This Is Your Nudge

laurasmithauthor
  • 5.0 (27)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the This Is Your Nudge podcast. I'm your host, Laura L. Smith. Join me as I chat with the most amazing guests about how we can stop making excuses. Step out of some-day and into the promises and goodness God has for us today. This is your nudge.

  1. This is Your Nudge to Live in Abundance with Jen Thompson

    May 11

    This is Your Nudge to Live in Abundance with Jen Thompson

    Do you ever feel like there’s just… not enough? Not enough money, time, energy, margin, opportunities, or security? If so, this episode is your nudge to stop living from a place of fear and start living from the abundance God has already promised you. Today I’m joined by my sweet friend Jen Thompson, and we’re diving into the difference between a scarcity mindset and an abundance mindset—and wow, this conversation hit deep. Because if we’re honest, so many of us are walking around exhausted, striving, and constantly comparing, believing the lie that we’re somehow falling behind. But God never asked us to live clenched-fist lives. Together, Jen and I unpack what Scripture says about God’s provision, from manna in the wilderness to Jesus teaching us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” We talk about the freedom that comes when we stop obsessing over tomorrow and start trusting God with today. Scarcity says “there’s never enough.” God says “I will provide.” Gratitude is one of the most powerful ways to fight fear and comparison. Social media can quietly fuel anxiety and discontent if we’re not careful. God’s provision often shows up daily, not all at once. Abundance isn’t about having more stuff—it’s about trusting the God who gives us what we need. Spiritual disciplines help us stay rooted when culture tells us to strive. Joy grows when we stop chasing what everyone else has. We can learn to live open-handed, peaceful, and fully present. Jen shares such practical wisdom for reclaiming joy in everyday life and reminds us that abundance isn’t reserved for “someday” or “when things finally settle down.” It’s available right now through faith, gratitude, and trust in God’s goodness. So, this is your nudge:Stop living like God won’t give you what you need.Stop believing satisfaction and happiness are for everyone else.Lift your eyes. Daily bread is still more than enough. And it doesn’t look like crumbs. It looks like abundance. Jen Thompson is the author of Return to Jesus, speaker, and encourager passionate about helping women recognize the goodness and abundance of God in everyday life. Through biblical truth and practical wisdom, she inspires others to move from fear and striving into peace, gratitude, and trust in God’s faithful provision. Links: Laura L. Smith: https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book https://amzn.to/4rpX5lk Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845  Jen Thompson: https://trulyyoursjen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trulyyoursjen/ Return to Jesus book: ​​https://amzn.to/4tmCAWk Udi’s gluten free baguettes: https://amzn.to/3PsNBHG Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:About Jen Thompson:

    44 min

  2. Apr 27

    This is Your Nudge to Maximize Your Mornings w/ Jennifer Dukes Lee

    Do mornings ever feel… a little out of reach? Like you want to be the girl with the quiet time, the coffee, the Bible open… but real life just doesn’t look like that? This episode is your nudge to let go of the pressure, and meet Jesus right where you are. I’m joined by the amazing Jennifer Dukes Lee, and we’re talking all about mornings—but not in the “wake up at 5am and have it all together” kind of way. We’re redefining what it actually means to be a “morning person” and why your morning doesn’t have to be early or perfect to be powerful. Jennifer shares practical, grace-filled ways to invite God into your morning to jump start your day in all the best ways—whether you’ve got five quiet minutes, a chaotic house, or you’re whispering a prayer on your commute. You don’t have to be an early riser to be a “morning person” with the Lord. There’s no perfect morning–your morning can look different from everyone else’s and still be awesome. Jesus Himself modeled intentional time in the morning with the Father. Simple moments (even quick prayers in the car or bathroom!) count. Taking care of your body–sleep, movement, hydration matters too. “Resourced faith” means filling your tank so you have it as a resource on hard days. Legalism steals joy—grace brings connection. Jennifer reminds us that God isn’t waiting for us to get it all together—He’s simply inviting us to start our day with Him, however that looks. And when we do? It’s a game changer. So whether your morning is slow and quiet or loud and a chaotic, this is your nudge:Don’t wait for perfect. Just start with Jesus. Jennifer Dukes Lee is a best-selling author, speaker, and self-proclaimed “morning evangelist” from Iowa. Her new book, How to Love Your Morning dives deeper into how no matter what your life looks like, your mornings can be amazing when you start them with Jesus. She’s also the author of Growing Slow, It’s All Under Control, and Stuff I’d Only Tell God. Jennifer’s heart is to help you experience more of Jesus in your real, everyday life—right where you are. Links: Laura L. Smith:  Website https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book: https://amzn.to/4qSiW4r Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845  Jennifer Dukes Lee: https://jenniferdukeslee.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jenniferdukeslee/ How to Love Your Morning https://amzn.to/4qY5gV4 Practicing the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence: https://amzn.to/40rE0mc Prayer journal we discussed: https://amzn.to/40rE0mc Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:About Jennifer Dukes Lee:

    43 min
  3. Get Unstuck!: This is Your Nudge! With Dr. Lee Warren

    Apr 13

    Get Unstuck!: This is Your Nudge! With Dr. Lee Warren

    Have you ever felt like there’s a gap between where you are and where you think you should be? This episode is your nudge to stop fighting or mourning that gap and instead start understanding and closing it. I’m sitting down with my dear friend Dr. Lee Warren, a neurosurgeon, author, and someone who beautifully bridges the space between science and faith. We talk about what he calls the “mental gap” and how so much of our struggle isn’t about our circumstances, it’s about what’s happening inside our minds. Here’s the good news: YOU ARE NOT STUCK! Through the power of neuroplasticity (yes, your brain can actually change!) and the truth of God’s Word, you can begin to rewire your thoughts, reshape your responses, and step into a life marked by peace, purpose, and real freedom. The “mental gap” is real—but it doesn’t have to bet permanent. Your brain is designed to change (hello, neuroplasticity!). You can partner with God to retrain your thoughts this is what Dr. Lee calls “self-brain surgery.” Trauma and even generational patterns can impact your mental health—but healing is possible. Gratitude and mindfulness are powerful tools for managing intrusive thoughts. The way you think today can impact generations after you. Dr. Lee reminds us that we don’t have to be passive in our thinking—we can be intentional. And when we align our thoughts with God’s truth, everything begins to shift. This episode is your nudge to stop believing you’re stuck and start believing that change is possible—with God, in you. Dr. Lee Warren is a neurosurgeon, author, and podcast host who is passionate about helping people find healing and hope by combining neuroscience and faith. Through his work, he equips others to transform their thinking, improve their mental health, and live with greater purpose and resilience. Links: Laura L. Smith:  Website https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book: https://amzn.to/4qSiW4r Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845  Dr. Lee Warren https://wleewarrenmd.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drleewarren/ The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery book https://amzn.to/3YCNIRQ

    51 min
  4. This is Your Nudge to Reflect on how Easter Can Change Your Life

    Mar 30

    This is Your Nudge to Reflect on how Easter Can Change Your Life

    What if the hardest thing isn’t understanding what Jesus did… but actually receiving it? In this special Easter episode of This Is Your Nudge, I’m slowing down with you to reflect on the weight and beauty of the cross. Not just what it means, but what it cost. Because when we really sit with that, the sacrifice, the love, the intentionality, it changes how we live. I’m walking through the reality that Jesus didn’t just give us a moment or a message… He gave us everything. And sometimes, we treat that gift like it’s too big, too much, or maybe even something we have to earn. But friend, this is your nudge to stop striving and start receiving. What Jesus’ sacrifice actually cost, and why that matters How the cross mirrors the way we give (and struggle to receive) in our own lives The powerful connection between Psalm 22 and Jesus’ crucifixion Why receiving God’s gifts can feel harder than earning them Practical ways to actually live in the abundance Jesus already gave us This episode is an invitation. Not to do more. Not to try harder. But to open your hands and receive what’s already been given. Because Easter isn’t just something we celebrate—it’s something we’re meant to live in. This is your nudge:Stop minimizing the gift.Stop holding it at arm’s length.Stop thinking it’s for someone else. It’s for you. Right now. *This episode is adapted from a chapter in Restore My Soul: the Power and Promise of 30 Psalms by Laura L. Smith copyright 2022, published by Our Daily Bread Publishing Links: Laura L. Smith:  Website https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book: https://amzn.to/4qSiW4r Here’s what we talk about in this episode: Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845

    12 min
  5. This is Your Nudge to Fight the Enemy with Beth Guckenberger

    Mar 16

    This is Your Nudge to Fight the Enemy with Beth Guckenberger

    Ever felt like you’re fighting a battle you can’t quite see? Maybe it shows up as fear, discouragement, anger, or a heaviness that seems to come out of nowhere. If that’s you, this episode is your nudge to start proactively fighting. You’re not powerless. God has given you everything you need to win the battle before it even starts.. Today I’m joined by my friend, Beth Guckenberger. We talk about something many believers experience but don’t always discuss: spiritual warfare. Beth brings wisdom, clarity, and hope as we unpack how to recognize the enemy’s tactics and stand firm in the authority we already have in Christ. This conversation isn’t about living in fear, it’s about living aware, equipped, and confident in the victory Jesus has already won. Beth shares practical ways to prepare your heart and mind through prayer, Scripture, confession, worship, and community so that when spiritual battles come (and they will), you’re ready. The enemy is real—but God is way more powerful. Understanding the enemy’s tactics helps us stay spiritually alert. Fear and anger can often signal deeper spiritual battles happening beneath the surface. We have authority in Christ to stand against the enemy’s schemes. Confession, prayer, and worship are powerful tools for spiritual freedom. Scripture renews our minds and strengthens us in moments of doubt. Beth reminds us the battlefield often starts in our minds—but when we fill our thoughts with truth, worship, and the promises of God, the enemy loses his ground. This episode is your nudge to take down the enemy by standing firm in the power of Jesus. Beth Guckenberger Beth Guckenberger is a speaker, author, and the co-executive director of Back2Back Ministries. Through her ministry and writing, Beth helps believers live with courageous faith and deeper trust in God. She is the author of several books including Reckless Faith, Throw the First Punch, and The Heart Who Wanted to Lasso Thoughts. Beth is passionate about equipping people to recognize spiritual battles and walk confidently in the authority Christ has given them. Beth Guckenberger: https://recklessfaith.com/?v=0b3b97fa6688 Beth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bguckenberger/ Throw the First Punch – Beth Guckenberger https://amzn.to/4pWmMbp The Heart Who Wanted to Lasso Thoughts – Beth Guckenberger https://amzn.to/4pmvcZW The Bible App https://www.bible.com/ Worship music for spiritual warfare and encouragement https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7oX3bprpkQJBpws5TliMP0?si=FazI_xMbTLK82kpAeChmCA Laura L. Smith:  Website https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book: https://amzn.to/4qSiW4r Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845  Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:Resources Mentioned

    46 min
  6. What Does Jesus Have for YOU? with Laura L. Smith

    Mar 6

    What Does Jesus Have for YOU? with Laura L. Smith

    Have you ever felt like someone else is doing it better, faster, or more “important”? That you’re not enough? If that’s you, this episode is your nudge to stop looking around and start leaning into exactly who God created you to be. Today, I’m sharing stories of incredible women in the Bible who didn’t have the same gifts, roles, or callings—but each of them said yes to God in their own unique way. And because of that? Their lives made an eternal impact. We’re talking about women like Mary Magdalene, Martha, Mary, and Lydia each one showing us that bravery doesn’t look one way. It looks like obedience. It looks like trust. It looks like showing up with what you have and letting God do the rest. You don’t need someone else’s calling, you need to be faithful to your assignment. Martha and Mary show us there’s beauty in both serving and sitting at Jesus’ feet. Lydia teaches us that leadership and influence can start right where you are. You don’t have to have it all figured out, just a little faith (even mustard-seed size) is enough. God created you with unique gifts on purpose—not by accident. Obedience often starts small but leads to a big impact. This is your reminder: you don’t need to be more like anyone else. You just need to be available to God. If you’ve been waiting for the right time, or doubting if it even matters—this is it. This is your nudge to say yes. Laura L. Smith:  Website https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ 99 cent Brave Woman, Mighty God book: https://amzn.to/4kN06ZJ Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845

    25 min
  7. This is Your Nudge to choose HOPE with Gloria Umanah

    Feb 16

    This is Your Nudge to choose HOPE with Gloria Umanah

    If you're feeling overwhelmed by the weight of the world or wondering how to do something that matters, this episode is your nudge to choose hope and take action to share that hope with others. I’m honored to sit down with Gloria Umanah, a visionary leader, L'Oréal Women of Worth honoree, and the creative force behind Hope Booth. Gloria shares her powerful story of stepping out of despair and into purpose, the spark that started Hope Booth, and how a simple, immersive moment of truth and love can completely shift someone’s trajectory. We talk about what hope really is, not just wishful thinking, but movement toward healing and light. Gloria opens up about how suffering can become soil for something beautiful, how community fuels our mental health, and how faith gives hope its staying power. This isn’t just a conversation, it's a wake-up call to grab onto the hope Jesus offers… and to live with intention, margin, and eyes wide open to those around us. Hope is not passive, it’s action-oriented and rooted in belief. Suffering doesn’t cancel hope, it often deepens it. Being present and living with margin allows us to notice and serve others. Faith in Jesus fuels sustainable hope when everything else feels shaky. Healthy community is essential for healing and mental wellness. Celebrating the small wins in dark places matters. You don’t have to fix everything, you just need to bring hope where you are. Gloria Umanah is the founder and executive director of The Ex-Nihilo Collective, visionary behind Hope Booth, and an internationally recognized Christian spoken word artist and communicator based in Atlanta. She’s passionate about seeing a generation awakened to the freedom found in Christ and is dedicated to building creative, hope-filled experiences that spark healing and connection. Links: Laura L. Smith: Laura L. Smith: https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/ https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book https://amzn.to/4qSiW4r Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845  Website Instagram   Brave Woman, Mighty God book Gloria Umanah: https://www.gloriaumanah.com/ Donate to HOPE booths: https://hopebooth.org/partner Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:About Gloria Umanah:

    47 min
  8. This is Your Nudge to…love someone in recovery with Caroline Beidler

    Feb 2

    This is Your Nudge to…love someone in recovery with Caroline Beidler

    Maybe someone you love is walking through recovery, maybe you’re that someone. Or maybe you just want to better understand addiction, healing, and what real support looks like so you can love others well. This episode is for you. I’m joined by compassionate and kind dear friend, Caroline Beidler, a recovery advocate, author, and community-builder. Together, we talk about the real journey of recovery—not just sobriety, but the process of becoming whole again. We explore how identity, community, faith, and love all play a part in the healing journey. Caroline opens up about how we can support those in recovery without losing ourselves in the process. She gives practical insight on navigating social events, setting boundaries, and how mocktails (yes, really!) can help create inclusive spaces for everyone. Most of all, she reminds us that addiction is not a moral failing—it’s a place where compassion is desperately needed. Recovery is about more than sobriety—it’s about building a meaningful, joyful life. You can support someone in recovery and take care of your own emotional health. Boundaries are not just helpful—they’re necessary. Talking openly about addiction reduces shame and creates healing spaces. Milestones in recovery deserve to be celebrated, big and small. Addiction isn’t a choice, and approaching it with grace changes everything. Recovery isn’t just possible, it can be beautiful. Whether you’re personally impacted by addiction or just want to learn how to love better, this episode is your nudge to lean in with open hands and a compassionate heart. Caroline Beidler, is an author, speaker, and the Managing Editor of Recovery.com. Her own lived experience in addiction, mental health, and trauma recovery inspires her to help others find recovery in all its varying forms. She has built a global network of recovery supporters. Caroline lives in Eastern Tennessee with her husband and her twins where she enjoys hiking in the mountains and building up her community’s local recovery ministry. Links:  Laura L. Smith: Laura L. Smith: https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/ https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Brave Woman, Mighty God book https://amzn.to/4qSiW4r Nuuly: $30 off your first month, cancel or pause your subscription at any time: https://share.nuuly.com/laura5845  Website Instagram   Brave Woman, Mighty God book Caroline Beidler: https://www.carolinebeidler.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/carolinebeidler_official/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolinebeidlermsw When You Love Someone in Recovery. book:https://amzn.to/4gm1bWe Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:About Caroline Beidler:

    44 min
See All (36)

Trailers

5
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

Welcome to the This Is Your Nudge podcast. I'm your host, Laura L. Smith. Join me as I chat with the most amazing guests about how we can stop making excuses. Step out of some-day and into the promises and goodness God has for us today. This is your nudge.

Information

  • Creator
    laurasmithauthor
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © laurasmithauthor
  • Show Website
    This Is Your Nudge

You Might Also Like