The Devoted Dreamers podcast

28:32

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: 🌿 The comforting truth about the impact of rest on creativity and productivity 🕊️ Strategies for weaving rhythms of rest into daily life and work ⏸️ The art of taking intentional breaks that renew your soul and clarify your focus This episode will remind you that your worth doesn’t come from your output—and your dream isn’t dependent on constant motion. When we intentionally step away from our work, we create space for God to move. So whether you’re in a season of full plates or quiet growth, may this conversation give you permission to rest, reflect, and trust that He is still at work—especially in the stillness. Press play and let’s lean into the gentle rhythms of Christ together. ✨✨✨✨✨ 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
How God Leads Us into Our Most Passionate, Purposeful Work 27:01

7 days ago27:01

27:01

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: 🦋 What a caterpillar reveals about waiting on God’s timing, 🚶 Why you don’t need all the answers before you begin, and 💡 How your purpose unfolds through imperfect, faithful steps This conversation is a powerful reminder that God is always at work—even when we don’t know what comes next. Whatever stage you’re at—whether you’re just beginning or walking out a long-held dream—take heart. God isn’t in a rush, and He’s not finished with your story. Keep showing up in faith, one small yes at a time, and trust that He’s doing more than you can imagine, even in the waiting. You may not see the full picture now, but God does—and He’s shaping you 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
15 Budget-Friendly Strategies for Launching Your Dream 51:08

14 days ago51:08

51:08

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: 💰 Creative strategies for funding your dream with minimal risk, 📍 How to start small and embrace a phased journey toward your dream, and 🛠️ Why aligning with community and prayer can propel your dream forward. If finances have kept you from pursuing the dream God has put on your heart, this episode will give you the encouragement and tools to finally take action on your God-given purpose. Get the free 5-day Guided Scripture Reading Plan: https://www.merrittonsa.com/biblereadingplan and you’ll also receive a copy of the Dreamers Unleashed Manifesto to post on your mirror, fridge, or wherever you need a reminder of who you are in Jesus and the purpose you’ve been given as a Christian woman. ✨✨✨✨✨ 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
Want Clarity on Your Purpose? Get to Know Your Strengths 31:51

21 days ago31:51

31:51

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: 🌱 Why it’s essential to understand your God-given talents, 🛤️ That there are multiple paths to bring a dream to life, and ⚡ A practical exercise to help you manage your energy and avoid burnout. But here’s the key: This conversation isn’t about overnight success or how your strengths can make pursuing a dream “easy.” Talents take time and effort to develop into strengths. And ultimately, we are called to live in dependence on Christ and for His glory—not our own. If you’ve been wrestling with questions about your purpose or feeling stuck in your dream journey, let this conversation be a gentle nudge to trust the process, lean into your gifts, and let God lead 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
Finding Purpose Again After Grief and Loss of a Loved One 31:03

28 days ago31:03

31:03

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: 💔 How grief and unexpected loss can shape your calling, 🌿 The importance of Sabbath rest and rhythms that sustain you, and 🛤️ Practical ways to move forward in your purpose, even in seasons of waiting. If you’ve ever wondered if you’ve missed your moment or felt like life’s detours have delayed your purpose, let Jill’s story remind you: God is never late, and He is still leading you forward—one step at a time. Throughout this month we are exploring the theme of purpose, so press play and let’s get started! ✨✨✨✨✨ Will you please respond to a 4-question listener survey? Share your thoughts about the show here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/input YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Facing your own health struggles and how to not give up on your dream? You might also like ep. 268 with Kimberly Phinney, How Weakness Will Show Us the Way Back to Ourselves . ✨✨✨✨✨ 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
What I Wish I’d Known About Purpose Before Turning 40 22:15

5 weeks ago22:15

22:15

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: 🔥 The types of life events that shape your purpose, 🚧 The five obstacles that can hinder the realization of your purpose, and 👣 Actionable steps you can take as you navigate the discovery of your God-shaped dream. Let this conversation be a reminder that God's timing is perfect and your purpose is already unfolding in ways you may not yet see. Grab the Life Purpose Mapping Exercise, found here: https://www.merrittonsa.com/lifemap to help you find clarity regarding the purpose God has for your life. ✨✨✨✨✨ 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
The Truth About Your Unique Purpose as a Christian 21:31

6 weeks ago21:31

21:31

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: 💫To understand your life’s unique purpose through the lens of Scripture, ⚙️A practical tool you can use right now to gain deeper insight about your God-shaped dream, and 💛 How close friends/mentors can shed light on things you may not see about your gifts and strengths. This conversation isn’t about finding a dream job or achieving some elusive calling—it’s about recognizing that God’s fingerprints are all over your intricate design. It’s about seeing how your specific gifts, passions, and even struggles are woven into His greater purpose. Whether you’re feeling stuck, searching, or simply wanting a deeper understanding of your place in God’s story, this episode is a reminder that purpose isn’t just about what we do but about who we become as we allow God to work through us. ✨✨✨✨✨ 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
How to Start When Dreams Feel Too Big w/ Kirsten D Samuel 38:55

7 weeks ago38:55

38:55

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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
How God’s Love Can Turn Pain into Purpose w/Kirsten D Samuel 36:46

8 weeks ago36:46

36:46

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: ❤️‍🩹 moved from managing her reputation to embracing God’s invitation to heal, 🕯️discovered freedom by allowing God to redeem the messy parts of her story, and ✨stepped into a dream that felt impossible in her own strength Whether you’re carrying a difficult story or sensing God calling you to step out of the background, Kirsten’s journey reminds us that God doesn’t waste our pain. He transforms it into purpose when we trust His leading. Every week this month we are 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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
Seeing Yourself as God Sees You—A Biblical Perspective 24:38

9 weeks ago24:38

24:38

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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
How to Recognize Lies Holding You Back from Your Dreams 19:20

10 weeks ago19:20

19:20

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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
Listener Survey Results + Season 13 Preview 26:58

11 weeks ago26:58

26:58

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.…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
Build Momentum for your God-Shaped Dream in the Dreamer Lab 16:48

12 weeks ago16:48

16:48

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…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
Where to Find Deeply Supportive Community for Your Dream 10:46

13 weeks ago10:46

10:46

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…

The Devoted Dreamers Podcast

1
How to Talk about Your Dream Out Loud with Confidence 8:10

14 weeks ago8:10