Fierce Calling

Welcome back to the Fierce Calling podcast! In this powerful episode, host Doris Swift is joined by her longtime friend and award-winning author Maria Morgan, whose latest and soon-to-be-released book, Hope Ignited: Set Free from the Grip of Anxiety and Depression, offers a faith-centered, holistic approach to healing. Maria Morgan opens up about her own journey through seasons of anxiety, depression, and psychosis—sharing how past trauma collided with present challenges and led her to some of her darkest moments. Through raw honesty and deep vulnerability, Maria details how faith, community, and surrender to God became the keys to her freedom. Their candid conversation touches on the importance of breaking stigma, finding safe spaces to share our stories, and the transformative power of accountability and God’s love. Whether you or someone you know has walked through similar struggles, this episode brings hope, encouragement, and a reminder that you are never alone. Get ready to hear a testimony of restoration that will challenge, inspire, and equip you to take your own next steps toward healing and rediscovering joy. Plus! You can grab the intro and first two chapters of her new Hope Ignited book here: https://mailchi.mp/mariaimorgan.com/equip-your-church-to-address-mental-health-with-hope Highlights From This Inspiring Conversation: Real & Raw Story: Maria shares her journey through devastating seasons of anxiety and depression. She courageously discusses how these battles resurfaced during 2020 as she cared for her mother-in-law with dementia. Day of Truth: The turning point came when Maria opened up to her husband and church family, experiencing unconditional love and hope. She says, “That unconditional love… was something that opened my mind to just a bit of light, which was hope.” Healing & Surrender: Through accountability, prayer, and supportive friends, Maria found freedom. She urges us to recognize the power of surrender — letting go and trusting God. Practical Steps: Maria emphasizes the holistic nature of healing — tending to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. She encourages accountability and reaching out to friends, reminding us we are not alone. Hope Ignited Events: Inspired by her journey, Maria and her husband now host events to help churches support members struggling with anxiety and depression. Connect with Maria! Maria I. Morgan is the award-winning author of the Louie the Lawnmower children’s series andOutrageously Fruitful, a women’s Bible study. Passionate about helping women find freedomfrom anxiety and depression, her book Hope Ignited: Set Free from the Grip of Anxiety andDepression (available early 2026), offers a faith-centered, holistic approach tohealing—addressing body, soul, and spirit. Maria lives in Georgia with her husband, Steve, andtheir playful pets, who bring laughter and creativity to her journey. Website: https://www.mariaimorgan.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maria.morgan.10 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariaimorgan/ Email: [email protected] What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, purpose, and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another guest who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris Transcript Doris Swift [00:01:55]:What is threatening to ste

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In today’s episode, Doris sits down with her friend and powerhouse leader Bunni Pounds—founder and president of Christians Engaged, senior vice president at Family Policy Alliance, and author of Jesus in Politics: One Woman’s Walk with God in a Mudslinging Profession. Together, they dive into Bunni Pounds’s incredible journey of faith, leadership, and calling, including her bold vision for “America Reads the Bible”—an unprecedented, nation-wide Bible reading event set for 2026 at the Museum of the Bible. Bunni Pounds opens up about what it takes to step out in obedience, the importance of unity in the body of Christ, and how each of us can take up our unique, “fierce” calling. Whether you’re interested in mobilizing your community, deepening your understanding of Scripture, or simply seeking to walk more intimately with Jesus, this episode is packed with encouragement and inspiration. Plus, get a sneak peek into Bunni Pounds’s upcoming book, Stepping Up to Lead: Rebuilding a Nation in the Footsteps of Nehemiah. Get ready to be challenged, uplifted, and reminded that God uses those who are willing to say “yes”—no matter how big the task. Let’s jump in! Here’s what you’ll find in this inspiring conversation: ✨ America Reads the Bible: Vision and Execution Unifying multiple denominations and organizations Origin and inspiration of the event Connection to the stories of Ezra and Nehemiah The spiritual and cultural importance of public scripture reading Objectives of the event National Bible reading from Genesis to Revelation Involvement of diverse national leaders and influencers 🌱 Organizing a Large-Scale National Bible Reading Inclusion of art installations and interactive experiences at the Museum of the Bible Logistical challenges and planning Scheduling, time management, and using AI for organizing the reading Securing participation across ministries, worship leaders, and universities Outreach: hundreds of Zoom meetings, onboarding over 100 ministries Enhancing the experience Use of worship leaders and filling event gaps with prayer and worship 🤝The Event’s Broader Impact & Community Involvement Reinvigorating biblical literacy and unity within the Christian community Invitation for public participation Encouraging families, churches, and individuals to attend or follow the live stream Creative ideas for involvement: hosting the stream in churches, businesses, and homes Vision for generational and spiritual impact The lasting significance of the event for America’s 250th anniversary ✍️Spiritual Lessons from Ezra, Nehemiah, and Personal Calling Overcoming complacency and taking radical, faithful action Learning from biblical leaders Leadership principles from Nehemiah The need for a modern-day “Ezra moment” in America Encouragement to listeners Recognizing and stepping into one’s calling 🎨 Overcoming Obstacles and Obedience in Leadership Practical advice on saying “yes” to God and carrying vision forward The process and perseverance required in large vision projects Stories of resistance, skepticism, and eventual breakthroughs 🎧 Plus a whole lot more encouragement! Let us know what touched your heart most—we’d love to hear from you! We’re talking about this amazing event, book, and More! Connect with Bunni! You can connect with Bunni at [email protected]: christiansengaged.org and check out americareadsthebible.com for more info on this epic event! Bunni Pounds is the Founder and President of Christians Engaged as well as a Senior Vice President for Family PolicyAlliance and Family Policy Alliance Foundation – founded by Dr. James Dobson. She is the author of Jesus and Politics:One Woman’s Walk with God in a Mudslinging Profession and the upcoming book releasing in 2026 – Stepping Up toLead: Rebuilding a Nation in the Footsteps of Nehemiah. As a political consultant by profession – Bunni spent over sixteen years running the campaigns of Members ofCongress. She started her career as the campaign manager for U.S. Congressman Jeb Hensarling then launched herown firm, Bunni Pounds & Associates building a top Texas consulting firm with nine associates and thirty-one clients –including Sean Duffy, Lee Zeldin, and Michael Cloud. She then ran for Congress herself in 2018 becoming the only woman to make the Republican Runoff Ballot in Texasout of 6 open seats. It was after this race that God called her to start mobilizing the Church.Bunni’s experience doesn’t just stop at politics. She has been bi-vocational and active in Christian ministry since shewas 16. Bunni is a Bible teacher and motivational speaker who church-planted with her husband Tim for over 10 years.Speaking to the church and the culture, she is a regular contributor to The Christian Post, Washington Times, CharismaNews and has also been published in the Wall Street Journal among others. She has a Bachelor of Arts & Sciences degree in Politi

Hey, friend! Welcome to the Fierce Calling Podcast, where I usually talk with guests who are taking action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect, but not this week. This is Christmas week, and I am replaying an episode I recorded back in 2022, Are You Ready for Christmas? A Special Christmas Episode with a Christmas Poem & Prayer. It was the year of Hurricane Ian, and our home flooded for the first time. Little did I know that two years later, we’d experience yet another house flood. But that first flood? It was a devastating event, but it was also a defining moment, because I would learn what true joy is all about and experience Christmas in a more profound way than ever before. When all the fanfare is stripped away, what are we left with? We’re left with the only thing that really matters in the first place–family and a Savior who is Christ the Lord. That first flood experience was taxing, emotionally and physically, but you know what? Not spiritually, because it was also the year I was in the midst of writing my Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, and although I didn’t know how much I personally was going to need that message, God knew. Nothing is a surprise to him. So if this season is a hard one for you, I invite you to pick up a copy. Experiencing a flood comes with loss, but there are other reasons we might find Christmas to be hard, like someone missing someone at the table. We mourn those losses seemingly more deeply in the glow of twinkling lights and activities steeped in family traditions. And maybe your loss is of a different kind–loss of a relationship–loss of a career–loss of a dream. Life is hard and loss cuts deep, but what if we looked at Christmas and saw all we have gained because of Jesus. The year after the flood, we lost my dad, and the year after that, we flooded again. Life has a way of changing channels, seemingly in the middle of a show, but when we experience Christmas for what it truly is, and what it truly means for us and the world, it settles our hearts and quiets our souls. The Light has come! And the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5 A Fresh Perspective on The First Christmas Story Besides my special episode, I’m also adding this link to a recent Christmas-themed sermon, Advent: Joy in Suffering, given by one of my amazing pastors, Jeff Savage. He brings a fresh perspective on the Christmas story and how we often miss the suffering parts, which are so evident yet overlooked. Friend, God is not far from our pain, and not far from our sorrows. He is in it with us, and He is no stranger to it. Emmanuel–God with us. Now, Onto that Replay … So please enjoy this replay of this special Christmas episode with a Christmas poem and prayer … How often have you heard the question, “Are you ready for Christmas?” How do you respond? Do you base your readiness on whether your Christmas shopping is done? Cookies made? I must admit, in past years, I tended to gauge my readiness for Christmas on my shopping list–but not this year. This year feels a little different. Our entire home flooded in September, and we’re still not back in it. I usually have a tree dressed to the nines by now and lighted garland adorning the entryways. Gifts wrapped, bagged, and tagged and cookies baking in the oven (well, the Pillsbury Dough Boy ones, and you can read about that here in my post, Confessions of a Faker Baker). This year? Not so much. At first, I feared the dreaded FOMO (fear of missing out) when I’d see all the beautiful Christmas tree photos plastered all over social media. Not being judgy, I usually plaster mine there too. But I realized what I feared most were my feelings. How would I feel about not putting up a real tree and not having a living room ready to put it up in? How would I feel about not decking the halls with boughs of holly? Then it hit me. I don’t need a tree or boughs of holly–I have Jesus, and He is all I need. We hear the phrase “the reason for the season,” and Jesus truly is our everything. Plus, God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, and He makes it clear in 2 Timothy 1:7: “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Self-control–hmmm … That’s a fruit of the Spirit, and we’ve already received it when we are in Christ. So we can focus on what is really important this Christmas–the birth of our Savior, and because of His birth–we can accept Him and become children of God. We can celebrate because not only did Jesus put on flesh to dwell among us–He’s coming back to get us. We’ll be back in our home soon enough, and all will be good again. But even so, God is still good and hope is still ours because we have Jesus. Speaking of hope, I hope you enjoy this spe

We have a powerful new episode to share with you! This week, Doris Swift welcomes the incredible Mary DeMuth—author of over 50 books, literary agent, artist, podcaster, and global speaker—who shares her story and wisdom on finding freedom, healing, and joy through surrender. Here’s what you’ll find in this inspiring conversation: ✨ The Freedom of Surrender Mary opens up about her latest devotional, The Freedom of Surrender: 40 Devotions for a Joyful Life in Christ. She shares how her journey with art, Lent, and letting go of daily struggles became a lifeline and ministry for others. Her artwork (featured throughout the book!) makes this devotional extra special. 🌱 Healing from Church Hurt and Trauma Mary connects deeply with listeners struggling with church hurt, grief, or past trauma. With practical encouragement, she reminds us that “an untold story never heals,” and offers her gentle approach to lament, processing pain with God, and finding safe spaces for healing. 🤝 Community & Connection Both Doris Swift and Mary DeMuth highlight how genuine community can be the remedy for pain received in broken relationships. For those feeling lonely or unseen, Mary shares hope and a prayer that God will bring needed friendships into your life. ✍️ For Writers and Creatives Are you a writer or aspiring author? Mary gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be represented by a literary agent and her journey writing across genres. If you’re interested in publishing, she offers a three-legged-stool framework: platform, writing ability, and unique ideas. 🎨 Bonus! Free Art for Your Soul Mary is generously offering free downloadable lock-screens featuring her original art from The Freedom of Surrender. Sign up for her email list at marydemuth.com/surrender to receive yours and find encouragement in your inbox. 🎧 Don’t Miss Out Whether you’re seeking healing, longing for joy, looking for creative inspiration, or simply needing to feel less alone, this episode will encourage your heart. And if you haven’t yet, check out Mary’s “Pray Every Day” podcast for daily scripture and prayer! ▶️ [Listen to the episode now] (insert your episode link here) 🖼️ Grab your free art lock screens here Let us know what touched your heart most—we love to hear from you! Stay tuned for more faith-filled encouragement, and remember: your story matters and you are never alone. We’re talking about this amazing book and more! Connect with Mary! Mary loves Jesus. And really that’s the most important thing about her. It’s not writing or speaking or praying or mommying or any other -ing you can find. She flat out loves Him. Why? Because he has utterly, truly, completely re-storied her. She has three adult children, and she’s been married to Patrick for 33 years now. Mary counts those relationships as the most important people in her life. In the mid 2000s, their family helped plant a church in Southern France–a difficult, but amazing experience.  In her spare (ha!) time, she loves to cook, run, garden, decorate, paint, and do interior design. You can find all her artwork here. She’s been writing for 30+ years–half of them in obscurity. She mentored many writers during that time, and continues to do so through the Rockwall Christian Writers Group and some of her  instructional books. Since then she has written over 52 books, translated into five languages. You can see a listing of all her books on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, CBD, Lifeway and Parable. Mary pioneered a literary agency in 2022, Mary DeMuth Literary, where she shepherds writers toward traditional publishing. She currently lives in North Texas, serves in her local church alongside her husband, and she’s had the privilege of speaking around the world in places like Johannesburg, Monaco, Geneva, Munich, Port-au-Prince, Nice, and Florence. Although her past story is difficult, her current story leaks adventure. Not only has Mary been restored and restoried, but she longs to see the same for you. You no longer have to live haunted. I believe your new story starts today. Carl Bard wrote, “Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending.” Paul reminds us of this important truth: “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT).  Living in retrospect is a bad idea. It’s time to heal, be set free, and find the new story God has for you. Mary has experienced God turning her storm into a story, moving her from a bitter story into a bigger one. Won’t you join her on the adventure? What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my fr

We’re excited to bring you a fascinating episode this week! Doris welcomed Dr. Mikel Del Rosario, professor, author, and host of the Apologetics Guy podcast, to talk about his brand new book: Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? Making Sense of Historical Claims. Many have wrestled with doubt or faced tough questions from loved ones about who Jesus is, did Jesus claim to be God, and the reliability of the Bible. This episode is packed with encouragement, practical insight, and real stories that will help you defend your faith with clarity, courage, and compassion. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: – What history says about Jesus’ divine claims Dr. Mikel Del Rosario gives an accessible look into how historians—including skeptics—evaluate Jesus’ words and actions, and why his claims to be God are both profound and credible. – Why it’s OK to doubt—and how God meets us when we do Doris and Dr. Mikel Del Rosario discuss how doubt isn’t the opposite of faith, and how asking good questions can actually strengthen it. – How to love and listen well in spiritual conversations You don’t have to be a Bible scholar to share your faith—just a good listener, willing to walk alongside others and meet them where they are. – Practical answers to tough questions—from skeptics and other faiths From thoughtful responses to Jehovah’s Witnesses or Muslim friends, to talking with those who see Jesus as “just a good teacher,” you’ll come away empowered to share clear, respectful answers. Resource Highlight: New Book! Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? is available now from InterVarsity Press (IVP Academic) and online retailers. This is not only for church leaders or professors—you’ll find it accessible, practical, and perfect for reading on your own or with a Bible study group. We’re talking about this amazing book and more! Episode Highlights and Takeaways … 000:00 Faith Conversations and Apologetics Insights 05:14 “Explaining Faith with Courage” 08:49 “Debating Jesus’ Divinity Claims” 15:25 “Faith, History, and Jesus” 16:49 “Jesus’ Divine Authority Examined” 21:32 Engaging Skeptics and Other Faiths 27:32 Eyewitnesses and Jesus’ Identity 32:13 Unexpected Messiah Revealed 32:47 Messianic Signs and Jesus’ Miracles 37:33 Listening First, Sharing Later 40:59 Faith-Building Resource for Groups Connect with Dr. Del Rosario! You can connect with Dr Mikel Del Rosario at www.apologeticsguy.com where you’ll find his book, blog, YouTube channel info, The Accessible Apologetics Workbook, and a plethora of helpful resources and recommended reading! Dr. Mikel Del Rosario helps Christians find clear answers to tough questions about Christianity and explain the faith with courage and compassion. He is a Professor of Bible and Theology at Moody Bible Institute and the author of Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? Making Sense of His Historical Claims (IVP Academic). Previously, he taught Christian Apologetics and World Religion at William Jessup University and Digital Media for Ministry at Dallas Theological Seminary. He has published over 30 journal articles on apologetics and cultural engagement in Bibliotheca Sacra with his mentor, Dr. Darrell Bock. He holds an M.A. in Christian Apologetics with highest honors from Biola University, along with a Master of Theology (Th.M) and a Ph.D in Biblical Studies (Emphasis in New Testament Studies) from Dallas Theological Seminary, where he served as Project Manager for Cultural Engagement at the Hendricks Center, producing and hosting The Table podcast. He has also served in the Philippines as a missionary professor with Converge Worldwide and a youth pastor to refugees and multicultural students in California. Follow him online at ApologeticsGuy.com, the Apologetics Guy YouTube channel, and his podcast on the Christianity Today Network: The Apologetics Guy Show. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, purpose, and worth God gave you, and t

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In this episode, host Doris Swift sits down with award-winning author Kristen Hogrefe Parnell for an inspiring conversation about faith, fiction, and trusting God’s unique timeline. Kristen shares her journey from writing young adult suspense to crafting women’s fiction rooted in faith, revealing how her own experiences—like waiting for her husband and navigating motherhood—have shaped her stories and perspective. We dig into the power of Christian fiction to reflect real-life struggles and joys, Kristen’s advice for aspiring writers on developing characters and honing their craft, and the messy, beautiful reality of unfinished stories—both on the page and in our lives. Plus, Kristen gives us a peek into her Crossroads Suspense series and her upcoming children’s book, “Not Much Lunch,” reminding listeners that “little is much when God is in it.” Whether you’re an avid reader, a writer-in-progress, or simply someone seeking encouragement in a season of waiting, this episode is full of practical wisdom, hope, and a reminder that God’s plans are always better than our own. Stay tuned to hear how passion, compassion, and conviction intersect in Kristen’s work—and get ready to be uplifted and inspired on your own fierce calling! We’re Talking About Kristen’s Amazing Books & More! Episode Highlights and Takeaways … 00:00 Author Spotlight: Crossroads Suspense 06:02 “Compassion Through Fiction’s Truth” 09:25 Writing Tips for Aspiring Authors 14:08 Faith, Fiction, and Inspiration 18:17 “Daily Faithful Waiting on God” 18:52 “Waiting on God’s Timing” 25:12 “Success Takes Time and Faith” 29:08 “Writing Books That Fill Needs” 30:33 Spiritual Maturity and God’s Timing 35:58 “Abiding in the Vine” 37:39 Finding Faith in Busy Seasons 41:53 Writing Process and Plot Gaps 43:34 “Living in Your Season” 46:59 Marriage Is Like a Dance 49:51 “Jesus: The Only Way” 53:34 Encouragement and Connection Await Connect with Kristen! You can connect with Valerie and find her books and resources mentioned in the show, here: kristenhogrefeparnell.com Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon  | BookBub More About Kristen! Kristen Hogrefe Parnell writes suspenseful fiction from a faith perspective for women and young adults. Her own suspense story involved waiting on God into her thirties to meet her husband, and she desires to keep embracing God’s plan for her life when it’s not what she expects. A former English teacher and youth leader, she now designs curriculum for a Christian academy and spends most of her time at her favorite assignment to date: being a mom to her toddler. Whenever possible, she welcomes speaking opportunities and enjoys being a podcast guest. She is represented by The Blythe Daniel Agency. Her faith perspective is a shaping influence in all her books. These include an inspirational women’s romantic suspense series called Crossroads Suspense with Mountain Brook Ink. The first book, Take My Hand, released in 2022. The second, Hold Your Breath, released November 2023, and the third, Watch Your Back, released in 2025. Her young adult fiction includes a dystopian trilogy, The Rogues, published under her maiden name. The first book, The Revisionary, and the final book in the trilogy, The Reactionary, both received the Selah Award for Speculative Fiction. Blogging is something she also enjoys. Kristen shares nonfiction inspirational pieces through guest blogging opportunities and has contributed to The Write Conversation and the KHCB Network. She also blogs on her website where she often features other authors and their stories. Her monthly newsletter includes a personal word from Kristen as well as the latest giveaway opportunities for her readers (and a free short story just for signing up). Putting her pen aside, she and her husband James enjoy traveling and outdoor adventures. Of all their adventures, though, their favorite is raising their young son. They live in the Tampa, Florida area and love sharing their lake home with family and friends. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’

Are you feeling weighed down and searching for more joy in your life? Well, you’re in the right place! Welcome to another uplifting episode of Fierce Calling! This week, Doris Swift invites us to explore and rediscover joy — what joy truly is and how we can reclaim it, even in life’s toughest seasons. Doris is joined by two extraordinary guests: Karen Whiting, a prolific author, speaker, and certified writing coach, and Pam Farrel, beloved for her wisdom on relationships and joy, and co-author of more than 61 books alongside her husband Bill. Together, Pam and Karen share their personal stories of facing adversity — from health crises and loss to everyday struggles —while living out their message of “choosing joy.” You’ll hear Pam’s powerful testimony of transformation and perseverance through illness, and Karen’s gentle wisdom born from raising a family across the country and sharing joy through creativity and kindness. The conversation delves into their collaborative devotional, Growing a Joyful Heart, filled with practical ways to cultivate, nurture, and spread joy, as well as the impact of biblical and historic joy-givers. If you’re craving encouragement and ready to let the “Jesus joy” overflow in your life, don’t miss this inspiring episode. There’s even a special announcement about their upcoming Joy Challenge — so get ready to connect, reflect, and rediscover the source of true, lasting joy. We’re Talking About This Amazing Book & More! Florida Women’s Ministry Leadership Conference mentioned in the intro: Episode Highlights and Takeaways … 00:00 “Surrender What Steals Joy” 07:53 “Women: Multitasking by Design” 09:26 “Joy, Communication, and Devotion” 12:23 Choosing Joy Amid Change 17:54 “Finding Joy in Memories” 20:55 Sprinkling Joy Through Seasons 24:19 Sharing Joy Through Crafts 25:44 Streams of Joy Amid Struggles 29:28 “Transformed by Jesus’ Love” 31:26 Medieval Monks’ Quirky Scribbles 36:07 “Teal Tuesdays: Choosing Joy” 38:17 “Sprinkling Joy in Daily Life” 43:51 “Sharing Christ’s Love Together” Connect with Karen! You can connect with Karen, join the JOY CHALLENGE, and find her books and resources mentioned in the show, here: www.karenwhiting.com More About Karen! Karen Whiting, a freelance writer and award-winning author of more than thirty nonfiction books, loves to let creativity splash onto the pages as she writes. Karen’s newest books Growing a Peaceful Heart and Growing a Joyful Heart help people live above the negative news and difficult circumstances to embrace God’s love. Karen also writes books to equip families and help them and their children thrive. Karen is a certified personality trainer, certified children’s ministry coach, and AWSA certified writing and marketing coach. She loves to guide people to move forward in life and God’s calling. Connect with Pam! You can connect with Pam, join the JOY CHALLENGE, and find her books and resources mentioned in the show, here: love-wise.com More About Pam! Two phrases sum up Pam’s approach to life: Choosing Joy! One ordinary woman connected to the extra-ordinary God can make difference! These sayings captured Pam’s heart because they sum up her experience. “I am the first-born daughter of an alcoholic father with severe rage issues. I often thought our family would make the headlines but for all the wrong reasons. When I was 8 years-old, however, a family friend saw the chaos we were living in and invited us to attend church with her. There I saw what real love looked like.” Having discovered peace and focus in her life, she is motivated to help women everywhere uncover their potential through a life of confidence and courage. Her writing career began shortly after she began attending church as a child. She wrote her first book under a tree on her family farm. As an adult, she has published more than 40 books including the best-seller Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti, 7 Simple Skills for Every Woman, Becoming a Brave New Woman, Devotions for Women on the Go!, Got Teens? (co-authored with Jill Savage), 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband; Red Hot Romance Tips for Women, 10 Secrets for Living Smart, Savvy and Strong and most recently Discovering Creative Bible Study Experience books: Discovering Hope in the Psalms, Discovering Joy in Philippians, Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament – release date October, 2019 and 2 future Discovering books (co-authored with Jean E. Jones and Karla Dornacher). Pam is an engaging and energetic leader who has impacted women’s lives with her experience as an international speaker, Director of Women’s Ministry, radio co-host, newspaper columnist, pastor’s wife, youth leader, and mentor. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In this episode #215, host Doris Swift is joined by returning guest Valerie Ellis—author, speaker, teacher, and founder of Our Everyday Parables, a multi-author site dedicated to bringing families resources where faith and fun meet. Valerie’s passion for connecting kids with biblical truth through engaging books shines as she shares about her journey, including inspiration from her own two boys and her background as a certified teacher. Doris and Valerie dive into the stories behind Valerie’s beloved children’s books—like Let’s Go Bible Adventures, designed for kids obsessed with trains, trucks, and ice cream vans, and Share the Joy: A Christmas Lift-the-Flap Book, which helps instill a spirit of giving during the holidays. They discuss Valerie’s newest release, Wild Faith Devotional for Kids, packed with fascinating animal facts and faith lessons, and explore how everyday moments and the wonders of creation can point children (and adults!) to God. You’ll also hear practical wisdom on helping your kids experience “Jesus joy,” resources for parents and caregivers to make faith relatable, and tips for aspiring writers who feel called to create meaningful books for children. Tune in for encouragement, laughter, and a timely reminder that investing in the youngest generation can have eternal impact—even in the busiest seasons. We’re Talking About These Amazing Books & More! Florida Women’s Ministry Leadership Conference mentioned in the intro: Episode Highlights and Takeaways … 00:00 Children’s Christian Books and Devotional 07:06 “Supporting Parents in Faith Education” 09:42 Teaching Christmas Sharing to Kids 12:28 Promoting Christian Books in Libraries 14:44 “Books Adults and Kids Love” 20:15 Teaching Faith Through Everyday Moments 21:28 VBS Themes: Truth and Fun 25:02 “Catfish Devotion: Sense God’s Goodness” 30:39 Joy of Writing Rhyming Books 31:44 Writing Children’s Christian Books 34:53 “Get Excited Every Day” 38:07 Critique Groups for Writing Growth 42:19 Writing Journey: Faith, Fiction, and Nonfiction 45:01 Unrecognized Parental Impact 49:47 Sharing Faith and Resources Connect with Valerie! You can connect with Valerie and find her books and resources mentioned in the show, here: valerieellis.com Our Everyday Parables Blog Instagram: @iamvalerieellis Instagram: @oureverydayparables Let’s Go! Bible Adventures: Real Bible Stories for Kids Who Love Trains, Tractors, Ice Cream Trucks, and More Share the Joy! A Christmas Lift-the-Flap Book Wild Faith Devotional for Kids: 52 Amazing Animals That Point to One Great God Listeners can find a free activity pack for Let’s Go! Bible Adventures at https://valerieellis.com/letsgo/. and info & resources for Wild Faith, plus a YouVersion study for kids at https://valerieellis.com/wildfaith/. The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Valerie mentioned: https://www.scbwi.org More About Valerie! Valerie Ellis is an author, speaker, and founder of Our Everyday Parables, a multi-author online resource with book reviews and ideas for families pursuing faith and compassion. A certified teacher with countless hours in children’s ministry, Valerie writes books that serve kids at the intersection of faith and fun. Valerie is a frequent speaker for The MomCo (formerly MOPS) and similar groups. She stays involved with her own local chapters of The MomCo, SCBWI, and the Texas Library Association as well. Valerie is also a nonprofit consultant, trainer, and grant writer in the Houston area, where she lives with her husband, Josh, and their two boys. An Ohio-born, Texas-raised TCU Horned Frog, Valerie loves live music and going on adventures—big and small—with her family and friends. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, purpose, and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In this important episode, host Doris Swift welcomes guest Heather Creekmore—a writer, speaker, coach, and the host of the popular “Compared to Who?” podcast—to talk about a struggle many women face but rarely speak about openly: body image. Heather shares her deeply personal journey, beginning in childhood and traveling through years of dieting, disordered eating, and the belief that changing her body would finally bring happiness. Even marriage and motherhood didn’t resolve her struggle—until a message about modern-day idolatry led to a powerful awakening in her heart. Heather unpacks how cultural messages fuel our obsession with appearance, how comparison steals our joy, and why true freedom comes from understanding our God-given identity—not from pursuing the latest health trend or fitting into a certain pair of jeans. She also dives into her work coaching women, The 40-Day Body Image Workbook, and her devotional Aging Gratefully. And you’ll love the story about her memorable appearance on Netflix’s “Nailed It!”—and what it taught her about real freedom. Whether you’ve battled body image insecurities, comparison in any area of your life, or the pressures of aging in a looks-obsessed world, this honest and hope-filled conversation will inspire you to pursue joy, purpose, and your fierce calling right where you are. Get ready for truths, laughter, encouragement, and the reminder that you are so much more than a number on a scale or a face in the mirror. We’re Talking About These Amazing Books & More! Florida Women’s Ministry Leadership Conference mentioned in the intro: Episode Highlights and Takeaways … 00:00 Unexpected Struggles with Eating Disorders 08:13 “Discovering Modern Idolatry Challenges” 14:37 “Overcoming Idolatry and Distractions” 19:11 Challenging Self-Worth and Body Image 22:48 Love Language Pitfalls for Women 28:05 Diet Trends Roller Coaster 38:01 Encouragement, Laughter, and Scale Reality 40:56 “Aging Gracefully Through Inner Beauty” 44:17 “Inner Beauty Over Outer Appearance” 51:51 “Wisdom through Experience and Guidance” 54:47 “Baking Show: Embrace Imperfection” 01:00:50 “Community and Connection for Women” Connect with Heather! You can connect with Heather through her website and social media links below: Website: https://www.improvebodyimage.com https://www.facebook.com/heathercreekmoreblog https://www.youtube.com/comparedtowho https://www.instagram.com/comparedtowho https://www.pinterest.com/comparedtowho/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compared-to-who/id1448403677 Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. She’s the host of the Compared to Who? podcast and the author of four books, including The 40-Day Body Image Workbook: Hope for Christian Women Who’ve Tried Everything and Aging Gratefully , a new devotional on aging for women in midlife. Heather has been featured on Fox News, Huff Post, Morning Dose, Church Leaders, For Every Mom, and dozens of other shows and podcasts. But she’s best recognized from her appearance as a contestant on the Netflix hit show, Nailed It. Heather and her fighter-pilot-turned-pastor husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas. Connect with Heather at: www.improvebodyimage.com What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, purpose, and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourag

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In this episode, host Doris sits down with Melissa McLaughlin, an author, teacher, and speaker, who writes to uplift and inspire followers of Christ.. Melissa opens up about her faith journey, including her unexpected bout with debilitating health issues that led her to an unexpected and unplanned early retirement from her teaching career. What could have been a season of loss became a time of deep spiritual renewal, as Melissa rediscovered her identity in Christ and found new ways to connect with God through scripture-based prayer. Out of her darkest moments came her first book, In Dark of Night When Words Fail, Voice of Jesus, Pray for Me, designed to help those who struggle with prayer find their voice again through scripture. Melissa also shares how her second book, The Whole Bible Devotional: Seeing Jesus in Every Book of the Bible, was inspired by her own challenges with reading the Bible all the way through, and her desire to help others see the big-picture story of Jesus woven throughout all the books of the Bible. Join us for an encouraging conversation about hope, identity, and the power of God, Who creates beauty from ashes. Whether you’re in a season of uncertainty, desire to deepen your prayer life, or looking for fresh ways to engage with Scripture, Melissa’s story and resources will inspire you to keep seeking God’s purpose—no matter what twists and turns life may bring. We’re Talking About This Amazing Devotional and More! Florida Women’s Ministry Leadership Conference mentioned in the intro: Episode Highlights and Takeaways … 1. Introduction to Melissa McLaughlin Roles and identity: teacher, writer, wife, mom, speaker, prayer leader, overcomer Passion for pursuing Christ with biblical truth, grace, and prayer Brief overview of her books: “In Dark of Night When Words Fail, Voice of Jesus, Pray For Me” “The Whole Bible Devotional: Seeing Jesus in Every Book of the Bible” Context of her writing coming from personal struggles Doris’s introduction and excitement about the conversation 2. Melissa’s Personal Faith Journey Growing up in a Christian home Making her faith her own during college years Becoming a teacher and her passion for education Marriage and raising three grown children 3. The Impact of Health Challenges Long history of back problems leading to debilitating health issues at age 50 Forced, early, and unexpected retirement from teaching Struggles with loss: health, job, and sense of identity Spiritual wrestling: questioning God’s plan and lack of healing 4. Rediscovering Identity in Christ God “peeling back” layers of false identity Coming to see herself as a child of God, identity rooted in Jesus Faith being deepened and transformed through suffering 5. Losing and Regaining the Voice to Pray Feeling unable to pray during her darkest moments Returning to Scripture and learning to pray aloud from the Bible Rewriting Scripture into personalized prayers Restoration of her prayer life: God’s words empowering her prayers 6. The Birth of Her First Book Decision to write for others struggling to pray Combining teaching, compassion, and personal pain into her writing Purpose and design of “In Dark of Night When Words Fail, Voice of Jesus, Pray For Me” A prayer guide using Scripture for those struggling to pray or seeking to refresh prayer life 7. Transitioning from Teaching to New Ministry Letting go of her expected career path Recognizing how God repurposes gifts for new seasons The unexpected call to writing and blogging 8. Encouragement for Listeners Facing Unexpected Change Reflection on how God is never surprised by our circumstances Importance of not finding identity solely in career or roles Trusting God’s faithfulness to unfold new things 9. Struggles and Strategies in Reading the Bible Personal experience of reading the Bible fully as a teenager Attempts to encourage her children to read the Bible, and the challenges they faced Disappointment over not completing a family Bible reading plan 10. Creation of the Second Book: The Whole Bible Devotional Desire to help people get the “big picture” of the Bible and see Jesus throughout Scripture Structure and purpose of the book: Non-academic, accessible Bible overview 66 representative Scripture passages, one from each book of the Bible Prayers accompanying each passage, focusing on Jesus’s role across Scripture Suitable as a 66-day devotional for deeper Bible engagement 11. Teaching as a Calling Beyond the Classroom Understanding that her core gift of teaching could be used in new formats Comparing experiences with Doris regarding finding new avenues to teach 12. Practical Guidance for Bible Reading and Study Difference between reading through and studying the Bible The benefit of structured plans for reading large sections Importance of context and seeing the Bible as a whole 13. Process and Discernment in Selecting Devotional Scriptures Details on th

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In today’s episode, I welcome a very special duo: mother-daughter team Donna and Charity Amidon. Donna—an accomplished author, speaker, and Bible teacher—returns to the show to talk about her impactful book, Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story of Jesus and What That Means for Us. But this time, there’s a creative twist: Donna’s daughter, Charity, an exceptional artist and illustrator, joins the conversation to share her unique role in bringing this project to life. Together, Donna and Charity reveal how a simple Advent family tradition grew into a beloved Bible study—one that seamlessly connects Old Testament Scriptures to the promises fulfilled in Jesus. We’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about how illustrations that started as small doodles at the kitchen table grew into the artwork that now graces the pages of Donna’s book, as well as full-color Christmas ornaments, inviting families to create meaningful Advent traditions. You’ll also get practical ideas for using the book at home, in small groups, or as part of your church community, plus inspiration on how to use your own gifts to impact others for Christ. Whether you’re looking for hope in God’s timing, new ways to engage with Scripture, or encouragement to pursue your calling, this episode is sure to uplift you. Let’s dive into this heartwarming conversation about faith, creativity, advent, and God’s faithfulness across generations! We’re Talking About This Amazing Book and More! P.S. Planning your fall Bible study or Christmas Advent? Now’s the perfect time to explore Tracing His Promise! And if you do, be sure to share your experience with us. We’d love to hear—and maybe feature your story, too! Episode Highlights 00:00 “Book Discussion with Charity” 07:31 Divine Preparation and Small Beginnings 11:46 Art, Passion, and Impact 14:00 Mother-Daughter Art Collaboration 18:04 “Illustrations Enhanced with Color PDF” 20:51 Bible Study Book’s Progression 23:19 Exploring the Old Testament Together 27:10 “Fulfilled Prophecies: Hidden Treasures” 30:17 Empowering Youth Through Faith Sharing 34:37 “Passover’s Symbolic Link to Jesus” 37:49 Faith’s Universality Through Art 40:24 Trusting God’s Perfect Timing 43:19 Trust God’s Timing 47:30 Gratitude and Future Invitations Connect with Donna! You can connect with Donna at donnaamidon.org, where you’ll find out more about the book, her blog, and speaking. Follow & connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnaamidon_/ Follow & connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignitetheheart/ A graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary, Donna is an author, speaker, musician, and lover of all things Bible. For over two decades, Donna has been helping women engage with the rich truths of Scripture and apply them to everyday life.  With a heart for the local church, Donna has served as a Bible teacher, worship leader, radio broadcaster, small groups director, and pastor’s wife. Donna brings Scripture to life with clarity, heart, and just the right touch of humor, leaving her audience both challenged and refreshed.  Donna regularly shares at women’s conferences, retreats, and church gatherings. She also serves as a Spiritual Fitness Coach with Back to the Bible, where she hosts short video messages to encourage Christians in their spiritual journey.  Her first book, Tracing His Promise, invites readers to see Jesus throughout the Old Testament and discover God’s faithfulness from creation to the cradle. Donna and her husband, Ryan, live in Virginia with their adult daughter and teenage son. Connect with Charity! You can connect with Charity and find her amazing art at https://www.luckydogart.com/ Follow & connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amidonartstudio/ Follow & connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luckydogart/ Link to view more about the book and see Charity’s art and ornaments: https://www.donnaamidon.org/tracinghispromise You can find the downloadable PDFs with the ornaments at the back of the book (pg. 297) via a special QR code! My Endorsement Written for Tracing His Promise: “Tracing His Promise is a powerful, biblically grounded study that reveals profound connections between Old Testament Scripture and the coming Messiah who was born in Bethlehem and is undeniably Jesus. Throughout the study, Amidon illuminates for the reader the significance of events, prophecies, and people of Old Testament times, and not only how they connect directly to Jesus’s birth, but also how Jesus was present from the beginning of it all. Amidon engages readers through thought-provoking questions, impactful illustrations, and deep insight. She invites families to incorporate the Jesse Tree into their Christmas traditions and provides creative ideas and downloadable ornaments to help them asse

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In today’s episode, host Doris Swift sits down with Kate Battistelli—author, speaker, and one of the hosts of the popular Mom to Mom Podcast. Kate shares her powerful story of stepping from a career in theater and the New York Broadway scene into an unexpected life of faith, family, and purpose after coming to know Christ at the age of 29. Together, Doris and Kate explore what it means to step into unknown seasons—such as the empty nest—and discover new meaning and purpose beyond motherhood. Kate reflects on her journey, from being a Broadway understudy to embracing roles as a mother to the award-winning Christian music artist, Francesca Battistelli, grandmother to 7, wife, and writer, all while encouraging women to boldly obey God’s call, even if it means venturing outside their comfort zones. We’re talking about her career in theater opposite a well-known actor, how she met her hubby, their sweet salvation story, and how God has amazing plans and a powerful purpose for each of our lives. You’ll also hear practical tips for navigating life transitions, building strong marriages, mentoring the next generation, and saying “yes” to unexpected challenges—whether it’s writing a book, starting a podcast, or simply volunteering. Stick around until the end for a special offer from Kate, and get ready to be inspired to step out where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect! Episode Highlights 00:00 “Writer, Podcaster, Former Actress” 04:20 Exciting Stories and New Offers 10:25 From Understudy to Leading Role 12:45 “Unexpected Encounter at Holiness Church” 14:35 “Life-Changing Divine Calling” 20:30 Faithful Obedience and Calling 22:12 Redefining Life After Parenting 25:44 “Preparing for Future Goals” 28:20 Prioritize Relationship Over Parenting 31:31 Finding Purpose Beyond Motherhood 34:32 Pray for Prodigal Children’s Return 38:02 Impact Through Obedience 42:06 “Join, Share, and Connect” We’re Talking About Her Amazing Books and More! Connect with Kate! You can connect with Kate at katebattistelli.com where you’ll find her books, social media links, podcast, blog, and even some amazing recipes! Plus, If you’d like to read the introduction and the first chapter of The Afterparty of the Empty Nest for free, just text: afterparty (all one word with no spaces), to 44144. And you’ll get a couple of other fun goodies as well! Kate Battistelli is the author of The After Party of the Empty Nest: Mom is Not Your Only Name, the bestseller, The God Dare: Will You Choose to Believe the Impossible, and Growing Great Kids: Partner with God to Cultivate His Purpose in Your Child’s Life. She is a contributing writer to the (in)courage Bible for Women and The Spirit-Led Woman’s Bible, and her writing has appeared in Guideposts, The Joyful Life magazine, The Better Mom, Mici magazine, and more. She is one-third of the popularMom to Mom Podcast. In addition, she is an honoree with She Leads Tennessee. As a young actress in New York City, Kate had a life-changing experience, going from understudy to starring as Anna in theBroadway National Tour of The King and I opposite Yul Brynner for more than 1,000 performances. Kate and her husband laid down their careers in the Broadway theatre in answer to their first “God Dare,” moving out of New York City and into a life of homeschooling and home business. She lives in Franklin, TN, near her daughter, contemporary Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli, and seven precious grandchildren. Kate serves women by encouraging them to step out of their safe space and into His irresistible future. She’s a Jersey girl living in Franklin, TN, with her husband Mike. They’ve been married for 40 plus years and are the parents of GRAMMY Award-winning Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli Goodwin. She and her husband, Matt, have given us 7 beautiful grandchildren, and they are the delight of our lives! What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, p

On today’s episode of Fierce Calling, I’m talking with Hadassah Treu, an award-winning international author, poet, and blogger, who is passionate about encouraging the brokenhearted and helping others find hope in difficult seasons. Hadassah encourages us to discover the blessings and purposes in the painful seasons of our lives. From Bulgaria to Austria and back, Hadassah shared how her most painful experiences have become the birthplace of blessings, and how surrendering our struggles to God can transform our journey. If you’re ready to rediscover lasting joy and resilience through faith, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical encouragement to help you keep moving forward, no matter what you’re facing. I know what Hadassah shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Hadassah Treu. Episode Highlights 00:00 Surrender to Rediscover Joy 06:32 From Illusions to Spiritual Growth 09:46 Faith Journey Through Writing 13:01 Spiritual Journeys in Christian Europe 17:37 “Finding Growth Through Pain” 21:47 Faith and God’s Definition of Good 24:53 Facing Failure: Losses and Gains 28:39 Pursuing Spiritual Maturity and Growth 30:58 Reflecting on God’s Work Through Journaling 34:02 Prophetic Poetry of Eternal Hope 37:16 “New Creations in Christ” 40:14 Inspiring Interview with Hadassah We’re Talking About … Connect with Hadassah! You can connect with Hadassah at onthewaybg.com where you’ll find her blog posts, books, social media links, and helpful resources. Hadassah Treu is an award-winning international author, blogger, poet, speaker, and spiritual growth mentor. She is the Encouraging Blogger Award Winner for 2020, the Literature Award Winner of the Municipality of Pazardzhik, Bulgaria for 2024, and a winner of the National Literary Translation Award “Stoyan Bakardzhiev”, Bulgaria for 2025. Hadassah loves to encourage and motivate people to stand firm in the faith, and grow spiritually by applying biblical truths in their lives. She loves diving deeper into the Word of God and finding hidden treasures. Her blog is on the Top 100 Faith Blogs (spot 19) on the web by Feedspot in 2025. Hadassah is a regular contributor to several faith-based platforms like Devotable, Koinonia, COMPEL Pro Proverbs 31 Ministries Blog,  COMPEL Pro Training Freelancing Group leader, and Blogger Voices Network contributor. She has been featured on The Upper Room, (In)Courage, Proverbs 31 Ministries, Her View From Home, Living by Design Ministries, Thoughts About God, Aletheia Today, Today’s Christian Living,   The Way Back to Ourselves, and other popular sites. Hadassah is also a contributing author to 14 devotional and poetry anthologies. She is also the author of 2 poetry books in Bulgarian: “A Guarantee for Another Life” and “Memories Keeper.” Her first solo book “Draw Near: How Painful Experiences Become a Birthplace of Blessings” with Calla Press Publishing was released on March 15,  2024. Order HERE! Hadassah is no stranger to suffering and losses. From the platform of her greatest pains equipped with lessons gathered on the way, she delivers a powerful message of comfort and hope, found in God’s Word. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, purpose, and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In this episode, host Doris Swift welcomes back her friend and returning guest, Rebecca George—author, speaker, and founder of the Radical Radiance podcast community. Doris and Rebecca dive into themes every woman can relate to, including living in that “in-between-almost-but-not-yet” season, and the struggle of waiting on God’s timing in a world telling us to hurry up, because we’re falling behind. Rebecca shares insights from her newest book, You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry Up World, and opens up about how longing, comparison, and even resentment can creep in, no matter what stage of life you’re in. Together, Doris and Rebecca discuss faith and trusting God with hopes, dreams, and that thing we’re longing for. They also talk about the importance of community, the dangers of the prosperity gospel, and how to cultivate spiritual resiliency in our everyday rhythms of waiting. Whether you’re waiting for a breakthrough, struggling with unmet desires, or simply looking to find more joy right where you are, this episode promises wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder: it’s not too late for you. Join us as we lean into God’s timing, celebrate kingdom work, and find inspiration for your own fierce calling! Episode Highlights Introduction to Rebecca’s New Book: “You’re Not Too Late” Book’s core message: Trusting God’s timing in a hurry-up world Who the message is for and why it resonates Living in the “In Between Almost-But-Not-Yet” The tension of waiting and longing Faithfulness in the “meanwhile” Rebecca’s Story and Passion Intersection Multiple hats Rebecca wears in life and ministry Importance of community among writers, speakers, and podcasters Creating environments free of competition and comparison How real-life women’s stories are integrated Each chapter’s exploration of an opposing mindset/emotion Interactive aspects—readers relating to stories and self-reflection prompts Shift in Book Focus: From Singleness to Bigger Picture Regarding Longing Original intent as a “singleness” book Expansion into broader themes of longing and desire Recognizing longing continues even after certain desires are fulfilled Coping with Longing and Waiting Gospel-centered perspective versus earthly focus Transitioning from struggle (despair, doubt, isolation) to hope (joy, community) Challenges of comparison and resentment Idolatry and Resentment in the Waiting When desires become idols Personal stories of jealousy and difficult emotions Honest conversations with God about unmet desires Navigating Comparison The ongoing struggle with comparison Coping with guilt over mixed emotions (joy for others, pain for self) Reminder of true fulfillment found in God Prosperity Gospel and Misguided Self-Help Critique of self-help and prosperity gospel ideas infiltrating Christian messaging Dangers of self-reliance and the myth that effort guarantees results Importance of biblical truth as the foundation Culture of Instant Gratification How technology trains us to avoid waiting Everyday habits undermining our resilience and patience Practicing small disciplines to build spiritual resilience God’s Timing and Looking Back Reflections on answered prayer coming in the right season The sweetness of fulfilled longing after seasons of waiting Gratefulness for God’s story being better than our plan Favorite Stories and Practical Takeaways from the Book “The Bench Story”—Rebecca and her husband’s intertwined journeys of prayer and waiting Psalm 139 “Search Me, God” prayer as a practical tool for self-examination Encouragement to use scriptural prayers during hard seasons Encouragement for Listeners Still Waiting Praying for future blessings and spouses Warning against making impulsive decisions out of fear of being “too late” Affirming listeners’ value and God’s perfect timing Connecting with Rebecca & Additional Resources Where to find Rebecca online (Instagram, podcast, books) Free video series accompanying the book Use of book for group or individual study Conclusion and Invitation Reiteration of every woman’s “fierce calling” Encouragement to partner with God in kingdom work Preview of future episodes and invitation to tune in again Connect with Rebecca! You can connect with Rebecca on Instagram @rebeccageorgeauthor and her website radicalradience.live Rebecca George is the author of You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry Up World, and Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl , and the host of the popular podcast Radical Radiance. Her work has been featured on outlets such as Life Today TV, HomeLife magazine, and Moody Radio. Rebecca and her husband, Dustin, live in East Tennessee. Link to Previous Episode with Rebecca What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In today’s episode, host Doris Swift sits down with Jessica Ronne—author, speaker, caregiver advocate, and founder of the Lucas Project—for an inspiring conversation about faith, resilience, and answering God’s call in the midst of life’s biggest challenges. Jessica opens up about her lifelong journey as a caregiver, from growing up as the eldest of twelve siblings to raising a blended family of eight children, including her son Lucas who has profound disabilities. Jessica shares how her experiences of navigating personal loss, blending families, and caring for a child with special needs have shaped her calling to support caregivers and create real solutions through initiatives like the Lucas Project and her work as an author and documentary producer. Together, they discuss the importance of giving yourself permission to feel all the complex emotions that come with caregiving, the holy and transformative nature of serving others, and practical ways to support families facing these unique challenges. Whether you’re a caregiver yourself, know someone who is, or simply want to understand what it means to walk in faith and fierce compassion, this episode is packed with encouragement, wisdom, and actionable insights. Get ready to rediscover joy, find community, and learn how God meets us—and uses us—in every season of life. Episode Takeaways … Permission to Feel: Jessica opens up about the reality of caregiving—how it’s okay to admit feelings of grief, resentment, or overwhelm, and how naming those feelings is the first step toward healing. Finding Holy Purpose: She beautifully reframes caregiving as “holy work,” reminding us that as we care for those who can’t care for themselves, we reflect the heart of Christ. Blended Family Wisdom: Jessica and her husband blended families after losing their spouses. She shares practical, honest advice for navigating new relationships, grief, and all the “stuff” that comes with starting over. Practical Help for Caregivers: Learn about the power of presence, the need for respite, and practical ways to support families—like bringing a meal (pro tip: offer easy choices like tacos or lasagna!). Resources You Can Use Today: The Lucas Project provides respite and resources for parent caregivers The Coffee with Caregivers podcast for ongoing encouragement Caregivers Cove Facebook support group (2,200+ members!) Two documentaries: Unseen and the upcoming Uncertain Jessica’s books: Caregiving with Grit and Grace, Sunlight Burning at Midnight, Blended with Grit and Grace, and more Episode Highlights 06:38 Lifelong Caregiver Journey 08:38 “Author’s Journey and Family Life” 10:39 “Blending Families: Grace and Grit” 16:30 Permission to Feel in Caregiving 20:18 “Founding the Lucas Project” 22:31 Divine Design and Support Systems 26:49 Caregiving: Finding Purpose and Support 28:30 Seek Professional Help, Not Spouse 33:05 Simplifying Help for Caregivers Connect with Jessica! You can connect with Jessica at thelucasproject.org and jessronne.com Facebook: @jessronneofficial Instagram: @jessplusthemess Jessica Ronne is a multi-published author, speaker, host of the Coffee with Caregivers Podcast, producer of UNSEEN and UNCERTAIN, and caregiver advocate. She offers encouragement and practical tips to her listeners. She is also the founder/executive director of The Lucas Project, a nonprofit providing resources, and respite for special needs caregivers. She and her husband, Ryan, live in Michigan with their eight children, including their son Lucas, who has profound disabilities. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for fall/winter 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value, purpose, and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about y

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In this inspiring episode, host Doris Swift sits down with Robin Gerblick, an award-winning author, biblical life coach, and founder of the Exodus Women’s Retreat. Robin shares her powerful story of redemption, from a painful past marked by abortion and decades of wandering, to finding healing and purpose through Jesus. Together, Doris and Robin discuss the real, raw, and redeemed journey that led Robin to embrace forgiveness, launch a transformative women’s ministry, and write her book, Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul. Robin opens up about the challenges she faced, the grace she found after hitting rock bottom, and how God used her story to impact the lives of other women. Whether you’re struggling with regret, searching for healing, or just needing a reminder that it’s never too late to step into your calling, Robin’s testimony will encourage you to trust God’s timing and reclaim your joy. Plus, discover how Robin’s retreats empower women to encounter God in the wilderness and take the next steps toward spiritual wholeness. Tune in for an honest, hope-filled conversation about surrender, restoration, and stepping boldly where passion, compassion, and conviction intersect! Episode Highlights 00:00 “Surrendering Joy Stealers” 05:17 “Real, Raw, Redeemed Journey” 09:27 Regret Over Missed Adoption Choice 11:53 “Seeking Identity Before Faith” 15:31 “Giving Up Grace Explained” 17:54 “Believing Is Seeing: Trusting God” 22:52 Abortion’s Lasting Impact on Fertility 24:41 Volunteering at Crisis Pregnancy Centers 28:33 “Grace: Healing and Reflection” 31:43 Grace, Stories, and Comfort 36:51 “Faith-Driven Success and Leadership” 39:48 Post-Abortion Support and Encouragement 42:49 Forgiveness Journey and Healing Resources Connect with Robin! You can connect with Robin at robingerblick.com where you’ll find her book, social media links, the Exodus Women’s Retreat, and more! She’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation! What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for fall/winter 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another guest who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom and inspiration from Doris and our incredible guests! 📲 Transcript Doris Swift [00:01:53]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Dora Swift, author of the award winning six week bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken the joy within, and share the joy with others. Dor

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In today’s episode, host Doris Swift welcomes friend Erin Harrigan—a Christian wife, empty nest mom, sought-after speaker, business coach, and host of the award-winning podcast “Redefining Hustle: Pursuing Success as a Christian Woman.” Erin is also the author of Pursuing Success God’s Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart, and she’s here to share her journey from achieving worldly success in business to discovering what it truly means to find fulfillment and impact by letting Jesus lead. Listen in as Erin opens up about her radical transformation after giving her life to Christ at age 46, the traps of new age thinking, and how true success is rooted in obedience, stewardship, and joy in the Lord, not in hustle or comparison. Doris and Erin dig deep into what it means to pursue God’s assignments in every season, whether you’re working in the corporate world, beginning a new adventure at home, or stepping out into something new. You’ll walk away encouraged to seek God first in every venture, redefine success by His standards, and take practical steps toward living abundantly (not in a prosperity gospel kind of way, but God’s way) and making kingdom impact—right where you are. Get ready for a powerful conversation that will inspire you to surrender your joy stealers, cultivate your God-given gifts, and step into your unique calling with wholehearted faith! Episode Highlights 00:00 “Surrender Your Joy Stealers” 05:40 From New Age to Christian Faith 10:06 Pursuing Success God’s Way 11:52 “Success: A Divine Perspective” 16:00 Avoiding Distraction: Focus on Purpose 19:18 Sin, Success, and Spiritual Guidance 21:44 Walking in Faith, Not Prosperity 25:40 Embracing Change and Identity 30:39 Listening to God’s Guidance Connect with Erin! You can connect with Erin at erinharrigan.com, where you’ll find her books, podcast, coaching info, social media links, and more about Erin. She’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation! What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for fall/winter 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another guest who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom and inspiration from Doris and our incredible guests! 📲 Transcript Doris [00:01:53]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Dora Swift, author of the award winning six week bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken the joy within, and share the joy with others. Doris [00:02:56]:You can do it on your own or with a group.

Welcome to another episode of Fierce Calling! Today, host Doris Swift sits down with the inspiring Stephanie Alton—literary agent, marketing expert, wife, and mom, who shares how profound moments happen when we listen to God. Stephanie encourages us with her remarkable journey, including unexpected steps and small beginnings that God used to lead her right where she’s meant to be. Through stories of divine timing, open doors, and the willingness to say “yes,” Stephanie offers practical advice, reminding us that every big dream starts with small, faithful steps. Whether you’re looking to step into your calling, start writing, or need encouragement in a difficult season, this conversation will remind you that God’s purpose unfolds in ways we never expect. So grab your coffee or tea, get comfortable, and get ready to be inspired by the story of how ordinary obedience can lead to extraordinary impact. Episode Highlights 00:00 “Surrender Your Joy Stealers” 05:18 “Divine Path to Literary Agent” 10:57 Embracing Opportunities in Publishing 12:15 “Journey to Becoming a Gatekeeper” 18:33 Undeniable Divine Intervention 20:31 Milestone Moments of Faith 23:05 Understanding Audiences and Unique Voices 29:16 “Building Your Writing Platform” 32:21 Steps Lead to Big Opportunities 35:46 “Know Your Audience’s Expectations” 40:50 Parenting Reflections and Growth 41:53 Cherishing Motherhood and Personal Timing 45:51 Join Our Book Pod Network 49:07 Blessings and Goodbye for Now Connect with Stephanie! You can connect with Stephanie through The Book Pod Review and Interview Network Facebook group, as she mentioned in the show! You can also find out more about her and which conferences she’ll be attending at theblythedanielagency.com, which is in the process of being updated soon. Stephanie Alton is a wife, mom, literary agent, and marketing expert. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom and inspiration from Doris and our incredible guests! 📲 Transcript Doris [00:01:53]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Dora Swift, author of the award winning six week bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken the joy within, and share the joy with others. Doris [00:02:56]:You can do it on your own or with a group. Check it out, friends. Surrender the Joy Stealers. Rediscover the Jesus joy in you. It’s available on all the online retailers. It’

Welcome back to Fierce Calling! In today’s episode, host Doris Swift welcomes back author, coach, and Proverbs 31 Ministries writer Abby McDonald. Abby is here to talk about her brand new book, Surrendering Certainty: Hearing God Today by Letting Go of Tomorrow. With warmth and honesty, Abby opens up about juggling the demands of motherhood, writing, and community, and how God has shifted her focus to finding Him in both the big moments and everyday interruptions. Together, Doris and Abby dig into what it means to truly surrender our need for control and certainty, and to trust God—especially when life doesn’t go the way we planned. Abby shares insightful stories, biblical wisdom, and practical steps to help you trade fear and frustration for adventurous faith, and to recognize that even life’s distractions can be holy moments of growth and connection with God. Whether you’re in a season of waiting, feeling weighed down by uncertainty, or looking for encouragement to embrace your calling, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone. Get ready to be encouraged, challenged, and equipped to rediscover joy and confidence in following God’s lead—one surrendered step at a time. Episode Highlights 05:36 Intentional Connections and Community Building 09:32 “Trusting God’s Plan” 13:41 “Surrendering Certainty” Book Endorsement 18:38 Honest Prayer for Clarity 23:07 Chronic Pain and Seeking Comfort 24:06 “Meteor Shower and Divine Assurance” 29:51 “Rejection as a Refining Process” 31:19 Psalm’s Guidance Against Fear 34:49 “Delayed Success is Sweeter” 38:44 Encourage Book Reviews for Abby Connect with Abby! You can connect with Abby and find her books, social media links, coaching services, blog, and her 5 Days to Life Unstuck Challenge, and more at abbymcdonald.org Abby McDonald is a writing coach, speaker, and the author of Surrendering Certainty: Hearing God Today by Letting Go of Tomorrow. and Shift: Changing Our Focus to See the Presence of God. Her mission is to empower women to hear God’s voice in their lives and act on it in faith. Abby writes regularly for Proverb 31 Ministries’ daily devotions team, and her work has been featured in numerous publications. Abby lives with her husband, three children, and black lab in the mountains of western Maryland. Connect with her at abbymcdonald.org. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your next event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom and inspiration from Doris and our incredible guests! 📲 Transcript Doris:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Dora Swift, author of the award winning six week bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, And it helps women rediscover

Welcome back to another uplifting episode of Fierce Calling! I’m your host, Doris Swift, and today we have a special guest joining us—Amanda Schaefer. Amanda is an inspiring author, speaker, and host of the popular podcast “A Cup of Gratitude.” In this episode, Amanda shares her incredible transformation journey through faith, joy, and gratitude. From encountering Jesus in her home in a powerful way, to using her podcast to spread the gospel during the pandemic, Amanda’s story highlights the power of choosing gratitude and finding joy even in difficult times. Amanda shares about the difficult seasons of two divorces, but don’t miss the praise story of what God did to redeem it all. We dive into her upcoming book, which is set to encourage readers to explore their own stories and discover God at work in every chapter of their lives. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with insight, encouragement, and the reminder that our past story is part of our grace story. Stay tuned for an episode that will inspire you to take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Episode Highlights 06:03 Gratitude and Opportunity Beyond Borders 10:56 Testimony: Sharing Stories of Faith 12:29 “Connecting Through Shared Stories” 16:11 “Discovering God’s Purpose in Stories” 19:48 Divine Guidance in Marriage Choices 24:37 Seeking God’s Guidance 26:40 “Journey of Faith and Renewal” 31:01 Journey to Healing and Faith 33:40 Amanda’s Inspiring Show Highlights Connect with Amanda! You can connect with Amanda at acupofgratitude.org where you’ll find her podcast, blog, and all her social media links! Amanda Schaefer is a podcast host, author, and speaker. She carries with her the goodness of looking through a lens of gratitude. The “A Cup of Gratitude” podcast is global, reaching over 112 countries and 3000 cities. As a speaker, Amanda teaches the Bible while challenging audiences to live the way God intends. She has a way of making scripture come alive through everyday examples.  Amanda’s books include, “Crumbled, A Place for Broken People” and “Daily “Instaration.” She is a contributing author of “Life Changing Stories and the newly released books, “One Chance, One Dance, Don’t Miss the Moments in Your Life,” and “Courageous Voices Unlocked.” Her books are down to earth and packed with Biblical truth. Amanda has also written articles for “The Brave Women Series,” “The Uncommon Normal Gratitude Series,” “The Love Offering,” “The Warrior Women Series,” “Butterfly Living, “The Empty Nest Mom Series,” and “The Season Series.” She is under contract to write a new manuscript slated to be released in April 2025. Connect with Amanda at www.acupofgratitude.org or on Social media  www.instagram.com/acupof_gratitude www.facebook.com/amanda.f.schaefer www.acupofgratitude.org https://youtube.com/@acupofgratitude?si=PF55x6T4ecrs7jdg What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your 2025 event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Fierce Calling! I’m your host, Doris Swift, and today we have the pleasure of welcoming back a dear friend and esteemed guest, Dr. Evelyn Johnson-Taylor. With over three decades of leadership in women’s ministry, Dr. Evelyn is dedicated to guiding women through the many seasons of their lives, encouraging, empowering, and equipping them to triumph at every stage. In this episode, we delve into her newest book, In and Out of Seasons: Thriving in Life’s Transitions, where she courageously shares her personal journey through loss, grief, and rediscovery. Through transparency and wisdom, Dr. Evelyn reveals how God uses life’s transitions to prepare us for our callings, reminding us that we are never alone in our journeys. Join us as we explore the power of embracing each season of life with hope and resilience. Whether you’re navigating a season of change or seeking to find your purpose, this conversation promises to uplift and encourage. You won’t want to miss this. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s dive into this transformative discussion with Dr. Evelyn Johnson-Taylor. Episode Highlights Dr. Evelyn’s Personal Journey and Calling Her unexpected journey into women’s ministry. The influence of her husband’s pastoral work on her path. The importance of recognizing one’s calling through interactions with others. Impact of Loss and Life Transitions Dr. Evelyn’s experience with the passing of her husband and its emotional impact. Her approach to grief and the importance of aligning feelings with faith. The process of finding clarity and purpose after loss. Purpose and Objectives of the Book Using personal experiences to help others through similar life transitions. Emphasizing empathy and understanding through shared experiences. Different types of life transitions covered in the book, including empty nest and divorce. Engagement and Impact on Readers Feedback received from readers who relate to the book. Dr. Evelyn’s desire for readers to know they are not alone. Practical Advice on Navigating Seasons and Transitions Encouragement to approach change with an open heart and mind. Insight into thriving through challenges and opportunities for growth. Conclusion and Further Engagement Encouragement for listeners to connect with Dr. Evelyn through her website and social media. Information about Dr. Evelyn’s ongoing projects, including a prayer line for women. Connect with Dr. Evelyn! You can connect with Dr. Evelyn Johnson Taylor at https://evelynjtaylor.org/ where you’ll find all of her social media links, services, Women Called to Prayer prayer line, and more! Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your 2025 event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom

In this episode of Fierce Calling, Doris welcomes Tawana Lowery, founder of Miss Overcomer Global, a movement dedicated to helping women overcome through Christ and empowering them to become the key women of influence God created. Join us as Tawana delves into her incredible journey of overcoming life’s trials, from personal heartbreak and loss to the powerful epiphany that transformed her perspective on hardships. Discover how these experiences led her to develop a ministry that aids others in connecting with their courage, calling, and the power of prayer. Listen in as Tawana shares her wisdom on the importance of casting cares onto Christ, defeating the enemy’s lies, and embracing our unique calling. Whether you are seeking encouragement or looking for ways to enhance your spiritual journey, this episode is packed with insights that will encourage, inspire, and challenge you! Episode Highlights *Tawana’s personal overcomer story *The forming of Miss Overcomer Global *The power of prayer *Finding God’s faithfulness through hard seasons *God does work all things together for good *Prayer coach academy Connect with Tawana! You can connect with Tawana and find her coaching, speaking info, prayer coaching info, and more at www.MissOvercomer.com  Learn more about the Power of Prayer Coaching with this Free Prayer Coach Readiness Quiz… ️ https://bit.ly/PrayerCoachQuiz Let Tawana help to make 2025 your MEGA year for:  Mega Impact  Mega Purpose  Mega Empowerment Discover your Score now https://bit.ly/PrayerCoachQuiz Then book your Free 2025 Planning call with Tawana to discuss your results and your goals. Possibly you were Born for such an Opportunity as this! Tawana Lowery is a dynamic figure in the world of women’s leadership and personal growth. For more than 20 years, she has dedicated her career to Empowering women of Faith as a Leadership Coach, Best Selling Author, International Speaker, and YouTube Host. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your 2025 event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom and inspiration from Doris and our incredible guests! 📲 Check out my home page for amazing for free resources and encouragement! Transcript Doris [00:01:54]:Welcome back to the show. Today, I am excited to welcome my friend, Tawana Lowry. For more than twenty years, she’s been empowering women of faith as a leadership coach, keynote speaker, best selling author, and YouTube host, and prayer coach. She is the founder of Miss Overcomer Global, and she gets joy from helping women overcome setbacks and leap forward with joy and purpose. And I am so excited to get into this conversation with you today. Welcome to the show, Tawana. Tawana Lowery [00:02:28]:Thank you, Doris. I’m so happy to be here.

Welcome to episode 200!!!! Praise God and thank you to all my listeners!!!! The Fierce Calling Podcast is part of Fierce Calling Ministries which exists to encourage, equip, and engage women to take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect, use their God-given gifts to impact the world for Christ, and partner with God in Kingdom work. In this milestone episode … Doris welcomes Dawn Ward, a dedicated author, speaker, biblical life coach, and founder of the transformative ministry, The Faith to Flourish. which helps women grow and flourish in their relationship with Jesus in all seasons of their lives. Dawn delves into her personal journey from her childhood in a typical Midwestern family to navigating the tumultuous waters of addiction within her family. Through her story, Dawn shares profound insights into how God intervened in her life, steering her from overwhelming fear and guilt toward a path of trust and surrender. Together, Doris and Dawn explore the intersecting lines of passion, compassion, and conviction that mark Dawn’s fierce calling, offering hope and Christian guidance to women burdened by life’s challenges. Join us for an episode filled with encouragement and inspiration as Dawn reveals how her faith, fortified by God’s word, guided her through the trials of addiction in her family and empowered her to assist other women seeking hope and healing! Key Topics and Takeaways … *Dawn’s Personal Story *Family Struggles with Addiction *Emotional and Spiritual Journey *Research and Seeking Help *Support and Community Building *Dawn Ward’s Ministry and Writing *Impact of Dawn’s Ministry *Call to Action and Resources Connect with Dawn! You can connect with dawn on her website thefaithtoflourish.com where you’ll find her resources, blog, her book From Guilt to Grace, social media links, and more! Dawn is married to her wonderfully supportive husband, Steve, and is the mother of three adult children. She and her family live in Las Vegas, a city of bright lights, surrounded by the dry, barren Mohave desert. Thus, the name The Faith to Flourish was born. Dawn founded this ministry out of a desire to help other women grow and flourish in their relationship with Jesus in all seasons of their lives. ​Professionally, until recently, she worked over 25 years in the medical field, primarily with female patients. Dawn has also served in women’s ministry in various teaching and leadership capacities for over thirty years. Both opportunities have given her invaluable perspective into the hearts and lives of women. Dawn’s passions are teaching, discipling, and equipping women to live victorious lives of faith. ​​​Because of the painful seasons of experiencing the trauma of watching her family members engage in self-destructive behaviors, Dawn was falling apart along with them. And sadly, her relationship with the Lord was also suffering. ​Dawn didn’t want to just say that Jesus was first in her life, she wanted Jesus to be first in her life. Dawn wanted to trust him in the good times, and yes, even in the bad, and longed to grow in grace while drawing closer to the Lord. ​​​Dawn took a deep dive into God’s word and discovered God is always faithful and his word never fails. She learned that the destructive life choices of others are hard, but so are many other trials we face in our lifetime. Her heart is for women to know that regardless of the journey each of us is on, it’s her heart’s desire to see each of us flourishing in our faith, rooted in God’s word, and growing in his grace. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in t

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Fierce Calling! Today, we’re thrilled to have a conversation with the multifaceted Josh Huisman. Josh is not only a pastor but also an author, coach, artist, and podcaster. In today’s episode, Josh shares his incredible journey through the ups and downs of life and how he has embraced a path where his passion, compassion, and conviction uniquely intersect. He opens up about the transformative power of intentionality, whether it’s through cultivating a routine of reading scripture, harnessing creativity through music and art, or leading a healthier lifestyle. His stories and insights offer practical advice on how incremental growth can lead to significant life changes. Join us as we dive deep into an engaging dialogue about faith, creativity, and transformation. Plus, don’t miss the chance to hear about his exciting projects, including his podcasting ventures and upcoming book. Listen in for an episode filled with wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder of the impact of making small, intentional changes every day. Key Topics and Takeaways … Intentional Living: Josh shared the importance of having a game plan in various aspects of life, whether it’s setting a daily routine for Bible reading, creating healthy habits, or pursuing personal passions. He emphasizes the power of showing up every day and making intentional choices. 🌱 Faith in Action: With his vibrant story from being a sports enthusiast to a pastor and musician, Josh inspired listeners to trust in God’s plans. His journey reminds us that total surrender and openness to where God leads can result in a fulfilling and purpose-driven life. 🙏 Incremental Growth: Josh advocates for incremental daily changes rather than extreme short-term goals. Whether it’s health, faith, or professional growth, small, consistent efforts lead to sustainable transformation over time. 💪 To listen to more of Josh’s journey and inspiring insights, check out the full episode of “Fierce Calling.” This is a must-listen for anyone looking to enrich their life with purpose and intentionality! #FierceCalling #Podcast #IntentionalLiving #Faith #GrowthMindset Connect with Josh! My episode with Josh on The Josh Huisman Podcast/Surrender the Joy Stealers of Your Life Chase the Sunset by Josh Huisman https://youtu.be/olJtck5q-dc?si=PV4ouRLP3Q5FVnRy Josh Huisman is a pastor, author, coach, artist, and host of The Josh Huisman Podcast and Biblical Mindset. In ministry for over 20 years, his ministry and art exist to glorify God. His podcasts bring you content from Christian leaders who are doing their best to walk upright before the Lord. Connect with Josh at joshhuisman.com New Hope Community Church in Brentwood. New Hope’s website is newhopechurchtn.org YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC12vv4i7kJlosft5vcu-03A Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6XzNAbd4bgeZiZxKHJIPoz?si=de079f44b5344684 Apple Podcasts geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1688067162?ct=rephonic&mt=2 YouTube Music music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiHwMg6xzXt8S39o3oC9snt9gJGRlDYpn Google Podcasts podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9lMWMwMWY5OC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw?sa=X&ved=0CAMQ4aUDahcKEwiQ49ik_sb_AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNQ Amazon Musicmusic.amazon.com/podcasts/6258e5bf-bfa0-426f-bac1-93cc1d3f6653/the-josh-huisman-podcast iHeart Radioiheart.com/podcast/269-the-josh-huisman-podcast-115186628 Castbox.fmcastbox.fm/channel/The-Josh-Huisman-Podcast-id5438709 Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect wit

This week’s episode is an inspiring journey of transformation, faith, and joy that you won’t want to miss. Join Host Doris Swift as she welcomes the remarkable Cindy Brinker Simmons to the Fierce Calling Podcast. Cindy, a best-selling author, businesswoman, and philanthropist, shares her compelling story that started on the worst day of her life and blossomed into a ministry that encourages others through life’s challenges. Listen in as Cindy opens up about her personal trials, beginning with the loss of her mother at age 12, to enduring the profound grief of her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Cindy’s unwavering faith, even in the face of heartbreak, reveals a powerful message about God’s plan and purpose in our struggles. We’re talking all about her new book Restored: Reconnecting Life’s Broken Pieces Key Topics and Takeaways … Finding Ministry in Grief: Cindy reflects on her journey from devastation to discovering a new purpose. Prayer and God’s Answers : She believes God answers prayers in various ways that lead to unexpected blessings. Joy as a Choice: Discover how Cindy and her family chose joy and faith during her husband’s illness, creating a lasting impact through their strength. “Restored” – A Guide to Perseverance: Explore Cindy’s book, which offers valuable insights and practical applications for reconnecting life’s broken pieces. Transforming Grief into Activism: Learn about Cindy’s foundation, “Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer,” which channels personal grief into meaningful action. Connect with Cindy! You can connect with Karen at brinkersimmons.com.  Her social media links are: https://www.facebook.com/cindybrinkersimmons.author https://www.instagram.com/cindybrinkersimmons.author https://youtube.com/@cindybrinkersimmons.author Cindy Brinker Simmons graduated from the University of Virginia with a bachelor of arts in communications and Spanish. Upon returning to Dallas after her graduation, Cindy began a distinguished 30-year career in public relations.In 1980, coinciding with commencing her professional career, in 1980 Cindy established Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC), one of Dallas’ largest pediatric cancer non-profit organizations, and has remained on its board. WOKC funds meritorious childhood oncology research projects nationwide and has multiple programs designed to help and encourage young cancer patientsand their families. Cindy established WOKC in memory of her mother, the late great tennis champion Maureen “Little Mo” Connolly Brinker, who died of cancer in 1969 at the age of 34. Cindy is president and on the board of the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation (MCB), one of the most respected junior tennis organizations worldwide. MCB furthers tennis development for elite and talented players, ages 8-12, through its national and international tournaments. MCB has also created innovative initiatives for its young competitors thatpromote good sportsmanship, fair play and strong moral character. In 2008, Cindy was appointed by Texas Speaker Tom Craddick to the Oversight Committee of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, a state agency designed to fund groundbreaking cancer grants and to bring top cancer specialists to the state. Cindy completed her three-year term on CPRIT’s Oversight Committee, serving as its secretary, to establish andmanage the operations, policies and staff of the Institute. Cindy has devoted herself to philanthropic concerns. She currently serves on the board of Dallas Theological Seminary. Cindy is the author of the popular book, LITTLE MO’s LEGACY: A Mother’s Lessons, A Daughter’s Story. The book chronicles the lessons her late mother taught her in life and in death. Cindy has one treasured son, William. Her husband, Bob, passed away in 2005 after a valiant three-year battle with cancer. Cindy’s absolute favorite pastime is gathering with her family and friends with a cup of Earl Grey hot tea enjoying a deep and meaningful conversation. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my&#1

Welcome to today’s episode of Fierce Calling, where we’re thrilled to have the multi-talented Karen E. Iverson back on the show. Karen is a licensed professional counselor, coach, public speaker, actress, singer, and artist, recognized as a difference-maker at the 2019 Author Advantage Live Conference. Her newest book, Winning the Mental Health Battle from Struggling to Thriving: 7 Tips to Navigate Anxiety, Depression, and Mania, offers invaluable insights into mental health. In this episode, Karen shares her inspiring journey from aspiring psychiatrist to impactful mental health counselor and author. We delve into her personal experiences and explore her approach to therapy, which includes innovative techniques like the “54321” grounding method. Karen and I discuss embracing authenticity, confronting societal stigmas, and finding strength in faith. We also highlight practical ways to navigate emotions and thoughts, underscoring the vital role of professional help. Get ready for a deep and fascinating conversation that will encourage, inspire, and challenge you. Listen in! Key Topics and Takeaways … Karen Iverson’s Professional and Personal Journey Aspiration to follow her father’s footsteps as a psychiatrist Path to becoming a licensed professional counselor Shift from aspiring art therapist to counselor in Oklahoma Previous book on her breast cancer journey and companion journal Karen’s New Book Winning the Mental Health Battle from Struggling to Thriving: 7 Tips to Navigate Anxiety, Depression, and Mania Open discussion of faith while being accessible to a diverse audience Divine timing and the experience gained before release Thematic Insights on Mental Health Emphasis on journaling as a therapeutic practice Explanation of mania and importance of professional diagnosis Destigmatizing mental health treatment via diagnosis, therapy, and medication Encouragement to seek help without shame, acknowledging stigmas even in religious communities Spiritual and Faith-Based Elements Transition from secular music to faith-based speaking Christ-centered yet inclusive approach in Karen’s book Use of faith in resilience against cultural identity and relationship challenges Practical Techniques for Mental Health Management “54321” grounding technique for anxiety Emphasizing gratitude and positive thinking Concept of emotions being temporary; typically lasting about 90 seconds Role of the Holy Spirit and Divine Intervention Discussion on the Holy Spirit as part of the Trinity Moments of perceived divine intervention in Karen’s life Use of Guided Visualization Free guided visualizations on Karen’s website to address anxiety, depression, and mania Guided visualizations explained as audio-guided relaxation exercises Clarification that techniques are not aligned with new age practices Examples such as walking on a beach as a calming visualization Acknowledgments and Contact Information Doris thanks Karen for her participation Encouragement for listeners to check show notes for more information Karen’s contact details and resources availability: mental health quizzes and service offerings on her website More of Karen’s Books Pick up the Original Books: Winning the Breast Cancer Battle: Empowering Warriors and Guiding Loved OnesLoved Ones of Those Battling Cancer and Thrivers: Pick up the original book, ebook, and audiobook to help those facing a cancer diagnosis. Winning the Breast Cancer Battle, Companion Journal: Empowering and Guiding Breast Cancer Warriors Breast Cancer Warriors/Thrivers: Geared for breast cancer warriors as they face their challenges. Past Episode with Karen as Mentioned in the Show: Karen Iverson: The Fine Art of Positive Connection In our first episode together, Karen shares about her breast cancer journey and her first book. Connect with Karen! You can connect with Karen and find her books and free resources at kareneiverson.com Karen E Iverson was born in New York City and states that she has always been a writer at heart. She moved to New Jersey when she was ten and was often found in her bedroom writing poems and song lyrics and journaling in spiral-bound notebooks. She fondly recalls learning how to “show not tell” her senior year in high school. Karen further developed her writing skills as an undergraduate at the University of New Hampshire. Her education then included attaining 2 master’s degrees in education from Columbia University Teachers College and in clinical mental health counseling from Northeastern State University. At age 39, Karen was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma and when facing potential mortality, she did what she knew best and journaled her way out. Karen later published her first book Winning the Breast Cancer Battle: Empowering Warriors and Guiding Loved Ones, based on that experience. Karen is a Licensed Professional Counselor, coach, public speaker, actress, singer, and artist and was hon

Welcome to another encouraging episode of Fierce Calling with Doris Swift, where today we have the pleasure of introducing Lee Ann Mancini, an award-winning executive producer, author, podcast host, and advocate for raising children with a strong Christian foundation. In this episode, Lee Ann shares her incredible journey and passion for equipping families to instill biblical values in their children, and to help them become critical thinkers. Her new book Raising Kids to Follow Christ: Instilling a Lifelong Trust in God, is a powerful resource for parents, that doesn’t just tell parents what to do, it shows them how to do it. We discuss some startling statistics regarding young people leaving the faith, concerns about culture shifts, and what we can do to help kids build strong spiritual foundations. Lee Ann also discusses her captivating children’s book series, “Sea Kids,” and the animated adaptations that aim to teach children to live out God’s principles in everyday life. With her nonprofit dedicated to providing Christian resources to families, Lee Ann speaks on critical issues like religious beliefs, parenting, and the challenging cultural shifts impacting Christian households. She is also passionate about the importance of apologetics, and what that means for our kids and us. Doris and Lee Ann engage in a profound discussion, exploring practical advice for parents and grandparents who play vital roles in the spiritual development of the next generation. This episode is packed with valuable insights, not only from Lee Ann’s books but also from her impactful parenting resources and approaches to teaching children about absolute truth, identity, and faith. Stay tuned to be inspired and equipped to reinforce a solid Christian foundation within your family! Key Topics and Takeaways … Belief and Critical Thinking: Importance of children understanding faith beyond parental influence. Critical thinking as an essential skill for children Early Education and Vocabulary: Children’s understanding extends beyond what they can articulate, even as young as six months. Recommendation for parents to use biblical language from an early age. Encouragement to teach terms like ‘redemption’ and ‘salvation.’ Parenting and Family Structure: Initiating family meetings to create a mission statement Emphasize accountability to God, love for children, and safety. Importance of distinguishing children’s privileges from rights, such as technology use. School and Gender Discussions: Concerns about children choosing identities in schools without parental consent. The concerns surrounding early gender identity discussions and potential identity crises. Identity and Christ: Raising children with Christian values for a true sense of identity. Reassurance for parents regarding past parenting mistakes. Children’s Media and Learning: Lee Ann Mancini’s observation of a gap in biblical principles within children’s stories. Creation of “Sea Kids” series to teach biblical principles in real-life scenarios. Availability of the series on various platforms and adaptation into an animation. Lee Ann Mancini’s Nonprofit Projects: Projects like the parenting book and “scripture bear” that support Raising Christian Kids. Proceeds from projects support Mancini’s nonprofit efforts providing free resources. Financial Struggles of Christian Families: Research statistics on Christian families’ financial struggles. Free resources provided by Mancini’s nonprofit to families through South Florida Bible College. Additional Resources and Recommendations: Available resources on Mancini’s nonprofit website, like expert tips and videos. Recommendations for a Trumie phone for safety and Answers in Genesis’s apologetic curriculum. Church Events and Influences: Mention of a church event featuring Greg Kochel. The inclusion of the “Tactics” book in church’s discipleship pathway. Fostering Faith in Children: Importance of parents and grandparents in influencing children’s faith. Practical ways parents can pass teachings to their children, even from afar. Lee Ann Mancini’s Book “Raising Kids to Follow Christ”: Provides practical resources for faith-related questions and emphasizes absolute truth. Encourages critical thinking and role play for children’s independent development. Focuses on inner transformation and obedience to God rather than behavior modification. Age-Specific Faith Education: Addresses parenting from the womb to age 13. Emphasizes laying a solid faith foundation and building on it. Apologetics and Cultural Concerns: Includes a chapter on apologetics with 312 Bible references. Discusses challenges like gender issues and decline in Christian values. Countering cultural challenges with a well-rounded, faith-based upbringing. Deconstruction of Faith: Acknowledges the tren

Welcome to Fierce Calling, where your host Doris Swift dives into heartfelt conversations and explores meaningful stories. We’re talking with guests who take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. In this episode, we welcome back Donna Amidon, a wife, mom, speaker, author, musician, and graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary. Donna shares insights from her inspiring book, Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story of Jesus and What That Means for Us, which delves into the beauty of biblical genealogies and Old Testament prophecies fulfilled by Jesus. How does the Jesse Tree tradition help families understand the significance of biblical stories and prophecies? We’ll discuss her experiences with the Jesse Tree tradition, what it’s all about, and how it shaped her family’s celebrations. Hear how this tradition spread like wildfire through her church and has become a beloved way for us to share the bigger-picture story of Jesus at Christmastime. Listen as Donna elaborates on her mission to make the Bible accessible to all, offering her book as a treasured resource for spiritual growth. Plus, discover how her collaboration with her artist daughter has added a special touch to this family-centered project. Join us for an enriching conversation as we affirm the transforming power of the Bible and encourage listeners to embrace its truths. Don’t miss this episode filled with joy, inspiration, and a shared passion for living a life centered on Jesus. Key Topics and Takeaways … Donna Amidon’s Book: “Tracing His Promise” Overview of the book’s content on Old Testament connections to Jesus. Aim to appeal to readers of varying familiarity with the Bible. Emphasis on using the Bible for spiritual growth. Writing process and original plans for the book’s title. Importance of the Jesse Tree tradition in the family context. Jesse Tree Tradition Explanation of the Jesse Tree’s purpose and historical background. Modernization and its role in teaching children about biblical stories. Biblical Connections and Genealogies Discussion on the significance of biblical genealogies. Examples of prophecies in the Bible relating to Jesus. Mention of key figures like David, Abraham, and Ruth. Book Features and Resources Description of the 25 stories and corresponding Christmas ornaments. Information on craft exchange and printable ornaments. Inclusion of ornaments and stories in personal, church, or educational settings. Artwork and Contributions Donna’s daughter as the illustrator and her role in the project. Details on her daughter’s professional work as an artist. Check out my previous episode with Donna as mentioned in the show: Living Surrendered to God’s Plan Connect with Donna! A graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary, Donna is a wife, mom, speaker, author, musician, and lover of all things Bible.  Since college, Donna has dedicated herself to engaging women in the rich truths of Scripture while weaving its application into daily life.  With a passion for the local church, Donna has served as a Bible teacher, worship leader, radio broadcaster, small groups director, and pastor’s wife.   Currently, Donna is an active speaker for Stonecroft Ministries and women’s events. In addition to speaking, Donna works for Back to the Bible as a Spiritual Fitness Coach, hosting short video programs to encourage Christians in their spiritual journey. She is excited about the release of her first book, Tracing His Promise.  ​ Donna and Ryan live in Virginia, where they enjoy raising their two teenage children and maltipoo, Roxy. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction int

In this episode of Fierce Calling, your host Doris Swift welcomes friend Alicia Michelle, a mindset coach and author of the new release Emotional Confidence: 3 Simple Steps to Manage Emotions with Science and Scripture. Join us as Doris and Alicia delve into the profound transformation that’s possible through understanding and managing our emotions, using both science and scripture. Alicia shares her remarkable personal journey, detailing how a major medical crisis led her to rethink emotional management and the importance of addressing subconscious thought patterns. Alicia shares about the concept of changing mental “soundtracks” to align with positive, biblical truths, and the innovative process of “brain priming” to rewire thoughts and foster mental renewal. With practical insights drawn from neuroscience, Alicia explains how her Christian mindset makeover course empowers women to overcome negative narratives, leading to newfound confidence and freedom. Uncover the power of surrendering life’s challenges to God and the joy that arises from embracing transformation. Discover how you can actively manage your mindset and deepen your spiritual growth journey. What Alicia shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in! Key Topics and Takeaways … 1. What is joy and how do we find it in the hard seasons? 2. The Importance of Joy and Positive Mindsets 3. Changing Negative “Soundtracks” 4. Alicia Michelle’s Approach to Emotional Management 5. Techniques and Tools for Emotional and Mindset Transformation 6. Integrating Neuroscience and Faith 7. The Practical Application and Resources 8. Conclusion and Encouragement for Listeners Connect with Alicia! Alicia Michelle, ACC, CPLC is an ICF-certified Christian life coach and NeuroCoach, traditionally-published author of Emotional Confidence: 3 Simple Steps to Manage Emotions with Science and Scripture, popular conference speaker, and multi-award-winning podcast host of the top-ranked podcast The Christian Mindset Coach with Alicia Michelle. Through her coaching and courses Alicia has equipped thousands of women with practical brain-and-biblically-based tools to better manage emotions and to break free from perfectionism and people-pleasing in order to cultivate Christ-centered confidence. She is passionate about using brain science + the Bible together to help women release fear + build confidence as they boldly follow God’s plan for their lives. You can connect with Alicia and find her podcast The Christian Mindset Coach, her new book, her Christian Mindset Makeover course, and more at aliciamichelle.com Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your 2025 event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to embrace the unique gifts that make you magnificently you. I hope you’ll join me next time when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect … Until then friend, have a blessed week, and I’ll talk to you soon. With love and joy, Doris P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for bite-sized wisdom and inspiration from Doris and our incredible guests! 📲 Check out my home page for amazing FREE resource

Welcome back to Fierce Calling with your host Doris Swift, where we talk with guests who are taking action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. In this episode, we welcomed back Candice Reyes, the Executive Director of Her Well, a faith-based ministry inspiring women to reclaim hope and regain their voice after trauma. From facing her own traumatic past to leading a pioneering organization, Candice’s journey highlights the power of healing through faith, counseling, and innovative therapies like ART. Her Well offers free counseling, essentials, and a transformative space for those in need. I know what Candice shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Candice Reyes. Episode Highlights … Candice’s Personal Story: Candice bravely opens up about her youth and early married life marked by sexual assaults. With resilience, she found healing through Bible study, personal counseling, and a technique called Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Her Well’s Mission: Her Well is more than just an organization; it’s a lifeline for women reclaiming their voice and hope after trauma. Offering free counseling, spiritual guidance, and practical support, Her Well is a testament to faith and healing. Healing Through Forgiveness: Discover the power of forgiveness not just as an act towards others, but as a pivotal step in personal healing. Supportive Community: Her Well encourages public involvement and donations to expand its outreach and impact. Beyond the Program: Graduates of Her Well not only achieve personal transformation but can choose to mentor new participants, further nurturing a supportive community. My Previous Episode with Candice Candice Reyes: Three Simple Practices to Help Cultivate a Relationship with God Connect with Candice! Candice Reyes is a Speaker, Author, and Executive Director of Her Well, an organization that guides survivors of unhealthy sexual relationships to overcome the fear of their past and heal mentally, physically, and spiritually. Candice wrote two books both highlighting 3 Biblical Practices to ignite our relationship with God. Her first book, A 15-minute “Date” with God: Strengthen Your Relationship in 3 Ways, made the Top 100 Books sold on Amazon and won the 2021 Christian Indie Award for the Bible Study Category. Her second book, Awake My Soul: 3 Ways to Ignite Your Relationship with God guides men and women on a personal one-on-one with God in a minimum of 15 minutes. Candice is the Executive Director of Hooks2Crook Ministries, Inc. a Non-Profit organization. On top of all that she is a wife of a phenomenal artist, Elias Reyes, and a mother of three a-dork-able kids ages 23-14. Candice hopes to encourage, equip, and endorse others to step out in faith utilizing their God-given talents and gifts for His glory. You can connect with Candice at https://herwell.org/ and there you’ll find social media links for Facebook and Instagram. If you’re in need of Her Well services to regain your voice and hope, click on the “I NEED HELP” button at the top of the Her Well homepage. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your 2025 event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Thank you for being a part of our community. We are grateful for your continued support and encourage you to em

Welcome back to Fierce Calling with your host Doris Swift. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the art of rediscovering joy and the power of intentional living with our inspiring guest, Nancy Bowens, a mindset coach for midlife women. Known for her mission to help women embrace their potential and feel seen, heard, and valued, Nancy joins us to discuss overcoming modern challenges like technology-induced isolation, the importance of community, and finding rest amidst life’s busyness. Together, we explore how letting go of tightly held plans can open us up to divine possibilities and how faith can ground us in purpose. Nancy shares her journey through life’s unexpected turns, including caring for her mother during challenging time and transitioning into coaching. We’ll also touch on the struggles many face in midlife—trust, personal growth, and the joy found in pursuing long-hidden dreams. So, settle in as we embark on a journey of finding joy, community, and purpose in the present moment, all while challenging ourselves to grow and trust in the process. Plus, stay tuned for Nancy’s tips on recognizing and embracing your unique gifts and how to connect with her ongoing work through her website and uplifting weekly emails. I know what Nancy shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in and share this episode with a friend! Episode Highlights … Rediscovering Joy: Doris introduces her insightful book, Surrender the Joy Stealers Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, a must-read for anyone seeking to reignite their joy through personal and biblical tales. Intentional Connections: Nancy sheds light on the importance of authentic relationships in a digital age filled with superficial connections. Both she and Doris advocate for setting aside devices to truly be present with others. Navigating Life’s Challenges: Hear Nancy’s powerful testimony about managing life’s unexpected changes, from battling cancer to caring for her elderly mother, while gleaning wisdom about embracing divine possibilities. Mindset Mastery: Learn how Nancy helps her clients, particularly Christian women, differentiate between needs and values to align their lives for optimal function and fulfillment. Personal Growth & Trust: Discover the keys to reassessing one’s identity and calling post-midlife and give yourself permission to pursue dormant dreams and aspirations. Connect with Nancy! Nancy is a writer, mindset coach for midlife women, and professional silver lining finder armed with curiosity and great coffee. This sunset-chasing, hospitality-loving guru navigates life’s twists with panache! Her superpower?Inspiring others to embrace their God-given spark living brave, strong and courageous! Find her at: The Intentional Life – –  www.nancybouwens.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/nancybouwensintentionallife IG: https://www.instagram.com/nancy_bouwens Connect with me: https://www.nancybouwens.com/connect A year of recommended reading: https://go.nancybouwens.com/reading The Peaceful Playlist – A collection of music to inspire creativity, unlock joy and help you live just a bit more bravely!  https://www.nancybouwens.com/peaceful-playlist Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Thanks for Listening! I hope this episode with Nancy encouraged, inspired, and challenged you to cultivate community, live and walk in the value and worth God gave you, and take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. You’ll find links in the show notes to connect with Nancy and with me. If you’re looking for a speaker for your next women’s conference, retreat, luncheon, or workshop, reach out and connect with me on my speaker page at https://www.womenspeakers.com/florida/edgewater/speaker/doris-swift Let’s have a chat about your 2025 event! Stay tuned for more amazing content and remember to check the show notes for all the links mentioned. Th

In this episode of Fierce Calling, host Doris Swift welcomes Amy Senter, a Christian lifestyle blogger, artist, and educator, to discuss her innovative approach to Bible reading and journaling. Amy shares her personal faith journey of transformation from a severe health crisis with late-stage Lyme disease to a mission to make scripture accessible and engaging through simplified and creative study methods. Discover how Amy’s teaching techniques and personal experiences have shaped her ministry, inspiring others to deepen their connection with God. Key Takeaways from the Show Introduction: Doris Swift introduces Amy Senter, highlighting her background in teaching, art, and her creation of digital Bible study tools. Amy’s transition from a traditional faith upbringing to a passionate, personal relationship with God. Bible Journaling Approach: Amy’s simple, flexible method for Bible journaling aims to make scripture accessible to all, without requiring formal theological education. Encourages personal expression and adaptation to diverse learning styles, including those with dyslexia. Personal Faith Journey: Amy discusses her severe health issues and eventual diagnosis with late-stage Lyme disease, leading to a profound spiritual journey and transformation. Transition from questioning God’s goodness to finding joy and peace through a deepened faith. Challenges and Solutions: Overcoming barriers to Bible study by encouraging creative engagement and comfort with personal expression in the Bible. Setting spiritual goals and incorporating faith into daily life. Spiritual Health and Empowerment: Importance of mindset shift from victimhood to empowerment in healing and spiritual growth. Maintaining trust and surrendering burdens to God for peace and rationality. Ministry and Resources: Amy offers guidance through her website, providing lessons, Bible study printables, and personal interaction. Encourages listeners to connect with her community on YouTube and Facebook for interactive Bible study sessions. Connect with Amy! Amy’s Website: https://amysenter.com WEBSITE: amysenter.com SOCIAL LINKS:  youtube.com/@amysenter instagram.com/senteramy facebook.com/amy.senter.intentional.living pinterest.com/senter_amy Amy Senter is a Christian Lifestyle Blogger focused on Intentional Living through Biblical Literacy and Spiritual Growth. She lives in Texas with her college sweetheart of 18 years and their 2 children. Using her background in Art and Education, her unique style of illustrated Bible study cheatsheets simplifies complex concepts while appealing to visual learners of all ages, including those with ADHD and dyslexia. Amy has outlined all 66 books of the Bible into a collection of digital printables, which have been sold in 45 countries around the world. When she’s not drawing with her Apple Pencil, you can find her in a bookstore or craft shop looking for inspiration for her next project.  Call to Action: Subscribe to Amy’s website for resources, updates, and personal communication. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Transcript Surrender the Joy Stealers Bible Study … Doris [00:01:45]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Doris Swift, author of the award-winning 6-week Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You. And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever-present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Doris [00:02:36]:Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken th

Welcome to Fierce Calling, where I chat with guests who take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect and use their gifts to impact the world for Christ. We share stories of hope and God’s faithfulness to encourage, inspire, and challenge listeners to walk in their Fierce Calling. In this week’s episode, A Journey Out of Darkness and Into God’s Sacred Refuge, I welcome friend Lynn Rienstra, an insightful author, dedicated spiritual mentor, and pastor’s wife who brings profound wisdom on embracing authentic Christian faith and finding freedom from fear. Lynn delves into the transformative power of Jesus and how believers can live free from fear, and in God’s sacred refuge, as emphasized in her new book, Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis She shares her personal journey from fear and performance-based identity to discovering her true identity in Christ, encouraging us to walk through crises with faith and hope. Lynn also reflects on her experiences with Samaritan’s Purse, emphasizing service and the gospel’s power in transforming lives. Together we explore themes of spiritual resilience, community, and the vital role of storytelling in deepening our faith. Join us as we discuss the beautiful message of progress in faith, finding God’s sacred refuge in turbulent times, and how we can all become beacons of light and grace in today’s world. Connect with Lynne! Lynne Rienstra is a recovering Pharisee and spiritual orphan. Her dream is to catalyze a movement a loving service among women that will transform our churches, communities, culture, and world. Through her mentoring, speaking (she’s taught thousands of women for over two decades), and writing, she leads women out of hiding and into a transforming encounter with the living God. In that place, they discover their identities as his brave beloved, rising up to restore our broken world as carriers of God’s love and presence. Lynne has followed a series of callings: English teacher, corporate insurance broker, pastor’s wife, women’s ministry leader, homeschooling mom, and development professional. (Since 2013, she has served as a regional director for Samaritan’s Purse). She holds a BA in English from Smith College and a Certificate in Spiritual Formation from the Transforming Center in Wheaton, Illinois. Lynne has contributed to numerous books, magazines, and online devotionals. Serving alongside her husband, Rob, a senior pastor, gives Lynne much joy, as do their adult children and grandchildren. Lynne has traveled to twenty-six countries on five continents (including North Korea, Iraq, and Kenya, where she lived for a summer among the Maasai. She loves Earl Grey tea, all things French, period dramas, reading C. S. Lewis and Elizabeth Goudge, and scoring vintage clothing finds. You can book Lynne for your event, or as a podcast or TV guest, at BraveBeloved.com. Listen to her Brave Beloved podcast and access her teaching on YouTube. Lynne can also be found on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and X. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Transcript Surrender the Joy Stealers Bible Study Intro … Doris [00:01:45]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Doris Swift, author of the award winning 6 week Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You. And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Doris [00:02:36]:Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken the joy within, and share the joy with others. You can do it on your own or with a group. Check it out, friends. Surrender the joy stealers. Rediscover the Jesus joy in you. It’s available on all the online retailers. It&#821

Welcome back to Fierce Calling, where we dive deep into God’s word and testimonies of His faithfulness. I’m your host, Doris Swift, and today we’re honored to have Rachel Wojo with us again. Rachel is an inspirational author, speaker, and the host of the Untangling Prayer Podcast. In this episode, we’ll hear how Rachel’s profound journey of personal loss inspired her latest book, Desperate Prayers: Embracing the Power of Prayer in Life’s Darkest Moments. We’ll delve into the power of prayer during crises, and how prayer can provide peace through life’s challenges. Rachel shares her experience developing a prayer practice that’s been critical in her toughest times, from managing life’s daily challenges to coping with immense grief. Together, we’ll highlight the importance of proactive prayer, its role in spiritual warfare, and how simple prayers can be deeply powerful. Rachel’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the unwavering presence of God, offering encouragement and guidance for anyone facing their own dark moments. Listen in as we discuss how Rachel’s personal journey can inspire you to rediscover the power of prayer and rely on God’s promises without striving for ‘prayer perfectionism.’ Connect with Rachel! Rachel Wojo is an inspirational author, public speaker, and podcaster known for her popular blog, rachelwojo.com. Through her biblical approach and personal life experiences, Rachel empowers women to discover strength and hope in everyday situations. Despite enduring the loss of her mother, adult special needs daughter, and father, Rachel remains resilient. She has authored the uplifting book, One More Step: Finding Strength When You Feel Like Giving Up, and her new work, Desperate Prayers: Embracing the Power of Prayer in Life’s Darkest Moments. Rachel is crazy in love with her husband, Matt, and cherishes her motherhood with six children on earth and two in heaven. Facebook Instagram Link to My Previous Episode with Rachel! Weary One Take Heart Because the Battle is the Lord’s with Rachel Wojo What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Transcript Surrender the Joy Stealers Bible Study Intro … Doris [00:01:45]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Doris Swift, author of the award winning 6 week Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You. And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Doris [00:02:36]:Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken the joy within, and share the joy with others. You can do it on your own or with a group. Check it out, friends. Surrender the joy stealers. Rediscover the Jesus joy in you. It’s available on all the online retailers. It’s time to take your joy back. Welcome back to the show. Time Stamps 00:00 Praise God for your encouraging storytelling.07:08 “God sees you, hears you, knows your needs.”09:35 Developed prayer relationship amid life’s challenges, Bible verses.15:12 Borrow others’ prayers to help communicate feelings.16:24 Holy Spirit intercedes when words fail us.22:25 Prepare for crisis with prayer to cope.25:50 Experiencing God’s presence deeply during difficult times.27:55 Daughter Taylor’s life taught family profound lessons.30:28 Faith provides hope and strength during life’s challenges.34:15 Communication with God essential for using armor.38:57 Make prayer your first response, not last.41:06 Bible characters hit rock bottom, then prayed.44:40 Clearing minds and hearts through prayer podcast.49:23 Free discussion guide available at desperateprayers.com.50:14 Share episode and book to bless others. Now On with the S

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Fierce Calling! Today, host Doris sits down with good friend Kristi Woods, an acclaimed author and speaker whose profound journey of faith and perseverance will leave you deeply moved. We delve into Kristi’s latest book, 101 Prayers for Military Wives, a heartfelt guide designed to help military spouses—and anyone seeking a deeper spiritual connection—grow closer to God through prayer. Kristi shares personal anecdotes, from how she met her husband through a pen pal program during Desert Storm, to the divine timing that led to her first book’s publication after years of patience and faith. Doris and Kristi explore the intricate dynamics of developing a robust prayer life, the significance of understanding God’s character through scripture, and the transformative power of prayer. They also touch on Kristi’s foray into fiction writing, emphasizing perseverance and obedience to God’s calling even when the path seems uncertain. If you’re seeking encouragement to deepen your faith, enrich your prayer life, or simply need a gentle reminder of God’s perfect timing, this episode is for you. Stay tuned as Kristi Woods shares her journey, offers valuable resources for women’s groups, and provides that much-needed spiritual nourishment to fuel your walk with God. Don’t miss it! Connect with Kristi! Kristi Woods, author and speaker, shares stories about Jesus, a few pretend couples, and other military and everyday heroes. Her award-winning work is published across the Internet and in print, including her recent gift book release,101 Prayers for Military Wives. Kristi, her Desert Storm pen pal-turned-husband, and three (now adult) children survived a nomadic, military lifestyle and have set roots in Oklahoma. There, she keeps a close watch for tornadoes and good chocolate. Website/Contact:KristiWoods.net  Newsletter Subscription: KristiWoods.net/subscribe/ Social: PinterestInstagramFacebook What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… Transcript Surrender the Joy Stealers Bible Study Intro … Doris [00:01:45]:What is threatening to steal your joy? What is it that feels so heavy right now that you could barely stand? God has a plan, and his plan is to surrender it. Surrender it to him. It might be a prodigal. It might be a relationship, a marriage, something with your job. So many things. We have so many amazing blessings, but there are so many things in our life that threaten to steal our joy. I’m Doris Swift, author of the award winning 6 week Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You. And it helps women rediscover the overflowing, ever present Jesus joy within that fills, empowers, and ripens the fruit that God produces in our lives. Doris [00:02:36]:Using personal and biblical stories, I share how you can identify your joy stealers, surrender them to God, reawaken the joy within, and share the joy with others. You can do it on your own or with a group. Check it out, friends. Surrender the joy stealers. Rediscover the Jesus joy in you. It’s available on all the online retailers. It’s time to take your joy back. Welcome back to the show. Now On with the Show … Doris [00:03:06]:I am excited to welcome my friend, Kristi Woods. She has been a friend for a long time. We were just talking about over the years how we originally connected, how God connects us. And there’s some relationships that are in our lives for maybe a season, and then there’s some that are in for the long haul, and that’s kinda how ours has been. She’s an author and speaker, and she shares stories about Jesus. And a few pretend couples will ask her about that, and other military and everyday heroes. Her award-winning work is published across the Internet and in print, and she has a book, it’s a gift book that released called 101. Doris [00:03:49]:[laugh] It’s not prayers 101, It’s a 101 prayers for military wives. So she actually met her husband through being a pen pal in Desert Storm. She’s gonna talk about that a little bit. She has 3 adult children. They’ve moved a lot because of the military lifestyle. So some of you listening can relate to that, and

How can we impact future generations for Christ? It begins with discipling the young lives entrusted to us by God. Whether it’s our kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, or kids at church, be encouraged that while the responsibility to disciple our kids and help our families grow in Jesus might seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. My guest this week is Christie Thomas, author of Little Habits Big Faith: How Simple Practices Help Your Family Grow in Jesus. She shares how little habits over time can make a huge impact on the lives of our families and those around us. Christie shares encouragement and amazing stories of how small beginnings and simple practices can make a huge difference, and tips on getting there. We talk about this and more! I know what Christie shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Christie Thomas. Connect with Christie! You can connect with Christie at littleshootsdeeproots.com, find her books, great resources, and her HopeGrown Faith membership community. You can also connect with her on Instagram @littleshootsdeeproots More About Christie Christie Thomas is a mom and writer and has been involved in children’s ministry for most of her life, including working as director of children’s ministry for more than a decade. Christie is now a family discipleship coach to many parents who need equipping, support, and encouragement. She deeply believes that every Christian parent can confidently nurture deep faith in their kids through little habits that add up over time. Her devotionals and children’s books help parents cultivate faith-filled moments. She loves making family faith fun and simple so that your kids love it, and you can feel confident that you’re nurturing deep faith roots in your family. Christie lives with her husband and three boys in Alberta, Canada. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

My guest this week is Julie Sunne, author of Everyday Praise: Walking in Greater Peace and Sometimes I Forget: 60 Reminders of Hope For Your Hard Days. She shares her stories and how even in suffering, grief, depression, and heartache, we have hope and joy because our God is sovereign and faithful. But when the hard seasons come, sometimes we forget God is sovereign, faithful, merciful, and good, don’t we? We talk about this and more! I know what Julie shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Julie Sunne. Julie wants others to know there is real hope in even the really hard struggles of this life. Check out her beautiful new book and be reminded of the hope that you have … Connect with Julie! You can connect with Julie at juliesunne.com and find her books, blog, free resources, and more! More About Julie Julie Sunne writes about finding real hope amid life’s real struggles. Her own struggles include enduring multiple miscarriages and caregiving for her adult daughter who has significant intellectual disabilities. Julie’s writing has been featured in print devotionals by Proverbs 31 Ministries, Guideposts, Celebrate Life magazine, Encouragement for Today (the Proverbs 31 Ministries’ email devotional), several online sites, and on her blog at juliesunne.com. Julie and her husband, David, are parents to three grown sons and a daughter and reside with their daughter in rural northeast Iowa. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

Ever feel like Job? Need an encouraging word today? Award-winning author Michele Chynoweth can relate. She shares how her own life’s heartaches and brokenness reminded her of the story of Job. But God brings restoration and redemption, and Michele’s story was not over. God’s plans for her life continued to unfold in new and unexpected ways. Michele writes intriguing and fascinating modern-day suspense novels based on Old Testament stories. To top that off, one of her novels, The Jealous Son based on the story of Cain and Abel, is going into movie production this fall! Praise God! She is also an amazing speaker, book coach, and college instructor. Besides being a talented author herself, her heart is to equip and encourage other writers to become authors. I loved my conversation with Michele, and we talk about so many amazing things it’s hard to recap it all here. I know what Michele shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Michele Chynoweth. Connect with Michele! You can connect with Michele at michelechynoweth.com and find out more about the movie, all her books, and how to work with her to make your writing shine! You can also check out her Your Book Done Right Master Class mentioned in the show. More About Michele Michele Chynoweth is the bestselling author of several award-winning contemporary suspense novels that re-imagine Old Testament stories from the Bible in an edgy, modern-day way. She loves helping writers become authors and is a sought-after conference speaker, professional editor with several publishing houses, book coach, and founder of “Your Book Done Right” Master Class and Elite Coaching. Michele Chynoweth bring stories in the Bible to life for today’s readers with contemporary characters and plots so they can better understand and relate to God’s messages of faith and hope. Michele’s universally appealing inspirational novels are filled with drama, suspense and romance and include The Faithful One, based on the Book of Job, The Peace Maker, based on the story of David and Abigail in the First Book of Samuel, The Runaway Prophet, based on the Book of Jonah, and The Jealous Son, based on the story of Cain and Abel in the Book of Genesis, and The Wise Man, based on the Bible’s story of Solomon. Michele believes the Old Testament stories are often difficult to read and comprehend, so she hopes that reimagining them in contemporary times with fiction that’s fast-paced and entertaining will help readers appreciate them, understand God’s messages and hopefully bring people back to the Bible itself. In addition to being an author, Michele is also an award-winning speaker, book coach and college instructor of writing, publishing and marketing fiction. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Michele and her husband have a blended family of five children and live in North East, Maryland. Michele has won several awards including:The CIPA Christian Indie Awards (2024)AWSA Golden Scroll Award for Contemporary Fiction (2023)Director’s Choice Award for The Wise Man, Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference (2023)Next Generation Indie Book Award (2023)New Apple Book Award for Best Cross-Genre Fiction (2018)Book Excellence Award for Best Religious Fiction (2018 & 2023)Top Shelf Magazine Indie Award for Best Inspirational FictionSelah Award for Best Suspense, Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference (2018)Readers Favorite International Book Awards for Inspirational Fiction (2014, 2016, 2020, 2023)Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference Writer of the Year (2012)Maryland Writers Association Fiction Prize for Best Drama (2001) Through her “Your Book Done Right” Master Class & Elite Coaching, Michele has helped dozens of writers become successful authors of several published books including Lawrence Scanlan, Business Practices, Biblical Promises, Gigi Williams, God’s Hand in My One, Stephen Rogers, Into the Room, Stanley McCluskey, Divorce is Worse than Death, Jordan Oliver, Drafted, Jacinta Fontenelle, Contemporary Psalms, Shelia Stovall, Every Window Filled with Light, and many more. Modern Day Bible Stories by award-winning author What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event&#82

What does it mean to stand your ground and pray big? This week I welcome guest Linda Kozar. She’s an award-winning multi-published author who writes both non-fiction and fiction, including cozy mysteries! What is a cozy mystery? Find out as I ask Linda this question and more. Linda has a heart to encourage others with a touch of humor and a precious Southern flair. We talk about praying big, trusting God, what surrender looks like, and the importance of sharing our testimonies. We also talk about one of her newest books, Gimme Some Sugar: 90 Devotions to Sweeten Your Day in a Godly Way. I loved my conversation with Linda, and I know what she shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Linda Kozar. Connect with Linda! You can connect with at http://www.lindakozar.com/ and on her Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest social media profiles: https://www.facebook.com/linda.kozar https://www.instagram.com/lindakozar https://pinterest.com/lindakozar Here’s the link to the book about moving mentioned in the show: Moving Tales: Adventure in Relocation More About Linda! Linda Kozar is an award-winning multi-published author of traditional and indie-published fiction and nonfiction inspirational books, from cozy mysteries, historical and contemporary fiction, to devotionals. Her latest releases are Sweet Tea & Thee, Devotions To Perk Up Your Day, 2025, and Gimme Some Sugar, 90 Devotions To Sweeten Your Day in a Godly Way, (BroadStreet Publishing), 2024. In 2022, Sweet Tea For The Soul (DaySpring) received an ECPA Bronze Sales Award for 100,000+ sold, and in 2021, Sunshine For The Soul took home a First Place Selah and Nonfiction Book of the Year at the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference. Linda was also named American Christian Fiction Writers’ Mentor of the Year in 2007. She and her husband Michael, married for 35 years, live in The Woodlands, Texas and enjoy spending time with their two grown daughters, their wonderful son-in-law, grands Eden and Wes, and Gypsy, their rascally Jack Russell Terrier.  What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

This week on the show, I welcome Israeli tour educator and bestselling author Miriam Feinberg Vamosh and bestselling author Eva Marie Everson. We’re not only talking about their second co-authored book, Ahōti! A Story of Tamar, but how God can bring purpose, healing, and redemption in the aftermath of family dysfunction, sexual abuse, shame, and humiliation. The book looks at the true events that Tamar (the daughter of King David) lived through, and the culture that led to her rape by half-brother Amnon, later avenged by her brother, Absalom. When David learned about what happened to Tamar, he did nothing and his daughter was left feeling shamed. How many families sweep dysfunction and destruction under the rug? How many women are abused by family members? The statistics are startling, but God. He truly brings beauty from ashes. These two amazing authors also share fascinating historical facts they uncovered in the Holy Land! I know what Miriam and Eva Marie shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you so listen in while I have a chat with Miriam Feinberg Vamosh and Eva Marie Everson. Connect with Miriam & Eva Marie! You can connect with Miriam at miriamfeinbergvamosh.com and Eva Marie at evamarieeversonauthor.com and grab their co-written novel Ahōti – A Story of Tamar plus their other books and resources! More About Miriam and Eva Marie! Miriam Feinberg Vamosh is an author of nearly a half million copies sold of her work. She’s an editor and translator specializing in heritage and culture and issues involving the presence of women in the archaeological record. Miriam holds an undergraduate degree in education and a master’s degree in archaeology and heritage, with distinction, from Leicester University. Her work includes a historical novel, The Scroll (Toby Press) and her nonfiction books are Teach it to Your Children: How Kids Lived in Bible Days (Avimedia 2014), Women at the Time of the Bible (Palphot 2007); Food in the Bible: from Adam’s Apple to the Last Supper (Palphot 2005); Daily Life at the Time of Jesus (Palphot 2000, translated into over 30 languages); Israel, Land of the Bible (Palphot 2005) and Pathways Through The Land of the Hart (Gefen). She is the author of numerous articles on Israel’s history and lore and a tour educator with a focus on sites connected to Christian heritage and culture in Israel. She has written three site guides to Israel national parks, translated several of the national park pamphlets distributed to visitors, and edits and translates the work of Israel Antiquities Authority scholars and others. Miriam’s master’s degree thesis entitled “Speaking of Women: Engendering Presentation at Megiddo,” examined more than a century of archaeological excavations at Megiddo (Armageddon) to discover what finds about women had been ignored, and whether and how the site museum could be redesigned to represent the presence of women in a place where warfare seems a paramount concern. Among the books on archaeological themes that Miriam has translated: Back to Masada (Amnon Ben-Tor), Biblical Lachish (David Ussishkin), and Solomon’s Temple and Palace (Yosef Garfinkel and Madaleine Mumcuolglu). A native of Trenton, New Jersey, Miriam has lived in Israel since 1970. Eva Marie Everson is a multiple award-winning author and speaker. She is one of the original five Orlando Word Weavers critique group members, an international and national group made up of critique chapters. She served as the original president from 2000 to 2007 and is now CEO of Word Weavers International, Inc. Eva Marie served as a mentor for Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild for several years and has taught at a number of writers conferences nationwide. Eva Marie has served as an adjunct professor at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana. In 2002 she was chosen as one of six journalists to tour Israel and in 2009 she, along with Miriam Feinberg Vamosh, worked with Israel’s Ministry of Tourism to organize another journalistic tour. Eva Marie has spoken in churches and women’s groups in the U.S. and Canada. A common face among faculty at Christian writers conferences across the nation, Eva Marie also serves as the director ofthe Florida Christian Writers Conference (along with Taryn Souders). In 2022 she received the Yvonne Lehman Legacy Award (June) and the Lifetime Achievement Award from AWSA (August). Eva Marie is a member of AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Association), ChiLibris, and FHL (Faith, Hope, and Love).Eva Marie has received degrees and studied theology at Andersonville Baptist Seminary and The Tzemach Institute. She has been featured on numerous radio and television shows. Eva Marie and her husband live in Central Florida where they enjoy their children and grandchildren. They are owned by a cat named Vanessa. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://d

Who attempts to run 110 miles in a snow storm to bring awareness on National Adoption Day? My guest Jessica Hurlbut. She’s mom to five: two adopted, two autistic, and one average teen. She brings a fresh perspective on what it means to persevere and run the race. She helps us see life’s hardships and struggles as blessings and opportunities. So good! She also helps us see that God’s abundantly more looks radically different than what we might expect, and that’s a beautiful thing. Jessica is passionate about giving people permission to fail and feel because when we are weak, God is strong. I love her authenticity when sharing the hard parts of her story and as she says, cuts through the fluff and gets real. She brings a message of hope and reminds us we’re never alone in our struggles. I loved my conversation with Jessica and it’s not just for moms! She shares so many golden nuggets of truth and I know she will encourage, inspire, and challenge you so listen in while I have a chat with Jessica Hurlbut. Connect with Jessica! You can connect with Jessica at jessicahurlbut.com and grab her newest book Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits that Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts. You’ll also find links to her blog, Full Spectrum Parent podcast, the limits quiz to discover what’s holding you back, and more! More About Jessica! Jessica Hurlbut is a pastor, a writer, an ultra runner, and a mom of five—two who struggle with autism, two adopted, and one typical teen boy. Jessica spent nine years in the trenches of full-time ministry until 2012 when her daughter was diagnosed with level three autism. Four years later, Jessica’s son was also diagnosed with severe autism. This season Jessica refers to as her hidden years, where God did a great and humbling work in her life. During this time, the Holy Spirit called Jessica and her husband to adopt a sibling pair through foster care, and God opened their eyes to the great need for foster and adoptive parents in this country. This led Jessica to attempt to run 110 miles in 24 hours on National Adoption Day as a visual representation of the 110,000 kids in foster care who desperately need a forever family through adoption. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

There was a time when Lisa Granger felt her testimony wasn’t exciting or dramatic enough to share. She grew up in a Christian home and had a great childhood. Her story did not include a powerful transformation of overcoming abuse, addiction, or life on the streets. But she would later discover that all of our God stories are purposeful and powerful when we use them to glorify Him and encourage others. Lisa had faith and things were going fine, until they weren’t … When tragedy struck her family, Lisa’s faith wavered. She lamented and prayed. She leaned on the all we need is a mustard seed of faith Scripture, but things did not turn out the way she’d hoped, and her mustard-seed faith prayers seemingly went unanswered. Listen in to hear Lisa’s story from faith, to doubt, then back to a stronger-than-ever faith. Her calling was unfolding and God continues to show her the way. She loves sharing a message of hope: What hope is, where we get it, and how to live it out. She also loves pointing others to God, in Whom we find our worth and value. She helps women get untangled from their Superwomen capes and lies they believe, and she knows how because she’s been there. When her season changed again she suddenly found herself an empty-nester. As Lisa says, “I was in my lane then my lane wasn’t there anymore.” Have you ever felt that way? I have! It’s a great conversation, and I know what Lisa shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Lisa Granger. Connect with Lisa! You can connect with Lisa at lisagranger.com and find her podcast/Radio show A Woman’s Heart with Lisa Granger. Download her 8 Verses of Hope for free! My episode with Lisa can be found at Doris Swift: Simple Power of Surrendering the Joy Stealers Her show can also be heard here: Williamsburg’s Radio Station FM 93.5 The Burg & WMBG AM 740 , Real Country 101.7 , or Three Rivers Media WYVE 99 9FM / WXBX 95 3FM / WLOY 93 3FM, More About Lisa! Lisa started with a radio show where she shared a few thoughts and played contemporary Christian music, but when she had a conversation with a friend on the show, she was hooked. She loves talking with guests and through their stories she wants everyone to know they are precious in His sight, their story is worth sharing, and their passion is worth pursuing. Lisa is a wife, mother, friend and recovering perfectionist. She loves a cup of coffee during her time with Jesus or with good girlfriends. She also loves helping and encouraging people while connecting with new friends and sharing their stories. Lisa and her husband Greg have 3 grown children and some fur babies as well. Lisa also enjoys reading, writing, singing, traveling, and crafting! She’s available to speak at events and loves being a podcast guest! What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

Welcome to Episode 180 with Guest Shadia Hrichi! Shadia shares what she calls an “ugly” past, filled with self-destructive choices and dysfunction. Her story includes co-dependency, alcoholism, abortion, abuse, date-rape, divorce–but God intervened and redeemed her broken past. Once an agnostic exposed to many religions, Shadia was intrigued by the authenticity and genuine faith she observed in her Christian friends. She was so intrigued that she wanted to know more about Jesus and the Bible. Once she surrendered her life to Jesus, she went from not knowing what Bible study was to writing them! That’s our God. Shadia has a passion for not only studying God’s word, but also teaching it. Through her gift of teaching she shares the bigger picture story of the Bible and expands on thematic elements we might otherwise gloss over. It is Shadia’s desire that others would fall in love with God’s word as she has, and hunger to walk deeper in Scripture. She’s drawn to those messy-life kinds of stories in the Bible–stories like Rahab the prostitute and Hagar, who felt discarded and abandoned until God met her right where she was in the wilderness. This episode is filled with serious and sensitive topics, yet you’ll also find it light and fun. I’m not sure if I’ve laughed with a guest as much as I have with Shadia. She is truly joyful, and I know what she shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Shadia Hrichi. Connect with Shadia and learn How ! You can connect with Shadia at shadiahrichi.com and grab her books and free resources mentioned in the show! As Shadia mentions in the show, you can also easily find each of her studies by simply using the web address with that study’s name. For example for Rahab you can find it by typing rahabbiblestuy.com or legionbiblestudy.com , isn’t that cool? Check out these amazing studies by Shadia … RAHAB: Rediscovering the God Who Saves Me TAMAR: Rediscovering the God Who Redeems Me  HAGAR: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me LEGION: Rediscovering the God Who Rescues Me Worthy of Love: A Journey of Hope and Healing After Abortion More About Shadia! Shadia Hrichi is a passionate Bible teacher and award-winning author who loves seeing lives transformed by the power of God’s Word. Having experienced many heartbreaks, including abortion, date rape, divorce, and more, Shadia captures the hearts of her audience as she illustrates, through personal experience, God’s love, faithfulness, and power of redemption. She holds a master’s in biblical and theological studies as well as a master’s in criminal justice. Shadia is the author of several Bible studies, including Rahab, Tamar, Hagar, Legion, and Worthy of Love (see above links) and the recipient of several awards, including the 2022 WCCW “God’s Word is Alive” award. Shadia is often invited to speak at retreats, conferences, and other events and has served on faculty for a number of Christian Writers conferences. Her bible studies have been endorsed by Bible Study Magazine (Faithlife/Logos Bible Software), Liz Curtis-Higgs, Francine Rivers and many others. Currently residing in northern California, Shadia loves to visit the ocean each week for “a date with Jesus.” What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

We all endure trials, pain, and hardships in this life, but what if all the hard things had divine purpose? What if we could grasp a better understand of pain and suffering from a biblical perspective? This week I welcome back my friend Dr. Michelle Bengtson. Besides being a friend, she is an award-winning author, international speaker, podcast host, and a media resource on mental health, plus, she is a neuropsychologist who listens and understands. She’s experienced pain first-hand and helps others see pain and suffering from a biblical perspective. Friend, our sacred scars have purpose. We’re talking about her newest book, Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Pain Is Not Wasted, which helps you … understand suffering from a biblical perspective discover how the trials of your life serve a purpose reflect on the healing that God has accomplished comfort others with the comfort God has given you I know what Dr. Michelle has to share will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in and hear Connect with Dr. Michelle and learn How Our Sacred Scars Have Purpose and More! You can connect with Dr. Michelle at drmichelleb.com and grab her books and free resources! How We Lose Our Joy and How To Find Joy in Life Again – Your Hope Filled Perspective Episode 235 Check out the link above to view episode 235 of Your Hope Filled Perspective on Dr. Michelle’s YouTube channel! I so enjoyed being a guest on her show. She is an amazing host and I loved our conversation. We’re talking all about joy! Dr. Michelle Bengtson – God Never Wastes Our Pain: Hope for Your Journey/Fierce Calling Episode 16 Check out the above link and listen in to my first interview with Dr. Michelle back in February 2020! Whoa, this was episode 16, so Dr. Michelle was one of my very first guests on the show! I am so grateful for the wisdom she shares and the encouragement she brings to all of us. Loved having her on as we talked about finding hope in the midst of depression and anxiety. She shares amazing golden nuggets of truth and encouragement so don’t miss it! More About Dr Michelle! Dr. Michelle Bengtson entertained several dreams in her life: becoming a doctor, having children and writing a book. She studied neuroscience, becoming a board-certified neuropsychologist almost 30 years ago. A few years later, the birth of her first son brought her second dream into reality. God planted the third dream in her heart as a young girl. A few years ago, she published her first book, multi-award winning author of Hope Prevails: Insights From a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression. Since then, she authored several more books including the award-winning Hope Prevails Bible Study, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises, and Today Is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises From God to Start Your Day Off Right, and her newest book, Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted. She expanded her vision and became an international speaker, podcast host, and coach with a mission to restore hope, renew minds and empower others to live in their God-given identity. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. Throughout her career as a clinical neuropsychologist, and now as a speaker, author, podcast host, and coach, she encourages others to focus less on their self-esteem and more on how God esteems them by knowing His truths offered in Scripture. She loves offering practical resources to help you her audience grow in your their walk with the Lord. Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

What happens when your story takes an unexpected turn? My guest this week is Dawn Damon. She shares her story of past childhood sexual abuse, a broken marriage, a devastating divorce, losing a position at a mega church, and how God redeemed every bit of it and showed her how to walk in her true super bloom. What is a super bloom? Listen in to hear what it is and how you can step into your super bloom purpose. We’re talking about identity, purpose, and becoming a BraveHearted Woman. As Dawn says, “You’re not finished. God has greatness in store for you.” There are so many treasures in this conversation with Dawn, and we hope you are blessed and if you are, please share this episode with others to encourage them, too! I know what Dawn shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Dawn Damon, because every woman of God is a BraveHearted Woman. Connect with Dawn and Learn More About How to Step Into Your Super Bloom Purpose as a Brave Hearted Woman! You can connect with Dawn at braveheartedwoman.com and grab her book and resources! More About Dawn! Dawn Damon is an Influencer, Global Communicator, Podcaster, High Performance Coach, and Best-Selling Author whose 5 award- winning books, include When a Woman You Love Was Abused published by Kregel Publications, When the Woman Abused Was Me, The Freedom Challenge:60 Days to Untie the Cords that Bind You Redemption Press, the #1 Best-Selling Book The Freedom Challenge for Men: 60 Days to Untie the Cords that Bind You, and most recently, The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence & Vision in Midlife. Dawn is the founder and CEO of Brave New Dawn and the BraveHearted Woman, an enterprise and a non-profit designed to cultivate the vision of women dreamers, and equip them to live their best life. Dawn and hubby Paul live in Rockford, (Grand Rapids) MI. along with their children, 11 grandchildren and 2 grand dogs! Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris

What do you do when your life takes a detour you never expected? What happens when life is disrupted by the diagnoses of a parent’s terminal illness? My guest this week is Jen Babakhan. She shares her story which includes an unexpected detour from a working professional to stay-at-home mom, and an unexpected disruption when her mom received a terminal diagnosis. Jen is the author of Detoured: The Messy, Grace-Filled Journey from Working Professional to Stay-At-Home Mom and Disrupted: Finding Peace with a Parent’s Terminal Illness. We touch on the first book, but mainly talk about what happens when you come face-to-face with the reality of a parent’s terminal illness. She shares encouragement and what she’s learned from not only her own journey, but the journey of others she interviewed for the book, plus mental health professionals. I know what Jen shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Jen Babakhan. Connect with Jen and Learn More About You can connect with Jen at jenbabakhan.com author of Disrupted: Finding Peace With A Parent’s Terminal Illness & Detoured: The Messy, Grace-Filled Journey From Working Professional to Stay-at-Home Mom www.JenBabakhan.com Subscribe to Jenerally Speaking Breathe: A Health Anxiety Workbook (FREE!) Reader’s Digest Author pageInstagram: @JenBabakhanFacebook:@JenBabakhanauthor More About Jen! Jen Babakhan is an author living in California with her husband and two young sons. Her books, Detoured: The Messy, Grace-Filled Journey From Working Professional to Stay-at-Home Mom(Harvest House Publishers, 2019), and Disrupted: Finding Peace With A Parent’s Terminal Illness (Bold Vision Books, 2023) emerged from a desire to serve others during difficult times in life. She loves sharing hilarious memes on social media, anything coffee-flavored, spending days at the beach, and has a slight obsession with dogs and animals in general. Her writing has appeared in Reader’s Digest, Guideposts, and various national news outlets. Visit Jen online at www.JenBabakhan.com, or find her on Instagram @jenbabakhan.  Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris Surrender the Joy Stealers book promo: Music by ElephantGreen on Pixabay

Susan Neal lost her health at age 50. After seeing specialist after specialist, she began educating herself on the root causes of her conditions and how God designed our bodies to heal. She learned a plethora of valuable information and gained insight on how to transform her health. Then she started writing books and sharing what she learned so we could all discover how to look and feel younger, live healthier, and age gracefully. Susan is the author of several books including her best-selling book 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates, Solving the Gluten Puzzle: Discovering Gluten Sensitivity and Embracing the Gluten-Free Lifestyle, Eat God’s Food: Kits Activity Guide to Healthy Eating , and her newly released 12 Ways to Age Gracefully: How to Look and Feel Younger. She is passionate about helping others improve their health. I know what Susan shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Susan Neal. Connect with Susan and Learn More About How to Look and Feel Younger, Live Healthier, and Age Gracefully! You can connect with Susan at susanuneal.com and find her books, coaching info, courses, including 7 Steps to Reclaim Your Health and Optimal Weight , social media links, and more! Who Loves a Good Quiz? Take the candiquiz.com to see if you have a possible candida issue in your gut. Did you know 10% of the population is gluten sensitive? Check out Susan’s quiz glutenintolerancequiz.com, to find out if you might have a gluten disorder. The Scripture Susan Clung To During Her Health Crisis … “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31 More About Susan! Susan Neal RN has a masters in health science and an MBA. She lives her life with a passion to help others improve their health. After suffering a health crisis, she became an author and health coach to provide others with the tools they needed to heal their bodies and reclaim their ideal weight. She is a Certified Christian Health and Wellness Coach with the American Association of Christian Counselors. Previously, Susan worked as a Kidney Transplant Nurse at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, Assistant Administrator at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, and Quality Assurance Nurse at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida. She currently owns her own businesses and lives on five acres where she grows organic fruits and vegetables. Her award-winning #1 Amazon best-seller is 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates. The third book in her Healthy Living Series, Healthy Living Journal, won the Golden Scrolls award “Best Inspirational Gift Book.” Her newest release is 12 Ways to Age Gracefully: How to Look and Feel Younger. She’s been featured in many media outlets including CTN’s Bridges TV show, WATC-TV Atlanta Live and Friends & Neighbors, TCT’s Julie and Friends, Charisma magazine, and numerous podcasts and radio shows. Learn more about Susan at SusanUNeal.com. On a personal note, Susan enjoys swimming, horseback riding, and gardening, and she is mom to three daughters. Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris Surrender the Joy Stealers book promo: Music by ElephantGreen on Pixabay

Life is hard and there’s no doubt about that as my friend, Cyndi Daves, well knows. She experienced abandonment and father wounds at a young age, among other heartbreaking circumstances, but God. We talk about how God redeems our stories and uses even the hard parts as He calls us to partner with Him in Kingdom work. We can trust that when we surrender to God He’ll take care of the rest. Cyndi’s fierce calling is helping others understand the simple truth of the Gospel. Plus, she shares some amazing ways God has used her to impact the lives of others. This impact has a ripple effect we are all part of. We can all listen for the voice of our Good Shepherd and walk in God’s will. There are so many great nuggets of truth in this episode! Cyndi reminds us how God is in the big things and the small things, that there’s a difference between saved and surrendered to God, and more. I know what Cyndi shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Cyndi Daves. Connect with Cyndi Daves and Learn More About When We Surrender to God He’ll Take Care of the Rest and Her Ministry Jesus For Real Life! Connect with Cyndi at jesusforreallife.com and find her social media links, speaking page, and more! You can also email her at [email protected]. Listen to her Saturday morning radio show: Cyndi Daves is the Radio Show Host/Producer “Jesus For Real Life” WCDG 88.7/WUCG 93.1/WCRY 89.9 www.TodaysChristianCountry.com She is a Spirit-Filled Speaker and Teacher Sharing God’s Message of Hope, Forgiveness and Salvation. Check out the show Saturday mornings at 8am, and listen to past shows via the Spotify link the radio station website provides. Listen to My Interview with Cyndi on Jesus for Real Life: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0vqWCbzBmlNpMcdPqujNgF More About Cyndi Like many, Cyndi’s life has taken her through a multitude of phases.   A broken home, sexual abuse, failed marriages and the redemptive power of the Heavenly Father has formed her into the unique creation she is today. Standing tall and stepping into her calling, Cyndi loves using her gift of public speaking to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Her “real life” engaging presentations are relatable, personally poignant, and point to the Truths of God’s Word.  In addition to hosting and producing JESUS FOR REAL LIFE, a weekend radio talk show for women, Cyndi is pursuing a degree in Biblical Studies from Trinity Bible Institute.   On a personal level, Cyndi and her husband  Bill live in the mountains of western North Carolina and Northeast Georgia where they have been REALTORS since 2000.  They have four children, including two daughters currently serving in the US Navy and five grandchildren.   Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris Surrender the Joy Stealers book trailer: Music by Oleg Kyrylkovv from Pixabay

How have we allowed catchy cultural phrases to infuse our mindset? How can truth change culture and our perception? In this episode, I’m talking with friend Becky Beresford. She shares her story of striving to be enough on her own, which led to shame and feeling like a failure. Then she had a mind shift when she changed up the words to a well-known phrase, discovering how the truth changes culture and lives. Her fierce calling is helping women embrace Christ-centered empowerment, and to know Him as Savior of their stories. We’re talking about her new book, She Believed HE Could So She Did, a familiar cultural phrase with one important, Christ-centered twist. Hear about how truth impacts culture and how this book concept came to be. I know what Becky shares will encourage, inspire, and challenge you, so listen in while I have a chat with Becky Beresford. Connect with Becky Beresford and Learn More About How Truth Changes Culture! Grab Her New Book She Believed He Could So She Did Connect with Becky at BeckyBeresford.com and become a part of her Empowered Email Tribe or follow her on Instagram and Facebook. Moody Publishers: https://www.moodypublishers.com/she-believed-he-could-so-she-did Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/She-Believed-Could-Did-Christ-Centered/dp/080242998X/ More About Becky BECKY BERESFORD lives in North Carolina and is happily outnumbered by her husband and three wonderful boys. She is an author, speaker and coach with a Master’s Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship from Moody Theological Seminary. Becky loves encouraging God’s Daughters to embrace Christ-centered empowerment through the truth found in the gospel. Her work has been featured in large online communities including Crosswalk, (in)courage, iBelieve, HuffPost, DaySpring, and she recently became a writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries’ First 5 writing team. Becky’s book with Moody Publishers, She Believed HE Could, So She Did, released in March. Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let’s talk about me speaking at your next women’s event… What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ I hope you’ll join me next time, when I talk with another woman who is taking action where her passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Until then, friend, have a blessed week and I’ll talk to you soon … Doris Surrender the Joy Stealers book trailer: Music by Oleg Kyrylkovv from Pixabay