In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney Jones wraps up the current season by reflecting on her journey, encouraging listeners to maintain their faith during the summer, and sharing insights on trusting God's plan. She emphasizes the importance of community, personal growth, and the lessons learned from biblical figures like Moses. As she looks forward to the next season, she expresses excitement for new opportunities and the continued journey of faith.
Takeaways:
Follow on Instagram: @courthopejones
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Are you feeling discouraged in your calling? Wondering if it's really worth it to keep going when the results feel slow or the weight feels heavy?
In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney shares a heartfelt message for anyone walking out a God-given calling that feels overwhelming, exhausting, or unclear. Through biblical truth, honest encouragement, and practical steps, you'll be reminded why your yes still matters—even when it’s hard.
Whether you’re building a ministry, starting a creative business, writing, leading, or serving behind the scenes, this episode will help you press forward with clarity and faith.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why difficulty doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong
The mindset traps that make us want to give up
Biblical encouragement for weary leaders
Practical ways to stay grounded and keep going
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones
What do you do when the calling is clear — but the timing isn’t?
This week on The Trailblazer Talks Podcast, Courtney has a conversation with author and speaker Chelsey DeMatteis about discerning God’s voice through writing, motherhood, and ministry. From unexpected book deals to starting a worship gathering with no venue or budget, Chelsey shares how she’s learned to trust God’s whispers even when the outcome is unknown.
If you’re wrestling with clarity in your calling or wondering whether to persevere or pause, this conversation will help you tune in to God’s direction with faith and peace.
Takeaways:
How to recognize when God is asking you to wait, pause, or press on
Why “no” doesn’t always mean “never” in the kingdom of God
How Chelsey knew it was time to write Mercy in the Margin
The role of spiritual community in discerning next steps
What it looks like to walk out your calling when the path feels unclear
Chelsey DeMatteis is a wife, mother, and woman on fire for Jesus. She is a devotional writer for Lifeway's Journey Women Magazine, Salem Media, and YouVersion. She hosts the Living with Less Podcast and is the author of More of Him, Less of Me: Living a Christ-centered Life in a Me-centered World and A Thrill of Hope. Chelsey resides in the midwest with her husband and their two children. Learn more at ChelseyDeMatteis.com or follow her on Instagram @chelseydematteis.
Show Links:
More of Him - https://amzn.to/43MKONQA Thrill of Hope - https://amzn.to/3Hdj9wP
Chelsey's Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/living-with-less-podcast/id1450217627
Sponsor: littlecreativecompany.com
Subscribe and Leave a Rating and Review!
Follow Courtney: https://instagram.com/courthopejones
In this week’s episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney sits down with author and adoptive mom Kara Stout for an honest conversation about trusting God’s timing, letting go of control, and learning to find peace in the in-between.
Kara shares her 10-year journey of waiting to become a mom, what God taught her through grief and loss, and how her devotional book An Untroubled Heart was born from walking closely with God through unanswered prayers.
This conversation is filled with wisdom and encouragement for anyone navigating an uncertain season, wondering if God is still near. If your heart is aching for peace, this episode is for you.
Topics Covered:
How to find peace with God when life feels uncertain
Trusting God when prayers go unanswered
Kara’s adoption story after a decade of waiting
Why persistent prayer matters—even when God feels silent
The power of morning and evening devotional rhythms
Creating a peaceful home through worship and Scripture
Links Mentioned:
Kara’s book: An Untroubled Heart: Calming Anxiety and Finding God’s Peace: https://amzn.to/4kfgh0I
Follow Kara on Instagram: @sincerelybykara
Worship album: Fed by Ravens by Rita Springer
Connect with Courtney:
Website: courtneyhopejones.com
Instagram: @courthopejones
If you’ve ever felt like you’re behind, not enough, or waiting on someone to give you permission—this episode of The Trailblazer Talks will speak straight to your heart.
Author and speaker Mary Marantz joins Courtney for a conversation rooted in honesty, encouragement, and hope. They unpack Mary’s newest book, Underestimated, and talk about what really holds us back from walking fully in what God has called us to.
From perfectionism and people-pleasing to fear and procrastination, Mary shares practical wisdom on building self-trust, letting go of old narratives, and starting small—even when the world underestimates you.
About Mary Marantz:
Mary Marantz is the three-time bestselling author of Underestimated, Dirt, and Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots and the host of the popular podcast, The Mary Marantz Show. She grew up in a trailer in rural West Virginia and was the first in her family to go to college before going on to Yale for law school. Her work has been featured on CNN, MSN, Business Insider, Bustle, Thrive Global, Southern Living, Hallmark Home & Family, and more. She and her husband Justin, live in an 1880s fixer-upper by the sea in New Haven, Connecticut, with their two very fluffy golden retrievers, Goodspeed and Atticus.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
- Order Mary’s book Underestimated: https://amzn.to/3ET9wm5
- Take the “Name the Fear” Quiz: https://namethefear.com
- Discover your core driver with the Achiever Quiz: https://achieverquiz.com
- Learn more about Mary’s work: https://www.marymarantz.com
- Follow Mary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymarantz
Visit the Podcast Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Follow Courtney: https://www.instagram.com/courthopejones
Sponsor: Little Creative Company - littlecreativecompany.com
Have you ever felt stuck between faith and disappointment?
Today’s solo episode is a heart-to-heart about what to do when your prayers seem unanswered and how to dream with God again after a long season of waiting or discouragement. If you've ever walked through disappointment, discouragement or doubt, this episode is for you!
We’ll talk about:
Why disappointment often comes down to trust
What Proverbs 3:5–6 really calls us to live out
How biblical figures like David and Thomas wrestled with doubt too
5 practical, biblical steps to steady your faith and dream again
Why your hope is safe with God — even when the wait feels too long
Whether you're in a season of delayed dreams, waiting for breakthrough, or just trying to keep believing, this conversation will meet you right where you are and remind you that your story isn’t stuck — it’s still being beautifully written by God.
Scripture References:
Proverbs 3:5–6 | Psalm 34:18 | John 20:27 | Proverbs 13:12 | Hebrews 6:19 | Joel 2:25 | John 15:4–5
Mentioned in this episode:
➔ My book, It Is Written — Strengthen your faith and pray Scripture with boldness! https://amzn.to/4cNSJgE
➔ Little Creative Company — Need a powerful brand or website that helps you reach the people you're called to serve?
➔ Subscribe & Leave a Rating/ Review Please!
Email me: podcast@courtneyhopejones.com
Follow me: https://instagram.com/courthopejones
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
What do you do when you're stuck in life and nothing seems clear?
In this vulnerable and wisdom-filled episode, Bethny Ricks—author of Face Forward—shares her story of walking away from a successful corporate career after a health scare, navigating burnout, and learning to trust God with the unknown.
We talk about letting go of titles, releasing our need for control, and what it really looks like to move forward in faith when life falls apart. If you’re in a hard season or feel stuck between where you’ve been and where you’re going, this episode is for you.
In this conversation, we explore:
How to move forward when you don’t know what to do
Why being honest with yourself comes before any strategy
What Bethny’s mini-stroke taught her about surrender
How to let go of people-pleasing and the illusion of control
Why hope isn’t just a feeling—it’s a person
Encouragement for writers, leaders, and women in waiting seasons
Real talk about burnout, disappointment, and starting again with God
Order Face Forward by Bethny Ricks: https://amzn.to/42KosLi
Follow Bethny on Instagram: @bethnyricks
Check out more episodes at: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones
👉 If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe and leave a review—it helps more people find the show!
In this powerful episode, Courtney sits down with Elle Cardel—author, Bible teacher, and founder of the women’s ministry Daughter of Delight—for a heartfelt conversation about learning to truly delight in the Lord through every season of life.
Elle shares her incredible journey of launching her online ministry, navigating her daughter’s life-threatening heart condition, and how God met her in moments of suffering with unexpected joy. You’ll hear practical encouragement for growing in prayer, reading your Bible with confidence, and letting go of perfection in your walk with God.
We also talk about:
Elle’s new book She Delights and companion Bible study (launching April 22!)
What it really means to be “bold and beheld” as a daughter of the King
Why nothing satisfies our soul like God does—and how to stop striving and start resting in His delight
Whether you’re in a valley, on a mountaintop, or somewhere in between, this episode will remind you that God delights in you and wants you to delight in Him.
🎉 Pre-order Elle’s new book + Bible study here (releasing April 22):
Connect with Elle: @elle_cardel + @daughterofdelight
Author's Links: Website | Podcast | Facebook | IG
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LET’S CONNECT:Explore more at thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Subscribe + leave a review to help more women find biblical encouragement.
In this episode, Courtney interviews Tabitha Panariso, a licensed professional counselor and author, discussing the themes of rejection, healing, and personal growth. Tabitha shares her journey through various forms of rejection, including familial abandonment and friendship breakups, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of self-worth and relationships. The conversation delves into practical steps for healing, the importance of building trust, and the impact of church hurt on faith. Tabitha emphasizes the significance of self-compassion and authenticity in overcoming rejection and encourages listeners to trust God's timing in their personal journeys.
Follow Tabitha on Instagram: @tabithapanariso
Subscribe to her substack: www.tabithapanariso.substack.com
Order her book: https://amzn.to/424S9rq
Follow Courtney on Instagram: @courthopejones
Podcast Website: www.thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney Jones tells the story of starting her business and dives into how to dream with God by aligning your desires with His will. She shares her personal story of transitioning from a corporate career to running her own business, answering the most common questions like:
How do I know if a dream is from God?
What steps should I take to align my vision with Scripture?
How do I stay faithful and take small steps of obedience?
Courtney also shares biblical insights from Habakkuk 2:2, Proverbs 3:5-6, Ephesians 2:10, and other key scriptures to help listeners dream with God without falling into the traps of manifesting or divination.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
Understanding your identity in Christ before pursuing your calling
How to submit your dreams to God and align them with Scripture
Why writing the vision (Habakkuk 2:2) is a biblical principle
The importance of taking small steps and being obedient in the waiting
Grab Courtney's Book Here: https://amzn.to/4l2wHKS
Want to Dream Bigger with God?
Courtney is now offering life coaching to help you live more intentionally and overcome the obstacles that may be holding you back from your calling.
Two spots are available starting in April for her six-week coaching program.
For more information, email Courtney at courtneyhopejones@gmail.com.
Need a New Website or SEO Services?
Courtney also has one spot available in April and two spots in May for her signature two-week website service through Little Creative Company.
Visit littlecreativecompany.com to learn more.
Podcast website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, I sit down with Mary Spencer Veazey—author of Cul-de-sac Crossroads—to talk about navigating the confusing, in-between seasons of your twenties. From trusting God in uncertainty to building community to handling decision fatigue, Mary Spencer offers faith-filled wisdom for women feeling stuck at a crossroads. Whether you're single, starting over, or searching for direction, this conversation will remind you that even life’s cul-de-sacs can lead to purpose.
We talk about:
The importance of mentorship and giving yourself permission to grow
How generosity, faith, and personal development all go hand-in-hand
Connect with Mary Spencer:
Instagram: @mencervz
Facebook: @maryspencervz
Substack: @mencervz
Book: Link to Buy
Website: www.maryspencerveazey.com
Our Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones
Who are you when the titles, roles, or achievements fall away?
In this powerful conversation, Courtney sits down with life coach and former athlete Linzie Hermsmeyer to talk about what it really means to find your identity beyond what you do. Whether you're transitioning out of a career, a life role, or just questioning your purpose, this episode will help you navigate the in-between seasons with clarity and confidence.
Linzie shares her Grit Framework—Growth, Resilience, Intention, and Tenacity—and offers practical insights on rebuilding identity, overcoming performance-based mindsets, and leading yourself well through change.
If you've ever asked, “Who am I now?”—this episode is for you.
About Linzie: Linzie helps ambitious former female athletes in their 30s become purposeful leaders and thriving entrepreneurs, excelling both professionally and personally. A dynamic entrepreneur and former college athlete with a background in basketball and rodeo, Linzie has co-founded and built businesses alongside her husband. Her extensive experience as a coach, combined with her training in life and leadership coaching, fuels her deep commitment to personal development.
Connect with Linzie:
Website: linziescoaching.com
Instagram: @linziehermsmeyer
Links mentioned: https://linziescoaching.myflodesk.com/morningroutine
Connect to the podcast: www.thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Follow me on Instagram: @courthopejones
What does confident leadership look like for a quiet, introverted woman? In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, we’re continuing our Quiet Girl Leadership Lessons series with practical tools to help you step into your leadership role—without changing who you are.
If you’ve ever struggled to speak up, advocate for yourself, or believe that your voice matters, this conversation is for you. You’ll learn how to communicate with clarity, influence others authentically, and lead with the confidence God has already placed inside you.
You don’t need to be loud to be impactful—you just need to walk boldly in who God created you to be.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How to advocate for yourself without being loud or aggressive
✅ The power of prepared communication for introverts
✅ How introverts influence through encouragement and meaningful relationships
✅ Real examples from Scripture of quiet leaders God used in powerful ways
✅ Biblical encouragement to walk in confidence and embrace your God-given personality
✨ Challenge for this week: Write down three strengths you bring to leadership and practice speaking up in one small way.
If you’re ready to stop shrinking back and start walking in quiet strength, this episode will give you the encouragement and tools to lead with purpose.
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courthopejones
Have you ever felt like leadership is reserved for the loud, charismatic, and outspoken? As an introvert, it’s easy to believe that being quiet means you’re not leadership material. But the truth is—your quiet nature is a strength, not a weakness.
In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, we’re kicking off the Quiet Girl Leadership Lessons mini-series by breaking down the biggest misconception about leadership and diving into the unique strengths that introverts bring to the table. You’ll learn how to embrace your God-given personality, stop comparing yourself to extroverts, and start leading with confidence—just as you are.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ Why leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room
✅ Biblical examples of quiet yet powerful leaders
✅ The strengths of an introverted leader (deep thinking, listening, influence)
✅ How to shift your mindset and own the way God created you
Challenge for the Week: Write down three ways your quiet nature is a strength and practice speaking up in one situation where you normally wouldn’t.
It’s time to step into the leader God created you to be—without changing who you are!
Know an introvert who needs this encouragement? Share this episode with them! And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2 next week!
Books mentioned: https://amzn.to/3XpCr7g
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Instagram: instagram.com/courthopejones
Are you living with purpose, or just going through the motions? In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, we’re diving into what it truly means to live intentionally as a Christian. We’ll cover the key steps to living an intentional life, including being rooted in your identity in Christ, overcoming the lies that hold you back, and setting priorities that align with God’s purpose for your life.
You’ll also hear about common obstacles that keep us from being intentional—like distractions, fear, and busyness—and practical habits you can implement today to start living with more focus, clarity, and faith.
🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔ What it means to live intentionally as a Christian
✔ Steps to align your daily life with God’s calling
✔ How to overcome fear, distractions, and limiting beliefs
✔ Practical habits to help you live on purpose
Link to my book: https://amzn.to/41h1Uki
📢 If this episode encourages you, be sure to share it with a friend and leave a review!
👉 Follow me on Instagram (@courthopejones) for more faith-based encouragement!
Show notes: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
In this episode, Courtney explores self-control as one of the fruits of the spirit, emphasizing its importance in spiritual growth and personal discipline. The conversation delves into practical steps for developing self-control, the role of community and accountability, and the necessity of cultivating a deeper relationship with God.
Takeaways:
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Instagram: @courthopejones
In this episode of The Trailblazer Talks, Courtney delves into the themes of discipline, self-control, and the struggle between the flesh and the spirit. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of the flesh in our lives and how it can hinder our spiritual growth. Through scriptural references, she highlights the necessity of being spirit-led and the transformative power of fasting and prayer. Additionally, Courtney discusses the importance of building strong roots in faith to cultivate a disciplined and intentional life.
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Instagram: @courthopejones
In this episode, Courtney introduces a series focused on improving discipline and intentionality in life. She emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of our habits and choices, rather than relying on external factors. The conversation explores the biblical foundation of discipline, practical ways to develop it, and the significance of intentionality in fostering self-control.
Key Takeaways:
Website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
Follow on IG: @courthopejones
We are SO back! After the long awaited return of the podcast, today's episode is a full catch up of where I've been. Season 3 unintentionally ended abruptly due to a lot of life changes all at once. In this episode, I talk about everything that's been going on as well as how to hold grief and joy at the same time.
Shownotes and website: thetrailblazertalkspodcast.com
In the last episode of our series on Overconsumption, today I talk about how overstimulation may be ruining our lives. Studies have shown that when we are overstimulated it affects our mental health and our physical health. We spend so much time in front of screens and constantly "entertaining" ourselves that we sometimes don't realize the effect on our health. Today's episode walks through what overstimulation is, how we might be unknowingly overstimulating ourselves, and some tips to help us find more balance with this in our lives.