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Hello Friend,
I’m Leslie Sousa Metcalf —
encouraging women to find joy, hope, and faith through every season of life.
Whether through writing, speaking, mentoring, or women’s ministry, my heart has always been to remind women that God still meets us in hard places and gently leads us toward healing, renewal, and joy.
My Journey of Faith
Leslie Sousa Metcalf became a Christian at the age of eight, kneeling alongside her mother, and was later baptized at a local Baptist church at the age of twelve. With a tender heart for people, Leslie has served as an online mentor for Focus on the Family and continues to encourage women through ministry, writing, and speaking. Her life and journey have been deeply shaped by faith, leadership, service, and a passion for helping women rediscover hope in every season of life.
In February 2020, just before Covid 19 changed the world, Leslie received a life changing breast cancer diagnosis. What could have been a season filled with fear became a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and renewed purpose. Through every treatment, every uncertain moment, and every difficult day, God carried her with grace and strength. Today, Leslie uses her story to encourage women walking through difficult seasons, reminding them that hope still exists even in life’s most unexpected battles.
Serving Women Through Ministry & Encouragement
Women's Ministry
Leslie Sousa serves in the women's ministry at calvary chapel in Modesto, California, as both a leader and liason.
Conferences & Retreats
She speaks at Christian conferences and retreats, creating spaces for encouragement, renewal, and spiritual refreshment.
Writing Ministry
Leslie Sousa is a writer for Upper Room Magazine and shares biblical encouragement rooted in grace and authenticity.
Heart for Women
Her heart is to remind women that they are seen, loved and never alone no matter what they are walking through.
Leadership, Communication & Growth
Leslie recently retired after 40 years of federal service, where she worked in a managerial leadership role.
She is a graduate of the 2016 Leadership Development Program and is a certified Real Colors instructor.
Throughout her career, Leslie taught communication and leadership courses for the Federal Judiciary Center, including:
Real Stress
Fostering Teamwork
Fostering Talent
Conducting Challenging Conversations
Author, Speaker & Retreat Teacher
Leslie Sousa is the author of five books including Let The Son Shine In, and regularly teaches at Christian women’s conferences and retreats.
Her speaking topics include:
Decluttering Your Home and Heart
Don’t Be Content Standing in the Doorway
Faith Through Difficult Seasons
Encouragement for Everyday Life
She has also enjoyed teaching at the Bay Area Sunday School Convention.
Life in the California Valley
Leslie Sousa writes from the California valley, where she lives with her husband and several furry friends.
She is the blessed mom of two adult sons and grandma to her first grandson.
When she’s not writing or teaching, Leslie enjoys encouraging women online, sharing glimpses of faith and everyday joy, and creating spaces that inspire peace and renewal.
You don't have to walk hard seasons alone.
Join the Joyful community for weekly encouragement, devotionals, and reminders that hope is never out of season.