Giving Your Best Life

Stephanie L. Jones, Giving Gal
  • 5.0 (11)
  • CHRISTIANITY

Welcome to the Giving Your Best Life Podcast with host Stephanie L. Jones aka Giving Gal — where faith meets purpose in your everyday life. Born from honest conversations with college women and rooted in the 4G Method (Good Morning, Giving, Gratitude, and Go on Mission (or One Good Goal)), this podcast is your weekly dose of encouragement to stop striving for the world’s definition of success and carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders and start pursuing a life anchored in Jesus. Through stories, Biblical truth, and practical steps, you’ll be inspired to grow in faith, find rest, and boldly live out your calling—one day at a time. 

  1. 03/11/2025

    Episode 124: Living the "Only God" Mindset

    Have you ever experienced one of those moments where something incredible happens and all you can say is "Only God could have done this"? These divine interventions—both dramatic and subtle—reveal a profound truth about living beyond our limitations. Stephanie unpacks her phrase of the year, "Only God," exploring how this perspective transforms everything from career setbacks to everyday encounters. Drawing from Paul's words in Corinthians about coming "in weakness and in fear and with much trembling," she reveals how acknowledging our limitations actually opens doors to our greatest impact. Through personal stories—from publishing nine books despite dyslexia to seeing a cardinal at exactly the right moment—Stephanie demonstrates how reframing our achievements as God's work through us creates a life of wonder and gratitude. This approach proves especially powerful during challenging times, as when her job loss last April led to unexpected opportunities in speaking, mentoring, and publishing. The episode offers a refreshing counterpoint to our culture's self-reliance messaging. When we recognize that our most meaningful work happens beyond our natural capabilities, we develop the courage to attempt God-sized tasks. Those spontaneous nudges to check on a friend, that book that speaks directly to your current struggle, those "coincidences" that feel too perfect—all become recognized as divine appointments when viewed through this lens. Ready to shift your perspective and discover what might be possible if you embraced the "Only God" mindset? This episode might be exactly the message you need right now—and that's no coincidence. To register for the Giving Your Best Life "Rest and Renewal" Retreat before March 28th, visit givingyourbestlife.com/retreat. Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    23 min

  2. 02/28/2025

    Episode 123: What Happens When You Trust God?

    This episode emphasizes the journey of faith amid fear and obedience challenges. The conversation highlights personal anecdotes, biblical insights, and a fresh call to action for listeners seeking renewal and connection to God. • Reflecting on the need to apologize less and embrace confidence  • Understanding the lessons from Hebrews 11 on faith and obedience  • Exploring the importance of intentional prayer in decision-making  • Discussing the challenges of planning a retreat and overcoming overwhelm  • Encouraging listeners to take actionable steps toward their God-given call  Don’t miss out on the upcoming Giving Your Best Life retreat. Register by March 29, 2025, for an opportunity to rejuvenate and explore your faith.  Register here: www.givingyourbestlife.com/retreat P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review to keep the conversation going! Bible Verse: Hebrews 11 Giving Challenge: Reach out and encourage a friend Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    19 min

  3. 10/26/2024

    Episode 122: Prioritizing Health, Honoring Commitments, and Finding Gratitude in Spilled Coffee

    Skipping an event might seem trivial, but prioritizing well-being is a powerful act and often a mindset shift. In this episode of "Giving Your Best Life," I share my journey in recognizing when to hit pause for the sake of longer-term goals. Discover how understanding our reasons for saying "yes" can guide us toward intentional decisions that prevent burnout. I also recount leading an event plagued by last-minute cancellations, shedding light on how honoring commitments is crucial for personal integrity and the smooth planning of any gathering. Buy The Gratitude Challenge (here) Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    13 min

  4. 10/23/2024

    Episode 121: Unexpected Lessons in Giving: Cultivating a Spirit of Service and Joy

    Have you ever considered that sometimes our greatest lessons come from unexpected places? Join me, Stephanie, as I recount a surprising Sunday at church that reshaped my understanding of serving and giving.  Through my story, I invite you to explore the notion that service doesn't always mean being in the spotlight but contributing joyfully, even when plans shift unexpectedly. This revelation extends beyond the church walls, reminding us that having a servant's heart can significantly enhance our lives and those around us.  Whether you're a regular churchgoer or seeking a faith community, I hope this episode inspires you to find simple yet meaningful ways to serve, tailored to fit your lifestyle, just as my role as a substitute volunteer does for me.  Let's embrace the chance to uplift our communities and enrich life's journey with a focus on giving. Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    7 min

  5. 09/26/2024

    Episode 120: Living Boldly: The Cost of Following Jesus (and Going Against Those That Love You)

    Have you ever had to make a life-changing decision that went against the advice of your loved ones? Join me, Stephanie, as I share my journey of leaving a career in law enforcement and choosing not to return to corporate America after a layoff, all in pursuit of following Jesus. Reflecting on Luke 15:25-27, we'll explore the emotional and relational costs of true discipleship and discuss why prioritizing our commitment to Christ over the approval of our family and friends is crucial, even when it leads to discomfort and tension. In the second half of the episode, we’ll dive into 2 Timothy 1:7 and uncover the empowering truth that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline, not fear. I'll share how this scripture has encouraged me to overcome my own fears and step out in faith. We’ll talk about identifying and confronting the fears and challenges that hold us back, whether they lead to anxiety, depression, or physical health issues. Through personal insights and supportive coaching, I aim to inspire you to embrace the strength God provides and live your best life. Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    11 min

  6. 07/23/2024

    Episode 119: How to Support Friends and Life Lessons from Montana: Embracing Adventure and Learning Limits

    Have you ever wondered how to support a friend when distance separates you? In episode 119 of "Giving Your Best Life," I share the heartfelt journey of staying connected and providing meaningful support to loved ones who are far away. Then switching gears, get ready to be inspired by an unforgettable trip to Montana, where personal growth met breathtaking landscapes. Accompanied by my husband and niece, I embarked on rigorous hikes in Glacier National Park, learned to fish, and embraced the beauty of nature. Stepping out of our comfort zones brought accountability, new skills, and deeper connections. This chapter is a testament to the joy of encouraging others and taking time to absorb the serene surroundings, even if it means wading through freezing glacier water for a perfect moment of tranquility. Finally, let's talk about the importance of recognizing personal limits and the lessons that come from facing them head-on. During a challenging hike, I experienced heat exhaustion, leading to a profound realization about prioritizing safety over perseverance. Through this ordeal, I learned there’s no need to prove anything to anyone. Plus, hear a touching story about my husband's sudden illness before a significant event and the power of prayer and community support that helped us through. This episode is a powerful reminder how we can support friends and they can support us, embracing new adventures, taking risks, and understanding when to let go. Note: NLT Reflections Bible (Hardcover Cloth, Ocean Blue): The Bible for Journaling Hardcover Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    29 min

  7. 07/11/2024

    Episode 118: Living Out Your Faith in Business and Life

    Can you truly define success in a way that aligns with both your faith and business aspirations? Join us on the Giving Your Best Life Podcast as Stephanie and Zach Lloyd, Sustainable Anti-Diet Coach, share their personal journey of navigating these two worlds. Discover how they've struggled yet persevered in finding validation beyond worldly measures like income and social media engagement, all while trying to stay true to their Christian values. Zach has taken the bold step to completely ignore social media metrics, whereas Stephanie continues to see them as a way to serve others. Together, they discuss the ongoing challenge of determining what is truly "enough" in life. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will inspire you to align your personal and professional goals with your faith. Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    22 min

  8. 07/09/2024

    Episode 117: Transforming Mental Health Through Movement: Practical Strategies and Inspiring Stories

    Imagine the transformative power of movement on mental health. Join us on this enlightening episode of Giving Your Best Life Podcast, where Stephanie and Zach Lloyd delve into the profound connection between physical activity and mental wellness. Hear Stephanie’s touching story about a friend's triumph over depression and anxiety through consistent exercise. Supported by Zach’s detailed scientific insights, discover how even a 10-minute burst of vigorous activity can significantly improve your mood. From aerobics to resistance training and mind-body exercises, learn about the various forms of movement that act as natural antidepressants. But that’s not all—we’re also bringing you practical, everyday strategies to incorporate these beneficial habits into your life seamlessly. They share a personal to-do list system that includes prayer, gratitude, and simple exercises like 10 push-ups to keep procrastination at bay. Stephanie highlights the importance of small, manageable actions, including her own routine of using a trampoline to elevate her mood. Together, they provide a roadmap for integrating movement and mental health practices into your daily routine, empowering you to give your best life every day. Don't miss this episode filled with actionable advice and inspiring stories! Connect with Stephanie: Get a free resource The 4G Method Journal here. Shop Stephanie's books here. Follow me on IG: @Giving_Gal or FB/GivingGal

    9 min
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5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Giving Your Best Life Podcast with host Stephanie L. Jones aka Giving Gal — where faith meets purpose in your everyday life. Born from honest conversations with college women and rooted in the 4G Method (Good Morning, Giving, Gratitude, and Go on Mission (or One Good Goal)), this podcast is your weekly dose of encouragement to stop striving for the world’s definition of success and carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders and start pursuing a life anchored in Jesus. Through stories, Biblical truth, and practical steps, you’ll be inspired to grow in faith, find rest, and boldly live out your calling—one day at a time. 

Information

  • Creator
    Stephanie L. Jones, Giving Gal
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    124
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Giving Gal, LLC
  • Show Website
    Giving Your Best Life