Episode 14: Trust the Whisper: Following God's Call with Kathy Izard
What if the quiet nudge you've been feeling is God inviting you into something more?
In this inspiring episode of The Joy Stories, I sit down with bestselling author, speaker, and retreat leader Kathy Izard for a powerful conversation about purpose, courage, and learning to trust God's voice.
Kathy shares the remarkable story behind her books The Hundred Story Home, Trust the Whisper, and The Last Ordinary Hour, and how one unexpected encounter changed the trajectory of her life. What began as volunteering in a soup kitchen eventually led to the creation of Charlotte's first permanent supportive housing community for people experiencing chronic homelessness.
A simple but powerful question from a formerly homeless man—"Where are the beds?"—became the whisper Kathy could no longer ignore. That whisper led her on a journey she never could have planned, transforming not only the lives of others but her own as well.
Together, we explore what it means to hear God's gentle nudges, overcome fear and self-doubt, trust the unknown, and step into the purpose God has uniquely designed for each of us. We discuss "God dots," divine connections, unexpected callings, and how every chapter of our lives is preparing us for what comes next.
In this episode, you'll discover:
✨ How God often speaks through whispers rather than loud signs
✨ Why fear and self-doubt don't have to stop you from moving forward
✨ The power of "God dots" and divine connections along the journey
✨ Why it's never too late to begin a new chapter
✨ How every season of life is preparing you for what's next
✨ Practical encouragement for discerning and following your own calling
I also share my own whisper story—how a season of surrender, silence, and sabbatical ultimately led to the creation of The Joy Stories podcast, and how God beautifully connected Kathy's story with mine through a series of unexpected "God dots."
If you've ever felt a nudge you couldn't explain...
If you've ever wondered whether God might be inviting you into something more...
If you're standing at a crossroads, sensing a new direction, or longing for more purpose and joy...
This conversation is for you.
Listen closely. Take the next faithful step. And trust the whisper.
Be encourage, have hope, and choose JOY.
Connect with Kathy: https://www.kathyizard.com
Email Jessica: connect@thejoystories.com
Follow The Joy Stories on Instagram @thejoystories
The Joy Stories website: https://www.thejoystories.com
