Have you ever felt God calling you to something big—something you know you should do—but you feel completely unqualified? Maybe you’ve wrestled with doubt, questioned your abilities, or hesitated to take the next step because you feel unequipped.

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Lauren Black, a graphic designer turned decision coach, to talk about what it looks like to trust God’s call even when it doesn’t make sense. Lauren shares her journey of struggling with indecision, battling imposter syndrome, and finally stepping into what God had for her. She’ll walk us through the SAIL Method—her powerful framework for making confident, faith-led decisions—and remind us that God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called.

If you’ve been feeling stuck in uncertainty, overwhelmed by choices, or resisting a calling because it feels too big for you, this episode is for you.

Quick Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Learn More About Lauren’s Decision-Making Resources & Workbooks HERE
• The Best Yes by Lysa TerKeurst (Highly recommended for those struggling with indecision) HERE
• Bible Verse Referenced: 2 Corinthians 12:9 — "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
• Follow Lauren’s Podcast → Anchored Decisions

Marriage can feel like one more thing on the to-do list when you're balancing homeschooling, business, and motherhood. But what if you could cultivate a marriage that brings you joy, connection, and fulfillment—even in the busiest seasons?

In today’s episode, I sit down withCara, a wife of 18 years, a homeschooling mom of five, and a marriage and life coach who helps women strengthen their marriages through God’s love and femininity. Cara shares powerful yet practical strategies to prioritize your marriage, reconnect with your spouse, and build a relationship that thrives, not just survives.

We dive into:
✨ The power ofweekly marriage check-ins and how they deepen connection
✨ How toprocess emotions with God first before bringing concerns to your spouse
✨ The importance ofbringing fun back into your marriage (without it feeling forced!)
✨ Howpracticing gratitude can transform how you see and engage with your husband
✨ Practical ways tocreate time for yourself as a busy mom without guilt

Whether your marriage is thriving or in a tough season, this episode will give you encouragement and actionable steps to build a stronger, more joyful connection with your spouse.

📌Cara’s Marriage Coaching & Resources:www.thewayforlove.com
📌Cara’s Podcast on Marriage & Relationships:Her Podcast
📌Follow Cara on Instagram: instagram.com/cara.nitz

If you loved this episode, pleasesubscribe and leave a review! Your feedback helpsThe Woman of Courage Podcast reach more women seeking encouragement and practical faith-based wisdom.

💬Join the conversation on Instagram:Instagram.com/wp_samanthawelch

Have you ever had one of those weeks where everything feels off—your motivation is gone, inspiration is nowhere to be found, and you’re just feeling overwhelmed? I get it. In fact, I needed this reminder myself, which is why I’m bringing back a past episode from December 2023 that I needed to hear again.

In this episode of The Woman of Courage Podcast, I talk about navigating those inevitable “off weeks” with grace and faith. I share how I personally deal with seasons of exhaustion and lack of motivation, and I encourage you to shift your perspective on trials—seeing them not as setbacks, but as opportunities for growth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

If you’ve been feeling discouraged or stuck, I pray this episode gives you the encouragement you need to keep moving forward. Remember, a bad day (or even a bad month) doesn’t equal a bad life.

If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who might need the reminder too. Let’s keep moving forward with faith and courage!

Until next time, keep shining your light in the world—your courage is inspiring. 💛

In this episode of The Woman of Courage Podcast, Samantha sits down with Nicole Gwanzura, a fellow mom, entrepreneur, and believer, to explore how faith, resilience, and God’s grace carry us through life’s wilderness seasons. From navigating motherhood and marriage to balancing work and pursuing God’s calling, Nicole shares her transformative journey of finding harmony in the chaos.

Together, they discuss:

Why setting boundaries rooted in faith is essential for mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being. The hard yeses of motherhood and marriage and how they shape us. How God uses wilderness seasons to prepare us for His greater plans. Shifting your mindset to gratitude and leaning on God for fulfillment. Encouraging practical steps to align your life with God’s purpose and grace.

This episode is packed with encouragement, practical wisdom, and reminders that God’s faithfulness sustains us—even when the journey feels hard.

Setting Boundaries and Seeking Harmony:

Nicole shares her perspective on why moms need to pause the hustle and focus on their values and God’s calling for their lives.

God’s Grace in the Wilderness Seasons:

Lessons from Nicole’s story of perseverance through academic challenges, career shifts, and faith-building seasons.

Gratitude as a Transformative Practice:

Samantha and Nicole dive into the power of choosing gratitude in marriage, parenting, and daily life.

Navigating Relationships with Faith:

The importance of leaning on God to fill our emotional needs, so we can show up better in our relationships.

Faithful Friendships:

Nicole’s shoutout to her best friend reminds us of the value of raw, genuine connections that encourage and uplift.

Mentioned Resource:

The Bait of Satan by John Bevere – A powerful book on overcoming offense and its impact on relationships.

Find Out More About Nicole:

Sure thing, here you go: Nicole Gwanzura, MBA, is a career strategist, speaker, and host of the Wellness with EAC podcast, dedicated to helping professionals thrive by prioritizing wellness at work. With over a decade of experience in career development and higher education, Nicole has empowered hundreds of students and professionals to pursue fulfilling careers while maintaining their mental and financial well-being. Her thought leadership has been featured in Fortune, Her Campus, and Poets & Quants, and she has appeared on platforms like Jenna Kutcher’s The Goal Digger Podcast.

Originally from Zimbabwe, Nicole’s journey as a bilingual immigrant and first-generation college graduate inspires her work with authenticity and purpose. An alumna of Radford University, where she earned both a Bachelor’s in Marketing and an MBA, Nicole serves on the Radford Alumni Association Board of Directors. Through her podcast, which reaches listeners in over 12 countries, Nicole fosters a global dialogue on redefining professional success. A woman of faith, she enjoys time with loved ones and indulging in her favorite pumpkin chai or peppermint mocha.

Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolegwanzura/

or on her website: www.simplyeac.com

Want to learn more about Samantha outside the podcast? You can find her in all these places!

Website

Instagram

Are you struggling to slow down and trust God in the busyness of life? In this heartfelt solo episode of the Woman of Courage podcast, we dive deep into the importance of rest. Join me as I share my personal journey of redefining rest, taking God's promises seriously, and making the Sabbath a priority in my life. We’ll explore what Scripture says about rest, the unexpected blessings of fellowship, and practical ways to incorporate intentional rest into your week, even in the busiest seasons of life. Discover how aligning with God's design for rest can renew your strength, deepen your relationships, and draw you closer to Him. If you’re ready to experience peace and productivity in a way that honors God, this episode is for you! Want to learn more about Samantha or message her? You can find her in all these places! Want to learn more about Samantha outside the podcast? You can find her in all these places!

www.welchphotography.net

www.Instagram.com/wp_samanthawelch

www.facebook.com/wpsamanthawelch Some things we talk about are: -Biblical rest and Sabbath practices -Rest and productivity for Christian women -Incorporating Sabbath rest in busy seasons -Practical steps to embrace rest -Scientific benefits of rest and renewal -Christian faith and mental health -Fellowship and faith-based connections Steps and Resources from the Episode: 1. Steps to Incorporate Rest: Reflect with Gratitude: Spend time thanking God for His faithfulness throughout the week (Psalm 9:1). Listen to Worship Music: Use music as a tool to soothe your soul and refocus on God’s goodness. Take Mini Breaks: Carve out 10-15 minutes daily to step away from work and responsibilities, dedicating time to reconnect with God. Focus on Intentional Rest: Choose a day to avoid work-related tasks, even if it’s not a full day. Treat it as a “fast” from daily demands. 2. Practical Encouragement for Busy Seasons: Emphasize God’s understanding of your limitations and His delight in your efforts to honor Him. Trust that rest is a step of faith and obedience to God’s design, leading to spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits. 3. Scientific Benefits of Rest: 2016 Study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience: Rest enhances brain plasticity, which improves learning and problem-solving. American Psychological Association Research: Regular breaks reduce stress and improve emotional resilience. National Institutes of Health Findings: Proper rest lowers cardiovascular disease risk, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the immune system. 4. Key Scriptures to Meditate On: Genesis 2:2-3 – God rested on the seventh day and made it holy. Exodus 20:8-10 – Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Isaiah 40:31 – Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. Matthew 11:28-29 – Come to me, all who are weary, and I will give you rest. Proverbs 27:17 – As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

In this deeply moving episode of The Woman of Courage Podcast, I sit down with Heidi Mortenson, a licensed marriage and family therapist who has walked through seasons of profound struggle and transformation. From the breaking point in her marriage and business to stepping into bold faith, Heidi’s journey is a powerful testament to God’s ability to heal, restore, and guide us into our calling. Join us as we dive into: - The Turning Point of Surrender: How hitting rock bottom in her marriage and business led Heidi to experience the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit. - Breaking Generational Patterns: A candid discussion on forgiveness, inner healing, and releasing the weight of generational pain to create a legacy of freedom for your family. - Faith in the Trenches: Learning to honor your spouse, even when it's hard, and letting prayer shift your perspective from frustration to gratitude. - A Call to Boldness: How Heidi found the courage to embrace her identity as a Christian therapist and share God’s transformative power openly in her work. - God’s Timing and Seasons: Navigating the balance between big dreams, motherhood, and ministry with grace and trust in God’s perfect plan. This is a conversation about redemption, perseverance, and the beautiful work God does when we release control and trust Him with our brokenness. If you’re a mom wrestling with big questions about your purpose, marriage, or faith, this episode will give you hope, encouragement, and practical wisdom to take the next step forward. Resources Mentioned: 1. The Power of a Praying Woman by Stormie Omartian – A life-changing guide to praying for yourself and your marriage. Find it here 2. It Didn't Start with You by Mark Wolynn – Uncover the impact of generational trauma and find healing. Explore the book 3. There’s More by Randy Clark – A call to explore the deeper things of God and live in the fullness of His Spirit. Learn more

Learn More About and Follow Heidi Mortenson

https://linktr.ee/HeidiMortenson

Reflect & Connect: - What generational patterns or burdens are you ready to surrender to God? - How is God calling you to trust Him in your current season? Subscribe to The Woman of Courage for more inspiring conversations and practical faith-building insights. If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend and leave a review to help others find encouragement in their journey!

Want to learn more about Samantha outside the podcast? You can find her in all these places!

www.welchphotography.net

www.Instagram.com/wp_samanthawelch

www.facebook.com/wpsamanthawelch

Join us as we celebrate the first anniversary of the Woman of Courage podcast! In this heartfelt episode, host Samantha Welch reflects on the transformative journey from its beginnings as a business-focused podcast to a beacon of inspiring testimonies and stories of faith. Explore the major themes such as personal surrender, the power of saying 'yes' to God, and how God uniquely reaches each of us. Hear about the lessons learned, the joy of connecting with our community, and Samantha's gratitude for the opportunity to highlight God's faithfulness. As we look forward to another year of powerful stories, Samantha also introduces her new project aimed at mompreneurs, the Moms in Business podcast, which you can check out HERE

Apply to Share Your Story: www.welchphotography.net/podcast