Welcome to the very first episode of the Start Again series. I’m so glad you’re here. If life has ever knocked the wind out of your dreams—whether through loss, betrayal, disappointment, or just plain exhaustion—this episode is for you.

I know what it’s like to stare at a life you never saw coming. When my husband Richard was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, everything shifted. I went from building a business to sitting in hospital rooms, trying to hold on to hope and figure out who I was becoming in the process. Maybe you’ve had your own life-shifting experience—grief, divorce, a financial crisis, or just the slow unraveling of a life that once made sense.

In this episode, I’m inviting you to remember who you are and what you carry. Not because you have to fix it all—but because God hasn’t forgotten you. That dream you thought had died? It’s not gone. It’s just been sleeping.

• What it really looks like to start again after life flips upside down
• How to recognize the "sacred middle"—when everything feels like a mess but God is working
• The story of Peter’s redemption after failure (John 21), and how Jesus called him back into purpose
• Eleanor Roosevelt’s unexpected rise after betrayal—and why her story still speaks to us
• Lysa TerKeurst’s journey through heartbreak, and how she chose healing over shame
• My own winding road from grief to grace, and the surprising way God met me in a tiny apartment with a big new calling

• You are not disqualified by your past.
• God can redeem every broken piece.
• The dream isn’t dead—it’s just been sleeping.
• You can start again, even if it’s your second or seventh time trying.

We stay stuck on the sidelines—watching life pass by.

Our gifts go unused.

The people we’re meant to bless miss out.

And we live under regret, discouragement, and doubt.

But that’s not the story God wants for you.

I’ve lived this.

I’ve wept in quiet places.

I’ve questioned my value and whether I still had a voice.

And I’ve seen how God takes the wreckage and builds something beautiful.

He can do it for you too.

You don’t have to figure it all out—you just have to say yes to trying again.

1. Leave a rating or review—it helps other women like you find this podcast.
2. Let’s talk. If you’re in that space of wondering “What now?”—come visit DonnaWoolam.com/Belief-Revolution
3. and grab a spot on my calendar. We’ll talk for 30 minutes about what’s next for you.

You’re not alone in this.

You never were.

And friend… your dream still matters.

Let’s start again—together.

With hope,

Donna

Music track: The Island Of Haying by Moavii

Source: https://freetouse.com/music

Free No Copyright Music Download

Hello Lovely One,

After months of sitting down with some of the most incredible women I’ve ever met, we’re wrapping up the Women in Ministry series. And wow… it's been amazing!

These 16 women have shown us that ministry isn’t just about pulpits and platforms. It’s in hospital rooms, lunchboxes, whispered prayers, and brave obedience when no one’s looking.

So in this final episode, I’m inviting you to pause with me and reflect on some of the powerful truths we’ve uncovered together.

• How Melissa Mashburn and Christa Cordova found ministry in unexpected places—far from what they’d planned
• How Renee Austin and Katie Sokolovska discovered purpose in the middle of heartbreak and healing
• How Christine V. Davies, Donna Scott, and Dawn Ezelle reminded us that presence is powerful—even in pain
• Why Mari Hernandez-Tuten, Tess Vergara, and Linda P. Jones show us that identity is more than a title—it’s rooted in Christ
• How Dr. Cynthia Hester, Karen Smith, and Brittany Schlichter anchor their lives and leadership in God’s Word
• How Ashley Wymore, Jayme Woolam, and Darla Madrid reflect ministry through motherhood, marriage, and moments most people never see

These stories remind me—and maybe they’ll remind you too—that ministry isn’t something we wait to be invited into. It’s already happening, right where we are.

• What if the thing I think disqualifies me is actually what God wants to use?
• Where is He already moving in my pain?
• If every title disappeared… would I still know who I am?
• What scripture has been chasing after my heart lately?

So many of these amazing women offered a short devotional thought or prayer that I’ve bundled up just for you. It’s honest. It’s faith-filled. And it’s totally free.

👉 Grab the Women in Ministry Devotional here: www.donnawoolam.com/podcast/women-in-ministry-series

Let it breathe life into your quiet time. Use it to remind yourself—you’re already walking in your calling.

This chapter may be closing, but your story? Still unfolding.

Starting next week, we’re kicking off a brand-new series called Start Again. It’s for every woman who’s faced a life shift—a divorce, a death, a career change, an empty nest—and is ready to rise again with hope and purpose. We’ll talk real life, big questions, and bold faith.

I’m so glad you’ve been here. And I hope you’ll stick with me for what’s ahead.

With gratitude,

Donna

In this heartfelt conversation, Darla Madrid shares her powerful journey into ministry—from volunteering with Cru’s high school outreach to navigating life as a mom, missionary, and leader. She opens up about the beauty and struggle of embracing God’s call in every season, even the ones that feel less than ideal. Through stories of heartache, hope, and surrender, Darla offers encouragement to women learning to hold grief and joy together and trust God with their present and future.

Key Highlights:

• Darla’s journey from college volunteer to full-time ministry with Cru
• The identity crisis of teen girls—and the power of truth in Christ
• Ministry in motherhood: rhythms of grace in a chaotic season
• How COVID reshaped high school outreach into student-led movements
• Personal grief: miscarriage, diabetes, and the loss of her grandmother
• Learning to embrace the “now” season without comparison
• The sacred space of holding joy and sorrow together
• Encouragement for those questioning their calling in hard seasons

Notable Quote:

"There’s freedom in this season. I don’t have to compare myself to who I thought I’d be. I can grow right here." — Darla Madrid

Darla Madrid – People Care Coordinator, High School Ministry with Cru

Contact: [email protected]

Personal Giving Link to Support Darla in Ministry: give.cru.org/0939757 

Learn more about Donna Woolam at https://DonnaWoolam.com/Belief-Revolution

In this heartfelt episode of ReInvent Your World, Donna Woolam is joined by Ashley Wymore—wife, mom of three, coffee lover, and co-pastor of Living Way Foursquare Church in Midland, Texas. With warmth and vulnerability, Ashley shares her journey of saying yes to Jesus one step at a time, from youth camp moments to co-leading a church and speaking internationally.

Ashley speaks candidly about the hidden wounds of ministry—especially the pain of rejection from other women—and how learning to clear her heart weekly has become a life-changing rhythm. She reminds us that leadership isn’t about striving, but about being with Jesus before doing for Him. Her story is a call to Kingdom women to stop competing, start celebrating one another, and lead with authenticity and love.

Key Topics:

• Ashley’s unfolding call into ministry and leadership
• Overcoming loneliness and female rejection in church leadership
• Her personal rhythm of “clearing her heart” before God
• Learning to lead from a place of intimacy with Jesus
• Encouragement for women to wear their crowns and walk in their calling

Quotable Moments:

Connect with Ashley:

📱 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.poewymore

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/princess_preach/

📧 Contact her directly through social

About Ashley:

Ashley Wymore is a passionate lover of Jesus with a strategic vision to see people walk in their God-given identity and purpose. For over 17 years, she and her husband Jon have co-pastored Living Way Foursquare Church in Midland, Texas. Whether leading from a pulpit or over a cup of coffee, Ashley inspires women to step into their calling with courage and clarity. She's a wife, a devoted mom of three, and a voice of wisdom for Kingdom women everywhere.

Learn more about Donna Woolam at https://DonnaWoolam.com/Belief-Revolution

In today’s episode of ReInvent Your World, we are continuing our Women in Ministry series with Rev. Dr. Christine V. Davies. Christine is an ordained Presbyterian minister, hospital chaplain, spiritual director, and seminary professor with over two decades of experience. In this conversation, we explore her journey of spiritual care, grief, and how she has found her calling to walk alongside others in times of loss.

Christine opens up about her personal journey—from growing up in a Presbyterian church in Northern New Jersey to discovering her passion for helping others through spiritual care. She shares her incredible path through seminary, earning both a Master of Divinity and a Master of Social Work, and how she now teaches others how to serve as chaplains and spiritual guides.

Christine also gives us a glimpse into her daily life as a chaplain and how she balances her professional responsibilities with her family life. She offers insight into the world of chaplaincy and how it supports people during their times of deepest pain. She discusses the role of spiritual direction in helping others try on different spiritual practices and connect with God in meaningful ways, beyond traditional religious expectations.

Christine’s story reminds us that grief and loss are part of our shared human experience, and it is through compassion, listening, and spiritual care that we can truly support one another in navigating life’s most challenging seasons.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Rev. Dr. Christine V. Davies’ website: Christine V. Davies
• Subscribe to Christine’s newsletter: Journeying Alongside

In this transformative episode of the ReInvent Your World: Women in Ministry series, host Donna Woolam welcomes Tess Vergara, founder of Soul Powered Leaders and a bold voice in Kingdom-minded leadership. Tess is a Soul Powered Executive Coach, a Kingdom Factor faith-based business coach, and an SBA Thrive Business Coach. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she works with high-achieving leaders to integrate faith and purpose into every dimension of life and business.

Tess opens up about her journey from burnt-out accountant and single mom to Spirit-led coach and confident marketplace minister. Through raw vulnerability, she shares how a life-shaking moment—a “cosmic 2x4”—forced her to reevaluate everything and ultimately surrender to the calling that had been pursuing her all along.

You’ll hear Tess and Donna discuss:

• The collision of burnout and breakthrough
• Why surrender often begins with exhaustion
• The powerful difference between fear-based power and soul-driven leadership
• How Kingdom Factor coaching is creating Spirit-led peer groups for business leaders
• The joy of discovering that what you were seeking... was seeking you

With her unique perspective on reconciling the “four ledgers of life”—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—Tess invites women to step fully into Soul Powered Leadership, leading with faith, clarity, and bold obedience to God's voice.

• 📍 Location: Minneapolis, MN
• 💼 Occupation: Business Coach, Founder of Soul Powered Leaders
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Family Life: Empty nester with 2 grown daughters; in a committed platonic relationship
• 🎨 Loves: Karaoke, salsa dancing, travel, sketching, walking her pup, educational podcasts, and hiking
• 📖 Current Faves: Praying Like Monks (book) | “Heaven is a Place on Earth” (song)
• ✝️ Life Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) — "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."

Visit www.tessvergara.com

• Book a complimentary coaching session
• Learn about Kingdom Factor Roundtables
• Explore transformational coaching for life, leadership, and faith integration

Explore the Journey to Wholeness, connect with community, and reclaim your dreams at donnawoolam.com

#WomenInMinistry #KingdomLeadership #FaithInBusiness #SoulPoweredLeaders #ChristianWomenEntrepreneurs #PurposeDrivenFaith #WornOutWarrior #HighPerformanceFaith #ReInventYourWorld #KingdomFactor

Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode of the ReInvent Your World podcast, host Donna Woolam sits down with Mari Hernandez-Tuten, an author, life coach, and speaker from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Mari shares her incredible journey of faith and ministry—from her unexpected call to the mission field to her transition back to the U.S. and how she continues to serve women in their everyday lives.

Join us as Mari opens up about the challenges of shifting seasons, the struggle of finding identity outside of ministry titles, and the beautiful reminder that we are loved by God—not because of what we do, but because of who we are in Him. If you've ever wondered how to embrace your calling in the everyday moments of life, this episode is for you!

Key Takeaways:

• The Ordinary is Extraordinary – Mari's call to missions came during an unexpected moment of everyday life. God often speaks to us in the quiet, routine parts of our days.
• Obedience Over Clarity – You don’t have to have the whole picture to take the next step in faith. Sometimes, all God asks for is a willing heart.
• Redefining Ministry – Ministry isn’t just about titles and positions; it's about living out God’s calling in whatever season you’re in—whether on the mission field, in leadership, or as a neighbor and friend.
• From Striving to Abiding – Mari shares her struggle with performance-based faith and how God led her to a deeper understanding of His unconditional love.
• Discipleship Matters – The impact of one mentor changed Mari’s life. She emphasizes the need for women to walk alongside each other in faith and leadership.

About Our Guest:

Mari Hernandez-Tuten is a passionate advocate for women's spiritual growth. With over 20 years in ministry, she has served as a missionary in South America, a speaker, and a mentor to women navigating faith, leadership, and motherhood. Today, she continues to encourage and equip women through her writing, coaching, and speaking engagements.

Connect with Mari: http://www.inspiredbyfamilymag.com

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Columbia International University – A mission-focused institution that played a pivotal role in Mari’s calling.
• Scripture Focus: Psalm 46:10 – "Be still and know that I am God."
• Speak Life Cards – Donna's free Scripture Affirmation Cards designed to uplift and inspire. Get yours here: https://donnawoolam.com/speak-life

Join the Conversation:

We’d love to hear from you! What part of Mari’s story resonated with you the most? Share your thoughts and takeaways in the comments or on social media using #ReInventYourWorldPodcast.

🌟 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs encouragement today!

Follow Donna Woolam:

🌎 Website: https://DonnaWoolam.com

📖 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DonnaWoolamAuthor

📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnawoolam/

🎙️ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reinvent-your-world/id1578776845

Until next time, keep moving forward in faith and purpose! ✨o do. 💛

In this powerful episode of ReInvent Your World, host Donna Woolam sits down with the incredible Reneé Austin—vocal coach, worship leader, and founder of BE Original Vocal Identity & Performance Coaching. Renee’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the undeniable power of God’s healing.

From discovering her musical gift at just four years old to navigating a career that led her to share stages with Grammy-winning artists, Reneé's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. But when a devastating medical diagnosis threatened to take away her voice, she faced her greatest test of faith. In this heartfelt conversation, Reneé shares how she overcame fear, found healing, and stepped into her calling to help others find their authentic vocal identity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🎤 How Reneé turned personal adversity into a powerful coaching mission

🎤 The role faith played in her miraculous healing and career shift

🎤 Why authenticity in artistry matters—whether you’re a singer, speaker, or teacher

🎤 How BE Original Vocal Identity & Performance Coaching is empowering voices for Kingdom impact

🎤 Renee’s insights on stepping boldly into God’s calling for your life

If you’ve ever faced a setback that made you question your purpose, this episode will inspire you to keep going, trust in God’s plan, and embrace your unique gifts.

Meet Our Guest: Reneé Austin

Reneé Austin is a passionate vocal coach, speaker, and worship leader based in Fort Mill, SC. She is the founder of BE Original Vocal Identity & Performance Coaching, where she helps singers, speakers, teachers, and preachers develop their one-of-a-kind voice. A homeschool mom, pastor, and soon-to-be author, Reneé is also preparing to launch her podcast, LIONS & Honey, a faith-based show for those seeking to live a bold, uncompromised life.

Special Gift for Listeners!

Reneé is offering a FREE online or phone coaching session for those looking to refine their voice and embrace their original sound. Visit reneeaustin.com

to learn more.Connect with Reneé:

🌎 Website: reneeaustin.com

📖 Favorite Book: The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

🎶 Favorite Song: It Is Well (Hymn)

🎬 Favorite Movie: Pride & Prejudice

Join the Conversation!

We love hearing from you! Share your biggest takeaways from this episode in the comments or tag us on social media. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help more women step into their God-given purpose!

#WomenInMinistry #FaithOverFear #FindYourVoice #ChristianPodcast #HealingJourney #VocalCoaching #PurposeDriven

In this inspiring episode of the ReInvent Your World podcast, Donna Scott—an ordained minister, consultant, coach, author, and TV show host—shares her journey of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of embracing one’s calling in ministry. With a heart for empowering others, Donna provides deep insights into the diverse ways women serve in ministry, even if they aren’t on staff at a church.

From her transformative encounter with Christ at age 12 to overcoming personal and spiritual challenges, Donna's story is one of growth, perseverance, and a commitment to honoring God’s plan. Through her work with clients and her ministry initiatives, Donna emphasizes the importance of building character, living with integrity, and finding joy in both the trials and victories of life.

In this episode, Donna delves into the values of love, honor, humility, and resiliency in ministry. She shares the profound lesson that every life is equally valuable, and with resiliency and grace, there is no limit to what one can achieve. Drawing from her own experiences, Donna encourages listeners to pursue their unique calling and to always seek satisfaction in their relationship with Christ.

Key Takeaways:

• Every life is equally valuable, and satisfaction in Christ is guaranteed.
• There are no limits to what one can achieve with resiliency and grace.
• Pursuing one's calling involves continuous growth, overcoming challenges, and embracing divine purpose.

Resources & Links:

• Donna Scott’s website: thedonnascott.com
• Radiant Forge: RadiantForge.com
• Books by Donna Scott:
• 7 Thinking Patterns Of A Windmaker: An Expository on The Mystery of You
• Wounded's Journey To Bliss: An Inspirational Allegory of Resiliency and Wholeness
• The Fragment Gatherer: The Divine Art of Creating New Life
• Available on Amazon

Donna's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the boundless possibilities of a life dedicated to Christ. Tune in for this uplifting conversation that will inspire you to live fully in your purpose, no matter where God calls you.

Scripture of the Episode:

Romans 6:17 – "But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance."

About Donna Scott: Donna is a passionate consultant, coach, and ordained minister who serves women navigating life transitions. She is also a TV show host and a published author, sharing messages of hope, faith, and transformation. Her work in ministry and coaching revolves around the principles of integrity, growth, and embracing God's calling, all while finding joy and peace in the process.

Join Us for More Episodes: Stay tuned for more life-transforming episodes of the ReInvent Your World podcast, where we dive deep into faith-based coaching, leadership, and resilient living.

In this inspiring episode of ReInvent Your World, Donna sits down with Dr. Cynthia Hester, a passionate advocate for women in ministry and a seasoned scholar in biblical studies. With a Doctor of Ministry degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, Dr. Hester is dedicated to equipping Christ-followers—especially ministry leaders—with a deeper understanding of women’s roles in the Bible and church history.

She is a contributing author to the award-winning book 40 Questions About Women in Ministry and the founder of the Theology of Women Academy®, an online learning platform designed to help believers develop their theology of women. She also writes for the women’s leadership blog at Bible.org and curates a thought-provoking newsletter called Querying Questions.

Recently, Dr. Hester embarked on an enriching journey through Italy with the Visual Museum group, where she explored ancient Christian art. This experience inspired her newest newsletter series, Italy & Women in Early Christianity: What Ancient Art Reveals.

Join us as she shares her personal journey into ministry, the challenges she has faced, and her unwavering belief in the importance of women’s voices in the church.

✨ Meet Dr. Cynthia Hester – A look into her background, education, and the experiences that shaped her passion for women in ministry.

✨ Theology of Women Academy® – How this online academy is equipping believers with the tools to study the spectrum of orthodox views on women and the church.

✨ A Day in the Life – A glimpse into Dr. Hester’s daily rhythms, from her morning Bible study to knitting with friends, reading Jodi Picoult’s latest novel (By Any Other Name), and cherishing time with her family in Texas.

✨ The Call to Ministry – Dr. Hester’s personal testimony of how she discerned her calling, the struggles she overcame, and the faith that sustains her.

✨ Facing Challenges in Ministry – The reality of stepping into ministry, the opposition many women face, and how Psalm 68:11—"The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng"—continues to be a source of encouragement for her.

✨ Women in the Bible & Church History – Exploring the significant roles women have played throughout Scripture and how early Christian art reveals their lasting impact.

✨ Encouragement for Women in Ministry – Words of wisdom for women feeling overlooked, discouraged, or uncertain about their place in ministry.

📚 Theology of Women Academy® – Learn more about Dr. Hester’s courses and resources at cynthiahester.com/course

.✉️ Querying Questions Newsletter – Subscribe to Dr. Hester’s thought-provoking newsletter at cynthiahester.com/newsletter

.🎨 Italy & Women in Early Christianity – Explore her latest newsletter series, inspired by her travels with Visual Museum (visualmuseum.gallery).

📲 Connect with Dr. Hester – Follow her on Facebook & Instagram (@TheologyOfWomen) for updates, insights, and encouragement.

Donna and Dr. Hester close the conversation with a powerful message: Ministry is a journey of faith, perseverance, and joy. Whether you’re stepping into your calling or navigating challenges, know that your voice matters and your work is significant.

Tune in for this rich, insightful conversation—it’s one that will encourage, equip, and inspire you to step forward boldly in your calling!