Author Series: Dr. Mikala Albertson

 I was trying so hard to just get rid of that chronic illness, not knowing that what I really needed was just to find a way to carry it. And I, it occurred to me one day that, faith was not designed to stop our bodies from being human.— Lori Ann Wood🎙️ This week on the Beholder Beauty Podcast: A heart-to-heart with @LoriAnnWood. Dive into her book "Divine Detour" and discover how the path we never choose can lead to the faith we've always wanted. Let's talk beauty, faith, and resilience! 💪✨ #BeholderBeauty #PodcastLife #DivineDetour 🙏💡 #Podcast #Inspiration #HeartHealth 💖🎧 #FaithJourney #DivineDetour #BeholderBeautyPodcastBeholder Beauty Podcast: A Devine Detour: A Conversation with Lori Ann WoodWhat do we do when our life drastically takes a detour?We have all experienced this in some way. For me, it was when my hearing went out. So, when I read Lori Ann Wood's book, "Divine Detour: The Path You’d Never Choose Can Lead to the Faith You’ve Always Wanted ," I had to sit down with her. I had so many questions to ask.....So don't miss this episode of Behold-her Beauty, where I do get to sit down with author Lori Ann Wood. A serious heart condition forever changed her life and faith. This is a beautiful testimony of how God met her in her suffering. Lori Ann had to come to terms with the fact that she wasn't going to fix her condition, yet God gave her a way to carry it.She shows us how bringing our difficult questions to God actually tether us to Him.I asked her my signature questions about her favorite beauty tip and whether she has ever struggled with her beauty, which led us to discuss routines, confidence, the importance of faith, and the role of questions in spiritual growth.We then dive deep as Lori Ann shares her life story, including the warning signs of heart failure she missed, her sudden diagnosis and the faith struggles she endured. She not only shares her story but also provides practical advice on recognizing heart health symptoms and how to approach a chronic illness with faith and resilience. Our conversation covers insights from her book, her ongoing health challenges, and her efforts to help others through writing and speaking.So, grab a favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and prepare for an inspiring conversation with my lovely guest, Lori Ann Wood. I look forward to having you join us. Don't forget to tune in to the full episode! Please feel free to share this episode, join the conversation in the comments, and follow or like on your favorite platforms.SHOW NOTES:00:00 Introduction to Beholder Beauty Podcast00:15 Meet Lori Ann Wood: Author of Divine Detour00:42 Lori Ann's Personal Journey and Writing01:56 Beauty Tips and Fun Questions05:35 Struggles with Beauty and Self-Confidence07:10 Raising Daughters and Beauty Perceptions08:20 Reflecting on Parental Influence09:54 The Impact of Media on Beauty Standards10:52 Confidence and Personal Style11:43 Introduction to Divine Detour13:01 Lori Ann's Heart Failure Diagnosis16:49 Faith and Chronic Illness18:58 Personal Stories of Illness and Faith23:29 Living with Chronic Illness25:23 The Gift of Diagnosis26:09 Recognizing Heart Failure Symptoms27:18 The Importance of Awareness28:16 Personal Experiences with Symptoms29:12 Sharing and Educating33:29 Writing Through Illness37:49 Faith and Doubt41:23 Current Health and Future Plans46:21 Final Thoughts and ResourcesMEET Lori Ann WoodLori Ann Wood lives with her husband in an empty nest in beautiful Northwest Arkansas. Having discovered a serious heart condition almost too late, Lori Ann writes and speaks to encourage deep faith questions along the detours of life. Her book, Divine Detour: The Path You’d Never Choose Can Lead to the Faith You’ve Always Wanted, was published in paperback, hardcover, ebook, and audiobook by CrossRiver Media. It is being released in 2025 in Spanish. The book has won nine national and international book awards.Connect with Lori Ann: Website: https://loriannwood.com Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/loriannwood/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DivinelyDetoured Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClsYrW5KIUqMBVvRxzNZG5QFree resources available: 5 Prayers & Promises When You Can’t Talk to God: https://loriannwood.com/hope/ The Heart Failure Warning Signs I Missed: https://loriannwood.com/heartDevine Detour Book Trailer and First Chapter Free: https://loriannwood.com/books/UPCOMING PODCAST SCHEDULE: Upcoming guests Theresa M. Miller, Rebecca George, Kate Battistelli, Katie Sampias, and TBA’s.Pick up: UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS: 40 DAYS OF DISCOVERING GOD’S BESTOur prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God's timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in unexpected ways. So join us on the podcast here and grab your copy of the book today on Amazon! Could you help us spread the word? Share this, text a friend, or leave a review!Bless you dear friend and thank you for being here.Love, DeborahSubscribe to the Behold-Her Beauty PodcastDeborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

"Sitting with her there that day and her holding my hand and saying, thank you for taking care of me, sweetheart, and saying, I love you. It reduced me to this. It's about love. The whole thing is about love or the meaning and purpose of our lives is about love."— Dr. Mikala Albertson Beholder Beauty Podcast: Holding Hearts: A Conversation with Dr. Mikala AlbertsonThis year has been a lot about hearts-whether mine or another. This week's guest on Behold-Her Beauty Podcast actually held a real heart in her hands as a young doctor. God would also teach her to hold women and her reader's hearts too.In this episode of the Beholder Beauty Podcast, I welcome Dr. Mikala Albertson, a board-certified family practice doctor, author, and wellbeing advocate, to discuss the nuances of midlife, beauty perceptions, and inner healing. Get ready to be inspired and uplifted as we join the conversation on embracing life's changes with love and acceptance.…I sat down with Dr. Mikala Albertson to explore her new book Everything I Wish I Could Tell You about Midlife: A Woman's Guide to Health in the Body You Actually Have (Stories & Scientific Insights to Navigate Menopause, Stress, Hormones & Common Changes). This is the book I wish I would have had as a young woman to point me up ahead to the middle years and as a middle-years woman to help me navigate this season of life. She points us to how much we are loved by God. Yes, love really is the answer.Our conversation delves into Dr. Mikala Alberton's clinical experiences, struggles, triumphs, and crucial insights into midlife health and well-being. Her wisdom, will lift your heart as we discuss the impact of trauma and share practical preventative health tips. I felt so understood talking with her on these important topics and know you will too.So, grab a favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and prepare for an inspiring conversation with my lovely guest, Dr. Mikala Albertson. I can't wait for you to join us. Don't forget to tune in to the full episode! Please feel free to share this episode, join the conversation in the comments and follow or like on your favorite platforms.SHOW NOTES:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mikala Albertson00:44 Dr. Mikala’ Albertson's Journey and New Book01:49 The Midlife Experience04:27 The Heart Story08:46 Signature Questions and Beauty Tips10:42 Body Image and Self-Acceptance17:19 Healing from Trauma19:39 Empathy and Patient Stories29:37 Coping with Loss and Healing30:28 Daily Faith and Turning to Jesus31:42 The Power of Service in Recovery32:19 A Husband's Journey to Sobriety35:03 The Serenity Prayer and Acceptance40:00 Practical Health Tips for Midlife Women45:00 Understanding and Managing Stress49:00 The Story of Betty and the Essence of Love55:45 Final Thoughts and Staying ConnectedMEET Dr. Mikala Albertson Dr. Mikala Albertson is a board-certified family practice doctor, author, and well-being advocate passionate about women’s health and healing the imperfect bodies we actually have in the middle of the ordinary lives we are living. She’s the author of the book Ordinary on Purpose. She inspires readers to stop striving for “perfect” lives or some unattainable cultural ideal of “beauty and wellness” and instead aim for wholehearted living in a life exactly as it is. She and her husband of 23 years are raising five children near Salt Lake City, UT. She has also authored the new book, “Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife: A Woman’s Guide to Health in the Body You Actually Have.”Keep in touch with Dr. Mikala Albertson at https://www.instagram.com/mikalaalbertsonmd/ and https://www.mikalaalbertsonmd.com/UPCOMING PODCAST SCHEDULE: Upcoming guests Lori Ann Wood, Theresa M. Miller, Rebecca George, Kate Battistelli, Katie Sampias, and TBA’s.Pick up: UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS: 40 DAYS OF DISCOVERING GOD’S BESTOur prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God's timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in unexpected ways. So join us on the podcast here and grab your copy of the book today on Amazon! Could you help us spread the word? Share this newsletter, text a friend, or leave a review!Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

Author Deborah Rutherford reads her devotional "The Unexpected Blessing of A Road Block" from the new book "Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best."A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.–PROVERBS 16:9 NKJVGod asks me to hold my plans loosely, for He is the one who establishes my steps.What do you do when your path is blocked, disrupted, or changed?One morning, I was on a bike ride, and an enormous tree blocked the path. It had fallen the night before as winds blew up to 80 miles an hour. Soon, the city would be there to clear the way, but I had to turn around.Part of me was happy because I didn’t have to ride farther. I was also in awe of the storm’s power, which had brought down the massive tree before me. Surprisingly, I discovered something unexpected—the liberating freedom of adjusting my schedule because of an interruption that altered my course.Sometimes, I hold my plans, schedules, and to-do lists tightly with closed fists, but God asks me to hold my plans loosely, for He establishes my steps. When there is a disruption, I often find myself trying to fix the situation rather than depending on God.But today, on the bike path, God taught me to see His blessings in disruptions, direction changes, roadblocks, not-yets, and turnarounds.Because I know that God has the best intentions for my life, I can follow Him through the twists and turns, ups and downs, and this way and that way.God always leads us in the best possible way. But we have a choice whether to let an interruption knock us off course by realizing that the storm lasts only a while. Our setbacks, trials, and adversities reorient us to God and remove our self-sufficiency, which is also a roadblock. When we depend only on God, we receive all the blessings He has prepared for us.How do you handle disruptions, changes, roadblocks, and fallen trees?Just think about how calm and peaceful life will be when we embrace God’s path, even though we may not understand it as the day turns this way or that way. We can put worries aside and know that we are under God’s wing, where He protects and guides us.Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for establishing my steps and teaching me to hold my plans with open hands to receive Your best. Your way is my way. You lead, and I follow. I know no roadblock or fallen tree can stop what You have for me, and I lean into Your divine guidance, protection, and provision. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.When disruptions occur, do you see them as setbacks or believe they could be opportunities in disguise? First, meditate on Proverbs 16:9. Are you holding tightly onto your plans? If so, confess and repent, and then surrender to God, praising Him for all the wonderful blessings He has in store for you.We'd love to hear in the comments below.Our prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God’s timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in ways you never expected. Grab your copy today on AMAZON!ABOUT DEBORAH:Deborah Rutherford explores themes of faith, nature, healing, and grace. Her published works are Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for Lost Ones" (2025 The Way Back Books), The Way Back to Ourselves, Vessels of Light, Calla Press, and Austur, Aletheia Today, The Truly Co., and Prosetrics Literary Magazine. Deborah loves sharing stories, singing hymns, and long walks to find inspiration and peace. www.deborahrutherford.com/; https://deborahrutherford.substack.com; @deborahrutherfordwrites.Author Series upcoming guests Mikala Albertson, MD , Theresa M. Miller, Lori Ann Wood, Katie Sampias, Rebecca George and TBAPodcast music “Everlasting Covenant” by Don Rutherford. Thank you for being here. Doing a podcast is fun but a lot of work. If you would like to support this podcast please consider being a paid subscriber, signing up for newsletter: If you can have them subscribe to the podcast newsletter.BIG NEWS!!! Poetry book news:The Way Back Books is the new boutique publishing imprint from The Way Back to Ourselves, focusing on soul-care, authentic relationships, creative excellence, and telling “beauty from ashes” stories that beautify the Kingdom. My debut poetry collection, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones will be released with Kimberly Phinney’s second poetry collection, Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for the Living and Rosa Gilbert debut poetry collection.You can preorder Kimberly Phinney Book Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for the Living NOW. Book releases Monday April 7, 2025. Don’t miss this one friends.AND DON’T MISS:CULTIVATE 2025 EXCLUSIVE VIRTUAL RETREAT with the Way Back to Ourselves Community.I am so excited to attend my friend Kimberly Phinney and the The Way Back To Ourselves for the Cultivate Retreat again this year. Come join faithful creative and leaders from all over the world in this exclusive virtual even taking place June 20-21. ON SALE TIX.May your days be full of God's goodness and love!DeborahDeborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Thank you for supporting my work. Please consider being a paid subscriber for upcoming community and discounts. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

Author Traci Shnider reads her devotional "The Unexpected Blessing of Pushing Through Imposter Syndrome" from the new book "Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best."“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 ESVGod is teaching me that feelings of imposter syndrome are a signal that He’s about to do something powerful through us.Do you ever feel unqualified for the doors God opens for you? I’ve been there.This past summer, my son found me standing in the dining room in a tear-soaked meltdown. Through blubbering words, I explained that I felt completely inadequate to join a monthly accountability group of writers. I knew I had some strengths, but I felt I lacked the technical skills needed to belong to such a talented circle of women.Imposter syndrome often convinces us we’re unqualified, even when evidence shows otherwise. But it’s more than self-doubt; it’s a spiritual attack. When we step into Kingdom work, the enemy works hard to make us feel hypocritical and unworthy.Honestly, I recognized the enemy was fighting hard against me, and I knew better than to buy his lie. Yet, here I was, ready to bow out of the group and throw in the towel on encouragement writing altogether. And that’s when my son pulled me into a hug and prayed over me. Later, I reached out to a friend who sweetly spoke the words of encouragement I needed to hear.God is teaching me that feelings of imposter syndrome are a signal that He’s about to do something powerful through us. Our job is to push through the doubt—and He doesn’t expect us to fight alone.Here’s how we fight back:* Pray: Ask God to remind you of who you are in Him. He equips you for everythingHe calls you to do.* Seek Support: Reach out to trusted Christian friends or family for prayer andencouragement. Even encouragers need encouragement sometimes.* Question the Enemy: When doubt creeps in, ask, What powerful thing is Godpreparing to do through me that you’re trying to stop? What are you scared of?If our efforts for God’s Kingdom didn’t matter, the enemy wouldn’t fight so hard against us. By joining that group, I gained friendship and accountability, new skills, and the unexpected blessing of contributing to this devotional.Friend, push through the battle. You never know what unexpected blessing God has waiting for you.Father, thank You for the power of prayer and encouragement from others to help me fight back against the enemy’s lies. I praise You for the doors You have opened in my life that have led to Your beautiful, unexpected blessings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.We'd love to hear in the comments below.What powerful thing might God be preparing to do through you that the enemy is trying to stop?Take a moment and write a prayer and ask Him for the courage to push through the doubts of imposter syndrome.Traci Shnider is a passionate encourager, sharing hope and inspiration drawn from her journey of faith and resilience in the face of adversity. Her mission is to help others experience true freedom by deeply rooting their lives in Jesus, growing in His grace, and blooming into their God-given purpose.As a motivational speaker, Traci inspires women at Christian conferences and events, empowering them to walk boldly in faith. She is a devotional writer that’s been featured in RenewYour Mind: 40 Days to Quiet the Lies Inside Your Head throughProverbs 31 Ministries.Traci is married to Eric, and together they have one adult son,and a quirky little terrier. In her downtime, she loves collecting seashells, painting, and unwinding with a good book on the breathtaking North Carolina coast she’s blessed to call home.You can connect with Traci and read more of her work on her website: tracishnider.com, on Facebook: @Traci Shnider-Writer and on Instagram: @traci_shnider.Have you picked up your copy of Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best?Our prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God’s timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in ways you never expected. Grab your copy today on AMAZON!Readings from the book Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best with* March 6: Nichole Suvar* March 13: Theresa M. Miller* March 20: Susan Davidson* March 27: Traci Shnider* April 2: Deborah Rutherford.Make sure you listen to our March 18 episode of the Author Series with with Rosann Coulon on March 18 plus upcoming guests Mikala Albertson, MD, Theresa M. Miller, Katie Sampias and Lori Ann Wood and TBA.BIG NEWS!!! Poetry book news:The Way Back Books is the new boutique publishing imprint from The Way Back to Ourselves, focusing on soul-care, authentic relationships, creative excellence, and telling “beauty from ashes” stories that beautify the Kingdom. My debut poetry collection, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones will be released with Kimberly Phinney’s second poetry collection, Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for the Living and Rosa Gilbert debut poetry collection.Be sure to sign up for Kimberly Phinney Book Launch Team for Exalted Ground at [email protected] to sign up with your name, email, and any social media handles and links to your writing you’d like to share.AND DON’T MISS:CULTIVATE 2025 EXCLUSIVE VIRTUAL RETREAT with the Way Back to Ourselves Community.I am so excited to attend my friend Kimberly Phinney and the The Way Back To Ourselves for the Cultivate Retreat again this year. Come join faithful creative and leaders from all over the world in this exclusive virtual even taking place June 20-21. ON SALE TIX.May your days be full of God's goodness and love!DeborahDeborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

Author Susan Davidson reads her devotional "The Unexpected Blessing from our Cracks and Flaws" from the new book "Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best."The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever.Do not forsake the work of your hands.–PSALM 138:8 ESVDespite our many cracks and flaws, God still finds us worthy of His great love.I admiringly store a small strawberry cookie jar on top of one of my kitchen cabinets. I turn it so you can’t see the visible crack on one side. Despite its apparent imperfection, it is one of my most prized possessions. It is special because it once belonged to my sweet grandmother, who passed away many years ago.This cookie jar not only reminds me of my grandmother but also encourages me because I often struggle with perfection. It reminds me that despite our shortcomings and frailties, we have been given great purpose in God’s kingdom. We all were created to showcase the beauty of Jesus.Despite our many cracks and flaws, God still finds us worthy of His great love. He never throws us away because we are less than the world’s standards or we fall short of the goals we often set for ourselves. He has a history of taking the things we usually see no value in and turning them into beautiful testimonies of His grace and goodness.It always amazes me that the most uncomely parts of my life story I desire to hide from the world are the ones God chooses to use. In my weakest and most homely parts, God’s sufficiency, grace, and mercy shine the brightest.Psalms 138:8 (ESV) teaches us this endearing lesson, “The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.” Knowing I don't have to stress and strive over all my less-than-perfect places is a blessing. He is taking this clay vessel called me with all my chips and flaws and transforming me into a vessel of honor, pleasing Him.Dear Father, I thank you that You love me beyond measure and that your love for me is not based on my being perfect in this life. You count me worthy and will use even the most imperfect parts of my story for your glory. Let every part of my life be a testament to how your grace and mercy transform me to be more like Jesus. In Jesus' name, AmenDo you find freedom in knowing God counts you worthy of His great love?How does it make you feel knowing God has a purpose for even your flaws andimperfections?We'd love to hear in the comments below.Our prayer is that in these 40 days of reading “Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best,” you will shift your perspective, trust God’s timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in ways you never expected. Grab your copy today on AMAZON!ABOUT SUSAN DAVIDSON:Susan Davidson is a freedom-from-striving pursuer and sharer of encouragement enthusiast. God placed a pen in her hand to share His word and encourage others during one of her most discouraging and challenging seasons. She learned thatencouraging others helps her live her own life more encouraged.She is a devotional writer featured in Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart: 50 Devotions for Sleeping Well in a World Full of Worry. She has also been featured in the Proverbs 31 Ministry’s publication entitled Hope When Your Heart is Heavy. She hasbeen featured in the Calla Press online journal and Her View from Home.She calls the mountains of Virginia home. She is a wife, mother, Gran Gran, daughter, and friend who counts spending time with her special people as some of life’s greatest blessings. She is most content when she has coffee in her cup, pen in hand, and a great worship song in her heart. She loves going for dog walks in the park and spending quiet moments sitting on her porch swing with a good book in hand.When she is not sharing words on her blog, she shares encouragement on https://www.facebook.com/ruth216girl and https://www.instagram.com/ruth216girl/Readings from the book Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best with* March 6:Nichole Suvar* March 13:Theresa M. Miller* March 20: Susan Davidson* March 27: Traci Shnider* April 2: Deborah Rutherford.Special Bonus podcast of the Author Series with with Rosann Coulon on March 18 plus upcoming guests Mikala Albertson, MD, Theresa M. Miller, Katie Sampias and Lori Ann Wood.BIG NEWS!!! Poetry book news:The Way Back Books is the new boutique publishing imprint from The Way Back to Ourselves, focusing on soul-care, authentic relationships, creative excellence, and telling “beauty from ashes” stories that beautify the Kingdom. My debut poetry collection, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones will be released with Kimberly Phinney’s second poetry collection, Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for the Living and Rosa Gilbert debut poetry collection.Be sure to sign up for Kimberly Phinney Book Launch Team forExalted Groundat [email protected] to sign up with your name, email, and any social media handles and links to your writing you’d like to share.AND DON’T MISS:CULTIVATE 2025 EXCLUSIVE VIRTUAL RETREAT with the Way Back to Ourselves Community.I am so excited to attend my friend Kimberly Phinney and the The Way Back To Ourselves for the Cultivate Retreat again this year. Come join faithful creative and leaders from all over the world in this exclusive virtual even taking place June 20-21. ON SALE TIX.May your days be full of God's goodness and love! Much love and God's blessings to all of you,DeborahDeborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. Doing a podcast is a lot of fun but a lot of work. If you would like to support this podcast please consider being a paid subscriber, signing up for newsletter, and purchasing a copy o f Unexpected Blessings. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

As they pass through the Valley of Baca,They make it a spring;The rain also covers it with pools.—Psalm 84:6 NKJVThis is the valley of weeping. So it’s all of our hardships and struggles and pain. But in those dark valleys, through the Lord’s grace, we can make a well of His goodness to drink from.—Rosann CoulonDo you struggle with seeing God as your good Father?Is your own relationship with your earthly father full of heartache?In this episode of Behold-Her Beauty Podcast, I sat down with my friend author Rosann Coulon to explore her new book 40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God. This book chronicles Rosann's personal journey through her earthly father's medication dependence, her chronic illness, and her turning to God for His comfort. It is a love story of the goodness of the Lord where we can find refuge in God the Father's heart.Our conversation was not just an interview, but a heartfelt exchange where Rosann shared her book journey, her experience with chronic illness, and how her faith was impacted by her father's struggle with chronic pain and pain medication addiction. We delved into the challenge of trusting God, dealing with body image issues, and finding joy in life's trials. Rosann also shared about her ministry work, the significance of understanding God as a loving Father, and the importance of scripture and counseling in healing. The episode concludes with Rosann's heartfelt prayer, a moment that truly touched me.SHOW NOTES:00:00 Introduction to the Beholder Beauty Podcast00:09 Meet Rosann Coulon00:29 Rosann's Background and Ministry02:14 Fun Beauty Questions03:22 Struggles with Beauty and Self-Image04:15 Trusting God as Our Father07:49 Introduction to Rosann's Book11:08 Personal Stories and Inspirations12:47 The Importance of Trust and Faith23:29 Coping with Chronic Illness27:35 God's Little Miracles30:33 Final Thoughts and Prayer35:43 Conclusion and AnnouncementsMEET ROSANN COULONRosann Coulon is the author of the book 40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God. She has contributed articles to The Gospel Coalition, The Daily Grace Co., Hosanna Revival: WHEN blog, and other publications. She is the founder of Leaving a Well Ministries whose mission is to share biblical hope with hurting hearts by providing Christ-centered resources. Rosann and her husband call North Carolina home. Visit her at www.leavingawell.com to receive free inspirational content. You can also connect with her at instagram.com/rosann_coulon.UPCOMING PODCAST SCHEDULE: Today we begin Behold-Her Beauty’s Author Series with our first Author Guest Rosann Coulon. We’ll be talking about Rosann’s new book “40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God.” Upcoming guests Mikala Albertson, MD, Theresa M. Miller, Katie Sampias, Lori Ann Wood and TBA’s. Plus there are three more episodes of Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best: March 20: Susan Davidson, March 27: Traci Shnider, and April 2: Deborah Rutherford.UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS: 40 DAYS OF DISCOVERING GOD’S BEST is out now.Our prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God's timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in unexpected ways. So join us on the podcast here and grab your copy of the book today on Amazon! Could you help us spread the word? Share this newsletter, text a friend, or leave a review!BIG NEWS!!! Poetry book news:The Way Back Books is the new boutique publishing imprint from The Way Back to Ourselves, focusing on soul-care, authentic relationships, creative excellence, and telling “beauty from ashes” stories that beautify the Kingdom. My debut poetry collection, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones will be released with Kimberly Phinney’s second poetry collection, Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for the Living and Rosa Gilbert debut poetry collection.Be sure to sign up for Kimberly Phinney Book Launch Team for Exalted Ground at [email protected] to sign up with your name, email, and any social media handles and links to your writing you’d like to share.AND DON’T MISS:CULTIVATE 2025 EXCLUSIVE VIRTUAL RETREAT with the Way Back to Ourselves Community.I am so excited to attend my friend Kimberly Phinney and the The Way Back To Ourselves for the Cultivate Retreat again this year. Come join faithful creative and leaders from all over the world in this exclusive virtual even taking place June 20-21. ON SALE TIX.May your days be full of God's goodness and love! Much love and God's blessings to all of you.From my heart to yours,DeborahSign up for the Behold-Her Beauty Podcast- Don't miss an episode.https://deborahrutherford-com.kit.com/18a8f0d137 SIGN UP.Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Upcoming discounts, exclusive contents and gatherings for paid subscribers. Sign up in March to receive on my personal ‘snail’ mail distribution. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

Author Theresa Miller reads her devotional "The Unexpected Blessings of a Shattered Screen" from the new book "Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best." (PLUS EXCITING PUBLISHING NEWS! KEEP READING….)And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.–ROMANS 8:38 NLTThe truth is that God cares more about our hearts than tallying up our mistakes.As I stroll through the front door after returning home from a quick errand, myeleven-year-old son walks out of the home office, crying.“What is it?” I ask, worry evident in my voice.He directs me back into the office to reveal the shattered screen of our home cell phone.Through whimpers, he confides he intended to text me when the phone slipped from his hands to the floor, and he’s afraid his dad will be upset with him. My heart melts over his distress. Even more so, it stirs over how deeply he desires his father’s approval. I wrap my arms around his frame.“Son, even if your dad is upset, remember he is good, fair, and loves you. That is his character, so you don’t have to be afraid.”That evening, I was on the phone with his dad, who was out of town for work, when my son approached and asked if he could speak with him. I handed over the phone and overheard him explain the incident, adding that he would work to pay for a new screen.Soon after, he returned the phone with a hint of a smile.“Dad said it would be okay.”This scene spoke volumes to my heart. How often have I avoided God, convinced He is disappointed in me? How many times have I felt He must be throwing His hands up over yet another mistake?Yet Romans 8:38 assures us that nothing can separate us from the Father’s love. One thing we can depend on is when we courageously turn to our heavenly Father with our fears or mistakes, He will love us unconditionally through them.Do you feel God is disappointed in you? Friend, our heavenly Father may very well be the Almighty Judge, but like I reminded my son, He is good, fair, and loves us to no end. That is His character, so we don’t have to be afraid to confide in Him.When we turn our hearts toward God, He assures us it will be okay. He trades beauty for ashes, joyful blessing for mourning, and praise for despair (Isaiah 61:3). The truth is that God cares more about our hearts than tallying up our mistakes.Even as we endure the consequences of this broken world, we will never need to earn our Father’s love. He holds our tender hearts secure, assuring us that His Son, Jesus, already paid the unaffordable price for God’s immeasurable love so we can walk freely in Him.Thank you, Father, for Your immeasurable and unconditional love. I am in awe of Your invitation to come to You in my mess and with my mistakes. You are so good to me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Friend, have you ever avoided God over something you felt he might be disappointed about?Do you feel unworthy to run to him when you find yourself in a dilemma that you got yourself into?Talk to him about it. He already knows and is waiting for you to trust him with your heart.We'd love to hear in the comments below.ABOUT THERESA MILLER: Theresa M. MillerTheresa Miller is adventurous at heart and dedicated to pursuing spiritual, mental, and emotional healing for the betterment of future generations. Originally from the wooded East, Theresa now resides in the wide-open spaces of Wyoming, nestled near the Big Horn Mountains. She cherishes her role as a wife to Rob and mother to their four children. Weaving words has been her creative outlet since childhood, bringing clarity to life’s complexities. Theresa is the author of the Bible study, The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace amidst Our Everyday Battles. She actively serves in women’s ministries as a Bible teacher and a MomCo Mentor in her community. She co-founded Dandelions, Potholes, & Wrinkles and The Sisters on Purpose Podcast. In addition to guest appearing on several podcasts and blogs, she has been published in Calla Press Literary Journal, Moms Ezine,(in)courage, and various other publications. You can find Theresa encouraging women to dig deeper to reach higher in their faith and calling on Instagram and Facebook@theresammillerauthor and on the podcast she hosts with her sisters, The Sisters on Purpose Podcast.SCHEDULE: Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best with* March 6: Nichole Suvar* March 13: Theresa M. Miller* March 20: Susan Davidson* March 27: Traci Shnider* April 2: Deborah Rutherford.Our prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God's timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in unexpected ways. So join us on the podcast here and grab your copy of the book today on Amazon! Could you help us spread the word? Share this newsletter, text a friend, or leave a review!UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS: https://amzn.to/3XNNR4Q BIG NEWS!!! Poetry book news:The Way Back Books is the new boutique publishing imprint from The Way Back to Ourselves, focusing on soul-care, authentic relationships, creative excellence, and telling “beauty from ashes” stories that beautify the Kingdom. My debut poetry collection, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones will be released with Kimberly Phinney Kimberly’s second poetry collection, Exalted Ground: Poems of Praise and Lament for the Living and Rosa Gilbert debut poetry collection. God is so good and I am praising Him for dream of a lifetime coming true. Thank you God, thank you Kimberly and her beautiful community The Way Back To Ourselves who has given my writing a second change, a new beginning and a harvest.May your days be full of God's goodness and love! Much love and God's blessings to all of you.From my heart to yours,DeborahSign up for the Behold-Her Beauty Podcast- Don't miss an episode.https://deborahrutherford-com.kit.com/18a8f0d137 Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

I wanted to update you on Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best, which is officially out in the world! We received the unexpected blessing of the book reaching Amazon's Number One Release category. Readers are also including the book in their Lenten Season readings and Summer Book Clubs. If you are interested in a book club, let me know how we can bring one to your community.Why 40 days? Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best provides a framework for spiritual growth through devotions, prayer, reflection, and journaling. We believe Lent is the perfect season for this book as we prepare for Easter. As we reflect on Jesus' sacrifice, we recognize He is the greatest blessing that God has given us.Over the next month, on my podcast, ​Behold-Her Beauty​, we will have readings from the book and an opportunity to communicate with us. You can read or listen and then let us know your thoughts, reflections, and what's on your mind. We will also have a book giveaway, including a copy of Unexpected Blessings and one of my favorite books. First up is author Nichole Suvar with her devotional "The Unexpected Blessing of A Lost Coat." If you want to enter the giveaway, please listen to or read Nichole's devotion and comment below.Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?—MATTHEW 6:26-27 ESVHe holds the whole world in His hands and commands the universe, but He also cares about a stressed-out mom who wonders how it will all get done and just wishes her kids would keep track of their coats.“Where’s your coat?”After arriving home from track practice, I hugged my 11-year-old daughter as she entered the house. I immediately noticed she didn’t have the coat she was wearing when she walked out the door this morning.“Oh no! I think I left it at the track.”My daughter’s track team practices at a local college, where several other schools train.The track area is busy with foot traffic, so the chances of seeing that coat again were pretty slim.We checked with the coaches with no luck. No one had seen it or picked it up. I was bummed. Though we were at the end of winter, we still had another season of wear we could get out of it. Plus, it was a really nice coat.I felt a bit silly, but I started praying for that coat.“God, please let that coat be there. Please don’t let anyone take it.”As I prayed, the Lord reminded me of Matthew 6:26-27 (ESV) “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?”The next day, I was driving by the college campus on my way to an appointment. The Lord prompted me: go check. There, in the middle of a track field all by itself, a child's coat.Some may call it luck. But I call it a little love note from the Father telling me He cares even about the little things. He holds the whole world in his hands and commands the universe, but he also cares about a stressed-out mom who wonders how it will all get done and just wishes her kids would keep track of their coats.This unexpected blessing of the lost and found coat reminded me that God cares about the small things in our lives, just like He promised in Matthew 6.Father, give me eyes to see your little reminders of your love even amid inconveniences like a lost coat. I know you promise to always care for me. Help me trust you in that promise. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.Think of a time when something small but important to you seemed lost or out of reach. How did you feel during that situation?Did you experience a sense of God's care or provision in resolving it?How does knowing that God cares about the little things in your life change how you approach daily challenges or moments of anxiety?We'd love to hear in the comments below.ABOUT NICHOLE SUVAR:Nichole Suvar is a recovering perfectionist, anxiety and depression survivor, and Intentional Living Strategist. With over 30 years of lived experience, she writes, coaches, and speaks on the topic of mental health and how we can quiet thedistraction of anxiety to live with purpose.Nichole has contributed to several devotionals, including Freedom from Worry, through Proverbs 31 Ministries. She has written four devotionals, including her best-selling book, Numbering Our Days: Combating Anxiety in the Power of SmallIntentional Moments. Nichole is a writer for RemedyLive, a mental health non-profit focusing on Soul Care and wellness with mental health. She has also been a guest on numerous podcasts and blogs and a speaker on empathy for Great Kids Make Great Communities, an initiative in Fort Wayne, IN.Nichole lives in the Midwest with her high school sweetheart husband Paul, and their three teen children. When she’s not speaking or writing, she can be found discovering new hiking paths, curling up with a good mystery novel, collecting cozy cardigans, and snacking on pickles with sharp cheddar cheese. She writes about living an overcoming life for Jesus, one intentional moment at a time, on her website livewithintent.org, Instagram @mrs_nichole_suvar, and Nichole Suvar.SCHEDULE: Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best with* March 6: Nichole Suvar* March 13: Theresa M. Miller* March 20: Susan Davidson* March 27: Traci Shnider* April 2: Deborah Rutherford.Our prayer is that in these 40 days, you will shift your perspective, trust God's timing, lean into Jesus, and recognize His blessings in unexpected ways. So join us on the podcast here and grab your copy of the book today on Amazon! Could you help us spread the word? Share this newsletter, text a friend, or leave a review!Our Author Series starts on March 18 with Rosann Coulon plus upcoming guests Mikala Albertson, MD, Theresa M. Miller, Katie Sampias, and Lori Ann Wood.My guests and I talk candidly about faith, beauty, writing and poetry, and difficult things in life like suffering, grief, and comparison, yet we point to God's hope in it all. The message is that you are not alone in this big, crazy world. What's lovely is that you can join in the conversation, and together, we stir up good works for God's Kingdom.Poetry book news: I would love to know if you like to read poetry. I will soon share my title and exciting information about my book and its publishing journey. Oh, it is so good, and I am so grateful to Jesus, the Author of my story, and my creative editor ​​, Kimberly Phinney​​.A SPECIAL LIST OF GOODNESS CURATED FOR YOU:BEHOLDING THE LAMB: Pick up my dear friend Donna Bucher's ​"Beholding the Lamb"​ Lenten Resource.CULTIVATE 2025 EXCLUSIVE VIRTUAL RETREAT with the Way Back to Ourselves Community.I am so excited to attend my friend Kimberly Phinney and the The Way Back To Ourselves for the Cultivate Retreat again this year. Come join faithful creative and leaders from all over the world in this exclusive virtual even taking place June 20-21. ON SALE TIX.NEW BOOKS TO READ:40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God by my friend Rosann Coulon. Take comfort in the perfect Fatherhood of God in this forty-day devotional.Purchase 40 Days to God, My FatherYou're Not Too Late by my friend Rebecca George. When you buy the book you will receive access to a FREE 50-day digital devotional called God's Timing in Your Story (written by 50 authors, including me!). Simply purchase the book ​HERE​, then sign up below to claim your gift.Sign up here!May your days be full of God's goodness and love! Much love and God's blessings to all of you.From my heart to yours,Deborah Sign up for the Behold-Her Beauty Podcast- Don't miss an episode.LINKS TO VISIT:Deborah's Amazon Book StoreDeborah's Clean Beauty ShopDeborah's Creative ServicesVISIT MY CREATIVE SERVICES PAGEif you would like to work with me on your book launch, creative development on your projects, book marketing, podcasting, graphic design, and content creation and editing.Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Thank you for being here. Doing a podcast is fun but a lot of work. Please consider being a paid subscriber, signing up for my newsletter, and buying a copy of Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

This year's podcast season opens with my poem, "Winter Nap." I wrote this while watching the trees fall asleep in the wintertide. Was I like these trees?Podcast music is Desert Dance by Don Rutherford.Upcoming on the podcast for 2025:* Readings of Devotional from the book Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best with Nichole Suvar, Theresa M. Miller, Traci Shnider, Susan Davidson and myself, Deborah Rutherford.You can preorder the E-book now on Amazon or mark your calendars for the hard copy book on February 26. * Author Series with conversations with Roseann Coulon, Theresa M. Miller, Mikala Albertson, MD, Katie Sampias Katie Sampias, and more.Thank you for being here. Doing a podcast is fun but a lot of work. If you would like to support this podcast please consider being a paid subscriber, signing up for my newsletter, and buying a copy of Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best. Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. I am creating special content and discounts for my paid subscribers. What would you like to receive from me? Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt episode of Beholder Beauty, I interview Robin Gerblick, the author of Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul. Robin shares her deeply personal journey through abortion, healing, and eventual adoption. We discuss the challenges and consequences of abortion, finding forgiveness, and rediscovering faith. The conversation touches on the complexities of inner and outer beauty and the transformative power of God's grace. Robin also highlights her work with women's retreats and provides valuable resources for those seeking post-abortion healing. This episode offers hope, healing, and inspiration for anyone navigating similar struggles.Redemption Press has kindly given me a copy of Giving Up Grace to give away. Enter by responding in the comments after you have listened to the episode. Write ‘Done’.The book is available everywhere online books are sold (not in major bookstores… yet!:))God's grace is the beginning and the end of everything.I love my story and my journey that it all goes full circle from abortion to adoption.I think knowing that you're God's daughter is his most intimate gift that he can give to us.My friend said was, “What is different about you? You look so different and so good. It's just like you're radiating. And I said, I got Jesus.Robin GerblickEpisode 23: The Beauty of Grace: A Conversation with Robin GerblickWatch on YouTube our whole episode.Listen on SpotifyListen on AppleListen on SubstackIntroduction music Everlasting Covenant by Don Rutherford.Show notes00:00 Introduction to Beholder Beauty00:18 Meet Robin Gerblick00:51 Robin's Personal Journey03:22 Beauty Tips and Self-Care08:17 Struggles with Beauty13:33 Finding Identity in Christ18:57 The Impact of Abortion30:15 Sharing Personal Stories and Finding Healing32:02 Emotional Scars and Healing After Abortion34:47 Forgiveness and Self-Healing39:40 Adoption Journey and Challenges46:58 Honoring the Unborn and Finding Closure49:50 Resources for Post-Abortion Healing52:46 The Importance of Choice and Pro-Life Advocacy55:41 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMeet our Author, Robin GerblickA Certified Personal Trainer/Pilates Instructor and Biblical Life Coach, Robin meets women wherever they are on their spiritual journey. She is fulfilling her lifelong passion of helping women to realize their true, lasting, and influencing beauty. She wrote Giving Up Grace to help women discover what it means to be in the presence of the One who speaks through us and to us in our Spirit, Soul, and Body. Robin is married to her best friend and soul mate, and is mom to their adopted daughter, and also Grammy to her granddaughter. She is the Founder of www.exoduswomensretreat.com. https://www.instagram.com/robingerblick/Substack: Robin’s Substack Connect with Robin: robingerblick.comRemember, you are Beautiful!Join the Behold-Her Beauty Movement:A Table Is Prepared for You.Together, we delve into the beauty of life. Our God is our redeemer, and it is an ashes-to-beauty kind of story. STAY AWHILE.I would love to connect more with you and give you my FREE gift - The Behold-Her Beauty Manifest: You Have Permission to Be Beautiful. You can also sign up HERE for my newsletter and receive the FREE Manifesto, recent blog posts, book reviews, giveaways, and personal details only delivered to my lovely email tribe. From my heart to yours, DeborahSUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER BY PRESSING ON THE IMAGE OR PRESS HERE.Follow Also on Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest - Thank you!Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. I would so be overjoyed to have you. Get full access to Deborah Rutherford's Behold-Her Beauty at deborahrutherford.substack.com/subscribe