If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Is this God's voice I'm hearing… or just my own overthinking?” — welcome. You’re in good company. In today’s episode of The Tried and Truth Podcast, we sit down with Rachael Groll — author of Knowing God's Voice and host of the Hearing Jesus podcast — to talk about what it really looks like to hear God’s voice in the middle of everyday chaos, fear, and distraction. She opens up about her own journey through different seasons of life, from motherhood to global ministry, and the lessons learned about surrender, obedience, and faith. What You'll Hear... Why doing all the "right things" doesn’t mean you’re actually listening Practical tips for recognizing God’s voice versus distractions, emotions, or outside influences. Real-life stories from Rachel’s decades in ministry, including lessons learned as a mom, leader, and global spiritual care director. Insights from her new book, “Knowing God’s Voice,” with a focus on biblical women and their journeys of faith. Honest discussion about overcoming insecurity and the fear of “missing it” when it comes to God’s guidance. Encouragement for women in every season—whether you’re a student, working mom, or navigating a major life transition. Resources Mentioned: "Knowing God's Voice" by Rachael Groll (available wherever books are sold) & Hearing Jesus Podcast & Hearing Jesus for Kids PodcastIf you're new here, welcome! This is the mentorship podcast (for grown ups) you didn't even know you needed. Each week we talk all things life, parenting, entrepreneurship,  and all the in between with experts, mentors, and friends. Come follow along on Instagram @annicafischer

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a topic that most people have felt but few of us know how to actually navigate: offense. The kind that comes from unmet expectations, painful conversations, broken trust, or even wounds we thought we’d already healed from. My guest, Alexandra Hoover—author, pastor, and Bible teacher—joins us for a powerful conversation around her new book, You Can Let Go, and what it really looks like to release offense and step into freedom. In this episode, we talk about:  What offense actually is and why it keeps us stuck How unaddressed offense shapes our identity and relationships and where rejection, insecurity, and people-pleasing come into play. The difference between healthy boundaries and building walls that keep us isolated Practical steps to let go of offense How offense can shape our identity and relationships if left unaddressed The importance of vulnerability and honest self-reflection in the healing process Key Quotes: “We either get to be hurt people that hurt people, or healed people that heal people.” “You do not have to stay stuck in your hurt. Healing may take time, but you don’t have to wait for an apology to move forward.” Resources Mentioned: Alexandra’s free devotional: 7 Heart-Healing Practices toRelease Offense, Forgive Freely,and Finally Feel Free "You Can Let Go" by Alexandra Hoover (available on Amazon) Connect with Alexandra: Instagram: @alexandravhoover Website: alexandravhoover.com Takeaway:Letting go of offense is a daily practice that leads to freedom, deeper relationships, and a more meaningful life. Tune in for encouragement, practical tools, and a reminder that you are not alone on the journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode if it encouraged you!

If the world feels loud right now, you’re not imagining it. We’re living in a culture that’s constantly pushing us to keep up, perform, react, and stay “on.” And in the middle of that pressure, it can be really easy to lose your sense of peace, identity, and direction. In this conversation, I’m joined by author and Bible teacher Marian Jordan Ellis, and we’re talking about what it actually looks like to stay anchored when everything around us feels like it’s moving faster than we can keep up. If you’ve been feeling distracted or untethered lately, this conversation is your reminder that you don’t have to drift. Drop the anchor.  In this episode, we talk about: How to stay rooted when everything around you feels shaky Why remembering God’s past faithfulness helps you today Raising wise, discerning kids without slipping into fear or legalism “Digital Junk Food”, everyday distractions, and what actually nourishes your soul Marian’s powerful “Where else would I go?” moment that anchored her faith during trials Connect with Marian: thisredeemedlife.org | @marianjordanellis

What if the words we use with our kids become the soundtrack they carry into adulthood? In this honest, hope-filled conversation, Amy Hughes—mom of nine and author of Words Like Honey—shares how the smallest phrases we say (or don't say) can shape our kids’ confidence, connection, and sense of belonging. We talk about: Why awareness (not perfection) changes everything The power of repair after we miss it Simple ways to speak life into your kids right where you are No matter what season of parenting you’re in, this one’s a breath of fresh air—a gentle nudge to slow down, notice the power of words in our kids lives, and choose words to build a strong foundation.  You can follow Amy on IG @simplelittleamy.  If you're new here, welcome! Don't forget to subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss any of the "breath of fresh air" episodes from some incredible experts, mentors, and friends. If you loved this conversation, leave a review or share it with a friend! Then, come join me on Instagram @annicafischer.

Sometimes the hardest seasons become the birthplace of our biggest dreams. In this episode, we sit down with Kimmie Ellis, co-founder of La Palmilla Texas Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel oasis — recently recognized by National Geographic as a Top 10 Texas family-friendly hotel.  Kimmie shares how she and her husband, Mitchell, walked through one of the most difficult chapters of their lives and turned that pain into purpose — a contagious dream that created a space where others could rest, reconnect, and rebuild.  This is more than a story about building a business; it’s about becoming the kind of person who can hold a dream when the path isn’t clear and invite others in — one breadcrumb, one brave step at a time. You’ll Hear: How a marriage struggle sparked the vision for La Palmilla The (surprising) steps, and merging of dreams, that turned an Airbnb idea into a luxury retreat What it looks like to build something with intention How they held onto a dream even when the path wasn’t clear If you’re sitting on a dream—or walking through a hard season—maybe today’s episode is your reminder that what looks like a obstacle might just be the beginning of your next great story. Check out La Palmilla @ lapalmillatx.comor follow along on Instagram: @lapalmillatx

We spend so much of our time chasing big goals, big breakthroughs, and big answers—but what if some of the most meaningful moments in life are often small and actually measured in seconds? In this episode, I share stories from my recent trip to Round Top, Texas, where wandering through antique barns, tents, and dinners became a powerful lesson in human connection and power of micro-moments. From a simple compliment to a curious question, and even a table for two (that started with just me), I was reminded what anticipating and creating moments can do to shape our lives and the lives around us.  You’ll hear about: The power of offering a small invitation and seeing how one brave act can completely transform someone’s evening (and your own). Waiting to be noticed vs. noticing others - this perspective changes everything!  How we often find the encouragement and clarity we didn't even know we needed by five seconds of courage. How to be "micro-moment" creator.  This episode is a reminder that you don’t need the perfect words, the right group, outfit, or a grand gesture to make a difference. Tiny, intentional micro-moments—smiles, compliments, gestures of presence—can create belonging, connection, and lasting impact. “One compliment can echo for decades. One question can unlock someone’s dream. One invitation can rewrite someone’s story." Connect With Me: > Instagram: @annicafischer  > Email me with a 5 second act of courage that encouraged you or someone else at hello@annicafischer.com  

What if discipline wasn’t about control—but about shaping hearts? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Ginger Hubbard—bestselling author, speaker, and co-host of the Parenting with Ginger Hubbard podcast—to unpack a heart-centered approach to parenting. From tattling to tantrums to the teenage years, Ginger shares practical tools and timeless wisdom to help parents move beyond quick fixes and get to the root of their children’s struggles. Whether you’re in the thick of toddlerhood or navigating the teen years, this conversation will leave you encouraged, equipped, and reminded that parenting is a sacred opportunity—not just a daily grind. In this episode, you'll hear more on:  The root of behavior How to use better "heart-probing" questions A biblical Put Off / Put On” model for correction The power of the pause in the heat of the moment  What Ginger wished she'd known sooner as it relates to parenting   Resources Mentioned: Wise Words for Moms chart 10% off promo code: "parenting" Parenting with Ginger Hubbard Podcast Hey, new here? 👋 Welcome! So glad you’re here--it’s a good place to be.Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss an episode! If you enjoyed this conversation, please leave a review to help more people find the show or share it with a friend! Follow along on IG @annicafischer.  

Singer/songwriter, Eleanor Bryan, joins on the podcast. You’ll hear her story on chasing dreams, the power of vulnerability, and how community shapes her music. We’re chatting about what it looks like to hold onto your dreams with open hands through seasons of uncertainty and move at the pace you’re truly meant to—not the one the world sets for you. In this episode, you'll hear: Why insecurity is one of the biggest obstacles to creativity—and how to push past it The choice we have to walk in fear of the ego vs. love  How dreams sometimes need to fall apart to be rebuilt stronger and more aligned The power of not rushing timelines but taking the next right step  Leaning into your gifts, even when things aren’t “practical”  This is a heartfelt, hope-filled, behind the scenes story for anyone questioning the timing of their dreams, feeling stuck in fear, or needing a reminder to fully embrace the gifts they’ve been given.   Hey, new here? 👋 Welcome! So glad you’re here--it’s a good place to be.Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss an episode! If you enjoyed this conversation, please leave a review to help more people find the show or share it with a friend who needs a reminder to keep going.

Ever wonder what it really looks like to love people well? It’s not about having the perfect words… or waiting until you “have it all together.” Brett Rodgers’ story began with a few guys who simply invited him in—no strings attached. That love changed everything. Decades later, Brett has spent his life leading and mentoring through Young Life and pioneering ministries across the globe. In this powerful conversation, he shares simple, transformative, ways to love people better. This conversation will encourage you to:  Learn timeless, practical ways to love people better in your daily rhythms—family, friendships, workplace, and community. Reframe pain, inconvenience, and expectations Embrace a posture of hope and forgiveness  Discover an insightful and compelling definition of “success” Hi! New here? 👋 Welcome! So glad you’re here--it’s a good place to be. If this conversation inspired you, I hope you'll take one practical step today to love someone well today.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Tried & Truth Podcast so you never miss an episode full of actionable wisdom, encouragement, and real-life lessons just. And if you found value in this conversation, please leave a review to help others discover this message too!  Follow along on Instagram @annicafischer.

What if true hospitality had nothing to do with Pinterest-perfect tables or spotless homes—and everything to do with people, presence, and a willing heart? In this episode we sit down with Abby Kuykendall, author of Let the Biscuits Burn: Cultivating Real-Life Hospitality in a World Craving Connection.  We're talking about: "Entertaining" vs. "hospitality" and how this simple shift can transform relationships and community How to plan for people without striving for perfection Simple rhythms of connection you can build into busy seasons of life even when you don't feel like hospitality is your strength Intentional "yeses" Overcoming common barriers like perfectionism, busyness or fear How to cultivate real life hospitality in world craving connection   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: You can follow Abby Kuykendall on IG @abby.kuykendall BOOKS: Let the Biscuits Burn by Abby Kuykendall and Made for People by Justin Whitmel Earley   Hey, new here? 👋 Welcome! So glad you’re here--it’s a good place to be. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss a conversation! Loved this episode? ⭐ Leave a rating, share it with a friend, and follow along on Instagram @annicafischer.    

Actress Masey Mclain opens up about faith, courage, and calling in Hollywood. She shares what it looks like to step boldly into your purpose and hold onto hope even in hard seasons. Macy reminds us that while we can’t always change people’s minds, we can make them think... In this episode, Masey shares: • How she found her calling in the entertainment industry• The power of vulnerability and embracing your scars • Why daily faithfulness matters more than perfection• A call to hold on to hope, even in hard seasons• The impact of planting seeds and making people think Mentioned in this episode: Film - SOUL ON FIRE - in theaters 10/10Follow Masey on IG @maseymclain Hey, new here? 👋 Welcome! So glad you’re here--it’s a good place to be.Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss a conversation! Loved this episode? ⭐ Leave a rating, share it with a friend, and follow along on Instagram @annicafischer.  

The Tried and Truth Podcast is back for a brand-new season! In this kick-off episode, I'm talking about the pauses we all face in life—the seasons that feel slow, quiet, or even stuck—and why they may be the very moments where the most growth is happening.  Listen in for: Encouragement when life feels on hold Practical ways to navigate waiting seasons A fresh perspective on trusting the process Stories and insights to remind you that stillness can lead to transformation - you're not stuck, you’re being shaped! Hey, new here? 👋 Welcome! So glad you’re here—it’s a good place to be.Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss a conversation! Loved this episode? ⭐ Leave a rating, share it with a friend, and follow along on Instagram @annicafischer.

If summer has you feeling "all the feels", you're not alone! Wrapping up this season with some real life summer inspiration. AND...if you haven't caught up on all of this past season yet, be sure to add those conversations to your summer playlist because there are some absolutely incredible guests you won't want to miss! You'll find conversations with life coaches, entrepreneurs, artists, authors, designers, speakers, and friends on everything from marriage and parenting to making decisions, running a business and what it means to live a successful life. 

Melissa Ice joins us on the podcast this week to share more on her story of helping empower and employ women and girl survivors of trafficking and how she’s embarked on a journey of seeing broken relationships restored and seeing women’s stories changed, positively, forever.  You’ll hear more on when the pull to serve is greater than fear, how we can live in community and relationships when the world focuses more on individualistic living, and how doing the next right thing is simply enough - even when it means walking away from something because you can’t give it your “yes” anymore. As a pursuer of dreams, entrepreneur in a handful of business ventures, Founder of a social enterprise, Chief Vision Officer and mom of two, Melissa shares what leaving a legacy looks like and a lesson learned on what to expect from others (especially when you have high expectations of yourself).  - More About Melissa -  Melissa is the Founder & Executive Director of The Net, an anti-trafficking non-profit that has served over 1,000 survivors since 2012 where they seek to empower and employ women and girls. The Net launched a social enterprise called The Worthy Co, that employs survivors to make products where Melissa serves as Co-Founder and Chief Vision Officer. Melissa was named Fort Worth Inc’s 400 Most Influential People, Fort Worth Magazine’s Best Philanthropist in 2018, and Fort Worth Business Press 40 Under 40. She is married to her husband Jamey of 15 years and has two little girls.  ______ MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Worthy CoThe Net Casa de Ice on Instagram @casa_de_ice You can follow Melissa on Instagram @melissaice*---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! It's a good place to be.   

In this episode with Jenny Nuccio, founder and CEO of Imani Collective, Jenny shares more on her latest book Let It Be Wild: Stepping into Unknown and Finding a Home -  She’s encouraging us all to take ownership of our inspiration and faith and surround ourselves with positive voices and influences to keep pushing forward.  Jenny’s story of living a “wild” life will encourage you to try new things, take a few small risks, take care of YOU, trust the journey you’re on and courageously step into the unknown.  “...because it's truly trusting the journey and the process that God had me on of just stepping into something completely out of my control and then truly finding myself at home and comfortable in this ambiguity of a life.” - Jenny Nuccio _____ You can find out more at jennynuccio.com, on IG @shopimanikids  ---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here! It's a good place to be.   

Monica Swanson is back on the podcast to talk about "Raising Amazing" kids - “ones who love God, like their family and do the dishes without being asked”.  Amazing kids grow out of amazing families and as Monica explains these don't happen by chance. Monica shares more on how to pour into our kids lives in ways that shape them and inspire them into young adults that are ready to launch into the world. You'll hear more what we as parents actually CAN even when we feel there is so much that we can't do and why adversity is the fuel for greatness.  "How can you give your kid this beautiful, wonderful, comfortable life, but also grow them to have the kind of character that's gonna open doors and really be what they need most to face everything out there in the world..." - Monica Swanson _____________________MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:  BOOKS by Monica Swanson: Raising Amazing & Boy Mom Check out her website at monicaswanson.com  Follow Monica on Instagram @monicaswanson_ and Facebook @thegrommom  

Jodie Berndt joins us this week to share marriage insights, encouragement, and honest truths about the “perfect" soulmate. She has so much wisdom on how we can love our spouses better and make enjoying them a priority. You’ll hear the greatest thing you can do for your marriage and even a few tips on parenting priorities. She's bringing her humor and wisdom to this life-giving conversation to encourage you today!  _______ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 3:25 40 years of marriage - marriage insights and does the perfect soul mate really exist? 6:57 The greatest thing we can do for our marriage  8:39 You don't get very far into marriage before you realize you need some help. 20:14 parenting priorities  22:15 Word of encouragement for marriages based on your work with so many couples  22:54 Your spouse is not a mindreader  38:45 Guest perspective: What does success look like to you? 41:36 Truths & Takeaways MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE > You can learn more about Jodie, her Praying the Scriptures series, and access more resources at jodieberndt.com (my favorite downloadable resource: 31 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR YOUR MARRIAGE) > Follow Jodie on Facebook @jodieberndtwrites or on Instagram @jodie_berndt > Jodie’s Latest Book: Praying the Scriptures Over Your Marriage:  Trusting God with Your Most Important Relationship

Rebekah Lyons joins us this week to talk all about building a truly resilient life in this must-listen episode. She shares some of her own personal experiences with emotional health and anxiety and will guide you through  the five rules of resilience so you, too, can thrive in difficult times. You’ll hear more on the power of community and adversity and how they can awaken us to greater things as we build resilience together.  >>>EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [1:38] More on Rebekah’s story past and present [8:54] Rules of Resilience [10:52] Rule #1 PLUS the free therapy available ot you [12:38] Rule #2 [13:41] Rule #3 [13:54] Treat anxiety as your friend [14:46] Anxiety does not define you [15:57] The fancy word for “fear” [16:16] Rule #4 [16:26] Rule #5 [17:29] Adversity - the teacher  [20:47] “...Resilience is getting comfortable with pain.” [23:25] There’s no shame in feeling what you’re feeling [27:25] Guest perspective - What does success look like to you? [30:44] Truths & Takeaways _________________ ABOUT REBEKAH LYONS Rebekah is a national speaker, host of the Rhythms for Life podcast, and bestselling author of Rhythms of Renewal, You Are Free, Freefall to Fly, and Building a Resilient Life: How Adversity Awakens Strength, Hope and Meaning. Rebekah is a mom of four, two of whom have Down syndrome. An old soul with a contemporary, honest voice, Rebekah reveals her own battles to overcome anxiety and depression--and invites others to discover and boldly pursue their God-given purpose. You can follow along on her website at rebekahlyons.com  or on Instagram and Facebook @rebekahlyons.   ---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here!     

Soul Care Mentor, Bonnie Gray, walks you through how to transform life’s chaos into calm. If you’re tired of feeling anxiety, overwhelm, and have found yourself running on empty far too often, you’re not alone and this conversation is for you.  Bonnies shares practical tips on how to enter into a space of rest and prepare yourself to face life’s challenges with renewed well-being, confidence, energy and gratitude.  She’ll reveal why soul care and self care both matter, why you can’t think your way out of stress, how to rewire your brain for emotional well-being, and 3 lies that trigger anxiety and 3 truths to set you free.  About Bonnie:  Bonnie Gray is a Soul Care mentor and the author of Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm, Whispers of Rest, Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Sweet Like Jasmine. Having healed from PTSD, Bonnie is passionate about helping thousands of listeners detox stress and flourish in emotional wellness with God’s love through soul care, Bible Study and prayer. Bonnie is mom of two teenage boys and resides in Silicon Valley.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [2:10] Bonnie’s story [7:45] About Breathe - why she wrote it and why it matters [13:44] Soul care coaching [19:48] Panic attacks, “be still”, and trusting [27:43] When you don’t feel like your cheerful self  [34:57] Absorbing others stress, panic attacks and seeing a therapist  [39:14] Ambitions scripture calls us to [40:49] You can’t think your way out of stress [43:05] lies that trigger anxiety and 3 truths to set you free [49:23] Go get yourself some flowers  [51:43] Being emotionally honest is… [58:30] How do you teach your kids what you’ve learned about anxiety, soul care, and self care? [1:07:00] Social media, how our brain interprets it and healthy rhythms to establish  [1:18:55] Truths & Takeaways ___________________________ MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Soulcarequiz.com Follow Bonnie on Instagram @thebonniegray ---> If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss out on any of the inspiring and encouraging conversations with friends, entrepreneurs, and mentors on the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave your feedback here (scroll down and you can click on the stars or write your thoughts) or feel free to share this episode with a friend. You can also follow along on instagram @annicafischer. Glad you’re here!   

Artist Anne Neilson invites us to experience the brushstrokes of life on the canvas of our lives in this conversation - allowing brushstrokes, textures, and explosions of color that come through every trial, joy, heartache, and hope we encounter to shape us and create beauty. Through sharing her own personal journey, she’s coming alongside of your in yours as you uncover the gifts within you, right where you are, even in the messes, the mundane, and the mistakes. You’ll hear more about creating impact with whatever you have, taking leaps of faith, not being afraid of failure, staying true to who you are and what you’ve been called to and the power of a heart and life surrendered.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [1:35] Brushstrokes of Life & Anne’s story  [1:26] The “D-” in 10th grade art [4:31] Your life as a blank canvas [6:56] The message in our messes  [9:47] When the voice of discouragement sneaks in [14:29] Lesson learned along the way - drown out the doubts and naysayers [16:05] Stay true to what God has called you to [17:31] The small whisper that led to her next step [19:26] Selling the first 1500 copies - from Oprah to Kathy Lee Gifford and beyond [21:40] When hobby turned ministry  [24:28] The power of surrender and contribute right where you are [27:03] It’s hard to partner with God when our fists are clenched [28:22] One step at a time  [29:36] “We could change the world with that” &  the leap of faith moment [31:37] Challenges and obstacles in staying true to our vision [32:40] What advice would you give someone trying to figure out what’s next? [36:40] What does success look like to you? [38:44] Comparison is the thief of joy  [42:21] Truths & Takeaways ___________ ABOUT ANNE NEILSON Well known for her ethereal Angel Series, which are inspiring reflections of her faith and recognized for their stunning use of color. In response to demand for more access to her acclaimed Angel paintings, Neilson published two coffee table books and launched Anne Neilson Home, a growing collection of luxury home products, including candles, note cards, Scripture cards, prints, and journals. Neilson also owns Anne Neilson Fine Art, a gallery located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Representing more than 50 talented artists from across the world, the gallery is dedicated to being a lighthouse in Charlotte and beyond, illuminating the work of emerging and established artists and is the author of the newly released book, The Brushstrokes of Life. Find Anne on her website at www.anneneilsonhome.com or on Instagram @anneneilsonhome AND @anneneilsonfineart.