Episodes
-
Suffering is one of life’s hardest realities, but it’s important to know that God never chose suffering for us. His original design was perfect, free from pain and brokenness. Suffering entered the world through humanity’s choice to sin, not because it was part of God’s plan.
In this episode, we explore where suffering comes from, why God allows it, and how He uses it for His purposes. We discuss the role of free will, different views on God’s sovereignty, and how suffering impacts our faith. While pain is a consequence of living in a broken world, God can use it to refine us, strengthen our character, and teach us to rely on Him.
Above all, we’ll share the hope found in God’s redemptive plan. He is close to us in our pain and promises to restore all things through His love.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
Today I'm delving into a common yet often unspoken struggle: the need for approval. For many, this desire becomes so ingrained that it can feel impossible to escape, creating a sense of entrapment that often goes unnoticed.
In this episode, I’ll explore the root causes of approval-seeking behavior, why it’s so challenging to break free, and the steps we can take to overcome it. I'll also give an overview of attachment styles and the impact they have on our relationships and self-worth. Let's unpack how we can start shifting from a need for others' approval to living with confidence in who we are in Christ.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
Missing episodes?
-
Ever feel like God is trying to get your attention, but you're not sure how to listen? Today, we’re exploring practical, down-to-earth ways to recognize His voice—even in subtle, everyday moments that we might easily overlook. While we often expect bold signs or clear words, God’s communication can come as a gentle nudge, a persistent thought, or a sense of calm amid the chaos. We’ll dive into both biblical insights and clinical strategies for quieting the mind, grounding ourselves in Scripture, and creating a heart that’s open to listening.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
Last month, I talked about the difference between a mental health coach and a counselor, and today, I want to take it a step further. We’re diving into what it really looks like to work with a Christian mental health coach.
As a trauma-informed life coach, my goal is to help my clients grow emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Coaching is all about meeting you where you are, setting goals, and taking real steps toward the life you want. It’s different from counseling—I don’t diagnose or treat things like PTSD or bipolar disorder—but I do help you tackle everyday challenges, whether that's setting boundaries, managing stress, or navigating relationships.
Every client I work with gets a personalized action plan. We also talk through tough stuff—like those moments when you’re frustrated with God—and create space where you can be real, without any judgment.
Sometimes, we touch on past pain, but the focus is always on moving forward. And if we come across areas where more specialized support is needed—like nutrition or therapy—I’ll help you connect with the right professionals.
If this sounds like what you’ve been looking for, I’d love to chat!
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
Today, we’re diving into a topic that many believers experience - the dark night of the soul. If you’ve ever felt distant from God, like your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling, or that you’re spiritually wandering through a desert, this episode is for you. In this episode, I'll define "the dark night of the soul," some reasons we go through it, and share some uncommon, yet powerful, ways to walk through this challenging season.
Remember, this isn't the end of your story. God is with you, even in the silence, and He’s doing a deeper work in you than you may realize. Embrace the stillness, care for your body, lament honestly, and let go of the need to ‘do’ more. Trust that in time, the light will break through.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
In today’s episode, I delve into the experiences of those who grew up as the ‘good child’—the one who followed the rules, stayed out of trouble, and asked for little, yet often felt neglected or overlooked. As adults, many of these individuals find themselves in a constant cycle of seeking approval and validation. We will explore the reasons behind this, its roots in past experiences, and, most importantly, how to heal from it with Christ.
Other episodes that would be good to listen to:
The Truth About People Pleasing
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
Pain, whether physical or emotional, can lead us to question God’s goodness and presence in our lives. We might wonder, "Has God abandoned me?" or "Why is this happening to me?" These doubts can leave us feeling isolated from Him.
In this episode, I explore the false beliefs that can arise from pain, such as thinking it's a form of punishment or that we're unworthy of God’s love. These distorted thoughts often keep us stuck in a cycle of guilt, shame, and self-punishment, but there is hope! Listen as I explain how to replace these lies with biblical truth, using both scripture and practical tools like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe our thoughts and reconnect with God.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
One of the most common questions I'm asked during consultations is, "What's the difference between mental health coaching and counseling?" So in this episode, I'm breaking down counseling vs. coaching.
Whether you're curious about which path might suit you best or are currently navigating your own mental health journey, this episode will help clarify the unique roles and approaches of a coach versus a counselor. We’ll also explore how both can work together to support your personal growth and healing.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
Negative thought cycles are something we all face, but as Christians, we have a unique opportunity to tackle them not only from a clinical perspective but by grounding ourselves in God’s truth. In this episode, we’ll dive into the psychology behind negative thinking and explore how aligning our minds with scripture can lead to lasting change.
Whether you’re struggling with anxious thoughts or feeling stuck in a pattern of negativity, I’ll guide you through practical steps to renew your mind. Let’s break free from harmful thinking together!
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coaching
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected]
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. -
In this episode, we're diving into three common Christian phrases that, while often spoken with good intentions, might be doing more harm than good. Have you ever heard or even said things like, "All things work together for good," "Everything happens for a reason," or "God allowed this to happen"? These phrases can be problematic when taken out of context or misused. Today, we’ll explore why some of these statements aren't even biblical, how others depend on your view of God’s sovereignty, and when it's crucial to share them with care.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
Welcome back, friend! I'm so glad you're joining me for today's episode, which dives into a deeply personal topic I’ve had to walk through myself. This isn’t something I talk about lightly—it's a question I hear often from my one-on-one coaching clients: "Why doesn’t God heal me?"
While I’m not addressing physical healing today, I want to talk about healing in terms of emotional pain and brokenness, and how it relates to our beliefs about God’s love for us. If you’ve ever wondered why you still carry pain or questioned if God is withholding healing, this conversation is for you. We’ll explore what it means to open our hearts and invite God into those difficult places, because healing starts with surrender.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
In today’s episode, we’re tackling a powerful and often misunderstood belief: the idea that God is punishing us for the challenges we face in life. Many of us feel guilty, thinking we deserve the hardships we're going through. But God's boundaries are set out of love, not punishment. Together we’ll explore the difference between discipline, consequence, and punishment, and how to break free from the cycle of self-condemnation. If you’ve ever felt like you need to "fix" yourself before coming to God, this episode will offer clarity, encouragement, and a fresh perspective.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
Have you ever set a boundary and then felt guilty afterward, wondering if you were now the "bad person" in someone else's story? In today's episode, we dive deep into that exact feeling—the guilt that comes with standing up for yourself. We explore why this happens, how pain and self-worth play a role, and what you can do to move past it. Setting boundaries is less about keeping people out and more about creating healthier, more respectful relationships—even if it sometimes feels uncomfortable.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I forgive them,” but still feel weighed down by lingering anger or hurt, this episode is for you. This week, I dive into the often-overlooked factor that keeps us stuck in the process of forgiveness: blame. As someone who struggled to forgive for years, I know this is a hard topic, but my story has offered me valuable insight into how we can move beyond blame and take responsibility for our healing journey.
Forgiveness doesn’t have to include carrying hurt with you forever. By releasing blame and taking responsibility for our healing, we can move forward with clarity and peace.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Or book your free 20-minute consultation here!
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
If you've been dealing with mood swings, irritability, difficulty focusing, and/or chronic fatigue, there's a good chance that your nervous system is dysregulated. In this episode, I explore what it means to have a dysregulated nervous system, the signs to watch out for, and practical strategies for healing. I’ll also share some personal experiences and bonus tips to help you regulate your emotions and maintain your overall well-being.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
Are you tired of trying to keep everyone else happy while feeling like you’re losing yourself in the process? In this episode, I dive deep into why so many of us feel consumed by the need to make others happy, often at the cost of ourselves. I also explore the complex dynamics of people-pleasing, from both a psychological and spiritual perspective and offer practical insights on how to break free from this exhausting cycle.
Remember that your worth isn’t tied to how much you do for others. You matter because you are made in God’s image.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your feelings or unsure how to navigate them, this episode is for you. In this chat, I dive into the complex topic of processing emotions. We’ll explore practical, faith-based approaches to understanding and managing your emotions, and provide actionable steps to help you gain clarity and peace.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but if you write down your thoughts, name your feelings, and seek the truth of God's Word, you can begin to change your relationship with your emotions.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
“I bet you thought life wasn’t fair.” If you're a regular listener familiar with my family history, you can understand why someone would say this to me. And they're right - life isn't fair. But here's a different perspective: life in a broken world isn’t guaranteed fair or painless. However, God promises to be with you through it all.
This doesn’t mean your pain isn’t real or that life has been easy. It means you’re not chasing fairness; you’re pursuing righteousness. The world often tries to make us choose sides and see things in black and white, especially regarding pain and healing. But sometimes, healing can coexist with moments of pain, joy can mix with sorrow, and grief can accompany hope. You can transition from seeing yourself as a victim to recognizing yourself as a survivor.
Your heart changes when you focus on pursuing righteousness and what God calls you to do, rather than trying to understand everything. Faith isn’t about understanding; it’s about standing with God.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
I want to talk about something that is tough, but super important - forgiveness, reconciliation, and repentance.
For years, I struggled with what others expected me to do versus what God told me. It was a constant battle because these opinions came from people I deeply respected. But every time, something inside me stopped. It took years and some recent experiences to realize that this hesitation was God protecting me.
People often confuse forgiveness and reconciliation, thinking they’re the same thing. But they’re not. And repentance isn’t just about saying sorry to excuse bad behavior—it’s about truly changing. Forgiveness starts with God — it’s not just about saying, “I forgive you.” It’s about letting go of resentment while still acknowledging the pain.
Reconciliation, on the other hand, is like two people with drawbridges. Both have to be willing to lower their bridges to rebuild the connection. Trust isn’t instantly restored; it has to be earned and maintained.
Repentance means turning back to God. It’s a genuine response to godly sorrow, which is a profound recognition of our sins and shortcomings. This sorrow leads to repentance, changing our minds, hearts, and direction. It’s redemptive and life-giving, making us more receptive to God's grace and compassionate towards others.
No matter the relationship—whether it’s with a friend, family member, partner, or spouse—these three elements will always be part of the process if both people are willing to work on it.
Get my biblical study on forgiveness here!
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] -
Are you dealing with pain, but you feel like no one acknowledges it? Maybe someone tells you that you're the problem, or someone you care about manipulates or gaslights you. It's easy to feel like you're the issue, thinking you're a burden or no one cares about you. When bad things happen, the last thing you want to do is face them head-on. It's much easier to shut down, isolate yourself, and distract yourself with food, movies, or endless scrolling.
Escaping reality feels better than dealing with pain. I know this because I used to escape pain by holding onto anger and pretending everything was okay. I kept myself busy to avoid thinking about it, hoping time would make it go away. But time alone doesn't heal; healing comes when we actively work through our pain over time.
In this episode, I share three key things I've learned about processing pain in a healthy way with God. Remember, there's a loving Father who cares deeply about your pain and is with you through every step of your healing journey.
Rooting for you,
Jessica
Next steps:
Get my free 3-day study and learn how to deal with your emotions in a biblical way: https://www.jessicahottle.com/3-day-study/
Work with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.coachjessica.com
Check out my biblical studies: https://www.jessicahottle.com/shop
Work with me in my Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/heal
Email me at >> [email protected] - Show more
