Shows
WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 253 Stretcher-Bearing Friends We Can Be Weak With Sue DonaldsonI love the T-shirt that reads: “WWMD?” But when in crisis, I’d much rather talk to my best friend or my sister—older or younger—than Martha Stewart, or even one of her staff members.
Steve Janney said, “We all need a friend we can be weak with.” He’s right. Some of need more than one.
In the Bible there’s a great little story about a man who had four such friends. He wanted to see Jesus but couldn’t get close to Him because of the crowds and mainly because he lived his...2025-07-0714 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 251 Rebuilding Your Life After a Gray Divorce with Pat FennerDivorce hit me to the core, and it totally broke me. The good news is that I’m still alive. And because of that, I know my story isn’t over.
Pat Fenner
So glad to know Pat Fenner and you will be too after listening to our conversation today. You will hear how someone who thought they were "married for life" got through the pain and brokenness and began to flourish again. Pat provides simple (not always easy) baby steps to get you started again in a new life, single again, and finding new oppo...2025-06-0947 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 247 Trusting God When You've Hit a Brick Wall (or Your Friend Has) with Sue Donaldson
This is story of a godly woman who needed an invitation to a less-than-perfect home. She hit a brick wall. She trusted God. She didn’t like to eat alone. I trusted God alongside of her and invited her for dinner.
John met Katy when they were both in their teens. They married young, barely out of school. They planned their dreams and lived out their lives. It was to be a forever marriage, marked with the usual passages of home, kids, dogs, career changes, and health challenges. Then, a month before their 40th...2025-04-1419 min
Eternal EchoesEpisode 24: Practicing Hospitality: Reflecting God’s Welcoming Heart with Sue DonaldsonWhat comes to mind when you think of hospitality? Maybe you think you don’t have time, your house is too much of a mess, or you just don’t have that particular gift. But, what if hospitality is more than just entertaining? What if practicing hospitality is an opportunity to reflect God’s heart?In this episode of the Eternal Echoes podcast, host Katharine Rose speaks with Sue Donaldson, a speaker, author, and podcast host known for her passion for hospitality. Through decades of experience, Sue has learned how to model authentic hospitality that f...2025-04-0248 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 244 Spa Days for Heaven's Sake: Inviting the Stranger with Sue DonaldsonThis podcast tells two stories of women who felt forgotten and left behind. I met them while they were doing their daily work. I was on the receiving end of their good work until they were on the receiving end of God’s good work. He leads in common things like spas, salons and tea parties. Everyone is waiting for consolation and invitation
I tell you these two stories because you never know who is ready to make a new friend or needs to meet the Friend who never forgets His children.
Someone wrot...2025-03-0312 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 236 Sabbath and Soup: God's Gift to You and Maybe Your Neighbor with Kathi LippKathi Lipp's latest book is sure to be a treasure for you and hopefully for your neighbor who may need your chicken and wild rice soup that you just made!
Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest released October 8th. Beyond the convenience and peace of mind of managing meals, Kathi wrote this book to help you experience true Sabbath rest, a full day to relax, recharge, and reconnect with God and your friends and family. We were designed to rest—it’s time to reclaim your Sabbath day. This book...2024-11-0449 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 234 Choose Advent, Breathe and Don't Miss Him in the Rush with Laura CrosbyChristmas is my favorite season but I can miss Jesus in the rush and crush of it all. Laura Crosby, a writer, pastor-teacher and welcomer—loved the Christmas story so much she wanted to help us hold still enough to appreciate all the Lord did for us.
Laura wrote an Advent study during Covid for her church in D.C. and has since made available for all of us to share, and I'm so glad she did. You may remember my first interview with Laura. Here's the link in case you want to get acquainted with her welc...2024-10-0737 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 233 Jesus Knows My Name And He Can Be Pushy with Sue DonaldsonSingle in my 20’s, in a new career, a new town and a new church, I felt okay mostly. Life was full and purposeful, but lonely on occasion. I wondered why families didn’t ask me over for Sunday dinner.
All I could think of was that my church friends must have thought I had such an exciting single life, I wouldn’t want to come home to their normal, ordinary home and stand at the sink and peel potatoes or hold their babies while they got dinner on and then sit down at their table to get be...2024-09-3016 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 228 Life Plans and God's Surprises with Sue Donaldson
I’m not sure why we bother arguing with God. God being God comes with an unfair advantage but I imagine I’m not the only one who tries. There’s that Jonah fellow from Nineveh. He argued but he ended up—well you probably know where he ended up. Even Jesus who had a special connection, you might say, debated with his Father about the wisdom of what he was about to go through right before the cross. He went anyway. Alone, for the most part.
I should have known better than to argue. There’s...2024-07-2921 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 223 Wit and Wisdom From the Back 40 Podcast and the Golden GirlsMy friend and fellow podcaster, Mary Hess of The Back 40, invited me and 3 other gals (from the back 40!) to chat on her podcast.
Here's what Mary had to say about all of us crazy and fun ladies:
Ever found yourself in a predicament because your body is going through changes you don't quite understand? Or perhaps you're struggling to find your identity amidst the pressures of social media, comparison, and the expectation to constantly achieve? Well, ladies, you're not alone. I'm accompanied by four incredibly inspiring women - Sue Donaldson, Ruthie Gray, Susan...2024-05-271h 04
Building Strong Homes: Blueprints to Strengthen Your Faith and Family podcastHow to Welcome Others into Your Home Without Stressing Out with Sue DonaldsonIs hospitality something that doesn't come easy for you? Are you always worried about how clean (or messy!) your home is? Or that you can't cook? Or that you just don't know how to entertain? My guest today, Sue Donaldson, is the queen of hospitality and she's here to help. Yes, she grew up with a mother who loved welcoming people into their home, but Sue's grandmother, her mom's mom, never invited people in. In spite of that, she decided she wanted to learn how to be hospitable and did just that. Now, because of her mother's i...2024-03-0553 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 211 A Legacy of People and Grace, Plus Mom Stories with Sue DonaldsonWhen God said, “Be hospitable” he added a caveat which could only be divine: “And while you’re at it, don’t be grumpy.” It’s easy to be grumpy because hospitality is work especially if you don’t think you are very good at it. Some people are really great hosts. We describe them as “good at entertaining.” But God didn’t say, “Be good entertainers.” There’s a difference. Seems to me that entertaining has more to do with me and hospitality has more to do with my guests
My friend told me that the hardest part of hospitality...2023-12-1823 min
The Back 40 Podcast040. Navigating Life's Transitions and Finding Authentic Identity | Sue Donaldson, Ruthie Gray, Susan Macias, Carol FeilEver found yourself in a predicament because your body is going through changes you don't quite understand? Or perhaps you're struggling to find your identity amidst the pressures of social media, comparison, and the expectation to constantly achieve? Well, ladies, you're not alone. I'm accompanied by four incredibly inspiring women - Sue Donaldson, Ruthie Gray, Susan Macias, and Carol Feil - who have each navigated their unique journeys and have come to share their wisdom on these common, yet often overlooked subjects.Our conversation doesn't shy away from the personal, the profound, or the downright hilarious. We...2023-12-051h 04WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 204 A Legacy of a Simple Invitation, Part 2 with Sue Donaldson
When we wake up each morning, do we actually think that what we do can change someone's world in some way? Most of us are grateful to change the sheets on a regular basis, clean the coffee pot with vinegar a few times a year, and water the plants when they show signs of an early death.
Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are not only called to an eternal purpose, to love God and our neighbor, we also get the privilege of partnering with the Son of God to change lives—one life, perhaps—all for His...2023-09-2524 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 203 A Legacy of Less Worry and More Peace with Keri EichbergerToday's conversation with Keri Eichberger is something we all need to hear: how to live with less worry and more peace. Author of the brand new book: Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar with the One Who Overcomes, Keri, mother of five (now there are five worries!) speaks of her own process in overcoming worry with the truth of God's Word.
Yes, there's a giveaway! Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win her book!
Some gems from Keri:
We must be aware of t...2023-09-1847 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 199 A Legacy of Honesty and Compassion Through Journaling with Jennifer Dukes LeeWith her latest book, Stuff I'd Only Tell God, A Guided Journal of Courageous Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery, Jennifer Dukes Lee gives us what we may didn't know we needed: a self-guided tour of ourselves--and it's only as accurate as we are honest.
On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, host Sue Donaldson talks to guest Jennifer Dukes Lee about her legacy journey. Jennifer shares her story about creating legacy Bibles for her daughters and the importance of leaving a lasting impact on loved ones. In addition, the episode delves into...2023-08-2144 min
Vision Driven Health - Weight Loss for Christian Women, Biblical Health, Conquer Cravings, Kingdom Mindset, Increase Energy Naturally19. Prevent Burn Out and Stress Eating by Prioritizing This Spiritual Discipline - Rest With Sue DonaldsonHey Friend,
If you are overwhelmed, on the verge of burnout, and are frustrated with your repeated cycle of stress eating - this episode is for you.
I imagine if you're like me, the title isn't that appealing to you. I tend to think things like, "Rest? No. That's not what the problem is. I just need to figure out how to do this better."
My guest today drops some important wisdom for all of us, and whether we choose to take to heart can have a major impact on our physical well being.
About Sue Donaldson:
Speaker, author, podcaster, Sue...2023-08-2131 minVision Driven Health - Weight Loss for Christian Women, Biblical Health, Conquer Cravings, Kingdom Mindset, Increase Energy Naturally19. Prevent Burn Out and Stress Eating by Prioritizing This Spiritual Discipline - Rest With Sue DonaldsonHey Friend,
If you are overwhelmed, on the verge of burnout, and are frustrated with your repeated cycle of stress eating - this episode is for you.
I imagine if you're like me, the title isn't that appealing to you. I tend to think things like, "Rest? No. That's not what the problem is. I just need to figure out how to do this better."
My guest today drops some important wisdom for all of us, and whether we choose to take to heart can have a major impact on our physical well being.
About Sue Donaldson:
Speaker, author, podcaster, Sue...2023-08-2131 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 198 A Legacy of Stewarding Good Health with Grace and Good Sense with Robin Rhine McDonaldWelcome Robin Rhine McDonald of MadeWell.com today as we discuss what may be your favorite topic (or not!)—our physical health. Robin is a faith-based holistic health coach who loves Jesus and has a passion for helping people live their best life physically, all for heaven's sake. I ask Robin some tough questions today—maybe I was feeling a little defensive as I do love my sugar—but she answered everything beautifully. You will learn and be encouraged, no matter where you are on the health spectrum.
Robin learned her good habits because she needed to, and she...2023-08-1439 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 197 A Legacy of Rest and Overflow with Sue DonaldsonThe most important question about our road trip with God is this:
How in the world can I stay on this trip?
The answer is this: “You can’t. Not by yourself. You need God completely.”
And the only way to remember that is to spend time with Him—whether it’s in the car, in the shower, in your favorite chair, or on a walk. don’t expect to do the Christian life by yourself. It’s sure to fail, period.
You’re heard the expression "We need someone with skin on." Our c...2023-08-0715 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 196 A Legacy of Singing God’s Gospel Kindness with Country Singer/Songwriter Laurel TaylorCountry singer/songwriter, Laurel Taylor knows who she is. It took a comment from Jlo on American Idol to make her realize that she didn't know who she was at one point. She needed to go back home and to her Gospel roots, and recognize that she belonged to God, He had given her these gifts, and she would live her life for his kingdom and glory.
Laurel, 29, knew from age 15 she wanted to sing, and she began writing songs in earnest at 17. But then went off the rails for a time, separating herself from friends, family, a...2023-07-3136 min
Taking the Leaps with Rachel G. ScottSue Donaldson~Challenges and Rewards of Serving and Obedient LeapsSend us a text"There's an inner compelling that God allows that helps us get over, leap over, any fear." - Sue DonaldsonIn today's episode, our guest Sue Donaldson shares her journey of teaching in a Christian school, moving to Brazil to work with Wycliffe Bible Translators, and eventually transitioning back to the United States to work with the mission organization full-time. She also opens up about her experiences with singleness and finding love later in life. Sue’s BioSue Donaldson and her husband, Mark, live in San Luis Obi...2023-07-1226 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 185 A Legacy of Deeper Faith with Sue DonaldsonIf we want a deeper faith, we can ask God for it. He knows our hearts anyway, so we may as well be honest.
When we ask God for more faith, He will do one of three things:
He will ask you to do something really big
He will allow challenging circumstances
He will give you children (or someone to love)—or all three at the same time. And then your faith will have an opportunity to deepen.
Perhaps you’ve heard this before but it’s a good reminder:
Everything I need to know...2023-05-1517 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 183 A Legacy of an Unexpected Gift: Transformation and Hope with Jillian BenfieldJillian Benfield got the news that her second child, Anderson, was Down Syndrome. This news was not her life-plan. Then just four months after his birth, he underwent open-heart surgery. Then their third child, Preston suffered medical procedures for the first two years of his life. Jillian wrote her book, The Gift of the Unexpected: Discovering Who You Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan, not as a how-to book on how to get through life's difficulties; rather she wrote her own story--the good, bad and the ugly--to offer hope. Wise beyond her years, Jillian's story has...2023-05-0143 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 177 A Legacy of Lemons, Love and Evangelism with Sue DonaldsonThe last words of Christ to his disciples were straightforward and clear: “GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS . . .” (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)
We call it the GREAT COMMISSION and put it in capital letters because we know Jesus’s last words deserve all caps. But whenever we hear a message on the topic or come across those verses in our reading, we cringe a little or wonder how they fit into our everyday.
You might be asking: How does God want his commandment played out in my life? I’m not a missionary in a foreign...2023-03-2025 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 176 A Legacy of Gathering Around the Table with Betsy PendergrassWriter, speaker, gatherer, Betsy Pendergrass and I could be sisters. My southern sister from Tennesee. You will see why when you hear today's episode on making space at the table—a beautiful legacy of hospitality and mentoring. Betsy and her husband Taylor and their four kids know the significance of inviting one—or six—to join them at the table, living room or backyard.
More than ever today, Betsy says, people need connecting and to embrace God's love through our love, and live out from their identity as a child of God.
Betsy...2023-03-1332 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 171 A Legacy of Truth and Faith with Susan Chamberlain ShipeSusan is one of my favorites. She's lived life and has seen the mercy and grace of the Lord—a true legacy of faith. Author of over 25 books, Susan Shipe blogs at Hope, Heart, Home and this week she's offering a copy of her latest project: Women: See Us Soar —offering us inspiration and encouragement from stories of women in the Bible as well as women she has known. Leave a comment on instagram, the blog or email me to be entered. (sue @welcomeheart.com)
A self-confessed "bad woman of the Bible" Susan knows that she's loved and...2023-02-0642 min
RETREATING WITH GODKnowing Christ Brings Your Spirit to Life -- and How NOT to Crowd God Out of Your Busy Life with Sue Donaldson (EP 36)NOTE FROM JON: "I’ve got something I’d like you to try, if you haven’t already. It’s my Spiritual Self-Assessment. You’ll get an honest picture of how healthy your relationship is with God. The Assessment is free. Access it HERE."
“Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’” (John 3:5-7 NIV)
Do you remember that da...2023-01-2546 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 167 A Legacy of God’s Welcoming Heart with Sue DonaldsonToday is one of my favorite topics of all time: God's welcoming heart. It's why my website is called WelcomeHeart.com. I know most people use their names as in SueDonaldson.com and I know it's a good thing, but I've never wanted to switch.
Everything began with God's welcome. My job is to respond, or in this case, RSVP. We'll talk about that a little bit but leave most of that for next time.
Before there can be intimacy, there has to be a welcome and introduction into the relationship. We can call it t...2023-01-0917 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 161 A Legacy of Authentic Community for our Good and God’s Glory with Halee WoodHalee Wood is a coach, Bible Teacher, mentor and founder of RuntheRaceTogether.com. She knows the power, blessing and necessity of a living alongside others in strong, authentic community.
Hear her story of healing today and how God uses her experiences to help others along the way. Having been brought up impoverished and abused, early on she decided on two things:
1. to never get too close to anyone and,
2. to never disappoint
—until she could no longer live under that kind of pressure.
Jesus set her free in her 20's...2022-11-2138 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 154 A Legacy of Curiosity—A Journey of Faith with Lore Ferguson WilbertWriter, thinker, self-named "chronic doubter", Lore Wilbert talks today about how asking questions are not only welcomed by God, but often essential to our journey of faith. Whether you are a staunch believer, never doubting, or more in a messy faith situation right now, you will find comfort, grace—even some answers to your questions—in our podcast conversation today.
Lore Ferguson Wilbert is a writer, thinker, learner, and author of the book, Handle With Care. She writes for She Reads Truth, Christianity Today, and more, as well as her own site, Sayable.net,as well as at L...2022-10-0258 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 150 A Legacy of Prayer: 31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers to Love God and Love Your NeighborToday we celebrate Ep 150 by turning our hearts and minds to our great Savior, Lord and King with "31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers." They are brief—brief holds my attention—I don't think it's my age, but it could be. And anytime I attend to my relationship with God, He pays attention.
God is so very good. He created us to relate with us, and praying is a great way to keep our relationship fresh and strong even when we don't feel fresh or strong.
If you'd like a prayer to drop in your inbox every day...2022-09-0426 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 148 A Legacy to Change the World By a Simple Invitation, Part 1When we wake up each morning, do we actually think that what we do can change to world in some way? Most of us are grateful to change the sheets on a regular basis, clean the coffee pot with vinegar a few times a year, and water the plants when they show signs of an early death.
Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are not only called to an eternal purpose, to love God and our neighbor, we also get the privilege of partnering with the Son of God to change lives—one life, perhaps—all for His...2022-08-2122 min
We're Not Done Yet77. Hospitality and Mentorship! Interview with Sue DonaldsonSue Donaldson takes two of the most intimidating actions that we know we SHOULD do, and makes them totally doable. Sue shares great reasons why we should open our homes to hospitality and then give practical steps for how. In the same way she will help you see how you can and should become a mentor to the younger women around you.Find out more about Finding Home on the Finding Home Landing Page2022-07-2638 min
Standing Above the Crowd Podcast with Former NBA All-Star James DonaldsonStanding Above the Crowd Podcast with Former NBA All-Star James Donaldson - Special Guest Seattle University Basketball Hall of Famer Sue Stimac-VerduinStanding Above the Crowd Podcast with Former NBA All-Star James Donaldson - Special Guest Seattle University Basketball Hall of Famer Sue Stimac-Verduin March 5, 20222022-07-0130 min
Standing Above the Crowd Podcast with Former NBA All-Star James DonaldsonStanding Above the Crowd Podcast with Former NBA All-Star James Donaldson and Basketball All American Sue Stimac - VerduinJames interviews former basketball All American Sue Stimac - Verduin2022-06-0630 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 116 Sue’s Thoughts on Connection: Breaking the Chain of LonelinessWe just got through the holidays and they say that the holidays can be one of loneliest times of the year. We want to feel like we are part of a big, happy family that loves and accepts us just the way we are, but instead, we may feel lonely, no matter how many people are around us.
Mother Theresa said that the most terrible poverty in the world is loneliness, and she faced poverty every day.
Are you lonely? It can be hard to admit. Everyone is lonely some of the time.
What can we do about it? Let me...2022-01-0924 min
Seek Go Create - The Leadership Journey for Christian Entrepreneurs and Faith-Driven LeadersThe Meaning of Hospitality with Sue DonaldsonAt some point in your life, you may have had to open your home to receive other people. As you share a meal, converse, and learn about each other, you start to build connections. But as an inspirational speaker, life mentor, and author, Sue Donaldson tells us that the meaning of hospitality is more than having a guest over. Hospitality is creating bonds, but it's also paving the way for people to know God. In this episode, Sue describes why we should practice hospitality and why it's more than just entertaining guests. She shares a few anecdotes o...2021-12-131h 08WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 112 A Legacy of Serving Wherever God Puts You with Billie JaussBillie Jauss can't remember how many places she's lived or how many times her family has moved—she's married to pro baseball coach, Dave Jauss, and that's how that profession rolls. Billie's learned through 30 years of marriage that she can serve God wherever she lands, and she and her husband have made an effort to do just that. Billie has had great opportunities to teach her three sons that loving everyone equally is the way that God loves, no matter if they are a famous pitcher or the one who sweeps up after the game is over.
Joi...2021-12-0626 min
Live It Out with Jennifer BoothEp. 112-The Heart of Hospitality with Sue DonaldsonSue Donaldson joins Jennifer to discuss why hospitality is important for Christians to practice. Sue shares her experiences growing up in a home that welcomed others. She gives practical tips for practicing hospitality without stress. And she has great advice for navigating the holidays with a hospitable heart. Sue is an author and speaker from San Luis Obispo, California. She and her husband, Mark, have three daughters. You can listen to Sue on her podcast, Make It Count: Living a Legacy Life. You can also find Sue on Facebook and Instagram....2021-11-2438 min
Tuesday Tea with Sweet DBecoming a Woman of Welcome Featuring Sue DonaldsonSend us a textSpeaker, author, Sue Donaldson and her husband, Mark, live in San Luis Obispo, California. Sue taught high school English, part of the time in Brazil with Wycliffe Bible Translators. She and her husband, Mark, have raised 3 daughters who keep them at the bank and on their knees. Sue loves connecting people to one another, to God, and to His Word, and has been speaking for the last 20 years or so with long pauses for babies, diapers and soccer pasta parties.Topics discussed on today's episode:Invited to inviteEasy conversation startersHospitality...2021-11-0942 min
My Full Life + Faith Leaps Podcast with Tiffany Jo Baker045 The Contentment Struggle with Sue DonaldsonDoes the grass always seem greener on the other side? Are you thankful for what you have, but long for more? Do you struggle with discontentment? You aren’t alone. Join me and Sue Donaldson, a speaker, author and the hospitality hostess with the mostest at Welcome Heart blog, as we tackle The Contentment Struggle.
Listen in to learn:
What contentment is and isn’t
How you can want more, but still be content
Why the struggle can happen at every age and season
The difficulties of waiting for more or wanting different
Why...2021-11-0819 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 108 The Powerful Purpose of an Introvert: A Legacy of Embracing Who God Made You to Be with Holley GerthYou may know Holley Gerth as the author of inspiring devotional books and co-host of the popular podcast, Not Just Small Talk, but today we are talking about a book I'm very excited about because I love some wonderful introverts! Holley's book, The Powerful Purpose of Introverts-Why the World Needs You to be You can change your life, introvert or not. I told her I was a raging Extrovert and she smiled benignly and continued to encourged me to be exactly who God made me to be.
So refreshing! Trying to be someone you're not can be s...2021-11-0727 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 107 A Legacy of Practicing Hospitality: Let God Lead the Way (and It Will All Turn Out Okay)I like it that we talk about hospitality in terms of practice. It means we get better with practice—but of course, getting better or becoming a great hostess is not the goal. Feeling secure and confident and at-east is so that we can better focus on the guest. That's what it's all about
We've been fooled into thinking that hospitality has to do with us, the host, rather than the one who needs a place at our table. We may think we are in charge, but God will give us all we need when the time com...2021-10-3117 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 106 A Legacy of Sustaining a Beautiful Marriage with Dorothy Littell GrecoI asked author, speaker, photojournalist, Dorothy Littell Greco, why she began writing and speaking about marriage and I got the right answer: her own marriage had been challenging and hard! Dorothy was quick to say that she and her husband of 30 years, Christopher, recognized they were seriously stuck and if their marriage was going to succeed, they needed to step back, examine what was really going on, and get some help. As a result, they learned how to pour into their own marriage to make it flourish after struggling for their first 10 years. Most people don't wait 10 years, they...2021-10-2427 min
Midlife RepurposedDoubting Hearts Welcome | Sue DonaldsonOver chocolate cake and lemon bars, Sue Donaldson creates heart connections with others who want to know what she once asked: Is God real? Sue opens doors to communication while she opens her home and has conversations with others around her table.Sue Donaldson is back for an encore on the podcast as she talks about her chapter in the Life, Repurposed book. When Sue was in college, she wrestled with whether or not God is real, and in voicing those doubts, she found a safe place to process her thoughts. Now, Sue opens doors for others...2021-10-2118 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 104 A Legacy of Kingdom Building with Courtney LowmanToday's conversation is with Courtney Lowman from the Journey of Ruth Podcast. I ask Courtney how she came up with that title, what her main legacy is, and how she fought to keep that legacy in focus. Just because we may hear from God and know that He's telling us some robust instruction, it doesn't mean it's always easy to change direction and follow His voice.
To give you a hint. She heard Him ask: "Whose kingdom are you going to build—yours or Mine?" Listen to hear how she answered and how we, too, can make a c...2021-10-1027 min
Grace Enough PodcastSue Donaldson | Hospitality, More Then Entertainment | 143Sue Donaldson joins Amber to discuss why she practices hospitality, why hospitality is more than simply entertaining and how extending an invitation is an opportunity to show people Jesus.
Questions Sue and Amber Discuss:
(2:48) Share a little of your faith journey with us. When did you come to know Jesus?
(6:18) Did you grow up in a home where hospitality was modeled consistently? What was that like?
(10:45) Have you always enjoyed hosting people in your home?
(15:20) How can someone who was not raised in a hospitable home begin to break that chain of “un-grace”?
(28:52) What are some of the most com...2021-09-1456 min
Being A Dad...On PurposeA conversation with author and speaker Sue DonaldsonOn this episode, I get to speak with author/speaker, Sue Donaldson on ways her father encouraged her and empowered her to be who she is today. There are some great stories and fantastic insight shared for dads raising daughters. There's also some encouraging words for dads raising sons, as well. Enjoy the show! https://welcomeheart.com/being-a-dad-on-purpose-podcast-with-bobby-benavides
Remember, if you like what you are hearing, hit the share button and subscribe to the podcast.
Speaker, author, Sue Donaldson and her husband, Mark, live in San Luis Obispo, California. Sue taught high school English, part of the time in Brazil...2021-07-0229 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 89 A Legacy of Mentoring: Coming Alongside for Our Good and Another'sGod has blessed me through short-term and ongoing mentoring relationships. I’m grateful for my many mentors through the years. For Jeanne, who said, “Your spiritual growth is not dependent upon a man.” For Joan, who said, “Do what’s right and God will strengthen you.” For Annadale who said, “Hearts break but they also heal.” For Lorraine who said, “Choose where to camp: in the land of worry or the land of trust?”
And Laurie, who still says: “Trust God and do the next thing.”
And I love to get texts from Hope and Jenny and Jaime and Kati...2021-06-2716 min
Halfway There249: Sue Donaldson and The Welcoming Heart of God
Sue Donaldson is an author, speaker, and podcaster. Today, Sue shares about doubting her faith in college, struggling with her singleness, and learning to lean on the Lord more than her husband. Sue is a master at creating great conversations and she tells us how that became part of her ministry. Plus, she reminds us that not being hospitible is really about pride, not personality. Her story will encourage you to just be a friend to make a friend.
Listen to Sue’s story now!
Stories Sue shared:
Forgetting how much she en...2021-06-1448 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 85 Before They Leave Home: 10 Life Skills Beyond LaundryWhen I look back at my parenting experience, I wish I could start over and call it: “Let’s Try This Again.” But that’s not how it works. I asked our girls for input, “What did we teach you that you needed to know as an adult?” and added, “But please don’t hurt my feelings.” (I needed some emotional intelligence.) “And yes, I know we didn’t teach you to budget…” Sure enough, the runt wrote right back: “You mean you taught us to pour concrete but not to budget?” Yes. That’s what I meant. And that was your dad’s fault.
2021-05-3015 min
Experience Revival PodcastMentoring As A Way of Life with guest Sue DonaldsonIn this episode, we chat with Sue Donaldson of Welcome Heart about Spiritual Mentorship, the impact a mentoring relationship can make, and practical ways to get started being a mentor or finding one! Sue is a Speaker & an author of Table Mentoring: A Simple Guide to Coming Alongside, and Say Something Special: 252 Conversation Starters as well as many more! She blogs at Welcome Heart: Knowing and Showing the Heart of God and hosts a weekly podcast: Make It Count: Living a Legacy Life. Sue and her husband, Mark, live in San Luis Obispo, California and hav...2021-05-2444 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 84 A Legacy of Wisdom with Steve BurgasonWhen asked, "What makes a successful person?" Steve Burgason barely pauses before saying through his signature chuckle: "Return back to the simplicity of your faith. When Jesus was asked what was the greatest commandment, He could've picked any or all of the 600 commands but all He said was, 'Love God. Love your neighbor.'"
Steve Burgason is a successful person and he would say it's because of his inadequacy that he is successful. "I need wisdom every day, and when I ask God for wisdom, He continues to bring people my way who need His love, encouragement...2021-05-2330 min
The Bible Speaks to You: Think, Pray, Love like Jesus083 – Sue Donaldson and Biblical Hospitality083-What is the Biblical model for hospitality?How do you feel when someone invites you to their home? Maybe it's a party or an intimate dinner with just a few people. Or maybe it's just a one-on-one conversation where you really get to know someone and they get to know you.Or maybe you're the one inviting someone else.Either way, there's a wonderful feeling of including others and being included that makes us feel loved and appreciated.This week I talk with Sue Donaldson, author and...2021-05-1158 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 81 Our Daily Mission From Jesus: An Expert With Bottom LinesDid you write your Manifesto after hearing my ziplining story? See Ep 79, if not.
Companies and ministries alike know the significance of creating a great mission statement. I find them in the back of magazines, church bulletins, and online articles. People want others to know what they are about, and in the believer’s case, Who they are about.
We know right away with Paul that His mission is about Someone, not something. Philippians 3:8 reads: “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom...2021-05-0216 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 79 Is Ziplining Part of Your Mission Statement?I went ziplining once. Just once. To say I did. Today's episode is about what it means to create a "Mission Statement." Do you have a manifesto for life?
Paul's mission rang out loud and clear in Philippians 1:21—"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain!" (I felt that dying part right before running off the ledge. Six times.)
To write a mission statement is a great exercise. To base it on who we are in Christ—and then live out that mission statement—is greater yet.
I'd love to hear...2021-04-1813 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 78 Legacy of a Re-Purposed Life, with Michelle RayburnMichelle Rayburn, host of Life Re-Purposed Podcast, wanted a transformed life, but as you know, we often need to admit we need transformation before change can begin. She reminds us that change is often slow and usually layered through the years. We can't hurry what God is doing; rather, trust that He is doing a good work inside our hearts and minds while we humbly draw closer to Him. Michelle's legacy of faith, humility, and fun shows through her desire to love others well, as Jesus does.
Michelle Rayburn is a freelance writer and podcaster...2021-04-1125 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 76 A Long Obedience in the Same Direction with Lauren SparksLauren Sparks wants to live a legacy of loving others. She talks of how she manages to do that through the singular challenges of being a mom of a special needs young adult, as well as loving others in their hard places.
I love her tagline:
"Where thoughts of a special needs mom intersect with the Cross of Christ."
Do you know anyone who could be blessed by hearing Lauren's story today? Prayer and listening are high on her list of loving others well.
Join me today and be encouraged to lo...2021-03-2824 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 71 Is Hospitality Your Legacy? God is the Ultimate Host So When We Invite We Are More Like HimDo you live out your legacy of hospitality? Did you know we all have a hospitality legacy?
What does yours look like?
Here's the reason why we want it to look welcoming: God welcomed us to His table. We get the distinct privilege to pass along His invitation.
You don't need to invite like my friend, Ceslie, invites. Or how Maria Goff invites. Or my sister, Lynnel invites. Or how I invite.
As a follower of Jesus, you just need to invite.
I like a good recipe. This should h...2021-02-2116 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 69 Seven Prayers For Quarantine—How's Your Prayer Life These Days?Early on in the shutdown of 2020, I began writing prayers for quarantine. They aren't necessarily only for quarantine, in case you no longer are! And I could've added many (many) more, as it continues on longer than anyone thought it would.
Maybe the children of Israel felt that waiting angst as they wandered 40 long years.
I include only seven prayers—maybe the eighth should be: "Lord, may this not last 40 years!"—one prayer for each day of the week.
To receive a one-page printable of all seven prayers, click here.
I'd love t...2021-02-0710 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 68 A Legacy of Being Peacefully Imperfect, with Mitzi NeelyTo know Mitzi is to love her and to be encouraged. Her greatest desire is to instill confidence in people of all generations. Though she desires daily to be more like Jesus, she knows she falls far short, and she's learned to be content in her imperfection. Joy comes from thanking God at the beginning of every day as well as recognizing that no matter what that day brings, He is in it and ahead of it.
We will be giving away Mitzi's latest book collaborative: Praying for Revival -Soul Inspired Prayer
Leave a comment t...2021-01-3128 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 63 A Legacy of Fortified Faith, with Author, Speaker Nylse EsahcWhat better testimonial than a daughter asking her mother for marriage advice right before getting married?
Who wouldn't love that kind of request?
Nylse Esahc (nee' Andree Miller) speaks on today's podcast about living an authentic faith in front of her children which resulted in her ebook My Best Marriage Advice.
Nylse is a Christian wife and a mother of four who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. Originally from the Bahamas, she lived in New York before relocating to the West Coast.
She is a Christian blogger who writes to encourage others from a...2020-12-2724 minWELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy LifeEp 62 Living Like a Straw--”Choose Jesus,” with Marnie SwedbergMarnie Swedberg, author, speaker, musician, women's speakers' advocate - and all-around energizer bunny--encourages us today to choose Jesus, now and forever, and He will make your day perfect in the long run. Marnie says she likes to pray for perfection because that's who God is, but how things turn out—in the long run—is what God deems as perfect, and that's all she really wants. For information on how to join her speaker network, see womenspeakers.com.
Get a pencil and paper - you'll want to take notes!
About Marnie:
Godly women worldw...2020-12-2023 min
The Animal TurnS2E7: Political Multispecies Communities with Sue DonaldsonAfter unpacking what constitutes a multispecies community, Sue Donaldson explains why it is important to consider how politics works to make sure that animals’ experiences, and what they are asking for, are heard. Date recorded: 18 November 2020 Sue Donaldson is a writer and animal advocate. She is a research associate in the Dept. of Philosophy at Queen's University, Kingston, and co-convenor of the Animals in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Ethics research group. She is the author of 4 books, and dozens of articles, primarily focusing on animal rights and polit...2020-12-071h 08