Do you struggle to say “no,” constantly worry about what others think, or feel like your worth is tied to approval? In this episode of Getting Real to Heal, Dr. Grace English welcomes speaker, certified biblical counselor, and author Cheryl Lutz for a heartfelt conversation about breaking free from the trap of people-pleasing.
Cheryl, a recovering people-pleaser herself, shares powerful insights from her book Securely Held: Finding Significance and Security in the Shelter of God’s Embrace. Together, they explore how Christian women can stop living for the expectations of others and start walking in the confidence of their identity in Christ.
You’ll Learn About:
Cheryl’s Secure Refuge podcast and how it supports women in their faith journey.
Featured Resource:
Securely Held: Finding Significance and Security in the Shelter of God’s Embrace
Get Cheryl's book
https://www.cheryllutz.com/products/securely-held-finding-significance-and-security-in-the-shelter-of-gods-embrace
Connect with Cheryl:
Website: https://www.cheryllutz.com/
Instagram: @cheryllutz_securelyheld
Facebook: Cheryl Lutz
LinkedIn: Cheryl Lutz
Connect with Deep in the Heart Ministries:
Facebook: Deep in the Heart Ministries
Instagram: @deepintheheartministries
TikTok: @dith.ministries
Email: grace@drgraceenglish.com
In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Mandy Jentes opens up about her journey through infertility, the emotional toll of unmet expectations, and how God led her to an unexpected purpose through fostering and the ministry of Families Count.
Mandy shares how she and her husband Dean navigated the grief of not having biological children, only to discover that God's plan for their family looked radically different—and more beautiful—than they ever imagined. From fostering teens to helping restore families through a court-approved parenting program, Mandy's story is a moving testimony of obedience, healing, and surrender.
If you've ever struggled with delayed dreams, identity, purpose, or grief over the life you thought you’d have—this episode will speak to your heart.
Reach out to Mandy
Email: gabcFamiliesCount@gmail.com
Families Count Website:
https://lifelinechild.org/families-count/
Experiencing God (Henry Blackaby):
https://a.co/d/1wksKrd
Connect with Deep in the Heart Ministries
Website: https://deepintheheartministries.com/
Email: grace@drgraceenglish.com
In this powerful episode of "Getting Real to Heal with Dr. Grace," special guest Laura Perry Smalts shares her incredible testimony of transformation — from living as a man for nine years to finding true healing and identity in Jesus Christ.
Laura opens up about her childhood struggles, including feelings of rejection, a strained relationship with her mother, and the impact of early trauma, which led her down a path of seeking affirmation in destructive ways, including sexual sin and pornography addiction. She discusses how these experiences contributed to her belief that she was meant to be a man and the ease with which she began her transition. However, she reveals the eventual disillusionment and physical challenges that came with this lifestyle.
This conversation offers a raw and honest look at the complexities of gender identity, the spiritual battles involved, and the profound redemptive power of faith. Laura—now an author and speaker—along with her husband, founded Eden's Redemption, a ministry dedicated to teaching gender and sexuality from a biblical perspective.
The episode also provides insight on how to minister to and embrace individuals struggling with their identity—with both compassion and truth.
Connect with Laura:
https://edensredemption.org/
https://www.facebook.com/EdensRedemption
https://www.instagram.com/edensredemption/
https://www.youtube.com/@EdensRedemption
Get Laura's book:
Transgender to Transformed
https://a.co/d/6oR8HXp
Links:
Website - https://deepintheheartministries.com/
Podcast - https://dithpodcast.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/deepintheheartministries
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deepintheheartministries/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@dith.ministries
Connect with Us:
Email: grace@drgraceenglish.com
Are you caught in a toxic relationship? Feeling like you're losing your mind? You're not alone.
Join Dr. Grace English on Getting Real to Heal as she interviews Amanda Barbie, who shares her powerful story of surviving and healing from a narcissistic parent.
Amanda reveals:
If you've ever questioned your sanity in a relationship, felt like you're walking on eggshells, or struggled with guilt and self-doubt, Amanda's story will offer validation and hope. You can break free and find healing.
Connect with Amanda:
Website: thebarbes.com
Email: amandareneebarbe@gmail.com
YouTube: @amandabarbe
Instagram @amandareneebarbe
Links:
Be sure to subscribe for more empowering stories of healing.
Have you or someone you love experienced the pain of miscarriage or infertility? This is a story of raw honesty and unwavering faith.
Join Dr. Grace English in this deeply personal interview with her niece, Abby Haines, as they explore the challenging path of trying to build a family.
Abby shares:
This is more than a story of pain; it's a testament to resilience, the enduring power of faith, and finding hope in the midst of heartbreak. If you're searching for understanding, comfort, or simply to know you're not alone, this episode is for you.
Connect with Abby:
mahaynes17@gmail.com
Links:
Please subscribe for more stories of healing and hope.
Witness a true story of hope and deliverance as Dr. Grace English interviews Samantha DeVries, a woman whose life was transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. Samantha's journey from the depths of drug addiction to freedom will leave you inspired.
Here's what Samantha bravely shares:
This isn't just a story; it's a beacon of hope for anyone battling addiction or supporting someone who is. If you're seeking a powerful testimony of faith, healing, and the possibility of a new beginning, this is a must-watch!
Connect with Samantha:
samanthadevries1221@gmail.com
Links:
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of faith and healing!
Join Dr. Grace English on Getting Real to Heal as she interviews Anna Kate Inman, who shares her personal journey of navigating a difficult breakup in college and discovering God's restoring power.
In this heartfelt conversation, Anna Kate discusses:
This story offers hope and encouragement for anyone navigating heartbreak and seeking God's comfort and restoration.
Links:
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of faith and healing!
In this episode, Dr. Grace interviews Jennifer Comeaux, the former executive director of CARE (Christ Centered Abortion Recovery and Education), who bravely shares her personal story of healing after two abortions.
In this powerful and vulnerable conversation, Jennifer discusses:
This episode offers hope and support for anyone who has experienced the pain of abortion and is seeking healing and restoration.
Abortion Recovery Resources:
Text Private Number CARE
903-515-5375
https://careabortionrecovery.com/
https://surrenderingthesecret.com/
Our Links:
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From Former Yugoslavia to the USA: A Story of Resilience and Faith
Join Dr. Grace English as she interviews Sasha Vukelja, a former oncologist, author, and philanthropist, who shares her extraordinary journey of overcoming adversity and finding God.
Sasha's story is one of incredible resilience, including:
This is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of faith in overcoming life's greatest challenges.
Get her book: Seeds on Amazon
Links:
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of faith and healing!
On this episode, listen to Steve Hendrickson's incredible story of overcoming a 17-year battle with drug and alcohol addiction on Getting Real to Heal! Dr. Grace English delves into Steven's journey from a troubled youth to finding freedom and redemption through a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
In this powerful interview, Steven shares:
This is a story of hope, healing, and the unwavering love of God. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, this video offers a message of hope and the power of faith.
Links:
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of faith and healing!
Prepare to be moved as Dr. Grace English welcomes Ryan Leatherberry on Getting Real to Heal, sharing his powerful transformation from a lifelong agnostic to a passionate believer after an extraordinary encounter with Jesus! Ryan shares his incredible journey from intellectual skepticism to unwavering faith.
In this deeply moving conversation, Ryan discusses:
If you've ever struggled with doubt or are searching for truth, this story will inspire you!
Follow Ryan or reach out to him:
https://x.com/RyanLeatherbury
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleatherbury
Books to understand the arguments for the Christian faith:
The Reason for God, Timothy Keller
Making Sense of God, Timothy Keller
Why God Makes Sense in a World that Doesn’t, Gavin Ortlund
Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics, William Lane Craig
Apologetics websites:
https://www.reasonablefaith.org/
https://apologeticscanada.com/
https://www.wesleyhuff.com/
https://truthunites.org/
Links:
Website
Podcast
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
Connect with Us:
Email: grace@drgraceenglish.com
In this heartfelt episode of Getting Real to Heal, Dr. Grace English sits down with Avara Mahler to discuss the profound journey of healing after experiencing marital infidelity. Avara shares her personal story of pain, resilience, and finding solace through her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.
As a dedicated Bible study teacher and co-founder of CARE (Christ-Centered Abortion Recovery and Education), Avara has guided many women through their own healing processes. Her testimony offers hope and encouragement to those grappling with betrayal and seeking restoration.
In this episode, you'll discover:
If you're navigating the aftermath of betrayal or supporting someone who is, Avara's story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the possibility of renewal.
To contact Avara:
Avara_mahler@outlook.com
Links:
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of faith and healing!
In this deeply moving episode of Getting Real to Heal with Dr. Grace, we sit down with Susan Claxton as she shares her powerful testimony of faith, loss, and healing. After experiencing multiple miscarriages and the stillbirth of her son, Susan found strength through God's promises. This episode is for anyone walking through grief, waiting on God’s timing, or seeking encouragement in their faith journey.
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
To contact Susan:
gsmclaxton@sbcglobal.net
Love what you heard? Help us share these stories of faith. Visit deepintheheartministries.com to give.
Links:
Connect with Us:
Email: grace@drgracenglish.com
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of faith and healing!
Finding Purpose in Suffering | Austin Ratliff’s Story
Welcome to Getting Real to Heal with Dr. Grace!
Life is full of challenges, but can there really be purpose in suffering? In this episode, Dr. Grace sits down with Austin Ratliff to share his incredible story of faith, perseverance, and finding meaning in the midst of pain.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Key Scripture:
"In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." – John 16:33
Austin’s Journey:
At just 12 years old, Austin survived a horrific car accident, leaving him with severe injuries and an uncertain future. What followed was a year of pain, surgeries, and rehabilitation. But through it all, God was working—guiding Austin toward a new purpose he never expected.
Facing Your Own Struggles?
No matter what you’re going through, you are not alone. Jesus is with you in every trial, bringing hope, healing, and restoration.
Connect with Us:
Email: grace@drgraceenglish.com
Links:
🌎 Website: deepintheheartministries.com
🎧 Podcast: dithpodcast.com
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/deepintheheartministries
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/deepintheheartministries
🎥 TikTok: tiktok.com/@dith.ministries
Ever feel like you're rushing through life with no room to breathe?In this episode of Getting Real to Heal, Dr. Grace English sits down with Sherrie McCoy, a certified life coach and Bible study leader, to discuss the transformative power of boundaries, limitations, and margins in our daily lives.
About Our Guest:
Sherrie McCoySherrie McCoy has spent over 20 years leading Bible studies and coaching women on how to create healthy boundaries that honor God. Married to Tony McCoy, she is a mother to two grown daughters and a proud grandmother. Once caught in the cycle of busyness and burnout, Sherrie shares how she broke free and found peace, joy, and purpose through biblical principles of stewardship and self-awareness.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
To contact Sherrie:
hisway@suddenlink.net
Books on Boundaries:Boundaries:
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Search for Deep In The Heart Ministries.
About This Episode:
Anxiety is a struggle many face, but true healing is possible. In this episode of Getting Real to Heal, Dr. Grace English sits down with her daughter-in-law, Abby Ambrose English, to discuss her personal journey through anxiety, faith, and healing.
Abby shares how anxiety impacted her life, her relationship with God, and her eventual path to peace through therapy, medication, and spiritual growth. They explore how faith played a role in her healing journey, the importance of therapy and medication in managing mental health, overcoming perfectionism and fear through Christ, and practical advice for those struggling with anxiety.
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review. Your support helps more people find hope and healing through these conversations.
If you'd like to reach out to Abby:
abbyaenglish0323@gmail.com
Links:
🌟 https://deepintheheartministries.com/
🎧 Podcast - https://dithpodcast.com/
📘 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/deepintheheartministries
📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deepintheheartministries/
🎥 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@dith.ministries
In this episode of Getting Real to Heal, Dr. Grace English sits down with Pastor Chris Legg, LPC, to tackle one of the most challenging yet essential aspects of marriage—intimacy. As a pastor, counselor, and author, Chris has spent years helping couples navigate struggles in their relationships, with sexual intimacy being a recurring issue. From a biblical and counseling perspective, Chris shares wisdom and practical advice on how to strengthen marital bonds, improve communication, and restore intimacy the way God intended.
Guest Bio:Pastor Chris Legg, LPC, and his wife, Ginger, have been living out the parable of God’s love for His people since 1993. Together, they have been blessed with five children. Chris serves as the Lead Pastor at South Spring Baptist Church in Tyler, TX, and is also the founding owner and clinical director of Alethia Family Counseling Center, where he provides counseling, speaking, and business consulting.
Chris and his son, Mark, co-authored Sex and Marriage, a book designed to help couples restore the power God intended for their marriage.
Links:🌟 https://deepintheheartministries.com/
🎧 Podcast - https://dithpodcast.com/
📘 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/deepintheheartministries
📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deepintheheartministries/
🎥 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@dith.ministries
Learn more about Alethia Family Counseling Center: https://www.alethiacounseling.com/
Sex and Marriage by Chris & Mark Legg: https://a.co/d/7aZh6AZ
In this episode, host Grace English sits down with Sara Hogan who shares her experience of discovering her husband's secret struggle with compulsive behavior and how it impacted their relationship. She opens up about the initial shock, confusion, and pain she experienced, and the difficult journey they embarked on to rebuild trust and intimacy. This episode offers hope and practical advice for couples facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of communication, professional support, and self-care.
If you'd like to reach out to Sara:
sarelizabeth.hogan@gmail.com
Links:https://s.mtrbio.com/DITHministries
Books mentioned:
Intimate Dectption: Healing the Wounds of Sexual Betrayal -
Good Pictures, Bad Pictures
Webinar
This episode tackles the pervasive issue of sex addiction, exploring its impact and the path to recovery. Host Dr. Grace English and guest speaker Scott McClellan delve into the complexities of sex addiction, the distinction between guilt and shame, and the vital role of faith in the healing process. They also discuss the prevalence of p*** in today's society, its effects on young people, and strategies for parents to protect their children.
About the Guest
Scott McClellan is the co-founder of True Grit Ministries, providing counseling and mentoring to Christian men struggling with sex addiction. His personal journey of overcoming sex addiction, combined with his BA in Business from Missouri Western State University, Master of Divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and certifications from the American Association of Christian Counselors, makes him uniquely qualified to offer support and guidance. True Grit’s mission is to provide counseling and mentoring to Christian men that struggle with sex addiction.
Visit https://truegrit.org/ to learn more about Scott's ministry.
About the Podcast:
Getting Real to Heal with Dr. Grace English offers a supportive and faith-based approach to life's challenges. Dr. English, founder of Deep in the Heart Ministries, provides insight and guidance on overcoming various obstacles. This podcast focuses on spiritual healing and restoration.
LINKS:
This podcast espisode features Claire Culwell, an abortion survivor who shares her incredible story of resilience, forgiveness, and redemption. Claire's journey is one of overcoming immense challenges, finding healing, and dedicating her life to advocating for the unborn. This is a powerful and moving conversation you won't want to miss.
Guest Bio:
Claire Culwell is an international pro-life speaker and author of "Survivor: An Abortion Survivor's Surprising Story of Choosing Forgiveness and Finding Redemption." Her book details her surprising story of choosing forgiveness and finding redemption after surviving her mother's abortion attempt. Adopted into a loving family, Claire now lives in East Texas with her husband and children. She serves on the board of Texas Alliance for Life and supports a local pregnancy center. Claire has been featured on multiple media outlets, including Fox News and Focus on the Family.
Links:
https://www.careabortionrecovery.com
https://righttoknow.au/abortion-trauma/men-and-abortion/
Contact Information:
Deep in the Heart Ministries:
https://deepintheheartministries.com/
Dr. Grace English: Grace@DrGraceEnglish.com
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