Every person has a story.  Some people have large platforms as speakers, writers or leaders and share their stories so others can be entertained, inspired, or encouraged. But too often, many individuals who may not reach the masses believe their stories are insignificant, inconsequential, and don’t really make a difference.

This is simply not true.  Every person has a story. And their story matters.

But the power in our stories is in our willingness to acknowledge them, own them, and then, when appropriate, share them. Occasionally, I stumble upon a person without a product or a platform who is simply willing to share their story with me, and I’m reminded of the truth and the power embedded in each unique life. I recently met a woman with a powerful story.

In my book She’s Still There, I mention going to a financial advisor’s office and feeling totally overwhelmed and defeated by my family’s financial situation.  It was there, on the fourth floor of this office building, where I had the opportunity to meet and get to know Nicole Denson.

 Before our meeting began, Nicole and I had time to strike up a conversation, and being who I am, I started asking questions. One thing led to another, and eventually, Nicole gave me the privilege of learning more about her story of challenges faced and obstacles overcome. As I listened to her,  I recall being overcome with a sense of pride by Nicole’s decision to stop being the victim in her story and find the strength to believe that what God put inside of her was worth fighting for.

Nicole was an actress and a stand-up comedian in New York City for 10 years and led the “starving artist” lifestyle. While Nicole worked to establish herself, her mother, a faithful Roman Catholic, became ill and passed away. The untimely passing of a devout, faith-filled woman like her mother caused Nicole to wonder for what about the point of prayer and church. She questioned the importance of faith and whether or not it mattered.

In the midst of uncertainty and change, Nicole never had the opportunity to mourn the loss of her mother. Within a short span of time she married,  experienced the tragedy of 9/11, and also became a new mother. In addition to all this, Nicole gave up her own dreams to follow her husband to Texas to support him in following his own. While working a temp job in Texas, she discovered a hidden talent for finance but lost her sense of self in the process. 

In this episode, I talk with Nicole about the steps she took to make room for her passions and her gifts, despite a difficult road. Nicole speaks frankly about how she lost herself and what motivated her to get back to actively living her life. Nicole’s story is a powerful one we can all relate to as women with burdens to bear, and it just might give you some ideas on how you can bring your own dreams back to life.

Highlights from Today’s Episode:

  • Honoring your life passions
  • Feeling God’s presence
  • Taking small steps to reconnect with you

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Let’s Talk!

After you’ve listened to the podcast, I’d love to continue the conversation. Be sure and leave a comment!

  1. What are your true passions in life?
  2. What are the small steps you can take to get back to those passions?
  3. Have you said yes to things when it would have been healthier for you to say no?

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How to Listen to The Podcast

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1. Listen right here on the blog. Click the little play button at the beginning of this post.

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You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!