In this powerful kickoff to Season Three of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera welcomes Dr. Michael Coffey, Executive Pastor of Burke Community Church in Northern Virginia. Together, they unpack a legacy of transformation as Dr. Coffey shares how three generations of men in his family encountered radical change through the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Growing up in a home marked by alcoholism and abuse, Pastor Coffey witnessed firsthand the life-altering shift that occurred when his father surrendered to Jesus. Yet even with this transformation around him, Pastor Coffey resisted faith—choosing instead to control his own path. But when his grandmother experienced miraculous healing, it jolted him awake and launched a personal pursuit to investigate the claims of Jesus.

Through reading the Bible, especially the first four books of the New Testament (the Gospels), he discovered that Jesus truly is the way, the truth, and the life. That truth not only changed his heart, it set him on a course to serve others through campus ministry, international missions, military chaplaincy, and now pastoral leadership.

This episode is an inspiring testament to how God patiently pursues us—even in our resistance—and invites us into a story of surrender, healing, and purpose.

Bible Verses

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is to be in a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the DMV area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the podcast on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this final episode of the 4-week special edition Faith & Work series, host Jessica Cabrera and guest co-host Kristen Stockton tackle a topic that working women know all too well: overwhelm. From family to career to health and the endless to-do list, the pressures can feel crushing—but they don't have to define us.

During this episode, you’ll hear Jessica teach from a live event where she shares 5 Biblical tips for managing overwhelm, drawing from the life and example of Jesus. She unpacks the first tip: the importance of taking your cares to God as soon as you feel the pressure building. To explore the rest of the tips, click below. The episode reminds us that while overwhelm is inevitable, our response can be rooted in trust, surrender, and the peace only God provides.

Free resources to go deeper:

5 Tips to Manage Overwhelm - From a Christian Perspective

“Stuck to Strong” Quiz

Bible Verses:

Matthew 11:28-30:  Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

John 14:27: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. 

Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus

1 Peter 5:7: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Psalm 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 

Psalm 61:2–3: From the end of the earth I cry to you when my heart is faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower from the enemy. 

Isaiah 40:29: He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Isaiah 41:10: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this faith & work series special edition episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera is joined for the first time by co-host Kristen Stockton. Together, they dive into one of the most pressing issues faced by working women today—guilt, shame, and the haunting sense of inadequacy that often accompanies trying to juggle multiple roles. Jessica shares a live teaching segment originally delivered to a group of working women of faith, unpacking Biblical truth from Romans 8:1 and more. She reminds listeners that shame is not from God, and that Jesus does not expect perfection—He expects surrender. Whether you feel like you're dropping the ball or not measuring up, this episode offers a grace-filled, Christ-centered message of freedom. You’ll walk away encouraged, grounded in Scripture, and reminded that God’s love isn’t based on your performance—it’s based on His perfect grace.

Bible Verses:

Romans 8:1: Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

2 Corinthians 12:9: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Isaiah 61:7: Instead of your shame, you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace, you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.

Psalm 34:5: Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this special edition episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera offers powerful encouragement for anyone wondering how their work, passions, or skills could possibly fit into God’s plan. Drawing from Exodus 31–36 and personal reflections, Jessica unpacks how God’s intentional design over your life includes the very talents, interests, and abilities He wired into you — not by accident, but on purpose.

From creativity to leadership, administration to service, what you do matters deeply to God. Jessica explores how Scripture shows us that the same God who called and equipped workers in the Old Testament is still filling people today with His Spirit, wisdom, and skill for the work He’s called them to.

Whether you're in a season of questioning your purpose or seeking to live with greater meaning in your daily work, this episode reminds you that God is orchestrating every detail. He has a plan — and you’re part of it.

Bible Verses:

Ephesians 2:10 - For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Colossians 3:23-24 - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Exodus 31:3 - and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills

Romans 12:6-8 - We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this special solo edition of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Jessica Cabrera shares a deeply personal reflection on her career and how God’s hand has guided her every step of the way. From starting as a substitute teacher after college to taking on a leadership position in Washington, D.C., Jessica reveals how God orchestrated each move — even when she didn’t recognize it at the time.

Through divinely appointed opportunities, family relocations, career pivots, and hidden preparation, Jessica came to understand how God was cultivating her skills and shaping her heart for a greater calling. This episode is an invitation to reflect on your own professional journey and discover how God might be writing a story of purpose, provision, and calling over your life.

This is the first of four episodes exploring the intersection of faith and work — stay tuned for inspiring interviews and powerful insights in the coming weeks.

If you'd like to listen to the Special Edition episode about Jessica's faith journey referred to during this conversation, CLICK HERE. 

Bible Verses:

Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Colossians 3:23–24 – Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this moving episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera sits down with Ash Wells to share her incredible journey from a turbulent past to a life transformed by God’s mercy.

Raised by a single mother and shaped by years of rebellion, multiple marriages, and spiritual emptiness, Ash had no real connection to God—until adulthood. When she finally encountered Jesus, everything changed.

Now grounded in a Christ-centered marriage, Ash shares how her faith has carried her through overwhelming trials: the stillbirth of a child, a brain tumor that led to brain surgery, and walking alongside her husband through stage 4 cancer.

Ash knew these hardships would either drive her away from God and her marriage—or draw her closer to Him. She made the bold decision to go all in with God. Through daily time in Scripture, her Christian community, and a personal relationship with Christ, Ash discovered a peace that truly surpasses understanding.

Her story is a powerful testimony of God’s fatherly love, His mercy in brokenness, and the deep joy found in true surrender. For anyone feeling lost, overwhelmed, or questioning where God is in their pain—Ash’s words offer hope: “God is faithful. He can carry you.”

Bible Verses:

2 Corinthians 12:9: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Philippians 4:7: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Psalm 34:18: The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera interviews Heather Myers, Navy veteran, military wife, biological and adoptive mom, and author of the soon-to-be-published Bible study “Rooted Motherhood”. Heather shares her journey through military service, terrible sickness during pregnancy, and international adoption—and how those seasons of weakness brought her to depend completely on God's Word and a true relationship with Christ. Heather’s story showcases what it means to live from a place of surrender—recognizing her weaknesses and clinging to God’s truth as her strength. With honesty and encouragement, she explains how Scripture became her anchor over time. Now, she’s passionate about helping other women—mothers and beyond—find peace and strength in Christ by being deeply rooted in Scripture.

You can connect with Heather and learn more by visiting https://heatherlmyers.com

Check out what the Bible has to say:

  Isaiah 40:29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

  2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 

  Psalm 1:3  That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

  John 15:4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Katie Hagan opens up about growing up in church, wrestling with how much religious hypocrisy is out there, and learning what it truly means to walk in a personal, surrendered relationship with God. From her early baptism to adult struggles with doubt, Christian culture, and social justice, Katie shares a candid and compelling story of how faith in Jesus has shaped her identity and values. 

What does the Bible say?

Micah 6:8 – What the Lord actually requires of us.

James 1:27 – What the Bible says religion is.

Romans 12:2 – Knowing God’s will

Isaiah 1:17 – Godly behavior

More Bible fun….

Mark 9:24 – I believe; help my unbelief!

Jeremiah 29:13 – You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Psalm 19:1 – The heavens declare the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 5:7 – We walk by faith, not by sight.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this powerful episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera talks with Sarah about her incredible journey from being raised by atheist and agnostic parents to unshakable faith in Jesus. Raised in a non-Christian home, Sarah discovered faith in Jesus through a youth program. It took time to discover what it meant to depend entirely on God—but that’s exactly what happened after she suffered a major stroke that left her unable to walk, talk, or eat. At the time, she was preparing to leave her marriage—but God intervened. Through miraculous healing on more than one occasion, Sarah not only regained her physical strength, but also experienced spiritual restoration and marital healing. Today, Sarah has a passion for ministry and she and her husband seek God’s presence in their marriage. This episode is a testimony to the power of surrender, God’s unchanging presence, and the beauty of restoration—both physical and spiritual.

Bible Verses:

Jeremiah 30:17 - I will restore you to health and heal your wounds

2 Corinthians 5:17 – If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.

Romans 8:11 – The Spirit who raised Jesus will give life to your mortal bodies.

Psalm 40:2-3 – He lifted me out of the pit and put a new song in my mouth.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this powerful and redemptive episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, host Jessica Cabrera sits down with Shannon Zaragoza to explore her courageous journey of faith after childhood trauma. Shannon opens up about growing up in a non-Christian home and enduring five years of sexual abuse by her stepbrother—experiences that left lasting emotional and spiritual scars.

But Shannon's story doesn’t end in darkness. Through a life-changing altar call and the relentless pursuit of God, she found healing, restoration, and a renewed sense of purpose. With raw honesty, she shares how obedience to God, time in His Word, and community support helped her overcome the weight of shame and learn to trust again.

Whether you've experienced trauma or are walking alongside someone who has, Shannon’s testimony will remind you of the unwavering faithfulness of God—and the hope that is always possible in Him.

Listen now for a story of honest pain, supernatural grace, and life-changing transformation.

If you would like to connect with Shannon and learn more from her, please follow her on Instagram @victims4transformation.

Bible Verses:

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart.

Isaiah 55:8-9 – God’s ways are higher than our ways.

Galatians 6:9 – Let us not grow weary in doing good.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration.