Real Talk with Rachel Awtrey

What if rest wasn’t a reward—but the way through your overwhelm? In this honest and hope-filled episode, Rachel sits down with speaker and author Tara Sun to talk about what it really looks like to live a present, peaceful, and purpose-driven life without burning out. Together they unpack the reality so many women face: juggling faith, motherhood, work, and big dreams—while feeling overbooked and overwhelmed. Tara shares her personal journey of hitting a breaking point, how God met her there, and why the gospel isn’t about hustle—it’s about abiding. You’ll walk away with practical tools to evaluate what truly belongs in your life, how to set godly priorities, and what to do when you’re drowning in good things but still feel empty. Whether you're racing through life at 100mph or just craving more margin and meaning, this episode is your reminder that Jesus isn’t asking you to do it all—He’s asking you to walk with Him. ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: ⁠https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A⁠ 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

What if changing your mind was actually the bravest thing you could do? In this episode, Rachel sits down with Stephanie May Wilson to talk all about the power of the pivot and when life nudges (or shoves!!!) you in a totally new direction. We dig into what it looks like to pursue a calling that feels wildly different from your current path, why giving yourself permission to change is so hard (but so holy), and how to navigate transitions with faith, courage, and clarity. Whether you’re standing at a crossroads or just feeling that gentle tug to try something new, this conversation is packed with encouragement to trust the process and take the next right step. ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A 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

ORDER RACHEL'S BOOK!! https://rstyle.me/+ZbfTHdSNom9-QksyCCEJTA 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

Rachel sits down with Toni Collier — speaker, author, and founder of Broken Crayons Still Color — to talk about her new book Don’t Try This Alone: The Power of the Right People in Your Life. Together they unpack what it really means to let people in when you feel messy, why true healing happens in the context of community, and how to find (or rebuild) a circle that’s safe and life-giving. Whether you’re walking through a hard season, craving deeper friendships, or wondering if you can really trust others again, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to do it all on your own and you’re not meant to. ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: rachelawtrey.com/book ORDER TONI’S BOOK: https://www.tonijcollier.com/notalone 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

In this heartfelt and unfiltered episode, Rachel Awtrey sits down to share the kind of big sister wisdom most of us wish someone had told us sooner. With her signature blend of warmth, wit, and straight talk, Rachel tackles the lies we believe about our worth, our bodies, and our calling — and replaces them with truth that sets us free. From why you should stop shrinking to make others comfortable, to how to pray and set boundaries at the same time, Rachel delivers a powerful reminder that you are already loved, already enough, and already equipped to step into the life God has for you. If you’ve ever struggled with comparison, people-pleasing, fear of taking the next step, or wondering if your life really makes an impact — this episode is for you. ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A 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

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

In this powerful and tender conversation, Rachel sits down with Davy Blackburn, founder of Nothing is Wasted Ministries, to talk about grief, healing, and how joy can emerge even in the darkest moments. Davy’s life was forever changed in 2015 when his wife Amanda was tragically killed during a home invasion. Since then, he has walked through the messy reality of grief while discovering the profound truth that nothing is wasted in God’s hands. This episode explores the gravity of his story, the complexities of grieving while clinging to faith, and the surprising ways hope and joy have shown up along the way. Davy also shares what he would tell himself during his darkest days, what healing looks like now, and how he’s helping others navigate their own pain through Nothing is Wasted. ⚠️ Please note: this episode contains sensitive topics, including death and a violent crime. Listener discretion is advised, especially if little ears are nearby. If you’ve ever wondered whether joy and sorrow can coexist — or if God can really redeem what feels unredeemable — this conversation will meet you right where you are. More about Davey: NothingIsWasted.com ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A 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

In this deeply moving episode, Rachel sits down with Kiwi Cook, a former Compassion International sponsored child, whose story will stop you in your tracks. Growing up in poverty overseas, Kiwi’s early life was marked by scarcity, resilience, and a dream that felt impossibly far away… until one person’s “yes” changed everything. Together, they explore what daily life looked like for Kiwi as a child, how sponsorship gave her more than just practical help, and what it feels like to now stand on the other side of her story. Kiwi brings raw honesty, contagious joy, and a powerful perspective on how love, dignity, and opportunity can ripple through generations. If you’ve ever wondered whether sponsorship really works or if your small yes could actually change a life, this is the conversation for you. SPONSOR A CHILD THROUGH COMPASSION: compassion.com/rachelawtrey ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A 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

In a world that’s constantly telling us to change our bodies, Lisa Whittle is inviting us to reclaim them. In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Lisa to talk about her brand-new Bible study, Body and Soul: A Biblical Look at the Whole Person God Created You to Be. From anti-aging serums to fad diets and fitness fads, we’re bombarded with messages that our bodies are problems to solve. But what if—just what if—our bodies were good? What if we stopped striving and started seeing our whole selves the way God does? Lisa walks us through how Scripture talks about the body—not just in bits and pieces, but from Genesis to Revelation. This isn’t your typical body talk. It’s about rediscovering what it means to live as a whole person, made in the image of a God who doesn’t make mistakes. We talk about curves, scars, stretch marks, and faith. We get into identity, healing, and how every wrinkle can tell a story of God's faithfulness. This episode is an invitation to live well, not just spiritually—but physically, emotionally, and fully present. ORDER LISA’S NEW STUDY: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/body-and-soul-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005849644?mcid=Adwords-sb-PLA-005849644&cmpid=pm:ggl:220725|oth|shopping|women|women|17853994734|womens_pmax:pla:na&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22485007642&gbraid=0AAAAADG5Des3EZVXtJ06upcLOACBO7bOE&gclid=CjwKCAjwr5_CBhBlEiwAzfwYuFCyNgPcMec4M8uW7-z4B-2uOuhOsPwRC7S3UzdQv6RKeGSENRAHQBoCYIoQAvD_BwE ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A 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

In this vulnerable second half, Rachel and Thomas open up about a season of unknowns, starting with mysterious health issues and ending in the emergency discovery of an ectopic pregnancy.  They walk through the confusion, heartbreak, surgery, and the grief that followed—along with the beauty that showed up in community, faith, and even an ambulance ride. This one’s for anyone who’s walked through pain and wondered where God was in it.  It’s raw, hope-filled, and a reminder that even when life feels heavy, joy still has a seat at the table. ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK NOW! https://rstyle.me/+lBidbooIwoU_I9BuL097BQ 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