Theologically Fashioned

Monica Ritchie

Do you want to know God better? You may have attempted to study theology but quickly backed off because it was too confusing, felt like it was only for academics, or didn't apply to your life.

I hear ya.

My name is Monica, your friend that went to seminary, so you don't have to (if you don't want to). Here at Theologically Fashioned Podcast, I want to share all I've learned, and then some, with you!

Join me, Monica, as I make theological concepts accessible and easy to understand so that you can explore your faith and deepen your spiritual understanding that helps you live in the world God so loves.

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20 episodes
Avg 33 min
English

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S4 · E8
July 23 · 33 min
What Happens When You Lose Everything? | Monica Ritchie & Lisa Appelo
Grief changes everything. 👉 Free Guide: How To Read Your Bible Better where I offer tips, and free resources: https://bit.ly/FreeBibleStudyGuide Whether you've lost a spouse, a parent, a child, a friend, or are simply walking through a season of deep loss, grief can leave you feeling overwhelmed, numb, and wondering where God is in the middle of your pain. In this episode of Theologically Fashioned, Monica sits down with author Lisa Appelo to have an honest conversation about grief, lament, healing, and the hope that God offers in the darkest seasons of life. After unexpectedly losing her husband and becoming a single mother to seven children overnight, Lisa shares what grief really felt like, why we can't rush the healing process, and how God faithfully met her in the midst of unimaginable loss. Where to find Lisa: website: https://lisaappelo.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTNJg1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFwUmJ5SDJEWDBhRm54MnU1c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhjLC7dHGCRZYXkCXpAfnmFqRpeLJ-L1cQ4Yq3wJ8z21APCn-qeQzw11LFId_aem_fpqag97SP5mZZCcOZvv94w Instagram: @lisaappelo Youtube: @lisaappelo8956 God of Comfort: https://on.ltk.com/+Ex2rEqbTw-Fc2AAx6ahp4A
S4 · E7
June 26 · 15 min
Most Christians Get This Wrong About the Holy Spirit and Scripture
👉 Free Guide: How To Read Your Bible Better where I offer tips, and free resources: https://bit.ly/FreeBibleStudyGuide Can the Holy Spirit alone help us understand Scripture? Or do we also need biblical scholarship? In this episode, Monica explores why these aren't competing ideas. The Holy Spirit is essential for reading and living God's Word, but God has also given the Church faithful teachers, scholars, and centuries of wisdom to help us interpret Scripture well. Together we'll discuss: - Why the Holy Spirit and biblical scholarship work together - The dangers of "just reading the Bible plainly" - Why historical and cultural context matters - Common mistakes Christians make when interpreting Scripture - How to approach the Bible with both humility and confidence Whether you're new to studying the Bible or have been reading it for years, this conversation will encourage you to read Scripture more faithfully and more deeply. 💬 We'd love to hear from you: Have you ever changed your understanding of a Bible passage after learning its context? Let us know in the comments!
S4 · E6
June 4 · 14 min
Dear New Believer: Please Don't Make These Mistakes!
Hard truths I wish I had learned as a new Believer! 👉 Free Guide: How To Read Your Bible Better where I offer tips, and free resources: https://bit.ly/FreeBibleStudyGuide As a Christian, I've come to realize some important truth about faith and personal growth. This journey has taught me that God desires us to experience delight, and as we draw closer to Him, we truly become more ourselves. These harsh truth have reshaped my understanding of spirituality, moving beyond superficial expectations to a deeper, more authentic connection.
S4 · E3
June 2 · 37 min
Brave Women of The Bible & What They Teach Us Today
👉 Free Guide: How To Read Your Bible Better where I offer tips, and free resources: https://bit.ly/FreeBibleStudyGuide What can the brave women of the Bible teach us about courage today? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Laura L. Smith, author of Brave Woman, Mighty God, to explore the stories of women like Rebekah and how their faith, fear, and obedience still speak into our lives right now. If you've ever felt: Not good enough Afraid to step into what God is calling you to Overwhelmed by life's challenges This episode will remind you that biblical bravery isn't about feeling fearless—it's about trusting God in the middle of fear. Where You can Find Laura: Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0825448921 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Website: https://www.laurasmithauthor.com Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@LauraLSmithAuthor/featured
S4 · E5
May 13 · 43 min
Does God Love Like A Mother? A Christian Perspective
Does the Bible reveal God's maternal side? 👉 Free Guide: How To Read Your Bible Better where I offer tips, and free resources: https://bit.ly/FreeBibleStudyGuide In this conversation with Elizabeth Bergette, we explore the maternal imagery of God in Scripture, motherhood and spiritual formation. This discussion dives into theology, parenting, faith, gentleness, and the surprising ways God meets us in everyday life.
S4 · E4
May 6 · 9 min
The Problem With Women's Bible Studies No One Is Saying...
In this episode, we take an honest look at the current state of women's Bible studies and ask a bold question: Are they truly helping women grow in deep, transformative faith, or just offering inspiration that doesn't last? We unpack common trends in women's ministry, including the focus on topical studies, storytelling, and devotional content, and explore whether these approaches are enough to build strong theological foundations. You'll also hear the truth behind a widely shared statistic about faith in families—and why it matters more than you think. This conversation isn't about tearing down women's Bible studies—it's about calling women higher. Women are capable of deep theological thinking, wrestling with Scripture, and growing in true biblical literacy. Sign up for my email list for a 3 part "How To Read Your Bible Better" series where I offer tips, and free resources: http://monicaritchie.com/ Sources mentioned in this episode: https://baremarriage.com/2024/10/podcast-the-93-myth-that-fathers-matter-more-than-mothers/ https://substack.com/@baremarriage/note/p-195342199?r=25qogx&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action
S4 · E2
April 21 · 8 min
How to Study The Bible for BEGINNERS
Sign up for my email list for a 3 part "How To Read Your Bible Better" series where I offer tips, and free resources: http://monicaritchie.com/ If you've ever wanted to read your Bible more but didn't know where to start, this video is for you. In this video, I will walk you through a simple, realistic approach to Bible study that helps take the pressure off and invites you into a deeper understanding of God's Word. Whether you're brand new or have been reading for years, these tools are designed to help you slow down, engage with Scripture, and grow in your relationship with God. You don't need to be an expert, you just need to begin.
S4 · E1
April 8 · 44 min
When Your Faith Feels Broken...Now What?
Sign up for my email list for a 3 part "How To Read Your Bible Better" series where I offer tips, and free resources: http://monicaritchie.com/ No matter your story God wants to heal you and make you whole, and call you to your true identity. Have you ever felt like something was wrong? Maybe it's felt wrong for a long time? Or maybe you have feelings like you've disappointed God, and we have to wait until we've improved before we can feel his closeness again? If you've been there or if that's where you are, you're not alone. I'm coming back to the podcast this month to sit down with author Whitney Lowe as we discuss her new book, Called Back to Who You Are. In this book Whitney reminds us that God pursues you, his goodness truly does follow you all of the days of your life, and through him and his endless love, wilderness isnt the end. Because God's pursuit you can experience life to the fullest and maintain your soul. Where You Can Find Whitney: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneypiersonlowe/ Book: https://liketk.it/65cVf
S3 · E9
Dec 3, 2025 · 24 min
Untangled Advent with Megan Nilsen, Finding Hope in a Weary World
In this Advent conversation, writer and spiritual director Megan Nilsen helps us slow down, breathe deeply, and step into a deason that's often more chaotic than contemplative. Instead of chasing a perfect Advent, Megan invites us to an uncluttered posture - one that welcomes God in our limitations, our longings, and our everyday routines. Together, we explore: How to release the pressure of a "picture perfect" Advent What Scripture reveals about waiting, hope, and holy anticipation Why formation begins with honesty, not performance Rhythms that ground our emotions and quiet our hurried minds How to make space for God in the middle of real life, not ideal life If you're craving a season that feels more like rest than striving, presence over productivity, and sacred attentiveness instead of overwhelm, this episode will gently guide you back to the heart of Advent. Find Megan Instagram: @megan_nilsen Website: meganbnilsen.com
S3 · E8
Nov 19, 2025 · 46 min
S3E8: Grace Centered Parenting in a Reactive World with Meaghan Hampton
In this episode, I'm joined by Christian therapist Meaghan Hampton, who speacializes in helping parents heal, regulate, and lead their homes with peace instead of reactivity. Together we explore why our emotional health matters for the spiritual formation for our kids, what regulation actually looks like in a busy household, and how the gospel invites us into a calmer, more connected way of parenting. If you've ever wondered how to respond instead of react or break cycles you never meant to repeat - this conversation will encourage, equip, and remind you that transformation is possible Connect with Meaghan Instagram: @Soulcareforfamilies Substack: Soul Care Circle
S3 · E7
Nov 5, 2025 · 48 min
S3E7: Seeing the Old Anew; Misconceptions About Reading the Old Testament Without the New
Is it wrong to read the Old Testament with out constantly looking for Jesus in every passage? Many Christians assume that if we're not readind the Old Testament (should we even call is that?) through the lens of the New, we're somehow missing the gospel - or worse, denying it all together. In this episdoe, we unpack the misconceptions surrounding that idea. We'll explore why understanding the Old Testament on its own terms doesn't diminish Christ - it actually deepens our understanding of Him. From the coventant promises and prophetic hopes to the rich picture of God's character and grace, the Old Testament holds its own sacred voice within the grand story of redemption. Join us as we talk about what's lost when we rish to the New Testament too quickly, and what's gained when we let the Old Testament speak for itself- before seeing how it beautifully leads us to Jesus.
S3 · E5
Oct 29, 2025 · 10 min
S3E6: Q&A Reflections From Seminary
I opened a question box on Instagram and hear what you wanted to know about seminary and my seminary experience. In this episode, I'm answering your questions honestly - what I loved, what I didn't, and what you might expect if you're considering enrolling yourself. I hope you enjoy this episdoe and if you have more questions after listening, drop them in the comments on instagram or Youtube - I would happily do a follow up video!
S3 · E5
Oct 22, 2025 · 50 min
S3E5: Saving Face: Finding My Self, God, and One Another Outside a Defaced Church with Aimee Byrd
What does it mean to live face to face - with God, with others, and with our truest selves? In this episode of Theologically Fashioned, Aimee Bird discusses her newest book, Saving Face. Through poetic reflection and theological honesty, Aimee invites us to explore what happens when our spiritual masks begin to crack - and how Christ meets us not in perfection, but in the vulnerable unveiling of who we really are. Together, Monica and Aimee talk about disillusionment in the church, the courage it takes to be seen, and how beauty and wonder can become pathways to healing. Whether you've wrestled with faith, felt unseen in your community, or longed for a more authentic encounter with God, this conversation will hlelp you rediscover the face of grace. Topics include: The meaning behind the title Saving Face Navigating spiritual disillusionment and church hurt Learning to live unmasked before God and others Beauty, vulnerability, and the art of being truly known Find Aimee Byrd AimeeByrd | Inside the Word, Outside the Box Instagram | @AimeeByrdLife
S3 · E4
Oct 15, 2025 · 32 min
A Discussion on Halloween, Harry Potter, and Yoga
As followers of Jesus, how do we engage with popular celebrations like Halloween? Do we have the freedom to read stories like Harry Potter and what about Yoga? In this episode, we talk about the importance of discernment - asking the deeper questions behind what we read, watch, and participate in. Rather than responding in fear or blind acceptance, we explore how Christian can cultivate wisdom, pay attention to conscience, and live with integrity in a culture full of gray areas. This conversation invites you to think critically, listen to the Spirits leading, and seek to glorify God as you love him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
S3 · E3
Oct 8, 2025 · 46 min
S2E3: Ask of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life
What can the medieval church teach us about living whole andholy lives today? In this episode, Dr. Grace Hamman - author, scholar, and hold of Old Books with Grace - talks about her new book, Ask of Old Paths; Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life. Together, we explore how medieval thinkers approach formation, desire, and the moral life, and how their insights still speak into our modern struggles with distraction, pride, and restlessness. Dr. Hamman offers a fresh invitation to recover ancient rhythms of grace, humility, and joy - showing that the "old paths" might just lead us home. Ask Of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life Find Grace Website: GraceHamman.com IG: Oldbookswithgrace
S3 · E2
Oct 1, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
S3E2: Slow Theology: Building Resilient Faith in a Turbulent World
In this episdoe of Theologically Fashioned, Monica sits down with Dr. Nijay Gupta - New Testament scholar, author of Tell Her Story and Strange Religion, and co-host of the Slow Theology podcast with AJ Swoboda. Together, they dive into his brand-new book, co-authored with AJ Swoboda, Slow Theology: Eight Practices for Resilient Faith in a Turbulent World. In a culture obsessed with speed, efficiency, and instant restults, Nijay and AJ invite us to rediscover faith that is rooted, thoughtful, and unhurried. He shares why slowing down is essential for engaging Scripture, how this approach connects with his broader work, and what practical steps we can take to build a resilient faith that endures life's challenges. If you've ever felt rushed in your walk with God or longed for deeper, steadier way to follow Jesus, this conversation will encourage you to breathe, pause, and lean into the slow work of theology. Dr. Nijay Gupta Dr. Aj Swoboda Slow Theology: Eight Practices for Resilient Faith in a Turbulent World
S3 · E14
Sep 24, 2025 · 48 min
TEND Bible Study: Know & Love God Through the Bible with Mariel Davenport
In this episode of Theologically Fashioned, I'm joined by Mariel Davenport, a speaker, writer, and creator of the TEND Bible study method. Mariel shares her powerful testimony of how God's Word transformed her life and why tending to our souls daily with Scripture matters so deeply. Together, we unpack her TEND method—Take time to pray, Examine the Scripture, Notice the lesson, and Do what it says—a simple yet transformative way to approach the Bible with consistency and depth. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by Bible study or unsure of where to begin, this conversation will encourage and equip you to connect with God in a fresh, life-giving way. Website: Mariel Davenport.Com Instagram: Mariel Davenport | TEND Method Bible Studies TEND Bible Study: Ruth
S2 · E13
Jun 4, 2025 · 41 min
S2E13: God, What Do I Do? Making Wise Decisions in Uncertain Times
In this episdoe, I sit down with author and Bible Teacher Katie Reid to talk about her powerful Bible study on the book of Judges. We explore what this often overlooked book reveals about leadership, obedience, and how to make Godly deicions when life feels uncertain or chaotic. Katie offers practical insights and biblical wisdon to help us navigate seasons of confusion with faith, clarity, and courage. Whether you're facing a major life choice or simply learning to trust God more deeply, this conversatipon will encourage and equip you to seek His voice in every decision. Katie Reid on Instagram God, What Do I Do Bible Study
S2 · E12
May 21, 2025 · 40 min
S2E12: Empowering The Next Generation of Women in the Church with Elisa Morgan
In this powerful episode, we're joined by author, speaker, and former MOPS International President Elisa Morgan to talk about what it truly means to empower the next generation of women in the Church. Drawing from her decades of leadership experience, Elisa unpacks the challenges women have faced in church settings, the progress we've seen, and what we can do to empower those coming behind us. Together we explore: The theological and practical implications of women being made in the image of God. The theological and practical implications of women being "ezer kenegdo." The importance of mentorship, representation, and biblical literacy for women. Why every generation plays a crucial role in raising up the next. With wisdom, grace, and honesty, Elisa reminds us that empowering women isn't just about giving permission - it's about creating space, offering support, and embracing giftings. Elisa Morgan on Instagram Elisa Morgan Website God Hears Her Podcast
S2 · E11
May 8, 2025 · 20 min
S2E11: Hermeneutics: A Better Approach to Reading Scripture
In this episode, we dive into the key differences between apologetics and hermeneutics, exploring which approach leads to deeper and more faithful reading of Scripture. We unpack why hermeneutics - focused on interpretation and context, ultimately is a superior methos to apologetics, which often centers on defending the faith and starts with external debates that risks imposing modern concerns on the text. Whether you're new to biblical studies or looking to deepen your interpretive tools, this episode will help you see Scripture not just as a set of answers, but as a rich, living conversation between God and His people. Resources: How to Read The Bible For All It's Worth How to Read The Bible In Changing Times Scripture As Communication Introduction to Hermeneutics

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