Faith Conversations Podcast

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. 

Jessica Cabrera hosts Faith Svendsen on the Faith Conversations Podcast to discuss her powerful story of trusting God through every season of life. From growing up with godly parents to becoming a military wife and navigating the challenges of motherhood, Faith’s journey is marked by deep prayer, scripture, and surrender. She opens up about the heartbreak of her father’s passing and how God met her with love and faithfulness. Through it all, Faith reminds us that when we are brokenhearted, the Lord is near, and His Spirit helps us in our weakness.

Biblical References:

Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.

John 14:26 – The Holy Spirit will teach you and remind you of everything.

Romans 8:26 – The Spirit helps us in our weakness.

Isaiah 61:3 – To give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.

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. 

Amber Scharbo shares her powerful testimony of holding onto faith through unanswered prayers, infertility, and personal loss. From a spiritual awakening on a high school missions trip to years of financial struggle and failed IVF attempts, Amber reveals how God’s presence met her in the waiting. Her journey toward motherhood through embryo adoption is a stunning picture of healing, surrender, and God's unexpected provision. This episode will encourage anyone wrestling with doubt, disappointment, or the fear of letting go.

Isaiah 43:2 – When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned.

Psalm 34:4 – I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Jeremiah 29:12-13 - Seek God with your whole heart.

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 Faith Conversations, Jessica Cabrera welcomes Michele Bushman to share her deeply authentic faith journey. From a childhood rooted in the church to facing unimaginable grief after the murder of her father at age 21, Michele opens up about choosing faith over bitterness. She recounts how God used adoption, loss, and Scripture to draw her closer to His heart.

Michelle speaks honestly about the pain, the healing, and the truth she found in God’s presence — especially through key moments with her adopted son. Her story is one of resilience, trust, and the unwavering faithfulness of God.

Tune in for a moving reminder that even in our darkest moments, God meets us there.

Psalm 37:5 – Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

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

Psalm 20:7 – Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

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. 

Noreen Westfall shares how a lakeside prayer sparked a lifetime of spiritual transformation. Through personal loss, trust struggles, and unexpected peace, she reveals how God meets us in our pain and grows us in His presence. She describes her Catholic upbringing, involvement with Young Life, and a transformative experience feeling God's presence while praying by the water, leading to her eventual rebaptism. Noreen shares a pivotal moment when her husband had a stroke, emphasizing her trust in God's sovereignty. She advises believers to prioritize their relationship with God and encourages non-believers to seek Him. Noreen highlights the importance of focusing on God's attributes and the significance of salvation as healing.

EXPLORE TOPICS FROM TODAY'S EPISODE IN THE BIBLE:

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

Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.

Romans 5:3-5 – Suffering produces endurance, character, and hope.

Isaiah 26:3 – You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you.

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. 

Laura Nessmiller recounts her Catholic upbringing, struggles with depression, and a life-changing abduction that led her to a deeper relationship with God. Laura discusses her journey of faith, including her realization of God's love and acceptance, her marriage, and her eventual escape from an abusive relationship. She also shares her son's journey to join the military, highlighting the importance of trust and surrender in faith. Laura emphasizes God's transformative power and the value of trusting His plan.

EXPLORE TOPICS FROM TODAY'S EPISODE IN THE BIBLE:

Isaiah 61:3 – God gives beauty for ashes.

Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.

Jeremiah 29:11 – God has good plans for your future.

Romans 8:28 – He works all things for the good of those who love Him.

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. 

Adriana shares that she got saved at age three and has always felt God's presence as her rock and strong hiding place. She recounts a vivid experience at age seven when she felt God's voice and presence. Adriana also describes her recent brain surgery and how God guided her to quit her job before her diagnosis. She emphasizes the importance of seeking God and reading the Bible, particularly the Gospel of John, for those seeking faith. Adriana's experiences highlight God's faithfulness and protection throughout her life.

EXPLORE TOPICS FROM TODAY'S EPISODE IN THE BIBLE:

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

Romans 8:28 – God works all things for good for those who love Him.

Psalm 37:5 – Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act.

Isaiah 26:3 – Perfect peace for the one whose mind is stayed on God.

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. 

Jessica Cabrera hosts Amy Zacaroli. Amy was raised in a Lutheran household, felt a spiritual connection from a young age but struggled with understanding her faith. Her life took a transformative turn when she participated in a Bible study, leading to a deeper understanding of her faith and a personal relationship with God. Amy recounts a pivotal moment in her daughter's bedroom where she heard God's audible voice, confirming her role as a mother. She emphasizes God's personal presence and the importance of seeking Him. 

EXPLORE TOPICS FROM TODAY'S EPISODE:

Isaiah 61:1–3 – God's promises to heal, free, and restore.

Hebrews 9:14 – Christ as the perfect sacrifice for our sins.

Psalm 16:11 – God reveals the path of life and gives joy in His presence.

John 10:27 – 'My sheep hear my voice…' – God speaks to His people.

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. 

What happens when God calls you out of your comfort zone—again and again? In this special solo episode, host Jessica Cabrera shares her powerful personal testimony, from her first encounter with God as a teenager to a lifetime of unexpected relocations and divine redirection.

Jessica opens up about how God called her to surrender, how He pursued her gently but persistently, and how trusting Him—even in confusion and resistance—led to a life she never could have planned on her own.

This episode is full of honest reflection, spiritual insight, and awe-inspiring moments of God’s orchestration. If you've ever wondered whether God is really speaking to you—or struggled to trust Him when His ways don't make sense—this episode is for you.

Listen now and be encouraged to courageously follow Him—because His way is better.

Want to dig deeper?

Jessica’s initial faith journey began at age 14 with a deep, unexplainable conviction to seek God.

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

Jessica describes the internal tug-of-war as God called her to surrender her will.

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

God communicates through the Spirit, people, Scripture, and circumstances.

John 10:27 – "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."

From Chile to Dallas, South Carolina, and back again, God’s hand is evident in every detail.

Romans 8:24-28 – "For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."

Following God’s call even when it doesn’t make sense leads to joy, peace, and purpose.

Hebrews 11:1 – "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept God's offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life - relationship with God for eternity (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. Here's a message that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

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 relationship and community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here.

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.