

That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs
That Sounds Fun Network
Christian author and speaker Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, restaurants, travel stories, musicians not to miss, interviews with friends. Pretty much, if it sounds fun to Annie, you're gonna hear about it.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 17, 2025 • 58min
How You Finish a Season Determines How You Start the Next with Jeff Henderson - Episode 1017
Jeff Henderson, an author and leadership advisor renowned for his insights on change, shares his wisdom on navigating transitions. He delves into why change can feel daunting and offers a four-step pattern: think abundantly, plan intentionally, execute consistently, and celebrate frequently. Jeff emphasizes the importance of preparing for new seasons by finishing strong and planning ahead. He also discusses creating a culture of encouragement and managing transitions gracefully, providing practical tips for entering the new year with intention.

Nov 10, 2025 • 59min
When Fall Feels Like Loss & What Surviving an Unwanted Divorce Really Looks Like with Lysa TerKeurst- Episode 1016
Lysa TerKeurst is back for the *5th* time today, and we’re going to talk about how to walk through a season full of more loss than beauty. Her brand new book, Surviving An Unwanted Divorce releases tomorrow, and this book is such a helpful tool for those of you walking through a divorce or those of you that want to know how to help someone who is.
Whether you know you’re about to enter a winter season or one is thrust upon you, figuring out how to navigate the trauma, grief, and healing can be so overwhelming and Lysa’s experience and wisdom is SUCH a gift. I think this is one of those episodes you’re going to want to text to a friend.
If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 121. The date is different because we moved this one up, but the question is there for you. The guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons!
View the show notes here
If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also like to hear Episode 479 with Brandi Wilson when she also talks about finding hope and healing after a divorce.
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Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!
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Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests!
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Thank you to our sponsors!
This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN.
AG1: Head to drinkag1.com/SOUNDSFUN to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe!
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Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide.
NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible!
Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun.
NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends.
#thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 47min
Leadership Doesn't Have to Be Lonely: A Single Purpose League Conversation with Katy Boatman & Ashley Warren- Episode 1015
Ashley Warren, Chief Operating Officer at AFD Inc. and a seasoned leader in ministry, joins the conversation about loneliness in leadership roles, particularly for women. She shares insights on how loneliness can persist even in marriage and the importance of self-leadership. The trio discusses practical self-care strategies, including the value of serving others and recognizing the root feelings behind loneliness. They also address the significance of diverse voices in leadership and the upcoming SPL Leadership Mastermind as a supportive community for leaders.

Nov 3, 2025 • 56min
Not My Will but Yours: When the Story Hurts but God Is Still Good with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins- Episode 1014
Today I get to talk with my friends, Dallas and Amanda Jenkins. Dallas is the creator, director and producer of the tv show The Chosen, and Amanda writes Bible studies and content that goes along with the show. They just finished shooting Season 6 of The Chosen -- Jesus's crucifixion. I think you’re really going to love hearing what they are learning about Jesus and how we can find strength in Him in this season.
If you’re following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, we’re on page 119. You can order your copy–with all 4 seasons–at anniefdowns.com/seasons!
. . . . .
Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify App, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!
If you enjoyed this episode, I think you’d also love:
Red Sea Moments Leading to a Dream of Producing The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins- Episode 935
Episode 447: Jonathan Roumie on Surrendering to Jesus, Balancing a Public and Private Faith, and How His Catholic Background Influences His Work
. . . . .
Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests!
. . . . .
Thank you to our sponsors!
This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN.
WayFair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday deals for up to 70% off.
Our Place: Save up to 35% sitewide now through December 2nd. Head to fromourplace.com to see why more than a million people have made the switch to Our Place kitchenware.
Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN.
Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift.
Capstone Wellness: Learn more at capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun.
Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 20% off sitewide.
NIV Application Bible: If you’re looking for a new Bible or know someone you’d like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the NIV Application Bible!
Shopify: Sign up for your free trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun.
NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends.
#thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 30, 2025 • 1h
Annie and Eddie Keep Talking About Foster Cats, Paninis, and the Life of a Tour Girl- Episode 1013
Eddie Koffels, a frequent co-host known for his engaging banter and philanthropic work, joins to discuss the joys of fostering cats and the quirks of celebrating pet birthdays. He shares insights from his time with Three Roots International, emphasizing their mission to combat poverty. Annie provides a glimpse into her tour life with CAIN, including balancing performance energy and catering challenges. They hilariously debate the nuances of paninis versus grilled cheese, promising more food talk in the future!

5 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 1h 14min
The Harvest Is Global; the Invitation Is Personal with David Platt - Episode 1012
David Platt, a passionate pastor and missions leader, shares riveting stories from his recent trip to Brazil, highlighting the global impact of Brazilian missionaries. He discusses the personal nature of evangelism, recounting moments where everyday encounters led to profound spiritual conversations. Platt emphasizes the importance of risk in sharing faith in challenging areas and encourages practical steps for listeners to engage in global missions. He also offers encouragement for single women pursuing ministry, affirming their vital role in spreading the gospel.

4 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 58min
What If Caring for Your Body Wasn’t About Fixing It, But Honoring It? with Jordan Lee Dooley- Episode 1011
In this enlightening conversation, author and speaker Jordan Lee Dooley shares her journey as a mother of three under three and how it reshaped her view on body stewardship. She discusses shifting from a mindset of fixing appearances to honoring our bodies as gifts. Jordan emphasizes reframing health as an act of worship, not just for results. She also highlights the importance of community in well-being and practical steps for affordable health habits. Her new book, 'Be Good to Your Body,' dives into these transformative ideas.

Oct 15, 2025 • 53min
You’re Not Alone: A Tender Conversation on Infant Loss and Trusting God in Grief with Tatum Green and David Thomas- Episode 1010
In this heartfelt conversation, Tatum Green, a mother who faced the tragic loss of her infant son TJ, shares her family's journey and discusses the creation of the children's book 'Where Did TJ Go?' to help others navigate similar grief. David Thomas, a licensed counselor, provides invaluable insights on supporting children through anticipatory grief and emphasizes that everyone's grief is unique. The duo advocates for open conversations about loss, offering practical steps for families to heal together.

4 snips
Oct 12, 2025 • 57min
Developing the Faith to Face Your Giants with Caroline and Melanie Shankle- Episode 1009
Caroline Shankle, a recent college graduate and author of "The Lion and the Bear," joins her mother, Melanie Shankle, a seasoned author and parenting expert. They dive into incredible insights about facing fears during college years and the spiritual journey involved. Caroline shares her transition from aspiring vet to writer, inspired by her personal struggles. Melanie discusses the challenges of parental fears and the importance of trust in God. They even touch on the excitement of SEC football and the joy of supporting young women through faith.

Oct 6, 2025 • 1h 2min
In Every Season, the King is Still the King with Chris Tomlin- Episode 1008
Chris Tomlin, a Grammy-winning contemporary Christian music artist, joins to discuss his new album, 'The King Is Still The King.' He shares insights on worship and how it serves to reorient the soul toward God. Tomlin emphasizes the importance of engaging with worship music actively and describes how he captures spontaneous musical moments. They dive into the meaning behind the album title and the impact of his earlier songs on different generations. The conversation also touches on maintaining faith amidst life's challenges.


