76. From Burnout to Hope: Reclaiming Your Identity and Purpose in Christ with Dr. Brandi Kelly

76. From Burnout to Hope: Reclaiming Your Identity and Purpose in Christ with Dr. Brandi Kelly

If you’ve been feeling burned out, overwhelmed, or like you’ve lost yourself in all the roles you carry. this conversation is for you. In this episode, I’m joined by former superintendent, two-time principal of the year, and founder of Spark Hope Edu, Dr. Brandi Kelly. She shares her powerful story of walking through deep grief, leadership burnout, and stepping away from a role that had become misaligned with her values and health. What happens when the title is gone, and you’re left asking, Who am I now? We talk about what it really looks like to reclaim your identity and purpose - not from your roles, productivity, or capacity - but from who you are in Christ. Dr. Brandi also shares her H.O.P.E. framework, offering practical strategies to help us navigate the wild ride of leadership without losing our minds. If you're feeling burnt to a crisp or just need a little boost, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Episode Highlights * The importance of setting healthy boundaries in leadership to avoid burnout and reclaim our time effectively * Dr. Kelly’s H.O.P.E. framework that integrates Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence, providing tangible ways for leaders to foster resilience * Personal experience of how community support can uplift us during our darkest moments through the power of connection and empathy * Hope is not just a personality trait, but a cognitive skill that can be cultivated through intentional practices and self-awareness. * Christian burnout and why it runs deeper than just doing too much * The struggle of tying your identity to what you do * How to take your thoughts captive and renew your mind * Simple, practical tools like journaling, intention-setting, and brain dumps * Why you were never meant to walk through hard seasons alone Resources Mentioned * Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy [https://amzn.to/4agc7U8] by Brandi Kelly * Spreading Sunshine with Kindness: Jensen & Rhett’s Kindness Adventure [https://amzn.to/4vjEHMA] by Brandi Kelly * Join the Spark HOPE Community [https://sparkhopeedu.com/drbrandikelly-4049] - The First 100 female leaders join free in 2026! * Lead with HOPE Podcast [https://sparkhopeedu.com/lwhpodcast] * Atomic Habits [https://amzn.to/3MDWM2I] by James Clear Related Episodes For You * EP 14 - Reader Review: Atomic Habits by James Clear [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/14] * EP 25 - Enneagram Basics & Resources [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/25] * EP 34 - Proactive Leadership with Bethany Rees [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/34] * EP 40 - Pursuing Purpose with Rebecca George [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/40] * EP 41 - Are You Sleepwalking Through Life? [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/41] * EP 61 - Permission Granted: Start Living Like Your Purpose Matters [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/61] Connect with Dr. Brandi Kelly * Facebook: @LTW24 [http://facebook.com/LTW24] * Youtube: @sparkhopeedu [http://youtube.com/@sparkhopeedu] * LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw/ [http://linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw/] * Website: www.sparkhopeedu.com [http://www.sparkhopeedu.com/] Connect with Rachel * Website: racheldbaker.com [https://racheldbaker.com] * Instagram: @rachel.d.baker [https://www.instagram.com/rachel.d.baker/] * Email: rachel@racheldbaker.com [rachel@racheldbaker.com] I never recommend anything to you that I don't truly love & believe is worthwhile. Some of the links I share are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a tiny commission if you go through them to make a purchase. It's no extra cost to you, and buying through the links I share is one small way you can support this ministry and our podcast. Mentioned in this episode: FREE Printable Permission Slips If you’ve been feeling like you need a minute to catch your breath, hear from God, and remember who you are outside of all the chaos... this is for you. It’s a Printable Permission Slip. Yes, an actual fill-in-the-blank reminder that you are allowed to rest, reflect, and realign with what really matters. When you download it, you’ll get four designs of beautiful, fill-in-the-blank permission slips and 20 permission slip ideas to get you started. You don’t need the world’s permission to step into your purpose - but sometimes it helps to see it in writing. Printable Permission Slips [https://create-some-breathing-room.captivate.fm/permission] This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

75. Why “Fixing Everything” Isn’t Working (and What to Do Instead) with Will Acuff

If you’re trying to hold it all together but still feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck, this conversation is for you! In this episode, I sit down with Will Acuff to talk about Christian burnout, emotional overwhelm, and the pressure felt by so many women to fix everything and be everything for everyone. We unpack why that approach isn’t working, and what actually brings some peace, clarity, and breathing room instead. Listen in for practical, faith-based tools to help you separate what you’re experiencing from who you are, process your emotions in a healthy way, and release the weight you were never meant to carry. Because (spoiler alert!) you were never meant to be anyone’s Savior. If you’ve been running on empty, stuck in survival mode, or wondering why trying harder isn’t helping, this episode will meet you right where you are and point you back to Truth. Episode Highlights 1. How embracing discomfort can lead to greater personal growth and joy 2. The community and economic impact of Corner to Corner 3. The importance of self-awareness and resilience in navigating life's challenges 4. 'Underestimated' neighbors and the potential within communities often overlooked by traditional systems 5. Practicing compassionate curiosity to separate identity from emotions, promoting healthier self-relationships 6. Intentional morning routines as a foundation for mental clarity and emotional stability throughout the day Resources Mentioned 1. No Elevator to Everest [https://amzn.to/4kt0OLv] by Will Acuff 2. The Return of the Prodigal Son Anniversary Edition [https://amzn.to/4sZr7fu] by Henri Nouwen 3. All It Takes is a Goal podcast [https://jonacuff.com/podcast] with Jon Acuff 4. reMarkable Starter Bundle – The Original Paper Tablet [https://amzn.to/4t2804i] Related Episodes For You 1. EP 3 - Encouragement for the Woman Who is Drowning in Overwhelm [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/3] 2. EP 13 - The Value of Intentional Rhythms with Michelle J. Goff [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/13] 3. EP 36 - The Power of Emotional Healing with Kristen Hallinan [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/36] 4. EP 39 - The Source of Empowerment with Becky Beresford [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/39] 5. EP 55 - Breathing Room: How Stepping Back Makes You a Better Mom [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/55] 6. EP 56 - The Truth About Self-Care: What It Is and What It’s NOT [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/56] 7. EP 66 - Faith-Based Body Awareness for Overwhelmed Women with Cheryl Weaver [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/66] Connect with Will 1. Website: https://willacuff.com/ [https://willacuff.com/] 2. Instagram: @willjoyacuff [https://www.instagram.com/willjoyacuff/] 3. Corner to Corner: https://cornertocorner.org/ [https://cornertocorner.org/] Connect with Rachel 1. Website: racheldbaker.com [https://racheldbaker.com] 2. Instagram: @rachel.d.baker [https://www.instagram.com/rachel.d.baker/] 3. Email: rachel@racheldbaker.com [rachel@racheldbaker.com] I never recommend anything to you that I don't truly love & believe is worthwhile. Some of the links I share are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a tiny commission if you go through them to make a purchase. It's no extra cost to you, and buying through the links I share is one small way you can support this ministry and our podcast. Mentioned in this episode: I'd love to speak at your event! Hey sis! It’s Rachel, your go-to encourager and coach. I know you love our podcast talks, but imagine taking that connection to the next level – in person! I'm more than a Clarity Coach; I'm someone who's been in the trenches, juggling All The Things. I get it! I’ve danced with chaos, overloaded schedules, and the struggle to prioritize self-care. But I found the rhythm, and I've got the strategies to help your ladies create some breathing room. So, if you're organizing an event, whether it's a conference, church gathering, or retreat, and you want a speaker who brings humor, real talk, and a dose of inspiration, I'm your girl. Let's chat about making your event a memorable one. Visit racheldbaker.com/speaking. FREE Printable Permission Slips If you’ve been feeling like you need a minute to catch your breath, hear from God, and remember who you are outside of all the chaos... this is for you. It’s a Printable Permission Slip. Yes, an actual fill-in-the-blank reminder that you are allowed to rest, reflect, and realign with what really matters. When you download it, you’ll get four designs of beautiful, fill-in-the-blank permission slips and 20 permission slip ideas to get you started. You don’t need the world’s permission to step into your purpose - but sometimes it helps to see it in writing. Printable Permission Slips [https://create-some-breathing-room.captivate.fm/permission] This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

74. Rediscovering Your Identity in Christ: When Faith Turns Into Performance with Karolyne Roberts

Struggling with Christian burnout or feeling like your faith has become performance-based? In this episode, I talk with Karolyne Roberts about our identity in Christ, striving in faith, and learning to rest as a daughter of God. Karolyne shares how years of ministry and leadership eventually revealed something many Christian women quietly struggle with: a works-based mindset that ties our worth to what we do instead of who we truly are. We unpack what it really means to live from the secure identity of being God’s daughter - and why rediscovering that truth can bring the freedom, peace, and breathing room so many of us are craving! If you’ve ever felt like you are constantly trying to prove your worth to God, to others, or even to yourself, this conversation is your reminder of the truth: your identity as God’s daughter was never something you had to earn. Episode Highlights 1. Why so many women slip into performance-based faith before they’ve realized it 2. How striving can lead to burnout in ministry and everyday life 3. What it looks like to rest in your identity in Christ while still living with purpose 4. The role the church can play in creating healthier rhythms of service and rest 5. Simple ways to reconnect with God when life feels overwhelming Resources Mentioned 1. The Beauty of Being: Strive Less and Live More with God as Your Guide [https://amzn.to/4aMR6R1] by Karolyne Roberts 2. The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands [https://amzn.to/4loQMf4] by Lysa TerKeurst 3. Atomic Habits [https://amzn.to/3MDWM2I] by James Clear 4. Therapy and Theology [https://therapyandtheology.transistor.fm/] podcast with Lysa TerKeurst, Jim Cress, & Dr. Joel Muddamalle Related Episodes For You 1. EP 2 - Slow Growth and Capacity with Mary Marantz [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/2] 2. EP 3 - Encouragement for the Woman Who is Drowning in Overwhelm [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/3] 3. EP 7 - Top 3 Questions to Ask Before Saying "Yes" [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/7] 4. EP 14 - Reader Review: Atomic Habits by James Clear [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/14] 5. EP 39 - The Source of Empowerment with Becky Beresford [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/39] 6. EP 59 - Rethinking the Proverbs 31 Woman: Inspiration, Not Expectation [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/59] 7. EP 67 - Spiritual Direction 101: How to Tune In and Trust God’s Lead with Cheryl Weaver [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/67] 8. EP 71 - What If You’re Doing Better Than You Think? with Jennifer Renee Watson [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/71] Connect with Karolyne 1. Website: karolyne.com [http://karolyne.com/] 2. Instagram: @KarolyneRoberts [https://www.instagram.com/KarolyneRoberts] 3. Miss Eternity Christian Pageant [http://misseternity.com/] 4. Dear Daddy Ministry [http://deardaddy.com] Connect with Rachel 1. Website: racheldbaker.com [https://racheldbaker.com] 2. Instagram: @rachel.d.baker [https://www.instagram.com/rachel.d.baker/] 3. Email: rachel@racheldbaker.com [rachel@racheldbaker.com] I never recommend anything to you that I don't truly love & believe is worthwhile. Some of the links I share are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a tiny commission if you go through them to make a purchase. It's no extra cost to you, and buying through the links I share is one small way you can support this ministry and our podcast. Mentioned in this episode: FREE Printable Permission Slips If you’ve been feeling like you need a minute to catch your breath, hear from God, and remember who you are outside of all the chaos... this is for you. It’s a Printable Permission Slip. Yes, an actual fill-in-the-blank reminder that you are allowed to rest, reflect, and realign with what really matters. When you download it, you’ll get four designs of beautiful, fill-in-the-blank permission slips and 20 permission slip ideas to get you started. You don’t need the world’s permission to step into your purpose - but sometimes it helps to see it in writing. Printable Permission Slips [https://create-some-breathing-room.captivate.fm/permission] I'd love to speak at your event! Hey sis! It’s Rachel, your go-to encourager and coach. I know you love our podcast talks, but imagine taking that connection to the next level – in person! I'm more than a Clarity Coach; I'm someone who's been in the trenches, juggling All The Things. I get it! I’ve danced with chaos, overloaded schedules, and the struggle to prioritize self-care. But I found the rhythm, and I've got the strategies to help your ladies create some breathing room. So, if you're organizing an event, whether it's a conference, church gathering, or retreat, and you want a speaker who brings humor, real talk, and a dose of inspiration, I'm your girl. Let's chat about making your event a memorable one. Visit racheldbaker.com/speaking. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

73. Goals, Guilt, and Getting Real: How’s Your January Going?

Why is it that every time January rolls around, everyone's talking about resolutions, diets, and gym memberships? What if we’re just not feeling it? Or what if we want to do all the things, but life already feels crazy? In this episode, we’re exploring the tension between that yearly pressure to set new goals and our natural desire to embrace the slower rhythms of winter. Episode Highlights 1. The internal pushback & overwhelm with setting goals in January 2. Achieving more vs embracing rest 3. The “right” time to set new goals 4. Wisdom and guidance from Jon Acuff and Kendra Adachi 5. What nature teaches us about rest 6. Reflecting on how our goals align with our current life demands Resources Mentioned 1. Soundtracks [https://amzn.to/3UQ9u1L] by Jon Acuff 2. Jon Acuff’s Remarkable You Community [https://jonacuff.com/community] 3. The PLAN: Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius [https://amzn.to/4i7F6uf] by Kendra Adachi Related Episodes For You 1. EP 2 - Slow Growth and Capacity with Mary Marantz [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/2] 2. EP 6 - Managing All The Things - Getting Real and Honest About Capacity with Janice Cook [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/6] 3. EP 20 - Reader Review: Soundtracks & Your New Playlist by Jon Acuff [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/20] 4. EP 59 - Rethinking the Proverbs 31 Woman: Inspiration, Not Expectation [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/59] 5. EP 67 - Spiritual Direction 101: How to Tune In and Trust God’s Lead with Cheryl Weaver [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/67] 6. EP 71 - What If You’re Doing Better Than You Think? with Jennifer Renee Watson [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/71] Connect with Rachel 1. Website: racheldbaker.com [https://racheldbaker.com] 2. Instagram: @rachel.d.baker [https://www.instagram.com/rachel.d.baker/] 3. Email: rachel@racheldbaker.com [rachel@racheldbaker.com] I never recommend anything to you that I don't truly love & believe is worthwhile. Some of the links I share are affiliate links, and I'll earn a tiny commission if you go through them to make a purchase. It's no extra cost to you, and buying through the links I share is one small way you can support this ministry and our podcast. Mentioned in this episode: I'd love to speak at your event! Hey sis! It’s Rachel, your go-to encourager and coach. I know you love our podcast talks, but imagine taking that connection to the next level – in person! I'm more than a Clarity Coach; I'm someone who's been in the trenches, juggling All The Things. I get it! I’ve danced with chaos, overloaded schedules, and the struggle to prioritize self-care. But I found the rhythm, and I've got the strategies to help your ladies create some breathing room. So, if you're organizing an event, whether it's a conference, church gathering, or retreat, and you want a speaker who brings humor, real talk, and a dose of inspiration, I'm your girl. Let's chat about making your event a memorable one. Visit racheldbaker.com/speaking. FREE Printable Permission Slips If you’ve been feeling like you need a minute to catch your breath, hear from God, and remember who you are outside of all the chaos... this is for you. It’s a Printable Permission Slip. Yes, an actual fill-in-the-blank reminder that you are allowed to rest, reflect, and realign with what really matters. When you download it, you’ll get four designs of beautiful, fill-in-the-blank permission slips and 20 permission slip ideas to get you started. You don’t need the world’s permission to step into your purpose - but sometimes it helps to see it in writing. Printable Permission Slips [https://create-some-breathing-room.captivate.fm/permission] This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

72. Fan Favorite: Holiday Budgeting Hacks with Brittany Flammer

In this special replay, Rachel sits down with financial coach and mom-of-five, Brittany Flammer, to talk about practical ways to enjoy a meaningful, stress-free holiday season without overspending. If the pressure to buy “more, bigger, and better” has you feeling guilty or overwhelmed, this episode will help you slow down, set healthy boundaries, and create a Christ-centered holiday that doesn’t drain your bank account or your peace. Episode Highlights * What “breathing room” looks/feels like for Brittany * Brittany’s tips to help us prepare our budgets or mindset around money for this season * The biggest pitfalls Brittany has seen that cause people to overspend or blow their budget this time of year * The mindset around money that is stealing our joy and how we can avoid it * Tips, apps, and strategies we need to know about when it comes to shopping for All The Things this time of year * Brittany’s recommended tools, resources, and strategies for finance & creating some breathing room Resources Mentioned * Brittany’s Budgeting Resources [https://www.brittanyflammer.com/WORK-WITH-BRITTANY] * Brittany’s Membership: Fit Finance Club [https://www.brittanyflammer.com/courses/fit-finance-club]  * Free Holiday Budget Template [https://exciting-architect-3531.kit.com/684d5dd2ac]  * Brittany’s YouTube Channel [https://bit.ly/brittanyflammeryoutube] * Brittany's Etsy Shop [https://www.etsy.com/shop/brittanyflammer] * The Wealthy Barber [https://amzn.to/3RE0E7P] * The Millionaire Study [https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/the-national-study-of-millionaires-research]  * The Money Guy Podcast [https://moneyguy.com/show/] Related Episodes You Might Also Like * EP 30 - Preparing Your Home for the Holidays [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/30] * EP 32 - Preparing Your Heart for Christmas [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/32] * EP 46 - The Truth About Living an Abundant Life with Samantha Semans [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/46] * EP 70 - Not Weak, Just Weary - and Stronger Than You Think [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/70] * EP 71 - What If You’re Doing Better Than You Think? with Jennifer Renee Watson [https://racheldbaker.com/captivate-podcast/71] Connect with Brittany * Website: www.brittanyflammer.com [http://www.brittanyflammer.com]  * Instagram: @brittanyflammer [https://www.instagram.com/brittanyflammer/] * Email: brittanyflammer@gmail.com [brittanyflammer@gmail.com] Connect with Rachel * Website: racheldbaker.com [https://racheldbaker.com] * Instagram: @rachel.d.baker [https://www.instagram.com/rachel.d.baker/]  * Email: rachel@racheldbaker.com [rachel@racheldbaker.com] It means so much to me that you are part of this community! I never recommend anything to you that I don't truly love and believe is worthwhile. Some of the links I share are affiliate links, and I will earn a tiny commission if you go through them to make a purchase. It's no extra cost to you, and buying through the links I share is one small way you can support this ministry and our podcast.  Mentioned in this episode: FREE Printable Permission Slips If you’ve been feeling like you need a minute to catch your breath, hear from God, and remember who you are outside of all the chaos... this is for you. It’s a Printable Permission Slip. Yes, an actual fill-in-the-blank reminder that you are allowed to rest, reflect, and realign with what really matters. When you download it, you’ll get four designs of beautiful, fill-in-the-blank permission slips and 20 permission slip ideas to get you started. You don’t need the world’s permission to step into your purpose - but sometimes it helps to see it in writing. Printable Permission Slips [https://create-some-breathing-room.captivate.fm/permission] This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy