Real Talk with Rachel Awtrey

If you’ve ever carried the weight of past hurts, disappointments, or offenses you know how heavy that burden can feel. In this episode, my friend, Alexandra Hoover shares how to release what’s holding you back, embrace radical acceptance in Christ, and step into the kind of emotional freedom that allows you to live with joy again. We talk about why offenses hit us so hard, how to handle relationships when the hurt keeps coming, and what it really means to live unoffendable. This is a conversation about finding healing, hope, and abundance on the other side of letting go. RACHEL’S BOOK: https://amzn.to/3VIU291 ALEXANDRAS BOOK: https://amzn.to/3Ktmrxy 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

Are you carrying the weight of expectations, comparison, or hustle culture—and wondering why it still feels so heavy? You’re not alone.  In this episode, I sit down with author Erica Ligenza Gwynn to talk about the lies we’ve believed for far too long and the freedom that comes when we finally replace them with God’s truth. Together, we unpack common cultural mantras like “If I’m not hustling, I’m lazy” or “My feelings are my truth”—and why they leave us stuck, burned out, and empty. Erica shares how recognizing and rejecting these lies opened the door for her to live with authenticity, purpose, and joy in Christ. If you’ve ever thought, “It’s happening for everyone but me” or “I’m too messy to be loved,” this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away encouraged to spot the subtle lies shaping your story and equipped with biblical truths that offer real freedom. This is a hope-filled, honest chat for any woman ready to stop striving and start living in the unshakable truth of who God says she is. CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ RACHEL’S BOOK: https://amzn.to/3VIU291 PRE ORDER ERICA’S BOOK: https://amzn.to/4o0DLZi 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. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/realtalk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! 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

RACHEL'S BOOK: https://rstyle.me/+lBidbooIwoU_I9BuL097BQ CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkwithrachelawtrey 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’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “I just wish I had a bigger kitchen, more time, better friendships, or fill-in-the-blank…” this conversation is for you. Rachel sits down with Kate Strickler, the voice behind the wildly popular blog and Instagram account Naptime Kitchen and now the author of I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen: And Other Lies I Thought Would Make Me Happy.  Kate has become a trusted friend online for her honest, hilarious, and deeply relatable take on motherhood and home life. In this episode, Kate shares: The first “I just wish…” lie she believed and how it shaped her book Why comparison sneaks up on so many of us—and how she’s learning to fight it The small perspective shifts that can change how you see your home, your kids, and your life The kitchen fails, parenting mishaps, and raw moments that remind her she’s not alone (and neither are you) This is a conversation packed with laughs, honesty, and hope for any mom who’s tired of wishing her life looked different and is ready to love the one she already has. GRAB RACHEL’S BOOK: https://go.shopmy.us/p-23961488 GRAB KATE’S BOOK: https://go.shopmy.us/p-25574794 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. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/realtalk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! 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 happens when America’s Sweetheart takes off the uniform, sits down for a pod and gets real? In this episode, I sit down with Reece Allman, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, and we cover it all: faith, marriage, public criticism, and the kind of joy you have to fight for when the spotlight is bright. We laugh, we go deep, and yes…I ask the questions no one else has dared to. From the tension of performing for thousands to the intimacy of living for an audience of One, Reece shares the vulnerable, whimsical, and spicy sides of her story you haven’t heard yet. Whether you love football, faith, or just a good honest conversation, this episode will leave you smiling, thinking, and maybe even tearing up. 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: Go to ⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/realtalk⁠⁠⁠ for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! 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

This one feels like you’re in the backseat with us. On the drive home from LO Conference with Sadie Robertson Huff, my girlfriends and I hit record and just started talking—about the joys and the oh boys, the wild and wonderful moments from the week, and life in this season.Think of it as unfiltered car chatter with your besties: the kind where you laugh till you cry, process what God is doing, and swap stories you won’t find on the highlight reel. From surreal encounters (like a certain well-known artist stopping by) to the little lessons tucked inside the chaos, we’re letting you in on the ride home conversation. So, buckle up!! You’re about to be a fly on the wall with us. CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A⁠⁠⁠⁠ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Go to ⁠⁠Quince.com/realtalk⁠⁠ for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! 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 EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Podcast Post Production and Management: Cait and Phillip Howard of 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

Today is for the ones that think "I just need a break" are getting tired, overwhelmed, worn out and need a reset. I HEAR YOU! Dr. Alison is helping us name what's hard, tame our guilt and transform us into brave action!! So many good "aha" moments, practical next steps and more today! CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/ ORDER RACHEL’S BOOK: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rstyle.me/+hZ4zlRKm6FthvVDNMjyy6A⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH DR. ALISON COOK: https://www.dralisoncook.com/ GET "I Shouldn't Feel This Way" by Dr. Alison: https://amzn.to/3IqzOu5 SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/ CONTACT: podcast@rachelawtrey.com THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Go to ⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/realtalk⁠⁠⁠ for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! 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 EPISODE CREDITS: Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography Podcast Post Production and Management: Cait and Phillip Howard of 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

Recorded live in Nashville, this episode is pure spur-of-the-moment fun with my friends Chandler Ashcraft (@chanwiththeboys) and Nicole Warren (@nicole_thenomad)! Together, we dive into what it really looks like to hold onto joy in the middle of the hard and we even pull in stories, questions, and joy-filled recommendations from the audience right there in the room.From honest reflections to what’s currently bringing us joy, this conversation feels like sitting down with new friends who just get it. You’ll laugh, you’ll be encouraged, and you’ll walk away with practical, joy-sparking takeaways to carry into your own life. It’s one of those episodes that reminds you joy doesn’t have to wait for the perfect season  it can show up right in the middle of the messy one. 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 the best part of the dream wasn’t hitting the milestone—but what you do after it happens? In this special Joy Morning Show mash-up episode, Rachel brings together two powerful conversations that explore what it means to dream with God, run with resilience, and keep your heart aligned while your hands are full. Fresh off the release of her new book Love Your Life (Even When You Don’t Like It), Rachel is joined by her wise, joy-filled friends to reflect on book launch highs, navigating busy seasons without burning out, and how to partner with God through both momentum and mess. From practical strategies to keep your body, mind, and emotions grounded, to big truths about healing, celebration, and grit—this episode is an invitation to slow down, look up, and run your race well. 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