That's Just What I Needed Podcast

  Did you know that 50% of us have a family member or friend who has some kind of criminal record? It’s the unspoken secret not many of us know how to negotiate–largely because of the shame, confusion, and hurt that goes along with it.  What happens to the families left behind when someone goes to prison? In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Heather Rice-Minus, CEO of Prison Fellowship, to talk about incarceration, shame, second chances, and the transforming power of Jesus. Heather shares powerful stories of hope, restoration, and what it really looks like to walk alongside people impacted by prison.  We talk about the misconceptions many Christians have about incarceration, how churches can better support hurting families, and why no one is beyond redemption. This conversation challenged me deeply, and I think it will encourage you, too. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna   Key Takeaways: 0:01:12 - Unexpected Calling to Prison Ministry 0:05:55 - Prison Fellowship’s 50-Year Mission 0:09:00 - Angel Tree: Serving Children of the Incarcerated 0:16:49 - Shattering Shame and “Us vs. Them” 0:22:31 - What Actually Works: Deep Discipleship & The Academy   What We Talk About Heather’s unexpected journey from law school to prison ministry The incredible origin story of Prison Fellowship and Chuck Colson How incarceration impacts entire families, not just the individual behind bars The life-changing impact of Angel Tree for children with incarcerated parents Shame, silence, and why so many families suffer alone Common misconceptions Christians have about prison ministry What true rehabilitation and transformation really require The importance of discipleship, accountability, and community How churches can become places of restoration and welcome Practical ways listeners can get involved and make a difference What Actually Helps People Change Heather shared several key elements that lead to lasting transformation for incarcerated individuals: Consistent Discipleship Real change takes time, accountability, and spiritual growth—not one emotional moment. Healthy Community People need relationships that model integrity, restoration, and healthy living. Biblical Worldview Replacement Criminal thinking patterns must be replaced with truth, purpose, and identity in Christ. Long-Term Investment Transformation happens through sustained support, mentoring, and coaching. Second Chances Rooted in Grace The Gospel reminds us that no person is beyond redemption.   Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Heather: Website: https://www.prisonfellowship.org/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/PFMinistries Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prisonfellowship/   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org    Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever wondered why the Christian life can feel so exhausting sometimes? In this episode, I’m sharing a personal story that completely changed how I understood the Holy Spirit and the way He works in our lives. We’ll talk about who the Holy Spirit is, what He actually does, and how He helps us live the Christian life—not by trying harder, but by walking more closely with God. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by your own lack of patience, peace, or joy, this conversation will encourage you deeply. My prayer is that you walk away feeling comforted, equipped, and reminded that you were never meant to do this life alone.   And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna   Key Takeaways: 0:00:02 -  The Struggle of Self‑Powered Christianity 0:03:45 - Who the Holy Spirit Is in the Trinity 0:07:40 - God With Us vs. God In Us 0:11:58 - How the Spirit Works in Everyday Life 0:15:55 - The Spirit as Our Comforter, Corrector, and Intercessor What We Talk About Why the “try harder” approach to Christianity leaves us exhausted Donna’s beach camping story and the conviction of the Holy Spirit Understanding the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit The difference between God with us and God in us How the Holy Spirit helps us meet and know God Practical ways the Holy Spirit works in everyday life Conviction vs. condemnation The Holy Spirit as comforter, counselor, helper, and guide How the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in weakness Ministries of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit Helps Us Meet God Draws people toward Christ Causes spiritual rebirth The Holy Spirit Helps Us Know God Prompts prayer Brings Scripture to mind Leads and guides believers The Holy Spirit Gives Assurance Confirms our salvation Reminds us we belong to God The Holy Spirit Strengthens Believers Gives comfort and wisdom Helps us witness to others Convicts and redirects us when we stray The Holy Spirit Intercedes for Us Prays for us in our weakness Helps when we don’t know what to pray Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hey friend, if you’ve ever wondered if you’re doing enough as a mom or grandmother, this episode is for you. I’m sharing the truth about motherhood—the pressure, the insecurity, and the quiet, unseen work that actually matters most. Together, we’ll let go of perfection and refocus on what our kids truly need: love, presence, and consistency. I’ll walk you through what good moms really do (and don’t do), why the everyday moments matter more than you think, and how to care for yourself in the middle of it all. Whether Mother’s Day feels joyful or complicated, I hope this feels like a deep breath for your soul.   And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:00:46 - Motherhood Is Messy, Not Perfect  0:05:00 - What Good Moms Consistently Do 0:05:53 - Repetition Is Where Love Lives 0:10:00 - Moms Need Care and Boundaries Too  0:12:31 - Holding Space for Painful Mother’s Days What Good Moms Do Listen with both their ears and their heart Share their own heart and values Encourage and speak life into their kids Stay consistent with love and boundaries Discipline to guide, not punish Know when to speak—and when to stay quiet Cheer for their kids instead of competing or comparing Apologize when they mess up Create a safe place for their kids Pray for their children Keep showing up, even when it’s hard What Good Moms Don’t Do Ignore or dismiss their kids’ feelings Shame their kids for mistakes Manipulate or control outcomes Give only leftover time and energy Set impossible expectations—or none at all Live hypocritically Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever wondered if you’re truly following Jesus or just doing all the “right” things? In this conversation, I sit down with Natalia Drumm to talk about what discipleship really looks like in everyday life. Not performance. Not checking boxes. But actually walking with Jesus. We talk about why community alone isn’t enough, how to know if you’re growing spiritually, and what it means to surrender control to God, even when it’s hard. If you’ve been craving something deeper in your faith, this conversation will help you see what’s been missing… and how to take your next step. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: How Natalia started “Girlfriends in the Word” from a personal need Why many women feel disconnected even in church settings The difference between being a Christian and being a disciple Why reading Scripture matters more than relying on other resources The danger of “performative” faith in today’s culture What it really means to abide in Jesus How to identify who (or what) is discipling you The power of multi-generational relationships in spiritual growth Letting go of personal ambition to embrace God’s assignment What it looks like to “die to yourself” in everyday life What Discipleship Actually Looks Like Know Jesus through His Word You can’t follow someone you don’t know—Scripture reveals who He truly is. Abide, Don’t Perform Transformation comes from staying close to Jesus, not striving to impress Him. Be Discipled (Don’t Go Alone) You need people ahead of you who can guide and pour into your life. Disciple Others As you grow, turn around and help someone else follow Jesus too. Surrender Your Will Let Jesus be King—release control and trust His way over yours. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith.   Connect with Natalia: Website: nataliadrumm.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/girlfriendsintheword  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliadrumm/  Podcast: Girlfriends in the Word    Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I catch myself making life harder than it needs to be, and I don’t even realize I’m doing it. In this episode, I walk through some very real, everyday habits that quietly add stress, overwhelm, and heaviness to our lives. The good news? We can change them. I’ll show you simple, practical shifts, grounded in truth, that help you move from overthinking to trusting, from striving to peace. If you’re feeling tired, stuck, or stretched thin, this conversation will help you breathe a little easier and take your next step forward. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways 00:00:12 – Podcast Purpose: Encouragement for Everyday Faith 00:02:50 – Stop Overthinking and Start Trusting God 00:04:22 – Don’t Wait: Obedience Builds Confidence 00:06:40 – Comparison Is a Distraction from Your Calling 00:19:02 – Making Time for God Changes Everything What We Talk About The hidden habits that quietly make life harder Why overthinking feels productive but isn’t The difference between waiting and obeying How avoiding conversations creates mental clutter Why comparison is more harmful than we think The cost of people-pleasing and overcommitting Letting go of control and embracing trust The importance of basic rhythms like sleep and rest Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness How time with God changes everything Signature Teaching / Framework 11 Ways We Make Life Harder (and the Better Way Forward) Overthinking → Trust Waiting → Obeying Avoiding → Speaking Truth in Love Comparing → Staying Focused Saying Yes → Setting Boundaries Controlling → Releasing Ignoring Basics → Caring for Yourself Taking Things Personally → Extending Grace All-or-Nothing Thinking → Taking Imperfect Action Seeking Validation → Standing Secure Not Slowing Down / Not Asking for Help Not Spending Time with God → Living Connected Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.