Hope for Right Now: A Walking with Purpose Podcast

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 

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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.

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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.
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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.

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. 

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.
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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.

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Truth with Handles: How to Stop Worrying about the Future

When you’re navigating life’s challenges, you don’t need truth dumped all over you or shouted at you all at once; you need practical, faith-filled wisdom and Bible verses for everyday struggles. At Walking with Purpose, we call this “truth with handles”—biblical truths you can actually hold onto and provide relief from your pressure points.

Each week during our six-week series, Truth with Handles, Laura shares a new topic with a corresponding Scripture passage, breaking it down into actionable, hope-filled steps to strengthen your faith and bring peace to your daily life.

Today's topic: How to Stop Worrying about the Future. If you join the many women who lie awake at night worrying about a future problem that might never happen, this is the episode for you. You’ll discover what’s at the root of your anxiety and learn three simple things you can start doing today to decrease your worrying and increase your peace.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Matthew 6:34: Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day’s own trouble be sufficient for the day.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
James 4:14: You do not know about tomorrow.
Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things in Him who strengthens me.
Isaiah 43:2: When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and through rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.
2 Corinthians 10:5: We destroy arguments and every proud obstacle to the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
If you are feeling worried, anxious, or afraid, ask yourself, “Where is my focus?”
What specific fears or "what-if" scenarios are you clinging to? Sit in the silence and ask God for the strength to stay in the present, and then thank Him for the grace for the present moment.

Show mentions.
Flourish 2026: Spiritual Motherhood, The Transforming Power of the Feminine Genius, St. Louis, MO, April 17-19, 2026. Early bird registration through September 30.
Saint Padre Pio
Father Jeremiah Myriam Shryock, C.F.R., Let Him Lead: An Invitation to Let Jesus Guide Your Heart & Your Life
Father Mark-Mary Ames CFR, Ascension Presents, “How to Stop Worrying About the Future (and Be in the Here and Now): Building a Disciplined Imagination,” November 13, 2023
St. Therese of Lisieux
Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Praying from the Heart: Guided Prayer Journal

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.

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Truth with Handles: Do You Believe God Can Heal You?

When you’re navigating life’s challenges, you don’t need truth dumped all over you or shouted at you all at once; you need practical, faith-filled wisdom and Bible verses for everyday struggles. At Walking with Purpose, we call this “truth with handles”—biblical truths you can actually hold onto and provide relief from your pressure points.

Each week during our six-week series, Truth with Handles, Laura shares a new topic with a corresponding Scripture passage, breaking it down into actionable, hope-filled steps to strengthen your faith and bring peace to your daily life.

Today's topic: Do You Believe God Can Heal You? Everyone is in need of healing, but how often do we run to the wrong doctors to find relief? If you have been searching for a cure, only to find yourself at the end of your resources, today’s episode is a must listen!

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Mark 5:24-34

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Romans 8:28: We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.
James 5:16: Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for another, that you may be healed.
2 Corinthians 5:7: For we walk by faith, not by sight.
1 Peter 1:7: So that the genuineness of our faith, more precious than gold which though perishable is tested by fire, may redound to praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 9:28-29: “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith let it be done to you.”
Luke 7:50: Your faith has saved you; go in peace.
Mark 10:52: Go your way; your faith has made you well.
Mark 2:5: And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.”
Mark 9:24: I believe; help my unbelief.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Throughout the week, slowly read Mark 5:24-34, focusing on a word or phrase you can sit with. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal: What part of me needs healing? Be honest with God. Invite Him into your heart and pray for an increase of faith. 

Show mentions.
WWP LIVE! with Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Between Heartbreak and Hallelujah, October 23, 2025, St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Charlton, MA. Register now.
Flourish 2026: Spiritual Motherhood, The Transforming Power of the Feminine Genius, St. Louis, MO, April 17-19, 2026. Early bird registration through September 30.
Father John Riccardo, ACTS XXIX
Sister Miriam James Heidland, SOLT
Dr. Bob Schuchts, Ph.D., John Paul II Healing Center
Father Gabriel of St.Mary Magdalene, Divine Intimacy

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.

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Truth with Handles: How to Set Boundaries

When you’re navigating life’s challenges, you don’t need truth dumped all over you or shouted at you all at once; you need practical, faith-filled wisdom and Bible verses for everyday struggles. At Walking with Purpose, we call this “truth with handles”—biblical truths you can actually hold onto and provide relief from your pressure points.

Each week during our six-week series, Truth with Handles, Laura shares a new topic with a corresponding Scripture passage, breaking it down into actionable, hope-filled steps to strengthen your faith and bring peace to your daily life.

Today's topic: How to Set Boundaries. Do you struggle to take ownership of your life? Are you so consumed with everyone else’s issues, that you’ve made their problems your own? As a Christian do you wonder when it is biblically appropriate to set limits? Tune in to hear how Laura is lightening her load and working her way to owning her life through setting boundaries!

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Matthew 5:37: Let what you say be simply “yes” or “no”; anything more than that comes from evil.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Genesis 1:27-28: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and of the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.”
Galatians 6:2: Bear one another’s burdens.
Galatians 6:5: For each man will have to bear his own load.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Ask yourself: What’s in my knapsack? Is it my FAB (feelings, attitudes, behaviors)?

Am I carrying the feelings and problems of others?

Am I doing for someone what they ought to be doing for themselves?

Am I carrying a load that does not belong to me?

Is my help helping, or am I making things worse?

 

Show mentions.
Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend, Boundaries
Flourish 2026: Spiritual Motherhood, The Transforming Power of the Feminine Genius, St. Louis, MO, April 17-19, 2026. Early bird registration through September 30.

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.