Dr. Joel Muddamalle (Director of Theology and Research for Proverbs 31 Ministries) joins Mandy Arioto (president and CEO of The MomCo) to discuss the theology of motherhood. 

Early in the episode, Dr. Muddamalle defines theology simply as thinking God’s thoughts after him. He shares biblical examples of what he believes a theology of motherhood encompasses and explains how Scripture’s representation of motherhood differs from western society’s definition of the role. 

Resources mentioned:

• http://Barna.com/motherhood
• https://www.growthechurch.co/
• https://a.co/d/9PyyOZ8

Rebekah Lyons (author, speaker and cohost of Rhythms for Life podcast) sits down David Kinnaman (CEO of Barna) to discuss the impact a mother’s community can have on her overall well-being. 

Lyons shares how crucial it is for mothers to be surrounded by a community of peers who can relate to what she is going through and support her in the midst of challenges, as well as mentors who can offer wisdom and guidance throughout the journey. 

In wrapping up the episode, Lyons reminds listeners that community is something we are a part of—so while we may sometimes find ourselves on the receiving end of community, we must always remember to pour into other members of our community as well. It’s a give and take. 

Resources mentioned:

• http://Barna.com/motherhood
• https://www.growthechurch.co/
• https://a.co/d/eeWZQTl

Ruth Chou Simons (author, artist and founder of GraceLaced Co.) joins Mandy Arioto (president and CEO of The MomCo) to discuss what it looks like to pursue a healthy work-life balance, model a growing relationship with Christ and pursue deeper spiritual and relational formation during the various stages of motherhood. 

Throughout the episode, Arioto and Simons also offer practical takeaways and applications both for individual listeners and local church leadership, encouraging moms and churches to make space for mothers to connect with one another in deeper and more meaningful ways.

Resources mentioned:

• http://Barna.com/motherhood
• https://www.growthechurch.co/
• Pilgrim: 25 Ways God Leads Us Onward: https://a.co/d/hYgM7qx

Dr. Bryan Loritts (pastor, author, speaker) joins David Kinnaman (CEO of Barna) to discuss how local churches can better support mothers. 
It’s no secret that mothers are powerful forces both in their homes and in the world, so when mothers come to church, what is it they’re looking for? Dr. Loritts shares ways churches he’s ministered in have offered encouragement, rest and opportunities to mothers. 

He also reminds listeners that not all moms are alike—though mothers share many similarities, they all have different stories, experiences and desires, and church leadership should be aware of this when seeking to provide ministry to mothers. 

Resources mentioned:

• http://Barna.com/motherhood
• https://www.growthechurch.co/
• https://www.amazon.com/Dad-Difference-Most-Important-Gifts/dp/0802419623

Dr. Anita Phillips (trauma therapist, life coach, author and minister) sits down with Barna CEO David Kinnaman to discuss motherhood and mental health.

Speaking from both personal and professional experience, Dr. Phillips shares on a variety of topics, including: moving from rules to relationship with children, breaking the cycle of generational trauma, how a parents’ mental health impacts how they interact with their child and the unique challenges moms of color face.

She wraps up the conversation with an encouragement to church leaders on how to better support mothers and address the needs they have right now.

Resources mentioned:

• Motherhood Today 
• GrowTheChurch.Co
• The Garden Within  by Dr. Anita Phillips

Join David Kinnaman and Mandy Arioto as they kick off the Motherhood Today podcast! Together they discuss the many opportunities and challenges that mothers are facing in the church and in their communities and preview the topics to come in the conversations with guests ahead.

Whether you're a pastor, church leader or mom, this podcast is filled with practical insights from ministry and thought leaders to help you support and better understand the state of motherhood today.

Learn more at Barna.com/motherhood.

Resources mentioned:

• Motherhood Today 
• GrowTheChurch.Co

David Kinnaman (Barna CEO) and Mandy Arioto (president and CEO of The MomCo) invite you to join them as they explore the many opportunities and challenges that mothers are facing in the church and in their communities.

Whether you're a pastor, church leader or mom, this podcast is filled with practical insights from ministry and thought leaders to help you support and better understand the state of motherhood today.

Learn more at Barna.com/motherhood.