Hello

Mary Hess, host of the all-new “The Back 40” podcast, hails from the mountains of North Carolina (by way of Kentucky farmland and the Lowcountry). Mary grew up singing and playing piano in church, leading a crowd in worship not long after she could talk. Much of her life experience has centered around church, including having pastored for over 10 years in various roles. She holds a degree in counseling from Liberty University and has training in a variety of inner healing and emotional and mental health ministries.

 

Mary lives a life of authenticity, real communication (even when it’s hard), and compassion for those who struggle to feel seen and loved. She and her husband Shannon pastor New Day Waynesville, a church that strives to be hospitable to the Presence of God – whatever that looks like – and to foster real relationships and community as the Bible demonstrates.

 

In “The Back 40”, Mary brings a fresh take on life after 40 – speaking from the heart and from reality on what it’s like to live a Christian life in her forties and beyond. She tackles topics across the board, including all aspects of life – physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational – with a sense of humor and with spiritually grounded wisdom.

When Mary isn’t counseling or teaching, you’ll find her spending time with her family, baking delicious homemade sourdough bread, or devouring a good book (okay, and maybe the occasional Netflix binge). Join Mary on the journey of life after 40 – it’s one you won’t want to miss.