Can we claim hope and purpose in challenges?
Tina Yeager sits down with the prolific and award-winning author Jane Ann Kirkpatrick, whose passion for historical fiction has led her to write over 40 books about courageous women overcoming personal trials. Together, they explore how we can find purpose in our challenges—whether we're facing the struggles of young motherhood, separation from loved ones, financial hardship, or the deep pain of grief.
Facing Hardship with Purpose
Jane dives deep into why overcoming trials is a recurring theme in her novels—especially her latest, Across the Crying Sands. Drawing on personal experiences and her research on pioneering women, Jane shares how these historical figures managed to build meaningful lives even when resources were slim and options limited. Their secret? Resilience, faith, and finding community, even in the harshest conditions.
Modern Parallels for Today’s Women
Jane’s stories resonate with single moms and young mothers today. The women she writes about faced loneliness, family separation, and the daily uncertainties of frontier life. Jane encourages us to look for “the rungs of the ladder” to climb out of tough places—leaning on faith, building community, and being open to help from others. One standout message: independence is vital, but so is knowing when to reach out for support.
Purpose and vision anchor us through difficulties, and community sustains us when we can’t do it alone.
Turning Challenges into Creativity
Jane shares a memorable reader story—how one woman facing the anxiety of having a deployed spouse chose to create her own support circle. Instead of lingering in worry, she formed a family book club, finding agency and connection. It’s a beautiful reminder that, as Jane says, “when things are tough, don’t complain, create.” She also urges us to make the most of what we have—whether it’s creating economical solutions for our families or choosing to gather at the table for a meal. Small, intentional moments matter.
Grief, Comfort, and Community
Grief is a universal challenge, and Jane addresses it with sensitivity. Drawing from both her novels and years in mental health, she stresses the importance of honoring grief while looking for transformation and comfort. Sometimes, just being present for someone is the greatest gift.
A Quick Tip to Carry Forward
Jane leaves us with a beautiful charge—to trust the power you have to make a difference in someone’s life. Simple gestures—smiles, encouragement, even a kind word—can become defining moments for those around us.
Stay Connected with Jane Ann Kirkpatrick Learn more about Jane’s books and get inspired through her monthly StorySparks newsletter at jkbooks.com. You’ll also find links to order her novels (including Across the Crying Sands) at a discount from Baker Publishing, and see what’s new on her author Facebook and Instagram pages. Drawing from her latest novel, Across the Crying Sands, Jane shares the real-life journey of a young woman on the Oregon frontier who discovered meaning amid adversity by stepping into a groundbreaking role as the region’s first postmistress. Through both historical insights and heartfelt audience stories, Jane and Tina discuss the enduring power of faith, community, resilience, and the importance of seeking support when times get tough.
If you’re searching for hope and wisdom to navigate your own challenges, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation packed with encouragement, practical tips, and timeless truths. Tune in for an episode sure to spark creativity, compassion, and renewed purpose in every season of life.
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To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website: https://tinayeager.com/
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