“If You Are Who You Ought to Be, You Will Light a Fire in All the World” — Ancient Wisdom, Healing & Hope with Jenny Dubay
As the year gently comes to a close and we enter the sacred space of Christmas and reflection, this episode of Girlish Gurus is the perfect invitation to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters.
We are honored to welcome Jenny Dubay—author, speaker, and trauma-informed coach—whose work bridges ancient feminine wisdom with modern-day healing. Jenny writes historical fiction inspired by medieval women mystics, particularly those who lived through chaos, suffering, and spiritual fire… and emerged transformed.
Her latest novel centers on St. Catherine (Caterina) of Siena, a fourteenth-century mystic whose life and words still ignite courage, purpose, and inner authority centuries later. One of Caterina’s most powerful quotes anchors this episode:
“If you are who you ought to be, you will light a fire in all the world.”
As we end the year—and stand on the threshold of a new one—this conversation feels especially meaningful. Christmas invites us into light, hope, and renewal, and Jenny’s work reminds us that even in the darkest times, transformation is possible.
This episode is a beautiful companion for midlife women who are reflecting on the year behind them, healing old wounds, or feeling called to step more fully into who they are becoming.
In This Episode, We Explore:
✨ Who St. Catherine (Caterina) of Siena truly was✨ Why the fourteenth century mirrors so much of today’s world✨ What drew Jenny to write about Caterina’s life✨ The depth of research behind the novel—and how long it took✨ How Jenny weaves historical fact with fiction✨ The spiritual and symbolic meaning behind the book’s title✨ Jenny’s favorite quote from St. Catherine of Siena✨ Her favorite character (other than Caterina herself)✨ How Jenny’s trauma-informed coaching influences her writing✨ What she’s working on next
Why This Episode Is Perfect for Christmas & Year-End Reflection
Christmas is a season of light, incarnation, and hope—and this conversation gently echoes those themes. St. Catherine lived in a world marked by plague, division, and uncertainty, yet she embodied faith, courage, and purpose. Her story reminds us that light is not the absence of darkness, but the choice to show up fully anyway.
As we close out the year, this episode invites you to reflect on:
Who you’ve been this year
What you’ve walked through
And who you are becoming
It’s a reminder that your life, your voice, and your presence matter—especially now.
Guest Bio
Jenny Dubay is an author, speaker, and trauma-informed coach. She writes historical fiction inspired by medieval mystics—women who walked through suffering and spiritual fire and emerged with grace that still speaks across centuries. Through her nonfiction and coaching work, Jenny offers reflections, resources, and gentle guidance for healing from trauma, betrayal, and spiritual wounds.
🌐 Learn more at: https://www.jennydubay.com
Closing Invitation
Whether you’re listening by the glow of Christmas lights, during a quiet winter walk, or as part of your year-end reflection ritual, this episode is a gift—one that reminds us we are meant to light the world in our own unique way.
✨ If this conversation speaks to your heart, please share it with a woman you love and leave a review—it helps our Girlish Gurus community continue to grow.
Here’s to ending the year with meaning… and stepping into the new one on fire. 🔥✨
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Lifeline Screening: Get Peace of Mind
Connect with The Girlish Gurus:
💖 Follow us for more inspiration, humor, and midlife magic: @GirlishGurus🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts💫 Visit GirlishGurus.com
For the full episode: YouTube
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