Jesus Fix It with Jess & Steph!

Summer sunshine brings a brief pause to the Jesus Fix It podcast as hosts Jess and Steph check in with listeners during their mid-summer break. The Spirit FM team has been extraordinarily busy with community events, though Jess reveals she's been sidelined by knee problems that may require surgery soon.

Despite the temporary hiatus, excitement bubbles beneath the surface as the hosts share glimpses of what's coming next month. They've already lined up guests and identified compelling topics for deep, meaningful conversations when they return. But true to their listener-centered approach, they're reaching out to hear what's...

The conversation continues with a challenging question: How do we love those claiming Christianity while living lifestyles contradicting biblical teachings? Pastor Tate responds with grace-filled wisdom: "Sanctification is a process. I believe there are people who are genuine followers of Jesus Christ who are still jacked up in their sin." This perspective sets the stage for a remarkable story of unconventional ministry.

This powerful episode challenges listeners to step beyond comfortable ministry approaches and meet people exactly where they are—with unwavering biblical truth wrapped in authentic relationship. You'll be inspired to see evangelism not as a re...

Wrestling with how to love someone living contrary to biblical teaching while maintaining your faith convictions may be one of the most challenging situations Christians face today. 

Pastor Jonge Tate joins us to tackle this difficult conversation with wisdom, grace, and biblical clarity. What begins as a discussion about a real situation in their church community quickly reveals that multiple families are navigating these exact waters with their loved ones. This isn't happening "out there" - it's happening within our churches and families.

Through thoughtful dialogue, we explore what it means to hold firmly to b...

Your mental health matters to God. This raw, heartfelt conversation peels back the layers of shame and stigma that often prevent Christians from seeking the help they desperately need.

Jess courageously shares her darkest moments as a newly divorced single mom—days spent hiding under covers, barely functioning, believing her depression was simply something to "get over." The turning point came through a song on Spirit FM that reminded her she was redeemed and deserving of more than endless days of despair. When she finally sought help, her pastor's affirming words—"Jesus and therapy go hand in hand...

We tackle a topic that's often judged or ignored in women's circles: it's okay to not want to be a mom. Society places enormous pressure on women to have children, but nearly half of childless adults in America say they never want kids – and that number is growing.

• Jess's sister knew early on that motherhood wasn't for her, though she's a loving aunt and nurturing in other ways
• Steph shares her personal experience of never wanting children, even from a young age
• Recent Pew Research shows 47% of childless adults don't expect to have children, up 10% since 20...

We explore the significance of Easter as a season of renewal and what it means to let Jesus breathe new life into areas of our lives that seem beyond repair. Through personal stories and biblical insights, we discuss how pride often prevents us from experiencing restoration and why sometimes feeling the hurt is necessary for healing.

Do you have relationships that seem beyond repair? Projects abandoned on the shelf? Habits you continually struggle with? We're getting vulnerable about the things we keep trying to fix ourselves rather than surrendering to Jesus. Steph bravely shares about a...

In this episode, Jess and Stephanie get real about the crazy world of dating for women over 35. From navigating double standards and uncomfortable questions to the strange misunderstandings that often arise, they share candid thoughts on what it's really like to date at this stage in life. And, of course, no conversation would be complete without a
deep dive into the world of Christian dating apps. They tackle everything from ghosting to the balance between waiting on God and taking action in your own dating life. Stick around for a heartfelt moment at the end.

What happens when men drop the tough-guy act and actually show up for each other? In this eye-opening conversation with guest Ben, we dive deep into what authentic male friendship looks like beyond surface-level church groups.

Ben shares the moving origin story of his unusual men's group, which began in 2008 when he committed to weekly meetings with a friend whose wife had died by suicide. Dominoes and baseball games evolved into a brotherhood of five men who've carried each other through cancer diagnoses, deaths of spouses, raising children with special needs, and career struggles. Unlike typical men's...

Celebrating Women's History Month by honoring the remarkable women who've shaped both world history and our personal journeys. From Susan B. Anthony securing our right to vote to Rosa Parks standing firm for justice in 1955 to Amelia Earhart breaking aviation barriers in 1932, these historical trailblazers remind us of the relatively recent struggles women faced for basic rights and opportunities.

But perhaps more powerful than these renowned figures are the personal heroines who've shaped our individual stories. We share touching stories about women like "Miss Shirley," who despite tremendous hardship radiates joy and embodies the phrase "I don't...

Could your closet be the key to understanding your deeper emotional ties? Join Jess and Steph as we humorously unpack the sentimental attachments that make parting with personal belongings so challenging. From cherished band memorabilia to well-worn book collections, our conversation turns clutter into a canvas for storytelling and self-reflection. We'll share creative solutions like turning old t-shirts into quilts, offering a heartfelt way to preserve memories. Together, we confront the struggle of letting go and explore why our identities often get tangled in the fabric of our possessions.

What does the Bible say about balancing life's...

What happens when love and faith intersect in a world that's often divided? Join us as we explore this profound intersection, sharing stories and insights that challenge the status quo. Through heartfelt discussions, we express our concerns about the growing negativity on social media and the struggle to maintain kindness and respect, even among believers. February, a month often associated with love, serves as a poignant reminder of the gap between our ideals and reality. We tackle how disagreements shouldn't equate to unkindness and how embodying the love of Jesus can create a more compassionate community around us.
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Join us for a heartfelt and humorous episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast as we explore the insightful world of love languages. Jess and Steph share personal stories and insights into how understanding the five love languages can transform relationships and bring deeper meaning to self-love. From words of affirmation to acts of service, they delve into the power of small gestures and the importance of respecting each other's boundaries. They also take a closer look at the role of physical touch and quality time in expressing love, highlighting the challenges and rewards that come with these love...

Is it wrong to crave the allure of luxury, or can you satisfy your style desires without splurging your savings? On today's Jesus Fix It podcast, we dig deep into the heart of "dupe culture" and how it’s reshaping fashion and lifestyle choices. Remember when toting a Guess or Coach bag was the ultimate status flex? We share a nostalgic laugh over those days while exploring how today's savvy shoppers are replacing high-priced luxuries with budget-friendly alternatives. From "firkins" (the faux Birkin bag) to bargain beauty buys, we're spilling the tea on how to maintain a chic look wi...

Join us for an engaging and heartfelt episode as we celebrate new beginnings and welcome Steph as a permanent co-host of the Jesus Fix It podcast! As we embrace the fresh start of a new year, we discuss our aspirations for 2025, focusing on personal goals and the universal longing for peace and harmony. We express our heartfelt gratitude to our listeners for their unwavering support through the podcast's changes and invite everyone to join us on this journey of faith, laughter, and genuine conversations.

Listen in as we explore the themes of personal growth and reflection, emphasizing...

Growing up, the magic of waking up to a blanket of fresh snow was unbeatable, but the struggle of shoveling and navigating icy roads was a stark reality check. In this episode of the Jesus Fix It Podcast, we reflect on those mixed feelings about winter's wonderland. We embrace the enchantment of snow days, where warm drinks and beloved holiday movies provide the perfect cozy escape, while also acknowledging the practical challenges the season brings. The episode is filled with personal stories that reveal the delicate dance between cherishing the beauty of a snowy Christmas and the longing for...

In this engaging and honest podcast, Stephanie and Jess dive into the complexities of cultural understanding, addressing stereotypes, misconceptions, and sometimes awkward but necessary questions about race, culture, and identity. With humor and warmth, they create a safe space to explore topics like Black hair care, cultural appropriation, food habits, and the nuances of language when discussing race. They share personal stories and genuine curiosity, blending serious discussions with light-hearted moments, all rooted in mutual respect and their shared faith. Whether you’re wondering how to navigate conversations about race or seeking insight into different cultural experiences, this podcast fo...

What happens when faith is put to the ultimate test? In an inspiring episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast, we're joined by Kristy Lair, a remarkable woman who shares her courageous journey through a breast cancer diagnosis at just 42. Kristy's story is one of unyielding faith, resilience, and hope. She opens up about the initial shock and emotional whirlwind of her diagnosis, revealing how her steadfast belief in Jesus and past experiences of divine faithfulness have been her anchor in the storm. Her candid reflections offer a beacon of hope, underscoring that no matter how daunting the challenges...

Join us for a soulful conversation with our esteemed guest Leslie Robb, a multi-talented comedian, teacher, and encourager. We take a journey into Leslie's personal struggles with depression and anxiety, offering a deeper insight into mental health issues and the role therapy plays in healing. Listen as Leslie uses her faith and humor to navigate her way through these challenges. This episode underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health, and you won't want to miss Leslie's enlightening take on finding purpose amidst the pain.

Join us on the Jesus Fix It podcast as we explore the multifaceted world of higher education, career choices, and work-life balance. Our special guest, Aaron Basko, Vice President of University Outreach at the University of Lynchburg, shares his valuable insights on the significance of a college education in today's evolving job market, and finding the thing that God wired you to do. We discuss the financial and personal benefits of obtaining a degree while acknowledging that college may not be the ideal path for everyone. Aaron sheds light on how higher education equips individuals with critical thinking and...

Join us for a heartfelt and insightful episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast as we continue our conversation with Betsy and Chris Head from Karis Care. We explore the critical aspects of caring for our aging and elderly loved ones, focusing on planning for caregiving based on specific events rather than a rigid timetable. Betsy shares valuable tips on maintaining physical abilities through daily activities that promote mobility and independence, drawing from her own mother's inspiring experience of staying active until the age of 97. We also address the challenge of finding compassionate caregivers in a post-COVID world and...

This much-requested episode tackles the emotional and practical challenges of taking care of aging parents. Joined by Betsy and Chris Head from Karis Care Services, we explore how their organization supports families by providing a range of services, from companionship to full personal care. They share valuable insights on maintaining the independence of aging loved ones at home and enhancing their quality of life. We also discuss the overwhelming feelings of guilt that many family caregivers experience and how professional services can help alleviate these burdens.

We discuss the reluctance of older adults to accept help and...

Join us on the latest episode of the Jesus Fix It podcast, where Doug, our enthusiastic sports guest, and I discuss the burgeoning popularity of the WNBA. We delve into how stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have skyrocketed women's basketball into the national spotlight, sparking new fan interest and intense rivalries. Doug shares his newfound admiration for the WNBA, while I reflect on my long-standing love for women's sports. We explore the reactions of new fans experiencing the electrifying intensity of the game for the first time, underscoring how sports can both polarize and captivate.

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In this heartfelt installment, I'm thrilled to have my son Cameron back by popular demand, as we candidly discuss the delicate balance between being a parent and a friend. We laugh, we muse, and we get real about why that "mom voice" or "dad voice" inevitably has to take precedence over buddy-buddy banter. Listen in as Cameron and I explore the affection and respect that form the foundation of our mother-son relationship, all the while understanding that parenting comes with boundaries and sometimes tough love.

The conversation takes a tender turn as we confront the all-too-familiar pangs...

Join Jess and her insightful son, Cameron, as they tackle the complexities of generational work ethics and life perspectives in a conversation that promises to enlighten and entertain. Prepare to be part of an engaging mother-son exchange that delves into the distinctions between Gen Z and Gen X attitudes towards the grind of daily labor and the quest for a fulfilling life. They’re peeling back the layers on how each age group perceives hard work and happiness, with Cameron offering a Gen Z viewpoint on the unique pressures his contemporaries face, while Jess reminisces on the conventional values th...

Can pool time replace bath time for kids? Get ready for a laughter-filled episode as Jess and Amy navigate this humorous debate, share their own technical blunders, and the joys and pitfalls of parenting in the digital age. We dive into the challenges of managing social media backlash and offer practical advice on balancing the joy of sharing personal moments with protecting oneself from negativity. This episode features lighthearted moments infused with genuine insight, making it a must-listen for anyone juggling real-life parenting and the chaotic world of social media.

The conversation then dives into a deeper...

Battling stress can feel like a never-ending war, one I know all too well. As I sat down with my dear friend Pat Farrell, a chaplain who's not only a beacon of hope but has herself navigated the choppy waters of divorce, depression, and anxiety, we opened up about our personal struggles and the solace we've found on this rocky journey. Mental Health Awareness Month might come around once a year, but our candid discussion reveals that the quest for mental wellness is a daily endeavor, one that is both deeply personal and universally understood. We shed light on...

As I've navigated the turbulent waters of life's trials, from witnessing friends confront cancer to feeling the sting of financial pressures and mourning the loss of loved ones like the incredible Mandisa, I've been on a quest for gratitude amid the grief. In this heart-bearing discussion, I share with you how turning our questions into thanks can profoundly alter our approach to life's challenges. I delve into the raw emotions of loss, the struggle to find contentment, and the deep-seated desire to live a life that resonates with purpose and presence, leaving behind a legacy that echoes with hope...

Listen in as I, Jess, along with my dear friend and office manager Grace, navigate the rollercoaster that is life and its myriad of lessons on the Jesus Fix It podcast. Grappling with the irony of my past as a chatty school kid to now making a living through speaking, I recount the struggle of losing my voice to illness and the joy of its return. Our conversation takes a turn into the cautionary world of TikTok fame, as we dissect the viral saga of a TikToker and her whirlwind pandemic marriage gone wrong. It's a tale that serves...

In this heartfelt installment, I'm thrilled to have my son Cameron back by popular demand, as we candidly discuss the delicate balance between being a parent and a friend. We laugh, we muse, and we get real about why that "mom voice" or "dad voice" inevitably has to take precedence over buddy-buddy banter. Listen in as Cameron and I explore the affection and respect that form the foundation of our mother-son relationship, all the while understanding that parenting comes with boundaries and sometimes tough love.

The conversation takes a tender turn as we confront the all-too-familiar pangs...

Join Jess and her insightful son, Cameron, as they tackle the complexities of generational work ethics and life perspectives in a conversation that promises to enlighten and entertain. Prepare to be part of an engaging mother-son exchange that delves into the distinctions between Gen Z and Gen X attitudes towards the grind of daily labor and the quest for a fulfilling life. They’re peeling back the layers on how each age group perceives hard work and happiness, with Cameron offering a Gen Z viewpoint on the unique pressures his contemporaries face, while Jess reminisces on the conventional values th...

Join us on a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of motherhood as we sit down with our special guest, Grace, to unpack the divisive debate between stay-at-home and working moms. We tackle the harsh realities of mom judgement and the guilt that shadows the decisions we make for our children's upbringing and education. Listen in as we share personal stories and confront the unnecessary criticism that clouds the joy of parenting, emphasizing the importance of choosing paths that bring us happiness, be it in the workforce or at home with our little ones.

In this episode of the "Jesus Fix It" podcast, host Jess shares her journey of spiritual growth over the past decade and her outlook for 2024. Dismissing the "new year, new me" cliché, she emphasizes on allowing God to guide her life. Jess discusses her personal struggles and draws parallels with Tasha Cobb Leonard's testimony on overcoming depression. Celebrating her tenth year in ministry, she stresses on the importance of community and encourages listeners to embrace their growth paths. The episode serves as a celebration of resilience and an invitation to enter the new year with an open heart, ready t...

Are you feeling the pressure of the holiday season? Do you ever wonder if it's possible to navigate grief and still find hope amidst the chaos? I'm Jess, and I'm right there with you. In this heartfelt episode, I open up about my own journey through grief after the loss of my father six years ago. The holidays can be tough, but I'm here to tell you that it's okay to feel what we feel. As we journey together through the story of Naomi in the Bible, I encourage you to find your own solace and restoration in Jesus...

Join us for a soulful conversation with our esteemed guest Leslie Robb, a multi-talented comedian, teacher, and encourager. We take a journey into Leslie's personal struggles with depression and anxiety, offering a deeper insight into mental health issues and the role therapy plays in healing. Listen as Leslie uses her faith and humor to navigate her way through these challenges. This episode underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health, and you won't want to miss Leslie's enlightening take on finding purpose amidst the pain.

Navigating the holiday season with family can be complicated. Join me, Jess, as I chat with my good friend, Doug Day, and we dive headfirst into the subject. He shares his experiences traveling long distances with his young family, including managing when things don't go as planned, navigating family dynamics, and setting healthy boundaries so that time spent with family can be as joyful and drama-free as possible. Please tune in to our down-to-earth conversation for some wisdom on tackling the highs and lows of the holiday season.

I am excited to be joined by Annie Lambert, a woman on a divine expedition to visit every church in our city, Lynchburg, VA. Her spiritual journey, guided by the Holy Spirit, has challenged her comfort zone. Annie's undertaking is a testament to the healing power of faith and the beauty of diversity in worship. From hymns in different languages to understanding the nuances of various denominations, this daring journey has been an enlightening adventure for Annie and a catalyst for growth. Learn more about Annie’s visits on her blog LynchburgVAChurch.com. 

Join Jess and special guest, Kayla Sanders, as we explore the freedom of giving yourself permission to enjoy life and set your own boundaries. We touch on the struggle of allowing yourself to indulge in that piece of cake, saying 'no' without an explanation, loving your body as it is, and having the freedom to change your mind about things. You can give yourself permission to be who you really are and who God made you to be!

We're entering a new season with a few changes. So what happened to Seth? Tune in to find out! Also, I will offer a boost of encouragement for ending 2023 strong. Remember, it's not about how we start the race, but how we finish it.