Kickstart With Kayla

What if your relationship with God is simpler than you think? In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Chazz May for a conversation about what it actually looks like to have a real relationship with God — not just go through the motions. We talk about learning to hear God’s voice, journaling what He’s saying to you, and what it means to treat God like your best friend instead of something you only turn to at certain times. This episode is a reminder that God isn’t distant — He’s present in the little moments, the conversations, and the everyday parts of your life. If you’ve ever felt like your faith is complicated or hard to maintain, this might change the way you see your relationship with God.

Have you ever felt off in your faith, but couldn’t quite figure out why? In this episode, I share a real, in-the-moment reflection on what it looks like to slowly drift in your relationship with God — and how easy it is to not even realize what’s causing it. From being busy and distracted to recognizing how it was affecting my mindset and daily life, this is an honest conversation about stepping back, refocusing, and coming back to God. Sometimes it’s not one major decision that pulls us away, but the small things we allow to take priority over time. If you’ve been feeling disconnected or not as intentional in your faith lately, this episode is a reminder that God is still there — and it’s never too late to come back.

What does it really mean to understand your faith — not just believe it? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Bryan Rigg, a Yale graduate and Cambridge-trained historian, to talk about the importance of understanding the historical and foundational context behind what we believe as Christians. We discuss how different interpretations of Christianity have developed over time, why many people don’t go beyond surface-level understanding, and how learning more about the background of our faith can actually strengthen it. This is a thoughtful conversation about growth, curiosity, and taking your faith seriously by going deeper — not just accepting it but truly understanding it. If you’ve ever wanted to grow in your faith and develop a stronger foundation in what you believe, this episode is for you.

Why do negative thoughts feel so powerful — and why do they sometimes come out of nowhere? In this episode, I share a realization that completely changed the way I view my thoughts, emotions, and daily mindset. From stress during a busy week to an unexpected emotional slump, I walk through what I experienced in real time and the shift that changed everything. We talk about the power of your thoughts, how what you say about yourself shapes your reality, and why you may be giving away more control than you realize. This is a faith-centered conversation about authority, mindset, and learning how to take control of your thoughts instead of letting them control you. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck in negative thinking, or unsure why your mood suddenly shifts, this episode might give you a completely new perspective.

Why do you feel stuck — even when you’re trying to do everything right? In this episode, I’m joined by David Prosper, also known as “The Clarity Guy,” to talk about confusion vs conviction and why so many people feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of their next step. We break down how to tell whether your thoughts are coming from your own desires or from God, why overthinking keeps you in cycles of confusion, and how chasing the outcome can actually delay your progress. But what stood out most in this conversation is one simple shift — something most people overlook — that can completely change how you think, feel, and move forward. If you’ve been second-guessing yourself or feeling stuck lately, this episode will help you slow down, refocus, and take your next step with clarity.

Easter is something many of us have heard about our entire lives — but what if there’s so much more to the story than we realize? In this episode, I take a deeper look at the resurrection of Jesus and everything that led up to it. We often summarize Easter in a few simple sentences, but when you truly understand what Jesus endured and why He chose to go through it, it completely changes your perspective. This is a reflective, faith-centered conversation about sacrifice, love, and what it really means to be saved. We also walk through the events of Holy Week and why each moment matters more than we often recognize. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from the meaning of Easter or want a deeper understanding of what it represents, this episode is an invitation to see it in a new way.

Sometimes feeling lost has less to do with not having a purpose — and more to do with not knowing how to hear God’s voice. In this episode, I reflect on identity, purpose, and the story of Samuel in 1 Samuel 3 to talk about what happens when God is calling us, but we don’t recognize His voice yet. We explore why so many people feel disconnected, confused, or spiritually stuck, and how easy it is to run to the wrong people or the wrong places for answers. This is a faith-centered conversation about learning to listen, being redirected, and understanding that your identity is not found in the world, your environment, or the lies you’ve believed about yourself. It’s found in Christ. If you’ve been questioning your purpose, feeling distant from God, or wondering why you still feel lost, this episode is a reminder that maybe you’re not forgotten — maybe God is calling your name, and it’s time to listen.

What happens when one of the scariest moments of your life turns into a moment that changes your faith forever? In this episode, my sister joins me for a very honest conversation about a recent experience that landed her in the hospital and completely shifted her perspective on life, anxiety, and her relationship with God. What felt terrifying in the moment ultimately became a reminder of the peace that only God can provide. We talk about toxic relationships, hard seasons, spiritual attacks, and how sometimes the moments that feel like the end are actually the beginning of something new. Through personal stories and reflection, this conversation explores how God can use even the most difficult situations to draw us closer to Him. If you’re going through a difficult season or wondering how God can bring purpose out of pain, this episode is a reminder that He is still working — even in the middle of the storm.

What do you do when you’re in the middle of a storm and the ending isn’t in sight yet? In this episode, I reflect on a powerful passage from 1 Peter and what it teaches about anxiety, suffering, humility, and trusting God during difficult seasons. We talk about the reality that struggles are part of life, the importance of casting our anxieties onto God, and why vulnerability and community can actually become sources of strength. I also share personal reflections on what it looks like to walk through hardship before clarity arrives, and why many of the most meaningful transformations happen during seasons we never would have chosen. Using the story of Jesus walking on water and other powerful biblical insights, this episode is a reminder that storms don’t last forever — and that restoration, support, strength, and purpose often come on the other side of the struggle. If you’re currently in the middle of a difficult season, this conversation is meant to encourage you to keep going.

You say you don’t have time — but where is your time actually going? In this episode, I reflect on timelines, priorities, and the subtle ways we give our energy to distractions while wondering why our faith feels stagnant. From doomscrolling and busyness to feeling “behind” professionally or spiritually, we unpack how easily our priorities drift toward what’s urgent instead of what’s eternal. Using the story of Mary and Martha, the analogy of walking in circles, and even real-life data about the impact of reading your Bible just four times a week, this conversation challenges you to evaluate what you’re dedicating your twenty-four hours to — and whether those priorities are shaping peace or stress. This is a faith-centered, convicting but hopeful reminder that God works outside of time, and when we surrender our timeline to Him, clarity replaces chaos. If you’ve been feeling behind, distracted, or spiritually stuck, this episode might be the reset you didn’t know you needed.

Dark seasons have a way of making us question everything — our circumstances, our worth, and often, God’s plan. In this episode, I share a deeply personal reflection on difficult seasons, the universal question of “Why is this happening to me?”, and how perspective shifts when we begin to see valleys not as punishment, but as preparation. I talk about mental exhaustion, gratitude reframing, and why some of our hardest moments quietly shape who we become. This is a faith-centered, hope-driven conversation about pain with purpose, temporary suffering, and the difference between happiness and joy. We explore why darkness often makes the light more visible, how growth is rarely comfortable, and how Jesus meets us in seasons we never would have chosen. If you’re walking through a difficult season, feeling discouraged, or wrestling with unanswered questions, this episode is a reminder that what feels like breaking may actually be shaping.

Why do we insist on carrying everything ourselves — our stress, our plans, our fears — even when it leaves us completely exhausted? In this episode, I reflect on a powerful theme from the Book of Judges and how it mirrors the way we often try to rule over our own lives. We talk about control, stress, overthinking, and why what feels “right in our own eyes” doesn’t always lead to peace. I share personal insights on being a planner, the mental weight of trying to manage everything, and how surrendering control to God can shift both perspective and emotional wellbeing. This episode also explores faith as an anchor — not as pressure, but as relief. We discuss the importance of daily spiritual nourishment, the connection between belief and resilience, and a practical framework for prayer that helps deepen your relationship with God. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, mentally drained, or stuck in cycles of stress and overcontrol, this conversation is a reminder that you were never meant to carry everything alone.

We’re all searching for more — more purpose, more clarity, more fulfillment. But what if the reason nothing feels like enough is because we’re looking in the wrong place? In this episode, I reflect on the subtle ways we search for fulfillment — through achievement, validation, productivity, or “what’s next” — and how easily those things leave us feeling empty. I share personal realizations about chasing the next step instead of becoming who God is calling me to be, and why where we seek wisdom matters more than we realize. We talk about the difference between temporary satisfaction and lasting fulfillment, worldly wisdom versus kingdom wisdom, and how Jesus offers something deeper than what the world can provide. This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and ask yourself where you’re really turning when you’re searching for more. If you’ve been feeling restless, unsatisfied, or stuck in a cycle of always wanting the next thing, this conversation is a gentle reminder that true fulfillment isn’t found — it’s received.

Sometimes God’s direction isn’t loud — it’s a quiet nudge we’d rather ignore because staying comfortable feels easier. In this episode, I share a simple, everyday story that turned into a powerful reminder about obedience, trust, and stepping out of stagnation. We talk about how God often calls us toward growth in ways that feel uncomfortable, why comfort can keep us stuck, and how obedience opens the door to learning, abundance, and deeper faith. I also explore the neuroscience behind fear and discomfort, explaining why the unknown feels threatening to our brain — and how reframing these moments as learning opportunities can help us move forward with confidence and trust. Through Scripture, personal reflection, and practical insight, this episode encourages listeners to recognize God’s voice, ask for wisdom, and take steps of faith even when the outcome isn’t clear. If you’ve been feeling a pull toward something new but find yourself hesitating, this episode is a reminder that faith isn’t about staying comfortable — it’s about trusting God enough to step forward.

This episode is a warm, honest conversation about what it really looks like to walk with God — not perfectly, but faithfully. I’m joined by my friend Becca Hooper for a conversation about faith, the Holy Spirit, shame, prayer, and learning to distinguish God’s voice from the enemy’s lies. We talk about the freedom that comes from being honest with God, the importance of creating intentional space to hear Him, and why faith was never meant to be a formula or performance. This conversation reflects on mentorship, spiritual disciplines, journaling, prayer, and the peace that comes from trusting God with both our mistakes and our future. We also talk about transitions, uncertainty, and what it looks like to walk into new seasons with open hands and trust. If you’ve ever felt pressure to “get faith right,” struggled with guilt or shame, or wanted a more personal relationship with God, this episode is an encouraging reminder that Jesus meets us exactly where we are.

This episode is about bringing light into a difficult topic — with faith, compassion, and hope at the center. I’m joined by Meg Williams, Director of Community Outreach at AbolitionNC, for a conversation about human trafficking that is grounded in awareness, prevention, and the belief that light is stronger than darkness. While the topic is heavy, this episode is not meant to overwhelm or scare — it’s meant to inform, encourage, and empower. We talk about common misconceptions around trafficking, how prevention begins with awareness and community, and how faith plays a central role in bringing healing and hope to survivors. Meg also shares how Jesus meets people in their deepest pain and how compassion, presence, and obedience guide this work. This conversation is a reminder that we are not powerless, that faith calls us to both awareness and action, and that even in broken spaces, hope is real and present. If you want to learn, grow, and reflect — without fear — this episode is for you.

Sometimes the most meaningful impact doesn’t come from having the right words — it comes from simply showing up. In this episode, I sit down with my friend Virgo to talk about mentorship, presence, and the quiet power of being someone who listens. We share stories from youth ministry, moments of being seen at the right time, and the people who shaped our faith not through authority, but through empathy and consistency. We talk about why mentorship isn’t about fixing others, how creating safe spaces can change someone’s life, and why feeling heard matters more than having all the answers. This conversation is a reminder that influence often comes from small, faithful moments — not big platforms or perfect advice. If you’ve ever felt unseen, or wondered whether the way you show up really matters, this episode will remind you that presence is powerful — and that one person can make all the difference.

As a new year begins, many of us feel pressure to set big goals, make resolutions, and completely reinvent ourselves — often without slowing down to ask what we actually need. In this episode, my dad and I talk about a healthier way to approach growth. We discuss the idea of choosing a single word to guide your year, the importance of margin, and how self-awareness can help you grow without burning yourself out. We also reflect on faith, discipline, distraction, and what it looks like to pursue long-term growth instead of chasing short-term pressure. We talk about identity, purpose, modern distractions like social media and AI, and why what you consume has a greater influence on your life than you may realize. This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and think intentionally about who you’re becoming — not just what you want to accomplish. If you’re entering this year feeling motivated but also overwhelmed, this conversation will help you reset your focus and approach growth with clarity, grace, and sustainability.

This episode is a heartfelt and honest conversation about faith, time, and the quiet urgency of the life we’ve been given. I talk about what it means to live with intention, to stop putting off your relationship with God, and to recognize that tomorrow isn’t something we’re promised. Through personal reflection, Scripture, and moments of vulnerability, I share why faith isn’t meant to be something we “get to later,” but something that shapes how we live right now. This episode isn’t about fear or guilt — it’s about love, purpose, and the invitation God extends to each of us to walk with Him daily. It’s about choosing faith over distraction, presence over postponement, and meaning over comfort. If you’ve ever felt a pull toward something deeper, or sensed that God might be calling you closer, this conversation is for you.

Why do other people’s opinions affect us so deeply — even when we know they shouldn’t? In this episode, we talk about fear of judgment, people-pleasing, and the quiet pressure to conform — especially in seasons of change, growth, and calling. I share personal experiences with seeking approval, navigating new environments, and wrestling with the fear of what others might think. We unpack how fear works biologically in the brain, why negative opinions trigger a stress response, and how that fear can slowly shape our decisions, confidence, and identity. Through Scripture and real-life examples, we explore the difference between living for human approval and living with trust rooted in God. This episode is a reminder that fear is not from the Lord, peace is. That identity is not built on opinions, but on truth. And that when God places something on your heart, no amount of criticism can take that calling away. If you’ve ever felt held back by what others might say, think, or assume about you — this conversation is for you.

This week, I’m joined by a very special guest — my dad, Bill Fahrner. In this episode, we sit down for an honest conversation about faith, work, purpose, and what it looks like to follow God over the long haul — not just in emotional highs, but in everyday life. My dad shares his testimony, how his faith evolved from something transactional into a real relationship with God, and the moments that shaped his spiritual walk over the years. We talk about navigating seasons of uncertainty, learning how to integrate faith into your work, and why “work is worship” when you live with intention. We also discuss burnout, balance, leadership, and the importance of creating margin — especially in busy seasons of life. This episode is about consistency over intensity, steady faith over emotional highs, and learning how to walk with God in a way that’s sustainable, honest, and rooted in grace. Whether you’re in college, early in your career, or simply feeling stretched thin, I hope this conversation encourages you to slow down, reflect, and remember that faith is built one day at a time.

Before you set a goal, listen to this. As we step into a new year and start thinking about who we want to become, it’s easy to get caught up in planning, dreaming, and creating big visions for our lives. But before we write the list, make the vision board, or announce our intentions to the world, we have to pause and look inward. In this episode, we talk about the heart behind goal-setting — the difference between desire and discipline, why ambition is a gift when it’s rooted in the right things, and how quickly our dreams can become idols if we’re not paying attention. We also talk about intention, identity, and the invitation God gives us to dream boldly with Him, not apart from Him. I dive into the neuroscience of motivation and why your brain loves the excitement of new goals but struggles with the follow-through. And through Scripture and personal reflection, we explore the truth that while we plan our way, it’s ultimately God who establishes the steps. If you’re entering 2026 feeling excited, overwhelmed, hopeful, or uncertain — this conversation will help you slow down, reset your focus, and build goals that honor God, challenge you, and align with who you’re becoming. May this episode be your reminder that your dreams matter, your discipline matters, your identity in Christ matters… and you don’t have to have the whole plan to take the next right step.

This week’s episode is a conversation about faith, fear, miracles, and the way God redirects our lives when we least expect it. My aunt, Angela Halloran-Smith, shares her testimony — from drifting far from God, to ignoring His whispers, to the moment everything changed. This is an episode about trusting God without having the answers, stepping into the unknown, and saying yes when He calls you into something bigger than yourself. If you’ve been praying for direction, this conversation is for you.

In this week’s episode, I open up about distractions, stress, and what it feels like to drift from God without even realizing it. After a long, overwhelming week of exams and responsibilities, I found myself struggling to focus, praying for direction, and feeling mentally and spiritually drained. So instead of forcing a topic, I talk honestly about the reality of distraction — how it creeps in, why it feels so fulfilling in the moment, and how easily the world can pull us away from what actually sustains us. We dig into why certain habits, temptations, and “fun paths” look appealing at first but leave us empty, and how God patiently waits for us to turn around and come home. I share the story of the Prodigal Son, the idea of “worldly agonists” that mimic fulfillment, and the importance of recognizing when we’re living a double life or trying to fill spiritual gaps with temporary fixes. Most importantly, this episode is about remembering that you are never too far gone. No matter how long you’ve been distracted or how deep you’ve wandered, God is still near, still listening, and still ready to welcome you with open arms. Whether you feel burnt out, guilty, overwhelmed, or spiritually distant, this conversation reminds you that coming home starts with just one step — one honest cry for help.

In this episode, I talk about what it really means to choose compassion over comfort. I reference a viral TikTok experiment where a woman pretended to need baby formula to see if religious organizations would step in to help. The responses revealed something important: it’s easy to say we love like Jesus, but much harder to choose compassion when it costs us something. We dig into why comfort often keeps us from obedience, how generosity reflects the heart of God, and why faith can’t just be something we talk about—it has to be something we live. Jesus didn’t choose the easy response. He chose the compassionate one, every time. This episode is a reminder that growing in faith means growing your garden—and gardens aren’t meant to be kept for ourselves. They’re meant to feed others. If you’ve been feeling challenged to love more deeply, notice the needs around you, or let your faith move beyond words, this conversation will encourage and stretch you.

What happens when believers stay quiet about their faith? In this episode, Kevin joins me to talk about what it means to live boldly for God in a world that often encourages silence. We open up about the fears, doubts, and distractions that can keep Christians from sharing their faith—and how choosing faith over fear leads to peace, not pressure. Kevin shares his story of rededicating his life to Christ, learning to live out his faith authentically, and using social media as a way to plant seeds of truth. Together, we talk about how to love people who don’t share your beliefs, how to balance humility with boldness, and why our words and actions matter more than we realize. If you’ve ever hesitated to talk about your faith, this conversation is a reminder that obedience isn’t about perfection—it’s about participation. God doesn’t need your eloquence; He just asks for your willingness to speak when He calls.

Motivation is temporary, but transformation begins when both the mind and spirit are renewed. In this episode, I examine motivation through both a biblical and psychological lens, exploring how faith and science work together to sustain lasting discipline. Drawing from Romans 12 and Matthew 4, I discuss how God calls us to renewal through His Word and how spiritual consistency can reshape our daily lives. Using insights from Atomic Habits by James Clear, The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz, and principles of operant conditioning, I explain how identity-based habits and small, consistent actions can build long-term growth. This episode encourages listeners to look beyond fleeting inspiration and to develop habits that reflect both mental renewal and spiritual obedience.

This week, I’m talking about something real: what happens when the place that’s supposed to feel safe doesn’t. In this episode, I open up about the reality of being hurt or misunderstood within the church and how easy it can be to confuse people’s actions with God’s heart. I share what I’ve learned about grace, hypocrisy, and forgiveness, and how to keep your faith steady when people in the church get it wrong. This is not about calling anyone out. It is about calling us back to love, to understanding, and to the reminder that the church is full of imperfect people trying to serve a perfect God. If you have ever felt disappointed by the church or struggled to separate people from God, this episode is for you. He never fails, even when we do.

When was the last time you slowed down enough to truly listen to God? In this solo episode, I talk about a season of stress, waiting, and learning the value of stillness. From the pressure of business school applications to moments of burnout, I share how sitting in silence and stepping away from distractions became one of the most transformative parts of my faith. This episode explores what happens when we stop trying to control every outcome and simply rest in God’s presence. I reflect on how Scripture shows Jesus retreating to quiet places to be alone with the Father, and how we can do the same in our own lives. Sit in Silence is a reminder that God is always speaking. Sometimes, we just have to be quiet enough to hear Him.

Ever felt like you don’t fit in? Like no matter how hard you try, you’re still on the outside looking in? This week, I sit down with 13-year-old author London Day, who shares her story of turning exclusion into purpose through faith. We talk about what it really means to find your identity in Christ, why including others matters so much, and how perseverance, worship, and creativity can pull you through lonely seasons. From writing and running to finding peace through worship, London’s story reminds us that belonging doesn’t come from people—it comes from God. If you’ve ever questioned your place, your purpose, or your worth, this episode will remind you of one simple truth: you already belong.

When was the last time you stopped and realized that God is still working—right in front of you? This week, I’m joined by my friend Alyse for a conversation about faith, friendship, and the miracles we often overlook. Alyse shares how she’s seen God move in her life through healing, prayer, and everyday moments that most of us would miss. From being cleared to drive after epilepsy to witnessing her friend’s recovery from a car accident, her story is proof that God’s power is still alive and active. We talk about how easy it is to get distracted by the world and forget that the same God who performed miracles in Scripture is still performing them now. This episode is a reminder to open your eyes—because if you’re not paying attention, you’re missing miracles.

What do you do when life takes you to the lowest point you’ve ever been? In this episode, I sit down with my friend Julieanne Huemmer, who I first connected with through church, to talk about finding God’s strength when everything feels like it’s falling apart. Julieanne shares her testimony of walking through some of the hardest seasons of her life and how God met her in the middle of them. From her battle with leukemia as a child to navigating the challenges of high school today, her story is a reminder that even when you hit rock bottom, God is still working—and He never wastes your pain. Together we talk about spiritual growth, learning to live like Jesus instead of for the world, and why the worst situations often hold the deepest opportunities for strength and faith. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like there’s no way forward, this episode is your reminder: rock bottom isn’t the end—it’s where you meet the Rock.

This week, I’m joined by my friend Josh for a conversation about limits, control, and the freedom that comes when we finally admit—we’re not God. Josh opens up about his faith journey and how God’s grace shifted his perspective on life, and together we dig into what it looks like to trust God in seasons of uncertainty, self-doubt, and transition. We talk about the pressure to have it all figured out, why self-empowerment isn’t enough, and how stories like the Tower of Babel and King Jehoshaphat’s unlikely victory point us back to God’s power instead of our own. If you’ve ever felt like you have to do everything on your own, this episode is a reminder that your limits aren’t a weakness—they’re an invitation to lean on the One who is limitless.

This week’s episode is extra special because I’m joined by my best friend, Leah Godwin. We’ve been through so many seasons of life together—from co-hosting a podcast in high school to walking side-by-side in our faith journeys—and this conversation felt like coming full circle. Leah opens up about her testimony, sharing honestly about anxiety, people-pleasing, and learning to trust God’s plan even when others don’t understand. We talk about what it’s like to leave and return to church, the friendships that shaped us in youth group, and the importance of being kind and authentic representatives of Christ. Together we dive into practical ways to stay grounded in Scripture—whether it’s finding calm in Psalms, wisdom in Proverbs, or clarity through resources like The Bible Project. We also share how prayer has helped us step into confidence instead of fear, and why the Bible still speaks truth into every part of modern life. If you’ve ever wrestled with anxiety, struggled to stay consistent in your faith, or just needed a reminder that God’s Word still brings peace, this episode will encourage you to keep going.

Discipline is one of the hardest things to hold onto in a world filled with constant noise and distraction. We know what our values are, yet so often the pull of peer pressure, quick gratification, or fear keeps us from living them out. In this episode, I reflect on what it truly means to practice discipline as a student, a Christian, and simply as someone navigating everyday life. I share my own experiences of stepping into new environments where faith and values are not always the norm, and how that tension has challenged me to be intentional about the choices I make. Along the way, we explore both Scripture and psychology: from Paul’s letters on remaining steadfast, to studies like Solomon Asch’s conformity experiment and the Stanford marshmallow test. Together, they reveal why discipline matters—not just for success in the future, but for living with integrity and purpose right now. This episode is a call to stay grounded when the world around you pulls in every direction. If you have ever felt caught between who you want to be and the pressures around you, this conversation offers perspective, encouragement, and a reminder that lasting fulfillment comes from staying aligned with what truly matters.

Stress isn’t just about being busy or overwhelmed — it messes with your thoughts, your body, and even the way you see yourself. In this episode, I’m joined by my sister Lainey for a real conversation about what anxiety actually feels like and how it shows up in everyday life. From AP exams and panic before big moments to those random waves of fear that hit out of nowhere, we share our own experiences of what it’s like when stress takes over. But we don’t stop there. We break down what’s really happening in the brain when anxiety shows up, why gratitude can literally calm your nervous system, and how prayer shifts your focus in ways science can actually back up. Lainey opens up about the tools that help her — from leaning on scripture to something as simple (and surprisingly effective) as chewing sour candy. If you’ve ever felt like your thoughts are working against you, this episode will remind you that anxiety doesn’t get the final say. With faith, science, and a little perspective, you can flip the anxious mind game and take your peace back.

Friendships can be the greatest blessing—or the quietest downfall. Some friends sharpen you, calling out your potential and pushing you closer to who you’re meant to be. Others slowly shatter your character through gossip, pressure, or drama you never saw coming. In this episode, I share stories from my own life, the prayers that changed my friendships, and the science behind why your circle literally rewires your brain. With both scripture and neuroscience, we’ll uncover why the people you walk with determine the person you become—and how to choose wisely before it’s too late.

What you take in shapes who you become, often without you noticing. In this episode, I am diving into the unseen power of what you watch, read, and listen to, from your morning playlist to the endless scroll on your phone. Discover how lyrics, media, and even background noise can rewire your brain, shift your mood, and subtly pull you closer to — or further from — the person you want to be. With personal stories, Scripture, and a surprising self-experiment, I will show you how to guard your heart, mind, and spirit in a noisy world.

This one’s for the people who feel like they’re never enough — no matter how hard they try. In this episode, I’m sharing what it’s like to live with that inner voice that criticizes everything from how you look to how you perform, and how it’s often louder than anything anyone else could say. I talk about where my insecurity started, why our brains are wired to be self-critical, and how faith helped me begin to see myself differently. I open up about the moments that shaped my confidence (good and bad), and what finally helped me step out of the cycle of self-judgment. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt like your worst enemy was staring back at you, I hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone — and that healing starts with seeing yourself the way God already does.

Sometimes the thing you prayed for falls apart, and it’s not because you failed. It’s because God had something better in mind. In this episode, I share a personal story I’ve never talked about online and what it taught me about rejection, redirection, and trust. We talk about Romans 8:28, how to build a growth mindset, and the neuroscience behind why your brain actually gets stronger through hard things. I also share the story of Paul’s shipwreck in Acts and how what looked like a disaster was actually a setup. If you’re in the middle of something hard, this one is for you.

I didn’t feel qualified. I didn’t feel ready. But God called me anyway—and this podcast was born out of a yes that scared me more than anything else. In this first episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of how Kickstart with Kayla came to be—from a forgotten journal entry to the prayer that wouldn’t leave me alone. We’ll talk about what it means to take a leap of faith, how God equips the called (not the qualified), and how your purpose can literally rewire your brain. If you've ever wondered if you're enough, if God sees you, or if you're capable of stepping into something bigger than yourself… this episode is for you. Let’s talk purpose, neuroscience, and the power of saying yes—before you feel ready.     Some neuroscience and psychology insights in this episode were inspired by research on how purpose affects the brain, mental health, and long-term resilience. Sources include: Bishop, R. (2023, March 15). Does purpose play a positive role in mental health? Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/purpose-and-mental-health Joshua M. Evans. (2025, April 8). The Neuroscience Behind Finding Purpose - Joshua M. Evans. Joshua M. Evans. https://joshuamevans.com/the-neuroscience-behind-finding-purpose/ Kang, Y., Strecher, V., Kim, E., & Falk, E. (n.d.). Purpose in Life and Conflict-Related Neural Responses During Health Decision-Making. Retrieved July 20, 2025, from https://www.asc.upenn.edu/sites/default/files/2021-03/Purpose%20in%20life%20and%20conflict-related%20neural%20responses%20during%20health%20decision-making.pdf Mount Sinai Medical Center. (2015, March 6). Have a sense of purpose in life? It may protect your heart. Science Daily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150306132538.htm Strong Sense of Purpose in Life Promotes Cognitive Resilience Among Middle-Aged Adults - Neuroscience News. (2023, April 19). Neuroscience News. https://neurosciencenews.com/purposes-life-cognition-23056/ Zaraska, M. (2024, October 1). Why Finding Your Purpose Could Be Crucial to Brain Health. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20241001/why-finding-your-purpose-could-be-crucial-brain-health   Let's connect! Instagram and Tiktok: @kickstartwithkayla Email me at [email protected]