Real Talk with Rachel Awtrey

Pull up a chair and let’s talk. 🤍 In this cozy solo episode of Real Talk, I’m taking you with me as I close the door on 2025 and crack open 2026 with honesty, intentionality, and with a lot of heart! I’m sharing what I’m carrying forward (hello, momentum with margin), what I’m leaving behind (looking at you, hustle culture 👋), and how I’m thinking about joy, faith, purpose, and community in this next season. We’ll talk about choosing depth over noise, letting joy be a practice instead of just a personality, honoring the season you’re actually in, and why rushing, over-explaining, and all-or-nothing thinking are officially off the guest list. This episode is less about reinvention and more about refinement slow steps, real grace, and trusting that small, faithful choices add up over time. I’m also giving you a little sneak peek at what’s coming next: a fresh look and feel for the podcast, upcoming travel (including Kenya!!! 🤍), new speaking opportunities, and what’s stirring in my heart as I begin writing my second book. If you’re heading into 2026 craving more joy, more clarity, and a little permission to move at a human pace this one’s for you. Come sit with me! CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re listening in cozy pajamas, wrapping one last gift, sneaking a quiet moment in the bathroom, or sitting in the middle of the Christmas chaos, hiiiiiiii. You’re in the right place! Christmas Eve can be sparkly and sweet and also tender, heavy, or a little overwhelming. Sometimes all at once. And this episode isn’t here to tell you how to feel it’s here to sit with you exactly where you are. We’re talking about joy that doesn’t require perfection, faith that fits real life, and a God who shows up whether this night feels full of celebration, grief, anxiety, or quiet delight. We’ll end with a gentle Christmas Eve liturgy and prayer, something soft to carry with you into the rest of the night. CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s something about Christmas that invites us to slow down, lean in, and do the same things every year on purpose. In this episode, I’m sharing the Christmas traditions our family can’t imagine the season without—the big ones, the small ones, and the ones that started on accident and somehow became sacred. We’re talking cozy mornings, childhood throwbacks, foods that instantly feel like home, and the little rhythms that anchor us when the season feels loud or rushed. Some of these traditions are joyful and playful, some are deeply meaningful, and all of them remind us that joy is often found in repetition—not perfection. If you’re craving ideas to make this season feel more grounded, more connected, or just more fun, this conversation is for you. Come borrow a tradition (or two), feel a little less pressure to do it all, and be reminded that the most memorable moments are usually the simplest ones. CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When country music star Granger Smith and his wife, Amber Emily Smith, lost their three-year-old son, River, their world stopped. In the depths of unimaginable grief, Amber found herself on the bathroom floor—empty, aching, and crying out to God for even a thread of hope. That moment didn’t erase the pain but it did begin a story of redemption. Now the author of The Girl on the Bathroom Floor and the host of the Arise with Amber podcast, Amber joins me on Real Talk with Rachel Awtrey for a raw, hope-filled conversation about loss, faith, and learning how to live with both grief and joy in the same breath. We talk about how God met her in the darkest place, how healing didn’t come all at once, and how beauty can still rise from ashes. This episode of Real Talk with Rachel Awtrey is tender, powerful, and deeply sacred. If you’ve ever wondered where God is when your life falls apart—this conversation is for you. GRAB RACHEL'S BOOK: https://rachelawtrey.com/book LEAVE RACH A VOICEMAIL FOR THE SHOW: https://speakpipe.com/heyrachhotline CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Cure Hydration: Visit ⁠⁠curehydration.com/REALTALK⁠⁠ and use code REAL TALK for 20% off your first order Antique Candle Co: Use “REALTALK” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more now at ⁠⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠⁠ Wild Invitation: ⁠⁠Get your copy today⁠⁠ Mercy Ships: Please donate today at ⁠⁠MercyShips.org/podcast⁠⁠ Omaha Steaks: Visit ⁠⁠OmahaSteaks.com⁠⁠ for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, use promo code FUN at checkout. ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time for this month’s J.O.Y.F.U.L. Report!!! It's basically a big cozy catch-up on everything happening over here. I’m chatting about what we’re jumping into (Rally growing, Thomas’ new flying gig, holiday life, needlepointing… yes, really), plus the things I’m loving right now like Erin McDermott jewelry, sweatpant jeans, and loud colorful Christmas everything. I’m also sharing what I’m learning lately!! From paying attention to friction, to letting go of things that drain me, to getting honest about expectations, alcohol, and the hard stuff I usually try to avoid. We’ll talk about the books I’m reading, how TikTok has somehow become my new search engine, and a few unfiltered thoughts about the internet being - well - the internet. And then I’m giving you a little peek at what’s ahead: more in-person interviews, Phone-In Fridays, and the "Hey Rach" Hotline where you can literally leave me a voicemail. Come hang out!! It feels like a catch-up with a friend in the carpool line. GRAB RACHEL'S BOOK: https://rachelawtrey.com/book LEAVE RACH A VOICEMAIL FOR THE SHOW: https://speakpipe.com/heyrachhotline CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Cure Hydration: Visit ⁠curehydration.com/REALTALK⁠ and use code REAL TALK for 20% off your first order Antique Candle Co: Use “REALTALK” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more now at ⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠ Wild Invitation: ⁠Get your copy today⁠ Mercy Ships: Please donate today at ⁠MercyShips.org/podcast⁠ Omaha Steaks: Visit ⁠OmahaSteaks.com⁠ for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, use promo code FUN at checkout. ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life is built around our relationships with other people. However, it can be difficult to set boundaries that help those relationships thrive! Elizabeth Earnshaw, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is joining me to talk all about how to navigate the sticky and difficult relationships. This episode is full of practical tips on how to manage disconnect and conflict with the people in our lives. CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Antique Candle Co: Use code REALTALK to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more now at ⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠ Wild Invitation: ⁠⁠Get your copy today⁠⁠ ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: “Luxurious” by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I sat down with the incredible Ellie Holcomb, and wow!!!! this conversation felt like a deep breath. We talked about what it really looks like to be on the hunt for God in our everyday lives like when you’re folding laundry, driving carpool, or wondering what’s next. Ellie shared honest and practical wisdom about parenting, trusting God with our kids, and the funny, holy moments that happen in between. We laughed over real-life stories (the kind only moms can tell), talked about how to keep your heart soft to God, and how to recognize what He might be placing on your path next even when it doesn’t make sense yet. If you’re craving hope, direction, or just a reminder that you’re not alone in the chaos and calling of motherhood and faith this episode is for you! CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Antique Candle Co: Use code REALTALK to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more now at antiquecandleco.com Wild Invitation: ⁠Get your copy today⁠ ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Intro Music: “Luxurious” by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the podcast, I’m sitting down with Alena Pitts Franklin: actress, author of the brand-new devotional God Is, and newlywed adventurer - yes, the kind of adventurer who hiked Mount Kilimanjaro with her husband! No kidding! At just 21, Alena is speaking to all of us asking, “Who am I?” and she flips the question by asking instead, “Who is God?” In her 60-day devotional, she walks through His character: helper, shepherd, good Father and how truly knowing Him changes how we see ourselves. Can’t wait for you to listen! CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW: To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to podcast@rachelawtrey.com or those at That Sounds Fun Network. EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Production by Phillip and Cait Howard by Amplify Boutique Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones DISCLAIMERS: The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode. Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices