That's Just What I Needed Podcast

In this episode, I talk with Gem Fadling, co-founder of Unhurried Living, about cultivating a deeper relationship with Jesus in the middle of a busy, distracted world. This conversation opened my heart and challenged me in the best possible way! Instead of striving to produce spiritual “fruit,” Gem explains that Jesus invites us to simply remain connected to Him, as a branch to the vine in John 15. Through practices like silence, solitude, and intentional time with God, we can learn to live from a place of presence rather than hurry. Full disclosure: after my interview with Gem, I practiced what she suggested and-WOW!!!!! I experienced God’s refreshing peace and perspective in a way I want you to experience, too. This conversation is a refreshing reminder that intimacy with Jesus doesn’t come from doing more—but from slowing down enough to simply be with Him. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Gem Fadling You can find Gem and all of her resources at: Website: unhurriedliving.com Podcast: Unhurried Living Podcast Instagram: @unhurriedliving Be sure to sign up for their weekly emails too—they’re a beautiful source of encouragement and spiritual direction. Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever heard something about the Bible your whole life… only to find out it may not actually be what Scripture says? Friend, today’s episode is unlike anything we’ve ever done before. I’m joined by Amanda Hope Haley — a Harvard-trained biblical archaeologist (yes, you read that right!) — and our conversation will stretch your thinking in the very best way. Amanda shares how archaeology helps us understand Scripture more clearly, not less. We talk about David and Goliath (and why the “giant” might not be what you think), Mary Magdalene’s misunderstood reputation, and how years of human interpretation sometimes overshadow the actual text. But here’s the beautiful part: leaning into the hard questions doesn’t weaken faith — it strengthens it. This episode will challenge you, inspire you, and deepen your confidence in God’s Word. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Amanda Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandahopehaley/ Website: https://redhairedarchaeologist.com/ Book Stones Still Speak: How Biblical Archaeology Illuminates the Stories You Thought You Knew Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you reach that quiet moment where you think, I don’t know if I can keep doing this, you’re not alone. In this episode, I talk honestly about soul-level exhaustion, the temptation to choose comfort over commitment, and why endurance is essential to spiritual maturity. Through Elijah’s story in 1 Kings, we see that God meets us not with condemnation, but with rest, nourishment, and a whisper of grace. If you’ve felt weary, discouraged, or on the brink of quitting, this conversation will remind you that exhaustion lies—but God is faithful. Don’t walk away. Sometimes the breakthrough comes right after the moment you almost left. Don’t forget – This is your final week to enter the giveaway for A Verse a Day for the Anxious Soul. All you have to do is: Leave a podcast review (1–2 sentences is perfect), and you’re entered!! The winner will be announced in the next episode! Xo, Donna And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Listen in to learn more : [0:00:12] When Your Soul Is Tired in a Way Sleep Can’t Fix [0:04:30] The Quiet Moment Right Before You Quit [0:09:24] Choosing Commitment Over Comfort [0:13:45] Training in Small Hard Things to Build Endurance [0:17:30] God’s Gentle Interruptions Are Mercy, Not Abandonment Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my new book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith! Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hey Friend! In this candid and inspiring conversation, I sit down with actor, filmmaker, and author Nathan Clarkson to discuss brokenness, humility, and the surprising freedom that comes from admitting our faults. Nathan shares the heart behind his new book, The Worst: How Freedom Is Found in Admitting Our Faults, and opens up about his personal journey of confronting pride, perfectionism, and hidden struggles. Together, we explore why we resist acknowledging our weaknesses, how shame keeps us stuck, and why God’s grace meets us most powerfully in our honesty. This episode is a refreshing reminder that freedom doesn’t come from pretending we have it all together—it comes from surrender, humility, and embracing the unconditional love of Christ. Don’t forget - I am still giving away a copy of A Verse a Day for the Anxious Soul by Becky Keife! All you need to do is - Leave a podcast review Rate the show (five stars if it blessed you!) One or two sentences is all it takes A winner will be announced on an upcoming episode. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : [0:00:13] Owning Our Brokenness Opens the Door to Freedom[0:04:40] The World Is Broken—and It’s Not Just “Their” Fault[0:10:36] Brokenness Isn’t a Wall; It’s a Bridge to Unconditional Love[0:15:03] God as Doctor: No Condemnation, Only Restoration[0:19:13] True Strength Is Admitting You Need Help Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Nathan Website: nathanclarkson.mePodcast: The Overthinkers Podcast Book I’m The Worst: How Freedom Is Found in Admitting Our Faults Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful and hope-filled episode, I sit down with author and speaker Becky Keife to discuss something many women quietly carry every day: anxiety. Becky shares from personal experience how anxiety, while painful, became the very thing God used to draw her closer to Him and deepen her faith. Together, we explore the difference between shame and honesty, the importance of community, and practical rhythms that help calm the body and steady the soul. From breath prayers to simple peace practices, this conversation offers both spiritual encouragement and real-life tools for anyone feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally weary. Becky also introduces her devotional A Verse a Day for the Anxious Soul, a 100-day guide designed to help readers inhale truth, exhale trust, and experience God’s peace in everyday life. Whether you struggle with clinical anxiety, seasonal stress, or simply need a reset for your heart because life often feels overloaded, this episode is a gentle reminder that you are not alone, you are not disqualified, and God meets you with compassion right where you are. I’m also giving away a copy of Becky’s book A Verse a Day for the Anxious Soul.To enter: Rate the podcast (five stars if you feel it deserves it 💛) Leave a short written review. One listener will be selected in the coming weeks.🎉🎉 And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : [00:03:09] Anxiety as a Surprising Gift [00:06:07] When Self-Fixing Finally Fails [00:10:00] Where You Fix Your Mind, You Find Your Peace [00:17:38] Inhale Truth, Exhale Trust [00:21:29] Simple Rhythms that Shift Your Anxiety Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect Becky Website -https://beckykeife.com. Pick up a copy of her book A Verse a Day for the Anxious SoulConnect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever had one of those moments when you look back and think, "How did I miss that?" In this episode, I sit down with author and podcaster Cynthia Yanof for a conversation that is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply spiritual. Through real-life stories — from gas pump mishaps to everyday awkward encounters — Cynthia reminds us that God is often at work in the small, ordinary moments we’re most tempted to rush past. Together, we talk about slowing down enough to notice the people right in front of us, why laughter can be holy, the power of community, and how reconciliation and friendship shape our faith more than we realize. This episode is a refreshing reminder that our “big” spiritual moments are often built on tiny daily choices — and that love is always the right answer. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : [0:01:55] Finding God in Awkward Everyday Moments [0:03:56] Choosing People Over Performance [0:08:38] Answering Culture’s Questions the Right Way [0:14:34] Why Community and Reconciliation Are Critical [0:19:44] Basement Seasons, Waiting Well, and Structural Faith Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect Cynthia Website -https://cynthiayanof.com/ Pick up a copy of her book https://cynthiayanof.com/books/ Listen to Cynthia’s Podcast – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/messmerized-funny-and-faith-based-encouragement-in/id1687839937 Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

So much of how we live—how we feel, how we respond, and even how we make decisions—is shaped by how we see ourselves. And if we're honest, most of us don’t stop very often to ask where that identity is actually coming from. Is it coming from how busy I feel, how overwhelmed I am, the roles I carry, or whether I feel like I’m doing enough… or failing again? In this episode, I slow us down and invite you to take a closer look at the labels we’ve been living from and compare them to what God actually says is true about us. We’ll open Scripture and talk honestly about what it means to live from our identity in Christ—not performance, approval, or circumstances. This is a freeing reminder that our identity isn’t earned, it’s received—and who God says we are is far more secure than any season we’re walking through. Xo, Donna And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Listen in to learn more : [0:02:17] If we don’t let God define us, something—or someone—else will [0:02:32]Identity shapes how we handle failure, relationships, pressure, and purpose [0:04:55]Our identity in Christ is received, not earned [0:05:43] God’s love for us is steady, unchanging, and deeply personal [0:14:19] Living from identity brings freedom, peace, and clarity Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my new book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith! Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule:https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever listened to someone pray and thought, Well… I’ll never sound like that? In this encouraging, laugh-a-little-and-breathe-a-lot conversation, I sit down with author and speaker Shellie Tomlinson to talk about the comparison trap in prayer—and how to get free from it. Shellie shares why God isn’t looking for “perfect prayers” or spiritual clones. He wants you. We unpack simple, practical habits that help you linger with God, stop quitting when your mind wanders, and remember that prayer isn’t the goal—a deeper relationship with Jesus is. Shellie shares one simple reminder about approaching God in prayer that I’m sure I’ll never forget. You don’t want to miss it! (Hint: it’s toward the end of the episode, so listen all the way to the end.) And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : (2:40) Embracing Individual Prayer Styles(7:36) Overcoming Distraction and Lingering in Prayer(20:17) Conversational Communication with God(25:24) Remembering Jesus is the Way to God Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect Shellie Website -https://belleofallthingssouthern.com/ Shellie’s new book https://belleofallthingssouthern.com/dont-try-to-pray-like-her/ Pre-order before February 3 and email proof of purchase to: praywithshelly@gmail.com. You’ll receive Shelley’s introduction + first chapter (“Remember to Use the Door”) immediately. Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever looked up and thought, Where is my life going… and am I even living it? In today’s episode, I’m kicking off the new year with a powerful reminder: you can be busy and still be disconnected—from your purpose, your people, and even from God. Through the lens of scripture, we’ll identify what matters most when the noise dies down. If you don't want to miss your one and only life, listen in! This isn’t about doing more—it’s about noticing more, slowing down, and living the life God intended. Xo, Donna And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Listen in to learn more : [0:02:20] The Foundation: Relationship with Jesus[0:04:00] Loving God and Loving People[0:07:30] The Value of Time and Living with Intention[0:09:29] Practical Steps for Intentional Living Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my new book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith! Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re in a challenging season—or walking alongside someone who is—this conversation will meet you right where you are. In this hopeful and honest episode, I sit down with Dr. Clay Jones and Jeannie Jones to talk about their new book, How Does God Use Suffering for Our Good? Living With Hope While Making Sense of Life. Together, they share the real-life pain that shaped this message (cancer, miscarriages, foster care, and ongoing health challenges), and the seven anchoring truths they repeat to each other when suffering feels overwhelming. This episode is full of steady, biblical comfort—without clichés—and it will help you reframe suffering through the lens of eternity, hope, and God’s character. If you're hurting, this episode is your lifeline.. Don't miss it! And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : [0:04:22] Personal suffering story [0:07:35] The 7 truths they repeat during suffering: [0:11:42] Truth journals (remembering God’s redemption): [0:16:32] “You don’t know what tomorrow will bring”: [0:17:22] Fix your focus (looking at Jesus): [0:23:36]Why suffering produces endurance → character → hope (Romans 5): [0:26:43] Eternity changes the scale of everything Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Clay and Jeannie YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWymIngKlc1CtKBZ4aMLCHQ Website - https://clayjones.net/ Purchase the book -https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/how-does-god-use-suffering-for-our-good-9780736992237/?srsltid=AfmBOoqAUBs3q3Pf-0zQ_Xc3Y0z8NYWvM2TFRFPGxOQtrfUZaxtIrxIT Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.