Ep 76: When Loving Others Gets Complicated: Healing, Boundaries, and Showing Up

In this episode, host Christine Caine brings together compelling insights on relationships from pastor and author Jada Edwards, clinical psychologist Dr. Rhiannon DuBois, and a listener-driven Q&A on community, marriage, and friendship. From heartbreak and healing to boundaries and biblical love, this episode dives into what it means to build meaningful connections that reflect God’s heart. Whether you’re navigating fractured friendships, marriage, divorce, the ache of loneliness, or the tension in friendships, this episode will give you wisdom and hope to move forward in love. SHOW NOTES:What Love Really MeansJada Edwards shares how her own marriage tension led her to a revelation—every sin is a love issue, and healing starts when we let God define love. Divine Love vs. Damaged DefinitionsJada unpacks how childhood wounds and unhealthy models of affection distort our view of love—and how rebuilding starts with receiving love from God first. Healing After HeartbreakDr. Rhiannon DuBois shares her story of being blindsided by divorce and how God carried her through deep grief while still leading others. Emotionally and Spiritually Coping with LossRhiannon outlines healthy ways to grieve, process pain, and practically move forward using both emotional and problem-focused coping. The Truth About Friendships and BoundariesChristine reflects on cultivating long-term friendships, healthy expectations, and the courage it takes to love without guarantees. Follow Jada Edwards @Jada_Edwards and find her book at JadaEdwards.org/ShopFollow Dr. Rhiannon DuBois @rhi_bella and find her practice @heartbreaksandretakesCheck out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  —Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine brings together a powerful compilation on the theme of Leading as a Woman, featuring conversations with Dr. Kate Coleman, Dr. Anna Morgan, and a listener driven Q&A. From navigating institutional barriers to developing emotional intelligence and spiritual resilience, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement. Whether you’re leading in ministry, the marketplace, or your community, you’ll be equipped to lead with clarity, courage, and purpose—no matter the environment. SHOW NOTES:Owning Your Calling as a WomanDr. Kate Coleman shares how she stepped into leadership despite cultural resistance, learning that God didn’t call her in spite of who she was—but because of it. From Science to SeminaryKate opens up about her unexpected shift from a career in science to becoming the UK’s first Black female Baptist minister—and the challenges she faced along the way. Sticky Floors and Stained-Glass CeilingsKate unpacks both the internal and external barriers that hold women back, from self-limiting beliefs to institutional systems that still resist women’s leadership. Seven Areas of Leadership FormationDr. Anna Morgan outlines the seven key areas God uses to form female leaders—from spiritual growth and emotional intelligence to communication and relationships. Why Environment and Networks MatterAnna explains how denominational culture and leadership structures affect the trajectory of a woman’s calling—and why creating opportunities for women is vital. Knowing Why You’re in the RoomChristine shares from decades of experience being “the only woman in the room,” and the importance of knowing your assignment rather than trying to prove your worth. Follow Dr. Kate Coleman on LinkedIn, Connect with Dr. Anna Morgan @annarmorganCheck out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  —Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine shares the best moments from conversations with Faith Eury Cho, Amy Orr-Ewing, and a listener driven Q&A Episode on navigating setbacks and disappointments. Whether you're grieving a failed plan, a broken relationship, or a spiritual crisis, these stories will meet you in the middle of it. You'll hear how to grieve with God, hold on to hope, and lead even when it hurts. If you're facing a setback and wondering where God is in the struggle, this episode will strengthen your faith and renew your perspective. SHOW NOTES:Letting Go of Control and the IdealFaith Eury Cho shares how the loss of ministry plans during 2020 forced her to release expectations and discover a deeper, more focused calling through pain. Holding Hope When It Feels RiskyFaith opens up about leading her team through disappointment and choosing to be a “thermostat” of hope—even when hope feels foolish. When Leadership Breaks Your HeartAmy Orr-Ewing vulnerably reflects on the betrayal and collapse of a trusted ministry and how it shook her identity, her relationships, and her sense of calling. Rebuilding After Spiritual CrisisAmy recounts how therapy, Scripture, and walking with victims of abuse helped her rebuild her faith—and why honesty is essential to recovery. Disappointment or Divine Timing?Christine Caine offers insight on why some transitions feel painful—not because God is punishing us, but because He’s preparing us for what’s next. Follow Faith Eury Cho @faitheurycho Follow Amy Orr-Ewing @amyorrewingCheck out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  —Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine brings you a dynamic compilation of our best conversations on calling featuring Dr. Arianna Molloy, April Stallworth, and Christine herself. From classrooms to corporations to everyday moments of obedience, each guest unpacks what it means to live on mission—right where you are. Whether you're in a season of transition, waiting, or wondering what’s next, this episode will equip and encourage you to embrace your God-given calling with clarity and confidence. Calling Is a Relationship, Not Just a RoleDr. Arianna Molloy shares how true calling is anchored in relationship with the Caller, not just what we do—and how this keeps us grounded and joyful over time. The Hidden Cost of CallingDr. Molloy explains why people who feel called are also most prone to burnout—and how to pursue a healthy, sustainable version of calling that doesn’t sacrifice your soul. Mission in the MarketplaceApril Stallworth speaks powerfully about recognizing your workplace as a mission field and bringing Christ’s presence with you, even when you can’t speak His name out loud. Obedience Opens DoorsChristine Caine reflects on her earliest years in ministry and how simply showing up with a willing heart set the trajectory for everything that followed. It’s Not About Being the Best—It’s About Being AvailableChristine challenges the myth that you must be the most qualified to be used by God. What matters most is your availability, not your résumé. Follow Dr. Arianna Molloy @arianna_yeh, Follow April Stallworth @aprilmichellestallworthCheck out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast. You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts! —Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine. We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine brings together powerful moments from our best interviews on identity to help you stand firm in who God created you to be. You'll hear from remarkable voices like Nona Jones, Priscilla Shirer, Katie Modrau, and Christine herself as they share truth and encouragement to combat lies and comparison. If you've ever wrestled with questions about who you really are, this episode will strengthen your foundation and remind you that your identity is anchored in Christ. SHOW NOTES:Healing the Broken PiecesNona Jones shares how trauma impacted her sense of worth—and how God stepped in to heal what was broken and restore her identity. Identity That Can’t Be ShakenChristine and Priscilla Shirer discuss how knowing who you are in Christ provides unshakable confidence in a world constantly trying to define you. The Power of God’s Word in Identity FormationPriscilla emphasizes the necessity of Scripture in discovering who you really are and staying anchored when lies try to creep in. You Are Not What You DoKatie Modrau opens up about separating her calling from her value, especially in seasons of transition, motherhood, and uncertainty. Letting God Write Your StoryFrom deep wounds to divine purpose, each guest’s story testifies to a God who redeems our past and redefines our future. Follow Nona Jones @NonaNotNora, Follow Priscilla Shirer @PriscillaShirer, Follow Katie Modrau @KatieModrauCheck out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  —Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine offers a vulnerable and passionate look at what it means to live on mission in every season. She shares the heart behind the Propel Cohorts, the value of spiritual formation, and why mentorship isn’t about finding someone to imitate—but becoming more like Jesus. Christine speaks directly to women across every generation, stage, and calling, encouraging them to rise, lead, and be transformed. If you’ve ever longed for growth, clarity, and deep spiritual community—this episode is for you. SHOW NOTES:The Heart Behind Propel CohortsChristine shares how years of global ministry and a hunger to mentor led to the creation of Propel Cohorts, a space that integrates leadership, spiritual formation, Scripture, and calling. Mentorship That Leads to Jesus, Not to ImitationChristine opens up about her own journey of mentorship and how true spiritual leaders point you toward Christ, not themselves. A Place for Every WomanWhether you’re a college student, stay-at-home mom, CEO, or ministry leader—Christine unpacks how Propel Cohorts are designed for women in every sphere. The Holy Spirit Still LeadsThis isn’t just a leadership program—it’s about cultivating a life that’s deeply rooted in the Spirit and formed through obedience. It’s Never Too Late to StartFrom women in their 20s to their 70s, Christine shares stories of transformation and reminds listeners that if you’re breathing, God’s not finished with you yet. Follow Propel Women, @propelwomen Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  —Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with Alicia Britt Chole for a profound conversation on spiritual formation, leadership, and staying faithful through the night seasons. Alicia shares how she, as a former atheist, became a passionate follower of Jesus, learned to linger in Scripture, and why so many leaders fall short—not for lack of passion, but lack of depth. If you’ve ever wrestled with burnout, grief, or disillusionment in your faith, this episode offers hope, truth, and a deeply needed reminder: Jesus is with us in the dark. SHOW NOTES:From Atheist to DiscipleAlicia shares her radical encounter with Jesus and how her love for Scripture began the moment she believed. The Word Is Alive—So Don’t Just Read It, Relate to ItShe describes how lingering in just a few words of Scripture can lead to spiritual awakening and deeper intimacy with Jesus. Why Leaders Are Falling—and What We Can LearnThey unpack the growing trend of spiritual burnout and moral failure in leadership, and how depth and honesty are crucial for longevity. What We Do with Conviction Matters MostAlicia reminds us that the Holy Spirit is always working, but it’s our response to His conviction that shapes our future. The Night Is Normal—And Jesus Is in the Middle of ItThey explore what it means to find Jesus in suffering, how to process church hurt, and why shared pain with Christ becomes holy ground. Follow Alicia Britt Chole, @aliciabrittchole Follow Christine @ChristineCaine Get your FREE reflection guide for journaling prompts or use it as a discussion guide with your community at PropelWomen.org/Podcast.   Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  — Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine has a rich and honest conversation with Jackie Hill Perry about spiritual growth, pruning, and obedience. Jackie shares the purpose behind her six-month social media fast and how it's led to deeper intimacy with God, a renewed perspective on identity, and the refining process of laying down even good things. Together, they unpack why true transformation happens offstage, in private, when we embrace pruning and choose obedience—even when it costs us. Listen in for encouragement to pursue God above all else. SHOW NOTES:Choosing the Wilderness: Why Jackie Stepped Away from Social MediaJackie shares how intentional time away is helping her rediscover her identity, quiet distractions, and deepen her dependence on God. Obedience in the OrdinaryFrom motherhood to marriage, Jackie discusses how spiritual power is just as necessary in the mundane as it is on stage. The Deception of Fruitfulness Without Full SurrenderThey explore how distractions, even good ones, can cap our joy and fruitfulness if we aren’t fully surrendered. New Levels, New Battles: Why Obedience Must Grow with InfluenceChristine and Jackie talk about how spiritual responsibility increases with influence and why deep consecration is non-negotiable. Eternal Rewards and Lasting ImpactThis conversation challenges us to shift our focus from short-term applause to long-term, eternal rewards—and why our secret obedience matters most. Follow Jackie Hill Perry, @jackiehillperry Follow Christine @ChristineCaine Get your FREE reflection guide for journaling prompts or use it as a discussion guide with your community at PropelWomen.org/Podcast.   Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  — Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with Sharon Hodde Miller for a dynamic conversation on church leadership, calling, and trusting the Holy Spirit’s leading. Sharon shares how she and her husband planted a church after resisting the call and why leading as co-pastors has reshaped their ministry. They dive into gender roles, church hurt, theological formation, and how to reach a generation with deep skepticism toward religion. Listen in and find encouragement to pursue your calling with renewed boldness! SHOW NOTES:From “Never” to “Yes” Sharon shares how God radically redirected her and her husband’s plans, calling them to plant Bright City Church in Durham, NC—even though they never saw it coming. Co-Leading as Spouses with Complimentary GiftsSharon discusses the power of shared leadership and how she and her husband lead from their strengths, modeling teamwork and mutual honor. The Gap Between the World and the ChurchThey talk about why so many are disillusioned with the church, how distrust has grown, and what the church must do to restore credibility and hope. Women in Leadership: Opportunity and ResistanceIn a highly educated city, women lead in every space—except the church. Sharon shares how she’s using her voice to change that. Wine and WineskinsSharon and Christine explore why clinging to tradition isn’t the answer—and why only the Holy Spirit can help the church engage a changing world with lasting power. Follow Sharon Hodde Miller, @sharonhmiller  Follow Christine @ChristineCaine Get your FREE reflection guide for journaling prompts or use it as a discussion guide with your community at PropelWomen.org/Podcast.   Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  — Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.

In this episode, host Christine Caine welcomes author, speaker, theologian and frequent friend of the Life & Leadership podcast Lisa Harper for a rich and deeply personal conversation on why theology matters. They unpack Lisa’s new book, A Jesus-Shaped Life, and discuss how sound doctrine is meant to lead us not to pride—but to kindness, humility, and deeper intimacy with Jesus. This episode is both intellectually rich and incredibly down-to-earth, showing that everyone is a theologian, and theology is best lived, not just learned. SHOW NOTES:Why Lisa Went Back to Seminary in Her 50sLisa shares how her desire to model lifelong learning for her daughter—and to deepen her relationship with God—led her to pursue a doctorate in theology. The True Heart of TheologyThey explore how theology isn't meant to be exclusive or intimidating, but rather relational and transformational—leading us closer to the kindness and love of God. A Jesus-Shaped Life: More Than a Book TitleChristine and Lisa dive into what it really means to be shaped by Jesus—how doctrine, when rightly understood, leads to greater kindness, humility, and worship. The Hypostatic Union (Made Simple)Lisa breaks down complex theological concepts like the hypostatic union in simple, accessible ways—and explains why it matters for our everyday lives. Theology for Every BelieverThe conversation ends with a powerful encouragement: theology is for every believer—not just the “academics”—because knowing and loving God is our highest calling. Follow Lisa Harper, @LisaDHarper Follow Christine @ChristineCaine Get your FREE reflection guide for journaling prompts or use it as a discussion guide with your community at PropelWomen.org/Podcast.   Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode, and don’t forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.  You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can’t wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!  — Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.  We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities. No matter where a woman has influence – in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry – Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.