Have you ever felt that knot-in-your-stomach moment when staying silent isn’t working, but speaking up feels risky? In this episode, Jeannette gets practical about the conversations that shape our leadership: the ones with opposing opinions, strong emotions, and high stakes. Whether it’s a chronically late volunteer, decisions made without your input, or the quiet bias that sidelines women from opportunities, I’ll show you a better way forward. Jeannette shares the one game-changing shift that improves every difficult conversation.  You’ll learn why this shift is not natural for your brain and why it takes intention.  You’ll learn: How to spot when a conversation turns “difficult” and what to do in the moment The mindset swap that lowers defensiveness and invites collaboration Phrases to start (or shift) a difficult conversation. The road of leadership is paved with difficult conversations. So if you’re ready to speak up and  grow your impact.This episode is for you. Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book Your Leadership Growth Session.

For the first time in decades, men are attending church more than women, and Gen Z women are disengaging the fastest. In this candid, hope-centered episode, Jeannette explores why so many women are stepping back, not from Jesus, but from church cultures that silence their voices, limit their gifts, or feel unsafe and exhausting.    Drawing on new Barna data, Scripture, and real conversations with women, she offers four big reasons behind the trend and practical steps any church can take now: listen deeply, elevate women’s leadership, rebuild belonging for singles and single moms, and prioritize discipleship over mere attendance. This is a gentle challenge and an invitation to build communities where women and men lead shoulder to shoulder.   Barna 2025 Research on Church Attendance   Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book Your Leadership Growth Session.

Picture this: a ten-year-old girl stepping into a new country, a new language, and a future she can’t yet see. Fast-forward— to corporate boardrooms, profitability, and complex change. And through it all? A steady, quiet confidence in God. “Fear not, for I am with you.” (Isaiah 41:10) That’s Kellie Kim’s story and in this conversation with Jeannette, you’ll hear: How to shift your mindset from “I’m not ready yet” to courageous, intentional action. How to write goals, visualize outcomes, and ask for feedback so growth actually happens. The move from “technician with a title” to trusted people leader—and the communication reset that increases impact. Why women must negotiate with holy confidence—and a practical way to start. Honest reflections on leadership in the church—and what’s possible when women’s gifts are fully welcomed. If you’re longing to lead with resilience, trust, and holy ambition then press play and dive into the inspiring conversation with Kellie Kim, a woman who shows us how to believe in God and our dreams!    Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book Your Leadership Growth Session.  

In this Breast Cancer Awareness Month conversation, Jeannette and fellow survivor and leader Courtney Malengo open up about the day everything changed, the “conveyor belt” of cancer treatment, and the resilient, ongoing mindset work of survivorship. From sudden biopsies and surreal parking-garage moments to radiation fatigue and endocrine-therapy side effects they name the grief and the gratitude, often felt in the same breath, and the faith that carried them through. Boundaries, stress, and the high-capacity leader’s temptation to overfunction are all topics they address in this honest conversation. You'll also hear practical tips to support those navigating cancer; what not to say; and why early detection and self-advocacy matter. This honest, hope-filled episode invites every woman to schedule the mammogram, speak up for her health, and receive God’s gift of abundant life, today.   Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Learn more about Courtney Malengo Breast Cancer Research Foundation

We’ve all been told that talent and motivation are the keys to success. But here’s the truth: talent can only take you so far, and motivation comes and goes. The real difference-maker? Commitment. In this episode, Jeannette unpacks The Factor That Matters More Than Talent or Motivation—why commitment is the strongest predictor of success and how it gives you the stamina to keep going when the excitement fades or obstacles show up. She shares her own story of moving from “interested” to “all in,” plus the research that shows why grit and long-term perseverance matter more than raw ability. If you’ve ever started strong but struggled to follow through…if you’ve wondered why some people seem to achieve breakthrough after breakthrough while others stall out…this conversation is for you. By the end, you’ll know: The clear difference between being interested and being committed Why commitment, not talent or motivation, predicts lasting success How to develop commitment rooted in your compelling vision and God-given calling Friend, this episode will challenge you to stop dabbling, stop waiting for motivation, and finally commit to the goals and calling God has placed in front of you. Hit play—you won’t want to miss this one. Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book Your Leadership Growth Session    

What do Doug Wilson’s extreme patriarchal views have to do with the “softer” versions of patriarchy many Christians quietly accept? In this episode, Jeannette digs deep into why both are rooted in the same flawed theology—and why women shouldn’t settle for half-hearted liberation. From CNN’s recent spotlight on Wilson’s church to the subtle complementarian practices that still silence women today, Jeannette exposes how patriarchy thrives on fear and why the gospel offers something far greater: full equality, mutuality, and freedom in Christ. If you’ve ever felt uneasy about women being told they can lead everywhere except in their homes or churches, this conversation will help you name the tension, break free from fear, and embrace the good news that men and women were created to lead side by side. Learn more about Jeannette Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Free Leadership Coaching Session.

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I’m not ready yet”?  Like you need one more degree, another course, or someone else’s approval before you can fully step into your calling? If so, this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, I get real about the hidden ways brilliant women of faith play small, whether it’s hiding behind endless preparation, comparing ourselves to others, or waiting for permission. And I’ll share why your life in Christ, not your résumé, is your greatest qualification. If you’ve been shrinking back, stuck in self-doubt, or quietly wondering if you’ll ever feel ready, lean in. God is calling His daughters to rise, to lead themselves with courage, and to step boldly into the fullness of life and leadership He’s given us. Friend, the world needs your voice. When you rise, lives are touched, communities are changed, and God’s goodness expands. It’s time to stop playing small   Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book Your Leadership Growth Session.

In this episode, Jeannette gets personal about one of the most overlooked but essential leadership practices: silence and solitude. Drawing from her own journey of burnout in the early years of ministry, while also raising kids and carrying the weight of leadership, she shares how contemplative spiritual practices became a lifeline, not just for survival, but for deep soul-level transformation. This isn’t a flashy leadership strategy or a quick productivity tip. It’s the quiet, grounded rhythm that can anchor your identity, renew your connection with God, and sustain your leadership for the long haul. You’ll discover: Why so many leaders resist slowing down—and why you can’t afford to The difference between leading for God and leading with God What a personal silent retreat can look like (and how to start one) How solitude strengthens your clarity, courage, and calling If you’ve been feeling the pressure to perform, produce, or prove your worth, this conversation will remind you: your soul matters. And from a soul that is well, you can lead with peace, purpose, and power.   Learn more about Jeannette Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book Your Leadership Growth Session.

What does sexism in the church actually look like today—and what can we do about it? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Dr. Heather Matthews, a pastor, church planter, educator, and author of Confronting Sexism in the Church: How We Got Here and What We Can Do About It. With over 20 years of ministry experience and a passion for empowering women leaders, Heather brings both lived experience and thoughtful research to this timely topic. We talk about: The subtle and not-so-subtle ways sexism still shows up in churches—even in those that say they affirm women Why affirming theology alone isn’t enough to dismantle the barriers women face How leadership culture, preaching opportunities, the “Billy Graham rule,” and gendered expectations impact women’s growth Practical steps pastors and churches can take to create a healthier, more equitable leadership culture The spiritual practices that have anchored Heather through resistance, criticism, and self-doubt Whether you’re a woman navigating leadership in the church or a pastor who wants to be an ally, this conversation will give you language, insight, and next steps for change. Dr. Heather Matthews currently serves as the Doctor of Ministry Program Manager at Wheaton College Graduate School and is associate pastor of All Saints Anglican Church in Naperville, IL. She holds a D.Min. from Fuller Seminary and has spent her career mentoring and developing leaders in both U.S. and international ministry contexts. You can learn more about her work and find her book through InterVarsity Press or wherever books are sold. Learn more about Dr. Heather Matthews More on Dr. Matthews Book, Confronting Sexism in The Church Connect with Dr. Heather on Facebook Connect with Dr. Heather on Instagram   Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Connect with Jeannette on LinkedIn

We often think of courage as standing on a stage or speaking truth to power but there’s so much more to courageous leadership. In this episode, Jeannette unpacks the three types of courage every Christian woman leader needs; public, relational, and private, and why the least celebrated kind might be the most essential of all. You’ll discover: Why public courage isn’t the only kind that matters How relational courage transforms teams and is essential for lasting impact Why private courage is the foundation for long-term, healthy leadership and how to cultivate it A fresh, Spirit-led framework for growing your courage from the inside out Whether you’re in a season of bold visibility or quiet inner growth, this episode will equip you to lead with boldness, wisdom, and grace. Schedule a FREE Leadership Growth Coaching Call with Jeannette Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Connect with Jeannette on LinkedIn

What if the story you’ve lived—the ordinary, the messy, and everything in between—was the very thing God wants to use to impact others? In this inspiring episode, Jeannette sits down with Danielle Zapchenk, host of The Parable Podcast, to explore how storytelling connects us, grows our empathy, and becomes a powerful leadership tool. Danielle shares her own journey from bossy seventh grader to women’s ministry leader, preacher, and podcaster—highlighting the subtle yet profound ways God calls us into leadership through community and courage. Together, they unpack why your story matters, how to access your life experiences for leadership, and why women’s voices are vital in the church today. Whether you think your story is “too ordinary” or “too messy,” Danielle offers practical wisdom and encouragement to help you find your voice and share your story—for God’s glory and others’ healing. You’ll walk away with renewed confidence that your life is full of parables worth telling. Danielle’s 10 Tips to Be a Better Listener More about Danielle Zapchenk Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Connect with Jeannette on LinkedIn  

Welcome to a bold new chapter. In this kickoff episode of Empowered to Lead (formerly The Empowered Christian Woman), Jeannette shares the powerful story behind the podcast rebrand—and the deeper vision it reflects. This episode isn’t just about a name change. It’s about a movement of Spirit-empowered women rising to lead with clarity, courage, and conviction in spaces that weren’t built for them. Jeannette opens up about her personal journey through church leadership, the weight of spiritual discontent that sparked her transformation, and the awakening that led her to lead differently, not by hustling for approval, but by leading from her God-given identity. If you’ve ever felt the tension of being called to more but unsure how to step into it without burning out or losing yourself… this episode is for you. You’ll also get a simple but powerful leadership reflection framework, the 3 R’s of Spirit-Led Leadership, to help you lead from a place of wholeness, not striving. 👉 As you listen, come back to these three questions: Rooted: Am I leading from my identity in Christ or from a place of striving? Resilient: What rhythms do I need to sustain my soul and my leadership? Relational: Who is walking with me on this journey of leadership? This is your invitation to step into the leadership God designed you for...no permission needed.

So many women, especially women of faith, have been taught to downplay or distrust their desires. We’ve been praised for sacrifice and conditioned to believe that wanting something for ourselves is selfish, prideful, or even unspiritual. But what if your desires aren’t distractions… what if they’re divine invitations? In this episode, Jeannette challenges the common narrative that “wanting” and “faithfulness” are at odds. She explores why answering the question “What do you want?” might be one of the most sacred things you can do and how Jesus Himself asked people that same question. If you’ve been serving everyone else, losing touch with your own heart, or hiding behind “I just want what God wants,” this conversation is for you. It’s time to trust that your desires matter and that God isn’t threatened by them.

What if Jesus' way isn’t just different—but completely opposite from how we’ve learned to lead, respond, and engage with our polarized world? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Jeannette Cochran sits down with Tammy Melchien, a seasoned teaching pastor and upcoming author of Choosing the Opposite, to explore what it means to truly follow Jesus in a divided world. Tammy shares her personal journey from unexpected ministry roles to becoming the leader of a large teaching team in a multi-site church—offering hard-won wisdom for women navigating leadership in spaces where they’re often overlooked. Together, they talk about: How the Sermon on the Mount can reshape our instincts and call us to radical love, truth, and grace. Why peacemaking sometimes means disrupting the status quo to speak up for the powerless. The invisible gender bias in egalitarian churches and what women can do to advocate for themselves. The importance of developing your voice, building intimacy with God, and finding your next step—especially when opportunities aren’t handed to you. How children’s ministry unexpectedly became a sacred training ground for preaching. Tammy’s story is both relatable and inspiring for any woman who feels called to teach, lead, and faithfully follow Jesus—even when the path forward isn’t clear. Pre-order Tammy’s book Choosing the Opposite—available everywhere October 7, 2025—and follow her on Instagram for upcoming giveaways and inspiration.   Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book a free Leadership Growth Session with me.

Are you constantly busy but still feeling behind? Overwhelmed by the weight of your responsibilities and wondering if it’s even possible to find balance? You’re not alone. In this powerful episode, we’re flipping the script on time management. Jeannette shares a vulnerable story from her own leadership journey, exposing the lie of time scarcity and offering a liberating truth: you have enough time to do what God has truly called you to do. You’ll discover: Why traditional time management strategies often fall short How to break free from the mindset that keeps you stuck in survival mode A fresh, faith-rooted approach to stewarding your time with wisdom Practical tools like time tracking, the 4-D’s of task assignment, and mindset shifts that create real margin and clarity If you’re a woman in leadership longing for more peace, purpose, and power in your schedule, this episode is for you. Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram  Book a free Leadership Growth Session with me.

Have you ever felt a nudge to speak up, step out, or pursue something bigger only to be stopped cold by a voice in your head whispering, “Who do you think you are?” In this powerful episode, we’re calling that voice out for what it is: your inner critic. It’s not God. It’s not wisdom. And it’s definitely not the truth. If you’ve ever wrestled with the tension between holy ambition and the fear of being “too much”… if you’ve wondered whether your desire for more is selfish or Spirit-led… this episode is for you. We’ll unpack why the inner critic shows up, how spiritual gaslighting has shaped what many Christian women believe about leadership and desire, and what to do when fear tries to silence your voice. You’ll walk away with truth, clarity, and a fresh sense of courage to step into the calling God has placed on your life even if you feel scared, unqualified, or unsure.   Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram Book a Free Leadership Growth Call

Started the year with big dreams… but now your goals are gathering dust? You’re not alone and you’re not broken. In this episode, we’re unpacking the 5 reasons most people stall out on their goals (and spoiler: it’s not because you lack discipline or motivation). Whether you feel stuck, stretched too thin, or unsure where to focus, this episode will help you: Break free from overwhelm and get crystal clear on what actually matters Build momentum with a simple 12-week strategy Ditch perfectionism and the all-or-nothing mindset Reconnect with your God-given purpose and reignite your “why” It’s time to stop shaming yourself and start making meaningful progress again. Hit play and let’s reset your goals—and your mindset—together. Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram   If you want help mapping out your 12-week goals, building a strategy, or getting clear on what actually matters—I’d love to support you. Book a free Leadership Growth Session with me.It’s a free 45-minute coaching session to help you clarify, reset, and move forward with confidence.

Are you constantly saying things like “I’m just checking in…” or “Sorry, but…” without even thinking about it? These subtle phrases—called speech minimizers—can quietly sabotage your authority and impact. In this episode, we explore the three most common habits that undermine women’s voices: hedging, over-apologizing, and qualifying. You’ll learn why we use them, how gender bias plays a role (yes, we’re talking about the Heidi/Howard study), and how to reframe your words with confidence and clarity. Packed with practical examples and empowering insights, this conversation will help you stop shrinking and start showing up fully in your voice and leadership. Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram   If you’ve been sensing a deeper calling or a new season of growth, you’re not alone. Join Jeannette for a free coaching session to uncover your Leadership Growth Edge — the unique place where your courage meets your calling. This is a safe, sacred space to dream, reflect, and take your next bold step forward. Space is limited so grab your spot today. Click here to schedule your session.

Can you be a Christian and a feminist? For some, the answer is a bold yes. For others, it feels like a contradiction. In this episode, we unpack the history, theology, and misconceptions that surround the word feminism—especially in Christian spaces. From Jesus' radical treatment of women to the faith-fueled activism of early feminists like Sojourner Truth and Catherine Booth, we trace how the call for gender equality has always been gospel work. Whether you've proudly claimed the label or hesitated to use it, this episode invites you to explore what feminism really is (and isn’t), how it's been misunderstood by the Church, and why advocating for the full dignity, equality, and flourishing of women is not just compatible with faith—it’s central to it. About the Host: Jeannette Cochran is a leadership coach, ministry veteran, and passionate advocate for Christian women who are deconstructing harmful gender roles and stepping into their God-given authority. With over 30 years of ministry experience—half of that as an Executive Pastor—Jeannette knows the unique challenges of being a high-capacity woman in spaces that weren’t built with her in mind. After years of striving, self-silencing, and tying her worth to her work, Jeannette did the deep inner work to heal false beliefs, reclaim her voice, and lead with confidence, clarity, and joy. Now she helps other women do the same. Her podcast is a space for women who are ready to break free from limiting narratives, rise with bold authenticity, and lead with holy confidence in every area of life. Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram   If you’ve been sensing a deeper calling or a new season of growth, you’re not alone. Join Jeannette for a free coaching session to uncover your Leadership Growth Edge — the unique place where your courage meets your calling. This is a safe, sacred space to dream, reflect, and take your next bold step forward. And it's FREE! Click here to learn more and schedule your session.

What if everything you’ve believed about failure is wrong? In this episode, Jeannette is busting open four common myths about failure that quietly sabotage our growth, confidence, and calling. If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by the fear of messing up, held back your ideas, or waited for perfect conditions to act, this conversation is for you. You’ll learn why failure isn’t the enemy. It’s often the very path to purpose. We’ll reframe what it means to fail, expose the hidden beliefs that keep us small, and share powerful truths that can set you free to take bold steps forward. It’s time to stop letting failure define you and start letting it develop you. This episode will challenge your perspective, spark your courage, and remind you: You were made to rise, not retreat.   About the Host: Jeannette Cochran is a pastor and leadership coach with two decades of executive level leadership. She helps women fast-track their learning, optimize their gifts and lean into the full expression of the leader God created them to be. ​ Learn more about Jeannette   Connect with Jeannette on Facebook Connect with Jeannette on Instagram