246. The Best Way to Encourage Your Single Friends (with Annie F. Downs)

I have another incredible episode in store for you this week on the show! Today, I had the pleasure of hosting the amazing Annie Downs in the studio. We dive into her new children's book, So Happy to Know You!, a delightful exploration of each child's unique purpose, subtly introducing the idea that they are purposefully made by God.
Hear Annie share bits of her own journey, from her early teaching days to becoming a seasoned writer, speaker, and podcaster. We touch on her personal growth, acknowledging and embracing her quirks and unique personality, and how it led to meaningful connections with former students, now adults with families of their own.
As we explore Annie's eleventh book, she opens up about the inspiration behind So Happy to Know You! and the heartwarming connections it created with her past students. Our conversation also takes a turn towards Annie's insightful perspective on singleness. We discuss the Single Purpose League, a community she founded to provide support and connection for single individuals, particularly within the church. Annie shares valuable insights on how married and single individuals can better understand and support each other.
Be sure to listen for the takeaways that will likely resonate with all listeners! This episode is a powerful exploration of purpose, embracing uniqueness, and fostering authentic connections. Tune in to discover the beauty of hope, the joy of meaningful conversations, and the importance of walking alongside others in their journeys. You do not want to miss this one!
In This Episode[0:35] - I am joined today by Annie Downs, author of the new children’s book So Happy to Know You!.[1:30] - Annie shares her 12-year journey in writing, speaking, and podcasting since 2012.[2:24] - Being a former teacher, Annie discusses her inspiration for children's books and connecting with former students.[4:38] - Annie reflects on embracing uniqueness, spirituality, and connecting with past students through her books.[6:38] - Annie acknowledges the illustrator of the book, Jennie Poe, and shares her hope to convey important messages to young kids.[9:50] - Hear why Annie sees her role in writing children's books as a form of parenting and investment.[11:28] - Annie reflects on her unexpected life at 43 and her unique role in shaping conversations.[14:22] - Annie advocates for friendship across different life stages and dispels assumptions about single friends.[16:39] - Hear some dating advice, emphasizing communication for both single and married individuals.[18:34] - Annie emphasizes the importance of meaningful involvement in the dating journey of single friends.[21:28] - Annie discusses her ongoing journey, hopes, and navigating complexities as a single woman.[23:50] - Annie shares the tension between desires and life's realities, especially regarding having children.[25:35] - Listen as Annie discusses the role of prayer, conversations, and engaging with married friends in holding onto hope.[27:23] - Annie highlights the importance of discussing hopes with married friends and avoiding assumptions.[30:02] - Annie talks about the unexpected creation of the