New Year, New Start Part 1

In this energizing and soul-centered start to 2026, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark kick off a special three-part series: New Year, New Start. This episode focuses on the most essential dimension of personal growth, spiritual formation. Whether you’re brand new to faith or a lifelong Christian ready to go deeper, this conversation offers powerful tools, reflections, and ideas to ground your goals in divine purpose. Latisha and Jen introduce the “SPIES” framework for holistic living—spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional, and social—and dive deep into the S: spirituality. They offer practical guidance on how to explore or strengthen your faith life through prayer, tradition, scripture, and community. In this episode, we talk about: How to create spiritual goals that match your unique starting point Exploring faith for the first time or returning after a long pause The promise of God when you seek Him with a sincere heart Practical ideas for growing spiritually: Mass, Adoration, retreats, pilgrimages Using tools like the Catechism in a Year and Bible in a Year The value of Christian spiritual traditions (Carmelites, Franciscans, Jesuits) Why community matters in your spiritual journey How to approach prayer with patience, grace, and real expectations Anchor Quote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can… Make your spiritual goal achievable so you feel victory—not shame.” – Jen Clark   Reflection: Your spiritual life doesn’t need to be impressive—it just needs to be intentional. Whether you’re lighting a candle for the first time or signing up for your first pilgrimage, God meets you where you are. And He walks with you every step of the way. Resources & Mentions: Framework: SPIES – Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social (Full series continues in future episodes) Apps & Tools: Formed – Catholic digital content platform Hallow – Prayer & meditation app Catechism in a Year and Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:7 – “Seek and you will find.” Psalm 34:4 – “I sought the Lord, and He answered me.” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode blessed you, please leave a review. It helps other women find the space they need to grow, heal, and walk closely with Christ in the year ahead.