She's the friend who always knows what to say. Her words carry hope, her presence shifts the atmosphere, and people leave her feeling better than when they came. She speaks life — but who is speaking life over her? In this powerful series finale, we're closing out the Friendship Archetypes Series with the Encourager Friend. We unpack the wound beneath the warmth, the loneliness of always pouring, and the invitation to let joy and honesty live together. We also look at Barnabas — the biblical Son of Encouragement — whose story reminds us that even great encouragers have limits, needs, and moments that cost them something. If you've ever felt pressure to stay "up" when you're hurting, if you deflect when people ask how you're doing, or if encouragement has quietly become your armor — this episode is for you, Lifter. What we cover: → The strengths and wounds of the Encourager Friend → How she shows up in friendships and with God → Barnabas as the biblical archetype example → What she excels at and what to watch out for → Her growth invitation: receiving as well as giving 📖 Focus Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:11 🕯️ Grab the FREE 5-Day Devotional — "When God Feels Far" at https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa — for the seasons when you've been pouring out and need God to pour back in. New episodes weekly. Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and if this series blessed you, leave a review — it helps more women find their way here.

 She's the one who holds everyone together. She checks on everyone after a hard conversation, smooths over tension before it boils over, and keeps the group warm — often at the expense of her own voice and her own needs. In this episode of the Lift Her Up Podcast, we explore the Friendship Archetype of The Peacemaker Friend — where her gift comes from, what wounds often shape it, and how God wants to heal those roots so she can walk in peace freely, not fearfully. We unpack Abigail's story from 1 Samuel 25, the difference between being a peacemaker vs. a peacekeeper vs. a people pleaser, and what it looks like when the Peacemaker's gift flows from security in Christ instead of survival. Scriptures Referenced: 1 Samuel 25:32-33 | Matthew 5:9 | Proverbs 27:6 | Colossians 1:20 🎁 Download the FREE 5-Day Devotional, "When God Feels Far" — https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa This episode is part of the Friendship Archetypes Series on the Lift Her Up Podcast — a faith-based personal development podcast for Christian women at the intersection of psychology and theology.

Are you the friend who always figures it out alone — and feels uncomfortable asking for help or support? In this episode of the Lift Her Up Podcast, we're diving into the Independent Friend archetype: the woman whose self-sufficiency has become both her superpower and her shield. We unpack the deeper wounds that fuel hyper-independence — including unmet needs, broken trust, and emotional self-protection — and explore how those patterns quietly affect your friendships, your community, and your walk with God. We also look at Jonah as a biblical example of how extreme independence can lead to isolation and resistance to God's direction. Topics covered: • The 6 signs you might be the Independent Friend • Hidden wounds behind independence as a survival strategy • How self-reliance can replace dependence on God • Why prayer becomes a report instead of a relationship • The difference between strength and surrender • A weekly challenge to practice leaning on God before you have it figured out This episode is for the woman who has pushed through everything — and is ready to ask what it's costing her. Free resource: Grab the "When God Feels Far" 5-day devotional: https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa

Are you the one everyone calls when something goes wrong? The friend who jumps into solution mode before anyone even asks for advice? The one who can't rest until the problem is solved and everyone is okay?

You might be the Fixer Friend — and this episode is for you.

In this episode, we're breaking down one of the most common friendship archetypes: the Fixer. We'll explore where this pattern really comes from, why it often starts in childhood, and why your nervous system is wired to step in even when you're already running on empty.

In this episode we cover:

• The origin story of the Fixer Friend and why it's rooted deeper than personality
• The signs you might be carrying more than your share
• Biblical examples of unhealthy fixing — Abraham & Sarah, and Martha
• What Joseph teaches us about being a healthy, God-led problem solver
• Practical tools to help you pause, release, and trust God with what you cannot control

Because here's the truth — your desire to help is not a flaw. It's a gift. But there's a difference between helping and carrying, and God never asked you to carry what only He can hold.

This episode is for you if:

• You feel responsible for outcomes that aren't yours to control
• You struggle to just listen without offering a solution
• You're burned out but still showing up for everyone else
• You're ready to learn the difference between partnering with God and replacing Him

💬 Comment or leave a review and tell us — are you a Fixer or are you Learning to let go?

📖 Grab your FREE devotional "When God Feels Far" — https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa 

🎙️ If this episode blessed you, share it with the Fixer Friend in your life who needs to hear this.

Like, subscribe, and follow so you never miss an episode!

Keywords: friendship archetypes, the fixer friend, people pleasing, burnout, faith and relationships, Christian podcast for women, letting go and trusting God, emotional health and faith, biblical friendships, women of faith

Are you the friend everyone calls when they need to feel heard? In this episode of the Lift Her Up Podcast, we're diving into the Therapist Friend — the empathetic, wisdom-filled woman who holds space for everyone around her. But what happens when empathy crosses into idolatry?

As Christian women, the gift of empathy is beautiful — but it can quietly become a burden we were never meant to carry alone. We're talking about emotional burnout, compassion fatigue, spiritual boundaries, and why being someone's safe place doesn't mean you have to be their savior.

In this faith-based conversation on Christian friendship and women's spiritual growth, we cover:

• Why carrying everyone's burdens is actually a spiritual issue
• What Job's friends teach us about showing up for people who are suffering
• How to set healthy boundaries without feeling like you're failing people
• Practical tools every therapist friend needs to protect her peace

If you're a Christian woman who pours into everyone but struggles to receive, this episode on empathy and boundaries is for you.

🎧 Part 2 of the Friendship Archetypes Series | Lift Her Up Podcast with Latrice Simmons

📖 Grab the FREE 5-day devotional on overcoming spiritual dryness — https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with the therapist friend in your life. 💛

Are you always the strong one in your friend group? The dependable one? The one everybody calls when life falls apart? This episode is for you.

In Episode 1 of the Friendship Archetypes series, we're diving deep into strong friend syndrome — what it really is, where it comes from, and why so many Christian women are carrying weights they were never meant to carry alone.

If you've ever struggled with people pleasing, burnout, emotional exhaustion, or hiding your true feelings to appear strong, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.

Here's what we cover in this episode:

→ What the strong friend archetype really is and how it starts in childhood

→ Why being needed can become a trauma response and not just a personality trait

→ The biblical story of Aaron and what it teaches us about strength under pressure

→ Why strong women crack under pressure and what God says about it

→ The connection between people pleasing, perfectionism, and identity in Christ

→ 3 practical steps toward healing for the strong friend

→ How to begin setting boundaries, practicing vulnerability, and rebuilding your identity in God

Whether you're the strong friend, you love one, or you're just beginning your healing journey, this episode will challenge you, encourage you, and point you back to the One who carries it all.

Because His strength is made perfect in your weakness. And it's time to let Him prove it.

🎙️ This is Episode 1 of the Friendship Archetypes series. New episodes drop weekly — make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss what's coming next.

ABOUT THE LIFT HER UP PODCAST: The Lift Her Up Podcast is a faith based podcast for Christian women who are navigating healing, identity, spiritual growth, and everyday life. Hosted by Latrice Simmons, each episode blends biblical truth, real life storytelling, and practical application to help women walk confidently in who God called them to be. If you're looking for a Christian women's podcast that goes beyond the surface, you're in the right place.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT: Strong friend syndrome, friendship archetypes, emotional healing for women, people pleasing and faith, trauma response and identity, Christian mental health, setting boundaries biblically, identity in Christ, spiritual growth for women, burnout recovery, vulnerability and faith, healing childhood wounds, Christian women empowerment, biblical womanhood, women's ministry, faith and mental health, healing journey, the book of Exodus, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Aaron and Moses

CONNECT WITH LIFT HER UP: 🔗 Free Devotional — "When God Feels Far" — https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa 📲 Follow on Instagram, TikTok & Facebook 💜 Leave a review if this episode blessed you — it helps more women find the show

I almost quit my podcast.

In this honest podcast episode, I’m sharing what almost made me walk away — fear of failure, burnout in ministry, disappointment with God, and the struggle of starting over when momentum feels lost. If you’re a Christian woman navigating fear, spiritual dryness, or a season where God feels far, this episode is for you.

We’re talking about:

• Fear of failure and procrastination
• When rest turns into avoidance
• Wrestling with God during hard seasons
• Feeling disappointed with your spiritual growth
• Trusting God’s sovereignty when nothing makes sense
• Starting over with faith
• Christian encouragement for women in transition

Sometimes burnout isn’t exhaustion — it’s fear.

Sometimes silence from God isn’t distance — it’s an invitation to deeper trust.

If you’ve been struggling with doubt, spiritual fatigue, or feeling like giving up on your calling, this conversation will remind you: God has not quit on you.

 FREE 5-DAY DEVOTIONAL

If you’re in a season where God feels distant or unclear, I created a free resource to help you reconnect:

 Download my FREE 5-Day Devotional: “When God Feels Far”

A guided devotional for Christian women navigating doubt, disappointment, and spiritual dryness.

 Get it here: https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/7d3fb1eeaa

 Subscribe for More Christian Encouragement

On this channel, we talk about:

• Emotional healing from a biblical perspective
• Identity in Christ
• Spiritual growth
• Purpose and calling
• Faith in difficult seasons
• Christian mindset renewal

If this episode encouraged you, comment below:

Have you ever wanted to quit something God called you to?

Like, subscribe, and share this with a sister who needs encouragement.

Are you struggling to feel close to God despite knowing the Bible and praying regularly? In this episode, I talk about the 4 biggest obstacles killing your intimacy with God: lack of desire, poor communication, pride and dishonesty. We dive into why knowing about God isn’t enough to build a deep connection, how pride and fear create emotional walls, and why spiritual honesty is essential. Using biblical examples like Ananias and Sapphira, we can learn how vulnerability and authentic prayer and interactions can break down these barriers. If your faith feels dry or distant, this episode will give you practical, biblical steps to rekindle your passion for God and move into a fresh, intimate relationship with Him.

✨Subscribe to email list: (https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd) 

Don’t forget to subscribe, share with someone who needs this, and leave a review to help others find this message! Let’s grow closer to God together.

🎧 Description:

Have you ever felt like God went quiet just when you needed Him most? Like your thoughts and problems became louder than His voice? In this raw and honest episode, I share what God has been teaching me about commitment and consistency—not just in action, but in faith.

As I approached my 30th birthday, I found myself reflecting on what I’ve achieved, what I’ve lost, and where I’ve doubted God. Through journaling, prayer, and some tough internal conversations, God revealed that my lack of results wasn’t about His absence—it was about my inconsistency in belief.

We talk about:

    •    What to do when God’s silence feels deafening

    •    The connection between belief, obedience, and breakthrough

    •    How to stay faithful when you see no fruit

    •    Why inconsistency might be sabotaging your confidence

    •    What it means to really have faith that works (James 2:17)

If you’re in a season where nothing seems to be moving, this episode will help you reframe the plateau, rediscover purpose in the process, and recommit to showing up—even when it’s hard.

📝 Lifted Reflection Questions at the end to guide your prayer time and journaling this week!

⸻

✨Like what you hear? Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to the podcast.

Join the email list (https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd)

💬 Leave a comment and tell me how this episode spoke to you.

⭐️ Don’t forget to rate us 5 stars on Apple & Spotify!

In this special Holy Week episode, I reflect on the Resurrection of Jesus through the story of the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–34). After a powerful moment at the Museum of the Bible, I was reminded how easily we can miss Jesus when hopelessness clouds our faith.

Let’s unpack how the disciples had information without revelation, why Jesus sometimes hides His identity, and how faith is reignited through spiritual sight and truth. This story will stir your heart and remind you: Jesus is always near—even when you can’t see Him.

💭 Lifted Reflection:

    1. Where in your life have you been walking with questions or confusion, not realizing Jesus is right there?

    2. What truth do you need to believe again—not just in your head, but in your heart?

🎧 Like, share, and subscribe!

⭐ Leave a 5-star rating on Apple & Spotify

📧 Email: latriceliftherup@gmail.com

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#RoadToEmmaus #Luke24 #ResurrectionSunday #HolyWeekPodcast #ChristianFaith #LiftHerUp #BibleStudyPodcast #FaithOverFear

Feeling overwhelmed and running on empty? In this episode, I open up about why I stepped back, the dangers of self-sufficiency, and the importance of resetting with God. Discover key takeaways on holistic stewardship, partnering with God, and safeguarding your reset season. Plus, big updates on the podcast schedule!

Stay Connected! Subscribe to my email list for exclusive devotionals, encouragement, and updates: (https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd) 

Listen now, and don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a comment! Let me know—has God had you in a reset season too? #Faith #Reset #Stewardship

If you’ve ever struggled with the fear of criticism—whether from people, yourself, or even the fear of messing up in front of God—this episode is for you. I’m getting real about how fear of rejection and people’s opinions kept me small for years, and how God helped me break free! 🙌🏽

We’re diving into:

✨ How fear of criticism leads to people-pleasing, perfectionism, and low self-esteem

✨ Why Moses and the sinful woman in Luke 7 are powerful examples of overcoming this fear

✨ The mindset shift that helped me move forward in obedience

✨ How YOU can stop letting fear hold you back from your purpose

And—BIG ANNOUNCEMENT! 🎉 This episode marks the one-year anniversary of my book The Redeemed Heart! To celebrate, I’m launching The Redeemed Heart Club—a 6 to 7-week program where we’ll unpack the book, uncover hidden heart wounds, and walk through healing together. 💖 PLUS, there’s a brand new e-workbook to help guide you through the journey!

🚀 The program launches mid-March, so grab your book & workbook now! Links below. Don’t wait—this is going to be life-changing!

📖 Buy The Redeemed Heart on Amazon: https://a.co/d/csXnpL9 

Purchase the workbook here in my stan store: https://stan.store/LatriceLiftHerUp

📌 Sign up for The Redeemed Heart Club here: https://latrice-lift-her-up.ck.page/b93ab65a08

💬 Let me know in the comments: Have you ever struggled with fear of criticism? How has it held you back? Let’s talk about it!

🙏🏽 If this blessed you, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe & turn on notifications so you don’t miss the next episode!

Are you feeling stuck in a valley season—isolated, weary, or even questioning if things will ever change? You’re not alone. Many of God’s daughters are battling anxiety, worry, and depression, wondering, “Will I ever make it out of this place?” But what if this valley isn’t a sign of abandonment, but preparation for deliverance?

In this episode, we’re diving deep into:

-The purpose of valley seasons in our faith journey

-How God uses desolation to stir desperation—and lead to deliverance

-Lessons from Psalm 23: The same Shepherd who leads to still waters also guides through the valley

If you’ve been struggling with discouragement, wondering if God hears your cries—He does. And He’s with you in this season, guiding you toward healing, restoration, and breakthrough.

💬 Let’s Talk: Do you feel like you’re in a valley season right now? How have you seen God provide for you in this time? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!

✨ Stay Connected:

-Subscribe for more faith-building content

-Join my email list for weekly encouragement: 

https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd

Are you feeling overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, or struggling with fatigue as you try to navigate God’s calling? In this episode, we’re diving deep into how fear, worry, and control can hinder our ability to fully trust God and submit to His process.

✨Key Takeaways✨

• Overthinking and worrying are rooted in fear and a lack of trust in God.

• Fatigue often sets in when we carry burdens God never intended for us to bear.

• Bracing against God’s process can lead to more harm than good—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally.

• Submission is key to trusting God.

Ask yourself:

1. Have you been bracing against God’s process, trying to protect yourself but feeling more worn out in the end?

2. What’s one area in your life where you’ve been struggling to fully trust Him?

God’s process can be uncomfortable, but submission to Him is the key to freedom and growth. Let’s break the cycle of fear and embrace faith, surrender, and intimacy with God.

💖 Let’s stay connected:

• Like, share, and subscribe for more faith-building content.

• Subscribe to my email list: 

https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd

Are you battling the fear of missing out (FOMO) in your walk with God? It’s easy to feel discouraged when life seems to be at a standstill, especially when others appear to be excelling in areas you’re still praying about. But what if FOMO is feeding into fear, disbelief, and even idolization of perception?

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the fear of missing out and how it impacts our faith. Together, we’ll explore:

• Why FOMO is an epidemic in the body of Christ.

• How social media fuels perception idolization.

• Biblical lessons from Sarah’s fear and compromise in Genesis 16-18.

• How to trust God’s timing and embrace His perfect will for your life.

If you’ve ever felt like God is withholding blessings from you, this conversation is for you. It’s time to change the narrative—God isn’t holding out on you; He’s equipping you with patience and endurance.

Question for You: Have you struggled with FOMO in your faith walk? How do you stay grounded in God’s timing? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Let’s stay connected:

• Like, share, and subscribe for more faith-building content.

• Subscribe to my email list: 

https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd

Remember your journey with God is uniquely beautiful—trust Him every step of the way!

Happy New Year! 🎉 I know it’s been a few months since I last uploaded – and I’ve missed you all! In this episode, I’m sharing why I took a much-needed break, how God called me to rest, and the lessons I learned during this season of stillness.

If you’ve been feeling restless, overworked, or struggling with anxiety, this episode is for you. Sometimes, God calls us to slow down so He can realign our hearts and renew our strength.

✨ In 2025, I’m excited to create more intimate spaces for connection – more lives, challenges, and even one-on-one coaching! Don’t miss out – sign up for the Lift Her Up email list for early access to everything coming this year: 

https://latrice-lift-her-up.kit.com/87def3b0dd

Let me know in the comments if you’ve been feeling that same restlessness – I’d love to pray and talk with you.

💖 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe if this message resonates with you. Let’s walk this journey of faith together!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the topic of *self-sabotage*—something so many of us struggle with, even when God gives us clear direction. When we treat our God ideas as small we minimize His gifts and we limit His power in our lives. Self-sabotage creeps in through perfectionism, procrastination, and imposter syndrome, creating a cycle of insecurity and isolation. 

God has equipped us with the power and tools to succeed, but we need to believe in Him and ourselves. Let this be the season we stop fumbling our future and gambling with our gifts! 

If this message encouraged you, don’t forget to like, share, subscribe.

 In this episode, we dive into a topic that resonates with so many people: purpose and identity. Many of us are searching for clarity in our purpose, and today, we’ll explore how our purpose is inseparable from our identity in Christ.  

I share some of my personal journey of seeking answers in the wrong places, like new age practices, and how God’s grace led me back to Him. We’ll talk about the dangers of trying to find purpose outside of God and the importance of understanding who we are in Christ before we can fully walk in our purpose.  

Your purpose is to glorify God through your life and actions. Your unique gifts and assignments are meant to fulfill that purpose, but they begin with knowing your identity as a child of God.  

If you’ve been asking, "What’s my purpose?"—start by learning your identity in Christ. Everything else will flow from that.

💌 Got questions or want to share your story? Email me at Latriceliftherup@gmail.com.  

Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review on Apple and Spotify!

In this episode, I discuss what the spirit of fear truly is and where it comes from. Referencing 2 Timothy 1:7 we uncover the true nature behind the spirit of fear. This spirit is traced back to the enemy starting in Genesis. We learn how the enemy has always used our senses—what we hear and see—to incite fear and doubt in our hearts. Join me as we learn practical ways to guard your heart, pray for boldness, and stand firm in God’s truth. Fear will not win!

Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to the channel! I’d love to hear from you! Email me at Latriceliftherup@gmail.com. If you feel led to sow into the ministry, the link is in my profile.

In this episode, we explore the story of the Rich Young Ruler in Mark 10:17-22, which challenges us to examine what we're holding onto that might be keeping us from fully following Christ. Are we willing to let go and make the necessary changes, or are we clinging to possessions, plans, or relationships? 

This passage has revealed the struggle many of us face when God calls us to make difficult changes. Jesus promises that whatever we lose for His sake, we'll gain back a hundredfold. So, what are we really afraid of? 

Join me as we tackle these questions and challenge ourselves to trust God's intentions. 

If you have any prayer requests or need further insight, email me at Latriceliftherup@gmail.com. Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a 5-star rating on Apple or Spotify!