Breakthrough lives on the other side of bravery.
After working with hundreds of clients and walking through my own emotional health journey, I’ve learned that it’s the small, brave steps that lead to the life you truly desire.
Join me, Ella, as I explore what it means to live a courageous life. Each episode is designed to inspire you to take your next brave step—whether it’s in relationships, the workplace, creat ...
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In this episode, I unpack a quote I stumbled across: “What is yours will find you.” It hit me in a tender, grounding way—like a deep breath I didn’t know I needed. It brought up some honest questions about control, striving, and self-preservation. Am I holding on too tightly? Trying to force things in my own strength? This quote offered me a kind of assurance—that maybe I can trust the timing of my life, that there are good things with my name on them. But it also brought up a tension: Do we just sit back and wait for life to happen? Or do we chase down our dreams, fight for opportunities, and knock on doors until they open? How do we know when to rest, and when to rise up? I also explore how true opportunities can’t really find us when we’re masked up in people-pleasing or performing for acceptance. The real you—the one under the roles and expectations—is the one meant to be found. Also, small disclaimer: I have no idea who originally said this quote! If you do, please send me a message—I love giving credit where it’s due. Follow me on Instagram: @ella.hooper__ Book a 1:1 Coaching Session: www.ella-hooper.com/life-coaching
In this episode of The Next Brave Thing, I talk with Chris Cruz—creative director and former pastor—about identity, reinvention, and the courage it takes to start over. Chris shares his journey of leaving ministry to pursue his creative passions, the challenges of navigating societal pressures, and the healing that comes with embracing authenticity. We explore the tension between art and commerce, the power of self-expression, and the hidden growth that shapes our most meaningful transitions. Chris Cruz is an author, creative director, and former pastor known for his passion for spiritual formation and creativity. After 15 years in ministry at Bethel Church, he now works with Harbor + Union, a creative agency. He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife, Lana, and their three kids. Follow Chris Cruz on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscruz/
This week, I had to let go of something—doubt. Not because I didn’t know the answer, but because I didn’t like the one I knew deep down was true. That tension pulled me into the tender terrain of surrender—a word we throw around often but rarely sit with long enough to understand. Surrender isn’t weakness. It’s not giving up or caving in. It’s arriving at a moment in your soul, in your body, where you stop striving and start trusting. For me, surrender feels weighty and tender. It’s not something I can force. It only comes after the obsessive overthinking, the looping, the internal wrestling. In this episode, I unpack what surrender has looked like for me lately—why it’s so hard to reach, how our subconscious blocks and early stories keep us holding on tight, and why letting go is actually an act of deep care, not defeat. I share how I’ve been growing my trust muscle with God, slowly learning that if I’m not ready to surrender, there’s probably a really good reason. That resistance isn’t failure—it’s a signpost. Letting go isn’t the end. It’s a sacred act of renewal. Just like autumn doesn’t fight winter, I don’t want to fight the shedding either. Nature makes room for new growth, and so will I. Follow me on Instagram: @ella.hooper__ Book a 1:1 Coaching Session: www.ella-hooper.com/life-coaching
Are you waiting for something? Many of us can relate to the in-between season—the space where what we’re hoping for hasn’t arrived yet, while everything else seems to be falling apart, crumbling, or being pulled away. But this in-between isn’t a punishment; it’s a refinement. You are being shaped, molded, and prepared. Your subconscious is recalibrating because the life you’re stepping into requires a greater capacity than the one you’ve been living in. Right now, your job isn’t to force, fear, or grasp for control—it’s to stay the course. To surrender. To trust. Something truly incredible is unfolding for you in this season. You’re releasing the need for external validation and stepping fully into who you are meant to be. Connect with Me: Instagram: @ella.hooper__ Book a 1:1 Coaching Session: www.ella-hooper.com/life-coaching
In this episode of the Next Brave Thing podcast, I sit down with Katherine Warnock, Vice President of Content for the acclaimed TV series The Chosen. Katherine shares her inspiring journey from high school teacher to Hollywood executive, discussing the success of The Chosen and the crucial role of authenticity in the creative industry. She opens up about overcoming shame and perfectionism, the powerful influence of faith on her career, and the challenges of standing firm in her convictions in a demanding field. In this insightful conversation, Katherine delves into the importance of navigating wisdom in a complex world, emphasizing the need to listen for God's voice and maintain accountability. She reflects on how true favor comes from God, and how obedience and love should take precedence over personal ambition. Katherine also explores the courage required to dream and create alongside God, urging listeners to not take things personally and to allow God to shape their identity along the way. Watch the chosen: https://www.thechosen.tv/en-us Follow Katherine Warnock on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherinewarnock/ Connect with Me: Instagram: @ella.hooper__ Book a 1:1 Coaching Session: www.ella-hooper.com/life-coaching