1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of how my writing journey began—during a season when the empty nest was approaching, purpose felt uncertain, and God whispered a new calling into my heart. Fourteen years ago, I took a trembling step of faith and attended my first writers conference alone. What followed was a rollercoaster of fear, embarrassment, and a moment so humiliating I nearly packed my bags and drove home. But God intervened through two women—Celeste and LaTan—who showed up at the exact moments I needed courage, belonging, and a reminder that I wasn’t alone. That one decision not to quit changed the trajectory of my life. In this episode, I share: • how God used a friend’s unexpected encouragement to confirm my calling&amp;nbsp; • the embarrassing moment that almost ended my writing journey&amp;nbsp; • the divine appointments that kept me from giving up&amp;nbsp; • the surprising ways God has opened doors over the years&amp;nbsp; • why stepping out of what’s familiar is essential to stepping into your calling&amp;nbsp; • how obedience—even when you’re scared—leads to blessing, purpose, and impact From winning writing awards to being published in Guideposts and Chicken Soup for the Soul, to flying alone to retreats and building a thriving podcast ministry, I reflect on all I would have missed if I had let fear win. This episode is for the woman who feels a dream stirring but isn’t sure she’s capable… the woman in a transition season wondering what’s next… the woman who needs a reminder that God meets us in the places that stretch us. If God is nudging you toward something new, this story will remind you: Your calling won’t grow where fear keeps you standing still. Say yes—and watch what God does. Watch on YouTube Is Comfort Killing Your Calling? One Brave Step Could Open the Door to Your Dream with Carol Roper If you’re standing on the edge of a new season and longing for clarity, courage, and connection, join The Flourish Retreat waitlist. Your next step might begin here. &amp;nbsp; Building Strong Homes: Blueprints to Strengthen Your Faith and Family podcast http://buildingstronghomes.libsyn.com/site <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/41337535/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/87A93A/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/content/202081015