In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh delves into the theme of obedience, emphasizing its importance in personal growth and spiritual journeys. She shares her own experiences of navigating through grief and burnout, illustrating how obedience can lead to clarity and transformation. Erin introduces an 'obedience experiment' to encourage listeners to act on their nudges and highlights the significance of accountability in this process. The conversation culminates in a call to embrace the unknown and take steps of faith without needing a complete plan.
Takeaways- Obedience is about taking today's step, not tomorrow's plan.
- Navigating through grief can lead to moments of reflection and growth.
- Clarity often follows obedience; taking action reveals the path.
- Fear, people-pleasing, and perfectionism can block obedience.
- It's never going to be the right time; you must step out.
- An obedience experiment can help you practice listening to nudges.
- Having an accountability partner can enhance your journey of obedience.
- Sometimes, the next step is hidden and requires faith to uncover.
- You don't need a full map to take the next step; trust the process.
- Obedience can lead to unexpected opportunities and blessings.
Chapters00:00 The Essence of Obedience
05:05 Navigating Through Burnout and Grief
10:43 The Obedience Experiment
15:01 Embracing the Unknown
In this episode of the Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the theme of waiting, emphasizing that delays are not denials and that God works in us during these seasons.
She encourages listeners to embrace the waiting periods as holy times for personal growth and spiritual development.
Through biblical references and personal anecdotes, Erin highlights the importance of patience, the hidden work of God, and practical steps to slow down and trust in His timing.
Takeaways
- Delay is not denial; God forms in the waiting.
- Waiting seasons are holy and valuable.
- We often resist waiting due to societal pressures.
- Practicing micro Sabbaths can help us embrace stillness.
- Hidden work in waiting is crucial for spiritual growth.
- Slowness can be an asset in our lives.
- We need to trust God's timing over our own.
- Comparison can hinder our personal journeys.
- The Lord uses waiting to prune and prepare us.
- Choosing to slow down can lead to deeper connections with God.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Waiting
03:00 The Value of Waiting
06:00 Signs of Resisting Waiting
09:09 Practices for Embracing Waiting
12:08 The Hidden Work in Waiting
15:08 Slowing Down in Life
17:02 Conclusion and Encouragement
In this episode of The Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the themes of self-discovery and faith through the metaphor of 'Crossing Your Jordan.'
She discusses the importance of stepping out in faith, creating remembrance of God's provisions, and the role of obedience in our spiritual journeys.
The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and to take brave steps in their faith journeys.
Takeaways
- We often need to step into the water before it parts.
- Surrendering everything to God can lead to greater peace.
- The journey of faith requires trust in God's plan.
- Creating memorials helps us remember God's faithfulness.
- Obedience is crucial when stepping out in faith
.- Reflecting on past experiences can encourage others.
- We must confront our fears and obstacles in faith.
- Taking small, brave steps can lead to significant change.
- Sharing our stories can inspire others to trust God.
- Faith is a journey that requires active participation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
00:52 Crossing Your Jordan: The Journey Begins
03:30 Stepping Out in Faith
06:41 Creating Remembrance: Stones of Faith
09:23 Obedience and Accountability in Faith
11:55 Encouragement to Step Out in Faith
In this episode of the Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the theme of the wilderness as a transformative space for self-discovery and faith.
She emphasizes that the wilderness is not a punishment but a classroom where God nurtures and prepares us for greater things.
Through personal anecdotes and scriptural references, Erin encourages listeners to shift their perspectives on provision, recognize God's sustenance, and reflect on their spiritual journeys. Practical steps for gratitude and growth are also shared, culminating in a message of encouragement to embrace the wilderness experience.
Takeaways
- The wilderness is often seen as a punishment, but it can be a classroom for growth.
- God uses wilderness seasons to prepare us for future challenges.
- Personal experiences during COVID highlighted the importance of reliance on God.
- Scriptures like Exodus 16 illustrate God's provision in difficult times.
- Shifting our perspective from fear to trust can change our experience in the wilderness.
- God feeds us and sustains us through our struggles.
- The wilderness can be a time of hiddenness and dependence on God.
- Keeping a Manor Journal can help recognize God's daily provisions.
- Fasting from distractions can enhance our awareness of God's work in our lives.
- Grumbling can hinder our ability to see growth and provision.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Wilderness Theme
00:48 Understanding the Wilderness as a Classroom
04:49 Shifting Perspectives on Provision
11:01 Lessons from the Wilderness Experience
12:24 Practical Steps for Reflection and Growth
15:19 Encouragement and Conclusion
In this episode of the Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the theme of calling and how it relates to our daily lives. She emphasizes the importance of being present in our current circumstances and recognizing that our calling can be found in the ordinary moments of life.
Through scriptural references and practical applications, Erin encourages listeners to identify their calling by focusing on the people around them, their current place, and the resources they have at hand.
She also discusses the significance of setting boundaries to protect our energy and serve others intentionally.
Takeaways
- Your calling is where your feet are.
- Being faithfully present is key to understanding your calling.
- Pray for the welfare of your community; it impacts your own well-being.
- Work willingly as if for the Lord, not for people.
- Identify who is right in front of you as part of your calling.
- Recognize where your feet are planted to find your calling.
- Consider what resources you have to serve others.
- Setting boundaries can protect your ability to say yes.
- Your calling is not limited to your job title.
- Be faithful in your current circumstances and serve intentionally.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
00:46 Understanding Your Calling
02:12 The Hustle of Daily Life
04:19 Shifting Perspectives on Calling
05:41 Scriptural Insights on Calling
07:21 The Three Circles of Calling
10:15 Practical Applications of Calling
12:19 Setting Boundaries for Your Calling
14:53 Defining Your Calling Beyond Job Titles
16:07 Encouragement to Serve Faithfully
In this episode of the Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the theme of identity from a faith-based perspective. She emphasizes that our identity is defined by God, not by societal expectations or personal performance. Through scriptural references, Erin highlights the importance of understanding our worth and purpose as God's creations. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own identities, challenge false beliefs, and embrace the truth of who they are in Christ. Practical steps for personal growth and accountability are also discussed, fostering a supportive community for transformation.
Connect with Erin at www.erinsmylie.com
Takeaways
Identity is a mind shift for many people.
God has named us before anyone notices us.
We do not need to prove ourselves to God.
Our design is God's decision and for His delight.
Expectations can lead to burnout and identity crises.
Scripture provides a foundation for understanding our identity.
We are God's masterpiece, created for good works.
Performance does not define our worth in God's eyes.
Lies about our identity can be swapped for truths.
Community and accountability are essential for identity growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Identity and Self-Discovery
03:09 Understanding God's Perspective on Identity
05:56 The Impact of Expectations on Identity
09:07 Scriptural Foundations of Identity
12:02 The Contrast Between Identity and Activity
14:50 Lies vs. Truth in Identity
18:03 Practical Steps for Identity Reflection
21:05 Accountability and Community in Identity Growth
In this episode, Erin Smylie Walsh introduces Season Two of the Unfolding You Podcast, focusing on a transformative journey of self-discovery and faith. She reflects on the impact of Season One and shares her vision for the new season, which aims to delve deeper into themes of perspective and practice.
Each episode will include a blend of storytelling, scripture reflection, and practical applications to encourage listeners in their spiritual journeys. Erin emphasizes the importance of community engagement and invites listeners to participate actively in the podcast's journey.
If you have any feedback or topic suggestions email Erin unfoldingyoupodcast@gmail.com
Stay connected by joining my mailing list
Takeaways
- Season two aims to deepen the journey of self-discovery.
- The focus will be on perspective and practice.
- Each episode will include storytelling and scripture reflection.
- Listeners are encouraged to engage with the community.
- The podcast will explore themes like identity and calling.
- Erin emphasizes the importance of reflection in a fast-paced world.
- Practical applications will be provided for spiritual growth.- The goal is to live deeply with the Lord.
- Listeners are invited to share their experiences and insights.
- The season aims to create a supportive community for spiritual journeys
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Season Two
01:08 Deepening the Journey
02:34 Exploring Perspective and Practice
05:01 Intentional Flow and Reflection
07:23 Community Engagement and Participation
09:21 Themes of Season Two
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the themes of self-discovery, faith, and the importance of listening to God's voice amidst the noise of the world. She emphasizes the significance of our words and actions, encouraging listeners to align their speech and behaviour with their beliefs. The conversation highlights practical steps for navigating life with a God-fearing mindset, focusing on intentional listening, speaking encouragement, and living out one's faith through actions.
Takeaways
- We must be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.
- Listening to God's gentle whisper is crucial in a noisy world.
- Our words reflect our true beliefs and values.
- Words can either build up or tear down.
- It's easy to say hurtful things, but hard to take them back.
- Pause and pray before responding to others.
- Faith without action is dead; we must act on our beliefs.
- Daily rhythms of surrendering to God can guide our actions.
- We are called to be disciples, not perfect beings.
- Encouragement can be a powerful tool in our interactions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
00:40 The Fight for Our Voice
02:29 Listening to God's Whisper
06:03 The Power of Our Words
10:35 Actions Speak Louder Than Words
14:11 Navigating Life to Honour God
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh guides young professionals through the transformative journey of self-discovery and faith. She addresses the challenges of navigating adulthood, including the pressures of work, setting boundaries, and building meaningful relationships. With biblical insights and practical advice, Erin encourages listeners to embrace their identity in Christ, cultivate nourishing friendships, and approach new seasons of life with courage and grace.
Takeaways
- Navigating adulthood can be overwhelming, but it's a time of growth.
- Setting boundaries is essential for protecting your time and energy.
- Workplace friendships can be complex; balance professionalism with camaraderie.
- Not everyone needs to know everything about you; be mindful of transparency vs. vulnerability.
- Your identity in Christ should be your anchor in all situations.
- Embrace new seasons without fear of failure or expectations.
- Cultivating spiritually nourishing friendships is crucial for personal growth.
- Courageous conversations are necessary for clear communication.
- Reflect on your insecurities to understand your growth.
- Daily disciplines help maintain your voice in a noisy world.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
02:35 Navigating Young Adulthood and Professional Life
08:29 Setting Boundaries in Work and Life
14:05 Navigating Relationships in the Workplace
17:53 Maintaining Individual Voice in a Noisy World
22:22 Embracing New Seasons with Confidence
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh discusses the importance of being present in the lives of our children. She emphasizes that motherhood is often overshadowed by societal pressures and the pursuit of perfection, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Erin encourages mothers to focus on creating meaningful memories with their children, viewing themselves through their children's eyes, and anchoring their parenting in faith. She provides practical tips for capturing memories and overcoming the mindset of waiting for the 'perfect' moment to engage with their kids.
Takeaways
- Today's episode encourages you to be present with your children.
- Moms often feel overwhelmed and obsolete in their roles.
- Social media can warp our perception of motherhood.
- Your imperfections mean nothing to your children.
- Presence is more important than perfection.
- Children are a heritage from the Lord.
- Being present is an act of worship.
- Capture micro moments with your kids.
- Overcome the 'one day' mindset that steals the present.
- Live in the moment with no regrets.
Chapters
00:00 The Gift of Presence
03:01 The Mother's Mirror
05:55 Seeing Through a Child's Eyes
08:49 Anchoring to Faith
12:12 Practical Tips for Memory Making
18:01 Overcoming the 'One Day' Mindset
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh discusses the often-overlooked aspect of supporting someone who is grieving. She emphasizes the complexity of grief, which can stem from various losses, not just death. Erin provides practical advice on how to be a compassionate support system, highlighting the importance of being present, taking initiative, and respecting the grieving process. She also addresses common pitfalls to avoid when interacting with someone in grief, such as offering clichés or pressing for details. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to support those in their lives who may be navigating grief.
Takeaways
- Grief can stem from various losses, not just death.
- Being present and listening is crucial for support.
- Take initiative in practical tasks for the grieving.
- Avoid clichés and pressure when supporting someone in grief.
- Respect the unique grieving process of each individual.
- Compassion and patience are essential during grief.
- Decision fatigue is real for those who are grieving.
- Support can come from unexpected sources.
- Empathy and community are vital in times of grief.
- Consistency in support matters more than grand gestures.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Grief and Support
00:54 Understanding Grief's Complexity
02:52 The Importance of Compassionate Support
07:09 Practical Ways to Support the Grieving
12:40 Encouragement and Respect for the Grieving Process
14:36 What to Avoid Saying to the Grieving
20:07 The Role of Community in Grief Support
21:49 Conclusion and Call to Action
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the complex and multifaceted nature of grief. She discusses how grief can manifest in various forms beyond the loss of life, including the end of relationships, careers, and dreams.
Erin shares her personal experiences with grief, emphasizing the importance of understanding and validating one's emotions during this challenging journey.
She offers practical steps for processing grief, such as creating rituals, documenting feelings, and seeking support.
Ultimately, Erin encourages listeners to find joy amidst their grief and to recognize that they are not alone in their struggles.
Takeaways
-Grief is a deeply personal experience that varies for everyone.
-Loss can come in many forms, not just death.
-Understanding your feelings during grief is crucial.
-Grief does not follow a linear path; it can be unpredictable.
-Validating your emotions helps in processing grief.
-Creating rituals can honour your loss and aid healing.
-Documenting feelings can provide relief and clarity.
-Reaching out for support is vital during times of grief.
-Finding joy in small moments can help navigate grief.
-You are not alone; faith and community can provide strength.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Grief and Self-Discovery
01:48 Understanding the Many Faces of Grief
05:10 Personal Experiences with Grief
09:55 Navigating Emotions in Grief
12:11 The Personal Journey of Grief
18:48 Practical Steps to Process Grief
27:10 Finding Joy Amidst Grief
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the transformative journey of self-discovery and faith. She addresses the common fears associated with starting new ventures, emphasizing that these fears often stem from unfamiliarity rather than a lack of capability.
Erin encourages listeners to embrace new beginnings, understand the importance of waiting, and recognize God's presence and timing in their lives. Through practical steps and reflection questions, she guides listeners to confront their fears and trust in God's plan for their lives.
Takeaways
- Starting something new can be daunting due to fear of the unknown.
- Fear often stems from unfamiliarity, not from being incapable.
- Insecurity can trigger fear when facing new beginnings.
- Waiting seasons are opportunities for growth and preparation.
- God's timing is perfect, and He opens doors for us.
- We are not alone; God is with us in our journeys.
- Faith can transform fear and build momentum.
- Reflecting on past experiences can strengthen current courage.
- Surrounding ourselves with supportive communities is essential.
- New beginnings are a specialty of God, and we must trust Him.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
00:41 Overcoming Fear of the Unknown
04:59 Understanding Insecurities and New Beginnings
09:05 The Importance of Waiting
13:16 God's Timing and Open Doors
20:23 God's Presence in New Beginnings
25:37 Practical Steps to Move Forward in Faith
27:31 Conclusion: Embracing New Beginnings
Keywords
self-discovery, faith, overcoming fear, new beginnings, God's timing, personal growth, waiting, God's presence, practical steps, encouragement
In this episode of the Unfolding New Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh discusses the theme of renewal and strength, emphasizing the importance of assessing our burdens and recognizing that we cannot carry them alone.
Drawing from Isaiah 40:31, she highlights the exchange of our weaknesses for God's strength and encourages listeners to actively wait and trust in God.
Practical steps for renewal are provided, including acknowledging burdens, releasing control, and resting in God's promises.
Takeaways
- Renewal is essential for our well-being.
- We often carry burdens that we don't need to.
- Expectations can weigh us down significantly.
- Fear of failure is a common struggle.
- Control and perfectionism can exhaust us.
- We need to trade our weaknesses for God's strength.
- Active waiting on God is crucial for renewal.
- Surrendering our burdens leads to breakthroughs.
- Practical steps can help us find renewal.
- Friendship with God is found in reliance on Him.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
01:39 Renewing Strength in a Stimulating World
05:26 Assessing Our Burdens
11:16 The Exchange: Trading Weakness for Strength
15:21 Active Waiting and Trusting in God
20:09 Practical Steps to Renewal
Keywords
renewal, strength, burdens, faith, self-discovery, Isaiah 40, surrender, trust, encouragement, spiritual growth
In this episode of the Unfolding You podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the concept of strongholds—deeply rooted thought patterns and beliefs that hinder personal growth and spiritual fulfilment.
She discusses the importance of identifying these strongholds, understanding their impact on our lives, and offers practical steps to overcome them through faith, biblical truth, and community support.
Erin emphasizes that true strength comes from reliance on God, and encourages listeners to confront their strongholds with courage and faith.
Takeaways
- Strongholds are deeply rooted thought patterns that hinder us.
- Identifying strongholds is the first step to overcoming them.
- Fear and anxiety are common forms of strongholds.
- Negative self-talk can trap us in cycles of doubt.
- Past traumas and unforgiveness can create strongholds.
- God's Word provides the truth to counteract lies.
- Prayer and community support are essential for overcoming strongholds.
- Surrendering to God leads to true freedom.
- Breaking strongholds requires intentional effort and faith.
- God's grace empowers us to confront our challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Self-Discovery
01:21 Understanding Strongholds and Their Impact
06:25 Identifying Strongholds in Our Lives
15:23 The Consequences of Strongholds
22:38 Overcoming Strongholds Through God's Truth
27:30 The Power of God's Strength in Breaking Strongholds
32:53 Encouragement and Community Support
In this episode of the Unfolding New Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the themes of self-discovery, faith, and the dangers of comparison.
She emphasizes that each person's journey is unique and that God has a specific plan for everyone. Through the story of Esther, Erin illustrates the importance of preparation, divine timing, and the role of challenges in personal growth.
She encourages listeners to trust in God's plan and to recognize the support of those around them as they navigate their own paths.
Takeaways
- Comparison can hinder our personal growth and dreams.
- God has a unique plan for each individual.
- Preparation is essential for fulfilling our purpose.
- Challenges are opportunities for growth and learning.
- Trusting God's timing is crucial in our journey.
- We should recognize the support of those around us.
- Enemies can expose our weaknesses for growth.
- God places us in the right situations at the right time.
- We are called to rise up and make a difference.
- The Lord has a miracle in store for each of us.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
00:49 The Art of Comparison
03:33 God's Timing and Preparation
08:58 Facing Challenges and Enemies
10:48 Purpose and Divine Timing
12:59 God's Plan and EncouragementKeywords
self-discovery, faith, comparison, God's timing, preparation, challenges, purpose, divine timing, encouragement, Esther
In this episode of The Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the themes of connection and growth through the lens of faith.
She shares her personal journey of selecting a word for the year, 'connect', and reflects on the importance of remaining rooted in faith, especially during times of pruning and transition.
Drawing from John 15, Erin emphasizes that pruning is not merely a form of discipline but a necessary process for producing more fruit in our lives.
She encourages listeners to embrace the discomfort of self-reflection and to create space for growth by letting go of what no longer serves them.Takeaways
- My word this year was connect.
- Pruning can really just be a means for us to produce more fruit.
- Cutting away branches creates space for us to grow.
- Pruning is often just those circumstances of moments where the Lord goes, I'm nurturing you now.
- Think of the space you need to create for more growth.
- The Lord has put dreams on our hearts.
- We often think about the ending of seasons as failure.
- He wants to be with us in that mess.
- Pruning can happen through discipline.
- What a joy and a blessing is that for us as his flock.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
00:42 The Power of a Word for the Year
01:58 Understanding Connection Through Scripture
03:43 The Concept of Pruning in Our Lives
09:01 Creating Space for Growth
self-discovery, faith, connection, pruning, growth, intentionality, scripture, John 15, encouragement, personal development
In this episode of The Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh discusses the sensitive topic of body image, particularly for women and mothers. She shares her personal journey of navigating societal pressures and the importance of self-acceptance. Erin emphasizes the need to honour our bodies as temples and encourages listeners to break free from negative narratives about their bodies. Through her experiences, she aims to empower others to embrace their uniqueness and foster a positive relationship with their bodies.
Takeaways
- The narrative around body image is deeply ingrained in society.
- Women often compare their bodies to unrealistic standards.
- It's crucial to break the cycle of negative self-talk.
- Honouring our bodies is a spiritual and physical responsibility.
- Personal health journeys can lead to profound transformations.
- Raising children with a positive body image is essential.
- Small daily habits can lead to significant health improvements.
- Wearing the right size clothing boosts confidence.- Self-acceptance is a powerful tool for empowerment.
- We must challenge societal norms and embrace our uniqueness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery and Faith
01:04 The Impact of Body Image on Women
10:16 Honouring Our Bodies as Temples
19:34 Embracing Uniqueness and Confidence
Keywords
self-discovery, body image, faith, empowerment, self-acceptance, health, motherhood, societal pressures, personal journey, wellness
In this episode of the Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh explores the concept of busyness and its implications on our self-worth and daily lives. She discusses how society equates being busy with value and worth, particularly in parenting and personal life. Erin encourages listeners to reframe their understanding of busyness, suggesting they consider whether their days are full or manageable, and emphasizes the importance of being present and intentional with time. Drawing on biblical references, she highlights the need to seek spiritual fulfilment over worldly tasks, urging listeners to prioritize stillness and connection with God.
Takeaways
- Busyness is often seen as a badge of honour.
- We equate our worth with how busy we are.
- Reframing 'busy' to 'full' can change our perspective.
- Children absorb the narrative of needing to be busy.
- We should allow ourselves to just be.
- Value should be placed on meaningful activities.
- Scripture encourages us to seek God first.
- We often overlook the importance of stillness.
- Life's hustle can distract us from spiritual growth.
- Intentionality in our days leads to fulfilment.
Chapters00:00 The Burden of Busyness
03:04 Reframing Our Daily Narratives
06:04 Finding Value in Stillness
09:07 Seeking the Kingdom First
In this episode of the Unfolding You Podcast, Erin Smylie Walsh shares her personal journey of embracing her grey hair and the deeper implications it has on identity and self-acceptance. She discusses the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards, particularly for women, and how her decision to stop dyeing her hair has led to a transformative experience. Through her story, Erin encourages listeners to find their worth in Christ and to embrace their true selves as masterpieces created by God.
Takeaways
Going grey can be a sensitive topic for many women.
Erin's journey with grey hair began at a young age.
She initially coloured her hair due to insecurity.
The decision to stop dyeing her hair was empowering.
COVID-19 played a role in her hair journey.
Societal assumptions about aging can be frustrating.
Ephesians 2:10 emphasizes our identity as God's masterpiece.
Embracing one's natural self can inspire others.
Erin's daughters see her as a role model for self-acceptance.
True beauty comes from embracing who we are in Christ.
Chapters
00:00 Embracing Change: The Journey of Going Grey
09:53 Redefining Beauty: Identity Beyond Hair
13:14 Masterpiece in Christ: Embracing Our True Selves