Ep 68 with Lisa Harper: Breaking Down Big Theology: How Deep Faith Leads to Everyday Kindness

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with speaker, singer, songwriter, author and pastor DawnCheré Wilkerson for an inspiring conversation about faith, leadership, and navigating life’s transitions. DawnCheré opens up about the challenges of raising four kids, leading a church, and staying grounded in her calling. She shares how trusting God’s timing, embracing the “slow burn,” and saying “yes” to small acts of obedience have shaped her journey. This episode will encourage you to trust God’s process and live with confidence in His plan. SHOW NOTES:Finding Your Identity in God’s TimingDawnCheré discusses how trusting God’s pace has helped her overcome the pressure to perform and allowed her to stay true to her calling. Balancing Leadership and MotherhoodDawnCheré opens up about the challenges of raising four young kids while leading a growing church—and how she’s learned to discern when to say yes and when to rest. The Power of Small YesesShe shares how saying yes to small, everyday acts of obedience has opened the door to God’s greater purpose in her life. Generational Blessings and LegacyDawnCheré reflects on how her faith is shaped by her family’s legacy and why passing down a strong spiritual foundation to her children is a priority. Why the Slow Burn MattersShe emphasizes the importance of trusting God’s process and why the most fruitful seasons often come after years of patient faithfulness. Follow DawnChere Wilkerson, @dawnchere  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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with JJ Dalton for an authentic conversation about faith, identity, and living on mission. JJ shares how navigating life as the wife of an NFL quarterback came with both privilege and pressure—and how God helped her overcome insecurity and find strength in her true identity. JJ opens up about the challenges of staying grounded in faith when the spotlight is on, raising kids with intention, and finding purpose beyond performance. This episode will inspire you to trust God’s plan and live with confidence in your God-given purpose. SHOW NOTES:Finding Identity Beyond the SpotlightJJ shares how her identity was initially tied to her husband’s career and how God helped her discover her true value apart from status or success. Overcoming Insecurity and Finding Confidence in FaithJJ reflects on how feelings of inadequacy and doubt once held her back—and how learning to trust God’s truth helped her find freedom. Staying Grounded in Faith During Life’s Highs and LowsFrom career wins to tough seasons, JJ discusses how staying focused on God’s purpose helped her and her husband stay anchored through uncertainty. Raising Kids With Intention and PurposeJJ talks about the importance of helping her kids understand their identity in Christ and how to stay thankful and grounded, no matter the circumstances. Living on Mission—No Matter the PlatformJJ shares how getting involved in A21 and the fight against human trafficking gave her a deeper understanding of living on mission beyond the football field. Follow JJ Dalton, @jjdalton5 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with author, teacher, and speaker Jada Edwards, for a powerful conversation about faith, leadership, and the true meaning of love. They unpack why love is often misunderstood and how redefining it through God’s lens can transform relationships, leadership, and even church culture. They explore why many believers struggle to love others well, the importance of addressing church hurt, and how small, consistent acts of obedience can lead to big moves of God. If you’ve ever wondered why loving your neighbor feels so hard—or how to build stronger, more authentic relationships—this episode will challenge and encourage you to lean into God’s definition of love. SHOW NOTES:Redefining Love Through God’s EyesThey discuss how love is often misinterpreted as transactional or emotional, but God’s love is deeper—rooted in action and truth. Small Yeses Lead to Big Moves of GodSometimes obedience to God’s small nudges leads to massive spiritual breakthroughs. They explore why daily faithfulness matters more than grand gestures. Healing Church HurtMany believers are wounded by past church experiences. They talk about why poor execution shouldn’t cause us to give up on the church’s mission. Leading with Love in a Divided WorldThey explore how political and social divides have made it harder to love others—and why the church must set the example for unity and grace. Creating Space for RestorationThey reflect on how the church can be a place of healing and redemption—even for those who have fallen or walked away. Follow Jada Edwards, @jada_edwards 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with her longtime friend Stephanie Sposeto for a powerful conversation about faith, healing, business, and ministry. Stephanie opens up about her difficult childhood, the pain of addiction and brokenness in her family, and how God brought deep healing and restoration. Stephanie shares how saying "yes" to God’s healing led her to a thriving marriage, raising four kids, and successfully navigating business and ministry with her husband, Dominic. From founding a nonprofit and working in prison ministry to leading in the business world, Stephanie reveals how God uses every season of life for His greater purpose. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling to balance faith, family, and career or wondering how to pursue God’s calling in both the church and the marketplace. SHOW NOTES:Healing from a Broken PastStephanie shares her experience growing up in a Christian home marked by addiction, mental health struggles, and broken relationships. She explains how God began the healing process after she gave her life to Jesus during college. Saying Yes to God’s PlanAfter feeling the call to ministry at 18, Stephanie shares how she followed God’s leading—even when it meant stepping away from personal ambition to focus on her family. Navigating Ministry, Business, and MotherhoodStephanie and Dominic built a successful business while raising four children. She talks about how they kept their marriage strong and prioritized family while navigating the demands of work and ministry. Prison Ministry & Marketplace CallingInspired by her sister’s incarceration, Stephanie stepped into prison ministry. She describes how God works in the darkest places and how she’s seen lives transformed behind bars. Empowering Women in the MarketplaceStephanie highlights why women should feel confident pursuing success in business while living on mission for Jesus. She encourages women to see their work as part of God’s kingdom purpose. Follow Stephanie Sposeto, @stephaniesposeto 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with her husband, Nick Caine, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about marriage, faith, and keeping love strong through every season of life. Christine and Nick discuss how their shared passion for Jesus brought them together and how they have built a fun, faith-filled marriage that has lasted through decades of ministry, parenting, and now empty nesting. They talk about avoiding comparison, creating space for each other’s growth, maintaining strong family connections, and navigating boundaries with wisdom. Whether you’re single, engaged, newly married, or have been in it for decades, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and practical encouragement to help you build a thriving, God-honoring marriage. SHOW NOTES:The Power of a Shared MissionChristine and Nick discuss how their individual pursuit of Jesus led them to one another and how keeping their faith and mission at the center has been the foundation of their marriage. Marriage Is a Team Sport—Not a CompetitionThey emphasize the importance of staying in your lane, not comparing your marriage to others, and cheering each other on rather than competing. Prioritizing Family Through Every SeasonAs empty nesters, Christine and Nick share how they maintain a close relationship with their daughters while respecting their independence, showing how marriage and parenting evolve over time. Healthy Space & Shifting BoundariesThey discuss the balance between togetherness and individual growth, making room for hobbies, friendships, and personal interests while keeping the marriage strong. Keeping Communication Open & HonestChristine and Nick talk about addressing issues as they arise, rather than sweeping them under the rug, and how prayer and seeking God’s wisdom are key to marriage. Follow Nick Caine, @NickCaine 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with Noemi Chavez (pastor at Revive Church and chair of the board for Exponential Español) for a powerful conversation on faith, leadership, and resilience. Noemi shares about pastoring in a multi-generational church, leading in diverse spaces, and the challenges of balancing ministry, calling, and personal health. She opens up about the pressures of being a Latina woman in leadership, the struggle with burnout, and how God reshaped her priorities. This episode is filled with wisdom, honesty, and encouragement to keep saying yes to God—without losing yourself in the process. SHOW NOTESSaying Yes to God’s Call—Even When It’s UnexpectedFrom teaching high school English to leading a church, Noemi’s journey into full-time ministry was unexpected. She explains how God led her step by step into pastoring, despite her initial plans to simply be a faithful church volunteer. The Reality of Burnout in LeadershipIn 2018, Noemi hit a wall of burnout, realizing that busyness doesn’t equal faithfulness. She describes how she recalibrated her priorities, found true rest in God, and learned to lead from overflow instead of exhaustion. Navigating Multi-Generational LeadershipNoemi talks about the unique challenges of pastoring both older and younger generations—learning to listen, adapt, and lead people through different seasons of life without losing sight of the bigger mission. Making Room for the Next GenerationAs a Latina leader, Noemi understands the importance of representation and mentorship. She shares why making space for young leaders is critical, how to empower them, and the role of discipleship in raising up the next generation of world changers. Follow Noemi Chavez, @noemichavezlbc 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with Brooke Thomas, founder of Live Out Loud, successful entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for women in business, to discuss how faith fuels purpose and perseverance. Brooke shares her powerful testimony of overcoming stage three cancer while pregnant, the pivotal moments that shaped her journey, and her mission to empower women to thrive in faith, business, and life. Through inspiring stories and practical insights, this episode will encourage you to embrace your God-given purpose, overcome obstacles, and make a lasting impact in your world. SHOW NOTES The Diagnosis that Changed Everything Brooke shares her experience of being diagnosed with stage three cancer during her pregnancy and how that moment catalyzed her journey toward purpose and faith. She discusses the transformative impact of speaking scripture and life-giving words over herself and others to overcome fear and hopelessness. Faith and Business: A Partnership Brooke reveals how her faith drives her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing that business can be a powerful tool to create impact and expand the Kingdom of God. When you boldly share your faith, God can do amazing things! Empowering Women to Thrive Encouraging women to embrace their unique gifts, Brooke shares practical ways to start or grow a business, regardless of background or perceived limitations. You can start from wherever you are right now and build toward a thriving future as you partner with the Holy Spirit and move forward boldly. Community, Generosity, and Purpose Brooke highlights the importance of building supportive communities and using business success as a means to give back and make a tangible difference in the world. Follow Brooke, @liveoutloudbrooke 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with Lisa Harper to dive deep into the meaning of Easter and their new Bible study, The Promise and Power of Easter. Lisa and Christine unpack why the resurrection is the most important event in human history and how it impacts our everyday lives. With humor, deep biblical insight, and personal stories, they bring fresh perspective to the Easter story—reminding us that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in us today. Whether you’re looking for a faith boost, a fresh understanding of Easter, or practical ways to live in resurrection power, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to walk in the fullness of what Jesus paid for! SHOW NOTES:Why Easter Is More Than a HolidayChristine and Lisa discuss how Easter isn’t just a religious event—it’s the foundation of our faith. They explore how modern culture often minimizes the resurrection, when in reality, it’s the most transformational moment in history. Resurrection Power for Everyday LifeChristine and Lisa talk about how the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in us (Romans 8:11) and why that reality should transform the way we live, pray, and trust God. Addressing Doubts: Is the Resurrection Real?For those struggling with doubt, Lisa shares historical and biblical evidence for the resurrection, including how 11 of the 12 disciples were willing to die rather than deny what they had seen. Living in the Light of EasterChristine and Lisa discuss the activation of Easter—how we are called to not just believe in Jesus’ resurrection, but to step into the power it brings. They also reflect on Acts 1 and why Easter doesn’t stop at the Gospels—it continues through the Holy Spirit empowering believers today. Follow Lisa Harper, @LisaDHarper Get The Promise and Power of Easter at ChristineCaine.com/Easter 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.

Learn more about Trevecca Nazarene University here. In this episode, host Christine Caine sits down with Jennie Allen, founder of IF:Gathering and visionary behind Gather 2025, to talk about a global movement that could change the future of the church. Jennie shares how a vivid dream led her to mobilize believers worldwide, the miraculous ways God has opened doors, and the revival happening among college students, prisoners, and nations across the globe. This powerful conversation will ignite your faith and inspire you to take part in what God is doing right now Key Topics Covered:How a dream sparked a global church movementMiracles and open doors leading to Gather 2025Revival on college campuses and in prisonsThe role of unity and technology in spreading the GospelWhy now is the time for every believer to step up SHOW NOTESThe Dream That Started It AllJennie Allen shares about a dream she had in 2022 of Jesus returning in 10 years. This led to a conviction that the global church must unite now to reach every person with the Gospel. What dreams and convictions do you have? How could that change the world around you? Revival in Unexpected PlacesJennie shares jaw-dropping stories of young people on college campuses, prisoners encountering Jesus through technology, and churches around the world experiencing an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The Urgency of 2033Many Christian organizations are aligning their efforts to reach every nation by 2033—the 2000-year anniversary of the Great Commission. Jennie explains why this is a moment of divine acceleration. How You Can Be Part of This MovementWhether hosting a watch party, praying for the lost, or financially supporting the mission, Jennie and Christine invite every listener to take action and be part of this unprecedented global gathering. Head to Gather25.com for more information! Follow Jennie Allen, @jennieallen 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.