The Grace Cycle Show

Karen Dittman
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CHRISTIANITY

Are you a Christian mom in midlife longing for deeper connection with God—but feeling burned out from trying harder? Welcome to The Grace Cycle Show, the faith-based podcast that helps women like you grow spiritually without striving. Hosted by Karen Dittman, co-author of Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective, this podcast offers biblical encouragement, honest conversations, and practical tools to help you live by the power of God’s grace—not guilt or performance. Each week, Karen shares real-life stories, inspiring interviews, and teachings on The Grace Cycle—a transformational framework to help you thrive emotionally, spiritually, and relationally in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. Whether you're seeking spiritual renewal, tired of perfectionism, or want to experience more peace and purpose in this season of life, Thriving in Grace is for you. Subscribe today and discover a fresh, grace-filled path to spiritual growth. Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

  1. Is It Okay to Doubt God? Constance Hastings on Faith, Fear, and The Trouble with Jesus

    2D AGO

    Is It Okay to Doubt God? Constance Hastings on Faith, Fear, and The Trouble with Jesus

    Get a copy of the chapter “Grace: God’s Power to Crush the Impossible” from Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective at karenadittman.com  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb  Connect with Constance Hastings at https://constancehastings.com/  Is it okay to doubt God?  What if faith doesn’t come easily—or neatly?  And what does following Jesus look like when life is full of fear, trouble, and unanswered questions?  In this episode of The Grace Cycle Show, Karen Dittman talks with Constance Hastings, author of The Trouble With Jesus: Considerations Before You Walk Away, about the honest intersection of faith, doubt, fear, and God’s grace.  Constance shares her personal journey from an unconventional upbringing into a life shaped by calling, compassion, and grace—and why doubt didn’t push her away from faith, but deeper into it.  Together, they explore:  Common misconceptions about faith and what belief actually requires Why doubt is not the opposite of faith, but often part of a living one How fear distorts our image of God—and how grace restores it What love and empathy really look like in the way Jesus lived And how churches can better support people who feel unsure, skeptical, or spiritually tired They also reflect on how Jesus Himself faced trouble, suffering, and misunderstanding, and what His responses teach us about courage, honesty, and trust.  This episode is for anyone asking:  “Am I a bad Christian for questioning?” “Why does faith feel harder than it’s supposed to?” “Where is God in suffering and uncertainty?” “Is there room for me if my faith doesn’t look like everyone else’s?” If you’ve ever felt like faith was more complicated than you were told—or wondered whether grace still applies when life is messy—this conversation offers a freeing reminder: grace doesn’t remove trouble, but it expands our lives with meaning, love, and unexpected adventure.  00:00 Introduction and Welcome  00:23 Constance Hastings' Faith Journey  05:43 The Trouble With Jesus: Book Insights  10:51 Understanding Love and Empathy  12:55 Faith, Doubt, and Fear  19:37 Creating a Safe Space for Doubt in Church  27:04 Final Thoughts and Takeaways  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    29 min
  2. Why Can’t I Sleep? Dr. Benjamin Long on Insomnia, Perimenopause, and God’s Gift of Rest

    JAN 29

    Why Can’t I Sleep? Dr. Benjamin Long on Insomnia, Perimenopause, and God’s Gift of Rest

    Get a copy of the chapter “Grace: God’s Power to Crush the Impossible” from Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective at karenadittman.com  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb  Get a copy of Sleep Habits Journal: Practices, Prayers, & Devotions to Ease Your Sleepless Nights by Dr. Benjamin Long at https://www.sleephabitsjournal.com/  Why can’t I sleep—even when I’m exhausted?  Is something wrong with my body, my mind… or my life?  And where is God in the middle of another sleepless night?  In this episode of The Grace Cycle Show, Karen Dittman talks with Dr. Benjamin Long, physician and theologian, about the deep connection between sleep, faith, stress, hormones, and spiritual well-being.  Dr. Long shares:  Why insomnia is often a signal, not just a problem How perimenopause and hormonal changes can seriously disrupt sleep for women What actually helps (and what usually doesn’t) when it comes to sleep hygiene And how Scripture frames sleep as a gift from God, not a failure of faith They also talk about:  The emotional and spiritual weight carried into the night Why unresolved stress, grief, and anxiety often show up as sleeplessness And how God’s grace meets us even when rest feels impossible Dr. Long also explains the heart behind his guided sleep journal and how it helps people gently uncover what’s really keeping them awake—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.  This episode is for anyone asking:  “Why am I awake at 3 a.m. again?” “Is perimenopause or stress destroying my sleep?” “How do I stop my mind from racing at night?” “Can I trust God with my exhaustion?” If you’re tired of being tired, this conversation offers both practical tools and deep reassurance: your sleepless nights are not wasted, and rest is something God wants to give you, not something you have to earn.  Dr. Benjamin Long is a sleep doctor by day & seminary student by night with an interest in the integration of theology and sleep. These interests have culminated into his debut book "Sleep Habits Journal: Practices, Prayers, & Devotions to Ease Your Sleepless Nights." He lives in San Antonio, Texas with his wife, son, and their dog-Rolo.  00:00 Introduction: Struggling with Sleepless Nights  00:24 Guest Introduction: Dr. Benjamin Long  00:43 Dr. Long's Journey to Publication  04:22 Insights on Perimenopause and Sleep  07:30 The Role of Caffeine and Alcohol in Sleep  11:55 Biblical Perspectives on Sleep  22:45 Practical Sleep Tips and The Sleep Journal  31:17 Conclusion: Embracing God's Gift of Sleep  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    34 min
  3. How Do You Break Free from Addiction and Shame? Rose Anne Forte on Faith, Recovery, and Real Change

    JAN 22

    How Do You Break Free from Addiction and Shame? Rose Anne Forte on Faith, Recovery, and Real Change

    Get a copy of the chapter “Grace: God’s Power to Crush the Impossible” from Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective at karenadittman.com  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb  Connect with Rose Anne Forte at https://choosefreedom.today  How do you break free from addiction when shame keeps pulling you back?  Can your mind really be changed—and can God’s grace reach you where you are?  And what does real, lasting recovery actually look like?  In this episode of The Grace Cycle Show, Karen Dittman talks with Rose Anne Forte, who shares her honest and hope-filled journey out of alcohol addiction and into freedom.  Rose Anne opens up about:  The hidden role of shame in keeping people stuck How she began to rebuild her life through faith, Scripture, and practical mindset change Why gratitude, new habits, and mental “reprogramming” are essential to lasting recovery And how faith and science-backed tools can work together instead of against each other This episode is for anyone who is asking:  “Why can’t I seem to stop this behavior?” “How do I change the way my mind works?” “Does God still want to help me after all my failures?” “Is real freedom actually possible?” Rose Anne also shares about her Choose Freedom Project and her devotional resources designed to help people break free from life-interfering behaviors, not just through willpower, but through grace-powered transformation.  If you’re struggling with addiction, destructive habits, or the quiet weight of shame—or if you love someone who is—this conversation offers hope that is honest, practical, and deeply rooted in God’s grace.  Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® Program—a faith-based, neuroscience-informed framework that helps individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors through the renewal of the mind. She is the author of The Plans He Has For Me and Prepare to Quit, and the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a 12-week devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to support lasting emotional, spiritual, and behavioral transformation. Her body of work equips individuals, churches, and counselors with compassionate, practical tools for change without stigma, shame, or performance-based faith.  00:00 Introduction and Welcome  00:50 Rose Anne's Journey: From Addiction to Renewal  01:46 The Struggle with Alcohol and Finding a New Path  04:26 Healing Outside the Church  05:38 The Power of Daily Practices and Devotionals  16:31 The Choose Freedom Project  20:14 Collaborating with Experts and Expanding the Mission  24:03 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    28 min
  4. What Do You Do When Your Life Changes Overnight? Finding Hope After Sudden Vision Loss | Laura Bratton

    JAN 15

    What Do You Do When Your Life Changes Overnight? Finding Hope After Sudden Vision Loss | Laura Bratton

    Get a copy of the chapter “Grace: God’s Power to Crush the Impossible” from Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective at karenadittman.com  Connect with Laura Bratton at laurabratton.com  What do you do when your life changes overnight?  How do you process grief, fear, and uncertainty after a devastating diagnosis?  And how do you find hope when the future you imagined disappears?  In this episode of The Grace Cycle Show, Karen Dittman talks with Laura Bratton, who lost her vision suddenly in high school and had to rebuild her life from the ground up.  At the age of nine, Laura was diagnosed with an eye disease and faced the difficult reality that she would become blind. Over the next ten years she experienced the traumatic transition of adjusting to life without sight. She is the author of the book, Harnessing Courage. Laura founded Ubi Global, which is an organization that provides speaking and coaching to empower all people to overcome challenges and obstacles with grit and gratitude.  Laura shares:  What it felt like to move from denial and grief into acceptance and purpose How her faith, family, and community carried her when she couldn’t carry herself Why gratitude and grit aren’t clichés—but survival tools And what actually helps when you or someone you love receives a life-altering diagnosis This conversation is for anyone who is asking:  “Why did this happen to me?” “How do I move forward when my old life is gone?” “Is it okay to grieve and still have faith?” “What does trusting God look like when everything feels broken?” Laura offers practical, compassionate guidance on:  Letting yourself feel what you feel without shame Learning how to receive support instead of withdrawing And discovering that God’s grace doesn’t wait for you to be okay—it meets you right where you are If you’re facing a difficult diagnosis, a sudden loss, or a major life transition—or walking alongside someone who is—this episode will remind you that your story is not over, and grace is not absent.  00:00 Introduction to Laura's Story  00:59 Laura's Early Diagnosis and Sudden Vision Loss  02:43 Coping with Denial and Grief  05:02 Finding Strength in Support Systems  07:33 Experiencing God's Presence  10:27 The Power of Gratitude  16:01 Advice for Those Facing Difficult Diagnoses  19:06 Laura's Work and Final Thoughts  24:19 Conclusion and Takeaways  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    26 min

  5. 12/18/2025

    From Striving to Shalom: A Season of Grace Comes Full Circle

    In this Season 2 finale of The Grace Cycle Show, host Karen Dittman reflects on the deeper meaning of shalom—God’s holistic peace that touches every part of life, including spiritual, emotional, physical, and relational well-being. Karen revisits how God’s grace sustains us during seasons of struggle and transition, drawing from personal stories and insights from her book, Thriving in Grace.  Using powerful imagery from nature’s ability to regenerate after devastation, Karen reminds listeners that renewal is possible—even after loss. She also introduces the spiritual practice of bara, the intentional act of letting go of what no longer serves us in order to make space for God’s restoring work.  The episode closes with a look ahead to Season 3, where Karen will focus on practical, grace-filled tools for wellness across every area of life. This short but meaningful wrap-up invites listeners to pause, reflect, and step forward with hope, peace, and expectancy.  Perfect for listeners who want to slow down, reset, and prepare their hearts for what’s next—without striving, just grace.  00:00 Welcome to the Grace Cycle Show  00:55 Exploring the Concept of Shalom  02:01 God's Grace in Difficult Seasons  03:32 Beauty from Ashes: Lessons from Nature  04:49 Embracing Wholeness and Restoration  05:36 The Christmas Season and Jesus' Sacrifice  06:55 Encouragement and Stories of Grace  07:56 Looking Ahead to Season Three  08:59 Final Thoughts and Farewell  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    10 min
  6. God’s Grace in the Darkest Moments of a Mother’s Battle: Nancy Mitchell’s Story of Hope

    12/11/2025

    God’s Grace in the Darkest Moments of a Mother’s Battle: Nancy Mitchell’s Story of Hope

    Take the Quiz "How Fast is Your Hamster Wheel Spinning?" at hamster.1fit-wellness.com  Connect with Nancy Mitchell on Instagram @lifeof_puresilliness  In this powerful episode of The Grace Cycle Show, host Karen Dittman sits down with her sister, Nancy Mitchell, a middle school teacher from Oklahoma, to share a deeply personal story of God’s sustaining grace in the midst of family crisis.  Nancy opens up about walking through her child’s severe depression and multiple suicide attempts—an experience marked by fear, heartbreak, and countless unknowns. Through it all, she describes how God met her in the darkest moments, guiding each step with His presence, peace, and provision.  Karen and Nancy talk honestly about what it looks like to cling to faith when circumstances feel overwhelming, the role of prayer, and the quiet but powerful ways God strengthens parents carrying heavy burdens. Nancy’s story is a testament to God’s nearness—and a reminder that His grace is always enough, even in the most desperate seasons.  Perfect for:  Parents supporting kids through mental health struggles Anyone seeking hope in crisis Listeners looking for real stories of God’s faithfulness Christian women navigating family challenges 00:00 Welcome to the Grace Cycle Show  00:53 Special Interview with Nancy Mitchell  02:07 Nancy's Story: God's Grace in Difficult Times  03:42 A Mother's Struggle and Faith  13:46 Encouragement for Other Parents  21:09 Supporting Dysregulated Kids  22:03 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement for Kids  24:15 Balancing Life and Writing a Book  25:04 Finding Faith in Difficult Times  28:09 The Prodigal Son and God's Unconditional Love  32:29 A Conversation with a Former Believer  36:35 The Power of Faith and Overcoming Doubt  39:53 Final Thoughts and Takeaways  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    43 min
  7. Trusting God's Process: An Inspiring Journey with Jenn Dafoe Turner

    12/04/2025

    Trusting God's Process: An Inspiring Journey with Jenn Dafoe Turner

    Take the Quiz "How Fast is Your Hamster Wheel Spinning?" at hamster.1fit-wellness.com  Connect with Jenn and find her book Fear, Faith and Freedom at www.abundance-books.com  In this episode of The Grace Cycle Show, host Karen Dittman sits down with Pastor Jenn Dafoe Turner—life coach, speaker, and Aquisitions Editor at Abundance Books—to explore how God meets us in seasons of loss, transition, and unexpected change.  Jenn shares her deeply personal story of being asked to resign from her pastoral role, the grief that followed, and the surprising freedom and renewed calling she discovered through God’s grace. Karen and Jenn unpack what it looks like to trust God’s process when life feels shaken, how to walk through disappointment without losing hope, and why surrender often becomes the doorway to healing and purpose.  Jenn also introduces her book Fear, Faith, and Freedom, offering practical insight for anyone navigating fear or feeling stuck. Karen closes the episode by inviting listeners to take the Hamster Wheel Quiz—a simple tool to help identify what’s keeping you overwhelmed and how to slow down into a more grace-filled life.  Perfect for:  Anyone navigating transition, burnout, or disappointment Women in ministry or leadership roles Listeners seeking spiritual clarity and renewed purpose Those learning to trust God through unexpected life changes 00:00 Welcome to the Grace Cycle Show  00:52 Interview with Pastor Jenn Dafoe Turner  02:10 Jenn's Story of Overcoming Challenges  05:00 The Healing Process and Finding New Purpose  18:26 Embracing a New Pastoral Role  24:50 Jenn's Book: Fear, Faith, and Freedom  29:08 Final Thoughts and Encouragement  Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    31 min
  8. Finding God’s Goodness in Hard Seasons: Wendy Bower’s Story

    11/27/2025

    Finding God’s Goodness in Hard Seasons: Wendy Bower’s Story

    Get your copy of The Fruit of Gratitude journal at fruitofgratitude.com  Take the Quiz "How Fast is Your Hamster Wheel Spinning?" at hamster.1fit-wellness.com   Wendy’s links: Authorwendybower.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendy.bower.5  Instagram: @Wendy_Bower_AZ  In this special Thanksgiving episode of The Grace Cycle Show, host Karen Dittman welcomes author Wendy Bower for a powerful conversation about gratitude, faith, and God’s sustaining grace through life’s hardest seasons.  Wendy shares her transformational journey through breast cancer and the impossible challenges that shaped her deeper trust in God. She opens up about how gratitude became a lifeline—helping her experience God’s love, strength, and presence in profound new ways.  Karen and Wendy discuss the importance of authentic community, everyday celebrations, and nurturing joy through a deeper relationship with God. They highlight practical tools for spiritual growth, including Wendy’s book Gratitude Attack and Karen’s gratitude journal, The Fruit of Gratitude, both designed to help listeners cultivate a daily practice of thankfulness.  The conversation also offers a behind-the-scenes look at Wendy’s creative process, the personal trials she has faced, and how choosing gratitude has shaped her everyday life. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of how God uses gratitude to transform fear into peace and hardship into hope.    Perfect for listeners who are:  Walking through illness, fear, or overwhelming challenges Seeking to grow in gratitude and spiritual resilience Looking for encouragement rooted in faith and God’s grace Interested in Christian stories of healing and hope Wanting practical tools for a daily gratitude practice Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

    35 min
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5
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About

Are you a Christian mom in midlife longing for deeper connection with God—but feeling burned out from trying harder? Welcome to The Grace Cycle Show, the faith-based podcast that helps women like you grow spiritually without striving. Hosted by Karen Dittman, co-author of Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective, this podcast offers biblical encouragement, honest conversations, and practical tools to help you live by the power of God’s grace—not guilt or performance. Each week, Karen shares real-life stories, inspiring interviews, and teachings on The Grace Cycle—a transformational framework to help you thrive emotionally, spiritually, and relationally in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. Whether you're seeking spiritual renewal, tired of perfectionism, or want to experience more peace and purpose in this season of life, Thriving in Grace is for you. Subscribe today and discover a fresh, grace-filled path to spiritual growth. Want to be a guest on The Grace Cycle Show? Send Karen Dittman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1733503318442796293a1fecb

Information

  • Creator
    Karen Dittman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Karen A. Dittman
  • Show Website
    The Grace Cycle Show