The Amanda Ferguson Show

Welcome to The Amanda Ferguson Show, the go-to podcast for high-achieving Christian women who want to lead with confidence while embracing presence, poise, and feminine power. I’m Amanda Ferguson, and I built a multimillion-dollar consulting firm, became the bestselling author of Feminine Woman Habits, and work with clients all over the world. If you’re ready to elevate every area of your life and become not just the choice but the obvious choice, you’re in theright place.

This season’s theme isThe Feminine Advantage: Elevating Success Without Sacrifice.We’ll explore how to excel in feminine leadership, etiquette, and personal development while never sacrificing home in the name of hustle. So here’s what to do: pull up a cup of coffee or tea, grab your notebook, and let’s chat. And if you love what you hear, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review. It helps this message reach more women just like you.

Welcome to another episode of #FeminineFriday. Today is such a special day as I am recording this on my oldest daughter’s 9th birthday, so you may hear a little bit of background noise as we get ready for the festivities. Speaking of my daughter, I have officially returned to social media and have become so passionate about spreading the message of family, presence, and connection. During my time away, I made more time for my family and completely scaled back. Why? Because we need a revival of present parents, whole families and deep connections with God and others.  I’ve been sending emails this week about this very subject, which we will dive into more today. But if you are not signed up for my mailing list you can do so at my brand new website https://www.amandaferguson.org/family! 

While you listen to today’s episode, you may notice the fiery tone of my voice. I am fired up. I refuse to subscribe to the messages social media and culture is telling us. Ministry doesn’t have to cost you everything - family, health, and happiness. Jesus did not die on the cross for us to loose everything that he so badly desires for us. So while the opposite messages are being shouted, I am being intentional about shouting louder the pattern God intended for us to live by. This is the cry of my heart that’s been brewing in me since April of this year and further confirmed a few weeks ago when I attended a parents meeting at my children’s school. At the meeting, the principle began to tell us there was a war going on and recently, there was a child that came to school with a litter box because she identified as a cat. When the teacher refused, the principal told her that she had to allow the litter box because that is what the child identified as. Needless to say, the teacher quit.  In this season of my life, I am being intentional about making my home an atmosphere to receive and give love and be a pattern of what Jesus has called us to be in two ways:

1. Deepening connections with others and patterning myself and life after the word of God. Think about it, how many people do you actually call on their birthdays rather than sending a text? Deepening connections with others, even those in your household can be as simple as putting your phone down while you are eating or calling instead of texting. Most recently, at my children's school, a teacher had an emergency and all of us pitched in to make sure her family had dinner every night. That is what community and connection is about. Most of what we see today, particularly on social media is just a pattern of culture and reflects intense selfishnes. It isn’t the pattern of the Word of God. Not me, I accept my identity in Christ and pattern myself after the Word of God.  Will you join me?

2. Family dinners. Every night, we sit around the table and have funny conversations, enlightening conversations, and overall just enjoy each other. If you are chaotic and overworked, and, not in the Word of God, then your home will begin to feel that way. Eating dinner at the table with your family is just one of the ways to make your home a place of God’s presence and peace. It’s a way to restore deep connection with your loved ones and to fellowship the way God intended us to. I don’t know about you, but I am ready and will continue to shout my faith and belief in family, God’s way, louder than any other thing propagated in media today. And I want you to join in the fight with me and let the world know we are not on the sidelines not doing anything. Let’s show the world not a different way, but a better way by living our lives to pattern after Jesus. Share this audio with someone else listen to this.

If you want to join this revolution of women, click here to join my email list to be notified when Kitchen Encounters becomes available: https://www.amandaferguson.org/family

Grab my new, best-selling book today: Feminine Woman Habits

Remember, for us to advance, we all have to be willing to get in the fight.

Welcome to #FeminineWoman Friday! I am going to jump right in with this: The enemy wants to steal the passion and the sanctity and beauty of God ordained families.  Let that sink in. The enemy wants to minimize and reduce family, which is God’s original design for our lives. I am very passionate about this topic and you can see that in my reels. And lately, I’ve been fine tuning and zoning in and going against the idea that says if you’re not doing enough, then you’re not successful and if you don’t have millions of followers, you’re not successful either. So, what have I been doing? I’ve been spending time with my husband and having deep conversations with him and spending time with my children and building strong relationships with them. I’ve been mastering etiquette.  In 2022, I’ve scaled back from doing all the things and have laser focused on my family and because of that, my husband and I are more in sync than ever. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am grateful for that season of busyness and working really hard. But, I heard a leadership guru say this - “Saying yes to one thing, does mean saying no, to something else.” What’s your yes in this season? I made a decision to scale back completely and say yes to my husband and children. How did I do that? Let’s dive in!

1. {7:30}  Ask the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, we have a tendency to escape and there may not be a genuine desire to spend more time with your husband or children or you may feel like you are too busy to focus more on your family. The key is this: ask the Holy Spirit to reveal it to you. Whether you need to know the root of why you spend hours scrolling or talking on the phone instead of having a desire for spending time with God and your family  or simply need wisdom on how to scale back. The Holy Spirit will guide you and reveal those things to you.

2. {8:02} Be more emotionally present. There was a time when I didn’t take time to think about the things I was going through or the root cause of certain things in my life. Sometimes we can be so used to showing up for other people and not showing up for ourselves. Well the scripture says, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” No matter what state I am in, I want to be more emotionally present.  Take a moment and go to this place of reflection and ask Jesus to heal your heart. We can be so good at nurturing as women and sometimes we nurture the wrong things like pain and bad memories. Remember, take those things and give them to Jesus and ask Him about you.  It’s time to say yes to emotional healthiness and no to bad habits and toxic atmospheres.

So, I will ask again, what’s your yes in this season? The book of proverbs talks about a women who looks well to the ways of her home. It’s time to get back to the basics, stop doing a bunch of things and look to the ways of our homes.

For more, grab my new, best-selling book today: Feminine Woman Habits

Scriptures:
Proverbs 31:27
Mark 12:31
John 16:13

Welcome back to #FeminineFriday before I get into the teaching. I want to thank you all  for sharing, rating and reviewing. In a world where women are often portrayed as catty, I love that we have an environment of encouragement and just uplift each other here. Your support means so much to me!

As many of you know, I have been taking a break from social media and have really been focusing on other areas of my life. I wanted to hone in and press the reset button on a few things-mainly my health. God desires us to be healthy, and I believe that Christians should be the healthiest and the wealthiest people on the planet. We should truly reflect God’s original design for us in every single way. In fact, that is what the scripture tells us that in 3 John 1:2. This is my foundational scripture that you’ll hear me talk about over and over again. This really applies to everything-our relationships, our health, our money, and our family. I talk more about this in my Woman, Arise book that you can purchase here. If you go to my social media page, you can actually get the first two chapters absolutely complimentary, with no strings attached! So, let’s dive into how I’ve been dropping the weight!

1.{4:04} I kept a food journal. I was bad eater. I would eat Chick-Fil-A, and go into carb comas and have low energy. Most days, I would have to drink coffee to stay awake or I would reach for sugary foods when I got tired. I started to notice and take note of the things I ate that made me feel bad or tired. I realized that my previous habits were not setting me up for success and I had to change. Food is for fuel, so now I make sure I am feeding my body with things that energize me. I do have treats from time to time, but I’ve learned to do so in moderation.

2. {10:40} Eating for my blood type. My blood type is A. In 2020, I read a book titled, “Eat Right for Your Type.” This is not an endorsement, however, this book helped me find what works for me. In the book, type A does better with a plant based diet and once I began to switch over I began to see how my body reacted to certain things. Now, I can’t even eat a burger without getting nauseous. Whatever your health goals may be, it is important to God, your legacy, your joy, and your productivity. Our physical and mental health are effected by many things we consume that may not be right for our bodies and more specifically our blood type.

Next week, I am doing a 5 day challenge in Feminine Woman Collective, where we focus on health. If you are not a part yet, make sure to join us at this link http://femininewomancollective.com.

Scriptures

3 John 1:2

Welcome to another episode of #FeminineFridays. This episode is very powerful today. As many of you know, I dealt with quite a bit of childhood trauma that left me with a spirit of rejection and fear. I lived in bondage until God freed me. I know many others struggle with these same spirits or some may not even know this is what is operating in their life, so I want you to listen to this today. Our basis scripture is Romans 8:15. And I believe, that as you listen to this, the same presence that I felt recording this will invade wherever you are. Let’s get into these three points on deliverance from the spirit of fear and rejection and get back to the original design God has for our lives.

{4:52} Be free from the orphan spirit and receive the Spirit of adoption from our Heavenly Father. Some of you have encountered lots of rejection and most of our problems as adults come from rejection. Studies have shown rejection can even be felt as a a baby. There’s a difference between being rejected and receiving rejection. Growing up I knew that my mom loved me, but I felt very distant. Some of you may feel that same way - not receiving hugs, or having been affirmed or even able to cry as a child leads to rejection.  Once rejection is received it shows up as loneliness, not being able to connect with people and retreating within, but God is here to deliver you today. It’s time to crossover to the new you and ask God if you are dealing with the spirit of rejection and be free. Wherever you are right now, receive God’s love.
 {16:51} Embrace inner healing and deliverance. As a child, I remember my Mom was fasting and praying. A woman came over and said she wanted to talk to her. During this visit, the woman began to manifest demons and what I witnessed was terrifying - her body began to contort and she let out a scream.  What I witnessed caused me to be so fearful, I couldn’t be in a room by myself. The spirit of fear gripped me so bad that even my hair began to fall out. I even developed skin problems at this time. That incident was the door the spirit of fear crept into and I struggled with it into adulthood, until I was delivered when I begged God to deliver me from the spirit of fear.  Once God delivered me from the spirit spirit of fear, he also delivered me from rejection. Rejection is the dominant spirit that hides behind fear when we aren’t rooted in God’s love and haven’t full accepted the Spirit of adoption.
 {29:08} Embrace safe people, healthy people and those you can trust. There is healing there. One of my favorite verses, is Psalm 68:6. It says that God will set the lonely in families. You may not be close with your parents or family members, but God will supernaturally give you what you don’t have. I’ve experienced this in my own life with my spiritual father. I God is going to give you a place to go and a people where you can lay you shoulder on express your pain. Today is a new day for you and I believe that angels of joy are coming to bring life into your atmosphere and you’ll receive double for your trouble.

Scriptures
Romans 8:15
Psalm 68:6
Isaiah 61:7
Psalm 27:10

Here we are, the final episode of the “That Girl” series! I can’t believe it! Today I want to talk more about atmospheres and really dive into all the difference it can make in your life and in your conversations. If you are a part of my blog community, then you probably read last Sunday about how I took my daughter out of state to design school. Side note, if you aren’t a part of my blog community, make sure you subscribe at https://www.amandaferguson.org. The reason why my husband and I took my daughter out of state to design school, was we discovered she was just too advanced  for her current school and needed a change in atmosphere. She needed to be in the right community to flourish. If you’ve read my Woman, Arise book available at https://www.womanarisethebook.com, then you know I talk about the difference of how I grieved my mother’s passing and my miscarriage. It was community - grieving with the right people made all the difference. As adults, I think we underestimate the power of community. I’e watched my children on their first day of school find a friend. Our nature is to desire  community for bonding and when we stop craving that, usually its because of offense or anger. So, I want to share three things that will help you find the right community:

1.{3:48} Atmospheres are important. Being in the right atmosphere can replenish and refresh you. If you are in the wrong atmosphere, it can drain you and suck the life out you. Taking my daughter out of state introduced her to a new atmosphere that refreshed her and was a place where she could grow. If you aren’t growing in your atmomosphere, then something in you is dying because we are made to flourish. What type of atmosphere are you in now?  

2.{5:35} What conversations are you entertaining? Conversations around beauty, your life, God’s design and your visions are life giving conversations. Conversations of gossip, unforgiveness and bitterness only produce chaos. Conversations you entertain, will be what you produce in your life. Ask yourself this: are the conversations you are having life giving, energizing and healing to you? In that new atmosphere my daughter was in, I noticed she was having different conversations with the other girls who had been there before. They were teaching her new things. Feminine Collective is just like that and it’s not my community our community. It’s for us women who want to live for Jesus.   It was amazing to see how quickly my daughter adapted and lit up during those conversations. When you see other women tearing each other down, I want you to be a part of the solution that says, “Why are you tearing down someone that you don’t know?” I’ve seen some of my closets friend ripped to shreds over false opinions online. Be the type of woman with a different conversation. Every person who tries to attack you when you are putting your best foot forward, don’t let that get to you.

3. {12:04} Future planning. Where there is no vision the people perish. One thing I noticed, was that all the girls were sharing with each other what they would make in the future. Some said they would design wedding dresses or anniversary dresses and my daughter said she will even make me a birthday dress. The point is they were all submersed in the vision for their future. My thought is this: I cannot bond over the past, I’m not there anymore. Last thing, you were not made to be a loner, you were made to be in community. That’s something that me and over a hundred ladies are building in Feminine Woman Collective and I want you to be a part of it. Registration officially closes tonight, so make sure to visit http://femininewomancollective.com to join vibrant community of women encouraging women.  

Scriptures:

Proverbs 29:18

Welcome to “That Girl Part 3," of our week podcast, Feminine Fridays.  I cannot believe that we are almost at the end of this series, which has been completely amazing! Can you do me a favor and tag 2 or 3 of your friends that can benefit from this teaching? Right now there are so many shows and social media posts filled with deception, and I strongly believe that people need a fresh perspective of truth. So with that said, let’s dive into becoming That Girl, Part 3.

1. Our appearance is a reflection of ourself.  When I was younger, my mother used to tell me to take pride in my appearance. I never saw my mom go to the mailbox in slippers or leave with her hair undone.  She only had two suits to wear to church every Sunday, but those two suits were always clean and nice. You don't always have to be dressed up everywhere you go, but taking time in your appearance and not wearing pajamas or slippers out of the house makes a difference. Your appearance is a reflection of you and what people will associate you to.

2. Have the conviction of the Holy Spirit in your clothing. I went through many traumatic experiences as a child and in my teens and adulthood I entered into a rebellious stage where I wanted to dress to get men’s attention. That’s what you see on social media today - women dressing in a promiscious way for attention. But it’s just a reflection of a broken soul. I cannot tell you how to dress, but the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth can lead you. When I get dressed, I do so with the conviction of the Holy Spirit knowing that I represent Jesus in my appearance and want to exude His excellence. There was time where I didn’t want to dress well and was very religious in my appearance after I was saved. I didn’t wear make up as not to draw attraction to myself. However, ladies we are a work of art. So I’ll leave you with this, dress how you want to be addressed.

Lastly , Feminine Woman Collective is open. Feminine Woman Collective is an online christian membership community where women gather to grow in a deeper relationship with God and with each other, plus learn womanhood God’s way. I am a certified etiquette coach, and you’ll be learning from me. I have a decade of etiquette teaching and source from The Father. It’s all about owning who you are, and knowing whose you are. You join us today by visiting http://femininewomancollective.com for a low monthly price. You'll receive weekly teachings from me like Womanhood Wednesdays and invites to exclusive LIVE events. See you inside:)

Scriptures

John 16:8

John 16:13

Welcome to another episode of #FeminineFridays! Today’s episode is something I am so passionate about. Kindness. Many people meet me and say, "Wow, you're just as kind as you are on social media." This always strikes me as weird because I believe that all Christians should be kind. A mean Christian is weird. In today's society, we've normalized toxicity and trauma so much, that anything above that, is deemed to be fake. I want to dive deep into that today and teach how it's okay to leave toxicity behind in order to move towards God's original design for us.  

1. {1:30} Being gifted doesn’t equate to having the fruit of the Spirit. In Galations 5, the fruit of the Spirit is characterized as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and faithfulness. When I encounter people, I want them to meet the love of Jesus and someone full of kindness. I believe that as a people we’ve been through so much trauma, that it’s caused us to go into survival mode. I’ve found that most women who are brash, have always expressed that they had to take care of themselves and fight to survive as children. Can I tell you something? We are not children anymore.

2. {3:16} It’s time to start taking responsibility for ourselves and choose different environments. Many years ago, when I first got married, my husband and I went to see some of my old family members. They were very abrasive and brash and I noticed that in that environment, I began to go in a shell and enter into a tough exterior.  I went into a survival mentality. If you’ve ever experienced this, understand this, you can decide which atmospheres you want to be. It doesn’t matter if its your family or close friends or if you are trying to be the “bigger person". You do not have to go.

3. {5:25} You are supposed to be different. There will and may already be those around you who say you are different or try to bring up your past to discourage you from growing into your next. If that is you right now, take that as a sign of your growth. Some people don’t understand the transformation taking place inside of you. I love being around people who want to get better. That's why I sign up for courses, and go to the gym -  the atmosphere is amazing. Will you be brave enough to flourish in your transformation or strive to prove to those unwilling to change that you haven’t?

Lastly, this morning, I spoke life into my three daughters and they began to cry and beam with joy. The reason why was because I was pointing them to Jesus and encouraging them. Sometimes you need someone in your life to build you up and that’s what my new community is about. It's about women coming together and supporting each other on their unique transformation journey.

It’s time for you to make a decision. Will you be brave enough to say you need women around you that will lift you up and help you on this journey? If you said yes, then I invite you to join over 100 here: http://www.femininewomancollective.com

Scriptures:

Galations 5:22-23

This week's episode is about being a softer feminine woman. Many of you know I was sexually abused as a child and in turn, I did not want to be soft, but very tough.  So, listen to this episode with open ears and an open heart. Then I want to see you tomorrow in Feminine Woman Workshop group where I’ll be LIVE to talk about this episode. You can join the group at no cost at https://femininewomanworkshop.com.

1. Your Relationship with Christ is the Foundation {3:08}  Worship to God is amazing; there is nothing more beautiful than to layout in the presence of God. Worship is where we pour we our hearts out to God like water. God does not need a break from you.  You may have poured out your heart to others and they said it was too much or criticized you for it. It's not too much for God; He cares about every detail of your life.

2. You Have to Heal {10:28} On the inside, I had a soft nature, but I didn’t want to show it. Even after I was saved, I had the residue of my past and had to do the work to return to God’s original design for me. I felt like I was sexually abused as a child by my youth pastor because I wasn’t tough enough. As a teenager, I decided to change my nature, so no one could take advantage of me. I became the attacker who fought people, cursed them out, and was very sarcastic. Sarcasm is a trauma response and means to tear, cut, and rip.  God did not intend for women to be harsh, rough, hard, or sarcastic. Whatever you don’t heal from, you will perpetuate yourself.

3. Watch Your Tone {21:12} It’s not about what you say, but how you say it. From experience, when you've been through trauma and never let your guard down, you hurt people. Being tired or frustrated, is no excuse to have a harsh tone. In my life, when I am frustrated or overwhelmed, I am honest with my children. Sometimes I put on worship music and change the atmosphere. My kids need to see me face difficult times and overcome trials. This makes them resilient. Moms you don’t have to be perfect, let your children see you work through it in an age-appropriate way.

4. Watch Your Posture {30:31} Posture and poise can affect your outfit and overall look. I haven’t always known how to walk in heels - I had to practice. With anything, if you want to improve on it, you must practice. I teach more on this in my Feminine Woman Academy.

5. Pamper Yourself {34:26} We can get so busy that we don’t take our time. Before I was saved, I got up at the very last minute to get ready for work. It’s better to take your time getting ready by moisturizing your skin, brushing your hair, and doing your make-up to look your best. Listen, if you haven’t been taking your time getting ready every day, can we all commit together to looking our best?  There are so many resources available at no cost to help you along the way.  Let’s take enough time for ourselves, so we can feel what it’s like to be soft and pampered.

6. Listen without Being Defensive {47:33} A part of being a softer feminine woman is being a good listener. I used to be very defensive. I would be quick to respond, ready to outtalk anyone, and ready for attack. I learned in my past friendships to listen even if I didn’t agree. However, I find with Christians, that if anyone disagrees with them, it’s warfare. Everyone that doesn’t agree with you is not trying to attack you.

7. Change Environments {52:50} Sometimes you need to change environments. What I love about Feminine Woman Academy is that we have students from all over the world. You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with. FWA is full of students who want to  grow with other safe, like-minded women. Join the waitlist here.

Being committed to helping women unlock their next level of womanhood, I am passionate about Femininity being represented in God’s way. Social Media is full of many demonic ideas disguised as femininity, so I wanted to take some time out and break down Godly Femininity & Demonic Femininity this week. 

This is a re-broadcast from a Facebook live years ago. I know some of you may not follow me on Facebook or have an account, so I wanted you to hear this. Listen, there are so many ideas out here from burning sage, to yoga, and crystals propagated as feminine or self-care, and I want to teach you 3 things about Godly Femininity vs. Demonic Femininity.
 

Get the Inner Healing & Deliverance Audio Course:

https://www.womanarisethebook.com

Scripture References:

1 Samuel 28:6-7

Job 2:7-9

Jeremiah 30:17

Acts 16:16

Exodus 15:26

Ephesians 4:27

Welcome to this week’s episode. This particular episode is taken from my complimentary Feminine Woman Workshop, entitled “7 Habits of Ultra Feminine, Godly Women.” It is a little longer than usual, but I promise you it’s so good! 

*This workshop is no longer available, however you can visit https://www.amandaferguson.org/ for current ways to connect with me!

Here are 7 Habits of Ultra Feminine, Godly Women:

1. {4:26} Master the art of dressing well. In my earlier years, I did not dress classy. My skirts were very short and my tops very low - it was my way of getting men to notice me. The trauma of being sexually abused as a child made me think that’s what men wanted to see. When I got saved, I felt like I had to make up for those years by dressing in clothing that covered me from head to toe.  I often wore large pullover sweaters, long sleeve shirts, and dresses to my ankles. However, over the years I’ve evolved come to know that I can be modest and stylish. I can be classy and not boring. If you recognize that you still have unhealed trauma and any of this brought back a memory that you pushed back, I want you to do exactly as Psalm 30:2 says and cry out to God.

2. {20:08} Commit to sprinkling elegance in your everyday life. Drinking hot water and lemon, taking a bath with classical music, or spraying your bed with lavender scent are a few simple things you can do to feel elegant. Think about what you can sprinkle into your life that ignites peace or creativity. Remember, you become what you behold, so keep beauty before you.

3. {25:20} Identify the rough edges in your life. When I first got saved, I had a lot of rough edges I needed to work out. Just because you’re saved, doesn’t mean you don’t have anything else to work on. It’s a process of transformation. I had to focus on my walk, my talk and tone of my voice, and the way I sat. I wanted to embody God’s original design for me. So I paid attention to my body and my speech. As a godly woman, one of the most important things is speech and how we say things just like the word says in Ephesians 4:29 and Proverbs 12:18.

4. {34:20} Lighten up and have fun! I used to be very stiff and robotic, however, Jesus made us to express our emotions. I learned how to be numb at a young age because of trauma and maybe you too, but God made us to live in freedom. I want you to dance, sing, laugh, and enjoy your life.

5. {37:50} Pay attention to your grooming regimen and create a schedule. It’s important to keep up with your hair and nail appointments. If you aren’t properly groomed, your look for the day may not be as crisp. I want you to start with a beauty budget first - it doesn’t have to be elaborate, just what you works best for you.

6. {42:33} Let your home be an atmosphere of heaven - a place that’s beautiful, peaceful, full of love, full of joy, and tidy. It’s important not to hoard things that don’t serve you any longer, that helps keep a tidy house and peaceful atmosphere. So, most recently, I cleaned out my closet and my girls' closet.

7. {45:18} Commit to daily prayer and study to become a woman of his word. Right here and now, I want you to write down your favorite scripture. My favorite scripture is Acts 20:24. Lastly, here are my fab 5 things that are important for every Ultra Feminine Woman to keep up with: skin, hair, nails, exercise, and nutrition. 

Scriptures

Psalm 30:2

Psalms 139:14

2 Corinthians 3:17

Proverbs 12:18

Ephesians 4:29

Psalm 16:11

Wow! I can't believe It's been a year since I've recorded a podcast. While I've been enjoying watching my son grow, who is 18 months old, and my girls, I've been thinking that I have so much to say. I sat down with my disciples and asked them what they would want to hear for the rest of the podcast season. Being that I have four more episodes to complete the last season, I’m going to tackle some of their topics in the next four weeks!

The first is, Overcoming the Fear of Success. Some people just don't want all that comes with success, the good and the bad, and end up sabotaging themselves. Yes, sounds unbelievable right?

Here are three areas that many people struggle with within this topic and how to combat them:

{3:27} Fear of Criticism. In 2015 I just started my etiquette company and started off by doing periscopes. Many of you may remember my “Girl Talk with Amanda Ferguson,” where I talked about all things family, being a godly wife, and godly mother. I loved pouring into women weekly. Shortly after, I discovered blogs were written about me full of lies. I was genuinely shocked to find out people would intentionally try to stop people from listening to me by lying.

When you are doing something for God, there will always be persecution. It was then that I learned not to sabotage what God had for me because of criticism. Criticism comes with the package and doesn’t affect my esteem or assignment.  People liking us, is not a prerequisite to serving Jesus. Our only job is to keep our hearts tender before the Lord because the heart is His resting place. It's where love flows and if we let things cause our heart to grow hard, we can stop the flow.

{8:35} Fear of spotlight. When you're in the spotlight, there are a lot of things that will be attracted to you. I am a true introvert and enjoy staying home with my family. I never desired the spotlight because I knew many things come with it. However, I am called to preach and teach and have seen the power of my testimony cause other women to experience healing and deliverance.  Some of you have a story that people need to hear. Even if you feel like you haven't experienced any trauma, people need to hear that too! They need to know that living pure and having a healthy childhood is possible. If you're reading this right now, I want you to know God put something in you and he doesn’t want to dim that.

{15:05} The Root. In talking with many women, I discovered the root of anxiety or fear around the future was always the result of some kind of trauma and directly correlated to if they truly received the Spirit of adoption.  I want you to turn with me to Romans 8:15 and if you’ve listened to my podcast “Father Wounds,” you may remember this scripture. If you haven’t, I want you to press pause and go listen now then come back!

Growing up I never experienced being daddy’s little girl, my father was addicted to drugs and wasn’t present. I saw God as my savior and as a judge, but not my Father or Someone who loved me unconditionally. I had a scarcity mindset and I had to get delivered from that by accepting the Spirit of adoption.  John 10:10 talks about living a superabundant life - that’s in every area of our lives, not just finances. God wants you to be prosperous in your relationships with your kids, relationships with your friends, and in your marriage.

Stop placing limits on God and reframe your mind. How, you may ask? You can reframe your mind by inner healing and deliverance and I go in-depth on this in my audio blueprint available on womanarisethebook.com, strenghting your mind and creating a routine for yourself. I also have a complimentary workshop that I know will help you create those feminine habits here: https://femininewomanworkshop.com. Lastly, remember this, Matthew 6:25, “…Take no thought for your life.”

Scriptures

Matthew 5:10
John 10:10
Luke 6:26
Romans 8:18
Matthew 6:25

Welcome to Episode 7, of Season 3. This is a very special bonus podcast that I just had to record after what took place a few weeks ago. If you know anything about me, you know I love all things etiquette and have a passion for teaching women what it really means to be a feminine, classy lady. This isn’t something I just started. My journey began all the way in 2013 when I got my first certification and continued in 2016 when I got another certification in a very intense etiquette program.
 

A few years later, in May of 2018, I was gearing up to relaunch a course and something didn’t quite feel right, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. Well, one night at 3 am, an angel came and visited me and he had jewels in his hand.  As I began to pray, God spoke to me and told me he wanted me to start Feminine Woman Academy and train up women to be Modern-Day Esthers. I could not stop crying. God had just announced to me what He wanted me to do in the earth, gave me the name, and the pattern. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it.
 

Fast forward to September 4th, 2020. I woke up early at 3 am to pray for others. Around 4 am, the same angel came back to my room. He had not been back since 2018, wow! God then spoke to me and told me He didn’t want me to launch my interior decorating course I had planned, but instead to reopen  Feminine Woman Academy because there were women out there who needed it. Honestly, I had no plans to open the academy back up. However, after that I had so much joy and happiness in my call. I was ready to reopen the academy. The point is, the angel didn’t come for me, but he came for you, and the many others who will join the academy. Feminine Woman Academy is more than a course, it's a call and an invitation from heaven to participate in what God wants to do in the earth. So what does it mean to be a Modern-Day Esther and how does it relate to you? I’m so glad you asked.

Here are the three things you need to be a Modern-Day Esther:

1. {9:52} Presence is what you say without talking and is the initial thing people say when they first meet you. It’s your wow factor. At the same time, presence is not always necessarily good. It can be bad as well. Overall, presence is the very narrative that you foster internally and begins in your mindset. When people come to me and ask me how they can increase their presence, I tell them they need to renew their minds. Coming from a dysfunctional home and having suffered from depression, I still struggled with a faulty mindset after I was saved and delivered. I had to constantly renew my mind. It’s one of the very first things you learn in the academy and many will tell you that it’s more than learning etiquette, it’s a healing journey too. Some of you have been told you weren’t good enough, some of you have mommy and daddy wounds, and some have grief and depression and carry that with you. Whatever it is, it all begins with your mindset, and once that changes, your presence will too.

2.  {14:41} Poiseis a rhythm: It’s the way you walk, talk, carry yourself, and overall how you navigate life. Have ever been to a dinner or networking event and found yourself fidgety, not knowing what to do? This is where poise comes in. When you know what to do, you create a rhythm and can be confident in the moment. You don’t have to worry about what fork to use or where your napkin goes, because you’ve already got it down. Poise is also what landed one of my former students several television interviews, because she followed the steps that I teach in my academy. I myself was critiqued and taught by a CNN news anchor on all things speech and networking. I also teach this in my academy as well as the 10 questions everyone should have ready before any networking event! 

3. {19:31} Feminine Poweris what helped one of my students, at just 31 years old, became the Director of Accounting for a major basketball team with a $30,000 raise. Oftentimes, women feel like they have to act like a man or be better than a man to get this type of high-level position. In actuality, we can step fully into our femininity, embrace it, and still attract high-level opportunities. One of the ways we do this is image. In the academy, I teach that image translates to power. Anytime you want to upgrade your life, you must upgrade your image. I show you what power colors to wear in corporate interviews, plus the four-sentence thank you note to send after it’s over. You will learn how to let that tender power radiate, without diminishing yourself.

If you’re listening to this right now, I want to know if you’ll accept the call and become one of my students in the academy. Registration is officially open and you only have a few more days. I want you to go and read the entire website, FeminineWomanAcademy.com and DM me if you have any questions.  Once you sign up, you’ll receive a special bonus teaching, Reinvent Me.

Scripture References:

Romans 12:2

It’s been a while since I’ve recorded a podcast and I have to say that I’ve missed you all. Many things have changed since the coronavirus, one of them being that I haven’t been able to record with my producer. Because of this, you may hear a slight echo in this recording (she usually finds the best spots to record in), but I really felt a strong pull to do this late in the evening, while my newborn baby boy was sleeping.

If you’ve been following me for a long time, then you probably have heard my story about how I was sexually abused as a preteen by my youth pastor. If you haven’t heard my story, you can watch it by clicking the link in my bio on my Instagram page.

As I got older and particularly, around the age of 17, I began to experience much older men preying on me while I worked at a local store in my hometown. They would look at me in very sexual demeaning ways or tickle my hand. As soon as I got home, I would take these long showers, scrub my body very hard, and just cry because I felt so ashamed. Even when I got to college, one of my professors preyed on me just like the other men did. I couldn’t understand why this was happening to me. I reasoned with myself that maybe I was too weak and too nice, and that’s why people took advantage of me. I decided from that moment on that, I wasn’t going to be sweet or soft anymore. I was going to be rough, tough, and get people before they got me. I became numb and didn’t know my real personality at all. It wasn’t until I allowed God to take me on a journey of inner healing to restore my Godly femininity that who I really was began to surface. If you’re listening to this podcast right now, and you want to want to restore your Godly femininity, then you have to go back to the place where it was lost and began the journey of restoration.  

Here are three ways to restore your Godly Femininity:

1. {6:13} You have to confront the lies of the enemy with God’s truth. Whenever the enemy tells you are wasted goods, not good enough, not loved, or pretty enough, you have to tell the enemy and remind yourself what God says about you in His word. God took His time when He made you and you are fiercely loved, so fight back with the word!

2. {8:42} You have to allow inner healing to be a continual journey. Once I went on my inner healing journey so many things were awakened inside me and I began to discover who I really was. One day, you’ll look at yourself and find that the old you is unrecognizable and your smile will be bigger and authentic. You will live a life that’s full of so much joy and happiness and all heaviness will subside. In fact, if you’re listening or reading this right now, God is giving you the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Don’t be afraid of this journey because it involves a lot of tears. Yes, crying is painful at times, but it’s through those tears that God’s healing virtue will flow. Since joy is going to be your portion, I’m giving you a homework assignment to look up three scriptures about joy.

3. {14:00} Community is key. It’s important to be surrounded by people who can rejoice and mourn with you. One way that I was able to heal from my miscarriage was that I was surrounded by people who cried with me. You are not meant to be alone! If you feel alone and any part of this podcast resonated with you, I want you to join my free community of women on the same journey. I’ll be alongside you in the group being very transparent about my life and what I’ve overcome to guide you. It’s important to be around other women who believe like you and support you. In the Amanda Ferguson Podcast Club Facebook group, we grow in God and community together.

Scriptures:

Psalms 139: 13-14

Romans 12:15

References:

Reinvent Challenge: https://podcastclubchallenge.com/

Amanda Ferguson Podcast Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/195204731768807

The Grace to Pioneer Part 2

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 4.  This podcast is a continuation from season one’s episode, “The Grace to Pioneer.” If you haven’t had a chance to listen to part one, I want you to stop right now, and come back after you have listened. This episode will compound what you learn from season one.

A Few years ago, while having dinner with a friend, she told me that I would be an amazing example to others who also lost their Mom. Because I was still navigating that area of my life, I didn’t think that I could be. Once my friend told me that I didn’t have to have it all figured out, I began to cry. Wow, I didn’t have to have all the answers. I could still minister to people in that area, while I was on my journey. In fact, it was important that people saw me on my journey.

I decided, just like Esther in the bible, that I was going to partner with God. It didn’t matter what I went through, or if I could see the road ahead, I was going to continue blaze trails and let God get the glory.

Here are three tips to becoming a pioneer:

 [04:42] Your trauma does not disqualify you, it actually gives you the advantage. The truth is, we don’t have to have it all figured it out. Sometimes instead of searching for the answer, we need to be the answer and let people know that they’re not alone. It reminds me of Esther in the bible. Her life wasn’t a fairytale story and she never signed up for the journey that she was on. Yet, she still partnered with God, once she was chosen.

[09:21] You have to have courage. Pioneers are the ones who blaze the trails. There is no paved road and we don’t know what’s behind the scenes. We have to take step by step, moment by moment, and day by day.

[13:06] You need follow through. Some of us get inspired in prayer or by prophetic words, but when we lack follow through, we sit on wealthy ideas. We need to ask ourselves, are we following through with the plan God has for our lives? It is never about us, but about the people who will come after us.

Scripture References:

Esther 4:16

Join The Amanda Ferguson Podcast club here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/195204731768807/

Season 3, Episode 4: Jo Naughton

We welcome back Prophet Jo Naughton to the Amanda Fergusons Show. Jo lives in London, England with her husband Paul and her two children, Ben and Abby. Jo and her husband are pastors at Harvest Church in London. Jo runs a transformational ministry called, “Healed for Life” and is the author of many life-changing books.

Jo was a special guest on The Amanda Ferguson Show in Season 2 where she discussed the how God healed her from losing her 2-year old daughter. Today we are going to dig deeper with Jo and talk about restoration and healing, and the being transparent in your journey. If you struggle with insecurities and self-doubt; rejection and hurts that are not healed, it’s time that you shed the opinions of this world and walk into your God given destiny. It’s time to heal.

After 25 years of marriage and ministry my life and career were seemingly on track. Our church was growing, and my secular career had taken me to the top where I worked public relations for Prince Charles and Buckingham Palace. From the outside, I looked successful and put together. I knew I still had issues but I didn’t let on. Others saw me as harsh and unapproachable and I justified it by saying I was just focused and strong. You see, sometimes it’s easier to ignore the truth and believe the lie.

It wasn’t until about 10 years ago I was attending a small Pastor’s conference when another Pastor, one that I looked up to, delivered a stunning truth to me as we sat down for lunch. What happened next, as the spirit of truth took over, altered my journey and my life forever. 

When you take away everything that gives you a sense of value in the world, what do you have left? Is it enough to fulfill your destiny that God has ordained for you or are you living in such a way that your validity is found with Him alone? Heart issues, unresolved childhood traumas and insecurities are keeping you from healing so that you can fulfill your heavenly destiny. Your destiny needs you to be healed! You need to know your value in God’s eye. Your security is in Christ alone.

God’s healing is the most gentle and affirming healing of all. Envelope yourself in His love and allow this healing to happen.

Here’s how to get started on your journey to heal. Remember, it’s a journey:

[29:35] Jesus is your great Counselor.Lamentations 2:19. Tell the Lord every detail of every pain and every hurt without holding back. Pour out your heart like water. Ask Him to heal you. Release the words and explain the depth of pain.

[32:58] Ask the Lord to fill you with His healing love. I John 3:1. Ask Him to fill all of your voids with his healing Love.  Align your words with His. Remember you are going to come out of this on the other side.

Remember…

You are and have always been on God’s mind. Jeremiah 1:5.

Peace and security is waiting for you.

You have to pursue your healing.

Joy is real and is yours for the asking.

Pursue your Destiny!

Visit Jo Naughton’s website for more information on her “Healed for Life” series.

Please Tag, rate and review this episode and listen next week for Listener shout outs!

References:

The Amanda Ferguson Show Podcast, Season 2: Episode 3, July 22, 2019: How Jo Naughton healed from the loss of her 2-year old daughter

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-jo-naughton-healed-from-loss-her-2-year-old-daughter/id1449763984?i=1000445034105

Jo Naughton

http://www.jonaughton.com

Books:

The Many Faces of Shame

https://www.amazon.com/Many-Faces-Shame-Jo-Naughton/dp/1786235692/

My Whole Heart

https://www.amazon.com/My-Whole-Heart-Jo-Naughton/dp/1786232685/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1534616815&sr=8-5&keywords=Jo+Naughton

Healed for Life Ministries

https://www.jonaughton.com/healed-for-life/

Joyce Meyer

https://joycemeyer.org/

Scripture References:

Jeremiah 17:9-10 NIV:

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? “I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”

Lamentations 2:19 NIV:

Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; our out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at every street corner.

Proverbs 4:23 NIV:

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

Jeremiah 1:5 NIV:

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

I John 3:1 NIV:

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us I that it did not know him.

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

Join The Amanda Ferguson Show Podcast Facebook Group. Visit us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/195204731768807/

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

How to Trust Again When You’ve Been Hurt

It’s Season 3 Episode 3. This podcast was inspired by my Facebook Live. Most of my audience are female and I constantly hear that people have been hurt by other women or other relationships in the church or even within your own family. I wanted to dig deeper into from my FB live about this subject.

Grieving the loss of my mom became much more than the physical loss. I was also grieving the loss of the mom that I would never know. I always hoped that she and I would have a normal mother-daughter relationship. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, so I began to I look to other woman in my life, to fill that void. Instead of receiving the openness I had expected from these ladies, I only found rejection. I was crushed and left to fend for myself during the most difficult time of my life.

That experience left me guarded and withdrawn from relationships and from trusting people. The danger in all of this is I let the enemy turn my heart towards people and relationships. 

Listen, some of you are fixers, and you are attracted to broken people, always thinking you are going to fix them. Please know you attract who you are. It’s time to make some changes.

Here are 6 tips to learn how to trust again:

[8:47] Our disappointments come from failed expectations.Not everyone is out to get you. It’s possible that the people you except to help you aren’t able to help themselves. They simply do not have the capacity to help you right now. Pray for healing and restoration for your heart, but also for their heart. They may need healing as well.

[10:11] Surround yourself with safe people. Pray for God to bring and foster safe and healthy relationships into your life. Pray!

[11:54] Healing can come through people, safe people.We all need to have people in our lives. Safe, non-judgmental people that you can go to. Surround yourself with people who love you for who you are, are there for you and are with you, unconditionally.

[14:48] Build real human connections.Stop texting and get out there to experience real human interactions and emotions. Travel to see your friends, call people, go visit your friends. Be present, face to face. Build real, genuine relationships that go beyond social media. We were made to crave human connections.

[15:42] Don’t trust everybody. Trust is something that is earned. Allow relationships to grow organically. To do that, it takes time so slow down and put in the time in. Stop putting so much weight into people too soon. 

[18:20] Prayer for healing. This is a powerful prayer to fix brokenness and to heal wounds of the heart from failed relationships. A prayer to bring safe people into your life. Freedom from anxiety, hopelessness, the sadness and from the spirit of heaviness. Breaking the thought of suicide. 

God desires we have healthy relationships. God always knows all things!

*** If you are feeling suicidal or have had suicidal thoughts, please contact me on Instagram by sending me a message for continued prayer.***

Please Tag, rate and review this episode and listen next week for Listener shout outs!

References:

Facebook Public Page: Amanda Ferguson

https://www.facebook.com/mrsamandaferguson/

“Safe People: How to Find Relationships that are Good for You andAvoid Those That Aren’t’ by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

https://www.amazon.com/Safe-People-Relationships-Avoid-Those/dp/0310345790

Bishop T.D. Jakes

https://www.tdjakes.org/

Scripture References:

Psalm 30:5

For His anger endureth but a moment, and in His favor is life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.

1 Corinthians 2:9

However, as it is written: What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard,and what no human mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love him.

Psalm 147:3

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Jeremiah 1:5

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew[you,before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

Season 3, Episode 2: The Grace to Keep Moving

Welcome to Season 3 Episode 2. This podcast was inspired by my academy students, who asked me on several different occasions, “What do you do when you’re going through trauma and you’re trying to heal, but you still have to live? How do you do that?”

I would like to talk about two different, equally devastating experiences, and how having a true purpose, changed the way I moved forward.

Seeing my mom struggle and suffer through her battle with breast cancer was very difficult. At the age of 25, I was struggling in my own life, trying to figure out who I was, what I wanted to do and where I was supposed to be. My purpose had not been defined at the time my Mom died. I was scared, I was scattered, and I didn’t have a purpose. I just knew that I wanted to do more than what I was doing and that caused me to feel unsettled, sad and hopeless. I worked as a flight attendant, passing out snacks on an airplane and I was drowning in despair; shattered and scattered. 

When you don’t know what your purpose is, you are constantly searching for something and it usually ends up leaving you feeling empty and angry. When my mom died, I felt like God let me down. I thought I had been doing exactly what I was called to do, and yet God let this happen to my mom. I relived the nightmare of her final days and it hindered my healing. I kept reliving the same nightmare and I couldn’t move forward. When my mom died, I didn’t have a purpose. It took a long time for me to shift my thinking and to stop grieving the loss.

The difference in the seasons, the way that I dealt with the pain from my mother’s death compared to my miscarriage were vastly different. During my miscarriage, my Academy had just launched. I had an Angelic encounter where the Lord told me to start the Feminine Woman’s Academy. I was called out to train women in etiquette and femininity so that the Lord could use them (and me) to raise up a world of Esthers. This purpose was a huge part of my healing because I had a new focus. Yes, the miscarriage was devastating, but I had a purpose that God called me to do, and I was driven to do what the Lord had called me to do and it was a part of my healing. I poured out my pain and built myself up in Scriptures. I gave all of my pain and despair to God.

Here are four ways to gain the grace to keep moving:

[7:28] Know your true purpose. Please let me pray over you to help you find your true purpose so that you will find clarity and peace.

[9:12] Feed yourself on the scriptures. Read scriptures that build up your strength and your hope. 

[16:29] Take a break, but don’t stop. You don’t have go at the same pace. Take a break but to do the same things you were doing before. Don’t isolate and alienate because you don’t want to miss your blessings. 

[19:20] Refresh yourself. Do something for yourself that makes you feel a live and new. Treat yourself to something you may not do for yourself very often.

Trials will come but you can be completely free from the grief and the sadness. God will give you the grace to keep moving if you just ask Him!

Please Tag, rate and review this episode and listen next week for Listener shout outs!

References:

The Amanda Ferguson Show, Season 3, Episode 1: How God Healed me from the Grief of my Miscarriage in 3 Days

The Amanda Ferguson Show, Season 1, Episode 1: How Grief and Depression Helped Me Pivot in Life

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

Season 3, Episode 1: How God Healed Me from the Grief of my Miscarriage in 3 Days

Welcome to Season 3 of the Amanda Ferguson Show. Thank you to all of my followers following me from Season 1 and welcome to all of our new listeners! Please tag me and let me know how the podcast is touching you. Then listen next week in episode 2 for my special listener shout outs!

I like to start every new season sharing a vulnerable experience that I’ve had. People may look at my life and think everything is perfect. I’m here to tell you that no one’s life is perfect. By sharing some of these experiences, I can offer you something other than how to simply deal with pain but how to overcome that pain and actually heal from it.

After months of planning and preparations for our final baby, we were beyond excited when we found out we were pregnant. A few weeks into my pregnancy I began to feel like something was wrong. My husband and I have three children already, so I know when I’m pregnant and I know how it should feel. When things started to feel differently, I began to worry. Within 24 hours, we had lost our baby.

The pain of losing this beautiful life was overwhelming. The guilt and the shock were just too much to bear. I was devastated. 

Fortunately for us, we are surrounded by a close group of people that we consider our Tribe. These are the ones that we hold close and respect. Sharing our grief with them was the beginning of our supernatural healing, in just 3 days. 

Here are the 4 ways that God healed me from this overwhelming sadness in just 3 days! 

[7:31] You have to let people in. Our Tribe was overwhelmed with sadness with us. There is power in allowing people into your life. They were with us through the pain and the tears.

[9:17] Let God comfort you. Don’t let your anger towards God keep you from Him comforting you. The Lord is your Father and wants to take care of you. He is the perfect Father. He’s just waiting for you to come to Him. Let Him.

[11:59] Special prayer to know God as your Father. You know Him as a Savior, let Him love you as your Father.

[13:26] Give Him your pain. Being a Christian doesn’t automatically keep you from trials. You are not expected to carry all of your pain alone. Ask the Lord to take the pain away and give it to Him. Joy will follow.

[17:14] Nothing in life is wasted. God uses every single thing for His Glory! No pain, no miscarriage, no abortion is ever considered waste!

Please know, you do not have to lose a part of yourself because of the pain and the trails you go through. The Lord will fully restore you when you let Him have your pain and you let Him into your life!
 

Please Tag, rate and review this episode and listen next week for Listener shout outs!

Scripture References:

Romans 12:15 (NIV) Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

1 Peter 4:12 (NIV) Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV) Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”.

References:

Jo Naughton on the Amanda Ferguson Show Podcast; Season 2, Episode 3; July 22, 2019: “How Jo Naughton healed from the loss of her 2-year old daughter”

Link: iTunesAmanda Ferguson and Jo Naughton in Season 2, Episode 3.

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

When you feel like you have already progressed so far, it can be hard to force yourself to stop, turn back and look at the beginnings of your story. This is exactly what was being asked of me by my therapist. I did not like it. I was thriving! My business was successful, my kids and I were spending quality time together and my husband and I were living the dream.

So why would I ever look to my past?

At this point in my life, I kept trying to advance in the goals and dreams I had for myself, but nothing was working out. Have you ever felt like you were doing everything in your power to make something happen and the results just would not show up? Well, I had to come to the hard realization, by my therapist, that all my chasing was for nothing if I continued to chase after my future.

Now, that sounds confusing so let me break it down. My problem wasn’t that I was going after my dreams. It was that I was pursuing my dreams so aggressively as a way to avoid what I actually needed to confront.

My past.

In trying to avoid the pain I still quietly carried in my heart, I was trying to trail blaze through all my goals for the future. I want to save you some time and tell you that you will only be able to get so far in your life, dreams and goals before you will have to turn back and confront.

My therapist was painfully spot on. The pain of dealing with what had happened in my family was too difficult to process. Hardships, financial problems, deaths, abandonment and more were too much for me to deal with then, and it still felt too hard as an adult. As a result, I decided, whether I realized it or not, that I would not stop to process the memories. I would simply outrun them instead.

Unsurprisingly, that didn’t work. I thought I still had to “become”. However, I would never feel like I “arrived” until I dealt with those broken pieces inside of me. Only then would I truly become the best version of myself and no longer have the need to chase anything.

If you can relate to any of this, I want you to know that it is your reality. You don’t have to chase anything. That instinct to chase comes from feeling that you still need to get work done before you can call yourself a success. Except, you already are a success. If you want the best for your life, you are already on the right track.

So instead of getting frustrated and discouraged in your pursuit to live your best life, make success chase you instead. How? You need to start from the beginning. Follow the three tips I learned along the way and implement them! I was surprised at how these small tips made such a huge impact in every area of my life.

How to Make Success Chase You

[10:25] Slow down to speed up. I know you want to run through your goals, but you would be amazed at how much you can get done when you take the time to slow down your pace.

[11:57] Allow your pain to unravel in layers. The process may take time. It could be days, weeks or months. Be gentle and give yourself the time you need to fully go through this process.

[18:18] Choose you. This does not make you selfish, it is necessary!

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References:

Feminine Woman Academy, https://www.femininewomanacademy.com/

As a wife I have the responsibility to bring peace, happiness and order to my marriage. A little spice never hurt either though! How to keep that special spice alive in your marriage is a question I get asked often. After seven years of marriage, it could have been easy to fall into the trap of getting comfortable instead of continuously going the extra mile for my husband.

I remember when I was newly married how people would tell me the initial fire you feel at the beginning of marriage is bound to go away. I wouldn’t accept that. I can confidently say that my husband and I are just as in love now as we were in our first year. However, I had to be intentional.

I love being a wife to my amazing husband and because I am so grateful to him, I go out of my way to make his life easier. Learning just how to do this was the part that took some extra effort. Scratch that, a lot of effort! One main key you will hear me talk about, is always looking presentable.

That may sound simple, but years ago I didn’t know what I did now. One of the main arguments my husband and I would have was in how I dressed. Looking back, he was right, but at the moment I believed I knew way more about how to pull an outfit together than he did! Learning what hairstyle looked best on me and how to do it myself was tricky. Learning how to do my makeup right required trial and error. It didn’t happen overnight, but I got there! And you can too.

It can be easy to give up before you even start trying to learn, but I promise you it is worth it. As his wife, I help set the tone of our marriage, so if I want sparks to fly I have to be a little strategic. Knowing that men are highly visual makes me want to look all the better for him. And if I am going to be honest, knowing that I look good to him makes me feel so in touch with my femininity.

The same way I set out to be an uncommon wife, is the same way I made sure that my marriage would be full of passion. I discovered that keeping the passion alive didn’t take as much work as one might think. Follow along with my key tips on how to do it, I think you’ll be surprised at how easy you can implement them!

5 Ways to Keep Your Spice As a Wife:

[3:42] Dance around the house for no reason. It makes laughter and happiness come out!

[8:29] Keep a journal of what stresses out your husband. The less stressful your partner is, the more peace there will be in the house.

[10:44] Look good while you cook. You should try to look presentable no matter what you are doing, but I especially advise some eye shadow while you cook!

[15:50] Spend extra time on your hair and makeup. If you aren’t too skilled, watch video tutorials online or visit a local beauty store that can service you.

[23:57] Remind your husband how great he is to you. Men need to be told compliments too!

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References:

Feminine Woman Academy, https://www.femininewomanacademy.com/

Storytelling is an art.

Have you ever wondered why people admire a good storyteller? There is something about a person who knows how to communicate well that touches our hearts. The art of storytelling can impact millions, and it can also take your influence to the next level.

Everyone has a story inside of them that can impact thousands. You probably have life stories of your own that may shock the people around you. Maybe you have always wanted to share what your journey has really been like, you just don’t know how to do it in a way that will do it justice. I completely understand!

I get complimented so many times on how good of a speaker I am. Except, I am not a good speaker because I was born that way. Just like any other skill, it took practice! Even more than practice, I discovered that when I was my most vulnerable, open and transparent I received the most traction. Only then did people really connect with me and want to get to know me more.

To this day, I continue to do just that. If you have listened to my other podcast episodes or follow me on social media, you will see that I have a storytelling style. I always want to bring my audience close by sharing a personal story of mine, opening up deeply about a struggle or thought, and I finish with encouragement. I am not afraid to go to a deep place with people! I have talked about the struggles of motherhood, marriage, family, business, you name it! And strangers who I have never met finish feeling like we are best friends.

The reason is very simple. Being open makes you relatable. People relate to your struggles more than they will ever relate to your victory! The impact is in your victory, the connection forms when you get real about your struggles.

I can personally attribute a large amount of my success to the way I tell stories! I want you to have success in it too. Follow along below to find out my secrets on how to tell your story in a way that will make an impact.

Story Telling Tips

[4:19] It’s not about you, its all about them (your audience). Your story may be powerful, but the real impact is how your story can bring change to others.

[8:13] Figure out which type of storyteller you are. Everyone has their own unique style that works for them.

[16:18] Be likeable! This creates a long-lasting connection with people.

Subscribe & Review

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References:

Feminine Woman Academy https://www.femininewomanacademy.com/

Back by popular demand, this week’s episode I am going deeper into how to heal from mother and father wounds. If you heard me talk about this in season 1 already, I want you to still take the time to listen to this episode. Why? Because healing has layers.

There was a time where I put my raw emotions on the back burner and decided to move forward with my life instead. Except I never really went anywhere emotionally. Even as time passed me by, my heart never moved from the place of pain after my mother passed away. The more I ignored the resentment I had towards my father, the longer I would remain stagnant. I do not want you to do the same.

Whether we notice it or not, the pain we experience in our childhood is still in our hearts as adults if that pain never went through a process. Your pain, whatever the source of it is, needs to go through a grieving process. Many of us avoid this process because we think we should just get over it and move on with our lives. Some of us think it makes us weak if we continuously cry over a loved one that is no longer with us. A sad moment I unnecessarily made myself endure as a result of not allowing myself to grieve was loneliness.

The truth is, pain is isolating. Pain can build walls that make genuine people that want to be there for you unable to since you have made yourself unreachable. A week after my mother’s funeral I felt more alone than I ever had before. That feeling grew with time and resulted in me secretly being upset with my friends and family for not seeing the wounds I was hiding. The problem was not a lack of people who were willing to support me. It was a lack on my part of willing to be vulnerable.

Who around you do you know would gladly be your crying shoulder if you opened up about your feelings? If a person comes to mind, I encourage you to reach out to that person, set a lunch date, and talk about it. If you feel like you don’t have that kind of person you can turn to, well I have great news for you.

Even if everyone else has forgotten you, God never has. You were always on His mind and you didn’t leave his sight. Not for a second. He knows everything you have been through and is the best friend, therapist, and father that can help you heal.

Along with God, I was fortunate enough to realize what I was doing wrong and started to allow people to come into my life who could truly help me on my journey. I want to share with you the key advice I received on my journey to healing, in hopes that I can be this person for you too. I know that if you truly allow yourself to go through this process, you will come out stronger, free and full of joy.

Listen until the end to hear me pray over you, and know that nothing is impossible!

How to Heal from Mother and Father Wounds
[13:00] Ask God to soften your heart towards the person you feel resentment for. God can help you see a person that you may have hated through the eyes of love.

[18:28] God can handle your disappointment. It’s easy to be upset with God when life doesn’t work out the way we wanted it to. Tell Him how you feel anyway.

[19:57] Ask God to bring someone into your life that can be a mother or father figure that you need.

[23:20] You don’t have to be afraid to heal. Allow yourself to start the process and go from there.

[25:14] Write a letter to the person who has caused you pain. It may sound silly, but this method brought

[27:19] Write a letter to your younger self. Let out all the emotions you have bottled up since your youth.

Subscribe and Review
Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References:
Isiah 49:15
John 14:18

Many of you have asked me how to look polished from head to toe. The key is, before you can look polished you need to know a few things first.

Before I go into this, I want you to know that I was not always the polished woman you see me as today. While being polished and profitable was always God's intention for me, and for every woman, there was a time where I disliked myself so much that I would change clothes in the dark.

I did not want to see my body because I was ashamed of it. I saw the shape of my body as being the reason why I was molested at a young age or why male teachers use to treat me unprofessionally. More so, this caused me to want to hide my body and dress in clothes two times my actual size.

Do you think God wanted me to treat my body, his work of art, this way? Absolutely not. He definitely did not want me to hold on to a shame that was never mine to carry.

Before you can be a polished woman on the outside, you need to know with every fiber of your being that God took his time when He made you. You are a walking masterpiece of awe and wonder. I used to think that I was hideous when in reality, every feature of my face and body, was intentional.

God did not make my nose, ears, lips or body shape in a rush. I was not made as an afterthought or as an experiment. And neither were you. I want you to believe that with so much confidence and truth. Your dark hair was intentional, your eyebrows, no matter how thick or thin, were on purpose. Own it!

Society has such high, ever-changing standards of what beauty is, but God’s definition of beauty does not change with the trends. His definition of beauty is a woman who is strong like a pillar that holds a palace up. A woman that is so sure and confident of who she is, that she does not need to compete with anyone else. Instead, she is a woman that offers love, kindness and brings peace to whoever is in contact with her.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to look beautiful on the outside! But do not conform to other people’s standards of beauty because it will surely only lead to self-hatred and low self-esteem like it did for me.

I want to make it clear that wanting to see a change in how you look is completely okay! As long as that desire is because you want to better yourself out of self-love. I know some of today’s culture has a message of femininity being related to weakness and that it allows men to objectify a woman. I believe that tapping into our femininity and womanhood allows us to access our true God-given strength!

The truth is, becoming polished does not mean I want you to be a pretty doll to look at because you are truly so much more than that. Being polished attracts opportunities that can bring breakthrough in your life and if you take cultures advice and abandon your femininity, you could be missing out on all the answered prayers you have been petitioning for!

God always intended for you. Even if no one else chose you, you were chosen by your Heavenly Father. In embracing my true beauty, I was able to be everything God had called me to be.

God wants to do the same in you!

How to Be a Polished Woman
[8:46] Know that you are a pillar of beauty. You are a walking mater piece. Your beauty comes from the inside out. You are a work of art already even if you may not feel that way right now!

[20:33] Be a pillar of strength. Being a woman does not mean you are just something to be enjoyable to look at. As a woman, you are called to be strong, durable and supportive to your families, friends and this world.

[28:07] Work on your inner self as much as you would on your outer self. This will attract opportunities that you have always wanted!

Subscribe and Review
Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Clickhere to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References
Psalms 144:12 “Our daughters will be like corner pillars carved like those in the palace.”

Being a mother is without a doubt one of my favorite titles.

Even though I have a successful business, nothing makes me happier than being with my family. Since this is such a huge priority for me, as I know it is a priority for most of you all, I wanted to tell you my personal story on how I decided my kids’ education for this year.

Making these decisions for them and trying to find the perfect school caused me to have anxiety at one point. In previous years, my husband had always felt that public school just wouldn’t be right for our three girls. He was more in favor of other alternatives. I, on the other hand, knowing that we were still in the process of building our businesses, figured that God would speak to my husband and convince him otherwise.

I reigned in my emotions and followed the guidance of the Holy Spirit to give my wondering to God and let it go, trusting that He would guide me to the perfect plan for my family and me.

And so, he did.

Instead of my husband agreeing with my original thought, my mind began to change and I felt a pull to start researching for Christian schools. I ended up finding an amazing hybrid program that worked perfectly with our business schedule, and our family schedule. I immediately felt at peace and thank God, our daughters are beyond excited for school this year with so many plans already set!

If I hadn’t given this decision to God, I may not have ever found this amazing program that allowed me to have quality time with my girls and still give them an excellent education they could be excited about.

It took me being open, trusting God and following His lead to come to a decision that ultimately was the best plan for our family.
Now, what works for my family may not work for you. I want you to know the key is to simply be open to what the perfect plan for your family may look like.

This hybrid program is certainly outside of the box and is very different than the kind of education that neither my husband nor I ever experienced. My heart is to provide my kids with possibilities, experiences, and exposures that I didn’t get at their age. Walking into something new was not going to stop me from giving that to them.

If you too are wondering how to make school decisions for your kids, follow along with my tips below to find out! It might even help you to apply in decision making outside of just this scenario.

How to Decide on A Plan for Your Family
[6:27] Be Holy Spirit led. Follow his lead and He will guide you to the right decision. This removes anxiety and allows us to trust God and walk in peace.

[8:34] Follow your peace. If a choice brings you peace, it is usually an indication that you are in the right direction.

[10:12] Access your schedule. Knowing what does and does not work for your schedule as a parent is a good starting point.

[23:40] Always remain flexible. If you have more than one child, what may work for one child, may not work for the other. If you keep an open mind, each child can blossom in the environment that works best for them individually.

[27:12] Take it one step at a time. What works right now, may not work later. You don’t have to lock in a set plan!

Subscribe & Review
Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Clickhere to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

Life can be so full of unexpected events.

From forming friendships that you didn’t know could happen, to stumbling upon a six-figure business without even meaning to. This week I have another special guest that I believe will bless every single and married couple out there.

Co-creator of “Married and Young” a blog with articles full of every topic under the sun about godly dating, Natasha Miller will talk to you about her beautiful, unorthodox journey to meeting her husband Jamal Miller and how their YouTube video “The Facebook Love Story” completely changed their lives!

Natasha explains how God has taken her from food stamps to six figures, all by consistently having Jesus at the center of her life, prayer, and obedience. For most of us, we’ve heard this kind of advice concerning finding your husband or wife, and sometimes it is definitely easier said than done. And yet, waiting on God has always proven to be worth it!

For Jamal and Natasha, waiting went to a whole other level with distance being involved in their relationship. He lived in Chicago and Natasha was living in California. Jamal was attracted by her genuine love for God as he discovered her on Facebook, and after much prayer and counsel with his spiritual authorities, he messaged her! From there, the rest is His story.

The key to their success? They both saw the opportunity to be of service to believers of all ages who were seeking to do dating and marriage God’s way and decided to answer the call.

Walking in alignment with the purpose that God has over your life is one of the greatest feelings.

I do not want you to take the easy route. I do not want you to give up on the beautiful, supernatural calling of God over your life.

When you wait patiently for your husband or wife to come, your testimony will not only bless you, but it will bless others around you.

In the middle of our frustrations, we forget that God will use us to be the answer to the problems we see. Sometimes we are given a front-row seat to these kinds of issues because we are being called by the stirring of our souls to be the solution to the very problem that frustrates us.

Because of our frustration, it becomes too easy to make mistakes in this area, which is why so many believers get discouraged when relationships don’t go as planned. Discouragement causes believers to wonder if they should take things into their own hands.

I hope that Natasha’s story causes you to not quit on the plans God has for you. God had plans with their relationship, and He has plans for you and your spouse too.
 
Advice on Purpose-Filled Marriage and Business:
[14:39] Work with what you got, be consistent, be faithful and God will give you ideas for a business!

[15:59] Be a risk-taker. Everyone in business has seen highs and lows, but you shouldn’t quit the journey out of fear.

 [17:59] Hiring staff. Intentional about developing them, praying for them, being a part of their life to a certain degree.

[20:37] Protect your heart. Do not let it get hardened by your business. Have the balance of separating business, family, and marriage.

[22:57] Be confident in what you know you can do. Don’t doubt your strengths nor abandon them.

[24:25] When thinking about branding, ask yourself what you want to be known for.

[24:57] Clarity comes in the doing. You may not have all the answers in the beginning but while you are trying to answer the questions one piece at a time, it will come to you.

[25:46] Just be. Everything you need for success is already in you so don’t be afraid. It's going to work out, just do!

Subscribe & Review on iTunes
Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Clickhere to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References:
Instagram Account @natashaannmiller
Fearless Womens Mentorship Program
Married and Young Blog
Single and Married Conference

Dealing with pain is not something that we should be ashamed of.

Deep down, we know everyone is struggling, yet no one wants to talk about their struggle. When your pain goes silent, it only begins to fester and take root even deeper into your heart. Your pain needs the freedom to come out and express itself in a healthy way.

Last week you heard Pat and I be vulnerable about our own journeys, but the pain is not the only part of the story. It’s really only a piece. The story of how we found healing is what truly makes a difference with others.

The way Pat was powerfully drawn to the altar after her first divorce. The way I was called out by God through a pastor in the middle of a church service, where I would never be the same again.

Healing began when God met us right where we were. Healing continued when we stopped running from our pain and instead began to confront it.

If what you are dealing with makes you feel alone, I want you to know something. People can connect with you when you take your mask off, more than they ever could with it on. You do not have to do this journey alone. I want to encourage you to open up about your pain without fear. I know how scary and uncomfortable this can be. I also know how freeing and powerful it can be too.

This is where second chances are born. Your pain is an opportunity to start fresh. Even if it may take some time or a couple of tries, second chances are where God can transform the direction of your life. Even if you think it is unrecoverable, unredeemable or impossible the second time around.

God always has a future in mind for you, regardless of what you may have done. Regardless of what has been done to you. It’s time to get out of your grief and start walking in purpose!

If you need support in this area, tune in until the end to receive a powerful prayer from Pat just for you!

How to Deal with Pain Continued:
[5:18] Know that your pain is a gateway to draw closer to Christ. Your pain, when surrendered to the feet of Christ, can transform from just a story of pain to a story of glorious victory.

[5:55] You are given second chances, repeatedly. God is a God of second chances. There is more for you than where you may be right now.

[8:27] Pay attention to where your thoughts are coming from. Recognize when a thought is not yours. This will indicate where your pain is actually coming from.

[11:53] It’s okay to not be okay. Your healing journey may have layers and take more time to fully mend, and that is okay.

[17:35] Let your pain fall apart so you can begin to rebuild. Let it all come out because the longer your pain goes without having a space of expression, the deeper your pain takes root in your heart.

[23:50] If your pain is coming from your family or marriage, look at the relationship of your grandparents, then your parents’ marriage. History will tell you where the issues are coming from.

[31:41] Consider sharing your pain with others. You don’t have to start with a social media post to all your followers. It can be as simple as being real with one person you are close to first. The people closest to you will be forever impacted by this, and you can begin a new culture of transparency.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Clickhere to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over oniTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more of The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References:
Pat Smith's book "Second Chances: Finding Healing for Your Pain, Regaining Your Strength, Celebrating Your New Life”.

In this life, we are all just trying to become. We strive to become better as individuals, as a spouse, friend, leader and so much more. Sometimes we get so caught up in trying to become, that we skip over key moments that require us to dig deep into who we use to be and find healing from our past. One of those key moments that go skipped all too easily is our moments of deep pain.

This week, I wanted to bring someone on the show who is very special to me and I believe is the perfect example of a woman who found the strength to heal without shame. Pat Smith, besides being wife to legendary football player Emmitt Smith, is also the author of "Second Chances" where she talks about finding healing from times of pain and living a new life!

The strength to heal can be found in a friend. As someone who can relate to the specific pain of losing a mother, I found that in Pat.

Pat's mother passed away from cancer at the young age of 22 and recalls how almost every problem in her life back then could be traced to the pain of losing her mother. It affected her mindset, perspective, and daily life decisions. If you have listened to season 1 of my show, you will remember the episode of how mother wounds cut me deeply in my past too.

The truth is, there is power in your pain. Your pain serves a purpose in your life. Whether it may be to grow you, teach you or strengthen you, I want you to know that your pain is not a punishment of suffering. It is much more than that.

Another hard truth most of us do not like to face is that sometimes we need external help to leave the place of pain and breakthrough into healing and freedom. Pat gets vulnerable in talking about how it took both prayer and seeing a therapist regularly for her to get to such a place.

While the church preaches of praying problems away, there should not be any shame in finding spiritual counsel and medical help alongside prayer. Why are Pat and I firm believers of this? Because we have done it ourselves and are proven witnesses to this fact! Pain has layers and there came a time where we needed all the tools that were provided to us.

I want you to know that there is no shame in seeking help from others. Christian couples, there is no shame in meeting with a spiritual counselor to help solve the problems in your marriage. In fact, this would make you wise for seeking counsel, rather than knowing you have no idea what to do and allow marital problems to continue!

An even greater act of wisdom that Pat shares is "Do it as early as possible. Don't wait." Why seek help at the moment of chaos and crisis, if you can do damage control before the storm hits? This preparation is only to the benefit of the loved ones around you. The benefits of therapy will help you in every relationship in your life. It can help you be a better wife, mom, daughter, and friend.

This goes beyond just you.

I want you to know the advice Pat has to give from her story of pain so you can get your life back!

How to Deal with Pain
[12:34] Realize that your ministry is found in your misery. Someone out there is going through exactly what you are. If you allow your pain to be transparent, it could help thousands relate to you. Even better, you all could have victory over that pain.

[12:58] You don't have to have it all together to help someone else. You can find healing while still helping others.

[14:44] See someone. It could be a pastor, a spiritual counselor, a therapist, or any other source you are comfortable with. It is nothing to be ashamed of!

[15:51] It takes both medical and spiritual help. Be willing and open to both professional and spiritual help.

[19:03] Service your marriage as if it were a car. Do it as early as possible. Don't wait until it is a total loss.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes
Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing to your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over oniTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast. For more The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson.

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

References
Pat Smith'sbook"Second Chances: Finding Healing for Your Pain, Regaining Your Strength, Celebrating Your New Life”.

How to Heal from Mother Wounds

How you dress expresses how you feel. In this week’s episode I want to challenge you to not dress how you feel, but instead, dress how you want to be perceived. It makes all the difference.

I remember when I use to be depressed. The way I walked, looking down to the floor and slouched certainly exuded what I felt on the inside. Can I tell you that one key to get out of that depression and receive what I have been praying for is in changing the way I dressed?

This show is not about materialistic ideals. How you see yourself as a person is how you will be perceived by others. So, it starts with changing the way you see and speak to yourself.

Want to be a business owner? Dress like it. Want to be a great stay at home mom? Well, elegantly present yourself while at home! Maybe you have been wanting to get a promotion at your job, but it just hasn’t happened yet. You know you are more than qualified, yet you continue to get overlooked. I am going to ask you a question that I ask all my students who have this same problem.

Does your image project promotion? Do you arrive to work with hair, makeup, and a well-thought outlook? Most people wait for the promotion, to dress the part and that is the opposite of what you should be doing! You need to have the image first, or else no one will be able to envision the success you desire for yourself. This means you need to prepare for it.

Of course, clothes do not make the whole look work on its own. We need to take the time to correct the small details as well. Walk with confidence, not slouched shoulders. Looking tall with your head held high, instead of looking down on the floor. These small corrections thought seemingly unimportant can be tied to why some blessings have yet to be released over you!

As always, I am going to help you become the best version of yourself because I have been there and I know what it is like to not have guidance in looking the part for success. But remember, clothes alone do not make you. Your identity in knowing that you are a son or daughter of the Most High God is what will always make you stand out, no matter what.

Dressing How You Want to Be Perceived

[6:04] Declare who you are and who you want to be. There is power in the words you speak, especially what you say to yourself. Stop being your worst critic and speak what God says over you instead.

[10:09] Get up early. Take your time to put in that extra effort. Even if you are the first to wake up in the house, to pray, get ready and feel prepared for the day!

[16:47] Your closet should have a black dress or suit. Also, a black pair of heels. To top it off you need to create your signature style. This goes along with your personality! Pinterest will show you how to elevate the ideas you may already have.

[19:20] Check your complete look from head to toe. Make sure everything matches, is seamless and exudes elegance.

[23:42] Your perception of yourself is how others will perceive you. Walk with your head held high. Get a full-body mirrored and check your posture, how you walk and how you feel when you look in the mirror. This is being mindful! Love yourself.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing to your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast. For more The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson.

Also, to be the first to receive email alerts, subscribe to amandasclub.com. Thank you so much!

Today I am touching on a topic most people shy away from. If you have been following me since season 1, you know that I lost both my mother and father.

Both losses affected me in very different ways. This episode, I want to touch on the topic of losing someone again since I know many people continue to be wounded over such a tragedy.

Prophet Jo Naughton lives in London, England. She currently has her church and travels to speak at her events “Healed for Life” where she tells people the story of how she found healing after her 2-year-old daughter passed away and helps others find healing through the love of God.

After experiencing such an excruciating loss, Jo started to question God. She started to ask God why this happened to her. You may have similar questions too. I know for me, after my mother

passed away, I asked God why he didn’t tell me beforehand that such a thing would happen.

I asked Him why he allowed me to see other people’s futures yet was not able to see her passing coming. I asked so many questions and while I was saved and knew that God was good, I had pain.

I was saved but wounded. You can be both. For some of you, you can identify with such a feeling. But healing is not found in the answer to why.

The reality is God wants to supernaturally heal your heart. He can heal all your wounds and internal pain. You can be free from all pain and deal with your grief until it becomes a thing of your past. Jo and I go over the key steps that God took us through to ensure that we would have real freedom after losing those dearest to our hearts.

I pray that each step helps you to find peace, wholeness, and joy again. Not only will this give you victory but it will allow you to have a testimony that will impact everyone you come into contact with. Your victory will be a signal to anyone hurting from the loss of a loved one that they too, can have victory too.

Steps to Healing After Losing A Loved One

[18:15] Sometimes we ask God why. Why are tragic things happening to you? Questions like these bind you in confusion and despair. Who, what, where, when and why. These questions all mean ‘chaos’ in Hebrew. All the while you search for answers you remain in chaos. Let your questions go.

[20:02] Give up your right to an answer. Lay down your questioning so peace can enter in.

[22:00] Instead of saying God why me, tell him to use you. Pain conquered gives you the victory and authority over that pain so you can heal others. It goes beyond just you!

[23:20] Cry before the Lord. Allow yourself to hurt, cry, weep and shout. All that is inside of you must come out. This is different than a normal cry. This is crying that heals you.

[27:01] Allow God to heal you. The word says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” This happens when we surrender. You have to let God heal you and disconnect from the pain which sometimes becomes a justification for so many things. Give your pain over to Him.

[33:16] Allow God to fill every void. ‘Shalom’ in Hebrew means “Nothing missing, nothing broken”. That is the peace of God. After losing someone, you miss them. This means you are reserving a place for that person instead of allowing God to be your all and all.

Link mentioned:
http://www.jonaughton.com

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

If you don’t want to be in a cage you don’t have to be.

I realized this for myself not too long ago through a dream I kept on having repeatedly.

In this dream, I saw a woman in a cage. She was bound, she could not stand up straight and she looked weak. A man would open the door to the cage and tell me to get in. Usually, at this point, I would begin to hyperventilate and sweat until I eventually woke up.

This dream continuously haunted me until one night, I went to sleep and found myself in the dream again, except this time, when the man told me to get in the cage, I said within myself “This is only a dream, at any given moment I can decide to wake up and I am not going inside that cage.”

Dreams are like thoughts and imaginations sometimes in the sense that they are just illusions. Of course, this dream was not happening in my real life. However, it represented how I felt, which was stuck.

Take note, how I felt is separate from what is true. I may have felt stuck but that doesn’t mean that I was stuck.

Similarly, you may feel as though there is no way out of the life you were born into.

That is a lie!

Your dream life is more reachable than you know, it all depends on how you think. Your mindset is the difference between how you see yourself now, to what you can become.

If we shift how we think and change our perspective, then the reality of our life can change dramatically.

Some of you have been experiencing deep fear, stress, anxiety and other feelings that only keep you bound. It is the only feeling you have known for a very long time. If you are tired of this, the decision to be happy, have joy and experience freedom again is completely up to you.

The decision is yours! I remember looking at wealthy people on the street. They had cars that cost thousands of dollars and high-end clothes. I always wondered what made them so special that they were allowed to have such riches. Do you know what I found out?

Every successful person has a mindset of possibility and opportunities. They have no cap or boundary about where they can go in life! Most importantly, none of them have the mindset of a victim.

They do not feel defeated. They do not feel attacked. Rather, they continue to set higher goals for themselves. They knew they can go even farther in life.

No matter what your life looks like, you can choose a life of abundance, peace, and prosperity.

I hope that through this episode you will get your thoughts and mindset to say that you can do anything that you set your mind to.

Remember: The sky is not the limit. There are no limits over you.

How to decide to leave your old mindset!

[19:48] Envision your dream life. Go ahead and get as wild and detailed as your heart may take you. Know without a single doubt, that this life is possible for you!

[18:54] Conquer the thoughts that say you were born into lack. It all starts in your mind. You have to believe it within yourself and call out all the lies inside of your mind about your life.

[21:35] Make a choice, change your mind and work towards your dreams. Become the answer/solution to the very thing that has tried to take you down.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

As a Christian, have you ever felt ashamed for wanting to see a therapist?
You are not the only one! In this episode, I will share my experience of attending therapies to deal with my inner pain.
 
Many times we think that because we are Christian individuals or Public Figures,  it is not right to want to seek a therapist. It is time to change that mentality and to take care of our emotional health. Many of you have been hurt emotionally and physically by people. Remember that you must give a voice to your pain!
 
There are internal wounds and traumatic events that you have been dealing with for years. You can’t pretend that it is in the past and you have moved on when in reality it still hurts when it comes to mind. You need to let God heal your heart by allowing pain to resurface and have the courage to confront it. 
 
One of the most beautiful things that we have experienced as a married couple while attending Christian therapy has been the level of closeness within our marriage.  See my husband hesitated to the idea of joining me for therapy. However, we were able to enter into a new level of intimacy. 
 
Powerful tips when attending therapy as a married couple:
 
[04:30] You must let the pain come out. If you submerge pain for a while, it can come out like a flow.

 [16:06] There is a level of intimacy and vulnerability in the marriage. 

[17:15] Perfect love without judgment will emerge. Keep in mind that you can’t judge each other for the way of processing pain.

 [22:04] Things become healed when you allow it to come to the surface. You must have the courage to confront and the courage to push through. 

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunes to have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over oniTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!

"What's Your Why" is meant to be a thought provoking episode and a peek into the beginnings of my business. Be sure to sign up for my email club at AmandasClub.com to be the first to be invited to 2 speical events this year.

You are special, unique, extravagant and everything about you, down to the details, make you unlike anyone else on this planet. Considering that there are 7 billion people on earth, that is saying something! And it is true.

God does not make copies. You are a masterpiece, formed by the greatest artist ever known. The same goes for your personal story. The world is waiting to connect with someone just like you.

In this episode, I want to encourage you to use your voice and tell your story because it will make all the difference to millions. I know that this can seem easier said than done. With some training and practice, you can master this skill and begin touching lives all around the world.

The first challenge is to get the boldness to share your story. The second challenge is on mastering how to tell your message to others in an impactful way. You already know your story is unique, now you just need to know how to make it memorable and easy to understand.

Here I will teach you how to tell your story in the most skillful way possible, to truly make your amazing story connect in a lasting way with others. I have three tips that you do not want to miss!

How to Tell your Unique Story to Others:

[15:08] Create your content. This means, write down the details of your testimony on paper and think it through. If you have never done this before, chances are you missed some powerful details that you forgot about!

[16:43] Learn the art of telling your story. You should be able to tell your complete unique story in five minutes. Yes, I said five minutes. This always calls for learning to refine your voice. This will take practice because not everyone knows how to control their pitch, tone, and diction.

[21:43] Copywriting. Find your unique voice via words. This can be done through writing, books, ads, emails and more. This goes along with perfecting your niche.

Resources Mentioned:

The Amanda Ferguson Story

Amanda Ferguson on Joni Table Talk

Femininewomanacademy.com

Amandasclub.com

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Have you subscribed to The Amanda Ferguson podcast? If you have not, I would encourage you to do that today. I would not like for you to miss any of the episodes coming up this season. I will be adding bonus episodes and if you are not subscribed there might be a possibility that you’ll miss out on them. Click here to subscribe in iTunesto have the podcast downloaded to your device every week.

I would love to stay connected with you! If my podcast is blessing your life, I would appreciate if you left me a review over on iTunes. Select the Ratings & Reviews and write a review. I will be reading your reviews and do not forget to comment on what was your favorite part of the podcast.

For more The Amanda Ferguson Show, you can also follow me on Instagram and Facebook @mrsamandaferguson. Thank you so much!