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What if one of the greatest gifts we could offer someone isn't our advice, our answers, or even our ability to fix what hurts—but simply our presence? In this episode of Rhythms That Restore, Cherisse welcomes her friend Karen Woelke for a beautiful conversation about faith, friendship, leadership, and the quiet ways God shapes our lives through the people who walk beside us. Karen is a wife, mother, Chief People Officer, and Executive Coach whose heart for people has been shaped by the wisdom of her parents, the experience of grief, and a growing understanding of what she calls the ministry of presence. Together, Cherisse and Karen explore what it means to show up for others, to allow ourselves to be known and cared for, and to trust God's faithfulness in seasons of change and uncertainty. In This Conversation, You'll Hear About: The lasting impact of having someone believe in you and invite your voice into the conversation. Why showing up for someone can be more meaningful than finding the right words. How grief can deepen our understanding of faith, community, and the gift of presence. The courage to follow God's gentle nudges without knowing exactly where they'll lead. Trading expectations for expectancy and discovering joy in what God provides. The freedom that comes with growing older, listening more, and releasing the need to control outcomes. Why we all need people who will help carry us when we cannot carry ourselves. Karen reminds us that we were never meant to walk through life alone. Sometimes the most sacred thing we can do is simply be there. So pull up a chair, friend. Whether you're walking through a season of transition, longing for deeper friendships, or learning to trust God with what's next, we hope this conversation offers encouragement for the journey. A gentle invitation: Who in your life might need the gift of your presence this week? And where might God be inviting you to let someone show up for you? Episode Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome to Rhythms That Restore 07:14 — The wisdom of listening instead of always giving advice 13:24 — Making room for meaningful relationships 19:20 — The power of someone believing in you 31:02 — Grief, faith, and discovering the ministry of presence 33:24 — Why simply showing up matters 38:08 — Allowing community to help carry us 43:32 — Saying yes to a new season of growth 50:19 — Finding courage to take the next step 54:58 — A year of Jubilee and learning to trust 57:12 — Expectations versus expectancy 1:02:30 — Humility, leadership, and freedom 1:05:53 — Encouragement for the weary and uncertain Connect with Karen Woelke If Karen's story resonated with you, or you'd love to connect with her about faith, leadership, coaching, or the ministry of presence, you can find her here: Email: [email protected] Instagram: @woelkefam Connect with Cherisse & Rhythms That Restore I'd love to hear from you! Whether you have a reflection to share, a question, or simply want to connect, you're always welcome to reach out. Email: [email protected] Website: cherissehixson.com You can listen to Rhythms That Restore on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or watch our conversations on YouTube. If this conversation encouraged you, consider sharing it with a friend who might need a reminder that they are seen, loved, and never meant to walk through life alone. Thank you for pulling up a chair and being part of this community.

In this solo episode of Rhythms That Restore, Cherisse gathers some of the pieces God has been placing in front of her over the past few months—from conversations with Spirital Director Allison Bradsher and Counselor Christy Edwards, to the invitation to slow down and truly see what is in front of us, to one unforgettable afternoon in a lavender field in Provence. Sitting among the lavender, Cherisse learned how farmers begin a new crop with a sprig from a healthy mother plant. They literally get down into the dirt and plant each tiny sprig—one by one, row after row. That image has stayed with her. Before the bloom, there is tending. And perhaps this is a picture of the way God tends us, too—not from a distance, but up close, meeting us in the soil of our actual lives. Together, we'll reflect on what it means to remain connected to Jesus, pay attention to the soil of our lives, receive the loving care of the Gardener, and tend what God has actually entrusted to us—without trying to manufacture the fruit. As you listen, carry these gentle questions with you: • Where might God be inviting you to let yourself be tended right now? • What are you tending—and is it where you actually want to see fruit? • Lord, what are You inviting me to tend in this season? You don't have to see the whole picture. You don't have to hold it all together. You can remain. You can receive. And you can trust God with what grows. A Few Trellises for Your Own Journey In this episode, Cherisse shares the image of a trellis—simple structures and practices that support us as we remain connected to Jesus and become more like Him. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you're longing for more silence, spaciousness, and time to listen for God, here are some opportunities to consider: 3-Day Silent Retreat with Allison Bradsher | November 2–5 Allison Bradsher, Cherisse's spiritual direction teacher and mentor and a recent guest on Rhythms That Restore, will be leading a three-day silent retreat in November. If you're interested in attending and would like to find out whether space is still available, email Allison at [email protected] for more information. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- First Friday Silent Retreats | St. Columba Retreat Center If a three-day retreat feels like too much right now, perhaps a monthly rhythm of silence could become one of the trellises supporting your own life with God. St. Columba Retreat Center in Bartlett, Tennessee offers First Friday opportunities to step away from the noise, enter into silence and prayer, and simply make room to be with God. Learn more and find upcoming opportunities at www.saintcolumba.org. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Come Wander with Welcome Wanderers Many of the moments I share in this episode came from my recent journey through the South of France with my dear friend Emily "EMYO" Ozier and Welcome Wanderers. Welcome Wanderers creates thoughtfully curated travel experiences for women that make room for adventure, creativity, meaningful connection, cultural experiences, and intentional pauses for reflection and wonder. My time in France was such a beautiful reminder of what can happen when we slow down enough to really see what is in front of us—and share the experience alongside other women. If something about my stories from France has made you think, I want to experience something like that too, you can learn more about Emily, upcoming international adventures, and ways to wander with Welcome Wanderers here: Welcome Wanderers by EMYO: www.welcome-wanderers.com Maybe your next brave yes is waiting somewhere you haven't wandered yet. 🤍 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Let's Stay Connected And friends, I would truly love to hear from you. If something in this episode stirred something in your own faith journey—or if you simply need a place to share what God seems to be tending in you right now—please reach out. I would love to hear your story, and I hope you always know that you don't have to walk this journey alone. I'm here to listen, encourage you, and walk beside you as together we learn to notice God's presence and the rhythms that restore our souls. Email me anytime: [email protected]  Scripture referenced: John 6:12 • John 15 • Psalm 1 • 2 Corinthians 5:17 And if this conversation meets you where you are today, consider sharing it with a friend who might need this reminder too: The life you've been given is worth tending.

What if the places where we feel weakest, most uncertain, or most overwhelmed aren't signs that we're failing—but invitations to remember that we were never meant to hold it all together? In this episode of Rhythms That Restore, Cherisse sits down with her friend Christy Edwards, a biblical counselor here in Memphis, Tn with a heart for walking alongside others through grief, loss, uncertainty, and life's tender seasons. Their conversation begins with something simple: birds, watercolor, slowing down, and learning to really see. But from there, Christy invites us into a deeper conversation about what happens when life gives us more than we can carry. Christy shares honestly about her own journey from self-sufficiency toward surrender, including a season of caring for her mother through Alzheimer's. Faced with decisions, responsibility, grief, and the realization that she could never be everything her mother needed, Christy began learning a truth that continues to shape her life: God is the Good Shepherd. We don't have to be. Together, Cherisse and Christy talk about the pressure so many of us carry to be strong, capable, helpful, and okay—and the freedom that comes when we bring our actual humanity before God. What if we are allowed to have needs? What if we don't have to know what comes next? What if weakness can become an invitation into deeper dependence on God? And what if surrender sometimes begins with something as simple as an exhale? In this conversation, you'll hear about: releasing self-sufficiency and the pressure to hold everything together trusting God in seasons of uncertainty, grief, and loss receiving God's love without performing for it recognizing our needs, limits, and humanity breath prayer and returning to God's presence when anxiety pulls us into the past or future noticing how grief and stress can show up in our bodies tending to our minds, hearts, bodies, and souls with compassion caregiving and learning to release the people we love into God's care the biblical practice of lament and permission to name what hurts allowing safe, trusted friends to sit beside us when we don't have the words slowing down long enough to notice beauty, delight, and God's presence remembering that God is our refuge, protector, provider, and Good Shepherd Christy reminds us that we don't have to be the strong one. We don't have to have all the answers. We don't have to rush through grief or make our pain productive. We are allowed to be human. And perhaps one of the most beautiful things we can learn is that God's greatest gift isn't always an explanation. Sometimes His gift is simply His presence. So wherever this conversation finds you today, may you remember that you don't have to carry what was never yours to carry alone. May you bring your questions, grief, uncertainty, and deepest needs into the presence of the Good Shepherd—and discover that He has been holding you all along. CONNECT WITH CHRISTY To connect with Christy Edwards or learn more about her work, you can reach her at: [email protected] AN INVITATION TO SILENCE & REST If these conversations are stirring a desire to slow down, listen, and make more room for God's presence, we would love to invite you to experience a silent retreat at St. Columba in Memphis, Tennessee. Monthly "First Friday" Silent Retreats are offered on the first Friday of each month and provide a beautiful space to step away from the noise and spend intentional time in silence, prayer, rest, reflection, and listening.  For information about St. Columba, upcoming retreats, and registration, visit: www.saintcolumbamemphis.org This fall, Spiritual Director & Retreat Host Allison Bradsher will also be hosting a three-day silent retreat in Stanton,Tn November 2–5. This extended retreat is an opportunity to step away from ordinary rhythms for several days of silence, rest, prayer, and time with God. For questions about the November 3 Day Silent Retreat or to connect with Allison Bradsher: [email protected] STAY CONNECTED WITH RHYTHMS THAT RESTORE If today's conversation encouraged you, would you consider sharing it with a friend who may be carrying more than she was meant to carry alone? And be sure to follow or subscribe to Rhythms That Restore on your favorite podcast platform so you don't miss our next conversation. If you have a moment to leave a five-star rating and review, it is one of the simplest ways you can help more people discover these conversations. Thank you for pulling up a chair and journeying alongside us as we learn to slow down, listen for God, and discover rhythms that restore our minds, hearts, bodies, and spirits.

Hello, friend! So glad you pulled up a chair with me today. Have you ever wished God would just hand you the whole picture — the plan, the outcome, the "why" — before asking you to take the next step? In this episode, Cherisse shares what an entire month of living inside uncertainty taught her about paying attention instead of demanding answers. Using the image of a puzzle poured out on a table, Cherisse walks through three stories from her own life this past month: a Scripture that kept finding her no matter where she turned, a return to a retreat center exactly one year after a season of deep unknowing, and an "astonishment walk" that reminded her the birds had been singing all along — she just couldn't hear them over the sound of her own movement. This episode is an invitation to stop needing the whole picture, and instead be faithful with the one piece already in your hands. In this episode: Why God sometimes brings the same message back again and again — and how to respond when He does The puzzle metaphor for spiritual discernment and living without full knowing A return visit to St. Columba Retreat Center, one year later, with different eyes What an "astonishment walk" is, and how to take your own this week Resting in "remain" instead of demanding a map for God's will Mentioned in this episode: Lectio 365 app Into the Heart of God: A Journey with Jesus Through the Gospel of John by Jim Branch Episode 79, "Held in Mystery," with Allison Upcoming Retreats: 🕊️ First Friday Silent Retreats — held every first Friday of the month at St. Columba Retreat Center in Bartlett, TN. Learn more and register at saintcolumbamemphis.org — click "Silent Retreats." 🕊️ 3-Day Silent Retreat — hosted by Spiritual Director Allison Bradsher in Stanton, TN. November 2nd (6:00 PM) through Thursday, November 5th (10:00 AM). A few spots remain — email [email protected] for more info or to register. Let's Stay Connected: I'd love to stay connected with you between episodes! Find me on Instagram at @cherissehixson01 or @rhythmsthatrestorepodcast, or reach out anytime by email at [email protected]. If today's episode encouraged you, would you consider sharing it with a friend who might need it too? And if you have a moment, leaving a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform helps other women find this show and be encouraged along the way. Thank you for being here — it means so much. Until next time, friend, may you find peace in knowing that you can show up every day simply as you are. That is enough.

Learning to trust God's love even without the answer. What if mature faith isn't about having fewer questions — but learning where to bring them? So many of us quietly carry questions about our children, our relationships, our future, our faith. And when life feels uncertain, our instinct is to reach for answers, formulas, anything that might make us feel more in control. But what if there's another way? In this conversation, Cherisse sits down with Spiritual Director, Teacher/Retreat Host and friend Allison Bradsher to explore what it looks like to make room for mystery while still pursuing wisdom. Together, they talk about the difference between certainty and wisdom, why unanswered questions feel so uncomfortable, and how our deepest questions may actually become invitations into greater intimacy and trust with God. Allison shares honestly about the questions she carries as a parent, the pull toward imagined future outcomes, and the practice of returning to what is real and present today. She also offers practical ways to bring our questions to God — through journaling, prayer, and spiritual direction. Maybe we don't need to rush toward an answer. Maybe the invitation is to remain. To trust that God is present. To discover that even in the mystery, we are held. As Allison reminds us: "Your question is a treasure." May our unanswered questions become pathways into deeper faith, hope, love, and companionship with God. In this episode... Why we're so uncomfortable with uncertainty — and what's really underneath that discomfort The difference between certainty and wisdom, and why we don't have to choose one How our questions can become "keys" and "portals" into deeper relationship with God Allison's honest reflections on the questions she carries as a parent The practice of returning to "right here, right now" instead of the imagined future A simple journaling practice for bringing raw, unfiltered questions to God What spiritual direction actually is (and isn't) Allison's closing prayer: "God, would you bless our unanswered questions Connect with Allison Bradsher: 📸 Instagram: @allibradphotos 📩 Email: [email protected] Connect with Cherisse: 🌐 Website: www.cherissehixson.com 📸 Instagram: @cherissehixson01 New to Rhythms That Restore? If you're tired, weary, and longing for a space to slow down and reconnect with Jesus, you're in the right place. Each week, we explore what it looks like to rest, restore, and renew our souls in His presence — through honest conversation, scripture, and stories from women just like you. Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and if this one spoke to you, we'd love for you to share it with a friend who needs it too.

What happens when the busyness of life drowns out the beauty right in front of you? Sometimes all the Lord is asking for is your "BRAVE YES". This season, Rhythms That Restore is exploring what it means to REMAIN with Jesus — not just on a Sunday morning, or at a  Silent Retreat, but in the middle of an ordinary, full, busy life. Some weeks it'll be just us. Other weeks, I'll pull up a chair with a friend who's helped shape my faith journey — on our next episode, you will hear from my friend who is a Spiritual Director & Retreat Host, Allison Bradsher. In this first episode of a new season, I'm sharing what happened when I finally said "yes" to three full days of silence at a 3 Night Silent Retreat — a tree planted right outside my window, an unexpected conversation at the dinner table, and a rest I couldn't have planned or earned. I'm learning that the rhythm of rest bears a fruit I've been searching for in so many other ways: freedom. If you're curious about Allison's next Silent Retreat — her next one starts Monday evening, November 2nd at 6:00pm through Thursday, November 5th at 10:00am — you can reach her directly for more info at [email protected]. Pull up a chair, friend. I'm so glad to be back with you. If this episode touched your heart, if it resonated deep within you, or if you just have something you want to share — I'd love to hear from you. Find me on Instagram @cherissehixson01 or connect via email: [email protected] Episode Highlights 00:03:59 — The word "nothing" surfaces during a moment of silence, and the funny, tender idea of inviting friends to "come do nothing" is born 00:05:36 — A six-year journey of learning to sit in silence, starting with a single 3-hour retreat back in 2021 00:08:21 — Arriving at the retreat to find a tree planted right outside her window — an echo of the Psalm 1 image she opened with 00:09:35 — A new friend at the dinner table shares how she found her own spiritual director through the Rhythms That Restore podcast — a moment that breaks something open 00:12:24 – 00:13:51 — Two full days of unplanned rest: sleeping, eating, watching birds and a storm roll in, with nothing to accomplish 00:16:50 — The question she's carrying into the new season: "Can 'remain' survive a season like this one?" 00:18:31 — A preview of next episode with Allison Bradsher — on questions as portals, not problems to solve

Who knows a rested woman? We all know women who are stressed out, burned out, exhausted, successful, anxious, depressed—but truly rested? This question from "The Relaxed Woman" stopped me in my tracks and led to one of the most important decisions I've made in years. In this deeply personal episode—number 77, a number that speaks of completion and perfect forgiveness—I'm sharing why I'm pausing the podcast for this season. But this isn't just my story. It's an invitation for every woman who's been giving her best to everyone else and her exhaustion to her family. We'll explore: The biblical significance of 77 and what completion really means Why pruning isn't punishment—it's preparation for new growth How hurry and love simply cannot coexist The revolutionary power of celebrating each other's brave NO's The parable of the fake pearls and what God might be asking you to release Featuring wisdom from Dallas Willard, John Mark Comer, Ruth Haley Barton, Emily P. Freeman, and Eugene Peterson's beautiful translation of Jesus' invitation to "live freely and lightly." This episode is for every woman stepping into November wondering how she'll survive another holiday season. It's permission to open your hands. It's an invitation to trust that God holds all things together—not you. What fake pearls are you clutching? What if your Father has real ones waiting? Episode Note: This is the final episode for this season as I step into Spiritual Direction training and explore finishing my degree at Mississippi State after 27 years. Thank you for 77 beautiful conversations. See you in the next season. 🤍 Connect with me on Instagram @cherissehixson01 or Facebook: Cherisse Hixson and continue to follow along in the journey with me. Or connect at www.cherissehixson.com

Welcome back, friends! We're wrapping up our BECOMING Series with a powerful reunion—Hannah Marks is back! When Hannah first joined us in July 2024 (Episode 18), she had just experienced breakthrough freedom from 18 years of debilitating anxiety and physical bondage on Saint Patrick's Day 2019. Today, she returns to share how that spiritual freedom launched her into an unexpected calling: helping women and men reclaim their health through body, mind, and soul healing. As a certified health coach and founder of Whole by Hannah, Hannah specializes in hormone regulation, personalized nutrition, and root-cause healing—all anchored in a deep relationship with Jesus. Her approach isn't about quick fixes or band-aids; it's about transformation from the inside out. If you've been on a years-long journey trying to figure out what's wrong—if you've been told your labs are normal but you feel anything but—this conversation is for you. Hannah understands because she's lived it. And now she's helping countless women get their lives back. In This Episode Hannah Shares: How her pivotal Saint Patrick's Day 2019 moment of commanding anxiety to leave changed everything Why we need Jesus AND practical health wisdom—not either/or but both/and HerBody, Mind, Soul framework for becoming whole The difference between spiritual strongholds and physical dysfunction Why 92% of Americans have an insulin issue (and how to fix it in 2 weeks!) The two root causes behind most health issues: insulin or hormones How birth control and infertility treatments disrupt your body's hormone production Why whole foods matter and what happened when she ate a Krispy Kreme donut The mind games we play with ourselves and how to break negative thought patterns Her powerful message: "It's never too late"—as long as you're breathing, you can transform Walking through divorce while staying whole in Christ Why your body isn't broken—it's trying to communicate with you About Hannah Marks: Originally from Great Britain, Hannah Marks has called the United States home for 30 years. After having her thyroid removed and struggling with strokes, autoimmune conditions, and debilitating anxiety for nearly two decades, Hannah experienced complete spiritual freedom in 2019. This breakthrough transformed not only her life but launched her into a new calling. For the past five years, Hannah has been helping women and men become whole through her health coaching practice, Whole by Hannah. She specializes in reading comprehensive blood work, addressing insulin resistance and hormone imbalances, and teaching people how to fuel their bodies with whole foods—all while grounding everything in a deep relationship with Jesus. At 48, Hannah says her body looks and feels better than ever. She's a devoted mom to Will (16) and London, actively involved at Connect Church in Springfield, Missouri, and finds her strength in daily time with Jesus—especially during this current season of walking through an unwanted divorce with grace and faith. Hannah's Heart: "It's never too late. As long as you're breathing and you're alive today, you have the opportunity to turn everything around. You have the opportunity to turn your life around, your body around, your emotions—everything. It's never too late." Pull up a chair, beloved. This conversation will minister to your weary soul AND body. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction 03:06 - Hannah's Story: From Episode 18 to Now 04:21 - The Pivotal Saint Patrick's Day 2019 Moment 06:48 - Discovering the Stronghold of Fear 10:16 - Walking in Freedom for 5 Years 12:25 - Current Season: Divorce & God's Faithfulness 15:32 - From Music Teacher to Health Coach 16:25 - Mayo Clinic Discovery: Not Strokes, But Migraines 18:15 - Finding the Right Doctor Who Believed Her 21:25 - God Created Our Bodies to Heal 22:17 - Stepping Into Her Authority 23:08 - Body, Mind, Soul Framework: Why Jesus is the Starting Point 28:47 - Taking Off the Mask: We're All a Mess 29:33 - The Mind: Hormones, Emotions & Thought Patterns 32:24 - Normalizing Anxiety & Depression: It's Often Hormonal 34:50 - Breaking Negative Thought Patterns 36:56 - The Body: Lies We've Been Told 40:01 - Diabetes Reversal Story 42:12 - The Two Root Causes: Insulin or Hormones 43:18 - Understanding Insulin Resistance (92% of Americans!) 46:10 - How Birth Control & Infertility Treatments Disrupt Hormones 48:31 - Catching Issues Early: Trust Your Body 50:16 - Why Whole Foods Matter 51:37 - How American Food Damaged Her Body 54:10 - Milling Her Own Wheat: 44 Nutrients in One Waffle 55:42 - The Krispy Kreme Donut Experiment 56:29 - Hannah's One Truth: "It's Never Too Late" 57:44 - The House Fire Story: God Makes Beauty From Ashes 59:20 - Closing & How to Connect Hannah Marks is a certified health coach, speaker, and founder of Whole by Hannah. Originally from Great Britain, Hannah has called the United States home for the past 30 years, though her charming British accent remains unmistakably intact. Hannah's journey into holistic health wasn't planned—it was deeply personal. After having her thyroid removed 18 years ago, she spent nearly two decades struggling with what doctors thought were strokes, autoimmune conditions, debilitating anxiety, depression, and complex health issues that left her desperate for answers. Despite countless doctor visits, medications, and being told "your labs are normal," Hannah knew something was deeply wrong. Everything changed on Saint Patrick's Day 2019 when, after reading The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson, Hannah discovered she had a stronghold of fear over her life. In a powerful moment at church, she commanded the spirit of anxiety to leave in Jesus' name—and it did. After ten months of continuous anxiety attacks, she was instantly and completely free. But Hannah's freedom journey didn't stop there. As a pastor's kid who grew up in "the most beautiful home," she realized that if she didn't understand her authority in Christ, countless other women didn't either. This spiritual breakthrough led her to pursue answers for her physical health, eventually connecting with a doctor who helped her understand insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, and the power of whole foods. For the past five years, Hannah has been guiding women and men through their own transformative journeys. She specializes in comprehensive blood work analysis, addressing the two root causes of most health issues (insulin or hormones), personalized nutrition, and teaching people to advocate for their own health—all while grounding everything in a relationship with Jesus Christ. At 48, Hannah says her body looks and feels better than ever. She's a proud mom to Will (16) and London, teaches elementary music two days a week at her children's school, actively serves at Connect Church in Springfield, Missouri, and finds her daily strength in quiet time with Jesus. Currently walking through an unwanted divorce, Hannah is living proof that it's never too late to become whole—body, mind, and soul. Her clients consistently say they've "gotten their lives back," experiencing reversed diabetes, balanced hormones, renewed energy, and rediscovered joy. CONNECT WITH HANNAH Instagram: @britishhannah Website: wholebyhannah.com Email: [email protected] Location: Springfield, Missouri Church: Connect Church, Springfield, MO RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson (the book that changed Hannah's life) Stop the Thyroid Madness (book that helped Hannah understand thyroid function) Previous Rhythms That Restore episode: "Freedom" with Hannah Marks - Episode 18 (July 4, 2024) Whole by Hannah health coaching services Hannah's website testimonials (including the diabetes reversal story) Connect Church, Springfield, MO

Becoming Confident: How Style Reveals the Light Within with Stylist Shelby Tucker What if getting dressed could be more than just putting on clothes? What if it could be an act of soul care that helps you walk confidently in who God has called you to be? In this episode of our "Becoming" series, my friend Shelby Tucker returns to share how she transitioned from owning a successful retail boutique to becoming a personal stylist who helps women elevate their everyday confidence. But this conversation goes so much deeper than fashion. Shelby opens up about: The courage it took to close her brick-and-mortar store when God called her to something new How to recognize when good things have become idols in our lives Practical ways to take our thoughts captive daily The difference between wearing clothes and truly styling yourself Why investing in yourself isn't vanity—it's stewardship of the light God placed within you How to identify your "last guidepost" when you're unsure of the next step Finding freedom in surrender and living one day at a time If you've been living in leggings and t-shirts since 2020, feel stuck in your closet, or simply know there's more confidence waiting to be unlocked within you, this episode is for you. Connect with Shelby: Website: https://shelbyjewel.com (Book your free 30-45 minute consultation!) Instagram: @shelbyjewel | @shopshelbyjewel | @shopshelbyscloset Shelby works with women in all seasons of life—whether you need vacation styling, corporate wardrobe updates, everyday elevation, or are preparing for a special event. Her heart is to help you reveal the light that's already within you.  To learn more about Shelby and her story scroll back to Episode 12 "Your Story Matters with Shelby Tucker: Living a Life of Surrender" and learn more of her story.  Ready to restore your soul? Subscribe to "Rhythms That Restore Podcast" and join our community of women learning to walk confidently in Christ. Connect with Cherisse at www.cherissehixson.com or on Instagram @RhythmsThatRestorePodcast

"Episode 74: Autumn's Invitation to Release: Learning to Let Go and Trust God's Rhythms" Welcome to October! 🍂 This month, we're embracing the "Rhythm of Release" - learning from the falling leaves that it's not only okay to let go, but necessary for new growth. In this episode, Cherisse shares her personal journey with the practice of subtraction and why the podcast is shifting to a gentler rhythm of just 2-3 episodes this month. She's learning (alongside you) that saying NO to good things isn't about lacking faith - it's about trusting the Creator who designed the seasons themselves. In this episode, you'll discover: The practice of Three-Centered Prayer (thinking, feeling, sensing) from Mark 12:30 How autumn teaches us the sacred art of release Why our bodies communicate through feelings and what to do about it Practical ways to notice what you're carrying that isn't yours to bear The beautiful truth in Matthew 11:28-30 about Christ's easy yoke Featured Scripture: Mark 12:30, Matthew 11:28-30, Psalm 91:1 Featured Poem: "The Peace of Wild Things" by Wendell Berry Mentioned Books & Mentioned Spiritual Directors: The Listening Life by Adam McHugh Holy Listening by Margaret Guenther Spiritual Director Allison Bradsher email: [email protected]   Spiritual Director Carroll Lane Parsons email: [email protected]  This October, may we learn to open our hands, trust His rhythms, and discover that His arms were there to catch us all along. Next Episode: October 16th - "Finding Confidence in This Season" with returning guest and personal stylist "Shelby Jewel" Tucker Connect with Cherisse Hixson online, email and on social media this way:  Online: www.cherissehixson.com  Email: [email protected]  Instagram: @RhythmsThatRestorePodcast

Episode 73: "BECOMING Refreshed: Your Invitation to Deeper Waters with Amy Allgood" Episode Description Are you feeling weary from the constant pace and pull of life? In this powerful episode, host Cherisse Hixson sits down with mentor, coach, and entrepreneur Amy Allgood to explore what it means to move from spiritual "shallow waters" into the deeper, more abundant life God has for us. Amy shares her journey from being a "selfish Christian" focused on what God could do for her, to discovering the transformative power of asking "What can I do for You, God?" This conversation is a gentle invitation for women who are ready to step beyond surface-level faith into authentic spiritual refreshment, rest, and renewal in Jesus. Meet Amy Allgood Amy is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and entrepreneur who has addressed audiences of over 12,000 women. As a National Sales Director with Mary Kay and leader of women's biblical small groups for nine years, Amy is passionate about helping women discover their unique gifts and calling. She's a wife to Will, mom to three children (ages 12, 10, and 9), and lives in sunny Shalimar, Florida. When she's not mentoring women, you'll find her enjoying good food with friends, "SPA-ING" (her favorite hobby), or traveling to one of the 15+ countries she's visited. Key Takeaways & Timestamps Moving from Head to Heart (17:29) The transformative power of fasting as a spiritual discipline Amy shares miraculous stories from her community's fasting experiences How to fast as a beginner: giving up something you love to gain closeness with God From Shallow to Deep Waters (09:07) Signs you might be living in the "shallow end" spiritually The difference between checking spiritual boxes vs. truly knowing God Moving from "What can You do for me?" to "What can I do for You?" The Martha vs. Mary Balance (12:46) Why women leaders often struggle with the "doing" vs. "being" tension Understanding that if it's not God's calling, there will be no eternal fruit Breaking free from society's "busy badge of honor" mentality Bold Obedience and Sabbath Rest (28:30) Amy's conversation with her Olympic-hopeful daughter about resting on the seventh day Why God's commands aren't suggestions but pathways to blessing The courage required to please God rather than people Standing in the Gap (30:45) God's call for bold believers in this season Personal stories of stepping into God's assignments The blessing of being someone God can count on Scripture Themes Explored Mary and Martha - The balance between doing and being with Jesus Sabbath Rest - God's design for restoration and renewal Standing in the Gap - Being available for God's assignments The Potter and Clay - Surrendering to God's shaping in our lives Practical Application Three Ways to Move Deeper This Week: Try Fasting - Give up something you love (like sugar or social media) to focus on drawing closer to God Practice Listening Prayer - Instead of bringing God your list, sit quietly and ask "What do You want to show me today?" Embrace Sabbath - Take one day to truly rest and reflect, trusting God with your productivity Upcoming Opportunities Refresh Retreat - October 4th (Virtual/Hybrid) Join Amy for her annual "Refresh" retreat, now available virtually for the first time! This year's theme is "Moldable" - being in the Potter's hands. For just $29, you can participate from anywhere or gather friends to host a hub in your home. Register online at www.amyallgood.com  Fall Book Club Amy's community will be reading "Blessed Are the Spiraling" by Levi Lesko this October - perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life's unexpected turns. More info on Amy's website www.amyallgood.com  Connect with Amy Website: www.amyallgood.com Register for Refresh Retreat 2026 HYBRID on Saturday Oct 4th at www.amyallgood.com Follow for updates on masterminds, mentorship programs, and community events Reflection Questions Are you living in the "shallow end" of your faith, or are you ready to go deeper? What would change if you shifted from asking "God, what can You do for me?" to "God, what can I do for You?" Where is God calling you to bold obedience in this season? How can you create more space for listening prayer in your daily rhythm? Quote to Ponder "Be around people who are going to celebrate you and not tolerate you. Early in life we try to please people, we try to impress people, and it's exhausting and it's a waste of time and energy." - Amy Allgood Prayer Father, thank You for pursuing us even when we're content to stay in shallow waters. Give us courage to go deeper with You, to listen more than we speak, and to step boldly into the assignments You have for us. Help us find true refreshment in Your presence and rest in Your perfect love. In Jesus' name, Amen. Subscribe & Share: If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe and share with a friend who needs to hear about God's refreshing love. Your support helps us continue creating content that points women back to Jesus and His Word.

Episode 72: Becoming: Letting Go to BE Brave Sometimes the most sacred work isn't adding more to our lives—it's releasing what no longer serves us so we can step into who God is calling us to become. In this deeply personal episode, Cherisse shares the story behind her "September 15th Ebenezer stone"—a hospital room moment 14 years ago that changed everything and launched an annual tradition of brave becoming. From nearly losing her son Drew at 21 weeks to saying yes to solo retreats, international trips with strangers, and spiritual direction training, she vulnerably shares what God has been teaching her about shedding the patterns that once protected us but now limit our growth. Through gentle teaching woven with personal stories, you'll discover: The difference between spiritual molting and self-improvement How to identify what God is asking you to release (approval-seeking, perfectionism, control, performance-based identity) Why community is essential for the becoming process How to transition from survival mode to calling mode Practical ways to build your "brave muscles" even when you're shaking Featuring a beautiful lectio divina pause with Psalm 62:5-8, this episode is an invitation to curious souls ready to release what's complete and embrace what's coming. Perfect for women who are weary from the constant pace of life and looking for ways to restore, rest, and renew their souls in Jesus. Connect with Cherisse:  Instagram: @RhythmsThatRestorePodcast  Email: [email protected]  Website: www.cherissehixson.com  Mentioned in this episode: Episode 32: La Dolce Vida (Italy trip story)  WellSprings in the Wilderness (Spiritual Direction Program) Allison Bradsher - [email protected] (Spiritual Director)  Welcome Wanderers Travel with EMYO - Follow on Instagram @welcomewanderers  This podcast is for women who are weary from the constant pace and pull of life and are looking for ways to restore, rest, and renew their souls in Jesus and His word and presence.   #RestoreRenewPodcast #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualGrowth #Becoming #Brave #Faith #Jesus #WomenOfFaith #SpiritualDirection #LettingGo #Rest #Renewal #ChristianWomen #FaithJourney #Courage #Trust #God'sFaithfulness

Episode 71: Becoming: Still Enough to Listen with Cherisse Hixson Episode Description Welcome back, sweet friends! After a three-month summer sabbatical, I'm so excited to be back with you as we launch our new fall series on BECOMING. In this heartfelt episode, I'm sharing about a transformative weekend Solo Retreat that shifted everything for me - from learning to rest "between His shoulders" to discovering that it's actually NOT all up to me. If you've been feeling weary from the constant pace and pull of life, if you're longing to know Jesus more deeply, or if you're curious about what it means to slow down enough to actually hear His voice - this episode is for you. What We'll Explore Together: ✨ The beautiful gift of being completely unknown and accepted just as you are ✨ Why "silence" with Jesus is actually full of rich conversation ✨ How to create sacred containers for encountering God in the everyday ✨ Breaking free from the "if it is to be, it is up to me" mentality ✨ Learning to measure our days by the fruit of the Spirit instead of accomplishments ✨ What it means to rest securely in God's sufficiency Soul-Stirring Quotes Featured: Henri Nouwen on solitude as the place of conversion Dallas Willard on solitude as primary spiritual formation Eugene Peterson on finding our quiet center Ruth Haley Barton on silence making solitude possible Jim Branch on discovering we're not alone Scripture Anchors: Psalm 139:1-6 (You have searched me, Lord, and you know me) Deuteronomy 33:12 (Rest between His shoulders) Psalm 91:1 (Living under His shelter) Beautiful Bonus: I close our time together by reading Emily Dickinson's powerful poem "Hope" - the same words that anchored my soul during that sacred Friday morning. Connect & Continue the Journey Your soul needs this, friend. If this episode stirred something in your heart, I'd love for you to: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review - Your words help other weary souls find hope and rest in Jesus 💕 Share this episode with a friend who needs to be reminded that she's completely known and deeply loved by Jesus 🌱 Visit www.cherissehixson.com to connect with me and discover more resources for your soul 📧 Sign up for weekly encouragement and receive practical support tools from every episode delivered straight to your inbox Reflection Question for This Week: What is Jesus inviting you to release so that you can receive more of who He's calling you to become? Coming Up Next Week: We'll continue our Becoming series as we explore what it means to shed the old and embrace the new that God has for us. Until then, sweet friend, may you rest secure in His love and find your hope anchored in Him alone. You are so deeply loved. 💛 This podcast is for women who are weary from the constant pace and pull of life and are looking for ways to restore, rest, and renew their souls in Jesus and His Word and presence.

Becoming - A Journey from Clenched Fists to Open Palms After three months away, I'm back with a story of transformation that might just change how you think about rest, performance, and what it means to truly be present. What happens when you step away from the constant pull of social media, the pressure to perform, and the "shoulds" that have driven you for 25 years? In this vulnerable episode, I share what I discovered during my summer sabbatical - and it wasn't what I expected. In this episode, you'll hear about: The profound difference between helping from overflow vs. helping from depletion Why I broke a 25-year pattern of pushing myself to "finish strong" every June What it really looks like to move from clenched fists to open palms The questions that changed everything: "Why am I saying yes to this?" How to create containers for presence (not just productivity) The gift of simplicity and what happens when you truly unplug This episode is for you if: You're feeling pulled in a million directions and can't remember the last time you felt truly present You're tired of performing but scared of what might happen if you stop You're curious about sabbath but don't think you could ever step away You're ready to examine what's really motivating your "yes" responses Your heart is longing for more time with Jesus but life feels too full I'll be honest - this return to podcasting feels vulnerable. But if you're feeling fragmented, weary, or stuck in patterns that are draining your soul, I want you to know you're not alone. Sometimes the most radical thing we can do is open our hands and see what God wants to fill them with. Come grab a cup of coffee and join me as we explore what it looks like to become the women God is calling us to be - not through more doing, but through deeper being. "You're a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month, never dropping a leaf, always in blossom." - Psalm 1:3 MSG ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Want to connect with Cherisse? Join our Email List at www.cherissehixson.com and get our dose of weekly Rhythms of encouragement delivered to your inbox.  Connect on Instagram@RhythmsThatRestorePodcast

Episode 69: Self Care vs Soul Care Summer Soul Care Series FINALE - Rhythms That Restore Podcast Host: Cherisse Hixson 🌟 What to Expect in This Final Summer Episode Join Cherisse for the last episode of our transformative Summer Soul Care series as we tackle one of the most important distinctions every weary woman needs to understand: the difference between self-care and soul care. In this powerful finale, you'll discover: Why our culture's obsession with "self" is actually harming our souls The real reason women are experiencing more anxiety and depression than ever before What we've lost in our post-COVID world that's leaving us feeling isolated and overwhelmed The beautiful story behind "It Is Well With My Soul" and what makes it truly well with yours Practical insights from John Ortberg's "Soul Keeping" that will anchor you in truth Opening Scripture: Psalm 143:7-11 - A psalm of surrender and crying out for God's help 💝 A Personal Note from Cherisse This episode marks not only the end of our Summer Soul Care series but also my last episode until Fall as I take a Summer Sabbatical to practice what I preach - prioritizing soul care and restoration. Thank you for journeying with me through this series that has been such a gift to my own soul. 🔗 Stay Connected During Summer Sabbatical Don't miss out while I'm on sabbatical! 📧 Weekly Emails: Sign up at www.cherissehixson.com for continued encouragement and updates 📱 Instagram: Follow @rhythmsthatrestorepodcast for daily inspiration ✉️ Email: [email protected] - I'd love to hear how this series has impacted you! 🎙️ Voice Messages: Send me voice memos on Instagram - my favorite way to connect with you! 🎧 Keep the Journey Going While I'm on sabbatical, dive into our treasure trove of past content: Explore our 75 episodes from last year Revisit favorite moments from this Summer Soul Care series Share episodes with friends who need these rhythms of restoration 💬 Leave a Review & Share If this series has blessed you, please: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Share your favorite episodes with friends Tag us on social media with your takeaways Remember: You can show up every day simply as you are - and that is enough. See you in the Fall for more rhythms that restore! Until then, may you find deep soul care in Jesus.