Ep 126 // How to Hear God’s Voice and Write the Story He’s Asking You to Tell with Brian Dixon

What if the story you’ve been sitting on is the exact message someone else is praying for?

In this inspiring and wisdom-packed episode, Megan Nilsen sits down with Brian Dixon—CEO of Hope Books Publishing and co-founder of Hope Writers—to talk about the power of storytelling, discerning God's voice, and the mission of amplifying women's voices in the publishing world.

Brian opens up about the life-altering car accident that shaped his faith, the ups and downs of navigating marriage and business, and how delighting in the Lord fuels both purpose and creativity. From overcoming fear to embracing the strategic side of publishing, Brian reminds us: Your story matters—and someone needs it.

Whether you're a writer, a dreamer, or simply a woman seeking to steward your gifts well, this episode will encourage you to stop hiding, start writing, and trust that income follows impact.

Key Takeaways:

• "Julie makes it better": Marriage, partnership, and leadership are built on joyful collaboration.
• God’s voice is active and personal: Discernment is key in both writing and relationships.
• Your story is sacred: What feels obvious to you may be magical for someone else.
• Publishing is shifting: Hybrid models are opening more doors for Christian authors.
• Don’t do it alone: Building a book is more than writing—it’s about structure, support, and spiritual alignment.
• Fear of man is real—but God’s calling is greater.

Favorite Quotes:

Reflection & Journaling Questions:

1. What story in your life might God be asking you to share?
2. Where are you letting fear or perfectionism keep you from taking the next step?
3. How might hearing God’s voice bring clarity to your writing or creative calling?
4. Who can you invite into your journey to support you?

Connect with Brian Dixon:

Hope Writers

Hope Story Conference

Hope Books Publishing

Take the FREE Writer's Quiz!

Newbie's Pocket Guide PDF

Instagram: @brianjdixon

Connect with Megan Nilsen:

• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Social: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• Grab the Book: Untangled Faith
• Free Gift:...

Ep 125 // Spirit-Led and Set Apart: From Hollywood Dreams to Holy Callings with Jenny Randle

What if the missing link in your spiritual growth isn’t more striving… but more surrender to the Holy Spirit?

In this compelling conversation, Megan Nilsen sits down with Jenny Randle—author, speaker, and co-founder of the Holy Spirit Ministry Center—to unpack her incredible faith journey from the glitz of Hollywood to the quiet strength of Spirit-led living.

Jenny shares how her charismatic roots, career in entertainment, and eventual radical encounter with Jesus shaped her into the woman she is today. Together, they explore the role of the Holy Spirit as an active, personal guide—not a mystical force but a relational God who empowers, heals, and leads.

This episode is for anyone who feels stuck, spiritually dry, or hungry to hear God more clearly. Jenny reminds us that healing often comes through vulnerability, that repentance keeps our hearts tender, and that community is a crucial piece of transformation.

Key Takeaways:

How to recognize the Holy Spirit as a person, not just a power

Navigating faith in secular spaces

The role of repentance in personal growth

Why community and vulnerability matter in your healing journey

How to live a Spirit-led life with boldness, clarity, and grace

• Do I recognize the Holy Spirit as a personal guide in my daily life—or more as a distant concept?
• Where might God be inviting me into deeper healing through vulnerability?
• Am I resisting repentance—or welcoming it as a way to realign with God’s heart?
• What role does community play in my current spiritual growth?

• Website: www.jennyrandle.com
• Instagram: @jenny.randle
• New Book! The Promised Presence: An Introduction to Holy Spirit's Power and Authority

Connect with Megan Nilsen:

• Website:meganbnilsen.com
• Social:Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• Grab the Book:Untangled Faith
• Free Gift:Wanna learn how to make Holy Spirit-led decisions? Go to holyspiritstoplight.com for your free guide!
• Book a free discovery callto see if Kingdom Life Coaching could help you unlock your next right step!

Keywords: Holy Spirit, faith journey, spiritual growth, repentance, healing, vulnerability, creativity, ministry, church, personal development, Jenny Randle, Christian women, Spirit-led life, empowerment, community, calling, gifts of the Spirit, discernment

Ep 124 // Unleash Your Royal Identity: Embracing the Power of Your Words with Chantal Santiago

What if the breakthrough you’re waiting for isn’t out there—but within you, waiting for your voice to rise in faith?

In this powerful and passion-filled episode, host Megan Nilsen sits down with author and transformational breakthrough coach, Chantal Santiago, to unpack what it means to walk in your full authority as a daughter of the King. From growing up under legalism to encountering the Holy Spirit in a transformative way, Chantal’s story is one of identity reclaimed, voice unleashed, and faith emboldened. And yes, we go deep on the American church right now!

This episode will challenge you to speak life, stop playing small, and start living like the royalty you are. Whether you’re a mom shaping the next generation, a woman chasing her calling, or someone hungry for revival—this conversation will stir your spirit.

Key Takeaways:

• Identity is everything: You are not just saved—you are royalty. A daughter of the King.
• Faith is now: Don’t wait for tomorrow to live boldly in your calling.
• Words create worlds: The power of life and death is in the tongue. What are you speaking over yourself and your family?
• Revival starts in you: You don’t have to wait for a movement. God is already moving—in you.
• Moms matter: Your words, presence, and faith have generational impact.
• Know the Word: Spiritual authority and discernment flow from knowing Scripture deeply.
• Stay in the fight: Perseverance and precision are vital in spiritual warfare.

Quotable Quotes:

“It’s time to stop playing small.”

“Revival doesn’t come from a tent—it starts in your living room.”

“If the enemy can’t steal your identity, he’ll try to silence your voice.”

Reflection/Discussion Questions:

1. Where in your life have you been playing small or silencing your voice?
2. What would it look like to fully embrace your identity as a daughter of the King?
3. How are your words shaping your world—and the world of your family?
4. What spiritual battle are you currently facing, and how can you respond with precision and authority?

📚 Resources & References:

• The Voice of a Queen by Chantal Santiago – Available on Amazon
• Bible references: Proverbs 18:21, Romans 8:17, 1 Peter 2:9

Connect with Chantal Santiago:

• Instagram: @chantal.l.santiago
• Website: voiceofaqueen.com

Connect with Megan Nilsen:

• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Social: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• Grab the Book: Untangled...

Ep 123 // How Vulnerability & the Holy Spirit Heal Mental Health, Marriage & Generational Trauma with Heidi Mortenson

Are you brave enough to get vulnerable—and let God transform every corner of your life?

In this deeply honest and powerful conversation, Megan sits down with Heidi Mortenson—licensed marriage and family therapist, coach, and passionate follower of Jesus—to unpack the connection between vulnerability, healing, and spiritual growth.

They dive into Heidi’s own journey of personal transformation as she shares how God met her in the middle of discouragement, shame, and burnout. Through the work of the Holy Spirit (and some very real wrestling), Heidi learned to not only embrace her own worth but also break free from generational chains that had silently shaped her story.

This conversation will encourage you to open up vulnerable spaces with God, invite the Holy Spirit into your healing process, and gain practical tools for transforming your marriage, relationships, and even your legacy.

If you've ever felt stuck, weighed down by shame, or unsure how to step into the fullness God has for you—this one is for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Vulnerability is the key to real connection—with God, yourself, and others.

The Holy Spirit is always inviting us into deeper healing and personal growth.

Honest conversations with God unlock freedom from shame and lies.

Healing often requires breaking generational patterns and releasing forgiveness.

Encouragement (not criticism) is the most effective catalyst for change.

Speaking life over your children and future generations creates lasting legacy.

REFLECTION + JOURNAL QUESTIONS:

1. Where is God inviting you to be more vulnerable with Him?
2. What generational patterns might God be calling you to break?
3. Who in your life needs to hear words of encouragement and life spoken over them today?
4. In what areas do you need to surrender and trust the Holy Spirit's leading?

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

📚 Daring Greatly by Brené Brown — A powerful book on vulnerability and authenticity.

The Gaslight Effect: How to Spot and Survive the Hidden Manipulation Others Use to Control Your Life, by Dr. Robin Stern

Ways to Connect with Heidi:

• Website
• Listen to Strong Tower Mental Health Podcast
• Follow Heidi on Instagram
• The Brave Encourager: How the Power of Encouragement Changes the World, by Heidi Mortenson

Connect with Megan Nilsen:

• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Social: Instagram
• Grab the Book: Untangled Faith
• Free Gift:

Ep 121 // Divorce, Disappointment, and the Deep Work of God: A Redemption Story with David Smith

In this vulnerable and redemptive conversation, Megan Nilsen welcomes David Smith—pastor, coach, and founder of Kingdom Coaching Institute—to share his powerful journey through ministry, heartbreak, and healing.

David opens up about the disorienting experience of divorce while planting a church, the dismantling of ministry as an idol, and how God used it all to bring him into deeper freedom and purpose. From charismatic roots to construction sites, from shattered dreams to Spirit-filled calling, David's story is a testament to God’s grace in the rubble.

If you’ve ever felt like your story disqualifies you—this episode will remind you: God wastes nothing - especially not your pain.

"I didn’t want my pain to be wasted. I asked God to use it for His glory—and He did."

"Ministry had become an idol. God had to dismantle that so I could just walk with Him."

"Divorce is not the unpardonable sin. God is a redeemer. He doesn’t waste anything we surrender."

"There’s a being call and a doing call. Your purpose is about becoming before doing."

"God said to me, ‘If you give this to Me, I’ll turn it into something of gold.’ And He did."

Reflection + Journaling Questions:

1. Am I trying to run from my pain, or inviting God into it to do His deep work?
2. Where have I built identity on roles or performance rather than God’s love?
3. What “ministry motivations” might need to be surrendered?
4. How might God be using my current hardship to shape something new in me?

• Kingdom Coaching Institute (coach training & certification): kingdomcoachinginstitute.com
• Master Builder Coaching (personal coaching): masterbuildercoaching.com
• Instagram: Team Kingdom Coaching Institute
• Facebook Page: Master Builder Coaching

Connect with Megan:

• Instagram: @megan_nilsen
• Facebook: @megannilsenkingdomlifecoach
• Email: megan@meganbnilsen.com
• Website: https://meganbnilsen.com/
• Ready to explore the desires of your heart and see what God has for you in the next season? Schedule a FREE discovery call to discuss what Kingdom Life Coaching could UNLOCK for you!

Want to learn how to hear God’s voice and gain Kingdom wisdom for your life?! Grab a copy of Untangled Faith: How Honest Conversations with God Lead to Deeper Connections, Clarity, and Peace.

Ep 121 // How to Hear God's Voice in the Midst of Setbacks - Insights from Tamara Jackson Building a Life of Courageous Faith

Have you ever felt stuck between where you thought life would take you... and the winding, wild path God is actually leading you on?

In today's deeply moving and faith-filled conversation, Megan sits down with Tamara Jackson – faith-based leadership consultant, speaker, podcaster, and founder of Beaconship. Tamara shares her incredible story of chasing corporate success, navigating crushing setbacks, caring for her mother through illness, and ultimately surrendering to God's unexpected (and exceedingly better!) plan.

If you've ever wondered how to hear God's voice when life gets messy, how to move forward when dreams shatter, or how to walk by faith when you can’t see the whole picture — this episode is your invitation to trust the journey and grasp His promises.

Tamara also unveils her powerful GRASP Faith Framework, a Spirit-led decision-making process that will help you stop overthinking and start moving with clarity and purpose!

Quotes to Remember:

"Success is not a straight line. God is doing deep work in the detours."

"Sometimes the road will be smooth, sometimes rocky, but keep moving — I am with you."

"You can control building a relationship with God that keeps you at peace even when life feels out of control."

Reflection Questions:

When in your life have you seen God's hand most clearly — even if you didn’t recognize it at first?

What is God inviting you to grasp in faith right now, even if you don’t have all the answers?

How can you create more intentional space to hear His voice in the busy, noisy parts of your life?

Mentioned in This Episode:

• The GRASP Framework for Spirit-led decision-making:
• Gather information
• Reflect
• Ask God for guidance
• Strategize wisely
• Proceed in faith
• Beaconship — Tamara's God-breathed project to empower faith-driven entrepreneurs and nonprofits
• Cascade Falls Encounter — The prophetic hike where Tamara first heard God's detailed guidance for the long, winding journey ahead

Ways to Connect with Tamara:

• Visit Beaconship
• Listen to The Beacon Show podcast
• Follow Tamara on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram
• Join the Beaconship community to grow in wisdom and Spirit-led leadership!

Connect with Megan Nilsen:

• Podcast: Kingdom Life Coaching Podcast
• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Grab the Book: Untangled Faith
• Free Gift:

Ep 120 // Embracing Midlife Motherhood and the Joy (and Mess) of the Empty Nest with Pamela Henkleman

What if the empty nest wasn’t an ending—but an invitation?

In this episode of the Rooted and Held motherhood series, Megan Nilsen sits down with the vibrant and faith-filled Pamela Henkelman to unpack the complexities of midlife motherhood, the pain and purpose of letting go, and the divine invitations that come in life’s second act.

Pamela doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. From premature labor and prodigal children to chronic illness and miraculous healing—this conversation explores the full emotional landscape of motherhood, faith, and transition. She shares how hearing God's voice became her lifeline, how ministry emerged out of hardship, and why no part of your story—especially the messy ones—is ever wasted.

If you're a Christian woman navigating motherhood, identity, or the empty nest (with a little bit of joy and a whole lot of Jesus), this one’s for you.

“Let’s normalize that. Parenting is hard—and we don’t have to carry shame for our kids’ choices.”

“Your pain is never wasted. God always has a purpose in it.”

“Don’t lose hope. He has good things for you—even in the empty nest.”

1. What season of motherhood are you in, and what emotions are surfacing in this phase?
2. How has your identity shifted as your children have grown?
3. Are there areas of grief or regret you need to process with God?
4. What new callings or dreams might God be awakening in you during this transition?
5. How can you rekindle connection in your marriage or key relationships?

• It’s okay to feel the tension of release and relief in the empty nest.
• Invite God into your emotions—He’s not afraid of your grief, confusion, or longing.
• Make space to hear God’s voice again—He often speaks fresh vision in times of transition.
• Prayer is powerful—especially for prodigal kids. Keep sowing seeds of hope.
• Begin rediscovering purpose by noticing where your passion and God’s peace intersect.
• Take one small step today: call a friend, journal a prayer, plan a date with your spouse.

Connect with Pamela:

• Website: https://www.pamelahenkelman.com/
• Podcast: The Midlife Mama

Connect with Megan:

• Instagram:@megan_nilsen
• Facebook:@megannilsenkingdomlifecoach
• Email:megan@meganbnilsen.com
• Website: https://meganbnilsen.com/
• Ready to explore thedesires of your heartand see whatGod has for youin the next season? Schedule aFREE discovery callto discuss what Kingdom Life Coaching could UNLOCK for you!

Want to learn how to hear God’s voice and gain Kingdom wisdom for your life?! Grab a copy of Untangled Faith: How Honest Conversations with God Lead to Deeper Connections, Clarity, and...

Ep 119 // A Birth Mom’s Brave Surrender: Sydney Curtin on Faith, Identity & God’s Plan

In this deeply moving episode of Kingdom Life Coaching, Megan Nilsen welcomes Sydney Curtin to share her journey of faith, trauma, healing, and adoption. From a turbulent childhood marked by addiction and loss to a profound moment of surrender in a coat closet, Sydney’s testimony is a testament to God’s redemptive power.

Sydney walks us through the emotional complexity of placing her daughter for adoption, the grace-filled experience of open adoption, and the deep trust in God’s plan that sustained her. She offers wisdom for navigating hard decisions, parenting with purpose, and holding tight to your identity in Christ when everything around you feels uncertain.

Whether you’re a birth mom, adoptive parent, or someone navigating grief, identity, or big life decisions—this conversation is filled with spiritual insights, courage, and practical truth.

• How trauma shaped Sydney’s early years and faith
• A coat closet conversion: meeting Jesus in an unlikely place
• Making faith-based decisions in times of crisis
• The emotional realities of open adoption
• Sydney’s hospital moment of surrender: “She is God’s before she is mine.”
• The importance of identity, legacy, and the words spoken over us
• Introducing Courageous Considerations—a guide for expectant mothers
• Why parenting is about stewardship, not ownership
• Trusting God with your children, your future, and your healing

1. Have you ever faced a life-altering decision that required deep trust in God?
2. What words have been spoken over you that shaped your identity—are they true?
3. In what ways might God be calling you to trust Him more deeply right now?

• 📘 Courageous Considerations by Sydney Curtin
• 🖥️ Follow Sydney’s work and ministry

Connect with Megan:

• Instagram:@megan_nilsen
• Facebook:@megannilsenkingdomlifecoach
• Email:megan@meganbnilsen.com
• Website:https://meganbnilsen.com/
• Ready to explore thedesires of your heartand see whatGod has for youin the next season? Schedule aFREE discovery callto discuss what Kingdom Life Coaching could UNLOCK for you!

Want to learn how to hear God’s voiceand gain Kingdom wisdom for your life?!Grab a copyof