The Speakeasy

In this celebratory podcast episode, Blake reflects on an incredible six-year journey since launching her show as a birthday gift to herself in 2018. What started as a heartfelt space for candid conversations about faith, struggles, and authenticity has evolved into something far bigger than she imagined. With a fresh rebrand to The Speakeasy, the show now boldly tackles cultural and political topics with curiosity and grace, offering a safe place for deep, meaningful discussions. This milestone episode is a joyful expression of gratitude for the listeners who have made this dream job a reality, coupled with an exciting vision for the future of the podcast. Let's raise a glass to new beginnings and impactful conversations!

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To connect with Blake…

Website: thegirlnamedblake.com

Instagram: @thegirlnamedblake

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Author and poet Laura Wifler joins Blake to dive into the complex yet liberating truths of motherhood through a gospel-centered lens. They discuss the challenges of striving for perfection while embracing the reality that God's grace covers our shortcomings. By rooting our identity in Christ rather than our daily successes or failures, we can parent from a place of freedom rather than fear. They also explore how spiritual disciplines and habits can ground us in truth and help us navigate the messiness of life with faith and confidence. This conversation serves as a reminder that God's power and presence equip us for the journey, even when life feels overwhelming.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Understand how embracing the gospel can free you from the pressure of perfectionism in motherhood.
• Learn the difference between spiritual disciplines and habits, and how they can nurture your faith and well-being.
• Gain insights into balancing the realities of motherhood while finding freedom in Christ's grace.

Laura is the author of Gospel Mom – available everywhere now!

To connect with Laura…

Website: laurawifler.com

Instagram: @laurawifler

Facebook: @laurawiflercreative

Thanks to our sponsors!

AquaTru - Get 20% off any aqua purifier when you use code BLAKE on AquaTru.com.

AirDoctor - Visit airdoctorpro.com and get up to $300 off an air purifier when you using the code BLAKE and get a FREE 3-year warranty!

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Speaker, songwriter, and children's author BJ Jenkins joins Blake to discuss the challenges and joys of teaching children about the Bible. BJ shares her journey from a music evangelist to writing books and creating curriculum aimed at simplifying deep biblical concepts for kids. She emphasizes the importance of modeling faith at home, encouraging parents to actively demonstrate practices like prayer and Bible reading. She highlights creative methods, such as prayer tents and prophetic art, to teach kids how to connect with God and recognize His voice. She also discusses the value of stillness and intentionality in nurturing a child's spiritual life. Ultimately, this conversation inspires parents to make faith an accessible and engaging part of their family's daily rhythm.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Discover practical ways to teach your children about their identity in Christ and God's promises.
• Understand the importance of walking alongside your kids in their spiritual growth while trusting God to fill in the gaps.
• Gain insight into combating the unique spiritual and cultural challenges facing this generation with faith and intentional parenting.

BJ is the author of The Believer's Series for Children – available on her website now!

To connect with BJ…

Website: bjjenkinsministries.com

Thanks to our sponsors!

Lumen - Stay on track with your health this season by checking out lumen.me/BLAKE to get 15% off!

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Content creator, entrepreneur, and mom, Amy Bernhard joins Blake to discuss their transformative journeys in motherhood and how shifting their mindsets has shaped their experiences. They reflect on breaking free from toxic hustle culture and finding fulfillment beyond societal expectations of success. Both share how they transitioned from prioritizing external validation, like career achievements and social recognition, to focusing on being present and intentional with their families. They also address childhood wounds that shaped their perceptions and how they've worked to redefine success in alignment with their faith and values. Through vulnerability, they hope to inspire other mothers to embrace a heart posture centered on authentic connection and grace, rather than perfection. Their conversation offers encouragement, especially for those navigating similar transitions in life and motherhood.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Explore the benefits of simplifying family routines to prioritize intentional time and rest.
• Gain insights into unlearning societal expectations and creating a balanced, thriving family life.
• Learn how to release guilt and embrace parenting choices that honor each child's individuality.

To connect with Amy…

Instagram: @amy_bernhard_

Learn more about Fatty15.

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This week on Confessions of a Crappy Christian, Blake delves into navigating challenging political conversations, particularly with individuals who trust mainstream media. She explains the importance of discerning whether such discussions are worthwhile and provides insights to help you articulate your perspective effectively. She critiques the mainstream media's trustworthiness, citing examples of misinformation and bias. The episode also addresses misconceptions about Donald Trump, including false claims about his policies, Project 2025, and allegations of sexual misconduct. The host carefully distinguishes civil liability from criminal charges in Trump's legal cases, emphasizing the lack of criminal convictions. Ultimately, she encourages informed, respectful dialogue and grassroots engagement to foster understanding and counter propaganda.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Understand how media narratives can shape perceptions and why it's essential to seek out full context in controversial statements.
• Equip yourself with thoughtful responses to address political claims and debates grounded in evidence and context.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the civil court case involving Donald Trump and why legal definitions and burdens of proof matter.

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Nutrafol - Start healing your hair and get $10 off your first month's subscription and FREE shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and use the promo code BLAKE.

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If you'd like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form!

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Author, speaker, and podcast host Alex Kocman joins Blake to discuss the complexities of immigration from a Christian perspective and the church's role in addressing societal challenges. They explore how biblical principles provide guidance on loving neighbors, understanding nations, and maintaining ordered affections. Alex emphasizes the importance of discerning scripture to navigate nuanced conversations and counter manipulative narratives. Together, they challenge oversimplifications and encourage listeners to engage with immigration thoughtfully, balancing compassion with practical governance. The discussion also touches on the cultural and spiritual implications of diversity and national identity.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Understand the balance between love and wisdom when addressing immigration and societal challenges.
• Explore the church's unique role in meeting spiritual and social needs beyond the scope of government programs.
• Examine the ethical and practical implications of current immigration policies and their effects on both migrants and host nations.

Alex is the author of Striving for the Faith — available now!

To connect with Alex…

Website: alexkocman.com

X: @ajkocman

Podcast: The Missions Podcast

Thanks to our Sponsor:

Fatty15 - Start replenishing your C15 levels and restore your long-term health. Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to Fatty15.com/BLAKE and using the promo code BLAKE.

If you'd like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form!

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Former NFL linebacker, three-time All-American, and College Football Hall of Famer David Pollack joins Blake to share his inspiring journey of perseverance and faith. After a career-ending neck injury and later being let go from ESPN, Pollack reflects on how these setbacks allowed him to pivot toward impactful new roles, such as coaching youth sports and writing his new book, The Won't Quit Kid. He emphasizes the importance of valuing relationships, particularly in marriage, sharing heartfelt lessons about putting one's spouse first and maintaining a united front. Pollack discusses his reliance on faith through life's challenges and how embracing hard moments strengthened his character and purpose. He also speaks candidly about his commitment to intentional communication and support within his family, demonstrating the power of love and teamwork in navigating life's trials.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Discover strategies for fostering intentional communication in marriage, including expressing gratitude for everyday actions.
• Gain insights on balancing ambition and faith by aligning your career choices with your family's well-being and God's guidance.
• Understand the importance of setting boundaries between work, technology, and family life to maintain meaningful relationships.

David is the author of The Won't Quit Kid — available everywhere on November 21!

To connect with David…

Website: davidpollack.com

Instagram: @davidpollack47

X: @davidpollack47

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Nutrafol - Get $10 off your firth month's subscription and free shipping by going to Nutrafol.com and using the promo code BLAKE.

Hiya Health - Get 50% off your first order by going to HiyaHealth.com/BLAKE

If you'd like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form!

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Pastor, author and speaker Mark Batterson joins Blake to discuss his new book, A Million Little Miracles. Building on themes from his earlier work, Mark dives into the idea of everyday miracles, exploring how small moments of beauty and gratitude can transform our lives. The conversation highlights how acknowledging these smaller blessings—like breathing or witnessing the changing colors of leaves—can help us see the world through a lens of wonder and gratitude. Mark encourages listeners to cultivate a "holy curiosity," a perspective that appreciates the complexities of creation and sees every day as filled with divine purpose. The episode ultimately invites listeners to redefine miracles, seeing them in both the big, life-altering events and the quiet, daily gifts that often go unnoticed.

In this episode, you'll be able to…

• Discover how to recognize and appreciate everyday miracles in your life, from small moments to major blessings.
• Learn about the transformative power of gratitude and how it can shift your perspective.
• Explore the idea of seeing yourself and others as "walking, talking miracles," fostering deeper compassion and connection.

Mark is the author of A Million Little Miracles — available everywhere on November 19!

To connect with Mark…

Website: markbatterson.com

Instagram: @markbatterson

Facebook: @markbatterson

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Fatty15 - Start replenishing your C15 levels and restore your long-term health. Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to Fatty15.com/BLAKE and using the promo code BLAKE.

Lumen - Gift you or someone else the gift of health.Get 15% off your purchase when you visit lumen.me/BLAKE.

If you'd like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form!

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Listen in to this special post-election episode where Blake provides an in-depth reflection on the recent election results. Join her to discuss initial expectations and preparations, the surprising outcome, and the ensuing public and personal reactions. The episode highlights the polarized nature of public discourse, the challenges of maintaining personal relationships amidst political divides, and the critical role of faith in navigating these challenging times. Thankfully Blake has walked through this before and is able to offer advice on how to respond to hostile interactions, the importance of prayer, and finding hope and community in uncertain times.

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In this special pre-election edition of Confessions of a Crappy Christian, Blake reflects on the anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the upcoming election, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared for any outcome. While addressing concerns about potential policy impacts and media influence, Blake underscores that true strength and hope are rooted not in politics but in faith. Citing Philippians 4:12-13 and Isaiah 40:31, Blake shares that waiting on the Lord—through seeking, trusting, and praying—renews our strength and helps us face challenges with assurance.

No matter the result, listeners are reminded that God remains in control, providing hope that never disappoints, as affirmed in Romans 5:1-5. Blake encourages everyone to stay anchored in faith, resilient, and prayerful, trusting in the steadfast nature of God to navigate whatever comes next.

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