Episoder

  • Happy Valentineā€™s Week! šŸ’—šŸ’—šŸ’—šŸ’—šŸ’—

    First, I want to say thank you for the kind words and incredible response to last weekā€™s episode, where I went rogue with a solo show. Iā€™m so glad it encouraged you! Yes, Iā€™m hoping to do more episodes like this after I finish the book Iā€™m currently working on.

    Iā€™m excited for our show today, because Iā€™m chatting with Jess Johnston and Amy Weatherly about a topic that hits home for so many of usā€”perfectionism, vulnerability, and the beauty of authentic friendships. We talk about the impossible standards we set for ourselves, the way societal expectations can warp our self-worth, and how true growth happens when we stop pretending and start being real.

    Jess and Amy open up about their own struggles with perfectionism and how learning to embrace imperfection has led to deeper, more meaningful relationships. We dive into the importance of community and why letting people inā€”even when it feels messyā€”can be the most freeing thing we do. If you've ever found yourself exhausted from trying to have it all together, this episode is for you.

    So, take a deep breath, let go of the need to be perfect, and join us for a conversation that just might change the way you approach your friendships, identity, and lots more!




    All things Cynthia

    Perfect is Boring (And it Tastes Like Kale) by Jess Johnston

    Amy Weatherlyā€™s books: Iā€™ll Be There and Here for It

    Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly

  • Hey Friends,

    Itā€™s February, which means Valentineā€™s Day is upon usā€”but more importantly, it marks the one-year anniversary of my first book, Life is Messy, God is Good!

    Looking back over the past year, Iā€™m overwhelmed with gratitude for the friends and family who have walked this journey with me. Whether you bought the book, shared it with a friend, left a review, hosted a book launch party, or prayed for my words to make an impactā€”youā€™ve been part of this crazy adventure, and I couldnā€™t be more thankful.

    Maybe itā€™s the nostalgia of this milestone, or maybe itā€™s just menopause brain fog (letā€™s be honest, probably both), but Iā€™m feeling all the feels. So, this week on MESSmerized, Iā€™m doing something a little differentā€”no guest, just me and the mic! Thatā€™s right, Iā€™ll be having a conversation (with myself, as one does) about three key areas where I believe we need to give ourselves permission to pivot.

    These thoughts stem from a womenā€™s leadership conference where I recently spoke about the importance of:

    āœ… Redefining success
    āœ… Reprioritizing our days
    āœ… Doing things that donā€™t always make sense

    And since weā€™re celebrating my bookā€™s anniversary, Iā€™ll also share a few stories straight from its pagesā€”because what better time to reflect on this wild ride?

    So, tune in, laugh with me, and letā€™s get personal. And if this episode speaks to you, Iā€™d love for you to share it with a friend.

    Thanks for showing up each week and walking this road with me. Iā€™m in it with you!

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Grab your copy of Life is Messy, God is Good!

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    Klik her for at forny feed.

  • Happy Wednesday!

    Is it just me, or did January last six months? I cannot handle one more school holiday, winter illness, or Ā¼ inch of snow canceling school. But I digress.

    Iā€™m thrilled to round out this month with an amazing conversation featuring Melanie Shankle. And yes, Amy Weatherly is still co-hosting with me, and I couldnā€™t be more grateful!

    To know me is to know that Iā€™ve been a huge fan of Melanieā€™s books for years. I was so excited to hear she has a new one coming out, andā€”spoiler alertā€”it might just be my favorite yet! Today, weā€™re covering topics like parenting teenage daughters, the insights we gain through years of motherhood, and the importance of teaching our kids resilience. Melanie also opens up about her strained relationship with her mother and her decision to end generational trauma.

    Melanieā€™s book releases on February 18th, and now is the perfect time to pre-order it. Iā€™ve read it cover to cover, and trust meā€”thereā€™s something for everyone in this book.

    I canā€™t wait for you to hear this conversation... and I really canā€™t wait for January to finally end. šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Amy Weatherlyā€™s books: Iā€™ll Be There and Here for It

    Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly

    Here be Dragons by Melanie Shankel

  • Iā€™m thrilled to have Amy Weatherly back co-hosting MESSmerized with me for this exciting episode, because weā€™re chatting with the incredible Annie F. Downs!

    Annie is living the dream (and the hustle) part-time in New York City, and let me tell you, sheā€™s not just surviving; sheā€™s thriving. For those of us whoā€™ve dreamed of moving to NYC but stayed safely tucked away in places like North Dallas (okay, maybe that's just me), Annie made it happen. And Iā€™m so excited to share her journey with you!

    On a more serious note, we dive into body image, health, and unresolutions. Annie shares how her perspective on health shifted from trying to shrink her body to focusing on living a long, full life. We also talk about her deeply personal new book, Where Did TJ Go?, co-written with her sister. This book is a beautiful resource for families grieving the loss of a child. Inspired by the life and passing of her nephew TJ, it offers gentle hope and reminds us of the faith we hold onto, even in our hardest moments. Raw, redemptive, and a testament to Godā€™s goodness in every circumstance.

    If thereā€™s one takeaway from Annieā€™s journey, itā€™s this: Donā€™t shy away from doing the big, scary, or hard things. Whether itā€™s moving to a new city, embracing your body as it is, or walking through grief, the Lord shows up every step of the way. Annie is living proof that even in the hardest moments, thereā€™s beauty and joy in the unexpected.

    Canā€™t wait for you to listen! šŸ’•

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Amy Weatherlyā€™s books: Iā€™ll Be There and Here for It

    Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly

    All things Annie F. Downs

    Where did TJ Go? A book for kids on grief and loss (By Annie F. Downs and Tatum Green)

  • Just in case you missed the announcement last week, Amy Weatherly is co-hosting MESSmerized with me this month, and gosh, sheā€™s so much fun. Today, weā€™re continuing our commitment to un-resolutions by chatting with the amazing Kendra Adachi about time management.

    This conversation is absolutely not what you think itā€™s going to be because Kendra is flipping time management on its head. Apparently, weā€™ve been doing it all wrongā€”who knew? She talks about creating systems that actually make sense for women. This includes recognizing the beauty of both proactive and reactive time managementā€”basically, having a plan but also being cool with the fact that life is messy and plans sometimes (okay, often) fall apart.

    What really struck me, though, was our chat about self-compassion. Why are we so hard on ourselves? We talked about living in the moment, starting small, and letting go of this pressure to do everything perfectly. Spoiler: you donā€™t have to color-code your planner to be a successful human.

    So, if youā€™re like meā€”juggling a million things, tired of feeling like youā€™re never doing enough, and low-key fantasizing about running away to a quiet cabin somewhereā€”this episode is for you. Letā€™s ditch the guilt, embrace the chaos, and redefine what success looks like for us.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    The Plan: Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius by Kendra Adachi

    The Lazy Genius Podcast

    Amy Weatherlyā€™s books: Iā€™ll Be There and Here for It

    Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly

  • New year, new resolutionsā€¦ right? Nope, not this year!

    I hope you had a wonderful Christmas filled with fun memories! At the beginning of todayā€™s show, Iā€™ll be sharing some of my favorite holiday moments, gifts, and God-moments. But Iā€™m also super excited to let you know that the fabulous Amy Weatherly is co-hosting with me all through January, and we are going to have so much fun!

    Amy is a wife, mother, author, and the founder of a huge Facebook community focused on friendship, faith, and loving ourselves well. It seemed only fitting that, in our first episode together, Amy and I are taking a refreshing break from the usual goal-setting chaos. Instead of striving for perfection or adding more to our already overflowing plates, weā€™re talking about slowing down, embracing who we really are, and focusing on what truly matters.

    I think you're going to find todayā€™s show to be the perfect blend of humor, honesty, and relatable moments. Weā€™ll discuss how to find joy in simply being who the Lord created us to be. Whether you're tired of the typical "new year, new me" hustle or you just need permission to take things at your own pace, this episode is for you. So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and letā€™s kick off 2025 with a fresh perspective. I canā€™t wait for you to meet Amy!

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Amy Weatherlyā€™s books: Iā€™ll Be There and Here for It

    Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly

  • First of all, we've had a bit of a "situation" over here, and Iā€™ll share all the details in todayā€™s intro. But hereā€™s a little teaser: neighbors, overgrown shrubs, and me sneaking out in the cloak of darkness. If that doesnā€™t paint a picture thatā€™ll make you want to listen, I donā€™t know what will! šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚

    Today, Iā€™m thrilled to have Lanier Ivester on the show, and weā€™re talking all things Christmasā€”decor, recipes, and hosting. Lanier reminds us that the holiday season can feel both joyful and overwhelming. In fact, nine out of ten people experience both emotions during this time of year. Her advice? Acknowledge the tension and remember that Christmas is about rest, not busyness. I loved it when she said, "We work from a place of rest." Itā€™s such a powerful reminder to shift our focus from the never-ending to-do lists to Godā€™s love.

    The title of Lanierā€™s new Christmas book, Glad & Golden Hours, comes from a verse in It Came Upon a Midnight Clear that beautifully captures the hope and peace of Christā€™s coming. Todayā€™s conversation really reminded me that Christmas doesnā€™t have to be perfect to be beautiful. Itā€™s about slowing down, creating space for rest, and anchoring our hearts in the joy of Christā€™s birth.

    I hope youā€™ll take a few minutes to listen today and embrace the final days before we celebrate Jesus' birth!

    All things Cynthia

    Glad & Golden Hours by Lanier Ivester

  • Weā€™re just a couple of weeks out from Christmas šŸŽ„šŸŽ„šŸŽ„ and it feels like thereā€™s more to be done than hours in the day. Yet, I often find myself on Instagram cracking up at all the random Christmas humor. Last week, I came across this little gem that made me laugh much harder than it probably should have:

    "I accidentally used momā€™s fabric scissors to cut wrapping paper, and now the cops are here." - Unknown Author

    But I digress.

    Today on MESSmerized, we get to hear from Pastor Louie Giglio (and you guys know how much I love Pastor Louie and the impact heā€™s had on my life since I was in college a million years ago).

    We have such a great conversation about the powerful truths in Psalm 84:11 and what it really means to walk in Godā€™s grace, reflect His glory, and trust in His goodnessā€”even when life feels really, really hard.

    Pastor Louie offers a fresh perspective on Godā€™s grace, showing us itā€™s not just for salvationā€”itā€™s for the carpool lines, parent-teacher conferences, and every messy moment of life. He also discusses why living for Godā€™s glory can flip the script on how we see ourselves, our work, and our calling.

    If youā€™re struggling to see Godā€™s goodness in the hard seasons or wrestling with what it means to truly live for His glory, this episode is for you. I believe Pastor Louieā€™s words will inspire, challenge, and encourage you to live differently, wherever God has placed you. And as an added bonus, this conversation is perfect entertainment for those long hours of present wrapping.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Grace and Glory by Louie Giglio

  • Brace yourselves!

    I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I am about todayā€™s show with Dallas Jenkins. Dallas is the genius behind The Chosen and now The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. And let me just say, after this conversation, I walked away ready to ugly cry in a theater over the cigar-smoking Herdman kids finding Jesus. Thatā€™s exactly what happened over Thanksgiving, and the movie was a huge hit with our crew.

    So how does Dallas go from The Chosen to a story about the most chaotic, snack-loving kids hijacking a Christmas play? Well, it turns out this book has been a part of his Christmas tradition for 20 years. Dallas told me he had to make this movie, even though Hollywood wasnā€™t exactly rolling out the red carpet for him. Spoiler alert: God had other plans.

    But hereā€™s the thing: A few years ago, I was in a rough spotā€”one of those times when you're questioning everything Godā€™s doing in your life. I heard Dallas speak at an event, and he said, ā€œGod does impossible math.ā€ It was like a lightning bolt. Fast forward to this interview, and I got him to retell the full story behind that phrase. It involves failure, Romanian Facebook DMs at 4 a.m., andā€”of courseā€”loaves and fish. God showed Dallas (and now us) that our job isnā€™t to perform miracles; itā€™s simply to show up with whatever we have and trust God to do the rest.

    So whether youā€™re a The Chosen fan, invested in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, or someone needing a reminder that God works best when weā€™re at our weakestā€”this episode is for you.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

  • Happy Thanksgiving Eve! šŸ¦ƒšŸ¦ƒšŸ¦ƒ

    Are you hosting?

    Are you roasting a turkey in the oven or deep frying it?

    Do you call it stuffing or dressing?

    Will you use china or paper products?

    Is your weird aunt bringing a gelatin dish?

    Canned or homemade cranberries?

    Are you a pecan or pumpkin pie kind of girl?

    I have so many pressing questions. šŸ˜‚

    One of my favorite things about Thanksgiving Day (thanks for asking) is the Macyā€™s Day Parade. Back in the day, Iā€™d watch the parade and pore over all the Black Friday ads in the paper before the dayā€™s festivities began. Iā€™ve never sounded older, right? And another fun fact: Iā€™ve ALWAYS wanted to go to the parade in NYC, but that hasnā€™t happened yet (and itā€™s fully discussed on todayā€™s show).

    Iā€™m so thrilled to have Nicole Zasowski with us on MESSmerized today. Not only is she a marriage and family therapist, but she also lives in Connecticut and has been to the parade several times. (Somehow, that seemed more relevant than it probably is, and donā€™t think for a minute that I didnā€™t grill her about the parade and cover that in depth.)

    Nicole and I also dive into the intersection of mental health, identity, and the holiday season. We all know that the holidays have the potential to put us on the struggle bus emotionally, but Nicole reminds us that itā€™s possible to balance joy with the realities of whatā€™s difficult, experiencing both simultaneously. I love the message and powerful reminder in Nicoleā€™s new book not to not dwell on our fears and anxieties, but instead to ask ourselves, ā€œWhat if itā€™s wonderful?ā€

    Thereā€™s no promise that your turkey will be wonderful tomorrow or that your husband will help with the dishes instead of watching footballā€”but I do know that we have so much to be thankful for, and I pray you have plenty of time to reflect on that.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    What if itā€™s Wonderful by Nicole Zasowski

  • Ruth Chou Simons is with us this week, and trust me, I got down to the real investigative questions like how she manages hotel rooms with six kids and what it was like being on *Good Morning America* earlier this year. Youā€™re welcome!

    But seriously, itā€™s the week before Thanksgiving šŸ¦ƒšŸ¦ƒ, and todayā€™s show is an invitation to take a deep breath as we reflect on Godā€™s goodness. Weā€™re diving into Psalm 23 and what it really means to have God as our Good Shepherdā€”the One who takes care of us, provides for us, and leads us when we donā€™t even know which way is up.

    Hereā€™s the thing about shepherdsā€”theyā€™re not just hanging out, petting sheep all day. Theyā€™re out there protecting, guiding, and making sure the sheep are safe and cared for. Itā€™s such a perfect picture of how God watches over us. Ruth reminds us that nothing in our lives is wastedā€”not the hard stuff, the waiting, or even the complete disasters.

    Psalm 23 ends with this beautiful promise that Godā€™s goodness and mercy chase after us every single day. How freeing is that? We can lean into His care, knowing Heā€™s got us covered even when it feels like everything is falling apart.

    Ruthā€™s latest childrenā€™s book, Home is Right Where You Are, is incredible. Itā€™s all about being present and leaning into Godā€™s faithfulness in the here and now. Whether youā€™re a mom, a grandma, or just someone who needs a reminder that Godā€™s got this, itā€™s such an encouraging read.

    So, letā€™s take a deep breath and remember that the Good Shepherd is leading us, protecting us, and providing for usā€”and thatā€™s reason enough to be thankful this week!



    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Home is Right Where You Are by Ruth Chou Simons


    Now and Not Yet by Ruth Chou Simons

  • With Thanksgiving around the corner, many of us are thinking about what weā€™re thankful for, what we might be taking for granted, and what gratitude really looks like. Todayā€™s show comes at the perfect time, as Mark Batterson helps us reframe everyday miracles and see God in the midst of our daily lives.

    Mark encourages us to ā€œchange your pace and place to change your perspective.ā€ Sometimes, to wake up to wonder, we need to step outside our routinesā€”whether thatā€™s by taking a walk or going on a ā€œtwo-foot field trip,ā€ like moving from the living room to the backyard, to see Godā€™s creation from a fresh angle.

    Mark also gets real about the hardships of life. His wife, Laura, has faced her two bouts with cancer. I love how he says that sometimes we have to ā€œforgive realityā€ for not lining up with our plans. But Mark reminds us that even though life here can be hard, it doesnā€™t mean weā€™re forgotten or forsaken. We have a God who is with us and conquers all thingsā€”even the grave.

    So, whether youā€™re feeling a million miles away from a miracle or right in the middle of one, todayā€™s conversation with Mark Batterson will give you hope and renewed reason to be thankful. Miracles may not always be big and flashy; often, theyā€™re just one of those ā€œmillion little miraclesā€ happening all around us.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    A Million Little Miracles by Mark Batterson

  • Remember how Iā€™ve been having lunch every Wednesday with a wonderful group of friends for the last 15+ years? Todayā€™s show is inspired by those lunchesā€”because lately, all we seem to talk about is midlife and menopause. It's a season, let me tell you!

    To help us all navigate this wild ride, Iā€™m thrilled to bring in a true expert: Dr. Mikala Albertson. Weā€™re diving deep into everything you never thought you'd need to know about menopause, perimenopause, and all the hormonal roller coasters that come with them. Dr. Albertson has a brilliant way of describing menopause as "puberty in reverse," and her perspective on it is so insightful.

    Donā€™t worry, we cover all the symptoms we're dealing withā€”hot flashes, mood swings, anxiety, weight gain, brain fog, and more. This episode is packed with practical tips, a few laughs, and hopefully, some perspective on not just surviving but thriving in this season of life.

    Dr. Albertsonā€™s new book, Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife, is out now. And exciting news: sheā€™s coming back on the show in the New Year! If you have questions youā€™d like us to cover next time, email them to me!

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife by Dr. Mikala Albertson

    Follow Dr. Albertson on Instagram here!

  • Todayā€™s my birthdayā€¦ so thereā€™s that! šŸŽ‰šŸŽ‚ And itā€™s totally not too late to get me a giftā€”Iā€™ll be accepting food-chain gift cards for Diet Dr. Pepper all week long. šŸ˜‚

    In honor of my birthday, Iā€™m kicking off MESSmerized with a little segment I call ā€œThings I Know for Sureā€ after celebrating 50+ birthdays. Really rolls off the tongue, right?

    But thereā€™s more! Megan Fate Marshman joins us on the show for the first time ever. Sheā€™s amazing, and we cover everything from parenting fails to perfecting the elusive messy bun. We even had a little fun comparing stereotypes about Texas and Californiaā€”because apparently, people think Texans ride horses everywhere.

    Megan also shared about the sudden loss of her husband and how she has leaned into prayer through her grief and raising their two small children. We talked about those ā€œWhat now, God?ā€ momentsā€”when life takes an unexpected turn and youā€™re not sure how to move forward. Megan reminds us that prayer doesnā€™t have to be perfect; itā€™s about being honest and vulnerable with God, even if your mind wanders halfway through. (You know the drill: ā€œDear Godā€¦ wait, did I leave the laundry in the washer?ā€)

    We also dug into Romans 8:28 and how Godā€™s goodness doesnā€™t always look the way we expect. Itā€™s not always easy, but knowing that God works for the good in all things gives us hope. Heā€™s not just with us in the good timesā€”Heā€™s right there in the mess, using every struggle to grow us and draw us closer to Him.

    Whether youā€™re navigating the chaos of parenting, dealing with grief, or just trying to survive the day with the help of a few hits of caffeine, God is at work in your life.

    So, grab a Diet Dr. Pepper in honor of my birthday and join me for this heartfelt, hope-filled chat with Megan Fate Marshman. I promise youā€™ll leave encouraged.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Relaxed: Walking with the One Who is Not Worried About A Thing by Megan Fate Marshman

  • Today I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Jon Acuff! If you donā€™t know Jon, heā€™s like the fun friend who makes you laugh but also slips in the kind of wisdom that makes you go, "Huh... I really needed to hear that." We covered everything from goal-setting and personal development to parenting in a way that doesnā€™t drive us or our kids completely nuts. But what really hit home was our conversation about helping our teens win in life.

    Jon had a lot to say about recognizing that every kidā€™s path is different. As parents, itā€™s easy to think thereā€™s one formula to follow, but Jon reminds us that sometimes our job is simply to help our teens define their own version of success. Whether thatā€™s landing a part-time job or surviving Algebra 2, the goal is to meet them where they are and celebrate the small wins. He also emphasized the importance of creating space for kindnessā€”because kindness isnā€™t just a cute personality trait, itā€™s a skill. And if we want to raise kind adults, we need to teach kindness now, even when it feels inconvenient (like when your teen is being throwing it down while unloading the dishwasher).

    Jon also introduced me to something he calls "performance zones." Basically, itā€™s all about learning to function well even when life feels chaoticā€”which, letā€™s be real, describes parenting perfectly. He reminded me that itā€™s okay to embrace the craziness and find small ways to move forward. No need to have it all figured out todayā€”or any day, really. And as parents, showing our kids how to handle that kind of chaos with grace is a huge part of preparing them for life.

    Whether you're looking to grow as a parent or just as a person, this episode is packed with insights you can use. Trust me, youā€™re going to love itā€”and who knows? You might even feel a little more prepared to help your teen win at life, one messy, beautiful day at a time.

    Cynthia Yanof

    Jon Acuff

    How Teens Win by Jon Acuff

    Molly Stillman Podcast

  • Weā€™ve got a new show out today, and Iā€™m so excited for you to hear this important conversation with Natalie Runion. Weā€™re going deep into the messy but important topic of church life and the realities of church hurt, how to spot an unhealthy church, and when it might be time to walk awayā€”or stick around.

    We also explored the idea that ministry isnā€™t just for pastors and church staff. Every believer has a ministry! Whether itā€™s through serving, worshiping, or simply being a witness in your community, youā€™re making an impact. And if youā€™re raising kids, itā€™s crucial to show them the importance of the church by staying involvedā€”whether itā€™s through serving or just building friendships within the church community. What we do now can have a big impact on their views of church, and how it is incorporated in their lives as adults.

    This episode is for anyone whoā€™s felt the sting of church hurt or struggled with whether itā€™s time to leave a church that no longer feels like home. Itā€™s a reminder that God calls us to obedience, even when things get messy. If you need some encouragement to keep showing upā€”or if you're figuring out how to walk away without bitternessā€”this oneā€™s for you.

    Make sure to listen, share with a friend, and leave a review if this resonated with you! Letā€™s keep these conversations going because the church mattersā€”and so do you.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    The House That Jesus Built by Natalie Runion

  • Today on MESSmerized Iā€™m hanging out with the amazing Ellie Holcomb, whoā€™s fresh off a tour with none other than Lauren Daigle. Ellie gives us the scoop on life on the roadā€”think tight spaces, late-night chats, and the wild sense of community that comes with sharing a bus. She also gives us an insider peek on her friendship with Lauren, how they ended up collaborating on a song, and their favorite moments on tour (spoiler: their song Be Okay will give you all the feels).

    But itā€™s not all music and funā€”Ellie opens up about the tough stuff too, like balancing the chaos of tour life with family time, and how we moms are out here carrying some heavy loads. She shares a heartfelt story about her daughterā€™s medical journey and how she juggled being on tour while caring for her little one. Trust me, this is a conversation you donā€™t want to miss.

    Ellieā€™s new book Fighting Words (the expanded version of her devotional) and her album All of My Days talk about Ellieā€™s journey of battling anxiety, finding hope, and the power of Godā€™s Word to lift us up when life feels impossible. Vulnerability, repentance, graceā€”itā€™s all here.

    If youā€™re looking for a reminder that youā€™re not alone in the highs and lows, this episodeā€™s for you. I canā€™t wait for you to listen!

    PS. If you havenā€™t listened to my podcast with Heather MacFadyen of Donā€™t Mom Alone, itā€™s time! The show is called Sidetracked and we talk about family, faith, and basically anything else that comes to our minds in the moment (hence the name Sidetracked). I promise you will laugh! Listen here or wherever you catch podcasts.

    All things Cynthia

    Ellieā€™s new book Fighting Words

    Ellieā€™s All of My Days Album

  • "If politics is robbing you of peace, you might have misplaced your trust."

    Mic drop please for the quote above from todayā€™s show.

    Today the Pastor of my church Bent Tree Bible, Libin Abraham, joins us to dive into the tricky (but important) topic of Christians engaging in politics. We talk about how it's not just about showing upā€”it's about being prayerful, peaceful, prophetic, powerful, and purposeful. But the big reminder here? Our top loyalty is to Jesus, not any political party. Weā€™re here to make disciples, not stir up more division.

    Aside from talking about Christians engaging in politics, Libin also encourages us to trust in Godā€™s faithfulness, and that stepping out in faith is key as we do thatā€”I love how Libin says that God moves at the pace of our next ā€œyes.ā€ So if youā€™re feeling pulled to act, trust that Godā€™s right there with you. And donā€™t let politics, fear, or anything else get in the way of your gospel influence.

    I canā€™t wait for you to hear todayā€™s show and Iā€™d love for you to share it with friends.

    All things Cynthia Yanof

    Bent Tree Bible Fellowship

    Libin Abrahamā€™s sermons on Christians engaging in politics:

    Jesus and Politics: The Way of the Cross

    Jesus and Politics: The Way of the Church

    Jesus and Politics: Rules for Engagement

  • Itā€™s starting to get embarrassing how much I gush each time I interview Pastor Max Lucado. But my goodness, after todayā€™s show I promise youā€™ll understand why heā€™s often referred to as ā€œAmericaā€™s Pastor.ā€ He has the kindest, most relatable presence even when heā€™s tackling something as complex as the end times in his new book What Happens Next.

    If you are like me and grew up a little bit nervous thinking about the end times and what it might look like when Jesus returns, please grab a latte and get ready for a new perspective. I think youā€™ll feel differently after you hear us talk about whether this is the end times weā€™re living in, the biblical signs of the end times, how we should view the rapture, and even whether the antichrist is alive today. I mean, we cover it all people, and itā€™s enlightening and reassuring.

    But I must say one of my favorite parts of our conversation is when I ask him to share how he tends to hear from God in his own life. Itā€™s a sweet story with a critical reminder that God is still moving, speaking, and working in our lives. And yes, the end times can be scary if we donā€™t center it on Godā€™s word, but when we do we know how the story endsā€”and itā€™s a good one.

    Canā€™t wait for you to listen today! Be sure to share it with your friends please.

    All things cynthia

    What Happens Next by Max Lucado

  • First of all, look at all the amazing guests coming our way this fall on MESSmerized! Seriously, the Lord has been so good to provide opportunities to talk with so many of my personal heroes of our faith and hear their words of encouragement. So, if youā€™re not subscribed to MESSmerized, will you do so today? Also, will you consider sharing your favorite episode(s) with your friends, your small group, and even on social media? What a blessing it would be to have your help getting this show out to more and more people.

    Today Emily Freeman joins us to discuss her new book, How to Walk Into a Room. She is a New York Times bestselling author of six books with a masters degree in Spiritual Formation and Leadership. She has a true passion for teaching us how to listen well and hold grief and silence with those who need it most. I love how Emily says that silence can teach us a lot about ourselvesā€”it can uncover fears we need to deal with or be aware of. (Iā€™m not very good at silence, so perhaps this was intended just for me. šŸ˜Š)


    This is a big day for Sidetracked because we officially announce our new home and tell you all the details on following us there. So listen today for a great word from Emily Freeman and also lots of Sidetracked laughs.

    Connect with Emily Freeman:

    Website: Emily P. Freeman (emilypfreeman.com)

    Facebook: Emily P. Freeman | Facebook

    Instagram: Emily P. Freeman | Spiritual Director (@emilypfreeman)

    Links Mentioned:

    Feastables MrBeast Original Chocolate Bars

    How to Walk into a Room: by Emily P. Freeman

    The Next Right Thing: by Emily P. Freeman

    NEW HOME for Sidetracked! Follow along!