it means to give God your “yes,” even when it feels risky
• Practical ways to grow in surrender and trust
• Why obedience often leads to unexpected blessings
• How saying yes can deepen your intimacy with God
• Encouragement for seasons when surrender feels scary or uncertain

If you’ve ever struggled to trust God’s plan or feared what obedience might cost, this conversation will fill your heart with hope. You’ll be reminded that surrender isn’t about losing control—it’s about finding freedom and peace in the One who holds it all.

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What if the growing number of people walking through church doors aren’t just seeking community, they’re desperately seeking healing?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Shaunti Feldhahn to talk about the surge in hurting people coming to church and what we can do about it. Drawing from her extensive social research and deep understanding of human relationships, Shaunti shares eye-opening insights about the emotional and spiritual needs many people bring with them to church—and how the church can respond with compassion, awareness, and practical care. Whether you’re a ministry leader, volunteer, or someone who simply cares about others, this conversation will remind you that the church has a powerful opportunity to become a place of healing and hope.

Shaunti Feldhahn received her graduate degree from Harvard University and began her career as an analyst on Wall Street before unexpectedly becoming a social researcher, best-selling author, and popular speaker. Today, she applies her analytical skills to uncovering life-changing truths about relationships both at home and in the workplace. Her groundbreaking, research-based books—such as For Women Only and For Men Only—have sold more than 3 million copies in 25 languages and are widely used in homes, counseling centers, and corporations worldwide. Shaunti and her husband, Jeff, speak around the globe, helping individuals and organizations better understand and support one another.

• Why there’s been a surge of hurting people turning to the church for help
• How many churches are missing key opportunities to offer meaningful care
• What creates the gap between people’s needs and the church’s response
• Practical ways churches and individuals can become a healing presence
• How empathy and awareness can transform ministry and relationships

If you’ve ever wondered how to help people who are walking through pain, this episode will give you fresh perspective and hope. You’ll be reminded that while the needs around us are great, God has equipped the church—and each of us—to be His hands and feet to a hurting world.

Connect with Shaunti - Website | When Hurting People Come to Church

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5 Week Guide to Manage Your Anxiety – Get expert advice from counselors, plus guided exercises, reflections, and tools to help you find peace and trust in the midst of anxiety.

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How do you break generational trauma, navigate motherhood, and still keep your sense of humor intact?

In this honest episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Melanie Shankle to talk about halting generational trauma and the the realities of momming, and handling emotional ups and downs. She shares about her journey from blogger to New York Times bestselling author, offering insights on building strong connections with your kids, creating safe spaces for them to share, and surviving the rollercoaster of their emotions. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, parenting challenges, or the pressure to “get it right,” this episode will remind you that laughter, grace, and intentional connection are powerful tools in raising kids and breaking cycles.

Meet Melanie

Melanie Shankle—better known as “Big Mama”—is a New York Times bestselling author, blogger, and speaker. She started her blog in 2006 with funny and heartfelt reflections on motherhood, marriage, faith, and everyday life, and her storytelling quickly struck a chord with readers. Melanie is passionate about encouraging moms, fostering joy in everyday life, and helping families navigate the challenges of parenting with grace and humor. Her story is a powerful example of living intentionally, embracing imperfection, and creating meaningful connections with your children.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn

• Strategies for breaking generational trauma in your family
• Ways to strengthen emotional connections with your kids
• How to create safe spaces for your children to express themselves
• Tips for surviving the emotional ups and downs of motherhood

How This Episode Will Encourage You

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by motherhood or unsure if you’re “doing it right,” this episode will offer practical guidance and heartfelt encouragement. You’ll be reminded that even in the messy, unpredictable moments, you can parent with intention, love, and humor—and that breaking cycles of pain is possible.

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Connect with Melanie - Website | Podcast: The Big Boo Cast

Book: Here be Dragons

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Feeling Overwhelmed by Life’s Hard Seasons?

In this powerful episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Sarah Wallace to talk about building mental toughness in the face of loss, pain, and life’s toughest valleys. Sarah shares her personal story of profound loss and how God is using her pain for purpose, offering insights on resilience, vulnerability, and practical ways to grow inner strength. Whether you’re navigating hardship, seeking hope, or longing for personal growth, this episode will remind you that even in the hardest seasons, you can find strength, resilience, and purpose.

Sarah Wallace is the founder of the Fortitude Project, a community devoted to building mental toughness alongside heart softness. After experiencing the tragic loss of her brother, Sarah transformed her pain into purpose, dedicating herself to helping others navigate life’s valleys with grace and resilience. She is passionate about guiding others to embrace vulnerability, cultivate resilience, and find hope through practical tools and authentic connection. Her story is a powerful example of how personal growth, when rooted in heart and purpose, can create lasting impact.

• How to cultivate mental toughness during life’s most challenging seasons
• The importance of embracing vulnerability as a pathway to resilience
• Practical tools to grow inner strength while maintaining heart softness
• How to reframe pain and loss as opportunities to serve and encourage others
• Why personal growth doesn’t have to be serious or unattainable—it can be joyful and practical

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, defeated, or unsure of how to navigate a difficult season, this episode will give you hope and practical guidance. You’ll be reminded that no matter where life has taken you, you are capable of developing resilience and mental fortitude, and that even your pain can be used for purpose and impact.

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Are you ready to rethink what it means to study God?

In this inspiring episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Phylicia Masonheimer to talk about breaking stereotypes around theology and helping everyday women engage deeply with the Bible. She shares her journey from knowing “Christianese” without understanding it, to discovering how the gospel transforms every area of life. Whether you’re navigating faith in a post-Christian world or simply want to live your beliefs boldly, this episode will remind you that deep faith isn’t just for scholars—it’s for every woman, in every season of life.

Phylicia is the founder of Every Woman a Theologian, a ministry dedicated to helping Christians—especially women—understand, live, and share their faith. She’s an author, blogger, and host of the chart-topping podcast Verity with Phylicia Masonheimer. Phylicia is passionate about equipping women to become students of the heart of God, showing that theology isn’t confined to libraries or lecture halls—it’s for real life, whether you’re single, parenting, or building a career. Her story is a powerful example of living faith boldly and thoughtfully in a complex world.

• How Phylicia redefines what a theologian is and why stereotypes limit our understanding of God
• The danger of belief without grounding it in Scripture
• How to become a student of the heart of God in everyday life
• Practical ways to see the Bible come alive in real-world situations

If you’ve ever felt like theology or deep Bible study is “not for you,” this episode will empower you to take ownership of your faith. You’ll be reminded that every woman can study God, live her beliefs boldly, and share her faith graciously—one step at a time.

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How do you find peace when life doesn’t go according to plan?

In this powerful episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Kara Stout to talk about finding calm in the midst of anxiety, suffering, and uncertainty. She shares her story of heartbreaking loss, medical crisis, and waiting seasons, offering insights on trusting God’s timing and experiencing His peace even when circumstances feel overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating hardship, wrestling with fear, or longing for healing, this episode will remind you that God is sovereign, near, and able to restore your troubled heart.

Kara is a writer, speaker, and adoptive mom whose story of faith through suffering is inspiring women to find peace in God’s presence. After facing a life-threatening medical condition, infertility, financial struggles, and the devastating loss of both her parents to cancer, Kara discovered a deeper dependency on God that transformed her life. She is the author of An Untroubled Heart: Calming Anxiety and Finding God’s Peace, a 30-day devotional that invites readers to experience comfort and calm in God’s Word. Kara is passionate about encouraging women in their faith, pointing them to their Great Comforter and Greatest Companion. Her story is a powerful example of resilience, hope, and healing in Christ.

• How to experience God’s peace when your heart feels troubled
• Why waiting seasons can shape trust and faith in God’s timing
• How prayer and Scripture can calm anxiety and bring daily strength
• The ways loss and suffering can deepen dependency on God
• Practical steps to seek God’s presence when fear or worry overwhelm

If you’ve ever felt overcome by anxiety, grief, or uncertainty, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to face it alone. You’ll be encouraged to rest in God’s presence, trust His timing, and discover the peace that truly surpasses understanding.

Birds and Lilies Bible Study - Offers a biblical perspective to today’s “anxiety culture,” guiding women toward peace, faith, and trust in God’s faithful provision.

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Have you ever wondered how you’d know if what you’re experiencing after childbirth is “normal” or something more serious like postpartum depression?

In this honest episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Therapist Rachael Elmore to talk about her journey through postpartum depression and how she found healing. She shares about the bravery it took to ask for help, the emotional and spiritual needs of new moms, and the importance of not walking this road alone. Whether you’re a new parent feeling overwhelmed, someone supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the realities of postpartum mental health, this episode will remind you that hope and healing are possible.

Rachael is a licensed clinical mental health counselor supervisor, award-winning author, and expert speaker with more than 20 years of experience in the counseling field. After overcoming postpartum depression herself in 2012, she wrote the book she wished had been available to her: A Mom is Born: Biblical Wisdom and Practical Advice for Taking Care of Yourself and Your New Baby. Rachael owns a thriving counseling practice in Charlotte, NC, and has helped thousands of people navigate parenthood. She is passionate about encouraging men and women to pursue emotional health and to walk by faith even in seasons of struggle. Her story is a powerful example of resilience, courage, and faith in the midst of hardship.

• What postpartum depression can look like and how to spot the signs
• Why it takes courage to ask for help and why that bravery matters
• How the transition into motherhood impacts mental, emotional, and spiritual health
• Why community and support are vital for new parents
• Practical wisdom and biblical encouragement for moms navigating the postpartum season

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure of how to navigate the transition into motherhood, this episode will give you both hope and help. You’ll be reminded that you don’t have to do it alone, and that with support, faith, and honesty, healing is possible.

Check Out These Resources Inspired by This Episode

Collide Counseling Bundle – An online course that addresses 12 of the most common struggles women bring to counseling, this bundle offers practical tools, expert guidance, and encouragement from licensed mental health professionals. Complete with a beautifully designed printed workbook mailed to your door, it provides exercises, reflection space, and resources to support your emotional and spiritual healing.

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Book - A Mom is Born

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What do you do when the kids are grown, the house is quiet, and your heart feels both full and empty at the same time?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Jim Burns to talk about the emotional and spiritual journey of entering the empty nest season. Jim offers honest insight into the grief many parents experience when children leave home, and he shares practical wisdom on how to build healthy relationships with adult kids, redefine your role as a parent, and discover purpose in this next chapter. Whether you’re navigating the ache of goodbye or wondering what your life looks like beyond daily parenting, this episode will remind you that God still has good, meaningful work ahead for you.

Meet Jim

Jim Burns is the founder of HomeWord, an internationally recognized ministry that equips families with resources on marriage, parenting, and leadership. With more than 3 million books in print in over 20 languages, Jim is a trusted voice for families navigating life’s transitions. He’s the author of several bestselling books, including Doing Life with Your Adult Children and Finding Joy in the Empty Nest. Jim is passionate about helping families thrive and find hope no matter the season.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How to navigate the emotional pain of the empty nest
• Tips for cultivating strong relationships with your adult children
• What to do when a child walks away from faith or family
• How to embrace your new role as a parent in this season
• Ways to rediscover purpose and joy in life beyond full-time parenting

How This Episode Will Encourage You

If you’ve ever felt lost, heartbroken, or unsure of your place after your kids move out, this episode will meet you with empathy and hope. You’ll be reminded that even in this transition, God is writing a new, beautiful story—and your purpose is far from over.

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Connect with Jim- Home World | Podcast | Finding Joy in the Empty Nest & Doing Life with Your Audlt Children

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