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WHOA That's Good Podcast
Fame, Failure & Faith – How We Found Our Way | Sadie Robertson Huff | Reed & Brighton Robertson
01:07:50
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- [00:01]
A
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- [00:38]
B
What's up? Everybody happy? Well, that's good. Wednesday. I hope you're having a great week. Per usual, it is about to get so much better. And I. I can almost guarantee you it's about to get better, because this morning, I always say this. Whenever I get to interview guests that come on the podcast, I get so honestly, it's like, such a blessing for me because I get to study their lives and to just even have this conversation. A lot of times I end up being so encouraged before I even step on. And this morning was certainly that. And it was kind of a surprise because the people on our podcast today are family. You would think I would know all of this. I'd be like, oh, easy interview. But no, this morning, I was shocked as I just got to hear more of their story and just the depth of what God has done in their life. So I am thrilled that we have Reed and Brighton on the podcast today. And not to mention, Reed was kind of like the most requested guest to come back. Although that's good, because every one of you loved him last year. And it's even better because now we have Brighton. So welcome back to the podcast and for the first time.
- [01:35]
C
Yeah.
- [01:36]
B
Thanks for having us. So exciting. Reid. Yeah. You were a breakout star last year. How does that feel?
- [01:41]
A
Hey, what can I say, you know?
- [01:43]
B
You know, not to hype you up too much.
- [01:45]
A
Yeah. Well, I. Whenever we do podcasts together, I always think, like, I want to let Brighton tell her story and be the star, and I'll just support. Because that is what we do in our everyday life anyway.
- [01:57]
B
Look at that. Look at that. Well, I really mean it. I was kind of surprised this morning because, you know, our team, like, they always prep so well, and it's like we reach out to the guests and have conversations, and I kind of thought it was silly that they were going to call you and do, like, a pre call, because I'm like, well, she's my cousin. We've known each other for so long. Like, I feel like I know. But then this morning, as I was reading, I was just like, man, like, God has Done so much in Yalls life since high school, obviously. Like, I know that and I see that, but just getting to, like, see the depths of it was beautiful. But going back to high school, we were all very, very close. Some really fun memories. S and B. We had S and B Tuesdays.
- [02:41]
C
I'm pretty sure so many spend the nights.
- [02:44]
B
And I don't know if you remember our YouTube video before the podcast days. Do you remember that? No. Me and YouTube video. And it was about the crazy train. It was like, jump off the crazy train. And we were talking about, like, over
- [02:56]
C
zero memory of this.
- [02:58]
B
Oh, I'm putting it up here. This has been, like, throwback central, because when Mary Kate was on here, I just was looking at her, and all of a sudden I was like. We did a YouTube video together. And I was like. And it was a dance, and we made it up. I was like, this is before TikTok. We were crying, laughing after, kind of scared.
- [03:14]
C
What's even on there.
- [03:15]
B
Crying, loving. We were at your mom's house and we did a YouTube video. Was a message about jumping off the crazy train. If you're overthinking things and having anxiety. And we were, like, pouring out some gold. Okay, yeah, this is before TikTok. This is just, like, true.
- [03:29]
C
From before the times.
- [03:31]
B
We were before the times. But that's really when y' all kind of met. Middle school, high school. When did y' all meet? Do y' all remember the moment?
- [03:37]
A
Ms. Potts class.
- [03:38]
C
Yeah, Reid remembers the moment.
- [03:39]
B
Ms. Potts class. Eighth grade, to be specific.
- [03:43]
A
Yeah, she transferred to our school in eighth grade. And I was like, all right, new girl. Because we went K through 12. You know, we. It's like same. Same people every single year. And now here comes Brighton in eighth grade, and I'm like, okay.
- [03:56]
C
It doesn't matter who it is, though. Whoever's new is, like the hot commodity.
- [03:59]
A
Yep, yep.
- [04:00]
B
No, it does matter. I remember you were. You were a big deal coming in.
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A
She was pop cheerleader. Beautiful. You literally look like the same as you did. You were, like, advanced beyond your years.
- [04:13]
B
It's actually true. That's actually true.
- [04:16]
A
And I just remember I was like, okay, that's gonna be her. That's the one for me. And I pursued you for, like, what was that, three years? Yeah, but she was dating the quarterback and, like, you know, just doing all this stuff. And she was like, we're more like best friends. And I'm like, whatever. I mean, I knew what that was even before friendzone became really thing. And. And then I started. I always used to say I started dating her cousin, but this is, like, such a small town thing. It's like her. She explained it one day, and it was like, her aunts, brothers, nephews, mom's aunts, sister. It was like. It was.
- [04:57]
C
It was.
- [04:58]
A
They're not related at all. But, like, you can draw a lineage. I mean, you can draw a line to her eventually from people that are, like, in your family, I guess. And I started dating her, and then she got jealous, I guess, and asked me to homecoming.
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C
Yeah. Because I was on the homecoming court. And so then I was like, I'll just ask him to homecoming and see what happens.
- [05:19]
B
While they were dating, I forgot about this.
- [05:22]
A
And I remember telling the girl I was dating at the time, I was like, we're just friends. I mean, she said, we're friends for a year. She just needs a date to homecoming. It's no big deal. And I was thinking like, oh, yeah, this is it.
- [05:33]
B
That is hilarious. So after homecoming, is that when you were like, oh, okay. I actually do, like.
- [05:38]
C
Yeah. I think it was, like, in the time period between, like, me asking him to actual homecoming corps. I was like, oh, maybe we should start dating, you know, and just kind of moving that direction. And then we dated all through high school until our senior year. And then Reid broke up with me.
- [05:53]
B
Oh, I remember that.
- [05:55]
C
Yeah, that was bad.
- [05:56]
B
That was bad.
- [05:57]
A
Yeah, we were. We had decided to go to lsu. We were going to LSU together. And then, like, a week before we were supposed to go to lsu, I was like, hey, actually I'm gonna go to this small Christian school in Arkansas. And she was like, okay, well, I'm coming too. And then, like, two days before we left, I was like, hey, actually, we're gonna break up, and I'm moving to Nashville. I'm gonna be a singer. And so I just.
- [06:19]
C
Obviously devastating to me, but. And it caused so much drama in my family when I decided to not go to lsu. I'm sure you remember that. I remember you and I decided to go to Harding.
- [06:29]
B
And then I remember, like. Cause Reed lived directly in front of us. It was like one of those things, like, come over, but I'll make sure Reed doesn't come over. You know, like, it was like, keep them se. I know. I do remember that. The LSU thing.
- [06:42]
C
I know. But then I was like, you know what? I'm gonna prove to everyone that I wasn't really following a boy to Harding, so I'm just still gonna go. Which was, like, kind of crazy to do, but it Ended up being totally, like, the Lord's hand in it all. Because, like, I feel like I needed to be there. I mean, I just don't think.
- [06:57]
B
I can't even imagine you not going there at this point. Your friendships were, like, so rich there. I know.
- [07:01]
C
And I'm still such good friends with all of, like, the girls there that I lived with and stuff. And, yeah, it was, like, one of the best things for me. I feel like, honestly, the Lord was kind of protecting me in that. Because I think going to lsu, I would have just been very influenced by all of the, you know, just, like, party scene and all of that. Whereas, like, that was not happening at Harding, or at least in the groups that I was in. I'm sure it still happens, but.
- [07:26]
B
So you go to Harding, you went to Nashville. How did it come back together?
- [07:30]
A
I, like. I lived in a couple of basements and a barn, and I kept. I just. I couldn't figure out what to do. And, I mean, when you talk about the Lord protecting you, I think he was protecting you from me in that time.
- [07:43]
C
Maybe a lot of things, because I
- [07:45]
A
was thinking about this last night whenever we just. We were having dinner with John Link and Mary Kate and just talking about. Just reminiscing on memories and just telling funny stories. And when you think about it, it's like everyone goes through that time period in their life. And for me, especially when I think about that time, I feel like that who I am now, I survived the gauntlet of myself, you know, because everybody kind of goes, you don't know who you are, and you don't know what you're gonna do, and you're trying to find yourself and your identity. And so I just. I was just floating around, trying to figure out what to do. And I got kicked out of the first basement I lived in. And not for anything I did. It was just a strange situation. Went to another basement. Then I lived in a barn that had no electricity. He'd ran an extension cord for a heater, and I had a cot. And, like, that was the time I called my dad. I was, hey, dad, remember when you said you were gonna help me out with school and stuff? You know, can I? He was like, son, that ship has sailed. That's over. You're on your own. And I'm like, well, okay. And so I just. I figured out how to get back to Harding. And I didn't have enough money to do the whole room and board thing, so I lived in this apartment. It was $265 a month. And it was rough. It was rough. It was really rough. I mean, like, woken up by the police like, every other night. Cause what people don't realize about Harding is Harding's an awesome place, awesome school with am amazing people. But it's like this bubble, and if you get outside of. Of the actual campus, it's the meth capital of the world per capita.
- [09:19]
B
Is it really?
- [09:20]
A
So it. It was rough. Rough.
- [09:23]
B
Whoa.
- [09:23]
A
And I probably still have clothes that smell like that apartment.
- [09:27]
C
He had, like, this stench that just like, followed him wherever he went.
- [09:30]
B
Oh, my God.
- [09:31]
C
From his apartment.
- [09:32]
A
I never went to class. Not one time. Oh, I remember I got mad because I had a speech class and I was actually going to the class. And then I couldn't be there for the final because I literally had to travel and do a speaking engagement that weekend. And so I went to my teacher and I'm like, hey, I was booked at this place. I'm gonna go, I'm gonna play a few songs, give a speech. Can I do that as my final? I'll film it and bring it back and, you know, whatever you wanna do with it. And she was like, no, if you're not here, you fail. And I was like, that is the stupidest thing I've ever. And I was like, you know what? All right, fine. I'm just never coming back. Which, like, oh, I showed them. She just wrote an F on my report card and that was it. But I never went to class. I was literally just there to get Brighton back. In hindsight.
- [10:17]
B
Oh, my gosh.
- [10:19]
C
Yeah.
- [10:19]
B
This is inspiring. Someone out there is listening to this, and they are in their 250 apartment that smells like rank. And they're like, it's my life ever take a turn? They're like, there's hope. All of us here that live in the south have stories about that huge ice storm that happened a few weeks ago. But right before everything got bad bad, our good ranchers box showed up at the door. And I am not even kidding when I say I was so thankful for that box so many times throughout those days. And those chicken nuggets were the mvp. Not just for the kids, but for the adults too. Mom, life already feels like a full contact sport sometimes. And being stocked up on high quality meat just makes everything easier. And that is why I'm a good rancher subscriber. Knowing I've got 100American meat on hand means I can throw together tacos with ground beef with grilled chicken in a pinch, or toss those nuggets in the oven for a quick dinner that I can actually feel good about feeding my family good. Ranchers only sources meat from local American farms and ranches and from the pasture to the final seal on every box. Everything happens right here in America. It's reliable. Also, just a win for all the moms out there who have some allergies. Like, my daughter Honey doesn't do a lot of dairy and their chicken nuggets are dairy free. They don't. They only use avocado oil. They're just actually like a way healthier option for frozen chicken nuggets than. Than anything we've used in the past. It's amazing. To support a company that's committed to honoring America's past, present, and future, visit goodranchers.com today if you subscribe to any of their boxes of 100American meat, you'll save up to 500 a year. Plus, if you use my code whoa, you'll also get an additional 25 off your first order. That's code whoa. For an extra 25 off your first order on top of the 500 that you'll save every year just for subscribing. That's goodranchers.com American meat delivered. Thinking back to that time, Reid, that's such an interesting thing for you because you were living in these apartments that were not great basement to basement. Jace is like, giving you some tough love, but yet you're still like the Duck Dynasty guy who's going and speaking and playing, like, music. That's such a. That's such a contrast that you were living in at like the same time of your life, having a lot of fame but also not having a lot of money. What was that like?
- [12:38]
A
It's honestly strange. It's. Honestly, it's. I mean, even to this day, I mean, it's not as extreme now, but, you know, you meet people at church or just like wherever, and they're like, oh, like, I bet you have a crazy life. You know, I mean, it's just. You're the Duck Dynasty guy. And it's like, oh, well, I mean, Duck Dynasty, you know, ended however many years ago, you know, and it's like, well, they asked me about the new show and stuff like that. I'm like, oh, no, that's, you know, have no clue what's going on. Good for them. That's great. You know, it's like, I watch it, you know, but people are like, oh, really? Like, you're not mean. You're not. Like, I don't even understand what it is. It's like, the perspective that people have is. It's just. It's not real, you know, because it's like, fame is a very strange thing in itself, and. But in that. Definitely in that time period, it's like I was struggling. I mean, I was trying to figure out, because whenever I left the house, I mean, my parents are like, hey, like, you're on your own. You know, especially because I was. My personality is just all or nothing. And at the end of the day, I'm gonna do whatever I want, you know, Especially during that time. I've pulled that back a little bit, but my personality is like, I'm 100 miles an hour. If I get something in my head, I'm gonna go do it, and I'm gonna try it, and I'll just figure it out, and I'll fail a hundred times. And then it just. I don't mind it. I'm just like, hey, I'll figure it out eventually. And so during that time, I'm like, I am. I'm just drowning, you know? But then I go to. I'll go on campus, and people are like, oh, that's so crazy. You know, you probably live such a crazy life. You're traveling all over, which I was traveling a little bit and doing stuff, and I'm going and speaking, and I'm like, hey, I need this little bit of money from, you know, speaking to do this so I can, like, pay my. All my bills and my apartment. I mean, even though it wasn't that much. I mean, you know, when you're just totally on your own, you got to figure out what to do, you know?
- [14:29]
B
You know, it's cool, though, that you said, I, like, reign that in a little bit. But actually, as I was watching the videos from you this morning of you doing different podcasts, I don't. I think you've just. You've used it for good now. It's like, now, like, you're all in. And the same passion used to be all in on not, you know, great things, but, like, you're all in on the Bible. You're all in on teaching more. You're all in on, like, creating a family and cultivating a home. And, like. Like, it's the same drive you've always had. It's just in all the right directions now, you know, Which I think is really cool because I think it speaks to, like, someone out there thinking, oh, that's my personality, and it's always got me in trouble. But that same personality can be used for really, really good if you hone it in the right direction. And that's why it's, like, really cool. Hearing y' all story this morning, I was like, man, I've seen that from a distance, but to hear the heart behind it, I'm like, you see two people who are, like, thriving in being who they've always been, but, like, the best version of it, you know, like, it's so cool.
- [15:27]
C
But you're failed a lot.
- [15:29]
B
Yeah.
- [15:29]
C
At all those things.
- [15:30]
B
Yeah.
- [15:31]
C
Which I feel helped us. Us so much grow and, like, build so much character. Especially when we were first married, like, I was thinking about when you said. Or like, talking about the fame. Like, when we first got married, he was still pursuing music because we moved to Nashville together, and we thought it was just gonna be, like, so easy. Like, we were like, oh, we're gonna get here. Like, he has all these connections. Like, we're just gonna. He's gonna hit it big. And we got there, and that was, like, not the case at all. And then he went through such a big, like, period and season of searching for, like, what he wanted to do, which was so hard starting off, like, your marriage like that. I'm sure a lot of people do, but just us being so young to being married, like, we were 20 and 21, and he's still trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. And now, like, his dream has just kind of been crushed, and it's like we're starting from square one. And he's like, I want to be. I don't even know, like, you wanted to maybe work in production and be a counselor, which is hilarious.
- [16:27]
A
That would have been the worst thing I ever read.
- [16:29]
B
Would have been a terrible counselor.
- [16:31]
A
Not for me, for humanity.
- [16:34]
B
This is so good, though, because I'm telling you, our age demographic, this podcast, so many people are walking through exactly this stage of life. Like, you think you want to do something, you go all in on that one thing, and then it doesn't work out. And it is interesting with the musician thing, because you actually, like, have all of that talent to do that. And then you have faith and you have connection. Like, and you're in Nashville, you would think like, oh, this is what you need. And so many people think like, oh, if I had fame, I would have it. And I love that we keep going back to that with fame, because there's a quote from Mr. Rogers. He says, Fame is just a four letter word, like tape or zoom or face or pain. It ultimately matters what you do with it. And I've Always loved that. Cuz fame is so weird. Like, it. It's. It's very humbling in a sense. And it's like, it kind of puts life into perspective because I can be in one room and people go crazy and want to take pictures and talk to me. And it's like, you're this big deal and I can be in another room and no one know who I am. And I'm like, but this is so weird. It's the same thing. Like, I'll see somebody. Christian will be like, oh my gosh, that's so and so. And he's like an athlete and I've never heard of him. And it's like, it's just weird. What makes that. It doesn't do anything other than. It's just people know who I am and what am I doing with that?
- [17:46]
A
Well, it requires a level of focus that you. You have to learn and you have to build onto a foundation to. To get through life. Because if you. I mean, especially for me personally, I never stopped and focused enough to think for a second to be like, okay, hold on a second. Like, let me, Let me plan. Let me have a plan here. Let me figure out what I'm gonna. I was just like, maybe I'll do this and maybe I'll do this. And like, I was just hitting everything as fast as I could. And it's like this level of urgency that fame created in me of like, no, I've gotta do something. I gotta keep up this appearance or I've gotta keep this momentum going. And so when we moved to Nashville, I'm like, oh, hey, okay. All I got to do is I got to write some songs and I got to come out with something fast because I don't want to lose this momentum. And I remember Troy Tomlinson. He was a executive at Sony. He was kind of mentoring me and helping me out a little bit. And he was like, well, how many songs did you write for the ep? And I was like, oh, well, I think it was five. And I was like, well, it's five songs on the ep. I wrote five songs. And he was like, dude, you need to write like a hundred songs, you know, and then pitch them all to us and then we'll help you figure out. And I was like, oh, no, I'm not worried about that. Like, let's just go. And I just released it, you know, and it's like, that was so stupid. And. But what I'm saying is, is that I never stopped long enough to say, okay, what does the Lord have planned for me. And I did not have the spiritual maturity or the biblical foundation to build my life on, you know, And I think that spiritual maturity, that's such a huge part of that. Because, I mean, if you're not trying to walk in the Lord's will, I mean, people say that all the time, but there is a truth to that and a practicality in that that you will never be what you want to be and what the Lord wants you to be unless you try to build your life on the fact that the Lord has a plan for me now I need to try to stop for a second and study his Word and spend time in prayer and just try to figure out what that is and then go do it, you know, it's just I never had that and I never put enough stock in that to really make it matter, you know, that's good.
- [20:07]
B
I had a visual picture of that this week and I was like, this is. Is so such a good analogy and perspective for this stage of life. So Honey is in gymnastics, loves gymnastics. And she's actually really good at it. She just has such a little gymnast body and she never stops bouncing. So we were like, put your energy in this, you know. Well, she's got the cartwheel down, she's got the roundup down, she got the whole thing. She tells me, mom, I want to do a back handspring. I'm like, okay, don't know if we're there yet. And so a couple years, a couple years out. So we watched this video of these girls teaching how to do a back handspring. And there it was, such a good video video that I happened to click on because they're like, okay, let's go fundamentals. And if you can't do this and you're not ready to do a backhand spring, so we go through the whole thing and it's like all these stretches and then it's sitting and jumping and then it's push ups. I'm like, okay, can we do a push up? And they're talking about how if you can't do a push up, you can't do a back handspring. Because if you are not able to carry your weight, then when you go to the back handspring, your hands won't carry the weight and you'll hit your head. Well, then I looked at Honey, I said, honey, put your hands up. And our hands obviously are way above our head, but a four year old's hands are about right here. I said, okay, honey, practice practically your hands literally aren't long enough for you to not hit your head. So let's practice for a little bit and let's get the fundamentals. So we practiced for a bit. She does 10 sit and jumps, and she does 10 push ups. And she's actually pretty impressive on the push ups. And she goes, all right, I'm ready to do a back handspring. I was like, no, you're not ready to do it.
- [21:32]
C
You need a little more time than that.
- [21:33]
B
You're actually going to need legitimate time because your body's physically not there yet. It hasn't matured yet. And I was like, man, that's such a good picture of life. It's like, just because your body hasn't matured yet, you are not mature yet. Not because of anything you haven't done. You're doing the jumps right, you're doing everything right. You're putting yourself in the right position, but you're just not matured yet. And I think so many people, they get in those positions and they're like, all right, well, I did everything I'm supposed to do. I, I, you know, did the sit and jumps, I did the push ups. I moved to Nashville. I got the fam. I got this. So it should work. Well, you haven't matured yet. You're not ready yet. And then what people do is they go, okay, well, maybe I should just pick a different sport. Let me go do something else. I'm doing something else. It's like, no, it doesn't mean that the back handspring still can't be the goal. It's just that you're not there yet. You know, you need to spend a lot more time that. And I think we do live in this generation where it's like you just jump from one thing to just trying to see what sticks. And you don't just stop for a minute, say, okay, Lord, what do you have for me? And it doesn't have to be the fast track. In fact, like, it's probably not going to be the fast track. And sometimes you do, sometimes it's not that that's the right sport for you. Like you said, I went to counseling, went to this, and then, you know, sooner or later, you navigated to finding your way for what that was. I know, Brighton, you were like full on in nursing school, became a nurse, all that, and now you're a stay at home mom. So sometimes is a shift. When did y' all feel like you knew? Okay, it's actually time for me to shift. Like, this is what I was supposed to do for this time and I put it all but now like it's okay to move on to something else if that makes sense. Or even in your case, Reid, I'd love to hear from you too. Like when was it time to lay down the music and pivot to something else? Friends, if you're in that season of figuring out college or maybe just thinking about starting something new, I know how overwhelming that decision can feel. You want a place where you'll grow academically, but that also supports your faith. And that's why I want to tell you about Liberty University. Liberty is a Christian university that's been training champions for Christ for more than 50 years. And what I love most about it is that they don't treat faith like an add on. It's actually woven into the entire college experience from the classes to the community to the campus. One of the best ways to see if liberty is right for you is to actually go to college for a weekend. It's a three day experience where you can sit in a class, tour the dorms, meet students and really picture yourself there's a there, not just read about it online. The next event is April 9th through the 11th and you don't want to miss it. And just for my wo that's good fam Application fees are waived for all Liberty programs. College for a weekend. Registration is free and right now you can win one of the multiple scholarships and the fifty thousand dollar Sadie Scholarship giveaway. Heyo. Hope you love that and I hope you win that. Really Liberty is amazing. They really are training champions for Christ. We have have pretty much all my siblings have gone to Liberty in some form or fashion. We also have been to campus several times. It's a stunning campus. It is so fun to go. Everything that they have is just top notch. So go to Liberty Edu Sadie to enter the giveaway. Plan your trip to campus and step into your future with confidence. Don't wait. Head over to Liberty Edu Sadie today.
- [24:42]
C
Yeah, I feel like that the Lord, like I was just thinking like even though we weren't spiritually mature at that time, like the Lord definitely still used all of that and like he's still working even when you're like resisting him, you know. But I feel like I was like definitely more steady during that time period than Reed. Like I kind of had a vision for what I wanted to do. Like I knew I wanted to be a nurse and so it was like I was going to be the stable one while he was kind of trying to figure out what it is like he was going to do with his life. And so I became a nurse, like, and I was always too do, like, I'm gonna be a working mom, like hardcore about it. My dad like drilled that in my head. He was like, if you're not a doctor or a lawyer, like, you're nothing. And so I was like, well, I don't want to do either one of those things, so I guess I'll be a nurse. And he was like, eventually fine with that. So I became a nurse. And again, like, me and Reed were just struggling spiritually. Like my dad got diagnosed with cancer during that time right after we got married and then he passed away a year later and I was just like angry with God. We both stopped going to church. I finished nursing school and like two years later and then became a nurse in the ER and was just like became super bitter at the world, which I think like kind of both went together. Like my dad passing away and then being in the er, like you're just seeing so much like the worst of humanity, you know, which you can't really blame people. Like if you're in the er, that's like the worst day of your life life for a lot of people. And you're just seeing so much like homeless people, like psych stuff, and it just really starts affecting you. And the people you're working with are really. Can be really cold and hard. Not saying that you can't be a light in that, but I definitely wasn't because I wasn't where I needed to be spiritually and I wasn't like, I didn't have a love for the word of God like I do now. And if you don't have that, it's like you have nothing. I like, like to describe it, like, I didn't have the armor of God on. Yeah, I was just kind of walking in blind, like letting everything just kind of hit me and penetrate my heart. And it's so funny now because, like, I didn't plan on being a stay at home mom, but I got. We got pregnant with Maris and we were kind of just started going down this road of like, what are we going to do? Like, this is kind of, kind of a big deal. Like we're having a family. Like, we should probably start going to church again, like for our kids, you know. Like, we were both raised in church. Reed had like a really solid foundation from his parents and we just needed to like, you want that for your kids, you know. So we started going to church again and then After I had Maris, I was like, well, it doesn't really make sense for me to like, go back to work. Like, I wasn't making enough as a nurse to justify the cost of daycare in Nashville. And so I started staying at home and my heart was still not right in it. Like, I still was very like, bitter and resentful at Reed for like being able to go to work. And which I say, like, this applies to whether you're a stay at home mom or you're a working mom. Like, your heart should still be right in it as like a wife and a mom. And I think that was like the biggest shift that the Lord did in my life was like, just through like Reed's mom, through like talking with my mom and through like mentors in my life, like kind of discipling me to how to be a good wife and a mom. Because you don't really know until you get there, you know how you're supposed to do that. And like, Reed would come home and I would just be like mad that I had been like home all day with Maris. And then we had David, like, like, I mean, they're 14 months apart, so it was like bam, bam. Which I think helped me, cuz it put me in such a hard position where I was just so full into it. And it's like, okay, this isn't going to work in our marriage if I'm just like bitter and angry at him every day and like, not what's that going to do for our kids too, you know? And I fast forward like a couple of years, but like, I met this girl in a park and we just like really hit it off and she told us to like, come to try their church. They were getting a new pastor and all this. And so it was like a couple months a after, like us hanging out a few times, we finally went and I would say that's when like the real discipleship started happening with us. And this church was just like incredible. And like there was older women like, wanting to pour into me and it just really like I was so convicted.
- [29:26]
B
Wow. Yeah. Because up to that point there was like seven years of searching for community. Right?
- [29:31]
C
Yeah, I know. I like kind of went through it quick, but yeah, it was seven years of like being in Nashville and or like outside Nashville, and we had no community, no real direction. We were just kind of like living, I feel like, and still like, you know, starting off our marriage in a lot of pain and grief for my dad. So we were kind of like working backwards almost with Our marriage, like, having a solid foundation, and you're just so young. You just have no idea.
- [30:00]
B
You don't realize how young you are at the time.
- [30:02]
C
I know you have it all figured out.
- [30:04]
B
Whoa. I had a moment like that recently where I was talking to someone who was, you know, in their teen years, upper teens, and I was like, oh, that's how young I was. Like, that's what I looked like.
- [30:17]
C
I was married at that point.
- [30:19]
B
It's crazy. But that's just so cool that you met a girl at a park and it began to, like, shift everything, because I think, like, so many. I'm sure you all were, like, praying for that for so long, like, longing for community. And then all of a sudden, it's like you look up and someone at the park just invites you to church. Like, it seems like such a simple thing, but it literally changed Yalls life.
- [30:37]
C
I know.
- [30:38]
A
And the part in it, like, you drove to a park. David was, like, two weeks old, and she drove to a park that was 30 minutes away from our house. That you've never been to before. Just because it had, like. I don't know, like, the little rubber pellets on the ground or something. You were like, yeah, it had, like,
- [30:53]
C
a gate all the way around the park so I could, like, sit without Maris, like, running off, off. But, yeah, that girl is, like, one of my best friends today. So it's just crazy how, like, the Lord works in that way and that. We were already, like, on that path. Like, we were already going to a church. So our hearts were so much more softened, just like. And really for, like, selfish reasons. Not because we wanted a deeper relationship with the Lord, but because we were like, well, we probably just should. Yeah, like, our kids. It would be better for them.
- [31:24]
B
Reed, what was that like for you? Going from. Because. Because you were searching in the music world. Y' all were searching for community. Last thing we heard was, you're looking at maybe being a counselor, which would have. Might not have been the best idea. What was the shift when you started to find, like, your path and what you felt confident in?
- [31:43]
A
I mean, it was. I don't think anything really changed with me. It was just. It was born out of necessity. I mean, I just had to figure out how to make some money, you know, Because I'm like, okay, well, this is not working. You know, I was just like, man, I gotta figure out what to do. Because we just. We lived up there. We were totally on our own, and we're like, okay, we're broke. Like, what are we gonna do? And there was plenty of times where it's like, we're having to scrounge and hustle and do all kinds of stuff to make our rent. And it's like, man, looking back, I would love to have that rent again, you know? That was great. But it was like, you just have to figure out how to make it work. And I was like, man, I gotta figure out how to do something. And. And it was one of those things where I'm like, okay, well, maybe I can get into real estate and try to figure out how to make some money. And I figured out that I'm good at just putting something together and hustling and trying to figure out how to extract value out of something. And so I just. I did my first real estate deal, and I just. We scrounged up the money. Brighton had her car paid off. And I like. I mean, we were trying to just like, get a little cash from anywhere. And I remember Brighton was so mad at me. She was like, do not do this. Like, this is insane. This is just the next thing.
- [33:03]
C
Or your track record before that.
- [33:05]
A
Yeah, it was like, this is just the next thing you want to do. Except this thing is all of our savings, all of the money that we have. You're going to go in and do this thing. And I'm like, I'm telling you, like, I can make this work, you know? And so I think he actually is related to you. No, he is related to you. But Jay Nelson, but he calls. He calls everyone my own uncle up there. He's like, oh, yeah, this is my nephew. And, you know, and I don't think we're related at all. But he was like, hey, you know, you should. You should buy this house and you can Airbnb the back or. And move your family into it. And it was like, in East Nashville and kind of a rough area. And I was like, okay, that's not going to work, but I'll ride around and see. And we rode up there and we pull up and it's like this really nice house, brand new construction. And I was like. I was thinking, like, there's no way, you know, Like, I mean, I've got. I barely have two nickels to rub together, you know, And. And so we go through. And I just told the builder, because we met with the builder there, and I was like, dude, there's no way. I mean, this house is like $700,000, you know, I was like, this is insane. I'm sorry for wasting your time, man. And we Just got to talking. And he was like, look, you don't need a lot of money to do a deal like this. And he was like, if. I'll show you what to look for, and if you find something, I'll. I'll show you how to do it. I'll teach you how to do it. And so I'm like, okay. So I go back home and I' like, trying to figure it all out. And I found the deal, and I get the bank loan. I get all my numbers, right? And we scrounge enough money to do the deal. And that's when she got really mad at me. She's like, this is insane. You're crazy. This is just the next thing on your list. And so I figure it all out, and I didn't have. I mean, I didn't even have any credit. I mean, we never even had a credit card, you know? I mean, the bank's like, dude, you can't. You can't get this loan to build two houses and sell them. And so I called my dad. I was like, look, Dad, I scrounged up the money. All I need is a signature. That's it. I was like, I just need a signature, and I'll give you half of everything, you know? And he's like, okay, you know, is. He was like, is it going to make money? I was like, look, this guy, he's going to help me.
- [35:17]
B
You know, he's all around on Jane Else.
- [35:20]
A
And I was like, he's going to help me do it. He's done it a bunch of times before. My dad's like, look, you know what, man? All right, let's just do it. And. And that. That guy that. The builder that I met, I mean, he built those two houses for me out of the. Just out of the goodness of his heart. I mean, didn't even charge me anything. I mean, he built the whole. I mean, I was there every day and trying to help him any way I could, and. But he just mentored me and just. I mean, he built the two houses and. And I sold them. I wrote my dad a check for half, and he was like, man, when's the next one of these? You know? Like, that's great. I'll sign anytime you want. I'm like, hey, it's going to be a little different next time. But it just. I ended up forming. Ended up forming a company with the guy that helped him. He's my business partner to this day, seven years later. And it was just crazy. I mean, and now we own a real estate development company together and do all kinds of stuff. And I mean, he's my best friend in the world. I mean, just awesome spiritual guy, biblical guy, and just loves the Lord, loves his family, loves us. I mean, he's come through for us in so many ways. I mean, he came and watched, watched Maris whenever he drove through labor with David.
- [36:30]
B
Gosh, that is.
- [36:32]
A
But it's just crazy, the Lord's provision. And just even in those times where it's like, wow. But going all the way back to your question is, I didn't have a spiritual foundation then either. You know, it was just that, that was just. I mean, honestly, it was just luck and a little bit of hard work, you know, just trying to figure it out and.
- [36:50]
B
Well, I like how you said it was born out of necessity. Like, that was such a good line because I think so many people feel like, like almost like they failed when they get to the point that it has to be born out of necessity. Because at that point you're like, oh, my plan didn't work. But you have to also hold space for the fact that, like, God's plan is better and he is in those moments, even when you think it's out of necessity, where you think like, oh, I just have to do something to figure it out. Well, now look, that's like what you do. That's the company, own the business, you own the mentor that you met who was with you whenever you went into labor. Like, God used that. God was in that. And I think so many people think God in the plan that they had the vision for, but it's like God's in all of it. And even in those times where you think you failed, like, that actually might be like God, God's provision getting you where you're supposed to be going, where you need to be going. I was blessed to visit Uganda a while back. And it is one of those places you visit when you leave. Your heart has completely changed. And that's why I'm so passionate about the work that Love One International is doing. Love One is a nonprofit providing life saving, medical care, nutrition and rehabilitation to vulnerable children and families in Uganda. And the family who started Loved One are also great friends of mine who have seen firsthand their compassion and commitment to the people that they're serving. This mission is the real deal, y'.
- [38:14]
A
All.
- [38:14]
B
One of the most incredible ways that you can be a part of this life saving work is by joining the Love Club. It's an amazing community of monthly partners helping ensure that kids receive consistent care not just whenever they're in a crisis, but all year long, which is really what's needed. So when you join for just $20 a month, you're going to be providing nut dense meals for 10 malnourished children every single month. If you've ever seen a malnourished kid, it's heartbreaking and devastating. And so this is such a needed thing that we're getting to be a part of. And as a thank you for your ongoing support, you'll score an exclusive Love Club merch. Here's the little hat, a little sneak peek. Plus the first 100 new love club members will also get my devotional book, how to Put Love First. I really hope that that impacts you and inspires you. But y', all, this is such important work that they're doing. I've been on several, several trips to help feed malnourish children and it is absolutely devastating. And so think about $20 that you're going to spend on a meal for yourself. You're going to spend $20 for a month to help these kids be nourished. This is such important work that you can be a part of. So join the Love club today@loveone international.org Whoa. And be a part of the community that's providing life saving care to critically ill children in Uganda every single month with Loved one International. That's lovedoneinternational.org Whoa. Join today because we look at our life and we're like, okay, well, you know, it's like this should equal that. That doesn't always equal that. You know, that might lead you to this. And that's actually what God had from the beginning. And I think that one downfall to social media is that you don't see this, you don't see the process, you
- [39:50]
C
just see the highlights.
- [39:53]
B
So, like, no one hears. Oh, well, actually I moved to Nashville because I was going to be a musician. And then so many years went on. Like they just see Reed in Brighton and living in a beautiful home and you know, being a part of this company, that's amazing that they started. And it's like you don't see the process and it's so important we share the process with people and people see that like God's in all of it. And even if it didn't look impressive and it wasn't fun and it was years he was in it and it strengthens your foundation. I was thinking about that the other day because in a very small way I took this picture because I was sitting there, I was Reading a cookbook. And it was so aesthetic. And it said, like, the perfect cookie. Right behind the perfect cookie was my Christmas tree and the stockings and Kit's little feet. And I was like, this is the best picture. Take the picture. Then I went and made the cookies. Well, you know, if you make anything with three kids, it's like the craziest process because, like, you come back and forth to it a million times. And I had to brown the butter. Then I had to wait. And it was took forever to make the cookies disappoint. The house was a mess, too, by the time I finished making the cookies.
- [40:56]
C
Yeah, of course.
- [40:56]
B
Well, I get the cookies out. And then I was like, perfect picture one. Once again. I took a picture of my plate of cookies with, like, my little socks in the background. And what are the two pictures that I want to post? Well, the. The beginning stage of this, the perfect picture of the perfect cookie and how to make it. And then the end picture of I made the cookies. No one saw the process. No one saw the mess. No one saw the hours. No one saw the tantrums. No one saw anything. What everybody else saw was, she wanted a cookie, she got a cookie. And I was like, that is what people think life is. I have a vision for it. I want it, I should get it, and it should happen like that. That never. Almost never happens. And I think people see, like, overnight successes in this and that fame. And they think, oh, it just equals perfect plate of cookies. And it's like, no, there's always a process, normally always a mess, normally, always a roundabout way of getting there. And it's like, that's the beauty of having conversations like this and going through life with people, not just from afar, but, like, up close and personal. Having community to see it and to see you through it and to go, like, man, I remember when you were praying for community and years went, and then you met a girl apart, and then you sold those two houses and look what God did. And now they're our best friends. And it's, like, so cool to see what God does with that. And so just as an encouragement to those listening, like, you didn't fail because it didn't turn out the way that you thought it was going to turn out. God might that that's probably the place God wanted you to get the whole time. You know, it's wild to me hearing how deep y' all are in your faith that y' all keep going back to, like, but we didn't have a foundation. We didn't know The Word. We didn't. And I know, I know the church was a big part of that. And then I also know the accident with your nieces and nephews was a huge part of Yalls faith getting strengthened around that time. We all share just a little bit of that because it's really interesting to me hearing your story that after your dad passed there was a lot of bitterness and heartache. And then it seems to be after that passing which was so horrific that something in your faith did shift. What was that like, if you don't mind sharing?
- [43:00]
C
Yeah, I think that when the accident happened my niece and nephew like being surrounded by community, it was like they weren't going to let me like waver to either side. And then it kind of made me be like. Cuz at the time I still had never really studied the Bible or like had a love for the word of God and it forced me into it because I was like man, I'm like searching and searching and I don't know how to like, like get that like relationship and I was just so at a low and like I needed something to. I guess I was just like at the end of myself where like I can't be a good like wife and a mom on my own. Like I need the Lord to like fill my cup. And so I started really studying the word of God. And Reed's dad, Jace has been a big part of that for me too. I started listening to Unashamed and then like texting him a lot and. And he just like really got me fired up. And then I was like so I never understood like the hunger and thirst for the Word. And after that it was like I have to have it.
- [44:06]
B
Wow.
- [44:06]
C
And I just think that it's like whoa. That's what so many people miss. Like there's no way to have a relationship without like being in his word. Like cuz how can you know your creator without that? And. And like then once you start it just kind of like, you know, you just like want to get deeper and deeper and deeper into it.
- [44:29]
B
I love how you say like the thrill came to you.
- [44:31]
C
Yeah, yeah, totally. And I remember Jace saying that at Phil's funeral. And that like that's what Phil always had was like he never lost the thrill of the gospel because I kind of had this. I think I just like grew up thinking too that it's like I'm a sinner and. And now like cuz I was saved when I was 10 or 12 but just like, like I said, I was kind of like A baby Christian for a long time is, I guess, like, how I like to say, like, no real relationship. But I had this idea that I just kind of have to, like, hold on and, like, try to not sin. Like, I was so focused on my sin that I didn't understand, like, what. That I had already been saved, you know, and that now I'm, like, living in the kingdom and, like, living in relationship. Like, I'm filled with the holy spir and that I can, like, rest in that. And, yeah, it, like, changed so much for me. Like, I feel like that's when I really had, like, a heart transformation in that. Like, and not that it was easy, because I definitely still, it would. It would be easy to go back to kind of how I felt after my dad passed away to, like, is God really good in this? And you know what? Like, I'm not God, so I'm not going to fully understand, like, like, why the accident happened or, like, you know, what's the real meaning of it. Like, I had family members, I think, because, like, I was kind of viewed as, like, the Christian in certain, like, parts of my family. And they would be asking me questions. I'm like, I have no idea. Which is another reason that kind of sparked, like, they were asking me, like, theological questions, like, did God do this? And, like, how could a good God do something like that? And then I would, like, bring that to people who were mentoring me, me, and they would kind of help me walk through that. But just surrounding yourself with people who are going to continue to point you to Jesus and everything, especially, like, in motherhood, like, you know, it's so hard when you're just in the trenches of it and, like, in the trenches of discipline and, like, trying to be a godly, like, submissive wife. It's so hard to be reminded of, like, what's my goal here? Like, why am I doing this? Because it can feel so, like, mundane and. And just, like, am I really, like, working for the Lord? But it is the most sanctifying thing that you can do, like being a wife and a mom. So the Lord really, like, just changed me in that.
- [47:03]
A
And it's a process, too. I mean, yeah, it was a long process. If you. If you think that, you know, maybe you're like me and you are trying to figure out what you're going to do in your life and. And you just think, like, oh, if I can just. Just get to that point, you know, if I could just get this break and I'll just be. Then I'll be Done. It'll be fine. Like, I can see the rest of my life from that moment. Or if you. If I can just get to a point where I feel okay about my. My spiritual maturity, like, then. Then it'll be fine. Then I can just easily walk. But, I mean, there's. People say that all the time, but it. It really is true. I mean, there's always something coming. I mean, we. We prayed for years and tried to figure out for years about community, and then all of a sudden, we find the community, and we're like, okay, we're good. And for a split second, you're like, all right, I can see it. And then, bam. The most devastating thing that you could think of happens, and that horrible accident happens, and we lose those kids, and it's like, there's always something else coming, you know? I mean, we'll go through our entire lives, and only at the very end, we can look back and be like, okay, like, everything has happened. You know, the next thing is just for me to die and be with the Lord. Lord. You know, it's. Life is a process, and your spiritual walk is a process, just like everything else. I mean, you'll never, ever be at a. Be at a moment you shouldn't be where you think I'm good.
- [48:23]
C
Yeah, that's what I was going to say, too, that it's like, it's still a sanctifying process. Like, even I was thinking earlier this week, like, I'm 23 weeks pregnant. And like, I. Before I got pregnant, I was like, really in a good rhythm of, like, studying the Word every day.
- [48:41]
B
That's true, too. Pregnant.
- [48:43]
C
And how it's like, you kind of have to, like. I feel like, like, shave off some hobbies, you know, like, you have seasons as a mom where you're like, I'm doing all of these things. Like, I was, like, making a lot of things from scratch, like, doing projects around the house, like, doing sourdough bread. And then now I'm like, okay, I. I have to, like, just.
- [49:02]
B
Something has got.
- [49:03]
C
Something's got to give, you know, And. But even, like, studying the Word, like, it would be so easy for me to, like, lay in my bed and watch a show or, like, sleep in. And I do do that, like, it battle. And it made me think of Ephesians 6, where it says, for we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. And then it goes on to talk about. Take up the Whole armor of God. And, like, how it's just such a daily battle. Like me being resentful of Reed for, like, not picking up his laundry or, you know, or being irritated maybe. Resentful, Too harsh of a word.
- [49:45]
B
Wives out there get it.
- [49:46]
A
I leave a lot of laundry.
- [49:47]
B
I've used that word.
- [49:48]
C
Yeah, Reed's a messy guy, but it's like a process, you know? And like, that doesn't just go away. It's like a constant battle and like a constant sanctification. And like, you have to be disciplined. It's not. I kind of thought that, like, oh, well, when I get to the certain age, I. I'll really start studying my Bible and then it'll just come naturally. Like, it's a discipline you have to do every day. Day. It's definitely easier. But yeah, it's like something I'm still learning.
- [50:18]
B
Kind of like running, I feel like. Which I shouldn't even try to use analogy for running because I've never gotten into it. But I have heard it said that it's like once you get into it, it's like you want to keep doing it. And then like, you can do three miles and five miles and then. But then if you get off of it, it's like one mouth feels hard again. And I feel that way, which really is funny because I've never made it past. Like, I don't even think. I think I've only ran them out, like, one time. Like, actually, like, I'm not.
- [50:43]
A
Even if I ran from here to that.
- [50:44]
B
I know, so that's bad. But I feel that with the word because, like, I'll get. There would be times where I'm just like, all in. I cannot get enough. I can just, like, it's like fun that. The thrill. And then there's times like right now where kids. Four months, and then I have a two year old and a four year old and like, by the time I finally have quiet time, like, I don't want to read because I'm just tired. Like, is like the temptation to just numb your mind, to just scroll on your phone or to just like, do whatever, watch a show. But then, then I'm like, okay, what's going to be beneficial? And for me, like, what's been really good for me at this moment is like, listening to the word. Like, I love the Dwell app. Like, listening. Or I, like, listen to an audiobook. And don't get me wrong, there are definitely times I just numb the brain and scroll and watch a show. But I do think that like, it is a discipline. And you. You are so, like, it's so, like you said, like, the. The hunger and the thirst, it actually is satisfying as opposed to when you just numb your brain. It's like, okay, now I'm just num. Instead of, like, satisfied and filled and rich. But it is a discipline.
- [51:49]
A
You have to. I mean, it's a. What's the word? It's a submission of yourself. No, I'm not going to do what I want to do. I mean, even I struggle with. When I listen to the Bible or listen to. Because I use a Dwell app too. Sometimes it's like, I'll even put that in a box where I'm like, oh, well, I've got time now, but I'm going to use this time for myself. And then I know I've got to go to that meeting, and so I'll listen to it on the way there. You know, it's like, well, then I get to the. I get. I get in the truck and I'm headed to the meeting, and I've got phone calls to make, and I've got. You know, and it's like, I definitely just put that off. And, I mean, I just. I failed in that right there because I wasn't disciplined and I wasn't. I wasn't prioritizing it the way I should. And that. Because I'm. I'm more important than what I need to be doing right now, you know, I'm not submitting myself. And I think that that's something that I struggle with a lot, is I need to submit myself daily, daily to the Word and to the Lord and to the Lord's provision. I mean, he's been so faithful and we've been so blessed, even in little things. I was thinking when you were talking about talking to my dad, you know, I mean, man, how lucky are we that my dad is just so full of knowledge? And he has this podcast where millions of people listen to him, and then Brian can stay up last night till midnight and talk to him and ask him all these questions, and so no one else gets to do that. We're so lucky and blessed to have that, you know, And. But, yeah, I mean, I think that it's just. It's such an important thing to. On the daily say I need to find time to submit myself and to swallow my pride and swallow my wants and what I want to do with my fleshly body and fleshly wants and just put all of that aside and submit myself. And you're not going to do that. You're not just going to wake up tomorrow and be like, okay, I'm going to submit myself. You know, I mean it takes a long time I think to get to
- [53:38]
B
that want to do. It's something that you have to learn to do. You know, I remember whenever we started low and I had all the what ifs, what if I fail? What if it isn't where I need to be? And looking back, I can see so clearly that God had his hand in the whole thing. Starting something new is exciting, but it's also very scary. And that's why I'm thankful for Shopify. Shopify is the commerce platform behind millions of businesses around the world and 10% of all e commerce in the US from massive brands to tiny startups. Team Low starts on Shopify every single day for managing inventory and staying on top of orders. It just works. You can build a beautiful online store with templates that actually match your vibe. And their AI tools are game changers. They help write product descriptions, page headlines, even enhanced product photos. Plus everything's in one place. So inventory, payments, analytics, and they have a 247 and customer support. It really feels like you have a built in business partner. I think it's so amazing. For anyone starting out a business, this is the place to do it. Like I said, we do it for low Duck Commander does it. It's just honestly very simple and does everything for you. It's time to turn those what ifs into with Shopify today. Sign up for your one per month trial today at shopify.com Whoa. Go to shopify.com Whoa. Again that shopify.com Whoa. It's not going to be often that you're like, oh, I just want to do that because that's hard. Like my friend text me last week and we listened to this message. It was about consecration and it was so good. And we were like, oh, that was such a good message. And then she followed up like a week later. She's like, hey, I've been thinking about how much we love that message. She's like, I feel like we actually should ask the Lord if there's like something that we need to like consecrate before the Lord. And I was like, that's good because we love the message but we didn't like necessarily apply what it said in our life. It was just. And I was like, okay, that's convicting. And then I like immediately knew what it was like. I need to wake up in the morning because I have been giving myself so much Grace since I had Kit, because I'm like, oh, I'm up in the night breastfeeding, all this stuff, but she's finally sleeping through the night, so now I really could get up in the morning, and I just haven't done it. And I told Christian yesterday. I was like, okay, I'm confessing this to you. I know that I'm supposed to do this, but I'm, like, not doing it because I'm so tired, and I need you to help keep me accountable to this. And so this is me on the podcast. I was saying I haven't done it yet, but I need to do it. And I'm like, you're, like, speaking to me. I'm like, oh, this is so good. Because, yes, it's a submission. It's you saying, like, this is more important than how tired I feel right now, because this is actually, like, the living word of God. It's so. It's so, so good. Brighton, I saw you turn to another page.
- [56:24]
C
Oh, yeah. Well, I was just gonna say that, like, it made me think about when you said, like, to fully satisfy us, because how much do we, like, look to other things to fill us and satisfy us? And I was, like, super convicted by, like, being on social media that I would just spend so much time on it, using that to satisfy me, especially being by myself with the kids a lot during the day. Like, it's so easy to fall into that trap of, like, comparing my life and, like, looking to all these other people that, like, I don't even know on there. And I know it's, like, a huge issue of our generation, and, like, there's obviously pros and cons to it, but when you're looking for that, that to, like, fill you, you know, that's when it becomes such a problem. And I love Psalm 90 because I think it's, like, so applicable to, like, obviously from the beginning of time, like, it is, but especially now, like, so in verse 12, it says, so teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom Return, O Lord, have how long have pity on your servants. Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all of us our days. And, like, not just with social media, but, like. Like, we're all just looking for satisfaction in something. Like, whether that's, like, even, like, good things, like being a mom, being a wife, like, being a business owner. Like, you're looking for satisfaction in other people in your job to fulfill you. But, like, are you really submitting and looking to the Lord for that. And I think that, like, that's been such a huge change in, like, the direction that our. That we've started heading as a family of, like, just being totally submissive to the Lord and, like, being open handed with whatever he has for us and trying to be obedient even when we don't know, like, the direction that we're heading at all.
- [58:16]
B
It's so good. It's so good. This podcast is definitely coming with some action steps for people to take away. Submitting to the Lord, reading the Word. And I. I don't want to go down another rabbit trail because I know we're wrapping up the time, but I was thinking about this because this came out. I feel like you'll relate to this. This came out. I don't even know who it is on Instagram. I don't even actually know how I saw it other than your algorithm shoots things to you that are like, your life. And it was this song about postpartum this girl wrote. And at first I was like, oh, this is so relatable and, like, so good. Then it ended, like, so sad. Like, it was basically like, my life is over. And I was like, oh, that's really sad. Like, that. That was. Was such a sad perspective of what becoming a mom is, you know? But the saddest part of it was that everybody's comments was like, oh, this is so good. This is exactly how I feel. Thank you for putting words to how I feel. And then someone said, respectfully, this is why I don't want to have kids. And that's okay. And that comment got like thousands of likes. And it, like, really broke my heart because I was like, man, that is so sad. And I was thinking that I was like, but that is how a lot of people really do feel, you know, because they were talk about how your body changes and this and. And everything. Like I said, like, at first it's like, oh, this is so true. But then it's like, supposed to be good. You know, it's supposed to be, but then it's like the best thing that ever happened to me. But it ended with saying, like, every time. And it was beautifully written. Every time a baby is born, a girl dies to who she used to be. And I was like, well, yes, and in some ways, you. You do die to yourself. But be, I think, because. Because we have a biblical background and a Christian mindset, we know that, like, to die means to gain.
- [60:02]
C
Isn't that what we're supposed to do equals life.
- [60:04]
B
Like Jesus, like, yeah, yeah, you died your old self, but you become a new self. And so, like, I don't look at death as a bad thing. We look at it as, like a positive thing because, like, if we die to self, then we're becoming a new creation and a better creation. And when I think about, like, becoming a mom, I'm like, yes, I died to my old self before I became. But the new self is more version.
- [60:25]
C
I don't want to be that girl.
- [60:27]
B
I was like, I wouldn't be that girl for a night.
- [60:29]
C
I don't think Reed wants that girl anymore either.
- [60:32]
A
Well, it's fruit. It's fruit.
- [60:34]
B
Fruit that comes from it. Yeah.
- [60:36]
A
What kind of fruit are you producing? You know, and I think about in First John, when John is talking about the Antichrist, you know, and he talks about the spirit of the Antichrist. And whenever. Whenever Jesus tells Peter, he says, get behind me, Satan. He's not calling Peter Satan. He's saying that that's the spirit of Satan in you. That's the spirit of the Antichrist in you. And that's the fruit that he's bearing in that moment. And especially with social media and with. I'm throwing you under the bus here. But her guilty pleasure is the reality TV show.
- [61:11]
B
We all have it.
- [61:12]
A
All the Bravo stuff you see from the outside looking in. Because I don't really do social media, but I'll walk past every now and then when she's watching that or whatever. And it's like, immediately, immediately I can see the despair in these people. And just. Especially on social media, even the situation that you described, it's like you can pick out everyone in that situation, the commenters, the person that did the song, and you can see what they're searching for. They're all searching for this satisfaction that they will never get. It's like a vapor that they're just trying to catch. That will never happen. And we always, I mean, all of us do that with different things. Things in our lives. But this will satisfy you, you know, and people say that, and that's something that, you know, you hear, and that. That gets all churchy and. But it is true. If you really take stock and really put the time in and really find that thrill in this, this will satisfy you and you will see the fruit and it will benefit your life. This isn't a book that you just, oh, if I subscribe to this, my life will be easier. My life will be better. Actually, your life will probably be harder.
- [62:23]
B
Yeah, yeah.
- [62:23]
C
Just changes Your perspective in the hard times.
- [62:26]
B
Yep. But it's how you. It. It. It's a book showing you that someone, God of universe, created this life, and then it's how you get through the life that he created. And then there's eternal life. It's like. It is the manual for, like, how to get through life. And I think that that's the thing. If you don't have a concept for the word, then, like, life, it's going to be hard no matter what. You know, like, it's not that it's good. This is something to make it easier. Like you said, it's going to be harder. And in some sen. Is that submission to it. There is that getting past, like, your flesh and, like, your feelings. But it's like, you have to do that anyways, you know, to survive life. And that's why when I saw that girl say that, I was like, that's so sad. But I think that, like, the Christian wall, it teaches you how to die to self before you ever become a mom. It teaches you what it means to be selfless. It teaches you what it means to be in submission, all that stuff. And, you know, like, the world hears those words and they go, ooh, I don't want that. But, like, when you see the fruit on the other side of. Of that and the, like, actual fulfillment you have in your heart, you're like, oh, actually, I do want that, because that. That makes me a better version of me. That. And what you get out of that is you actually feel like the depth of love and peace and joy, the fruit of the spirit of who God is, which is what we're all longing for. It's just people want to get that through not having to submit, not having to be selfless, not having to put the flesh aside. And you get counterfeit versions of that that are temporary, but in him, you get the fullness of that. And that's where that satisf. So when you say, like, this word satisfies, it's anything but cheesy and churchy. It really is true. And we've gotten to experience that.
- [64:05]
A
And no one's gonna appreciate that either. You can't try to get satisfaction from the outside world through using this to make yourself feel good. Because if you try to. I mean, think about the last time that. I'm talking to the audience here. Think about the last time that you posted a picture that did the best on your feed, when you opened up your phone and looked at that, that initial feeling that you got, no matter what Anyone says the vast majority of people that use those apps and the social media stuff, that's why you do it, you know, that's because you're like, oh, that feels so good. You know, like, look how many people liked and look how many people commented. And you're going back and forth and all this stuff, that's not going to satisfy you. Actually, this book says that the world will hate you because of it. He said if, if. Remember when they hate you? Because they hated me first, you know, and it's like that is the exact opposite of 99% of Earth's populations. Their, their goal for their life is they want to be loved by people and they wanna be appreciated by people and they want people to see them and know them and everyone wants that. You know, that's something so real and so carnal. But he says the opposite. The Lord says the opposite. He says, they're gonna hate you because they hated me first.
- [65:25]
B
Yep. And when Jesus was getting famous, he was actually like, shh, shh, shh, shh. Yeah, yeah, tell people I was here, like, don't spread this. Don't tell me what I just did. Where everybody else is like, everybody see what I just did? He's like, don't actually tell me what I just did. It's not time yet. It's just actually true. When I was thinking about just us using words like that, Cosmopolitan, the magazine did a seven page spread about ELO sister conference. And me, you would think, woohoo. I made it to Cosmopolitan. They basically made it look like it was a cult and crazy and terrible and just, it was confusing. And I remember I woke up to text and it was like me on the main newsfeed, like Cosmopolitan never thought I'd be in that magazine. And it was like, this girl preaches a submissive, like, says submission as a woman is a good thing. It was something like a headline with submission and it was basically to be like, can you believe that she would say that? And then it was like seven pages of like the most confusing wording just to like try to taint it, to look a certain way.
- [66:28]
A
Yeah, because you're on the right track.
- [66:29]
B
That's what I'm saying. It's like the world, you know, hates you, Jesus. Like, hey, expect it, you know?
- [66:35]
C
Yeah.
- [66:35]
B
It's so true. Those things are so fleeting. And you know that even that though, it's like, yeah, that's hard for a little bit. But I know that, I know, I know what I'm doing, why I'm doing it. You know it doesn't shake you because you have that foundation. And so, man, this is honestly top five favorite podcasts of mine. Like truly going from all the directions we just went through through, I'm like this is going to change someone's life and I'm really thankful that y' all came on and got to have this conversation. We got to have this conversation because I just think of so many people listening to this who one thing we talked about is going to bless them in so many ways. And if any of you guys hear this and you start reading the word, if any of you guys hear this and start submitting your life to the Lord, it will change your life. And I don't mean that in a light way. I mean that in the most sincere way. And I'm honored and grace grateful to be a part of a conversation like this. So thank you all so much.
- [67:24]
A
Thanks.
- [67:24]
C
Yeah, thanks for having us.