Hope for Right Now: A Walking with Purpose Podcast

Episode 87: John the Baptist

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, John the Baptist

While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women’s Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series.

Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world’s demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible.

What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God’s will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible.  

Today’s Biblical figure: John The Baptist. If you tend to neglect John the Baptist during Advent, be sure to tune in and discover why he is significant to the gospel, but also to us right now, in these last days before the birth of Christ.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Luke 1:57-66

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Luke 11:28: Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!
Isaiah 40:3–5: A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
Matthew 3:1–3: In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness; prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”
Luke 1:41–44: Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry … For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Using the list of internal/external obstacles provided in our show mentions, allow yourself to be guided by the Spirit. Ask Him to reveal the primary obstacle in your way. 

Show mentions.
Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Seven Priorities That Make Life Work. Sign up for our winter book club that begins January 12, 2026.
Father Chris Alar, Divine Mercy: John the Baptist: His Real Role
Internal obstacles

• Pride and arrogance: Overconfidence in our own ability can lead to a rejection of God's guidance.
• Fear: Fear of failure, humiliation, what others will think, or not being worthy or able to fulfill a calling.
• Doubt and unbelief: The lack of faith that makes trusting in God's plan and power challenging.
• Sin: Unconfessed sin creates a barrier to a close relationship with God.
• Self-sufficiency: The belief that we can get by without divine help.
• Lack of forgiveness: A huge hinderance to your spiritual progress. 

External/circumstantial obstacles

• Worldly distractions and desires: Focusing on material possessions or the cares of this life more than God.
• Distractions and being too busy: A busy schedule can leave little time or energy for spiritual devotion.
• External pressure and societal expectations: The world can be tough, and it may not understand or support your faith. 
• Lack of clarity or understanding: Misinformation, wrong teachings, or a failure to understand God's will can create confusion.
• Listening to others instead of God: Over-reliance on human advice rather than seeking God's direction is a common problem.

Let’s stay connected.
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Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
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Episode 86: Elizabeth

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, Elizabeth

While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women’s Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series.

Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world’s demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible.

What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God’s will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible.  

Today’s Biblical figure: Elizabeth. If you are in a season of painful waiting, allow Elizabeth to help you see your situation as an opportunity to grow in faith and glorify God.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Luke 1:39–45

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
John 9:2–3: And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in Him.”
John 11:32: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
John 11:35: Jesus wept.
John 11:36–37 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”
John 11:40: Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”
Luke 1:15: And he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.
Exodus 31:1–3: The Lord said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God.”
Numbers 11:25: Then the Lord came down in a cloud and spoke to him, and took some of the spirit that was upon him and put it upon the seventy elders; and when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied. But they did so no more.
1 Samuel 10:10: When they came to Gib’e-ah, behold, a band of prophets met him; and the spirit of God came mightily upon him, and he prophesied among them.
Matthew 5:3–12: The Beatitudes

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Hide yourself in the quiet. Ask for the Holy Spirit to flood you and strengthen you in humility and faith. Ask for the help to see your waiting as an opportunity to grow in faith and glorify God.

Show mentions.
Transform hearts with us! Your year-end gift to Walking with Purpose fuels our mission to bring life-changing transformation to Catholic women and girls. You still have time to support our nonprofit apostolate. Donate before Wednesday, December 31.
Father John Riccardo, Christmas homily
Saint Francis de Sales

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

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Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Episode 85: Mary

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, Mary

While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women’s Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series.

Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world’s demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible.

What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the Gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God’s will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible. 

Today’s Biblical figure: Mary. Discover what happens when we learn to stop our human activity and allow the Spirit to move us.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Luke 1:26–38

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Genesis 3:15: I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.
Luke 2:19: But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Spend a few minutes practicing mental prayer using Luke 1:26–38 for your Scripture passage.

Our presenting sponsor is CB Jewelry. Faith is beautiful—and it's your best accessory. CB Jewelry’s stunning and stylish pieces are not your grandma’s jewelry. These pieces are modern, beautiful, and the perfect way to share your faith. Whether you're looking for a meaningful Christmas gift or a new way to express your faith, CB Jewelry has you covered. Use the code Hopefornow, (all one word at checkout) for free shipping and a portion of your purchase will go to Walking with Purpose. Offer ends December 25, 2025! Shop CB Jewelry today at cbjewelryfaith.com.

Show mentions.
The writings of Father Jeremiah Shryock
Saint Teresa of Avila, Five Steps to Mental Prayer:

Preparation—Put yourself into the presence of God.
Selection of material—Pick a setting/story from the Bible and place yourself in it.
Consideration—Use meditation and imagination.
Conversation—This is your heart-to-heart with Jesus. Talk to God.
Conclusion—Is there a takeaway? A resolution? Close with a prayer of gratitude.

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Episode 84: Zechariah

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, Zechariah

While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women’s Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series.

Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world’s demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible.

What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God’s will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible.  

Today’s Biblical figure: Zechariah. Discover how Jesus is so close to us, and that even when we give up on our impossible prayers, we can be assured that God never does. 

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Luke 1:5–20

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Luke 1:35: And the angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.”
Matthew 17:5: He was still speaking, when behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”
Exodus 40:34–35: Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of the meeting, because the cloud abode upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.
Exodus 25:20: The cherubim shall spread out their wings above, overshadowing the mercy seat with their wings.
Daniel 8:16–9:21
Romans 8:24–25: Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we have hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (ESV)

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
What circumstance overwhelms you this time of year? Bring it to God in prayer, especially in the moments after you receive Him in the Eucharist. Do not rush out of Mass. If possible, stay for fifteen minutes in the quiet, thanking God and praying for the impossible.

Show mentions.
Our presenting sponsor is CB Jewelry. Faith is beautiful—and it's your best accessory. CB Jewelry’s stunning and stylish pieces are not your grandma’s jewelry. These pieces are modern, beautiful, and the perfect way to share your faith. Whether you're looking for a meaningful Christmas gift or a new way to express your faith, CB Jewelry has you covered. Use the code Hopefornow, (all one word at checkout) for free shipping and a portion of your purchase will go to Walking with Purpose. Offer ends December 25, 2025! Shop CB Jewelry today at cbjewelryfaith.com.
Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1377
Elizabeth Scalia, The Word on Fire Bible 

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Episode 83: Philippians 4

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Grace and Glory: Philippians 4
Join Lisa and Laura for this final episode of our four-week podcast series—Grace and Glory, based on Saint Paul’s letter to the Philippians. 

Often called The Epistle of Joy, Saint Paul’s letter overflows with rejoicing, gratitude, and encouragement—amazing, when you consider that Paul wrote it from a prison cell. As women seeking joy but who often feel confined by our circumstances, what was Saint Paul’s secret? How do we rejoice in our suffering? How do we remain grateful when our situation is the opposite of what we were hoping for? 

In this final episode of Grace and Glory, Lisa and Laura talk about conflict in ministry, living like Christ, and what it means to be content in all things.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Philippians 4

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Philippians 4:2 

RSVCE: I entreat Eu-o′dia and I entreat Syn′tyche to agree in the Lord.
NIV: to be of the same mind.
NASB: to live in harmony with the Lord.
NLT: settle your disagreement.
GNT: to agree as sisters in the Lord.

Ephesians 3:20–21: Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, to him be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Are you experiencing conflict in a relationship or ministry? How can Saint Paul’s encouragement help you come to a place of peace and harmony?

Saint Paul had the integrity to present himself as an example of the way to follow Christ. He really could say, “Follow me as I follow Jesus.” Can you say this? If not, looking at Philippians 4 verses 8-9, which precepts of morality do you need to work on?

What keeps you from being content in all circumstances? Take all your unmet longings, unfulfilled desires, and unmet dreams and bring them to God.

Show mentions.
New WWP merch in our Christmas shop!
Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Praying From the Heart: Guided Prayer Journal
Partner with us. WWP ways to give.

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Episode 82: Philippians 3

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Grace and Glory: Philippians 3

Join Lisa and Laura for our four-week podcast series—Grace and Glory, based on Saint Paul’s letter to the Philippians. 

Often called The Epistle of Joy, Saint Paul’s letter overflows with rejoicing, gratitude, and encouragement—amazing, when you consider that Paul wrote it from a prison cell. As women seeking joy but who often feel confined by our circumstances, what was Saint Paul’s secret? How do we rejoice in our suffering? How do we remain grateful when our situation is the opposite of what we were hoping for? 

In this third episode of Grace and Glory, Lisa and Laura talk about wasting time, letting go of expectations, and the secret to knowing Christ.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Philippians 3

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Matthew 13:45–46: Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
In what/whom do you look to find yourself? What keeps you from truly knowing Jesus? 

This week, “waste time” with Jesus. Let go of the activity and rest at His feet.

Show mentions.
We've got inspired Christmas gifts for all the special women and girls on your list. Use the code CHRISTMAS20 to get 20% off these beloved devotionals and books, just in time for gift giving. Shop now! Offer ends November 17, 2025, at 11:59 pm ET.
Johnny Brenninkmeyer, “Good Good Father”
Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalene, Divine Intimacy
Dan and Stephanie Burke, Avila Institute
T.J. Jackson Lears, “All history is the history of unintended consequences.”

Let’s stay connected.

Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Episode 81: Philippians 2

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Grace and Glory: Philippians 2

Join Lisa and Laura for our four-week podcast series—Grace and Glory, based on Saint Paul’s letter to the Philippians. 

Often called The Epistle of Joy, Saint Paul’s letter overflows with rejoicing, gratitude, and encouragement—amazing, when you consider that Paul wrote it from a prison cell. As women seeking joy but who often feel confined by our circumstances, what was Saint Paul’s secret? How do we rejoice in our suffering? How do we remain grateful when our situation is the opposite of what we were hoping for? 

In this second episode of Grace and Glory, Lisa and Laura talk about unity, humility, and how to become shining lights in the midst of a dark and broken world. 

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Philippians 2 

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Matthew 23:12: Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
James 4:10: Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.
Proverbs 29:23: A man's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Every day this week, slowly read the second chapter in The Letter to the Philippians. Consider looking up different Bible translations to help you enter more deeply. What verse or word stands out to you? Ask yourself: Do I have absolute confidence in Jesus as Lord? Am I recognizing my need for His heart with a daily commitment to prayer?

Show mentions.
Flourish 2026: Spiritual Motherhood, The Transforming Power of the Feminine Genius, St. Louis, MO, April 17-19, 2026. Register here.
Laura Phelps, “For Your Weekend: Thank God I’m Not Like You”
Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalene, Divine Intimacy
Jonathan Haidt, The Anxious Generation
Tim Mackie, The Bible Project
Father John Riccardo, Acts XXIX
Bishop Sample, quote

Let’s stay connected.

Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

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Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
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Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Episode 80: Philippians 1

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Grace and Glory: Philippians 1

Lisa and Laura are back and launching a brand-new four-week podcast series—Grace and Glory, based on Saint Paul’s letter to the Philippians. 

Often called The Epistle of Joy, Saint Paul’s letter overflows with rejoicing, gratitude, and encouragement—amazing, when you consider that Paul wrote it from a prison cell. As women seeking joy but who often feel confined by our circumstances, what was Saint Paul’s secret? How do we rejoice in our suffering? How do we remain grateful when our situation is the opposite of what we were hoping for? 

In this first episode of Grace and Glory, Lisa and Laura unpack Saint Paul’s message and reveal how the same joy he wrote about can be yours—no matter what life throws your way.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Philippians 1

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Romans 3:23: Since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Luke 19:10: For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.
Hebrews 12:14: Strive for peace with all men, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.
Acts 28:20: For this reason therefore I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.
Colossians 4:3–4: And pray for us also, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison, that I may make it clear, as I ought to speak.
Colossians 4:18: Remember my chains.
Ephesians 6:20: I am an ambassador in chains.
1 Peter 5:10–11: And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, establish, and strengthen you. To him be the dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Luke 7:47: Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven a little, loves a little.
Galatians 2:20: I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I know live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Are you feeling stuck in some way or feeling chained to some hard or painful circumstance in your life? Who is observing you in that situation? What are they learning from the way in which you are responding to your suffering?
Is there someone you are called to preach the gospel to using the indescribable power of unconditional love?
Who are you called to tempt to hope?

Show mentions.
Just in! The first-ever Walking with Purpose Advent devotional, House of Gold: A Journey into Advent by Caitlin Bean and Laura Phelps is in our shop. House of Gold invites you to reflect on five beautiful Marian titles, each revealing the Blessed Mother’s sacred role in drawing us closer to Jesus and making His love known.
St. Thomas Aquinas, quote
Eugene Peterson, The Message
Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch, The Ignatius Catholic Study Bible, Old and New Testament, RSV: Second Catholic Edition
Justin Taylor, TGC Blog, T4G 6: David Platt, “Divine Sovereignty: The Fuel of Death-Defying Missions” (Revelation 5:1-14), April 12, 2012, quoted Romanian Pastor Josef Tson
Peter Kreeft, Wisdom of the Heart 

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.