Soul Talks With Bill & Kristi Gaultiere

It's easy to miss the many ways Papa God reveals his abundant love for us through Jesus. Focusing only on “major” themes when reading the Gospels (although this is good) can cause us to miss the “minor” yet meaningful ways Jesus expresses Abba’s heart.  Thankfully, practicing slow and prayerful Scripture meditation helps us know and embrace God's desire for us.Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi share their recent Advent meditations from the life of Joseph. You will walk away confident that Abba sees, hears, and pursues you because of his gentle and relentless love. Resources for this Episode:Surprising Joy: A Journey with Jesus for AdventAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Do you feel disconnected from the Christmas Story? It’s easy to feel like Mary, Zechariah, or the Innkeeper are “characters” or “super saints” far removed from real life in God. But diving into the ancient context and practicing prayerful meditation will help us find our story within the Advent Story. Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi talks with A.J. Sherrill — lead pastor, teacher, and author of Rediscovering Christmas: Surprising Insights into the Story You Thought You Knew. Your heart will be filled with longing as you gain a deeper understanding of the Nativity and how it transforms your relationship with Jesus today. Resources for this Episode:Rediscovering Christmas: Surprising Insights into the Story You Thought You KnewMore Resources from A.J.Donate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Does the responsibility of decision-making leave you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? As life and ministry move forward, all of us face the reality that there's too much to carry without Jesus. This is when we can learn to lean on Immanuel who wants to journey with us, help shoulder the heavy load, and lead us in making decisions. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi share how they practice trusting the Spirit's work through stressful ministry situations and growth. You'll learn to depend more deeply on Abba through faith-stretching circumstances as you become aware of how he's leading you and come to trust he's also guiding those around you. Resources for this Episode:Surprising Joy: A Journey with Jesus for AdventAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Did you know that Jesus delights in the little child inside of you? It might be hard for some of us to believe that he wants to make us smile and laugh like an elated youngster during the holidays. But our Savior continues to pursue us out of his deep desire to bring us home into playful joy and secure trust. Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi share their reflections from a visual meditation on the Christmas Story. You will feel drawn to experience the depths of your Papa’s heart for you through the childlike experience of Jesus. Plus, they share practical ways to connect with Abba through the heart and eyes of a young one during the holidays. Resources for this Episode:Surprising Joy: A Journey with Jesus for AdventVisual Devotion Card BundleDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Any close relationship can bring us pain or grief when those we love make choices that are opposite of what we desired. This is especially true for parents with adult children. Thankfully, we can learn to trust our Perfect Father to teach us how to transition into a new season of parenthood.Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi create a safe space to explore the relational dynamics with your adult children. You’ll be encouraged to trust Jesus to surround your kids with wounded healers, pray for relational restoration, and practice patience as part of your own apprenticeship to Jesus. Resources for this Episode:Meet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorHealthy Feelings, Thriving Faith: Growing Emotionally and Spiritually Through the EnneagramDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

All of us know (maybe a little too well) that problems are everyday occurrences. Simultaneously, God's kingdom is always open to us and the risen Christ is present in every trial. Learning to put our problems in light of Jesus' smile helps us stay present to our Best Friend and loving to those around us. Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi teach you how to practice Jesus' presence during distress. Cultivating awareness of Jesus does not mean denying your pain and needs during hard times. Instead, you can be comforted by the Good Shepherd through practices like meditating on his suffering and emotionally honest soul talks with friends.Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

All of us have an inner child who needs to be securely attached to God. But sometimes, hurts, wounds, and untrue belief systems complicate trusting his extravagant love for us. Thankfully, Jesus runs to us with open arms so we can find safety in Abba's delight.Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi share Bible insights that reveal a Heavenly Father who uniquely and personally pursues you in love. They give practical ways to build a secure attachment to God, including Scripture meditation, emotional honesty, finding healing for your inner resistance, and embracing warm empathy from others. Resources for this Episode:Secure: Letters From Papa to Help Moms Nurture Their Child’s DevelopmentAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

All of us talk to ourselves! Sometimes, the voices in our heads are holy and healthy while other times they’re shaming or critical. How do we cultivate self-talk that is truly helpful and draws us closer to God? Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi alert you to some of the biggest pitfalls of self-talk, including self-help projects, cheerleading your soul, and “claiming” truth at the cost of suppressing your emotions. They use the Psalms as a model to teach you how to engage in self-talk that’s prayerful, emotionally honest, and invites empathy from God and soul friends. Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorJourney of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual GrowthDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Today's world of smartphones, streaming, and productivity keeps us from ever having to endure boredom. Plus, the restlessness that surfaces when left alone with our thoughts and feelings often reveals a discomfort we'd rather avoid. But constant distraction stops us from engaging in the meaningful spiritual work Jesus accomplishes when we are bored.Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi discuss the importance of embracing boredom. Sticking with practices like solitude, silence, and Sabbath (even when they feel boring) helps you get in touch with the deepest longings of your soul — your longings for Jesus. You can train to appreciate God in boredom and move into beauty, intimacy, and adventure with him. Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatJourney of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual GrowthMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

The union of marriage is one way we experience Jesus — his affection, his formation, and his invitation to selfless love. But navigating both our relationship with Jesus and a spouse doesn’t come without challenges. How do we love each other well when walking through different spiritual seasons?Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi and Briana Gaultiere discuss how stages of faith influence marriage dynamics. They teach you how to understand, support, and pray for each other’s unique needs in your marriage so you can grow closer together (and closer to Jesus) instead of farther apart.Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionJourney of the Soul CHRIST Stages AssessmentJourney of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual GrowthDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Cultivating a marriage that is spiritually, emotionally, and physically healthy takes intentional work. Busy schedules, family dynamics, and personal woundedness (not to mention parenting kiddos) can make this challenging. But you and your spouse can grow closer together as you both grow in Jesus’ wholeness. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi and Briana Gaultiere talk about cultivating a marriage that honors Jesus and each other. You will learn to see and support your spouse more deeply by growing in relational awareness, spiritual friendship, and emotional safety.Resources for this Episode:Healthy Feelings, Thriving Faith: Growing Emotionally and Spiritually Through the EnneagramJourney of the Soul: Soul Talk CardsMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

The average person spends four and a half hours on their smartphone every day! Between text and email notifications, social media, sports news, and “trending” videos — there’s a lot fighting for our attention. Maybe it’s time to pause and ask an important question: What are the spiritual consequences of this constant distraction?Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi and Briana Gaultiere discuss the pros and cons of smartphones on your growth in Christlikeness. You’ll learn the valuable role that attention plays in spiritual formation and feel inspired to seek God’s wisdom on how you and your family can best use phones in apprenticeship to Jesus.Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Sorting through grief is never fast or easy! All the “what ifs” and messy emotions feel unsettling and challenging to engage. Thankfully, we don’t grieve without hope. Because Jesus’ tomb is empty, we can trust in God’s goodness as we process times of complicated change and painful loss with him. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi interviews Steve Carter — teaching pastor and author of Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold Us. Drawing from Steve’s journey through the desert of grief, you will be empowered to take heart from Jesus in every season and embrace the healing work he wants to do inside your soul. Resources for this Episode:Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold UsMore Resources From Steve CarterAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

All of us are in a relationship with somebody who is a highly sensitive person. Sensitivity comes with both unique needs and gifts in marriage, friendship, etc. Whether you are highly sensitive or know somebody who is — you can help support the journey toward spiritual and emotional health.  Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi and Briana Gaultiere break down the distinct path to Jesus’ wholeness and purpose for highly sensitive people. If you’re highly sensitive, you’ll learn how to establish routines, set boundaries, and engage community in a way that cultivates growth. If you’re not, you’ll learn how you can give Jesus’ gift of understanding, safety, and respect to those who are. Resources for this Episode:Meet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionBreath Prayer GuidesDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Highly sensitive people often relate to the world differently than others. They might be more easily overwhelmed by their environment, the emotions of others, and distressing movies or TV shows. If you are highly sensitive, this experience can present challenges! But embracing your sensitivity helps you care for your soul and unlock your unique giftings. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi and Briana Gaultiere uncover the unique path to emotional and spiritual growth as a highly sensitive person. You will feel encouraged to make room for life-giving spiritual disciplines and empowered to draw boundaries that will help you love Jesus, yourself, and others well.Resources for this Episode:Meet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatThe Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World OverwhelmDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Does it feel like you are more sensitive to your environment, the subtleties of your surroundings, and the emotional climate around you more than others? It can feel confusing or disheartening when you feel different from those you love. But high sensitivity (or understanding someone who experiences this) can be a gift in your relationship with Jesus and others!Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi and Briana Gautiere share their stories of learning and embracing life as highly sensitive persons. They define the traits of high sensitivity, talk openly about the difficulties, and help reframe how you think about sensitive experiences.Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorThe Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms YouDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Personality affects the dynamics in all of our closest relationships—including our relationships with our kids. Unsurprisingly, we face relational challenges when caring for our dear children who are "different" from us. But we can learn to move toward them with the same understanding, empathy, and compassion Jesus has for us.Join us for this episode of Soul Talks for a conversation between Kristi and Beth McCord—author of The Enneagram for Moms: See the True Colors of Yourself and Your Children as God Intends. You will be moved to grow by Jesus’ grace in your unique personality so you can more lovingly embrace and nurture your children in their exceptional design. Resources for this Episode:The Enneagram for Moms: See the True Colors of Yourself and Your Children as God IntendsHealthy Feelings, Thriving Faith: Growing Emotionally and Spiritually Through the EnneagramSoul Shepherding Enneagram ResourcesDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

God is good in ALL things! But seeing his goodness can be challenging when we experience suffering, unjustness, or seasons of spiritual dryness. All of us need help to trust our Father’s loving care at times. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi teach you how to see your circumstances through the lens of Jesus’ goodness and love. During times of doubt, the Good Shepherd wants to minister to you in unique and powerful ways—you can take heart from soul friends, heroes of our faith who have persevered, and practices like healing prayer.Resources for this Episode:Meet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatHealthy Feelings, Thriving Faith: Growing Emotionally and Spiritually Through the Enneagram

Resolving to “try harder” doesn’t make us look more like Jesus. But the flip side of the coin is also true—falling into passivity doesn’t form us in Christlikeness. Yet Jesus casts a vision about living as whole-souled apprentices of love because he intends to help us become like him. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi discuss praying the Apprentice Prayer with the intention of living like Jesus. This practice will enthrall you with the vision of his life in the Gospels and help you become like him little by little through the power of the Spirit.Resources for this Episode:Your Best Life in Jesus’ Easy Yoke: Rhythms of Grace to De-Stress and Live EmpoweredJourney of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual GrowthAttend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

All of us experience intrusive thoughts that invade our minds and disturb our peace. The emotions attached to these thoughts can feel alarming and leave us looking for answers. But should we pray against spiritual warfare or seek inner healing and emotional care?Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi teach you how to pursue freedom as a fully integrated disciple of Jesus. You will learn how to overcome lies by applying the powerful truth of the Bible in a spiritually, emotionally, and relationally healthy way. Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding Institute RetreatHealthy Feelings, Thriving Faith: Growing Emotionally and Spiritually Through the EnneagramEnneagram & Emotions CourseDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talk