Podd: Don't Mom Alone Podcast

The Shift: Overcoming Self-Sabotage, Imposter Syndrome, and Critical Inner Monologues :: Mary Marantz [Ep 520]

28 april 2025 | 59 min

Do you often feel like something is holding you back? You can’t quite get to where you want to go professionally, relationally, or in personal habits and goals?

Today Mary Marantz is here to tell us about the mental shifts that change everything. Mary’s story is riveting from growing up in a single-wide trailer in the mountains full of dirt and memories to Yale law school, she has stories to tell! Through her many experiences, she has learned how our self-limiting thoughts can hold us back and how to overcome them. Not through the typical “get it boss girl” mentality but practical steps that lead us to a life we want to live and enjoy, and how to lead our kids well in the area of achievement. Here are some of our topics:

Why fear is a boring liar — and how to manage it
The "fear of success" and why it keeps us playing small
How childhood environments shape adult confidence: the power of speaking life over yourself and your kids
Feeling like everyone has a manual on how to do life and we have missed it
How to handle imposter syndrome and look for the “evidence to the contrary” of the lies in our head

Connect with Mary Marantz:

Website: Mary Marantz - Home
Facebook: The Official Mary Marantz Insiders Community!
Instagram: Mary Bess Marantz (@marymarantz)

Links Mentioned:

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When Friendships Get Messy: Healing, Humor & Finding Your Chicken-Fried Women :: Melissa Radke [Ep 519]

21 april 2025 | 46 min

Mean Girls, Mom Roles & Modern Friendship: Coaching Kids Through Conflict :: Dr. Kelly Jameson [Ep 518]

14 april 2025 | 50 min

Today Dr. Kelly Jameson joins me to help us understand the many dynamics of teen friendships. Although this episode mainly applies to girl moms there is advice for the boy mom in this episode as well! Kelly is a trained systems therapist who practices narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Through her many years of listening to families and teens, she has learned how to navigate the difficult years of teen and tween friendships and how to help parents coach their kids. Here is some of what we cover:

The rise of “friend hoarding” and large group dynamics in 2025
What qualifies as “mean girl” behavior—and why it’s all about power dynamics
Coaching sons to stay out of the drama—and why that matters
How moms are becoming more enmeshed in their kid’s friendships and the damage that causes
The 3 types of friendships every kid should understand

Connect with Dr. Kelly Jameson:

Website: Kelly Jameson - Therapy. Speaking. Consulting.
Facebook: Kelly Jameson, PhD | Facebook
Instagram: Kelly Jameson, PhD (@drkellyjameson)

Links Mentioned:

Queen Bees and Wannabes: by Rosalind Wiseman

Related Episodes:

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Walking Through Grief: Coping, Comforting Kids, and Embodied Emotions :: Erin Nelson and Colleen Montague [Ep 517]

7 april 2025 | 59 min

Grief is a journey that no one wants to walk, yet so many of us will experience deep loss in our lifetime. In this episode, Colleen and Erin have an open and honest conversation about Erin’s journey through unimaginable loss—losing her husband in a plane crash, navigating her children’s grief, the heartbreak of her mother’s suicide, and later, the devastating loss of her son in a car accident.

Through her story, Erin shares what it looks like to carry grief in our bodies, the crisis of faith that can come with loss, and how she found her way through the darkness. From those tragedies was born Jessica’s house, a place for families to walk through grief and be supported. And now a book When Grief Comes Home that shares the tools she has learned through so many trials.

Here are some topics we cover:

The impact of trauma and grief on the body and nervous system
The importance of modeling healthy grief and emotional expression for children
How to come alongside grieving families in tangible, practical ways
The unique challenges couples face when grieving a child and how to let someone grieve in their own way
Brightsiding- what it is and how to speak to someone in a dark season

Connect with Erin and Colleen:

Website: Jessica's House
Facebook: Jessica's House
Instagram: Jessica's House (@jessicas_house)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

From Believer to Disciple: Following Jesus in Everyday Life :: Courtney Garrett [Ep 516]

31 mars 2025 | 49 min

Do you often desire to disciple your neighbors, friends, or acquaintances but don’t know how?

Today Courtney Garrett joins me to talk about her amazing tools to help Christians invite people into going deeper with Jesus. She is an accidental homeschool mom with years of ministry experience who saw a need for discipleship tools. Often people have grown up in church and pieced Bible stories together but they may have gaps in their view of God and His character. Courtney has written 101 Christianity -a study to help direct conversation and lead people to follow Jesus. Here are some topics we cover…

The difference between being a believer and a committed follower of Jesus
Stories of high school and college students using 101 Christianity to lead well
How to ask people into a discipleship study in a gracious way
How knowing the character of God can help in hard times
Ideas for discipleship with your family

Connect with Courtney Garrett:

Website: 101 Christianity
Instagram: Courtney Garrett (@courtney_garrett_)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Branch Basics: Make this year the year you say goodbye to toxic products! Right now, our listeners get 15% off the Premium Starter Kit by using code [DMA] at BranchBasics.com. Make 2025 your cleanest, healthiest year yet with Branch Basics!
Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping available at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA or get 20% off your first order.
The Chosen-Last Supper: The people welcome Jesus as king and expect a revolution. Threatened, the leaders will go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus’ last. You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com.
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Mothering Autism: Navigating Grief, Marriage, and Community :: Carrie Cariello, Kate Swenson, and Adrian Wood [Ep 515]

24 mars 2025 | 54 min

Do you have a child with autism or neurodivergent tendencies? Do you have a friend with a child that needs support but you're not sure how to show up?

Today Carrie, Kate, and Adrian are here to share their deeply personal stories about their kids and how autism has shaped their families. The amazing thing is each of their experiences is so different- and each of them has approached this diagnosis uniquely. They co-wrote a book called Autism Out Loud that covers a huge variety of challenges. We barely scratched the surface but here are some things we covered…

The hidden, unexpected grief of special needs parenting
How raising a child with autism magnifies stress in marriages
Siblings and how autism affects their lives- the joys and sadness that come with a neurodivergent sibling and how to keep that communication open
What parents of autistic children really need from friends and family
It takes risk, invitation, and vulnerability to find your people and a community that can rally around and support you

Connect with Carrie, Kate, and Adrian:

Website: Tales of an Educated Debutante - Adrian Harrold Wood, PhD
Website: Finding Cooper's Voice | Welcome to the Secret World of Autism
Website: Carrie Cariello
Instagram: Adrian Harrold Wood, PhD (@talesofaneducateddebutante)
Instagram: Kate (@findingcoopersvoice)
Facebook: Carrie Cariello

Links Mentioned:

Autism Out Loud: By Carrie Carieel, Kate Swenson, and Adrian Wood

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

The Truth About Baby Sleep: Breaking Myths, Balancing Attachment and Restful Nights :: Eve Squires [Ep 514]

17 mars 2025 | 54 min

Is it possible to have a well-rested baby without sacrificing attachment? Are you an exhausted mom who struggles with the nighttime routine?

Today Eve Squires, a sleep consultant with over fifteen years of experience, shares her journey and approach to improving infant sleep without resorting to harsh methods. Sleep is one of the most debated parenting topics, and in the past, I have avoided this topic because it is often confusing with conflicting advice. Eve was exactly the right person to do a deep dive on how to help children sleep through the night, without losing that special bond.

In this episode we cover:

How to improve sleep without the "cry it out" method
The hunger vs. habit debate—how to know if your baby truly needs to eat at night
Nap windows and how to structure baby and toddler awake time for better naps
Replacing sleep incentives with healthier soothing techniques
Why some babies sleep well while others don’t (and potential neurological factors)

Connect with Eve Squires:

Website: Calm and Bright Sleep Support
Instagram: CALM and BRIGHT SLEEP SUPPORT (@calmandbrightsleepsupport)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

From Chaos to Calm: Practical Tools to Manage Anger and Overwhelm in Motherhood :: Elizabeth Andreyevskiy [Ep 513]

10 mars 2025 | 48 min

Do you feel like you’re reacting instead of responding, constantly putting out fires, and struggling to manage your emotions—especially anger?

Today Elizabeth Andreyevskiy joins me to share her journey from explosive to calm in motherhood. Maybe you’ve tried counseling, read the books, and learned the tools, but implementing them in real life still feels impossible. This podcast is packed with practical tools to help us manage the chaos of our homes. God wants us to be whole and to care for our minds, bodies, and spirits so that we can care for our families daily.

In this episode we cover:

How unmet expectations, physical clutter, and negative mindsets fuel frustration
The power of meeting your own basic needs (eating, water, and sleeping matter!)
Practical ways to create space for self-care, reflection, and increased emotional capacity
Creative ways to get some alone time and reset
What to do when you do have an explosion of anger and how to bring reconciliation

Connect with Elizabeth Andreyevskiy:

Website: Anger Coach for Christian moms
Instagram: Elizabeth (@emotionally_healthy_legacy)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Modeling Faith: Family Spiritual Habits that Stick :: Chris Pappalardo and Clayton Greene [Ep 512]

3 mars 2025 | 46 min

Do you want to lead your home well spiritually but are not sure how? Do you need more creative and fun ideas on how to point your kids to Jesus?

Today, Chris Pappalardo and Clayton Greene join me to talk about spiritual rhythms with our kids. They share plenty of ideas on creating a space for spiritual growth that doesn't need to be a checklist-driven, box-checking exercise. Their new book discusses establishing morning and evening rhythms that align with how God wired us to connect spiritually and practically with Him.

We talk about modeling the gospel in a way that is authentic and free from unnecessary baggage for our kids to carry into the future. I get personal by sharing how my dad modeled this in my life—and that’s really what these habits create: our kids modeling the habits and behaviors we practice that point to Jesus.

We cover-

6 Key Shifts for Building Lasting Spiritual Habits
Real-Life Examples: like how to practically walk out a spiritual habit with our kids
Navigating Different Seasons: Dealing with a spouse or teens who are not on board
And we each reflect on how we learned spiritual formation from our parents

Connect with Chris and Clayton:

Website: GoodKind - From the Makers of Advent Blocks
Instagram: GoodKind (@goodkind.co)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

The Chosen–You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com. preorder your tickets for the 3-part theatrical release. Text your favorite person, grab your favorite box of movie theater candy, and go see The Chosen: Last Supper in theaters.
Hiya Health– We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults.
Purity Woods– Honestly, I have never seen a skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point. And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/DMA or enter DMA at checkout.
Pair Eyewear–See the world with fresh eyes. Go to paireyewear.com and use code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. And support the show by mentioning Don’t Mom Alone sent you in the post-checkout survey.

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Perimenopause Guide: Managing Symptoms, Emotional Changes, and Weight Gain During Hormonal Shifts :: Dr. Kamilia Smith [Ep 511]

24 februari 2025 | 51 min

Have you ever been to your doctor or OBGYN and felt that your symptoms were dismissed? Do you know how to identify the main issues of perimenopause and menopause?

In this follow up episode with Dr. Kamilia Smith, we continue our deep dive into perimenopause, exploring how it impacts women's emotions, physical changes, and overall well-being. She clearly breaks down some of the hormonal fluctuations women go through and what some potential treatments are for each of those symptoms in a very nuanced field. Perimenopause can bring emotional upheaval and weight gain, exacerbated by hormonal changes that are often ignored. The stress of the "sandwich generation" — caring for our aging parents while raising children — adds to the emotional load.

We cover so many helpful topics-

Eggs and AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): these levels help indicate how your ovaries are functioning
How the term bioidentical hormones is often used as a marketing tool
Hormonal changes, along with sleep disruptions, decreased mobility, and shifts in eating habits, all contribute to weight gain during perimenopause
Mental health can take a hit during this stage, with symptoms like mood swings, insomnia, attention deficit, and night sweats. Learning how to manage these mental health changes is critical to our health

Connect with Dr. Kamilia Smith:

Website: Kamilia Smith Voted Best Dallas Gynecologist | Charleston House
Facebook: Charleston House Gynecology
Instagram: Charleston House - DALLAS WOMENS HEALTH (@charlestonhousegyn)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

GiveHugz–Check out GiveHugz.co and use the code DMA for 20% off your first order. Trust me, you’ll want one for you and one to share.
Green Chef–Thrive all year with clean, easy meals from Green Chef. Go to Greenchef.com/alonefree and use code alonefree to get started with FREE salads for two months plus 50% off your first box.
Thrive Causemetics–Celebrate the women in your life with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. o Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Flipping the Switch to Hope: from worst-case to unimaginable good :: Heather MacFadyen [Ep 510]

17 februari 2025 | 27 min

I don’t often do a solo podcast but God has been working on my heart when it comes to parenting teens and expectations and I felt prompted to sit down and share what I am learning with you all.

So often as parents, we live in a worst-case scenario mindset, when it feels like the dreams and expectations for a child's future are not aligning with the present. We obsess over baby monitors, teen friendships, and grades/sports but this comes from a place of worry, or even fear-based control.

God wants freedom and hope in our parenting! I realized I have a choice: to believe in an imagined bad scenario or to flip a switch and choose hope and expect in God for unimaginable good things to come. Both choices involve belief, imagination and control. I'm choosing to double down turn my belief toward hope, knowing that even when things don't go as planned, God's story is far greater.

In this episode, I will share the steps God gave me to practically practice choosing hope over worry. How to walk with the Spirit and produce fruit instead of formula-based parenting rooted in power and control. Reminding my own heart that God is good and has a good story for our kids- let’s lean into the HUGE expectation that God is the God of HOPE and let our prayers align with that truth.

Connect with Me:

Website: Heather MacFadyen | Right Where You Belong
Facebook: Don't Mom Alone
Instagram: Heather MacFadyen (@dontmomalone)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Cure Hydration: Hydration goes beyond just drinking water—it’s about replenishing the electrolytes we lose through sweat, sleep, alcohol, and daily activities. Water alone isn’t enough to do the job! That’s why you need to try Cure: the electrolyte drink mix that tastes as amazing as it makes you feel. For Don’t Mom Alone listeners, Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Stay hydrated and feel your best by visiting curehydration.com/DMA and using promo code [DMA] at checkout.
BetterHelp: Discover your relationship green flags, with Betterhelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA to get 10% off your first month.
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Helping Kids Connect with Their Grandparents :: Isabel Tom [Ep 509]

10 februari 2025 | 41 min

Do you feel that it is hard to connect with your aging parents? Are your kids and grandparents not communicating well through the generational gap?

In this episode, Isabel Tom, author of The Value of Wrinkles shares insights into her background, her work with the elderly, and her experience growing up in a multigenerational household. She gives a unique perspective of how much joy and life we can bring to the generation before us but it takes a lot of intentionality. This conversation covers practical tips for deepening these family ties and the mutual blessings they can bring.

We cover a wide range of topics-

Simple ways to involve children in caring for their grandparents or older relatives
How to foster meaningful conversations across generations
How small acts of kindness can make a big difference in an elder’s life
An Investigator Kit Isabela created to help families connect
How to talk to your kids about elder issues- dementia or physical constraints

Connect with Isabel Tom:

Website: The Value of Wrinkles by Isabel Tom
Facebook: The Value of Wrinkles
Instagram: The Value of Wrinkles®️ (@isabelctom)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Purity Woods: I have never seen a skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point. And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/DMA or enter DMA at checkout.
Thrive Market: Ready for a junk-free start to 2025? Head to ThriveMarket.com/dma and get 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift.
Thrive Causemetics: Thrive Causemetics is luxury beauty that gives back. o Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Generational Healing: Becoming the Mom You Needed :: Melanie Shankle [Ep 508]

3 februari 2025 | 44 min

Have you struggled to break free from generational trauma or sin? Do you find it challenging to help your kids navigate tough situations at school and in sports?

Today, author Melanie Shankle joins us to share insights from her new book, Here Be Dragons. Her story is one of both deep trauma and undeniable evidence of God’s provision—placing the right people in her life at just the right time. It wasn’t until college that Melanie realized her mother-daughter relationship was far from what her friends experienced. That realization set her on a long journey of untangling her past and healing from the wounds of her upbringing.

In this conversation, we cover so many important topics, including:

The meaning behind Here Be Dragons
Mean girls, motherhood, and generational trauma
How to become spiritually and emotionally healthy to break toxic cycles
What it looks like to set boundaries or cut off a parent as an adult
How to recognize when a closed door in your child’s life is actually God's protection

Join us for an honest, insightful discussion on healing, parenting, and trusting God through life’s toughest moments.

Connect with Melanie Shankle:

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Hiya Health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults
Pair Eyewear: Show off new sides of yourself this year. Go to paireyewear.com and use the code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. Support the show by mentioning that Don’t Mom Alone sent you in the post-checkout survey!
Gabb Mobile: Right now, Gabb is offering twenty-five dollars off any device—with no contract required. Just go to GABB.com/dma to get started. Terms and conditions apply.
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Discovering the Gift of You When You Feel Lost in Motherhood :: Chrystal Evans Hurst [Ep 507]

27 januari 2025 | 47 min

How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation :: Ian Cron [Ep 506]

20 januari 2025 | 51 min

Hosting Tips to be the Hangout House :: Logan Wolfram [Ep 505]

13 januari 2025 | 51 min

Do you feel like it takes too much time and energy to host? Does having people in your home stress you out or seem out of reach?

Today Logan Wolfram joins me- she is an author and speaker that knows how to host well. We met long-long ago at a blogger’s conference before the podcasting world was even a thing. I have been drawn to her knack for pulling people into her home and sat down to glean her wisdom in this area. Here are the topics we covered…

Stocking the pantry for hosting
Batch cooking tips and tricks
Signature dishes and family favorites
How to handle having a “smaller” home and hosting
Figuring out what your kids and their friends are into and leaning into those places

Connect with Logan Wolfram:

Website: Logan Wolfram - Live Curious
Instagram: Logan Lane Wolfram (@loganlwolfram)

Links Mentioned:

Interview for Declare Conference– How to Not Miss Out [Ep 17]
Logan’s recipes
Roux instructions and diagram
Jackbox.TV

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

When You Need Personal Revival :: Cleere Cherry Reaves [Ep 504]

6 januari 2025 | 53 min

As we enter a new year do you feel stuck or like last year did not go like you intended it to? Are you dealing with disappointments and finding it difficult to see God in your situation?

Today Cleere Cherry Reaves, author and podcaster, joins me to talk about how God’s word is the most powerful tool in shifting our focus and seeing the Lord in our everyday circumstances. In her new book Revive she writes about how Jesus is with us through the storms and trials of life, He does not simply pluck us out of every situation but we learn how to see Him in the hard times. Here are some topics we cover…

Cleere’s son has a powerful testimony in the making as a non-verbal kid. She shares how she uses the word of God to reframe that situation.
How in seasons of brokenness and fragility we see the strength of God.
Trusting God's Plan and Recalibrating Expectations.
How our habits create a “diet” of what we are consuming and how to change those to be more focused on the word of God.
How to take time to listen to the voice of God.

Connect with Cleere Cherry Reaves:

Website: Cleerely Stated - Personal and Purposeful Products
Facebook: Cleerely Stated
Instagram: Cleere Cherry Reaves | Speaker, Author + Podcaster

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Pair Eyewear– Show off new sides of yourself this year. Go to paireyewear.com and use code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. And support the show by mentioning that Don't Mom Alone sent you in your post-checkout survey!
Thrive Market–Ready for a junk-free start to 2025? Head to ThriveMarket.com/dma and get 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift
Hiya Health–We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Unpacking Moms' Mental Load :: Dr. Morgan Cutlip [Ep 503]

23 december 2024 | 42 min

Do you feel like your mind is full of tasks making it hard to focus and be present with your family? Do you struggle to articulate what you need, feel, or want from your spouse?

Today, Dr. Morgan Cutlip is here to help us navigate the topic of mental load specifically as moms. Morgan is a psychologist and highly sought after relationship expert. Her book Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself helps moms advocate for their needs in a loving way. We cover a large range of issues facing parents today including…

The invisible running to-do list we keep in our minds.
How to identify your needs and communicate them.
How to get clear about what you feel and need so you do not confuse your spouse.
Identifying the two different types of guilt and how to respond.
The three domains of mental load- cognitive, physical, and emotional.
Navigating the holiday season with the added tasks and pressure to make it magical.

Connect with Dr. Morgan Cutlip:

Website: Dr. Morgan Cutlip
Facebook: Dr. Morgan Cutlip
Instagram: Dr. Morgan Cutlip (@drmorgancutlip)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Processing Grief, Infertility, and Loss in Community :: Julie Fowler [Ep 502]

16 december 2024 | 46 min

Have you or a friend ever walked through a season of infertility and grief? Do you often wonder what to say when a friend is walking through loss of any kind?

Today my friend Julie Fowler is here to talk about her heartbreaking (but hopeful) story of motherhood and how God used her story to help people navigate loss. Julie has faced miscarriage, adoptions that fell through at the last minute, and baby twins she only held for four short hours. She truly has walked this long road and knows all of the feelings of grief and uncertainty around waiting for a baby. This valley produced a beautiful study of walking through infertility in community and connecting with God in the deepest, darkest places. We cover so much in our conversation including…

How to talk to a friend in a season of infertility and loss- what not to say.
How husbands and wives can support each other instead of turning on one another.
Sharing your feelings with the Lord and then speaking truth over yourself.
Wrestling with deep spiritual questions when your prayers are not being answered.
Making a support group uplifting instead of only heavy while still leaving room to process.

Connect with Julie Fowler:

Website: Julie Fowler Ministries
Facebook: Juliefowlerministries | Facebook
Instagram: Julie Fowler Ministries (@juliefowlerministries)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Greenlight–Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma. Great debit card and money app to raise financially smart kids and for families to navigate life, together.
Betterhelp Find comfort this December, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA today to get 10% off your first month.
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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Moms and the Best Christmas Pageant Ever :: Dallas and Amanda Jenkins [Ep 501]

9 december 2024 | 42 min

Today my conversation with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins is a powerful reminder that the Christmas story still needs to be told thousands of years later. Dallas is the acclaimed director, writer, and producer of The Chosen, and now the heartfelt movie The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

The movie is based on a book read for years in the Jenkins’ house (and many households worldwide). Twenty years ago Amanda brought the book home and asked Dallas to read it to the kids. By the end they were both in tears and could not finish the story without taking turns reading. That started a 20-year journey of Dallas praying to make this movie and the Lord answered through an amazing story in His own time.

Moms play a vital role in this film from a mom telling her son to let Dallas have the rights to the movie, to Amanda helping with the casting, to Grace (the mom in the film) who uses her God-given space to change the lives around her. As we enter the Christmas season let us remember Jesus came for the outsider and not cling so tightly to our traditions that we do not see those who need to hear the true Christmas story.

Connect with Dallas and Amanda:

Website:
Facebook: Dallas Jenkins
Instagram: Dallas Jenkins (@dallas.jenkins)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Honeylove-Treat yourself to the best bras and shapewear on the market. Shop Honeylove’s Holiday sale and save an additional 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA.
Thrive Causemetics–Spice up your holiday season with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury Beauty that gives back. Get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.
Vegamour–This holiday season, give the gift of great hair with Vegamour. There’s something for everyone, including you! Visit Vegamour.com/DMA code DMA to shop.

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Finding God Faithful in All Stages of Motherhood :: Leslie Johnson [Ep 500]

2 december 2024 | 39 min

I can’t believe it but today we are celebrating 500 episodes of Don’t Mom Alone! I am bringing back my very first guest and mentor Leslie to “recap” the last eleven years. Leslie had been encouraging me from before I started this podcast and her fingerprints are all over my motherhood. We get an update on her life and she shares how to navigate the empty nest phase.

Leslie reminds us of Psalms 16:6-8 (which I also wrote about in my book), “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” God is faithful in ALL seasons from newborn to empty nest.

Also, some of my listeners call in to share what Don’t Mom Alone has meant to them. Here are a few of the highlights…

How healing prayer ministry has been life-changing.
Be in community and reach out for help.
Become the inviter instead of waiting for others to invite you in.
Receive and give grace to others through the challenges of motherhood.

Connect with Leslie Johnson:

Website: Sursee Gal
Instagram: Leslie Johnson 🎉aka Sursee Gal (@surseegal)

Links Mentioned:

*A gift to you!! PDF of Psalm 16:6-8
Right Where You Belong: by Heather MacFadyen

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Betterhelp: Find comfort this December, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA today to get 10% off your first month.
Skylight Frame: And now, as a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get twenty dollars off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/ALONE.
Greenlight: The easy, convenient way for parents to raise financially smart kids and families to navigate life, together. Sign up for greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma.
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 2) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 499]

25 november 2024 | 45 min

Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 1) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 498]

18 november 2024 | 36 min

Do you ever wonder why you respond the way you do to your kids? Do you feel like there are things to process from childhood but don’t have the words to explain those feelings?

Today Charissa Lopez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas joins me. She specializes in play therapy, EMDR, emotionally focused family therapy, and trauma-informed care. She is full of wisdom and the science to explain why we respond and parent in specific ways based on childhood patterns. Join us as we talk about…

Secure attachment in the early years (ages 0-3) and how meeting our little ones needs just 30% of the time allows them to feel secure and attuned.
Loving parental behaviors – beyond the basic needs by showing our kids delight, affection, and supporting their inner and outer exploration.
How to repair relationships and remain a safe place for our kids.
Dismissive attachment pattern explained.
HOPE- a way to learn more helpful patterns and allow God to heal past hurts.

Connect with Charissa Lopez:

Website: Charissa Lopez | Licensed Professional Counselor

Links Mentioned:

The Window of Tolerance :: Charissa Fry [Ep 260]
Welcome Don't Mom Alone Friends! - Charissa Lopez Counseling–helpful pdfs on loving parental behaviors and attachment styles.

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Skylight Frames: As a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get twenty dollars off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/ALONE.
Betterhelp: Let the gratitude flow, with Betterhelp. ● Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month.

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Confidence in Parenting Decisions :: Laura Wifler [Ep 497]

11 november 2024 | 51 min

Boys vs. Girls--the early years (2 part series) :: Courtney DeFeo and Heather [Ep 496]

4 november 2024 | 47 min

Do Not Grow Weary :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 495]

28 oktober 2024 | 36 min

Seek Him First :: Lillian Richey [Ep 494]

21 oktober 2024 | 45 min

Do you ever struggle to keep Christ at the center of Christmas? Do you feel many Christmas traditions take a ton of time and energy or are just busy work but don’t point to Jesus?

Today Lillian Richey, my personal friend, is here to share her new project called Finding Jesus which helps families make Christmas meaningful and simple. Last year the Lord dropped into her heart the idea of a Jesus doll that tells the whole story of Christmas through scripture and helps kids see Jesus. Through the last few months, God has used this project to bring the gospel around the world, including China, and answered prayers. In less than a year this beautiful product has come to life.

Finding Jesus points our kids to Christ and a connection to Him that goes deep into hearts and minds. This doll, puzzle, story, and song weaves together the Biblical truth with some fun. Lillian’s story shows us that when we listen to the voice of God His ideas are gospel minded and He has the resources to help us accomplish creative ideas.

Connect with Lillian Richey:

Website: Finding Jesus (seekhimfirst.com)
Facebook: Finding Jesus | Dallas TX | Facebook
Instagram: Finding Jesus (@findingjesusdoll)

Links Mentioned:

Children's Jesse Tree Advent Cards

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Help for the Unspoken Challenges of Parenting Teens :: Amy Betters-Midtvedt [Ep 493]

14 oktober 2024 | 52 min

Do you feel like your teens have hidden struggles that you can’t talk to anyone about? How do you honor your kids while still finding safe people to process parenting with? How do you advise your kids on their friendships and relationships?

Today, Amy Betters-Midtvedt is here to help us navigate the deep waters of parenting teens. Amy is a teacher with a master’s degree in leadership and is currently a literacy coach. She has five kids in all stages of life from college to kids still at home, some of her kids have had teen struggles that Amy has had to learn how to navigate. She shares her ideas in her new book, You’ll Make It.

We cover how to handle changes in our teen’s friend groups, what to do if your teen’s friends are a bad influence, and having the humility as a parent to say “I messed up”. Amy shares some very personal stories about her teens and anxiety (with their permission) and how their family faced that challenge head-on to overcome and get back to the things they love to do. Parenting teens can be hard but there is so much joy in watching them become who God created them to be, Amy will teach us how to partner with the Lord as we navigate these formative years.

Connect with Amy Betters-Midtvedt:

Website: Amy Betters-Midtvedt (amybettersmidtvedt.com)
Instagram: Amy Betters-Midtvedt (@amy.betters.midtvedt)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Thrive Market - Want to shop at a grocery store that actually cares for your health? Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift!
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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 492]

7 oktober 2024 | 53 min

As a mom do you feel there is not enough time in the day? Are you constantly overwhelmed with your to-do list and mental load? Are you snapping at your kids because they cannot keep up with the pace?

Today Kendra Adachi; the Lazy Genius, author, podcaster, and most of all mom, is here to help us focus on the most important tasks. Kendra and I are opposites, she has read all the time management books whereas I have read zero. Only 7% of books in this arena are written by women so her newest book, The PLAN, was much needed in this space. Most productivity books are written with the future in mind and while it’s good to think and plan for the future Kendra tells us that most moms are trying to run their household well every day in the small task. She helps us PLAN- prepare, live, adjust, and notice what is going on around us in our homes.

This episode reminds us that being kind to our kids is more important than being on task, we are not robots, and helps us look at time differently which allows us to show up with compassion for others. There is so much Biblical truth when we structure our time well and keep the most important things at the center of our days.

Connect with Kendra Adachi:

Website: The Lazy Genius (thelazygeniuscollective.com)
Facebook: The Lazy Genius Collective
Instagram: Kendra Adachi (@thelazygenius)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

How to Align with Your Spouse in Parenting :: Dr. Kim Kimberling [Ep 491]

30 september 2024 | 44 min

Do you feel like a team with your spouse in parenting or do you often turn on each other? Do you have different ideas about what is right for your kids? Have the teen years brought more conflict than unity?

Today Dr. Kim Kimberling, professional counselor and founder of Awesome Marriage, is here to share his years of wisdom on how to keep the marriage strong while parenting. Dr. Kim has been married to his wife for 53 years and the tips that flow from those years of experience are priceless.

He shares how to build in some one-on-one time, stay on the same page in the teen years, and how praying together allows the Holy Spirit to breathe creativity into your parenting. Dr. Kim also comforts those whose spouse may not currently be walking with the Lord and how to navigate that hard season. He reminds us that you can’t put your marriage on the back burner for years and expect it to be the same when your kids are gone and gives us tools to make sure we are making our partner a priority. Be sure to check out his website that is full of resources.

Connect with Dr. Kim Kimberling:

Website: Awesome Marriage — Marriage, Relationships, and Premarital Counseling
Facebook: Awesome Marriage
Instagram: Marriage and Relationship Experts (@awesome_marriage)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

IXL Learning: Make an impact on your child’s learning, get IXL now. And Don’t Mom Alone listeners can get an exclusive 20% off IXL membership when they sign up today at IXL.com/DMA. Visit IXL.com/DMA to get the most effective learning program out there at the best price.
Wildgrain: Are you ready to bring all your favorite carbs right to your doorstep? Be sure to check out Wildgrain so you can begin building your own box of artisanal breads, pastas, and pastries. For a limited time, Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to Wildgrain.com/DMA to start your subscription or you can use promo code DMA at checkout.
Rhone: Upgrade your closet with Rhone and use DMA to save 20% at https://www.rhone.com/DMA
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Cultivating Intimacy with God in Motherhood :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 490]

23 september 2024 | 47 min

Sidetracked with Emily P. Freeman (part 1) :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 489]

16 september 2024 | 27 min

What does Jesus-centered parenting look like? :: Dr. David and Amanda Erickson [Ep 488]

9 september 2024 | 44 min

What would it look like to have Jesus-centered peaceful parenting? Is your parenting style just a list of do’s and don’t or getting to the heart of your child? After correction do you feel more or less connected with your kids?

Today, Dr. David and Amanda Erickson, join me to discuss their new book The Flourishing Family. They founded Flourishing Homes and Families to equip and empower Christian parents to lead their families with grace and gentleness through parenting principles that are rooted in the teaching of Jesus.

We cover so many topics from hitting toddlers to snarky teenagers and how to approach them with grace while still teaching them to respect the people around them. They encourage us to repair and prepare instead of scare through creative ideas that include purchasing a punching bag and redirecting behavior when needed. David reminds us that as parents we are helping our children see that they are image bearers of God and to embrace who He created them to be.

Connect with David and Amanda:

Website: Flourishing Homes and Families
Facebook: Flourishing Homes and Families
Instagram: Dr. David and Amanda Erickson (@flourishinghomesandfamilies)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Thrive Causemetics: Refresh your everyday look with Thrive Causemetics. Beauty that gives back. Get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.
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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Sidetracked Surprise :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 487]

6 september 2024 | 30 min

“What is Typical When Learning to Talk?” :: Stephanie Cohen [Ep 486]

2 september 2024 | 53 min

The Reluctant Disciple :: Robin Pou [Ep 485]

26 augusti 2024 | 48 min

Sidetracked with Jess Connolly :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 484]

19 augusti 2024 | 59 min

“How Can I Help My Kid Make Friends?” :: David Thomas and Sissy Goff [Ep 483] Summer of Mentorship week 6

12 augusti 2024 | 56 min

Do you try to coach or control your kids in friendships? Whether sending them off to Kindergarten or College there are so many opportunities along the way to help them be good friends and pick good friends.

Today we are revisiting an amazing conversation with Sissy Goff and David Thomas discussing how to help our kids foster friendships. As licensed counselors, working at DayStar Counseling Center in Nashville, they provide support, encouragement, and compassion to children, adolescents, and families in need through counseling.

This episode has advice at every turn for every age and stage. David talks about dropping his son off at college and how to be a coach - not a fixer. We discuss shifting from focusing on how to get friends to how to be a good friend. Sissy breaks down the girl issues that arise with anxiety, feelings of isolation or being left out, and moms who sometimes care more than their daughters about certain social situations. This is a perfect episode heading into back-to-school season as we prepare to navigate relationships alongside our kids.

Connect with David Thomas and Sissy Goff:

Website: Raising Boys and Girls
Facebook: Raising Boys and Girls
Instagram: Sissy Goff (@sissygoff) and Raising Boys and Girls (@raisingboysandgirls)
Podcast: Podcast | Raising Boys and Girls

Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you in the week’s episode?
What is one step you can take to become a coach instead of a fixer?
Could you sit down this week and have your child make a list of what characteristics a good friend has? Ask them how they are doing on that scale and if they are looking for people with those same qualities.
Can you name one issue one of your kids is having in this area and what ideas this episode brought up for you to try?
Are you praying for your kids' friendships and connections? If not, stop and pray now for one another that the Lord would provide lifelong Godly friends this year for each of your children.

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Greenlight: Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma .
Thrive Market: Save time and money and shop Thrive Market today. Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift.
Vegamour:

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

“How Do I Regulate My Own Emotions?” :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 482] Summer of Mentorship

5 augusti 2024 | 42 min

As parents, we are keenly aware of the peaks and valleys of our kids’ emotions. Anger, sadness, excitement, and all the other feelings can make us feel like our child is on a roller coaster we’re just trying to slow down.

It’s true that we all feel highs and lows throughout our day, but we rarely talk about what it feel like when we’re “in the zone” and feeling calm and ready to go. My guest today is sharing about the window of tolerance and how to regulate ourselves and our kids to help stay in that window.

“If I am dysregulated, I cannot regulate my child. So if I'm in fight or flight and I'm yelling. There's no amount of yelling that brings my child back into the window. And sometimes parents think the yelling is working, but what you're doing isn’t getting your child in the window. They're going into collapse and into a place of fear.”

Charissa Lopez is a Licensed Professional Counselor and believer. Her passion is to come alongside those who are hurting and struggling to help them find truth, hope, healing, connection, and growth. She shares some eye-opening information and statistics to get us on the path to helping our kids build resilience and stay in that window of tolerance.

Charissa shares from a faith-perspective that we as believers are not alone. She reminds us that we can lean on God to regulate our emotions as we love on our kids and go through the hardships of life.

“God himself through Jesus is the ultimate attachment figure. He is always reaching for us. He never fails to respond to our needs. He always loves us. He's never judging us and never shaming us. So to know that when we need to be co-regulated, that when I am feeling like I'm going to leave the window, I can remember the truth of who God is and I can reach out to him in prayer.”

What we chat about:

The window of tolerance when our brains functioning well and effectively process input to make rational decisions calmly without feeling either overwhelmed or withdrawn
When we’re out of the window of tolerance, our thinking brain is not in control and we don’t register consequences
Many of us don’t live in the window of tolerance, but we’re too busy and stressed to stop and assess how we’re feeling at any given moment
Hyper-arousal, otherwise known as the fight/flight response, is often characterized by hypervigilance, feelings of anxiety and/or panic, and racing thoughts.
Hypo-arousal, or a freeze response, may cause feelings of emotional numbness, emptiness, or paralysis.
Learning how to stay in your window of tolerance builds resilience, both for us and our kids
When our kids live outside the window, they become “masters of survival” and often turn to negative coping strategies
What co-regulating our kids’ emotions looks like
Philippians 2:13 “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
We can lean on God to bring us to that window of tolerance and into the fruits of the spirit

Connect with Charissa:

Website: charissalopez.com
Facebook: facebook.com/CharissaLopezCounseling

Links Mentioned:

Regulation Pack for DMA Listeners [WEBSITE]
Rosie’s Brain [BOOK]

Related Episodes:

Connecting Through Play Episode with Charissa
Ages and Stages–Tween Edition –differentiation episode with Charissa
Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing Issues :: Lynne Jackson [Ep 258]

Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions:

Have you heard of the window of tolerance before? If you look back at today, can you identify times when you were in the window and when you were in hyper-arousal/hypo-arousal?
What about when your kids were in hyper-arousal/hypo-arousal? Are there some simple indicators that tip you off to your child’s de-regulation?
How could knowing that your child’s thinking brain and understanding of consequences are not functioning in de-regulation change how you parent them when they have big emotional responses?
Do you need to take more time to regulate yourself when you are upset before disciplining your kids? Make a list of strategies you can use to get back to the window of tolerance before trying to help your kids regulate.
God is the ultimate attachment figure and he can help us regulate through prayer, corporate worship and community. How have you seen God help you regulate in the difficult moments in life? Share some wins!

Featured Sponsors:

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Sidetracked by the Olympics, Mammograms, and Family Gambling :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 481]

2 augusti 2024 | 56 min

Out of the gate today we are into all the TMI topics like how to wear your gown at the Doctor’s office, mammograms, and what stage of menopause we are in. (Did you know there are five?) Cynthia’s family keeps it real as usual by washing their healthy vitamins full of fruits and veggies down with Diet Dr. Pepper.

Next up we discuss the Olympics, from what our favorite sports are to handball and break dancing, which we are pretty sure are made-up sports. I rehash my prolific synchronized swimming career and share how I impressed (read tortured) my boys on vacation by showing off my skills. Both of us are fresh off of summer family trips where I bribed my boys to play family games, and Cynthia got recognized in a hotel lobby while sternly talking to her family about taking a good picture.

Cynthia is reading Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont and gives some ideas on how to slow down and take note of the little things in life so we can remember them later. I share how the pressure to list all the needed family improvements can get overwhelming so I am choosing to list what is going well this season. Come laugh with us and be reminded that no matter how messy summer is making memories and taking time with family is invaluable.

Connect with Cynthia Yanof:

Website: https://cynthiayanof.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthia.yanof
Instagram: @cynthiayanof
Podcast: MESSmerized

Links Mentioned:

Hiya kids vitamins (see link and discount below)
Ilona Maher (@ilonamaher)
Crazy Rich Asians | Prime Video
Bird by Bird: By Anne Lamott
NYT Games: Word Games and Sudoku
Cynthia’s apple watch band
The Bear (TV Series 2022– ) - IMDb
Satin Heatless Curling Set
Bruce’s flat iron from when he chemically straightened his hair

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Hiya–We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA . This deal is not available on their regular website
Skylight Calendar-As a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get $40 off your purchase of a Skylight Calendar when you go to skylightcal.com/ALONE .
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

“What Does My Child Need?” :: Amy and Dr. Jeffrey Olrick [Ep 480] Summer of Mentorship Week 4

29 juli 2024 | 52 min

Do you feel like all the parenting books and formulas do not apply to your child? Is there embarrassment over public behavior that causes conflict? Are you longing for a deep connection with your kids that lasts into adulthood?

Today we revisit my conversation with Amy and Jeffrey Olrick. Jeffrey is a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and families and uses his knowledge in the science of healthy human development mixed with faith to help us in our family relationships.

They go through the six needs of every child and share a compass to help you find your way when it gets challenging. Jeffrey compares our walk through life to a long and challenging trek with our kids where we can get off course but can use these tools to get back on track and build deeper relationships with our kids. He came to the Lord through Matthew 11:28-30 which says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”.

We can take this to heart in parenting and in life that God wants us to be in right relationship with our kids and He has strengthened us with the Holy Spirit to do that job well.

Connect with Amy and Jeffrey Olrick:

Website: Growing Connected
Facebook: Growing Connected
Instagram: Growing Connected (@growingconnected)

Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you in this week’s episode?
Which of the 6 needs is the most hard for you to do with your kids? Why do you think that is the case?
Jeffrey talks about sanctification through parenting. Can you reflect on one way you have been sanctified (free from sin or purified) through parenting? Share that win with the group and celebrate how the Lord has changed your life.
What are some things in parenting you’ve been looking for a one-size-fits-all solution for?
Can you shift your question from “What should I do?” to “How can I be with this child?” That process may start by sitting with the Lord so you have the grace and patience to be with your child in hard spaces. Ask the Holy Spirit for the ability to know what each kid needs at each moment.

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Duncan and Stone Paper Company: Right now, we have a special offer for listeners: Get 20% off your first order with promo code DMA20. And did we mention that they offer free shipping on any order over $49? You know we’re a sucker for free shipping. Head to www.duncanandstone.com to start your memory making journey today!
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

How to Stay Calm with Strong Willed Kids? :: Kirk Martin [Ep 479] Summer of Mentorship Week Three

22 juli 2024 | 30 min

I love Kirk’s realistic approach to parenting. He understands what your home dynamics are like. And gives practical tips. After listening to today’s episode you will have at least three different “tricks” to apply.
Most of all, I’m thankful for the new perspective he has given me. Kirk helped me recognize how emotionally invested I was in my boys’ behavior and freed me from the need to regulate their behavior for them.
The last couple days I’ve enjoyed the boys more. I’m also less tense and frustrated when we are out in public. In fact, I may need to go back and listen to this episode more than once, so it sticks!
This episode originally aired in May of 2015
Kirk came back on the show multiple times. Check out additional episodes here.
What we chat about:

Kirk’s realization that he needed to focus on his own behavior and stop trying to fix his son’s strong-willed behavior.
The switch he made from training 1500 kids in his home to training parents to calm themselves.
The one thing you can do today to de-escalate a tense situation in your home.
How to calmly handle your child’s meltdown

I can only control one person in life, and that’s me.

How motion changes emotion–helping little ones calm down b/c they don’t know how to “think” their way out.
What to do in the middle of Target aisle 3 when your child freaks out
Handling a tantruming child when his siblings are fighting and another needs help with homework and dinner is cooking (Heather’s daily 5 pm reality).

If you don’t care enough about yourself, to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, spiritually. . .why would anyone else care?

How sometimes parents want good behavior so badly, they are too invested in it and give children too much control.
How to be an impartial giver of wisdom.
Write down your emotional triggers & do the opposite of what you normally do.

Connect with Kirk:
Site :: Twitter :: Facebook :: Podcast
Links Mentioned:

CDs/DVDs
888-506-1871–Toll Free Number for Frustrated Parents

Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions:

Discuss Kirk’s realization that he needed to focus on his own behavior and stop trying to fix his son’s strong-willed behavior.
If you struggle to stay calm when your kids are out of control, what are some of your triggers?
Which of Kirk’s ideas to de-escalate a situation is most realistic for you? Thinking about how motion changes emotion.
How did you react to Kirk’s idea of being an “impartial giver of wisdom” instead of being so invested in how your kids behave?
Spend some time working through a part of your day that is most challenging or a situation with a particular child and brainstorm ways you could respond differently. Share with others in the group and get their ideas if you are willing.

Featured Sponsors:

Thrive Market: Save time and money and shop Thrive Market today. Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift!
Better Help: This episode is sponsored by Better Help. Stop comparing and start focusing, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month.

Greenlight: This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma.

Sidetracked with Makayla Noble :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 478]

15 juli 2024 | 47 min

"Help When Adult Friendships End?" :: Shundria Riddick [Ep 477] Summer of Mentorship Week Two

8 juli 2024 | 38 min

A few years ago on an Instagram survey I learned that 68% of y’all have experienced broken friendships. I knew we needed an episode to help.

Licensed professional counselor Shundria Riddick is here to walk us through some healthy ways to work toward reconciliation and how to know when to walk away from a hurtful friendship. We talk about setting healthy boundaries, having clarifying conversations, and how to analyze the health of relationships. We also cover the new trend of Millennials cutting off their parents and how to heal those wounds and come to new understandings.

With the busyness of parenting, work, and family- friendships often take the back burner. Shundria is here to help us make them a priority and learn how to move forward into healthy relationships even if we have been hurt in the past.

Connect with Shundria Riddick:

Website: Shundria Riddick
Facebook: Shundria Riddick MA, LPC
Instagram: Shundria Riddick (@shundriariddick)

Links Mentioned:

Relax – Shundria Riddick, MA LPC

Related Episodes:

Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you in this week's podcast?
Have you had a broken friendship or relationship?
What has been your experience of walking away from a friendship in the past?
What boundaries do you set on friendships and how do you communicate them?
Sit still and ask God to help you filter through a relationship that you have trouble with. Are you navigating it the way he wants you to?

Featured Sponsors:

Thrive Causemetics-Refresh your everyday look with Thrive Causemetics. Beauty that gives back. Right now, you can get an exclusive 10% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA
Greenlight-Greenlight: This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Sidetracked by Naming Body Parts, Steaks for Lunch, and Summer Dilemmas (when you’re not in Italy) :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 476]

5 juli 2024 | 43 min

"How do I connect better with my kids?" [Ep 475] :: Summer of Mentorship Week 1

1 juli 2024 | 36 min

Welcome to week one of the Summer of Mentorship! This summer we are answering your questions with guests from past episodes. We are starting off with an episode from April of 2020 (ep 280) with Rachel Macy Stafford, the founder of Hands Free Mama.

Rachel’s Hands Free Mama mentality is all about finding balance in a media-saturated, perfection-obsessed world. And it’s about seizing the little moments that life offers us to engage in real and meaningful interaction.

She shares a realization that she was not connected with her own people. How she was believing a lie that she needed to hide certain parts of herself, the messy parts, the imperfect parts, in order to be loved and accepted.Her “ah-ha” moment came when she vulnerably shared this belief with her daughter and found acceptance.

“Opening that door to being human actually brings us closer together. Then we can connect from that place of 'I'm struggling' and that doesn't mean there's something wrong with me. That doesn't mean I need to hide it. It means I need to reach out and talk to someone about this so we can work together to see how we might go forward.”

From that place she has chosen to extend that same acceptance and found real connection. Which then helps keep the lines of communication open as they grow up.

“This is all about redefining what our role is as a parent. It is not the authoritarian model anymore. It is the guide, the truth teller and the encourager. Not the enforcer, not the half listener, not the critic. That those roles are only going to get us further and further from each other when the idea is right now we need to come closer.”

Connect with Rachel:

Website: handsfreemama.com
Facebook: facebook.com/TheHandsFreeRevolution
Instagram: @handsfreerevolution
Twitter: @handsfreemama

FREE LIVE LOVE NOW LISTENING PLAN:

Click here for special 7-day listening plan for Don’t Mom Alone Listeners

Links Mentioned:

Live Love Now [BOOK]
Only Love Today [BOOK]
Amy McCready--Positive Parenting Solutions
Pre-order Bonuses--21-Day Self-Care Listening Plan AND 4 Downloadable Tools for Connection

Ask “Heart Questions vs. Performance Questions”
Practice phrases that take you “From Conflict to Calm”
Consider if you are an “Easy-to-Be-Around Adult”
Exclusive Phone Lock Screen - “Connecting by Protecting”

Summer of Mentorship Podcast Club Discussion Questions:

What kind of parenting model did you grow up with? How has that model influenced your parenting today?
Do you see your role as more of an enforcer or an encourager?
What are some problem areas for your child(ren) that you can bring them in on finding a solution?
Could taking the time to listen to them make a difference in how you both respond?
What is one thing you’d like to implement this week from Rachel’s talk?

Raising Critical Thinkers :: Julie Bogart [Ep 474]

24 juni 2024 | 49 min

Do you notice our culture (especially online) is full of people who all think their opinion is correct and want to argue? Do you wish you had the tools to help your child think for themselves and have deep conversations?

Julie Bogart; author, podcaster, and creator of Brave Writers; is here to help us teach our kids how to have critical thinking skills and how to use those tools as parents. In a world full of people defending their views and trying to convince everyone around them that their way is the right way, Julie shows us how to have real conversations. Many of us grew up with authoritarian parents and have moved all the way over to the gentle parenting side but Julie explains how both are not the best way forward.

She gives many ideas on how to approach conversations, especially with our teens, using imagination, curiosity, and empathy to understand them better. She teaches us how to pay attention in uncomfortable conversations and how that is a critical thinking opportunity. This episode is full of wisdom and tons of ideas on how to teach our children to think well. From how little kids learn through play to how our big kids learn through reading and expanding their worldview. The goal is to have deep and meaningful relationships that go far beyond their years in our home and this episode equips us to build better conversations and relationships.

Connect with Julie Bogart:

Website: Brave Writer | Writing programs and online classes
Facebook: Brave Writer
Instagram: Julie Sweeney (@juliebravewriter)

Links Mentioned:

The Brave Learner: by Julie Bogart
Raising Critical Thinkers: by Julie Bogart
Becoming a Critical Thinker: by Julie Bogart
Inside Out Approach to Parenting Our Challenging Child [BLOG POST]
DMA Podcast Clubs (scroll down, look for box to input email address if you want support)

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Greenlight: This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma
BetterHelp: Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month.

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Sidetracked with Beth McCord :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 473]

17 juni 2024 | 58 min

Don’t Dad Alone :: Dustin Nickerson [Ep 472]

10 juni 2024 | 49 min

Sidetracked by American Idol, Father’s Day, and Eyebrows :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 471]

7 juni 2024 | 43 min

Creating a Family Tech Plan :: Andrea Davis [Ep 470]

3 juni 2024 | 61 min

Do you feel like since 2020 your family tech rules have gone out the window? How do you handle tech guidelines if both parents are not on the same page? Do you find it difficult to manage different ages and stages when it comes to screens?

Andrea Davis, a mom of five with a degree in secondary education, is here to share a ton of wisdom and guidance on tech and screens for summer and beyond. We discuss the differences between kids earning screens, where often the screens become the entire focus of the long summer days and a family tech plan that creates more balance.

Andrea's plan for teens includes the three p’s; purpose, plan, and passion. These all create space for your child to get creative and work on skills in their free time. Also, check out her boredom busters in the show notes for the days when mom needs to work, the budget is tight, or the kids are done with all of their daily tasks. This episode is full of practical ideas but more importantly, Andrea reminds us that our kids want time with us and shaping their character and who God created them to be is more important than rules and regulations.

Connect with Andrea Davis:

Website: Better Screen Time | Andrea Davis
Facebook: Better Screen Time
Instagram: Leading Families to Slow Tech • Andrea Davis (@betterscreentime)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Vegamour–Give your hair the power of the little pink bottle with Vegamour. For a limited time, Don’t Mom Alone listeners get 20% off their first order by going to Vegamour.com/DMA and use the code DMA at check out.
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Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Finding Freedom from Habitual Sin :: Kirby Kelly [Ep 469]

27 maj 2024 | 57 min

Sidetracked with Toni Collier :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 468]

20 maj 2024 | 43 min

Hope and Help for Taboo Topics in Postpartum Care :: Krystle Howald [Ep 467]

13 maj 2024 | 57 min

Did you know that once you are postpartum you are always postpartum? Do you have issues from pregnancy, birth, or c-sections that have followed you and don’t know where to turn? Do you know that only 4% of parents are getting the movement that they need?

Today Krystle Howald, a women’s health physical therapist and co-founder of Expecting and Empowered, is here to break down some of the pains and issues we as moms experience after birth and beyond. While going to physical therapy school she quickly realized there were limited resources for moms who have incontinence issues, pain during sex, or just want to feel good in their body after childbirth. She shares tips on how to baby-carry without injury, how to breathe properly to bring our body back into alignment, and how to fit movement in as a busy mom.

Krystle brings hope, proving there are providers out there that want to help with the pain or shame around these sensitive topics, and that God has created our bodies to heal. Stick around until the end where she shares a coupon code for the Expecting and Empowered App!

Connect with Krystle Howald:

Links Mentioned:

Podcast — Expecting and Empowered
Code for app: dontmomalone to get 25% off a one year subscription

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Honeylove- Treat yourself to the best bras on the market and save 20% off at honeylove.com/DMA
Better Help- This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month and get on your way to being your best self.
Thrive Market- Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift!
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Honoring Moms, the Unsung Heroes :: Rebecca St. James [Ep 466]

6 maj 2024 | 39 min

Rebecca St. James, a popular Australian American contemporary Christian singer, songwriter and actress, is here to talk about the amazing new movie Unsung Hero, which chronicles her family's journey to rebuild their lives from the ground up. She shares personal stories from her childhood and how their mom’s faith stands up against all odds and inspires her husband and children to hold on to theirs.

Rebecca vulnerably shares her own marriage and motherhood struggles as she longed to be married and have children and how God shaped her through the waiting. Once she started a family all of the spiritual disciplines that her parents instilled in her have become an important part of how she and her husband lead their children today.

This movie and conversation reminds us that every Christian family is called to a unique adventure- they are not all the same but God has a plan for every one of us. When we settle for cookie-cutter lives we are missing out on the miracles He has for us. Be encouraged today that God has an adventure for your family when we step out in faith.

Connect with Rebecca St. James:

Website: RSJ (rebeccastjames.com)
Facebook: Rebecca St. James
Instagram: Rebecca St. James (@rebeccast.james)

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

Thrive Causemetics- 10% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA
Vegamour- Get twenty percent off your first order by going to VEGAMOUR.com/DMA and use code DMA at check out
Greenlight- This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to GREENLIGHT.com/dma
Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Sidetracked by 1980’s Mother’s Day, LTK, and Bad Book Reviews :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 465]

3 maj 2024 | 49 min

Stewarding Sacred and Spiritual Disciplines at Home :: Jennifer Pepito [Ep 464]

29 april 2024 | 50 min

When You're Busy and Stressed by Mom Life Expectations :: Joanna Weaver [Ep 463]

22 april 2024 | 46 min

House Rules and Learning to Love your Home :: Myquillyn Smith [Ep 462]

15 april 2024 | 52 min

When You’re Disappointed in Mom Life Limitations :: Sara Hagerty [Ep 461]

8 april 2024 | 49 min

Sidetracked by Instagram Arguments, Chicos, and End-of-School Year Emotions :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 460]

5 april 2024 | 44 min

From Ruin to Redemption :: Nadia Louise [Ep 459]

1 april 2024 | 54 min

Emotional Maturity, Teamwork, and 25 years of Marriage :: Bruce and Heather [Ep 458]

25 mars 2024 | 41 min

Three Faith Pillars for Parenting Teens :: Melissa Kruger [Ep 457]

18 mars 2024 | 50 min

Changing the Atmosphere of Your Home with Positive Parenting :: Ralphie Jacobs [Ep 456]

11 mars 2024 | 39 min

Secure Borders and the Compassionate Christian :: Bri Stensrud [Ep 455]

4 mars 2024 | 56 min

Sidetracked by Throat Gurgles, Unlikely Friendships and Trash Can Valentines :: special guest Rachel Green [Ep 454]

1 mars 2024 | 47 min

Hope for the Hopeless Marriage :: Kathy Bush [Ep 453]

26 februari 2024 | 55 min

The What, Why and Work-through of Panic Attacks :: Kasey Van Norman [Ep 452]

19 februari 2024 | 55 min

Helping Socially Anxious Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 451]

12 februari 2024 | 52 min

Feeding Your Kids Without Mom Guilt :: Kacie Barnes [Ep 450]

5 februari 2024 | 52 min

Life is Messy, God is Good :: Sidetracked with Cynthia and Heather [Ep 449]

2 februari 2024 | 43 min

She’s Not Your Enemy :: Jenn Schultz [Ep 448]

22 januari 2024 | 46 min

Is This Normal? A Women’s Health Conversation :: Dr. Kamilia Smith [Ep 447]

15 januari 2024 | 46 min

Gathering a Mentor Circle :: Ben Bevis [Ep 446]

8 januari 2024 | 48 min

Out with the Old Cherry Bomb Exhaust and In with the New :: Sidetracked by the New Year feat. Laurel Denise [Ep 445]

5 januari 2024 | 51 min

Organize Your Mental Load :: Laurel Denise [Ep 444]

11 december 2023 | 57 min

Nobody’s Mother :: Dr. Sandra Glahn [Ep 443]

4 december 2023 | 53 min

Sidetracked with the Holidays :: Pie-arrhea, Dutch Cabbage Patch Dolls and Advent Fails :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 442]

1 december 2023 | 48 min

How to Get Real and Savor More (Replay) :: Shauna Niequist [Ep 441]

27 november 2023 | 40 min

Demystifying Financial Aid :: Kristi Steele [Ep 440]

20 november 2023 | 58 min

Bedtime Rituals to End Worry Spirals :: Emily Ley [Ep 439]

13 november 2023 | 47 min

Parenting as a Highly Sensitive Person :: Mary Van Geffen [Ep 438]

6 november 2023 | 46 min

“Plump it Up”:: Sidetracked by 10 years of Podcasting [Ep 437]

3 november 2023 | 44 min

The Most Memorable Moments :: Celebrating 10 Years of Don't Mom Alone [Ep 436]

30 oktober 2023 | 46 min

The “Five-Timers” Club :: Celebrating 10 Years of Don’t Mom Alone [Ep 435]

23 oktober 2023 | 44 min

The “Don’t Miss” List :: Celebrating 10 Years of Don’t Mom Alone [Ep 434]

16 oktober 2023 | 47 min

Exchange False Beliefs with True Identity :: Jamie Winship [Ep 433]

9 oktober 2023 | 63 min

Sidetracked with Fall, Homecoming and Sibling Conflict :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 432]

6 oktober 2023 | 46 min

“What is My Responsibility in My Child’s Salvation?” :: Vela Tomba [Ep 431]

2 oktober 2023 | 46 min

Ministry in the Margins :: Angel Ricchuiti and Brittany Turner [Ep 430]

25 september 2023 | 64 min

“Help, I’m Tired of Fighting with my Daughter about Clothes” :: Kari Kampakis [Ep 429]

18 september 2023 | 51 min

My Kid Saw Porn, Now What? :: Mandy Majors [Ep 428]

11 september 2023 | 51 min

Finding Courage to Speak Up When You’re Not OK :: Kristen Glass [Ep 427]

4 september 2023 | 55 min

Sidetracked with Cynthia and Heather [Ep 426]

1 september 2023 | 43 min

Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Tech :: Joey Odom [Ep 425]

28 augusti 2023 | 43 min

Braving the Tech Landscape Through Connection :: Chris McKenna [Ep 424]

21 augusti 2023 | 50 min

Beating Expectations :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 423]

18 augusti 2023 | 39 min

Back-to-School & Tech Toolkit :: Dr. Kelly Jameson [Ep 422]

14 augusti 2023 | 50 min

The Worry-Free Parent :: Sissy Goff [Ep 421]

7 augusti 2023 | 45 min

Remaining You While Raising Them :: Alli Worthington [Ep 420]

31 juli 2023 | 47 min

The Goal Isn’t Happy Children :: Cynthia Yanof - Summer of Mentorship - Wk 6 [Ep 419]

24 juli 2023 | 37 min

That Time We Googled Married Sex :: Cynthia Yanof - Summer of Mentorship - Wk 5 [Ep 418]

17 juli 2023 | 42 min

Relationship + Respect (8 going on 18) :: Cynthia Yanof - Summer of Mentorship - Wk 4 [Ep 417]

10 juli 2023 | 31 min

The Unicorn That is Adult Friendship :: Cynthia Yanof - Summer of Mentorship - Wk 3 [Ep 416]

3 juli 2023 | 41 min

Raising Kids Who Can Stand Alone :: Cynthia Yanof - Summer of Mentorship - Wk 2 [Ep 415]

26 juni 2023 | 35 min

Little Liar Face :: Cynthia Yanof - Summer of Mentorship - wk 1 [Ep 414]

19 juni 2023 | 40 min

Parenting Neurodivergent Children--Summer Edition :: Carrie Casell [Ep 413]

12 juni 2023 | 53 min

Mentoring for Women in the Workplace :: Diane Paddison [Ep 412]

5 juni 2023 | 53 min

A Mash-Up of Summer Support [Ep 411]

29 maj 2023 | 58 min

The Praying Mama :: Natasha Miller [Ep 410]

22 maj 2023 | 42 min

Parenting Ahead :: Kristen Hatton [Ep 409]

15 maj 2023 | 41 min

Important Topics to Cover with Tweens and Teens about Manners, Technology and Friendship :: Lee Cordon [Ep 408]

8 maj 2023 | 53 min

Occupying Suffering Spaces :: Cari Trotter [Ep 407] RWYB Series Wk 6

1 maj 2023 | 49 min

Shrinking or Swelling to Fill Your Space :: Courtney DeFeo [Ep 406]

24 april 2023 | 49 min

Listening for God's Leading :: Caroline Cobb [Ep 405] RWYB wk 4

17 april 2023 | 57 min

Identifying Your God-Given Space (Part 2) :: Sally Clarkson [Ep 404] RWYB Series wk 3

10 april 2023 | 49 min

Identifying Your God-Given Space (Part 1) :: Cleere Cherry Reaves [Ep 403] RWYB wk 2

3 april 2023 | 55 min

How to Never Miss Out :: Vaneetha Risner [Ep 402] RWYB Series Wk 1

27 mars 2023 | 50 min

How to be Truly Strong :: Aundi Kolber [Ep 401]

20 mars 2023 | 57 min

Guided by Faith :: Candace Cameron Bure [Ep 400]

13 mars 2023 | 44 min

Talking, Teens, and Twenty-four Years :: Bruce + Heather [Ep 399]

6 mars 2023 | 39 min

Students of Our Children :: Karen Stubbs [Ep 398]

27 februari 2023 | 48 min

On the Role of Women :: Joel Muddamalle [Ep 397]

20 februari 2023 | 57 min

Communication that Connects :: Kimberly Galindo [Ep 396]

13 februari 2023 | 48 min

Parenting Sensitive and Intense Kids :: Lynne Jackson and Lydia Rex [Ep 395]

6 februari 2023 | 60 min

Signpost Parenting :: Ann Voskamp [Ep 395]

30 januari 2023 | 55 min

Freedom is Not a Look :: Alisa Keeton [Ep 393]

23 januari 2023 | 54 min

Clarifying Your Family Culture :: Heather [Ep 392]

16 januari 2023 | 27 min

Steady Identity in Shifting Roles :: Kari Kampakis - Part 2 [Ep 391]

9 januari 2023 | 38 min

Connecting With Your Daughter Through Humility and Compassion :: Kari Kampakis - Part 1 [Ep 390]

2 januari 2023 | 40 min

Every Mom a Theologian :: Phylicia Masonheimer [Ep 389]

28 november 2022 | 60 min

Brave Enough to be Broken :: Toni Collier [Ep 388]

21 november 2022 | 50 min

Good Boundaries and Goodbyes :: Lysa TerKeurst [Ep 387]

14 november 2022 | 40 min

Bottles of Hope :: Lindsey Wheeler [Ep 386]

7 november 2022 | 53 min

Advent Untangled :: Mindy Rives [Ep 385]

31 oktober 2022 | 42 min

Chosen by Jesus :: Cast of The Chosen [Ep 384]

24 oktober 2022 | 54 min

Collaboration Over Competition :: Liz Bohannon & Jessica Honegger [Ep 383]

17 oktober 2022 | 63 min

Freeing Your Adolescents to Step Into Adulthood - Ages and Stages - Teens :: Dr. Ken Wilgus [Ep 382]

10 oktober 2022 | 51 min

Life Empowered by the Holy Spirit :: Max Lucado [Ep 381]

3 oktober 2022 | 54 min

Ages & Stages Series--The Tween Years :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 380]

26 september 2022 | 51 min

Navigating Middle Motherhood :: Kara Trochta [Ep 379]

19 september 2022 | 51 min

Ages and Stages Series-- The Elementary Years :: Dr. Meg Meeker [Ep 378]

12 september 2022 | 51 min

Ages and Stages Series — Infants/Toddlers :: Rachel Norman [Ep 377]

5 september 2022 | 51 min

Reading Aloud to Overcome Mom Fear :: Jennifer Pepito [Ep 376]

29 augusti 2022 | 49 min

Doubt, Questions & Your Teen’s Growing Faith :: Mary Jo Sharp [Ep 375]

22 augusti 2022 | 47 min

Building Strong Marriages :: Kimberly Beam Holmes [Ep 374]

15 augusti 2022 | 50 min

Behind the Mic :: Heather [Ep 373]

8 augusti 2022 | 25 min

Raising Discerning Viewers :: Heather [Ep 372]

1 augusti 2022 | 31 min

Rebranded: Stepping Into a New Season :: Christy Wright [SOM Wk 6]

25 juli 2022 | 49 min

What would it take for you to walk away from the most abundant time in your career? From a time that was not only full, but fun, rewarding, and productive?

My guest this week, Christy Wright did just that - walked away from a season of immense abundance in her career, not because of difficult situations but simply because God called her out of it. She says this call was so clear she came to a point where she feared disobedience more than the uncertainty of leaving her career. She followed God into a new season of freedom and work. It's like God called Christy in for a meeting to talk about rebranding - not to change who He had created her to be, but to change her everyday look and her assignments.

We've spent our summer talking through our unique "mom brands" and in our final week of Summer of Mentorship we're hitting on something that will happen to each of us as moms at one point or many - the need to rebrand. To leave behind what worked and was right for that specific time to embrace what God is saying is right for now. Ecclesiastes reminds us there is rhythm and seasons to life and we will walk through transitions in our work and home life. Christy encourages us to courageously cling to God's voice in those times and not let the fear of uncertainty keep us from the rebranding God is walking us through..

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you from the episode?
What current roles help shape your days?
Are you ok with you when you take away what you do? Or, how easily can you separate out who you are from what you do?
Have you gone through a “rebranding” as a mom? Either because of change in circumstance or because your routines weren’t serving you, or for another reason. What was difficult about that time? What was beneficial in that transition?
Spend the last 10 minutes of your group time in silence praying and listening and ask God, “Is there anything I need to be freed from?”

Connect with Christy Wright:

Website: https://www.christy-wright.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialChristyWright
Instagram: @ChristyBWright

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Manage Your Life With Guilt-Free Confidence :: Christy Wright [Ep 192]

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Move from Comparison to Compassion :: Karen Ehman [SofM Wk 5]

18 juli 2022 | 43 min

Does your life look exactly like you want it to? All too often we come across what seems like the life that we want on someone else’s Instagram. You can dismiss those as the “highlight reels”, that is what they are, but sometimes the girl next door has what you want. What do you do then? How do you prep your kids for when they don’t get invited or when they feel like someone else has it better than them?

My guest this week, Karen Ehman, says, “Go find your old self.”

She’s not leading us on an existential journey into the past, but to those around us that need the love of Christ. She encourages us in a powerful way that when we are discouraged by someone who has it “better” than us to find someone who has it “worse” than us, not so we can feel good about something, but because there is a person who needs the love of Christ.

We’re taking time this summer (as usual) to be mentored by some experienced moms and benefit from their wisdom. I’m asking them about their “mom brands” and the unique families and assignments God has given them to help us embrace the specific and unique spot God has given each of us.

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you in this episode? Why?
Who is your “old self”? What was a particularly difficult time God brought you through that you could use as a connection point to love someone else?
When have you felt loved or seen by someone else in the midst of a difficult situation?
Thinking about Karen’s mom and how hard she has to work as a single mom, where in your life are you having to work hard? Which of your God-given assignments is either physically, or mentally, or spiritually challenging? Spend some time praying for these situations with your group.
When you think about loving others by inviting them into your life what limitations come to mind?
Who is a necessary person you can love tangibly this month? Brainstorm ideas with your group about simple ways to show Christ’s love.

Connect with Karen Ehman:

Website: https://karenehman.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialKarenEhman
Instagram: @karenehman
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLbA_nXZ6HAhLGUL6KNhzRw

Links Mentioned:

Make Their Day: 101 Simple, Powerful Ways to Love Others Well by Karen Ehman

Related Episodes:

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Creating Family Culture :: Amber O’Neal Johnston [SOM Wk 4]

11 juli 2022 | 47 min

Creating Family Culture :: Amber O’Neal Johnston [SOM Wk 4]

You are creating a culture for your family, right now, whether or not you’re aware of it or intentional in it. Your words and actions reveal the functional values you have for your family. Is yours a culture of fun and laughter? Grace and second chances? Integrity and grit? It could be all of those and more, or something simpler - it is unique to your family! Whatever it is, if it isn’t intentionally cultivated it will be like a garden filled with weeds - growing, but haphazard.

My guest this week is Amber O’Neal Johnston and one of the values that drives her family’s culture is that her kids would know they are seen and valued at home and in the world. And that other people are just as valuable too. This, along with other values, drives the decisions they make about how they interact with the world around them, right down to the restaurants they eat at. She challenges us to not only cultivate a family culture, but to grow as moms and people along the way. Her book, A Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity and Kinship in the Home and Beyond is available now.

We’re taking time this summer (as usual) to be mentored by some experienced moms and benefit from their wisdom. I’m asking them about their “mom brands” and the unique families and assignments God has given them to help us embrace the specific and unique spot God has given each of us.

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you from this episode?
What practices or resources have you used to expose your kids to other cultures?
Where has God called you to speak out in love when you’d prefer to remain silent? Spend time praying with your group for these circumstances.
What is one value that you want to emphasize in your home?
Amber shared that she had to release her need to impress other moms in order for her kids to flourish - what expectation or ideal do you need to let go of so that your kids can flourish?
How would being secure and confident in your family culture change your relationships with other moms or families?

Connect with Amber Johnston:

Website: https://heritagemom.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeritageMomBlog
Instagram: @heritagemomblog
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HeritageMomBlog/_created/

Links Mentioned:

A Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity and Kinship in the Home and Beyond by Amber O’Neal Johnston

Things To Do List from the Heritage Mom Website

Related Episodes:

Finding Yourself in Motherhood :: Amber O’Neal Johnston [Ep 310]

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Focused Living :: Shontell Brewer [SOM Wk 3]

4 juli 2022 | 48 min

“I don't have time for the things that God has not called me to.”

My guest this week, Shontell Brewer, wisely speaks those words. She is a wife and mom of 5. She’s written a book on parenting and still things haven’t always gone the way she’s planned or wanted. But she has learned where to lean in and wait on the Lord. She’s learned that to be intentional as a mom or wife or teacher she’s got to cut out the “keeping up” with others, whether on social media or the mom down the street. And she’s learned that God hasn’t finished writing the story. Even if she can’t see to the end of all God’s workings in her kid’s lives, knowing His word and taking time to commune with Him have given her a firm foundation to stand on.

We’re taking time this summer (as usual) to be mentored by some experienced moms and benefit from their wisdom. I’m asking them about their “mom brands” and the unique families and assignments God has given them to help us embrace the specific and unique spot God has given each of us.

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you from the episode?
Shontell encourages us to get on the same level as the person across from us to grow intentionality in our relationships - be it a spouse or child or friend. What relationship in your life needs this sort of attention? How can you meet that person right where they are?
How has God gifted you? Do you know?
Have you thought through what you want for your children, or what the goal of your parenting is? Keeping the tiny humans alive is big work, so no shame at all if you haven’t! If we’re working towards intentionality as moms, thinking through this question can help us cut activities or practices we don’t need and to make space for ones we do.
How do you measure your success as a parent?
What situation or circumstance would benefit from you processing with God before processing with a friend? Set aside time to do that this week.

Connect with Shontell Brewer:

Website: http://shontellbrewer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontell.brewer
Instagram: @shontellbrewer
Twitter: @shontellbrewer

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Parenting Small :: Shontell Brewer [Ep 140]

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Life Giving Faith in Every Circumstance :: Lisa Appelo [Summer of Mentorship Wk 2]

27 juni 2022 | 42 min

Childhood should be carefree, right? We hope that our kids make it to adulthood with as few scars as possible, but that isn’t the nature of the world we live in. What happens when our kids encounter grief? What happens when we aren’t able to give them the childhood we wanted them to have?

This week I talk with Lisa Appelo, widow and mom of seven, who found herself in that spot - grieving the life she wanted for herself and her children, and then having to navigate the shift in every relationship that comes through change or grief. What she has found in the last 11+ years has been the presence of God for her and her kids. The rhythm of their regular bible study was a lifeline and she offers us great encouragement of God’s nearness and direct involvement in our lives. Read more of their story in Lisa’s new book Life can be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After it All Falls Apart.

We’re taking time this summer (as usual) to be mentored by some experienced moms and benefit from their wisdom. I’m asking them about their “mom brands” and the unique families and assignments God has given them to help us embrace the specific and unique spot God has given each of us.

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you in the episode?
What does family bible reading look like in your home? What is one change you could make to your routine to incorporate some kind of bible reading? Think small! Remember that Lisa says it’s a fight to make that space but totally worth it.
Where can you give your kids the freedom to choose, allowing the Lord to work in them independent of your direct guidance? You can think small here too!
Where might you need to step back in your child’s life to preserve your relationship with them?
What relationships have shifted because of loss or change, big or small? Spend time praying with and for one another over these relationships and God’s good plan for them. (This could feel like an insurmountable question for someone in your group - approach it with empathy and care!)

Connect with Lisa Appelo:

Website: https://lisaappelo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisaappeloauthor
Instagram: @lisaappelo
Twitter: @AppeloLisa
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/LisaAppelo/_created/

Links Mentioned:

Life Can be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After it All Falls Apart by Lisa Appelo

Hinds’ Feet on High Places: An Engaging Visual Journey by Hannah Hurnard

Related Episodes:

How to Fight Fear & Believe in a Faithful God :: Lisa Appelo [Ep 84]

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Lasting Parent-Child Relationships :: Helen Smallbone [Summer of Mentorship Wk 1]

20 juni 2022 | 46 min

“Don’t care how, I want it now!” When we watch Veruca Salt sing those words in Willy Wonka we are immediately repulsed. And yet, lots of our time and energy is spent trying to unlock the secrets to a quick change of our circumstance. This week, mom of seven Helen Smallbone, encourages us that following Christ and parenting alike are long games. Marathons, in fact. She has honesty and wisdom to offer as we strive to grow and maintain relationships with our kids that last into adulthood. She also encourages us with some practical ways to foster relationships between our kids, to get them working, and retain our own sanity.

We’re taking time this summer (as usual) to be mentored by some experienced moms and benefit from their wisdom. This year I'm recording new interviews and I’m asking guests about their “mom brands”. They share their values, unique assignments God has given them and what helps their family flourish. The goal is to help you define your "mom brand" and the places God is assigning you.

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you from the episode?
Do you take a “mum’s time out” during the day? Why or why not? What would change about your day if you did?
How do you balance connection with your kids while maintaining the boundaries of a parent-child relationship?
How do you typically handle sibling conflict? Which of Helen’s tactics could you adapt to use in your own home?
How do you maintain or reestablish connection with your child after an argument/difficult exchange?
What’s your favorite way to help kids get their energy out? If another mom shares one that might work at your house, write it down!
Helen reminded us that motherhood is not for the faint of heart - what aspect of motherhood has got you feeling fainthearted? Spend some time praying for one another about those specific areas.

Connect with Helen Smallbone:

Website: https://www.mumlife.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helenjsmallbone/
Instagram: @MumLifeCommunity
Podcast: MUM Life Community

Links Mentioned:

Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family by Helen Smallbone
PAST EPISODE: Gentle Christ-Centered Parenting {Ep 363}

Related Episodes:

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Villages of Hope and Help :: DeVon and Paulette Franklin [Ep 371]

13 juni 2022 | 38 min

Gender and Sexuality :: Preston Sprinkle [Ep 370]

6 juni 2022 | 58 min

Dwelling Differently :: Natalie Abbott [Ep 369]

30 maj 2022 | 43 min

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11 is a very familiar verse, but do you take it as a life-giving exhortation or do you shove it into the mental closet of “shoulds”? The rest of Psalm 119 tells us the person who loves God’s word enough to hide it in their heart finds peace, wisdom, delight, comfort, blessing, shameless life, reminders of the Lord’s nearness, and promises that will endure forever - just to name a few!

So why don’t we memorize scripture?

What if you had a system that was simple and beautiful and easy enough for the whole family to practice together? This week’s guest, Natalie Abbott, is a mom of five who knows firsthand of the wonderful things the rest of Psalm 119 promises the person who hides God’s word in their heart. She and her sister, Vera, created Dwell Differently, a system of temporary tattoos and devotional cards all beautifully designed for simple memorization of and meditation on one verse a month. It gives individuals, families or friend groups a chance to sow one verse into every aspect of their lives and then reap the peace and wisdom that comes from nearness to God.

Connect with Natalie Abbott:

Website: https://dwelldifferently.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dwelldifferently/
Instagram: @dwelldifferently
Podcast: https://dwelldifferently.com/pages/dwell-podcast-2

Links Mentioned:

Dwell Differently. Visit www.dwelldifferently.com to get the first month free of a FAMILY membership ($12 value) use the code: DMA

Related Episodes:

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Raising Emotionally Strong Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 368]

23 maj 2022 | 64 min

Winning Together as Co-laborers :: Heather [Ep 367]

16 maj 2022 | 38 min

God’s Hand Over Everything :: Tori Hope Petersen [Ep 366]

9 maj 2022 | 47 min

The Lazy Genius Kitchen :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 365]

2 maj 2022 | 53 min

The Power of Pausing:: Kirsten Watson [Ep 364]

25 april 2022 | 42 min

Do you remember commercial breaks? They were built-in pauses, breaks from the drama or sitcom. With DVR’s or streaming services we can easily skip or minimize the pauses. But what if “pause” is what your everyday really needs? Not a week-long, pick your favorite vacation spot pause, but a quick moment to stop and say, “God, where are you leading? What are you saying?” or “Help me today because I don’t have what it takes to make it through the day.”

Kirsten Watson is a busy woman - a wife, a mom to seven, an author and podcast host - but all those responsibilities only lead her to pause more. Whether it’s in the moments just after her alarm goes off, or in the middle of after-school stories, she challenges us to slow down and first ask God for the help we need, and then to see where he is at work. She encourages us to practice discernment for what is most helpful in our kids’ sanctification - either stepping in or stepping back. She invites us to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit available to us if we will only ask.

Kirsten’s book, Sis, Take a Breath: Encouragement for the Woman Who’s Trying to Live and Love Well (but Secretly Just Wants to Take a Nap), releases May 3, 2022.

Connect with Kirsten Watson:

Website: https://thewatsonseven.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirstenwatsonofficial
Instagram: @_kirstenwatson_
Podcast: Why or Why Not with the Watsons

Links Mentioned:

Sis, Take a Breath: Encouragement For the Woman Who’s Trying to Live and Love Well (but Secretly Just Wants to take a Nap) by Kirsten Watson

Related Episodes:

Breathe…{replacing “me” with “He”series} Blogpost

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Gentle Christ-Centered Parenting :: David and Amanda Erickson [Ep 363]

18 april 2022 | 55 min

Walking Through Seasons of Unbelonging :: Shauna Niequist [Ep 362]

11 april 2022 | 47 min

We all walk through seasons of transition, whether we leave something behind by choice or it was chosen for us. Life after a disruptive event or during life transitions can feel like “starting over” just as much as a move clear across the country. You may be asking the question, “who am I here?” even in familiar places and routines. Author Shauna Niequist encourages us in what to hold on to and what to let go of, through seasons of loss.

She equips us with three tools for the journey - curiosity, self-compassion, and courage. We discuss how prayer can tenderize an angry heart, and Shauna shares how hanging on to writing and hospitality, even when they felt like impossible disciplines, helped her journey forward through grief and change.

Shauna Niequist is a wife, mom, and author to numerous books including, Present Over Perfect, Cold Tangerines, and Bread and Wine. Her new book, I Guess I Haven’t Learned that Yet, releases on April 12, 2022

Connect with Shauna Niequist:

Website: https://www.shaunaniequist.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sniequist
Instagram: @sniequist
Twitter: @sniequist

Links Mentioned:

I Guess I Haven’t Learnd that Yet by Shauna Niequist

Related Episodes:

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Mom, You Are Important but Not Essential, and That’s Good News :: Brittany Turner [Ep 361]

4 april 2022 | 36 min

Creating Digital Safe Spaces :: Chris McKenna [Ep 360]

28 mars 2022 | 52 min

How to Help a Friend Process Life [Ep 359]

21 mars 2022 | 47 min

Mentoring with Lisa Bevere [Ep 358]

14 mars 2022 | 56 min

Recovering from Mom Burnout :: Nicole Zasowski [Ep 357]

7 mars 2022 | 50 min

Equipping Your Kids for Difficulty :: Kim Sorgius [Ep 356]

28 februari 2022 | 59 min

What happens when you’ve had a Proverbs life - following the rules and making the right choices - but then you wake up to find yourself living in Ecclesiastes where life is painful and doesn’t quite make sense? It’s easy for us to think we can do and achieve - that if we just get the right formula we’ll unlock an easy life replete with God’s blessings and perfect family photos. Through her own story of God’s provision through heartache and uncertain circumstances, Kim Sorgius encourages us to lean in and really know the Lord in difficult times. Not just to know about him, not to search his word for what the plan is, but to search it for Him. She wants our paradigm to shift and for us to embrace that “the beauty of life isn’t found in perfect circumstances…[but] in faith.”

Kim has a deep desire for us to both experience and pass that sturdy faith onto our children. Born from the difficulty (and faithfulness) of single motherhood is her blog and online store, Not Consumed, where she has created Bible studies and products to help you engage the scripture with your kids. Join us to hear Kim’s incredible story and to be encouraged as you work to share your faith in meaningful ways.

Connect with Kim Sorgius:

Website: https://smart.bio/notconsumed/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notconsumed
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notconsumed/

Links Mentioned:

Related Episodes:

Featured Sponsors:

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Church Hurts, Healed by the Church :: Angel Ricchuiti [Ep 355]

21 februari 2022 | 52 min

Think of 9 women you know. Statistics says that 1 of those women was sexually abused as a child. This week, Angel Ricchuiti bravely tells us her story of sexual abuse within the church. She gives us hope that God heals, restores and is near to us through the body of Christ and skilled professionals. You will hear practical ways to listen well and come alongside a friend who suffered trauma as you are graciously invited into her story. And, you will be encouraged to think about the process of uprooting fears and walking in freedom caused by hurts. Be informed and empowered toward empathy and compassion whether trauma or abuse is a part of your story or not.

Angel is a wife, mother of four, as well as a trained counselor.

WARNING: This episode contains references to child sexual abuse within the church. We know Angel’s story may be especially hard for some, as it may stir up very real feelings. Please be encouraged, Angel’s story is full of hope and healing, too. While this episode might not be good for little ears, it is a story that will equip you and help you walk in more freedom.

Connect with Angel Ricchuiti:

Website: https://angelricchuiti.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angel.ricchuiti
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelricchuiti/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/angelricchuiti

Links Mentioned:

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES BELOW
Tim Ricchuiti’s TikTok:@polymathematic

Related Episodes:

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Resources for Sexual Abuse Recovery and Prevention:

Books for Kids:

Let’s Talk About Body Boundaries, Consent and Respect - Jayneen Sanders
God Made All of Me – Justin S. Holcomb
Good Picture Bad Pictures - Kristen Jenson

Books for Survivors:

Suffering and the Heart of God – Dr. Diane Langberg
The Wounded Heart – Dr. Dan Allender
The Trauma Heart – Judy Crane
The Body Keep the Score - Bessel van der Kolk
Redeeming Love – Francine Rivers
The Hiding Place – Corrie Ten Boom
Believing God – Beth Moore

People to Follow:

Books Recs & Questions to Ask Your Local Church Leadership:

On Guard – Preventing and Responding to Child Abuse at Church, by Deepak Reju
We Too – Mary E. Demuth
Who knows about/ keeps track of convicted sex offenders in our congregation?
Who monitors their coming and going on our campus?
Who on staff is responsible to check in with their probation officers and confirm the reason for their status on the sex offenders list and recommendations they have for securing safety?
What is the safety plan for these individuals? What is included & who supervises this plan?
How often does the supervisor meet with this perpetrator or other known perpetrators AND fact check the information they provide?
Is he or other known perpetrators chaperoned while on campus?
Do we have an official document which discloses how we as a church body agree to handle this particular issue?

Be Vulnerable, Find Your People :: Jennie Allen [Ep 354]

14 februari 2022 | 56 min

Extending an Invitation :: Trillia Newbell [Ep 353]

7 februari 2022 | 54 min

Consistency in Bible Study :: Katie Orr [Ep 352]

31 januari 2022 | 51 min

In a world of increasing chaos, we crave certainty. We “know” the answer lies in some good disciplines like daily time with God. How can you step into a habit of studying God’s Word with consistency and success, even when your daily rhythms are upside down?

Let’s turn Bible study from a “should do” into a vibrant, life-giving way to get the Word into your heart. Our guest this week, Bible teacher Katie Orr, will encourage you in practical and approachable ways so that you can open God’s Word and be fed.

We talk through the stops on Katie’s “Bible Study Boulevard” - an assessment you can take on her website to help you figure out just where you are on your Bible study journey. Identifying your “stop” can help you adopt methods you can use right where you are, right now to connect with God and know Him more. Her online community at www.biblestudyhub.com is a place where women can connect and receive training, encouragement, and accountability to enjoy God’s word. She is even offering Don’t Mom Alone listeners a special on her 5 Days to Better Bible Study Course to jump start your study!

Connect with Katie:

Website: katieorr.me
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekatieorr
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekatieorr
Books by Katie Orr - Secrets of the Happy Soul
FOCUSed15 Bible Studies

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

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Understand Your Developing Teen :: Dr. Nell Bush [Ep 351]

24 januari 2022 | 62 min

The preteen/teen years are a time of immense change and growth that often come with difficulty between mother and child. As the mom of a teen you may find yourself confused or frustrated with your child’s new behavior and attitudes. (The thought of those years is enough to fill elementary-kid moms with dread!) Come and listen as we shed light on the confusion of these transitional years that will help us both prepare for and thrive during this crucial developmental stage.

In this episode Child Development Specialist, Dr. Nell Bush, explains to us the four pillars of preteen/teen development. Dr. Bush co-authored The Parenting Survival Guide, a practical handbook for parents addressing common child rearing concerns. Having four children of her own, she understands teen development on a theoretical and practical level.

Nell encourages us that if we can understand what’s going on socially, emotionally, mentally, and physically with our preteens/teens we can respond with compassion and adapt our parenting strategies to fit their needs. She also covers aspects of development from why teens sleep so much to why they seem to love and hate us almost simultaneously. Draw hope for the present or wisdom for the future as you sit in (or do the dishes, or drive the kids all over) on Heather and Nell’s conversation.

Connect with Dr. Nell Bush:

Email: [email protected]

Links Mentioned:

Handout from Dr. Bush
Birds and Bees https://birds-bees.com/
Episodes with Mary Flo and Megan Michaelson of Birds and Bees

Featured Sponsors:

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Friendship is Hard :: Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston [Ep 350]

17 januari 2022 | 59 min

Sunday Planning :: Retha Nichole [Ep 349]

10 januari 2022 | 58 min

Honoring Others :: Rachael Wade [Ep 348]

29 november 2021 | 54 min

Parenting in the Power of the Holy Spirit :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 347]

22 november 2021 | 53 min

Jeannie Cunnion is back on the show with a powerful message that reminds us that we are NEVER ALONE. As believers we always have the Holy Spirit with us and Jeannie shares how to deepen your understanding of the Holy Spirit and come to know Him as an intimate friend and companion.

Not only that, but the Holy Spirit gives us power for the daily grind and holy work of motherhood. She shares about how He is faithfully at work, making the gospel irresistible to our kids and the freedom that comes from not having to do the Holy Spirit’s job for our kids.

“I think that there's a freedom and a frustration that comes with the Holy Spirit. There's freedom because it's like I can not do the Holy Spirit's job. He is going to be the one who sparks their faith, sustains their faith, strengthens them, sanctifies them. That is all his job. But that can also be frustrating because we want to be able to produce that fruit in their life to spare them from the consequences and the pain of sin. I have to remind myself that God loves my kids infinitely more than I ever could imagine and that he longs for them to live in the fullness of his grace and mercy, even more than I do.”

If you are longing to experience the freedom that comes from resting in the Holy Spirit instead of your own strength, this is the episode for you! Jeannie shares more in-depth on this subject in her new Bible study available for pre-orders now, Never Alone - Bible Study Book: Parenting in the Power of the Holy Spirit.

Connect with Jeannie Cunnion:

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

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Embracing Your Power in Marriage :: Dr. Juli Slattery [Ep 346]

15 november 2021 | 47 min

Many women feel lost in their marriages. They don't know what to do with their disappointment, when to ask for help, or what it looks like to let go of the need to control. But God has given women incredible power in marriage and Dr. Juli Slattery is here to help us learn how to use it.

Dr. Slattery joins me to discuss key points from her bestselling book Finding the Hero in Your Husband and about how what we believe about our husbands can make all the difference in the intimacy, connection and health of our marriages.

“There are going to be issues in every marriage that have to be addressed, but it's the relational equity that we build through how we treat our husbands that gives us the power to confront things when they really need to be addressed. And when your husband has come to rely so much on your intimacy and companionship, then the fact that you have a concern really gets his attention because he doesn't want to lose you.”

We talk about being emotionally safe for our husbands, stopping the cycle of disappointment and nagging in our marriages, and taking another look at intimacy as a sexual journey to go on with our husbands. It’s. So. GOOD.

If you are in need of a boost of hope and excitement to help you re-engage in your marriage, this episode is for you!

Connect with Dr. Juli Slattery:

Website: authenticintimacy.com
Facebook: facebook.com/AuthenticIntimacy
Instagram: @authenticintimacy
Podcast: Java with Juli

Links Mentioned:

BOOK: Finding the Hero in Your Husband, Revisited

More Recent Episodes on Marriage:

Featured Sponsors:

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Sober-Minded Living :: Jenn Kautsch [Ep 345]

8 november 2021 | 51 min

Jenn Kautsch is an empty nester mom and a retired "grey area" drinker. She takes us into her story of feeling tired, stuck on auto-pilot, and ready for a change when it comes to her relationship with alcohol.

Through her own journey of seeking God about her casual drinking habit that was becoming a toxic mental battle, Jenn stopped asking if her drinking was “bad” for her and reframed it.

“So I turned it around and I started asking myself the question, Jenn, is it good enough? Is your drinking good enough for you? Is your relationship with drinking, helping you become the best version of yourself? Is it taking you where you really want to go? Is it matching up to your outsides being like your insights or are you walking around with duplicity in a divided mind and a mental tug of war?”

After choosing to embrace a sober lifestyle, Jenn started SoberSis, a like-minded community of women who are renegotiating their relationship with alcohol without labels, shame, judgment or rules.

We talk about how God brought her freedom from what felt like a divided life -- constantly feeling in conflict and stuck in an internal tug-of-war so she could live a more wholehearted life. And how she’s now been able to connect with close to 20,000 women from all over the world through her SoberSis community of women.

Connect with Jenn:

Website: sobersis.com
Facebook: facebook.com/sobermindedsister
Instagram: @sobersis

Links Mentioned:

Get the Happy Hour Survival Guide from Jenn
Join her 21 Day Reset Challenge
Free Video Series - https://www.sobersis.com/new-videos
If you had a parent who was an alcoholic check out this episode: Forgiving my Alcoholic Mother :: Sarah Mae [Ep 257]
If you need help setting boundaries this holiday season: Setting Healthy Boundaries :: Dr. John Townsend [250]

Featured Sponsors:

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When You Don't Know What to Pray :: Kayla Craig [Ep 344]

1 november 2021 | 43 min

Your Unique Color Palette and Authentic Style :: Karen Blanc [Ep 343]

25 oktober 2021 | 49 min

Fed is Best || New Baby Series Pt. 2 :: Dr. Bridget Young [Bonus]

22 oktober 2021 | 28 min

Fed is Best || New Baby Series Pt 1 :: Demetria Martin and Dr. Odom [Ep 342]

18 oktober 2021 | 46 min

Late nights, milk stained clothes and feeling like you’ll go crazy if your baby spits up that precious breastmilk…. I have been there. We’ve never done an episode specifically on breastfeeding, but I want to provide support to moms who may be in this very isolating time of life.

My guests are Certified Lactation Counselor Demetria Martin and Pediatrician Dr. Brittany Odom and they talk us through some of the common hot topics surrounding breastfeeding from supply issues to nighttime feedings and everything else in between.

“Sometimes you don't have a good sense of community around breastfeeding. There are some pediatrician's offices that aren't super breastfeeding friendly. There might be some family members or friends who are not supportive of your breastfeeding journey. You may feel pretty alone when you're kind of starting this out. But give yourself, you know, a pat on the back for how far you have come. Even if it's been a day and a half, that's still a day and a half more than you've done before. So taking those small steps, knowing it is going to be a journey.”

Ultimately, we agree that a fed baby is a happy baby, so I hope you understand my heart is not to idealize the breastfeeding journey. Just to provide resources and community so you don’t mom alone as you feed your infants!

(Later this week we will publish a bonus episode featuring another lactation consultant about how to choose the right formula for your family.)

Connect with Demetria:

Website: themilkbuds.com
Facebook: facebook.com/themilkbuds
Instagram: @themilkbuds

Connect with Dr. Brittany Odom:

Instagram: @drbrittodom

Links Mentioned:

Milk Buds Lactation Services

Featured Sponsors:

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Relationships You Need To Be the Mom You Want to Be :: Heather MacFadyen [Ep 341]

12 oktober 2021 | 51 min

For the Mom Tired of Striving:: Ruth Chou Simons [Ep 340]

4 oktober 2021 | 50 min

Truth for When You Feel Like a Bad Mom :: Jamie Ivey [Ep 339]

27 september 2021 | 50 min

Helping Our Kids Foster Friendships :: David Thomas and Sissy Goff [Ep 338]

20 september 2021 | 62 min

Long Game Parenting :: Melanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson [Ep 337]

13 september 2021 | 62 min

Their real names are Melanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson, but they’ve been blogging for a long time on the internet as Big Mama and BooMama. In addition to being authors and speakers, they also host the fun podcast The Big Boo Cast where they talk about all the important stuff: faith, family, friends, football, fashion, and food. Plus, of course, their hair.

They join me for a mom friends episode where we talk about parenting teens, launching kids to college and letting go of mom guilt.

“If you were a bad mom, you wouldn't spend a lot of time worrying about if you were a bad mom. So the fact that you're feeling that guilt is like, you love your child, you're showing up, you're trying to do all the right things. And you just have to trust that God's grace covers the rest of it because they're going to be things you get wrong.”

You won’t want to miss the fun and funny Melanie and Sophie. I consider them some of my mentor moms and they offer up a lot of candid advice and wisdom for playing the “long game” of parenting.

Connect with Melanie:

Connect with Sophie:

Website: boomama.net
Facebook: facebook.com/SophieHudsonBooMama
Instagram: @boomama205

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/DMA and join the over 2,000,000 people who have taken charge of their mental health with the help of an experienced professional. Special offer for Don’t Mom Alone listeners: get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/DMA.
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Weathering Life’s Storms :: Sally Clarkson [Ep 336]

6 september 2021 | 48 min

Self Differentiation and Why It Matters :: Nancy Houston [Ep 335]

30 augusti 2021 | 54 min

How God’s Holiness Helps Mothers :: Jackie Hill Perry [Ep 334]

23 augusti 2021 | 48 min

Body Awareness in Parenting :: Mary Van Geffen [Ep 333]

16 augusti 2021 | 59 min

Factual News, Flexible Thinking and Family Moral Imperatives :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 332]

9 augusti 2021 | 54 min

News, politics and world events are on a 24-hour and 365-day cycle. Every second something new is happening and keeping up with the latest can be a full time job. Add on top of that the bias inherent in mass media and it can be hard to tell fact from manipulated fiction.

Enter Sharon McMahon, a former high school government and law teacher on a mission to combat political misinformation. With her viral Instagram account @SharonSaysSo, she shares non-partisan facts about the US government and democracy in a way that is easy to understand.

Sharon talks with me about how to be flexible thinkers and to hear both sides of a political issue using the same critical thinking skills she taught her students in high school. We also chat about her motherhood journey and raising kids who can talk respectfully with people who have different viewpoints on the world and politics.

But she doesn’t want you to listen to just her or any one person to learn the news of the day:

“I don't think it is wise to just look at one human, me or your favorite political pundit or anybody, and believe that person is right 100% of the time. It is still your job to consume and figure out using your own brain, the own skills in your head to determine whether or not that aligns for you and whether or not that actually is an accurate depiction of your feelings or viewpoints. So I always caution people. Don't take one person's word as gospel because all humans are fallible.”

Connect with Sharon:

Links Mentioned:

Podcast: https://www.sharonmcmahon.com/podcast
Sharon on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah
Pre-order Don’t Mom Alone and join the Don’t Launch Alone team.

Featured Sponsors:

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Shifting Perspective on Hard Things :: Summer of Mentorship Week 6

26 juli 2021 | 56 min

In this episode, Jen shares what she’s learned about heaven (from co-leading a study for 100+ women). She also gives a super practical way to figure out how you can help a friend in need. Jen reminds us mamas to hold our children loosely. To realize we have the privilege of partnering with God, but ultimately how our children “turn out” is up to him.

And this. . .

It’s hard in the crisis to build that support system. Invest in women’s lives now. Not because you’re going to need them in case you have cancer. But that the time invested in friendships, meaningful friendships is worth it.–Jen

My biggest take-away from our conversation is to view my “to do” list as a “get to do” list. What joy to get to pick up my boys from school, to get to serve them meals, and to get to put them to bed!

Wrapping up this summer may we all see our everyday in light of eternity. Be grateful for all our “get to”s. And invest in our sweet friendships.

Encouraging the Exhausted Mom :: Summer of Mentorship Week 5

19 juli 2021 | 44 min

Mush brain.

That’s how I’d describe my mind after years and years of sleep deprivation.

Most young moms (especially if you had lots of littles in a row) know the challenge of forming a complete thought. Or staying focused during a quiet time. Or even having a moment alone with God.

I know Jennie understands.

Jennie is a sweet mom of two from Cambridge, England. She emailed me sharing struggles with sleep deprivation. Her son suffered from a serious of medical challenges leaving them with four years of interrupted sleep.

She knows the power of a strong relationship with God. But in this season has found connecting deeply with Him difficult given her exhausted, “mush brain”.

The mentor that I called to answer Jennie’s questions is the amazing Sally Clarkson.

Sally understands having children who don’t sleep and she’s been through her share of challenging seasons. From those experiences and others she began to mentor young moms and encourage other women to do the same .

In this episode, Sally helps moms move beyond traditional spiritual disciplines to experience God in their everyday moments. Inspiring us to find the goodness of God, by intentionally filling our lives with beauty and pleasure.

For the exhausted mom who longs to know God better, I hope this episode gives you peace, perspective and practical ideas.

Connect with Sally Clarkson:

Site :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Pinterest

What we chat about:

Jennie’s Questions:

How do I have a decent quiet time when I’m exhausted?
What tips do you have for getting through challenging circumstances?
Does a hard season have long-term impacts on your faith?

Sally’s Answers:

Motherhood is a battleground.
What we struggle through is normal and women for generations have experienced it.
God created us to be in community. God is present through people.
Build things into your life to enjoy the goodness of God.

Breaking Up with Perfect :: Summer of Mentorship Week 4

12 juli 2021 | 41 min

If you've ever strived for perfection, then you know how it feels when you fall short.

Maybe you aren't the one carrying a list of all you "need to do to earn God's love." But more the type who carries a "Never Good Enough List” with all the reasons you'll never be able to earn His love.

Either way, Amy Carroll, (author, speaker, Proverbs 31 contributor) is on the podcast this week helping us break up with perfect.

In this episode (and in her new book), Amy helps us recognize the lies we have been believing and the Truth to set us free.

Lies like: "I was created to produce perfection" or "People are obstacles to my tasks" or "If I have the right stuff, my life will be perfect."

My favorite quote from our conversation was:

Only when I end my own pursuit of perfection can God do a perfecting work in me. --Amy Carroll

May you experience a supernatural freedom from the struggle to be perfect. May your friendships deepen, your family be strengthened and your awareness of God's love grow as you stop striving and surrender to His gentle heart work.

Connect with Amy:

Breaking Up with Perfect :: Blog :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Pinterest

What we chat about:

The events making Amy aware of her perfectionism
The impact a mentor had in Amy's journey to lose the list of perfect
The supernatural work God did on Amy to break the shell around her heart, to feel His love
The two perfect super moms in Amy's head--torn between two ideals.
The destruction of friendship when perfectionism enters.
The different types of perfectionists and their lists: good girl list or the never-good-enough list
The possibility of passing on perfectionism to our kids.

Links Mentioned:

Courtney DeFeo--our connector
Breaking up with Perfect
Dr. Caroline Leaf
Proverbs 31 Ministries
The Opinion Blender--didn't mention in podcast, but found it on Amy's site. . .such great advice

Discussion Questions:

Have you had friendships end because of your struggles with perfection? When friends go through hard times do you wonder how to be a good, imperfect friend?
Do you have a mentor? Is there someone you wish you could meet with? Could you make a plan to meet with her once in the next few months?
Could you relate to Amy’s struggle to feel God’s love and having a list of things you have to do to be right with God?
What areas are you striving for perfection in motherhood? Who is your mental ‘ideal’ mom? Earth-mama, right-on-schedule mom?
Which type of perfectionist do you relate to—the good girl list or the never-good-enough list? Need to measure up or will never measure up? Or do you swing between the lists?
What have you found helpful to break up with perfection?

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Identifying Your “Wifestyle” :: Summer of Mentorship Week 3

5 juli 2021 | 47 min

Our first year of marriage was HARD. And we hit another rough patch (a.k.a. the “come to Jesus” days) after our second son was born. I took all the marriage advice I could get.

For all you mommas out there looking for a little marriage help, I’ve invited Jen Weaver on the show to talk about her newest book, “A Wife’s Secret to Happiness”. This episode originally aired on March 6, 2017.

Jen is an adorable millennial who knows God’s Word and isn’t afraid to hit the marriage topic head on. She shares some great insights on a few controversial issues. But more than anything she helps us identify the marriage habits (a.k.a., “WifeStyles”) that are attracting or denying the blessings God has for our marriages.

What we chat about:

What is a “wifestyle”?
Habits that can attract or deny the blessings God has for our marriages
The slightly-controversial topic of “submission”
Making room for your spouse to lead and space for the Lord to speak.
What about when your spouse isn’t walking with the Lord?
Wifestyles: “braided” or “frayed”
What Jesus asked Jen.
Wifestyles: “doubtful” or “decided”
When you go through a relationship winter after a new baby
Hebrew convo about “chayil”and Proverbs 31 woman who is a wife of valor

Connect with Jen Weaver:

Website :: Instagram

Links Mentioned:

“A Wife’s Secret to Happiness” by Jen Weaver ***
Francie Winslow (ep 61-Power of Sex in Marriage &ep 138 Ripple effect of healthy sexual connection)

Discussion Questions:

Discuss the idea of submission the way it’s described in the episode.
How can you choose to make space for your spouse to lead in your relationship? In what ways do you lead?
Do you feel frayed or braided with God right now? How can you rebraid your attention back toward God?
What was your most recent relationship winter? How did you come through that?
What are your Proverbs 31 wife superpowers? How do you use your strengths in a way that blesses and doesn’t hinder?

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Mentoring Mom Insecurities :: Summer of Mentorship Week 2

28 juni 2021 | 57 min

This special episode was recorded at our first Live Event held in 2017. Guests, Kat Lee & Wynter Pitts shared their mom stories. And encouraged with audience with thoughts on mentorship, friendship and dealing with fear and insecurity in motherhood.

What we chat about:

Kat Lee and Wynter Pitts’ motherhood stories
Dealing with insecurities in motherhood
The importance of having mentors and deep friends in the motherhood journey
Mentors don’t have to be older than you or available weekly. Find a way to make mentorship work for you.
Think of areas you are struggling with and look for someone who excels in that area to mentor you, no matter their age
Start or join a DMA podcast club as a way to connect with other women
You can be a mentor too! Look for younger moms who need encouragement.
We are never alone because God is with us, but it’s hard to remember that when life gets crazy. Kat and Wynter share what helps them remember God in the midst of life.
“Should is not a sustainable why.” Don’t just do things you SHOULD do if you don’t have a good reason for WHY.
Helping your kids develop healthy friendships and community
Not trying to over control your children’s lives and praying through how involved you should be in their friendships
Hope for dealing with irrational fears and grief
Giving yourself permission to be honest with God when you aren’t coping well and realizing that he is good despite your circumstances

Connect with Kat and HelloMornings:

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram

Connect with For Girls Like You:

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram

Links Mentioned:

Music sung by Elena Pitts--"Even when it hurts" by Hillsong UNITED
"HelloMornings" Book* by Kat Lee
Start a DMA Podcast Club
Paul David Tripp’s devotional, New Morning Mercies: A Daily Gospel Devotional **
Barefoot Dreams Bamboo Lite Wrap** (aka "The Blardigan")
She Is Yours: Trusting God As You Raise the Girl He Gave You ** by Wynter Pitts

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Resolving Sibling Conflict:: Summer of Mentorship Wk 1

21 juni 2021 | 58 min

"They just keep fighting!"

Summer, for us, means lots of unstructured time together as a family. Which is great. . . until it's not.

Perhaps you can identify. Maybe you see yourself in one of the following situations:

Situation #1 - The kids are fighting - again! The harder you try to make it stop, the worse it seems to get - and the kids seem more and more resentful.

Situation #2 - One minute they love each other and the next minute they’re arch enemies. The older they get the louder and angrier it gets. You hate the way this affects everyone’s mood, including your own.

Situation #3 - Time-outs, required apologies, and firmness temporarily curb the fighting, but it soon comes back with more intensity.

Situation #4 - Your young kids are beginning their rivalry and you worry where it’s heading if you don’t learn some better strategies. (copied from Sibling Conflict Online Course description).

Jim & Lynne Jackson from ConnectedFamilies.org are back to equip us in training our children to solve conflict well. And instead of just wishing they would "just stop fighting", to recognize the gospel work of guiding our family to reconciliation.

Jim & Lynne have been on the show before sharing their fabulous 4-layer framework for discipline that connects (Listen here to Episode 80 & 81). And again helping connect in any situation (Ep 98).

Today, they are talking us through The Peace Process. A simple but effective way to guide our kids to a lifetime of reconciled relationships. Here's their great graphic with the four steps moving us from "crazy mountain" to peaceful reconciliation (Click here to print your own copy):

Conflict is inevitable. Instead of just getting frustrated and annoyed, I've found having a plan to reconnect hearts and train empathy so helpful. I also loved all the phrases Jim & Lynne modeled to use as we guide our children through the process. Here are some of my favorites (I'll be bookmarking this page and referring to often):

"Sounds like y'all are having a hard time. Do you need my help or are you able to work it out on your own?"
"Solving brains won't work until we're calm. Why don't we each find a comfortable place. How long do you need? 5 min? 10 min? Then we'll come back together to work this out."
"Did you hear that? How does she feel? Do you like that what you did made her feel that way? You two are listening to each other. How does that feel?"
"Your big feelings are a gift. And they are an even greater gift with you can use them to help understand other's big feelings."
"What's going on? What was important to each person? How have you solved this problem before? Would you like to think of ways to solve the problem or do you want me to help give you choices on how to solve it?"
"Are there four things you could say that are kind and true about that person?"

Lastly, if you need more help learning how to guide your kiddos through the peace process, check out Jim & Lynne's new SIBLING CONFLICT ONLINE COURSE. I'll be working through it this summer. Join me! USE DMA20 to save 20% off.

What we chat about:

Considering your own baggage/sibling situation as you rush into your kids' conflict.
Are we trying to get conflict to stop or teach reconciliation?
The four steps to "The Peace Process".
A real life example of applying peace process.
How training in reconciliation helps our kids in their future marriages and relationships.
Helping our kids learn how to solve the problem of the conflict (a 3-step process).
A scenario of a more empathetic child in conflict with a more strong-willed child--growing specific skills in kids.
Addressing the differences in your kids outside of conflict.
Help for the mom who has a child with special needs in the sibling mix.
Connecting with others based not on experience but emotion.
Tips for conflicts that happen right before you have to leave the house.

Connect with Jim & Lynne:

Connected Families Site :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Pinterest

Links Mentioned:

Free Discipline that Connects handbook
Building Empathy in Kids (Part 1) and Building Empathy in Kids (Part 2) article
"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ." (Ephesians 4:15)
"Suppose your brother or sister has something against you, go make peace with them." (Abbr. Matthew 5:23-24).
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." (Matthew 5:9 NIV)
"You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family." (Matthew 5:9 MSG).
Need one-on-one parent coaching? Click here
Peaceful Mothering DVD

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

What is your process for sibling conflict to management in your home right now?
What are some ways you and your child can calm down in the heat of conflict? How could taking a mom "time out" help you can down?
Discuss how seeing conflict resolution in light of your child's future relationships (think coworkers and future spouse) can help you see why these skills are so important to learn now.
Guiding your kids with questions as they resolve conflict helps support them make better decisions. Think of a few questions you could ask for common disagreements.
Think about each of your kids and help make a plan for their individual personalities for conflict resolution.

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The Screen Struggle is Real :: Arlene Pellicane [Ep 331]

14 juni 2021 | 56 min

Slob Clean Your Summer :: Dana K White [Ep 330]

7 juni 2021 | 53 min

Your Body is GOOD :: Jess Connolly [Ep 329]

31 maj 2021 | 52 min

Let’s Talk about Sex :: Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson [Ep 328]

24 maj 2021 | 50 min

You asked and I’m so happy to have Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson back to coach us on how to talk with our kids about the topic of sex. I love their approach which is explained in their online course called Birds and Bees. It’s all about having multiple conversations over the years with your kids instead of having one big TALK when they are older.

“What we want parents to do with the topic of sex is to not be afraid and be silenced, but to be equipped and have tools and phrases to say an age appropriate ways … They're drip by drip, by drip conversations, because it takes a lot for them to absorb this information.”

Mary Flo and Megan take us through reasons why we should have conversations with our youngest kids about reproduction, birth and specific scientific terms for private areas. We chat about how to bring these topics up and answer questions that might make you nervous at first. It’s all about giving your kids accurate and honest information on this important topic.

“I know when parents first hear about this they think, ‘I didn't want to talk to my kids about sex one time, why in the world, but I want to do this multiple times?’ But it's just so much easier to do it in bite size, age-appropriate phrases and conversations and soundbites because that's how things are digested and absorbed.”

Connect with Birds & Bees:

Website: https://birds-bees.com
Facebook: facebook.com/birdsbeeshelpplease
Instagram: @birds__bees

Links Mentioned:

Previous Podcasts with Birds & Bees:

Featured Sponsors:

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Exploring Global Cultures at Home :: Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young [Ep 327]

17 maj 2021 | 36 min

Going on a Soul 30 :: Kay Wyma [Ep 326]

10 maj 2021 | 55 min

Owning Your Motherhood :: Erin Moon & Courtney Cleveland [Ep 325]

3 maj 2021 | 64 min

Walking Thru Divorce :: Lara Williams [Ep 324]

26 april 2021 | 48 min

The daily grind of marriage, parenting, and life wears on us all, but when your relationship with your spouse is no longer a healthy one, how do you choose to walk away? My guest and long-time friend Lara Williams brings us into her story of working through marriage infidelity with her husband and her long, painful journey to divorce.

“And it was a process, but I think I finally got to that place where I could accept that divorce was happening in my life, but that's just it. It's happening. It doesn't mean that's who I am. And it doesn't just because God hates it. It doesn't mean he hates me. He loves me and I went through a process of washing those lies with the truth of what God says and he's so gracious to transform our minds.”

We talk about all the ways Lara and her husband worked to save their marriage, what it was like when saving it was no longer an option and how God met Lara in that place. Lara shares about parenting when you are walking through divorce, dating after divorce, and how the church can both help and hurt during this painful experience.

I’m so thankful for Lara’s heart and how bravely she shares her story. She has graciously given permission to publish her email address if you or someone you know would like to reach out on this topic.

Connect with Lara:

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

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Inner Healing Prayer :: Jennifer Barnett [Ep 323]

19 april 2021 | 51 min

Six Needs of Every Child :: Amy and Jeffrey Olrick [Ep 322]

12 april 2021 | 56 min

Healing from Broken Friendships :: Shundria Riddick [Ep 321]

5 april 2021 | 44 min

Hosting a Simple Passover Seder :: Chris and Karen Katulka [Ep 320]

29 mars 2021 | 55 min

Connecting Through Play :: Charissa Fry [Ep 319]

22 mars 2021 | 50 min

True Intimacy with God :: Mo Isom Aiken [Ep 318]

15 mars 2021 | 61 min

I’m excited to welcome back Mo Isom Aiken to the podcast. She writes and speaks powerfully about how God has redeemed her own brokenness and set her on a path to challenge, encourage and equip other Christ followers. In this episode we talk about how each of us was made for true intimacy with God on a heart level.

“The ultimate will of the Father is to know him intimately and to be known by him and to press into an intimacy with God that is all-consuming and not based on our doing as much as our being with him -- who we are, who he is. Allowing this intimacy that really takes us to think about marital intimacy, a vulnerable exposed, honest place that draws near to us. And somehow this rhythmic, you know, coming together transforms our heart.”

Mo takes us into her own story of God peeling back the layers of shame and her own twisted view of intimacy to heal the deep places of her heart. We talk about how God wants to do the same for each of us, but it’s a process.

In this time when so many of us have lost the support that sustained us and distractions that hid our true feelings, Mo invites us to draw near to God trusting him and exposing our physical vulnerabilities to him.

“If we want to understand the deeper layers of spiritual intimacy with God, we've got to be willing to work through the very physical layers of things that have impacted our life and story because everything in the physical is ultimately served to shape our perspective of intimacy overall and especially intimacy with God.”

Connect with Mo:

Website: www.moisom.com
Facebook: facebook.com/TheMoIsom
Instagram: @moisom

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

BetterHelp — 10% off your first month of professional counseling online at betterhelp.com/DMA
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Supporting Students with Dyslexia :: Kerri Irvin [Ep 317]

8 mars 2021 | 56 min

Bruce Learns to Label His Feelings :: Bruce and Heather [Ep 316]

1 mars 2021 | 43 min

A Lil Help with Boys and Screens :: David Thomas [Bonus]

26 februari 2021 | 11 min

Understanding Boys Better :: David Thomas [Ep 315]

22 februari 2021 | 65 min

Talk to Your Kids about Race :: Kirsten Watson [Ep 314]

15 februari 2021 | 41 min

Overwhelmed Beyond Your Strength :: Jackie Askvig [Ep 313]

8 februari 2021 | 55 min

Why Read the Entire Bible? :: Tara Leigh Cobble [Ep 312]

1 februari 2021 | 42 min

Have you read the whole Bible? That was the question my guest Tara-Leigh Cobble struggled to answer while talking to a pastor friend. As she thought back through her life growing up in a Christian home, being involved in church and now working in full-time ministry and she couldn’t say for sure that she’d really read ALL of the Bible.

So she started a chronological reading plan to read it all, even the genealogies. But as she read, Tara had to wrestle with stories she’d never heard from the pulpit.

“I was questioning the Bible because I was reading the Bible and I was questioning not is this true, but is he good? Yeah. Do I like him? My mentor said the places where you have difficulty with God lean in because the good stuff is on the other side of this. The good stuff is on the other side of this struggle.”

After completing her own journey of reading the full Bible and seeing scripture and God in a new way, Tara-Leigh created The Bible Recap podcast and book to help others encounter God through his Word. And she’s here to give us a pep talk for reading the full Bible too.

“You behold the living God in scripture, and all of a sudden, instead of feeling burdened by your to-do list, you're going to be buoyed and carried along by the love of the God of the universe and by the person of who he is. And that's what I want you to take away from scripture every day, a vision of the God who loves you and who has already accomplished all that he requires of you.”

Connect with Tara-Leigh:

Website: www.taraleighcobble.com
The Bible Recap: www.thebiblerecap.com
Instagram: @taraleighcobble

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

Pretty Litter — get 20% off your first order at prettylitter.com with promo code: DMA
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Getting Brave About Anxiety :: Sissy Goff [Ep 311]

25 januari 2021 | 50 min

Finding Yourself in Motherhood :: Amber O'Neal Johnston [Ep 310]

18 januari 2021 | 50 min

Safe Conversations :: Harville Hendrix and Helen Hunt [Ep 309]

11 januari 2021 | 47 min

Redeeming Shame through Community :: Dr. Curt Thompson [Ep 308]

4 januari 2021 | 44 min

Our kids begin to feel and respond to shame as early as 15 to 18 months of age. Those early moments can begin a lifelong struggle with feeling unworthy, inadequate and unlovable. Shame also disintegrates us (separating our thinking brain from our feeling brain) and isolates us from others.

My guest is Dr. Curt Thompson, a psychiatrist and expert on the effects of shame and how to find freedom from the lifelong negative messages that come after us and our family.

“One of the things that we notice about shame is that because we are immobilized and we are hiding, shame does not actually ever allow us to move toward God. This is why we have to have someone come and find us. This is why when our children are experiencing shame, we have to go and find them. This is why it's important for us as parents to have others who are coming to find us.”

YES! Moms don’t let moms sit in shame. We can choose to seek out others when they are stuck in the shame cycle. Who are your 2 or 3 moms that will help you tell your story more truly?

Dr. Thompson walks us through some practical ways to build in memories and physical reminders to work against shame in the future for both ourselves and others. And throughout our conversation he points back to how God doesn’t leave us to deal with shame alone.

“The beautiful thing is Jesus isn’t worried about our kids. He's not worried about your mothering. He's delighted. He knows how hard this work is and he knows that we will do it imperfectly. Even when we have our worst moments in which we foist to shame upon our kids or when our kids experience shame against everything that we're doing to try to combat it, God is saying: ‘I'm not worried. I never run out of options.’”

Connect with Dr. Thompson:

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

Pretty Litter-- Get 20% off your first order at prettylitter.com with promo code: DMA
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Worth Repeating // Kirk Martin (Calm Parenting)

28 december 2020 | 25 min

I love Kirk’s realistic approach to parenting. He understands what your home dynamics are like. And gives practical tips. After listening to today’s episode you will have at least three different “tricks” to apply.

Most of all, I’m thankful for the new perspective he has given me. Kirk helped me recognize how emotionally invested I was in my boys’ behavior and freed me from the need to regulate their behavior for them.

The last couple days I’ve enjoyed the boys more. I’m also less tense and frustrated when we are out in public. In fact, I may need to go back and listen to this episode more than once, so it sticks!

This episode originally aired in May of 2015

Kirk came back on the show multiple times. Check out additional episodes here.

What we chat about:

Kirk’s realization that he needed to focus on his own behavior and stop trying to fix his son’s strong-willed behavior.
The switch he made from training 1500 kids in his home to training parents to calm themselves.
The one thing you can do today to de-escalate a tense situation in your home.
How to calmly handle your child’s meltdown

I can only control one person in life, and that’s me.

How motion changes emotion–helping little ones calm down b/c they don’t know how to “think” their way out.
What to do in the middle of Target aisle 3 when your child freaks out
Handling a tantruming child when his siblings are fighting and another needs help with homework and dinner is cooking (Heather’s daily 5 pm reality).

If you don’t care enough about yourself, to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, spiritually. . .why would anyone else care?

How sometimes parents want good behavior so badly, they are too invested in it and give children too much control.
How to be an impartial giver of wisdom.
Write down your emotional triggers & do the opposite of what you normally do.

Connect with Kirk:

Site :: Twitter :: Facebook :: Podcast

Links Mentioned:

CDs/DVDs
888-506-1871–Toll Free Number for Frustrated Parents

Become a DMA Insider! Join me and Bruce in 2021 to discuss StrengthsFinder! How it impacts your marriage, parenting and career. You're invited!

Worth Repeating // Christy Nockels (Christmas Ed)

21 december 2020 | 22 min

Worth Repeating // Sally Lloyd Jones

14 december 2020 | 25 min

Worth Repeating // Jess Connolly

7 december 2020 | 25 min

How to Have Healthy Conflict :: Lynn Hoffman [Ep 307]

30 november 2020 | 49 min

Santa or No Santa :: Ep 306

23 november 2020 | 38 min

Celebrating Advent :: Tsh Oxenreider [Ep 305]

16 november 2020 | 48 min

Forgiving What You Can’t Forget :: Lysa TerKeurst [Ep 304]

9 november 2020 | 53 min

Do you ever find yourself replaying and reliving the details of the deepest hurt in your life? My guest today has endured a devastating, public heartbreak – and she has wrestled with the lingering,unresolved pain which followed. Author and speaker Lysa TerKeurst joins me to share part of her journey of learning to forgive what you can’t forget.

“I don't want to make this sound more clean and pretty than it actually was. It was hard. It was horrific. It was terrible. And walking out something as devastating as an affair in a marriage created tremendous burden and tremendous hardship. But I will say that one commitment that I made that was really important was that I can feel hurt, but I don't have to choose to live hurt. Or perpetuate that hurt into other people.”

Lysa shares vulnerably and offers advice for anyone who feels stuck in a cycle of unresolved pain. We talk about the huge help a Christian counselor has been both for Lysa and her children throughout this process and how she delved into what the Bible really says about forgiveness.

“The Bible never says that people have to forgive and forget. It actually says quite the opposite. If we can be healed of it, it is actually beneficial not to forget because it becomes a testimony that can be used in powerful ways. And that's part of the good that God can bring in our story. I think how we know that we are experiencing healing is the way that we tell the stories of our lives.”

Connect with Lysa:

Website: https://lysaterkeurst.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialLysa
Instagram: @lysaterkeurst

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

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Praying as God's Daughter :: Molly Rhodes [Ep 303]

2 november 2020 | 44 min

Your Funny Mom Stories [Ep 302]

26 oktober 2020 | 42 min

Sexual Identity and Radical Ordinary Hospitality :: Dr. Rosaria Butterfield [Ep 301]

19 oktober 2020 | 52 min

Several listeners recommended Dr. Rosaria Butterfield as a guest on our recent survey. I’m so glad you did! Dr. Butterfield shares about her former life as a lesbian and professor of queer theory. In a quest to understand why Christians hated her, a neighbor introduced her Christ. Now she is an author, speaker, pastor’s wife, adoptive mother of four and gospel advocate to her neighbors.

She is passionate about helping Christians lovingly look past labels of sexual identity and share the gospel effectively.

“So if you know that you have neighbors who identify as lesbian. Don't avoid them. That's not what Christian neighbors do. You know? I think we really do need to see these things head on. Don't be afraid to listen to what people's concerns are and then speak a word in season. I would say too that Christians don't throw people away. We shouldn't be known for people who throw people away because they're inconvenient.”

We talk about a lot of subjects that can be difficult for us as moms to discuss, but also about how important it is that we have conversations with our kids about sexual identity, the Gospel and who God made them to be.

“The first thing is as Christian parents, if you don't talk to your children about sexuality, Someone else will. So while we want to maintain modesty and care and age appropriateness, we absolutely do not want to shirk this responsibility. We need to foreground the beauty and the majesty and the calling of what it means to be a man and what it means to be a woman.”

Connect with Dr. Butterfield:

Website: https://rosariabutterfield.com

Links Mentioned:

Dr. Butterfield’s Books:

Featured Sponsors:

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Healthy Habit Building :: Kat Lee [Ep 300]

12 oktober 2020 | 50 min

Nurturing Your Marriage :: Brent and Janis Sharpe [Ep 299]

5 oktober 2020 | 45 min

You Are Never Alone :: Max Lucado [Ep 298]

28 september 2020 | 43 min

It was such an honor for me to chat with one of my favorite authors for this episode. Max Lucado has written almost 100 books and is a pastor at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio. We talk about his new book You Are Never Alone and he shares with so much kindness and care about how we can trust in the miracle of God’s presence — yep, even in 2020.

Max knows God’s word and he combines meeting you where you with the truth of who God is in a powerful way as we talk about responding to loneliness as moms.

“I'm not saying it's going to be easy, but what if God does have a miracle? And what if God in his sovereignty can use this isolation or use this unusual circumstance to draw you closer to him and show you who he is? So rather than resist this, be open to the idea and say, Okay, Lord, I still believe you're there.”

If you are feeling weary with all this year has brought your way, this episode is the pep talk you need to reframe your perspective on God’s goodness and not give in to our emotions or feelings of hopelessness.

“The message of the miracles is you're really not by yourself. You're not alone. Your heavenly father loves you and the Lord Jesus will come to you. And the Holy Spirit will empower you. Don't give in to despair now. You may feel nothing but exhaustion, but your feelings are not a barometer of the presence of God.”

Connect with Max:

Website: maxlucado.com
Facebook: facebook.com/maxlucado
Instagram: @maxlucado

Links Mentioned:

You Are Special (our family favorite!)**
The Oak Inside the Acorn**
Max’s New Book: You Are Never Alone**

**Amazon affiliate links

Featured Sponsors:

Will You Be My Friend -- new book by Sam McBratney (author of "Guess How Much I Love You") Available where books are sold**.
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When Joy is a Struggle :: Keli Reese [Ep 297]

21 september 2020 | 40 min

Grace and Truth for Moms :: Lynne Jackson [Ep 296]

14 september 2020 | 51 min

As a mom of three, Lynne Jackson struggled to maintain the order and perfection she expected to have in her life. Conflicts with her oldest son especially left her feeling defeated, angry and fearful of the future.

“The Lord was speaking to me one day about some of these beliefs that I had. And in Ephesians 4:15, it talks about speaking the truth in love. And I felt like I heard his voice say, you are not speaking the truth in love to yourself, about you and your kids. And then I went on a journey to figure out what was really true.”

Lynne shares how she learned to fight back against the toxic lies she believed about herself and her kids with God’s truth. We talk about practical ways we can take time to process our feelings with God and with others so we can let go of expectations that hurt our families and can find freedom in our identity in Christ.

“The goal to have perfect kids and be a perfect mom is just a setup for anger and despair. And it's actually idolatry. The real truth that helps us let go of that chronic anger is it's my job to parent wisely. My kid's job is to learn over time, to respond wisely. And that's a process.”

Connect with Lynne:

Website: https://connectedfamilies.org
Facebook: facebook.com/ConnectedFamilies
Instagram: @connectedfams

Links Mentioned:

Grace and Truth for Moms Online Course
Discipline that Connects Fall 2020 Course --- use code "DMA" to save 15% off registration

More Episodes with the Jacksons:

Featured Sponsors:

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Practicing Faith Through Fear :: Dominique Young [Ep 295]

7 september 2020 | 45 min

Shaping Your Family Culture :: Kimberly Amici [Ep 294]

31 augusti 2020 | 46 min

Choose What Matters to YOU :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 293]

24 augusti 2020 | 64 min

(If you struggle with how to manage distance learning and working from home...listen to Kendra "lazy genius" that situation for me)

Kendra Adachi also known as the Lazy Genius calls herself a professional permission giver. And she’s here to give us permission to be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t.

“I've come to this place of realizing we do not need another life hack. MacGyvering together a list of hacks and inspirational quotes isn’t going to get you a life that is wholehearted and anchored in what matters to you. That's why you're tired because that doesn't work.”

That sounds great, but the hard part is choosing what matters to YOU. We talk about how Kendra learned to let go of the expectations of doing everything well as a mom and how her Lazy Genius principles can help others get the same freedom.

She helps me “lazy genius” my life when it comes to the constant interruptions of parenting and virtual schooling as a work-at-home mom with some solutions that are both practical and soulful. I hope this conversation is helpful to many of you as we head into a fall season full of unknowns.

My key takeaways:

Make house rules that serve you and your sanity
Breath prayer when you feel scattered or like everything needs your attention: Lord, open my eyes to what matters right now.

Connect with Kendra:

Website: thelazygeniuscollective.com
Facebook: facebook.com/thelazygeniuscollective
Instagram: @thelazygenius

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsors:

1. Thrive Market -- go to thrivemarket.com/DMA start a risk-free membership and a get a FREE $22 gift of your choosing.

2. BetterHelp -- sign up with a licensed professional counselor online. 10% off your first month. betterhelp.com/DMA

3. Ancestry Health -- discover if you have genetic health risks by checking out ancestry.com/DMA

Week Six Summer of Mentorship 2020 :: Stacey Thacker

10 augusti 2020 | 47 min

When I recorded this interview in 2015 I had no idea just two years later my father would pass away. Stacey's wisdom on grief became my lifeline.

This year with so many losses our hearts have experienced constant, low-level grief. On top of being quarantined, some of you may have lost loved ones. As moms, you've been unable to have time/space to grieve (or have a formal memorial service).

Today’s podcast guest is my soul sister friend, Stacey Thacker. She and I have been chatting about life, Jesus and family for the many years. Stacey writes online and has authored several books (a new one releasing in just a few months--Threadbare Prayer). When we conducting this interview Stacey shared so much of what she had learned from the loss of her father.

Since the interview she's experienced additional trauma and grief. Through it all she remains tethered to her faithful God. She is wise and can be trusted.

My hope is whether you are the one who has experienced loss or not, you will be encouraged that even when our worst fears are realized, God’s grace is ever present. And as Stacey points out:

“He holds all things together. And all things means all things.”

What we chat about:

How the message of Stacey’s book, “Hope for the Weary Mom” became real
How do moms grieve while handling the dailiness of motherhood
What actions and words of friends comforted her the most
How children grieve differently
How to be available and present with a grieving friend
What moments over the course of the year bring back grief
How do you manage your home when one child has to be hospitalized
How God holds all things together

Connect with Stacey:

Site :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Pinterest

Links Mentioned:

Releasing Oct 2020: Threadbare Prayer
Hope for the Weary Mom
Stacey’s posts on grief: My Journey Through Grief and Loss
Nobody’s Cuter than You: A Memoir about the Beauty of Friendship**by Melanie Shankle
Holding On to Hope: A Pathway through Suffering to the Heart of God**by Nancy Guthrie
I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One ** by Pamela Blair & Brook Noel
Psalms 23 & Hosea 2
“He holds all things together.” Colossians 1:17

**Amazon affiliate links

Featured Sponsor: PrepDish get two weeks of FREE meal plans if you go to http://prepdish.com/dma

Week Five Summer of Mentorship 2020 Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

3 augusti 2020 | 53 min

As moms, we know we need rest. We usually equate rest with sleep or rest with a vacation, but this week’s guest shares a much bigger picture of our need for rest in multiple areas of our lives.

Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a medical doctor, wife and mother to two boys. She had everything she’d dreamed of and worked hard to achieve, but wasn’t enjoying it.

“So I kept pushing and pushing myself till I got to the point where I literally just burned out. I wasn't happy with my job. I couldn't see how my marriage would survive. I didn't want my kids anymore. I was just at the end of myself. I didn't want the life I created.”

After reaching this breaking point, she went on a journey of restoration and healing where she learned to connect with God and with his plan for rest. Now she shares her research and methods with her patients and with all of us. If you’ve ever felt tired and at the end of yourself, this episode is for you.

“We already have permission to rest, but the mommy guilt that sometimes comes tells us we don’t. That is really a lie. I look at it as the John 10:10. The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. And he's doing it to a lot of us through our inability to rest, our inability to trust God that when we lay things down that he is able to uphold them.”

What we chat about:

When Saundra reached her breaking point from stress and lack of true rest
We have physical limits to what we can do as moms
How Saundra researched rest and looked at scripture for clarity on how God rested
The seven types of rest are physical, to mental, spiritual, emotional, social, sensory and creative.
The difference between a vacation and resting
Paying attention to a place that feels painful in your body in the moment vs ignoring it
Finding emotional rest through connection with friends, even through video chat if getting together is impossible
The importance of authentic, open friendships with women who can relate to your life situation
Ideas on how to stay engaged with your husband and reignite your marriage
Putting limits on social media time so that your mind has down time
Tips for getting mental rest and release ideas that make your mind race
Sensory rest-- what it is and ways to get it
It is not selfish to prioritize resting. It keeps you from having a toxic reaction to those around you.

Links Mentioned:

Website: http://ichoosemybestlife.com/

Book: http://ichoosemybestlife.com/sacred-rest/

Quiz: http://restquiz.com/

Featured Sponsor: BetterHelp

Visit betterhelp.com/DMA and join the over 1,000,000 people taking charge of their mental health with the help of an experienced professional. DMA listeners get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/DMA.

Week Four Summer of Mentorship 2020 :: Sally Clarkson

27 juli 2020 | 38 min

Sippy cup refill requests. Another load of laundry to fold. A sibling dispute.

Ever feel like you are reacting to life? Life is coming at you and you respond.

There have been many times in my mothering where instead of joy & hope I feel beat down and unfulfilled.

One woman who has whispered beauty and calm into those dark places, is today’s podcast guest, Sally Clarkson.

She told me motherhood can be more than just doing the dishes. It is an important job, guiding souls through discipleship and love. She taught me that my hard-to-handle boy may need me to sympathize more than instruct. She agreed boys may be a little wild. . .but showed me they can be civil & sip tea.

When I was coming out of a time of “not feeling like myself” Sally showed me how to own my life. To drop the negative thoughts which held me back. To consider what I wanted my days to look like and then make them happen.

He is the living, vibrant not-to-be-contained God. The more I would ponder God and engage with him in my own heart, the more my kids were drawing from me all the excellencies and realities of God. When we are passionate and filled with the Holy Spirit, our children will be exposed to the living God.

Sally has written her encouragement into a book called, “Own Your Life” (2015).

In this podcast episode, which originally aired January 6, 2015, I asked Sally all-the-things I’ve been pondering, from how to help your children really “know” God to simple advice on transforming a hard mom day.

What we talk about:

Why I struggle to read Sally’s books at the end of hard days.
Every mom has her own mom personality.
In spite of our mom errors, children can learn our hearts
How do we help our children “Yadah” God…to know Him personally
Living a life of color & taste & joy so our children see & know the goodness of the Lord.
How we are motivated…not by guilt or checklists but by love & encouragement.
Balancing grace & truth in parenting–practicing patience & love takes time.
Definition of the phrase “own your life”-
Sally’s example of a friend who “owns her life” in a special way why she serves her son with a disability.
In an immediate gratification society, not forgetting the long term process of your life. growing day by day, little by little.
Making sure you make time for yourself, to fill up before you pour out to the little people in your life.
Common barriers to owning your life.
Sally’s advice to a mom who was depressed

Week Three Summer of Mentorship 2020 Francie Winslow

20 juli 2020 | 49 min

(This episode originally aired in 2016) Francie Winslow shares the exponential impact marital intimacy has on the world around us.

Sex is a multiplying factor in our lives, not just with producing kids, but producing a massive amount of connection.

In the past two years Francie has been doing extensive research on theology of the body. Exploring how God stamped His image on us. How we express our roles as image bearers through sex in marriage.

God is an invisible God who wants to make himself visible to us. When man and woman come together as one it’s his invitation for humanity to become one with God. Intimately connected with Him.

Francie shares their own family stress and her personal struggle with anxiety. Things that can disrupt marital connection. She vulnerably shares how she and her husband have purposefully chosen sex over isolation.

God’s training us to fight for connection and for each other instead of against each other.

Love Francie’s practical tips for keeping technology in check. So often screens and devices creep in between couples, increasing the distance and decreasing the intimacy.

Don’t miss the list of great resources below to help train your children in forming a healthy perspective of the body and sex.

What we chat about:

Francie’s journey to learn sex isn’t dirty or a duty but a delight.
Her recent study of theology of the body.
How anxiety and adoption stress led Francie and her husband to choose to have more sex (you read that right).
How technology impacts our marital connection and practical solutions
Help and healing for women who struggle with their view of sex.
A reminder to daily do the things that keep you alive as a person.
The Ripple Effect of sex in marriage.
A word of encouragement for the single mom.
Training our kiddos in a healthy sexual worldview (check out Francie’s resource list below).

Connect with Francie:

Links Mentioned:

Sign up for Francie's free newsletter (http://franciewinslow.com/) As a bonus you will receive a free digital download of a Prayer to Ignite the Ripple Effect in Your Home along with 7 Days of Marriage Declarations to Experience More of Heaven’s Possibilities for Your Marriage. "
Heaven in Your Home Podcast
Soul Freedom (encore)Episode
The Power of Sex in Marriage Episode
Andy Crouch
Beth Moore’s Daniel Study**

Francie’s Resource List:

Theology of the Body Books for Kids by Monica Ashour

Get these books (as many as you can!) and read them over and over and over. They are great for a range of ages – not just toddlers. Not only will it help form a great spiritual foundation for your kids as they enter a sexually intense world as kids (sadly it happens young these days), it will help you as a grown up re-learn how to think about bodies, sexuality and identity. It will also help give you simple, common language to use on an everyday basis in your home. They have all been such a big part of us growing in this new way of seeing the gift of sex as a family.

For older kids:

The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality** by Luke Gilkerson (there are several others to go with this series too). Loving this one right now with my 8 year old.)
Before I Was Born (God’s Design for Sex)** by Carolyn Nostrum
Good Pictures, Bad Pictures : Porn-Proofing Today’s Young Kids ** by Kristen Jensen

Theology of His Body/Theology of Her Body** by Jason Evert (This was written with college kids in mind, but I found it super helpful and use it woven into conversations with my kids.)

For those who want more depth…Theology of the Body for Beginners** by Christopher West

**Amazon Affiliate Link

Featured Sponsor:

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Week Two Summer of Mentorship 2020 :: Dorena Williamson

13 juli 2020 | 48 min

Many of us avoid and struggle with conversations about race or disabilities because it’s uncomfortable. When our children ask innocent questions about someone who is different than they are, it can make us feel tongue tied or embarrassed.

Author Dorena Williamson has created some lovely children’s books to help parents respond and invite their children to join them on the journey of learning to love and speak worth over every person that God created.

And I kept feeling frustrated thinking that’s not the solution to teach your children to be colorblind because that’s minimizing the beauty of God’s handiwork. And as Christians we should be the biggest proponents of celebrating the beauty of our racial diversity and not minimizing it or sort of washing it away and this colorblind land.

She shares powerfully about how to engage with your children about racial and cultural differences and how we can model what it looks like to grow in the area of loving and accepting people who are different than us.

As our children get older, I think that these are valuable conversations to have with them because the beauty of it is that it tells your children you are teachable and that you don’t get it right all the time and that you’re continuing to learn and grow.

What we chat about:

All about Dorena’s family and their multiracial church, Strong Tower Bible Church
Her book ColorFull and the background behind why she wrote it
The creativity of God and how he uses color in all that he created
Looking for opportunities to share the beauty of racial differences with our children
Language for parents to use to help teach children and avoid shaming
Reinforcing the idea that “Different is not bad” and calling out the worth of people
Why equipping kids early is important
Modeling how we are all growing when it comes to loving and accepting people who are different than us
Encouraging our children to ask questions even when they are uncomfortable
Engaging with our kids about other cultures whether we can travel internationally or experience cultures in our own cities

Connect with Dorena:

Links Mentioned:

Other books/sites that Dorena recommends:

Brownicity.com site with helpful resources (created by a Godly woman Dr. Lucretia Berry)
The Beatitudes by Carole Boston Weatherford
The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson
Beabridgebuilder.com
A list of 28 picture books (aren’t about boycotts, buses or basketball) –listed created by ScottWood

Week One Summer of Mentorship 2020 :: Rachel Anne Ridge

6 juli 2020 | 36 min

Rachel Anne Ridge is an author, professional artist, and speaker in Texas. Together with her husband Tom, she bootstrapped her way through the Great Recession, raised a family, and rediscovered her purpose in the midst of the everyday juggle of life. Her books, Flash, The Homeless Donkey Who Taught Me About Life, Faith, and Second Chances, and Walking with Henry are inspired by the stray donkeys (yes, donkeys) who interrupted her juggling act and revealed how ordinary (and sometimes hilarious) events help us find our higher purposes and deeper faith. Rachel is mom to three adult children and Nana to five littles.

Little did I know when I asked Rachel to be on the podcast, that the day before our interview she wrote a viral blog post encouraging the lonely mom of older kids (click here to read it).

Her honest, yet hopeful words, are what I’m sure caused 37,000 + people on Facebook to like her words. She admits the hard parts but encourages moms to keep their eyes on the bigger purpose.

Show Highlights:

Rachel shares personal parenting challenges and what she (and her husband) did to overcome them.
Discover a variety of ways to get God-centered (none of which include getting up early).
Hear Rachel’s parenting regret and advice on how to avoid it.
Be encouraged by Rachel’s greatest parenting strength.
For the mom of older children, listen to Rachel’s thoughts on how discipline changes during this stage to a coaching role
Most importantly hear the Truth of God’s great love for you and your family.

Links:

Growing Kids God’s Way: Biblical Ethics for Parenting* Rachel shares they attended training in this parenting approach. She also alludes to the fact they did not agree with all the information in this program. She shared with me later how attending the course together allowed them to get on the same page and then toss what they couldn’t use. After some research I found parents strongly divided on this training approach. If you are looking for other grace-based parent training, then here are some other resources:
- Parenting With Love And Logic (Updated and Expanded Edition) by Foster Cline & Jim Fay
- Heartfelt Discipline by Clay Clarkson
- Grace-Based Parenting by Dr. Tim Kimmel
- The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman

Connect with Rachel:

Blog :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Pinterest :: Instagram

Featured Sponsor:

Thrive Market go to https://thrivemarket.com/dma use DMA to get $20 of store credit.

How to Avoid Power Struggles :: Stacy Bellward and Chad Hayenga [Ep 292]

29 juni 2020 | 41 min

Focus on Growth vs Guilt :: Lisa Bevere [Ep 291]

22 juni 2020 | 43 min

Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids :: Dr. Kara Powell [Ep 290]

15 juni 2020 | 45 min

Strengthening Our Friendships :: Susan Seay [Ep 289]

8 juni 2020 | 46 min

Working from Home :: Jehava Brown [Ep 288]

1 juni 2020 | 37 min

Tough Transitions with Toddlers and Newborns :: Hailey Bain and Meredith Woodruff [Ep 287]

25 maj 2020 | 40 min

Reflecting on Financial Priorities :: Ericka Young [Ep 286]

18 maj 2020 | 36 min

The Good God Wants for Our Families :: Paul David Tripp [Ep 285]

11 maj 2020 | 55 min

When You Carry the Burden of Perfection :: Aubrie Norman [Ep 284]

4 maj 2020 | 41 min

Embracing the Mom You're Meant to Be :: Jo Saxton [Ep 283]

27 april 2020 | 47 min

Many Hues, One Humanity :: Dr. Lucretia Berry [Ep 282]

20 april 2020 | 49 min

Enneagram and Stress :: Ian Morgan Cron [BONUS]

17 april 2020 | 36 min

Keeping Minds Healthy During Crisis :: Dr. Henry Cloud Recap [Ep281]

13 april 2020 | 38 min

Choosing Connection Over Critique :: Rachel Macy Stafford [Ep 280]

6 april 2020 | 50 min

Rachel’s 'Hands Free Mama' mentality is all about finding balance in a media-saturated, perfection-obsessed world. And it’s about seizing the little moments that life offers us to engage in real and meaningful interaction.

In this episode, Rachel shares realizing she 'd lost connection with her people. How she believed a lie that in order to be loved and accepted she needed to hide certain parts of herself, the messy parts, the imperfect parts. A pivotal moment happened when she vulnerably shared these thoughts with her daughter and found acceptance.

“Opening that door to being human actually brings us closer together. Then we can connect from that place of 'I'm struggling' and that doesn't mean there's something wrong with me. That doesn't mean I need to hide it. It means I need to reach out and talk to someone about this so we can work together to see how we might go forward.”

We dive into what Rachel’s learned in her parenting journey as a mom of teens and preteens. She talks about how choosing true connection with our kids can bring them closer to us and keep the lines of communication open as they grow up.

“This is all about redefining what our role is as a parent. It is not the authoritarian model anymore. It is the guide, the truth teller and the encourager. Not the enforcer, not the half listener, not the critic. That those roles are only going to get us further and further from each other when the idea is right now we need to come closer.”

Connect with Rachel:

Website: handsfreemama.com
Facebook: facebook.com/TheHandsFreeRevolution
Instagram: @handsfreerevolution
Twitter: @handsfreemama

FREE LIVE LOVE NOW LISTENING PLAN:

Click here for special 7-day listening plan for Don’t Mom Alone Listeners

Links Mentioned:

Live Love Now [BOOK]
Only Love Today [BOOK]
Amy McCready--Positive Parenting Solutions
Pre-order Bonuses--21-Day Self-Care Listening Plan AND 4 Downloadable Tools for Connection (Ask “Heart Questions vs. Performance Questions”; Practice phrases that take you “From Conflict to Calm”; Consider if you are an “Easy-to-Be-Around Adult”; Exclusive Phone Lock Screen - “Connecting by Protecting”)

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Listening to the Lord :: Kelsey Phillips [Ep 279]

30 mars 2020 | 48 min

Faith in the Unexpected :: Christine Caine [Re-Run]

23 mars 2020 | 42 min

Giving Kids a Firm Foundation :: Troy Simons [Ep 278]

16 mars 2020 | 45 min

Postpartum Depression :: Brittany Turner [Ep 277]

9 mars 2020 | 46 min

Answering Your Questions :: Heather MacFadyen [Ep 276]

2 mars 2020 | 39 min

Coping Mechanisms, Recovery and Codependency :: Taylor Bashta [Ep 275]

24 februari 2020 | 51 min

Training an Oppositional Child (Bonus Episode) Dr. Scott Turansky

21 februari 2020 | 13 min

Training a Child's Heart :: Dr. Scott Turansky [Ep 274]

17 februari 2020 | 43 min

Navigating Friendships :: Melanie Shankle [Ep 273]

10 februari 2020 | 40 min

Fighting Toxic Thoughts :: Jennie Allen Ep 272

3 februari 2020 | 44 min

Finding God Faithful :: Kelly Minter [Ep 271]

27 januari 2020 | 46 min

Grace According to Our Needs :: Beth Moore [Ep 270]

20 januari 2020 | 53 min

Intimacy with God is the Main Thing :: Kim Cash Tate [Ep 269]

13 januari 2020 | 37 min

As a lawyer who felt pressure to provide for her family and make a career for herself, Kim Cash Tate was surprised to feel God calling her to a ministry of staying home with her kids and later homeschooling them.

She could have ignored the prompting and pursued her career, but Kim chose to “cling” to God and step out in faith. That decision took her to a lot of places that a law career never would. She became a fiction writer and led Bible studies and now writes and stars in a web series and in music videos.

But her focus isn’t about making a name for herself or reaching a goal. It’s always been about intimacy with God and following his leading in her life.

If you feel stuck in your current season of motherhood or discouraged that you have dreams you haven’t seen fulfilled, Kim’s story can give you hope and expectancy that God is still writing your story.

And as we choose to draw near to him, he is faithful to lead us to things that are better than we could’ve planned on our own.

Connect with Kim:

Links Mentioned:

Verses Mentioned:

You must follow the LORD your God, fear him, observe his commandments, listen to his voice, serve him, and cling to him. Deuteronomy 13:4

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

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Declutter Like a Mother Allie Casazza Ep 268

6 januari 2020 | 41 min

Mountains of laundry, piles of toys and all the other “stuff” of life that comes into our homes can feel overwhelming, even to the neatest of moms with the best of intentions. We all love our families, but living with the messes and the clutter that comes along with them is a challenge.

My guest Allie Casazza knows what it feels like to be overwhelmed by constantly cleaning and picking up her house at the expense of enjoying time with her kids. A few years ago with four kids under the age of five, Allie had a moment of clarity with God as she sat crying in her bathroom.

If all I'm doing is cleaning up and it's just a bunch of stuff we don't really need, then what if we just didn't have stuff anymore?

That moment changed the course of her family. It also changed how she viewed motherhood and all the “stuff” that comes along with it. Now, she shares the practical ideas and the mental shifts that helped keep the clutter away to free up her life for what matters most.

Connect with Allie:

Links Mentioned:

Featured Sponsor: PrepDish

Prep Dish meal plans were created by chef and dietician Allison Schaaf to help save you time and put home-cooked meals on the table. No meal time stress. No more answering the dreaded question, “What’s for Dinner?!”. Developed by chef and dietician Allison Schaaf, Prep Dish is a healthy, whole food based meal plan subscription service. Allison does all the planning for you- including easy-to-follow shopping lists and prep-ahead instructions so you know what to prepare and when. NOW offering KETO MEAL PLANS!

Imagine…all of your meals prepped and ready to go for the entire week. We like to call this meal time bliss! Get 2 weeks FREE go to Prepdish.com/dma.

Featured Sponsor: Connected Families

Your kids will mess up. So will you. Connected Families believes that the perfect time to build wisdom and GROW your relationship with your kids is during the messy times. They’ve developed an 8-session online course called Discipline That Connects With Your Child’s Heart. It is only offered twice a year, so register today! https://connectedfamilies.org/dtc/online-course/ Use coupon code DMA15 for 15% off!

Broken Crayons Still Color Toni Collier Ep 267

25 november 2019 | 46 min

Gratitude With Every Bite Melissa D'Arabian Ep 266

18 november 2019 | 47 min

6th Podcast-iversary Heather MacFadyen Ep 265

11 november 2019 | 26 min

Compassion Changes Everything :: Jonathan Almonte [Ep 264]

4 november 2019 | 47 min

Foster Care Story of Hope Victoria Petersen Ep 263

28 oktober 2019 | 46 min

You Deserve a Mentor Susie Davis Ep 262

21 oktober 2019 | 45 min

Racial Reconciliation Starts with You Latasha Morrison Ep 261

14 oktober 2019 | 42 min

The Window of Tolerance Charissa Fry Ep 260

7 oktober 2019 | 40 min

The Enneagram, Marriage and the Gospel Beth McCord Ep 259

30 september 2019 | 47 min

Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing Issues Lynne Jackson Ep 258

23 september 2019 | 44 min

Forgiving My Alcoholic Mother Sarah Mae Ep 257

16 september 2019 | 47 min

Porn-Proofing Our Kids Kristen Jenson Ep 256

9 september 2019 | 48 min

Become What You Behold Ruth Simons Ep 255

2 september 2019 | 38 min

My guest today is Ruth Chou Simons. She’s a mom of six boys and an author and entrepreneur. You may know her best from the beautiful watercolor prints and products she creates for her business on Gracelaced.com.

In her newest book, Beholding and Becoming: The Art of Everyday Worship, Grace shares about how every day is an opportunity to be shaped and formed by what moves our hearts and captures our gaze.

We dive into what that looks like in Ruth’s life and how choosing to focus on Christ changes everything from our perspective on our parenting and work to how we look to others.

The most unhappy I get is if I get preoccupied with somebody else's story. And I don't give thanks and I don't jot down reminders of how he's provided for the ultimate story of redemption in my life. And also how he's working that out day by day and writing my story anew.

We talk about how our fast-paced, hustle culture steals the joy and the beauty away from the everyday faithfulness of growing in God. My favorite reminder she shared is, “You don’t have to be blooming to be growing.”

So true. How often do we start something and expect instant gratification and quick wins? We want easy-to-share glossy images of success. But God looks at our hearts. At the slow growing happening under the surface. We are all in process with God until we see him in heaven.

Let’s celebrate the small wins and focus on turning our eyes toward God and away from the distractions and hollow gratification of social media. As Ruth reminds us, we become what we behold. Those small, unseen decisions really add up to who we are.

Because at the end of the day, every action we have is really stemming out of our belief in our worship. And so how you think, and how you believe, and what you believe is the most beautiful and worthy of gazing at in your life will actually translate into what you do next. What your little moments every day are accumulating to be for a lifetime.

What we chat about:

Focusing on the beauty of what God has created vs comparing our lives to someone else’s on social media
At the root of dissatisfaction in our lives is an underlying struggle with identity. Is our identity found in Christ or is it found in everything going our way?
Growing our appetite for the things of God by choosing to fill our time with his Word.
The struggles women have with wanting to do something perfectly or not at all
Celebrating the process of growing vs seeing immediate fruit in our lives
What you believe is the most beautiful and worthy of gazing at in your life will actually translate into what you do next
The goal isn’t just to experience God’s provision, but to trust that his presence in our lives is enough
“Nearness to God brings likeness to God. The more you see God, the more of God will be seen in you.” - C.H Spurgeon

Raising Worry-Free Girls :: Sissy Goff [Bonus]

30 augusti 2019 | 24 min

Adventures of a Boy Mom Monica Swanson Ep 254

26 augusti 2019 | 53 min

Fellow boy moms, this episode is for you! This chat with Monica Swanson another mom of four boys and author of the new book Boy Mom dives into a lot of your questions about how to raise your boys to be godly men.

We talk about encouraging strong friendships between brothers, teaching boys to be strong AND gentle, and about the importance of giving our sons ways to experience excitement and adventure while getting some of their natural aggression out in safe physical activities.

“I am a big believer that boys were made for adventure that they need to have some excitement in their lives I think is just how God wired them. They're little warriors who need to experience some thrills. A lot of the trouble boys can get into is related to when they're lacking authentic adventure, when they're not facing challenges and overcoming obstacles.”

Monica has two boys out of high school and two still in the nest, so she offers a lot of hope for those of us in the trenches of parenting to keep pressing into relationship with our sons and to make the practicals of faith an anchor in all that we do.

“God is so big and so powerful and he can move mountains on behalf of your son. He wants your son's heart more than you even know. We get our boys plugged in everywhere we can. We want them to have so many positive spiritual models in their life that there's no denying that God is the best way to go. It about coming alongside them and saying, ‘This is for your best. God is for you. Let's walk this life with him.’”

What we chat about:

Monica’s four boys and working with very different personalities
Building healthy brother relationships and dealing with kids who hit
Boys need to let out their energy with exercise and physical activity
Setting healthy boundaries for your kids with manners and learning to laugh with them about it too
Teaching boys how to balance strength and kindness by pointing them to the stories of godly men
The power of shoulder to shoulder conversations with boys and why to keep pressing into conversation with them
Motivating boys to get excited about school and finding hobbies and interests
Ideas for how to foster adventure for your boys and learning not to parent from a place of fear
Fostering faith in your sons through time in the Word, prayer and modeling

Summer of Mentorship 2019 Week Six Shontell Brewer

19 augusti 2019 | 59 min

With the ability to connect with anyone, anywhere in the world, feels like we’re more isolated and ineffective than ever. But what if we worried less about making a big impact. And focused more on doing the things in front of us with quality and depth?

I’m a big fan of this week's mentor, Shontell Brewer. She’s a wise mom to five kiddos. And she has an excellent sense of humor. More than that, she has discipled her children well to love and serve others around them.

Discipleship can be organic. Keeping your ministry small enough. To be present wherever God has placed you.

In this episode, which originally aired as Episode 140 (Oct 2016), Shontell and I talk about discipleship during dinner conversations. She shares her method of asking really specific questions. And giving her kiddos a challenge for the day to love others in tangible ways (e.g., encouraging a 4 year old to compliment his preschool teacher).

My most favorite thing we talk about is Taco Tuesday. The last Tuesday of the month, the Brewer family serves up meat & tortillas. They invite coaches, teachers, friends, neighbors (any one who interacts regularly with their kids) into their home.

We love on our community one taco at a time.

I shared the idea with my boys and they wanted to do it the next night (“Taco Tuesday, but on a Monday”). I’ll let you know how that goes. We may go the Pizza Friday route (love our community one slice at a time).

Shontell also inspired me to help open my boys’ spiritual eyes. And to encourage them to fight over who is going to put the other one first.

What we chat about:

How women apologize for their carpet
Keeping your ministry small
Specific questions to ask during dinner time conversations
How Shontell helped her daughter minister to her Starbucks’ manager
Sending your kids to school with a basic challenge to bless someone
Setting the habit of conversation and other family “norms”
Learning to not be offended when our kids aren’t performing
Parenting small with intimate corrective conversations
The BEST idea to invite people into your home monthly–> Taco Tuesdays!

Summer of the Mentorship 2019 Week Five Lynn Hoffman

12 augusti 2019 | 39 min

Summer of Mentorship 2019 Week Four Helen Smallbone

5 augusti 2019 | 51 min

Summer of Mentorship 2019 Week Three Kim Fredrickson

29 juli 2019 | 46 min

Summer of Mentorship 2019 Week Two Lisa-Jo Baker

22 juli 2019 | 43 min

Summer of Mentorship 2019 Week One :: Nancy Williams

15 juli 2019 | 40 min

Women Can Be All-In for Jesus Kat Armstrong Ep 253

24 juni 2019 | 52 min

The Ministry of Presence in a Broken World Tess Clarke Ep 252

17 juni 2019 | 57 min

After my recent trip to Oaxaca, Mexico, I’m so excited to introduce you to Tess Clarke. We process some of what we learned on the trip to visit refugees from Central and South America and hear about the work Tess and her husband are doing with their non-profit, Seek the Peace.

Tess feels called to a ministry of presence in the same way that Jesus enters into our lives. It doesn’t mean that the circumstances are changed, but He takes away our aloneness, our guilt, our shame and our fear by being present with us in those hard circumstances.

“The numbers are staggering and everyone knows that this is an overwhelming issue, which is why I think we can't become jaded and paralyzed, but we have to keep looking at it from a human point of view. When we were in Oaxaca, a lot of it was really about learning why people were fleeing and what their lives looked like and what they were hoping for when they came to the United States. Every person I had an opportunity to talk to said, I want to be safe.”

No matter where you may fall politically on the issues of immigration and the current refugee crisis, I think Tess’ perspective on entering into the broken places and loving the marginalized and lonely around us can bring us together as believers. It has made a big difference in my own parenting when I invite my kids into loving others.

“Something my kids and I talk a lot about is the line in the Lord's prayer, ‘Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.’ And we asked Jesus, show us where heaven is not. Show us where heaven is lacking. Lead us there because we want to join you in that space and we want to do what we can to bring heaven there.”

Tess, her family, their non-profit Seek the Peace and her role at We Welcome Refugees
The work Tess and her organization have done at the border.
Seeking to understand the plight of refugees and the work and role of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Family separation of refugees at the border and the humanitarian crises happening in Central and South America that are causing an increase in the number of refugees
Stories from refugee centers at the border of South Texas
Tess feels called to a ministry of presence in the same way that Jesus enters into our lives.
The trip Heather and Tess made to Oaxaca, Mexico to visit refugees there
A poem by Warsan Shire about why people leave their homes as refugees
The legal ways to enter America are being shut down by the current administration
Our experience visiting the unaccompanied minors shelter
Femicide, being killed because you are a woman, is a big cause of death in Mexico
Partnering with Jesus to love the marginalized and bring Heaven to Earth
The call of God to love the oppressed and care for the broken in Isaiah 58

Gospel-Focused Conversations Joel Fitzpatrick Ep 251

10 juni 2019 | 55 min

Just in time for Father’s Day we have a great conversation with Joel Fitzpatrick, a pastor and author, who encourages dads (and moms) to have gospel-focused conversations with their sons.

“There’s power in having conversations with your kids that opens up your relationship. It’s a freedom that gives your kids a safe place to talk to someone. But then it also gives you the ability to speak God's truth into their lives.”

We talk about the barriers that keep us from going deep with our kids and how to fight back against the fear and complacency that can become commonplace. Joel also shares how Jesus is the ultimate picture of biblical masculinity and how to be an emotionally safe parent for your son or daughter.

“We need to be very careful with our emotions when our kids come and they confess their sins to us. When your son comes to you and he's been angry, you need to be careful not to respond in anger, but to respond with love and with kindness and with using your strength to provide a place of safety.”

This is an episode that would be perfect to share with your spouse and the dads in your life. Joel shares a lot of truth for both moms and dads about how we can stay actively engaged with our kids and keep the gospel message at the forefront.

For more on this topic, Joel has a new book out called Between Us Guys. Also, my recent podcast with Vicki Courtney [Ep 239] has some more great information on having deep conversations.

As Joel shares, it comes down to setting aside intentional time to go deep with our kids. What step can you make this summer to have a gospel-centered conversation with your son or daughter?

What we chat about:

Joel’s background as a construction worker and as a minister
What are gospel conversations and how do we have them with our kids
How to fight against fear and complacency to continually engage with our kids
Biblical masculinity vs worldly masculinity
Working with a son who is displaying aggression and violence
Keeping our emotions in check when we’re having tough discipline conversations
Look at your kids’ lives as a timeline and not a snapshot
Learning to process emotions in a healthy way with our kids
Being aware of your sons’ emotions and actively engaged with how he is processing them
Teaching sons how to think about and interact with women in light of the gospel

Setting Healthy Boundaries with Family Dr. John Townsend Ep 250

3 juni 2019 | 50 min

As moms, we are like a life support system for our kids. To keep our families healthy, we need to be healthy. A key part of our overall well being is setting healthy boundaries.

But boundaries are hard. They require uncomfortable, direct conversations. We may need to put a limit on really good things or draw a line in the sand with our in-laws or parents.

My guest, Dr. John Townsend literally wrote the book on boundaries and he shares some deep wisdom on how to set healthy boundaries while honoring our family members and others.

You've got to take care of your energy, your heart and your emotions. You've got to take care of yourself and your health. If you don't guard that heart, then the wellsprings of life won't come out from it. Boundaries are basically about how to set healthy, loving limits in our life. So we have something to offer to our children.

Townsend answers your tough questions about set limits with in-laws, making healthy boundaries for the holidays and even models having a tough conversation with a parent about a boundary.

This is an episode packed with great information and Townsend has several books and resources available if you want to go deeper. Let’s make setting healthy boundaries a priority and guard our hearts and our time to bring life to our family!

What we chat about:

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23
Setting boundaries is guarding our wellspring of life so we can love our kids
His book, Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life
Is setting boundaries biblical? YES!
The difference between hurting and harming someone when it comes to setting boundaries
Honoring vs obeying your parents as an adult
What it looks like to have a boundary setting conversation
Conveying love in hard conversations and not getting hijacked with emotions or blame
Giving three chances when you set new boundaries and how to have consequences when they aren’t respected
Turning to spiritual family when biological family isn’t what your kids need
Keeping the lines of communication open with grandparents and communicating boundaries in love
Looking for mild, moderate and severe reactions to suggestions and boundary setting
Suggestions for setting healthy boundaries for the holidays
The idea of people fuel and relational nutrients that help us fuel up

Summer Strategies Laura and Courtney Ep 249

27 maj 2019 | 52 min

You are Qualified in Christ

20 maj 2019 | 50 min

Abuse Happens Every Nine Seconds Jan Langbein Ep 247

13 maj 2019 | 53 min

Every nine seconds a woman is assaulted in America. It’s the kind of staggering statistic that shocks you into silence. It can make you feel powerless to help.

When Jan Langbein first heard that statistic, it rocked her. She found an avenue to get involved with violence intervention and was eventually hired to run Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support in Dallas.

Now, she’s worked to end violence against women and children for more than 20 years. God’s plan for her was bigger than she ever dreamed. On the podcast, she shares from the wealth of what she’s learned about:

How to identify abuse in your own life and in others’
How to respond to a friend in an abusive relationship
What we can all do to work toward ending and preventing violence, especially in faith communities

“It's very hard being friends and family of someone who's being abused, because it's as if they are overcome by smoke. We see the house burning down, but they're tripping around in a house filled with smoke. So you say things like, you know what, when you are ready to talk about this, know that I'm going to be here for you. When you do feel like you ready for some resources, I'll have them for you.”

Warning: There are some very hard things to hear in this episode and some potentially triggering things if you’ve been in an abusive relationship of any kind.

I’m so thankful for Jan’s guidance and clarity on these hard topics. As believers, we’re called to press in to these uncomfortable places and be God’s hands and feet for women and children who are suffering. I pray you will listen with that in mind.

“I think God hates divorce. I know he hates abuse even worse. I think this makes God cry that women are not allowed to live the fullest life. We can serve others, but that doesn't mean at the risk of our own bodies and souls and our children's lives.”

What we chat about:

How Jan got involved with violence intervention and eventual hired to run Genesis Women's Shelter & Support
Every nine seconds, a woman is assaulted in this country and 1 in 3 women have experienced abuse
The ways abuse affects the children in a marriage/relationship
How to respond to a friend who may be in an abusive relationship
The services offered at a shelter like Genesis can provide for multiple needs from housing to legal help to counseling
Faith communities and other men can be a part of the solution calling out abuse and not sweeping it under the rug
Fear is an indication of abuse and verbal and emotional abuse precedes physical abuse
Helping a friend go through the stages of change in coming out of abuse
Abusers have the power and control in the relationship and the person being abused has the responsibility to serve their abuser
What to watch for in our kids for signs of abuse

Rebuilding from an Abusive Marriage Jeni B Ep 246

6 maj 2019 | 53 min

Jeni B is a single mom raising and homeschooling her four children. It was not the life she expected when she married as a young grad student and not the life she worked hard to create as she struggled for 10 years in an abusive marriage.

She shares her story of coming to a very painful place of seeking a divorce and fleeing with her children. We talk about the loss of community and friendships that followed and the guilt and shame that threatened to hold her captive.

“There can be so much shame and there's so much responsibility on the shoulders of the woman that it can feel like her job is to respect and to uphold and to encourage and that love covers a multitude of sins. And I'm sure that that works totally fine in a partnership where you've got two people under the headship of Jesus Christ who are wanting to please and obey him and serve each other. But when only one person is doing that, it just opens the gates wide for rampant abuse in a relationship.”

But her story did end there. Three years later, she is walking with God in a deeper way than she thought possible and finding freedom through healing. In her hardest places, God has been faithful and she shares what she’s learned about his character along the way.

“He didn't love my marriage more than he loved me. He loves me. So a huge part of my own growth and my own awakening is knowing God. It's a day-to-day walk and I feel the Lord shining on me. It is this beautiful experience of having been reduced to pretty much nothing and having all of my dreams destroyed to a place where God is building a city on top of that very same spot and he's using other people in the process of rebuilding.”

I’m thankful for Jeni’s openness in sharing her journey with God and how he is restoring and rebuilding her life. If you or a friend are going through anything similar, check out the online support group Jeni is in for more resources or visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website www.thehotline.org.

Thriving as an Introverted Mom Erin Morgan Ep 245

29 april 2019 | 33 min

Budget Isn't a Dirty Word Ericka Young Ep 244

22 april 2019 | 49 min

When Ericka Young and her husband made the choice to get out of debt, they had two small kids and $90,000 to pay off.

In the midst of the expensive, hard season of raising their daughters they worked hard for five years to get debt-free and now Ericka teaches the budgeting principles they used to help others find freedom. She believes that while many of us see a budgeting as restriction it can actually bring a lot of freedom.

“You can be creative if you want, you can call it a spending plan, you can call it a cash flow plan, whatever want to call it is totally fine. But when I say the word budget, everybody has a response, good or bad. And many times it's bad. It is the straight jacket. It's restriction, it's lack of freedom, that kind of thing. But here's the deal. It's what you make of it. Your budget is your own, make it your own.”

We chat about teaching our kids about money and tithing and how we are ultimately stewards of the resources God has given us.

“I love numbers. And so how I get out of my head is to realize that God is my provider. I am not the fixer of all financial issues. God is the provider. He also leads the way. And so when things come up and I have to shift or do a detour or what have you, I still know that he's in control. And so the budget is the guide. It's the plan. But when life happens, I also know that God's got this.”

What we chat about:

Her and her husband’s history with debt and money
Finances while you are raising young kids
Parental peer pressure can cause us to spend money we don’t need to
Why having a budget and money goals can help you get a handle on your finances
Having shared financial goals with your husband
Track your spending for the past three months and see if it aligns with your priorities
Plan for out-to-eat meals in your budget and use wisdom on when to eat out
Teaching your children about the costs of items and how to spend within limits
Being committed to tithing and how to discuss it with our kids
Responsibilities, allowances and working with kids on money
Why we need cushion in your budget for emergencies. It helps takes stress off an already stressful situation.
Your budget can bring freedom from the stress of not knowing where your money is

Preparing Now for Future Puberty and Masturbation Questions Megan Michelson and Mary Flo Ridley Ep 243

14 april 2019 | 58 min

Depending on your personal background with puberty, sex and the often avoided topic of masturbation, having open conversations with your kids on these topics may feel daunting.

You may want to avoid it or get “the talk” over and done with as quickly as possible. Or maybe your kids are really young and you don’t want to think about it right now. My guests Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson walk us through why starting early talking with our kids about body awareness and establishing our family story about sex is so important.

“What we're trying to get rid of is this idea that this is a one-time conversation in parenting. The world that we are raising our kids in has changed so drastically that the way we as parents talk about sex has to change drastically as well. We can have multiple age appropriate conversations and a little-by-little approach where we establish a conversation pattern where we are the loving authority in our child's life on this topic.”

They have great book recommendations and advice on talking with your pediatrician so you know when puberty is imminent for each child. We cover ways to pursue conversations with your kids and how to talk to them calmly without overreacting.

Finally, we dive into the deeper waters of talking to your older children about masturbation, dealing with our emotional baggage when it comes to sex and how to strike the difficult balance of teaching what is normal and beneficial.

“We're hearing from a lot of youth ministers and pastors that work with college kids that this is an epidemic of a great addiction. So there needs to be more of a warning of how this is normal, but not beneficial. That why it's such a difficult topic. You can say, yes, honey, this is absolutely normal. You're learning about your body and how it works, but it can become a habit of comfort. And if this is where you go when you're upset or when you're angry, if this is how you comfort yourself, then this is not beneficial to you in your future.”

20th Anniversary Q & A Bruce and Heather Ep 242

8 april 2019 | 57 min

Beating 50 Percent Audrey Roloff Ep 241

1 april 2019 | 52 min

Though millions tuned in to TLC’s hit show Little People, Big World to watch their wedding, the entirety of Jeremy and Audrey Roloff’s love story is significantly less known. Audrey joins me to talk about her marriage, motherhood, and how she and her husband are on a mission to help married couples thrive.

The Roloffs have founded a ministry called Beating 50 Percent which is focused on reviving covenant marriages. They share resources and ideas for couples to inspire them to make their marriages more than average.

“One thing that has been our lifeline since before becoming parents is our marriage journal. It's essentially our communication tool in our marriage. When life is crazy, we know that every Sunday night we're going to have our time to do our marriage journal. We call it our navigator’s council time. But it's basically just a time for Jeremy and I to connect and communicate about things that have come up in the week that maybe there wasn't never that good time to talk about it.”

We chat about how she’s balancing marriage and motherhood since the birth of her daughter, why it’s important to share interests and activities with your spouse and how to balance strong personalities in marriage.

“It’s important to take humble perspective and ask God, what do our roles in this marriage look like and is this something that you are pleased with and how can we be a better reflection of the gospel through our marriage? I feel like God has really been impressing on my heart since the beginning of the year to let Jeremy be my forerunner and to view that as a helpful, beautiful thing that helps me and allows me to run the race better.”

What we chat about:

Audrey’s background and how she met her husband Jeremy Roloff
Jeremy and his family are featured in the reality TV show, Little People, Big World
What it was like for her to have her wedding televised for the show
Her life verse from Ephesians 3:20 and mantra “Always More”
Beating 50 Percent the marriage ministry she and her husband have
Their focus is inspiring couples to invest more than 50% effort into their marriage
How she’s balancing marriage and motherhood since the birth of her infant daughter
Their Sunday marriage journaling time and how they’ve turned it into a book, The Marriage Journal
The principle of sharing interests and activities with your spouse and how that can knit you closer together
Submitting in marriage when you have a strong personality or leadership gifting
What Audrey loves about being a mom

The School of Dependency on Christ Wendy Speake Ep 240

25 mars 2019 | 59 min

Must Have Conversations Vicki Courtney Ep 239

18 mars 2019 | 65 min

Panic Attacks and Growing Trust JJ Heller Ep 238

11 mars 2019 | 52 min

Grace Based Discipline for Kids with Unique Needs Karis Murray Ep 237

4 mars 2019 | 57 min

Preparing Our Hearts for Easter Erin Moon Ep 236

25 februari 2019 | 53 min

Supporting a Friend with Cancer Marissa Henley Ep 235

18 februari 2019 | 53 min

Habits of a Healthy Marriage Paul David Tripp Ep 234

11 februari 2019 | 53 min

Cultivating Friendships in a World of Isolation Sally Clarkson Ep 233

4 februari 2019 | 51 min

The Enneagram and Motherhood Suzanne Stabile Ep 232

27 januari 2019 | 61 min

Praising Through the Pain of Physical Limitations Karen Harmon Ep 231

20 januari 2019 | 50 min

Shepherding Healthy Sleep Jenn and Robin Sleepy Cues Ep 230

13 januari 2019 | 56 min

Victory in Ministry and Motherhood Priscilla Shirer Ep 229

7 januari 2019 | 38 min

Not Alone in Shame Sheila Walsh Bonus

17 december 2018 | 22 min

Not Alone in Overwhelm Kay Wyma Bonus

10 december 2018 | 19 min

Reconciled Reconcilers Andi Andrew ep 228

2 december 2018 | 48 min

Family Transformation Starts with Personal Revival KJ Perdomo Ep 227

26 november 2018 | 50 min

The Anxious or Depressed Spouse Tommy Nelson Ep 226

19 november 2018 | 43 min

New Mom Q & A Janay Wilborn Ep 225

11 november 2018 | 53 min

Finding Your Voice Sandi Patty Ep 224

2 november 2018 | 47 min

How to be Calm and Kind Under Pressure :: Candace Cameron Bure [Ep 223]

27 oktober 2018 | 46 min

Connected Relationships Jim Lynne Jackson Ep 222

22 oktober 2018 | 63 min

For day two of Don’t Mom Alone Live, Jim and Lynne Jackson are back to talk all about relationships and answer listener questions.

If you’ve ever felt like a bad parent because of your child’s disobedience or struggle to referee the sibling arguments and fights in your home, this episode is for you! The Jackson’s share their Peace process and how to be confident before God in how you are parenting.

It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. So we need to have confidence in our ability to be peaceful and not let this child’s behavior define me or tell me that I’m a bad parent. And have the long-term view that God can do anything in a child’s life as I persevere in encouraging and teaching and training.

They share great practicals for blended families and for how to navigate parenting when you and your spouse or co-parent aren’t on the same page. We also dive into teaching your children empathy and social cues as a way to foster great friendships.

In the end, our goal can be to equip our kids to be conduits of God’s grace to the world both through their relationships with others, but it starts with their relationship with us.

When I thought about that the kind of relationships in life that Jesus bought for our kids on the cross, not just with each other but whatever relationships they’d have. I just had this image of “trickle down grace” starting from the cross and just trickling down through us to our kids and then out to the world and our kids. We can grow to become profound dispensers of grace in life to others.

What we chat about:

Getting feedback about our kids that makes you feel like a “bad parent”
Keeping the long-view when you are training your children
There is a dramatic increase in anxiety and depression in children, teens and young adults. It is five to eight times greater than it was 50 years ago.
What to do when you and your spouse aren’t on the same page with parenting
Ask penetrating questions when your spouse is struggling to parent in kindness.
“What are you hoping our kids will learn right now?”
Blended family dynamics and how to co-parent well
You are building trust with your kids and when you are confident before God in how you are parenting, you can be at peace with how someone else is parenting
Ask kids: What do you want to tell me about how you’re feeling and how your time went?
Sibling rivalry and how conflict is an opportunity to teach our children how to reconcile
The Peace Process the Jackson’s teach: Calm > Understand > Solve > Celebrate
Celebrating that your kids reconciled is an important step to future success
When your kids feel encouraged and successful when working through conflict, you can see the momentum begin to change
Learning empathy as a family and equipping your kids to be more successful in friendship
Quick connects with individually with your kids can be more effective than playing with them for longer periods. Find ways to show that you delight in who they are!
Use mission trips and giving back to the community as your vacation/connection time as a family

Links Mentioned:

Previous Episodes with Jim & Lynne — Ep 80 , Ep 81, Ep 98, Ep 200, Bonus Sibling Conflict
SocialThinking.com
“You are a Social Detective” book **
How to Develop Empathy in Kids (Part 1)
How to Develop Empathy in Kids (Part 2)

Discipline 101 Live Event Friday Night Jim Lynne Jackson Ep 221

14 oktober 2018 | 76 min

For the first part of our 2018 Don’t Mom Alone live event, Jim and Lynne Jackson, co-founders of Connected Families, joined me & my husband Bruce to answer listener questions about discipline and how to use their framework for biblically-based parenting.

We share lots of stories of how we have failed as parents and learned along the way.

But then I started to realize maybe my humility was my greatest currency for influence to help her learn the lessons and the values and the things that mattered most… Our kids need to know we’re not perfect. They need to know that we’ll come back to them and say, ‘Hey I blew it. I’m sorry. Would you forgive me?’ And get back to reconciliation in those relationships. — Jim Jackson.

So good!

Jim and Lynne talk us through the parenting framework they’ve developed and redefining how we view discipline with our kids. Ultimately, it comes down to connecting with their hearts and leading them to Jesus instead of trying to control their behavior.

We can help kids embrace the wisdom of the righteous. And that really prepares the way for the Lord to come in our family in a strong way. Because in today’s day and age with all the craziness that’s going on, these kids need a form of discipline that’s not just about punitive correction but that’s about a whole way of life that teaches our kids how to be followers of Jesus. — Lynne Jackson

And it’s not just vision for how we want to parent, the Jacksons also share some super practical tips and give us some ways to respond to our defiant, strong-willed or sensitive kids.

What we chat about:

The basis for Jim and Lynn’s parenting framework
How do you parent proactively instead of reactively when you feel like you’re just surviving minute
What is our goal in parenting? Is it immediate obedience from our children or fostering their ability to make wise choices?
Bringing God’s grace into our messy moments
Why connecting with God is so essential to how we parent
Go into a situation asking, “Lord, what is the opportunity here?”
Helping our kids build wisdom instead of feeling the need to express our disappointment when they mess up
Trusting that our kids really want to do better
Separating behavior from identity in our kids
Humility and apologizing well may be our greatest currency as a parent
The idea of a parent do-over
Tips for parents of younger kids and encouragement for parenting kids who bite or hit
We tend to think of behavior as either all good or all bad
When our goal is to control their behavior, it doesn’t build trust
You don’t have to be mean to be strong as a parent
Big, loud, and loving energy can make a big difference in the middle of conflict
Luke 1:17- “And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
Strong-willed kids and the importance of calling out their giftings and how God made them
Sometimes it’s sensitive and intense children are labeled as strong-willed
Psalm 73:21-24 “When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.”

Links Mentioned:

Previous Episodes with Jim & Lynne — Ep 80 , Ep 81, Ep 98, Ep 200, Bonus Sibling Conflict
Connected Families Blog Post — It’s Not Defiance, It’s Science
Connected Families Blog post- Danger, Obedience, and Teaching Kids Traffic Safety

Calming Angry Kids Tricia Goyer Ep 220

8 oktober 2018 | 50 min

Tricia Goyer is an author, speaker and homeschooling mom of ten. She also knows what it’s like to parent children with chronic anger. If you’ve ever felt alone in how to calm your “angry kid(s),” Tricia has a lot of wisdom to share from parenting both biological and adopted children.

In true Don’t Mom Alone fashion, Tricia and I answer several listener questions about how to respond in love and help kids of all ages process their anger and emotions. We talk about how much harder it is for the current generation of moms who have to factor in busier schedules, social media and more as a part of their children’s environments

My oldest is 29 and my youngest is 8. It is so much harder now. I feel like I’m on the second generation of kids. Now there is social media. There is more television. There are more video games. The access that they have to all these things brings so much anxiety and tension. Not only do they have to go to school, but then they would come home and see on social media that people were talking about them. It’s just so much more involved now even than it was when I had my first generation of kids.

But it’s not impossible! Tricia shares so many great practical tips and suggestions for how to help our kids (and ourselves) work through anger in a healthy way. But beyond all the tips, it all comes down to leaning into God and praying for the Holy Spirit to fill them that will make the biggest difference.

It’s really the Holy Spirit in them and the fruit of the Spirit is God in them that’s going to change them. I could try all these activities. You know, we could do calming bags or coping skills. I mean we do all the things too. But really it is God in them. And the more they lean on God and the more they depend on him that they’ll truly change.

What we chat about:

Tricia’s family, career and unique calling as an adoptive parent
Her new book, Calming Angry Kids
Determining if your child is struggling with how to process anger in a healthy way
Giving our kids time, attention and praise is a powerful antidote to anger
Everyone gets mad, what we do with the anger makes the difference
When they are in the middle of the emotions, it’s not the time to discipline them
Kids learn to apologize when we model it for them
Anger is often a secondary emotion from a deeper wounding like shame or feeling unloved or anxiety
Family schedules are busier than ever before and it heightens anxiety in kids and parents
Take time to process emotions with your kids and say “No” to more activities or events if they need a break
Tricia shares both how we can process our own anger and how to help our angry kids
The idea of an anger log to help track anger over time
Calming bags and items you can include in them
Give your kids time and space to calm down
Specific tips for pre-teens and teens and helping them with anger and hormones

Links Mentioned:

**Amazon affiliate link. A small portion of your purchase will help produce this podcast.

Idols of Motherhood Elyse Fitzpatrick Ep 219

1 oktober 2018 | 50 min

We’ve all been there. Your kid throws a fit in public and you feel the sting of embarrassment and the subtle lie that you aren’t a good enough mom. You fear what others will say and feel like the entire day is ruined in this one encounter.

My guest Elyse Fitzpatrick has lived in this place of fear and presents another way to view your worth as a mother — resting in the righteousness of Jesus. She shares about the very common and subversive idols of motherhood to slip in when we try to control our children’s performance.

But see that’s absolutely soul destroying because you either end up in fear and despair or pride and despair. That’s where you always end up when you’re living for your own righteousness. So in the days that I can lay down and in bed at night and say, ‘Yeah nailed it,’ then I am in pride.

If you’ve struggled to feel “OK” in your own power or have found your personal joy tethered to your kids’ behavior, this episode is for you. Elyse gives us the simple reminder that we have the power through Jesus to topple the idols in our life.

I began to understand this is really idolatry and I’m driving my kids insane trying to prove that I’m really an OK person. That I’m OK when they’re good and I’m a complete train wreck and bad and a loser when they’re not. But, when Jesus becomes who he should be in our lives, then idols lose their power to entice us.

What we chat about:

Elyse’s blended family structure and her son’s adoption
The balance of the disciplinarian and the more fun parent
Insecurity about our own faith and the lie of trying to control our kids
The danger of looking for identity in the way our kids behave
Looking for the places in our lives where we feel afraid, angry or worried as a barometer for where we aren’t believing God
Identifying idols in our lives and what they can look like
How our children make us look or feel in front of others can bring up anger in us
Elyse’s relationship with her mother and the background of her perceived need for control
When Jesus becomes who he should be in our lives, our idols lose their power
Not letting our joy be tethered to our kids’ behavior, or even our behavior
Our self-centered struggle to feel “OK” in our own power
How living for our own self righteousness leads to a soul destroying cycle of pride and despair
Resting in the righteousness of Christ and remembering we are forgiven

Links Mentioned:

Front Porch with the Fitzes Podcast
Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick **
The Expulsive Power of a New Affection by Thomas Chalmers**
No Other Gods Bible Study Book by Kelly Minter**

**Amazon affiliate link. A small portion of your purchase will help produce this podcast.

Do You Want to Be Well Susie Larson Ep 218

24 september 2018 | 58 min

It’s all too easy slip into believing lies over God’s truth. My guest today shares that healing is possible and opens up about her personal healing journey from both physical and emotional abuse and chronic illness.

An author, radio host, and national speaker, Susie Larson, talks about how intertwined our emotional, spiritual, and physical health are. We talk through stories that are in her new book, “Fully Alive”, and she shares about some powerful experiences she’s had with the Lord.

“The Lord whispered through the chaos in my bathroom. The storms reveal the lies we believe and the truth we need. The enemy’s railing and saying I’m going to get you. I’ve got you by the throat and I felt like my throat was starting I could swallow and my esophagus was spasming. It’s just horrifying to hear the whisper again. Storms reveal the lies we believe and the truth who need.”

There’s so much hope and truth in this episode for all of us who are believing for healing this side of heaven. For more inspiration from Susie, I highly recommend her book, “Fully Alive”**, which is available for pre-order right now.

What we chat about:

Susie’s experiences with abuse both physical and emotional
How our bodies hold onto trauma and hindrances to the healing process
Storms reveal the lies we believe and the truth we need
The idea of blessing guilt and surrendering to God for healing
The lie of learned helplessness and the truth that we’re not helpless with Jesus
Rejecting the lies of the enemy and addressing unbeliefs in our soul
Confronting the scar tissue of our past and the life that’s on the other side of it
God absolutely heals and it isn’t specifically a lack of faith that keeps us from receiving healing
Jesus entered in to other’s pain and suffering, that’s our calling too
The dangers of over medication and distraction that can keep us from being healed
The integral role of rest in the healing process

Links Mentioned:

**Amazon affiliate link to help support the production of this podcast.

The Gift of Celebrating Biblical Feasts Amber Lee Ep 217

17 september 2018 | 51 min

So much of the Old Testament in the Bible is devoted to the traditions and celebrations of the Jewish faith. It is all a part of the rich heritage that Jesus was born into and the prophecies he fulfills. As Christians, we often skim over the Jewish feasts and traditions and focus on the New Testament.

My friend Amber Lee shares why we should all consider celebrating one or more of the traditional Jewish feasts and how the rhythm of pausing and celebrating the Lord’s provision can be a life-giving practice for you and your family.

For me it’s a gift that the Lord continues to unfold. It’s like a dad saying, ‘Hey, here’s a way to live life better. Here’s something that is better for your soul. If you would just pause the crazy rat race that you’re running for just a minute, for just two hours, and talk with people that you love about what’s going on.’

We talk about the various feasts and about the practice of keeping the Sabbath. But, more importantly, we acknowledge that participating in these traditions is not about being a better Christian or another thing to put on your to do list. It’s really about intentionally pausing life to celebrate God and inviting others into that celebration.

And in each of the feasts, there’s this foreshadowing of bringing in the Gentile or bringing in the outsider. I think it’s just beautiful and the Lord saying it was always my intent to include everyone.

What we chat about:

How and why Amber started celebrating feasts
The biblical background of Jewish feasts and how Jesus interacted with them
It’s about pausing and celebrating how the Lord has provided
The names and differences between the various feasts
The way the feasts were meant to include outsiders and Gentiles
Learnings about Jewish traditions and observing the Sabbath
The Sabbath is really about pausing with intention and processing life with the Lord
All about the feast of Pentecost and how the layers of prophecy fulfillment enrich the understanding of all that Jesus did
How to start with Jewish feasts and tips for starting in small ways

Links Mentioned:

Website to learn more –> Hebrew4Christians
Celebrating Jesus and the Biblical Feasts**
Celebrating Biblical Feasts**

**Amazon affiliate link to help support the production of this podcast.

Help Your Children Embrace Differences Dorena Williamson Ep 216

10 september 2018 | 50 min

Many of us avoid and struggle with conversations about race or disabilities because it’s uncomfortable. When our children ask innocent questions about someone who is different than they are, it can make us feel tongue tied or embarrassed.

Author Dorena Williamson has created some lovely children’s books to help parents respond and invite their children to join them on the journey of learning to love and speak worth over every person that God created.

And I kept feeling frustrated thinking that’s not the solution to teach your children to be colorblind because that’s minimizing the beauty of God’s handiwork. And as Christians we should be the biggest proponents of celebrating the beauty of our racial diversity and not minimizing it or sort of washing it away and this colorblind land.

She shares powerfully about how to engage with your children about racial and cultural differences and how we can model what it looks like to grow in the area of loving and accepting people who are different than us.

As our children get older, I think that these are valuable conversations to have with them because the beauty of it is that it tells your children you are teachable and that you don’t get it right all the time and that you’re continuing to learn and grow.

What we chat about:

All about Dorena’s family and their multiracial church, Strong Tower Bible Church
Her book ColorFull and the background behind why she wrote it
The creativity of God and how he uses color in all that he created
Looking for opportunities to share the beauty of racial differences with our children
Language for parents to use to help teach children and avoid shaming
Reinforcing the idea that “Different is not bad” and calling out the worth of people
Why equipping kids early is important
Modeling how we are all growing when it comes to loving and accepting people who are different than us
Encouraging our children to ask questions even when they are uncomfortable
Engaging with our kids about other cultures whether we can travel internationally or experience cultures in our own cities

Other books/sites that Dorena recommends:

Brownicity.com site with helpful resources (created by a Godly woman Dr. Lucretia Berry)
The Beatitudes by Carole Boston Weatherford
The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson
Beabridgebuilder.com
A list of 28 picture books (aren’t about boycotts, buses or basketball) –listed created by ScottWood

**Amazon affiliate link to help support the production of this podcast.

Love and the Outcome Jodi and Chris Ep 215

3 september 2018 | 50 min

Contemporary Christian musicians Chris Rademaker and Jodi King followed God’s call to pursue a musical adventure as the husband-wife duo Love & The Outcome. They share their experiences of selling their home, walking through grief, newlywed life on the road as musicians and their transition into parenting.

Jodi especially talks through how she leans on the Holy Spirit in her parenting, managing expectations and other people’s reactions.

I’ve had to learn how to just know the Holy Spirit. So in the moments when we’re in public and I’m parenting, I focus on Him. It’s so easy to turn and see everyone else’s reaction to what I just did was or I can just try and do my best to really listen to the Holy Spirit in the moment so that I can feel confident in my decisions.

I love how Chris and Jodi open up about playing shows and bringing their two young sons Milo and Ziggy along for the ride. There’s so much encouragement for moms of littles in this episode, including letting our standards slip a little so we can still experience community even if it’s messy and involves take-out food instead of handcrafted meals.

Maybe it’s just a season. But maybe it’s forever. I don’t really know what the Lord has. But letting go of some of my ideals has been so good. I have to acknowledge that I have a 2.5-year-old and a 1-year-old. Life looks like this right now, and it is the dream if I choose to be present to it and enjoy it.

What we chat about:

When Jodi and Chris met and started a touring band
Their Enneagram types and how they work together as a couple
How the Lord directed their path through grief and loss
Parenting and challenges that come when touring with kids
Dwelling in the Holy Spirit to make decisions
Transitions in parenting and learning to lean into the Holy Spirit vs worrying what others think
The concessions you make to connect with community when you are in a busy season
Freeing yourself up from pre-conceived plans of what life “should” look like
A new way to look at living the dream and choosing to be present in what your life is like now

Links Mentioned:

The God I Know music video
The King of My Heart music video
He is With Us music video
L&TO albums: These Are the Days** & Love & The Outcome**

**Amazon affiliate link to help support the production of this podcast.

Gay Girl, Good God Jackie Hill Perry Ep 214

27 augusti 2018 | 63 min

Adopting Special Needs Alice Candace Ep 213

20 augusti 2018 | 61 min

Opportunity vs Disruption Paul David Tripp Ep 212

13 augusti 2018 | 67 min

In the thick of parenting it is easy to get our perspective skewed or react to our children from a place of emotion or our own sin. My guest Dr. Paul David Tripp gives a course-correcting pep talk reminding parents of their deep calling from God and how to look at discipline as an opportunity to connect our kids with God’s goodness.

“You’re never just dealing with behavior. You’re always dealing with what controls the child’s behavior and that’s his heart. And if God consciousness doesn’t rule my heart, self orientation will. That’s what has to change. No I can’t create that change, but I can I can give God’s Spirit an opportunity again and again to work in the heart of my child”

Tripp is a pastor, international event speaker, and best-selling author. As a father of four grown children, he shares candidly from his own experience. This encouraging episode is packed with a lot of truth! Share with your spouse and friends!

What we chat about:

The deeper calling of on our lives as parents
We cannot rely on our kids to give us hope for parenting them.
How opening our children’s eyes to see God everywhere pulls them away from a self centered existence.
God created the world so that it’s very physical nature reveals him.
Root the rules that you have for your children in God’s goodness and his love and His grace.
Every opportunity we have to discipline or correct is not an opportunity first to threaten with punishment but to talk about how good God is.
Ask the question, “What is God wanting to do in the heart of this child?”
Behavior is really about a child’s heart orientation
God way of parenting isn’t efficient, but it is transformational .
The values of the world push against our calling as parents. We have to consider where we are placing our treasure and hope.
A God perspective for how to respond when your children sin
God is exposing something in my child so I can be part of his help and rescue.
Parenting is about planting seeds. We aren’t going to see them bloom overnight.
Dealing with rebellion and authority issues with grace and consequences
Parenting adopted children and helping them with identity

Help To Read Truth Every Day Raechel Myers Ep 211

6 augusti 2018 | 54 min

Bonus Mentor Episode--Sibling Conflict :: Jim & Lynn Jackson

30 juli 2018 | 57 min

“They just keep fighting!”

Summer, for us, means lots of unstructured time together as a family. Which is great. . . until it’s not.

Perhaps you can identify. Maybe you see yourself in one of the following situations:

Situation #1 – The kids are fighting – again! The harder you try to make it stop, the worse it seems to get – and the kids seem more and more resentful.

Situation #2 – One minute they love each other and the next minute they’re arch enemies. The older they get the louder and angrier it gets. You hate the way this affects everyone’s mood, including your own.

Situation #3 – Time-outs, required apologies, and firmness temporarily curb the fighting, but it soon comes back with more intensity.

Situation #4 – Your young kids are beginning their rivalry and you worry where it’s heading if you don’t learn some better strategies. (copied from Sibling Conflict Online Course description).

Jim & Lynne Jackson from ConnectedFamilies.org are back to equip us in training our children to solve conflict well. And instead of just wishing they would “just stop fighting”, to recognize the gospel work of guiding our family to reconciliation.

Jim & Lynne have been on the show before sharing their fabulous 4-layer framework for discipline that connects (Listen here to Episode 80 & 81). And again helping connect in any situation (Ep 98). And recently helping us work with our kids on all of our entitlement issues (Ep 200)

Today, they are talking us through The Peace Process. A simple but effective way to guide our kids to a lifetime of reconciled relationships. Here’s their great graphic with the four steps moving us from “crazy mountain” to peaceful reconciliation (Click here to print your own copy):

Conflict is inevitable. Instead of just getting frustrated and annoyed, I’ve found having a plan to reconnect hearts and train empathy so helpful. I also loved all the phrases Jim & Lynne modeled to use as we guide our children through the process. Here are some of my favorites (I’ll be bookmarking this page and referring to often):

“Sounds like y’all are having a hard time. Do you need my help or are you able to work it out on your own?”
“Solving brains won’t work until we’re calm. Why don’t we each find a comfortable place. How long do you need? 5 min? 10 min? Then we’ll come back together to work this out.”
“Did you hear that? How does she feel? Do you like that what you did made her feel that way? You two are listening to each other. How does that feel?”
“Your big feelings are a gift. And they are an even greater gift with you can use them to help understand other’s big feelings.”
“What’s going on? What was important to each person? How have you solved this problem before? Would you like to think of ways to solve the problem or do you want me to help give you choices on how to solve it?”
“Are there four things you could say that are kind and true about that person?”

Lastly, if you need more help learning how to guide your kiddos through the peace process, check out Jim & Lynne’s new SIBLING CONFLICT ONLINE COURSE. I’ll be working through it this summer. Join me!

What we chat about:

Considering your own baggage/sibling situation as you rush into your kids’ conflict.
Are we trying to get conflict to stop or teach reconciliation?
The four steps to “The Peace Process”.
A real life example of applying peace process.
How training in reconciliation helps our kids in their future marriages and relationships.
Helping our kids learn how to solve the problem of the conflict (a 3-step process).
A scenario of a more empathetic child in conflict with a more strong-willed child–growing specific skills in kids.
Addressing the differences in your kids outside of conflict.
Help for the mom who has a child with special needs in the sibling mix.
Connecting with others based not on experience but emotion.
Tips for conflicts that happen right before you have to leave the house.

Summer of Mentorship 2018 Jen Wilkin Wk 6

23 juli 2018 | 47 min

You desire your children to walk with God. But how do you lead them to that place?

Is that only your husband’s job? What if you are a single mom or functionally single mom?

What about your role as a leader in your faith community? Should women leaders be gentle and quiet?

Today’s guest is Jen Wilkin, author of “None Like Him” and “Women of the Word”. She debunks some myths we believe about spiritual leadership, inside and outside of the home.

Her desire is for women to be grounded in the truth of God’s Word. To study with both their hearts and their minds. To know God and who He is. Then from knowing Him and His character see how He crafted us uniquely and our high worth in His eyes.

In this episode Jen and I chat about spiritual leadership. How we can expand the definition of what we think that means. How leading our children changes over the years. How her own single mom prayed fervently for her and for God to grow big in her life.

We also discuss how to be a spiritual leader in your community. How to manage that responsibility with humility and boldness. And how women need to not just see cute Instagram posts but know who God is from His Word.

What we chat about:

Jen’s young mom journey with three kids in four years.
The need for accountability and structure in studying the Bible as a young mom.
How the Wilkins describe leading children spiritual–the differences over the years.
Tips for the woman who is spiritually leading her children.
Expanding the definition of “spiritual leader” in the home.
Jen’s journey of spiritual growth having a single mom.
Self-reflection asking “Am I stepping on people? Limiting the contribution of others?”
How to be a woman in spiritual leadership/ministry.
What do you do if women think you are more “spiritual” than them.
How to be grounded in theWord and not cute, Instagram posts.
What does it mean that God is transcendent.

Links Mentioned:

Revolutionary Parenting by George Barna**
When Dad Doesn’t Disciple by Jen Wilkin
None Like Him by Jen Wilkin **
In His Image by Jen Wilkin**
Flower Mound Women’s Bible Study
Jen’s Bible Study at the Village Church this Fall on Genesis
Jen’s Published Bible Studies –>

Summer of Mentorship 2018 Dr. Peggy Banks Wk 5

16 juli 2018 | 48 min

“In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Pain is inevitable. In James we are told to “consider it all joy” when we encounter trials. James also wrote to ask God for wisdom and He will give it generously. Which I realized from a sermon this week has more to do with wisdom we gain from the challenging circumstances, not necessarily wisdom to get out of them.

But how many of us share our broken places with others? How often do we wait until the pain has passed and life is back to “normal” to share and minister to others? What if God longs for you to offer up the wisdom you are gaining in the midst of the challenge?

This week’s guest is Dr. Peggy Banks (Global Ministry Director for TWR Women of Hope). I’m a big Peggy fan. Years ago she discipled me in a deeper understanding of God and His Spirit in me. She modeled how to pray intimately with my heavenly Father. She taught me all the Spirit does in and through us. She inspired me with her passion for women around the world to know the healing available through Jesus Christ.

In this episode Peggy shares her own painful places. A past that includes abuse. A journey of learning to trust and stop striving in performance. She encourages us to meet with Jesus daily. And what that looks like for her. Peggy encourages us to gather with others in small groups to spur each other on in our spiritual journeys. Sharing what He is doing and lifting one another up in the process.

Peggy was a minister of Spiritual formation at my church for years. And now she leads a global ministry to women, TWR Women of Hope. God is using her pain for a purpose. Every day women around the world are hearing the gospel in their own language through the power of the airwaves. As a podcaster, I’m so inspired by the work of Women of Hope and Trans World Radio.

“As a small Army-surplus transmitter went on the air in Tangier, Morocco, in early 1954, the first step had been taken toward the development the world’s largest evangelical media organization” – Trans World Radio

Such a cool idea to realize the gospel has been traveling via airways since the 50s. What a joy to join Him in the work of spreading the good news!

What we chat about:

Peggy’s hidden pain while looking perfect on the outside and performing for approval.
The “spiritual mom” who helped Peggy get healing from the bondage and brokenness of abuse.
Learning to vulnerably share your struggles with those you are leading.
Advice for the listener who is in the middle of the painful place.
What does it mean “to be with Jesus”.
Gathering together with a group to be real and share your current pain.
How Peggy’s tattoos helped her minister to a specific group of women.
Peggy’s personal mission statement: “Helping hurting women around the world helping to find hope and healing in the person of Jesus Christ.”

Links Mentioned:

**If you or someone you know is involved in a domestic abuse situation, here is an online resource:
- Focus Ministries
- National 24-hour Women of Substance Crisis Intervention Hotline: 1-866-862-2873
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Peace and Safety in the Christian Home: www.peaceandsafety.com
- FaithTrust Institute: www.faithtrustinstitute.org
TWR Women of Hope –in 70+ different languages
Trans World Radio (twr)
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
“Power of the Other” by Henry Cloud **
“Translating God” by Shawn Bolz**
“No Longer Slaves” by Jonathan Helser
Video message from Peggy about Women of Hope

Summer of Mentorship 2018 Kristen Hatton Wk 4

9 juli 2018 | 49 min

Teens. Toddlers. Moms.

No matter the age. We all struggle to remember (or know) the truth about who God says we are. And our position in Christ.

When we forget, we let friends, circumstances, or lies feed our souls with identity. And that takes us down the path of uncertainty, harmful activities and a broken path.

Thankfully, today’s guest, Kristen Hatton, helps “Get Your Story Straight”.

When her daughter was in 6th grade, Kristen started teaching her and a group of friends truth from the Bible. Unfortunately, there weren’t a lot of great resources available for preteens/teens. So she used notes from her husband’s sermons and wrote her own Bible study. (click here to check it out)**

In this episode, Kristen and I talk about the struggle for our kids to know how “justification” applies to daily life. (And define what ‘justification’ means).

We also chat about how to help teens navigate the challenges of social media. And Kristen vulnerably shares her daughter’s battle with an eating disorder (which began with internalizing social media posts).

Lastly, Kristen helps us start to keep communication open with our kids. So when they are teens they will keep talking. I’m in the stage with lots of little people all trying to be with me and talk to me (at the same time). But after three blinks I’ll have a home full of teen boys. The time I spend listening now will impact how much they talk to me in the future.

Very thankful for the help, perspective and wisdom from Kristen. Now I can see the teenage years as an age of opportunity not a season to be feared.

What we chat about:

How quickly our kiddos grow into teenagers.
How Kristen saw a need for good bible study materials for teens.
Helping our kids be anchored in who God says we are (not who their friends on social media says they are).
Importance of teaching our kids the concept of justification.
When the world is measuring perfection and performance but we know we are only perfect in Christ.
How to communicate worth and identity to our kids.
Why teens stop talking to their parents.
Listening and asking probing questions.
Responding with grace instead of condemnation.
How internalizing social media posts led to her daughter’s eating disorder.
How boys struggle with social media.
How Kristen talks to her kids about the impact of social media.
Talking to your sons & daughters about pornography. Keeping an open conversation.
Reorienting your kids to the message of the gospel, moment-to-moment

Links Mentioned:

Get Your Story Straight: A Teen’s Guide to Learning and Living the Gospel by Kristen Hatton**
The depressing Eggo commercial
Why Teens Don’t Talk to Their Parents
Connected Families–Jim & Lynn Jackson (Ep 80)–“You are Safe” message
Birds and Bees? Oh Help Me, Please with Mary Flo Ridley {Ep 25}
Eating Disorder Resources–article by Kristen
Age of Opportunity: A Biblical Guide to Parenting Teens, Second Edition (Resources for Changing Lives)

Summer of Mentorship 2018 Jan Greenwood Wk 3

2 juli 2018 | 43 min

No matter the battleground . . . Marriage challenges. Child struggles. Health trials. Overwhelming circumstances. How do you maneuver the daily attacks that rob your joy and peace?

This week’s mentor is Jan Greenwood, author and pastor of equipping at Gateway Church in Southlake, TX. In 2009, Jan was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer. After the first battle, she experienced years of healing. Then four days shy of her 6 year recovery anniversary, cancer resurged in her body.

In this episode, Jan shares what God’s taught her about waging war. And how the football term #squareup impacted her battle strategies differently from the first and second time she fought cancer. Jan shares what it means for her to rest and let God fight for her. And encourages each of us to get a word and direction from the Lord for our unique situations.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes from this episode:

This time my mindset has had to become one of agreement and not one of opposition. And squaring up is not about being steadfast in the Word of God, but its really about can I square up in such a manner that I can look at Jesus and trust Him.

I’m not very brave and not very strong. When I’m weak there’s a strength that shines through. And when I’m afraid, He makes me courageous.

I know how to fight but I don’t know how to rest.

What we chat about:

How God spoke to Jan at the news of cancer’s resurgence.
How Jan found comfort in her son’s football word “square up”.
The difference between how Jan has fought cancer the first time and the second time.
What “square up” means for her in this season.
The story behind the hashtag Jan uses: #bravestronggirl.
How her battle with cancer impacts her mothering.
Jan’s desire to get women to war together instead against each other.
The revelation to choose life and not succumb to death.
What rest looks like in Jan’s every day.
How you need your own word and direction from God.

Links Mentioned:

**Amazon Affiliate Link

Summer of Mentorship Week Two Chrystal Hurst

25 juni 2018 | 44 min

Chrystal is a real life friend. And one wise woman. Since this episode went live three years ago, she’s become. . .a grandmother to two adorable kiddos! But I’ll give you a tip. . .before you call her Granny. . . Chrystal prefers the title “MMC” (aka, “Mother of the Mother of the Child” ;).

In twelve years of parenting I’ve learned a thing or two. I’ve gained confidence in my ability to handle high fevers, distinguish between a backhoe digger and a tractor, and (somewhat regularly) plan weekly meals.

But most days I feel just as clueless as my first day home from the hospital. When I sat on the closet floor cried buckets while cradling a screaming newborn. And had no idea how to stop either of our tears.

These days it’s sibling arguments I fear may rival world wars. Or strong wills that no military force could conquer. Or the noise, chaos and never-ending mess that leave me feeling like a pair of dirty socks in the spin cycle.

But I have one strategy that always helps. . .

Asking moms who’ve gone before me for perspective. Showing me what matters and what doesn’t. Helping me navigate these days with faith and grace.

On today’s podcast I’ve invited Chrystal Evans Hurst, mom to five to fill our mom hearts with nuggets of truth and wisdom.

What we talked about:

The realization Chrystal had when she turned 40
What Chrystal wants to make sure every mom knows
The parenting advice Corrie Ten Boom gave Chuck Swindoll
How to handle the shame or blame from those around us
How to grow in confidence as a mother
How to help and give grace to new moms
How knowing the commonalities between ages 2, 12, 20 helps you parent better
How to be the compassionate counselor to your children
How to calmly set boundaries and appropriately direct emotions
What God can accomplish and inspire you through prayer
The impact of how your face communicates acceptance
Three final tips Chrystal wants moms to know

Links Mentioned:

Chrystal on Ep 172 “Rescuing the Girl Inside You”
Chrystal’s Chronicles Podcast
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5
Toni Morrison on Oprah (video below. . .if reading via email click here)

Summer of Mentorship Wk 1 Sheila Walsh

18 juni 2018 | 40 min

The Legacy of a Calm Father Kirk Martin Ep 210

11 juni 2018 | 58 min

We’ve talked a lot about calm parenting techniques on GCM in the past. It’s something many of us moms have seen work. But this episode is one you may want to listen to and invite your hubby to as well!

Founder of Celebrate Calm, Kirk Martin, shares the powerful story of how he went from an angry, tough dad to a calm, coaching dad and why a dad’s role in parenting is so important.

I believe this to be true most of the time. If you do not change and if you do not forge that connection with your son, most of those boys will grow up and become angry young men… And I would tell the men too if you have a daughter and if she doesn’t know that you like her. And that you accept her as she is even if she is difficult. I guarantee when she gets to her teenage years she’s going to seek a man’s affection in some teenage boy.

What we chat about:

Getting dads onboard with Calm Parenting techniques.
Working with strong-willed children and how anger and tough punishments don’t work.
Fear of failure as a parent is a strong motivator for us in discipline.
Kids need to know that we can control ourselves as parents even when they are out control.
Discipline means to teach, not to punish.
It’s important to build trust with our kids so they know we have their best interests at heart.
The idea of first-time obedience and whether it’s Biblical.
Strong-willed children may never listen the first time and may do things their own way (but still obey).
How our struggle to obey God often mirrors our kids’ struggle to obey.
Leading our kids to contrition instead of demanding an apology.
Coaching and role playing with our kids to teach them how to respond better in emotional situations.
Think of calm techniques as a different tactic for problem solving.
It’s ok to give in from time to time to keep from going crazy (not the same as being “soft”).
Try doing the opposite of what you are doing now and see what the response is.

Links Mentioned:

**Amazon affiliate link

Which Type of Rest Do You Need Saundra Dalton-Smith Ep 209

4 juni 2018 | 57 min

As moms, we know we need rest. We usually equate rest with sleep or with a vacation, but this week’s guest shares a broader picture of our need for rest in multiple areas of our lives.

Saundra Dalton-Smith is a medical doctor, wife and mother to two boys. She had everything she’d dreamed of and worked hard to achieve, but wasn’t enjoying it.

I kept pushing and pushing myself till I got to the point where I literally burned out. I wasn’t happy with my job. I couldn’t see how my marriage would survive. I didn’t want my kids anymore. I was just at the end of myself. I didn’t want the life I created.

After reaching this breaking point, she went on a journey of restoration and healing where she learned to connect with God and with his plan for rest. Now she shares her research and methods with her patients and with all of us. If you’ve ever felt tired and at the end of yourself, this episode is for you.

We already have permission to rest, but the mommy guilt that sometimes comes tells us we don’t. That is really a lie. I look at it as the John 10:10. ‘The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy.’ And he’s doing it to a lot of us through our inability to rest, our inability to trust God that when we lay things down that he is able to uphold them.

What we chat about:

When Saundra reached her breaking point from stress and lack of true rest
We have physical limits to what we can do as moms
How Saundra researched rest and looked at scripture for clarity on how God rested
The seven types of rest: physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, social, sensory and creative.
The difference between a vacation and resting
Paying attention to a place that feels painful in your body in the moment vs ignoring it
Finding emotional rest through connection with friends, even through video chat if getting together is impossible
The importance of authentic, open friendships with women who can relate to your life situation
Ideas on how to stay engaged with your husband and reignite your marriage
Putting limits on social media time so that your mind has down time
Tips for getting mental rest and release ideas that make your mind race
Sensory rest– what it is and ways to get it
It is not selfish to prioritize resting. It keeps you from having a toxic reaction to those around you.

Links Mentioned:

Marco Polo App–way to socially connect
Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith**
Adventures in Odyssey Club–hundreds of episodes
Rest Quiz Online

**Amazon affiliate link

Time and Space for Flourishing in a Tech World Andy Crouch Ep 208

28 maj 2018 | 57 min

In a world where devices, video games and screen-based entertainment dominate our time and space, we can choose to make our family culture different. It isn’t easy and it isn’t always fun, but there are huge benefits for us and our kids when we take time away from devices.

This week’s guest Andy Crouch is the author of “The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place”. He shares about our calling to be image bearers of God and how his family has seen a lot of growth by putting limitations on time with technology and building in Sabbath rest from devices.

Have moments as a family where you talk about what have been your best moments. What’s been the flourishing moments in our family? It’s very unlikely people will say, ‘Oh that time we made it to level 16 in whatever video game.’ Kids and parents will remember moments that had this kind of real authority and real vulnerability.

As we head into summer, I hope this episode encourages you to embrace the power of your kids being bored so they can tap into their God-given creativity, abilities and interests. Just hang in there through the first third of the time! Listen to see what I mean.

What we chat about:

Image bearing as it relates to authority and vulnerability
Video games and screened-based entertainment simulate authority and vulnerability
Andy’s family’s Sabbath for screens and devices- one hour each day, one day each week and one week each year
How to work toward unity on device- and technology-free time with your spouse
Start small and do what’s stretching when it comes to taking time without devices
Talk as a family about the best times you’ve experienced together and plan to have more of those moments
The first third of the time is really hard, but in the second two-thirds you’ll see creativity and really good things for your family
Changing your physical space to make the main thing we do together different
Work and rest vs. Toil and leisure
Not looking at your phone first thing in the morning till you’ve been outside
Having a rhythm of disengagement with technology that reconnects us with real rest and with who we really are in God’s image.

Links Mentioned:

“The Tech Wise Family: Putting Technology in its Proper Place” by Andy Crouch **
“Strong and Weak” by Andy Crouch**

**Amazon affiliate link

Parenting in the Digital Age Ashley Januszewski Ep 207

21 maj 2018 | 67 min

Our children are growing up in a digital age with unparalleled access to technology. With these wonderful advances, comes a heavy responsibility we cannot ignore as parents. The access to pornography and sexual images and videos is everywhere and the age of children viewing them is going down.

But there is hope. My guest Ashley Januszewski is all about empowering parents to protect their children by talking candidly with them about God’s plan for their bodies and sex from an early age. We talk about everything from sexting and pornography to device control and screen time limits. She shares great resources for how to start these conversations with your children at any age.

It’s our job as parents, though this is the reality. Not to throw our hands in the air. It is our responsibility just like it is to buckle our children when we get in the car. So it’s our responsibility to virtually buckle up our children…. It’s everywhere. So it starts and ends with training the heart and equipping our kids. What to do when (not if) they are faced with this avalanche of filth. What do we do? We’ve got to talk about it.

What we chat about:

The story behind Ashley’s pursuit of information on parenting children in the digital age
Eleven is the average age for exposure to pornography in America.
Fear and anxiety can be signs that a young child has been exposed to something sexually inappropriate.
The coming of age experience today in 2018 looks radically different than what we experienced as kids.
There aren’t the natural barriers that used to exist to pornography. Now it is anonymous, accessible and affordable to anyone.
Our responsibility as parents to minimize exposure to pornographic material
40 percent of teenagers today in America say that sending sexual or naked photos or videos is part of everyday life for them.
Make a plan for when and how you will introduce digital technology to your children
A family mantra or mission statement can help you stay centered on the truth of God in a world that is dominated by opinions
How screen time is affecting kids’ brains and hours spent on screens by tweens and teens
Teaching young children about the dignity and value bodies which can lead to wider conversations
Humanizing explicit images and an example of how to talk to your kids when you encounter them
Avoiding shame or blame when it comes to sexual images to keep the lines of communication open
Solutions for an Internet safer home- control the location of devices, control at the router and control on the devices
Sexting and child pornography laws and the importance of reporting

Links Mentioned:

**Amazon affiliate link

Overcoming Barriers to Sexual Intimacy Nancy Houston Ep 206

14 maj 2018 | 57 min

*Earbud warning…may want to listen without innocent ears hearing as well. 😉

This episode is about having great SEX with your husband. Whether that gets you excited or brings up fear in you, please stay and listen to my chat with Nancy Houston. She is a licensed professional counselor and sex therapist who shares candidly about how to overcome barriers to intimacy in marriage.

We talk about how to work through sexual pasts, sex after having kids, the impact of porn and sexual addiction on marriage. And how getting healing from your past experiences can draw you closer to your husband.

There’s a big learning curve to all of this. And you know too many times we treat sex as something that should be automatic and if we love each other this should just work. And that’s just not true. I mean statistically 60 percent of couples are having some sort of sexual problem right this minute.

What we chat about:

Why the Christian community needs to open up more about sex and healthy intimacy
How sex drive changes for women after they’ve had kids
The importance of foreplay for women especially
God gave us sex as a way to bond us together with our husband
Statistically, 60 percent of couples are having some sort of sexual problems at any given minute
A woman’s largest sex organ is her brain
The need for healing when you’ve experienced sexual abuse
How Nancy processed and found healing from the sexual trauma she experienced
Porn vs sexual addiction and the need for therapy
God made us for intimacy
Letting go of the negative aspects you may have built up around the idea of sex
Raising our kids to have a healthy view of sexuality
1 Corinthians 7:3-5 and how it references sex in marriage
Having your hormones checked, exercise and eating healthy can help your body be prepared for sex
Having healthy conversations about sex with your husband (not during sex!)
Sex isn’t meant to be a performance, it’s meant to be a way for you and your husband to connect
Invite God into the sexual part of your marriage

Links Mentioned:

Nancy’s recommended books:

Celebration of Sex, by Doug Rosenau**
Sex Facts for the Family, by Clifford and Joyce Penner**
The Gift of Sex, by Clifford and Joyce Penner**
Coping with Erectile Dysfunction, by Michael Metz and Barry McCarthy**
Coping with Premature Ejaculation, by Michael Metz and Barry McCarthy**
Rekindling Desire, Barry and Emily McCarthy**
The Conquer Series for men struggling with sexual issues, a video series which can be purchased at Pure Desire Ministries
Pure Desire, by Dr. Ted Roberts**

**Amazon affiliate link

Corporate Working Moms Stacey Causha Ep 205

7 maj 2018 | 58 min

There is a lot of pressure placed on moms to nurture and care for our families. Add the responsibilities of a full-time job on top of that and it easy to see why being a mom is called the hardest job in the world.

My friends Causha Jolly and Stacey McCabe share about life as working moms and the difficult balance they maintain everyday. I love how they share their hearts about being obedient to God’s assignment for them to work outside the home even in the difficult season of mothering little ones.

As a community of God-centered moms, we’re called to cheer on our sisters. It’s my hope that this episode will encourage you to bless and support other moms as they obey God.

Remember who you are in Christ, remember that you are called, remember that you are a daughter of the most high and never doubt that.

(STAY TUNED. . .later this week I’ll release a blog post with more practical ideas on work/life balance from Causha)

What we chat about:

Causha and Stacy’s motherhood stories and why they chose to work outside the home
Why it’s harder for moms to travel and not worry about your kids vs. husbands traveling
How to respond when we fear we aren’t enough and struggle under the weight of expectations placed on moms
The difficulty of finding care for your kids while you work
The false internal judgement of good mom to bad mom scale
Feeling a divine assignment from God to be in a certain job
How it’s necessary to say, “No” to a lot when you have limited family time
The need to show grace for yourself so that you can have grace with your kids
Moms can’t be there every moment of every day, but Jesus will always be there
Teaching our kids to turn to Jesus to meet every one of their needs
Dealing with moments of insecurity as a working mom
When we judge a mom for her choices then we miss out on the blessing of supporting her in her obedience

Links Mentioned:

Kat Armstrong –Motherhood, Career and Identity [episode 171]
Courtney Smallbone–The Day Fear Died
Pine Cove Family Camp
Freakonomics by Steven Levitt**
Whisper by Mark Batterson**
Experiencing God by Blackaby**
Discerning the Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer**

Centering Truth Lisa Bevere Ep 204

30 april 2018 | 54 min

Hope for Infertility and Infant Loss Shawna Beucler Ep 203

23 april 2018 | 58 min

Faith for the Unexpected Christine Caine 202

16 april 2018 | 44 min

The Day Fear Died Courtney Smallbone Ep 201

9 april 2018 | 63 min

The Bible tells of healings, miracles and the power of the Holy Spirit, but God’s power didn’t stop after the New Testament. Today’s guest Courtney Smallbone shares her personal story of God’s power in the hardest circumstances imaginable.

Supernatural healing is for today. Courtney’s story of finding freedom from anxiety and miraculous healing for her infant son is a powerful testimony of God’s faithfulness.

As moms we have a lot of fear and anxiety. We carry a lot. We have these little people that we’re in charge of and discipling. It gets exhausting and hard. I felt like the Lord just filled me with himself. He has given me not the spirit of fear, but love and power and a sound mind. I needed a sound mind when I was dealing with anxiety. He has given us power through his Holy Spirit and we can walk that out as moms in everyday life.

What we chat about:

Courtney’s testimony of seeing God move in her life and health
How Courtney met her husband Luke Smallbone of For King and Country
The impact of Luke’s autoimmune disease on Courtney and her family
Dealing with anxiety and prescription medicine dependence
Getting freedom from the shame and finding healing holistically
The importance of community in the healing process
Why the church needs to embrace a holistic approach to healing and helping people be open about sharing their struggles
Courtney’s physical issues with her most recent pregnancy
The miracle of her son’s healing
Teaching our kids that prayer is powerful and effective and that God is real
Worshipping with your children invites them into a lifestyle of worship
Hearing God for others and the gift of the praying in the spirit

Links Mentioned:

“All who call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13
Lemierre’s Disease
for KING & COUNTRY
Compassion International
Colitis
Craniosynotosis
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Bethel worship
“Without You” (feat. Courtney)

The Entitlement Fix Jim Lynne Jackson Ep 200

2 april 2018 | 56 min

Does it seem possible to draw our kids away from entitlement and toward the bigger “Yes” of God’s blessing for them and other people in their lives? Well, get excited because Jim and Lynne Jackson of Connected Families are back with parenting wisdom to address entitlement in our kids AND in ourselves.

We as parents feel entitled to grateful, hard working kids, and when we don’t get them an we have ungrateful, resistant-to-chores kids we get pretty upset. That shows that we feel entitled to how things go my way in the home. Instead of saying, ‘Oh! Wow we have some challenges here that I can partner with Jesus and really dive into.’

What we chat about:

Jim and Lynne Jackson introduce Connected Families and their parenting framework
The root of entitled behavior in our kids and the beliefs that back it up
Entitlement is the belief that I deserve something because I’m more important than someone else
Entitlement is about our sin nature and we’re all born into that
As believers we need to call out entitlement in our lives and choose to put God first
We as parents feel entitled to grateful, hard-working kids
The attitude we bring into parenting and our beliefs are reflected onto our kids
Helping our kids learn to work hard and celebrate accomplishments give them a dopamine burst in their brains that helps “rewire” them to want to work hard again
Letting go of the places we are coddling our kids by not expecting them to serve and do hard things
The “Bigger Yes” of God’s blessing for your kids and other people
Take it slow and consider your kid’s perspective as you make changes toward growing our kids out of entitlement
Determining the rights, privileges and responsibilities of your family
When our kids see the beliefs we fight for and see the joy we experience as we follow God and it inclines them to want that too

Links Mentioned:

Discipline and Toddlers Hailey Bain Meredith Woodruff Ep 199

26 mars 2018 | 59 min

A Declaration of Interdependence Sharifa Stevens Ep 198

19 mars 2018 | 54 min

Social Media Heart Check Eryn Hall Ep 197

12 mars 2018 | 51 min

Staying up-to-date on social media can so easily turn into an hour of lost time scrolling on our phones that leaves us discontent and disconnected with the ones we love the most. It’s a struggle most of us deal with in this digital age we’re in, and I’ve brought in my friend Eryn Hall to give us practical tips and encouragement on how to do social media well.

My highlight reel is going to look different than someone else’s highlight reel and that’s how it should be. We need to accept that and rest in the Lord. The grace and goodness I have and my acceptance, my identity is found in him and not in someone else’s social media.

If limiting your own screen time is something you struggle with, check out the apps in the show notes below to start monitoring your time. Ask a friend or GCM podcast club member to check in with you for accountability. Let’s live our lives for God and for our families first, not just for the social media posts.

What we chat about:

How to do social media from a Godly worldview
Recognizing how social media makes us feel and doing a heart check
Learning to rest in God’s approval and not in the approval of social media
Stepping away and asking God, “Is this for me?” before responding to a place of potential jealousy
Paying attention to whether we are finding our identity in God or in social media
Boundaries we’ve put in place on social media
Not looking at social media first thing in the morning and starting our day off in prayer so we are secure in who God says we are
Healthy switches for spending your time on something other than social media
Staying present with your kids with boundaries on your device usage
Not immediately posting a picture of an event or activity and checking your “why” behind the photos and posts
Be sure of who you are and whose you are before you post
A cool story about how someone came to Jesus after reading God’s word on social media
Being digital evangelists and staying faithful to the message of who God is

Links Mentioned:

Moment App for iPhone
Quality Time App for Android
Declare Conference
Liz Griffin Instagram
Joy is on the Other Side of the Screen (post Eryn mentioned she wrote)

The Right to Change My Mind Bruce Heather Ep 196

5 mars 2018 | 46 min

Life is full of decisions. We do our best to choose wisely and follow God’s lead. Sometimes God leads us in a different direction. It doesn’t always make “sense” in the moment. And it definitely isn’t easy to share those changes with others.

It’s been over a year since we’ve given you a glimpse behind the scenes. In that time A LOT has happened in our world: new job, school shifts, adopting & “re-homing” a puppy. So I’m bringing my hubby Bruce back on the show to share one concept he’s used at work for years and he has helped me process the last year of change.

In this episode Bruce and I let you in on the thought process behind our life choices. Hoping this conversation will allow you grace to change your mind without the fear of what others think.

I reserve the right to change my mind and not have to explain it to you, but every person who hears about it wants to know the whole story. What I’ve found is people want to know the should. Every time I talk to a mom, they are feeling this pressure to get it all right, so then when they hear a story that doesn’t work out or where you changed your mind they are trying to analyze the rightness of it.

What we chat about:

What’s happened in the MacFadyen family in the past year
Bruce’s current business, Door Real Estate Brokerage
The mantra, “I always reserve the right to change my mind”
Making the decision to send one of our sons back to school after a semester of homeschooling
What happened with our dog
Giving yourself freedom to change your mind
Being gracious to others who change their minds
Why we need to give our kids and ourselves permission to make mistakes
Working to create an environment at home where it’s okay to change your mind and make mistakes
In all of the decisions in life it’s about balance and listening to God’s voice

Links Mentioned:

Sinners Married to Sinners Cheryl Scruggs Jae Carpenter Ep 195

26 februari 2018 | 66 min

It’s not all sunshine and roses in marriage, even when both you and your husband follow Jesus. My guests today share about one of the most painful possibilities in a marriage —infidelity.

My friend Jae tells her story of learning her husband had an affair and the work God did in both of their lives to restore their marriage. Licensed professional counselor Cheryl Scruggs shares about her infidelity, divorce, and eventual re-marriage, along with a lot of practical advice and scriptures she learned in the seven years she was separated from her husband.

The main takeaway? HOPE. There is hope for your marriage. It’s not easy, because we’re all sinners, but God can heal and restore us when we surrender it all to him.

For all of us in marriage, I think it’s important that we are paying attention. In John 10:10 it says that the thief comes kill, steal and destroy, but I have come to give you life and life abundantly. God wants us to have a great marriage, not easy, not perfect. But it’s really understanding we’re both sinners and how are we going to walk this walk together in this relationship as a sinner married to a sinner.

**If you are in a relationship where you or your children have been physically abused, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or http://www.thehotline.org.

What we chat about:

Cheryl Scruggs and Jae share their marriage stories.
Discovering God’s plans for marriage.
Hope for restoration in marriage even after an affair.
How do you know if God is asking you to stay in a marriage?
Trusting God with your spouse and being open to what he wants to teach you and show you.
Understanding our role as a wife God has called you to be.
Recognizing the situations where it’s necessary to leave a marriage (physical safety, lifestyle of infidelity).
It takes time for healing in marriage.
Physical intimacy throughout marriage conflicts.
Balancing advice from friends and family with what God wants for your marriage.
Biblical roles in marriage.

Scriptures Mentioned:

- Eph. 3:20 – Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us
- Matthew 19:26 – Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
- Deuteronomy 8:1-10 – Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land the Lord promised on oath to your ancestors. Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands… For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land. [read full passage]
- John 10:10 – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Links Mentioned:

Praying the Scriptures Jodie Berndt Ep 194

19 februari 2018 | 47 min

We know that God’s word is living and active. Today’s guest Jodie Berndt takes us through using Bible verses as prayers that can powerfully influence your children’s lives.

There is so much encouragement in this episode for standing on the truth of God’s word and relying on scripture to help shape your children, teens and adult children. Of course, we as moms can’t help but be changed when we hide his word in our hearts and pray them over our family.

We know that he is a loving God who knows our needs and our kids’ needs better than we know them. So when we lift our children to him and surrender them, he’s going to do for them what he knows they need. It might not be necessarily in the timing or the ways that he would’ve ordained, but in Isaiah 55 it says that his ways are higher and better than our ways. When we come to believe that, it can really bring peace to our lives.

What we chat about:

Using God’s word for prayers is powerful.
There isn’t a need we’ll face in parenting that God hasn’t provided for in his word.
Specific scriptures to pray for your child’s salvation
Asking God what we can nurture and pray for in each child’s unique giftings
God will accomplish the changes in your child’s character. Our job is to partner with him.
Praying against fear and for protection
Asking God to shape your children into good friends
Processing popular media with your kids and discussing how it aligns or doesn’t align with a Godly world view
The power of having others pray for your kids in community
When prayers aren’t answered the way we want, God is still writing their stories.
Free resources available at https://jodieberndt.com/resources

Scriptures Mentioned:

Ephesians 4:29 – Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
John 15:7 – If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
Psalm 121:7-8 – The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Acts 26:18 – Open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.
2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!
Colossians 3:12 – Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Philippians 2:13 – for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Psalm 91:11 – For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
Proverbs 17:17 – Shape my child into a friend who loves at all times
Proverbs 27:17 – As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Proverbs 16:28 – A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.

Links Mentioned:

Free resources available at https://jodieberndt.com/resources
Praying the Scriptures for Your Children **
Praying the Scriptures for Your Teenagers**
Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children**

How God Personally Pursues and Redeems Jenn Jett Ep 193

12 februari 2018 | 52 min

Manage Your Life with Guilt-Free Confidence Christy Wright Ep 192

5 februari 2018 | 50 min

A Safe Place to Share Messy Stories Jamie Ivey Ep 191

29 januari 2018 | 47 min

Set Free From Shame Jeannie Cunnion Ep 190

22 januari 2018 | 43 min

Rest for the Exhausted mom September McCarthy Ep 189

15 januari 2018 | 47 min

Quiet Your Inner Critic and Practice Self-Compassion Kim Fredrickson Ep 188

8 januari 2018 | 50 min

If you’ve ever ended the day feeling like a failure and critiquing every misstep, then this episode on practicing self-compassion is for you.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist and life coach, Kim Fredrickson has counseled and taught others about self-compassion for years. When she received an unexpected terminal diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis, a rare side-effect of the treatment she had received for breast cancer, she wrote a book to leave for her children on giving that same compassion to the grandchildren she may never meet.

When people feel ashamed, they blame other people because they feel like if I really look at my shame then I’m going to collapse inside. That’s why self-compassion is desperately important because kids feel shame a lot. They fail at everything at the start.

What we chat about:

Kim’s story of receiving a devastating diagnosis after completing treatment for breast cancer
How she’s chosen to spend the years she has left with her family
The new book she wrote for when her children have kids called “Give Your Kids a Break: Parenting with Compassion for You and Your Children”
How it’s a process to develop a compassionate inner voice
Applying grace and truth to every situation in our lives
Variety of temperaments–some that are harder on themselves than others.
The difference between self-compassion and self-pity
Encouraging your children to practice self-compassion and reinforcing it by showing ourselves that same
Giving our kids the language to identify their failings and separate them from their self- worth
Moms have a really hard job. It’s ok to acknowledge that.
The importance of taking care of ourselves as moms
How to talk to your kids after you’ve been hard on yourself and reframing it with self compassion

Links Mentioned:

Kristi Clover — Simply Joyful Podcast
Give Your Kids a Break : Parenting with Compassion for You and Your Children **
Give Yourself a Break **
Compassionate Self-Statements and Self-Soothing Exercises (CD and download)
Kind and Compassionate Words to Soothe Your Soul (Download)

Empowering Refugee Women Stephanie Giddens Ep 187

27 november 2017 | 46 min

Unashamed Parenting Tracy Levinson Ep 186

19 november 2017 | 46 min

Don't Mom Alone GCM Live Event Kat Lee Wynter Pitts Ep 185

13 november 2017 | 59 min

Jump into this special episode from the God Centered Mom “Live” event held November 3 to celebrate four years of the GCM podcast. Guests, Kat Lee & Wynter Pitts share about mentorship, friendship and dealing with fear and insecurity in motherhood.

What we chat about:

Kat Lee and Wynter Pitts’ motherhood stories
Dealing with insecurities in motherhood
The importance of having mentors and deep friends in the motherhood journey
Mentors don’t have to be older than you or available weekly. Find a way to make mentorship work for you.
Think of areas you are struggling with and look for someone who excels in that area to mentor you, no matter their age
Start or join a GCM podcast club as a way to connect with other women
You can be a mentor too! Look for younger moms who need encouragement.
We are never alone because God is with us, but it’s hard to remember that when life gets crazy. Kat and Wynter share what helps them remember God in the midst of life.
“Should is not a sustainable why.” Don’t just do things you SHOULD do if you don’t have a good reason for WHY.
Helping your kids develop healthy friendships and community
Not trying to over control your children’s lives and praying through how involved you should be in their friendships
Hope for dealing with irrational fears and grief
Giving yourself permission to be honest with God when you aren’t coping well and realizing that he is good despite your circumstances

Links for the above sponsors:
- Katie Orr–Focused15 studies (Ep 101)
- Light Em Up Gifts by Courtney DeFeo (Ep 50 & Ep 131)
- Write the Word Journals by Cultivate What Matters Shop (Ep 146)
- Revell and Baker Books
Thank you to Giveaway Sponsors:
- Birds & Bees (Ep 25 & 153)
- Star from Afar (Ep 142)
- Waterloo Style
- Anchor of Hope Box
- Thomas Lettering Company
- Rad Joy (surrender cross & prayer cards)
Music sung by Elena Pitts—“Even when it hurts” by Hillsong UNITED
“HelloMornings” Book* by Kat Lee
Start a GCM Podcast Club
Paul David Tripp’s devotional, New Morning Mercies: A Daily Gospel Devotional **
Barefoot Dreams Bamboo Lite Wrap** (aka “The Blardigan”)
She Is Yours: Trusting God As You Raise the Girl He Gave You ** by Wynter Pitts

Behind the Chewbacca Mask Candace Payne Ep 184

6 november 2017 | 42 min

How the Gospel Pulls Us Travis Thisl Tyler Ep 183

30 oktober 2017 | 60 min

When your child is on the autism spectrum part two Terri Conlin Ep 182

24 oktober 2017 | 36 min

When Your Child is on the Autism Spectrum Part One Terri Conlin Ep 182

23 oktober 2017 | 44 min

Thinking Differently About Sabbath :: Shelly Miller [Ep 181]

16 oktober 2017 | 51 min

Freedom from Anxiety Ashley Willis Ep 180

9 oktober 2017 | 59 min

Scripture tells us to ‘cast our cares upon the Lord’. But how do we practically obey that command while gripped by the stronghold of anxiety? Today I’m talking with Ashley Willis about battling anxiety, a topic she’s experienced first hand.

Whether you’ve experienced anxiety personally or not, chances are someone in your life will. Listen as Ashley discusses practical ways to get to the root of anxiety, and how to fight fear with the truth of God’s Word.

We’re answering the questions you shared with me over on Instagram. Questions about whether anxiety is a sin, when/if medication should be used, how to help a spouse who is anxious and several other questions. Thank you for being brave in sharing your stories with me. You are not alone.

What we chat about:

Is a Christian’s struggle with anxiety a form of sin?
Coping with anxiety by understanding the lies the mind believes and replacing those lies with the truth of God’s Word.
When to address anxiety with Christian counseling and medication, if necessary.
How do we practically obey the command of casting our cares upon the Lord?
Wrestling with the decision to take medication for anxiety and depression.
The importance of addressing the root of anxiety and not just the symptoms.
Fighting anxiety by reciting Scripture and praying out loud.
How to come alongside family members battling anxiety.
The importance of talking openly about anxiety in safe contexts, especially as moms.
Keeping the fear of “what-if’s” from overrunning our lives.
Jesus’ example of spending time alone to commune with His Father.

Biblical Counseling Resources:

Links Mentioned:

31 Verses and Prayers for the Anxious Mind and Heart**
Emotional Milestones :: Interview with Sissy Goff & David Thomas (Ep 160)
ADHD :: Sarah Furlich (Ep 165)
Video of Dave Willis giving Sermon on the Mount (click here to watch if reading via email):

How to Discern God's Will and Stick With It :: Tricia Goyer [Ep 179]

2 oktober 2017 | 51 min

Drop the Superwoman Myth :: Jessica Honegger [Ep 178]

24 september 2017 | 45 min

Hope When Hit a Financial Bottom Erin Odom Ep 177

17 september 2017 | 56 min

Gospel Parenting Paul David Tripp Ep 176

9 september 2017 | 56 min

When You Feel Unseen Sara Hagerty Ep 175

3 september 2017 | 45 min

When Your Wounded Soul Needs a Smiling God :: Lisa Harper [Ep 174]

28 augusti 2017 | 61 min

Its Not about the Food Ep 173 Carrie Angie

21 augusti 2017 | 66 min

Rescuing the Girl in You Chrystal Hurst Ep 172

14 augusti 2017 | 53 min

Summer of Mentorship Week Six Grammie

26 juli 2017 | 51 min

Summer of Mentorship Week 5 Lisa Appelo

26 juli 2017 | 56 min

Summer of Mentorship Wk 4 Susan Seay

22 juli 2017 | 45 min

Summer of Mentorship Week 3 Jeannie Cunnion

7 juli 2017 | 47 min

Summer of Mentorship Wk 2 Bonni Greiner

5 juli 2017 | 39 min

Summer of Mentorship 1 Vickie Kraft

2 juli 2017 | 40 min

Motherhood, Career & Identity Kat Armstrong Ep 171

26 juni 2017 | 69 min

Help When You Feel Weak Lisa Whittle Ep 170

19 juni 2017 | 48 min

Power of a Father's Blessing Jeff Henderson

12 juni 2017 | 39 min

Broken to Bold Mo Isom Ep 168

5 juni 2017 | 54 min

The Chivalry Movement Heather Haupt Ep 167

28 maj 2017 | 43 min

Raising Rock Stars on a Firm Foundation :: Helen Smallbone [Ep 166]

20 maj 2017 | 54 min

ADHD :: Sara Furlich [Ep 165]

15 maj 2017 | 54 min

Choosing Real Over Fine :: Rachel Martin [Ep 164]

8 maj 2017 | 56 min

Perspective From Pastor's Kid & Single Parent Barnabas Piper Ep 163

1 maj 2017 | 61 min

Pornography Josh and Jimmy Myers Pairadocs Ep 162

23 april 2017 | 49 min

Extravagant Time with Jesus Charity Reeb Ep 161

17 april 2017 | 37 min

Emotional Milestones Sissy Goff David Thomas Ep 160

7 april 2017 | 39 min

Healing Friendship Wounds Lisa-Jo Baker Ep 159

2 april 2017 | 46 min

Grounded Joy Ellie Holcomb Ep 158

20 mars 2017 | 52 min

Why Israel Matters to Moms Josh Ahrens Ep 157

17 mars 2017 | 41 min

Building the Family You Never Had Mary DeMuth Ep 156

9 mars 2017 | 41 min

What's Your Wifestyle :: Jen Weaver [Ep 155]

6 mars 2017 | 44 min

Shame, Perfectionism & Smiling Depression :: Misty and Stephanie [Ep 154]

27 februari 2017 | 60 min

Today I’ve invited two gals to the kitchen table. We’re chatting about some good-hard topics. Like a good workout, this was a conversation we did and didn’t want to have.

Praise the Lord, “shame” is no longer taboo. More and more people are willing to be vulnerable and share their struggles. And women are finding freedom from the thoughts of unworthiness replaying in their minds.

Since I’m confident Brene Brown’s research and writings stimulated this movement. Here are her words on the topic:

I define shame as the intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging – something we’ve experienced, done, or failed to do makes us unworthy of connection. I don’t believe shame is helpful or productive.

In this conversation, Misty, Stephanie & I talk about how often inward shame leads to outward perfectionism. And eventually that can lead to (a new-to-me term) smiling depression.

As women of faith we can take our thoughts of unworthiness and exchange them for the Truth of what Christ has done for us. We can rest in His worthiness on our behalf. And rest in God’s pleasure over us. Believing He is for us and there is nothing we can do to earn or lose His love.

Thank you Misty for being brave and sharing your story. Thank you Stephanie for sharing your own struggles and professional insight. May we show one another grace and freedom, so that no one suffers alone. May more women gather around tables and have similar conversations (sign up here to host a GCM podcast club).

In this hour we chat about:

Inner shame talk and the burden of unworthiness.
Smiling depression
Believing the lie of not good enough
Becoming aware of our striving to gain worth.
What steps to take in healing shame/perfectionism/depression.
Finding safe community to be vulnerable.
Allowing a counselor to help you find more freedom.
What makes someone move through shame and why do others get stuck in it.
How shame impacts 17-24 year olds.
Two practical activities to increase awareness of other’s love and God’s love towards you.

Birds and Bees (Continuing the Conversation) :: Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson [Ep 153]

20 februari 2017 | 53 min

Living with Every Heartbeat Surrendered :: Julie Manning [Ep 152]

13 februari 2017 | 46 min

Leading Our Kids to Know Nearness of God's Love :: Sheila Walsh [Ep151]

4 februari 2017 | 42 min

Grace Based Discipline :: Karis Kimmel Murray [Ep 150]

27 januari 2017 | 66 min

I know I should parent with grace (a.k.a. “unmerited favor”). But I struggle with how to combine grace & discipline.

When a little guy smacks his brother upside the head, I don’t want to ignore it or explode over it. But I could use some help with alternative responses to be “my best when my kids are at their worst”.

This week’s guest, Karis Kimmel Murray, grew up in the original grace-based home. Her father, Dr. Tim Kimmel, literally wrote the book on grace-based parenting.** As a mom to two girls, Karis knows the challenges of showing both unmerited favor and appropriate boundaries. Particularly since one of her daughters has been diagnosed with ADHD. (I adore reading parenting books by moms who get it!).

In this episode Karis and I talk through some practical ways to approach misbehavior, like her “Basket Method” and “The 10 Year Rule”.

“Those behaviors come from your child but they don’t define your child. It’s not who they are it’s what they are doing right now.”

We also talk about discovering how each family member is wired, using their Kid’s Flag system. And being clear about the rules and expectations in your home. Not making household preferences on par with Biblical/moral law. Her analogy of being a calm “first responder” will stick with me.

Fortunately, Karis has written all these tips and concepts down in a very relatable and hilarious guide called, “Grace-Based Discipline”.

What we chat about:

The 10-year rule
The theology of parenting
Legalism vs. License vs. Grace
Karis’ fun “mathematician” analogy
Handling discipline crises like first responders
The Basket Strategy
What does atonement have to do with discipline?
What country flag does each family member fly?
Clarifying family rules
Differentiating household rules from moral/Biblical rules
Karis’ daughter’s diagnosis of ADHD and how it impacted discipline
The level of offense and the “sushi menu” of consequences

Links Mentioned:

Family Matters Ministry
Grace-Based Discipline (Kindle version)**
Grace-Based Discipline (hardback)
Grace-Based Parenting** by Dr. Tim Kimmel
Kids Flag Page
Karis’ Facebook page and Instagram

**Amazon Affiliate Link

Loving Your Different Child :: Sally and Nathan Clarkson [Ep 149]

23 januari 2017 | 55 min

“God didn’t give me a child so I could tell Him exactly my expectations of how that child should be. You have to say ‘God show me how to love the child you gave me and how to release him within his limitations and personalities into their world as a healthy human being.'”

-Sally Clarkson.

You’ve heard Sally come on the podcast and share how to own your life (Ep 54) and how to create a life-giving home (Ep 107). Today she’s back on the show with her adult son, Nathan Clarkson. This time we’re talking about learning to love our kids’ outside-the-box differences. Trusting mom intuition and believing God uniquely designed each of our kids for a purpose.

Sally and Nathan share stories from his childhood. And offer helpful tips for casting vision over your children. I found Sally’s thoughts on holding ideals but letting go of expectations very helpful.

“Give up expectations. But lead family to ideals. Don’t give up on ideals. They are shaping the core of your children’s values.”

Thankfully Sally and Nathan have written a much-needed resource on this topic, “Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him.” **

What we chat about:

When you start to notice your child is different (Sally)
When the child begins to notice he/she may be different (Nathan)
When you want to sympathize & parent inner needs but told to discipline external behavior.
Creating a space allowing your child to be themselves and belong.
How Jesus treated people differently with the same love.
How to cast vision over your children.
How to turn differences into superpowers.
Creating rhythms in your home.
Holding ideals while letting go of expectations.
How differences impact family dynamics.
Orchestrating breaks for moms of children with differences.
Things that helped Nathan as a teenager who knew he was different.

Links Mentioned:

“Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him.” **
The Lifegiving Home **
“Did you not know that it is the kindness and mercy of God that leads to repentance.” Romans 2:4

**Amazon Affiliate Link

Overcoming Insecurities in Friendships :: Renee Swope [Ep 148]

17 januari 2017 | 53 min

Friendships can be tricky. Then throw in our own weaknesses and insecurities. . .oi vey!

Today’s guest, Renee Swope, openly wrote about her self-doubt struggles in the book, “A Confident Heart”**. After 20 years serving with the Proverbs 31 ministry, Renee knows a thing or to about the joys and complexities of female relationships. In this episode she shares the value found in embracing her “lack” and inviting others into her life.

Renee answers questions like, “How do you find ‘good’ friends willing to accept your mess?” And “Where are the older women offering help and wisdom?” And “In our modern era how does self-sufficiency hinder community?”

If you are looking for more on community, Renee wrote about one of 30 friendship topics covered in the new book, “Craving Connection”**. So many of women I love are sharing their friendship stories, offering camaraderie and hope. Co-authors include: Lisa-Jo Baker (Ep 21), Crystal Stine (Ep 10), Stacey Thacker (Ep 76), Eryn Hall, Erin Mohring, Kristen Strong (Ep 97), Amanda White (Ep 3, 17, 27, 36, 79), and Jennifer Dukes Lee (Ep 18).

What we chat about:

How the international adoption of her daughter shaped her older sons.
Renee’s journey into speaking/writing with Proverbs 31 ministry the past 21 years.
How to know when to put something aside or move forward confidently.
Renee’s internal battle of self-doubt and insecurity.
The question we ask ourselves when someone asks, “How are you?”.
Ways to get passed insecurity in our friendships.
How processing feelings with others help hard situations lose their weight.
Finding real good friends by being the friend they need.
A challenge to older moms to make the invitation to younger moms.
How self-sufficiency can hinder community.

Links Mentioned:

Chasing Slow :: Erin Loechner [Ep 147]

9 januari 2017 | 45 min

Help for the Hurting and Angry Mom Wendy Blight Encore

2 januari 2017 | 34 min

How To Know God Better Lacey Dobrient {Encore}

26 december 2016 | 40 min

The Mom Game Changer Kat Lee {Encore}

17 december 2016 | 39 min

Cultivate What Matters Lara Casey Ep 146

12 december 2016 | 49 min

This is Us Bruce & Heather Ep 145

5 december 2016 | 47 min

The Thrill of Hope :: Christy Nockels [Ep 144]

27 november 2016 | 51 min

Seasons change. Hard choices have to be made. God moves us in and out of opportunities. But how do we know when it’s time to give something up and when it’s time to press through?

Today’s guest is Christy Nockels, Dove award winning musician and mom to three children. In 2006 she made the God-led choice to step away from the music industry, for a time, to pour into her family.

In this episode we talk about transitions. She shares advice on staying connected with community when moving to new cities, leaning into God during tough decisions and connecting intimately with God even in the busyness of motherhood.

Christy trusted God’s leading and He moved her back into record production. Her latest creative work is the solo Christmas album, “The Thrill of Hope”. With a blend of classic Christmas carols and original pieces, she has crafted a beautiful addition to our Christmas music collections.

In this episode you’ll hear the inspiration behind the songs, “Amaryllis” and “Wrap This One Up”. . .both stories gave me goosebumps. I won’t think of the Bethlehem shepherds the same way again. And the winter blooming amaryllis reminds us the hope Jesus brought . . .

What we chat about:

How to find connection and keep from “drifting” when starting somewhere new
What Christy learned when God called her to “take everything off of the table”
Surrendering our plans to God is the only way He can do GOD-SIZED things with them
How big, scary steps allow us to hide in Jesus instead of hiding in the familiar
Each season prepares us for the next (even if you would really love to skip ahead)
How motherhood takes you from peaceful quiet times to sock-and-underwear prayers
The secret of simple scripture and open dialogue with God
Christy’s new album “The Thrill of Hope”- her first Christmas album!
The message of the amaryllis for those with heavy hearts in the Christmas season
How “wrapped in swaddling clothes” may have meant much more to the shepherds
Christy’s song on the new album that makes her listeners “ugly cry”

Links Mentioned:

The Passion Conference
Psalm 37:4-7 “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
The Glorious in the Mundane podcast
“The Thrill of Hope” available on Christy’s site or Amazon**
Ellie Holcomb
PDF of “Amaryllis” lyrics I made. . .Merry Christmas!

Our King has come, He’s with us now & He’s making all things new again. That’s the thrill of hope.

Jesus, this is such an opportunity for me to hide in you – to take you by the hand and for you to lead me, and for me to trust in you in a way that I haven’t in a really long time. -Christy, Episode 144

Every Bitter Thing is Sweet Sara Hagerty Ep 143

21 november 2016 | 48 min

Life seems to be a series of highs and lows. If my happiness depends on the circumstances around me, I’m in for quite the roller coaster ride.

Even this past week we received heartbreaking news about my mom’s health. BUT God has been faithful and present and steadfast to show up in the details. Including the timing of this interview. . .

Sara Hagerty’s book “Every Bitter Thing is Sweet” released in October 2014. I started reading it in May 2015 when my dad was diagnosed with colon cancer. Her words soothed my aching heart. Her honesty about her dad’s cancer diagnosis and God’s faithfulness through it brought me peace.

Then the day after we got my mom’s diagnosis I’m on Skype interviewing Sara. Well, first she and I cried and prayed together. . .then we recorded this interview.

Like I said, God is in the details.

Sara knows the struggle to believe God is good when life doesn’t turn out the way you’d hope. From marriage struggles, financial insecurity, parent illness, infertility exhaustion, etc, Sara discovered her only place of true security came when she prayed back God’s Word back to Him in adoration.

One day while sitting in her kitchen, utterly exhausted by life, God gave her these words:

The satisfied soul loathes the honeycomb, but to the hungry soul,

every bitter thing is sweet. (Proverbs 27:7)

Thanksgiving week is full of remembering all that God has done for us. Who couldn’t use an extra heaping helping of gratitude these days?

Sara reminding us about adoration, takes gratitude and turns it towards who God is. Praising Him not for what He has done for me, but who He promises to be. Which then shifts my heart to believe He is who He says He is.

In control.

Almighty.

Beginning and End.

Lover of our souls.

Binder of the brokenhearted.

If you need to hear a word of encouragement and be reminded of who God is and why He can be trusted, then this episode is for you, sweet sister. Happy Thanksgiving!

What we chat about:

Discovering life with God is often NOT like a treadmill, always gaining speed and strength
God’s revelations to Sara through the pain of infertility and marriage struggles
Facing bitterness and the nagging feeling “God is good, he’s just not good to me.”
Recognizing the hunger that lies beneath bitterness; God’s “divine alluring”
Intentionally seeking God in the places your heart comes alive
Adoration as a spiritual discipline: speaking scriptures (even the hard ones) back to Him
Honesty with God on areas you struggle to believe instead of just splashing some “Jesus juice” on it
How God sees all of the “hidden parts of life” of moms that often feel unnoticed
Vulnerability not for it’s own sake but with the intention of God’s restoration
How God not only restored Sara’s marriage, but how He used the hard times to bring more to it than she thought possible

Links Mentioned:

EveryBitterThingisSweet.com
SaraHagertyAuthor.com
“Every Bitter Thing is Sweet” book **
Psalm 139
2 Corinthians 12:9–Our weakness is the place where God moves.

**Amazon affiliate link

Christmas Traditions with Little Ones :: Jacki Rucksdashel [Ep 142]

13 november 2016 | 53 min

I know, I know it’s not even Thanksgiving yet. . .and seeing the word “Christmas” may trigger a mix of excitement and terror.

My goal in this episode is to help prepare you. To empower you in sharing with your kids the good news of God taking on flesh and dwelling among us. To help you create meaningful family traditions that your kids can pass on to the next generation.

Today’s guest is my good friend, Jacki Rucksdashel, author of the Jesse Tree Project. She is a mom to two amazing kids, a former classical education teacher and a darling, godly woman.

Jacki and I chat about the value of creating Biblically-based Christmas traditions. Fortunately, there are lots of options these days for families to celebrate Advent. We’re gonna help you sort through them so you can stay sane in the holiday cray-cray.

Jacki & I encourage you to pick one (maybe two) of the options. And to consider your family’s interests, ages, and values when choosing. We also share personal stories of our “less-than-perfect” attempts at memory making. And how to be realistic when celebrating the holidays with little ones.

Loved this from Jacki, sharing the heart behind this conversation:

Am I teaching my children that Christmas is about busyness? Or am I teaching my children that Christmas is about sitting at Jesus’s feet, and resting, and enjoying his birth and the fulfilling of the promise? It can get so easy so forget that, even in doing all the good things.

What we chat about:

Choosing a few, enjoyable traditions for your family, instead of ALL of them
Why are Christmas traditions such a big deal, anyway?
You can be your family’s first tradition-starter
The Jesse Tree Project, and how it’s made especially for families with young children
Using children’s anticipation for Christmas to mirror the Bible’s anticipation for a Savior
Our own funny stories of how “perfectly planned” traditions turned out…um…less than perfect (i.e.: being realistic)
Why it’s a good thing Jesus is NOT like Santa or the Elf on the Shelf
Other great tradition starters for young children: Shepard on a Search, Star from Afar, The Giving Manger, Light ‘Em Up
How to “mix and match” to find the right fit for your family
Setting priorities by reverse-engineering from Dec 26 and what you would consider a (realistic) successful holiday.

Links Mentioned:

The Jesse Tree Project & How to Lead a Group
Unwrapping the Greatest Gift **
Truth in the Tinsel (OhAmanda Episode 3)
Visiting Santa (Heather’s thoughts on using Santa to teach grace)
Elf on the Shelf **
Shepherd on a Search
Star from Afar
The Giving Manger
Light Em Up (Courtney DeFeo Episode 50)

Raising Girls :: Sissy Goff [Ep 141]

6 november 2016 | 55 min

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice. . .including sassiness?

Now I’m not a girl mom. But I am a girl. That’s gotta count for something.

I know how complicated my emotions can be. With all the social media and cultural pressures, I can only imagine how overwhelming it is to raise a girl nowadays.

Good news!!! Today’s help comes from girl expert and licensed counselor, Sissy Goff. She spends most of her days chatting with girls and their families. The author of eight books including, “Raising Girls”, Sissy brings loads of wisdom and perspective.

In this episode we spend the first chunk of time talking on the topic of beauty. Then we move into whining and strong emotions (including the epidemic of childhood anxiety). Sissy shares great thoughts on girl friendships and sister stress.

Personally, I love her thoughts on how attention issues (e.g., ADHD) can impact girls socially. Lastly, she gives excellent advice on how to maintain a healthy mother-daughter relationship. And this quote:

What we chat about:

Speaking to the different areas of beauty God has placed in each girl, specifically calling out strength and bravery.
How we, as moms, talk about OURSELVES influences how our daughters see themselves.
Helping girls develop their own identity.
Keeping an ongoing dialogue and pulling your daughter back “into the huddle of your family” to discuss external messages.
Building up confidence helps lessen the fixation on external beauty.
Circling back to the places your daughter is confident and the things she likes about herself.
The importance of a girl’s father (or other male role model in her life) to show her she is valued for who she is.
Helping your daughter realize most girls share her same struggles.
Managing her intense emotions at home and recognizing anxiety.
Teaching empathy in practical ways.
Identifying “balcony friends,” “basement friends,” and “rollercoaster friends.”
Respecting her capabilities and fighting the urge to “fix everything” as she moves into the teen years.

Links Mentioned:

raisingboysandgirls.com
daystarcounseling.com
Courtney DeFeo
Are My Kids on Track?: The 12 Emotional, Social, and Spiritual Milestones Your Child Needs to Reach (to be released Feb 2017) by Sissy Goff and Melissa Trevathan **
Modern Parents, Vintage Values: Instilling Character in Today’s Kid by Melissa Trevathan and Sissy Goff**
Intentional Parenting: Autopilot Is for Planes by Sissy Goff and David Thomas**
Raising Girls by Melissa Trevathan and Sissy Goff**
Freeing Your Child from Anxiety by Tamar Chansky (mentioned in the interview)**

Parenting Small Shontell Brewer Ep 140

31 oktober 2016 | 57 min

10 Ways to Stop Meltdowns and Arguments Kirk Martin Ep 139

23 oktober 2016 | 52 min

The Ripple Effect of Healthy Sexual Connection :: Francie Winslow [Ep 138]

17 oktober 2016 | 47 min

Three years ago she directed us to soul healing. Two years ago she reminded us of the power of sex in marriage.

Francie Winslow is back. This time to share what she’s learned about the exponential impact marital intimacy has on the world around us.

In the past two years Francie has been doing extensive research on theology of the body. Exploring how God stamped His image on us. How we express our roles as image bearers through sex in marriage.

God is an invisible God who wants to make himself visible to us. When man and woman come together as one it’s his invitation for humanity to become one with God. Intimately connected with Him.

Francie shares their own family stress and her personal struggle with anxiety. Things that can disrupt marital connection. She vulnerably shares how she and her husband have purposefully chosen sex over isolation.

God’s training us to fight for connection and for each other instead of against each other.

Love Francie’s practical tips for keeping technology in check. So often screens and devices creep in between couples, increasing the distance and decreasing the intimacy.

Don’t miss the list of great resources below to help train your children in forming a healthy perspective of the body and sex.

What we chat about:

Francie’s journey to learn sex isn’t dirty or a duty but a delight.
Her recent study of theology of the body.
How anxiety and adoption stress led Francie and her husband to choose to have more sex (you read that right).
How technology impacts our marital connection and practical solutions
Help and healing for women who struggle with their view of sex.
A reminder to daily do the things that keep you alive as a person.
The Ripple Effect of sex in marriage.
A word of encouragement for the single mom.
Training our kiddos in a healthy sexual worldview (check out Francie’s resource list below).

Links Mentioned:

Francie’s Resource List:

Theology of the Body Books for Kids by Monica Ashour

Get these books (as many as you can!) and read them over and over and over. They are great for a range of ages – not just toddlers. Not only will it help form a great spiritual foundation for your kids as they enter a sexually intense world as kids (sadly it happens young these days), it will help you as a grown up re-learn how to think about bodies, sexuality and identity. It will also help give you simple, common language to use on an everyday basis in your home. They have all been such a big part of us growing in this new way of seeing the gift of sex as a family.

For older kids:

The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality** by Luke Gilkerson (there are several others to go with this series too). Loving this one right now with my 8 year old.)
Before I Was Born (God’s Design for Sex)** by Carolyn Nostrum
Good Pictures, Bad Pictures : Porn-Proofing Today’s Young Kids ** by Kristen Jensen

Theology of His Body/Theology of Her Body** by Jason Evert

This was written with college kids in mind, but I found it super helpful and use it woven into conversations with my kids.

For those who want more depth…Theology of the Body for Beginners** by Christopher West

**Amazon Affiliate Link

Sex is a multiplying factor in our lives, not just with producing kids, but producing a massive amount of connection.

New Life Movie Drew Waters Bonus

14 oktober 2016 | 41 min

FeelFreetoLaugh Jordan Watts Ep137

10 oktober 2016 | 53 min

Bonus Don't Mom Alone GCM Podcast Club

4 oktober 2016 | 14 min

Media, Imagination & the Kingdom of God Erick Goss Ep 136

1 oktober 2016 | 42 min

Life Creative Kelli Stuart Ep 135

25 september 2016 | 46 min

Moving Onward and Forward Andrea Howey Ep 134

19 september 2016 | 41 min

How to SquareUp in Battle Jan Greenwood Ep 133

12 september 2016 | 42 min

Revelation Wellness Alisa Keeton Ep132

5 september 2016 | 47 min

Uninvited Lysa Terkeurst Kay Wyma Courtney DeFeo Ep131

28 augusti 2016 | 45 min

Its Not Fair Melanie Dale Ep 130

21 augusti 2016 | 40 min

Recovery for Life Lynn Hoffman Ep 129

15 augusti 2016 | 39 min

Debunking Spiritual Leadership Myths Jen Wilkin Ep 128

8 augusti 2016 | 50 min

Soulful Over Frantic Shauna Niequist Ep 127

1 augusti 2016 | 40 min

Stay In Your Hoop Vela Tomba Encore

25 juli 2016 | 32 min

Pain's New Future Natasha Metzler Encore

10 juli 2016 | 35 min

When to have the talk Mary Flo Ridley Encore

8 juli 2016 | 45 min

Soul Freedom Francie Winslow Ep4Encore

4 juli 2016 | 41 min

Resolving Sibling Conflict Jim & Lynne Jackson Ep 126

25 juni 2016 | 55 min

Read Aloud Revival :: Sarah Mackenzie [Ep 125]

18 juni 2016 | 41 min

Maybe you’ve heard you should read-aloud to your preschoolers, but do you know the benefits of reading aloud to your competent readers?

Educators and communication experts have discovered that:

“Because linguistic information is best stored in the brain auditorily, children who have had read to them reliably correct and sophisticated language patterns for many years are much more likely to develop competence in written (and verbal) communication skills.” –Andrew Padewa

Not only does reading aloud help with communication skills, but families bond while they share a story.

All that’s great. But with our busy lives how do we add one. more. thing to our schedules?

Well, once again I have good news! This week’s podcast guest, Sarah Mackenzie, has created the “Read-Aloud Revival” podcast and community. She gives moms practical tips and fabulous resources to make reading aloud not only possible, but enjoyable!

In this episode, Sarah eases our guilt and helps set realistic expectations for how reading aloud looks. Bonus, she shares great ideas for using audio books that actually give moms a much needed break AND help your kids with their auditory comprehension skills. Cha ching!

Can’t wait for you to share your favorite read-aloud books on Instagram this week. Use the hashtag #readaloudrevival and make sure to tag me to so I can see (@GodCenteredMom).

What we chat about:

Why Sarah starting reading aloud to her kiddos.
An easy tip to attach reading with something you do every day.
Letting go of unrealistic expectations and ideals of your time reading aloud.
Figuring out the “why” behind you want to read-aloud with kids.
Realizing that when boys’ hands are busy it doesn’t mean they aren’t listening.
Remembering to keep the reading time short and that time adds up over days.
Find books that you enjoyed as a kid, not just the ones you think you “should” read.
Great ways to use audio books to share the story and connect as a family.
Finding community who can support you in your pursuit.
Why introverts are drawn to reading aloud to their kids.
How to have great conversations with your kids over books you haven’t read with them.
Encouragement to just get started reading, don’t worry about creating a formal plan.

Links Mentioned:

Andrew Pudewa, Director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing
Andrew Pudewa’s talk on Nurturing Competent Communicators that inspired Sarah to start the podcast (“With humor and insight, Andrew will share the two easy but unbelievably powerful things you can do to build language patterns and nurture competent communicators in your family.”)
Andrew Pudewa on the Read Aloud Revival Podcast, Episode 1
Jim Trelease–“The Read-Aloud Handbook”**
“Caught Up in a Story” by Sarah Clarkson**
“The Reading Promise: My Father and theBooks We Shared” by Alice Ozma and Jim Brozina**
Misty Winkler–simplyconvivial.com
Read Aloud Revival Book List–RARbooklist.com or text “Books” 444999
“Little House” audio books read by Cherry Jones
Read Aloud Revival membership site–RARmembership.com
“5 Questions to have great conversations about books with your kids” pdf

**Amazon affiliate links

Crafting Your Family Culture Rebecca Hagelin Ep 124

12 juni 2016 | 47 min

Pain Not Wasted Peggy Banks Ep 123

6 juni 2016 | 48 min

The Respect Effect Emerson Eggerichs Ep 122

30 maj 2016 | 50 min

It’s not a magic formula. But almost.

This week’s guest is Dr. Emerson Eggerichs (New York Times Best Selling author of “Love & Respect”). He has opened my eyes to the high value of respect with boys & men with his newest book, “Mother and Son: The Respect Effect**”. ‘Game changer.

With this new “respect effect” perspective, interactions with my boys have changed. Before a word comes out of my mouth I’m evaluating if the tone is positive and the correction is focused on the behavior and not the person. I’ve also noticed how I alter what I say when helping them get along with one another (e.g., “Are you respecting your brother when you take the toy he is playing with?”).

I know, I know. A few weeks ago I published a parenting boys episode. I promise an interview with Sissy Goff is in the works, to help moms with girls (she leads a camp all summer. . .so we’ll be chatting in the Fall). But just like with the other parenting boys episode, whether you have sons or daughters, after listening you will understand your husband better. That’s a very good thing.

And I know, I know, I share several books on the podcast. Each of my guests is selected with a lot of thought and consideration. Deciding to only introduce you to books that I would want to read myself. But this book sits at the top of the summer reading list. Seriously. (Just ask all my friends which book they see me toting around and talking about this month 😉 ).

What we chat about:

How the popular “Love & Respect” message applies to mother & son relationships.
Recognizing that honor motivates men (and our boys).
How teen girls respond differently than teen boys to a mom’s critique.
A great definition of “respect”.
How to hold boundaries with our boys, but still respect their spirits.
A specific example of how to apply “respect talk” with your boys.
How this respect effect can be applied by teachers in the classroom.
Using the acronym “CHAIRS” to identify areas you can use respect talk.
How it’s never to late to start.

Links Mentioned:

Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs **
Ephesians 5:25 “ Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,”
Love & Respect in the Family: The Respect Parents Desire; The Love Children Need **

**Amazon affiliate links

Before You Quit Nicki Koziarz Ep 121

23 maj 2016 | 42 min

An Easier Way Bonni Greiner Ep 120

13 maj 2016 | 38 min

The Art of Nurturing Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 119]

9 maj 2016 | 58 min

I’m not a boy. Yet I’m raising four of them to be men.

And as much as culture tries to tell us there aren’t differences between boys and girls. My every day experience begs to differ. I truly don’t understand the “why” behind most of my boys’ choices. And it never benefits me to ask.

This week (for my own help and maybe yours too) I’ve invited David Thomas on the show. As a family therapist and director at DayStar Counseling Center in Nashville, David has lots of experience counseling families and children. Having his own set of twin boys has provided a lot of education as well.

The first book I ever read that gave me a glimpse into the mind of a boy is David’s book “Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys”**. Then I heard him speak at a DotMom event and I’ve always wanted to have him on the show.

Our conversation did not disappoint. David’s genteel manner and calm approach gave me such peace. Afterwards I felt encouraged and equipped to not only “handle” my boys but enjoy their uniqueness.

David answered a slew of questions I received on Facebook from listeners. But a theme emerged in each topic we covered: outlets and boundaries. David would point out a need boys have and how we as moms could provide a proper outlet for that need. But he also gave great instruction on how to train on boys in regulation, by setting boundaries on where and when those needs can be met.

If you are a boymom, get ready to be set free from a lot of guilt over “why your boy does that”. And given some practical ideas to help create places and times in your family’s schedule to let “boys be boys” but not allow that phrase to be an excuse for unkind or inappropriate behavior.

If you’re not a boymom, I hope this will still be an entertaining episode to help you understand your husband, nephews, friend’s son. And stay tuned because I’m working with David’s partner Sissy Goff to record a “Raising Girls” episode this fall. (Of course, feel free to share this episode with any boymom friends you have. . .they will thank you!).

What we chat about:

When and how to let boys rough-house/wrestle
How “Stage One boys” (ages 1 to 4 years old) express love with aggression.
Providing an outlet and training regulation and respect.
How to help our boys who feels things deeply (the ones often labeled as ‘sensitive’).
Giving boys ways to process emotions with space and physical outlets.
Helping boys hear our directions and respond to us.
Taking advantage of how boys are hardwired visually.
How to handle when boys talking about private parts, farting, etc.
4 & 14 year old boys and their testosterone surges.

Links Mentioned:

Brooke McGlothlin (Thank you Brooke for connecting us!)
Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys **
Mini Trampoline ** ($25 option)
Trampoline with handle bar ** ($70 option)
5 Practical Actions to Help Boys Behave
Birds and the Bees? Oh Help Me Please with Mary Flo Ridley (Ep 25)
Raising Boys and Girls

**Amazon affiliate link

Wild and Free Hayley Morgan Ep 118

2 maj 2016 | 49 min

Made New Megan Craig Ep 117

25 april 2016 | 46 min

Ridiculous Faith Shelene Bryan Ep 116

18 april 2016 | 44 min

Unstuffed Ruth Soukup

11 april 2016 | 48 min

Miss the Silver Lining by Expecting Gold Mary Carver Ep 114

4 april 2016 | 42 min

Get Your Story Straight Kristen Hatton Ep 113

29 mars 2016 | 48 min

Goals, Roles and Superpowers

21 mars 2016 | 55 min

That's Me Pastor's Wife MaryBeth Kathy

14 mars 2016 | 58 min

Good Bad Real Life Charity Reeb Ep110

7 mars 2016 | 55 min

Bonus Episode Faith Film Double Feature Kay Wyma Jennifer Garner Christy Beam

26 februari 2016 | 54 min

Wisdom from Grammie Doris Howard Ep 109

26 februari 2016 | 50 min

What Triggers Your Angry Reaction Amber Lia ep 108

15 februari 2016 | 58 min

Create a Home of Belonging and Becoming Sally Clarkson Ep 107

8 februari 2016 | 44 min

That's Me Sleep Deprived and Needing Jesus Jennie and Sally Ep 106

1 februari 2016 | 41 min

How to Break Busy Alli Worthington Ep 105

23 januari 2016 | 34 min

Q&A with Kirk Martin Celebrate Calm Ep 104

18 januari 2016 | 45 min

See the Unseen Ep 103

11 januari 2016 | 48 min

That's Me Craving Authentic Friendships Libby and Leslie Ep 102

4 januari 2016 | 63 min

Know God by studying His Word in 15 minutes a day Katie Orr Ep 101

31 december 2015 | 48 min

In Light of Eternity Jen Clouse Ep 100

14 december 2015 | 54 min

The 100th episode!!! Seriously. How did that happen?

The goal of this podcast has always been to help women keep God in the center of their mothering/lives. And to remember they are in the center of God’s presence, in every moment.

Today’s podcast guest, Jen Clouse, successfully meets those goals. Making her the perfect 100th episode guest!

Jen focuses our eyes on the everyday gifts. Seeing them as glimpses of heaven’s glory here on earth. But she also reminds us that this is not our forever home.

Jen’s insightful perspective comes from a harsh reality. Her own mortality. Last December Jen was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.

In this episode, Jen shares what she’s learned about heaven (from co-leading a study for 100+ women). She also gives a super practical way to figure out how you can help a friend in need. Jen reminds us mamas to hold our children loosely. To realize we have the privilege of partnering with God, but ultimately how our children “turn out” is up to him.

And this. . .

It’s hard in the crisis to build that support system. Invest in women’s lives now. Not because you’re going to need them in case you have cancer. But that the time invested in friendships, meaningful friendships is worth it.–Jen

My biggest take-away from our conversation is to view my “to do” list as a “get to do” list. What joy to get to pick up my boys from school, to get to serve them meals, and to get to put them to bed!

This holiday season may we all see our everyday in light of eternity. Be grateful for all our “get to”s. And invest in our sweet friendships.

AND . . .in honor of the 100th episode (and Christmas). . . and in conjunction with today’s episode theme. . .I’m giving away a copy of “Just Show Up” by Kara Tippetts and her friend Jill Lynn Butelyn:

Connect with Jen:

Personal Blog

What we chat about:

Jen’s surprise engagement, surprise baby and surprise cancer diagnosis.
Hope for the mom with chronic sickness/trauma/heartache.
What Jen’s learned about how friends help well.
The truths Jen gained from studying Heaven last summer.
Lessons for all of us to hold our children loosely.
Dealing with temper tantrums and other challenging behavior when mom is sick.
The value of building strong friendships.

**Throughout the interview hear surprise messages from Jen’s friends: Jenn Dawkins, Molly Rhodes, Kay Wyma, Melanie Shankle and Amy Fisher (a.k.a. Gulley).

Links Mentioned:

“Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” (Psalm 115:1)
“Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.” (Psalm 43:3)
In Light of Eternity by Randy Alcorn
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:2-3)
Nobody’s Cuter than You by Melanie Shankle
Just Show Up by Kara Tippetts & Jill Lynn Butelyn

Don't Settle for As Is, Meet the New You Elisa Pulliam Ep 99

7 december 2015 | 59 min

Connecting with Your Kids in Any Circumstance Jim & Lynne Jackson Ep 98

2 december 2015 | 63 min

That's Me Dealing with Change Jenny and Kristen Ep 97

21 november 2015 | 63 min

Parenting Mashup Episode :: Two Years of the GodCenteredMom Podcast {Ep 96}

16 november 2015 | 51 min

That's Me Struggling with Work-Life Balance Annette & Rachel Ep 95

9 november 2015 | 61 min

The Story of God's Love for You Sally Lloyd-Jones Ep 94

1 november 2015 | 42 min

I Am Restored Stacy Reaves Ep 93

26 oktober 2015 | 42 min

Breaking Up with Perfect Amy Carroll Ep 92

19 oktober 2015 | 37 min

Anchoring Our Kids' Lovability in Christ :: Jeannie Cunnion Ep 91

12 oktober 2015 | 35 min

Joy Outside of Circumstances Amanda Wilson Ep 90

5 oktober 2015 | 58 min

Hello, Beauty Full Elisa Morgan {Ep 89}

28 september 2015 | 40 min

How to Stay Calm with School Stress Kirk Martin Ep 88

21 september 2015 | 51 min

It's Good to Be Queen Liz Curtis Higgs Ep 87

14 september 2015 | 42 min

Behind the Scenes of War Room Wynter and Alena Pitts Ep 86

31 augusti 2015 | 43 min

Ever feel like you are in a battle? With your kids. A friend. Your spouse. / / What if we viewed the battle differently? / / Instead of using the same (failing) tactics, trying a new approach. / / Well, the latest hit movie, "War Room" helps define the true enemy and disciples viewers in a battle strategy. / / We know the Sunday School answer is to "pray without ceasing". / / But when do you pray in your day? / / Maybe you pray in the morning. Before meals. When you put your kids to bed. / / What do you pray? / / For your needs to be met. Out of gratitude. Or desperation. / / Have you ever considered writing down Scripture and praying for God to move in specific areas of your life? With fervent prayers? / / If you want to be inspired for how prayer can impact your life and change your attitude towards others, then please see this new movie. / / On today's podcast episode child actress, Alena Pitts (11 years old) and her mom Wynter Pitts (author of "For Girls Like You", tween girl devotional) give us a behind-the-scenes look into the "War Room". / / WynterAlenaPittsEp86 / / Alena & Wynter also share how filming the movie impacted their prayer lives. Hear about their favorite clips in the film. And at the end of the episode my 10 year old son gives his movie review. / / My hope is you see the movie, get inspired, and start praying with a real battle strategy. If you need help, I found women who have mentored me in prayer. Ask someone whose prayer life you admire to meet with you once a week for an hour. / / What we chat about: / / Fabulous resources Wynter produces for moms of girls / How the Kendrick Brothers cast Alena in the role of Danielle / Behind the scenes on how Kendrick Brothers led the cast spiritually / How has making the movie changed Alena's prayer life / How the Holy Spirit groans on our behalf...when you don't know what to pray / What is the meaning behind the title "War Room" / Alternative ideas to creating your own war room or creating a prayer notebook / The importance of reviewing answered prayers / What we can be praying for Wynter & Alena / How does a man get to a point of surrender / Connect with Wynter or Alena: / / For Girls Like You :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Instagram :: Pinterest / / Alena Pitts :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Instagram / / Links Mentioned: / / For Girls Like You: A Devotional for Tweens **Amazon Affiliate Link / For Girls Like You Podcast / Leaving Ordinary: Encounter God Through Extraordinary Prayer (InScribed Collection) by Donna Gaines / "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." (Proverbs 11:2) / " If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14) / War Room Resources / Fervent: A Woman's Battle Plan to Serious, Specific and Strategic Prayer / by Priscilla Shirer

I'm Happy for You (Sort Of...Not Really) :: Kay Wyma {Ep 85}

30 augusti 2015 | 49 min

What if your son can't read as he enters first grade? What if your daughter prefers wrestling to ballet? What if your living room sofa has a couple rips and stains from a decade of use?

These things shouldn't be a big deal. But then you notice your friend's first grade boy is reading chapter books. . . and her daughter gracefully glides into class with a giant bow on her head . . . and their living room just got a make-over with coordinating floor-to-ceiling curtains.

Personally? My feelings of "less than" often start at a place of comparison. I know I shouldn't compare. I know it doesn't make me feel good. Yet day after day I glance around making sure I keep pace with the Joneses.

How do I move past comparison to contentment? And even more important, how do I get to a place where I can celebrate her athletic child or new couch or beach vacation?

Well, today's podcast guest, Kay Wyma, shines a light on the age old comparison problem and guides us to a better place of connection and true community.

In Kay's latest book, "I'm Happy for You (Sort Of . . .Not Really)", she helps readers find contentment in a culture of comparison.

"Looking at what we lack prevents us from noticing how sweet the world already is. But when we shift our focus from what could be to what actually is, we find extraordinary joy in our ordinary lives."

I've been a big Kay fan since a dinner party over six years ago. As I sat hugely pregnant with our 3rd son, she encouraged me in my role as young mom.

Kay is authentic, brilliant and refreshing. My hope is her wisdom and practical tips in this episode help you stop comparing and draw you closer to the women you interact with daily.

What we chat about:

Encouraging one another by running alongside, instead of determined to "win"
Focusing on "being together" more than hosting the perfect dinner party
Being our best instead of being "the best", discovering our "you"-niqueness
How a "mental" computer reboot (cnt/alt/del) helps fight comparison
Whose light is revealing your reflection (& the Kylie Jenner Challenge)
How to help our kids navigate social media and speak life to their friends
How our friends can help us "reboot" the messages we believe.
How to enter back-to-school with fresh perspective, moving from comparison to compassion (repurposing school supplies).
Why I can never look at an Instagram pic of feet on the beach the same way.

Connect with Kay:

The MOAT Blog :: Facebook :: Twitter

Links Mentioned:

I'm Happy for You (Sort Of...Not Really): Finding Contentment in a Culture of Comparison *Amazon Affiliate Link
Kathie Lee Gifford video

How to Fight Fear & Believe in a Faithful God :: Lisa Appelo Ep84

17 augusti 2015 | 51 min

How to Quit Hustle & Embrace Small Moment Living :: Emily Freeman {Ep 83}

10 augusti 2015 | 40 min

What Your Kids, Marriage & Mind Need :: Monica Swanson Ep 82

27 juli 2015 | 38 min

How to Connect, Coach & Correct Your Child :: Jim & Lynne Jackson {Ep 81}

20 juli 2015 | 36 min

Don’t Mom Alone Podcast

Heather MacFadyen, mother of four boys, connects you the listener with people and resources to help you feel less alone.

Om podden

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The Shift: Overcoming Self-Sabotage, Imposter Syndrome, and Critical Inner Monologues :: Mary Marantz [Ep 520]

When Friendships Get Messy: Healing, Humor & Finding Your Chicken-Fried Women :: Melissa Radke [Ep 519]

Mean Girls, Mom Roles & Modern Friendship: Coaching Kids Through Conflict :: Dr. Kelly Jameson [Ep 518]

Walking Through Grief: Coping, Comforting Kids, and Embodied Emotions :: Erin Nelson and Colleen Montague [Ep 517]

From Believer to Disciple: Following Jesus in Everyday Life :: Courtney Garrett [Ep 516]

Mothering Autism: Navigating Grief, Marriage, and Community :: Carrie Cariello, Kate Swenson, and Adrian Wood [Ep 515]

The Truth About Baby Sleep: Breaking Myths, Balancing Attachment and Restful Nights :: Eve Squires [Ep 514]

From Chaos to Calm: Practical Tools to Manage Anger and Overwhelm in Motherhood :: Elizabeth Andreyevskiy [Ep 513]

Modeling Faith: Family Spiritual Habits that Stick :: Chris Pappalardo and Clayton Greene [Ep 512]

Perimenopause Guide: Managing Symptoms, Emotional Changes, and Weight Gain During Hormonal Shifts :: Dr. Kamilia Smith [Ep 511]

Flipping the Switch to Hope: from worst-case to unimaginable good :: Heather MacFadyen [Ep 510]

Helping Kids Connect with Their Grandparents :: Isabel Tom [Ep 509]

Generational Healing: Becoming the Mom You Needed :: Melanie Shankle [Ep 508]

Discovering the Gift of You When You Feel Lost in Motherhood :: Chrystal Evans Hurst [Ep 507]

How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation :: Ian Cron [Ep 506]

Hosting Tips to be the Hangout House :: Logan Wolfram [Ep 505]

When You Need Personal Revival :: Cleere Cherry Reaves [Ep 504]

Unpacking Moms' Mental Load :: Dr. Morgan Cutlip [Ep 503]

Processing Grief, Infertility, and Loss in Community :: Julie Fowler [Ep 502]

Moms and the Best Christmas Pageant Ever :: Dallas and Amanda Jenkins [Ep 501]

Finding God Faithful in All Stages of Motherhood :: Leslie Johnson [Ep 500]

Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 2) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 499]

Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 1) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 498]

Confidence in Parenting Decisions :: Laura Wifler [Ep 497]

Boys vs. Girls--the early years (2 part series) :: Courtney DeFeo and Heather [Ep 496]

Do Not Grow Weary :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 495]

Website: Sharon McMahon | America's Government Teacher Facebook: Sharon McMahon | Facebook Instagram: SHARON McMAHON (@sharonsaysso)

Links Mentioned: The Preamble | Sharon McMahon | Substack Vote - Register and get information on Voting | Sharon McMahon The Small and the Mighty: by Sharon McMahon Right Where You Belong: by Heather MacFadyen

Related Episodes: Factual News, Flexible Thinking and Family Moral Imperatives :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 332] Racial Healing Starts with You :: Latasha Morrison [Ep 261]

Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.

Seek Him First :: Lillian Richey [Ep 494]

Help for the Unspoken Challenges of Parenting Teens :: Amy Betters-Midtvedt [Ep 493]

Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 492]

How to Align with Your Spouse in Parenting :: Dr. Kim Kimberling [Ep 491]

Cultivating Intimacy with God in Motherhood :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 490]

Sidetracked with Emily P. Freeman (part 1) :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 489]

What does Jesus-centered parenting look like? :: Dr. David and Amanda Erickson [Ep 488]

Sidetracked Surprise :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 487]

“What is Typical When Learning to Talk?” :: Stephanie Cohen [Ep 486]

The Reluctant Disciple :: Robin Pou [Ep 485]

Sidetracked with Jess Connolly :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 484]

“How Can I Help My Kid Make Friends?” :: David Thomas and Sissy Goff [Ep 483] Summer of Mentorship week 6

“How Do I Regulate My Own Emotions?” :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 482] Summer of Mentorship

Sidetracked by the Olympics, Mammograms, and Family Gambling :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 481]

“What Does My Child Need?” :: Amy and Dr. Jeffrey Olrick [Ep 480] Summer of Mentorship Week 4

How to Stay Calm with Strong Willed Kids? :: Kirk Martin [Ep 479] Summer of Mentorship Week Three

Sidetracked with Makayla Noble :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 478]

"Help When Adult Friendships End?" :: Shundria Riddick [Ep 477] Summer of Mentorship Week Two

Sidetracked by Naming Body Parts, Steaks for Lunch, and Summer Dilemmas (when you’re not in Italy) :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 476]

"How do I connect better with my kids?" [Ep 475] :: Summer of Mentorship Week 1

Raising Critical Thinkers :: Julie Bogart [Ep 474]

Sidetracked with Beth McCord :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 473]

Don’t Dad Alone :: Dustin Nickerson [Ep 472]

Sidetracked by American Idol, Father’s Day, and Eyebrows :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 471]

Creating a Family Tech Plan :: Andrea Davis [Ep 470]

Finding Freedom from Habitual Sin :: Kirby Kelly [Ep 469]

Sidetracked with Toni Collier :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 468]

Hope and Help for Taboo Topics in Postpartum Care :: Krystle Howald [Ep 467]

Honoring Moms, the Unsung Heroes :: Rebecca St. James [Ep 466]

Sidetracked by 1980’s Mother’s Day, LTK, and Bad Book Reviews :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 465]

Stewarding Sacred and Spiritual Disciplines at Home :: Jennifer Pepito [Ep 464]

When You're Busy and Stressed by Mom Life Expectations :: Joanna Weaver [Ep 463]

House Rules and Learning to Love your Home :: Myquillyn Smith [Ep 462]

When You’re Disappointed in Mom Life Limitations :: Sara Hagerty [Ep 461]

Sidetracked by Instagram Arguments, Chicos, and End-of-School Year Emotions :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 460]

From Ruin to Redemption :: Nadia Louise [Ep 459]

Emotional Maturity, Teamwork, and 25 years of Marriage :: Bruce and Heather [Ep 458]

Three Faith Pillars for Parenting Teens :: Melissa Kruger [Ep 457]

Changing the Atmosphere of Your Home with Positive Parenting :: Ralphie Jacobs [Ep 456]

Secure Borders and the Compassionate Christian :: Bri Stensrud [Ep 455]

Sidetracked by Throat Gurgles, Unlikely Friendships and Trash Can Valentines :: special guest Rachel Green [Ep 454]

Hope for the Hopeless Marriage :: Kathy Bush [Ep 453]

The What, Why and Work-through of Panic Attacks :: Kasey Van Norman [Ep 452]

Helping Socially Anxious Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 451]

Feeding Your Kids Without Mom Guilt :: Kacie Barnes [Ep 450]

Life is Messy, God is Good :: Sidetracked with Cynthia and Heather [Ep 449]

Website: Sharon McMahon | America's Government Teacher

Facebook: Sharon McMahon | Facebook

Instagram: SHARON McMAHON (@sharonsaysso)

Links Mentioned:

The Preamble | Sharon McMahon | Substack

Vote - Register and get information on Voting | Sharon McMahon

The Small and the Mighty: by Sharon McMahon

Right Where You Belong: by Heather MacFadyen

Related Episodes:

Factual News, Flexible Thinking and Family Moral Imperatives :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 332]

Racial Healing Starts with You :: Latasha Morrison [Ep 261]