All Things Good
By Johnna Hold & Laura Walton
Pull up a chair or pop in those earphones and get ready to laugh as we cover it all. Parenting, marriage, church and religion, design, teaching, direct sales -- and things we haven't even thought of yet. But we'll end it with ALL THINGS GOOD that we're finding in our lives each week!
All Things GoodApr 18, 2019
Episode 87: Can You Be "Friends" With Your Kids? (Special Guest: ANNA HOLD)
This week is special, y'all. Johnna sits down with her amazing daughter, Anna, for an honest and unscripted conversation about parenting. If you're raising teens or pre-teens, you definitely don't want to miss this. Big "thank you" to Anna for being a part of this ATG conversation and if you're watching on YouTube, there's no video this week because we were both recording from our cars. #committed
Favorite things for this week...
Johnna: Kitsch Lifting Facial Roller and these super comfy pants for summer!
Laura: Truths I Never Told You (Kelly Rimmer) and Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer are the perfect for the summer.
We're taking it down a notch for summer (because survival!) and will only be recording for every other week. We'll be back in your feed June 16!
Episode 86: Florida Man + Florida Woman
Ever feel like your life's in shambles? Well, this episode is for YOU! After reading through a few of these actual news stories, you'll have a whole new perspective about life, neighbors, and maybe even McDonald's. Pull up a chair and laugh with us through the latest adventures of the folk legend -- Florida Man. And not to be outdone by her counterpart, Florida woman is coming in HOT with some antics of her own.
Links for all the stories below...
Mississippi's Own "Mother of the Year"
Wrong Drink = Vending Machine Smackdown
SPAM Calls Just Got Even More Annoying
Just Another Day on the Course...in Florida
My Neighbor is Crazier than Yours
Another Check Off the Bucket List
Ice Cream Machine Ain't Twerkin'
Leave A Little Glitter Wherever You Go
What we're loving this week...
Johnna:
Anna's Heated Lash Curler
Acrylic Shelving (Set of 3) perfect for records, books, bathroom essentials, and more
Colleen Hoover's Reminders of Him
Laura:
Malibu Cocktail Pina Colada (over ice)
Trace
Episode 85: Binge Worthy
TV : Johnna
- "Candy" (Hulu)
- "Under the Banner of Heaven" (Hulu)
- "Life & Beth" (Hulu)
- "Hacks" (HBO)
- "Anatomy of a Scandal" (Netflix)
- "Bridgerton 2" (Netflix)
- "Never Have I Ever" (Netflix)
- "Kardashians"
Laura: "The Marvelous Mrs. Mazel" Season 3 is on the summer “to do” list.
Movies: Johnna
- Hating Game (Hulu)
- Lost City
- Adam Project (Netflix)
Reading: Johnna
Anything by Colleen Hoover
* Johnna's "read" 7 books in the last month!
Laura:
Malibu Rising
* Oprah’s What Happened to You? and Lilac Girls are on the summer reading list.
Listening To: Johnna
- "Smartless"
- "Comments By Celebs"
- "Big Boo Cast"
- "Scam Goddess"
Laura:
- "Smartless"
- "The Deck"
- "CounterClock": Season 4
- "Crime Junkie"
Favorites we think you'll like:
Johnna's loving Chuda's healing hydrating cream for nighttime, these great Container Store knock-off shoe storage bins, and the perfect black leggings from Everlane.
Laura's sharing a Fun Crafty Project for little girls headed into the summer months and the cries of "I'm bored!" and her new lightweight, perfect-for-Mississippi-summer kimono.
Find us on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook and share your show ideas for upcoming episodes!
Episode 84: Dress Up Days Bringing Us Down
If you're like us, you're a mama hanging on by a thread these last few weeks of school. And you know what the last thing we want to see in the kids' backpacks is? A DRESS-UP DAY announcement! Chat with Johnna and Laura this week about school dress-up days/weeks and the struggles of explaining "Nerd Day" to your learning-English 6 year old.
And if it wasn't enough to know you can SEE us on YouTube now, you definitely want to head over there to Johnna's real-time reaction to a lizard coming into her house while we were recording! While you're there, be sure to hit the "SUBSCRIBE" button!
What are we loving this week?
Johnna's favorites...
Check out this great prayer journal from Well Watered Woman. Cracked Heels got you limping into summer? Check out Bag Balm to have you back in your flip-flops in no time. And if you need a pop of color for all your summer fashions, Johnna's giving you these fun sets of 10 stretchy bracelets from Becasa. ** WARNING: You're going to want them ALL. **
Laura's favorites...
Check out the perfect matte hoop from the cutest Etsy shop. And if you have longer hair and are looking for a way to get the beachy waves, you "need" this extra long barrel extra long barrel curling iron.
Join us next week...or next year. We just like to keep y'all guessing!
Episode 83: Where y'all been?
Come party with us for Cinco de Mayo! It's been a minute, y'all, and we are so excited to be recording again. Join us for a catch-up session and as always, we're bringing you some of our favorite things to try for yourself.
Johnna is loving the fun, colorful dresses from Victoria Dunn Designs, highly recommends the movie CODA and has found the cutest Cotton Sarong for all those beach and pool days ahead.
Laura's recommendations are these fun sneakers from Nike (face-plant NOT recommended) and Bed Head Recovery Shampoo and Conditioner for hair that needs a little pick-me-up.
And don't forget to add "Smartless" and "Sibling Revelry" to your weekly must-listen podcasts.
Join us May 12 when we chat about surviving the end-of-the-school-year madness, and the 2.57 million dress-up days schools throw at parents.
Episode 82: Spring Catch-up Session
It’s been a while since you’ve heard from the girls about life so they’re taking this week’s episode to catch you up on all that’s been happening in the world — and their worlds. They talk family trips, birthday celebrations, and adoption updates as well as share some of their current favorite things.
Johnna’s loving the Forty Days of Being a Two devotional and the Cube Kitchen Timer that is helping her stay productive and focused with her day-to-day. Laura’s loving the All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness (she’s reading the books, but there is also an Amazon Prime Series!). She also found a great drug store mascara that makes her lashes longer and fuller: Wet N Wild Mega Volume mascara (for only $6.98!).
Join them again in two weeks for another fun episode!
Episode 81: Adoption Chat with The Rev
Since Episode 1, you've been hearing about the Waltons' adoption...from Laura. But on today's episode, you get to hear about their adoption from The Rev. Hear his take on the process and a few of their funny mishaps during their time in India! If you're in the processing or praying through the possibility of adoption or maybe you feel like you and your spouse are out of sync, hopefully this episode will bless your heart.
Join the ladies in two weeks for a little catch-up session and hear about some of their favorite things from the spring!
Episode 80: Kristina Starnes with Ruby Raye Designs
What a delight! Kristina Starnes is a Southern girl with a flare for fashion and heart for others -- you do not want to miss this conversation! Find her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. You will love on those platforms just as much as you do in this episode!
Join us in two weeks, when Laura will sit down with The Rev to talk adoption -- from Daddy's perspective.
Episode 79: Ice Storms & Adoption Updates
The Holds survived Snowpocalypse 2021 and the Waltons have survived their first three weeks home with their (very!) active 5-year-old daughter. It's been a month to remember! Join the ladies as they catch up and encourage one another (and hopefully, YOU!) during one of the most memorable months.
They're also back on track with sharing some of their favorite things this month as Johnna shares some of the Holds' latest meal prep secrets. They are loving their Hello Fresh subscription and they're all in with their Our Place Pan (available in a ton of fun colors). Laura's sharing some her favorites from her recent travel, including the apparently world-famous Miss Fong Backpack and Aniya's favorite sticker/activity book, Big Stickers for Little Hands.
Join them again in two weeks for another fun episode!
Episode 78: Budget Talks & Jesus (with Will Hold)
In this episode, Will steps into Laura’s co-hosting shoes while she’s India. He and Johnna deep dive into all the reasons he loves a budget and how he came to know Jesus. You don’t want to miss this one!
We’ll have a full India / adoption report on the next episode!
Episode 77: An Organized Life with guest, Whitney English
We’re sure when you saw the title that you knew right away that we’d have a guest on this episode! Whitney is an Enneagram 7 with a creative vision and also a heart for helping women live “Busy-Balanced-Beautiful” lives. She’s created a beautiful line of planners and life tools to help you effectively and efficiently manage all the things life throws at you!
And, as if listening in on the conversation wasn’t enough, she’s giving our ATG listeners 20% off their orders at http://www.whitneyenglish.com. Use code ALLTHINGSGOOD at checkout to take advantage of this amazing deal!
The Waltons are off to India on Sunday, January 31 to bring home Aniya Grace, so our February 11 episode will be super special. Let’s just say, you *might* just get to hear the Hold’s engagement story again to help get you in a romantic mood for Valentine’s Day!
Episode 76: Welcome to 2021!
Johnna’s sharing a great binge watch on Apple TV: “Ted Lasso” and a fantastic new skincare regimen she’s found that has her glowing. Laura has two great reads to recommend from her Christmas break: The Great Alone (Kristin Hannah) and Beneath a Scarlet Sky (Mark T. Sullivan). She also binged the second season of the Dr. Death podcast…in day.
We’ll be back in two weeks with another new episode!
Episode 75: 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
Episode 74: Focus on Fair Trade: Kelsie Kunkle + Driftless Style
This is it! Our final interview for the Focus on Fair Trade series. We spilled over a bit into November, but when you meet our friend, Kelsie, you’ll be ok with it, too! Kelsie is the Owner and Co-CEO of the most beautiful shop in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Kelsie shares some of her favorite things from the shop as well as her family’s painfully beautiful adoption journey that will leave you all adding the Kunkle family to your prayer lists.
If you can’t make it to the store, she also has beautifully curated online shop you find at www.driftlessstyle.com. And through November, you can use the code allthingsgood20 for 20% off your order! You can bet your TRC boots that we’ll have some beauties from Driftless Style on our 2020 Gift Guide.
So, we’re taking next week off to work on the holiday Gift Guide, but join us November 19 when we help you tackle all the Christmas shopping for everyone on your list!
Episode 73: Focus on Fair Trade: Bethany Tran + The Root Collective
What a treat! Bethany Tran, founder and CEO of The Root Collective, is hanging out with the ladies today to talk about fair trade, working with artisan groups in other countries, and the ups and downs of shoe production. Bethany also shares some exciting Tran family news — IT’S A BOY! She really does do it all!
Bethany has generously given ATG listeners $25 off their order with the one-time use code GOODTHINGS. EEK! Laura has the Gaby Flat in mustard and the Lee Boot in merlot (that’s MAROON for our State fans!) — and LOVES THEM both!
Join us next week for our final fair trade conversation with Kelsie Kunkle, founder and Co-CEO of Driftless Style.
Episode 72: Focus on Fair Trade: Lisa Stoltzfus + The Mustard Seed Marketplace
Lisa has also given ATG listeners a one-time discount code for you to use through the end of the year to shop her amazing online store, and if you’re near Middlebury, Indiana, you should definitely go check it out in person.
Site: www.themustardseedmarketplace.com
Code: ALLTHINGSGOOD15
Join us for another fun Focus on Fair Trade episode next week when we hear from Founder and Owner of The Root Collective, Bethany Tran.
Episode 71: Focus on Fair Trade with Shannon Riesenfeld and Mango + Main
Are you loving Fair Trade Month? Johnna and Laura have the coolest friends and they cannot wait for you to meet more of them! Today, the ladies chat with Shannon Riesenfeld, owner and founder of Mango + Main. If you’re near Annapolis, Maryland, GET THERE! If you’re not, you can shop all of Shannon’s beautifully curated fair trade pieces from her website: www.mangoandmain.com. From baskets to candles to ornaments to jewelry and accessories, you will find the perfect gift…for yourself or someone else!
Shannon has also graciously given our listeners a code for 10% off your order. Use code ALLTHINGSGOOD10 unit the end of 2020 when you checkout!
Episode 70: Focus on Fair Trade with Abby Alley
And you really don’t want to miss the generous discount code for ATG listeners. Head to www.abbyalley.com and use ALLTHINGSGOOD at checkout to receive 20% off your order through the end of 2020.
Join us next week as the ladies chat with their precious friend, Shannon, over at Mango + Main.
Episode 69: Fair trade 101 with Karen Gibbs
What a treat! We are so excited to kick off our focus on Fair Trade with “The Oprah of Fair Trade” (Johnna’s words, not Karen’s!) Karen Gibbs. Karen leads ByHand Consulting, a firm of talented advocates that empower and advise artisan groups around the globe.
Grab a cup of coffee, your favorite pen and notebook, and dive into this conversation as Karen explains the differences between fair trade and Fair Trade, gives us tips for shifting our purchasing tendencies to fair trade, and shares more about how when we use our purchasing power for GOOD, peoples’ lives are changed.
Some resources from Karen for learning more:
Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/amyschoenberger/2018/12/14/what-exactly-is-fair-trade-and-why-should-we-care/#79743dfd7894
Fair Trade Federation: https://www.fairtradefederation.org/fair-trade-resources/
Clean Clothes Campaign: https://cleanclothes.org/
B Corp: https://bcorporation.net/
Fair Trade Resource Network – https://www.fairtraderesource.org/learn-up/recommended-reading/
A few of Karen’s favorite fair trade brands:
Nisolo: https://nisolo.com/pages/ethically-made
Mata Traders: https://www.matatraders.com/pages/fair-trade-philosophy
Join us next week when our friend Abby from Abby Alley will join us and share more about her beautiful East African collection of accessories.
Episode 68: Mean Girls
Join the ladies today as they talk about the “mean girl” mentality and how we can respond, not only when we’re the target but when we see others being targeted. This is also a great conversation for mamas of girls who are trying to help their daughters navigate these waters, too!
Check out these articles, if you want to read more:
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.theodysseyonline.com/amp/women-standing-up-for-each-other-2624528999
- https://goop.com/wellness/career-money/why-women-criticize-each-other-plus-ways-to-play-bigger/
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/working-btches/201308/why-are-some-women-nasty-other-women?amp
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.entrepreneur.com/amphtml/319639
- https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/parenting/mom-shame-coronavirus.html
See also the biblical guidance in Proverbs 31 woman: https://biblia.com/bible/nlt/proverbs/31 (See verses 8-9).
Johnna’s sharing a Netflix series, “Get Organized” and also a reminder of how great “The Bible Binge” podcast is, especially when trying to fill yourself with the good stuff. Laura’s sharing her favorite blue light glasses for all the screen time she’s juggling with online instruction and a Netflix series that she LOVED, “Away.”
Don’t forget to order your It’s Fine and/or ‘Tis So Sweet tees before September 30. This is it! We won’t reopen the store again, so use this link to order: https://sisterwaltoniscominghome.bigcartel.com.
Episode 67: News Flash!
Pull up a chair and grab your coffee (or your wine!) as the ladies catch up on life and our world! There are updates from the Hold and Walton families, some Mississippi news, and even some world news! They’ve got it all in this episode, y’all!
What are they loving this week? Johnna’s found some super fun disposable masks that are even individually wrapped (available in kids and adult sizes). And she’s giving us the skinny on her new favorite skin cleanser! Laura’s recently finished Hillbilly Elegy and is eagerly awaiting the movie release in November.
Order your It’s Fine and ‘Tis So Sweet tees before October 1 here.
Episode 66: To Bite a Kid...or Not to Bite a Kid, Part 2
The girls are continuing their conversation this week with some great insight from actual experts. If you missed last week’s episode (Episode 65), you may want to go back and catch that one first. They’ve done our research (AKA: Googled it!). Here are the links to the full articles that the girls chat through as well as some of tools for equipping our kiddos for handling conflict.
https://www.parents.com/kids/development/social/helping-kids-deal-with-arguments/
https://psychcentral.com/lib/letting-your-kids-fight-their-own-battles
https://www.forbes.com/sites/bobcook/2019/06/21/why-sports-parents-brawl/
What are the girls loving this week? Johnna’s loving her new shoes from On Cloud (she went with the grey and white!) and her new office renovation (Sherwin Williams Iron Ore, if you’re wondering!). Laura is giving the Tostitos Salsa Verde chips TWO thumbs up and found a great sports bra from Amazon.
Join them again next week and don’t forget to leave those ratings and reviews over on Apple iTunes!
Episode 65: To Bite a Kid...or Not to Bite a Kid, Part 1
Catch up a bit with the ladies as they share ALL THINGS GOOD despite a pandemic turning the school year upside down, health struggles, and dueling hurricanes in the Gulf! It’s 2020, y’all! What else would you expect?
Listen in to part one of a two-week conversation about parenting struggles with teens and tweens. Do you get involved? Do you offer advice? Do you bite the kid who’s bullying your kid…or someone else’s kid? We’ll be back next week with more of our discussion and more of your comments and advice, too!
What are we loving in the midst of the crazy? Johnna’s loving the new podcast “Nice White Parents” (Laura is, too!). They are also recommending “The Piketon Massacre” and “The Orange Tree,” if you’re into true crime. Johnna’s also finding more rest at night with these melatonin gummies. Laura’s heart is full after a quick trip last week to north Mississippi to see dear friends, and she has also found help for her curly hair with a new “fancy” hair dryer.
If you’d like to help with the recovery in the areas of Haiti and the Dominican Republic where Laura worked for several years and Tropical Storm Laura caused massive destruction, donate directly to Hispaniola Mountain Ministries here.
If you’re looking for the amazing medical journals and resources we mentioned by Johna Jenkins published by Whitney English, you can find them here.
Episode 64: Back-to-School Time!
Wow! It’s been a bit since the girls have chatted and we’re inviting you into the catch-up session! They’re talking back-to-school, church reopening, good TV binges, calming oils, and adoption on today’s episode! Pull up a chair and share the laughs. Be sure to let them know what back-to-school looks like at your house!
“Hamilton” spoof by one creative Catholic priest: here.
Apple TV shows: “Defending Jacob” & “Outcry“
Great reads from Kristin Hannah: Firefly Lane and Fly Away.
Johnna’s loving the weekly show “Little Voice” on Apple TV and found a great “foot hammock” to help with swelling when flying. Laura’s loving her new “Calm” oil from Thistle Farms and recommends two great reads by Jeannette Walls: Half-Broke Horses (read first!) and The Glass Castle.
Join us next week for a conversation about parenting that you won’t want to miss!
Episode 63: Dear College Freshman Self, Part 2
Johnna and Laura are back with Part 2 of this fun conversation about college life and this week, you guys are bringing it! You’ve got some great advice for our college friends!
Johnna shares her favorite new bracelet stack from Espacio (she’s partial to the Perry Stack) and Laura recommends The Guernsey Literary Society & Potato Peel Pie Society book as a great summer read (There’s also a movie for any non-readers!).
Join the girls next week as they catch on all things travel, back-to-school and well, just 2020 LIFE!
Johnna and Laura are grateful you’re here to chat each week. If you love the show, they’d be so grateful if you’d tell a friend or share on social media. And be sure to leave a review on Apple iTunes!
Episode 62: Dear College Freshman Self, Part 1
Johnna is loving Season 3 of Yellowstone (available on Paramount or Amazon). Laura has found a great V-neck tee from Amazon that comes in a whole rainbow of colors (she especially loves the Lake Green!)
Don’t forget to leave a review over on Apple iTunes if you’re loving the show and be sure to join the girls next week for Part 2 of this conversation!
Episode 61: July in Review
It feels like yesterday was July 4 and yet here we are at the end of the month…and the end of summer. Join the girls as they chat family vacations and back-to-school forecasts
Johnna’s getting artsy with her favorite things this week and sharing a great watercolor set and paper for those moments when painting feels peaceful. Laura takes a hard right turn with her “good thing” and shares a new true crime podcast series, Park Predators.
Join us next week when we begin a two-part series that has us reminiscing about our college years and hopefully, laying down some wisdom for those precious souls about to embark on their own college experience.
Episode 60: Conversation about Conversation, Part II
If you haven’t listened to last week’s episode, press pause and start there, y’all! This is the second part in our “Conversation about Conversation.” You don’t want to miss the first part!
For more conversation starters, see the full list here: https://conversationstartersworld.com/questions-to-get-to-know-someone/
What are the girls finding GOOD in their lives right now? Johnna has two great reads she’s sharing: Stand All The Way Up by Sophie Hudson and An American Marriage by Tayari Jones. Laura’s sharing a great teeth whitening system: Lumineux Oral Essentials (Use WELCOME15 for 15% off your order) and some cute new Bermuda shorts from Calia by Carrie Underwood available at Dick’s…unfortunately, they didn’t make Laura’s legs look like Carrie’s!
Join us next week when we travel back in time to give our college freshman selves some advice!
Episode 59: Conversation about Conversation, Part I
For a lot of us, we may be a little rusty on our conversational skills coming out of the quarantine life, so the girls wanted to share a few pointers and model what this could look like. Note that they say “could” and not “should.” Check out this great guide for conversation starters here:
https://conversationstartersworld.com/questions-to-get-to-know-someone/
The girls got so into this conversation exercise that they had to break the episode into two parts (shocker!), so join them next week for Part II of the conversation! Happy 4th of July, friends!
NOTE: You won’t hear their favorites until next week, but they just couldn’t wait to share them so here’s your sneak peek for next week’s conclusion and their GOOD things!
What are they finding GOOD in their lives right now? Johnna has two great reads she’s sharing with us: Stand All The Way Up by Sophie Hudson and An American Marriage by Tayari Jones. Laura’s sharing a great teeth whitening system: Lumineux Oral Essentials (Use WELCOME15 for 15% off your order) and some cute new Bermuda shorts from Calia by Carrie Underwood available at Dick’s…unfortunately they didn’t make Laura’s legs look like Carrie’s!
Episode 58: Ripped from the Headlines
Inspired by a social media post challenging folks to rethink their daily headlines, the ladies set out to find "new news" in the world today! They're not sticking their heads in the sand and pretending it's not a mess out there, but they are working on mental health and sometimes that means stepping away for some new perspective.
Links to all the news articles shared in this episode at www.allthingsgoodpodcast.com.
What else are the ladies loving right now? Johnna's dishing on another great skort from Target (comes in four colors!) and if you want an adorable outfit, grab this adorable "Be Kind" tank from Amazon to go with your skort! Laura's loving Flower cosmetics Lash Warrior mascara and is telling to you to RUN to your couch and binge "Just Mercy" and "Selma" for FREEEEEE on Netflix in June! You have permission!
Don't forget to share your "Florida Man" headlines with us on social media!
Episode 57: Covid, Catheters and Conflict...OH MY!
Well, here we are again, friends. Talking conflict. It’s an election year and well, our world feels like a big dumpster fire which means everyone has an opinion about how it started and more importantly, how to put it out. Today, we talk through navigating conflict IRL and on social media during these times with a few solid reminders for keeping our relationships (and our sanity!) and of course, some funny stories along the way!
What are the ladies loving this week? Johnna’s loving the Olaplex hair care system (products 4, 5 & 7 specifically!) and the “Big Boo Cast’s” Patreon episode on body image. Can’t we all use those reminders? Laura’s loving her new collapsable rocking chair for all the ballpark fun and has gone all in with her curly hair. She’s taking all tips and product suggestions, but is loving some Marc Anthony Strictly Curls cream.
Have a great week, y’all!
Episode 56: Facing the Fear
A few links and resources from their conversation…
Circle Maker by Mark Batterson
Praying Life by Paul Miller
Some of their favorite scriptures for fighting fear…
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
1 John 4:18-19 (ESV) There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us.
Psalm 34:4 (ESV) I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT) For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline.
Philippians 4:6 (NLT) : Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.
What are the girls currently loving? Johnna’s loving Sephora’s Hyaluranoic Acid for glowing skin and Knox McCoy’s new book, All Things Reconsidered. Laura’s loving her new Life is Good convertible beach chair and the feelings of BASEBALL BEING BACK!
If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on Apple iTunes to help others find our community!
Episode 55: Beach Babes Recap
We’re baaaack! We’ve missed being with you all so much, but have enjoyed the time to step away and recharge a little. We’re coming back with a catch-up episode sharing some life updates and a few stories from our time together in LA…that’s Lower Alabama, y’all.
A few links you might be looking for from our conversation:
LaTasha Morrison on Instagram: here
Be the Bridge on Instagram: here
Order LaTasha’s book from Amazon: here
Fun game for the beach, Spike ball: here
Johnna’s favorites: Pep Talk Postcards by Emily McDowell; New Keyboard for iPad Pro from Lemrich
Laura’s favorites: Running Skort (she has the charcoal; runs TTS); “Chosen” series on Apple TV
Join us next week as we talk about fear. There’s a lot going on in our world to be fearful of, but the Word gives us the tools we need to fight back.
Episode 54: Homeschool Hacks (Guest: Julia Jenkins)
We get it. Life is weird. We’re being asked to do things that aren’t “normal” or even “comfortable” for us. One of those things, for some of us, may be homeschooling our children. Today, we’re chatting with our sweet friend Julia Jenkins (find her on Insta HERE) who is a homeschool ninja for three beautiful girls — and started her own co-op. She has great insight and ideas for those of us that are less equipped — or just less willing — to tackle this whole new world.
Julia’s sharing her favorites with us this week, too. She’s loving Brene Brown’s podcast, “Unlocking Us” (specifically, THIS episode) and her refillable French Wicks candles (grapefruit & mint is her favorite scent!). Johnna’s recommending a good binge of “Outer Banks” on Netflix, and this delicious chocolate chip cookie recipe from Modern Honey. Laura’s loving her new iPad Pro (Thanks, Miss State!) that is making grading so much easier in the homestretch of the semester and has (finally) started the Harry Potter series.
In case you missed it, we’re taking the month of May off to recharge and regroup to bring you the best of the best content for the rest of the summer. We appreciate your understanding and can’t wait chat again June 4!
Episode 53: Covid Ruins Everything (Guest: Becky Meussner)
Shout out to NaSHEville here! Check out their cute merch!
We asked Becky to share some good things in her life this week, too! She’s giving Bernie Herms and Natalie Grant’s “A Song a Day Keeps the Crazies Away” living room concert two thumbs up (check them out on Instagram here). She’s also finding the good in “online church” during this pandemic. Johnna’s bringing you a great “Birkencroc” knock off (she loved the pink!) as well as a great addition to family game night: Catchphrase. Laura’s loving her new wheels…BICYCLE wheels and has started running again. Hopefully, this will help knock off the “quaran10” she’s been packing on.
Join us next week when we chat with our dear friend Julia about homeschooling — she’s an expert, y’all!
Episode 52: Covid-19 Ruins Everything (Guest: Meg Jensen)
Life is feeling a little cray-cray right now and most of our daily routines have been disrupted. In addition to daily routines, lots of milestone moments and rites of passage have also been flipped on their ends. Today, the girls chat with Meg Jensen, AKA “Queen Meg,” about how life as a graduating senior has looked for her recently. Meg is the daughter of the girls’ dear friend, Jennifer (AKA J.J.) and she’s wise beyond her (almost) 19 years. She gives us all some great insight into how to love on the Class of 2020 and help them keep this all in perspective.
Meg joined the weekly “good things” and shared her favorites, too! She’s loving the extra time to take walks and exercise, and she gives Sadie Robertson’s Live two thumbs up. Johnna’s loving her personalized scripture cards from Dandelion Design and Voss’ strawberry ginger sparkling water. Laura’s recommending “Breaking Bad” as a Netflix binge (although not family-friendly) and has loved having some extra time for pulling out old recipes for the family during the quarantine.
Join the girls next week when they chat with a university senior who’s taking some bold steps into an unpredictable work environment!
Episode 51: Happy Holy Week
We’re nearly one month into this strange new “normal” that has become our lives. Listen in as the girls discuss Holy Week, how they are observing the different days leading up to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Johnna shares about her family’s seder meal. And the ladies share how Easter baskets are going to look at the Hold and Walton houses this year. Let’s just say it’s a little different.
Some basket ideas:
For the girls….
Journaling Pen Set
Fun Journal
Dual-tip Pen Set
For the boys….
WeBall padded socks
Battle sports gear
What are we loving? Johnna’s recommending “Unorthodox” on Netflix and tossing in a Blender Bomb for your smoothies. Laura’s giving you a new true crime podcast, “The Dating Game Killer,” and two books: Light Changes Everything and Maybe in Another Life.
Check out The Rev’s daily Holy Week messages on Eastlawn UMC’s Facebook page. Join the Holds for worship from Hill Country Bible Church.
Join us next week and don’t forget to leave a review over on Apple iTunes!
Episode 50: Quarantine Sanity Check
Things are heavy in our world. We hope today’s episode will give you a few laughs and maybe some new ideas to pass the time as the “social distancing” regulations become stricter and some states have even extended their timeframes already.
Here are a few suggestions (by category for your convenience)
QUARANTINE GEAR
Johnna: Anything from Aerie, hoodies, boyfriend tees, and leggings
Laura: Amazon leggings, PJ bottoms from the Dollar General, all the Bella + Canvas tees, and my new “It’s fine. I’m fine. Everything is Fine.” sweatshirt (Zullily)
PODCASTS
Johnna: Big Boo Cast, The Bible Binge, Over My Dead Body
Laura: Invisible Choir (AKA: See-Thru Worship), Crime Junkie and Counter Clock
– new airbuds from Amazon to block out the “other” noises
CRAFTS
Johnna: pinch pots (air dry clay from Crayola), Journals and journaling pens; tie dye kits for tees and hoodies
Laura: Jigsaw puzzle app, cross stitching (check Etsy and Hobby Lobby for fun patterns & kits); paint number kits (after classes end)
HOME PROJECTS
Johnna: overhaul of the backyard, full garage clean out, whole home organization
Laura: flower bed; painting the china hutch
TELEVISION SHOWS
Johnna: Netflix: “Self Made,” “Ozark,” “All American,” “Tiger King.” Hulu: “Zoe’s Extraordinary Playlist,” “Brooklyn 99.” HBO: “Homeland”
Laura: Netflix: “Tiger King,” “Killer Inside,” about to start “The Pharmacist”
Compliments of Jeff: “The Morning Show” (Apple TV); “Little Fires Everywhere” (Hulu); “Yellowstone” (Paramount Network – Amazon); “The Outsider” (HBO); “McMillions,” “Sneaky Pete” (Amazon)
GAMES
Johnna: Dominoes, Monopoly, Monopoly Deal, Skip Bo, Sequence, Phase10
Laura: Dominoes, Uno, basketball and baseball
Tomorrow is also the last day to order the “It’s Fine” tee shirts. Click here to order yours and help bring sweet Aniya Grace home!
Episode 49: Raising Godly vs. "good" Kids
If you're like Johnna and Laura, you're spending a lot of time with family right now. For better or worse, our kids are learning about how to handle hard things from us. What are we teaching them? The girls chat through some practical tips for going beyond raising "good" kids and helping them grow deep roots for their own faith to become not only Godly kids, but Godly adults.
In case you want to borrow Will's daily prayer for the Hold kids from Christ-Centered Parenting: Prepare them to be independent but dependent on God, Rely on the Holy Sprit, Prepare them to exist outside the home, and engage in the current culture.
What are the girls loving during the quarantine? Johnna's been watching "Little Fires Everywhere" and the Holds are loving "Jumanji 2"! Laura's finding all the joy in the coronavirus memes and the gift of technology during this quarantine and of course, the new It's Fine tees to benefit the Waltons' adoption.
Shop the fundraiser HERE.
Order yours TODAY! They'll only be available until April 3!
Episode 48: Corona "Survival" Tips
If you live in the U.S., you're being impacted by Covid-19 (AKA, the coronavirus). Join the conversation as the girls talk through some of the impacts and give you some of their favorite tips for surviving the indefinite period of social distancing.
For the latest (factual) updates, visit www.cdc.gov. And for the love, don't believe everything you read on social media.
What are the girls loving this week? Johnna says check out Karen Howell's TV guide on Instagram for all your quarantine binge watching needs. She's also reading Melanie Shankle's latest book, On the Bright Side and shares a great cookie recipe from Rachel Parcell. Laura's finally reading Daisy Jones and The Six and just binged both seasons of "Fleabag" on Prime Video (questionable content warning included).
Join us next week as we revisit parenting with a chat about raising "good" kids vs. Godly kids.
Episode 47: Corona Cruise & More Paper
Well, friends. Get out your spreadsheets. Johnna's family will NOT be going on their much-anticipated cruise next week due to her doctor's orders to protect her from the Corona virus. There may also be a name announcement in the midst of the paperwork push for the Waltons' adoption.
What are we loving? Johnna shares a sweet option for your Easter dress from Amazon and a great true crime podcast: The Catch and Kill podcast. Laura's seeking redemption from last week's dark podcast recommendation with Anne Graham Lotz's Living in the Light podcast. Laura's also sharing a fun small business for personalized gifts and scripture cards: Dandelion Designer.
Episode 46: "Excited" About Lent
The Lenten season is here and whether you've observed Lent your entire life or you have no idea what we're talking about, hopefully this chat will get you excited about this season of preparation for Easter. We talk through a little of the history, its purpose in our Christian calendar and of course, how we "celebrate" this season of repentance and sacrifice. Their favorite part? Talking through the ways you've shared about YOUR Lenten observances.
Details for the Lenten study by Erin H. Moon here. Erin's Instagram is here.
What are we loving this week? Johnna's loving The Mother-in-Law: A Novel and Tyler Candles' Glam Wash Laundry Detergent. Laura's recently binged a true crime podcast that she's a little nervous to recommend (It's super dark! So proceed with caution!) called Invisible Choir and she's LOVING their family's latest adoption fundraiser: 'Tis so Sweet tees for their Sweeti!
Episode 45: Don't Let The Sun Go Down
Just to follow last week's comparison episode with something super light and fluffy, we went with... CONFLICT. Goodness gracious, y'all! Johnna and Laura are talking conflict styles and how these five styles play out in their homes, their friendships, and their work relationships. Let's just say, the girls have some work to do!
Head to the website to see the Five Conflict Styles Diagram.
Johnna's bringing the $20 line with her favorites this week: These adorable and super comfy pjs from Ellen's line at Walmart and this super fun dress from Target. Laura's got a great read and a way to keep your diamond(s) looking shiny: Tattooist of Auschwitz (Heather Morris) and the Diamond Dazzle Stik.
And if you haven't already ordered, you NEED these sunglasses, y'all! They are the real deal! Retro Sunnies
Episode 44: The Real Joy Killer
Well, this one is super light and fluffy, y'all! Johnna and Laura dig into the roots of comparison and share some areas in their lives where they struggle. Amazingly, there were no tears.
Check out these articles the girls reference in their comparison conversation if this is an area where you struggle and you want to read more for yourself.
Alli Worthington's article published by Propel Women: Click here
Huffington Post article about the pitfalls off comparison: Click here
Blog post by Ashley Hacksaw: Click here
What are we loving lately?
Well, Johnna's loving the true crime podcast, Your Own Backyard about the Kristin Smart abduction over 20 years ago and her new retro sunnies from Amazon. Laura's loving her K-Pak Shampoo and conditioner combo and her new Maskara Beauty palette (Reach out to our friend, Colleen, if you have questions!)
We'll chat soon!
Episode 43: Be My Valentine
It's here! The day of LOVE! We have some thoughts on it, y'all. Are you surprised? Hear Johnna and Laura's take on Valentine's Day as well as some funny stories of celebrations gone awry over the years.
A few links you might want after listening and thinking of some alternative Valentine's Day gifts for your sweetheart:
What are we loving lately? Johnna's gushing over all things Magnolia after her recent visit to Waco, and loved having the Jensen family in town for the weekend. Laura's loving her blue light filter glasses that are saving her eyes and has just started a new 30-day bible study with The Rev called, Being with Jesus.
We can't wait to hear about your Valentine's Day! Tag us in your posts and let us know how you celebrated!
Episode 42: Our Anniversary Favorites
Happy ONE YEAR Anniversary, ATG friends! You've been listening to our silliness for a whole year! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! We are so grateful.
Catch up with Johnna's latest health update (ya gonna need your spreadsheets!) and hear some exciting news with the Waltons' adoption journey...we both got "babies" last week!
To celebrate our podcasting anniversary, we wanted to bring you some of our absolute favorites from the last year!
Favorite Podcasts
Dolly Parton's America (L&J)
Emily P. Freeman's The Next Right Thing (L)
In the Dark (Season 2, specifically) (L)
Young House Love (J)
Absolutely Not with Heather McMahan (language warning!) (J)
Fatal Voyage (J)
Favorite Books
The Things We Cannot Say - Kelly Rimmer (J)
The Nightingale - Kristin Hannah (J & L)
The Wondering Years - Knox McCoy (J)
Becoming - Michelle Obama (L)
The Giver of Stars - JoJo Moyes (L)
Where the Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens (L &J)
Favorite TV Series
The Morning Show (J)
Crown (J)
Mad Men (J)
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (J &L)
It wouldn't be an episode without our weekly favorites, so Johnna's sharing her favorite ear cleaners and dishing on her CBD soft gels from Equilibria. Laura's recommending Instant Family (check Prime Video) and the Jane.com app where she snagged the cutest graphic tee for baseball season!
Join us next week for our first episode in a new season! YAY!
Episode 41: You Can't Be Everyone's Cup of Tea
We've talked about friendship before, but the number of articles that come out on the daily telling us how to navigate these waters tell us this is an important conversation to have -- and to keep having. Check out the links to these articles that were the inspiration and the basis for much of this episode:
The Middle-Aged Mean Girls and How to Make Friends and Keep Them
Also, learn more about our sweet friend Alisha's partnership with the beautiful and talented Jalia Matovu at www.ajunausa.com. Our listeners can use our special code for 15% off their order: ALLTHINGSGOODPODCAST.
Here are a few of our favorites:
Bubu Bracelets
Grace Necklace
Nash Necklace
Kalungi Necklace
Johnna's also giving us the dish on her new favorite cookbook (that uses 'normal' ingredients): The Defined Dish by Alex Snodgrass. And Laura's sharing her favorite black skinny jeans from Kut from the Kloth: The Diana Skinny Jean (Kurvy). Get $10 off your order when you start shopping here.
Join us next week for our ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY celebration!
Episode 40: People of the Gym
Sidebar: If you really want a blessing, check out Kelli's church's new worship album: Psalms, Vol. 1 on Spotify or iTunes. Check out our girl featured on "Again and Again" (You'll have it on repeat! We do!).
The ladies are sharing some GOOD things this week that you'll want to check out, too! Kelli shared a great hydration tool - Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier - and her love for the NY Times cooking app. Johnna is loving the Brad and Jennifer rumors and speaking their reconciliation into being. She's also sharing a great cosmetics brand with the most amazing color-matching system - Maskara (Check it out and our friend, Colleen, will be happy to help you if you have questions about their products!). Laura's good things this week is a book Johnna recommended a few months ago, The Nightengale, that she could not put down over Christmas and her Aveda Damage Remedy.
Thanks for being a part of our fun each week! We are grateful for each of you that laughs along with us!
Episode 39: Weight of a WORD
It's a new year and a new decade and it seems as though there's a lot of buzz about WORDS right now. After a quick catch-up, Johnna and Laura discuss "to word or not to word" for the year and the meanings behind their words for 2020. There may have been tattoo talk and some changing of the word play (Looking at you, Will Hold.). We also share some of our listeners' words and may have started thinking about 2021 in the process!
Johnna shares her favorite hair brush from Framar and her love for Dolly Parton's America podcast. Laura's recommending a trip to NYC, with a special shout-out to The Lion King on Broadway show and the In The Dark, Season 2 podcast has some AMAZING updates.
Thanks to our friend, KBBWDE, who left a fantastic review over at Apple iTunes for us! YOU ROCK!
Also, check out our friend Abby's amazing brand at www.abbyalley.com and maybe she'll have your 2020 word on a beautiful necklace or bracelet to help you focus your year!
Episode 38: Holiday Highlights
Listen in as Johnna and Laura share a few of their very favorite things from the holiday season. Time with family topped the list for both ladies, and they have a few updates to their shopping guide. Looks like someone's hubby has been listening!
Johnna shares her new favorite dress from Carly Jean Los Angelos -- The Laurel Boho Maxi -- and her plan for Jennie Allen's printable Dream Guide in 2020. Laura is loving the flavored saltine crackers that have been a constant since the holidays and swears her new Judy Blue Patch Pocket Flare jeans are the solution to all her recent emotional eating. Ok. Maybe not, but they sure are cute!
And as promised, we're launching a new show segment where we share your reviews from apple iTunes this year! We loved this week's shout-out from our friend @he'sstillworkingonme! Leave your review or rating ASAP and maybe we'll get yours on an upcoming episode, too!
Join us next week as we talk "words" for 2020!