H.E.R. Podcast with Kristin

Kristin Sampson

Hope. Encouragement. Reflection. The H.E.R. Podcast is a faith-based space for Christian women seeking biblical wisdom, encouragement, and practical insights. Hosted by Kristin Sampson, each episode explores faith, family, marriage, personal growth, and balance. Through authentic conversations and guest interviews, this podcast uplifts and equips women to embrace their God-given purpose. Whether you’re a wife, mother, or seeking renewal, join us as we reflect, grow, and find hope. Subscribe today!

  1. Apr 19

    When You're Exhausted, God Still Sees You | Exodus 3

    Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, mentally drained, or spiritually worn out? In this episode of The H.E.R. Podcast, Kristin Sampson begins the Focus Series by walking through Exodus 3 and the story of Moses and the burning bush. So many Christian women are carrying more than they were ever meant to carry. We try to hold everything together, think through every possible outcome, protect the people we love, and still somehow keep our peace. It’s exhausting. In this episode, Kristin reminds us that real faith is not about having the whole plan before we trust God. It’s about trusting His presence even when we do not have all the answers. Through Moses’ encounter with God in Exodus 3, this message offers biblical encouragement for the woman who feels tired, anxious, overwhelmed, and in need of peace. If you’ve been struggling with overthinking, fear, uncertainty, or the pressure to control everything, this episode will encourage you to refocus on the God who sees, hears, knows, and leads. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why exhaustion often comes from trying to carry too much • What Moses and the burning bush teaches us about trust • Why God’s presence matters more than having a blueprint • How to stop spiraling and start focusing on God • 3 practical ways to refocus this week If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and subscribe to The H.E.R. Podcast so you don’t miss the rest of the Focus Series. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to The H.E.R. Podcast 00:23 Why so many women feel exhausted 01:25 Wanting clarity, certainty, and control 02:09 Moses and the burning bush 03:32 Turning aside to notice God 04:46 God sees, hears, and knows 05:14 Moses’ fear and insecurity 06:37 “I will be with you” 07:45 Trusting God’s presence over control 10:57 3 practical ways to refocus 13:04 Let go and trust God 14:17 What’s next in the Focus Series Keywords Christian women podcast, Christian encouragement for women, Exodus 3 devotional, Moses and the burning bush, God still sees you, overwhelmed Christian woman, exhausted and spiritually drained, trust God in hard times, women’s Bible study, Christian devotional podcast, Kristin Sampson, The H.E.R. Podcast, faith over fear, anxiety and faith, God’s presence Hashtags #HERPodcast #KristinSampson #Exodus3 #ChristianWomen #WomensDevotional #BibleStudy #TrustGod #FaithOverFear #ChristianEncouragement #BurningBush

    15 min
  2. 04/05/2025

    Real Talk with Matt & Leah Heupel: Marriage, Ministry & 20 Years at Woodlawn

    In this powerful episode of the HER Podcast, host Kristin Sampson sits down with Matt and Leah Heupel to explore their journey in marriage and ministry. From their first date at KFC to raising faithful children and serving the Woodlawn Church of Christ, this conversation offers honest insight, real-life struggles, and the blessings that come with commitment to each other and the Lord. Leah opens up about never wanting to marry a minister, stepping out of her comfort zone to teach women’s classes, and the challenges of parenting while working full-time. Matt shares his calling into ministry, how he balances family and leadership, and why authenticity matters more than appearances. ✅ Whether you're in ministry, marriage, or just need encouragement—this episode will inspire you to stay faithful, stay real, and stay together. 🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations with ministers and their families. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Intro to the HER Podcast 00:43 – Meet Matt & Leah Heupel 01:13 – How They Met & Their KFC Connection 02:35 – The Rook Game Sundays & First Kiss Story 03:53 – Matt’s Ministry at Woodlawn (20 Years!) 05:17 – Leah’s Career Journey & Insurance Role 06:15 – Leah’s Reluctance to Marry a Minister 07:27 – Teaching a Ladies’ Class for the First Time 08:36 – Leah’s Church Background & Bible Knowledge 10:33 – Matt’s Unexpected Call into Ministry 11:50 – Leah’s View on Being a Minister’s Wife 12:58 – The Cost of Ministry on Their Dream Life 14:13 – Navigating Hard Years in Preaching Life 15:45 – Hobbies They Share (Naps & TV Time!) 17:03 – Balancing Family, Friends, and Ministry 18:07 – Parenting Reflections & Lessons Learned 19:48 – Leah’s Sacrifices & Support 21:00 – Praising Their Kids’ Character 22:14 – Favorite Church Activities & Fellowship 23:31 – The Importance of Downtime Together 24:42 – Marriage as a Partnership in Every Way 27:06 – Special Trip to Tahoe & Hawaii Memories 28:57 – 20-Year Anniversary Celebration at Church 30:19 – Realness in Ministry: Breaking the Pedestal 31:38 – Learning from Older Church Members 33:50 – Building Lasting Bonds Through Hospitality 35:10 – Why Transparency Strengthens the Church 36:33 – Different Parenting Styles: Grace & Truth 38:33 – Their Approach to Raising Older Kids 39:46 – Family Legacy: A Surprise Pregnancy Story 41:01 – A Family Connection Through Car Sales 42:16 – What They Learned from Extended Family 43:39 – Final Advice: Pray Together & Slow Down 45:00 – Closing Words: Support, Forgiveness & Grace 🔑 Keywords: Matt Heupel, Leah Heupel, Woodlawn Church of Christ, Christian marriage, minister's wife, HER Podcast, Kristin Sampson, marriage and ministry, real ministry life, Church of Christ couple, family and faith, parenting in ministry, preacher family, Christian parenting, women in the church, Church fellowship, faith journey 📣 Hashtags: #HERPodcast #MattHeupel #LeahHeupel #ChristianMarriage #ChurchOfChrist #MinistryLife #FaithAndFamily #MinistersWife #MarriageGoals #WoodlawnChurch #ParentingInFaith #RealTalkMinistry #FaithOverFear

    47 min
  3. Marriage, Ministry, & Real Life: How Austin & Brianne Johnson Keep It All Together

    03/28/2025

    Marriage, Ministry, & Real Life: How Austin & Brianne Johnson Keep It All Together

    In this inspiring and down-to-earth episode of the HER Podcast, Kristin Sampson sits down with Austin and Brianne Johnson of Florence Boulevard Church of Christ to talk about what it really looks like to balance marriage, parenting, and full-time ministry. From hilarious coffee mishaps to powerful moments of prayer with their children, the Johnsons open up about their ministry lifestyle, marriage communication, dealing with criticism, and raising kids with authentic faith. Whether you're in ministry or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with encouragement, wisdom, and practical takeaways. 🎯 Learn how to: Communicate in a busy household Stay connected as a couple in ministry Handle criticism with grace Model authentic faith for your kids Embrace spiritual leadership at home 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations that offer Hope, Encouragement, and Reflection. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 00:42 – Meet the Johnsons: Life in Florence & Ministry Together 01:59 – Ministry Is a Lifestyle: How They Stay All In 03:47 – Austin’s Journey into Ministry 05:49 – Supporting Each Other Through the Lows 09:17 – Communication Hacks: Google Calendar for the Win 11:00 – Staying Close to the Church and the Kids 12:43 – When a 3-Year-Old Says “I’ve Been Praying for You” 14:27 – Teaching Authentic Prayer to Kids 17:28 – Marriage-First: Cancun, Coffee, and Connection 22:54 – Funny First Hosting Story & Sermon Panic Moment 28:03 – Balancing Strengths: The Speaker & The Planner 34:34 – Keeping God as the Constant in a Changing Life 38:07 – Speaking Each Other’s Love Language 40:53 – The Power of Honest Conversations 46:19 – Criticism in Ministry: How They Handle It 52:25 – Rebuilding Relationships After Hurt 55:32 – Spiritual Leadership Starts at Home 59:26 – Ministry Parenting: What the Kids See 01:01:00 – Immersing the Kids in a Life of Ministry 01:03:59 – Final Thoughts on Ministry, Marriage, and Mission 🔑 Keywords: Austin Johnson, Brianne Johnson, HER Podcast, ministry marriage, Christian marriage advice, raising kids in ministry, Florence Boulevard Church of Christ, preacher family life, how to handle ministry criticism, Christian parenting, ministry lifestyle, church of Christ podcast, marriage communication, spiritual leadership at home 📢 Hashtags: #HERPodcast #ChristianMarriage #MinistryLife #ChurchOfChrist #FaithAndFamily #MarriageGoals #ParentingInMinistry #ChristianPodcast #MinistryCouple #SpiritualLeadership

    1h 5m
  4. Caleb & Kristin Sampson on Ministry, Marriage & Real Life: Interviewed by ChatGPT

    03/23/2025

    Caleb & Kristin Sampson on Ministry, Marriage & Real Life: Interviewed by ChatGPT

    In this special episode of the HER Podcast, Caleb and Kristin Sampson find themselves on the other side of the conversation—being interviewed by none other than... ChatGPT. Yep, you read that right. AI is asking the questions. But the answers? 100% real, vulnerable, and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny. With over 20 years of doing life and ministry together, Caleb and Kristin open up about what they've learned as a couple raising five kids, working side by side in churches and ministry organizations, and growing through both the challenges and joys of it all. From meaningful stories to practical wisdom for couples in ministry, this conversation pulls back the curtain and reminds us that marriage and ministry are both beautiful—and sometimes beautifully messy. From navigating grief and criticism to raising five children (two in the military!) and learning to love each other through thick and thin, this conversation is raw, relatable, and packed with wisdom for couples, ministers, and anyone seeking to honor God in every season of life. 🎙️ Hosted by ChatGPT, this episode highlights the messy beauty of ministry marriages, how to set boundaries, grow through pain, and embrace new callings with grace. ✅ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories of faith, family, and purpose. 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to the HER Podcast 00:39 – Meet Caleb & Kristin: Family Life & Background 01:27 – What They Do in Ministry Today 02:10 – How They Got into Ministry (Not Your Typical Story) 06:02 – Biggest Ministry Lessons Learned 07:34 – Navigating Marriage Challenges in Ministry 12:38 – Involving Kids in Ministry & Unexpected Blessings 14:25 – Funny & Memorable Moments in Ministry 24:58 – Hardest Seasons in Ministry & Marriage 43:01 – Protecting Marriage with Healthy Boundaries 45:53 – New Season of Ministry & What God Is Teaching Them 50:48 – Final Thoughts & Gratitude 🔑 Keywords: Caleb Sampson Kristin Sampson HER Podcast Christian marriage advice Ministry marriage challenges Real talk ministry couple Women in ministry Marriage and ministry podcast Faith and family Military family Christian Transparent Christian couple Spiritual growth in marriage Christian podcast 2025 🔥 Hashtags: #ChristianMarriage #MinistryLife #FaithAndFamily #HERPodcast #MarriageGoals #RealTalk #MinistryCouple #FaithJourney #ChristianPodcast #TransparentMarriage #MarriageWisdom #MilitaryFamily #BiblicalMarriage

    51 min
  5. 03/14/2025

    Life in Ministry with Chris & Libby McCurley – Faith, Family, and Unexpected Moments

    In this episode of The HER Podcast, Kristin Sampson sits down with Chris and Libby McCurley in Dickson, Tennessee, for an honest and uplifting conversation about life in ministry, marriage, and the unexpected moments that come with serving in the church. Chris shares his unexpected journey from coaching to preaching, the challenges of moving from Texas to Tennessee, and the joys and struggles of ministering to a small-town congregation. Libby offers her perspective as a preacher’s wife, discussing the unique role of supporting a minister, adjusting to small-town life, and raising a family in the church spotlight. Get ready for funny church stories, including their toddler's unforgettable streaking moment down the church aisle and the wild runaway church bus incident! This episode is full of laughter, faith, and wisdom for anyone in ministry or married to a minister. If you’ve ever wondered what life behind the pulpit is really like, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe to The HER Podcast for more stories of Hope, Encouragement, and Reflection. 💬 Join the conversation: What’s a funny or unexpected moment you’ve experienced in church life? Share in the comments! 📌 Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome to The HER Podcast 00:06 - Introducing Special Guests: Chris & Libby 00:18 - Life in Dixon, Tennessee: A Big Move from Texas 01:00 - How Chris & Libby Met: A Faith-Filled Love Story 03:42 - From Coaching to Ministry: Chris’ Unexpected Path 06:30 - The Challenges of Moving & Leaving Family Behind 08:50 - Adjusting to Small-Town Life & Slow Speed Limits 10:00 - Libby’s Thoughts on Becoming a Minister’s Wife 12:40 - Funniest & Most Unexpected Moments in Ministry 14:20 - The Infamous Church Bus Incident! 16:45 - A Toddler's Unexpected Church Aisle Streak 18:30 - Chris’ Funniest Church Excuses for Skipping Service 20:10 - The Role of a Preacher’s Wife & Supporting a Minister 22:15 - Most Rewarding Moments in Ministry 24:00 - Overcoming Trials with Church Family Support 26:45 - Encouraging Young People to Pursue Ministry 29:30 - Misconceptions About Being a Preacher 32:15 - How Churches Can Better Support Ministers’ Families 35:40 - Mentoring the Next Generation of Preachers 38:20 - Final Thoughts: The Impact of Ministry on Life & Faith 📢 Keywords & Hashtags Keywords: Life in ministry, preachers’ wives, church life, faith and marriage, Christian leadership, preacher’s family, unexpected church moments, supporting a minister, Christian encouragement, small-town ministry Hashtags: #HERPodcast #MinistryLife #PreachersWife #FaithAndMarriage #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchStories #ChristianLeadership #SmallTownMinistry #LifeInMinistry #BiblicalWisdom

    41 min
  6. 03/06/2025

    Ministry, Marriage & Autism | HER Podcast with Paul & Stephanie Spurlin on Faith & Family

    How do ministry families balance faith, marriage, and raising children—especially when navigating special needs? In this episode of the HER Podcast, Kristin Sampson sits down with Paul & Stephanie Spurlin to discuss the realities of ministry life, marriage struggles, and raising a child on the autism spectrum.💡 Key Takeaways:✅ The challenges of balancing ministry & family life✅ Raising a child with autism in a ministry setting✅ The expectations & realities of being a minister’s wife✅ Practical advice for navigating faith & family dynamics✅ The importance of communication, faith, and community support🎙️ Subscribe for more inspiring conversations!📢 Like, comment, and share to support ministry families!📌 Keywords: Ministry Marriage, Special Needs Parenting, Christian Family, Autism and Church, Ministers’ Wives, Church Leadership, Faith and Family, HER Podcast, Paul Spurlin, Stephanie Spurlin, Ministry Life📱 Connect with us:🌐 Ministry League www.ministryleague.com📘 Facebook: HER Podcast Community🎯 #MinistryMarriage #SpecialNeedsParenting #FaithAndFamily #HERPodcast #ChristianParenting #ChurchLeadership #MarriageAndMinistry #ChristianLife #MinistryLeagueAccurate YouTube Chapters (Ending at 28 Minutes):⏳ Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to the HER Podcast with Kristin Sampson00:30 – Introducing Paul & Stephanie Spurlin01:15 – How They Met & Their Early Ministry Journey03:10 – Balancing Family Life & Full-Time Ministry06:00 – Raising a Child with Autism in a Ministry Family08:45 – Challenges & Blessings of Special Needs Parenting11:20 – The Role of a Minister’s Wife: Expectations vs. Reality14:00 – How Their Church Supports Their Family’s Needs16:45 – Managing Ministry Stress & Setting Boundaries19:30 – Finding Time for Family While Serving the Church22:15 – The Power of Communication & Faith in Marriage24:40 – Encouragement for Other Ministry Families27:30 – Final Thoughts & Closing

    28 min
  7. 02/28/2025

    CYC & TLC (Conference) Founders JJ & Larry Davenport | Faith, Family & Ministry

    Join us on this episode of the H.E.R. Podcast as Kristin Sampson sits down with Challenge Youth Conference (CYC) and Transform Ladies Conference (TLC) founders Larry and JJ Davenport. With 34 years of marriage, a legacy of faith, and decades in ministry, the Davenports open up about their personal and professional journey, sharing insights on leadership, family, and faith. 📍 Recorded on-site at Challenge Youth Conference (CYC), this episode dives into: ✔️ The origins and mission of CYC – impacting thousands of young lives ✔️ Balancing ministry with family – the joys and challenges of a life devoted to Christ ✔️ Overcoming personal and ministry struggles with faith and perseverance ✔️ How women play a crucial role in faith-based leadership ✔️ Advice for new ministers and those considering ministry ✔️ How to handle criticism with grace and kindness Whether you're in ministry, considering it, or simply seeking encouragement, this conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom, faith, and inspiration! 🔔 Subscribe for more faith-based conversations! 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms 📲 Learn more about Challenge Youth Conference: 👉https://www.cyconline.com/ 👉 https://www.facebook.com/theherpodcast/ Chapters & Timestamps: ⏳ 00:00 – Introduction & Welcome ⏳ 00:06 – Getting to Know the Davenports: Background & Ministry Insights ⏳ 10:00 – Balancing Projects with People-Oriented Service ⏳ 20:00 – Exploring the Call to Ministry & Life Transitions ⏳ 30:00 – Ministry Life: Challenges, Sacrifices & the Impact of Faith ⏳ 35:44 – Handling Criticism in Ministry with Grace & Kindness ⏳ 35:44 – Closing Thoughts & Future Plans Keywords: Challenge Youth Conference, CYC, HER Podcast, Christian Women, Women in Ministry, Christian Leadership, JJ Davenport, Larry Davenport, Faith-Based Encouragement, Youth Ministry, Christian Sisterhood, Biblical Leadership, Encouragement for Women, Next Generation Church, Church Growth, Women of Faith, Discipleship, Christian Parenting, Christian Conferences, Youth Events, Ministry Leadership Hashtags: #ChallengeYouthConference #CYC #ChristianWomen #HERPodcast #WomenInMinistry #ChristianLeadership #FaithEncouragement #BiblicalTruth #YouthMinistry #MinistersWife #CYC2025 #NextGenerationChurch #SpiritualGrowth #ChurchLeadership #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction #EncouragementForWomen #BiblicalEncouragement #FaithOverFear #WomenOfTheWord

    36 min

About

Hope. Encouragement. Reflection. The H.E.R. Podcast is a faith-based space for Christian women seeking biblical wisdom, encouragement, and practical insights. Hosted by Kristin Sampson, each episode explores faith, family, marriage, personal growth, and balance. Through authentic conversations and guest interviews, this podcast uplifts and equips women to embrace their God-given purpose. Whether you’re a wife, mother, or seeking renewal, join us as we reflect, grow, and find hope. Subscribe today!