Ain't That a Shame: Not Enough-Expectations & Spiritual Pressure

Just Because Mama Believed It Doesn't Mean I Do Too!

We’re kicking off Series Two of our podcast by digging intothe beliefs we inherited from our families, churches, and Southern rural communities, and how those early lessons shaped us. In this episode, we reflect on the sayings, traditions, and expectations we grew up with, and the ways they became tangled with our understanding of faith and identity. From family dynamics to church culture to the “unspoken rules” of small-town life, we share the struggles of wrestling with dissonance between what we were taught and what we’ve come to believe for ourselves.  It’s honest, challenging, and of course we add our own flareof humor! Listen as we explore what it means to honor where we come from while also carving out space for growth, questioning, and new understanding.

What a Journey It Has Been!

This is the final episode of Series One and it has been an incredible journey! AJ and Ally share their praises (and some technical challenges!) while navigating this new world of podcasting. Listen as they share their favorite stories from each of the earlier episodes as well as answer some questions that were posted on social media! Towards the end, there is an unexpected but always welcomed and loved special guest that pops in to say a few words! This may be the end of Series Once but don't worry! Series Two is in production and will be uploaded soon! Please stay tuned!

Judgment: Appearance, Hypocrisy, and Inferiority

In this episode of I Just Don’t Understand with AJ and Ally, Ally unpacks a topic we’ve all encountered but don’t always talk about out loud: judgment. From the obvious moments—like walking into a room and knowing you’re being sized up—to the more subtle, internal battles we face when we compare ourselves to others in faith or family spaces, this episode explores how judgment shapes us. We’ll talk about the pain of being judged based on appearance, the complicated feelings that come from witnessing (and sometimes participating in) hypocrisy, and the quiet shame that comes with feeling spiritually “less than.” If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re good enough, or caught yourself slipping into self-righteousness just to feel worthy—this one’s for you. Grab your coffee, your tea, or whatever helps you stay grounded. Let’s talk about it.

Judgement--A Prickly Thicket

In this episode, AJ and Ally wade into the prickly thicket of judgment—where it comes from, why it sticks, and how it morphs into the heavy cloak of shame. From questioning long-standing religious doctrines to re-examining biblical scriptures that many take at face value, the duo pull back the curtain on conversations often left unspoken. They dive into what it means to challenge rigid traditions and the resistance that can come with pushing back. They explore how a fresh look at familiar scriptures can upend deeply rooted beliefs, sparking both clarity and inner conflict. Living in small rural communities adds another layer, where social expectations and the constant watchful eye of “everyone knowing your business” can fuel cycles of shame and unworthiness. Through it all, AJ and Ally reflect honestly on what it takes to separate external judgment from personal worth—and what freedom might look like on the other side. Whether you're wrestling with doubts of your own or simply curious how two friends stay grounded (and real) while exploring sacred tension points, press play and join the conversation. Let’s unravel judgment together—and leave shame at the door.

Ain't That a Shame: Not Enough-Expectations & Spiritual Pressure

Ever felt like you’re not measuring up, spiritually, culturally, or in your own community? In this episode, we talk about the ways shame creeps in when we don’t live up to the expectations around us. Whether it’s struggling with addiction, mental health, or sexuality, too many of us have been told to just "pray about it" as if that alone will fix everything. We unpack how religious traditions can sometimes compound these struggles, and why real support often looks different than the advice we were raised with. This one’s tender, honest, and a little bit fiery—in true AJ and Ally fashion.