![315 || [Solo] How to Be a Good Steward of a God-Shaped Dream || Merritt Onsa](https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts123/v4/65/3e/74/653e743a-6653-3630-6da2-b095f6e17cbd/mza_480701868529311283.png/250x250bb.jpg)
Episodes
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Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/316
𤊠Join our Community Conversation calls â a supportive monthly opportunity to practice talking about your dream. Register here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect đ¤Š
Are insecurities keeping you from pursuing a dream?
Former child actress Wendi Lou Lee had often wondered if God could use her role in the cast of Little House on the Prairie to reach people with the gospel. But doubt and insecurity stood in the way of her doing anything about it.
It wasnât until she was recovering from surgery to remove a brain tumor that Wendi finally began to embrace the opportunity to use her platform as a cast member share her story of Godâs goodness through difficulty.
It started with a shift in perspective that was amplified by a simple question from her sister. She decided it was time to live her life differently, which led to writing her memoir, attending a writerâs conference, and then, beginning to gather Little House fans every week through live video.
In this episode she shares:
đĄ the shift in perspective that ignited the flame for her quiet dream,
⨠how she battled insecurities by taking repeated action, and
â¤ď¸ how you can trust Godâs ability to use your unique story and circumstances to bless others and make himself known.
Listen in to discover how Wendiâs faith and vulnerability transformed her life and connected her with believers and non-believers alike. Donât miss this compelling story of faith, resilience, and divine purpose.
NEXT STEPS:
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Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/315
đĽ This episode is brought to you by Dream Believers â a new virtual community for inspiration, accountability & practical resources that will help you bring your God-shaped dream to life!
Click to learn more and join here: merrittonsa.com/dreambelievers
Letâs Go After Our Dreams Together! đĽAre you ready to invest in yourself for the sake of your dream?
Does it feel like investing in yourself is selfish? Youâre not alone. In this episode, I dive into why self-investment is actually a form of stewardship, preparing you for the unique role God has designed for you.
Tune in to gain practical insights, biblical wisdom, and inspiration to start investing in your dream todayâincluding testimonials from women who have taken the leap of faith to get the support they need for their God-shaped dreams.
If youâre a Christian woman with a big dream, this episode is your invitation to embrace a new way of looking at how to be a responsible steward of what God has given you.
In this episode youâll learn:
đŤ Why investing in yourself is stewardship not selfishness
đ Practical Tips for finding extra money to support your dream
đĄ What happens when you embrace the reality that you donât have to figure everything out on your own.
Plus, Iâll introduce you to my Dream Believers Community, where you can find support and encouragement you need from fellow dreamers so you can stay the course when the responsibility of carrying this dream feels way beyond your abilities.
Join us and discover how and why itâs important to steward your dream by investing in yourself. Letâs dive in!
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Join the Dream Believers community for inspiration, accountability & practical resources to bring your God-shaped dream to life!
Click to learn more and register before the doors close on August 29th: merrittonsa.com/dreambelievers
Letâs Go After Our Dreams Together!
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Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Episodes manquant?
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Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/314
đĽ This episode is brought to you by Dream Believers â a new virtual community for inspiration, accountability & practical resources to bring your God-shaped dream to life! đĽ
Register for the free âStart Your Dream in 30 Daysâ workshop coming up on August 22nd. RSVP at: merrittonsa.com/workshop and Letâs Go Together!
How disciplined do you need to be to take on a big dream?
Youâd never guess it by looking from the outside in, but discipline is not one of my top strengthsâitâs not even in the top 30! If âlack of disciplineâ is one of the reasons youâre holding off on pursuing a dream, listen in for another way to look at what it means to âbe disciplined.â
Tune in to gain practical insights, biblical wisdom, and inspiration to persevere even through setbacks. If youâre a Christian woman with big dreams, this episode is your roadmap to embracing a new way of being disciplined so you can make tangible progress.
In this episode youâll learn:
đŤ 3 myths that confuse our understanding of what it means to be disciplined
đ Ways even an undisciplined person can build a habit of discipline
đĄ Practical tips for how to apply everyday discipline to pursuing a God-shaped dream
Plus, Iâll introduce you to the Dream Believers Community, where you can find support and encouragement you need from fellow dreamers so you can stay the course when the dream feels beyond your abilities.
Join us and discover how discipline can be your hidden strength on the path to fulfilling your God-shaped dreams. Letâs dive in!
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Be sure to RSVP for the free workshop on August 22nd so you can Start Your Dream in 30 Days! Register here: merrittonsa.com/workshop. Then, show up on Thursday, August 22nd, and find your courage with other dreamers who are on the journey too!
Letâs get started! Click play and get ready to pursue your dream!
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/313
đĽ This episode is brought to you by Dream Believers â a new virtual community for inspiration, accountability & practical resources to bring your God-shaped dream to life! Beginners are welcome!! đĽ
Join us by attending a free workshop on August 22nd so you can âStart Your Dream in 30 Days.â RSVP at: merrittonsa.com/dreamco and Letâs Go Together!
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Have big dreams but feel uncertain how to begin?
This week on the Devoted Dreamers podcast we are exploring a mindset shift that will help you begin with ease and clarity. My goal, by the end of this solo episode, is that you would know you already have what you need to get started. So pop in your earbuds, put on your walking shoes and letâs figure out what youâre capable of! (I already know the answer: A lot more than you realize!)
Plus, Iâll introduce you to the Dream Believers Community, where you can find support and encouragement you need from fellow dreamers so you can stay the course when the dream feels beyond your abilities.
Tune in for inspiration and actionable steps to confidently walk into your dream, knowing that with faith and community, you are more capable than you think.
In this episode youâll learn:
âĄThe secret to beginning something new when you feel unqualified,
đŤ The power of recognizing and embracing your inherent gifts and talents, and
đŞ Practical steps to help you start right where you are today.
Get ready to find courage as you build an enduring support system of friends to labor alongside you, together, begin taking action steps toward your God-shaped dreams.
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Before you go, RSVP for my free workshop on August 22nd so you can Start Your Dream in 30 Days! Register for the workshop here: merrittonsa.com/dreamco. Then, show up on Thursday, August 22nd, and find your courage with other dreamers who are on the journey too!
Letâs get started! Click play and get ready to pursue your dream!
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/312
How will you find balance between your dreams and your kidsâ school routines?
Amidst the flurry of back-to-school preparations, are you also quietly pondering what this season holds for your personal dreams? If youâre a mom with kids still living at home, your routines (and theirs) are likely about to shift big time!
For some, youâll have more free time than youâve had in years. (
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Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/311
đĽ This episode is brought to you by Dream Believers â a new virtual community for inspiration, accountability & practical resources to bring your God-shaped dream to life! đĽ
Beginners are welcome!! Join the Dream Believers waitlist at: merrittonsa.com/dreamco and Letâs Go Together!
What if you started asking better questions about your God-shaped dream?
This week weâre diving into the essential art of asking better questions to propel your God-shaped dream forward.
In this solo episode, Iâll share how switching from fear-inspired âwhat ifâ questions to more productive, actionable questions can bring you closer to your dream. Weâll explore the importance of identifying what you can control, leaning into God, and walking this path in community with others who share your faith and dedication.
Plus, Iâll introduce you to the Dream Believers Community, where you can find support and encouragement from fellow dreamers to stay the course when the dream feels beyond your abilities.
Youâre going to learn:
⥠How to shift from fear-based questions to faith-fueled questions,
đŞ Practical steps to reframe your mindset, and
đŤ The transformative power of a shared experience with other women on the dreamer journey.
Get ready to reframe all of your âwhat-ifâ questions so you can gain clarity and take actionable steps toward the big dreams God has placed on your heart.
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Before you go, join the waitlist for the Dream Believers community at: merrittonsa.com/dreamco and join a group of like-minded women who are going after their dreams TOGETHER!
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Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/310
đĽ This episode is brought to you by Dream Believers â a new virtual community for inspiration, accountability & practical resources to bring your God-shaped dream to life! đĽ
Beginners are welcome!! Join the waitlist at: merrittonsa.com/dreamco and letâs Go Together!
Do you lack the free time to make your God-shaped dream a reality?
Itâs difficult to imagine when youâll find a moment to type out the next chapter of your book, or plan that event youâve been dreaming up, or really give serious thought to the business idea swimming around in your head.
Whether itâs the demands of daily life, a family member in need, a crisis in your community, or an unexpected illness, âfree timeâ is elusive. And because your dream isnât urgent, it always gets pushed to the backburner when âreal lifeâ demands rise to the surfaceâyet again.
Pop in your earbuds to learn:
⥠A simple framework to help you find focused time for your dream,
â¤ď¸ Practical steps for staying consistent amidst a busy life, and
đŤ The shift in perspective needed so you donât give up.
Get ready to step outside your comfort zone and tackle the time constraints of your life, so you can say âyesâ to the big dreams God has placed on your heart.
Before you go, join the waitlist for the Dream Believers community at: merrittonsa.com/dreamco and surround yourself with like-minded women who are going after their dreams TOGETHER!
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/309
This episode is brought to you by the Dream Believers virtual community. Get on the waitlist to be notified when the doors are open to new members: https://merrittonsa.com/dreamco
What story have you been living in?
At 17 years old, Cassandra Smith was living in silence, withdrawn from others, and facing a severe mental health crisis. Never did she imagine that years later she would give keynotes and TEDx talks, write books, lead mentorship programs, and create more than 200 downloadable resources to rally around the power of living your story to the fullest.
Cassandra is passionate about mental health wellness, believing people are not defined by what has happened to them in their life but rather where they want to go. Her core message comes from asking the question: âWhat would your life look like if you were to take back the pen to the story of your life?â
The encouragement she brings comes from her personal story of moving out of darkness and into the light of believing Godâs truth and stepping into a big dream He had given her.
Listen in and discover how you can learn to trust the Lord despite fear and how thatâs just the beginning of changing the narrative of your lifeâs story.
In this episode she shares:
đĄ how our dreams come alive through the everyday moments,
⨠practical advice on overcoming fear so you can find your voice, and
â¤ď¸ how building a support network is essential in navigating the uncertainty (and the meltdowns) that come when you start to pursue a dream
This inspiring podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents, and life experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/308
đĽ This episode is brought to you by the Devoted Dreamers Community Conversation call held on the last Wednesday of the month at 10:30 AM Pacific / 1:30 PM Eastern. đĽ
Register for free here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect
Are you ready to uncover the secret weapon for chasing your God-shaped dream?
If the obstacles between you and your dream feel overwhelming, it might be time for a game-changer: Community!
In this solo episode, I dive into exactly why I believe community is essential for tackling the hurdles and confidently moving forward with your God-shaped dream. Whether your dream involves writing, speaking, leading, teaching, starting a business, or building a ministry, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips just for you.
From tackling obstacles like time and discipline to gaining clarity and momentum, community is the key. When youâre surrounded by other Jesus-loving women who also have a big dream, everyone wins because we are stronger together than we are on our own.
I also introduce you to our supportive Devoted Dreamers community and tell you how to connect this month with like-minded women who have a similar heart and are pursuing God-shaped dreams just like you.
Pop in your earbuds to learn all about:
⥠The three obstacles that community helps eliminate,
đŤ What the Bible says about strength in numbers, and
đ How to find the like-minded community you seek.
If youâve ever felt the nudge to create or build something new but find yourself overwhelmed by the enormity of the dream, youâre in the right place.
Get ready to step outside your comfort zone, face those fears, and say âyesâ to the big dreams God has placed on your heart. This episode is packed with encouragement and practical insights to help you on your journey. Letâs get started!
RSVP for the free monthly Community call on Zoom
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Support the Podcast
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
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Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/307
This episode is brought to you by the Devoted Dreamers Community Conversations call, held monthly on the last Wednesday at 10:30 AM Pacific / 1:30 PM Eastern. Register for free here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect
Have you ever felt a God nudge?
Whether you call it a nudge, a whisper, or a prompting, I bet youâve had at least one. Maybe it was super subtle. Maybe you didnât understand it in the moment. Or maybe itâs like you were knocked over the head with a two-by-four and you cannot go on ignoring it any longer.
In many cases, the whisper is beyond anything you ever imagined for your life, and for my guest, Kathy Izard, it came loud and clear and completely unexpected. Her story began in the heart of a soup kitchen where a surprising encounter sparked a journey that would require her to surrender in ways she never imagined.
As you listen, pay close attention to what you can learn from her story, like:
đĄHow to know if you have a God whisper,
⨠Why your dream probably doesnât come with a roadmap (and how to take steps anyway),
â¤ď¸ What it looks like to surrender to a dream you didnât know you wanted and how God directs your steps when you do.This inspiring podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents, and life experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/306
đĽ This episode is brought to you by the Devoted Dreamers Community Conversation call held on the last Wednesday of the month at 10:30 AM Pacific / 1:30 PM Eastern. đĽ
Register for free here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect
What good gifts did God give you?
In this solo episode, we dive deep into how you can discover and develop your God-given gifts. Whether you have a burning idea for a book you want to write, a business that could transform lives, or a heartfelt vision for ministry, this episode is for you.
Weâll dig deep into scripture, reflect on life experiences, and explore practical steps to take action on your God-shaped dreams. Plus, Iâll share details about our supportive Devoted Dreamers community and how you can connect with like-minded women who are pursuing their dreams just like you.
Pop in your earbuds to learn all about:
đ How to identify your God-given gifts,
đ Practical advice for using those gifts as it relates to your dream, and
â¤ď¸ Understanding why your gifts matter.
If youâve ever felt the nudge to create or build something new but find yourself overwhelmed by the enormity of the dream, youâre in the right place.
Get ready to step outside your comfort zone, face those fears, and say âyesâ to the big dreams God has placed on your heart. This episode is packed with encouragement and practical insights to help you on your journey. Letâs get started!
RSVP for the free monthly Community call on Zoom
Three questions I asked you to reflect on in this episode:
Why do my gifts matter in the world?
What, Lord, do you want to do with my good gifts?
How can my gifts bring you glory?
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Support the Podcast
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
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Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/305
This episode is brought to you by the Devoted Dreamers Community Conversations call, held monthly on the last Wednesday at 10:30 AM Pacific / 1:30 PM Eastern. Register for free here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect
Do you struggle to recognize the beauty of your uniqueness?
Everywhere you look thereâs evidence of the glorious ways God made other people: Sheâs got an eye for design. That one has a knack for speaking encouraging truth into other peopleâs struggles. Her every movement is so graceful and poised. I wish I could speak/write/entertain like she does.
Ultimately, weâre asking the question: God, why didnât you make me like that?
We donât intend to diminish Godâs gifts in us; itâs more like we donât recognize our gifts for what they are. Weâve lived our whole lives with these talents, this wiring, this personality. It doesnât seem all that special compared to what we perceive as excellent in others.
What will it take to begin recognizing the significance of your wiring and to boldly use your gifts for His glory?
In this episode of the Devoted Dreamers Podcast, my guest Michelle Acker offers a reminder that Godâs design in each of usâincluding youâhas a beautiful purpose!
As you listen, pay close attention to what Michelle teaches us about:
đĄPractical ways to overcome the negative voices threatening your dream,
⨠Giving yourself the freedom to explore and express your passions, and
â¤ď¸ The gift of collaborating with another dreamer to create beauty TOGETHER!
This inspiring podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents, and life experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/304
Is it too late for me and my dream?
If you had asked college-aged-me if my parents were old, Iâm sure I wouldâve said yes. And I wouldnât have meant it as a compliment
But what about wisdom? What about the value of life experience? What does the Bible have to say about our value in the midst of inevitable aging?
When former podcast guest Heather Creekmore reached out to share her new book Aging Gratefully with me, I was convinced this was a topic we all need to consider. (Also, go listen to her previous episode, #231, on How to Trust Godâs Calling on Your Life Even When You Feel Unqualifiedâit is among the top three downloaded Devoted Dreamers episodes of all time!)
If youâve felt the pressure to be perfect or feared having missed your chance to pursue a dream, this conversation offers hope, truth, and a much-needed perspective shift that Godâs calling transcends age because wisdom and experience are assets, not hindrances.
As you listen, pay close attention to what Heatherâs story reveals about:
đĄManaging the fear of not feeling qualified for the dream God has given you (whether thatâs age-related or something else)
⨠How to shift into a more biblical perspective that places a high value on long life and growing old,
â¤ď¸ Heatherâs practical strategy for fighting back against the thoughts that would keep you and your dream in hiding
This inspiring podcast episode helps Christian women in their search for encouragement to use the skills, talents, and life experience for the big dreams God has given you.
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/303
Are you afraid of what God might do with your dream?
If fear has been a driving force in your dream (or lack thereof), itâs time to go deeper in your faith. Bible teacher and author Jen Weaver shares in this episode about how to manage the fear of not feeling qualified for the dream God has given you.
Rather than quit when you hit a fear roadblock, you can choose to walk through your fears with Godâwho is the antidote to fearâand He will re-energize your faith with the truth of His Word.
Jen is passionate about empowering believers to engage in every aspect of life WITH God. Her latest book A Beckoning to Wonder is a gorgeously illustrated poetry collection, helping you rest in Godâs goodness as you re-energize your connection and experience the life-changing ease of wonder.
As you listen to this episode, pay close attention to what Jenâs story can teach you about:
đĄManaging the fear of not feeling qualified for the dream God has given you,
â¤ď¸ The power of wonder to remove the burden of overthinking, and
⨠Partnering with God to take the pressure off and embrace your dreams like a child: with the freedom to be a learner, to try things, to mess up and keep moving forward.
This inspiring podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents, and life experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/302
What do you do when a dream feels too hard?
Somewhere along the journey of saying âyesâ to a God-shaped dream youâll probably ask yourself why in the world you did that.
Itâs no small thing to attempt something youâve never done before like writing a book when you donât know the first thing about publishing; or starting a business when youâve always been a W-2 employee; or taking the risk of inviting strangers to purchase the art youâve created, attend a workshop youâll be teaching, or buy a product youâve spent your creative energy building.
It feels incredibly vulnerable to put yourself out there like this. And some days you might feel like quitting so you can go back to your âeasy, normal life.â
I donât blame you. We all have those moments, but thereâs actually a great deal of hope in the messy middle as well, and thatâs what I have to share with you in this episode.
Pop in your earbuds and youâll learn all about:
đޤThe 3 traps youâll encounter when youâre in the messy middle of a big dream
đââď¸Practical advice for how to navigate the messy middle without giving up
â¤ď¸Finding strength to persevere in community with others dreamers facing similar trials
This encouraging podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents, and experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
Join us for my next free monthly call on Zoom with other devoted dreamers
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Letâs Chat
Join the Facebook Community
Support the Podcast
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
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Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/301
Is there a God-nudge youâve been ignoring?
Rachel Bates never imagined starting a nonprofit; in fact, even as she leads the Beauties ministry, this role feels outside of her comfort zone and skill set on most days. The reason she said âyesâ? Beauties has touched Rachelâs life and the faith of her young daughter so deeply. She couldnât ignore the Spiritâs prompting to grow the ministry and reach girls beyond her home communityâor that she was the one to begin this work.
Now, looking back, she can see the breadcrumbs of Godâs hand leading her from a teaching career, to mothering, and then to this opportunity. At the same time, she knew nothing about nonprofit leadership before sitting down with an attorney to discuss next steps. In order to be obedient to the call, she knew she would have to surround herself with others who had the skills and experience she lacked.
Rachel candidly shares about her struggles with self-doubt and on-going battle with perfectionism, sharing scriptures that keep her anchored continuing to embrace the joys and challenges of this role.
As you listen to this episode, pay close attention to what Rachelâs story can teach you about trusting the Lord as you pursue a dream outside your comfort zone, including:
đĄ Why we hesitate to listen to those âGod nudgesâ about the big dreams Heâs given us (and whatâs really at play there),
⨠How to find courage to say âyesâ to the adventure God has for you, and
â¤ď¸ The transformative power of stepping into the identity He has given you in Christ.
This encouraging podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents and experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/300
Is it possible to miss Godâs plan for your life?
This is what Tracey Gates wondered as the years went by while she raised children and worked odd jobs along the way. She knew God had made her for more, but could she have missed it?
Tracey always had a dream in her heart to write a book but she had no idea how to begin or what the topic would be. It didnât seem urgent at the time. The idea would come up in conversation with a friend or her spouse but there was never enough clarity to move forward.
In her 40s, the dream was still there. By the time she reached her 50s, Tracey realized that the comfort she once felt about this someday-dream to write a book no longer felt comfortable. It was actually frightening. Had she missed Godâs plan?
As you listen to this episode, pay close attention to what Traceyâs story can teach you about finding your unique calling and purpose, including:
⨠How to overcome fear and find the courage to write,
â¤ď¸ The transformative power of daily acts of kindness, and
đď¸ Two questions that were the key to unlocking & discovering her full purpose.
This encouraging podcast episode is for any Christian woman in search of encouragement about how to use your skills, talents and experience for the big dreams God has planted in your heart.
NEXT STEPS:
Get Connected with the Dreamers Facebook Community
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
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Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/299
What have you been waiting on God to do with your dream?
Letâs be honest, waiting is hard. But often we are so busy looking ahead wondering when God will answer a prayer or change a difficult circumstance that we risk missing out on what Heâs already doing right in front of us, right now.
In this episode, I am honored to introduce you to Shadia Hrichi, a passionate Bible teacher, award-winning author, and speaker. Sheâs joining us to share the surprising twist in her career as a result of corporate layoffs and how one question from a godly mentor opened her eyes to a seminary degree and the possibility of working in full-time ministry.
In this episode youâll learn:
⨠How scheduled, intentional downtime can bring you into a closer walk with the Lord,
â¤ď¸ About trusting God even when progress seems slow, and
đ The vital role of wise mentors to help uncovering your God-given dreams.
I pray this conversation is a reminder that God is always working. He never sleeps on our dreams; He is never blind to our concerns. He is always present, always loving, and completely aware of every aspect of our lives.
Iâm eager for you to hear Shadiaâs story about the journey to her God-shaped dream. This soul-nourishing conversation promises to reignite your passion for Godâs plan in your life.
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Facebook Community
Support the Podcast
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/298
How do you know if youâre following Godâs plan for your dream?
Itâs a big question! And if youâre asking it, you should know you are not the only one. I hear this all the time from listeners who are concerned about missing what God is prompting them to do.
Itâs one of the reasons Iâm so honored to have the inspiring Polly Payne back for a second episode this month. In case youâre new to Polly, sheâs the CEO + Founder of Horacio Printing, and sheâs here to share her heart for putting structure around how we plan and pursue our dreams.
In this follow-up to last weekâs interview, Polly and I talk about her core philosophy of how to make time for our dreams and ensure that those dreams are in alignment with the will of God.
Youâll learn:
Pollyâs strategies for beginning to plan and dream (anytime, not just at the new year), How to nurture your weekly schedule and make space for a dream, as well as How to set goals and intentions that stick.If you donât know Polly or arenât familiar with Horacio Printing, her Dream Planner or Print School, School, go back to episode 297 and get caught up on her story of bringing Horacio Printing to life! Especially the mishap as she was naming her company; that story is unforgettable and has some great takeaways if you struggle with perfectionism!
Okay, letâs jump into it! Grab your planner, set your intentions, and lean into the blessings of Godâs new mercies every morning.
You don't want to miss this revitalizing episode of the Devoted Dreamers Podcastâhere's to dreaming, growing, and becoming the person God is calling you to be in this God-breathed new year!
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Facebook CommunitySupport the Podcast
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music by Komiku. -
Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/297
Have you ever felt unqualified for the dream God has given you?
Youâre not alone in that. My guest today is a decade into her dream, and sheâs here to share how God moved her from a career in corporate advertising to building a ministry and business that would glorify God and serve His people.
Polly Payne is the CEO + Founder of Horacio Printing and in this episode, youâll hear her talk about the birth of her dream to create a God-centered planner company. Horacio Printing has sold over 45,000 Dream Planners around the world and raised over $73,000 to fight human trafficking through her partnership with A21.
A mother of two, Polly now lives in Lookout Mountain, GA, where she leads her company and empowers other dreamers to create their own bible studies, journals and planners, through her Print School, which she founded in 2022.
Stick around to learn from Polly about:
the challenges, strategies, and faith journey in her shift from corporate to entrepreneurship sharing knowledge and experience with other creatorsâeven if it means empowering future competitors, and the profound effect of surrendering our dreams and their outcomes to God's control.Our God is good and trustworthy and He is at work in the worldâin your life, in mine, in Pollyâs.
If youâve struggled to get started. If youâre tired of spinning your wheels and going nowhere with your dream, join me for a Devoted Dreamers Zoom call on Wednesday, January 31st to connect, build community, share boldly and imagine what God might do with our dreams in 2024!
Register for the call at merrittonsa.com/first90days
NEXT STEPS:
Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call
Get Connected with the Facebook Community
Support the Podcast
Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes
Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android
MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:
Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson.
Theme music by Reaktor Productions.
Ad music: âNew Dayâ used under Creative Commons by Lee Rosevere. - Montre plus
