Marriage, Faith & Family Conversations with Erica & Cody Bankston

Today I’m sitting down with Madison Watkins to talk about a testimony that is ultimately a story of God’s pursuit.Madison grew up knowing the Lord and knowing she had been given a voice for a purpose. But after finding success through reality singing shows and pursuing a career in Los Angeles, she began to realize how easy it was to know God while still seeking the things of the world.As opportunities grew, so did the pressure to build her own name. Slowly, the industry began changing her—and eventually, Madison found herself at the end of herself.But God never stopped pursuing her.Madison shares how getting sick became an unexpected turning point, how God asked her to lay down her career and her gift, and why she stepped away from singing for an entire year. In the stillness, she began hearing His voice again. And when God eventually called her back to music, the assignment was clear: use the gift He gave her for His glory.We talk about surrender, identity, the distractions that keep us from hearing God, dying to our flesh, and the freedom that comes when we stop trying to make our own name known and start living to make His known.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’ve wandered too far, become too distracted, or held too tightly to something God is asking you to surrender, I hope Madison’s testimony reminds you: He is still pursuing your heart.Guest Social Media:Instagram: Madison WatkinsTikTok: Madison WatkinsHannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney #UnexpectedPodcast

In today's episode of Unexpected with Hannah Love, Shay and I sit down with our dear friends Rebecca St. James and Cubbie Fink for a conversation about marriage, family, faith, identity, and finding contentment in every season.Together, we talk about trusting God's timing, walking through difficult seasons, building a Christ-centered marriage, raising children with purpose, and learning that true contentment isn't found in the next achievement, relationship, or opportunity—but in knowing who you are and whose you are.This episode is full of wisdom, honesty, encouragement, and reminders of God's faithfulness through every season of life.Resources Mentioned:Lasting Ever by Rebecca St. James & Cubbie FinkUnsung HeroGuest Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccastjames/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cubbiefink/Website: https://rebeccastjames.com/Hannah's Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#FaithJourney #ChristianMarriage #ContentmentInChrist

This episode is extra special — we’re sitting down with family for the start of a new Couples Series, and it’s one of the most honest, life-giving conversations we’ve had.We talk about marriage, communication, prayer, and what it really looks like to build a family rooted in faith — not perfectly, but intentionally.In this episode, we cover:What prayer actually looks like in marriage (and why it can feel hard)Learning how to communicate in different seasonsThe power of speaking life over your spouse and your childrenWhy family culture matters more than we realizeLetting go of control and embracing the season you’re inWhat it means to lead, love, and serve within your familyThere’s so much beauty in doing life alongside people who point you back to truth — and this conversation reminded me just how important that is.If you’re married, preparing for marriage, or simply navigating relationships and family… I pray this episode encourages you right where you are.Hannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/

In this second part of my conversation with Dr. Laura Sanger, we go deeper… into truth, into awareness, and into the authority we have in Christ.This is one of those conversations that may stretch you a little—but my prayer is that it also strengthens you.We talk about the reality of spiritual warfare, the importance of understanding what we’re up against, and how we can stand firm without fear… because we already have victory in Jesus.And most importantly—we end in hope 🤍✨ In this episode, we talk about:Why understanding the battle mattersThe importance of truth in a world full of confusionProtecting our minds and our familiesRecognizing deception and staying grounded in God’s WordWalking in the authority we’ve been given through ChristRaising the next generation with faith and discernmentThis isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness.And when we truly understand who we are in Christ, everything changes.You are not a victim… you are walking in victory.🔗 Resources + Linkswww.nolongerenslaved.com Giant Slayers: The Great Warhttps://a.co/d/06LbC70eGeneration Hoodwinked https://amazon.com/dp/1942790279The Roots of the Federal Reservehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1942790198🤍 Hannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#HolySpirit #ChristianPodcast #faithjourney

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Laura Sanger, and wow… this conversation is one I’ve been praying over for a while. We dive into her testimony, the power of prayer, and what it truly looks like to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit in our everyday lives.This episode is a reminder that God is still moving, still healing, and still inviting us into deeper relationship with Him.✨ In this episode, we talk about:Dr. Laura’s powerful testimony and generational faithExperiencing healing through prayerThe reality and power of the Holy SpiritWalking in spiritual authority as believersHow God uses our stories for His gloryFrom hearing her grandmother pray as a child… to experiencing miraculous healing… to stepping into her calling—this conversation is filled with encouragement and truth.If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to fully surrender and walk with the Holy Spirit, I pray this episode meets you right where you are 🤍🔗 Resources + Linkswww.nolongerenslaved.com Giant Slayers: The Great Warhttps://a.co/d/06LbC70eGeneration Hoodwinked https://amazon.com/dp/1942790279The Roots of the Federal Reservehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1942790198🤍 Hannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#HolySpirit #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney

The new year is already here, and let’s be honest—many of us are stepping into it feeling behind, uncertain, or even overwhelmed. But what if we paused the pressure of goals and resolutions… and simply asked God what He wants for us?In this episode, I’m sharing what I felt the Holy Spirit speak over this new year—and how we can all invite His voice into our plans and paths for 2026.There’s a hunger in the world right now. A searching. But too many are looking in all the wrong places. We talk about that, and we look to Jeremiah 29:11-14 and Matthew 21:28-32 to remember the power of seeking God with our whole heart.I also offer a few practical ways to hear from God—how to see Him more clearly, even in a distracted world.Let’s begin this year with intention, humility, and surrendered hearts.Scriptures referenced:• Jeremiah 29:11–14• Matthew 21:28–32—Hannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/

This episode holds a piece of my heart.It’s the story of Mrs. Margaret — a quiet, faithful neighbor who walked our street daily and became a friend I grew to love deeply. In her final days, God allowed me the gift of being present with her… and the honor of sharing the love of Jesus in one of the most holy, tender moments I’ve ever experienced.In today’s episode, I share:• The importance of creating margin to see others• How a simple act of presence can lead to eternal impact• The unexpected beauty of sharing the gospel in love• Why our yes to God matters more than we knowI pray this story encourages you to slow down, to see, and to share Jesus — wherever He’s placed you.Scripture Mentioned:Mark 12:30–31 – “Love the Lord your God… and love your neighbor as yourself.”Psalm 90:12 – “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”Book Mentioned:I’ve Been to HeavenHannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#ShareTheGospel #LoveYourNeighbor #UnexpectedPodcast

This one was fun, y’all. Shay and I sat down over coffee and caught up on everything from our Facebook Marketplace finds to raising kids with grit and grace. We talked about parenting, marriage, farm life, and a few of our wildest antique “treasures.” (TicToc and OnlyGrans may or may not be our next big ideas…)There’s a lot of laughter in this one—but also some sweet reminders of the joy in everyday life and the kind of legacy we hope to build for our boys. Whether you’re in a busy season, dreaming big, or just needing some light-hearted encouragement, I hope this one meets you right where you are.Grab your coffee and come sit with us for a few. I’m so glad you’re here. 💛Hannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#FaithAndFamily #UnexpectedPodcast #MarriageMoments

This episode was such a sweet one. I sat down with my friend and producer, Joe Cline—someone who knows me well behind the mic—and we had a real, unscripted conversation about seasons, stillness, and how we hear from God.Joe shares his experience of pressing pause on his own podcast to make space for deeper listening and obedience. Together, we explore what it means to sense transition, to recognize the Holy Spirit’s voice, and to walk with eyes wide open to what God is doing around and within us.We even dive into topics like the symbolism of the rapture, the harvest seasons of scripture, and what it means to live expectantly in these times.Scripture that came to mind:Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.”John 10:27 – “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”Matthew 13:30 – “Let both grow together until the harvest…”If you’re in a season of waiting or seeking clarity, I pray this encourages you.God is near, and He still speaks.Guest Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joecline/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/socialvibesHannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#FaithJourney #ChristianPodcast #UnexpectedPodcast

Today I’m sitting down with my dear friend Beth Barcus, someone who has walked with me for nearly a decade and played a huge role in the birth of this very podcast. Beth is a “porter” with Porter’s Call—an organization dedicated not just to counseling artists, but to truly walking with them in a relational, life-on-life way.In this conversation, Beth shares the story behind Porter’s Call, the meaning of a “porter,” and how this model of care was built around friendship, presence, and meeting people right where they are. We talk about community, the unique challenges of the creative world, and how God uses safe relationships to bring healing.There is so much wisdom here—about calling, about serving people well, and about being present in the lives of others the way Jesus is present with us.Scripture Mentioned:• “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2• “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11I pray this episode reminds you of the importance of having voices in your life who encourage, speak truth, and walk with you through every season.Guest Social Media:Porter’s Call: https://www.porterscall.com/Hannah’s Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unexpected.hannahlove/Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/hannah.billingsley/Website: https://unexpectedwithhannahlove.com/#FaithJourney #ChristianPodcast #UnexpectedPodcast