Beside Every Calling

Beside Every Calling | Episode 09: Finding Real Friendship in Ministry Life

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2573862/fan_mail/new] This is a space for those walking beside a calling—where identity is formed beside it, not lost within it. Why is friendship in ministry life often harder than people expect? In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Debbie and Jill talk about one of the most quietly painful realities of ministry life—the challenge of finding genuine, safe friendship while living in the unique pressures of ministry. From shifting relationships and friendship wounds to healthy boundaries and building intentional community, they share personal stories and practical wisdom from different seasons of ministry life. They also talk honestly about the importance of a small, trusted inner circle and why meaningful friendship takes intentionality, time, and courage—even after disappointment. If you’ve ever felt unsure where you fit, longed for deeper connection, or wondered if anyone truly understands this life, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone—and that meaningful friendship is still possible. Want to connect with us or share your story? Email us at: besideeverycalling@gmail.com Table Talk Questions: 1. What kind of friendship do you need most in this season of your life? 2. Are there any past hurts that may be affecting how you approach friendship today? 3. What boundaries might help you build healthier, more life-giving relationships? 4. Is there one small step you could take this week to pursue meaningful connection? If yes describe it out loud. 5. How can you invite God into your desire for friendship in a more intentional way?

Beside Every Calling | Episode 8: The Loneliness No One Talks About in Ministry Life

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2573862/fan_mail/new] In this deeply personal and honest conversation, Debbie and Jill talk about something many in ministry quietly experience but rarely say out loud—loneliness.  This is a space for those walking beside a calling—where identity is formed beside it, not lost within it. They share from their own current seasons, navigating roles filled with purpose yet often lacking people who fully understand the weight and uniqueness of their lives. From shifting friendships to the absence of everyday connection, this episode brings language to a reality many ministry spouses carry. Through practical ideas for building community, setting healthy boundaries, and strengthening your marriage, Debbie and Jill offer both wisdom and hope. They also remind us that even in seasons where people feel distant, God remains present and near. If you’ve been feeling isolated or unseen, this conversation is a gentle reminder that you are not alone—and that meaningful connection is still possible in this season. Want to connect with us or share your story?  Email us at: besideeverycalling@gmail.com Table Talk Questions: 1.  In what ways have you experienced loneliness in your current season of ministry life?  2.  Are there friendships you may need to intentionally reconnect with or invest in?  3.  What practical steps could help you build meaningful community right now?  4.  How can you and your spouse be more intentional about supporting each other in this season?  5.  What does it look like for you to draw closer to God when you feel isolated or unseen?

Beside Every Calling | Episode 7: From Staff Spouse to Lead Pastor Spouse

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2573862/fan_mail/new] Episode 7: From Staff Spouse to Lead Pastor Spouse In this honest and heartfelt conversation... Debbie and Jill are joined by Dana Hustko and Bethany Jack to talk about one of the most significant transitions in ministry life—moving from being a staff pastor’s spouse to a lead pastor’s spouse.  This is a space for those walking beside a calling—where identity is formed beside it, not lost within it. They share real experiences about increased visibility, shifting relationships, and the unexpected pressures that come with this role. From navigating criticism and comparison to learning how to support your spouse and protect your identity, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement for every season. Whether you’re stepping into this role for the first time or have been living it for years, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone—and that your identity is formed beside the calling, not lost within it. Want to connect with us or share your story? Email us at: besideeverycalling@gmail.com Table Talk Questions: 1. What has been the most challenging part of navigating relationships         within the church in your current season? 2. Are there areas where comparison or outside expectations are affecting your joy? 3. How can you more intentionally support your spouse while also caring for your own identity and calling? 4. What rhythms could help you stay grounded and spiritually encouraged in this season?

Beside Every Calling | Episode 06: Staff Spouse Life-What No one Tells You

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2573862/fan_mail/new] Beside Every Calling | Episode 06: Staff Spouse Life — What No One Tells You 📩 Connect With Us: If this episode encouraged you, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at besideeverycalling@gmail.com In this episode, Debbie and Jill sit down with Dana Hutsko and Bethany Jack for an honest conversation about the real experience of ministry spouse life on a church staff. From the early days of feeling unprepared and alone to learning how to build community and stay grounded, this conversation offers both validation and practical wisdom for every season of ministry life. In This Episode: *  What they wish someone had told them before ministry life  *  Navigating loneliness in the early years  *  Practical ways to find your people and build community  *  Staying grounded in your identity beyond the role  *  Encouragement for those just starting out  Table Talk Questions: *  What has surprised you most about ministry life?  *  Have you experienced loneliness in this season? What did that look like?  *  Who are your “safe people,” and how did you find them?  *  What helps you stay grounded in your identity outside of ministry?  *  What advice would you give to someone just starting out as a staff spouse?  Follow Along: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/besideeverycalling [https://www.facebook.com/besideeverycalling] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/besideeverycalling [https://www.instagram.com/besideeverycalling]

Beside Every Calling | Episode 5 : Family & Ministry

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2573862/fan_mail/new] Episode 05: Family & Ministry Beside Every Calling with Debbie & Jill In this episode, we talk about the real-life tension of balancing family and ministry—especially in the early parenting years, through busy church seasons, and into the empty nest. We share personal stories, practical rhythms that helped our families, and honest conversations about expectations, boundaries, and protecting your home. Whether you’re raising young kids or navigating adult relationships, this episode is a reminder that your family is your first ministry—and you don’t have to do this alone. In This Episode: Practical rhythms for Sundays and busy ministry seasons Creating a home that feels safe, peaceful, and life-giving Setting boundaries with church expectations Supporting each child’s unique personality and calling When and why to seek counseling for your family Transitioning from parenting to friendship in adult years Key Encouragement: You’re doing better than you think. Your family matters deeply. And you are not alone in this. Table Talk Questions: What rhythms could help our family feel more peaceful during busy seasons? Are there any expectations we need to release or reset? How can we better support each person’s uniqueness in our family? What would it look like to make our home feel even more safe and life-giving? 📩 Connect With Us: If this episode encouraged you, we’d love to hear from you. If you have a topic you’d like us to discuss—or just want to connect—email us at besideeverycalling@gmail.com