Shows
The Mental FightAll the Things I Say to God with Tanner OlsonToday, we're thrilled to have Tanner Olson on the podcast! We chat about mental health, faith, hope, and lessons learned along the way. From infertility to adoption, Tanner bravely shares his journey. We also discuss his upcoming children's book, All the Things I Say to God: Learning to Pray Anytime, Anywhere. Tanner Olson is an author, spoken word poet, and storyteller based in Nashville, TN. Known for his heartfelt and hopeful voice, he travels the country sharing poetry and stories that weave together grace, humor, and faith. His work has been described as “hopefully unique and inviting,” offer...2025-04-2235 minThe Mental FightWhen a Friendship Falls Apart with Elizabeth Laing ThompsonToday, we chat with author Elizabeth Laing Thompson and explore the complexities of friendship loss. Elizabeth shares insights from her book, When a Friendship Falls Apart, discussing the importance of understanding emotions, the challenges of navigating friendships, and the biblical perspective on forgiveness and healing. She also shares practical tools, friendship myths, and necessary steps for reconciliation. In this episode, be encouraged to embrace new friendships despite past hurts. Elizabeth Laing Thompson is a speaker and novelist, and the author of many inspirational books for women and teens, including All the Feels, All the Feels for...2025-04-0144 minThe Mental FightEmbracing the Power of Prayer with Jenn SoehnlinIn this conversation, Jenn Soehnlin discusses special needs parenting and navigating grief and anxiety. She shares her journey of praying Scripture and the significance of community support. We also discuss breath prayers, worship music, and the importance of caring for our family's spiritual needs. Jenn Soehnlin enjoys writing about faith, praying Scripture, special needs parenting, and more at www.embracing.life. She is the author of Embracing This Special Life and On the Same Page with God. She also loves spending time with her husband and two sons, curling up with a good book, meeting a f...2025-03-1822 minThe Mental FightFinding Hope After Betrayal Trauma with Bethany PeckIn this episode, we have a wonderful conversation with Bethany Peck. Bethany shares her experiences with mental health struggles, including anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD. She bravely shares the impact of betrayal trauma and divorce. We also dive into hope, healing, nature, and embodied living. Bethany is a writer and photographer living near the Chesapeake Bay in northeastern Maryland. She loves nature and writes about embodiment and experiencing God's love through creation at bethanypeck.org and on Instagram at @beautiful_purpose_writing. She’s been featured in Fathom Magazine, The Way Back to Ourselves, The ClayJar Review, and...2025-03-0457 minThe Mental FightThe Blessings in Our Painful Experiences with Hadassah TreuGet ready! Gain practical strategies for dealing with anxiety and surrendering in our day-to-day. In this encouraging conversation, Hadassah Treu shares her faith journey and personal struggles. She speaks on anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, overcoming, and the importance of lament. Hadassah emphasizes the significance of drawing near to God during difficult times and that there are blessings in our painful experiences. Hadassah Treu is an award-winning international author, blogger, poet, speaker, and motivator. She is the Encouraging Blogger Award Winner for 2020 and the Literature Award Winner of the Municipality of Pazardzhik, Bulgaria for 2024. Hadassah loves to encourage a...2025-02-1835 minThe Mental FightOvercoming Imposter Syndrome: Free Your Unwanted ThoughtsDo you struggle with imposter syndrome? Let's talk about it! Kimberly details her honest thoughts and ways to combat these unwanted feelings. She emphasizes the importance of faith, self-compassion, and prayer in navigating self-doubt and unworthiness. The good news is there's purpose in our lives, and we can learn to calm the overwhelm. Be sure to stick around for a few soothing prayers at the end. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE! Listen to the new Mental Fight playlist! For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. Follow along on Facebook.2025-02-0415 minThe Mental FightKeeping Your Eyes on God: A Key to Spiritual Growth and PeaceIn this conversation, Kimberly discusses the pressures of the new year and why we should prioritize our spiritual health. She also gives ways we can dive deeper into our faith. Every decision we make is a soul decision, and every soul decision matters. Ultimately, keeping our eyes on God is a daily practice that will promote peace and purpose. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE! Read the Substack piece mentioned, "Less Noise, More Rest." Listen to the new Mental Fight playlist! For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. 2025-01-1419 minThe Mental FightRenewal for the New YearDo you need hope and encouragement for the new year? Today, Kimberly details that God is in control, and that's okay. We also recap on the past year of The Mental Fight. Leave this episode renewed and empowered. Lastly, Kimberly gives you prayers as we head into 2025. Listen to the new Mental Fight playlist! For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE! 2024-12-3109 minThe Mental FightEmbracing God’s Love in the Everyday with Rachael AdamsHow do we embrace God's love in the everyday? Today, we have a wonderful conversation with author Rachael Adams as we dive into her new book, Everyday Prayers for Love: Learning to Love God, Others, and Even Yourself. This episode discusses God's love, self-love, and how we can love others effectively. Rachael Adams is the host of The Love Offering Podcast, and the author of A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life. Rachael hopes to help women realize God’s love and their significance. She and her husband live in Kentucky with their two c...2024-12-1734 minThe Mental FightWhen Your World Ends with Dawn Mann SandersHow do we rebuild our lives after it falls apart? Today, we dive into Dawn's journey through grief and loss, particularly after the unexpected death of her husband and her experiences with miscarriage. Dawn shares her insights on rebuilding life through God's creative process, emphasizing the importance of community support, spiritual growth, and celebrating the small wins. Dawn Mann Sanders (MDiv, Bethel Seminary) is an associate minister at First Baptist Church of Glenarden (FBCG), where she serves as the director of the sermon-based life groups ministry. Her passion is expository teaching and sharing the wonderful insights God...2024-12-0332 minThe Mental FightRemaining Confident Through Trying TimesWe all struggle with confidence. In today's world, confidence can be difficult, especially when we crave external validation. Kimberly shares her journey, emphasizing how we must nurture inner confidence throughout each stage in life. We can also dive into our relationship with Christ to keep us strong and secure in our foundation. Listen to the new Mental Fight playlist! For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE!2024-11-1919 minThe Mental FightFinding Purpose After Divorce with Laurie Meek WatkinsHow do we find purpose after divorce? Laurie shares her faith journey, uplifting wisdom, and resilience in this episode. She also encourages others to move forward after experiencing struggle and betrayal. Through the unexpected loss of her 40-year marriage and the destruction of her home due to a hurricane, Laurie recognizes there's still joy amid life's challenges. Laurie Meek Watkins is a performer and speaker. She dedicates herself to helping others feel less alone in an imperfect world. Her mission is to walk this new journey with dignity and glorify God. Follow Laurie on Instagram.2024-11-0538 minThe Mental FightWhat’s Saving My Soul Right Now? | Fall EditionKimberly gives personal insight on what's saving her soul right now. She chats about books, the healing power of music, laughter, and dietary changes. While Kimberly gives a health update, she also provides simple yet powerful encouragement for mental and spiritual health. Listen to the new Mental Fight playlist! For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE! 2024-10-2222 minThe Mental FightThe Freedom to Feel Through Grief with Lea TurnerIn this conversation, author Lea Turner shares her journey through grief and trauma. She also encourages parents, especially those with struggling teens, and highlights the importance of friendships and community. Lea Turner is a heartfelt, empathetic writer and speaker who longs to meet and encourage us in our pain. Joyfully broken through three years of her family struggling with trauma and loss, including death, cancer, losing everything to a house fire, drug addiction, loss of a dream, and heart surgery, has made her a reluctant expert on grief. Lea is a soulful listener and wisdom seeker passionate a...2024-10-1531 minThe Mental FightCalming Your Fears | The Mental Health RefresherIn this heartfelt conversation, Kimberly speaks on the struggles of anxiety and grief and the importance of feeling one's emotions. We're calling this episode the mental health refresher. Kimberly reminds us of peace and comfort today, our core mission for The Mental Fight. Whether you're new to this podcast or have been here for a while, it's time to unwind, close your eyes, and breathe. For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE! 2024-10-0814 minThe Mental FightMarriage, Loss, & Seeking Jesus in Everyday Life with Michelle CastroToday, we dive into Michelle's journey of faith, her experiences with marriage and motherhood, and the challenges of grief and loss. Through miscarriages and her stillborn son, Michelle found strength and encouragement through prayer and scripture. She also shares how we can seek Jesus in everyday life. You can find Michelle on Instagram here! Listen to her podcast!2024-10-0145 minThe Mental FightLonging for RestorationDo you long for restoration? Kimberly shares hope and reassurance for eternity. While we may never see total restoration here on earth or in our bodies, we can get tiny glimpses of peace and comfort. God may feel far, but He's always with us in our journey. For more encouragement, follow Kimberly on Instagram. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE!2024-09-1717 minThe Mental FightThe Best Relationship You’ll Ever HaveRelationships are complicated, yet we all need them. Along the way, we'll have some incredible relationships. But the best relationship we can have is with God. He nourishes our souls and never leaves us. He's there for us in our mental health journey. In this episode, learn how to cultivate a deeper relationship with our Lord and get uplifting encouragement and prayers from Kimberly. For more, follow Kimberly on Instagram HERE. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety!2024-09-1018 min
The Way Back PodcastEpisode #13: The Editors' Roundtable: The Peace of Wild Things, Art, and BelongingThe Way Back Podcast is brought to you by www.TheWayBack2Ourselves.com and is hosted by founder Kimberly Phinney, English professor, author, and counselor, earning her doctorate in community care and mental health counseling. You can get her debut poetry collection, Of Wings and Dirt with Wipf and Stock Publishers on Amazon and wherever books are sold.
In this episode, lean in and get cozy. We are talking about everything The Way Back to Ourselves, the literary journal, upcoming events, and our mission. We also chat about art, faith, writing, and belonging, as well as our upcoming projects and...2024-09-051h 18The Mental FightMy Concussion StoryJoin Kimberly for a special conversation as she describes her recent concussion journey. She shares how it happened, the physical and emotional symptoms, what's helped, and how physical therapy has shaped the last six months. For more, follow Kimberly on Instagram HERE. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety!2024-08-2723 minThe Mental FightLearning to Embrace Boundaries with Sarah SteeleIn this episode, author Sarah Steele shares her mental health journey and how anxiety, codependency, and boundaries have impacted her life. She also talks about the misconceptions surrounding boundaries, including red flags. Takeaways: Anxiety can be masked and self-medicated through acts of service, but it's important to acknowledge and speak out about it. Boundaries are not selfish or mean; they are God's idea and essential for healthy relationships. Setting boundaries can lead to freedom, healthier relationships, and a focus on God's guidance. Feeling and acknowledging our emotions is an important part of the healing process. The...2024-08-2057 minThe Mental FightThe Power of Making ChangesToday's episode explores the power of taking action to make changes. As summer ends and fall begins, it's a great time to inventory our lives. What's helping us, and what's hindering us? Takeaways: Making changes in our lives can positively impact our mental health and overall well-being. The fall season is a great time for self-reflection and making necessary changes. Prayer and seeking guidance from God are important, but action is also necessary for lasting change. Making hard decisions and setting boundaries can lead to a sense of freedom, improved relationships, and balance in life. F...2024-08-1314 minThe Mental FightChronic Illness and the Will To Keep Living with Kimberly PhinneyKimberly Phinney shares her journey of living with chronic illness and how it has shaped her into the person she is today. She discusses the physical and mental challenges she faced, including multiple surgeries, sepsis, and the loss of her ability to have children. Despite the darkness and suffering, Kimberly found solace in her faith and the support of her community. She emphasizes the importance of being real and honest about our struggles and finding ways to transcend our pain by serving others and getting lost in something outside of ourselves. Through her journey, Kimberly has learned t...2024-08-061h 04The Mental FightYou Are Not BrokenThis week, Kimberly explains why we are not broken. You are not broken if you have a bad day, are quick to anger, or make mistakes—we are human. When we label ourselves "broken," we do ourselves a disservice mentally because God heals and transforms the parts we deem broken. Grab 10 Breath Prayers for Anxiety HERE! Visit Kimberly's WEBSITE! And follow along on Instagram!2024-06-1812 minThe Mental FightHope for the Hard DaysDo you need extra hope and encouragement for the hard days? Dive into three main uplifting truths, and take a few minutes today to rest in your feelings. You're strong. You will get through this, and seasons don't last forever. Hope through Jesus is our anchor through the storm. 2024-06-1111 minThe Mental FightFinding Fulfillment After Work StrugglesAre you feeling fulfilled in your current role, or are you craving change? If you sense that something is missing in your life or don't feel like you belong, you're not alone. I've been there too! Learn to recognize signs that indicate the state of your mental and spiritual health. Fulfillment is unique to each individual. We all have different wants, needs, and desires, but I believe that making small changes is possible for anyone. 2024-06-0413 minThe Mental FightReleasing Stress Before the Summer MonthsDoes this time of year bring unwanted stress? Stress sometimes gets the best out of us, especially when we let it spiral and overtake our fast-paced days. Whether you need a breather or a reminder, it's also important to release emotions and stress from winter and spring before the sacred summer months. Now is the time to move forward. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her new...2024-05-2817 minThe Mental FightIt’s Mental Health Awareness Month–And You MatterWhile every day is mental health day around here, I wanted to dedicate a special episode to Mental Health Awareness Month. Our mental health matters, our stories matter, and you matter in this world. We dive into why this month matters. DISCLAIMER: We do touch on suicide throughout this episode because studies show it's on the rise. In 2022, the CDC said more than 49,000 people in the United States died by suicide. And last year, those numbers rose above 50 thousand. We may not be able to save everyone on this earth, but to...2024-05-1411 minThe Mental FightFill Your Cup With JoyDo you need more joy in your life? Today is a gentle reminder you need to embrace all the joyful days and moments. Perhaps we may not even realize our lack of joy until we experience a burst of sweetness again. Joy is a state of mind. It's in the everyday tasks, everyday life, and the everyday spirit inside us. That’s where joy lies. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com...2024-05-0714 minThe Mental FightSlower Living for the SoulLet's talk about slower living! Slower living improves not only our quality of rest but affects everything we do throughout the day and week. If you're chronically busy and in a constant state of fatigue, stress, or anxiety, this episode is for you. We also talk about the beauty and simplicity that heal our souls outside distractions. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-04-3017 minThe Mental FightPracticing Gratitude in the Everyday MomentsToday, we’re diving into gratitude, why you need it, and why it’s important! Gratitude uplifts our spirits and improves our mental health, and there are different ways you can easily implement gratitude throughout your day! For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-04-2312 minThe Mental FightEncouragement for When You Feel BehindHey friend! Whether you feel alone, afraid, or behind in life, I want you to feel seen and heard. We’re all unique, with different paths and missions, but we also never know when God will place beautiful blessings in our lives. May you find peace and comfort in today's episode. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-04-1612 minThe Mental FightHealing From Body ImageBody image is a tender and sensitive topic, especially for women. Many of us have endured lifelong battles with our appearance, size….and how that makes us feel on the inside. Taking care of our physical health means taking care of our mental health. With proper professional help, tools, and encouragement, we can find balance and freedom and honor our God-given bodies. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign...2024-04-0916 minThe Mental FightMental Health for the IntrovertWelcome, friend! In this episode, Kimberly talks all about mental health for the introvert. Whether you're an introvert or have introverts in your life, you'll want to tune in. Did you know that introverts are more likely to experience anxiety and depression? But there's hope because awareness is key, and we have many strengths! Being an introvert is a gift. Plus, learn mental health tips for the introverted soul and prayers as you go about your day. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her...2024-04-0216 minThe Mental FightHealth Anxiety and Staying in the PresentThis week, we're discussing health anxiety and staying in the present. Health anxiety causes a lot of distress and constant Googling, but it's also common. Kimberly touches on chronic health issues, her recent story, and four reminders to calm fears and doubts. Today is a good day to stay in the present. Look forward to meditation and prayers to promote hope and healing. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to...2024-03-2620 minThe Mental FightComparison Steals Our JoyAre you caught in a wave of comparison? The truth is that comparison steals our joy. But we can rest and refocus on what matters most. Kimberly ends with thoughts and prayers for you as you move forward in your comparison journey. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-03-1916 minThe Mental FightNavigating the Lies in Our HeadsKimberly explores navigating negativity and the constant battle of lies in our heads. Whether you suffer from anxiety, insecurity, or trauma, the inner voice in your head doesn't have to rule your soul. Learn how to take positive steps forward, and look forward to prayers as you go about your week. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-03-1210 minThe Mental FightFinding Peace After AnxietyIn this episode, we go deeper into finding peace after anxiety and how we can cope in today's world. Kimberly ends with last-minute thoughts and prayers going forward. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-03-0523 minThe Mental FightThe Heart of The Mental FightIn this episode, Kimberly discusses the heart of The Mental Fight, her uphill journey, reminders to calm and satisfy your soul, and some faith-filled takeaways. For more hope and encouragement from Kimberly: Follow her on Instagram. Keep up on her Substack. And go to kimberlykralovic.com to sign up for her newsletter. 2024-03-0515 min
The Way Back PodcastEpisode #8: The Editors' Roundtable: Art, Faith, & What Connects UsThe Way Back Podcast is brought to you by www.TheWayBack2Ourselves.com and is hosted by founder Kimberly Phinney, English professor, published writer, and counselor, earning her doctorate in community care and mental health counseling.
You can find Kimberly Phinney on Substack and Instagram here:
My Way Back | Kimberly Phinney | Substack
Kimberly Phinney🪴| Your Poet Counselor (@thewayback2ourselves) • Instagram photos and videos
In this episode, lean in and get cozy. We are talking about everything The Way Back to Ourselves, the literary journal, upcoming events, and our mission. We also chat about art, faith, writing, community, and wha...2024-02-171h 12The Mental FightTrailer | Welcome to The Mental FightWelcome to The Mental Fight! The first episode is a quick trailer and a glimpse of what's to come. Join your host, Kimberly, as she shares hope-filled encouragement. 2024-01-2501 min
A Wife Like MeTruths for The New WifeOn today’s episode, Amanda Davison and Kelly Brinkmann share what they wished they’d known day one of marriage! We release NEW episodes here on YouTube and on the A Wife Like Me Podcast (listen on any platform)! Hit the *SUBSCRIBE* button so you're cued in on new episodes!The featured blog in this episode can be found here.The writer for the featured blog post, Kimberly Kralovic, can be found here.Get all of our freebies here.Join the A Wife Like Me Collective FREE for a week, here.2022-06-2032 min