Living in the Light with Laura Leigh

S4E8 A Season’s End // Hope in His Name with Laura Leigh Sep 13, 2022

Today Laura Leigh concludes the summer season, “Hope in the Light”, with an encouraging word to carry us into the fall season.

In this episode she reads the last day of the Rise Collective study, “Hope & Holiness- a Study through the Book of 1 Peter”, bringing scripture to the forefront of this season’s end, and giving you a parting word of the living hope in the name of Jesus. She closes it out with a prayer over you and this generation to step into their identity as children of the most high God- living lives of holiness in Him.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” -Romans 15:13

Hope & Holiness - Bible Study

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S4E7 In the Image of The Creator with Corinne Caraway Aug 30, 2022

In this episode we are talking about all things creativity and art—from the theology of God as a creator to the Holy Spirit empowering artists. Today I sit down with my friend Corinne who is a talented writer and integral member of our church. We discuss the darkness that Jesus delivered her from into His light, the impact of teachers and mentorship in encouraging our gifts, and the Renaissance community here in NYC. Corinne shares about the journey of the Renaissance community, the beauty she has seen in the artists there, and what it looks like to be a redemptive artist in your work even if it’s not explicitly about faith.

Laura Leigh and Corinne describe times they’ve been encouraged by the Holy Spirit working through the hands of artists they know, and Corinne encourages us all to be creative—no matter our professions.

Learn more about Renaissance and find them on Instagram @creative.nyc

Find Corinne on Instagram @corinnemorgan_

Hope & Holiness - Bible Study - Download Here

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S4E6 Leading Well in God’s Strength with Faith Eury Cho Aug 23, 2022

Today we continue our series with a focus on leading well and the humility that produces perseverance when Jesus is at the center. In this episode, Laura Leigh sits down with Faith Eury Cho, founder of the Honor Summit – a ministry dedicated to centering and empowering young Asian American women in the church. We talk about Faith’s incredible story of how she came to know Jesus and her journey into her calling as a pastor and shepherd in the Church throughout her 17 years of ministry. We dive into her experience as an Asian American woman in the Church, and she gives us encouragement of what it looks like to lead in a time such as this. She talks about faith in the waiting, the weight of leadership, how to stay strong in ministry, and her hope for young AAPI women in the Church.

LINKS:

Hope & Holiness - Bible Study - Download Here

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Follow Faith @faitheurycho and @thehonorsummit on Instagram

S4E5 Body Image: A Journey to Freedom with Amanda Jane Cooper Aug 16, 2022

This is an episode about finding healing in Christ.

Today on the podcast Laura Leigh sits down with her friend and fellow Broadway performer, Amanda Jane Cooper. You may know Amanda from the Broadway and National Tour of Wicked where she played the role of Glinda. In this episode, Amanda shares her testimony of coming to know and love Jesus, and the eternal hope she has found in surrendering her life to Him.

They dive into her journey walking through deep struggles and suffering, and the power of Christ in bringing her into freedom. Laura Leigh and Amanda spend time talking about their mutual struggle with body image, and how God has been faithful to bring them from the dark and into His light. Amanda shares more of what her journey to healing has looked like and the role of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit in reclaiming what God has called good.

We are praying this conversation is helpful in knowing that you are not alone. We also hope that it is encouraging as Amanda shares her journey to freedom in the name of Jesus and how God rescued her from a way of life that she thought she might have to just manage forever.

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In producing this episode there were prayerful steps taken in an effort to go above reproach with handling this topic of conversation respectfully and tenderly. Do know that we get into some vulnerable details in sharing our stories of freedom from destructive patterns related to body image.

Resources for recovery:

Jess Connolly’s book, Breaking Free From Body Shame

Revelation Wellness

Online Christian Counseling

Onsite Workshops

S4E4 Hope in Suffering with Ashley Anderson Aug 09, 2022

Today on the podcast I sat down with both friend and pastor Ashley Anderson. Ashley pastors at Church of the City New York and is someone who I respect and honor as a sister in Christ, as a communicator and teacher of God’s Word and as a shepherd and leader in the Church.

Today we are talking about Biblical suffering and how Jesus, the suffering servant, is the ultimate example for us as His followers. Ashley shares some story from her journey following Jesus and the surrender that has led to life and the passion she has for helping people walk in obedience to Jesus.

We lean into breaking ties with sin, the companionship of Christ in suffering, endurance through faith, and the glory of God that is on display as we entrust ourselves to him amidst the suffering.

DOWNLOAD HOPE & HOLINESS STUDY HERE

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S4E3 Sacrificial Love in Relationships with Judy Mills Aug 02, 2022

One of the greatest gifts we’ve been given by God is relationship.

Relationship with Him and life lived in relationship with others

In today’s episode we talk about the humility of Christ and how the love of God seen through the Gospel demonstrates for us how to love in relationships.

Judy shares stories from her journey following God and how walking with Jesus has guided her understanding of how to love freely and sacrificially.

Having been married for over 30 years, Judy speaks into the Biblical principle of mutual submission in relationships and in marriage. Judy and Laura Leigh lean into the wisdom from the book of 1 Peter Chapter 3 bringing insight on what it means to serve one another in love and how in doing so we are showing the world around us the beauty of Christ.

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S4E2 Growing Up Into Salvation with Olivia Munn-Shirsath Jul 26, 2022

In today’s episode Olivia and Laura Leigh are diving into spiritual parenting and the role spiritual mothers and fathers play in our lives as disciples of Jesus. Today we talk about what the Bible says about being disciples and making disciples, and the joy found in growing up into our salvation, becoming spiritual parents for others.

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Olivia Munn-Shirsath is a passionate communicator of the Word, currently serving as Teaching Pastor at Wellspring Church in Queens, NY. With over a decade of frontline urban pastoral experience through the Salvation Army amidst the homelessness and recovery communities, she is well equipped to address a wide range of issues, and is convinced the Bride of Christ is the solution. Olivia is a mentor, a worship leader, and the co-author of The Uprising.

“So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation — if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” - 1 Peter 2:1-3

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S4E1 Redemption in Community with Laura Leigh and Ánh-Mai Jul 19, 2022

Hi, we are so glad you’ve joined us to kick off Season Four of Living in the Light! This season will be all about Hope in the Light, offering encouragement to cling to Jesus in challenging seasons of our life. Today we sat down with RCW Assistant and Best Friend, Ánh-Mai Zubia, who is taking over the mic to ask Laura Leigh some questions. Laura Leigh dives into her heart behind starting the online community Rise Collective Women, and how its growth has glorified God and redeemed her past experiences with community. Ahn-Mai and Laura Leigh talk about what’s coming next with Rise Collective and how it ties into the podcast, and what you can expect in Season Four. Together they dive into what it looks like to be fearless in God, and how the Lord is teaching that to Laura Leigh in this season, as well as what it looks like to be justified by grace. They wrap up with a reminder about the power of the Bible and what it can teach us all about how Jesus lived in community, and how we can, too.

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SEASON 4: Hope in the Light // 1 Peter Jul 12, 2022

Big news for you today - Season 4 is officially launching NEXT Tuesday, 7/19! We are so excited to spend the summer with you as we talk about hope in the light.

In today’s episode Laura Leigh shares about new podcast season - what to expect and how to join us in her new study - Hope & Holiness, a study through the book of 1 Peter.

Next week we are kicking it off with an interview from Laura Leigh as she invites a friend to sit down and ask her some deeper questions surrounding hope in the brokenness of her own story, and various struggles that have fueled her faith in Jesus.

This is our first official Rise Collective study and there are discipleship groups both ONLINE and in person in NYC. Sign up today!

ONLINE GROUPS

NYC GROUPS

BONUS // Real and Authentic Friendships with Jess Johnston Jul 05, 2022

Welcome back to episode 3 of our bonus season, where Laura Leigh sits down with Jess Johnston, co-author of “I’ll Be There, But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants.” In this episode, we dive into friendship, and how God provides us with community. In the same way that Jesus calls us His friend, He calls us to be friends to those around us.

Laura Leigh and Jess talk about the way online communities have shaped their own friendships, and the importance of balancing them with in-person communities. They bond over having to take that first brave step of inviting people in when you need community, and how significant humility can be in making that jump. Jess emphasizes how special real and authentic friendships are, and explains in her own words the value of “sweatpants friends.”

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Read the book: I’ll Be There (But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants): Finding Unfiltered Real-Life Friendships in This Crazy, Chaotic World

BONUS // Life Beyond the Death of a Dream with Scott Erickson Jun 28, 2022

What are you free to do because your dream died? What if knowing who you are and why you’re here changes everything? In today’s episode Laura Leigh sits down with Scott Erickson as they talk about his journey as an artist and a follower of Jesus, and the discoveries he made living through this question.

Today they lean into his story and the message of Say Yes, Scott’s most recent book. He dives into deeper conversation about how the future bursts with possibilities if you’re willing to say yes to the gift of life on the other side of the death of a dream.

Scott Erickson is a touring painter, performance artist and creative curate who mixes autobiography, aesthetics, and comedic narrative to create experiences that speak to our deepest stories.

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BONUS // Letting Go and Living Lightly with Shauna Niequest Jun 21, 2022

For the first of our Season 4 bonus episodes, Laura Leigh sits down with Shauna Niequest, self-titled bookworm, storyteller, and passionate gatherer of people. She is the New York Times best-selling author of “Cold Tangerines, Bittersweet, Bread & Wine, Savor,” and “Present Over Perfect,” and she just released her newest book, “I Guess I Haven’t Learned that Yet.” In today’s episode, Shauna delves into how humbling herself as a beginner and letting go of the need to be an expert has helped both her writing and faith journey. Shauna talks about how true fearlessness is trusting in God and doing things even while you’re afraid. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of living lightly and exercising practices of silence and solitude, adding how difficult it is to hear God’s spirit inside of you when you’re sprinting through your life. Shauna reflects on her own experiences and how moving forward through change, releasing control and learning to ask for help can aid young women in seasons of transitions, or seasons of darkness.

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Season Finale! // His Power Within Us with Laura Leigh Dec 31, 2021

Join Laura Leigh as she concludes Season 3 of Living in the Light! It’s been a season all about believing God for immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. Believing God means having faith in Him. Nothing is impossible with God, and He has given us life - eternal life - and invites us into sharing his love with the world. Today you will be reminded of WHOSE power is at work within you and will be encouraged to believe God. Laura Leigh points you to the truth that God is who says He is and He can do what He says He can do. God is a God of immeasurably more - are we going to believe Him?

Scripture Reading // There is Hope in Jesus Dec 21, 2021

Listen in for a scripture reading from the following passages:

Hosea 2:15 NIV

Isaiah 41:10 NIV

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

2 Corinthians 4:7 NIV

May these scriptures remind you that the God of all hope is with you and He loves you. May this short listen encourage you today to believe that there is hope in the name of Jesus. He is making all things new, and the parts of your story that feel hopeless, our God sent His Son to redeem.

S3E12 A Door of Hope with Dreem Sharif Dec 14, 2021

Dreaming with God and believing him for immeasurably more when things are going well is one thing, but what do we do when we find ourselves in the valley? When we aren’t sure how we are going to see to the end of the waiting?

Today’s episode is about having faith and hoping in God in times of trouble. My sweet friend Dreem Sharif is on the podcast with me today and we share our story of how God answered a specific cry for “help” and brought me hope through Dreem’s prayers and encouragement.She also shares her powerful testimony of how she has experienced Jesus take her from the dark and into the light and hope of Christ.

God is always taking us somewhere, and we can trust that, as it says in Philippians 1 v 6, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

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S3E11 What am I really afraid of? // Fighting Fear & Showing Up with Ánh Mai Zubia Dec 07, 2021

We all feel scared at times to step into the dream God has placed on our hearts and to do what He is asking us to do.

Today I invited one of my dearest friends, Ánh Mai Zubia on the podcast to talk about what the Lord is teaching her this year when it comes to hearing God and walking in obedience to what He is calling us to. We talk about facing the fears we all have around showing up for the dreams the Lord places on our hearts and how to avoid paralysis by over-analysis by taking up the strength and courage found only in God alone.

The enemy tries to keep us cut off at the knee, but in Christ we choose to receive the hope, courage, commitment and love found in Him. Let’s be women that love God with our heart, our soul, our mind and our strength more we would love sitting in our own fear and in our own self wallowing.

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Scripture Reading // Joshua 1:1-9 Nov 30, 2021

Listen in for a scripture reading from the book of Joshua chapter 1 vs. 1-9.

Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

May it encourage you today to show up for the God dreams on your heart in the strength in courage of the Lord.

S3E10 A Thanksgiving Reflection // God of Abundance Nov 23, 2021

Today’s episode is about cultivating a heart of thankfulness.

Grab a cup of coffee and your Bible and download your thankfulness reflection guide. Join me as we thank God for all of the ways He has provided for us over this past year.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. -Psalm 100:4

Download your guide “God of Abundance - A Recipe for Thankfulness” HERE

S3E9 Participating in God’s Good Ideas with Jayme Thompson Nov 16, 2021

God what are YOU going to do to glorify yourself and to advance the Kingdom in my lifetime that you want ME to be a part of?

We all have assignments from God and specific dreams He has given us to carry His name and His plan of salvation to the world.

Join me as I sit down with my friend and mentor Jayme Thompson as we talk about looking for where God’s moving, seeking the Spirit, and joining Him there.

We also talk about leaning into our individual giftings and the joy found in the process of walking in obedience to where calling us to participate.

There is joy in the everyday fellowship with the Holy Spirit, and I believe this episode will encourage you to seek Him with your life and your calling.

Learn more about the Rise Collective House HERE

S3E8 Rise Collective House Pt. 2 // King of the Universe Nov 09, 2021

God has always delighted in using the faith of ordinary people to carry His extraordinary plan of salvation to the world.

When the Lord gave me this dream a few years ago, I had no idea what He had in store. And then God reminded me that He truly is the King of the Universe.

Join me as I continue sharing the unfolding story of the Rise Collective House. This week I tell the story of my journey walking with God in the search for property and how God restored my faith and gave me the endurance to believe Him.

Today’s episode will build your faith as we ponder the life of Hannah in the Bible and how God used her passionate prayers for His glorious plan of redemption.

Learn more about the Rise Collective House HERE

SIGN UP to join us on 11/15 for the RCW virtual state of the ministry

Scripture in the subway // Ephesians 6 with Haley Keizur Nov 02, 2021

Coming to you from the NYC subway station! Listen in as Laura Leigh and our Rise Collective NYC sister, Haley Keizur, open up God’s Word and read and pray through Ephesians 6 vs 10-24. As they share their thoughts on the passage you’ll be encouraged to put on the full armor of God today!

S3E7 A Surrendered Life with Rebekah Lyons Oct 26, 2021

Believing God for immeasurably more begins with our surrender. In today’s episode Rebekah Lyons joins the conversation to talk about saying “yes” to God and living a surrendered life. We talk about what it means to lay everything down and to accept the invitation to follow Jesus into the unknown. As God’s beloved children we can trust that He wants immeasurably more for us as we abide in Him.

We also talk about:

-How God uses our freedom to set others free

-Surrender in seasons of painful pruning, long-suffering and unmet expectations.

- Letting go and letting God love you.

LINKS from the show:

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Rebekah Lyons is a bestselling author, podcast host and national speaker. Check out her new devotional - A Surrendered Yes: 52 Devotions to Let Go and Live Free.

Matthew 6 // Scripture Reading Oct 23, 2021

Listen in for a reading of Matthew 6: 5-32

S3E6 Why We Can Quit Striving with Ruth Chou Simons Oct 19, 2021

If we believe that Jesus is truly enough, why do we spend all these hours trying to be enough?

Colossians 1:17

“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

The pressure is off. Because of his grace, all things hold together. It is by the grace of God and through our faith in Him where we find immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine. (Eph 3:20-21).

Today Ruth Chou Simons joins the conversation to encourage us with the Gospel of grace. As we continue this season of immeasurably more and talk about believing God for the dreams He has put on our hearts, it’s foundational that we remember what it is we are all searching for, why nothing here truly satisfies and the gift of God’s grace through Jesus Christ. The grace of God has always been the vehicle by which God wants our hearts.

Ruth’s book is HERE

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S3E5 Lord, Teach Us to Pray with Dr. Derwin L. Gray Oct 12, 2021

Prayer is the door we enter to discover God’s heart of unending grace and the home we have always wanted. The place where we can crawl into our Father’s lap and find our purpose.

In today’s episode we are leaning into a topic that is foundational to our lives as followers of Jesus and that is PRAYER. It’s through prayer where we learn to trust that God has immeasurably more for us through His Son Jesus. As I am watching God grow and develop this dream He put on my heart through Rise Collective Women, He continues to teach me so much about the power of prayer and the gift of communicating with Him.

If you struggle with prayer, find yourself doubting the effectiveness of prayer, or want to know if God even hears you when you pray, this conversation will encourage you today.

Dr. Derwin L. Gray joins the conversation today to talk about what prayer is and to help us lay a theological foundation for our understanding. Dr. Gray is the founding and lead pastor of Transformation Church, a multiethnic, multigenerational, mission-shaped community just south of Charlotte, North Carolina. He has written several books, including the bestselling The Good Life and most recently God, Do You Hear Me?.

Links from the show!

Derwin’s book God, Do You Hear Me?

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S3E4 A Community of Discipleship with Micayla Dane Johnson Oct 05, 2021

This season on the podcast I am telling the story of how God has been birthing this dream he put on my heart a few years ago and I am inviting you, as a listener, to join me for the journey as we watch this story unfold.

Today I share the vision behind the Rise Collective House in New York City. What is this house all about? What would it look like to live in a community of women growing as disciples of Jesus?

Today’s episode will begin with me defining the Rise Collective House and I have invited my friend Micaycla to the podcast to join the conversation. Micayla has been a part of the Rise Collective Women community since the first Bible study in March 2020. Her story paints a picture of the gift of community as she shares her story of spiritual growth through intentional living with other women.

I pray that this episode helps you to understand my heart behind this house and also encourages you to pray and seek out ways to surround yourself with people who point you to Jesus Christ.

Interested in potentially living in the Rise Collective House? Sign up on the interest form and I’ll send you more information!

You can also find links in my IG bio to:

-Join the Rise Collective Email List!

-Subscribe to the Podcast Email List!

John 14 // Scripture Reading Oct 02, 2021

Listen in for a reading of John 14 verses 1-18.

This is a passage in response to my conversation with my friend Kathryn Maack. Listen here!

May it encourage you as you meditate on the Holy Spirit as your helper - God with you. I pray this encourages you to rely on the Spirit as you seek counsel snd encouragement in others in your life.

This season we will continue to meditate on the Word of God as we seek Him together and talk about how he is truly able to do immeasurably more than we can even ask or imagine.

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” -John 14:16-18 ESV

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” -Ephesians 3:20-21

S3E3 Counsel and Encouragement Through the Holy Spirit with Kathryn Mack Sep 28, 2021

This is an episode about the Holy Spirit as our divine counselor and comforter.

We need Spirit filled counselors in our lives to guide us as we walk in the way of wisdom.

It was the kindness of God to bring me a counselor who is also my friend.

Kathryn has been a huge encouragement to me over the past year as she has walked with me in discipleship. With consistent presence, the Holy Spirit through Kathryn has given me preserving faith and endurance in the many highs and lows that have come alongside trusting God with this dream.

In today’s episode she shares her perspective on this unfolding story. We share how God brought our stories together, what our relationship has looked like, and practical advice on pursuing and seeking Godly counsel in your own life!

Kathryn is the co-founder of Dwell with God - a worship and discipleship movement for the broader church.

Find them on Instagram:@dwellwithgod

S3E2 Rise Collective House Pt.1 // Dreams and Disappointment Sep 21, 2021

We all have dreams that God puts on our hearts, but don’t go the way that we planned.

When God gave me this vision in college, I never imagined He would write the story this way. Through the disappointment and the wrestling in prayer, God has continued to build my faith as I trust in Him.

Join me in remembering the faithfulness of God as I sit down across from two of my best friends and share the genesis of the story of what is now becoming the Rise Collective Women House.

Psalm 27 // Scripture Reading Sep 18, 2021

Listen in for a reading of Psalm 27. May it encourage you as you reflect on God as your light and salvation.

This is a passage in response to Kelsey’s story. It is one that has deeply encouraged her in the recent months as she sought the Lord and his Word through the waiting.

This season we will continue to meditate on the Word of God as we seek Him together and talk about how he is truly able to do immeasurably more than we can even ask or imagine.

“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” -Psalm 27:13-14

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” -Ephesians 3:20-21

S3E1 When You Don’t Know What’s Next with Kelsey Linnartz Sep 14, 2021

The last episode of Season 2 was supposed to be my conversation with my dear friend Kelsey Linnartz. I tucked it away and saved it for you guys, and today you will hear that conversation from May of this year. But, there’s more!

Three months have passed, and Kelsey has seen God bring new life in her story in ways she never would have imagined were possible. Halfway through the episode we will jump to a conversation Kelsey and I just recently recorded from my apartment in Manhattan!

Kelsey’s faith and friendship in the waiting has continued to encourage me and remind me of God’s faithfulness.

As we embark on a season of believing in God for immeasurably more, I wanted to begin here. This episode will remind you of the HOPE you have in Jesus Christ as you trust Him for all He has in store for you in your own story.

I’ll be back next Tuesday with the first solo episode of the season! Excited to share the story unfolding in my life and in Rise Collective.

Ephesians 3:20-21 “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”

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Ephesians 3 // Scripture Reading Sep 11, 2021

Listen in for a reading of Ephesians Chapter 3. May it encourage you as you reflect on God’s great love for you.

This season we will continue to revisit these scriptures as we seek God together and talk about how he is truly able to do immeasurably more than we can even ask or imagine.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” -Ephesians 3:20-21

SEASON 3 INTRO // Immeasurably More Sep 07, 2021

I’m inviting you to join me on the journey as I share the unfolding of a story happening right before my eyes. In both your life and mine, God is always doing immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. I believe that your faith will be strengthened through the stories and conversations you will hear on the podcast this fall. You can expect a new episode from me every Tuesday morning! Some weeks it will be just me on the mic, but you’ll also be hearing from my close friends, mentors, family, and the people in my life who are a part of this story with me. We’ll talk, laugh, maybe cry a bit, and always open the Word of God as we cling to the truth of scripture to guide us every step of the way. You can also expect a few BONUS episodes this fall with some performing artists and ministry leaders! Subscribe to the weekly podcast email list for show notes and links from the show

Episode 23: Following Jesus in the Entertainment Industry with Karen Covell Apr 12, 2021

Don’t miss this episode! This woman has lived decades of life as a follower of Jesus exercising her gifts and passions for storytelling and creativity in Hollywood. Karen works as an independent film producer and has recently concluded a 4 year term on the national board of the Producers Guild of America.

In addition to her work in storytelling, Karen’s heart for the Lord and for the entertainment industry led her to founding and creating the Hollywood Prayer Network, a nonprofit organization seeking to build a bridge of love and respect between Christians in the Church and professionals in Hollywood, through prayer. She believes our industry dramatically shapes our world and that Christians should work excellently and share the love of Christ everywhere they go.

In today’s episode Karen shares her personal story of Jesus capturing her heart and how that propelled her into a life and career encouraging artists and creatives to walk in their purpose as followers of Jesus, carrying the gospel to the world. She is committed to mobilizing Christians to pray for the people, projects and issues in the entertainment industry with an attitude of love.

We also talk about:

Jesus as the greatest storyteller and the adventure in following Him.
How to say “no” and the gift of the Holy Spirit in navigating a career in storytelling.
Walking with the Lord and letting Him lead and guide you.

Listen to the end of the episode for some guided prayer.

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Find out more about the Hollywood Prayer Network

Episode 22: Abiding in Jesus with Emma VanDeVelde Apr 05, 2021

You’re going to love today’s episode with my sweet friend and Chicago-based actress, writer, performing artist and podcast host of Narrow Way to Broadway, Emma VanDeVelde.

Emma tells her story of coming to know and love God and his Word. She shares how the Lord has brought together her love for creating and her love for Jesus, and the way those two loves have intersected in her journey being wooed by Him. We spend time talking about John Chapter 15 and the sweet gift of getting to abide in Jesus and delighting in Him through the study of His Word

Did you know you have a friend in Jesus? That Jesus wants to be WITH you. He also gave us His Word to get to know more about Him and to guide us into all truth.

John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.”

At the end of the episode I switch things up a bit with a CHALLENGE for you! This week we are going to be reading John 15 together. I walk you through a study method -Observe-Interpret-Apply to help you as you dig into these words and live them out!

Stick around till the end of the episode and I answer two of your questions that you sent in. I talk about how Jesus impacts my journey in Musical Theatre and what I have learned in this time of waiting.

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Episode 21: Loving Our Neighbor with Dani Coke Mar 29, 2021

Danielle Coke is a designer turned illustrator, social justice advocate, and entrepreneur. She seeks to encourage faith, inspire justice, and guide you through loving your neighbor well.

We talk about what it means to love God and love our neighbor and the importance of acton and standing up for what is right. Dani reminds us that justice is at the heart of our loving God.

In today’s episode, Dani tells her personal story of believing in the gospel of Jesus, getting to know Him personally and the life change that followed. Changed by His love, she started creating art with the aim to make complex issues more digestible and help others find and use their passions to make a difference in their spheres of influence.

At the end of the episode we open the Word of God and talk about what the Bible says about love. 1 Corinthians 13 + Mark 12:29-34

Follow Dani: @ohhappydani

Join us in Rise Collective Women

Episode 20: The Steadfast Love of God with Lauren Chandler Mar 22, 2021

Lauren Chandler is a creative who loves to stir up people’s hearts to know, receive, and connect with our loving God through worship. Lauren leads and creates as a musician, a worship artist, and an author. She is the wife to Matt Chandler, pastor at the Village Church, and the mama to 3 beautiful children.

Listen in as Lauren shares her story of discovering misplaced identity and her journey to finding freedom and satisfaction in Jesus alone. She reminds us that the light of Jesus has the power to both illuminate sin and brokenness and cover us in His steadfast love.

At the end of the episode we open our Bibles and dive into Ephesians 5:8-14.

Join us in RISE COLLECTIVE WOMEN online today!

Sign up to join us in Lauren’s “With Us in the Wilderness” a Bible Study on the book of Numbers

- starting Saturday 4/3!

Episode 19: Experiencing God through Community with Kelsey Fowler Mar 15, 2021

We were created to do life together! Kelsey is my friend, sister, fellow musical theatre performer and our Creative Content Manager in our women’s Bible Study community, Rise Collective Women. Kelsey shares her personal story of coming to know Jesus and experiencing Him through the sacrificial love of Gospel-based community in the Church. We talk about what community is and how we experience the love, forgiveness, and grace of God through His people. She shares her journey in the performing arts, from starring in several Broadway shows as a kid, studying musical theatre in college, to now working as an artist professionally. I hope today’s episode brings to light the gift of the body of Christ and the vital role the local church plays in the lives of followers of Christ.

Listen in at the end of the episode and join me as we dive into some passages of scripture in God’s Word!

JOIN US in Rise Collective Women today!

SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to be the first to hear about new episodes each week!

Episode 18: Faith like a Child with Anna Haller Mar 08, 2021

This episode will encourage you to come to Jesus with faith like a child! Today on the show you hear from 13 year old Broadway star, Anna Haller. What you should know about Anna is that she starred in the Broadway production of Disney’s Frozen as Young Elsa in 2019 performing around 70 times. Anna shares her Broadway story and what she learned in the process as well as her journey as a follower of Jesus and how the Lord continues to set her free by His grace. This girl may be young, but she has faith that can move mountains. Listen and be encouraged by her pure and unashamed love for the Lord.

I have loved getting to witness her faith in our Rise Collective Women online Bible Study community!

At the end of the episode I open the Word of God and talk about the passage Matthew 18:1-5.

JOIN ME and Anna in Rise Collective Women today!

SUBSCRIBE to my weekly email newsletter for show notes and links from the show

FOLLOW me on Instagram @lauraleighturner

Episode 17: Glory Belongs to God with Cozi Zuehlsdorff Mar 01, 2021

I am so excited to be back with you for SEASON 2 of the podcast! You are going to love my conversation with LA based actress, screenwriter and singer/songwriter, Cozi Zuehlsdorff.

Come listen and stand in amazement with us as we acknowledge the GLORY of our God. We talk about what it means to see His glory for what it is and live and work from a place of being secure in our identity in Him. I thought it was powerful when Cozi said “If you don’t accept that every good breath that leaves your body is God’s and God’s alone...then it’s what you bring to the table..it’s up to you to fight for the credit.” When we believe that God is the glorious one, then we desire to give HIM the honor and praise, and are released from fighting for our self-worth. We are worthy because He says we are.

Cozi is best known in the film world for her role as Hazel in the feature films "Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2”. On TV, she was a staple on shows such as Disney’s “Liv & Maddie”. In 2018 she starred opposite Broadway star Heidi Blickenstaff as Ellie Blake in the Disney Channel Original Movie “Freaky Friday”. Cozi has also experienced success in the pop, singer/songwriter and EDM worlds, both as a writer and artist. Streams-to- date for her releases total over 200 million!

At the end of the episode I open the Word of God and talk about 1 Corinthians 4:5-7

JOIN US in Rise Collective Women today!

SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to be the first to hear about new episodes each week!

Hope in the Light of Jesus with Laura Leigh Feb 27, 2021

I’ve missed you and am so excited to be back for Season 2 of Living in the Light! In today’s episode I share some of my own journey over the past year. From making my Broadway debut in Mean Girls, being uprooted from NYC and coming home to Arkansas to later finding out our show would be closing.

We have all experienced loss in this season. It’s real. But living in the light of Christ we have purpose and HOPE, no matter the circumstances, because we know the end of the story. We know that in Him we have everything.

JOIN ME for the first episode of Season 2 this coming Monday with Cozi Zuehlsdorff!

SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to be the first to hear about new episodes each week!

Join my weekly email newsletter for show notes and an update from Laura Leigh

More about Rise Collective Women: community.risecollectivewomen.com

Episode 16: His Word Lights My Path with Mackenzie Warren Dec 07, 2020

LAST EPISODE OF SEASON 1 and Mackenzie drops the mic in our conversation today! Mackenzie shares her personal struggle with depression and anxiety and how the Word of God has sustained her through some of the darkest seasons of her life.

Mackenzie is a South Carolina native who has called New York her home for 10 years. She has had the honor of performing on Broadway and tour in the revivals of Cats, Pippin and Anything Goes. She is actively involved with Church of the City NY and she owns a small graphic design business called KenziScript (check it out HERE!).

Sign up for my weekly newsletter here (insert form sign up HERE!)

Want more information about my Bible Study Community? Sign up HERE to join us!

Episode 15: Fashion, Artistry and Empowering Women with Anna Taylor Nov 30, 2020

From a village in Kenya to New York Fashion Week, this is a story of how one woman’s generosity, boldness, and love for African artistry and design brought women from the streets to sustainability in the name of Jesus.

Today you’ll hear from my friend Anna Taylor who founded and runs the nonprofit James 127 and the fashion company Judith and James. James127 Foundation brings God's hope to widows and orphans through artistry by providing free sewing training to vulnerable women in Kenya. James127 was founded on the bible verse James 1:27 which states, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” Through James 127, the widowed women learn to create beautiful products that lead to a sustainable means to provide for themselves and their families.

Anna is an Arkansan and has given up everything here to bring art made in Kenya and the stories of the women whose hands are at work into the light.

Sponsor a Compassion child HERE

Or you can text YOURLIGHT to 83393. You’ll get a text back with a link to sponsor!

Shop Judith & James HERE

Episode 14: God’s Boundaries Give Life with Dustin Ceithamer Nov 23, 2020

Why does God give us boundaries?

Dustin tells his personal story of growing up struggling with sexuality, not feeling comfortable in his own skin as a boy and the confusion he experienced when it came to understanding his individual interests, passions, and desires. He shares his journey of searching and experimentation and how it led him to discover that nothing in this world could satisfy him but Jesus.

We talk about the gift of God’s boundaries. How they are for our good, our protection, and for the saving of our lives. Be encouraged by the reminder that following Jesus isn’t just abiding by a set of rules, it is leaving everything we thought we loved for a personal relationship with our Savior who loves us more than we can comprehend.

“The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”

-Psalm 16:6

Join me at the end of the episode as we open the Word of God to Galatians Chapter 3 and talk about salvation by grace and through faith in Jesus.

Want to join my Bible Study Community? Sign up HERE!

Sponsor a child through Compassion International today! Just text YOURLIGHT to 83393. You’ll get a text back with a picture of a child and a link. Click that link and follow the steps to start sponsoring.

Episode 13: Your Generosity Can Change a Life with Keewani Vallejo-Cook Nov 16, 2020

This time has been tough on all of us, but it has and is devastating the poor. In today’s episode, Keewani-Cook shares her story of growing up in poverty in the Philippines and the hopelessness she lived through as a child. When she was 7 years old Keewani was invited to participate in Compassion International’s child development program at a local church. Through the love, support, encouragement and care she received from her sponsors and program staff, her life began to change drastically. Compassion was the door to the light of Jesus for her and her family and sponsorship made it possible for Keewani to receive an education, a university degree and an entirely new life.

How can you sponsor?

Two ways:

-Go to compassion.com/lauraleigh and sponsor a child today. Choose a child and be a part of transforming their life—releasing them from poverty in Jesus name.

-Text YOURLIGHT to 83393. You’ll get a text back with a picture of a child and a link. Click that link and follow the steps to start sponsoring.

Join the college girls community HERE

Episode 12: Impossible is God’s Comfort Zone with Kate Battistelli Nov 09, 2020

In today’s episode I have the honor of talking to Kate Battistelli - former Broadway performer, author ofThe God Dare: Will You Choose to Believe the Impossible, and mother to internationally praised and GRAMMY award winning worship artist, Francesca Battistelli.

If you need a fresh drink of faith today, this conversation will remind you that God is a God of the impossible! In today’s episode she tells her story of when she first met the light of Jesus and how the Lord and His Word has and continues to change her life. We talk about God’s patience, developing the gifts He’s given us and having faith and believing that God is who He says He is.

I pray that you leave this episode remembering that God has called you for such a time as this to walk in the light and to rise up and shine!

Check out Kate’s Book HERE

Join my Online Bible Study community HERE

Beth Moore’s Book - Believing God HERE

Episode 11: Lead with Love with Alexandra Boylan Nov 02, 2020

Today we get to the heart of things. I am so excited for you to meet my friend and award winning filmmaker, writer, and producer, Alexandra Boylan!

Listen in as Alexandra tells her story of moving to LA at 19 to become an actress, being homeless and living out of a car, and her journey to giving up everything to the Lord and feeling called to found and create her own production company, MirrorTree Productions, where she has produced numerous feature films. Alexandra is passionate about producing women-led, faith-based films and we talk about her new teen-girl film, Switched, and the heart behind the project - sharing the love of Jesus and encouraging people to lead with love.

“There isn’t anybody you couldn’t love if you knew their story” -Mary Lou Kownacki

Lead with Love Resources

Check out more of Alexandra’s films HERE!

Sign-up for my weekly newsletter HERE!

Join the Bible Study community HERE!

At the end of the episode we open the Word of God and learn about the greatest commandment in the whole Bible:

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” -Luke 10:27

Episode 10: Art, Poetry and the Wisdom of Jesus with Morgan Harper Nichols Oct 26, 2020

You are going to love this conversation with artist, author, musician, and internationally loved poet, Morgan Harper Nichols. Morgan’s popular Instagram feed has garnered a loyal online community, and she is the author of All Along You Were Blooming, a book of poems and art she created in response to the personal stories submitted by her friends and followers.

In today’s episode we talk about the Wisdom of Jesus and the joy found in walking in the light of the divinely creative and loving life He lived. Morgan shares her journey in artistry and the place from which she creates all her work- the grace and hope we’ve been given in this world as followers of Christ.

This conversation will give you permission to create with courage and to let yourself feel and process your deepest aches in the presence of God.

Morgan has also performed as a vocalist on several GRAMMY-nominated projects and written for various artists, including a Billboard #1 single performed by her sister, Jamie-Grace.

Be inspired by Morgan’s art here!

Shop Morgan’s online store here!

Want to join the Bible study community? Sign up HERE

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter HERE

Episode 9: You Can Talk to God with Kennedy Caughell Oct 19, 2020

Such a joy to have Kennedy Caughell, my friend and star of the Broadway National Tour of Beautiful the Carole King Musical, on the show today!

Listen in as we talk about the beauty of imperfection and the power and freedom found in having a perfect heavenly Father. We dive into the topic of prayer and how we, as followers of Christ, are given the gift of communicating with God and being fully known and loved by Him.

Do you ever wonder -

How do I talk to God?

What is prayer? Why pray?

At the end of the episode I am opening up my Bible to the passage of scripture, Matthew 6:9-13 and breaking down what Jesus taught His disciples about how to pray.

College Girls for Christ Community - SIGN UP HERE

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter!

Source Material Referenced:If Gathering - If Collective - {Lesson 3}

Episode 8: More of Him, Less of Me with Quentin Earl Darrington Oct 12, 2020

We have a Broadway legend on the show today, friends! In today’s episode Quentin Earl Darrington shares his story of being loved by God and carrying that into everything he does and every story he tells. He shares how he has experienced the Lord through developing and bringing new characters to life in some of his most iconic Broadway roles.

Quentin brings truth and wisdom about what it means to humbly live out the love of Jesus - picking up your cross, dying to yourself, and following Christ.

Quentin Earl Darrington was most recently seen on Broadway as Agwe in the Tony Award winning revival of Once On This Island for which he earned a Grammy nomination. He made his Broadway debut in the Tony nominated revival of Ragtime, starring as Coalhouse Walker Jr. and was also seen as Old Deuteronomy in the Broadway revival of CATS, among many other roles!

At the end of the episode I dive into the humility of Jesus as we open the Word and walk through Philippians 2:3-11.

Subscribe to my newsletter HERE for weekly show notes!

Episode 7: Your Life Matters with Ashley Bratcher Oct 05, 2020

This week on the show I sit down with Ashley Bratcher, star of the box office hit, Unplanned, the inspiring true story that chronicles the transformation of a Planned Parenthood clinic director to pro-life advocate. Ashley tells us her personal story of getting to the end of herself, letting go of her plans and surrendering her life and career to Christ. We talk about her journey to discovering that her very own life was spared on an aboriton table and how one opened door changed her life forever. Ashley is passionate about telling redemptive stories on screen as an actor and is currently producing her own feature film.

Listen in and hear how Ashley has found strength and courage in believing that God truly has a purpose and a plan for every detail of our lives.

Join me at the end of the episode as we open the word of God to Psalm 139 and stand in awe of the goodness of our Creator God. Read the passage here!

Download the YouVersion Bible App here!

Follow Ashley! @_ashleybratcher

Episode 6: You Were Made to Shine with Allison Allen Sep 28, 2020

What does it mean to really live in the light? How do I step into the light God has for me? What happens when I don’t feel seen?

Broadway Performer, Author, Speaker, Bible Teacher, and Graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Allison Allen, answers these questions today and you don’t want to miss it!

Listen in as Allison tells her story of falling in love with storytelling as she fell in love with Christ. She shares how the theatre has been a huge part of her journey getting to know the Ultimate Storyteller- Jesus, and how finding Him led to truly finding herself.

Be encouraged that our greatest weaknesses are the places where He shines His light best!

Click here for Allison’s books!

Subscribe to my newsletter for show notes, scripture from the show, and some fun updates each week!

Episode 5: His Plan is the Best Plan with Allison Bailey Sep 21, 2020

We have our second Glinda on the show today! Another southern belle who rides the bubble, this girl has been traveling around the country with the Broadway National Tour of Wicked. In today’s episode Allison tells her story of being released into this dream role and soon after receiving the news of a cancer diagnosis. She talks about how God’s grace sustained her and how, even through the scariest of times, she was able to find strength and peace in relationship with Jesus and the power of prayer. If you feel discouraged because of bad news, Allison reminds us that no matter what the circumstances look like, we can trust that God truly has the very best plan for our lives.

Struggling trusting that God has a plan? At the end of the show I’m breaking down the infamous passage of scripture Jeremiah 29:11 and bringing you some truth to cling to as you walk out this week.

Subscribe to my newsletter HERE for show notes, scripture from the show, and some fun updates each week from me!

Lets connect:

Instagram: @lauraleighturner

Email: podcast@lovelauraleigh.com

Blog: lovelauraleigh.com

Episode 4: Trusting God’s Design for Intimacy with Ashley LaLonde Sep 14, 2020

Ashley is not afraid to share what God says is true.

In today’s episode I’m sitting down with my friend Ashley LaLonde and we talk about her journey growing up in the faith in New York City, falling in love with musical theatre, studying at Harvard and pursuing a career as a performing artist. But, it doesn’t stop there! We get real and dive deep into her personal story of how God has redeemed her understanding of intimacy. Listen in to hear more about her journey to surrendering her heart to the Lord.

Join me at the end of the episode as we walk through this passage of scripture: John 1:1-5

Ashley’s recommended listen: "Sexual Wholeness" - Touré Roberts

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Lets connect:

Instagram: @lauraleighturner

Blog: lovelauraleigh.com

Episode 3: God is so Lovable with Isaiah Bailey Sep 07, 2020

You have to know my friend Isaiah Bailey!

In this episode we dive into the healing that comes through digging up pain from the past and letting God’s grace wash over the hurt. He shares his love story with Jesus and how he has grown to not only know God but also to know His delightful love for us.

Stick around after we chat to hear about what it means to rise up and shine in the light of Christ and the hope that is to come - spending forever with Jesus.

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” Isaiah 60:1

Click HERE to subscribe to my weekly newsletter. I will send you an email every Monday when the episode launches with the show notes, links from the show, and the scripture we studied together.

Let's connect!

Instagram: @lauraleighturner

Blog: lovelauraleigh.com

Episode 2: Your Brokenness Has Purpose with Ginna Claire Mason Sep 07, 2020

Ginna Claire defines for us what it means to live in the light!

Listen as I sit down with my friend and Broadway star Ginna Claire Mason and talk about her career as a performing artist and her journey to knowing and loving Jesus. She tells us her personal story of how God has redeemed and restored even the most painful parts of her past and how with God she has found purpose in the brokenness.

At the end of the show I am sharing some encouraging truth about Jesus- the Light who gives us life.

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” -John 8:12

Warning: In this episode we discuss the topic of childhood sexual abuse.

I don’t know what your story is or where you’re at today but I wanted to provide a resource for if you need immediate help or aren’t sure where or who to turn to. Visit anthemofhope.com for more information.

Click HERE to subscribe to my weekly NEWSLETTER. I will send you an email every Monday when the episode launches with the show notes, links from the show, and the scripture we studied together.

Let's connect!

Instagram: @lauraleighturner

Blog: lovelauraleigh.com

Episode 1: Bringing Real Life to Light with Laura Leigh Sep 07, 2020

To get Season 1 started I wanted to share my own story of how Jesus brought me from the dark and into the light. Vulnerability takes a lot of bravery, and I admit that I am not always the best at leading from my weaknesses. Listen in as I jump off the deep in and open up about my journey to the feet of Jesus and why I let go of control and gave my life to God.

Click HERE to subscribe to my weekly newsletter. I will send you an email every Monday when the episode launches with the show notes, links from the show, and the scripture we studied together.

Lets connect!

Instagram: @lauraleighturner

Blog: lovelauraleigh.com

Introduction Aug 26, 2020

Your story matters and you were made to live in the Light!

Listen in to hear how even the broken parts of your story can have incredible purpose and meaning.

This is a podcast about bringing real life to light.

In Season 1, Laura Leigh will sit down with a friend who is an artist or creative as they share their story of how Jesus brought them from the dark and into His glorious and powerful light.

At the end of each episode she will be diving into a passage of scripture and bringing you truth straight from the Word of God.

Hear stories from performers in the Broadway community, actors, authors, teachers, Ministry leaders and more! Subscribe now!

Sign up here for a weekly newsletter with show notes, scripture, and first info about new episodes!

And thanks to Mike Stapleton and Helen Kemeny for the original music created for this podcast.

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