Advertise on podcast: Honestly, Though

Rebecca Carrell and Liz Rodriguez sit down with Seana Scott to talk about her new book, Believe, and why the Gospel of John is such a rich place to encounter Jesus. They explore how devotion and theology belong together, why ordinary obedience matters more than big platform language, and how Scripture can meet both the doubter and the longtime believer. In this episode, they also talk honestly about learning to read the Bible, hearing God through His Word, and why John’s Gospel is especially helpful for people who want to know Jesus more deeply and personally. Seana’s devotional reading pattern: Pray and dump out the mental clutterAsk the Holy Spirit to speak through the textRead the passage slowly and in contextNotice what is actually being saidIdentify what the Spirit is highlightingTurn truth into prayerCarry that truth into daily obedienceSweet Potato Brownies 1 cup mashed sweet potato1 cup almond butter2 eggs1 1/2 t vanilla extract1/2 t almond extract2/3 c. cocoa powder2/3 c maple syrup1/2 cup chocolate chips1/2 cup Reeces Peanut Butter Chips1/2 - 1 t sea salt1/2 t baking sodaMash sweet potato, almond butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla, almond extract, salt, and baking soda together. Slowly stir in 1/2 c chocolate chips. Take a little bit of sea salt and sprinkle the top of the mixture after putting it in a square baking pan (either spray with cooking spray or use parchment paper to line). Sprinkle RPC chips across the top. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes. DEVOUR.

Rebecca Carrell, Liz Rodriguez, and Nika catch up on major life changes, from new jobs and ministry shifts to empty nesting, writing projects, and the rhythms of following God in a new season. What starts with peacocks, golden retrievers, and WNBA talk turns into an honest conversation about calling, burnout, friendship, and how God shapes different seasons of faithfulness.

Rebecca Carrell and Liz Rodriguez welcome Bible teacher and theologian Misty Hedrick for a rich conversation about Dolly Parton, the book of Esther, and why flattened stories of women do a disservice to the text and to readers. Sharing her PhD research, Misty shows us why neglecting the book of Esther is to neglect one of the most gospel-rich books in the Old Testament. Find Misty on Substack HERE. We love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

What happens when a man raised in a devout Hindu home encounters Jesus? Kamal Manik grew up in Mumbai, India, immersed in Hinduism and deeply committed to his faith. But his search for God eventually led him somewhere he never expected—to Jesus Christ. In this episode, Rebecca Carrell and guest host Dr. Josh Winn sit down with Kamal to hear his remarkable story. Along the way, Kamal helps us understand the Hindu beliefs that shaped his childhood—from karma and dharma to reincarnation and spiritual power—and what changed when he encountered the gospel. This is more than a conversation about two different religions. It’s a conversation about striving versus grace, uncertainty versus assurance, and trying to earn your way to God versus discovering the God who came looking for you. Today, Kamal’s story has come full circle as he prepares to plant a church in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and share the hope of Jesus with others. If you’ve ever wondered what Hindus believe, how Christians can lovingly engage their Hindu friends and neighbors, or what makes the gospel of Jesus so radically different, this conversation is for you. We love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected] or on Twitter: @TBStandridge

Where is God in math? Join Rebecca Carrell and Liz Rodriguez in this episode of Honestly, Though, as we explore the fascinating intersection of faith, mathematics, and statistics. Dr. Jason Wilson serves at Biola University and has a passion for revealing God's fingerprint through numbers. Discover how understanding data can deepen your faith, enhance your discernment, and testify to the Creator’s divine design. REFERENCES: Statistics and Faith by Dr. Jason Wilson Association of Christians in the Mathematical SciencesSeeing Through Statistics by Jessica UtzConnect with Dr. Jason Wilson: LinkedInPersonal WebsiteWe love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

What is the Didache and why does it matter? In this episode of Honestly, Though, we explore the fascinating world of one of the oldest Christian documents outside the New Testament. Join us as Dr. Alan Garrow unpacks its significance, historical evolution, and relevance for believers today, revealing how ancient practices still shape contemporary faith. Resources & Links: The Didache Discoveries: Recovering the Apostolic Decree and the Missing Epistle of John (Book)We love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

Rebecca and guest co-host Dr. Josh Winn of Dallas Theological Seminary sit down with Dr. Gary Schnittjer, a seasoned Old Testament scholar, to explore how the earliest authors of the biblical texts understood the Scriptures. We uncover how understanding the interconnected story of the gospel transforms our approach to Bible study and deepens our faith journey. Resources & Links: Connected: How Scripture Guides the Study of Scripture by Dr. Gary Schnittjer Dr. Gary Schnittjer’s SubstackStory of Scripture Podcast We love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

Do you ever wish your life followed a different storyline? Join Rebecca, special guest co-host Dr. Kelley Mathews, and Mary DeMuth as they invite you to "Restory Your Life. This episode explores the power of storytelling in healing, the biblical foundation of suffering and restoration, and practical steps for trusting the pen to Jesus to write a different story for you. Whether you're in the midst of hardship or celebrating victory, this conversation offers hope, encouragement, and biblical insights that apply to every facet of life's journey. Resources and Links: Kelly Matthews's dissertation "More Than a Mother"Restory Your Life by Mary DeMuthThe Estuary SubstackThe Psalms of LamentConnect with Mary DeMuth: WebsiteXInstagramConnect with Kelly Matthews: WebsiteXSubstack: The EstuaryWe love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

In this episode, Rebecca and Liz welcome Dallas Theological Seminary President Dr. Mark Yarbrough to discuss maintaining and rekindling a vibrant faith. Drawing from Scripture and personal stories, Dr. Yarbrough explains the various ways our faith can cool, and offers six essential principles for fanning the flame. Dry seasons—even desert seasons—are a normal part of the Christian walk. Even the earliest church fathers spoke of seasons of consolation and desolation. We hope and pray that this conversation provides the spark your weary heart needs. Resources & Links: The Rekindled Heart Story of Scripture Mark Yarbrough Dallas Theological Seminary We love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

This week on Honestly, Though, Rebecca and Liz sit down with Christine Crawford for a deeply honest conversation about trauma, soul care, rest, and what it means to follow Jesus as whole human beings—not just floating heads with theology degrees. Christine shares how her work in trauma-informed spiritual formation led her to rethink some of the harmful messages many Christians have absorbed about rest, weakness, emotions, and even our physical bodies. Together, we explore why soul care isn’t self-indulgent—it’s deeply biblical. Resources Mentioned: Christine Crawford’s ministry: The Holy ShiftThe Draw Near seriesCenter for Mind-Body MedicineConnect with Christine: TheHolyShift.orgInstagramFacebookAnd friends—wherever you are today, may you remember this: You are allowed to be human. You are allowed to rest. And you are deeply loved by God.

In this episode of Honestly, Though, Rebecca and Liz sit down with Tiffany Stein to explore the profound truth about grief, suffering, and God's nearness. Tiffany shares her personal journey through the devastating loss of her son, revealing how grief shapes our understanding of God's character and invites us into deeper faith.  Resources: Mourning God: Grieving Loss, Wrestling with God, and Finding Your Way Back to LifeDallas Theological SeminaryHarney & Sons Hot Cinnamon TeaJohn Mark Comer on Biblical HopeConnect with Tiffany: InstagramWebsiteWe love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of depression and suicidality. Please listen with care, and consider sharing or listening alongside someone you trust if this is a sensitive topic for you. On this episode of Honestly, Though, Rebecca Carrell and Nika Spaulding sit down with author and mental health advocate Chris Morris to talk about his powerful book Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression. Chris shares candidly from his own lifelong battle with depression and suicidality, offering a deeply personal and faith-filled perspective on what it means to follow God in the midst of ongoing mental health struggles. His story challenges the misconception that faith automatically eliminates suffering—and instead points to a God who is present even in the darkest places. Together, we explore the intersection of theology and mental health, the stigma surrounding these conversations in the church, and what it looks like to pursue healing without shame. This episode is honest, compassionate, and full of hope for anyone who has struggled—or loves someone who has. About the Book: Resilient and Redeemed weaves together biblical truth, personal story, and practical insight to help readers navigate depression and suicidality with honesty and hope. Drawing from his own experiences, Chris offers encouragement for those facing shame, misunderstanding, and long-term mental health battles—reminding readers that God has not abandoned them. Connect with Chris Morris: Website/Blog: https://chrismorriswrites.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrismorriswrites Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrismorriswrites X: https://x.com/chrismorriswriteMore from Chris Morris:Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and DepressionBy Faith: Strength and Hope for Life’s ChallengesResources: If you or someone you love is struggling: Call or text 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Your support helps more people find hope-filled conversations like this one.

In this episode of "Honestly, Though: Real Talk. Real Life. Real Faith," Liz and Rebecca welcome Taylor Standridge to explore the biblical and theological foundations of contentment, stewardship, and the elusive concept of "enough." If you're tired of chasing more and want to discover the freedom Christ offers in trusting God's provision, this conversation is for you. Resources & Links: Find FaithFi: Faith and Finance at https://www.faithfi.com/ We love hugs! And when you rate, review, and share Honestly, Though on Apple Podcasts (and all podcast platforms), we see it immediately, and it feels just like a big, warm hug. Thank you in advance for taking an extra moment to make sure others find us in the algorithms. And speaking of finding us... Honestly, Though: @honestlythoughthepodcast (FB & IG) Rebecca Carrell: https://www.rebeccacarrell.com/ ;  IG - @RebeccaCarrell ; X: @RebeccaACarrell ; FB - Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell Liz Rodriguez: IG: @lizannrodriguez ; FB - Liz Rodriguez - https://www.facebook.com/liz.rodriguez.92775 Nika Spaulding: https://www.nikaspaulding.com ; IG - @NikaAdidas ; X - @NikaAdidas We have the world's best producer! Are you interested in podcasting? Do you know someone who is? Taylor Standridge can help with audio engineering, production, editing, show mapping, and coaching. Connect with Taylor at [email protected].

In this episode of "Honestly, Though: Real Talk. Real Life. Real Faith," Rebecca Carrell sits down with Dr. Christine M. Crawford and Dr. Kelley Matthews to unpack the pain of toxic relationships, the importance of truth, and what biblical love really looks like. This candid conversation explores the harmful theology that's often embedded in Christian culture and offers encouragement for women seeking healing and wholeness in Christ. Resources & LinksThe Holy Shift PodcastKelly Matthews on SubstackBooks by Christine CrawfordDallas Theological SeminaryHouston Christian UniversityConnect with Christine Crawford:InstagramWebsite

On this episode of Honestly, Though, Dr. Carmen Imes joins Rebecca Carrell and guest co-host Dr. Kelley Mathews for a timely conversation about loving our Iranian neighbors in the midst of national conflict. Together, they reframe the tension by reminding us that every nation is filled with image-bearers of God—and that our true struggle is not against people but against the spiritual forces at work behind the scenes. With pastoral wisdom and biblical insight, Carmen invites us to stay attentive to the Spirit’s leading, looking for everyday opportunities to extend the love of Christ across cultural and political divides. Resources & Links:Carmen Imes’ Books: Bearing God's Name, Being God's Image, Becoming God's FamilyKelly Matthews’ Books and ArticlesExodus: An Archaeological PerspectiveLogos Bible SoftwareThe Well (Online Theology & Resources)Connect with our guests:Kelly Matthews - Twitter, LinkedInCarmen Imes - Website, TwitterLast Words: Friends, as we close, let’s remember that our sharing, listening, and small acts of kindness can be powerful tools to cultivate God’s kingdom here on earth. Commitment to scripture fuels us to answer every question and navigate every challenge with hope rooted in Christ. Always seek to act with compassion, humility, and grace—because in doing so, we reflect Jesus to a hurting world.