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 kickstartwithkayla@gmail.com
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