The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

Ep 341 | show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/341 What part of your dream could you test before you build it? If you've ever wondered whether your dream will really work, I have a case study for you today. I'm pulling back the curtain on the creation of my Dreamers Unleashed course to show you how I used beta testing to clarify my offer, gather feedback, and build something that genuinely serves Christian women who are battling imposter syndrome. This conversation is part honest reflection, part practical roadmap—especially if you're sitting on an idea and waiting to feel “ready” before you start. Here's what you'll learn:

Ep 340 | Show notes are here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/340  Could your self-doubt actually be a spiritual battle in disguise? Taking a step toward your big dream puts a bullseye on your back that the enemy cannot ignore. That's why it is so important to equip yourself with the truth of God's Word and put in place an action plan that will help you fight back when imposter syndrome returns. Because it's not just a mindset hurdle; it's a spiritual battle the enemy loves to use to keep Christian women stuck on the sidelines. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 339 | Show notes are here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/339 Have you ever had an idea but you shut it down before it even had a chance? Maybe you think to yourself, “Someone else is already doing this,” or “What if no one's interested?” or “Maybe later, when I'm more experienced.” That hesitation? That voice of doubt? It might be imposter syndrome. In this episode, we take a deeper look at the subtle ways imposter syndrome keeps you stuck. It's not always loud or obvious. Often, it masquerades as fear, hesitation, or “just being realistic.” But if left unchecked, it will silence your God-given calling before you even begin. You'll learn:

Why imposter syndrome is sneakier than you think Ep 338 | Show notes are here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/338 Do you feel like you'll never measure up? If you have a God-shaped dream, maybe you're familiar with the quiet voice in your head whispering, “Who am I to do this?” That's imposter syndrome. And it's likely been hanging around longer than you've known. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 337 show notes are here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/337 What if you stepped into your fear of failure?   This week I'm talking about fear of failure, what its true source really is, and how you can battle it and get moving on your God-shaped dream. If you've been avoiding your dream because you fear you might fail, if you've stopped taking steps forward because you feel like you are not enough, this is the episode for you. You can let go of all your striving when you remember that Jesus is enough and He promises to bring His work in you to completion. In this episode you'll learn: Why fear of failure feels so personal and how it tries to define your worth The sneaky spiritual lie fear keeps telling us about our identity in Christ A practical step to shift from fearing failure to resting in God's unshakeable love This episode is for the woman who believes she is “not enough” to go after the dream God has put on her heart. In it I share about Dreamers Unleashed, my live group coaching experience that helps you overcome perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and fear so you can walk in your God-given identity and purpose. Whether you are just dreaming or starting to move, this episode will remind you of what is true: God doesn't need you to be enough. He already is and He will give you what you need as you go. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Get on the waitlist for Dreamers Unleashed and join us this summer for freedom from the fear, imposter syndrome and comparison that's currently standing in the way of your God-shaped dream. Sign up here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/impostersyndrome ✨✨✨✨✨ NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Let's Chat Join the Facebook Community Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android   MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST: Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music by Komiku.

Ep 336 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/336 Is this dream going to be worth the effort? Maybe you've spent hours designing Canva graphics, rewriting emails, or obsessing over what people might think without ever taking a real step forward. You wonder if your dream is even valid or if you just aren't cut out for this. The truth is, you are not failing. You are distracted. And in this episode, we are naming the lies that are stealing your focus from what God is calling you to do. These three lies: perfectionism, reputation, and platform will not just delay your dream. They will discourage you from ever starting. But God has better for you. He's calling you into freedom from the pressure you have put on yourself so you can refocus on His purposes for your life. In this episode you'll learn:

Ep 335 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/335 Before we dive in, I'd love your input on how the Devoted Dreamers Podcast can better serve YOU. Whether you're a longtime listener or this is your first episode, I want to hear what's resonating, what you need more of, and what's not working for you. Share your thoughts here: merrittonsa.com/input.   When was the last time you truly rested? In a world that glorifies hustle—even in Christian circles—rest often feels like a luxury we can't afford. But what if stepping away is exactly what your soul (and your dream) needs? In this episode, guest Eryn Lynum returns to talk about what Sabbath rest has meant for her family, her dream, and her spiritual life. She shares insights from her latest book, The Nature of Rest, to remind us that choosing rest isn't laziness—it's obedience. This is an invitation to stop striving and start trusting the God who never sleeps. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 334 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/334 What if your dream isn't a straight line but a winding path that God is faithfully unfolding? That's the story we're exploring today with my returning guest Eryn Lynum. I interviewed Eryn in 2017, (eight years ago!) about her first book, 936 Pennies; it was her very first podcast guest appearance ever! What neither of us could have predicted then was how that tiny step of obedience would lead to something much bigger. Now Eryn is a Bible teacher, certified master naturalist, and host of the wildly successful Nat Theo Podcast, where she helps families and children discover God's truth through His creation. In this episode, we trace her journey—from saying yes to an unfamiliar opportunity, to watching God bring her dream to life in the most unexpected way. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 333 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/333 What if money doesn't have to be a barrier to starting your dream? If you've been holding back on your God-shaped dream because of financial concerns, this episode is packed with creative strategies to help you move forward—even on a tight budget. This is the final conversation in my financial series from Season 10. It is such a practical conversation full of wisdom about launching a dream without overspending. My guest Jenn Jett Barrett is the founder of Camp Well and The Well Summit. She first shared her dreamer story way back in Episode 16, and in this episode, she offers practical insights on how to take the next step toward your dream without financial fear. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 332 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/332 What if getting clear on your purpose is easier than you think? Have you ever wondered, What am I good at? or How can my unique strengths help me pursue meaningful work? If those questions have crossed your mind, this episode is for you. Last week, we met Jill Felix, a certified Core Clarity facilitator and passionate coach who helps believers understand how God has gifted them. In part 2 of my conversation with Jill, she offers practical insights and encouragement to help you uncover your unique strengths and start living on purpose as a Christian woman. Her story is full of wisdom about embracing your God-given gifts while trusting Him through the process of pursuing a dream. But before we dive in, I'd love your input on how the Devoted Dreamers Podcast can better serve YOU. Whether you're a longtime listener or this is your first episode, I want to hear what's resonating, what you need more of, and how I can walk alongside you in your dream journey. Share your thoughts here: merrittonsa.com/input. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 331 | Show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/331 How do you hold onto a dream when life events interrupt your plans? Maybe you're in a season where your dreams feel out of reach because of unexpected challenges—grief, loss, or simply the weight of life's responsibilities. Is God still working, even in the waiting? Jill Felix knows what it's like to navigate deep loss while still holding onto a God-shaped dream. In this conversation, she shares how personal grief, stepping away from work, and finding rest in God ultimately helped shape her journey as a CoreClarity coach for believers who want to know what to do with their results from the Clifton StrengthsFinder Assessment. From understanding her own talents to launching Radiate Life Coaching, Jill's story is a powerful reminder that God's timing is perfect, even when life feels uncertain. In this episode, you'll learn:

Ep 330 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/330 Are you living out the purpose God intended for you?  Maybe you've spent years searching for clarity, trying to find your unique purpose as a Christian, and it seems like the answers are just out of reach. What if the key was there all along, hidden in plain sight? Purpose can feel elusive—especially if you're multi-passionate and have difficulty choosing just one thing to pursue. However, I've learned some key lessons in the search for purpose that I wish I had understood earlier in life. I'm sharing them with you today to shorten the window of time it takes for uncovering your purpose.  This episode is a reminder that purpose isn't something we manufacture—it's a gift from God. No matter your age or stage, His plans have been woven into your story from the start. Your role is to look for the clues that reveal what He's had for you all along. In this episode you'll learn:

Ep 329 show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/329 Does the Bible have something to say about your purpose?  You bet it does! You were uniquely created by God. He knew you before you were born. He put you on the earth in a specific time and place. And He's given you good gifts that He intends for you to use for His glory.  But if all of that is true, why is it so difficult to figure out your purpose? I'll be responding to questions about purpose throughout the month of March, including what purpose is, who gives it to us, and why it matters. In this episode you'll learn: 

Find show notes for episode 328 here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/328 Can God turn your difficult story into a meaningful ministry? Maybe you sense God nudging you toward something meaningful, but you're unsure of the practical steps to get there. Perhaps you see a need but feel overwhelmed by what you don't know. If that's you, you're in the right place! In this second half of my conversation with Kirsten D Samuel, she shares practical steps for building a dream from the ground up. You'll learn: How to embrace the uncomfortable beginnings of a God-shaped dream The power of sharing your dream with a trusted friend, and  The profound impact of obedience to God's calling. This conversation is about the nitty-gritty of bringing a dream to life. It's about taking that first scary step, learning as you go, and trusting God with the outcome. It's about moving from “I could never” to “Here's how it happened.” Whether you're ready to take action on your dream or just beginning to explore the possibilities, Kirsten's journey shows us that with God's guidance, the path forward becomes clear as we take one step at a time and let go of our control along the way. ✨✨✨✨✨ NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Let's Chat Join the Facebook Community Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android   MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST: Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music by Komiku.

Ep 327 | Show notes are here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/327 Are you hiding a story that God might want you to share? Kirsten D Samuel understands the weight of carrying a painful story alone. When God first prompted her to share her personal testimony about her husband's pornography addiction and their resulting marriage crisis, her answer was a firm “no.” She was comfortable mentoring young moms and staying in the background—until God had different plans. This is part 1 of my conversation with Kirsten, and in it she vulnerably shares how God transformed her “no” into a powerful “yes” that resulted in a ministry that now brings hope and healing after marriage betrayal to hundreds of women who are her clients. Listen in and you'll learn how she: ❤️‍

Find show notes for episode 326 here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/326 Do you see yourself how God sees you? Not sure how to answer that? Start here: How do you respond when offered a compliment? Do you receive the kind words and say, “Thank you,” or do you feel uncomfortable, brush it off, diminish it, or change the subject? If it's any of the latter options, you are not the only one! And we're going to help you get past it here today. This episode is about learning to see yourself as God sees you, in the fullness of His love, delight, and care. (It's not really about compliments, but how we respond to praise can be a symptom that our view of self is broken.)  We must break free from the lies that distort our sense of worth (see episode #325) and learn how to root our identity in Christ. Because big dreams built on the shaky ground of lies or confusion regarding our value and worth will soon crumble.  By the end of this episode, you'll have tools to begin embracing your identity as God's beloved and reject the temptation of finding your value and worth in performance, perfection, or the approval of others.  Come on back every week this month as we explore the theme of knowing your value and worth as a woman of God.  Press play and let's get started!   ✨✨✨✨✨ NEXT STEPS:  Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Let's Chat Join the Facebook Community Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android   MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST: Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music by Komiku.

Find show notes for episode 325 here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/325 Have you ever believed something about yourself that wasn't true? In this week's episode of The Devoted Dreamers Podcast, we're diving into the lies that hold us back from fully embracing our God-given value and worth. These false beliefs—whether about our abilities, identity, or purpose—can keep us stuck in fear and self-doubt. But when we uncover them and replace them with God's truth, we can step forward with confidence into the dreams He's placed on our hearts. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize the subtle lies that distort your perception of yourself and God A simple three-step process to track, trace, and test your thoughts against biblical truth Why rooting your identity in Christ sets you free to pursue your dreams with confidence Tune in now to start breaking free from the lies and stepping fully into God's purpose for you! Come back every Wednesday this month as we explore the theme of your inherent value and worth in Christ.  Press play and let's get started!   ✨✨✨✨✨ NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Let's Chat Join the Facebook Community Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android   MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST: Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music by Komiku.

Find show notes for episode 324 here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/324 Welcome to Season 13 of The Devoted Dreamers Podcast! This year marks a shift we return to weekly episodes—each centered around a monthly theme to help you tackle the biggest barriers to pursuing your God-shaped dream. Expect a mix of shorter solo episodes and insightful guest interviews that provide inspiration and actionable advice. In this episode, I share the results of the 2024 listener survey, including who's listening to the show, what life looks like for you outside of the dream, your heartfelt desires for your dream, and more. What to expect in the new season: Real-life Inspiration: Relatable stories from real dreamers overcoming real challenges with faith-driven perseverance. Their tales will inspire you to take action in your own journey. Actionable Advice: Every episode is packed with practical steps to help you prioritize what matters most, manage your time effectively, and move closer to your dreams, all within a manageable 20–30-minute format. Faith and Dream Integration: This podcast isn't only about dreams; it's about the embodied experience of integrating our faith, dreams, family life, personal growth, and creativity into a cohesive whole. Join me every week in February as we explore the theme of breaking free from lies about your worth so you can see yourself the way God sees you. Press play and let's get started!   ✨✨✨✨✨ NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Ask a Question Join the Facebook Community Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android   MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST: Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music by Komiku.

Could accountability, community, and group coaching help bring your dream to life in 2025? What if you could find all three in one nurturing space that welcomes your messy action? In this final mini-episode in the 3-part series, I've shifted from my regular podcast rhythms in order to bring you on what you need most: strategies to help you make real progress on your God-shaped dream. And this episode is about how you can start taking weekly action on your dream. This bonus episode takes you behind the scenes of a recent Dreamer Lab accountability call to hear what it's like on the inside. A member testimonial shares about our gentle approach to goal setting and accountability, celebrating small wins, and the mindset shifts necessary to successfully pursue your dream. Ready to plan and take the next actions that will bring your dream to life? Hit play to get started now! Then join the waitlist for the Dreamer Lab today at: https://www.merrittonsa.com/dreamerlab Doors will open again for the next cohort by summer 2025.   NEXT STEPS: Join Dream Believers: https://www.merrittonsa.com/ibelieve Connect with me: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android

What connections and relationships are helping you bring your dream to life in 2025? In this second of three mini-episodes, I'm shaking things up and focusing on what you need most: strategies to help you make real progress on your God-shaped dream. And this one is all about surrounding yourself with authentic community. This bonus episode takes you behind the scenes with client testimonials about what it's like to participate in my high-touch community, Dream Believers. This community is designed specifically for Christian women with a God-shaped dream who've haven't found the support they need for taking big, bold action on their kingdom-focused dreams. Ready to find a deeply supportive community to accompany you on the journey to your God-shaped dream? Hit play to get started now! And then sign up to join our community today at: https://www.merrittonsa.com/ibelieve     NEXT STEPS: Join Dream Believers: https://www.merrittonsa.com/ibelieve Connect with me: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android

What tools and strategies do you need to bring your dream to life in 2025? In this first of three mini-episodes, I'm shaking things up and focusing on what you, my dedicated listeners, need most: strategies to help you make real progress on your God-shaped dream. This bonus episode takes you behind the scenes and gives you a free resource to help you get better at speaking about your dream out loud with confidence. You'll hear firsthand from participants who have transformed their ability to communicate about a dream through our monthly calls together. Ready to find your voice and gain the confidence to articulate your vision? Hit play to get started now!   NEXT STEPS: RSVP to attend the next Dream Out Loud call: https://merrittonsa.com/dreamoutloud Connect with me: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android

Find show notes for episode 323 here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/323 Are you ready to stop procrastinating so you can finally take action on a dream?  Get my top 3 dos and don'ts from eight years of podcasting and building a business from scratch. Here's what I wish I'd known at the beginning to help you get there faster and easier than I did. If you're a Christian woman with a dream to write a book, build a ministry, or start a business, you'll gain some simple actions you can take today to support you on your journey. You'll learn:

✨ Dream Believers ~ a virtual community for Christian women with big dreams. Join the waitlist for exclusive, early access in 2025: https://www.merrittonsa.com/dreamco ✨ Find the show notes for episode 322 here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/322 Is fear holding you back?  Meet Amy Lively, an accidental author whose journey from nervous neighbor to community catalyst will inspire you. Despite not identifying as a traditional writer, Amy has published two books and created numerous resources for faith-based community building.  In this episode, Amy shares her vulnerable story of overcoming fears, trusting God, and launching neighborhood Bible studies. Learn how she transformed daily scripture readings into actionable faith practices, and discover practical tips for turning your own spiritual nudges into meaningful action.  Amy's story proves that with faith, the first step doesn't have to be perfect—it just has to be taken. In this episode you'll learn from Amy about:

✨ Listener Survey ~ Give Your Feedback Here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/feedback ✨ Find the show notes for this episode here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/321 What are you longing for as we enter into the Advent season?   There is always a laundry list of things to do as the holidays enter full-swing, whether it's shopping, decorating, cooking, baking, Christmas cards, or other activities that keep you on the go every year in the month prior to Christmas. And yet Advent invites us to experience this season in a very different way than the hustle and bustle of our modern culture. Tune in as singer-songwriter Caroline Cobb introduces her brand-new Advent devotional—Advent for Exiles: 25 Devotions to Awaken Gospel Hope in Every Longing Heart—and encourages us toward the quiet moments that invite our longing for the coming Savior.   In this episode you'll learn from Caroline about:

Find the show notes here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/320 ✨ Dream Believers ~ a virtual community for Christian women with big dreams. Join the waitlist for exclusive early-bird access. Sign up here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/dreamco   ✨ Could God use the pain of your past to grow a dream in your heart? Kim Tschirret grew up in what appeared to be a normal home, but the hidden truth of her father's alcoholism and abuse was a source of deep pain and secrecy. The only safe place she knew as a child was in her horse's stable. By God's mercy, grace, and eventual healing of her childhood trauma, the story doesn't end there. In fact, it continues to be told in the healing of more than 2,000 children over the past 15 years who have benefited from her nonprofit ministry called Hope Reins. Tune in as Kim shares insights on the power of equine therapy for healing childhood trauma and how God planted a dream in her heart for hurting kids to find hope and healing through a relationship with rescued horses. If you've been looking for examples of how God might use your story for a bigger purpose, don't miss this conversation! It is sure to ignite your faith and give you courage as we talk about:

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Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/312 How will you find balance between your dreams and your kids' school routines? Amidst the flurry of back-to-school preparations, are you also quietly pondering what this season holds for your personal dreams? If you're a mom with kids still living at home, your routines (and theirs) are likely about to shift big time! For some, you'll have more free time than you've had in years. (

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Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/309 This episode is brought to you by the Dream Believers virtual community. Get on the waitlist to be notified when the doors are open to new members: https://merrittonsa.com/dreamco What story have you been living in? At 17 years old, Cassandra Smith was living in silence, withdrawn from others, and facing a severe mental health crisis. Never did she imagine that years later she would give keynotes and TEDx talks, write books, lead mentorship programs, and create more than 200 downloadable resources to rally around the power of living your story to the fullest. Cassandra is passionate about mental health wellness, believing people are not defined by what has happened to them in their life but rather where they want to go. Her core message comes from asking the question: “What would your life look like if you were to take back the pen to the story of your life?” The encouragement she brings comes from her personal story of moving out of darkness and into the light of believing God's truth and stepping into a big dream He had given her. Listen in and discover how you can learn to trust the Lord despite fear and how that's just the beginning of changing the narrative of your life's story. In this episode she shares:

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/308   

Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/307 This episode is brought to you by the Devoted Dreamers Community Conversations call, held monthly on the last Wednesday at 10:30 AM Pacific / 1:30 PM Eastern. Register for free here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect Have you ever felt a God nudge?  Whether you call it a nudge, a whisper, or a prompting, I bet you've had at least one. Maybe it was super subtle. Maybe you didn't understand it in the moment. Or maybe it's like you were knocked over the head with a two-by-four and you cannot go on ignoring it any longer. In many cases, the whisper is beyond anything you ever imagined for your life, and for my guest, Kathy Izard, it came loud and clear and completely unexpected. Her story began in the heart of a soup kitchen where a surprising encounter sparked a journey that would require her to surrender in ways she never imagined. As you listen, pay close attention to what you can learn from her story, like: 

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/306 

Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/305 This episode is brought to you by the Devoted Dreamers Community Conversations call, held monthly on the last Wednesday at 10:30 AM Pacific / 1:30 PM Eastern. Register for free here: https://merrittonsa.com/connect Do you struggle to recognize the beauty of your uniqueness? Everywhere you look there's evidence of the glorious ways God made other people: She's got an eye for design. That one has a knack for speaking encouraging truth into other people's struggles. Her every movement is so graceful and poised. I wish I could speak/write/entertain like she does. Ultimately, we're asking the question: God, why didn't you make me like that? We don't intend to diminish God's gifts in us; it's more like we don't recognize our gifts for what they are. We've lived our whole lives with these talents, this wiring, this personality. It doesn't seem all that special compared to what we perceive as excellent in others.  What will it take to begin recognizing the significance of your wiring and to boldly use your gifts for His glory? In this episode of the Devoted Dreamers Podcast, my guest Michelle Acker offers a reminder that God's design in each of us—including you—has a beautiful purpose!  As you listen, pay close attention to what Michelle teaches us about: 

Find the show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/304 Is it too late for me and my dream?  If you had asked college-aged-me if my parents were old, I'm sure I would've said yes. And I wouldn't have meant it as a compliment But what about wisdom? What about the value of life experience? What does the Bible have to say about our value in the midst of inevitable aging? When former podcast guest Heather Creekmore reached out to share her new book Aging Gratefully with me, I was convinced this was a topic we all need to consider. (Also, go listen to her previous episode, #231, on How to Trust God's Calling on Your Life Even When You Feel Unqualified—it is among the top three downloaded Devoted Dreamers episodes of all time!) If you've felt the pressure to be perfect or feared having missed your chance to pursue a dream, this conversation offers hope, truth, and a much-needed perspective shift that God's calling transcends age because wisdom and experience are assets, not hindrances. As you listen, pay close attention to what Heather's story reveals about: 

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/303   Are you afraid of what God might do with your dream?  If fear has been a driving force in your dream (or lack thereof), it's time to go deeper in your faith. Bible teacher and author Jen Weaver shares in this episode about how to manage the fear of not feeling qualified for the dream God has given you.  Rather than quit when you hit a fear roadblock, you can choose to walk through your fears with God—who is the antidote to fear—and He will re-energize your faith with the truth of His Word.  Jen is passionate about empowering believers to engage in every aspect of life WITH God. Her latest book A Beckoning to Wonder is a gorgeously illustrated poetry collection, helping you rest in God's goodness as you re-energize your connection and experience the life-changing ease of wonder.  As you listen to this episode, pay close attention to what Jen's story can teach you about: 

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/302  What do you do when a dream feels too hard?  Somewhere along the journey of saying “yes” to a God-shaped dream you'll probably ask yourself why in the world you did that.  It's no small thing to attempt something you've never done before like writing a book when you don't know the first thing about publishing; or starting a business when you've always been a W-2 employee; or taking the risk of inviting strangers to purchase the art you've created, attend a workshop you'll be teaching, or buy a product you've spent your creative energy building.  It feels incredibly vulnerable to put yourself out there like this. And some days you might feel like quitting so you can go back to your “easy, normal life.”  I don't blame you. We all have those moments, but there's actually a great deal of hope in the messy middle as well, and that's what I have to share with you in this episode.  Pop in your earbuds and you'll learn all about: 

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/301  Is there a God-nudge you've been ignoring?  Rachel Bates never imagined starting a nonprofit; in fact, even as she leads the Beauties ministry, this role feels outside of her comfort zone and skill set on most days. The reason she said ‘yes'? Beauties has touched Rachel's life and the faith of her young daughter so deeply. She couldn't ignore the Spirit's prompting to grow the ministry and reach girls beyond her home community—or that she was the one to begin this work. Now, looking back, she can see the breadcrumbs of God's hand leading her from a teaching career, to mothering, and then to this opportunity. At the same time, she knew nothing about nonprofit leadership before sitting down with an attorney to discuss next steps. In order to be obedient to the call, she knew she would have to surround herself with others who had the skills and experience she lacked.  Rachel candidly shares about her struggles with self-doubt and on-going battle with perfectionism, sharing scriptures that keep her anchored continuing to embrace the joys and challenges of this role. As you listen to this episode, pay close attention to what Rachel's story can teach you about trusting the Lord as you pursue a dream outside your comfort zone, including: 

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/300  Is it possible to miss God's plan for your life?  This is what Tracey Gates wondered as the years went by while she raised children and worked odd jobs along the way. She knew God had made her for more, but could she have missed it? Tracey always had a dream in her heart to write a book but she had no idea how to begin or what the topic would be. It didn't seem urgent at the time. The idea would come up in conversation with a friend or her spouse but there was never enough clarity to move forward.  In her 40s, the dream was still there. By the time she reached her 50s, Tracey realized that the comfort she once felt about this someday-dream to write a book no longer felt comfortable. It was actually frightening. Had she missed God's plan? As you listen to this episode, pay close attention to what Tracey's story can teach you about finding your unique calling and purpose, including: ✨ How to overcome fear and find the courage to write, ❤️ The transformative power of daily acts of kindness, and

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/299  What have you been waiting on God to do with your dream?  Let's be honest, waiting is hard. But often we are so busy looking ahead wondering when God will answer a prayer or change a difficult circumstance that we risk missing out on what He's already doing right in front of us, right now. In this episode, I am honored to introduce you to Shadia Hrichi, a passionate Bible teacher, award-winning author, and speaker. She's joining us to share the surprising twist in her career as a result of corporate layoffs and how one question from a godly mentor opened her eyes to a seminary degree and the possibility of working in full-time ministry.   In this episode you'll learn: ✨ How scheduled, intentional downtime can bring you into a closer walk with the Lord, ❤️ About trusting God even when progress seems slow, and

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/298  How do you know if you're following God's plan for your dream?  It's a big question! And if you're asking it, you should know you are not the only one. I hear this all the time from listeners who are concerned about missing what God is prompting them to do.  It's one of the reasons I'm so honored to have the inspiring Polly Payne back for a second episode this month. In case you're new to Polly, she's the CEO + Founder of Horacio Printing, and she's here to share her heart for putting structure around how we plan and pursue our dreams. In this follow-up to last week's interview, Polly and I talk about her core philosophy of how to make time for our dreams and ensure that those dreams are in alignment with the will of God. You'll learn:   Polly's strategies for beginning to plan and dream (anytime, not just at the new year), How to nurture your weekly schedule and make space for a dream, as well as How to set goals and intentions that stick. If you don't know Polly or aren't familiar with Horacio Printing, her Dream Planner or Print School, School, go back to episode 297 and get caught up on her story of bringing Horacio Printing to life! Especially the mishap as she was naming her company; that story is unforgettable and has some great takeaways if you struggle with perfectionism! Okay, let's jump into it! Grab your planner, set your intentions, and lean into the blessings of God's new mercies every morning.  You don't want to miss this revitalizing episode of the Devoted Dreamers Podcast—here's to dreaming, growing, and becoming the person God is calling you to be in this God-breathed new year!  NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android   MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST:Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music by Komiku. 

Find show notes here: http://www.merrittonsa.com/podcast/297  Have you ever felt unqualified for the dream God has given you?  You're not alone in that. My guest today is a decade into her dream, and she's here to share how God moved her from a career in corporate advertising to building a ministry and business that would glorify God and serve His people.  Polly Payne is the CEO + Founder of Horacio Printing and in this episode, you'll hear her talk about the birth of her dream to create a God-centered planner company. Horacio Printing has sold over 45,000 Dream Planners around the world and raised over $73,000 to fight human trafficking through her partnership with A21. A mother of two, Polly now lives in Lookout Mountain, GA, where she leads her company and empowers other dreamers to create their own bible studies, journals and planners, through her Print School, which she founded in 2022. Stick around to learn from Polly about: the challenges, strategies, and faith journey in her shift from corporate to entrepreneurship sharing knowledge and experience with other creators—even if it means empowering future competitors, and the profound effect of surrendering our dreams and their outcomes to God's control. Our God is good and trustworthy and He is at work in the world—in your life, in mine, in Polly's. If you've struggled to get started. If you're tired of spinning your wheels and going nowhere with your dream, join me for a Devoted Dreamers Zoom call on Wednesday, January 31st to connect, build community, share boldly and imagine what God might do with our dreams in 2024!  Register for the call at merrittonsa.com/first90days   NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android MORE ABOUT THE DEVOTED DREAMERS PODCAST: Produced by Jonathan R. Clauson. Theme music by Reaktor Productions. Ad music: “New Day” used under Creative Commons by Lee Rosevere.  

THIS EPISODE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED IN JANUARY 2023. Find show notes for the entire Habits series here.  Are you stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? Throughout my January Habit Series, I've been talking about habits you might consider adopting this year (and tips for making them easier), because building new habits has the potential to strengthen you and support your dream. Each episode focuses on a particular habit and a tip/hack to help you implement it. These are short and sweet episodes (about 10 minutes each) and are meant to get you thinking about what you can do right now to nurture your dream by building positive habits into your life. In this final episode of the series, I'm talking about the reasons I began a simple daily gratitude practice and the mindset shift that resulted in a fairly short period of time after implementing it. In this episode, you'll learn: The easiest way to practice daily gratitude, What daily gratitude can do to change your attitude for the better, and The underlying benefit for your dream when you start building new habits. Grab my free, UPDATED Devoted Dreamers Habit Tracker. Subscribe to the show and then come on back on Wednesdays following this series for more interviews and solo episodes customized for the dreamer in you who knows there's a dream inside just waiting to come out!   NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android

THIS EPISODE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED IN JANUARY 2023. Find show notes for the entire Habits series here. When was the last time you tried a thing you've never done before?  In my January Habit Series, I've been talking about habits you might consider adopting this year (and tips for making them easier), because building new habits has the potential to strengthen you and support your dream. Each mini episode focuses on a particular habit and a tip/hack to help you implement it. These are short and sweet episodes (about 10 minutes each) and are meant to get you thinking about what you can do right now to nurture your dream by building positive habits into your life. If you've missed any of them, I've created a Spotify playlist for you right here. But the habits we're talking about in these episodes are not necessarily the “new skills” I'm referring to in today's episode. Rather, this one is all about making it a habit to try something new every chance you get. It's important because it builds perseverance, confidence (even when you fail), and rewires your brain for other uncomfortable endeavors that are bound to come your way as you run after a God-shaped dream. In this episode, you'll: Learn the value of getting out of your comfort zone by learning a new skill, Consider possible roadblocks to the “new” things necessary in pursuing a dream, and Gather some ideas for making it easy to try new things.   Grab the free Devoted Dreamers Habit Tracker. Join me for a 2-hour Co-Working session once a month in 2024, with the accountability you need to finally check that project off your list. Register for Co-Working here.   Subscribe to the show and then come back to learn about building simple, small habits that will grow your confidence and create the consistency you need to run your race and pursue a God-shaped dream.    NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android

THIS EPISODE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED IN JANUARY 2023. Find show notes for the entire Habits series here. How good would it feel if you could clear out your email inbox by next week? This month on the podcast I'm talking about habits to consider that will strengthen you and support your God-shaped dream. Each mini episode will focus on a particular habit and a tip/hack to help you implement it. These are short and sweet episodes (~10 minutes each) and will help you begin thinking about what you can do right now to nurture your dream by building positive habits into your life. For this one, I've got a special treat for you. I'm sharing an episode from my friend Christa Hutchins' podcast, Just One Simple Thing, about getting your email inbox in order as part of her “January Reset” series. (The entire series is GOLD, so I urge you to subscribe to her show and listen to all of them!) If you don't already know Christa, she's a professional project manager, ministry leader, and entrepreneur. Christa loves details and turning scary, complex ideas into specific plans to accomplish a goal, one step at a time. In this episode, you'll learn: The easy way to get your email subscriptions under control, A simple 5-step method for clearing out your inbox once and for all, and One thing you should start doing with the subscribers on your email list. Grab the free, UPDATED Devoted Dreamers Habit Tracker. Get Christa's January Reset Handout in her Plan & Pray Facebook group Subscribe to the show and then come back every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in January to learn about building simple, small habits that will grow your confidence and create the consistency you need to run your race and pursue a God-shaped dream.   NEXT STEPS: Connect with Merritt: Website || Instagram || Book a Discovery Call Get Connected with the Facebook Community Support the Podcast Leave a Review: Apple Podcasts/iTunes Subscribe: on Apple Podcasts * on Android