Rhythms that Restore: Hope for the Busy Christian Woman

Ep 77:The Power of the Pause: When Your Brave "YES" Becomes a Brave "NO" with Cherisse Hixson

Who knows a rested woman? We all know women who are stressed out, burned out, exhausted, successful, anxious, depressed—but truly rested? This question from "The Relaxed Woman" stopped me in my tracks and led to one of the most important decisions I've made in years. In this deeply personal episode—number 77, a number that speaks of completion and perfect forgiveness—I'm sharing why I'm pausing the podcast for this season. But this isn't just my story. It's an invitation for every woman who's been giving her best to everyone else and her exhaustion to her family. We'll explore: * The biblical significance of 77 and what completion really means * Why pruning isn't punishment—it's preparation for new growth * How hurry and love simply cannot coexist * The revolutionary power of celebrating each other's brave NO's * The parable of the fake pearls and what God might be asking you to release Featuring wisdom from Dallas Willard, John Mark Comer, Ruth Haley Barton, Emily P. Freeman, and Eugene Peterson's beautiful translation of Jesus' invitation to "live freely and lightly." This episode is for every woman stepping into November wondering how she'll survive another holiday season. It's permission to open your hands. It's an invitation to trust that God holds all things together—not you. What fake pearls are you clutching? What if your Father has real ones waiting? Episode Note: This is the final episode for this season as I step into Spiritual Direction training and explore finishing my degree at Mississippi State after 27 years. Thank you for 77 beautiful conversations. See you in the next season. 🤍 Connect with me on Instagram @cherissehixson01 or Facebook: Cherisse Hixson and continue to follow along in the journey with me. Or connect at www.cherissehixson.com [https://www.cherissehixson.com]

Ep 76: BECOMING Whole: It is Never too Late with Health/Hormone Coach Hannah Marks

Welcome back, friends! We're wrapping up our BECOMING Series with a powerful reunion—Hannah Marks is back! When Hannah first joined us in July 2024 (Episode 18), she had just experienced breakthrough freedom from 18 years of debilitating anxiety and physical bondage on Saint Patrick's Day 2019. Today, she returns to share how that spiritual freedom launched her into an unexpected calling: helping women and men reclaim their health through body, mind, and soul healing. As a certified health coach and founder of Whole by Hannah, Hannah specializes in hormone regulation, personalized nutrition, and root-cause healing—all anchored in a deep relationship with Jesus. Her approach isn't about quick fixes or band-aids; it's about transformation from the inside out. If you've been on a years-long journey trying to figure out what's wrong—if you've been told your labs are normal but you feel anything but—this conversation is for you. Hannah understands because she's lived it. And now she's helping countless women get their lives back. In This Episode Hannah Shares: * How her pivotal Saint Patrick's Day 2019 moment of commanding anxiety to leave changed everything * Why we need Jesus AND practical health wisdom—not either/or but both/and * HerBody, Mind, Soul framework for becoming whole * The difference between spiritual strongholds and physical dysfunction * Why 92% of Americans have an insulin issue (and how to fix it in 2 weeks!) * The two root causes behind most health issues: insulin or hormones * How birth control and infertility treatments disrupt your body's hormone production * Why whole foods matter and what happened when she ate a Krispy Kreme donut * The mind games we play with ourselves and how to break negative thought patterns * Her powerful message: "It's never too late"—as long as you're breathing, you can transform * Walking through divorce while staying whole in Christ * Why your body isn't broken—it's trying to communicate with you About Hannah Marks: Originally from Great Britain, Hannah Marks has called the United States home for 30 years. After having her thyroid removed and struggling with strokes, autoimmune conditions, and debilitating anxiety for nearly two decades, Hannah experienced complete spiritual freedom in 2019. This breakthrough transformed not only her life but launched her into a new calling. For the past five years, Hannah has been helping women and men become whole through her health coaching practice, Whole by Hannah. She specializes in reading comprehensive blood work, addressing insulin resistance and hormone imbalances, and teaching people how to fuel their bodies with whole foods—all while grounding everything in a deep relationship with Jesus. At 48, Hannah says her body looks and feels better than ever. She's a devoted mom to Will (16) and London, actively involved at Connect Church in Springfield, Missouri, and finds her strength in daily time with Jesus—especially during this current season of walking through an unwanted divorce with grace and faith. Hannah's Heart: "It's never too late. As long as you're breathing and you're alive today, you have the opportunity to turn everything around. You have the opportunity to turn your life around, your body around, your emotions—everything. It's never too late." Pull up a chair, beloved. This conversation will minister to your weary soul AND body. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction 03:06 - Hannah's Story: From Episode 18 to Now 04:21 - The Pivotal Saint Patrick's Day 2019 Moment 06:48 - Discovering the Stronghold of Fear 10:16 - Walking in Freedom for 5 Years 12:25 - Current Season: Divorce & God's Faithfulness 15:32 - From Music Teacher to Health Coach 16:25 - Mayo Clinic Discovery: Not Strokes, But Migraines 18:15 - Finding the Right Doctor Who Believed Her 21:25 - God Created Our Bodies to Heal 22:17 - Stepping Into Her Authority 23:08 - Body, Mind, Soul Framework: Why Jesus is the Starting Point 28:47 - Taking Off the Mask: We're All a Mess 29:33 - The Mind: Hormones, Emotions & Thought Patterns 32:24 - Normalizing Anxiety & Depression: It's Often Hormonal 34:50 - Breaking Negative Thought Patterns 36:56 - The Body: Lies We've Been Told 40:01 - Diabetes Reversal Story 42:12 - The Two Root Causes: Insulin or Hormones 43:18 - Understanding Insulin Resistance (92% of Americans!) 46:10 - How Birth Control & Infertility Treatments Disrupt Hormones 48:31 - Catching Issues Early: Trust Your Body 50:16 - Why Whole Foods Matter 51:37 - How American Food Damaged Her Body 54:10 - Milling Her Own Wheat: 44 Nutrients in One Waffle 55:42 - The Krispy Kreme Donut Experiment 56:29 - Hannah's One Truth: "It's Never Too Late" 57:44 - The House Fire Story: God Makes Beauty From Ashes 59:20 - Closing & How to Connect Hannah Marks is a certified health coach, speaker, and founder of Whole by Hannah. Originally from Great Britain, Hannah has called the United States home for the past 30 years, though her charming British accent remains unmistakably intact. Hannah's journey into holistic health wasn't planned—it was deeply personal. After having her thyroid removed 18 years ago, she spent nearly two decades struggling with what doctors thought were strokes, autoimmune conditions, debilitating anxiety, depression, and complex health issues that left her desperate for answers. Despite countless doctor visits, medications, and being told "your labs are normal," Hannah knew something was deeply wrong. Everything changed on Saint Patrick's Day 2019 when, after reading The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson, Hannah discovered she had a stronghold of fear over her life. In a powerful moment at church, she commanded the spirit of anxiety to leave in Jesus' name—and it did. After ten months of continuous anxiety attacks, she was instantly and completely free. But Hannah's freedom journey didn't stop there. As a pastor's kid who grew up in "the most beautiful home," she realized that if she didn't understand her authority in Christ, countless other women didn't either. This spiritual breakthrough led her to pursue answers for her physical health, eventually connecting with a doctor who helped her understand insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, and the power of whole foods. For the past five years, Hannah has been guiding women and men through their own transformative journeys. She specializes in comprehensive blood work analysis, addressing the two root causes of most health issues (insulin or hormones), personalized nutrition, and teaching people to advocate for their own health—all while grounding everything in a relationship with Jesus Christ. At 48, Hannah says her body looks and feels better than ever. She's a proud mom to Will (16) and London, teaches elementary music two days a week at her children's school, actively serves at Connect Church in Springfield, Missouri, and finds her daily strength in quiet time with Jesus. Currently walking through an unwanted divorce, Hannah is living proof that it's never too late to become whole—body, mind, and soul. Her clients consistently say they've "gotten their lives back," experiencing reversed diabetes, balanced hormones, renewed energy, and rediscovered joy. CONNECT WITH HANNAH Instagram: @britishhannah Website: wholebyhannah.com Email: britishhannah@gmail.com [britishhannah@gmail.com] Location: Springfield, Missouri Church: Connect Church, Springfield, MO RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE * The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson (the book that changed Hannah's life) * Stop the Thyroid Madness (book that helped Hannah understand thyroid function) * Previous Rhythms That Restore episode: "Freedom" with Hannah Marks - Episode 18 (July 4, 2024) * Whole by Hannah health coaching services * Hannah's website testimonials (including the diabetes reversal story) * Connect Church, Springfield, MO

Ep 75: Becoming Confident: How Style Reveals the Light Within with Stylist Shelby Tucker

Becoming Confident: How Style Reveals the Light Within with Stylist Shelby Tucker What if getting dressed could be more than just putting on clothes? What if it could be an act of soul care that helps you walk confidently in who God has called you to be? In this episode of our "Becoming" series, my friend Shelby Tucker returns to share how she transitioned from owning a successful retail boutique to becoming a personal stylist who helps women elevate their everyday confidence. But this conversation goes so much deeper than fashion. Shelby opens up about: * The courage it took to close her brick-and-mortar store when God called her to something new * How to recognize when good things have become idols in our lives * Practical ways to take our thoughts captive daily * The difference between wearing clothes and truly styling yourself * Why investing in yourself isn't vanity—it's stewardship of the light God placed within you * How to identify your "last guidepost" when you're unsure of the next step * Finding freedom in surrender and living one day at a time If you've been living in leggings and t-shirts since 2020, feel stuck in your closet, or simply know there's more confidence waiting to be unlocked within you, this episode is for you. Connect with Shelby: Website: https://shelbyjewel.com [https://shelbyjewel.com] (Book your free 30-45 minute consultation!) Instagram: @shelbyjewel | @shopshelbyjewel | @shopshelbyscloset Shelby works with women in all seasons of life—whether you need vacation styling, corporate wardrobe updates, everyday elevation, or are preparing for a special event. Her heart is to help you reveal the light that's already within you. To learn more about Shelby and her story scroll back to Episode 12 "Your Story Matters with Shelby Tucker: Living a Life of Surrender" and learn more of her story. Ready to restore your soul? Subscribe to "Rhythms That Restore Podcast" and join our community of women learning to walk confidently in Christ. Connect with Cherisse at www.cherissehixson.com [https://www.cherissehixson.com] or on Instagram @RhythmsThatRestorePodcast

Ep 74: Autumn's Invitation to Release: Learning to Let Go and Trust God's Rhythms with Cherisse Hixson

"Episode 74: Autumn's Invitation to Release: Learning to Let Go and Trust God's Rhythms" Welcome to October! 🍂 This month, we're embracing the "Rhythm of Release" - learning from the falling leaves that it's not only okay to let go, but necessary for new growth. In this episode, Cherisse shares her personal journey with the practice of subtraction and why the podcast is shifting to a gentler rhythm of just 2-3 episodes this month. She's learning (alongside you) that saying NO to good things isn't about lacking faith - it's about trusting the Creator who designed the seasons themselves. In this episode, you'll discover: * The practice of Three-Centered Prayer (thinking, feeling, sensing) from Mark 12:30 * How autumn teaches us the sacred art of release * Why our bodies communicate through feelings and what to do about it * Practical ways to notice what you're carrying that isn't yours to bear * The beautiful truth in Matthew 11:28-30 about Christ's easy yoke Featured Scripture: Mark 12:30, Matthew 11:28-30, Psalm 91:1 Featured Poem: "The Peace of Wild Things" by Wendell Berry Mentioned Books & Mentioned Spiritual Directors: * The Listening Life by Adam McHugh * Holy Listening by Margaret Guenther * Spiritual Director Allison Bradsher email: allison@bfrlocal.com [allison@bfrlocal.com] * Spiritual Director Carroll Lane Parsons email: carrolllane@gmail.com [carrolllane@gmail.com] This October, may we learn to open our hands, trust His rhythms, and discover that His arms were there to catch us all along. Next Episode: October 16th - "Finding Confidence in This Season" with returning guest and personal stylist "Shelby Jewel" Tucker Connect with Cherisse Hixson online, email and on social media this way: Online: www.cherissehixson.com [https://www.cherissehixson.com] Email: cherissehixson@hotmail.com [cherissehixson@hotmail.com] Instagram: @RhythmsThatRestorePodcast

Ep 73: BECOMING Refreshed: Your Invitation to Deeper Waters with Amy Allgood

Episode 73: "BECOMING Refreshed: Your Invitation to Deeper Waters with Amy Allgood" Episode Description Are you feeling weary from the constant pace and pull of life? In this powerful episode, host Cherisse Hixson sits down with mentor, coach, and entrepreneur Amy Allgood to explore what it means to move from spiritual "shallow waters" into the deeper, more abundant life God has for us. Amy shares her journey from being a "selfish Christian" focused on what God could do for her, to discovering the transformative power of asking "What can I do for You, God?" This conversation is a gentle invitation for women who are ready to step beyond surface-level faith into authentic spiritual refreshment, rest, and renewal in Jesus. Meet Amy Allgood Amy is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and entrepreneur who has addressed audiences of over 12,000 women. As a National Sales Director with Mary Kay and leader of women's biblical small groups for nine years, Amy is passionate about helping women discover their unique gifts and calling. She's a wife to Will, mom to three children (ages 12, 10, and 9), and lives in sunny Shalimar, Florida. When she's not mentoring women, you'll find her enjoying good food with friends, "SPA-ING" (her favorite hobby), or traveling to one of the 15+ countries she's visited. Key Takeaways & Timestamps Moving from Head to Heart (17:29) * The transformative power of fasting as a spiritual discipline * Amy shares miraculous stories from her community's fasting experiences * How to fast as a beginner: giving up something you love to gain closeness with God From Shallow to Deep Waters (09:07) * Signs you might be living in the "shallow end" spiritually * The difference between checking spiritual boxes vs. truly knowing God * Moving from "What can You do for me?" to "What can I do for You?" The Martha vs. Mary Balance (12:46) * Why women leaders often struggle with the "doing" vs. "being" tension * Understanding that if it's not God's calling, there will be no eternal fruit * Breaking free from society's "busy badge of honor" mentality Bold Obedience and Sabbath Rest (28:30) * Amy's conversation with her Olympic-hopeful daughter about resting on the seventh day * Why God's commands aren't suggestions but pathways to blessing * The courage required to please God rather than people Standing in the Gap (30:45) * God's call for bold believers in this season * Personal stories of stepping into God's assignments * The blessing of being someone God can count on Scripture Themes Explored * Mary and Martha - The balance between doing and being with Jesus * Sabbath Rest - God's design for restoration and renewal * Standing in the Gap - Being available for God's assignments * The Potter and Clay - Surrendering to God's shaping in our lives Practical Application Three Ways to Move Deeper This Week: 1. Try Fasting - Give up something you love (like sugar or social media) to focus on drawing closer to God 2. Practice Listening Prayer - Instead of bringing God your list, sit quietly and ask "What do You want to show me today?" 3. Embrace Sabbath - Take one day to truly rest and reflect, trusting God with your productivity Upcoming Opportunities Refresh Retreat - October 4th (Virtual/Hybrid) Join Amy for her annual "Refresh" retreat, now available virtually for the first time! This year's theme is "Moldable" - being in the Potter's hands. For just $29, you can participate from anywhere or gather friends to host a hub in your home. Register online at www.amyallgood.com [https://www.amyallgood.com] Fall Book Club Amy's community will be reading "Blessed Are the Spiraling" by Levi Lesko this October - perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life's unexpected turns. More info on Amy's website www.amyallgood.com [https://www.amyallgood.com] Connect with Amy * Website: www.amyallgood.com * Register for Refresh Retreat 2026 HYBRID on Saturday Oct 4th at www.amyallgood.com * Follow for updates on masterminds, mentorship programs, and community events Reflection Questions 1. Are you living in the "shallow end" of your faith, or are you ready to go deeper? 2. What would change if you shifted from asking "God, what can You do for me?" to "God, what can I do for You?" 3. Where is God calling you to bold obedience in this season? 4. How can you create more space for listening prayer in your daily rhythm? Quote to Ponder "Be around people who are going to celebrate you and not tolerate you. Early in life we try to please people, we try to impress people, and it's exhausting and it's a waste of time and energy." - Amy Allgood Prayer Father, thank You for pursuing us even when we're content to stay in shallow waters. Give us courage to go deeper with You, to listen more than we speak, and to step boldly into the assignments You have for us. Help us find true refreshment in Your presence and rest in Your perfect love. In Jesus' name, Amen. Subscribe & Share: If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe and share with a friend who needs to hear about God's refreshing love. Your support helps us continue creating content that points women back to Jesus and His Word.