Big Talk At The Table

Joni Leigh

Big Talk at the Table is a personal growth podcast for women ready to unclog what is holding them back and step into the life they were meant to live.  Hosted by Joni Leigh, a woman of faith who believes real transformation happens at the table, this show blends honest storytelling, real conversations, laughter, and practical encouragement to help listeners move through self doubt, emotional clutter, major life transitions, and the deep work of finding your purpose. Each episode meets you right where you are whether you're navigating life transitions, rebuilding after loss, learning to trust yourself again, or asking the question every woman deserves to sit with:   What do I want? Joni creates a space where it's safe to be honest, messy, and hopeful all at once. As a certified Infinite Possibilities Trainer, Joni also brings proven mindset tools, guided reflection, and powerful conversations with guests who are living their dream life and walking boldly in their soul purpose. This isn't just a podcast it's an invitation to come back to yourself. If you're looking for a women empowerment podcast that feels like a trusted friend over coffee, pull up a chair. The table is set and waiting for you.

Episodes

  1. 18h ago

    Living in the Hallway: When Doors Close and Others Haven't Opened Yet

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Bonita Jacque, Holistic Life Coach & Infinite Possibilities Trainer Episode Summary: What do you do when one door closes and another one hasn't opened. Joni Leigh and Bonita explore the metaphor of "living in the hallway" that uncomfortable, uncertain space between what was and what's next. The hallway was never meant to be decorated, sat in, or turned into home. It's a passageway. In this episode, they discuss why we get stuck there, how to recognize the signs pointing us forward, and why taking the first step even a small one is everything. Key Moments: [0:05] The Hobby Lobby hallway metaphor — why there are no decorations for the hallway[1:48] Welcome to Big Talk at the Table & introducing Bonita[2:50] "The hallway is not a destination"[4:40] Dabbling, experimenting, and trying things to find what lights you up[5:30] The "stuck on the runway" analogy — sometimes you have to go back to the gate[6:50] Bonita's story: how "na na na, hey hey hey, goodbye" became a sign to leave her job[8:14] How do we stop treating a pause like a failure?[10:00] Recognizing God nudges and learning intuitive awareness[13:36] The beekeeping class that became The Hive — how one "failure" transformed into purpose[15:07] Trusting yourself again after disappointment[17:04] Journaling as a tool for asking "Who am I now?"[18:35] Joni on faith and inner security during uncertain seasons[20:30] "You just have to take the first step, the first action"[21:00] Bonita's workshop story: what happens when only one person shows up[26:53] Don't steal other people's joy — celebrate what lights them up[29:07] Book recommendations segment[32:08] "One Thing I Know For Sure" — Joni's closing reflection[33:43] "It's never too late to trust yourself again. It's never too late to begin again."Books Mentioned in This Episode: Infinite Possibilities by Mike DooleyHigher Purpose by Robert HoldenYour Soul's Plan by Robert SchwartzI Am the Word by Paul SeligOne Thing I Know For Sure: "You don't have to know where every door leads. You don't have to have your next five years figured out. You just have to keep walking because nobody lives in the hallway. It's a passageway." — Joni Leigh Connect with Joni Leigh:  📘 Facebook:  facebook.com/joni.l.thompson 📸 Instagram:   @jonileigh111 🎵 TikTok:          @jonileigh11 ▶️ YouTube:     Big Talk at the Table on YouTube 🌐 Website:      jonileigh.com Connect with Bonita: 📘 Facebook:  soulthingsbybonitajacque 🌐 Website:  bonitajacque.com Be Honest Segment — Quick Takes: Joni: Higher Purpose by Robert Holden (she owns it in three formats: Kindle, Audible, and hard copy)Bonita: I Am the Word by Paul Selig (had to move it off her nightstand — the energy kept her awake)If my content has encouraged you, made you smile, challenged you to think differently, or helped you feel a little less alone, you can support my work here : https://buymeacoffee.com/jonileigh Support the show

  2. Jul 7

    She Had Cancer at 10 Weeks Pregnant — Her Baby Saved Her Life/Anna’s Story

    Send us Fan Mail Navigating difficult seasons can feel impossible, but these moments often build the personal growth required to find your purpose. This conversation explores why we naturally avoid fear and uncertainty, and how shifting your perspective on pain can lead to self-discovery. If you have ever felt stuck in the middle of a hard chapter, this discussion offers a new way to view your current circumstances and see the value they bring to your life. We break down how embracing uncertainty is not just about survival, but about becoming the person you were always meant to be. By reframing how you approach life challenges, you can begin to see how your struggles are actually shaping you for the future. We discuss practical ways to move through these periods without losing sight of your goals. Subscribe for weekly personal growth breakdowns, and comment below with which difficult season you are currently navigating. If you've been putting off that appointment, that conversation, or listening to what your body has been telling you,  let this be your reminder and share with a woman who needs to hear this today. 🔗 Learn more about Anna's fundraiser Teal For Two supporting ovarian cancer research during pregnancy in Tennessee If my content has encouraged you, made you smile, challenged you to think differently, or helped you feel a little less alone, you can support my work here. Every contribution helps me continue creating the podcast, sharing stories from the road, producing free resources, and building a community where people can find hope, encouragement, and practical tools for moving forward. Thank you for being here. Thank you for believing in this mission. And thank you for helping me keep a seat open at the table for someone who needs it.  www.buymeacoffee.com/jonileigh Connect with Joni Leigh Website: https://jonileigh.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoniLeighOfficial Connect with Anna: Instagram Handle(s): justcallmeannaaa If this episode speaks to you, subscribe to Big Talk at the Table, leave a comment, and share it with another woman who may need encouragement on her healing, self improvement, or personal growth journey. There is always a seat waiting for you at this table. Support the show

  3. Jun 23

    Pull Up A Chair: Following The Clues Back To Yourself

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever looked back at your life and realized the pieces were connected all along?  In this solo episode of Big Talk at the Table, Joni Leigh invites you to pull up a chair and slow down for a conversation about unclogging — the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual clutter that keeps us stuck in survival mode. Sharing her personal journey from nonprofit burnout to RV life in Rockwood, Tennessee, Joni explores how God was leaving "clues" all along — not to reinvent her, but to lead her back to herself. If you've ever felt lost between the responsibilities, the busyness, and taking care of everyone else, this episode is your permission to pause, listen, and start asking the hard questions. Key Moments [0:00] — Cold open: Joni's love of a good mystery (Dateline, 48 Hours, 2020) and how life's clues work the same way[1:55] — Welcome to Big Talk at the Table — today's topic: unclogging and following the clues back to yourself[3:38] — The realization: "God wasn't hiding the answer from me. He was leaving me clues."[4:24] — How busyness became a distraction from hearing her own heart[6:28] — The power of "What if?" — six reframing questions that changed everything[7:32] — What survival mode really looks like (hint: it often looks successful)[8:30] — "Being busy all the time is not the same as being fulfilled." — The two truths Joni had to learn the hard way[9:24] — The RV journey: downsizing, the empty storage unit photo, and what it really meant[11:16] — Rockwood, Tennessee: when the quiet became deafening — and transformational[13:13] — Joy, creativity, wonder, peace: the parts of herself she thought were gone forever[14:40] — Three Questions to Unclog Your Life:What am I carrying? (emotionally, mentally, spiritually — not just physically)What am I avoiding? (busyness as a shield from grief, disappointment, loneliness)What am I no longer listening to? (your body, your dream, God's whisper)[17:50] — Voice journaling tip for ADHD brains: "My thoughts get above my hand"[19:12] — Why the podcast exists: a place to slow down, hear yourself again, and catch God nudges[20:25] — Celebrating tiny wins like we celebrate babies' milestones — and why the Hive community was built for this[21:47] — "The answer you've been searching for isn't lost. It's been buried inside you."[22:16] — Invitation: Join the 31-Day Unclog Your Life ChallengeThree Questions to Journal This Week What am I carrying? — Beyond the physical: guilt, resentment, fear, other people's expectations, the pressure to keep everyone happy.What am I avoiding? — What does your busyness keep you from feeling or facing?What am I no longer listening to? — Your body? A dream you've convinced yourself is too late? God's gentle whisper?Tip: Try voice journaling if writing feels too slow — just open your voice memos and talk it out. Resources & Links  Join the 31-Day Unclog Your Life Challenge  — www.jonileigh.com Join the Hive Community  —  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehivecommunitybigtalkatthetable Follow Big Talk at the Table  on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoniLeighOfficial Subscribe  wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episodeConnect with Joni Subscribe on YouTube: Share this episode with a woman who needs to hear it todayEpisode Closing "You are loved. You are valued. You are worthy. Keep making your magic. Keep remembering your worth. And what if? Start asking yourself that question. What if? And no, there's always a seat waiting at the table right here for you. Until next time, remember — you got this."  If my content has encouraged you, made you smile, challenged you to think differently, or helped you feel a little less alone, you can support my work here. Every contribution helps me continue creating the podcast, sharing stories from the road, producing free resources, and building a community where people can find hope, encouragement, and practical tools for moving forward. Thank you for being here. Thank you for believing in this mission. And thank you for helping me keep a seat open at the table for someone who needs it.  www.buymeacoffee.com/jonileigh Support the show

  4. Jun 9

    Living on the Go: Break Free and Embrace Your True Self

    Send us Fan Mail This episode is a fiery call to action for anyone stuck waiting for the "perfect" moment to chase their dreams. Joanie shares her candid journey from teaching PE to living full-time in an RV, and the bold steps that made her realize life is far too precious to postpone. Get ready to feel inspired and empowered to finally take that leap!  In this episode: How Joanie and her husband sold everything to embrace a life of travel and freedomThe power of community while living on the road—meeting strangers who become friendsOvercoming fears of leaving behind material possessions and the safety of routineThe importance of trusting your gut and acting on your dreamsTips for women hesitant to step out of their comfort zonesThe magic in connecting authentically with others and building your own villageThe mindset shift from postponing to living in the present momentPractical advice on downsizing, packing, and selling your home for goodA reminder: It’s never too late to start living YOUR best lifeTimestamps: (00:00) - The truth about waiting for someday(02:15) - How a chance encounter sparked a new life direction(04:00) - The beauty of community on the road(07:12) - From teaching PE to living freely in an RV(09:09) - How watching her parents inspire full-time RV living(12:34) - Encouragement for women to chase dreams today, not tomorrow(14:49) - Silencing the "perfect timing" voice — just do it(18:15) - The unexpected blessings of opening up and sharing stories(22:55) - Building community and overcoming fears of vulnerability(32:31) - The liberating power of decluttering and letting go(34:47) - One bold piece of advice: Just go for it!Your story matters.  Your dreams matter.  Don’t wait for someday—start living today.  The table is waiting for YOU.  Share this with someone ready to take that leap, and keep showing up for the life you deserve!   Resources & Links  Visit Joni Leigh online: https://jonileigh.com Big Talk at the Table Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@JoniLeighOfficial If you’ve enjoyed this episode and want to say thanks, you can use the link here   to buy me a coffee or consider leaving a review.   buymeacoffee.com/Jonileigh Instagram Handle(s):@On_the_go_with_joanie_and_joe Other Social Links: FB @onthegowithjoanieandjoe TIKTOK @onthegojoaniejoe     Support the show

  5. May 26

    Why Emotional Healing Doesn't Require You to Fall Apart

    Send us Fan Mail  Most of us carry skeletons in our closets—secrets, fears, doubts—and we keep them hidden, tucked away, pretending they don’t exist. But what if that skeleton wasn’t something to hide, but something to invite to dinner? Bonita Jacque shares her transformative journey from the pharmacy world to soulful healing, revealing how confronting those skeletons can set you free. This isn’t just a story about change; it’s a call to action. Bonita’s powerful insight that “if a skeleton falls out of your closet, do you push it back in or invite it to dinner?” invites you to see your fears differently. She explains how she realized her skeletons had everything to teach her if only she was brave enough to face them. From discovering limiting beliefs like “I’m not good enough,” to using simple techniques like EFT tapping to release emotional charge, this episode is packed with practical tools to help you reclaim your life. You’ll discover: How to recognize and release hidden skeletons that hold you back The secret behind living joyously regardless of age or circumstance Why purpose often finds you, not the other way around The importance of showing up for yourself and creating space for growth Simple, effective ways to start emotional healing today This is essential listening if you feel stuck, lost, or ready for a new chapter. Bonita’s story proves that healing takes time—and that transformation begins the moment you decide to invite your skeletons to the table. If you’re ready to embrace change, step into your true purpose, and show up as your authentic self, this episode is your wake-up call. Bonita Jacque is a healer, spiritual coach, and transformational guide, known for her heartfelt approach and real-talk. Her journey from traditional pharmacy to soulful work is a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to become the person you’re meant to be. Are you ready to do your big talk? Hit play—your next chapter starts here. www.jonileigh.com www.bonitajacque.com  #healing #podcast #personalgrowth #selfempowerment #selfimprovement #personaldevelopment #womenempowerment #womensupportingwomen  Support the show

    Why Emotional Healing Doesn't Require You to Fall Apart
  6. May 11

    Pull Up A Chair: My Story Starts Here

    Send us Fan Mail Pull Up a Chair: My Story Starts HereWhat happens when you finally slow down long enough to hear yourself again? In this first episode of Big Talk at the Table, Joni Leigh shares her personal journey of healing, self-discovery, and personal growth after years of constantly staying busy. From founding a nonprofit to embracing RV life and major life transitions, Joni opens up about identity, emotional healing, mental health, and learning how to reconnect with herself in a more authentic way. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about self-improvement, women’s empowerment, and the power of authentic conversations that help us feel seen, understood, and less alone. If you’ve been navigating burnout, searching for purpose, or craving deeper connection, this space was created for you. Big Talk at the Table is a personal growth podcast focused on healing, storytelling, vulnerability, emotional wellness, and meaningful conversations for women who are rediscovering themselves. In This Episode, We Talk About:  Healing and self-discovery after burnout  The connection between busyness and emotional avoidance  Identity shifts during major life transitions  Leaving a long-term nonprofit role  RV life and intentional living  Mental health, emotional wellness, and personal transformation  Why authentic conversations create healing and connection  Building a safe space for women’s stories and self-empowerment Favorite Sound Bites “I was so busy I didn’t have time to feel.”  “Busy can fool you into thinking you’re okay.”  “Healing is a layered, ongoing process.” Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Big Talk at the Table 02:58 — The Journey of Self-Discovery 05:45 — The Importance of Authentic Conversations 09:02 — Life Transitions and Identity 11:59 — Healing and Growth 14:42 — The Purpose of the Podcast 18:03 — Creating a Safe Space for Women 20:39 — Conclusion and Invitation to Join Resources & Links  Visit Joni Leigh online: https://jonileigh.com Big Talk at the Table Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@JoniLeighOfficial  Angels of Action Nonprofit: https://angelsofaction.org If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another woman who may need encouragement on her healing and personal growth journey. Support the show

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Big Talk at the Table is a personal growth podcast for women ready to unclog what is holding them back and step into the life they were meant to live.  Hosted by Joni Leigh, a woman of faith who believes real transformation happens at the table, this show blends honest storytelling, real conversations, laughter, and practical encouragement to help listeners move through self doubt, emotional clutter, major life transitions, and the deep work of finding your purpose. Each episode meets you right where you are whether you're navigating life transitions, rebuilding after loss, learning to trust yourself again, or asking the question every woman deserves to sit with:   What do I want? Joni creates a space where it's safe to be honest, messy, and hopeful all at once. As a certified Infinite Possibilities Trainer, Joni also brings proven mindset tools, guided reflection, and powerful conversations with guests who are living their dream life and walking boldly in their soul purpose. This isn't just a podcast it's an invitation to come back to yourself. If you're looking for a women empowerment podcast that feels like a trusted friend over coffee, pull up a chair. The table is set and waiting for you.