Starting Place with Elizabeth Woodson

In this episode, Elizabeth shares an exciting announcement about a new collection of conversations she’s recorded with her friend Yana Jenay Conner. Together, they are going to dive into conversations about the chaos and disconnection shaping our world today. Covering topics like friendship, forgiveness, and the culture, they will explore how a theology of shalom transforms helps us experience God’s peace in everyday life. Follow Shalomies on Apple and Spotify. 🎧 Subscribe and follow @elizabethwoodson & @yanajenay Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Oghosa Iyamu to talk about a current trend that is making discipleship difficult – Consumeristic Christianity. They discuss how attraction-driven ministry shapes our discipleship, why it can stunt our spiritual growth, and how sound theology and community can help believers engage God’s vision for the local church, discipleship, and mission more deeply.  Main TakeawaysConsumeristic Christianity prioritizes receiving over serving. True spiritual experiences should lead to lasting transformation. Discipleship should happen primarily in and through the local church Content creators should strengthen, not replace, the local church. Casting a clear vision helps believers embrace their role in God’s mission. Guest Bio: You can learn more about Oghosa by visiting, ogohsaiyamu.com Recommended Resources: Forever Welcomed: A Study on God's Impartial Love for All Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Ruth Chou Simons to talk about what it means to live unhurried in a world that constantly demands more. Together they wrestle with the pressures women face to produce and perform, how the gospel offers true rest, and why God’s creation points us back to His faithful care. Ruth also shares how art, creativity, and slowing down have shaped her own walk with Jesus. Main Takeaways:Small daily choices shape long-term faithfulness. Striving in our own strength exhausts us—true rest is found in God. Faithfulness often occurs in hidden places, not just in visible achievements. Awe, beauty, and truth draw us back to God’s care and glory. Guest Bio: You can learn more about Ruth by visiting, ruthchousimons.com Recommended Resources: The Way of the Wildflower: Gospel Meditations to Unburden Your Anxious Soul Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

Disappointment is one of those universal experiences, we all face moments where life doesn’t turn out the way we hoped. In this episode of Starting Place, Elizabeth unpacks how Christians can navigate disappointment without getting stuck in bitterness or despair. From unmet expectations in relationships or career, to deep struggles in ministry, we learn how lament gives us language to bring our grief and anger honestly before God. Main Takeaways:Disappointment is a normal part of following Jesus. God can handle your anger and honest questions. Lament is the biblical way to process pain and trust God. We often avoid lament because of pride, discomfort, fear, or anger. Psalm 13 shows us how: tell God, ask God, trust God. Recommended Resources: Embrace Your Life (Book) Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Elizabeth talks with spoken word poet and author Hosanna Wong about identity, self-worth, and freedom from shame. Hosanna shares her journey of battling insecurity and learning to believe God’s truth over cultural lies. Together they explore how the church can address shame with compassion and how discipleship often happens through simple, everyday conversations that point us back to God’s grace. Main TakeawaysGod’s Word must become the loudest voice in our lives to shape our identity. Churches need to handle shame and expectations with compassion and honesty. Discipleship conversations require us to listen, be present, and extend grace like Jesus. Guest Bio: Learn more about Hosanna by visiting hosannawong.com Recommended Resources: What God Says About You (Book) Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

So many of us carry misplaced ideas about God—that He doesn’t really love us, care for us, or that He’s constantly disappointed. But what if the truth is far more beautiful? In this episode of Starting Place, Elizabeth is joined by Kyle Worley—pastor, author, and cofounder of Training the Church—to explore the deep theological truth that we have a true home with God through union with Christ. Elizabeth and Kyle discuss: What it means to find our true home in Christ. Why forgiveness isn’t the goal of salvation, but fellowship with God is. The difference between union with Christ and communion with God. How “a new me, a new we, and a new way” reshapes Christian life and community. Guest Bio: Learn more about Kyle by visiting kyleworley.net. Recommended Resources: Home With God (Book) Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

How should Christians engage civically in a way that reflects their faith, brings hope, and points people to Jesus? In this conversation, Elizabeth talks with Justin Giboney about why our public witness matters more than ever. Together, they explore how believers can navigate current poltical tensions without losing sight of their primary identity in Christ. Drawing from the lessons of the civil rights movement and Justin’s work with The And Campaign, this episode offers practical wisdom for everyday discipleship, helping us model humility, truth, and love in a world often marked by harshness and division. Main Takeaways Our primary identity is in Christ, not in politics or cultural labels. Love for neighbors is central to the Christian mission—even those we disagree with. Discipleship includes living out our faith publicly, not just privately. Christians must resist cynicism by cultivating moral imagination and hope. Local, everyday faithfulness can have a significant impact in shaping communities. Guest Bio For more information about Justin Giboney visit https://ivpress.com/justin-giboney. Recommended Resources The AND Campaign Compassion (&) Conviction (Book) Don’t Let Nobody Turn Me Around (Book) The Liturgy of Politics (Book) Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Elizabeth Woodson sits down with author and speaker Blair Linne to talk about what it means to wrestle with anxiety from a faith-filled perspective. Blair opens up about her own journey, the misconceptions she’s encountered within the church, and the hope Scripture offers for those who struggle. Together, they explore how both spiritual and practical support can help us move toward healing. Topics DiscussedThe misconceptions surrounding anxiety in the church and why compassion and understanding are essential. How Scripture and holistic practices offer both spiritual and practical resources for navigating anxiety. The role of community in bringing comfort, support, and healing for those who struggle. Recommended Resources: Made to Tremble: How Anxiety Became the Best Thing That Ever Happened to My Faith by Blair Linne Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

We’re back! In this season opener, Elizabeth shares a personal update on what God has been teaching her in a season of rest, family time, and new projects—including a Names of God study. She reflects on the importance of slowing down and being intentional with what matters, rooting yourself in the voice of God more than the voice of other people.  Season 6 will focus on Real Life Discipleship, exploring how the gospel meets us in everyday conversations and challenges. From topics like identity, justice, belonging, and mental health to a deep dive into the biblical vision of shalom, God’s design for wholeness, peace, and flourishing, you’ll be equipped to walk faithfully with God and others. This journey is better together, so be sure to subscribe and share this season with a friend! Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this final episode of the Church Mother series, Elizabeth and Yana explore the story of Dorcas from Acts 9, emphasizing her impact on her community through acts of service and faithfulness. The conversation highlights the journey of transformation that occurs in both the disciple and the one being discipled, and the joy found in serving others. They end by encouraging listeners to take the first step in discipleship and to remember that God will be with them along the way.  Main Topics: Dorcas's life exemplified service and faithfulness. Discipleship occurs in everyday life, not just structured settings. Consistency and faithfulness are crucial in discipleship. The journey of discipleship is long and requires patience. Transformation happens on both sides of the discipleship relationship. God promises to be with us in the journey—so take the first step. Reflection Question: Reflecting on Dorcas' legacy, what visible evidence of faithfulness will your community or family point to as they celebrate your lifeGuest BioLearn more about Yana by visiting www.yanajenay.com or @yanajenay on IG.  Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

Elizabeth talks with Susan Seay about the real challenges of motherhood today—from social media pressure to unrealistic expectations. Susan shares wisdom from raising seven kids, reminding moms to depend on God daily, pursue authentic community, and embrace grace over perfection. She also introduces her new devotional designed to help moms connect with God in the middle of a busy life. Main Topics:  Faithfulness in motherhood requires community/a support system Let go of perfection and live dependent on God’s grace A few quiet moments with God can shift your whole day. Comparison robs us of the opportunity to appreciate what God is doing in and through us. Keep dreaming, God’s purpose for you is not limited to just motherhood.  Reflection Question: How has the content you regularly consume shaped your expectations of what faithful parenting should look like? Are those expectations realistic or unrealistic? Guest Bio: You can learn more about Susan by visiting susanseay.com. Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

What does it look like to live wisely when you’re surrounded by foolishness, anger, or drama you didn’t create? In this episode, we turn to Abigail—a woman whose wisdom calmed a crisis and redirected the futures of two powerful men. Her story in 1 Samuel 25 shows us how godly wisdom protects, preserves, and points us back to the Lord. Main Topics:  Wisdom acts with discernment in moments of tension Godly wisdom helps seek the best interests of others.  Wisdom is bold and peaceable—not passive or reactive We are regularly given opportunities to be wise peacemakers in the face of relationship chaos or difficulty Reflection Question: Where in your life do you need to embody the wisdom of Abigail? Or, where are you tempted to respond reactively instead of asking God for wisdom? Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Melody Fabien shares her powerful love story and the spiritual journey that led her and her husband CD into marriage ministry. She offers wisdom on what makes marriages last—emphasizing communication, vulnerability, and the reality of spiritual warfare. Melody also speaks to dating couples about red flags, non-negotiables, and the importance of personal growth, accountability, and community. Whether you’re single, dating, or married, this episode will help you reflect on how God uses relationships to grow us in Christlikeness. Main Topics:  What makes marriages last—and why some don’t The biggest blind spots Christian couples face Practical questions dating couples should ask How spiritual maturity shows up in marriage Encouragement and tools for couples at every stage Guest Bio: You can learn more about Melody by visiting cdandmelody.com Recommended Resources: Domestic Violence Website (Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)) Family Life Weekend To Remember Tim Keller, The Meaning of Marriage Reflection Question: How is God using your relationships to grow you into Christlikeness? Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Missie Branch joins Elizabeth to share about her journey from working in a flower shop to serving as assistant dean of students for women at a seminary. They explore what true leadership looks like, highlighting the role of mentorship, community, and faithfulness in small things. They also discuss the challenges leaders face, the importance of trusting God, and how every experience shapes us to serve and empower others. Main Takeaways:God weaves every part of our story—big and small—into His greater purpose. True leadership begins with humility and a heart to serve. Great leaders create space for others by recognizing potential and investing intentionally. Growth happens when we lean into—not avoid—the challenges of leadership. Leadership can be lonely, so cultivating strong, supportive community is vital. Trusting God is the cornerstone of faithful leadership. Being faithful in the small things prepares us for greater responsibility and influence. Guest Bio: You can learn more about Missie by visiting missiebranch.com Reflection Question: How has God used your past experiences to prepare you for what you are doing now? Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, I talk with Cheryl Luke about what it looks like to walk with God through seasons of deep pain. Cheryl opens up about her journey during 2020—a year that tested her faith and relationships—and how she stayed anchored to truth. We talk about spiritual formation, navigating hurt in community, and learning how to stay with God when life gets hard. This conversation is rich, honest, and full of wisdom for anyone trying to hold on to their faith in the valley. Main Takeaways: In hard seasons, lean into—not away from—community, worship, and honest reflection. We tend to cope with pain in various ways, often turning to unhealthy habits instead of God.  Healing often begins when we bring our pain into the light with God and safe people. God is always near, even when we feel distant from him.  Guest Bio: Cheryl Luke is a speaker, coach, podcast host, and seminary student pursuing her Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies. She’s the visionary behind The Mosaic Life, a nonprofit equipping leaders to live with intention and purpose. With decades of leadership experience, including her role as National Director for Cultural Communities with Celebrate Recovery, Cheryl is known for her ability to foster community, create space for healing, and empower people—especially people of color—through recovery and restoration. Reflection Question: How might remembering the goodness of God help you be resilient in a valley season? Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Elizabeth talks with Jill Barlow about how intentionality builds meaningful relationships and how community shapes spiritual growth. Jill shares honest reflections on starting over, facing disappointment, and finding hope when connection feels hard—reminding us that community can be a place of deep transformation. Main Takeaways:Community requires intentionality, courage, and the willingness to initiate. Disappointment in relationships is common but can be a path to growth and grace. Spiritual formation happens in community, which reflects and refines us. If you are feeling lonely and disconnected, there is still hope for meaningful, family-like community. Guest Bio: Jill Barlow loves people, talking about theology, and being around a table with friends. Jill received her master's degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and currently serves as the Director of Community & Care at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on the East Side of New York. Jill is passionate about discipleship, mercy and leadership development in the local church. Her writing has been featured in Deeply Rooted Magazine, The Village Church and The Gospel Coalition. Reflection Question: What is one step you can take towards deeper relationships? Recommended ResourcesMade For People - Justin Earley Join the Conversation:We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, Elizabeth talks with Bible teachers and ministry leaders Courtney Doctor and Hunter Beless about what long-term discipleship looks like in real life. From friendship and mentoring to challenges and biblical wisdom, this conversation is full of insight for anyone wanting to stay faithful in making disciples. Main Takeaways: How Courtney and Hunter’s friendship and mentoring relationship began The distinction between mentorship and discipleship Challenges and discouragement in disciple-making—and how to keep going Biblical keys to healthy discipleship relationships  Practical encouragement for staying faithful in busy life seasons Guest Bios: Hunter Beless and Courtney Doctor are passionate Bible teachers who love helping women know and love God more through His Word. Hunter is the founder of Journeywomen and has authored several children's books. Courtney serves as Director of Women’s Initiatives for The Gospel Coalition and is the author of From Garden to Glory and several Bible studies. They’re both wives, moms, and ministry leaders who care deeply about making theology accessible and life-giving. Together, they co-authored a new Bible study on Titus—perfectly tying into our discipleship conversation in today’s episode. Want to connect with them? Go to: hunterbeless.com OR courtneydoctor.org Reflection Question: Who is God calling you to disciple in this season? Recommended Resources Titus: Displaying the Gospel of Grace, Courtney Doctor & Hunter Beless Growing Together, Melissa Kruger Mentoring, Natasha Sistrunk Robinson Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode, we continue our Church Mothers series by reflecting on the life of Hannah, a woman who teaches us how to wait well, stay rooted in prayer, and trust God in seasons of longing. Main Takeaways:Hannah didn’t run from her pain—she took it to the Lord. Every believer will face a season of waiting. The question is not if you will wait, but how well you will wait. Human solutions may offer temporary comfort, but only God provides lasting peace. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that when we pray with thanksgiving, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds. Reflection Question: What are you waiting on, and where are you tempted to take control instead of trusting God? Recommended Resources:"Embrace Your Life” By Elizabeth Woodson Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In today’s episode, we continue our Church Mothers series by learning from a bold and often overlooked woman in Scripture: Huldah. Though her story is short, her courage, clarity, and closeness to God offer deep wisdom for anyone trying to walk in faith—especially when it’s costly. Main Takeaways:Faithfulness requires courage: Huldah didn’t hesitate to speak God’s truth, even when it wasn’t popular or safe. Intimacy with God brings clarity: Her authority came from her nearness to God and her ability to discern His voice. Obedience has a cost: Following God may mean losing the world’s approval—but it results in lasting fruit. Fear is real, but God is greater: The Bible teaches us to see fear through the lens of God’s character—His power, presence, and patience. Reflection Question: In what area of your life do you need to move forward in courage? Is it a decision you need to make, a season of waiting you need to embrace, or a habit you need to release? Recommended Resources:"Discerning the Voice of God" by Priscilla Shirer Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok

In this episode of Starting Place, we’re kicking off a new series inspired by a conversation about the need for church mothers—women who intentionally invest in the next generation of believers. We explore what it means to leave a spiritual legacy, looking at the lives of Lois and Eunice, the mother and grandmother of Timothy, and how their sincere faith influenced his own. This conversation challenges us to consider how we are shaping those around us, not just through what we teach but through the authenticity of our everyday lives. Main Takeaways:Discipleship isn’t just about teaching in a classroom—it’s about how the overflow of our lives helps show others what it looks like to be faithful in any season of life. Lois and Eunice were faithful examples of spiritual legacy, influencing Timothy through their sincere and consistent faith. True faithfulness isn’t about perfection but about authenticity—how we live offline matters more than how we appear in our highlight reels online. Reflection Question: What kind of spiritual legacy are you leaving for those around you?  Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re applying these insights to your own life. Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies with us on Instagram @startingplacepodcast. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok