Saved And Strong Podcast

Speaking Up for Children: Carrie Watts' Journey from Trauma to Advocacy
What happens when a survivor refuses to let pain have the final word?
In this powerful solo episode of Saved and Strong, host Carrie Watts shares her personal journey from surviving childhood sexual abuse to becoming an advocate for child protection, trauma recovery, and healing through faith. With honesty, compassion, and conviction, Carrie explores why so many survivors remain silent, how trauma impacts a lifetime, and what parents, churches, schools, and communities can do to better protect children.
Drawing from both personal experience and years of advocacy, Carrie discusses the realities of child sexual abuse, child trafficking, grooming, and the importance of creating safe environments where children are believed, protected, and empowered to speak.
Whether you're a survivor seeking hope, a parent wanting to safeguard your children, a ministry leader, educator, counselor, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, this episode will equip and encourage you to become part of the solution.
In this episode, you'll learn:
• Carrie Watts' story of surviving childhood sexual abuse and finding healing through faith• The latest realities surrounding child sexual abuse, grooming, and human trafficking• Why most abuse happens within trusted relationships—not by strangers• Practical ways parents, churches, schools, and communities can better protect children• The role of counseling, faith, and community in trauma recovery• How survivors can transform pain into purpose and advocacy• Why Carrie writes Christian fiction to raise awareness and inspire healing• Biblical truths about justice, restoration, forgiveness, and hope
If you've ever wondered how one voice can make a difference, this conversation is a reminder that healing is possible, truth matters, and every child deserves to grow up safe.
Memorable Quotes
"One in four women and one in ten men are sexually abused as children."
"Most abuse happens in the home—not by strangers."
"God can make you white as snow, no matter the dirt."
If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a five-star review, and share it with someone who needs hope or wants to help protect children. Together, we can raise awareness, support survivors, and create safer communities for the next generation.
Connect with Carrie Watts
🌐 Website: https://www.carriewatts.com
📚 Substack: https://carriewattswrites.substack.com
🔗 All My Links: https://link.me/carriewattswrites
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/carriewattswrites
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/CarrieOn
🎙️ Saved and Strong Podcast
📖 Crisis of Faith and upcoming Hope Rising
✍️ Join my weekly Coffee, Jesus, and Writing writing room for Christian writers: https://www.stan.store/carriewatts 
Affiliate Partners:
HopeBooks: http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148100459/sY22Dv2U
HopeWriters: http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148183200/sY22Dv2U
 
If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, follow the podcast, leave a five-star review, and share this episode with someone who needs hope or wants to help protect children. Together, we can raise awareness, support survivors, and create safer communities for the next generation.
#SavedAndStrong #CarrieWatts #ChildProtection #ChildSafety #ChildAbusePrevention #TraumaRecovery #HealingJourney #FaithAndHealing #SurvivorStories #EndChildAbuse #ProtectChildren #SpeakUp #HopeAfterTrauma

What if the biggest obstacle standing between you and your calling isn't the world around you, but the ceiling you've believed was above you?
In this powerful episode of Saved and Strong, Carrie Watts welcomes Kristi Harrison, founder of the Ceiling Breakers Summit, for a conversation about courageous leadership, personal growth, and becoming the person God created you to be.
Kristi is a speaker, entrepreneur, holistic health practitioner, identity and breakthrough coach. She lives a true ceiling breaker mindset and life. She not only talks the talk, she walks the walk. In Kristi's words, she says, "I was dirt road poor." But today, she's not only breaking her own ceilings, she helping and serving others too through coaching and hosting the Ceiling Breakers Summit.
Whether you're leading a business, writing a book, building a ministry, raising a family, or simply wondering what's next, this episode will encourage you to stop shrinking your dreams and start stepping into your purpose.
Together, Carrie and Kristi discuss:
• What it really means to "break the ceiling"• How to stop believing the lies and start believing the truth of Jesus• The importance of authentic leadership• Building confidence without losing humility• Why community is essential for lasting growth• Practical steps to become a stronger leader today• How faith influences courage and resilience• Encouragement for women who feel overlooked or underestimated
If you've ever wondered whether you're qualified, capable, or enough, this conversation is your reminder that God often calls ordinary people to extraordinary assignments.
You don't have to wait for permission.
You can start breaking ceilings today.
About Kristi Harrison
Kristi Harrison is the visionary behind the Ceiling Breakers Summit, equipping leaders to develop confidence, authenticity, and transformational leadership. Through coaching, community, and leadership development, the summit helps participants identify limiting beliefs, strengthen emotional intelligence, and grow into purpose-driven leaders prepared to make a lasting impact.
Connect with Kristi
Website: https://www.ceilingbreakers.orgCeiling Breakers Summit
Facebook: Kristi Harrison
Instagram:@thekristiharrison
@ceilingbreakersco
Connect with Carrie Watts
Website:https://www.carriewatts.com
Instagram:@carriewattswrites
Podcast:Watch Saved and Strong on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CarrieWatts-tn2em
Affiliate Partners:HopeBooks: http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148100459/sY22Dv2UHopeWriters: http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148183200/sY22Dv2U
If today's episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that their story isn't over.
Because Jesus changes hearts...and hope changes lives.
#savedandstrong #ceilingbreakerssummit #dontbelievethelie #wholistichealthpractioner #lymedisease #wellness #health #healing #loveyourneighbor #jesus #seamlessbiblestudy #worthywomansummit #collaborate #wins #christianpodcast #identity #impact #legacy #purpose #coaching #speaking #entrepreneur #finances #life

🎙️ Saved and Strong Podcast | Episode: R.T. Ward – The Story Behind Prophecy Changer
What if the greatest battle isn't against an enemy—but against believing the lies about who you are?
In this inspiring episode of Saved and Strong, Carrie Watts welcomes author Rose "R.T." Ward to discuss her powerful new novel, Prophecy Changer, the first book in the Siloas Trilogy.
More than an epic fantasy adventure, Prophecy Changer is a redemptive story that explores identity, trauma, forgiveness, purpose, and the transforming power of God. Through the journey of Thea—a young woman searching for the truth about her past and the purpose of her future—readers are reminded that God can rewrite what once seemed inevitable.
In this conversation, Carrie and Rose discuss:
✨ Writing fiction that points readers to Christ✨ How stories can reveal deep biblical truths✨ Home School families, Moms in Ministry, Home Mission Work, and Missions abroad✨ Prayer and intercession for life and writing✨ The inspiration behind Prophecy Changer✨ Encouragement for aspiring authors, parents, and readers of all ages
Whether you're a fan of Christian fantasy, a parent searching for faith-filled books for your teen, or someone who loves stories of redemption and hope, this conversation will leave you encouraged and inspired.
📖 Prophecy Changer releases this month!
🌹 Connect with R.T. Ward
🌐 Author Website & Splash Page: roseward.org📚 Author Bio & Ministry: ministrymoms.org📸 Instagram (Readers): @rtwardauthor🗡️ Instagram (Teens & The Siloas Trilogy): @rtwardchronicles
☕ Connect with Carrie Watts
🌅 Website: CarrieWatts.com📝 Substack: Carrie Watts Writes📱 Instagram: @carriewattswrites🎁 Free Resources & Links: Stan Store
Looking for encouragement on your own writing journey? Join Carrie for weekly Coffee, Jesus, & Writing, discover writing resources, and connect with a community of writers who are choosing courage over perfection.
✍️ Resources for Writers
If you've ever dreamed of writing a book or want to grow as a writer, these are two of Carrie's favorite resources:
💙 Hope*Writers http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148183200/sY22Dv2U 
– A Christ-centered writing community offering training, encouragement, accountability, and a welcoming place for writers at every stage of the journey.
📚 Hope*Books http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148100459/sY22Dv2U 
– Learn about traditional publishing opportunities, author training, and resources designed to help Christian authors share stories that make an eternal impact.
By using these affiliate links, you help support the Saved and Strong Podcast at no additional cost to you. Thank you for helping us continue sharing stories of hope and healing!
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend? Every review helps us spread hope, healing, and stories that point people to Jesus.
Until next time, keep carrying hope, keep walking in faith, and remember—you are Saved and Strong.
#SavedAndStrongPodcast #CarrieWatts #RTWard #RoseWard #ProphecyChanger #SiloasTrilogy #ChristianFantasy #ChristianFiction #FaithBasedFiction #ChristianAuthor #AuthorInterview #BookLaunch #NewBookRelease #ChristianBooks #YoungAdultBooks #YAFantasy #CleanFantasy #Hope #Healing #IdentityInChrist #Purpose #Redemption #Forgiveness #TraumaHealing #BiblicalTruth #ChristianLiving #WritersLife #ChristianWriters #HopeWriters #HopeBooks #ReadersOfInstagram #Bookstagram #ChristianBookstagram #FantasyReaders #FaithOverFear #KingdomStories #ChristianPodcast #WomenOfFaith #JesusChangesHearts #SavedAndStrong

June is Brain Health Month: Alzheimer’s Awareness, Caregiving, and Hope with the Mississippi Alzheimer’s Association
June is Brain Health Month, and this episode of Saved and Strong is both personal and practical. Carrie Watts is joined by Kendall Boulton of the Alzheimer's Association and her sister Bobbi Ford for a conversation about Alzheimer’s awareness, caregiving, brain health, and their family’s journey caring for their mother, Jody Nelson.
Kendall shares about the work of the Mississippi Alzheimer’s Association, the importance of brain health awareness, and the ways the Walk to End Alzheimer's helps support families and fund the fight against Alzheimer’s. Carrie and Bobbi open up about the emotional and spiritual realities of caring for their mom and what they’ve learned through love, grief, advocacy, and the long goodbye Alzheimer’s often brings.
In this episode:
What Brain Health Month means and why awareness matters
Alzheimer’s warning signs and family support
Carrie and Bobbi’s caregiving experience with Jody Nelson
Encouragement for caregivers walking through memory loss and dementia
Brain health habits and ways to stay proactive
How the Mississippi Walk to End Alzheimer's helps raise support and awareness
Kendall Boulton serves as Development Manager for the Alzheimer's Association, where she leads the planning and execution of the Central Mississippi, North Mississippi, and East Mississippi Walk to End Alzheimer's events. In her role, she works closely with volunteers, donors, corporate partners, and community leaders to advance the Association’s mission of ending Alzheimer’s and all other dementia while supporting those affected by the disease.
A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Kendall earned her MBA from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Southeastern Louisiana University. She is passionate about connecting people to causes that create lasting impact and empowering communities in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
Connect / Learn More
Walk to End Alzheimer’s Mississippi: https://www.alz.org/mississippiwalks
Facebook: Alzheimer’s Association Mississippi Chapter
Instagram: @alzassocms
email Kendall to sponsor the Walk to Alzheimer's: keboulton@alz.org
Bobbi Ford is a retired nurse, mother, grandmother, and Alzheimer’s advocate whose mother lived with Alzheimer’s disease for 12 years. Through her caregiving experience, Bobbi developed a passion for raising awareness about the disease and supporting families affected by it. She enjoys serving with youth at Pinelake Church, gardening, traveling, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle focused on brain health.
Mississippi Alzheimer’s Association
Walk to End Alzheimer’s Mississippi: alz.org/mississippiwalks
Facebook: Alzheimer’s Association Mississippi Chapter
Instagram: @alzassocms
Connect with Carrie Watts
Website: CarrieWatts.com
Instagram: @carriewattswrites
Substack: @carriewattswrites 
More links / freebies: https://www.link.me/carriewattswrites or https://www.stan.store/carriewatts
 

What do you do when the child you love is struggling with an eating disorder—and you feel helpless, afraid, and completely alone?
In this heartfelt episode of Saved and Strong, host Carrie Watts sits down with author, certified mental health coach, and fellow parent Jennifer Hope Longenecker to discuss her powerful new book, Held in the Dark: A Guide for Parents Walking Alongside Adolescents with Eating Disorders to be released August, 2026. Join Jennifer's email newsletter for updates on her book launch. See her website for more information. 
Jennifer shares the deeply personal story behind the book, born from her own family's journey through the painful and often isolating reality of an adolescent eating disorder. Rather than offering a clinical checklist, Jennifer provides something many parents desperately need—a compassionate companion for the journey. She addresses the fear, grief, guilt, confusion, and hope that parents experience while walking beside a child in recovery.
In this episode, you'll learn:
• Ways to support your child • The importance of building a professional treatment team• Finding hope in the midst of uncertainty and darkness• How faith can provide an anchor during difficult seasons of parenting
Whether your family is facing an eating disorder diagnosis, supporting a loved one in recovery, or simply seeking to better understand the challenges adolescents face today, this conversation offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope.
Jennifer reminds us that while recovery is rarely a straight path, no parent has to walk it alone. Held in the Dark serves as a guide, a companion, and a reminder that there is hope even in the hardest seasons.
Connect with Jennifer Hope Longenecker
Website: www.jenniferhopelongenecker.comInstagram: @jenniferhopelongeneckerEmail: jennifer@jenniferhopelongenecker.com
Connect with Heather Longenecker
Website: www.theunstablesnail.comInstagram: @heather_e_cribbEmail: heather.e.longenecker@gmail.com
Connect with Carrie Watts
🌿 Website: www.carriewatts.com
🌿 Instagram: @carriewattswrites
🌿 Facebook: Carrie Watts
🌿 Substack: substack.com/@carriewattswrites
🌿 Link Hub: https://link.me/carriewattswrites
🌿 Free Resource for Writers:Download Carrie's FREE S.T.A.R.T. Writing Workbook—a practical guide designed to help aspiring authors move from journals, ideas, and dreams to a completed manuscript. Whether you're writing your first book, a memoir, devotionals, or fiction, this workbook will help you take your next step with confidence.
🌿 Stan Store:Visit Carrie's Stan Store https://www.stan.store/carriewatts to access the FREE S.T.A.R.T. Writing Workbook, writing resources, coaching opportunities, and upcoming writing workshops designed to help you share your story and impact others.
🌿 Podcast: Saved and Strong
If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a parent who may need a little extra hope today.
Remember: Your story isn't over. There is hope, even in the dark.
— Carrie WattsAuthor • Speaker • Podcaster • Writing Coach"Helping women turn their stories into messages of hope."
Contact our sponsor, Trey Carroll at www.nextestadvantage.com
 

Grief is rarely neat, predictable, or easy to navigate. In this heartfelt episode of Saved and Strong, Carrie Watts welcomes author, storyteller, and pediatric nurse practitioner Jackie M. Baker for an honest conversation about loss, faith, and finding hope in life's most difficult moments.
Jackie's debut book, Messy Mourning: Hope for Mothers Grieving the Loss of a Child by Suicide, was written to walk alongside mothers facing one of life's deepest sorrows. Through compassionate reflection, personal experience, and unwavering faith, Jackie offers comfort, understanding, and hope to grieving hearts.
Rather than providing easy answers, she creates space for the heartbreak, questions, love, and longing that often accompany profound loss.
Together, Carrie and Jackie discuss:
• Navigating grief when life doesn't make sense
• The unique pain of losing a child
• Faith in the midst of unanswered questions
• How God meets us in broken places
• Finding purpose and hope after tragedy
• Why sharing our stories helps others heal If you or someone you love is walking through grief, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone and that hope can still be found, even in the messiest seasons of life.
Preorder on Amazon https://a.co/d/03gK19uk
📖 Learn more about Jackie and her book: Website: www.jackiembaker.com
Substack: jackiembaker.substack.com
Instagram: @jackie_mbaker
Facebook: @jackiembakerauthor
Newsletter Signup: www.jackiembaker.com/contact
🔗 Connect with our host, Carrie Watts:
🌐 Website: carriewatts.com
🔗 All Links: https://www.link.me/carriewattswrites
📸 Instagram: @carriewattswrites
🎙️ Facebook: Saved and Strong Podcast
📝 FREE S.T.A.R.T. Writing Workbook: https://www.stan.store/carriewatts
📚 Learn More About Hope*Writers: https://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148183200/sY22Dv2U
💬 Interested in writing your story? Carrie offers 1:1 writing coaching to help you move from trauma to testimony and tell your story with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
📧 Email: carrie@carriewatts.com
Remember, friend: Your story isn't over. Carrie On.
Contact our sponsor: Trey Carroll, www.nextestadvantage.com to help your student find their career path.
#SavedAndStrongPodcast #JackieMBaker #MessyMourning #GriefSupport #HopeAfterLoss #SuicideLossAwareness #ChristianAuthor #FaithAndHealing #GriefJourney #HopeInThePain #CarrieWatts #CarrieOn #YourStoryIsntOver #ChristianPodcast #HealingThroughStories #neverlosehope #mentalhealthawareness #addictionrecovery #mother #bipolar #playlist #bookbundle #newrelease #launch #launchteam #share #messymiddle #cry #grief #preorder #order

Have you ever opened your Bible and wondered, Am I doing this right?
On this episode of Saved and Strong, host Carrie Watts welcomes Angie Baughman, Bible teacher, creator of The Step By Step Bible Study Method, host of the Understand Your Bible Podcast, and founder of Steady On Ministries, for an encouraging conversation about learning to study God's Word with confidence.
Many women love the Bible but feel intimidated when it comes to reading and understanding Scripture on their own. They depend on devotionals, study guides, or teachers because they're afraid they'll miss something important. Angie shares why God never intended for His children to approach His Word with fear or uncertainty.
Our conversation went deep fast. Angie shares her personal saved and strong story. Not only is she is spiritually strong after an early call on her life, but she is also physically and mentally strong after healing from two very difficult events. Angie shares vulnerably in this conversation. 
Together, Carrie and Angie discuss:
✨ Can Christians really study the Bible without a teacher or study guide?
✨ Simple, practical steps for personal Bible study
✨ Why confidence in God's Word grows through consistency
✨ Overcoming trauma and feelings of inadequacy
✨ How to move from hesitation to a deeper relationship with God through His Word
Angie's heart is to help women discover that they don't need a seminary degree, a perfect plan, or someone else's permission to engage Scripture. God has already provided everything they need to begin.
If you've ever felt unsure, inconsistent, or overwhelmed in your Bible study journey, this episode will encourage you to take the next step and trust that God will meet you there.
About Angie Baughman
Angie Baughman is a Bible teacher, speaker, creator of The Step By Step Bible Study Method, host of the Understand Your Bible Podcast, and founder of Steady On Ministries. Through her teaching, Angie equips women to confidently engage God's Word for themselves and develop a faith that remains steady in every season of life.
Connect with Angie
🌐 Website: www.livesteadyon.com
🎙️ Podcast: Understand Your Bible Podcast
Connect with Carrie Watts
🌐 Website: www.carriewatts.com
🔗 All Links: https://www.link.me/carriewattswrites
📚 FREE S.T.A.R.T. Writing Workbook:https://www.stan.store/carriewatts
📧 Email:carrie@carriewatts.com
🎙️ Subscribe to Saved and Strong on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with a friend who wants to grow stronger in God's Word.
Our Commercial Guest and sponsor is www.nextestadvange.com with Trey Carroll.
#SavedAndStrongPodcast #AngieBaughman #UnderstandYourBible #BibleStudy #BibleStudyTips #WomenInTheWord #ChristianWomen #FaithJourney #BiblicalTruth #ScriptureStudy #GrowInFaith #ChristianPodcast #FaithOverFear #HolySpirit #BibleTeacher #BibleReading #BibleStudyMethod #TrustGod #ChristianEncouragement #WomenOfFaith #DailyBibleReading #ChristianLiving #FaithBasedPodcast #SteadyOn #GodsWord #KnowTheBible #ChristianGrowth #FaithAndHope #CarrieWatts #PodcastEpisode #livesteadyon

Top favorite Saved and Strong Podcast here > I’m joined by the hilarious, faith-filled, and joyfully authentic Frannie Foltz! 💛
Frannie is a Christian author, speaker, podcast host, and encourager on a mission to help women stop performing and start PURPOSEFULLY shining. 🌟
In this powerful and laughter-filled conversation, we talk about:
✨ Discovering your God-given gifts✨ Trading confusion for clarity✨ Living boldly in your calling✨ Showing up online authentically✨ Why humor and holiness can absolutely coexist✨ Letting go of performance and embracing purpose
Frannie’s heart for helping women live fully and abundantly is contagious, and this episode will leave you encouraged, inspired, and ready to SHINE. ☀️
A former educator turned entrepreneur, Frannie blends humor, hope, and biblical Truth to help others discover their God-given gifts, embrace their true identity, and live with purpose and joy.
Through her signature workshops and retreats, books, and The Shine with Frannie Show podcast, Frannie encourages others to trade performance for purpose and confusion for clarity so they can live boldly and empowered in their calling—because life is meant to be lived fully and abundantly!
Frannie is a proud mama to Kora, her spunky senior rescue Yorkie, and when she’s not writing or speaking, you’ll likely find her chasing adventure, collecting passport stamps, or basking in the sun with a good book or podcast playing in her airpods.
She's never met a stranger! 
Connect with her–
The Shine with Frannie Show anywhere you listen to podcasts
To learn more about her programs and coaching, visit www.shinewithfrannie.com
+ You can download a free copy of her first book and purchase a copy of her latest book, Holy & Hilarious,  here
If you're wanting to shine online using short form videos, AKA reels, Frannie has a free guide: Unlock Your Social Media Superpower with Reels! Click here for instant access! 
To book Frannie for a podcast or other speaking engagement, email her at frannie@shinewithfrannie.com
And social media is where Frannie likes to get to know YOU! Visit her here on Instagram and here on Facebook
🔗 Connect with our host, Carrie Watts:
🌐 Website: www.carriewatts.com
🔗 All Links: https://link.me/carriewattswwrites
📸 Instagram: @carriewattswrites
📘 Facebook: Saved and Strong
🎁 FREE S.T.A.R.T. Writing Workbook: https://www.stan.store/carriewatts
📚 More about Hope*Writers / Hope*Books http://www.hopewriters.com/a/21481832...
💬 Want to go deeper? Carrie offers 1:1 writing coaching to help you move from trauma to testimony and finally tell your story with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
📧 Email: carrie@carriewatts.com
⭐ From our Sponsor: Next Test Advantage
🎓 Contact Trey Carroll for your student's career direction: https://www.nextestadvantage.com
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who needs encouragement today.
#SavedAndStrong #CarrieWatts #FrannieFoltz #ChristianPodcast #FaithFilled #HolyAndHilarious #WomenOfFaith #ChristianWomen #PodcastInterview #HealingAndHope #PurposeDrivenLife #ChristianAuthor #FaithAndJoy #ShineWithFrannie 

🎙️ Saved and Strong Podcast with Carrie Watts On this episode of Saved and Strong, Carrie Watts welcomes Bonnie Shue McDonald for a powerful conversation about healing, hope, and rebuilding life after trauma.
📘 As the author of Firm Foundation: Resilience After Trauma, Bonnie shares her heart and wisdom on what it means to stand strong when life shakes the ground beneath you.
Trauma can leave us feeling broken, uncertain, and simply trying to survive—but healing is possible, and resilience can be built.
✨ Together, Carrie and Bonnie discuss faith, restoration, and how God can establish a firm foundation even in life’s hardest seasons. If you've ever walked through heartbreak, loss, or trauma, this conversation offers hope that your story isn’t over.
🎧 In this episode you'll discover:
• 💪 What resilience looks like after trauma
• ⚓ How faith becomes an anchor in difficult seasons
• ❤️ Encouragement for rebuilding after pain
• 🌱 Why your story doesn’t end with what happened to you Because what shakes us doesn’t have to define us. God is still building.
📖 Learn how to cultivate resilience after trauma with insights from Bonnie McDonald. Trauma can leave deep scars, affecting our daily lives and mental health. But how can we find resilience and healing in the aftermath? In this episode, we explore insights from Bonnie McDonald, who shares her journey of faith, healing, and the transformative power of prayer.
🌟 Bonnie McDonald is not only an author but also a beacon of hope for many. Her upcoming book, releasing June 18, 2026, dives into her personal experiences and offers guidance for others navigating trauma.
📝 Bonnie’s journey to writing her book began in 2014 when she felt a divine nudge to share her story. After a traumatic event where her 14-year-old son suffered cardiac arrest, Bonnie embarked on a healing journey that eventually led her to write A Firm Foundation: Resilience After Trauma. Writing wasn't just a task—it became a means of processing grief and sharing hope.
💬 "I want to help other people who are facing hardship and struggling with healing."
🙏 Bonnie’s faith has played a crucial role in her resilience. She emphasizes prayer and trusting God's plan: "With God, anything is possible."
🌿 Cultivating Resilience Through Daily Practices
✨ Daily Prayer — Connect with God consistently
📓 Gratitude Journaling — Shift focus from pain toward gratitude
🤝 Community Engagement — Find support among people who share your values
🙏 The Impact of Prayer on Healing Bonnie shares: "I write in my journal as letters to God, documenting not only my requests but also the answers I receive." This practice helps recognize God's presence and strengthens faith.
❓ What is A Firm Foundation: Resilience After Trauma about? This book details Bonnie McDonald’s personal journey through trauma and offers insights for finding resilience through faith and community.
🔗 Connect with Bonnie:
🌐 Website: www.bonniesmcdonald.com
📸 Instagram: @bonnieshuemcdonald
📚 Find Firm Foundation on Amazon and major retailers.
🔗 Connect with our host, Carrie Watts:
🌐 Website: www.carriewatts.com
🔗 All Links: Carrie Watts Links
📸 Instagram: @carriewattswrites
📘 Facebook: Saved and Strong Podcast
🎁 FREE S.T.A.R.T. Writing Workbook: https://www.stan.store/carriewatts
📚 More about my publisher: Hope*Writers / Hope*Books http://www.hopewriters.com/a/2148183200/sY22Dv2U
💬 Want to go deeper?
Carrie offers 1:1 writing coaching to help you move from trauma to testimony and finally tell your story with clarity, confidence, and purpose. 📧 Email: carrie@carriewatts.com
⭐ From our Sponsor: Next Test Advantage
🎓 Contact Trey Carroll for your student's career direction:
https://www.nextestadvantage.com
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who needs encouragement today.
#SavedAndStrong #BonnieShueMcDonald #FirmFoundation #FaithAfterTrauma #HealingJourney #ChristianPodcast #Resilience #HopeAfterTrauma #CarrieWatts #Prayer #Community #Faith #Healing

🔗 Connect with our host, Carrie Watts:
🌐 Website: www.carriewatts.com
All links: https://www.link.me/carriewattswrites
Intagram @carriewattswrites
Facebook: Saved and Strong Podcast
💬 Want to go deeper? Carrie offers 1:1 writing coaching to help you move from trauma to testimony and finally tell your story with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
email: carrie@carriewatts.com Contact Trey Carroll for your student's career direction at https://www.nextestadvange.com 
On this episode of Saved and Strong, I sit down with Angela Butler, host of the Christian Woman Rising Podcast, to talk about faith, encouragement, and the importance of building a strong community of women who are living boldly and excitedly for Christ. Angela’s heart for women shines through everything she does as she helps create and cultivate a stronger community of believers who are rising above fear, growing in purpose, and walking confidently in their God-given calling. This conversation is filled with wisdom, hope, and practical encouragement for women who are ready to stop shrinking back and start stepping fully into the life God has called them to live.
Angela is hosting the Prayer and Praise Break in Jackson, Mississippi on September 24th. The early bird sign ups start June 1st.
Follow her on Facebook at Angela Butler for more updates coming soon!
✨ You’ll be reminded that you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
✨ God still uses ordinary women for extraordinary purposes.
✨ Your faith can rise stronger through every challenge.
🎙️ Listen, share, and tag a woman who inspires you to keep rising.
#savedandstrong #ChristianWomanRising #CarrieWatts #faithpodcast #christianwomen #WomenOfFaith #faithoverfear #purposedrivenlife #christianencouragement #podcastforwomen #jesuschangeseverything #christiancommunity #HopeAndHealing #christianpodcast #womensupportingwomen