Advertise on podcast: Vessels with Courtney Hope Jones - A Christian Podcast for Women Pursuing Their Calling and Purpose

What if the thing standing between you and a deeper faith isn't your sin or your failures, but the lie that you have to prove yourself to God who's already been pursuing you all along? This week I'm sitting down with Whitney Lowe — Christian author, wife of a pastor, and the voice behind the beloved Instagram community Scribble Devos — for one of the most layered and honest conversations we've had on this show. Whitney's new book Called Back to Who You Are: Finding Yourself in the Wild, Pursuing Love of God is rooted in the book of Hosea and in her own deeply personal story, and I just know it's going to meet so many of you right where you are. Content note: This episode includes a personal story touching on disordered eating and identity as part of Whitney's testimony around the 25:20 minute mark. In this episode, we cover: How Whitney went from posting anonymous devotionals on Instagram to landing a two-book deal with ZondervanWhy she believes millennials are "agents of reconstruction" for the generation coming behind themThe honest conversation we need to be having about Gen Z, deconstruction, and what the church can do betterHow the lie "I have to prove my worth to God" is running so many of our lives and how to break free from itWhat the book of Hosea teaches us about identity, pursuit, and what it feels like when God calls us back to who we really areWhy revival doesn't just start in a worship service and what it actually looks like in everyday lifeResources & Links Mentioned: Called Back to Who You Are by Whitney Lowe — available everywhere books are soldWhitney's devotional, Set Your Eyes Higher — available everywhere books are soldFind Whitney on Instagram: @whitneypiersonloweWhitney's Website: https://www.scribbledevos.com/Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

Have you ever felt so busy doing good things that you started missing God in the middle of all of it? In this solo episode, I'm sharing something that has been very personal and real in my own life — what it looks like to steward our calling well, why we need to stop treating our God-given calling like a hobby, and how to create the margin we need for God to actually move. I'm sharing what the Lord has been teaching me through my own season of burnout, over-committing, and unintentionally taking control. If you've been filling your life so full that there's no room to breathe — or to hear from God — this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why your calling is not a hobby — and what happens when we treat it like oneHow filling our lives too full can cause us to miss divine appointmentsThe story of Jesus and the bleeding woman and what it teaches us about being interruptibleWhat Mary and Martha remind us about misplaced prioritiesA powerful verse from Leviticus 19:9 about not reaping to the very edges of your fieldHaggai 1:5-9 and the conviction of building our own house instead of God'sPractical ways to create margin in your schedule, your business, and your everyday lifeHow to steward your "yes" well — and a book recommendation that will helpMentioned in this episode: The Best Yes by Lisa TerkeurstMark 5Leviticus 19:9Haggai 1:5-9Reflection questions from this episode: Where in your life do you need to create more margin?How have you been stewarding your time?What might God be asking you to lay down in this season?Are there good things in your life that could be crowding Him out?Sign up for our Second Cup Newsletter for weekly encouragement: https://courtneyhopejones.com/#newsletter Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Christian with Cassandra Speer Have you ever talked yourself out of something before anyone else even had the chance to say no? In this episode, I'm sitting down with author, Bible teacher, and VP of global ministry Her True Worth, Cassandra Speer, and her story is one you need to hear. Cassandra built a thriving career as a hair and makeup artist, and then felt God nudging her toward something she never saw coming — writing and ministry. Today she's a bestselling ECPA author, a Good Morning America featured guest, and finishing her master's degree in theology and biblical studies at Denver Seminary. If that's not a "ready as you are" story, I don't know what is. We're talking about overcoming imposter syndrome as a Christian, what it looks like to step into God's calling when you feel completely unqualified, and why you don't need a co-signer to do what God has called you to do. In this episode, we cover: How Cassandra transitioned from hairstylist to bestselling author and global ministry leaderWhy she almost talked herself out of seminary and what happened when she said yesThe moment her son was in the NICU that became the unexpected starting point of her writing journeyWhy rejection can actually be God's kindness in disguisePractical ways to combat imposter syndrome and the lies we tell ourselvesWhat it looked like to go on Good Morning America and pray with the hair and makeup team backstageResources & Links Mentioned: Ready As You Are by Cassandra Speer & Brittany Maher — available everywhere books are sold, including Amazon and ChristianBook.comHer True Worth by Cassandra Speer & Brittany MaherThere's Beauty in Your Brokenness by Cassandra Speer & Brittany MaherHer True Worth Ministry: hertrueworth.comFind Cassandra on Instagram, Threads & Facebook: @CassandraLSpeerCassandra's website: www.cassandraspeer.comCassandra's podcast: Hard and Holy — available on all podcast platformsConnect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

Hey Friends! We are back! This episode is a little more personal than usual. Courtney shares the heart behind a new season for the podcast, the reason for the new name, and what God has been teaching her about slowing down, surrender, and what it really means to be a vessel for Him.  In case you missed it, The Trailblazer Talks Podcast is now Vessels Podcast with Courtney Hope Jones—a shift rooted in the desire to help you stay grounded in your calling and be formed by God right where you are. This podcast is designed to equip multi-passionate Christian women in their calling. In this episode, we talk about: What it actually means to be a vessel for God in your real, everyday life Why doing more isn’t the answer, and how God often works through slowing down How to navigate seasons where you feel pulled in too many directions The importance of filling your life with truth so the noise doesn’t take over Recognizing burnout and learning to lead and live from a place of overflow I hope you love the new direction of the show. If this episode resonates with you or someone comes to mind that would enjoy it, please share this episode. I would also love for you to leave a rating and review where ever you listen.  Resources & Links:  Listen to more episodes: vesselspodcast.com  Follow Courtney on Instagram: @courthopejones and @thevesselspodcastCover Design by littlecreativecompany.com Cover Photography by alwaysflourishingphotography.com Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney Jones wraps up the current season by reflecting on her journey, encouraging listeners to maintain their faith during the summer, and sharing insights on trusting God's plan. She emphasizes the importance of community, personal growth, and the lessons learned from biblical figures like Moses. As she looks forward to the next season, she expresses excitement for new opportunities and the continued journey of faith. Takeaways: This season has been one of the best yet.It's important to stay connected to God during busy times.Trusting God can be challenging, but it is essential.Moses' story teaches us about faith and calling.God often uses those who feel unqualified.Obedience is success.Community support is vital for personal growth.Planning is good, but flexibility is key.God's timing is different from our own.The podcast will return in August after a brief summer break! Follow on Instagram: @courthopejones Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

Are you feeling discouraged in your calling? Wondering if it's really worth it to keep going when the results feel slow or the weight feels heavy? In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney shares a heartfelt message for anyone walking out a God-given calling that feels overwhelming, exhausting, or unclear. Through biblical truth, honest encouragement, and practical steps, you'll be reminded why your yes still matters—even when it’s hard. Whether you’re building a ministry, starting a creative business, writing, leading, or serving behind the scenes, this episode will help you press forward with clarity and faith. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why difficulty doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong The mindset traps that make us want to give up Biblical encouragement for weary leaders Practical ways to stay grounded and keep going How to anchor your heart in truth when you feel unseen or discouraged Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

What do you do when the calling is clear — but the timing isn’t? This week on The Trailblazer Talks Podcast, Courtney has a conversation with author and speaker Chelsey DeMatteis about discerning God’s voice through writing, motherhood, and ministry. From unexpected book deals to starting a worship gathering with no venue or budget, Chelsey shares how she’s learned to trust God’s whispers even when the outcome is unknown. If you’re wrestling with clarity in your calling or wondering whether to persevere or pause, this conversation will help you tune in to God’s direction with faith and peace. Takeaways: How to recognize when God is asking you to wait, pause, or press on Why “no” doesn’t always mean “never” in the kingdom of God How Chelsey knew it was time to write Mercy in the Margin The role of spiritual community in discerning next steps What it looks like to walk out your calling when the path feels unclear Chelsey DeMatteis is a wife, mother, and woman on fire for Jesus. She is a devotional writer for Lifeway's Journey Women Magazine, Salem Media, and YouVersion. She hosts the Living with Less Podcast and is the author of More of Him, Less of Me: Living a Christ-centered Life in a Me-centered World and A Thrill of Hope. Chelsey resides in the midwest with her husband and their two children. Learn more at ChelseyDeMatteis.com or follow her on Instagram @chelseydematteis. Show Links: More of Him - https://amzn.to/43MKONQA Thrill of Hope - https://amzn.to/3Hdj9wP Chelsey's Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/living-with-less-podcast/id1450217627 Sponsor: littlecreativecompany.com Subscribe and Leave a Rating and Review! Follow Courtney: https://instagram.com/courthopejones Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

In this week’s episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney sits down with author and adoptive mom Kara Stout for an honest conversation about trusting God’s timing, letting go of control, and learning to find peace in the in-between. Kara shares her 10-year journey of waiting to become a mom, what God taught her through grief and loss, and how her devotional book An Untroubled Heart was born from walking closely with God through unanswered prayers. This conversation is filled with wisdom and encouragement for anyone navigating an uncertain season, wondering if God is still near. If your heart is aching for peace, this episode is for you. Topics Covered: How to find peace with God when life feels uncertain Trusting God when prayers go unanswered Kara’s adoption story after a decade of waiting Why persistent prayer matters—even when God feels silent The power of morning and evening devotional rhythms Creating a peaceful home through worship and Scripture Kara’s favorite entries from An Untroubled Heart Links Mentioned: Kara’s book: An Untroubled Heart: Calming Anxiety and Finding God’s Peace: https://amzn.to/4kfgh0I Follow Kara on Instagram: @sincerelybykara Worship album: Fed by Ravens by Rita Springer Sponsor: littlecreativecompany.com Connect with Courtney: Website: courtneyhopejones.com Instagram: @courthopejones Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

If you’ve ever felt like you’re behind, not enough, or waiting on someone to give you permission—this episode of The Trailblazer Talks will speak straight to your heart. Author and speaker Mary Marantz joins Courtney for a conversation rooted in honesty, encouragement, and hope. They unpack Mary’s newest book, Underestimated, and talk about what really holds us back from walking fully in what God has called us to. From perfectionism and people-pleasing to fear and procrastination, Mary shares practical wisdom on building self-trust, letting go of old narratives, and starting small—even when the world underestimates you. About Mary Marantz: Mary Marantz is the three-time bestselling author of Underestimated, Dirt, and Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots and the host of the popular podcast, The Mary Marantz Show. She grew up in a trailer in rural West Virginia and was the first in her family to go to college before going on to Yale for law school. Her work has been featured on CNN, MSN, Business Insider, Bustle, Thrive Global, Southern Living, Hallmark Home & Family, and more. She and her husband Justin, live in an 1880s fixer-upper by the sea in New Haven, Connecticut, with their two very fluffy golden retrievers, Goodspeed and Atticus. Links & Resources Mentioned: - Order Mary’s book Underestimated: https://amzn.to/3ET9wm5 - Take the “Name the Fear” Quiz: https://namethefear.com - Discover your core driver with the Achiever Quiz: https://achieverquiz.com - Learn more about Mary’s work: https://www.marymarantz.com - Follow Mary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymarantz Visit the Podcast Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Follow Courtney: https://www.instagram.com/courthopejones Sponsor: Little Creative Company - littlecreativecompany.com Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

Have you ever felt stuck between faith and disappointment? Today’s solo episode is a heart-to-heart about what to do when your prayers seem unanswered and how to dream with God again after a long season of waiting or discouragement. If you've ever walked through disappointment, discouragement or doubt, this episode is for you! We’ll talk about: Why disappointment often comes down to trust What Proverbs 3:5–6 really calls us to live out How biblical figures like David and Thomas wrestled with doubt too 5 practical, biblical steps to steady your faith and dream again Why your hope is safe with God — even when the wait feels too long Whether you're in a season of delayed dreams, waiting for breakthrough, or just trying to keep believing, this conversation will meet you right where you are and remind you that your story isn’t stuck — it’s still being beautifully written by God. Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5–6 | Psalm 34:18 | John 20:27 | Proverbs 13:12 | Hebrews 6:19 | Joel 2:25 | John 15:4–5 Mentioned in this episode: ➔ My book, It Is Written — Strengthen your faith and pray Scripture with boldness! https://amzn.to/4cNSJgE ➔ Little Creative Company — Need a powerful brand or website that helps you reach the people you're called to serve? ➔ Subscribe & Leave a Rating/ Review Please! Email me: [email protected] Follow me: https://instagram.com/courthopejones Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

What do you do when you're stuck in life and nothing seems clear? In this vulnerable and wisdom-filled episode, Bethny Ricks—author of Face Forward—shares her story of walking away from a successful corporate career after a health scare, navigating burnout, and learning to trust God with the unknown. We talk about letting go of titles, releasing our need for control, and what it really looks like to move forward in faith when life falls apart. If you’re in a hard season or feel stuck between where you’ve been and where you’re going, this episode is for you. In this conversation, we explore: How to move forward when you don’t know what to do Why being honest with yourself comes before any strategy What Bethny’s mini-stroke taught her about surrender How to let go of people-pleasing and the illusion of control Why hope isn’t just a feeling—it’s a person Encouragement for writers, leaders, and women in waiting seasons Real talk about burnout, disappointment, and starting again with God Order Face Forward by Bethny Ricks: https://amzn.to/42KosLi Follow Bethny on Instagram: @bethnyricks Check out more episodes at: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones 👉 If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe and leave a review—it helps more people find the show! Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

In this powerful episode, Courtney sits down with Elle Cardel—author, Bible teacher, and founder of the women’s ministry Daughter of Delight—for a heartfelt conversation about learning to truly delight in the Lord through every season of life. Elle shares her incredible journey of launching her online ministry, navigating her daughter’s life-threatening heart condition, and how God met her in moments of suffering with unexpected joy. You’ll hear practical encouragement for growing in prayer, reading your Bible with confidence, and letting go of perfection in your walk with God. We also talk about: Elle’s new book She Delights and companion Bible study (launching April 22!) What it really means to be “bold and beheld” as a daughter of the King Why nothing satisfies our soul like God does—and how to stop striving and start resting in His delight Whether you’re in a valley, on a mountaintop, or somewhere in between, this episode will remind you that God delights in you and wants you to delight in Him. Order Elle’s new book + Bible study here: https://amzn.to/44mwIlo Connect with Elle: @elle_cardel + @daughterofdelight Author's Links: Website | Podcast | Facebook | IG — LET’S CONNECT:Explore more at thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Subscribe + leave a review to help more women find biblical encouragement. Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

In this episode, Courtney interviews Tabitha Panariso, a licensed professional counselor and author, discussing the themes of rejection, healing, and personal growth. Tabitha shares her journey through various forms of rejection, including familial abandonment and friendship breakups, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of self-worth and relationships. The conversation delves into practical steps for healing, the importance of building trust, and the impact of church hurt on faith. Tabitha emphasizes the significance of self-compassion and authenticity in overcoming rejection and encourages listeners to trust God's timing in their personal journeys. Follow Tabitha on Instagram: @tabithapanariso Subscribe to her substack: www.tabithapanariso.substack.com Order her book: https://amzn.to/424S9rq Follow Courtney on Instagram: @courthopejones Podcast Website: www.thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney Jones tells the story of starting her business and dives into how to dream with God by aligning your desires with His will. She shares her personal story of transitioning from a corporate career to running her own business, answering the most common questions like: How do I know if a dream is from God? What steps should I take to align my vision with Scripture? How do I stay faithful and take small steps of obedience? Courtney also shares biblical insights from Habakkuk 2:2, Proverbs 3:5-6, Ephesians 2:10, and other key scriptures to help listeners dream with God without falling into the traps of manifesting or divination. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Understanding your identity in Christ before pursuing your calling How to submit your dreams to God and align them with Scripture Why writing the vision (Habakkuk 2:2) is a biblical principle The importance of taking small steps and being obedient in the waiting How to guard against distractions and doubts while pursuing your God-given vision Grab Courtney's Book Here: https://amzn.to/4l2wHKS Want to Dream Bigger with God? Courtney is now offering life coaching to help you live more intentionally and overcome the obstacles that may be holding you back from your calling. Two spots are available starting in April for her six-week coaching program. For more information, email Courtney at [email protected]. Need a New Website or SEO Services? Courtney also has one spot available in April and two spots in May for her signature two-week website service through Little Creative Company. Visit littlecreativecompany.com to learn more. Podcast website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)

In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, I sit down with Mary Spencer Veazey—author of Cul-de-sac Crossroads—to talk about navigating the confusing, in-between seasons of your twenties. From trusting God in uncertainty to building community to handling decision fatigue, Mary Spencer offers faith-filled wisdom for women feeling stuck at a crossroads. Whether you're single, starting over, or searching for direction, this conversation will remind you that even life’s cul-de-sacs can lead to purpose. We talk about: Navigating life transitions in your 20s with grace and courageWhy community and church involvement matter more than everThe importance of mentorship and giving yourself permission to grow How generosity, faith, and personal development all go hand-in-hand Practical tips for overcoming comparison and decision fatigue Connect with Mary Spencer: Instagram: @mencervz Facebook: @maryspencervz Substack: @mencervz Book: Link to Buy Website: www.maryspencerveazey.com Our Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones Connect with us: Instagram: @thevesselspodcast and @courthopejonesWebsite: vesselspodcast.comSubscribe & leave a review — it helps more women find this podcast!Vessels Podcast (formerly The Trailblazer Talks Podcast)