Have you ever experienced church hurt? Have you had moments that made you question whether you’d ever step foot into church again? Or have you ever walked through unexplainable loss that made you wonder if God is truly there or cares about you?   In today’s conversation, Holly and I talk with Nicki Koziarz to hear about her leadership journey and her story. You’ll hear Nicki’s take on what it means to be a leader, what the worst form of leadership looks like, and how a deep church hurt led her into an unexpected journey of leading other women.   You’ll also hear how Nicki’s life has been impacted by mental illness and how Nicki has seen God’s faithfulness through devastating losses. Finally we dive into how leaders can respond to others when they are experiencing doubt or loss.   I know you’re going to be blessed by this conversation with Nicki, and I truly believe it will be an encouragement to you. For the show notes for this episode, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode163.   Episode Sponsor: Podcast in a Weekend Mini-Course Are you ready to share your message with the world? A podcast is an incredible way to do so. But how do you actually create and launch a podcast that people will listen to? Podcast in a Weekend is a mini-course that will provide you with the strategy and shortcuts you need to get your podcast launched… without taking weeks or months to get through the content.   Learn more and grab the mini-course today so you can get started on sharing your message through a podcast.     

Christian Woman Leadership Podcast

163: Leading Through Brokenness, Healing from Church Hurt, & Choosing Obedience with Nicki Koziarz

Have you ever wondered what it’s like behind the scenes of the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast? Today you’ll get a glimpse of our thoughts about the podcast, our lives, and some deep thoughts we’re wrestling with right now. We’re wrapping up our celebration of 3 years of the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast today by sharing a fun conversation Holly and I had about the podcast and more. We also streamed this conversation live into the Purposeful Leadership Facebook group, if you prefer to watch it.   Please note that our audio setup did not work as we had hoped, so the quality of this episode is not the best.   However we still wanted to share this chat with you as we discuss some of the highlights of the past year of podcasting as well as our vision for the future.   Questions we answer in this episode: If you could go back in time 3 years, what would you tell yourselves not to worry about? What is your favorite part of podcasting? What were your favorite conversations in our past year? What was your favorite interview as a host? How do you stay on a consistent schedule?  What podcasts have you been listening to lately? What is the most exciting thing that has happened for you in the past year?  What deep thoughts do you have right now? What’s the vision for the podcast moving forward?   Podcast Sponsor: Podcast in a Weekend Mini-Course   Connect with Esther and Holly: The Christian Woman Business Podcast Esther’s Website Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page   This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode162.

162: All Things Podcasting with Holly & Esther [3 Year Podcast Celebration]

Is it possible to hear the voice of God? And how can you make tough decisions when you don’t get a clear answer directly from God? We’re continuing our celebration of 3 years of the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast with our next episode in our “Best of” series. Today’s episode is the best of our third year of the podcast: Episode 117: Discerning the Voice of God and Making Spirit-Led Decisions with Jenny Randle. Jenny provides valuable insights on the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives, a 7 question checklist for making decisions, and how to discern when the leaders you follow are unhealthy or harmful. If you missed it the first time, or if you just need a reminder of how to hear from God, take a listen today! For the full show notes, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode161.

161: [Best of Year 3] Hearing From God, Decision Making & Discerning Unhealthy Leadership - Jenny Randle

How can leaders identify when they are nearing burnout or experiencing compassion fatigue? And how can churches more effectively support those leaders so that they can serve their congregations from a place of health and wholeness? We’re continuing our celebration of 3 years of the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast with our next episode in our “Best of” series. Today’s episode is the best of our second year of the podcast: Episode 81: Dealing with Burnout, Compassion Fatigue, and Mental Health as a Christian Leader with Laura Howe. Even if you heard this episode when it originally aired, I’m sure you’ll benefit from taking a listen again. Or, if you missed it the first time, be sure to take a listen today. For the full show notes, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode160.

160: [Best of Year 2] Mental Health, Leadership & The Church - Laura Howe

How can you develop healthy relationships with those you lead? And how does knowing your own wiring impact how you do this? To celebrate 3 years of the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast, we are sharing a “Best of” series. Today’s episode is the best of our first year of the podcast: Episode 17: How the Enneagram Can Help You Nurture Healthy Relationships with Beth McCord. In recent years, there has been some controversy related to the Enneagram and questions about whether Christians should utilize it. Therefore, in the intro for this ‘best of’ episode, I’m sharing some thoughts about this and some resources for you to consider if you want more information.   Resources: Blog post: “Should Christians Use the Enneagram?” Podcast series from Your Enneagram Coach: #64: Thinking Theologically About the Enneagram #65: A Response to the History of the Enneagram #66: The Christian Approach to Using the Enneagram    A final note about this topic:  I want to encourage you to do your own research, prayer, and ask the Holy Spirit to give you discernment as to whether the Enneagram is a tool that you would want to utilize or not.  I am not here to tell you one way or another what you should believe or do in regards to this issue. I do not see it spelled out clearly in scripture, and thus I’m not going to tell you that my perspective is the only right one. (And check out episode 112 for guidance on sharing your personal convictions). For the show notes for this episode, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode159.

159: [Best of Year 1] Leadership, Healthy Relationships, & The Enneagram - Beth McCord

Have you ever considered whether your thoughts and feelings about money are lined up with God’s word? How can you shift any inaccurate thoughts or unhealthy money habits to ones that reflect the heart of God? In this conversation, Holly and I talk with faith-based money coach Katie Jones. We discover how Katie’s leadership journey and her passion for a Biblical perspective of money came about, and we dig deep into why this matters for Christians.  Katie shares about some of the false beliefs about money we often hold as Christians as well as how we can change our views. We also discuss how the way we handle our finances is directly connected to our relationship with God. Katie also shares her thoughts on whether or not there’s a point where someone might have “too much” money as well as how we can start to develop Biblical money management. No matter your leadership role, you are affected in some way by money. This episode will push you to consider how your views about money are affecting not only your own life but also the church as a whole. For the full show notes for this episode, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode158.   Connect with Katie Jones: Website Instagram Facebook Redeeming Your Finances Group   Connect with Esther and Holly: The Christian Woman Business Podcast Esther’s Website Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page This episode was first published on June 29, 2021 at estherlittlefield.com/episode158.

158: Why & How Leaders Can Cultivate a Biblical View of Money with Katie Jones

Would you consider yourself an idol worshiper? Most people would say no. However when asked if you have ever struggled in the area of comparison, you may be able to better identify. In this conversation, Holly and I speak with Heather Creekmore and she provides some real talk about the issue of comparison. Heather shares her story of struggling with body issues since she was 9 years old and how she found freedom from the comparison trap. Heather also talks of ways to get out of the comparison cycle that often lives within our minds. You will not want to miss this lively conversation from the former “Nailed It” contestant and learn how to get out of the comparison cycle in your life. For the full show notes, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode157.   Connect with Heather Creekmore: Website Youtube Instagram Pinterest Twitter Connect with Esther and Holly: Esther’s Website Christian Woman Business Podcast Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page This episode was first published on June 22, 2021 at estherlittlefield.com/episode157.

157: Comparison, Idolatry, and Breaking Free of Approval and Expectations with Heather Creekmore

Have you ever considered how much power your thoughts have over your emotions and your actions? It may be more than you think, but the good news is that we have the ability to change our thoughts and thus change how we experience our lives. In this conversation, Holly and I speak with Emily Vermillion about the power of our thoughts. Emily shares her personal experience of going from struggling with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), anxiety and depression to living a life of freedom and joy. How did she do this? With God’s help and by changing her thought patterns to ones that line up with truth.   Whether you’ve experienced the overwhelming feeling of obsessive thoughts or you’ve just allowed your thoughts to roll through your mind without much examination, you’re sure to be both encouraged and challenged in this episode. You’ll also learn some practical ways you can begin transforming your thought life and living with more freedom and joy. For the full show notes, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode156. Key Points About Finding Freedom and Joy and Managing OCD, Anxiety and Depression Emily’s life and leadership journey [4:41] The power of our thoughts [10:20] How our thoughts are connected to our emotions and feelings [13:15] Determining the difference between changing our thoughts Biblically vs. the concept of manifesting [17:30] Emily’s personal journey of dealing with OCD, anxiety, and depression [21:50] How Emily realized something had to change The role of medication in changing these issues The tools Emily used to combat OCD, anxiety, and depression [32:31] Lay it at the feet of Jesus Meditative prayer Discerning the difference between Biblical concept of meditation vs. new age ideas [41:40] How we can determine if we need to change our thoughts [45:31] Leaders are learners [58:35] Connect with Emily: Website Podcast Instagram Facebook Facebook Group   Emily is a wife, mother, podcast host, and Christian Certified Life Coach. After receiving her MBA and landing a corporate job, Emily realized God needed her to completely switch gears, and rediscover the purpose He created her for. Having walked through this season, Emily's passion is for equipping others to discover their purpose and find joy in the present. Emily hopes to offer encouragement, thought provoking tools, and actionable steps to help others get unstuck and living life intentionally!    Connect with Esther and Holly: The Christian Woman Business Podcast Esther’s Website Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page   This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode156. 

156: Finding Freedom and Joy & Managing OCD, Anxiety and Depression with Emily Vermillion

Do you ever feel ashamed or guilty for needing help when it comes to your parenting? And how can you get the support you need in all areas of your life?   In this episode, I’m bringing you a special conversation that I had with Abby Turner as part of my Faith & Business Series I’ve been sharing on the Christian Woman Business Podcast.   I chose to share this episode here as well because I loved how we talked about the need for outside support in parenting, and how this applies to all areas of our life and leadership. We do not have to feel ashamed or embarrassed to reach out for help when we need it.    In addition, we chat about my upLIFT Mentormind, which is currently open and taking applications for new members. Go to https://upliftmentormind.com/ to learn more and apply.   For the full show notes, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode155.

155: Faith, Business, and Parenting Children with ADHD with Abby Turner

What does it mean to have a ‘Biblical mindset’ and why is this vital for Christian leaders and business owners? And how can we discern between true Biblical mindset approaches vs. those that sound spiritual but may not align with God’s word?  In this conversation, I’m talking with messaging strategist & Biblical mindset coach Veronica Hoddenbagh. You’ll hear what this term ‘biblical mindset’ means and why it’s so important for Christian leaders. In addition, Veronica shares about a dark time in her life and how that led her to being passionate about this topic. We also dive into whether or not we should use affirmations as Christians, and what a Biblical view of mindset blocks or limiting beliefs looks like. We also discuss practical ways to develop a Biblical mindset and how this helps you deal with challenging situations in  your life. This conversation will benefit you no matter what context you’re leading in, so be sure to listen in and hear what God may have for you. For the full show notes for this episode, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode154. For the Faith & Business Series, head over to the Christian Woman Business Podcast and take a listen! You can also access the interviews here on my site. For those of you who are ready to thrive in your business, up-level your marketing, and build faith-based connections, go to upliftmentormind.com or text UPLIFT to (207) 544-4103.   How to Develop a Biblical Mindset as a Leader or Business Owner Veronica’s Life & Leadership [3:17] Veronica’s leadership journey [4:23] Leadership lessons [6:31] What is Biblical mindset? [8:30] Veronica’s season of darkness and how this led her to be passionate about this [11:16] Discerning between what sounds spiritual and what is truly Biblical mindset [16:22] 2 questions to ask when evaluating affirmations: “God is this your way?” and “Is it the best way?” How to develop a Biblical mindset [22:30] Dealing with limiting beliefs [31:58] Mindset vs. challenging circumstances [43:54] Leaders are learners [48:03] Master of One by Jordan Raynor Podcasts: Intentional Parents & Risen Motherhood Connect with Veronica [50:35] Esther’s invite for Christian business women [52:09]   Quotes:   “The best leader is first a follower.” “To have a biblical mindset is to think first on God and His purposes, rather than us and our purposes.” “We're commanded throughout Scripture to pay attention to what's going on in our minds.” “Make sure that the things that you're speaking are aligned with what God actually promises as opposed to just what you made up and hoped that he would bless.” “In my anxiety battle, I didn't even know how to pray.” “When God decides to roll something out, the impact is above all we could have ever imagined.” “A limiting belief in ourselves is somewhat right… we actually cannot do anything that we are called to do in our own strength.”   Connect with Veronica: Website Facebook Group   Veronica Hoddenbagh is a Messaging Strategist who is passionate about helping women to share their message clearly so that they can attract their ideal clients with their content. She is a passionate follower of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, mom of 3 toddlers (and expecting her fourth child this summer!), and lives in Ottawa, Canada.   Ready to Thrive in Business? I am getting ready to open the doors to my upLIFT Mentormind for Christian women, and coming up on June 7th, I’m hosting a free info session about it. As part of the program, you get access to some exclusive training with Veronica Hoddenbagh later this year. To join us for the info session and make sure you’re the first to know when this program opens, go to upliftmentormind.com or text UPLIFT to (207) 544-4103! Connect with Esther and Holly: Esther’s Website Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page This episode was first published on June 1, 2021 at https://estherlittlefield.com/episode154

154: Overcoming Challenges with a Biblical Mindset in Business & Leadership with Veronica Hoddenbagh

Money isn’t always easy to talk about, but it’s a necessary part of life, leadership, and business. So it’s vital as Christians to address the topic of money rather than avoid it. In this conversation, I’m interviewing Holly about the common mistakes Christians make when it comes to money and how we can avoid these mistakes. Holly brings a wealth of experience in the financial world and currently works with clients in the online space as a fractional CFO. This episode is not just for those who have a business. The conversation will apply if you are leading in a ministry or church or even just related to your personal finances. For the full show notes for this episode, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode153. Text UPLIFT to (207) 544-4103 to join Esther's upcoming info session about her program for Christian women business owners.   4 Money Mistakes Christians Make and How to Avoid Them Mistake #1: Neglecting Your Finances How to avoid this mistake: Stewardship Mistake #2: Not self-aware How to avoid this mistake: Get to know your personality, past experiences, and what you were taught about money Mistake #3: Continuing in bad money habits How to avoid this mistake: Identify the issue and flesh it out Mistake #4: Living in shame How to avoid this mistake: Find someone you can trust to help you with your finances The potential financial professionals you might want to consider bringing in if you need this help: Bookkeeper Certified Public Accountant/Accountant Chief Financial Officer Financial Planner Tune into the Christian Woman Business Podcast, Episode 41, releasing May 27, 2021 to learn more about these 4 professionals and how they can help you in your business. Connect with Holly: Website Facebook Instagram   Program for Christian Women Business Owners Coming Soon I am getting ready to open the doors to my upLIFT Mentormind for Christian women, and coming up on June 7th, I’m hosting a free info session about it. As part of the program, you get access to some exclusive training with Holly - stuff that she normally only shares with her 1:1 clients. To join us for the info session and make sure you’re the first to know when this program opens, go to upliftmentormind.com or text UPLIFT to (207) 544-4103!

153: 4 Money Mistakes Christians Make and How to Avoid Them

Have you ever wondered if you’re qualified to do what you are doing in your leadership or business? Maybe you’ve questioned if you’re actually cut out to do this or whether anyone will take you seriously.   If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, feeling like a fraud, or wondering if you’re on the right track, you’re not alone. As a Christian woman leader or business owner, you want to serve God and others with your gifts and skills, but sometimes you’re not sure if you’re worthy of doing what God has put on your heart.   For today’s episode, you’re going to hear an episode I recorded for the Christian Woman Business Podcast: 3 Ways to Develop Confidence & Combat Imposter Syndrome in Your Business. But it’s not just for business owners… you’ll get value from this even if you’re leading in other settings, because the steps I walk you through will be applicable no matter the role you’re in right now.   For the show notes for this episode, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode152

152: How to Deal with Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt as a Christian Leader

Have you ever considered working from home with your own business? Or perhaps you’ve considered hiring someone to work virtually for your own ministry or business, but you’re not sure what that would actually look like. In this episode, Holly and I talk with Alyssa Avant, virtual assistant and coach, about her leadership journey. We dive into what it looks like to be a virtual assistant as well as what it means for those who hire one. In addition, we explore the leadership lessons she has learned in her business journey and why values and self-awareness are so important. For the full show notes for this episode, go to estherlittlefield.com/episode151.   Key Points Discussed: Alyssa’s life and leadership journey What is a virtual assistant & who would need to hire one?  Leadership traits that are needed to work virtually Transitioning to teaching others about how to be a VA Leadership challenges Alyssa has faced in her business Values that Alyssa includes in her business How Alyssa decided to focus on serving Christian clients and students Why it’s important to say no to clients who are not a good fit  The value of self-awareness How Alyssa has become more confident in her journey How she manages her different roles as business owner, wife, and mom Leaders are Learners   Connect with Esther and Holly: Esther’s Website Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page   This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode151.

151: Values, Boundaries, and Leadership Lessons from Running a Virtual Assistant Business with Alyssa Avant

Entrepreneurship can be lonely, and even more so in the past year during the COVID pandemic. But it is possible to create community and connection with others in business. In this episode, Holly & I are diving into talking about entrepreneurship, which we haven’t covered much recently. And while this episode has a business focus, a lot of what we share could also apply to leading in ministry and other areas. We dive into why creating community and connections is essential as an entrepreneur, what that community could look like for you, and how to start making those connections.   Key Points Discussed: Why do we need community in business? Business/entrepreneurship is lonely Input from others outside of your own business There’s power in collaboration  Having someone to lean on What does community and connection look like for online entrepreneurs? Personal board of directors as described by Dr. Ronke Dosunmu in episode 126 People who are in your industry Someone who knows finances Someone who is a bit ahead of you Mentors Biz Besties How do you find these people? FB groups Paid programs In person events In communities of a coach or mentor you follow   Local networking groups Friends Fun question: If you could jump into a pool of something, what would it be?   Key Quotes from the Episode: “Sometimes we need someone to help us see where we are getting off track.” - Esther “Community in business is a way to grow the Kingdom of God.” - Holly “Know what you need to help you determine who should be in your network.” - Esther “It’s gonna be weird… you don’t know them!” - Holly “Any relationship you are looking to build and create only happens when you are willing to be vulnerable.” - Esther “There’s no shame in not knowing how to do something.” - Esther “Have an answer to the question: ‘What do you do?’” - Holly Action step: Take the awkward step to reach out to someone who might be a good person to connect with. Resources & Links Mentioned: Business Series on the podcast Thriving in Work and Life and How to Transition From Employee to Entrepreneurship with Dr. Ronke Dosunmu [126] How to Network Authentically Online [CWBP Ep. 36] Shine Online Course   This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode150.  

150: The Power of Community & Connections in Business and Leadership

Why is it vital for leaders to care for those they lead? How can churches develop effective care ministries that don’t burn out their leaders?  In this episode, I talk with guest Laura Howe about the importance of care ministries in churches. You’ll find out why a care ministry shouldn’t be solely dependent upon the pastor, how meeting people’s needs impacts Kingdom growth, and signs that it’s time to start or strengthen your church’s care ministry. Whether or not you lead in a church setting, you’ll find valuable insights into leadership and the value of caring for the needs of others as Christians. To hear more about burnout, compassion fatigue, and mental health in ministry, check out episode 81 when Laura was on the podcast the first time. For the full show notes, visit https://estherlittlefield.com/episode149   Key Points Discussed: What is a care ministry? [2:34] Building an effective care ministry in a church [5:31] How care ministry differs from discipleship or small groups [12:29] The people you need for a care ministry [15:15] Professionals Pastors Peers How to determine if a care ministry is not working [23:48] The first steps for a church if they want to establish (or refine) their care ministry [27:27] Leaders are learners [36:50] Fun question   Connect with Laura Howe: Website Laura’s guide: 3 Steps to Building a Sustainable Care Ministry Church Mental Health Refresh Email: laura@hopemadestrong.org Facebook Instagram Connect with Esther and Holly: Esther’s Website Christian Woman Business Podcast Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page   This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode149.

149: Meeting the Needs in Your Church Without Burning Out with Laura Howe

It's time for you to embrace your God-given gifts, skills, and passions and lead with confidence. Host Esther Littlefield is a pastor's wife and business owner, and she is joined by co-host Holly Cain. They discuss issues related to leading as a Christian woman, and they also interview other women who share their leadership journeys. Through this podcast, Esther and Holly offer encouragement, tools, and resources to help you live out your unique calling as a leader.

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Christian Woman Leadership Podcast

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