In this deeply personal episode, Jackie Roese shares why she’s stepping away from the mic . Jackie opens up about pain, purpose, and presence with spine surgery on the horizon and a sacred calling to train women to preach. She reflects on what it means to honor a beautifully good body, why women must preach, and how God shows up— even when we’re laid low. This isn’t a goodbye. It’s a benediction. To anyone wrestling with calling, chronic pain, and what it means to be faithful when life rearrange...
Jun 18, 2025•10 min•Ep. 129
In this powerful and unfiltered conversation, Jackie sits down with Janet Ables, pastor, author, and leadership coach, to expose what it’s really like for women serving in male-dominated ministry spaces. From unequal pay and lack of titles to the subtle (and not-so-subtle) messaging that keeps women “one down,” Jackie and Janet share personal stories, theological insights, and hard-earned wisdom. Why does it matter if your church has a woman on staff? Because when women are in leadership, it exp...
Jun 04, 2025•Ep. 128
In this introspective episode, Jackie invites listeners to explore a foundational question: What is your native way of being in the world? Rather than diving straight into behavior or belief, she challenges us to uncover our truest self—our Imago Dei—before the world told us who we should be. She introduces the concept of a rule of life , not as a rigid list of dos and don’ts, but as a gentle structure or trellis that supports spiritual growth rooted in who we truly are. Drawing from ancient Chr...
May 23, 2025•Ep. 127
In this episode, I sit down with the fierce and wise Adrienne Gibson—a therapist, mom, preacher, recent seminary grad, and now co-author with Dr. Scot McKnight (yeah, that Scot McKnight!). Adrienne just finished our She Can Teach training at The Marcella Project, and y’all—her Palm Sunday sermon was 🔥 We dive deep into the toll life takes on women’s bodies. Adrienne says, “We women are living in dysregulated bodies—and it’s gonna kill us.” We unpack what that means, how it shows up in her thera...
May 09, 2025•Ep. 126
Tired of what’s happening in politics? Me too. I’m reposting an episode to remind us, we need to dream bigger — like Nazareth-big. I’m making the case for why my write-in vote this election would go to Mary , the mother of Jesus. Forget the mudslinging, the super PACs, and the endless superlatives — what we need in the Oval Office is the guts, grit, and grace of a woman who survived patriarchal oppression, political refugeeship, and raising the Savior of the world. (And did it all without a soci...
Apr 23, 2025•Ep. 125
On today’s episode, I’m joined by my friend Sarah Bucky Klinginger, a tireless advocate for victims of church-related harm, as we explore the harrowing stories and systemic failures that often leave survivors marginalized and voiceless. On today’s episode, we’re talking about : • Abuse in Evangelical Churches – The episode highlights widespread abuse scandals in Protestant churches, exposing how power and secrecy enable harm. • Narcissism in Church Leadership – Chuck DeGroat explains how churche...
Mar 12, 2025•Ep. 124
Figuratively speaking, borders are designed to contain people or keep them out. Border teaching aims to stop the flow of movement and imagination. When we discuss frontiers, we;re referring to a more dynamic and adventurous context. Every explorer we study embraces the idea of venturing into the frontiers. There’s an ebb and flow, along with the excitement and uncertainty of discovery in this frontier language. Frontier teachers can make us feel uneasy because they lead us into unexplored territ...
Feb 26, 2025•Ep. 122
Many people's work takes place in obscurity, often without big celebrations or news stories. Yet, their contributions speak volumes about what it means to be human and perhaps even how to be more human. Today is my husband's birthday. As many of you know, Steve is the founder and President of Water Is Basic. What you may not know is how he has dedicated his life to serving vulnerable communities in parts of Africa in ways that have nothing to do with water. After today’s episode, you will gain a...
Feb 05, 2025•Ep. 122
Welcome back to our podcast! On January 23rd, Steve and I will celebrate our 37th anniversary—what a long time! I thought it would be fun for us to reflect on our marriage and discuss how our ideals about marriage have evolved over the years. To be honest, I’ve shared the questions I’d like to discuss with Steve, but he hasn’t shared his answers with me, so I have no idea what to expect. If I were to summarize, most American Christians view marriage as a choice between two people who love each o...
Jan 22, 2025•Ep. 121
Welcome back to our podcast! This Advent season, we’ve been delving into the profound mystery of the incarnation—the incredible truth that Jesus chose to come to us in the flesh. This exploration has been deeply influenced by my studies with the Franciscans, prompting me to reflect on the idea that Jesus would have chosen this path even without the fall. What does this mean for us? We’re also taking a closer look at a fascinating intersection of science and faith. Recently, we came across a comp...
Dec 11, 2024•Ep. 120
I've been pondering power partially because of the election but also because I've been studying the life of a powerful woman in the Scripture. We rarely hear the Church teach on power, let alone about powerful women in Scripture and church history. We hear of women taught as damsels in distress, and we listen to them framed as temptresses. If we hear about a powerful woman like Deborah, we're told she was God's plan B. Then, there is the example of a female villain, Jezebell. What does it mean t...
Nov 27, 2024•Ep. 119
Recently the New York Times published an article about why Gen Z women are leaving the Church. It stated, “Sixty-one percent of Gen Z women identify as feminist, far greater than women from previous generations. Younger women are more concerned about the unequal treatment of women in American society and are more suspicious of institutions that uphold traditional social arrangements. In a poll we conducted, nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of young women said they do not believe that churches trea...
Nov 13, 2024•Ep. 118
.Today, we continue our discussion with Mako Nagasawa , who can help shed light on how the early church viewed abortion, what the science meant, and how we ended up politicizing abortion — an issue that has and continues to impact us, women, considerably.
Oct 30, 2024•Ep. 117
. We bring our experienced reality, our emotions, and our preconceived beliefs to the table. Emotions play a role in how we think. So maybe we should start there.
Oct 16, 2024•Ep. 116
We bring our experienced reality, our emotions, and our preconceived beliefs to the table. Emotions play a role in how we think. So maybe we should start there.
Oct 02, 2024•Ep. 115
JSummer started like any other summer. Steve packed our car full of fireworks and drove to New York to celebrate with family at Mom's lakehouse on Arnold Lake on the 4th of July. My kids flew in, and their partners joined them this year. It was so much fun. All four siblings, their partners, nieces, nephews, and friends joined us, totaling about 70 people. We always cook a lot because we love our food. I must say, a highlight this year was the 50 lobsters Kimmy brought from Maine and Johnny's ba...
Sep 18, 2024•43 min•Ep. 113
Join Jackie in this special episode as she introduces Mary, a remarkable octogenarian whose passion for biblical scholarship spans half a century. Mary's wit and deep insights into the New and Old Testaments, especially regarding women in the Bible, captivate Jackie from the moment they meet in Amsterdam. Despite the serious nature of her work, Mary's British charm and humor shine through, making her a delight to listen to. As Jackie's season finale guest drops this July 4th, Mary Evans brings a...
Jul 04, 2024•43 min•Ep. 113
In this special episode, I sit down with my friend and colleague, Dieula Previlon, to discuss her incredible journey and the powerful themes of her new book, "Does God See Me?" Dieula is an ordained pastor, licensed counselor, certified trauma-informed business coach, and the founder of ElevateHer International Ministries and Elevate Life Coaching. Together, we explore our shared experiences, from working on church staff and sweating it out in workouts to navigating family challenges. We delve i...
Jun 19, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 112
I had the pleasure of sharing a cup of coffee with the brilliant Marg Mowczko. This was our first meeting, and within just five minutes, we were diving deep into the rich and complex narratives of Genesis 1-2. Our conversation was so invigorating that I knew I had to share it with all of you. Marg Mowczko holds a theology degree from the Australian College of Ministries (ACOM) and a master's degree (MA) specializing in early Christian and Jewish studies. Her award-winning thesis on deacons and P...
Jun 05, 2024
In today’s episode, we are joined by Helene Fisher, a global gender persecution specialist dedicated to tracking trends related to women and religious persecution worldwide. Helene sheds light on the current realities facing women globally and shares how the solutions to their trauma often lie within their faith communities. This powerful message of resilience and healing is relevant abroad and resonates deeply with us wherever we find ourselves. Helen on LinkedIn Helen Youtube...
May 22, 2024•41 min•Ep. 110
In this episode, Jackie shares her reflections on the joys, challenges, and anxieties surrounding Mother's Day. This episode covers the entire spectrum, from celebrating fabulous mothers to acknowledging some people's complicated relationships with their moms—or their journey into motherhood. Tune in as we explore the meanderings of motherhood and find solace, understanding, and connection in the shared experiences of this beautiful yet complex journey.
May 10, 2024•42 min•Ep. 109
In this insightful episode of our podcast, we delve into the key concepts from the thought-provoking book, "Creating a Culture of Belonging". We begin by exploring the term "Missional Organization" as defined by Dr. Birmingham, examining its implications and the unique characteristics that distinguish these organizations from others. The conversation then shifts to a critical discussion on the issues faced by women within these organizations, as highlighted in the book. Dr. Beth Birmmingham will...
Apr 24, 2024•55 min•Ep. 108
In this episode, we explore wonder with my friend Shawn Small , a man unafraid to engage with intellectual rigor and Iowa honesty. Shawn exemplifies the true spirit of the Blessed Alliance, proving that men and women can work together in harmony and mutual respect. We'll dive deep into his new book, 'Into the Wonder,' exploring themes of faith, understanding, and the beauty of wonder. Take time today to stop and enjoy some wonder. This episode promises enlightening conversation and fresh perspec...
Apr 11, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 107
Dive into this episode with Jackie as she challenges the notion that theological perspectives are untouched by cultural influences. Jackie unpacks how every individual, including theologians and pastors, interprets religious texts through the lens of their cultural backgrounds. Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, culture, and personal growth, demonstrating that understanding the world around us can profoundly shape and expand our spiritual interpretations. Founded 12 years ago amids...
Mar 27, 2024•28 min•Ep. 106
For the past month, we've delved into the narratives of women in the Bible, exploring the transformative power when women step into male-dominated spaces to preach God's word. Today, join me in making the case for why women should preach. As believers, we've witnessed the impact of silenced voices in faith communities. Let's uncover the untold wisdom and insights waiting to be shared. Whether you're a preacher or a person of faith, this episode equips you to engage in the conversation and pass o...
Mar 13, 2024•34 min•Ep. 105
Today, we're featuring Pastor Laura as she shares a compelling sermon on Mary, the Mother of Jesus. Thank you for tuning in – your support helps us amplify female voices and perspectives in Scripture. A Catholic friend sent a book about Mary, sparking a discussion on the differing views between Protestants and Catholics. Join us for a concise yet insightful episode, delving into diverse perspectives and celebrating the richness of faith traditions. Get ready for an enlightening journey with Past...
Feb 29, 2024•38 min•Ep. 104
Dive into a captivating Jackie Always Unplugged Podcast episode as Jackie explores the intriguing juxtaposition of Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday. Discussing the tale of Bathsheba, often misunderstood as a seductress, Jackie challenges stereotypes. Reflect on the convergence of these two holidays and ponder how misrepresentations, like those faced by Bathsheba, resonate in our lives. Uncover the wisdom in facing unjust judgments and explore the complex interplay between love, repentance, and ...
Feb 14, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 103
Dive deep into Rahab's untold narrative in this captivating podcast. Beyond her role as a prostitute in Jericho, discover the layers of her story —her courageous protection of Israelite spies, the intricate threads that weave her life into the fabric of Jericho's destruction, and the resilient spirit that saved her family. Engaging, enlightening, and revelatory. Kat Armstrong: Holy Curiosity The Marcella Project...
Jan 31, 2024•50 min•Ep. 102
Join Jackie in her series on the women in Christ's' family tree as Melissa Duncan preaches on the compelling story of Tamar from Genesis 38. Often misunderstood as a woman who disguised herself to trick her father-in-law, Tamar's tale delves into the complexities of a patriarchal society. Tamar's actions challenge expectations in a world where women lack agency and are deemed property. Melissa unravels the cultural context, shedding light on Tamar's courage in the face of societal norms that dem...
Jan 17, 2024•28 min•Ep. 101
Welcome to the 100th episode of Jackie Always Unplugged! Ring in the new year with a special celebration as Jackie talks to two inspiring female pastor preachers, Laura and Melissa. Dive into their church's groundbreaking series on women, challenging norms and exploring faith through a female lens. Discover what unfolds when women boldly proclaim God's truth from the stories of women in the Bible . Join us for this 6 part series, a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of faith and w...
Jan 03, 2024•52 min•Ep. 100
