Goodbye Guilt & Shame

Ashley Vanderpool & Jess Layne - Restored Nation
  • 4.6 (9)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Goodbye Guilt & Shame, the podcast that offers a beacon of hope for those navigating the complex emotions of guilt and shame. Each week, hosts Ashley and Jess engage in powerful, interview-style conversations with individuals who have triumphed over their past traumas. Through authentic stories of healing and resilience, they provide listeners with the tools and resources necessary to embark on their own journeys toward emotional freedom. Our mission is to foster a safe and supportive community where everyone—from youth to elders—can find inspiration and guidance. Join us as we explore meaningful testimonies, share practical resources—including support groups, books, and Bible studies—and empower each other to break free from negative life cycles. Tune in every Wednesday for real stories of hope and healing, and discover how today can—and will—be better than yesterday. Together, we can move toward a brighter future.

  1. 6d ago

    No More Whispering: From Fear, to Knowledge, to Hope

    In this episode of Goodbye Guilt and Shame, hosts Jess Layne and Autumn Smith welcome special guest Ashley Vanderpool, Registered Nurse with Infinite Worth and former co-host of the podcast. Throughout this mini-series, we've talked about abortion and church culture from many angles—sanctity of life, the gray space surrounding abortion decisions, the influence of fathers and families, and the role churches play in creating safe places for difficult conversations. Today, we move even closer to the front lines. Ashley serves as a nurse with Infinite Worth, a 24/7 nurse chat ministry that partners with hundreds of pregnancy resource centers across the country. Through text-based conversations, Ashley and her fellow nurses connect with women and families in moments of fear, uncertainty, and crisis—often before they have spoken to anyone else about their pregnancy. In this conversation, Ashley provides a rare glimpse into what women are actually experiencing in real time. She shares what she hears every day from women facing unexpected pregnancies, the fears that drive many abortion decisions, the questions people are asking, and what churches need to understand if they truly want to create cultures where people feel safe seeking help. One of the most powerful statements Ashley shares is that her goal is helping women move from fear, to knowledge, to hope. Whether you are a pastor, ministry leader, volunteer, parent, or simply someone who wants to love people well, this episode offers valuable insight into the reality many women face long before anyone else knows their story. Key Quote"They're not waking up saying, 'I think I'll have an abortion today.' They're scared, often uneducated, and they need to be loved, given good information, and provided a safe place to process what they're facing." — Ashley Vanderpool Research Referenced3 in 10 women who have had an abortion report having experienced more than one abortion.Approximately 51% of women agree that churches do not have a ministry prepared to discuss options during an unexpected pregnancy.About 52% of churchgoers who have had an abortion report that no one at church knows about their abortion experience.4 in 10 women report that the father of the baby was the most influential person in their pregnancy decision. Source: Care Net and Lifeway Research Featured OrganizationInfinite WorthInfinite Worth provides a 24/7 nurse chat ministry that connects women facing unexpected pregnancies with licensed nurses who offer compassionate support, education, referrals, and pregnancy resource center connections. Their mission is to reach women in the moment they need help most and connect them with life-affirming care and local support. They currently partner with hundreds of pregnancy centers across the United States and provide around-the-clock nurse support through text-based communication. Learn more: https://www.infiniteworth.org Connect With UsIf abortion is part of your story, please know that you are not disqualified from belonging. There is hope. There is healing. And you do not have to walk alone. For information about post-abortion healing and support: RestoredNation.org

    46 min

  2. May 27

    No More Whispering: The Recipe for Restoration

    Goodbye Guilt and Shame Season 2 | Mini Series 2 | Episode 5 No More Whispering: Abortion and Church Culture — The Recipe for Restoration Hosts: Jess Layne & Autumn Smith Episode DescriptionIn this final episode of No More Whispering, Jess and Autumn bring together the conversations from the entire series and ask an important question: What does a healthy, life-giving church culture actually look like? This conversation moves beyond ideas and into action—exploring the ingredients that create safe spaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued. Jess and Autumn discuss practical ways churches can show up for individuals and families navigating unexpected pregnancy, abortion recovery, miscarriage, grief, and single parenting. This episode also highlights trusted organizations and resources available for healing and support because no one should have to walk through these experiences alone. Resources MentionedAbortion Recovery & Healing Support After Abortion Connects women and men impacted by abortion with healing resources and support groups. Offers both faith-based and secular options. Deeper Still Free confidential healing retreats for women and men impacted by abortion. Jess and Dan personally shared their experience attending one of these retreats. An Even Place Online faith-based support groups designed to help women process grief, shame, and healing after abortion. Pregnancy Loss & Grief Support Restored Nation — In His Arms Private healing sessions for individuals and couples processing: MiscarriageInfant lossPregnancy grief I Am Seen Provides care boxes and grief resources for families experiencing miscarriage and infant loss. Single Parent Support Restored Nation — Strong Moms A support community for single mothers designed to provide: CommunityEncouragementPrayerPractical supportResources for daily life Books & Additional Resources Unmasked — by Jim Anderson Topics include: God's design for sexualityRelationshipsMasculinity and femininityHealing and restorationCreating healthy church culture Sexuality Unmasked Additional recommended book: The Heart of a Woman Connect With UsQuestions? Need support? Want help finding resources in your area? Email: ask@restorednation.org Follow and connect with Goodbye Guilt and Shame on social media. "A culture of life is more than a belief. It's the way we show up for people." Until next time, we're Jess Layne and Autumn Smith reminding you that today can and will be better than yesterday.

    32 min

  3. May 13

    No More Whispering: His Story Too

    In this deeply personal episode of Goodbye Guilt and Shame, hosts Jess Layne and Autumn Smith expand the conversation around abortion and church culture by exploring a perspective that is rarely discussed — the experience of men and fathers impacted by abortion. Joined by special guest Daniel Layne, Jess’s husband, this conversation dives into the realities of silence, trauma, guilt, healing, and faith from a male perspective. Dan vulnerably shares how abortion affected him as a teenage father, the cultural messages that shaped his understanding at the time, and how healing came years later through faith, community, and honest conversations. Together, Jess, Autumn, and Dan discuss: How abortion impacts more than one personThe silence many men carry for decadesThe role church culture plays in healing or hiding painTrauma, shame, and delayed healingWhy fathers often feel excluded from the conversationThe importance of education, identity, and discipleship for young menHow churches can create safer spaces for healing and restoration This episode is honest, emotional, and full of hope for anyone carrying hidden grief connected to abortion. Healing is possible — even years later. Resources MentionedRestored NationUnraveled Roots Support GroupsHealing a Father’s Heart (Now called Reclaiming Fatherhood, by Care-net)Keys to Hope and Healing Connect With UsDo you have a question for Jess or Autumn: Ask@restorednation.org If this episode impacted you, share it with someone who may need to hear that they are not alone. Follow and subscribe to Goodbye Guilt and Shame for more conversations breaking silence around abortion, healing, faith, and restoration.

    1h 8m

  4. Apr 29

    No More Whispering: The Message From the Pulpit

    In this powerful fourth episode of our No More Whispering: Abortion and Church Culture mini-series, Jess and Autumn sit down with Pastor Dr. Bryan “Dav” Davenport to talk about something that quietly shapes church culture more than we realize—the pulpit. What is said (and not said) from the pulpit deeply impacts how people experience belonging, forgiveness, and healing—especially around topics like abortion. Together, we explore: Why abortion has historically gone unspoken in many churchesHow silence can unintentionally reinforce shameThe tension between honoring privacy and addressing truthWhat it looks like to speak about abortion pastorally, not just positionallyHow Jesus modeled both truth and compassion in moments of deep shame Dr. Dav brings decades of pastoral insight and offers a perspective that is both grounded in Scripture and deeply compassionate. This conversation is honest, thoughtful, and necessary. “What is kept in secret is kept in shame.” Dr. Dav In this mini series, we explore where abortion shows up in the Church and where it doesn’t. Are pastors talking about it? Are leaders equipped? How is the sanctity of life communicated without shame or condemnation? We’re not here to argue. We’re here to ask how. How do we create churches where women, men, teenagers, single parents, grandparents, and families feel safe enough to say the word “abortion”? How do we become a culture that shows up before, during, and after crisis? Because she’s not “out there.” She’s sitting in the pew.

    1h 5m

  5. Apr 15

    The Grey Space

    Episode 2: The Grey SpaceGoodbye Guilt and Shame Podcast Season 2, Mini Series 2: No More Whispering – Abortion & Church Culture Speakers: Jess Layne & Autumn Smith Episode SummaryIn this episode, Jess and Autumn step into what they call “the grey space”—the complicated, often painful realities surrounding abortion decisions. While truth remains clear, the circumstances people face rarely are. This conversation explores the real-life pressures that shape these decisions—fear, financial instability, relationship dynamics, shame, and isolation—and asks an important question: How can the Church respond with both truth and compassion when people are navigating deeply complex situations? Rather than simplifying the issue, this episode invites listeners to better understand the human stories behind it—and to help create a church culture where people feel safe enough to bring those stories into the light. “Decisions like this are rarely made in a vacuum… people are often just trying to survive in the middle of it.” Key Themes from This Episode1. What is “The Grey Space”? Not moral confusion—but human complexityReal-life pressures that influence decisionsThe gap between theology and lived experience 2. The Reality Behind the Decision Fear, time pressure, and urgencyFinancial and relational instabilityInfluence from others and cultural messagingFeeling like there are no other options 3. Why This Matters for the Church Many people don’t feel safe bringing these struggles forwardConversations can feel disconnected from real lifeSilence and simplification can lead to isolation 4. A Better Way Forward Listening with humility and curiosityHolding truth and compassion togetherCreating spaces where people are seen, not judged Research InsightJess and Autumn reference research from Care Net and Lifeway showing: 34% of women expected or experienced judgment from the church27% expected a concerned or negative reaction This highlights a critical reality: Many women don’t expect the Church to be a safe place in their moment of crisis. Church Culture Recipe Practical ways to begin shifting culture Ingredient #1: Healthy Language Avoid assumptions or condemning statementsLead with curiosity, compassion, and humilityWords shape whether people feel safe—or silent Ingredient #2: Normalize Honest Conversations Talk about real-life struggles openlyCreate spaces for questions, not just answersLet people know they’re not alone Featured ResourceIf this conversation resonates with you or someone you love, there is help available. 👉 Visit Restored Nation: 🌐 https://www.restorednation.org Unraveled Roots A powerful, closed-group experience for deeper healing and honest conversation. Safe, committed environmentDesigned for both men and womenInterest form available on the website Final EncouragementAbortion decisions often happen in moments of pressure, fear, and pain. If the Church wants to truly walk with people, it must be willing to understand those moments—not avoid them. We’re not here to whisper anymore. We’re here to build a church culture where truth and compassion exist together—and where no one has to carry their story alone. Connect & ShareIf this episode encouraged you: Follow Goodbye Guilt and ShameLeave a reviewShare this episode with someone who needs it A Final WordIf abortion is part of your story: You are not disqualified from belonging.

    39 min

  6. Apr 1

    No More Whispering: Abortion and Church Culture

    We’re beginning a brand new mini-series: No More Whispering: Abortion and Church Culture. In this opening episode, Jess and Autumn set the foundation for a conversation the Church can no longer avoid. This isn’t political. It’s pastoral. If abortion has been reduced to silence, stigma, or a single Sunday message, we believe it’s time for something better. Because abortion isn’t just an issue—it’s part of real people’s stories. And many of those people are sitting in our churches every week. Together, we explore: What “sanctity of life” really means (beyond a phrase)Why silence in the Church is more harmful than we thinkWhat it looks like to create a culture where people feel safe to be honestAnd how we begin building churches marked by both truth and compassion If abortion is part of your story—you are not alone, and you are not beyond healing. restorednation.org has resources to help you or can find some in your area. Practical “Church Culture” IngredientsThese are tangible ways churches can begin shifting culture: • Celebrate Pregnancy Publicly Example: Baby shower tables for every pregnant womanRemoves shame and replaces it with support • Partner with Pregnancy Resource Centers Know your local resourcesActively support and engage with them • Name Abortion + Offer Healing Pathways Put resources on your websiteNormalize that healing is availableYou don’t have to run the program—just make access clear Call to ActionShare this episode with a friend or small groupStart a conversation in your churchFollow the podcast so you don’t miss the next episodeLeave a review to help more people find this conversation

    26 min

  7. 10/22/2025

    What We Discovered About Pregnancy Resource Centers

    In this special wrap-up episode of our Unmasking the Myths Inside Pregnancy Resource Centers mini-series, we sit down together for a heartfelt and honest conversation reflecting on what we’ve learned, what surprised us, and what truths have emerged through this series. We revisit some of the most common myths surrounding pregnancy resource centers (PRCs), compare statistics and real impact, and share personal insights into why this truth-telling matters so deeply. Together, we remind listeners that every life has value, every woman deserves support, and every family deserves hope. This final episode isn’t just a summary—it’s an invitation to curiosity, compassion, and truth. 0:00-2:17 | Intro – Why did we did this mini-series  2:18-4:48 | What stood out most in these interviews  4:49-7:32 | Similarities across the board  7:33-11:23 | Unique differences between the centers  11:24-13:15 | Surprising Discoveries  13:16-14:24 | Sponsorship Break  Addressing the Myth’s Head-On 14:25-17:42 | Myth #1 “PRC’s manipulate or coerce women.”  16:24-17:10 When a cost is attached, sales is present  17:43-22:31 | Myth #2 “PRC’s aren’t medical and give fake information.”  22:32-24:35 | Myth #3 “PRC’s only care about the baby, not the mother.”  24:36-27:15 | Myth #4 “PRC’s only help Christians.”  27:16-30:02 | Myth #5 “ Abortion’s are quick and easy, PRC’s just get in the way  27:28-28:21 A piece of Jess’ story  Statistics on PRC’s and Abortion Clinics  30:03-35:47 | PRC vs. Abortion clinic stats – Did you know?  35:48-37:25 | Personal Reflections: Why Co-host this mini-series? 37:26-39:09 | Connecting PRC Truth to our own stories  39:10-41:54 | Hope for our listeners  41:55-42:37 | Invitation for our Listeners We’d love to hear from you! 💌 Email us your thoughts or questions at ask@restorednation.org 42:38-44:32 | Final Outro 💗 Connect & Support Restored Nation: 🌐 www.restorednation.org 💌 ask@restorednation.org Join a Post-Abortive or Miscarriage Grief Group → restorednation.org/groups Want to Get Involved? Visit or volunteer at your local Pregnancy Resource Center. Pray. Donate. Share their stories. Help spread truth that restores.

    45 min

  8. 10/08/2025

    Unmasking the Myths: Understanding Infinite Worth's Mission

    Unmasking the Myths: Inside Pregnancy Resource Centers offers an illuminating exploration into the often misunderstood realm of pregnancy resource centers, particularly as it pertains to the urgent needs of individuals facing unplanned pregnancies. In this episode, Autumn and Jess engage in a profound dialogue with Brittany Gilchrist, RN, from Infinite Worth, who elucidates the pivotal role these 24/7 front line RN's play in providing compassionate support and accurate information. Our discussion aims to dismantle prevalent misconceptions while emphasizing the importance of understanding the real experiences of those who seek assistance. We delve into the multifaceted challenges faced by these clients, thereby shedding light on the critical need for informed decision-making in the face of societal pressures. Join us as we endeavor to bring truth to light and foster a narrative that respects the dignity and worth of every life. **Timestamps:** - 0:00 - Introduction - 1:27 - Brittany Gilchrist journey - 12:30 - A New Beginning: Embracing change & advocacy - 14:37 - The launch and mission of Infinite Worth - 25:54 - Understanding client needs & vulnerabilities - 32:50 - Connecting with Pregnancy Resource Centers - 36:56 - The urgency in decision-making in crisis situation - 48:02 - The role of the church in supporting women facing unplanned pregnancies - 54:09 - Closing thoughts and encouragement Here are some ways viewers can contact Infinite Worth: Brittany Gilchrist, RN National Nurse Manager brittany@infiniteworth.org To learn more about Infinite Worth, please visit [infiniteworth.org](http://infiniteworth.org) For more information on their Prayer Warrior program, please click here: [Prayer Warrior Program]

    1h 1m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to Goodbye Guilt & Shame, the podcast that offers a beacon of hope for those navigating the complex emotions of guilt and shame. Each week, hosts Ashley and Jess engage in powerful, interview-style conversations with individuals who have triumphed over their past traumas. Through authentic stories of healing and resilience, they provide listeners with the tools and resources necessary to embark on their own journeys toward emotional freedom. Our mission is to foster a safe and supportive community where everyone—from youth to elders—can find inspiration and guidance. Join us as we explore meaningful testimonies, share practical resources—including support groups, books, and Bible studies—and empower each other to break free from negative life cycles. Tune in every Wednesday for real stories of hope and healing, and discover how today can—and will—be better than yesterday. Together, we can move toward a brighter future.

Information

  • Creator
    Ashley Vanderpool & Jess Layne - Restored Nation
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Ashley Vanderpool & Jess Layne - Restored Nation
  • Show Website
    Goodbye Guilt & Shame