We recently had the chance to connect with Amber Ginter Johnson and have shared our conversation below.
Amber, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Many tend to wrestle with mental or physical health struggles, but they fly or hide under the radar of perfection, insecurity, doubt, fear, burnout, and an addiction to productivity. I believe this because we don’t like to ask for help. As much as culture has tried to tell us “it’s okay not to be okay,” that’s rarely modeled around us. These have been my personal struggles, and are part of why I’m a Christian mental health advocate today.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! My name is Amber Ginter Johnson, but most of my friends call me “big sis.” 🙂
I’m a teacher-turned-author, freelance writer, trauma survivor, and chronic illness warrior. Amber Ginter Author (my brand), offers practical and biblical hope for young adult Christians navigating life’s anxious moments and everything in between, helping them feel authentic and seen. I’m signed with Blythe Daniel at BDA and in the process of traditionally publishing my first book.
Along with writing, I’m certified as a Master Christian Mental Health Coach, and am on the Volunteer Response Team at TWLOHA. I believe God’s people need real solutions, not simple ones, because having anxiety doesn’t mean you lack faith—it means you’re human.
For years, I struggled to find resources that combined biblical wisdom with practical advice for mental health. Frustrated by one-size-fits-all solutions, I began writing, speaking, and blogging on the subject. Now, I wear many hats as author, speaker, teacher, dancer, singer, coach, and passionate follower of Jesus.
I spend most days hanging out with my husband Ben, our goldendoodle Oso, and I have a deep love for granola, travel, and staying active. Nature and the mountains are my happy places.
I can’t wait for what’s ahead and to continue helping people discover practical hope and healing.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
This is a profound question. But there’s a photo of me when I was five years old that I feel best answers it. In the picture, I’m wearing the coolest shades, mismatched socks, and flower shorts, while holding up a broom. The grin on my face says it all. I was happy, care-free, and laughing. And enjoying life was all that mattered in that moment.
Too many of us let life steal our joy. I know I have. From physical and mental illness to the hardships and stressors we all face. Even when the joys of life come our way, it seems that all too quickly they’re replaced by rainclouds and showers. But when I see this photo, I see who God created me to be. A free-spirited girl who loves Jesus and others, and will do anything to tell everyone of His grace.
Though I’ve struggled to still be this girl at times, I know she’s still within me. Because the world will continue to tell me who I should and shouldn’t be. That work is all that matters. That we have to be busy all the time. That we have to be “successful.” But that’s not what Jesus says at all. So, when I’m tempted to think that way. To skip out on the joy of life. I picture this little girl. Knowing, she will never leave me.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
When I was in the third grade, I wasn’t old enough for the youth group at my Church. However, because very few kids were my age, they allowed me to go up with the group. This particular Sunday, the leader was giving out “WWJD” bracelets. My wrists were too small, so she asked if I wanted two. I clipped them together into a necklace and slipped it around my neck.
From that day forward, whenever I was sad, scared, or anxious, I’d hold that necklace tightly. It reminded me that Jesus was with me, loved me, and would always be with me. It didn’t always change the circumstance, but it gave me hope and confidence that God was with me in those moments. And He still is.
I still have that necklace and wear it every day of my life. I believe I always will.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. This is part of my brand, but my podcast is called “Authentically Amber” for a reason. I strongly believe that we’re called to walk the walk and talk the talk. And as a teacher, I also did this. I wanted my students to know and trust that the Miss. Ginter they had in class was the same Miss. Ginter, they would see in the grocery store or out walking her dog. That authenticity went a long way with my students because people crave someone real. In a world of filters, I choose to be myself.
Sometimes, it’s hard. It’s not easy to constantly see filtered faces, airbrushed bodies, and public versions of ourselves. But Amber Ginter Johnson is Amber Ginter Johnson online and in person. I owe it to God and others to be the real me. Period.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
Jesus Christ. Without Him, I am nothing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AmberGinter.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberginterauthor/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-ginter-johnson-83161017a/
- Twitter: https://x.com/aginter1996?lang=ar
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amberginterauthor
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@a11123rd
- Other: Podcast-https://open.spotify.com/show/1a8sDwE7N0YF1TopSriTsa
