• 214. How to Prioritize Your Needs Without Guilt: Breaking Free from Survival Mode as a Christian Woman
    Jan 27 2026

    Struggling with guilt when you prioritize self-care? Learn practical ways to move from survival mode to thriving, honoring your God-given needs without apology.

    Ready to feel more fulfilled in life?

    If you're ever wanted to become a Life Coach, now’s the time to look into what it’s all about!

    Book your free discovery call where we'll explore your dreams and see if “Messy Life Transformation Coaching Certification" is a fit for you.

    These calls are super chill, just me with my coffee, having a real conversation about your life and where you want to go.

    👉 Schedule your free call at here!

    If you're drowning in everyone else's needs while yours stay buried, this episode is your permission slip to stop.

    I almost talked myself out of beach yoga this morning. The guilt showed up fast, “shouldn't I be working?” But here's what I've learned after years of running on fumes: you can't pour from an empty well, and God didn't design you to survive on exhaust.

    In This Episode:

    [00:03:15] Why Self-Care Feels Like Rebellion The guilt Christian women carry when prioritizing their needs, and the theology that actually supports self-stewardship.

    [00:08:42] The Frog in Boiling Water How we adapt to dysfunction without realizing it—and why you don't need different circumstances to start thriving (Isaiah 43:18).

    [00:14:20] Practical Self-Prioritization Time blocking, identifying your actual needs, scheduling white space, and giving yourself permission to figure it out as you go.

    [00:22:37] External Processing for Overthinkers Finding safe spaces to get the noise out—journaling, coaching, therapy, trusted community.

    [00:28:15] Your First Responsibility Why stewarding yourself isn't selfish—it's obedience.

    Key Truths:

    ✨ "Your first responsibility to the Lord is to steward YOU. How can you steward everyone else if you're just a dry well?"

    ✨ The Sabbath wasn't created for God—it was created for YOU. Rest is holy.

    ✨ Progress over perfection. Move yourself up one burner at a time.

    ✨ While you still have breath in your lungs, God is not done with you.

    Your 24-Hour Challenge:

    Do something radical for yourself. Beach yoga. Breakfast without phones. A walk where you just exist. Whatever you need—lean into it.

    Ready to Stop Running on Empty?

    If you're tired of survival mode and ready for a safe space to process what's actually going on, let's talk.

    Book your free discovery call where we'll explore where you're stuck, whether coaching is right for your season, and how to move forward.

    These calls are super chill, just me with my coffee, having a real conversation about your life and where you want to go.

    👉 Schedule your free call at AHolyMess.com

    Remember: You're not selfish for taking care of yourself. You're being obedient to how God designed you to live. 💙

    Cheering for you,

    Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    20 mins
  • 213. I Felt Like I Was ‘Too Much’ AND ‘Not Enough.’ Until I Learned This Lesson
    Jan 24 2026

    Hey friend!

    Today we're talking about nervous system regulation. If that sounds "woo" to you, I get it. But this is biblical, and science is catching up.

    What We're Covering:

    When I got sober, I was SO dysregulated. I'd go straight into fight or flight over everything. I had to learn to catch myself and regulate instead of constantly reacting from trauma.

    The Messy Life Transformation Coaching Certification: 6 months of YOUR transformation first. Yes, you'll learn to coach others, but it starts with you. We can't pour from an empty well.

    Key Truths:

    • You're not too much AND you're enough (Ephesians 2:10 - you're God's masterpiece)
    • Taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's the most selfless thing you can do
    • The world will dysregulate you over and over. You have to regulate yourself internally
    • You deserve a seat at the table, not standing in the corner in the dark

    This Certification Is For:

    • People who want to build a coaching business
    • Bible study leaders who want real transformation (not just head knowledge)
    • Anyone tired of having all the answers
    • Those called to help others but don't know where to start

    Whatever you've done or whatever's been done to you—God's not done with you. Shame, limiting beliefs, and fear do not get the final say.

    📅 Ready for see your next steps? Book your FREE complimentary call here

    Peace,

    Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    21 mins
  • 212. Finding Joy When Life is Both Good and Hard
    Jan 21 2026

    Ready to explore your purpose more?! Schedule your complimentary call here.

    Just got back from Hawaii (boat sickness and all), and here's the thing: Nobody remembers three problems ago. I'm sharing about what it's like when life feels heavy even while good things are happening.

    Life keeps moving, and we have to learn to move with it. Holding both the hard and the good at the same time.

    In This Episode:

    • Why you might struggle to dream again after disappointment
    • How healing happens even when circumstances aren't perfect
    • The "whack-a-mole" reality of problems (and why that's actually hopeful)
    • Recognizing what's blocking your ability to feel joy
    • Being honest about your life without toxic positivity

    What You'll Walk Away With:

    The truth is, life gets WAY better as you heal, even if your circumstances stay messy.

    If dreaming feels impossible, there's healing work to do

    Resilience matters more than having it all together.

    Ready to step more into your purpose?

    Schedule a call with me and let’s connect about what could possibly be next for you.

    Book your complimentary call here.

    You're not alone in what you're walking through. Keep showing up.

    Love,

    Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    20 mins
  • 211. Holy Shift: Ever Thought About Getting Certified as a Life Coach? (And Why Nici’s All In!)
    Jan 1 2026

    Hello friends! I'm thrilled to bring you this spontaneous episode - we planned it this morning and hit record this afternoon because when inspiration strikes, you go with it!

    I'm joined by the wonderful Nici to discuss my upcoming life coach certification program and what led her to join the inaugural group. If you've been considering life coaching, questioning whether certification is necessary, or want to understand what becoming a transformational coach actually involves - you're in the right place.

    Episode Highlights

    Why Now? The Vision Behind This Program

    • My motivation for creating this certification (hint: it's the program I needed when I started)
    • Three pathways for life coaches: full-time practice, side income, or ministry enhancement
    • Building a legacy by equipping coaches who'll reach people I never could

    What Sets This Program Apart

    • Personal one-on-one coaching sessions with me across 6 months
    • Bi-monthly small group calls (90-120 minutes each)
    • Buddy coaching with recorded sessions that I review and provide feedback on
    • Ready-to-use laminated frameworks and worksheets for client sessions
    • A comprehensive experience combining certification, mentorship, transformation, and business development

    Nici opens up about her path from emotional exhaustion to self-care through the Feel Better Journey, including:

    • Why individual attention and mentorship mattered in her choice
    • Working through concerns about investment and timing
    • The concept of serving from fullness rather than depletion
    • How this represents legacy-building for her as well

    Program Overview

    Timeline: 6 months

    Includes:

    • 6 individual coaching sessions with me
    • Twice-monthly group sessions (90-120 minutes)
    • Buddy coaching with personalized feedback
    • Laminated coaching frameworks and materials
    • Proven client programs available (optional to use)
    • An intimate, carefully selected cohort community

    Ideal For:

    • Those called to facilitate transformation in others
    • People wanting to channel their experiences into meaningful work
    • Anyone seeking professional skills alongside profound personal development
    • Faith-oriented coaches desiring a comprehensive approach (mind, emotions, spirit, body)

    Is This Your Next Step?

    Consider these questions:

    • Do people naturally seek your guidance and you want better tools to serve them?
    • Are you sensing a call to deeper involvement in people's lives?
    • Do you want to create a business, generate income, or enhance your service?
    • Are you prepared to do transformative personal work while learning to facilitate it for others?

    If these resonate, let's connect!

    Schedule Your Exploratory Call!

    I'm personally selecting this founding cohort since they'll help shape the program's future. I'm looking for committed individuals who'll create great group synergy.

    Let's have a no-pressure conversation about your situation, aspirations, and whether this certification aligns with your goals.

    SCHEDULE YOUR CALL HERE

    We'll discuss:

    • Your background and what draws you to coaching
    • Which pathway resonates with you
    • Any concerns or questions on your mind
    • Your readiness for this 6-month commitment
    • Program investment and flexible payment plans

    Peace, Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    50 mins
  • 210. Why Not You? The Question That Changed Everything For Me 🎉
    Dec 20 2025

    Hi! If you've been feeling that pull toward something more, like maybe God's been whispering about using your story to help others… Oh friend, this one's for you.

    I'm officially launching something I've been dreaming about for YEARS: a Life Coach Certification and Training Program—and I want to tell you all about it.

    In today's episode, I'm sharing:

    Why I'm finally doing this (and how this dream went from "too big for me" to "okay God, I trust You")

    What makes a phenomenal life coach (spoiler: it's all about asking really good questions that help people find their own answers)

    How life coaching changed MY life first before I ever helped anyone else—these tools transformed my own healing journey

    Why your story matters and how it's meant for His glory, not your shame

    The "why not you?" question that shifted everything for me (your past doesn't define or limit your purpose)

    What makes this certification program different and what we'll cover over 6 months together

    Details about the training—one-on-one coaching with me, group sessions, practice coaching with real feedback, my signature tools and frameworks, plus an optional in-person retreat celebration

    Why I'm only taking 12 people in this first cohort (I want to pour into your well)

    Who this might be for—if you feel made for more, called to help people heal, or curious about stepping into your purpose

    This is a gentle, heartfelt episode about:

    Not despising small beginnings (God works with your mustard seed of faith)

    Stepping into what scares you because He equips you

    Using the very things that broke you to help others break free

    Trusting that your journey—all of it—has prepared you for this

    👉 Book Your FREE Discovery Call

    If you're feeling called to help others heal, transform, and step into their purpose—and you're ready to explore if life coach training is your next step—let's connect.

    Let's explore together if this is your next step. You don't need it all figured out—just bring your open heart and your curiosity.

    Schedule Here!

    Holiday Reminder: The holidays can be beautiful AND difficult. Make time for yourself and your soul. Remember what this season is about: Jesus being birthed into our lives and all He wants to birth through YOU.

    Prayer Request: Pray that God brings the right people to this training and that I steward this opportunity well!

    Peace, Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    27 mins
  • 209. ⭐ When You Can’t Do It All: How to Stop People-Pleasing and Find Peace with God—and Peace with Yourself
    Dec 3 2025

    👉 Book a Discovery Call If you’re ready for your next season to be filled with purpose and to help you get your spark for life back, let’s connect. You can schedule a complimentary call with me here.

    Hi!

    If you’ve been feeling pulled in a thousand directions, overwhelmed by expectations, or stuck in the old habit of people-pleasing… oh friend, this one’s for you.

    This week, I had to make a really big decision: Do I fly to a business retreat in sunny Florida that I’ve been looking forward to for six months… or do I stay home for my son’s state semifinal football game?

    Both were good. Both mattered. And honestly? It sent my nervous system into a spiral.

    In today’s episode, I’m sharing:

    • What it’s like to make decisions when you’re overwhelmed
    • How I calmed my nervous system enough to hear God clearly
    • Why we cannot make wise choices from anxiety, guilt, or pressure
    • How people-pleasing used to run my life (and almost broke me)
    • A simple, biblical way to connect with your intuition and the Holy Spirit
    • The exact phrase that finally brought me clarity and peace
    • Why choosing alignment over approval is spiritual maturity
    • And how to stop doing “all the things” so you can stay human, whole, and grounded

    This is a gentle, practical episode about letting go, honoring your limits, and trusting that God guides you when you get quiet enough to listen.

    👉 Book a Discovery Call If you’re entering 2026 knowing something has to change, and you’re craving peace, clarity, and emotional alignment, let’s connect. You can schedule a complimentary call with me here.

    Peace,

    Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

    Key topics:

    Christian women and overwhelm, decision-making with God, Holy Spirit guidance, faith-based nervous system regulation, how to stop people-pleasing, Christian life coaching, emotional burnout, intuition and faith, Christian boundaries, doing less with clarity, spiritual alignment, Christian women’s mental health, overwhelm in motherhood, faith and anxiety, finding peace in busy seasons.

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    25 mins
  • 208. Happy Thanksgiving 💛
    Nov 27 2025

    Happy Thanksgiving!

    Glad you're here,

    Dani

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    10 mins
  • 207. When Life Still Feels Heavy: How to Find Some Peace While It’s Still ‘Raining’
    Nov 25 2025

    What if healing isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… but learning how to find peace while it’s still raining?

    While driving down the California coast in a torrential downpour, with full sunshine pouring through the windshield, God gave me a powerful epiphany that changed the way I see healing, peace, and inner resilience.

    For years I believed healing meant fixing circumstances, praying away the struggle, or finally getting to an “easier” season. But sometimes the rain doesn’t stop. What can change is our capacity, our perspective, and our ability to hold both suffering and joy at the same time.

    This episode is especially for you if you’re tired, overwhelmed, spiritually disconnected, or waiting for life to calm down before you let yourself breathe again.

    Scripture:

    • Hosea 2:15 — “I will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.”
    • Joel 2:25 — “I will renew the years the locusts have eaten.”

    Song:

    • “Scars” by I Am They

    Quote:

    “You can’t change what happened in the past, but you can change how you frame it. We’re offered a range of different lenses: acceptance, forgiveness, and gratitude.” — Noelle Oxenhandler

    If this episode resonated and you’re ready to find peace in the storm, not just after it, I’d love to support you.

    📅 Book a Free Discovery Call Let’s talk about where you’re at and how we can work together to help you find more serenity, purpose, and emotional freedom.

    👉 Click here to schedule your discovery call

    Glad you’re here,

    Dani :)

    🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> https://www.danisumner.com/

    🌟 Follow me on YouTube

    🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

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    18 mins