2D AGO

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

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

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

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

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

MAR 10

Season 2: Episode 10 - Living Vibrantly

Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode of the Joy Inspired Podcast, Nikki Cruise sits down with Donna Tashjian, a visionary leader with over 30 years of experience coaching leaders worldwide. Donna shares her journey from adversity to thriving, teaching how to live vibrantly, lead with joy, and cultivate spiritual intelligence in both life and business. Together, Nikki and Donna unpack the mindset, strategies, and Kingdom principles that allow you to lead from peace, not pressure. If you’ve ever felt stuck in hustle culture or overwhelmed by life’s demands, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement to choose joy, hear God’s voice, and step into your calling with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways: Choosing joy over circumstances: Joy is a decision and a powerful strategy in life and business.Hearing God’s voice: Learn to distinguish God’s guidance from fear or societal expectations.The Spiritual Intelligence Method: A step-by-step approach to co-partner with God, think creatively, and act on the unseen.Faith and strategy integration: How faith informs effective action and decision-making.Overcoming fear: Fear never leads to growth; discern your Father’s voice to act confidently.Scriptures to Stand On Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”Psalm 16:11 – “In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”John 10:27 – “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”Psalm 34:17-18 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.”Encouragement: “Choosing joy is a decision, different from happiness.” “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.” “You are loved.” Reflective Questions When am I allowing fear to dictate my decisions instead of God’s guidance?How can I practice stillness daily to hear God more clearly?What unseen opportunities am I overlooking that require faith to pursue?Where in my life am I trying to do it all myself instead of partnering with God?How can I intentionally choose joy, even in the middle of challenges?🎁 Free Gift Step into a new way of leading—with wisdom, clarity, and divine confidence. This powerful starter kit introduces Donna Tashjian’s proven Spiritual Intelligence Method™, designed to help faith-led visionaries align with God, quiet the noise, and make Holy Spirit-led decisions. Click HERE to download your FREE Gift Connect With Donna 🌐 Website: ivibrantliving.com📱 Social Media: Donna TashjianStay 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!

31 min

MAR 3

Season 2: Episode 9 - Letting Go: Living Lighter - the story behind "Your Words Have Power"

Episode Summary In this inspiring episode of the Joy Inspired Podcast, Nikki Cruise sits down with Wendy Corner, founder of Your Words Have Power, to explore how introverted entrepreneurs can discover their voice, share their message, and create impact through storytelling. Wendy shares her deeply personal journey—from childhood experiences of feeling unseen to sudden widowhood and navigating major life transitions, that shaped her mission to help others find freedom, visibility, and purpose through their words. This episode is a heart-centered conversation about letting go, living lighter, and trusting God’s plan even when life takes unexpected turns. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, unheard, or unsure of how to step into your calling, this conversation will empower you to reclaim your voice and embrace your God-given purpose. Key Takeaways Your story matters, and your voice is powerful—even if you’ve felt unseen or unheard.Life’s losses and disruptions can become catalysts for personal growth and clarity.Letting go of “stuff” and mental clutter creates space for God’s plans to unfold.Faith and trust in God bring joy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.Sharing your message authentically can transform both your business and life.Scriptures Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”Psalm 118:24 — “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”Matthew 5:16 — “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”Encouragements for Your Journey God can use life’s interruptions to redirect you toward your purpose.Letting go doesn’t mean losing—it means creating space for God’s best.Even introverts have a voice that can inspire, influence, and impact.Joy is found not in perfection, but in trusting God’s plan and timing.Root Check Questions to Reflect On Where in my life have I felt unseen or unheard, and how can God help me reclaim my voice?What mental or emotional “stuff” do I need to release to step fully into my purpose?How can I use my story to serve and inspire others today?Am I trusting God’s timing, even when life doesn’t go as I expected?🎁 FREE GIFT Something inside you knows that staying where you are no longer feels right. It's time to REWIRE your unhelpful scripts! DOWNLOAD THE FREE GIFT HERE! Connect With Wendy 🌐 Website: Your Words Have Power📱 Social Media: Wendy CornerEmail: wendy@ywhp.eventsStay 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

FEB 24

Season 2: Episode 8 - When Sales Meets Service: Building Trust, Authentic Relationships & Leading with Faith

Episode Summary In this powerful and faith-filled conversation on the Joy Inspired Podcast, Nikki Cruise sits down with internationally recognized sales expert, speaker, and relationship strategist Scott Schilling to explore how authentic relationships, trust, and service transform both business and life. Scott shares how his decades-long career in sales evolved into a mission centered on serving people rather than closing transactions. Through a life-altering near-death experience and profound encounters with God, he discovered that true success flows from building genuine connections, living out faith authentically, and creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and inspired. If you’ve ever struggled with selling, networking, or building meaningful connections in business, this episode will shift your perspective, reminding you that sales done right is simply service rooted in love, integrity, and purpose. Key Takeaways Authentic relationships are built long before transactions ever happen.Trust grows from connection, consistency, and genuine care for people.Selling is not persuading — it’s identifying needs and serving solutions.Your story, including your struggles, can become a tool to serve others.Living as an example of your faith speaks louder than wordsScriptures Psalm 118:17 — “I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done.”Matthew 5:16 — Let your light shine before others.Colossians 3:23 — Work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.Luke 6:31 — Do to others as you would have them do to you.Proverbs 11:25 — A generous person will prosper.Encouragements for Your Journey You don’t have to chase people when you genuinely care about them.Your past experiences can become bridges to help others heal and grow.Service-driven business creates lasting impact and influence.God can use even life interruptions to realign your purpose.When you lead with love, success becomes a byproduct, not the goal.Root Check Questions to Reflect On Am I prioritizing relationships over transactions in my business?Where might God be asking me to serve rather than strive?How can I show up more authentically in my work and leadership?What experiences in my life could help someone else today?Am I building trust consistently with the people I serve? 🎁 Free Gift Heart-centered selling isn’t about closing deals—it’s about opening hearts, serving with integrity, and creating lasting relationships that reflect God’s love in every interaction. Access the GIFT here: https://ssm.synduit.com/sueb0020 Connect With Scott: 🌐 Website: https://scottschilling.com 📱 Social Media: https://linkedin.com/in/scottschilling8 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!

39 min

Joy Inspired Podcast

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

Season 2: Episode 14 - Launching from a Healed Heart

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

Season 2: Episode 12- From Breakdown to Breakthrough

Season 2: Episode 11 - Path 2 Peace

Season 2: Episode 10 - Living Vibrantly

Season 2: Episode 9 - Letting Go: Living Lighter - the story behind "Your Words Have Power"

Season 2: Episode 8 - When Sales Meets Service: Building Trust, Authentic Relationships & Leading with Faith

Trailer

Introduction to the entrepreneurs' Joy Inspired Podcast!

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Joy Inspired Podcast

Episodes

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

Season 2: Episode 14 - Launching from a Healed Heart

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

Season 2: Episode 12- From Breakdown to Breakthrough

Season 2: Episode 11 - Path 2 Peace

Season 2: Episode 10 - Living Vibrantly

Season 2: Episode 9 - Letting Go: Living Lighter - the story behind "Your Words Have Power"

Season 2: Episode 8 - When Sales Meets Service: Building Trust, Authentic Relationships & Leading with Faith

Trailer

About

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