Fierce Calling

Doris Swift
Fierce Calling

Join me for inspiration and encouragement as I talk with women who are using their gifts to impact the world for Christ. Discover how you too can use your gifts to impact the world and further the Kingdom of God. We are a community of women who are taking action where our passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Life can be crazy messy, but God loves you like crazy and He wants to use YOU for His glory. Woman of God, you have a Fierce Calling! Subscribe to this podcast and visit dorisswift.com. Cover photo: https://www.sarajanephotography.com

  1. MAR 11

    Embracing Life’s Journey with Gratitude & Joy with Amanda Schaefer

    Welcome back to another uplifting episode of Fierce Calling! I'm your host, Doris Swift, and today we have a special guest joining us—Amanda Schaefer. Amanda is an inspiring author, speaker, and host of the popular podcast "A Cup of Gratitude." In this episode, Amanda shares her incredible transformation journey through faith, joy, and gratitude. From encountering Jesus in her home in a powerful way, to using her podcast to spread the gospel during the pandemic, Amanda's story highlights the power of choosing gratitude and finding joy even in difficult times. Amanda shares about the difficult seasons of two divorces, but don't miss the praise story of what God did to redeem it all. We dive into her upcoming book, which is set to encourage readers to explore their own stories and discover God at work in every chapter of their lives. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with insight, encouragement, and the reminder that our past story is part of our grace story. Stay tuned for an episode that will inspire you to take action where your passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Episode Highlights 06:03 Gratitude and Opportunity Beyond Borders 10:56 Testimony: Sharing Stories of Faith 12:29 "Connecting Through Shared Stories" 16:11 "Discovering God's Purpose in Stories" 19:48 Divine Guidance in Marriage Choices 24:37 Seeking God's Guidance 26:40 "Journey of Faith and Renewal" 31:01 Journey to Healing and Faith 33:40 Amanda's Inspiring Show Highlights Connect with Amanda! You can connect with Amanda at acupofgratitude.org where you'll find her podcast, blog, and all her social media links! Amanda Schaefer is a podcast host, author, and speaker. She carries with her the goodness of looking through a lens of gratitude. The “A Cup of Gratitude” podcast is global, reaching over 112 countries and 3000 cities. As a speaker, Amanda teaches the Bible while challenging audiences to live the way God intends. She has a way of making scripture come alive through everyday examples.  Amanda’s books include, “Crumbled, A Place for Broken People” and “Daily “Instaration.” She is a contributing author of “Life Changing Stories and the newly released books, “One Chance, One Dance, Don’t Miss the Moments in Your Life,” and “Courageous Voices Unlocked.” Her books are down to earth and packed with Biblical truth. Amanda has also written articles for “The Brave Women Series,” “The Uncommon Normal Gratitude Series,” “The Love Offering,” “The Warrior Women Series,” “Butterfly Living, “The Empty Nest Mom Series,” and “The Season Series.” She is under contract to write a new manuscript slated to be released in April 2025. Connect with Amanda at www.acupofgratitude.org or on Social media  www.instagram.com/acupof_gratitude www.facebook.com/amanda.f.schaefer www.acupofgratitude.org https://youtube.com/@acupofgratitude?si=PF55x6T4ecrs7jdg What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith,

  2. FEB 25

    Thriving in Life’s Seasons & Transitions with Dr. Evelyn Johnson-Taylor

    Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Fierce Calling! I'm your host, Doris Swift, and today we have the pleasure of welcoming back a dear friend and esteemed guest, Dr. Evelyn Johnson-Taylor. With over three decades of leadership in women's ministry, Dr. Evelyn is dedicated to guiding women through the many seasons of their lives, encouraging, empowering, and equipping them to triumph at every stage. In this episode, we delve into her newest book, In and Out of Seasons: Thriving in Life's Transitions, where she courageously shares her personal journey through loss, grief, and rediscovery. Through transparency and wisdom, Dr. Evelyn reveals how God uses life's transitions to prepare us for our callings, reminding us that we are never alone in our journeys. Join us as we explore the power of embracing each season of life with hope and resilience. Whether you're navigating a season of change or seeking to find your purpose, this conversation promises to uplift and encourage. You won't want to miss this. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's dive into this transformative discussion with Dr. Evelyn Johnson-Taylor. Episode Highlights Dr. Evelyn’s Personal Journey and Calling Her unexpected journey into women’s ministry. The influence of her husband’s pastoral work on her path. The importance of recognizing one’s calling through interactions with others. Impact of Loss and Life Transitions Dr. Evelyn’s experience with the passing of her husband and its emotional impact. Her approach to grief and the importance of aligning feelings with faith. The process of finding clarity and purpose after loss. Purpose and Objectives of the Book Using personal experiences to help others through similar life transitions. Emphasizing empathy and understanding through shared experiences. Different types of life transitions covered in the book, including empty nest and divorce. Engagement and Impact on Readers Feedback received from readers who relate to the book. Dr. Evelyn’s desire for readers to know they are not alone. Practical Advice on Navigating Seasons and Transitions Encouragement to approach change with an open heart and mind. Insight into thriving through challenges and opportunities for growth. Conclusion and Further Engagement Encouragement for listeners to connect with Dr. Evelyn through her website and social media. Information about Dr. Evelyn’s ongoing projects, including a prayer line for women. Connect with Dr. Evelyn! You can connect with Dr. Evelyn Johnson Taylor at https://evelynjtaylor.org/ where you'll find all of her social media links, services, Women Called to Prayer prayer line, and more! Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy?

    36 min
  3. FEB 18

    Becoming an Overcomer Woman of Influence with Tawana Lowery

    In this episode of Fierce Calling, Doris welcomes Tawana Lowery, founder of Miss Overcomer Global, a movement dedicated to helping women overcome through Christ and empowering them to become the key women of influence God created. Join us as Tawana delves into her incredible journey of overcoming life's trials, from personal heartbreak and loss to the powerful epiphany that transformed her perspective on hardships. Discover how these experiences led her to develop a ministry that aids others in connecting with their courage, calling, and the power of prayer. Listen in as Tawana shares her wisdom on the importance of casting cares onto Christ, defeating the enemy's lies, and embracing our unique calling. Whether you are seeking encouragement or looking for ways to enhance your spiritual journey, this episode is packed with insights that will encourage, inspire, and challenge you! Episode Highlights *Tawana's personal overcomer story *The forming of Miss Overcomer Global *The power of prayer *Finding God's faithfulness through hard seasons *God does work all things together for good *Prayer coach academy Connect with Tawana! You can connect with Tawana and find her coaching, speaking info, prayer coaching info, and more at www.MissOvercomer.com  Learn more about the Power of Prayer Coaching with this Free Prayer Coach Readiness Quiz... ️ https://bit.ly/PrayerCoachQuiz  Let Tawana help to make 2025 your MEGA year for:   Mega Impact  Mega Purpose  Mega Empowerment  Discover your Score now https://bit.ly/PrayerCoachQuiz Then book your Free 2025 Planning call with Tawana to discuss your results and your goals.   Possibly you were Born for such an Opportunity as this!   Tawana Lowery is a dynamic figure in the world of women’s leadership and personal growth. For more than 20 years, she has dedicated her career to Empowering women of Faith as a Leadership Coach, Best Selling Author, International Speaker, and YouTube Host. Connect with Doris! Connect with Doris at https://dorisswift.com/ For speaking engagements, visit her booking page at womenspeakers.com Join us for this heartening episode of Fierce Calling and be inspired to deepen your biblical study and walk with God. What Threatens to Steal Your Joy? Check out Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You 6-week Bible study rooted in John 15. You can find more info at https://dorisswift.com/book/ Let’s Stay Connected! Find my free resources including Fear Fighting Bible Verses, Simple Tips for Sharing Your Faith, Surrender the Joy Stealers, Step Out of Your Doubt and Into Your Calling ebook, and more on my dorisswift.com homepage! Love Fierce Calling? Did you know that following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser or Apple Podcasts helps others discover the show too? I would so appreciate it, friend! Need a Speaker for Your Next Women’s Event? Now Booking for 2025 & 2026! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer,

    32 min
  4. FEB 4

    Hope and Healing for Women with Addicted Loved Ones: A conversation with Dawn Ward

    Welcome to episode 200!!!! Praise God and thank you to all my listeners!!!! The Fierce Calling Podcast is part of Fierce Calling Ministries which exists to encourage, equip, and engage women to take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect, use their God-given gifts to impact the world for Christ, and partner with God in Kingdom work. In this milestone episode ... Doris welcomes Dawn Ward, a dedicated author, speaker, biblical life coach, and founder of the transformative ministry, The Faith to Flourish. which helps women grow and flourish in their relationship with Jesus in all seasons of their lives. Dawn delves into her personal journey from her childhood in a typical Midwestern family to navigating the tumultuous waters of addiction within her family. Through her story, Dawn shares profound insights into how God intervened in her life, steering her from overwhelming fear and guilt toward a path of trust and surrender. Together, Doris and Dawn explore the intersecting lines of passion, compassion, and conviction that mark Dawn's fierce calling, offering hope and Christian guidance to women burdened by life's challenges. Join us for an episode filled with encouragement and inspiration as Dawn reveals how her faith, fortified by God's word, guided her through the trials of addiction in her family and empowered her to assist other women seeking hope and healing! Key Topics and Takeaways ... *Dawn's Personal Story *Family Struggles with Addiction *Emotional and Spiritual Journey *Research and Seeking Help *Support and Community Building *Dawn Ward's Ministry and Writing *Impact of Dawn's Ministry *Call to Action and Resources Connect with Dawn! You can connect with dawn on her website thefaithtoflourish.com where you'll find her resources, blog, her book From Guilt to Grace, social media links, and more! Dawn is married to her wonderfully supportive husband, Steve, and is the mother of three adult children. She and her family live in Las Vegas, a city of bright lights, surrounded by the dry, barren Mohave desert. Thus, the name The Faith to Flourish was born. Dawn founded this ministry out of a desire to help other women grow and flourish in their relationship with Jesus in all seasons of their lives. ​Professionally, until recently, she worked over 25 years in the medical field, primarily with female patients. Dawn has also served in women’s ministry in various teaching and leadership capacities for over thirty years. Both opportunities have given her invaluable perspective into the hearts and lives of women. Dawn's passions are teaching, discipling, and equipping women to live victorious lives of faith. ​​​Because of the painful seasons of experiencing the trauma of watching her family members engage in self-destructive behaviors, Dawn was falling apart along with them. And sadly, her relationship with the Lord was also suffering. ​Dawn didn't want to just say that Jesus was first in her life, she wanted Jesus to be first in her life. Dawn wanted to trust him in the good times, and yes, even in the bad, and longed to grow in grace while drawing closer to ...

    42 min
  5. JAN 21

    Resetting Your Life Through Incremental Growth with Josh Huisman

    Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Fierce Calling! Today, we're thrilled to have a conversation with the multifaceted Josh Huisman. Josh is not only a pastor but also an author, coach, artist, and podcaster. In today's episode, Josh shares his incredible journey through the ups and downs of life and how he has embraced a path where his passion, compassion, and conviction uniquely intersect. He opens up about the transformative power of intentionality, whether it's through cultivating a routine of reading scripture, harnessing creativity through music and art, or leading a healthier lifestyle. His stories and insights offer practical advice on how incremental growth can lead to significant life changes. Join us as we dive deep into an engaging dialogue about faith, creativity, and transformation. Plus, don't miss the chance to hear about his exciting projects, including his podcasting ventures and upcoming book. Listen in for an episode filled with wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder of the impact of making small, intentional changes every day. Key Topics and Takeaways ... Intentional Living: Josh shared the importance of having a game plan in various aspects of life, whether it’s setting a daily routine for Bible reading, creating healthy habits, or pursuing personal passions. He emphasizes the power of showing up every day and making intentional choices. 🌱 Faith in Action: With his vibrant story from being a sports enthusiast to a pastor and musician, Josh inspired listeners to trust in God's plans. His journey reminds us that total surrender and openness to where God leads can result in a fulfilling and purpose-driven life. 🙏 Incremental Growth: Josh advocates for incremental daily changes rather than extreme short-term goals. Whether it's health, faith, or professional growth, small, consistent efforts lead to sustainable transformation over time. 💪 To listen to more of Josh’s journey and inspiring insights, check out the full episode of "Fierce Calling." This is a must-listen for anyone looking to enrich their life with purpose and intentionality! #FierceCalling #Podcast #IntentionalLiving #Faith #GrowthMindset Connect with Josh! My episode with Josh on The Josh Huisman Podcast/Surrender the Joy Stealers of Your Life Chase the Sunset by Josh Huisman https://youtu.be/olJtck5q-dc?si=PV4ouRLP3Q5FVnRy Josh Huisman is a pastor, author, coach, artist, and host of The Josh Huisman Podcast and Biblical Mindset. In ministry for over 20 years, his ministry and art exist to glorify God. His podcasts bring you content from Christian leaders who are doing their best to walk upright before the Lord. Connect with Josh at joshhuisman.com New Hope Community Church in Brentwood. New Hope's website is newhopechurchtn.org YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC12vv4i7kJlosft5vcu-03A Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6XzNAbd4bgeZiZxKHJIPoz?si=de079f44b5344684 Apple Podcasts geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1688067162?ct=rephonic&mt=2 YouTube Music music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiHwMg6xzXt8S39o3oC9snt9gJGRlDYpn Google Podcasts podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9lMWMwMWY5OC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw?sa=X&ved=0CAMQ4aUDahcKEwiQ49ik_sb_AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNQ Amazon Musicmusic.amazon.com/podcasts/6258e5bf-bfa0-426f-bac1-93cc1d3f6653/the-josh-huisman-podcast iHeart Radioiheart.

    1h 2m
  6. JAN 14

    Choosing Joy & Trusting God in Our Dark Places and Desert Experiences with Cindy Brinker Simmons

    This week's episode is an inspiring journey of transformation, faith, and joy that you won't want to miss. Join Host Doris Swift as she welcomes the remarkable Cindy Brinker Simmons to the Fierce Calling Podcast. Cindy, a best-selling author, businesswoman, and philanthropist, shares her compelling story that started on the worst day of her life and blossomed into a ministry that encourages others through life's challenges. Listen in as Cindy opens up about her personal trials, beginning with the loss of her mother at age 12, to enduring the profound grief of her husband's cancer diagnosis. Cindy's unwavering faith, even in the face of heartbreak, reveals a powerful message about God’s plan and purpose in our struggles. We're talking all about her new book Restored: Reconnecting Life's Broken Pieces Key Topics and Takeaways ... Finding Ministry in Grief: Cindy reflects on her journey from devastation to discovering a new purpose. Prayer and God's Answers : She believes God answers prayers in various ways that lead to unexpected blessings. Joy as a Choice: Discover how Cindy and her family chose joy and faith during her husband's illness, creating a lasting impact through their strength. "Restored" – A Guide to Perseverance: Explore Cindy's book, which offers valuable insights and practical applications for reconnecting life's broken pieces. Transforming Grief into Activism: Learn about Cindy’s foundation, "Wipe Out Kids' Cancer," which channels personal grief into meaningful action. Connect with Cindy! You can connect with Karen at brinkersimmons.com.  Her social media links are: https://www.facebook.com/cindybrinkersimmons.author https://www.instagram.com/cindybrinkersimmons.author https://youtube.com/@cindybrinkersimmons.author Cindy Brinker Simmons graduated from the University of Virginia with a bachelor of arts in communications and Spanish. Upon returning to Dallas after her graduation, Cindy began a distinguished 30-year career in public relations.In 1980, coinciding with commencing her professional career, in 1980 Cindy established Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC), one of Dallas’ largest pediatric cancer non-profit organizations, and has remained on its board. WOKC funds meritorious childhood oncology research projects nationwide and has multiple programs designed to help and encourage young cancer patientsand their families. Cindy established WOKC in memory of her mother, the late great tennis champion Maureen “Little Mo” Connolly Brinker, who died of cancer in 1969 at the age of 34. Cindy is president and on the board of the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation (MCB), one of the most respected junior tennis organizations worldwide. MCB furthers tennis development for elite and talented players, ages 8-12, through its national and international tournaments. MCB has also created innovative initiatives for its young competitors thatpromote good sportsmanship, fair play and strong moral character. In 2008, Cindy was appointed by Texas Speaker Tom Craddick to the Oversight Committee of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, a state agency designed to fund groundbreaking cancer grants and to bring top cancer specialists to the state. Cindy completed her three-year term on CPRIT’s Oversight Committee, serving as its secretary, to establish andmanage the operations, policies and staff of the Institute. Cindy has devoted herself to philanthropic concerns. She currently serves on the board of Dallas Theological Seminary.

    44 min
  7. 12/10/2024

    Winning the Mental Health Battle: Tips & Techniques for Thriving with Karen E Iverson

    Welcome to today's episode of Fierce Calling, where we're thrilled to have the multi-talented Karen E. Iverson back on the show. Karen is a licensed professional counselor, coach, public speaker, actress, singer, and artist, recognized as a difference-maker at the 2019 Author Advantage Live Conference. Her newest book, Winning the Mental Health Battle from Struggling to Thriving: 7 Tips to Navigate Anxiety, Depression, and Mania, offers invaluable insights into mental health. In this episode, Karen shares her inspiring journey from aspiring psychiatrist to impactful mental health counselor and author. We delve into her personal experiences and explore her approach to therapy, which includes innovative techniques like the "54321" grounding method. Karen and I discuss embracing authenticity, confronting societal stigmas, and finding strength in faith. We also highlight practical ways to navigate emotions and thoughts, underscoring the vital role of professional help. Get ready for a deep and fascinating conversation that will encourage, inspire, and challenge you. Listen in! Key Topics and Takeaways ... Karen Iverson's Professional and Personal Journey Aspiration to follow her father's footsteps as a psychiatrist Path to becoming a licensed professional counselor Shift from aspiring art therapist to counselor in Oklahoma Previous book on her breast cancer journey and companion journal Karen's New Book Winning the Mental Health Battle from Struggling to Thriving: 7 Tips to Navigate Anxiety, Depression, and Mania Open discussion of faith while being accessible to a diverse audience Divine timing and the experience gained before release Thematic Insights on Mental Health Emphasis on journaling as a therapeutic practice Explanation of mania and importance of professional diagnosis Destigmatizing mental health treatment via diagnosis, therapy, and medication Encouragement to seek help without shame, acknowledging stigmas even in religious communities Spiritual and Faith-Based Elements Transition from secular music to faith-based speaking Christ-centered yet inclusive approach in Karen’s book Use of faith in resilience against cultural identity and relationship challenges Practical Techniques for Mental Health Management "54321" grounding technique for anxiety Emphasizing gratitude and positive thinking Concept of emotions being temporary; typically lasting about 90 seconds Role of the Holy Spirit and Divine Intervention Discussion on the Holy Spirit as part of the Trinity Moments of perceived divine intervention in Karen’s life Use of Guided Visualization Free guided visualizations on Karen’s website to address anxiety, depression, and mania Guided visualizations explained as audio-guided relaxation exercises Clarification that techniques are not aligned with new age practices Examples such as walking on a beach as a calming visualization Acknowledgments and Contact Information Doris thanks Karen for her participation Encouragement for listeners to check show notes for more informat...

    44 min
  8. 11/26/2024

    Raising Faithful Kids Who Follow Christ for Life with Lee Ann Mancini

    Welcome to another encouraging episode of Fierce Calling with Doris Swift, where today we have the pleasure of introducing Lee Ann Mancini, an award-winning executive producer, author, podcast host, and advocate for raising children with a strong Christian foundation. In this episode, Lee Ann shares her incredible journey and passion for equipping families to instill biblical values in their children, and to help them become critical thinkers. Her new book Raising Kids to Follow Christ: Instilling a Lifelong Trust in God, is a powerful resource for parents, that doesn't just tell parents what to do, it shows them how to do it. We discuss some startling statistics regarding young people leaving the faith, concerns about culture shifts, and what we can do to help kids build strong spiritual foundations. Lee Ann also discusses her captivating children's book series, "Sea Kids," and the animated adaptations that aim to teach children to live out God's principles in everyday life. With her nonprofit dedicated to providing Christian resources to families, Lee Ann speaks on critical issues like religious beliefs, parenting, and the challenging cultural shifts impacting Christian households. She is also passionate about the importance of apologetics, and what that means for our kids and us. Doris and Lee Ann engage in a profound discussion, exploring practical advice for parents and grandparents who play vital roles in the spiritual development of the next generation. This episode is packed with valuable insights, not only from Lee Ann's books but also from her impactful parenting resources and approaches to teaching children about absolute truth, identity, and faith. Stay tuned to be inspired and equipped to reinforce a solid Christian foundation within your family! Key Topics and Takeaways ... Belief and Critical Thinking: Importance of children understanding faith beyond parental influence. Critical thinking as an essential skill for children Early Education and Vocabulary: Children's understanding extends beyond what they can articulate, even as young as six months. Recommendation for parents to use biblical language from an early age. Encouragement to teach terms like 'redemption' and 'salvation.' Parenting and Family Structure: Initiating family meetings to create a mission statement Emphasize accountability to God, love for children, and safety. Importance of distinguishing children's privileges from rights, such as technology use. School and Gender Discussions: Concerns about children choosing identities in schools without parental consent. The concerns surrounding early gender identity discussions and potential identity crises. Identity and Christ: Raising children with Christian values for a true sense of identity. Reassurance for parents regarding past parenting mistakes. Children's Media and Learning: Lee Ann Mancini’s observation of a gap in biblical principles within children's stories. Creation of "Sea Kids" series to teach biblical principles in real-life scenarios. Availability of the series on various platforms and adaptation into an animation. Lee Ann Mancini's Nonprofit Projects: Projects like the parenting book and "scripture bear" that support Raising Christian Kids.

    43 min
    5
    out of 5
    36 Ratings

    About

    Join me for inspiration and encouragement as I talk with women who are using their gifts to impact the world for Christ. Discover how you too can use your gifts to impact the world and further the Kingdom of God. We are a community of women who are taking action where our passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. Life can be crazy messy, but God loves you like crazy and He wants to use YOU for His glory. Woman of God, you have a Fierce Calling! Subscribe to this podcast and visit dorisswift.com. Cover photo: https://www.sarajanephotography.com

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