Joy Inspired Podcast

Nikki Cruise

Have you ever wondered how to stand firm in your values and build a business that aligns with your beliefs while staying profitable and purposeful. Each episode unpacks the mindset shifts, proven strategies, and practical tools that successful entrepreneurs use to anchor their work in God’s truth. Discover how to make a lasting impact, cultivate resilient joy even in the toughest seasons, and embrace a faith-filled entrepreneurial journey that’s as rewarding as it is transformative. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your business without compromising your faith, this podcast is here to guide and inspire you. Ready to create a business that’s rooted in purpose and overflowing with joy? Let’s jump in! 

  1. Entrepreneur Growth With Technology

    2D AGO

    Entrepreneur Growth With Technology

    Episode Summary In this insightful and empowering episode of the Joy Inspired Podcast, Nikki Cruise sits down with Lois Wyant, founder of JFT Web Marketing, to unpack the intersection of faith, technology, and business growth. Lois shares her remarkable entrepreneurial journey—from childhood business experiences to running a successful photography studio—and how each season equipped her for her current mission: helping local businesses become visible, trusted, and chosen online. Together, they dive into the fast-paced world of AI, digital marketing, and online visibility, offering practical wisdom for entrepreneurs who feel overwhelmed by technology. This conversation reframes AI not as something to fear, but as a powerful tool to steward well—allowing business owners to work smarter, reclaim time, and increase Kingdom impact. This episode is a powerful reminder that embracing innovation doesn’t mean losing alignment. When anchored in faith, even technology becomes a tool for purpose. Key Takeaways Visibility is essential—people can’t work with you if they can’t find youTechnology is not replacing you—it’s enhancing your capacityAI should be treated like an employee: trained, guided, and refinedYou don’t need to master everything—start with one tool and grow from thereVideo content builds trust faster than written content aloneSimplicity is key: concise, clear messaging outperforms long-form contentStaying current with technology is essential for long-term business growthJoy and peace are not sacrificed in growth—they are sustained through alignmentWhile no specific verse was directly quoted, the conversation strongly reflects the principle of: Living in alignment with God’s designStewarding tools and resources with wisdomPrioritizing relationship with God over productivityEncouragement for Your Journey You don’t have to fear technology or feel left behind. You are not called to do everything—you are called to steward what’s in front of you with wisdom. AI, tools, and systems are not here to replace your voice. They are here to amplify it. When you allow God to lead, even something as fast-moving as technology becomes peaceful, purposeful, and aligned. Root Check Questions to Reflect On Am I resisting tools that could actually support my growth?Where am I overcomplicating what could be simple?Am I using my time wisely, or just staying busy?What is one tool I can learn deeply instead of chasing many?How can I use technology to create more space for what matters most?Am I building my business from pressure or from alignment. Connect With Lois Lois Wyant – JFT Web Marketing Website: https://jftwebmarketing.com/ Email: info@jftwebmarketing.com Free Gift A list to help you start leveraging AI in your business today. 👉 Access the gift here: https://myfavaitools.com/ Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    32 min
  2. Season 2: Episode 17 - Get Out of the Weeds: Wake up. Show up. Step up Into Your Kingdom Business!

    APR 28

    Season 2: Episode 17 - Get Out of the Weeds: Wake up. Show up. Step up Into Your Kingdom Business!

    Episode Summary: In this episode, Nikki Cruise and Debbie Chen explore the journey from self-doubt to walking in kingdom authority. They discuss how early labels and societal expectations can shape a woman’s identity and how replacing lies with God’s truth empowers confidence, purpose, and authentic living. Debbie shares her personal story of transformation, from childhood ridicule to building a faith-aligned business, showing listeners how to step into their identity, hear God’s voice, and operate in authority in both ministry and marketplace. Key Takeaways: Early labels can limit your identity, but they do not define you.Recognizing your true identity in Christ allows you to walk confidently in purpose.Lies from the world or others must be replaced with God’s truth to experience joy and authority.Obedience often requires discomfort, but it leads to growth and healing.Walking in kingdom authority changes how you show up personally and professionally.Ministry and marketplace are not mutually exclusive; your business can operate with kingdom principles.Scriptures Mentioned: 1 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”Habakkuk 2:2 – (Referenced concept of writing the vision clearly)Biblical principle of identity over labels (implied throughout discussion)Kingdom authority passages (general reference)God’s truth vs. worldly lies (implied Scripture)Encouragement for Listeners: Your identity in Christ is your strongest foundation.Don’t let societal or early-life labels define your potential.Replace lies with God’s truth daily.Discomfort often signals obedience and growth.Walking in authority gives you confidence in life and business.Your business can reflect God’s kingdom even without overtly religious branding.Root Check Questions to Reflect On: What labels or lies have you been carrying that do not belong to your true identity?How does God see you, and how does that truth differ from the world’s labels?In what areas of life or business are you playing small due to fear or self-doubt?How do you respond to discomfort when stepping into God’s calling?Are you actively taking actions that reflect your God-given identity?How can your business or work be an extension of God’s kingdom principles?🔄 REFRAME Recap: Replacing lies with God’s truth is not just a mental exercise—it’s transformative. By embracing your kingdom identity and walking in authority, you operate from a place of peace, purpose, and divine alignment, which impacts both your personal life and business. Ready to take action on what you heard today? Connect with Debbie Email: debbiehchen@gmail.com Facebook: Debbie Chen Claim Deb’s free gift and receive clear, actionable steps to move your business forward with confidence and faith. Book your Breakthrough Blueprint Experience here: https://calendly.com/debbiehchen/30min Once you book through her Calendly link, you’ll rec Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    38 min
  3. Season 2: Episode 16 - Faith, Feminine Power, and Financial Freedom

    APR 21

    Season 2: Episode 16 - Faith, Feminine Power, and Financial Freedom

    Episode Summary:  In this powerful episode of the Joy Inspired Podcast, Nikki Cruise speaks with Monick Halm, founder of Real Estate Investors Goddess, about divine redirection, Kingdom-aligned wealth, and feminine leadership. Monick shares her journey from corporate law to entrepreneurship after being fired while 5 months pregnant—an experience that became a divine reroute into real estate investing and financial freedom. Together, they explore what it means to live in alignment with God instead of hustle, discern divine timing over pressure, and embrace joy as a strategic advantage in business and life. Monick also shares her “miracle sale” story, highlighting the power of surrender and trust in God during uncertain seasons. A reminder that purpose isn’t forced—it’s followed, and even detours can become divine direction. Key Takeaways Divine reroutes often feel like setbacks before they reveal purpose.Being fired, delayed, or displaced can be God’s redirection into alignment.Hustle and striving create resistance; surrender creates flow.Financial freedom is defined by passive income covering or exceeding expenses.Money is not evil—it is a tool, and our relationship with it matters.Gratitude shifts your energy and transforms your financial mindset.Scripture Mentioned Proverbs 16:3 — “Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”Encouragement for Your Journey You are not off track just because things didn’t go as planned. Sometimes what feels like disruption is actually divine protection and redirection. You don’t need to have everything figured out to move forward—just willingness. God is faithful to guide the next step when you trust Him with the unknown. Even your “closed doors” may be the very thing God uses to open a greater one. Root Check Questions to Reflect On Where might God be redirecting me right now that I’m resisting?Am I operating from hustle or from alignment?What is my current relationship with money revealing about my beliefs?Where am I being invited to surrender control and trust God more deeply?REFRAME Recap This episode reminds us that Kingdom success is not built through hustle, pressure, or striving—but through obedience, alignment, and trust in divine timing. Connect With The Guest Monick Halm – Real Estate Investors Goddess Website: https://www.realestateinvestorgoddesses.com/ Explore resources, podcast, blog, and programs designed to help women step into financial freedom through real estate investing. Claim Monick’s FREE Gift! Free Real Estate Wealth Guide⁣ Twelve powerful strategies to help ambitious women start building real estate wealth — even with limited time, money, or experience. Click here to download her guide: https://www.realestateinvestorgoddesses.com/free-guide Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    47 min
  4. Season 2: Episode 15 - How to Jump in Faith and Let the Lord Build the Wings

    APR 14

    Season 2: Episode 15 - How to Jump in Faith and Let the Lord Build the Wings

    Episode Summary: In this powerful and deeply honest episode of the Joy Inspired Podcast, Nikki Cruise sits down with Wendy Melrose, founder of Resilience Press, for a conversation about resilience, obedience, and what it truly means to rebuild after loss. Wendy shares her journey of pivoting through multiple seasons of life, stepping out of corporate insurance into writing and publishing, and navigating a painful financial setback that reshaped her discernment and faith. Wendy’s story is a reminder that even in mistakes, God redeems, restores, and redirects us into alignment with His purpose. Key Takeaways: Obedience to God often requires waiting, not rushing ahead of His timing.Kairos moments (God’s timing) matter more than Kronos (human timing).Not every “opportunity” aligned with faith-driven language is truly aligned with God’s fruit. Discernment is essential.The publishing and coaching industries can appear trustworthy but still lack integrity—look at fruit, not labels.Overnight success is a myth; every meaningful calling requires consistency, visibility, and patience.Financial mistakes and business losses do not disqualify you from your calling.Scripture: Proverbs 16:3 – “Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (Amplified Classic paraphrase shared by guest)Encouragement for Your Journey: You are not disqualified by what didn’t work out. Even when decisions feel costly, confusing, or misaligned in hindsight, God is still writing your story with redemption in every chapter. Trust that even your detours can become divine direction when surrendered back to Him. Root Check Questions to Reflect On: Where in my life am I rushing ahead of God’s timing?Am I discerning fruit—or just responding to labels and marketing?What decisions am I still carrying regret about that God may be redeeming?Where am I being invited to slow down and rebuild with wisdom?Am I making space to hear God clearly before saying yes to opportunities?REFRAME Recap: This episode reminds us that success in Kingdom-aligned business is not built on speed, hype, or pressure—it is built on obedience, discernment, and trust. What looks like delay may actually be divine protection. What feels like loss may actually be redirection. When we commit our work to the Lord and resist the urge to rush outcomes, He establishes what is truly meant for us. Resilience is not just about bouncing back—it is about coming back aligned. Connect With Guest: Wendy Melrose – Resilience Press Website: https://www.resilience-press.com/ LinkedIn/Facebook: Wendy Melrose Claim your FREE Gift: Called to Completed: The 7-Step Quick-Start Book Checklist From Called to Completed: The 7-Step Quick-Start Book Checklist is a step-by-step guide to help you start writing the book God has placed on your heart. https://gift.resilience-press.com/called Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    21 min
  5. Season 2: Episode 14 - Launching from a Healed Heart

    APR 7

    Season 2: Episode 14 - Launching from a Healed Heart

    Episode Summary: In this powerful and Spirit-led episode, Nikki Cruise welcomes Jennifer Nowak, founder of Freedom for Life Coaching, for a deep and transformative conversation on what it truly means to launch from a healed heart. Jennifer shares how heart healing is not just personal—it directly impacts our relationships, business, and ability to walk fully in our God-given calling. Together, they unpack the difference between forgiveness and true healing, how unresolved wounds can block progress, and why inviting Jesus as CEO changes everything.  Key Takeaways: Healing is not a luxury—it is a strategy for sustainable success.Forgiveness is the starting point, but healing completes the process.Unhealed wounds often show up as frustration, fear, or anger.Judgments and past experiences can silently block business growth and creativity.God does not remove all challenges—He partners with us through them.Heart healing unlocks clarity, creativity, and alignment in business and relationships.You don’t need to strive when Jesus is truly leading—partnership replaces pressure.Scriptures Mentioned: Luke 4:18–19 – “He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted…”Isaiah 61 – “To rebuild the ancient ruins…”Isaiah 43:19 – “Behold, I am doing a new thing…”Philippians 2:13 – “For it is God who works in you…”Ephesians 4:26 – “Be angry and do not sin…”Encouragement for Your Journey: You are not meant to carry old wounds into your calling.Healing is available to you right now—not someday.You don’t have to strive to succeed; you can partner with God in peace.Your past does not disqualify you—it can become your testimony.You can remember painful experiences without being controlled by them.God is not just working through you—He is working in you.Peace is already within you—practice accessing it daily.Root Check Questions to Reflect On: What patterns in my life or business might be rooted in unhealed wounds?Where do I hear frustration, fear, or “what if” in my thoughts or words?Have I stopped at forgiveness, or have I invited God into deeper healing?What judgments or expectations am I carrying that may be blocking me?How can I intentionally partner with Jesus in my daily decisions?Where is God inviting me to shift from striving to surrender?REFRAME Recap: This episode reminds us that breakthrough doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from healing deeper. When we release past wounds, judgments, and expectations, we create space for God to move freely in our lives and businesses. True success flows from alignment, not effort. Healing positions you to build, lead, and love from a place of freedom, not fear. Connect With Guest: Jennifer Nowak – Freedom for Life Coaching Website: www.freedom-4-life.com Free Gift: 30-minute “Tell Me More” call - Book a Call here! Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    40 min
  6. Season 2: Episode 13 - From Breakdown to Breakthrough: The REBUILD

    MAR 31

    Season 2: Episode 13 - From Breakdown to Breakthrough: The REBUILD

    Episode Summary In this deeply moving continuation, Nikki Cruise sits down again with Lindsay Stadel to explore what happened after her life-altering moment—and how she rebuilt from the aftermath of pain, loss, and broken relationships. Lindsay vulnerably shares the reality of living with chronic, excruciating pain after her suicide attempt, the long road to restoring relationships with her children, and the fight to reclaim her life. Through it all, one truth began to anchor her: she is still here for a reason. From losing custody of her son to rebuilding her family, from silent suffering to boldly sharing her story for 365 consecutive days online, Lindsay’s journey is one of radical resilience. Her message is simple but life-changing: You are enough. No more proving. No more pretending. Just unapologetically you. Key Takeaways Survival is a victory. Some days, just being here is the win. Healing is not instant—it’s a process that requires time, space, and grace. Pain doesn’t disqualify you from purpose; it can reveal it. Being honest about your emotions is part of healing, not weakness. Your story has the power to save someone else. Breakdowns can lead to breakthroughs when you choose to keep going. Scriptures Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Isaiah 43:2 – “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.”Romans 8:28 – “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”Deuteronomy 31:6 – “He will never leave you nor forsake you.”Encouragement for Your Journey If you’re in a hard place right now, this is your reminder:You don’t have to have it all together to keep going.You are allowed to feel the weight of your emotions—but you are not meant to stay there. Acknowledge the pain, bring it to God, and take the next step forward.Even when the storm doesn’t immediately pass, you can still find peace within it.And if today feels heavy, remember this truth: If you are still here, you are already winning.Root Check Questions to Reflect On Where in my life am I feeling overwhelmed, and have I truly acknowledged it? Am I allowing myself to feel emotions, or am I suppressing them? Where might God be calling me to share my story or step out in courage? What would it look like for me to believe—even a little—that I am enough? Connect With Guest Social Media: Lindsay Stadel Email: lindsaystadel@gmail.com Free Resource for Listeners: From Breaking Point to Breakthrough. A Guide to Protect Your Mind, Strengthen Your Faith, and Find Purpose in the Pain Click here to download! Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    29 min
  7. Season 2: Episode 12- From Breakdown to Breakthrough

    MAR 24

    Season 2: Episode 12- From Breakdown to Breakthrough

    Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Nikki Cruise sits down with Lindsay Stadel, an entrepreneur, multi-business owner, and coach, who shares her courageous journey through mental health struggles, broken relationships, and personal transformation. Lindsay opens up about her experiences with depression, anxiety, suicide attempts, and how her faith became her lifeline. Through her story, she delivers a powerful message: You are enough, and God never writes people off. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that our struggles do not define us—our resilience and purpose do. Key Takeaways: Joy is not a reward but a strategy to navigate life’s challenges.God never writes people off; He writes them in, even through brokenness.Mental health struggles like depression and anxiety are real and deserve open conversation.Forgiveness, especially self-forgiveness, is a crucial step in healing.Faith can serve as a lifeline during the darkest moments.Surrounding yourself with supportive people can help you survive and thrive.Purpose is revealed through surviving trials and choosing life over despair.Scriptures Mentioned: Habakkuk 2:2 – “Write the vision and make it plain.”Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you.”Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.”Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you.”Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”Psalm 147:3 – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”Encouragement for Listeners: Your struggles do not define your worth; you are enough as you are.Faith is not a background character—it can be your lifeline.Reach out for help; you are never too far gone.Forgive yourself to unlock healing and transformation.Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.Choosing life and hope is a radical act of courage.Even after trauma, God can reveal your purpose.✍️ Root Check Questions to Reflect On: Where in my life do I feel broken or overwhelmed, and have I allowed myself to acknowledge it?How can I practice self-forgiveness today for past mistakes or decisions?Who are the supportive people in my life that I can lean on during difficult times?How is my faith helping me navigate current challenges?What steps can I take to protect my mental, emotional, and spiritual health?How can I embrace my purpose, even through pain or past failures?Lindsay’s journey teaches us that acknowledging our pain, forgiving ourselves, and leaning on God can transform despair into hope and action. Connect with Lindsay Stadel Social Media: Lindsay Stadel Email: lindsaystadel@gmail.com Free Resource for Listeners: From Breaking Point to Breakthrough. A Guide to Protect Your Mind, Strengthen Your Faith, and Find Purpose in the Pain Click here to download! Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    37 min
  8. Season 2: Episode 11 - Path 2 Peace

    MAR 17

    Season 2: Episode 11 - Path 2 Peace

    Episode Summary:  In this deeply powerful conversation, Nikki Cruise sits down with Colleen Stewart, founder of Path to Peace Coaching, a veteran and trauma survivor who now helps others reclaim their peace through faith and healing. For years, she struggled to understand what was happening to her as unresolved trauma surfaced through flashbacks, stress, and emotional turmoil. But God had a greater story unfolding. Through a process of healing, surrender, and partnering with God, Colleen discovered something transformative: the missing pieces in our lives are often not truly missing, they’re simply hidden beneath lies we’ve believed about ourselves. Now, Colleen equips professionals who have experienced trauma to uncover those hidden pieces, remove limiting beliefs, and rebuild their lives with clarity, purpose, and peace. This episode is a powerful reminder that even when life collapses like a sinkhole beneath us, God is still rebuilding the foundation. Key Takeaways The Missing Piece Isn’t Missing - the “missing pieces” in our lives are often obscured by lies we have believed. Peace doesn’t come from controlling life’s circumstances. Unhealed trauma can influence our health, relationships, and career decisions without us even realizing it.Sometimes we “fail the test but pass the learning.” Growth often happens through disappointment and unexpected obstacles.God equips us with tools and experiences long before we realize how they will be used in our calling.Scriptures  Isaiah 26:3 - “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”Proverbs 4:7 - “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”Romans 8:28 - “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”Encouragement If you feel like your life has collapsed beneath your feet, remember that sinkholes don’t define the end of the road.God is the master builder of restoration.Your trauma does not disqualify you from purpose.Your past does not remove your calling.And the peace you’re searching for may already be closer than you think.Healing often begins with one courageous step: letting go of control and allowing God to rebuild the foundation.Root questions to reflect on:  What beliefs about myself might actually be lies I’ve accepted as truth?Where in my life am I still trying to stay in control instead of surrendering to God?What might my future look like if I truly believed God had restoration ahead for me?Is there an area of trauma or pain that I’ve been avoiding instead of bringing to God?Connect With the GuestColleen (CB) Stewart Founder, Path to Peace Coaching Social Media: CB Stewart Email: reachcbstewart@gmail.com Free Resource for Listeners: Get Colleen's 3-step Guide to Overcome the Effects of Trauma Click here to download! Stay Connected with Nikki: Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.comLinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspiredEmail: support@joy-inspired.comClosing Encouragement:  “You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.” Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking in your purpose!

    38 min

About

Have you ever wondered how to stand firm in your values and build a business that aligns with your beliefs while staying profitable and purposeful. Each episode unpacks the mindset shifts, proven strategies, and practical tools that successful entrepreneurs use to anchor their work in God’s truth. Discover how to make a lasting impact, cultivate resilient joy even in the toughest seasons, and embrace a faith-filled entrepreneurial journey that’s as rewarding as it is transformative. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your business without compromising your faith, this podcast is here to guide and inspire you. Ready to create a business that’s rooted in purpose and overflowing with joy? Let’s jump in!