EP28 - From Abuse to Boldness: Heather Flies on Trusting God on the Mountaintops and in the Valleys

EPISODE SUMMARY:

In this episode of Rooted, Josie and Symone welcome the ever-joyful and deeply wise Heather Flies—a seasoned junior high pastor, national speaker, and author with more than 30 years in youth ministry. Heather brings her signature honesty, humor, and biblical depth to this conversation about finding identity in Christ, healing from past wounds, and walking in joy regardless of circumstance. Heather opens up about growing up in a conservative church where women weren’t pastors, how she discovered her calling through youth ministry, and how abuse, bullying, and heartbreak shaped her—but never defined her. She speaks powerfully on how to walk through forgiveness, how to place Jesus at the center, and why the valley seasons often bring the most growth. Whether you’re a student, leader, or simply navigating life’s ups and downs, Heather’s testimony is filled with laughter, authenticity, and life-changing truths.

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TIMESTAMP SUMMARY:

• [00:00] – Christmas music 12 months a year 
• [03:00] – Heather’s dream job and passion for junior high ministry
• [06:00] – National speaking
• [10:00] – Longevity in ministry
• [14:00] – Struggles with bullying and who God made her to be
• [17:00] – What it means to have your identity rooted in Christ
• [21:00] – Keeping Jesus on the throne daily
• [25:00] – Boundaries, toxic friendships, and forgiveness
• [29:00] – Daily forgiveness and the cost of bitterness
• [35:00] – God using your pain for purpose
• [38:00] – Growth in the valleys
• [42:00] – Heather’s current season
• [44:00] – God has more than you can imagine

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NOTABLE QUOTES:

1. “God doesn’t want to be number one in your life. He wants to be at the center.”
2. “The valleys are where the growth happens—don’t be afraid of them.”
3. “Your past affects you, but it doesn’t define you.”
4. “Forgiveness isn’t for them—it’s for you. Bitterness gives someone power they don’t deserve.”
5. “God is for you and has more than you could ask or imagine.”
6. “Celebrate how God made you—and give others permission to do the same.”
7. “Don’t settle for a counterfeit identity rooted in performance, appearance, or relationships.”
8. “The world lures us into false identities. Jesus invites us into freedom.”
9. “Sometimes God makes you lie down in green pastures for your good—rest is holy too.”

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RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Scripture References: Psalm 23, Ephesians 3:20, Romans 8:28, Genesis 50:20, Philippians 3
• Website: wooddale.org
• Book: https://a.co/d/6j5yqC6
• Instagram: @heatherflies

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