Ep 30 | You Don't Need to See the Outcome to Take the Leap

Ep 30 | You Don't Need to See the Outcome to Take the Leap

Episode Summary What do you do when you have to decide, and you can't see how it's going to turn out? In Episode 30, we get honest about a real career crossroads — a job I loved, a tempting offer, and the fear of making the wrong call. I wanted certainty before I moved. What I got instead was the courage to take the leap without it. This episode unpacks what it really looks like to move forward in faith when the outcome is unknown, why our culture's obsession with control feeds the fear, and how two anchor scriptures — Isaiah 41:10 and Joshua 1:9 — can steady you the next time fear of the unknown creeps in. What You'll Learn in This Episode * Why you don't need to see the outcome before you take the leap * A real story of choosing between career comfort and a bigger opportunity — and what it taught me about fear of the unknown * The difference between leaning on self-reliance and resting in God's presence * How Isaiah 41:10 reassures us of God's constant presence in seasons of uncertainty * How Joshua 1:9 reminds us that courage comes from God's promise, not our own strength * A practical, weekly framework for identifying fear-based thoughts and replacing them with scripture. Scriptures Referenced Isaiah 41:10 — "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Joshua 1:9 — "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Resource Mentioned The Secret Power of Speaking God's Word by Joyce Meyer — a compact daily companion for keeping scripture accessible wherever you are (nightstand, desk, purse, or car). This Week's Challenge 1. Notice a moment this week when fear or anxiety shows up — and write down the situation. 2. Identify the specific thought that triggered it (e.g., fear around a bill, fear around a layoff rumor). 3. Search the Bible app for a keyword tied to that fear (e.g., "provision," "strength," "courage"). 4. Write down the scriptures that come up. 5. Read that list daily this week, praying it over yourself and replacing negative self-talk with God's word - the truth Subscribe & Connect New episodes of Leading from Wholeness drop weekly. Subscribe on your favorite platform and leave a review  Website: www.praywithoutceasingministries.com [http://www.praywithoutceasingministries.com] Email: hello@praywithoutceasingministries.com Instagram: @AudreyTShelby

Ep 29: Stop Managing Your Time — You're Managing the Wrong Thing. Do This Instead...

SHOW NOTES Ephesians 5:15: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. What if your time management problem isn't really about time at all? In this episode, we unpack a truth that changes everything: you don't have a time management issue — you have a priority issue in your leadership. As leadership expert Karen Stubbs puts it, "Priorities bring peace." The Real Issue Behind Poor Time Management When we say "I'll do it....." and don't follow through, or when we don't honor our own commitments, it does more than clutter our calendar — it places an unfair weight on the people around us. That's a hard truth to sit with, especially when others are depending on you. But when we're intentional and careful about what we say yes and no to, our decisions carry real weight — and so does our peace. Reference: John Maxwell Leadership Bible, p. 1423 The ABCs of Prioritization When you feel overwhelmed, come back to this simple three-step filter: * A — Analyze what's actually on your plate * B — Brainstorm your options for handling it * C — Create a plan and follow through Then sort your to-do list into four categories: 1. Non-Negotiable — must happen, no exceptions 2. Essential — important, but not urgent  3. Bonus — nice to have, only if time allows 4. Time Waster — things that distract you and get in the way of success Common Pitfalls to Avoid * You cannot do everything. * You will not be able to please everyone — and that's okay. When You Feel Overwhelmed When there's too much on your plate, overwhelm sets in — and it becomes hard to concentrate or think clearly. Come back to the ABCs above, breathe, and remember: you don't have to solve it all in one sitting.

Ep 28 | Balance Is a Myth — Or Is It? How to Thrive in Seasons of Press and Rest

Show Notes If this conversation is stirring something in you and you want to go deeper — we want to go there with you. Join us at the 2026 Pray Without Ceasing Conference on August 15th in Buena Park, CA.  Details and registration are linked below! Register today:  https://praywithoutceasing2026.eventbrite.com [https://praywithoutceasing2026.eventbrite.com/] Episode Overview Is work-life balance even real — or is it something we've been chasing that doesn't exist? In this episode, I get honest about my own journey from a 60-hour work week grind that landed me in the hospital, to learning that balance isn't a destination — it's a rhythm. If you've ever felt guilty for pushing hard in a season, or struggled to give yourself permission to rest, this conversation is for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode * Why balance isn't a myth — but it does fluctuate with the seasons of your life * How to recognize whether you're in a season of press or a season of rest * What grind culture gets wrong and why self-reliance can quietly push God out * Practical strategies for being present during rest so your brain actually shuts off * Why you don't have to be afraid of missing God — He knows how to find you Balance Comes in Seasons Audrey shares a candid story — from managing at 25, working 60+ hours a week as a single woman, to ending up in the hospital after years of operating in the extremes. She reflects on how marriage, motherhood, and career transitions each shifted what balance looked like, and why that's not failure — it's wisdom. Seasons of Press When it's time to push, here's how to do it without losing yourself: * Guard against grind culture, which quietly breeds self-reliance and can crowd out your dependence on God * Set clear expectations for yourself and the people around you * Accept that it will be hard — and stay laser focused on the end goal * Be intentionally present in the moments that matter most  "Unless the Lord builds a house,     the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city,     guarding it with sentries will do no good. 2 It is useless for you to work so hard     from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat;     for God gives rest to his loved ones." — Psalm 127:1–2 NLT Seasons of Rest Rest doesn't just happen — it has to be intentionally protected: * Put vacation on the calendar  * Take mini-rest breaks daily — step outside, eat lunch away from your desk, and actually disconnect * Don't check email or bring your laptop. When you do, your brain stays in work mode * Plan a buffer day before returning to work — unpack, meal prep, and prepare your household * Block the first half of your first day back for emails and task triage, not meetings You Won't Miss God Are you afraid to rest because you might miss what God is calling you to do?  "Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.'" — Isaiah 30:21 NKJV Scriptures Referenced * Psalm 127:1–2 NLT  * Isaiah 30:21 NKJV  Reflection Questions 1. What season are you currently in — press or rest? 2. Are there areas of your life where you've been operating in the extremes? 3. What would it look like to be intentionally present in your rest this week? Connect with Us 🌐 praywithoutceasingministries.com [https://www.praywithoutceasingministries.com] 📧 hello@praywithoutceasingministries.com [hello@praywithoutceasingministries.com] 📲 @AudreyTShelby "Pray without ceasing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Ep 27 | Leading From a Healed Place: Practical Steps to Lead with Confidence and Faith Part 2

SHOW NOTES Last week, in Healing the Leader Within: How Trusting God Transforms the Way You Lead, we explored what it looks like to let God heal us as leaders so we can lead more effectively. We named three executive trauma responses that signal we may be leading from a place of unresolved pain — and this week, we move from awareness to action: how do we actually begin to heal? A Quick Recap: Three Trauma-Driven Leadership Patterns 1. Hyper-Controllership — Micromanaging, resisting delegation, and reacting aggressively to mistakes, often rooted in a deep fear of vulnerability. One of the most common trauma-driven leadership barriers. 2. Workaholism — Compulsive overworking that numbs emotional pain and avoids self-reflection. It stalls spiritual growth, blocks intimacy with God, and leads to burnout for you and your team. What would happen if you actually slowed down? 3. Impaired Decision-Making — Unprocessed trauma disrupts stress regulation, leading to short-term, fear-driven choices instead of innovative, Spirit-led solutions. Effective Christian leadership requires a clear mind and a healed heart. Anchor Scripture "So the Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help." — Isaiah 30:18 (NLT) Faithful means completely reliable, steadfast, and unwavering. Scripture affirms this truth about God again and again:  *  1 Corinthians 1:9: God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  *  1 Thessalonians 5:24:  God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful.  *  2 Timothy 2:13: If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is.  *  Hebrews 10:23: Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.  How Do We Begin to Heal? Five Practical Steps 1. Build Your Relationship with God Relationships grow through time spent together — and your relationship with God is no different. Invite Him in. Make space for just you and Him. It's okay to start small: 15 minutes a day is enough to begin. Try setting a timer to stay intentional — time moves fast, and a timer helps you stay present and focused. 2. Build Your Support System We don't heal alone — we heal in connection with others. * Pray and ask God to bring people into your life who love Him and will be good friends to you. * Map your current connections (an ecomap exercise): other parents at school, sports/hobbies, neighbors, work colleagues, church family, or a professional network like Bestiepreneurs Network [https://www.instagram.com/bestiepreneurs.network/], which connects business women and entrepreneurs through monthly meetups. * Is there someone who's already reached out to you, but life got busy? Set the intention to reconnect — a walk, a coffee, a phone call, facetime. Connection doesn't have to cost money. 3. Seek Professional Support Healing isn't meant to happen in isolation. Take an honest assessment of where you are, and don't be afraid to invite professional support from a therapist along the healing journey. 4. Build Trust in God Through Reading His Word Scripture reveals who God is. Books of the bible like Isaiah, Psalms, and John 10:10 remind us of His character and His promises. 5. Remember God's Faithfulness What has God already brought you through? This week's challenge: write out 10 ways God has been faithful in your life. Let it become a testimony you return to when leadership feels heavy. Benediction — 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 “Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful.“ Listen now to hear the full conversation on what it means to lead from a healed place — and start your own journey toward leading with confidence and faith. Connect with the Show 🌐 Website: www.praywithoutceasingministries.com 📧 Email: hello@praywithoutceasingministries.com 📱 Instagram: @AudreyTShelby

Ep 26 | Healing the Leader Within: How Trusting God Transforms the Way You Lead

Show Notes What if the greatest barrier to your leadership effectiveness isn't your strategy or your team — but your unhealed wounds? Many leaders in the public and private sector are leading from a place of brokenness, wondering why their spiritual growth feels stalled and their impact feels limited. The truth is, it's very hard to pour out something you don't have. Research shows that 70% of adults experience trauma in their lifetimes — which means a significant majority of leaders are carrying unresolved pain directly into their organizations, their teams, and their decision-making. In this episode, we go beneath the surface of professional performance to explore what happens when leaders stop drawing closer to God and start relying solely on their own strength. Drawing from her own leadership journey, Audrey shares how rejection, perfectionism, and the need for control quietly shaped the way she led — and how surrendering to God's healing process changed everything. If you've ever felt like you were running on empty, masking your stress, or leading from a cracked cup — this episode on trusting God and whole-person healing is for you. What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why unresolved trauma is one of the most overlooked barriers to effective leadership * A transparent look at how unhealed wounds show up as poor boundaries, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and burnout in leadership * The three most common Executive Trauma Responses — and how to identify them in your own leadership style * Why control feels like safety and what it's actually costing your spiritual growth * How drawing closer to God begins not with a giant leap of faith, but with small, consistent steps in prayer * A personal story of what shifted when she stopped managing the chaos alone and began trusting God with her healing, and ultimately experiencing God’s faithfulness. Key Scripture for Leaders Psalm 25:2 (AMP) "O my God, in You I have unwavering trust and I rely on You with steadfast confidence. Do not let me be ashamed or my hope in You be disappointed; do not let my enemies triumph over me." Trusting God with your healing as a leader starts with anchoring yourself in His Word. Drawing closer to God through scripture and prayer is not a passive act — it is an essential leadership discipline. The 3 Common Executive Trauma Responses A foundational step in your spiritual growth and leadership development is honest self-awareness. Ask yourself — do you recognize any of these patterns in the way you currently lead? * Hyper-Controllership — Micromanaging, resisting delegation, and reacting aggressively to mistakes, often rooted in a deep fear of vulnerability. This is one of the most common trauma-driven leadership barriers. * Workaholism — Using compulsive overworking to avoid self-reflection and numb emotional pain. This pattern stalls spiritual growth, blocks intimacy with God, and leads to burnout for you and your team. What would happen if you actually slowed down? * Impaired Decision-Making — When unprocessed trauma disrupts stress regulation, leaders default to short-term, fear-driven choices instead of innovative, Spirit-led solutions. Effective Christian leadership requires a clear mind and a healed heart. Don't make a long-term decision based on short-term circumstances. How Trusting God Transforms Your Leadership Drawing closer to God doesn't require having it all together. It requires honesty. When you bring your unhealed pieces to God in prayer — the fear, the pain, the need for control — He meets you there. Trusting God with your healing is not a one-time decision; it is a daily practice that deepens your spiritual growth and reshapes the way you lead. You don't have to come to God perfect. He wants to heal you where you are broken. And it doesn't matter who broke you — God can and will heal you. Your Homework from This Episode This week, take these four steps toward healing and leadership wholeness: * Review the three Executive Trauma Responses above and identify the one most present in your current leadership. * Pray — Ask God to reveal where the root of that behavior is coming from. This is spiritual growth in action. * Write down one area of your career that you have been carrying on your own. * Pray over that area every day this week — not just once. Ask God for strategy, strength, and peace. That's what it means to pray without ceasing. Resources Mentioned 📖 Pray Without Ceasing: 31 Days in Prayer by Audrey Shelby Available everywhere books are sold. → Grab your copy today [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pray-without-ceasing-audrey-tousant-shelby-msw/1145633992] Connect with the Show 🌐 Website: www.praywithoutceasingministries.com 📧 Email: hello@praywithoutceasingministries.com 📱 Instagram: @AudreyTShelby