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The Clergy Wellness Podcast

Welcome to the Clergy Wellness Podcast, a podcast that supports you in doing one of the hardest jobs in the world without losing yourself. I am your host, Rev. Nicole Reilley - a United Methodist Pastor with 35 years of experience as a local church pastor and a Certified Coach with The Life Coach School and The International Coaching Federation (PCC). Join me each week as we explore topics that matter to pastors.

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The Clergy Wellness Podcast

Journaling: A Small Practice with Big Payoffs

September 09, 2025 • Rev. Nicole Reilley • Season 4 • Episode 11

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Season 4, Episode 11 - Journaling: A Small Practice with Big Payoffs

Journaling isn’t about keeping a perfect diary—it’s about creating space to listen to yourself, to God, and to what’s unfolding in your ministry. In this episode, Nicole explores the power of journaling for clergy health, resilience, and spiritual growth.

You’ll hear:

📖 What the research says about journaling’s benefits for stress, gratitude, and even immune health
✍️ Different approaches to journaling—from prayer journaling and sermon seedbeds to art journaling and Morning Pages
🗂 Journaling trends, tools, and recommended journals (digital and paper) that fit the rhythms of ministry
⏳ A four-week on-ramp to make journaling a sustainable habit
💡 Reflection prompts designed for pastors who want to process ministry moments and notice God’s presence
🎨 A fun wellness practice: the One-Word Doodle Journal

Journaling doesn’t have to take hours or produce beautiful writing. It just requires showing up with a pen, an open page, and an open heart.

💻 Connect + Resources:
Instagram & Facebook: @nicolereilleycoaching
Bluesky: @RevNicole.bsky.social & @clergycoaching.bsky.social
Substack: @revnicole
Coaching + Social Media Support: NicoleReilley.com
📖 Expanding the Expedition Through Digital Ministry – available on Amazon
📬 Contact: RevReilley@gmail.com