Women of Faith in Leadership | Leading with integrity, Leadership Self-doubt, Christian Leadership, Leading with confidence, Teamwork

108 | [Series] From Persecutor to Preacher - Paul's Radical Leadership Transformation - Lessons from the Bible’s most Reluctant Leaders part 5

What does it take to go from tearing down the church to building it up? In this episode, we explore Saul’s dramatic encounter with Jesus in Acts 9 and how it completely redefined his identity, purpose, and leadership.
If you’ve ever felt unqualified, disqualified, or too flawed to lead, Paul’s story is for you. 
Reflection
What part of your past are you allowing to disqualify you?
Where might God be calling you to lead, but fear is holding you back?
How would your leadership shift if you fully believed that grace has made you new?
Take a moment today to sit with that. Journal. Pray. And remember: If God could transform Saul into Paul, He can surely use you.
 
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
 
Learn how to
identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38);
renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and
develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21).
You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

107 | [Guest] Partnering with the Holy Spirit - with Dr. Deanna Shrodes

How can you partner with the Holy Spirit to improve your leadership?
Listen as I talk to Dr. Deanna Shrodes on her own journey, partnering with the Holy Spirit and her new book, which was released on 8 April 2025!
We also discuss one of the most amazing miracles that Deanna experienced and how it could only have been God who made that miracle happen!
I can't wait for you to listen!
Connect with Deanna
PF Women
Stronger Leadership Podcast
Facebook
Buy Deanna's book:
Uncommon Answers: Partnering with the Holy Spirit to Receive Extraordinarily More
 
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
Learn how to
identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38);
renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and
develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21).
You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

106 | Live Coaching: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Confidence

Have you ever had a difficult conversation with an employee or a colleague just for it to go really really badly? And as you reflect on it, you think: "Oh, I should have said this or that! Or I shouldn't have said that!"
In today's coaching session with my client Cat, we discussed her self-doubt, how she currently navigates difficult conversations and what strategies she could implement to improve this skill and navigate difficult conversations with more confidence!
This is only a snippet of the whole coaching call but I pray that this blesses you!
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
Learn how to
identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38);
renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and
develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21).
You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

105 | [Series] Feeling Unqualified? 4 Things Jeremiah did to Overcame Self-Doubt - Lessons from the Bible’s Most Reluctant Leaders Part 4

This week, we look at young Jeremiah, a prophet called by God, who believed he was too young and unqualified to lead God's people. 
 
God came and said to Jeremiah:
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." (Jeremiah 1:5)
 
Jeremiah’s response? "Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak; I am too young." (Jeremiah 1:6)
 
Sound familiar? Maybe you’ve thought: I’m too inexperienced. I’m not a strong enough leader. What if I fail?
 
But God’s response to Jeremiah was powerful:"Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you." (Jeremiah 1:7-8)
 
Jeremiah doubted himself, but God didn’t. God didn’t see his age as a limitation—He saw His own power working through Jeremiah.
 
HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO YOU?How often do we disqualify ourselves before we even begin? Maybe you feel like you’re too young, too old, too inexperienced, or just not enough to lead in the way God is calling you.
But here’s the truth:✅ Your calling isn’t based on your resume—it’s based on God’s plan.✅ God doesn’t choose leaders based on experience—He equips those He calls.✅ If He’s calling you, He will strengthen you!
How can you take action today?
1️⃣ Identify the excuses you’ve been using – What’s your “I’m too young” excuse? I’m not confident enough? I’m not skilled enough? Name it.
2️⃣ Replace doubt with God’s truth – Meditate on Jeremiah 1:7-8. God is with you!
3️⃣ Take one bold step – What’s one action you can take this week toward the leadership role God is calling you into?
 
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
Learn how to:
identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38);
renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and
develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21).
You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan
 
 

104 | [Series] Jonah - From self-doubt to surrender - Lessons from the Bible’s Most Reluctant Leaders - Part 3

We're continuing our series on the bible's most reluctant leaders.
This week, we are looking at Jonah. 
Jonah ran away from God when God called him. He was reluctant and didn't want to do it. But Jonah had to learn the hard way. He had to go through stormy seas and be swallowed by a huge fish, for Him to realise that he can't run away from God's call.
 
However, God was gracious, as always, and the fish spat Jonah out and he made his way to the town of Ninevah, where he had to tell the people to repent. 
 
Lessons from Jonah's story:
 
Running from God’s Call Brings Storms
God’s Grace Finds Us Even in Our Lowest Moments.
Obedience is more important then our own comfort zones
Let's reflect:
Where are you resisting God’s call? Is there something He’s asking you to do that you’ve been avoiding?
How is your disobedience affecting those around you? Like Jonah’s storm, are your actions creating unnecessary struggles?
Are you willing to say ‘yes’ to God, even when it’s uncomfortable?
Take Action:
Identify an area where you’ve been resisting God’s leading. Pray and ask for courage to take a step forward.
Surrender your fears and trust that God’s plans are greater than your own.
Take one obedient step this week—whether it’s having a hard conversation, stepping into a leadership role, or simply saying ‘yes’ to what God is asking.
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan
 

103 | [Guest] Burnout or Breakthrough? The Power of Slowing Down with Tamara Jackson

In today's podcast episode, I chat with Tamara Jackson about slowing down and connecting with God throughout your day.
We also discussed how leaders could slow down to avoid burnout and what to do in tough situations where they need to make a decision but don't know what to do or say or what decision to make and some strategies to help you go to God and seek His help.
Connect with Tamara Jackson:
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn
Facebook
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
Learn how to:
identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38);
renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and
develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21).
You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan
 

102 | [Series] Gideon’s Struggle with Self-Doubt - Lessons from the Bible’s Most Reluctant Leaders - Part 2

Did you know that Gideon really struggled with self-doubt? So much so, that he actually hid from God.
He didn't believe he was worthy to do the job that God called him to do and he had ALL SORTS of excuses as to why God should not choose him. 
God’s response to Gideon pushing back isn’t about who Gideon is; it’s about who God is.
Maybe today, you’re waiting for a sign. Maybe you need confirmation that God has really called you to lead, to speak, to step up in faith. Let Gideon’s story remind you—God is patient with our doubts.
So, what can we learn from Gideon?
1. God sees more in you than you see in yourself.
You might feel weak, but God calls you mighty.
You might feel unqualified, but God equips those He calls.
2. God is patient with your doubts.
It’s okay if you don’t feel ready. God can handle your questions, your fears, and even your hesitation.
3. Victory doesn’t depend on your strength—it depends on God’s power.
Gideon didn’t win because he had the biggest army—he won because he trusted God.
Your leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does.
Let's reflect:
Where in your leadership are you feeling small, weak, or unqualified
What is God calling you to step into, even if it scares you?
I want to challenge you this week—pray about your fears, your doubts, and your insecurities. And then, take a step forward. Even if it’s small, even if you’re unsure—trust that God is with you, just as He was with Gideon.
Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders
It’s time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! 
Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You’ll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role.
Book your confidence coaching session
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

101 | [Series] Moses: Called but Not Confident - Lessons from the Bible’s Most Reluctant Leaders - Part 1

We’re kicking off our Lessons from the Bible’s Most Reluctant Leaders series with Moses—a man who had every excuse in the book, but whom God still used mightily.
"Moses’ leadership journey starts in Exodus 3-4, when God calls him through the burning bush. But instead of jumping at the opportunity, Moses immediately starts making excuses."
Excuse #1: "Who am I?" (Exodus 3:11)Moses: "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?"
Excuse #2: "What if they don’t believe me?" (Exodus 4:1) Moses feared rejection.
Excuse #3: "I’m not a good speaker." (Exodus 4:10) Moses: "I am slow of speech and tongue."
Excuse #4: "Please send someone else!" (Exodus 4:13) Moses ran out of excuses and simply begged God to send someone else.
Listen as I discuss God's response to Moses and the lessons we can learn from Moses. 
Here’s how you can take action today:
Identify your excuses – What’s holding you back? Write it down and surrender it to God.
Pray for boldness – Ask God to give you confidence, just like He did for Moses.
Take one step forward – Whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, leading a small group, or starting a new project—just start.
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. If you need any support, you can get in contact with me for a 1:1 coaching session. Just email me at support@rikawhelan.com
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

100 | Celebrating 100 Episodes: Lessons, Gratitude & Coaching Winners!

100 episodes! What an amazing journey it's been!
Top 5 listened to episodes:
051 | Is it Time to Break Free from Corporate Life with Anita Anello
073 | 10 Signs that Your Workplace Culture is Toxic - Watch Out for These Red Flags
002 | What is workplace culture and why you should care about it - Organisational culture, Christian Leadership, Faith, Work Family
024 | Dealing with difficult people at work
081 | Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace as a Female Leader
 
Top 5 countries that listen to the show:
USA
Australia
UK
South Africa
New Zealand
 
Thank you!
Thank you to each and every listeners for tuning in every week and for listening to the show
Thank you to God for giving me this opportunity to host the show and allowing me to be an instrument and vessel to share His word and Holy Spirit downloads. 
 
Coaching Winners
Please check your email to see if you are a winner!
......................................................
Here's to the next 100 episodes!
 
Have a listener question?
Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com
 
Next steps: 
1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can:
Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. 
Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers.
2. If you need any support, you can get in contact with me for a 1:1 coaching session. Just email me at support@rikawhelan.com
3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

BONUS EPISODE: Free Coaching? Yes, Please!

A Gift for You: Win a 1:1 Coaching Session!
 
To celebrate the 100th episode of the Women of Faith in Leadership podcast, I am gifting 5 female Christian Leaders a confidence coaching session. 
 
In this 60-minute coaching call, we will:
Uncover the root cause of your self-doubt
Discuss tactical strategies that you can implement daily and on the spot when you are experiencing a moment of self-doubt
You will also receive an action plan that you can start implementing immediately after the call.
Are you ready to stop doubting yourself and step into leading with bold confidence? Then fill out your application now!
 
APPLY NOW to win 1 of 5 confidence coaching sessions!