Ashley (3:49)

Yeah, so I'll kick that off.

Sadie (3:52)

Kick it off, girl.

Ashley (3:53)

First off, we're so honored to be here. We just love you. We love Ello, and It's. We love LA, LA. Yeah, girl, driving both LA's coming together. But, okay, so one day I was doing my skincare. I had seen Ally on Instagram because she had just started following Jesus and was creating.

Allie (4:14)

I was very new in my faith.

Ashley (4:15)

At that point, creating content around the Lord. And I was just laughing at some of her content, you know, enjoying some of her, like, journaling to Jesus moments. And I'm doing my skincare, and I felt the Lord be like, you should DM her. It just came out of nowhere. And I was like, I don't want to do that. I don't want to be that girl. Like, I don't want to, like, just be like, hi, like, you Know what I'm saying? But the thought never left. And so, you know when God gives you a thought, you can't. Like, the way to get rid of the thought is to just do the thing.

Sadie (4:43)

You have to do it.

Ashley (4:44)

You just do it, and then it goes away. The thought just leaves. Because you're obedient.

Sadie (4:47)

God's like, they never respond the thought because you did it.

Ashley (4:50)

Because you did it. Just being obedient. So I was like, all right, Lord, I'm just gonna get you off my back, and I'm just gonna do this. I'm going to reach out. So I just said, I don't even. I think I. I voice memo'd you. And I was like, hey, hey, girl.

Allie (5:03)

I was like, I love what you're doing online. She was inspiring. Yeah, just do that voice.

Ashley (5:08)

No, for real. We actually listened to the voice memo recently. Like, the last couple of months, we did. And then she responds. She's like, oh, my gosh.

Allie (5:15)

Oh, my gosh, girl.

Sadie (5:17)

Thank you. I love what you do.

Ashley (5:18)

Like, I love your morning routines. You need to teach me. I sleep in too late. Like, that's what you were saying. I probably did. Yeah, that's what you said.

Sadie (5:26)

Yeah.

Allie (5:27)

And it's funny because I literally. I don't know why this doesn't happen often for me. Like, I typically forget even what I did yesterday, but I remember exactly where I was when I got Ashley's message, which is just, like, wild.

Sadie (5:39)

I don't know.

Allie (5:40)

And so, yeah, we had a moment where we were like, keep doing what you're doing, girl. You know? Love you.

Ashley (5:46)

And then that was it.

Allie (5:47)

Yeah. And then three days later, I had already planned a trip to go out to Nashville because at that point, I had felt from the Lord that I was gonna be moving to Nashville from la. So I was living in LA at the time. And I'm posting on my stories that I'm in Nashville. I didn't know that Ashley lived in Nashville. You know, like, she's not really. It's not in her bio, and I hadn't go really digging on her page or anything. And so I post that I'm in Nashville to tour some homes, and she messages me and she's like, I'm sorry, I literally live here. And I was like, no way.

Sadie (6:16)

This is like, right after you date, right after she messaged you.

Ashley (6:19)

That's on God.

Allie (6:20)

You know, the timing was a bit suspicious, you know, so, yeah, so we decided to get coffee, and we sat there and yapped for three hours.

Ashley (6:27)

Did you want to get Coffee with me.

Allie (6:29)

I did, and then I didn't. And then I. And then I went.

Sadie (6:31)

You almost bailed.

Ashley (6:32)

I almost. You literally didn't. Almost didn't come.

Allie (6:35)

Yeah. I called a good friend of mine, her name is Elise. And I was like, I don't want to go. Like, it was like 30 minutes before I was supposed to go. I was just like, I don't want. I was like nervous to do it. I think also I've told this to Ashley's face like multiple times, so she knows this. But I think I was just really intimidated as well because she seemed so, like, mature and established in her faith. And again, this was at a point where I probably was only walking with Jesus for like maybe six months, you know, and like the night before, I was out on Broadway. Broadway. Like, you know, there was. I was still being sanctified.

Ashley (7:07)

Could have been hungover maybe.

Allie (7:09)

Probably might have been.

Ashley (7:10)

I didn't know though. I could not tell. She didn't know.

Allie (7:12)

So. So, you know, hey, I think I.

Ashley (7:15)

Just woke up the next morning and.

Allie (7:17)

I was like, who am I? Like this girl, like, it's real. Yeah. So I think it was more intimidation and I think, yeah, maybe a little warfare of like.

Ashley (7:24)

Yeah, so, so much warfare.

Allie (7:26)

Well, my friend talked me out of it and she was like, you need to go. You committed. And even if it's like, if it goes horribly and you guys aren't vibing, you can literally leave whenever you want. Like, you're not forced to stay at this coffee shop. And I was like, okay. So I go. And then. Yeah, good friend. Yeah. And yeah, three hours were. It obviously went great, but wow.

Ashley (7:47)

So then we meet, she then goes back. She's like, oh, yeah, I'm gonna maybe move here. I'm like, okay. So then she eventually moves here. A couple months after that coffee moment, we were just like talking like, boy swamoing, like over those next couple of months, then she moves and that's when she got planted in my church. And we were just like growing closer to the Lord and this girl was praying over her and it was just.

Allie (8:10)

Like the first time I actually came over to my house, I had never like prayed out loud in front of anyone. And I. I didn't really know how to like, pray over my home and.

Ashley (8:21)

Stuff, like anoint the home and stuff.

Allie (8:23)

And so she comes over. I have like, no furniture in my house yet because the movers hadn't come yet. I have a blow up couch. I have like outdoor furniture that my renters left for me that we're bringing inside. We're, like, using a box to put our food on. We, like, ordered food.

Ashley (8:35)

Yeah.

Allie (8:36)

And we have the video still. But Ashley was like, have you ever like, we need to pray over your home? Like, you just moved in, whatever. And I was like, oh, okay.

Sadie (8:45)

Yeah, go ahead.

Allie (8:46)

And she's like, no, no, you're gonna do it. And so she's, like, teaching me and kind of showing me how to pray over my home. Anyway, that's, like, literally where I was at spiritually. And so my time in Nashville was. It was, like, the biggest growing season for me in my faith.

Sadie (9:00)

That's so cool. And y' all weren't roommates then? No, no. Y' all didn't become roommates. So you moved to la. Back to la. I'm jumping ahead of the story. Okay. That's really cool thing I think is so interesting about your story because so many people know you now as, like, a Christian influencer. Like, yeah. Like, you have your podcast that's literally like, Christ with coffee on ice. Yeah. Like, it's so. It's just so sweet. And then the Jesus freaks, like, it's really cool to hear you say, when you. Y' all met, which wasn't even that long ago, to be like, that you were intimidated by her because of how strong she is in her faith, when people probably look at you and feel similar. But it's interesting to me that your plot platform was already there before you became a Christian. So a lot of people knew you as someone that is different than the version that you are now. And I think a lot of people wrestle with that in life. You know, once they convert to, you know, Christianity, once, like, they actually give their life to the Lord, they wrestle with. Oh, but my friends knew me as this. Or, oh, but this person, or my family know me as this. And, like, how do I show them that I'm a new person? And you do that on the Internet, which is pretty intimidating. Talk to me a little bit about who you were back then and the content you were creating. Sure.

Allie (10:13)

Yeah. So I. I've been making content for. Oh, my gosh. I had a moment back on Vine. I don't know if we remember that app.

Sadie (10:20)

Oh, wow.

Allie (10:21)

That was, like, my first time really, like, kind of blowing up on the Internet.

Sadie (10:24)

That was. To me, I thought that was a good app. That was a good one. It was really sad whenever it left.

Allie (10:29)

It was such a fun app. I feel like a lot of us were mourning that.

Sadie (10:32)

Yeah. And because a lot of people got really big off Vine.

Allie (10:34)

Yeah.

Sadie (10:35)

And a lot of people was, like.

Allie (10:36)

Gone, and they went to YouTube and then now they're, like, acting and stuff. It's.

Ashley (10:39)

Or they're on TikTok.

Sadie (10:40)

Yeah.

Allie (10:40)

Shawn Mendez, literally. But yeah. So I have been making content forever anyway, back in 2020. And again, I'm not a Jesus follower at this point. I grew up in a Christian household, so Jesus was spoken of. God was talked about by my parents. They are Christian, but it wasn't super religious. Like, there wasn't a whole lot of, like, reading our Bibles. I didn't know the word. I believed in Jesus, but I don't think I even really knew what I believed about him, because I didn't know him, So I didn't really know who Jesus was. I knew the extent of, like, you know, John 3:16 and, like, that he died for our sins, but I don't even think I really understood what that meant.

Sadie (11:19)

Yeah.

Allie (11:19)

So I didn't have a personal relationship with him, so there was a. There was a void of, like, knowing the spirit of God and knowing him as a friend. But, yeah. So 2020, I downloaded an app called TikTok and I. I had my moment during vine, right? And I. But I hadn't really had a moment on the it since then. So I was doing things like makeup artistry and like, you know, all these other things that I was doing. And I was bored, as we all were during 2020. And I downloaded this app and there was a thought in my mind that was like, I wonder if I could do it again. Like, just to see, you know, just like. And a lot of my content that I made on vine was just silly. Like, I was just very. Personality, very, like, telling jokes, making fun of myself, whatever. And so I did that again on TikTok.

Sadie (12:03)

I wish I could see your vine, because I feel like you did thrive on Vine.

Allie (12:07)

I had a sailor's mouth, though. I'll say that my. It involves some F bombs.

Ashley (12:11)

It's deleted. Thankfully, they are gone. I think they're all gone.

Allie (12:15)

Don't go looking for them, guys.

Ashley (12:18)

But, yeah, you're also singing too.

Allie (12:20)

Yeah, I would sing as well.

Sadie (12:21)

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Allie (14:04)

A couple months into that, I was just making silly videos and they caught traction, and it felt almost as if it was like, overnight, but I just. Yeah, everything just started to blow up. And then I started a series on Tick Tock, you know, on Tick Tock called hey, Girly Pop. And so I would look at the camera. I think I've. I've just always had a heart for encouraging women. Specifically, I love women. Even with me being a makeup artist, Like, I just love encouraging women and helping them see themselves the way that they are, you know, and feel beautiful and confident and encouraged. And so I would look at the camera and I'd say, hey, girly Pop. And whatever I felt on my heart in that moment to talk about, a lot of times, it would even be what I like. What would Allie really appreciate to hear right now? Sometimes I would even pray. Funny enough I'd be like, God, wait, that's crazy.

Sadie (14:53)

That is crazy.

Allie (14:53)

A couple times I really would pray and I'd say, what?

Ashley (14:56)

What should I do?

Allie (14:56)

Like, what should I talk about? What should I encourage? And a lot of times it'd be like in one take it would just come out.

Sadie (15:01)

Wow.

Allie (15:02)

And it would be about like, you know, breakups or understanding your purpose or whatever, just any encouragement. And that really took off because I think obviously during that time it was pretty dark for a lot of us. There wasn't a whole lot of like hope or anything. And so, yeah, that's who I was. And one thing led to another and I got over a million followers on TikTok, which was insane. And then I'm signing with an agency and then it becomes my full time job. And so I kind of leave makeup artistry behind and I'm doing that. And yeah, so that's who I was on the Internet. And I had a podcast before mine now called Girly Popcast.

Sadie (15:38)

Really?

Allie (15:39)

Yeah. And so was that.

Sadie (15:40)

So when you're encouraging people, you weren't really doing it in a Christian context, more of just an encouragement context. So did you feel like those moments were led by the spirit at the time? Like hindsight? I feel you can probably see that.

Allie (15:53)

Yeah.

Sadie (15:53)

But did you feel that at the time?

Allie (15:55)

I don't think I knew that.

Sadie (15:56)

You didn't know what that.

Allie (15:56)

No, I didn't.

Sadie (15:57)

That's cool.

Allie (15:59)

Yeah, I don't think I knew. But now that I look back on it, I'm like, oh my gosh. God, you were all over that. Yeah. So on my podcast then my listeners would write in about situations and we would just talk through it. So yeah, so that's what I did. Yeah. And yeah, so I kind of got to a place where I was doing that for a couple years and I was also in the. I was so in the world, you know, like I was going out and I like never really went to college or anything. So I didn't have like a party era. And around that time I finally had enough money to like get my own place and stuff. So I'm not living with my family. I actually, I lived with my ex boyfriend for a little bit too. And so that had ended and I was like kind of in my era of independence, you know, which was exciting and fun. And so I'm going out and I'm like having fun. I'm doing all the things we shouldn't do. And it was so fun in the beginning, know. And then after a couple years of that I just think that I got to a place of really feeling empty, like a shell. And I have. I've always had, this is how the Lord has just made me. But I've always had a heart to just pour and encourage, so I'm doing that, but I'm not, like, getting anything to pour into me, right? So I just kind of got to the ends of myself. And this was 2022, beginning of 2023, where I decided, as all influencers do after they blow up on the Internet, I'm gonna move to la. So I moved to laughter and to follow all my hopes and dreams. And so I made the decision. I was like, I want to move to la and it would be the far. I've only ever known the East Coast. So that's like a big, big move by yourself. And I felt that I, at that point, too, like, a lot of my friendships and romantic relationships had failed. Like, my foundation was people, and that's just not a sturdy foundation, you know? So I had this feeling that there was something I would need to lean on. Like, I needed to lean on something was what I felt. And then the next thing that I felt and I heard in my mind and I. I knew it was God is. He was like, I need you to give me a chance. Like, really give me a chance, is what he said. Like, if you're gonna lean on anything, try me. And, like, actually try me. Because there were times in my life, like I said, I grew up Christian, where I try to open my Bible, and then I'm sure I'm starting in Genesis 1, and I'm like, what the heck is even going on here? And I close it and I let dust collect on it, you know? So I never really actually gave God a full chance in my life. And so I felt he was really challenging me. And I was so desperate at that point. Like, truly, I mean, everything else was failing me. And so I was like, okay, like, what do I have to lose? You know? And so it was new. It was the beginning of 20 when I went out to Barnes and Noble and I got myself a Bible.

Sadie (18:43)

Let's go, girl.

Allie (18:43)

And I mean, like, I Googled everything. Google was my disciple. So I was like, what translation do I get? Where do I start in the Bible? And so praise God for all the Christians on the Internet, because that really, like, helped me so much, you know.

Ashley (18:56)

Praise God for you because you're helping people now.

Sadie (18:58)

I know. Seriously, I think about that this morning. I was thinking about that when I was listening to one of your videos and knowing a little bit of your testimony. I was like, it's so cool that you're being who you needed. I need it.

Ashley (19:09)

I know.

Sadie (19:10)

It's crazy.

Allie (19:11)

It's so cool how the Lord does that.

Sadie (19:12)

Which I think that that's like. I think that's what most of us do. You know, whenever, like, you become new in Christ, you do kind of become for other people what you needed because you're bearing the image of Christ, so you're producing the fruit of Christ, which is what you needed. You needed true love, you needed true joy, true peace. And, like, you found that in Christ. And I think it's cool to point out, too, you're sitting here searching and, like, empty, but you have, like a million followers on TikTok. Like, you had. You're having fun. You're. You're, you know, out. You have the money, but it's like, everybody is wired in us. We have to have something more. Like, you have to have purpose. If it doesn't have purpose, then it doesn't matter. Like, it doesn't do it for you. And Even, like, with TikTok, you're like, yeah, I was saying encouraging things, but there wasn't. It wasn't tied to anything. Like, it wasn't attached to something that was also, like, life giving to me. And when it's. When it's God and when it's, you know, from him, it really is. It's an overflow. It comes in you and then it comes out of you. And, like, it's a. It's just like a really beautiful thing. And so I just wanted to point that out because I think a lot of people think, you know, oh, if I had a million followers or if I had money or if I was doing that. And you're really proof saying, nope. Even still. Even still. And so you find yourself at Barnes and Noble with a cute pink Bible. Niv, Right? Yeah. And start studying and fall in love with Jesus.

Allie (20:36)

Yeah.

Sadie (20:37)

Wow.

Allie (20:37)

Pretty much, yeah. I think. And it was funny because when I felt that voice tell me to, like, really take him seriously, for some reason in my knowing, I knew that that meant I was supposed to be reading my Bible. Like, it wasn't even like you to pray more. It was like, you need to read the Word. And so, yeah, I. I got my Bible a couple weeks before I moved out to la. Moved to la. I'm living in an apartment in the middle of West Hollywood. And, yeah, I just started reading the Gospels is where I started. And the Book of Matthew, I, like, always Talk about the book of Matthew. I love the whole Bible, but. And all the gospels. But that book is so special to my heart because that was the first time that I really encountered the spirit of God, was when I was reading the story of Peter walking on water and, like, him drowning in Jesus grabbing him. It just spoke directly to me. And I feel like that was the first time that I was like, the Bible isn't just an old book.

Sadie (21:30)

Yeah.

Allie (21:31)

Like, we're talking about stories that were thousands of years ago, but why is it talking directly to my life and situation right now in the year 2023? So I think that was like, the first time that I was like, oh, my gosh, this is like, like food. And it was feeding me and I was. I was starving. So I think once you get a taste of what Jesus truly can offer you, you're done. I was done. I was. I was so sold out. And so probably within. This is crazy that he even let me do this within, like, four or five months of, like, even following Jesus. I'm starting to talk about him online because people are like, ally, there's a glow. Like, girl, you look happy. You know, And I was always happy, but there was a difference. It was joy. It wasn't happiness. You know, strength. And so people were like, what is that? And like, I've always been so transparent on the Internet. Like, everyone pretty much knew everything I was going through. Probably too much, but I wasn't gonna gatekeep. I was like, okay, guys, hear me out, okay? You can believe in. You can believe in whatever you believe in is what I would say. I'd be like, universe, whatever you want, okay? But this is what's been working for me, Jesus, us. And so it wasn't even like. I think it was a strategy of the Lord's, but, like, it just snowballed. Where then what? I'm just making Christian contact. I couldn't shut up.

Sadie (22:50)

Yep. All right, y', all, it's time for fall. Cooler temps are finally on their way. But if you live in the south like I do, then, you know, mosquito season is still going strong and add in dry air all the outdoor time, and, yeah, your skin's going to need some backup up. Thankfully, today's podcast is sponsored by Active Skin Repair, and we have been using it non stop. It's safe enough for the tiniest baby and tough enough for grandpa, and it actually works. I always keep a bottle of Active Skin Repair nearby because between honey and haven, scraped knees and hands, bug bites and dry skin, there is always something for it to be used on. One spray helps cleanse, calm, irritation and support healing using hypochlorous acid, the same molecule your body makes to fight skin issues naturally. Really, it's totally non toxic and safe for all skin types, even super sensitive skin. And it works on everything from eczema to sunburns to breakouts. With over 500000 happy customers and an ingredient list that's clean, it's pretty much a no brainer. We love this product. So Honey and Haven, clearly they're kids, they're gonna get scraped knees. We use it for that all the time. But also this is just a random thing but I had pregnancy rash again this last pregnancy and I use it on that and it helped so much. Take all the itching and sting away.

Allie (24:06)

So.

Sadie (24:06)

So it can just be used on anything for any age and stage of life. And that's why we love it so much. So visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about active skin repair and get 20% off your order using the code WO. That's ActiveSkinRepair.com use the code WO to get 20% off your order. It's crazy cuz people, people get like judgy about stuff like that. You know, about people who like just came to the lore and they're discipling like have you read Apple Acts? Like Saul to Paul. It's literally what it's supposed to, that's what's supposed to happen. You know, it's like, okay, he was killing Christians and then a couple chapters later he is like the guy who is, you know, preaching and it's just so crazy. And you're like, how did God allow him to do that? Well, because God made him new by the blood of Jesus. Like he was dead, now he's alive. That was an old self, this is a new self. Like it's supposed to look like that. It's supposed to be shocking to people. It's like that's how you witness, you know, I mean even I've been studying acts lately because our little Bible study is going through it and it's so cool because in Acts chapter four, I believe it's. Or is it three? It might be three and four. I was reading them together. But it's whenever Peter and John are like walking past the beautiful gate and then like they, you know, tell the lame man, get up and walk. Like I don't have silver and gold, but I'll give you what I have. And then when Jesus give him walk so he gets up and walk. And then everyone freaks out because everyone's just like, whoa, that was amazing. That's so crazy. Like, he just got up and walked. Well, then, you know, all the Pharisees and the religious people are like, like, we have to stop this. Like, let's put them in jail. Let's shut this up. Let's stop this whole thing. And when they put him in jail, they begin to, like, question them. And Peter preaches the gospel. Peter, straight up tells them about Jesus. And he's like, you know this. You're coming at me. But Jesus is the only salvation. He's the only way to life. And then it says. And they were amazed by the boldness of Peter. And. And then they said. And the lame man. Having seen the lame man walk, they had nothing to say. And what's really stuck out to me about that is they weren't like, it could have said. They were amazed at a lame man who didn't walk for 40 years, got up and started leaping and jumping. But it wasn't actually that that got them. It was. They were amazed that Peter could be so bold in his faith. They were like, how did this guy, in the face of prison, in the face of, like, they knew what he had to lose, and yet he stood for his faith, and it made them, like, go, what was that? You know? And so I think we underestimate one, yeah, the power of the spirit. Like, yes, do miracles. Pray for people, do all that. But two, like, people underestimate the boldness in Christ. Like, how much of a testimony that is. And when you get on your TikTok with a million followers, knowing you had everything to lose and going, I'm just going to tell y', all, Jesus Christ is the only way, like, to actually finding what you're looking for. People are like, whoa, that was bold. You know, because you see what you have to lose, or you see there's a true change or true shift. Especially Peter. You just said he's walking on water. He's the guy falling out of fear now. He's like, get up and walk. Boom. Like, this guy's bold. And so I just think when I've been talking about this a lot, because I feel super excited about it, like, when you are bold in Christ and you're filled with the spirit, it is just an undeniable combination. Like, people just go, what is happening? And then it opens the door for you to testify. And so I always get so annoyed at people who are so judgy about people on the Internet who just became a Christian, are using their platform. I'm like, that's what it's supposed to be. And you don't know what's happening behind closed doors. Like Paul, you know, the salt of Paul, he was getting, like, disciple. He was hanging out with the disciples and learning and growing. And there was, like, a growing period for months. Like, no one knows that you're falling in love with Jesus and reading Matthew and, like, filling up and the Lord's teaching you all this stuff, and, like. Like, all you can do is testify, you know? And so I just feel really passionate about that because it makes me so happy when people are judgy. And one thing I've heard you say, I think it's so cool, is that people were praying for you on the Internet. Like, people have been seeing your journey and praying that the Lord would meet you where you're at. And then he did. Like, instead of judging people who are influencers, like, how about we pray for them and see what God does with their life? And then, like, praise God. God began to meet you where you're at, and you used it for his glory. It's amazing.

Allie (28:34)

Yeah. And I'm so grateful for the people who did see the gold in me. Like, I think that they. That is truly. That is actually being a Christian is, like, seeing people and seeing past. Because there were a lot of things to look past with that version of me, you know? And because I, you know, I'm, like, documenting me going out, and then I'm, like, apparently going to church. And it's like, people could have easily judged me, and some might have, but it's the Christians who, like, even really saw me, even before I found Jesus, that were like, no, I see something in Ali, like, that's having the eyes of Jesus, you know? And so for them to be interceding and praying for me is. I can only imagine how. How they feel seeing my content now.

Sadie (29:14)

It's so cool. It's cool. I mean, I feel like, Ashley, you've been that, too. For Allie. Like, when y' all went to breakfast and you're like, might have been hungover, you're like, I didn't notice. Like, you were great, you know? Like, I feel like you just really, really saw you, like, for who you were becoming. And also, it's really cool, like, when you'll have that prayer moment in your house. I think people are so afraid of the awkwardness that that would bring. Like, you pray and it's like, oh, this is awkward. Like, who's gonna pray? Like, oh, Okay. I don't really know how to pray. You're like, no, just. Just pray, and I'll show you how, and we'll do it together. Like, that's a friend in Christ. Like, that is so beautiful. I want to hear about your story because you also have been, you know, in this kind of Christian influencer space. I don't even know how that all got started for you, how that path kind of took off, but it's so amazing to see your platform as well. Were you a Christian before? How did that journey kind of happen in your life? Yeah.

Ashley (30:06)

Oh, man. And even to just say backing on this, like, the gifts of God are irrevocable. So, like, you having this voice to, like, literally, like, prophesy but not know that you're prophesying is nuts, bro. So, like, the way I'm just so proud of you. Like, truly so proud of you. And God is gonna continually, like, grow you and, like, sharpen you and sharpen your gifts. And it's also such a witness to other people who are, like, also in the spotlight right now, and they're, like, becoming a Jesus follower. They're like, okay, I don't know how to do this, but I'm gonna look to Allie, because she was kind of where I was at.

Sadie (30:43)

So everybody. Everybody starts there, and that's what no one realizes, you know? Like, I remember asking. We were talking about Christine Cain earlier. For me, like, I was so intimidated by her and women like her, because I'm like, who am I to speak at the same conference that they're speaking at? I don't know anything. Like, that's how I felt. I was like, I just don't feel qualified at all for this. And I remember one time I heard her say that she was nervous, and I was like, really? And she's like, yeah, I hope I always feel this way, like, because that means I care. Like. And it just hit me. I'm like, oh, like, you're human, you know? Of course you are. Like, we all feel this way. You know, you all feel overwhelmed by the call of God in your life. You all, like, no one feels ready for it. No one feels like, oh, I got this. And if you do, you might should question that, you know? I remember one time I told Shelly. It was the first time I was speaking at Passion. I was terrified. I was like, what is happening? And I told Shelly. I was like, why do y' all trust me to do this? I was like, and how do y' all trust me do this? Because they. It was the day before, I was speaking, and no one had asked me, like, what I'm speaking on. I didn't go over it with anyone there. Like, they just were totally trusting me. I've never done something like this before. And I was like, how do you trust me? She's like, I don't. She's like, I trust God in you. And I was like, that's cool. And then she was like, yeah, I trust God in you. She's like, and. Because I know that, you know, you don't have it unless you have him. And she was like. Like, the people that we don't invite on this stage are the people who think that they could do it in their own strength.

Allie (32:17)

Oh.

Sadie (32:18)

And I was like, whoa. Like, it's actually a cool place and a good place to be dependent on the Lord. Like, you have to be dependent on the Lord. And it's really taught me. And over the years, I'm like, I never want to lose that dependence on the Lord, that need and that knowing that I don't actually have this unless the Holy Spirit moves through me. Like, actually, I don't got this. Like, it has to be God. And so it's cool to, like, point that out. Yeah. No one feels ready. No one feels qualified. Everyone feels intimidated. And that's, like, the beauty of it, because you have to lean on the Spirit and find that in him. And then when you do it in him. And not only is it witness others, but it increases your faith. Like, can't even tell you. I mean, two weeks ago, speaking at a conference I felt zero percent ready for, I was like, this is just scary for so many reasons. I mean, our life was just crazy. And I was just momming all day to two sick kids. And I was like, our car got broken into whole. Another story. Everything just bad happened that day. And I was like, I'm so not ready for this. I felt so weak. I was also sick. I actually tried to ask the conference if they could just let me do a Q and A instead of speaking, because I felt so sick. We had such a bad day. And they said, no, you have to. You know, you're gonna have to speak. And I was like, wow, Lord. Yeah, I'm not kidding. I actually don't know, like, what I'm gonna say because I had a message prepared, but it was so weird. I did not feel like it was right. I was like, I'm not supposed to preach this. But then I was like, I have no time to come up with something else. Like, you have to Move. And the Lord gave me one word from a prayer warrior lady of mine who voice memo me. And I was like, I think that's it. Went up there and preached like, one of the most, like, bold messages I'd shared. I had no notes, nothing planned, nothing prepared. It was the most spirit filled I had felt. Like I felt so filled with the spirit. I actually went over the. The time limit, which I thought I wasn't gonna make it to the time limit.

Ashley (34:18)

Because you got out of the way.

Sadie (34:20)

I get out of the way. And because, like, in your weakness, he is strong. Like, he really is your strength. He actually does.

Allie (34:27)

Wow.

Sadie (34:27)

Like, and so for me, it was really cool because I believe it blessed people and I've heard really cool testimonies. But to me, it was a testimony because I was like, I didn't have the strength that day. And yet, God, you moved in such a powerful, mighty way.

Allie (34:42)

So I think gave you even more than you needed.

Sadie (34:45)

When you're empty, when I was. He feels so. Isn't that cool? Like, I think it's cool to testify to that. Especially, you know, when people watch you so much and they. They just assume, oh, you just feel confident. You just got it. You must have.

Ashley (34:58)

You're always ready.

Sadie (34:59)

You're always ready. And you're like no friend. Not even close friends. You know that? I am not about sharing an Instagram filter version of my life on. Whoa, that's good. Sometimes days are just hard. Life is crazy, especially when you have kids. Running around can just be a little messy. Sometimes you just really need a mom win so you can take a deep breath, lean on the holy spirit, and give your kids the new chocolate chip cookie flavor from Beam Kids all in one super powder, y'. All. This is just as tasty as it sounds. And my kids are absolutely obsessed. It's such a good mom hack, which makes sense because it was launched by my sweet friend Shawn Johnson, who happens to be an Olympic gold medalist. But she really is an incredible moment mom. She wanted to make it easier for parents to do something good for their kids, and she absolutely nailed it. So there's no fights, no bribery, just happy faces drinking something with 87 less sugar than supposedly low sugar gummies out there, plus 13 times the nutrients and over 40 essentials like greens, fruits, and pre and probiotics. We love this stuff because I have very, very picky eaters in my house and it's so hard to get them to eat anything healthy, healthy. And the fact that they love this is such a win. All I do is I just mix one scoop in the smoothie mix that I'm making. And it's so easy. But you could also do it in milk. If you just actually want to make, like, chocolate milk, your kids are going to love it. And now is the perfect time to try it because BEAM is offering an exclusive deal for our listeners. For a limited time, you can get up to 35 off plus two free gifts when you go to shopbeam.comSadie and use the code Sadie at checkout. That's shop beam. B E A M dot com Sadie and use the code Sadie for up to 35 off and two free gifts. So anyways, back to the story. Ashley, tell me a little bit about your journey of stepping into all that God had for you.

Ashley (36:52)

Okay, so starting out, I was not raised in a super Christian household. I would go to Catholic mass twice a year, and I did not know about God at all. And I just grew up and, like, I kind of found my God in being liked by people and being just, keeping the peace with everyone, having people like me. That was in high school. And then I remember, I don't know how I started thinking about this. It must have been the Holy Spirit. I was wondering, like, what is my purpose? Why am I thinking that at 16 years old? I don't know. But I just remember wondering what my purpose was. And I was starting to read these books about the power of now. It was very New Agey vibes. And I remember I didn't understand any of the words in it. I didn't know what the guy was talking about. Half the time. I'm like, okay, it's not that. Then I remember I had seen this girl on Instagram. This is when I was 16. So Instagram. This is OG Instagram. When people would put the filters on it, you know, I remember she would talk about Jesus in her captions on Instagram. And I remember being like, is it Jesus? Like, does Jesus know my purpose? Okay, so then I look up, I Google about Jesus, and I get to this website where it's like, italic words. It must have been the Lord's Prayer. Looking back, but I remember being in my living room looking at this website, being like, I have no idea what this means. Whatever. It must not be Jesus.

Sadie (38:11)

Wow.

Ashley (38:12)

A couple days after that, my best friend, she had always been a Christian. I have no idea how she had patience for me and with me, like, all that time, especially in high school, because I was crazy in high school. And she just stayed by my side. Kelsey, I just love her so Much. So anyway, we're on my back patio and she's like, okay, I gotta go. I'm gonna go to a book club. I'm like, okay, what's the book about? She says, it's a book about finding your purpose. I've gotta read that book. Kellis, you gotta get me that book.

Sadie (38:39)

Okay.

Ashley (38:39)

So then she comes, comes back a couple days later, gets me the Purpose Driven Life. And I read that book. And the first line is, this book is not about you. This book is all about God.

Sadie (38:49)

Wow.

Ashley (38:50)

And that was my Bible for a year. I would read that before going to school in the morning at the breakfast table, I'd be like, my parents would be looking at me like, what are you doing? I'd be reading like, date 30. Like, again. I didn't read the Bible, but it had like biblical messages throughout. And that's exactly what I needed at that time. However, I had just gone into a relationship with a guy who was not following Jesus at the same time as, like, starting that journey.

Allie (39:17)

Wow.

Ashley (39:17)

So I started this lukewarm journey. Like the beginning of my walk with Jesus was like, lukewarmness.

Sadie (39:23)

Yeah.

Ashley (39:24)

Cuz I wanted to go to church, I wanted my sermons, I wanted this book. Right. But I also didn't want to give up being liked.

Sadie (39:31)

I didn't want to.

Ashley (39:32)

To give up this relationship with this guy. I didn't want to give up being, like, popular, whatever that means in high school, but just I wanted both.

Sadie (39:40)

Yeah.

Ashley (39:40)

So I had two feet in both. And I walked that way all the way to college. And then in college, I remember this guy and I broke up. And then my parents got a divorce within a month of each other. And then my grandmother passed away, like right after that, three bombs dropped my life. And that's when I remember looking at the Lord and being like, why would you allow this? I don't understand why you would allow this. And honestly, like, that just feels mean. Feels cruel that you would allow this to me. So then I went cold. Said, I'm gonna turn this to cold and I'm not gonna be walking with you. So then a year goes by and I'm psycho. I'm literally in college. I'm the craziest I've ever been. Like, I just was partying all the time. I was going to sleep with the lights on. I just remember being like, crazy. And my friends were like, you've been there. My head's awful.

Sadie (40:33)

That was such a real reaction.

Ashley (40:35)

I recommend it to wa.

Allie (40:36)

All your makeup's still on your face. You're like, this is awful.

Ashley (40:38)

My contacts are still in. I'm like, what even. Yeah, it's just awful looking back on that version of me. But I was so lost, and I was just looking for healing, like, in the world and in guys and how people saw me. And, like, my. I was in a sorority, and I just. It was so bad, and I was the worst version of myself. And I remember a year later goes by, I'm in my childhood bedroom, and. And I felt the Lord. Like, I was in my bedroom, lights off, completely depressed, did not know how to get up out of bed. I was like, I can't even get up. I don't even know who I am. Looking at myself, I was like, I don't know who you are. You're not the Ashley. Like, you're not even yourself right now. And I remember in the room feeling like there was, like, a presence there. And I remember being like, oh, my gosh. I feel like that's God, you know? And I just felt God, like, reach his hand out to me in. In my sadness, in my, like, just. I couldn't. I had no strength. And he's like, I need you to try again, but try with me. I need you to heal, but heal with me. Kind of like extending his hand. No shame. I was shaming myself, but he was like, we're gonna get up. Like, you need to get up. So then I literally just remember, like, getting out of bed and being like, okay, I'm done. Like, I'm cutting all of that out, and I, you know, open the blinds, and I'm like, all right, let's go. Like, I'm going to do this with God. Like, I'm going to live my life with the Lord. So then I go back to college. Cut it all out. Like, I am just going. I remember I'd wake up at 6am, spend time with God, and then I would work out. And then I would, like, just do that every day and just be with God. Then Covid happened, and we all left school. So then I'm back in my childhood bedroom, and that's when I started reading the Bible. And the Bible is what changed my life.

Sadie (42:26)

Wow.

Ashley (42:26)

Like, I was reading the Bible when I started my journey, but I really started reading it. I also was in a season of just, like, just me and God. So I was in my childhood bedroom with my mom. I was living with my mom, and it was just me and God every day. And all my friends had left to go to apartments and, like, live in different cities. But I was in my neighborhood that I grew up in, and I would just spend time with the Lord every day. I remember I had, like, dance parties with God. I would just, like, worship the Lord in my room, just dancing like an idiot. But I was having so much fun. Like, how am I having so much fun that I'm completely alone? But, like, it's just fun. Like, you just get to be, like, dancing with the Lord and just spending time with him. So then I. Around that time of being at home, I had no idea what I was going to do with my life, except for I wanted to write. And then, like, I wanted to write about Jesus, I wanted to talk about Jesus. I always wanted to write books. But then when I.

Sadie (43:18)

What were you in college for?

Ashley (43:20)

Like, I was in college for journalism and interactive media studies.

Sadie (43:23)

So you always like.

Allie (43:24)

Yeah.

Ashley (43:24)

And my parents were both news reporters, and they loved, like, storytelling.

Sadie (43:28)

Yeah.

Ashley (43:29)

So I was always like, I'm gonna write books. But then when I got saved and, like, really started walking with Jesus, I'm like, oh, I should. I want to write about Jesus.

Sadie (43:35)

That's cool.

Ashley (43:36)

And so I remember I started a blog called the Honey Scoop when I was in my lukewarm era. Okay. So lukewarm days, she's going out. She's also talking about Jesus sometimes.

Sadie (43:46)

Okay.

Ashley (43:48)

But then when I got really, like, on fire for the Lord, I'm at home. And that's when TikTok Instagram Reels comes out, and I'm at home. I'm bored. I want to write books. One day I'm like, it'd be cool to talk about Jesus, maybe speak online. So then I just start creating content. That was with the Honey Scoop. OG Honey Scoop. And that was seven. Five years ago. Five years ago.

Sadie (44:12)

Did it take time to take off or was it, like, how do people respond to the content at first?

Ashley (44:17)

You know? So it definitely took time. I think it took, like, two years before I was doing it full time. So I was creating content for a long time before I could go full time. And then I moved to Nashville. Just a whole journey. There's so much. There's so much lore.

Sadie (44:36)

So cool.

Allie (44:38)

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Sadie (45:06)

3. There's so much more. A lot of people, when they think, think about social media, it's like, it's a scary place to get started, you know? And I. I think I was kind of in social media before social media was like that. I mean, only because my family had the show whenever I was 14. So my Instagram account started when I was, like, 15, and I had followers from, like, Duck Dynasty, Dancing with the Stars era of life. So that was like, that was just a unique route to go. But I feel like I talked to so many friends who are trying to start social media, get something to pick up, and it's so hard. And I totally understand because we've tried to start new things in different pages, and it's like, it is so hard to kick something off. But consistency is so key. And I think also consistency and authenticity is key. Like, if it really is who you are, then do it because it's fun and you love it and it's who you are and what's to lose? And then consistency, like not being discouraged by the numbers, not being discouraged when it's not taking off. I mean, I've watched my husband try to grow his following, and because people are like, oh, well, he has a following because he's your husband. I'm like, no, because he is doing a men's ministry, and my following is 90, like, 8% women. I don't help him at all. Like, he has a lot of girl followers. He's like, four, eight men. Like, where are the men? So hard to, like, do that and to reach that people. So I just. I know, like, the grind it takes, but again, like, if it's authentically who you are, are, and you really believe this is what the Lord is calling you to, then, like, stay consistent with it and over time, you'll see. I mean, this podcast is an example of that. Starting a podcast, you know, it's like, hard to gain, like, a podcast audience even if, like, you have social media. And I did it for, you know, two years without making any money on it, just because I loved it. It was who I was. It's what I love to do. And now I've done it for seven years, and it's like, my thing and my job, and I love it, and I'm so grateful, and I can't even believe what God. God has allowed it to become. But, like, it does take consistency and just staying true to who you are and letting God breathe through that And I think one thing I want to call out about your stories that are so cool is both of you really fell in love with Jesus through the Bible. I think a lot of people think, like, the Bible is just, just like this add on addition to something like you're supposed to do when you become a Christian. It's like, oh, maybe I'll become a Christian, like in a church service or at a conference or someone will lead me to the Lord and then like, maybe I'll read my Bible. Bible. Because I'm supposed to. It's like, no, like the Bible is it like, it's the living, breathing word of God. Like it is active and alive. It is the love letter that God gave us to find our purpose in life to. So, like, yes, things, things lead you to the Bible. Like, purpose driven life led you to understanding the Bible. There are avenues. There are influencers and podcasts and church and conferences, but it's to lead you to the Word, the living word of God. And you know, in the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. And so it's like that verse in my head, that's who he is. And so I think, like, don't overlook the Bible. As if it's just like this add.

Ashley (48:18)

On, like, well, yeah, and even like, people would look at me a year after seeing me go out till 2am and then they see me. I'm a completely different person. And all I had done was be in the Bible every day. That's all I did.

Sadie (48:31)

Changes you.

Allie (48:31)

It changed the way I thought because it was.

Ashley (48:34)

Changed the way I was thinking. It changed the way I was acting.

Allie (48:36)

Come on.

Ashley (48:37)

Like, we want to always be like, all right, don't drink, don't do this. Like, as a Christian, don't do that. But we're not saying, hey, go to this, go to the Bible. Just read your Bible. Actually read your Bible and spend time with God. And that is what will cause people to not drink and to not to like, actually follow God is the Word. So we kind of get it wrong. And it's also like, the Word changes how you feel about how you think about yourself because it changes identity and identity. I was doing those things because I didn't know my identity as a daughter of God. So you just get it wrong.

Sadie (49:09)

I think people read the Bible like that too. It's like you're looking for the don'ts. Like you're looking for like the. When I'm not supposed to do what I'm supposed to do, it's like, take that out. Like, read the story, you know? And that's why when you read Matthew, you, like, got to understand the story of Jesus and how that relates to you. And you're like, man, like, I feel like Peter, like, that is so relatable to me, and that's who Jesus is to me. So that's how it changes the way you think. And then when you get to the thing that's like, this is the way that you should live, you understand how you can live that way. Not because you're doing it in your own strength and because you're going to be perfect, but because the spirit of God lives inside of you. And so, yeah, like, keep thinking of that verse. Don't conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. And like, you guys were both. Honest to admit, I was in the pattern of the world. Like, I was going out, I was drinking, I was partying, lights were on, you know, living with boyfriend, all. All the different things. Things. But, like, then you were transformed, you know, by the word of God. And it transformed your mind. It transformed the way you talk, like, the way that you guys speak into each other's life. So beautiful. It's one of my favorite things about the show. Just y. Y' all will take a minute. You did it a second ago. I just want to let you know, the way you prophesied even before, God's going to strengthen that and use that, like, does that looking. Thinking back to Ashley five years ago, you know, does it surprise you the way that you.

Ashley (50:27)

Oh, man, that's crazy. I definitely think Ashley 5 years ago would not. I don't know what she would be saying, but I know. I just think it's being in the word and being with the spirit. It's the truth. And the spirit, it transforms you. It changes you. I mean, I remember this girl when I first met her, she were not. She rebukes things. Now she walks into homes and she's rebuking stuff. And to think, a year and a half of ago, two years ago, you couldn't even pray over your own house. You're walking in rebuking demons. Crazy.

Allie (51:02)

That's actually one of my favorite things to do.

Ashley (51:05)

She gets dreams about rebuking demons. I'm like, this is wild. So it's just sometimes I just feel.

Sadie (51:11)

Like, hey, I had a dream about.

Allie (51:13)

This demonic doll, and I told it to get out in Jesus name. And I was, like, slamming it on.

Sadie (51:16)

The table, but, you know, crazy.

Ashley (51:19)

But I think, like, Even for the living. Who's listening is like, how could I get there? I could never get there. I could never talk like that. I could never. Whatever. Okay, we gotta shift to getting in the word and being with the Lord. Like, getting in the word, being with the Lord. If we do those two things, he's the one who does the work.

Sadie (51:37)

Yeah, he does the work.

Ashley (51:38)

Even if you're like. I remember I was in college and I was debating if I should drink or not. I was underage, and I wrote out a pros and cons list of should I drink?

Allie (51:46)

Pros.

Ashley (51:47)

No, crazy pros.

Allie (51:48)

Cons. Doesn't feel good for eight days after, does it?

Ashley (51:52)

Not right? Not good. Yeah. But I remember I'd, like, make these pros and cons list, and then I'd get to the party and I'd fail because I was, like, trying to do the right thing versus being like, you know, I just gotta get in the Word and I gotta be with the Lord. And so if you're like, okay, I can't stop doing this. I can't stop doing that, what is wrong with me? Something's wrong with me. You're shaming yourself. Might as well give up on Jesus. No, that's not what you should do. You should. What we're gonna do is we're gonna go be with the source of who changes you. And then he changes you, and he changes the way you talk. He changes.

Sadie (52:26)

Because you won't even desire it. It's not even like, pros and cons. It's like, oh, I don't even want that. Like, that's not even intriguing to me. That's not interesting to me. That is not a desire of mine. I remember used to be, like, watching TV shows, you know, because all the popular shows at the time in high school and stuff were so inappropriate. And I would watch all of them, and I was, like, in it because everybody else is watching them. We're stories and we're laughing. That's what everybody's talking about. And then I started feeling, like, convicted. Like, oh, I feel like I shouldn't be watching this. But then everybody else is watching this, and they're a Christian and they're a believer. Why do I feel like this? And then I was like, oh, I'm gonna miss out. And then I'm not gonna, like, be relatable because I. I don't watch the shows everybody watches. And, like, just going through that list in your mind, and now it's like, I don't even have a desire at all. Like, it's just. It's so crazy to me. Like, people will be like, oh, you have to watch this show. And I always like, I'm a parent's guide everything. And I'm like, let me see what this show's about. And then if it's, like, inappropriate for, you know, a certain age to watch, I'm like, I shouldn't watch it because, like, I don't need to see that and I don't need to get that in my mind. And mainly because I don't want to compromise my peace because that is too valuable to me. And so I'm like, I would actually rather have peace at night than be anxious. So I'm not going to watch this scary show that's going to freak me out. I would actually not have to fight against my flesh and have lustful thoughts because I just watched a super inappropriate movie. I don't actually want to have to fight from restraining from cuss words because they're in my head because I just watched the show. So it's like, it's your purity. Yeah. Like, I'm protecting the pure heart that the Lord, you know, really instills in you. And I guess, you know, from the heart. So the mouth shall speak. The heart's the wellspring of life. Like, the Bible talks so much about the heart. And if God's helping me guard my heart, then I want to help myself in doing that. And so it's not even that, like, you're tempted by it as much because you know how good it is when you don't have sin in your life. So do I mess up? Yes. Does sin still creep in? Yes, But I'm on guard. Like, I don't want it. You know, as opposed to when you first kind of become a believer, you're like, I still kind of want it. Over time, that desire just begins to kind of die. It really does. It's amazing. And you think I remember thinking, like, I'll never not think this thought, or I never will not want to that. And now I'm like, oh, wow, God. Somehow over time, you took it. You know, Isn't that cool when you think back? Yeah. Like, there'll be a thought that, like, bothers you forever. It'll be like six months of the same insecure thought. And I'm like, whatever. Not have this thought. And then someday you're like, oh, I haven't thought that in a long time. You know, isn't that cool? It's the power of prayer. It's from the spirit moving in your life. Y' all are awesome, Sam.