The Shame We Bury: Why Silence Can Be Deadly (w/ Jennifer Eikenhorst) - Ep. 143

Sometimes, the most powerful conversations aren’t the ones we plan.

In this unexpected episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine dives into a deeply moving discussion with Jennifer Eikenhorst, author of Left Turn, Life Unimagined and host of Accidental Hope. What was originally intended to be a conversation about driving safety took a profound turn when Jen encountered a heartbreaking situation just before recording—a tragic reminder of what happens when shame festers in silence. That moment shifted everything, revealing God’s orchestration in real-time.

This episode explores:

🔹 The Cost of Hidden Shame – How secrecy keeps people in bondage and why transparency is essential to healing.
🔹 God’s Sovereignty in Pain – The ways He orchestrates even the most painful experiences for a greater purpose.
🔹 Freedom in Surrender – Why bringing struggles into God’s light is the first step toward healing—not just for the individual, but for others as well.

Jen’s recent encounter serves as a sobering reminder that too many people suffer alone, believing the lie that their shame is too great to overcome. But that is not the truth. God redeems what feels unredeemable.

Everyone has a choice when it comes to pain and shame. It can be buried, slowly stealing joy, purpose, and even life itself. Or it can be surrendered to God, brought into His light, and redeemed in ways that once seemed impossible.

The enemy wants shame to be the end of the story. God says it’s only the beginning.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect: Are there hidden pains that need to be surrendered to God’s redemptive work? How might transparency not only bring freedom but also serve others in their own battles?

This episode is more than a discussion—it’s a call to action.

About the Guest: Jennifer Eikenhorst is a mother of four, teacher, and faith-driven speaker whose life was forever changed by a tragic accident. In the aftermath, she found purpose in sharing hope and healing with others facing accidental loss. As the author of Left Turn: Life Unimagined and host of the Accidental Hope podcast, Jen offers a compassionate space for those navigating grief and guilt. She also serves on the advisory council for the Hyacinth Fellowship, supporting those who have unintentionally caused harm. Her journey is a powerful testament to God’s grace, redemption, and the resilience of faith.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

Other Episodes in this Series: #142 "When Life Shatters: Finding God in Our Darkest Moments"

Jen’s Website & Podcast

Jen’s Book: Left Turn: Life Unimagined

The Hyacinth Fellowship

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.