Whatever Is Excellent with Leanne Tuggle

82: Anchored In Hope with Whitney Ernest

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0700

A swollen lump. Years of fatigue and infections. Two biopsies that said “benign.” Then the diagnosis flips everything: thyroid cancer, a fast second surgery, and the question so many of us whisper when fear is loud what do I do now?

We invited our dear friend Whitney to tell the story from the inside, not as a highlight reel but as a real cancer journey shaped by waiting, uncertainty, and the daily work of choosing trust. We talk about anchoring to Isaiah 26:3, how simplifying your life can make room for prayer, and why a small circle of friends matters when your strength runs out. Whitney also shares how worship music carried her when a thyroid nodule affected her voice and kept her from singing.

Along the way, she recounts specific moments of guidance that felt like God pulling back the curtain: the right phone call at the right time, help with overwhelming medical decisions, and an unexpected text of “hope” sent to someone else at the exact moment it was needed. We also celebrate the update everyone longs to hear, her cancer is currently undetectable, and we reflect on redemption, gratitude, and Psalm 71 as a steady closing prayer.

If you’re walking through illness, anxiety, or an uncertain season, let this conversation remind you that you’re not alone and you don’t have to do it at full speed. Subscribe for more stories of anchored hope, share this with a friend who needs steady courage, and leave a review with the line that stayed with you most.

Connect with me!
You can find me on Instagram @mrs.leannetuggle or you can email me at leanne.tuggle@gmail.com. I love hearing from you!

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81: Moving with Peace And Purpose

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0700

You can love your home and still be called to leave it. We talk about what it looks like to move every few years as a military family and refuse to let constant change turn you cynical, rushed, or numb. Instead, we choose a simple mission: leave a place better than you found it, not through perfection, but through presence, service, and steady faith when life keeps shifting.

We share the real emotional mix that comes with relocation and PCS moves: excitement, stress, grief, and the strange feeling of being “uprooted.” Then we reframe it as being replanted, trusting that God is still establishing our steps (Proverbs 16:9) and going before us (Deuteronomy 31:8). Along the way we pull wisdom from Genesis 12, Jeremiah 29:13, Matthew 5, and the comfort of John 14:1–3, because God’s presence is not tied to one house, one state, or one season.

You’ll get practical moving tips you can use right away: how to prepare your heart before the move, how to keep family rhythms during the chaos, and how to handle the “big feelings” after you arrive. We also talk about helping kids process change with prayer, simple lists for “one last time” moments and “new firsts,” and a powerful life lesson that grief and gratitude can coexist.

If you’re facing a move, a new chapter, or an uncertain future, press play and take the next step with us. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review so more people can find hope for life transitions.

80: Making This the Best Summer Ever

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0700

The phrase “you only have 18 summers with your kids” can hit like a warning, and if you already feel stretched thin, it can trigger instant guilt. I wrestle with that tension and share a better way to hold the idea: not as panic, but as accountability that helps us slow down and choose what matters before the season slips away.

We get practical about building an intentional summer rhythm that fits real life. I talk through a short morning devotion you can actually sustain, including how I pick a theme (like the Armor of God or the Fruit of the Spirit) and keep it simple with Scripture, quick discussion, and character building. If you want Christian parenting tools that don’t require a full curriculum, you’ll leave with doable options, from one Psalm or Proverb a day to using library books as support.

Then we move into discipline as training, not just punishment. Summer offers more margin for teachable moments: sibling conflict, disappointment when plans change, and the inevitable “I’m bored.” I share how staying calm, consistent, and rooted in love helps kids connect faith to everyday life. Finally, I explain why one on one time with each child is my favorite summer practice and how simple “dates” create space for the best conversations, especially during big transitions like a move.

If this helped you, subscribe, share the episode with a parent friend, and leave a review so more families can find it.

Recommended Resources:

Armor of God devotional cards

Fruit of the Spirit devotional cards

79: 5 Simple Rhythms to Save Summer & Your Sanity

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Summer can feel like the best kind of slow and the most exhausting kind of loud at the exact same time. Longer days, bored kids, extra meals, constant interruptions, and the quiet pressure to “make it magical” can leave you overstimulated and behind before lunch. We want something better than survival mode, so we’re sharing a practical way to build a summer routine that supports peace, flexibility, and real rest for the whole family.

We ground the conversation in God’s design for rhythms and seasons, then walk through mindset shifts that change everything: letting go of perfection, reframing chaos as a flexible season, and moving from “I have to entertain” to “I get to enjoy and disciple my children.” From there, we lay out five simple summer rhythms you can adapt right away: a morning anchor around breakfast and devotions, a three-part day flow that gives structure without rigidity, weekly theme days that reduce decision fatigue, a daily quiet time reset that protects everyone’s nervous system, and a light chore system tied to meal times so kids learn to contribute.

We also talk about screen time boundaries, including how to make screens a tool rather than a crutch, plus ideas for simple delights that create meaningful family memories without overplanning. If you’re looking for a summer schedule for kids, Christian parenting encouragement, and realistic routines for overwhelmed moms, press play and take what fits your season. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs calmer days, and leave a review with the rhythm you’re trying first.

78: Faithfulness in Marriage & Motherhood with Denise Buck

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Plans change fast, but God’s faithfulness doesn’t. I sit down with Denise, a pastor’s wife of five decades, to talk about what it really looks like to walk with Jesus daily when life refuses to fit a neat timeline. From rural Missouri to unexpected ministry moves, Denise’s story keeps circling back to one steady truth: the God who calls us can be trusted, even when we’re waiting far longer than we expected.

We also dig into the tension so many Christian women feel around the Proverbs 31 woman. Denise reframes it as a lifetime portrait rather than a pressure-filled checklist and shares the specific areas she had to grow into, including learning to smile at the future and building deep trust inside marriage. Her wisdom is grounded in a practical spiritual discipline: studying the character and attributes of God until your heart settles, so your spouse doesn’t become your source of identity, stability, or emotional oxygen.

If you’re a mom who feels overwhelmed at home, you’ll love Denise’s simple routines for creating order and peace, plus her core convictions for raising daughters with confidence in God’s love, honesty, and prayer. We end with hands-on ways to move from reading the Bible to living it, how to rebuild consistency in your prayer life, and why being faithful in “little things” matters more than it sounds. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review, then tell me what part you want to put into practice this week.

77: Aging Gracefully

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Aging shows up in tiny ways before it ever shows up in big ones: the font gets bigger, workouts need more recovery, sleep can still leave you sore, and the mirror starts telling the truth louder than it used to. While I’m walking through a beauty study with my daughter during our monthly discipleship tea time, I realize the conversation isn’t just for her. It’s for me too, right here at forty, learning how to live with gratitude for the privilege of growing older while still wanting to age gracefully.

We talk about the difference between vanity and stewardship, and why our culture keeps pushing women toward extremes. One path says to resist aging at any cost. The other can look like spiritualized indifference toward caring for ourselves. I share the “third way” Scripture points us to: a heart anchored in Jesus and a body cared for with intention, because both are gifts from God. Along the way we sit with Psalm 139, 1 Peter 3, and 1 Corinthians 6, and we name what “beauty that doesn’t fade” can look like in real life when you’re loud, busy, and still growing in maturity.

We also get practical, because Christian wellness is not about perfection. It’s about rhythms that support longevity so we can stay faithful to our calling: rest, nourishment, movement, personal presentation, and time with the Lord. I also share why aging gracefully becomes generational, and how the words we say about our bodies can shape what our daughters believe about their own beauty and worth.

If you’ve felt tension between caring too much and not caring at all, this is your invitation to a steadier, kinder, more biblical way forward. Subscribe for more faith-filled discipleship conversations, share this with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review so more women can find it.

76: Conviction Vs Condemnation For Moms

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Mom guilt can feel like a permanent background noise, but not all guilt is the same and that difference changes everything. We’re opening Season 6 of Whatever Is Excellent by digging into what mom guilt is, where it comes from, and why so many of us wear it like a badge of honor even when it’s quietly draining our joy. I share a personal story about leaving for a work trip with an eight-month-old and how that moment exposed something deeper than “I miss my baby.”

We talk through two categories that often get lumped together: Holy Spirit conviction versus condemnation. Conviction leads to repentance, repair, and freedom. Condemnation piles on shame and keeps us striving, and Romans 8:1 reminds us it doesn’t come from the Lord. I walk through examples that look similar on the surface but produce very different fruit, then offer a simple way to pause, pray, and check your heart when guilt flares up.

From there, we zoom out to the culture around motherhood and children: why kids are often framed as interruptions, how that message shapes our expectations, and what Scripture says instead about children as a gift and a blessing. We also get practical with real-life strategies for overcoming mom guilt and protecting your peace: slowing down, releasing unrealistic expectations, setting boundaries, sharing the load, and checking your inputs so comparison stops running your mind. If you’re tired of shame and ready for truth-filled motherhood rooted in grace, press play, then subscribe, share this with a mom who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

75: Celebrating God’s Goodness In Every Season

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Some moments feel so ordinary you almost miss them, until you realize you’re living inside an old prayer. I share one of those “time stands still” scenes from my own home and why it matters even more because it came after a season of depression and deep sadness. That contrast opens up a bigger question: what does it look like to celebrate God’s goodness when life is not easy, not clear, and not what you planned?

We talk about the seasons of life through a biblical lens, from the famous Ecclesiastes 3 passage to the steady promises of Psalm 105 and Psalm 34:8. Circumstances shift constantly, but God’s character does not. If you’re walking through transition, grief, uncertainty, exhaustion, or loneliness, the hope here is grounded and practical: God’s goodness is not absent in suffering, and His presence often becomes clearest in the hard places (Isaiah 43:2).

I also share lessons from military life and frequent moves, plus tangible practices to help you notice God’s faithfulness daily: intentional gratitude and a prayer journal, telling the stories out loud to your kids or community, and marking meaningful moments with an Ebenezer stone reminder (1 Samuel 7:12). We end with worship as discipline before feeling and the long view of Romans 8:28, letting God’s faithfulness shape how we live through every season.

If this encouraged you, subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next, share it with a friend who needs steadiness today, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find the show. What season are you in right now?

74: Building A Legacy That Lasts with Mike & Diane Cooley

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Want a picture of legacy that’s honest, practical, and warm enough to taste like blueberry muffins? We sit down with our neighbors, Mike and Diane, a couple married 54 years and following Jesus for more than four decades, to explore how ordinary days can shape a family for generations. From the first welcome with a pan of brownies to a lifetime of small choices—prayer at dawn, Scripture at breakfast, flexibility when family calls—they show how faith becomes a living inheritance.

We trace Mike’s shift from “being a good person is enough” to a clear encounter with grace that reoriented his purpose as a husband, father, and now grandfather. Together, Mike and Diane unpack their core rhythm—Word before world—and how starting the day with God steadies motives, calms anxiety, and guides decisions. They share how Scripture became their anchor and map, whether through picture Bibles with grandkids, Adventures in Odyssey on road trips, or reading Little Pilgrim’s Progress around a campfire. As the grandkids grew, the tools matured too: apologetics that build confidence, backpacking lessons that turned trail cairns into spiritual markers, and quiet courage to nudge loved ones back onto God’s path.

You’ll hear real stories of planning and patience, fruit that sometimes blooms years later, and the art of speaking truth with gentleness. We talk discernment—when to speak, when to listen, when to simply pray—and how to stay relevant across generations by learning their interests and protecting unhurried conversations. Mike and Diane also step outside comfort zones, from campus ministry weekends to reading books they once avoided, all to build bridges that carry love and truth.

If you’re a grandparent or mentor wondering how to stay available, adaptable, and fruitful, this conversation offers clear practices, tender encouragement, and a hopeful vision: the mission doesn’t retire, it refines. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a lift, and leave a review with the small daily habit you’ll start this week to invest in your legacy.

73: Resurrection Hope For Real Life

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700

When the news cycle feels relentless and your to‑do list won’t quit, what does it really look like to live with resurrection hope? We explore a grounded, practical faith that faces anxiety and weariness without flinching, anchored in the promise that death is defeated and God keeps His word. From Jesus’ words in John 16 to the strong assurance of John 10, we trace how Scripture reframes our days: we don’t strive for God’s love, we respond to finished work; we don’t chase worth, we receive grace; we don’t fear the future, we remember whose hand holds us.

We share honest moments of doubt—like worrying about housing or feeling stuck in disappointment—and then walk through four simple practices to course‑correct: confess unbelief, replace lies with the Bible, speak resurrection truth out loud, and use gratitude as warfare. Along the way, we reflect on Holy Week with thoughtful questions you can journal or pray: Where do you feel hopeless? What seems beyond repair? That reflection becomes fuel for bold prayer and patient trust. We also unpack why “Friday is good because Sunday is coming” captures the heart of Christian hope—pain is real, but it is not the end of the story.

This conversation is tender and practical. We talk about parenting with gentleness, working with excellence, and treating ordinary tasks as worship because nothing done in the Lord is in vain. If you need a fresh reminder that you are secure in Christ and invited to live from victory, you’ll find courage here to keep going with steady joy. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs hope today, and leave a review telling us which truth you’re speaking out loud this week.

72: A Spring Reset For Heart, Home, & Habits

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700

Sunlight, open windows, and the itch to purge a closet can feel like the whole story of spring, but the deeper shift happens inside. We explore how a true reset begins with the heart, then flows into the home and the habits that quietly shape each day. With Scripture as our compass, we talk candidly about emotional clutter like comparison and worry, spiritual clutter like distraction and busyness, and the mental noise that comes from constant input. Instead of chasing perfection, we choose repentance, grace, and the steady practice of “word before the world” to reframe our days around what is true and life-giving.

From there, we turn to homemaking as a ministry of peace. Rather than pristine countertops and curated corners, we aim for rooms that serve people with order, simplicity, and warmth. You’ll hear practical ways to start small—one drawer, one shelf, one 15-minute reset after dinner—and how to build simple systems that actually stick because they fit your family in this season. We walk through discerning what to keep, what to release, and how to let wisdom, not pressure, guide the way you set up your spaces.

Finally, we uncover the “hidden clutter” of habits. Morning and evening routines, media boundaries, margin on the calendar, and weekly rest can either drain or restore. By bringing these patterns into the light, testing what works, and editing what doesn’t, we make room for what truly matters. If you’re craving less noise and more peace, you’ll leave with a gentle plan: ask God for one burden to release, one space to calm, and one habit to reset. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs a spring reset, and leave a review to help others find a slower, simpler path forward.

71: Raising Godly Kids with Christina Holdridge (Parenting Pointers Part 4)

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700

What if the most powerful parenting tool isn’t a tactic but a transforming love you’ve actually tasted? We sit down with Christina Holdridge to explore how a living, growing relationship with Jesus becomes the well that overflows into our homes—especially when discipline, fear, or comparison threaten to take over. With three daughters and years of mentoring women, Christina offers grounded wisdom that feels both practical and deeply hopeful.

We dig into a clear, biblical vision of grace and truth: naming sin without shame and showing a specific path toward forgiveness and change. Christina explains why behavior charts can’t reach the heart, how to tailor correction across different temperaments, and what it looks like to apologize to your kids while still leading with confidence. She shares the turning point of valuing each child’s unique design—energy, sensitivities, motivations—and the simple tools that reduce nagging and build trust. Expect real examples, not platitudes, and a tone that meets you right where you are.

The heart of our talk aims at the worries we rarely say out loud: the fear of failing, the ache for guarantees, and the pressure to control outcomes. Christina brings those fears into the light and anchors them in God’s unchanging character. Culture shifts, but Christ does not. The God who pursued people across Scripture is the same One pursuing our kids today. That truth reframes progress as slow, steady formation—seen in daily repentance, consistent boundaries, and small seeds of joy that take root over time. If you’re craving clarity, courage, and a gentler way to walk with your family, this conversation will steady your steps and rekindle your hope.

If this spoke to you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review so more parents can find it. Your voice helps this community grow.

70: Raising Capable Kids (Parenting Pointers Part 3)

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700

What if the best way to love our kids is to stop rescuing them? We dive into the surprising power of appropriate risk, unstructured play, and everyday responsibility to grow confidence, grit, and judgment—without abandoning safety or warmth. Drawing on stories from early parenthood in Germany to weekly forest adventures in California, we share how giving kids room to climb, explore, and wrestle with boredom becomes a launchpad for real capability.

We get practical with a simple four-step model for teaching any life skill: do it for them, do it together, watch them do it, then let them own it. From washing lunchboxes to managing checklists and chores, small handoffs compound into meaningful independence. We also talk about why failure is essential feedback, how chores build dignity and teamwork, and the subtle ways hovering can undermine resilience even when our intentions are good. Along the way, we connect these habits to a deeper foundation of faith, character, and discernment, grounding courage in something steadier than perfect circumstances.

You’ll come away with concrete ideas to reduce overprotection, spark creativity through unscheduled outdoor time, and nurture critical thinking at the dinner table. Most of all, you’ll feel equipped to trade “comfort now” for “capability for life,” raising kids who can solve problems, make wise choices, and lean on God when storms roll in. If this resonates, share the episode with a friend, subscribe for more parenting pointers, and leave a review with one task you’re ready to hand off to your child this week.

69: Raising Respectful Kids (Parenting Pointers Part 2)

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0800

Respect doesn’t grow by accident; it grows under steady hands. We dive into why so many families feel stuck in constant negotiation, how peer culture and media undercut adult leadership, and what it takes to rebuild a peaceful home where kids know the boundaries and feel safe inside them. From the surprising power of names and titles to the subtle ways we erode our own authority, we connect everyday choices with the deeper values that form character.

We trace the shift from an adult-led to a peer-led culture, drawing on Leonard Sax’s The Collapse of Parenting and a biblical lens that frames authority as protective rather than oppressive. You’ll hear practical stories—like the moment a simple “no” ended back-and-forth arguments—and learn why fewer, better choices often serve kids more than a buffet of options. We also address the tension around “gentle parenting,” showing how warmth and clarity can coexist when we keep consequences consistent and expectations simple.

Along the way, we share concrete steps: reinstate respectful forms of address that fit your community, teach kids how to greet and respond to adults, set predictable boundaries for screens and routines, and model discernment with TV and music that normalize disrespect. Obedience becomes a formative practice, building humility, self-control, and wisdom for the long haul. If you’ve felt the weight of constant bargaining or the sting of backtalk, this conversation offers both a reset and a roadmap.

If this helped you rethink respect at home, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review so more parents can find it. Tell us: what boundary will you reinforce this week?

Recommended Reading:

The Collapse of Parenting by Leonard Sax

68: Raising Grateful Kids (Parenting Pointers Part 1)

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0800

Happiness is loud, but gratitude is lasting. We open our Parenting Pointers series with a candid, hope-filled guide to raising grateful kids in a world that tells them more is never enough. Instead of bending our homes around constant comfort, we walk through how Scripture reframes the goal: train the heart, not chase the mood.

We share where entitlement slips in—often through our own habits—and how to course-correct with simple, sustainable rhythms. From keeping a family gratitude journal to weaving short prayers of thanks into ordinary moments, we model what we want our children to learn. We dig into Hebrews 12 to show why loving discipline forms peaceful fruit, and we use Deuteronomy 6 as our blueprint for everyday discipleship at the table, in the car, and during bedtime routines.

Perspective is a powerful teacher, so we talk about widening kids’ view beyond peer comparisons and into global realities. Serving together, filling a Christmas shoebox, or partnering with local ministries helps shift the story from “I want” to “I can give.” We outline practical steps: distinguishing needs from wants, setting family budgets with values in mind, assigning age-appropriate chores, letting natural consequences teach, and celebrating small acts of stewardship. Along the way, we anchor the heart in Scripture and close with the story of the one leper who returned to say thank you—an image of the kind of children we hope to raise.

If this conversation encourages you, share it with a friend who’s navigating the same tensions. Subscribe for the next parts of the series, leave a review to help others find the show, and tell us one practice you’ll try this week to grow gratitude at home.

Recommended Reading:

Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World by Kristen Welch

67: Trust That Builds A Brighter Marriage with Tori Tippens

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0800

What if submission isn’t shrinking but shining? We sit down with Tori to unpack a version of biblical submission that protects passion, nurtures safety, and deepens unity—without asking women to mute their voices or bury their gifts. Through honest stories from 12 years of marriage and 17 years of partnership, Tori shares how trust in Christ’s order transformed “losing myself” into “living aligned.”

We trace the journey from cultural noise to scriptural clarity, confronting myths that equate leadership with control and fulfillment with self-sovereignty. Ephesians 5 takes center stage, not as a weapon but as a map: husbands loving sacrificially, wives offering respect, both under Christ. Tori explains how her husband’s consistent sacrifice made respect a joyful gift, and why “Do you trust me?” echoes both a spouse’s question and God’s invitation. We dig into how safety enables a woman’s strengths to flourish, and why a vibrant Proverbs 31 life fits perfectly within this design.

You’ll hear practical ways to keep your voice strong while honoring your husband’s leadership: marriage meetings to surface hopes and fears, honest prayer when trust feels thin, and a powerful posture for hard moments—doubling down on trust instead of saying “I told you so.” We also address complex seasons when a spouse isn’t walking closely with God and how to pursue wisdom, counsel, and steady obedience without enabling harm.

If you’re curious, cautious, or ready to try, this conversation offers steps you can use today: get specific about your fears, return to Scripture, ask better questions, and practice words that “scoot you closer” to your spouse’s heart. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—what’s one way you’ll practice trust this week?

Recommended Resources:

14: Transforming Marriages One Meeting at a Time with Tori Tippens (Apple)

14: Transforming Marriages One Meeting at a Time with Tori Tippens (Spotify)

66: Communication Lessons For Marriage with Chris Tuggle

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0800

A few playful questions open the door to a deeper conversation about the everyday work of staying united in marriage—right on time for Valentine’s Day. We unpack the real friction points couples face and the simple structures that turn pressure into partnership: who talks to which side of the family, how to protect the fragile postpartum window, and how to navigate holidays when your families live far apart. We get candid about money too—combining accounts, paying off debt, and running recurring budget meetings so surprise expenses don’t turn into surprise resentments.

From there we go straight at intimacy with compassion and clarity. Desire can be mismatched without either partner failing. So we name what we need, invite initiation, and use Love Languages to serve each other in practical ways. When emotions spike, we walk through why we sometimes sleep on it, then talk when our thinking brains are back online. No grandstanding, no audience—just eye-to-eye, one team, solving one problem. That mindset shift has saved us from winning arguments and losing connection.

We also share the rhythms that keep us steady: a monthly “marriage meeting” date to review what worked and what needs care, plus daily micro check-ins without the kids so small issues stay small. As seasons change, timing shifts—sometimes evenings, sometimes early mornings—but priority stays the same. And threading through it all is faith. “Word before world” grounds our day, helps us hear God’s voice over the noise, and keeps our alignment vertical so we can align with each other. If you’re craving practical tools for finances, family boundaries, intimacy, and conflict, this conversation offers a clear, honest playbook. If it resonates, tap follow, share with a couple you love, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.

65: Cultivating Faithful Friendships

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0800

What if the friendships you’re longing for begin with the ones you choose to build? Today we trace a clear path from the church in Acts 2 to everyday life, showing how Scripture, prayer, and small acts of courage can grow a circle that actually strengthens your walk with Jesus. We talk about the friend who simply shows up, why “faithful wounds” are a gift, and how loving God first shapes the way we love each other.

We get practical about finding and becoming that kind of friend. You’ll hear how to pray specifically for a kindred spirit, how to spot women whose lives overflow with a love for God, and what it looks like to take the first step—coffee, a text, a simple prayer. For moms and anyone in a tight season, we share lightweight ways to build community, from play date fellowship to starting a simple Bible study when your church doesn’t have one. We also explore the power of mentorship through Titus 2, the beauty of learning from women one step ahead, and the surprising ways books and podcasts can fill gaps when local mentors are scarce.

This conversation doesn’t stop at the church door. We reflect on being salt and light with friends who don’t share our faith, living lives that naturally invite questions and allow us to answer with gentleness and hope. Anchored by John 15, we rest in the truth that Jesus calls us friends and sends us to bear lasting fruit. If you’ve felt lonely, stuck, or unsure where to begin, you’ll leave with simple steps, biblical wisdom, and fresh courage to pray, initiate, and stay. If this encouraged you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so others can find it.

64: Receiving the Restlessness of Winter

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0800

Ever feel like January has 47 days? That elastic sense of time can be more than seasonal blues; it can be a holy nudge to stop measuring worth by output and start rooting identity in Christ. We open up about restlessness, rainy days with kids who want action, and the surprising wisdom of not rushing to fix discomfort. Instead of trying to out-hustle the feeling, we explore how receiving winter can strengthen your soul for the work ahead.

Together we unpack why being precedes doing and how anchoring in the Great I Am clarifies what to steward next. You’ll hear a fresh take on the butterfly-in-the-cocoon story and what it teaches about necessary struggle, plus a vivid lesson from pruning an apple tree that looked “ruined” until spring arrived heavy with blossoms. These pictures reframe the urge to keep adding tasks: some branches look lively yet steal strength, and pruning them is the most loving, strategic move you can make.

We get practical about building rhythms that form character without theatrics—unhurried Scripture, honest self-examination, and small boundaries that protect deep work. We also hold space for tension: the harvest is plentiful, the laborers are few, and excellence matters. The difference is starting from rest, not rushing toward approval. If January feels endless, maybe it’s because you’re invited to become someone who can bear the weight of future fruit.

If this speaks to you, share it with a friend who’s sprinting on empty, subscribe for more soul-strengthening conversations, and leave a review with one place you sense God inviting you to slow down this week.

63: The Sacred Work of Motherhood with Anna Ouimet

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0800

What if the most sacred work you do happens at your kitchen sink? In this heartfelt conversation with Anna—a military spouse and mom of eight—we peel back the layers of daily life to uncover how prayer, Scripture, and steady rhythms can transform ordinary chores into holy ground. Anna shares how her mother’s joyful vision of parenting shaped her own calling, and how a simple decision to pray over a sink full of dishes reframed resentment into worship and unexpected joy.

We get practical and honest about excellence versus perfection. Sometimes faithfulness looks like closing the math book to shepherd a child’s heart; other times it’s digging in and finishing the hard task anyway. Anna describes how she discerns the difference through quick prayers and a life rooted in God’s Word, especially John 15’s call to abide in Christ. We also dive into routines that stabilize a large, military family: mealtimes as anchors, predictable snack times, and evening rituals that bring calm. For her own sanity, she leans on small acts of “soul care”—a shower, a quiet cup of tea, two pages of a book—so she can pour out with patience again.

Homeschooling takes center stage as Anna revisits a written why each year, keeping her core purpose clear: point her children to Christ first, then trust the academics to follow. We talk about read-alouds and tea that build warmth, as well as the messy, tearful conversations that plant deeper seeds of character. Galatians 6:9 reminds her not to grow weary, and the promise of a future harvest steadies her in slow seasons when fruit feels far off. For the mom who feels invisible, Anna offers a gentle but firm hope: God sees the hidden work. That unseen faithfulness is precious to Him and will bear fruit in due time.

If you’re tired of the grind and hungry for meaning in the repetitive tasks of home, this episode will give you perspective, Scripture, and practical rhythms to renew your heart. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review to tell us where you’re learning to find the sacred in the ordinary.

62: Anchored By The Word

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0800

A locked door, a worn Bible, a quiet glow—those childhood snapshots taught me something I couldn’t name yet: time in Scripture changes a person. I build on that memory to explore why studying the Bible is not a checkbox but a lifeline that reveals who God is and, in turn, steadies who we are.

Psalm 19 frames the value of God’s word—reviving the soul, enlightening the eyes—and why reading the whole story reveals our need for Jesus. From the early days of depending on study guides to learning to sit with the text itself, I talk about confusion, dry spells, and the slow growth of desire that comes from simply returning to the page. You’ll hear practical tools drawn from Jen Wilkin’s five P’s—purpose, perspective, patience, process, and prayer—plus a clear approach to application that starts with God’s character before it moves to our response.

Life seasons shape study rhythms, so let's map real options for each one: ten focused minutes with three guiding questions, a single verse carried through the day, an audio Bible on a walk, or deep work with commentaries and notes when margin allows. Along the way, I name the lie that volume equals virtue and replace it with a better truth: faithfulness over time forms a resilient heart. Whether you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, spiritually dry, or ready to dive deep, this conversation will help you begin again with courage and clarity.

If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a gentle reset, and leave a review to tell us what one small step you’ll take this week.

Recommended Resources:

Sing by The Worship Initiative

Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin

61: Faith-Driven Planning for the Year

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0800

What if a quiet hour with a planner could change the next decade of your life? We open season five with a clear, faith-centered approach to planning that moves beyond hype and hustle. Picture a cozy chair, a warm coffee, and a few honest questions that help you remember where God met you, what rhythms brought life, and which distractions stole your peace. From that posture, we zoom out to ten years and let that future inform today’s choices.

We walk through a simple framework built around three pillars—relationships, energy, and wealth—so you can cast a grounded vision for your family, friendships, and prayer life; your mental, emotional, and physical well-being; and your approach to work, money, and generous giving. You’ll write ages next to names, imagine the kind of connection you want, and name the skills, habits, and investments that will matter most down the road. Along the way, Scripture keeps us anchored: abiding in John 15, numbering our days in Psalm 90, and staying steady in Proverbs.

Then we make it practical. Instead of chasing endless goals, you’ll choose only two intentions for the year and add quarterly check-ins to your calendar to review, adjust, and keep going with grace. We share examples—from mentoring women and studying the New Testament to planning family visits and honoring the Sabbath—that turn lofty hopes into small, repeatable steps. Through it all, we return to prayer for wisdom and direction, trusting God to establish our steps and bring the growth.

Ready to plan with purpose and peace? Hit play, grab your planner, and join us. If this encourages you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find the show.

Recommended Resources:

Casey Graham creator of the Decade of Destiny

Overwhelmed Mom by Jamie Erickson

Episode 23: Discovering Freedom in Personal Struggles (Spotify)

Episode 23: Discovering Freedom in Personal Struggles (Apple)

60: Finish Strong with Purpose, Praise & Prayer

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0800

The week between Christmas and New Year’s can feel like a soft landing: sweatpants, slow mornings, and a rare sense of completion. We lean into that pause and ask a bigger question—how do we finish the year well so we can begin the next aligned with God’s heart? With Scripture as our guide, we explore the joy of ending strong without striving, and the freedom to rest while still preparing our steps for what’s ahead.

We start by reframing the calendar as training for a longer race. Drawing from 2 Timothy 4, we talk about what it means to “keep the faith” when distractions multiply and itching ears chase easy answers. Then we pivot to purpose: we were made to worship and enjoy God, image-bearers restored by Christ’s coming. From there, we offer three practical anchors for the final stretch of December—purpose, praise, and prayer—each grounded in passages like Ephesians 2:10, Psalms 103/145/150, Proverbs 16:3, and Hebrews 12:1–2. You’ll hear simple, honest reflection prompts to assess drift and fruit, and encouragement to let praise become the daily soundtrack that builds trust for the year ahead.

As we close, Psalm 90 gives language for wisdom and work: teach us to number our days, establish the work of our hands. We celebrate the small victory of completion, enjoy the gift of rest, and lace up for the next lap with our eyes fixed on Jesus. If you’re craving a clear, faith-filled roadmap into the new year—one that trades pressure for presence and resolutions for reliance—this conversation will steady your heart and sharpen your focus.

If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s setting goals, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more listeners find gospel-centered encouragement for the year ahead.

59: Peace Over Perfection with DeAnne Bruinsma

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0800

What if your home became the place where people exhale the moment they walk in? That picture guides our conversation with Deanne, a longtime friend who has spent decades turning ordinary rooms into a refuge—welcoming neighbors, college kids, missionaries, and foster children with a calm, open-handed approach that prioritizes people over performance.

We unpack the real difference between entertaining and hospitality and why it matters most during the holidays. Deanne shares how she moved from a packed December calendar and Pinterest-perfect checklists to a slower, simpler season built around what her family actually loves—favorite foods, nights at home, and unhurried conversations. You’ll hear practical ways to host without stress: paper plates, takeout pizza, game nights, and small, repeatable rhythms that make guests feel seen and safe. We also talk about involving kids so hospitality isn’t a one-woman job—letting them choose traditions, help set the table, play music for neighbors, and own small acts of service that grow into a shared family culture.

Rooted in biblical hospitality, we explore how to create a life-giving space where expectations soften and presence grows. From the Jesse Tree to shared Advent readings, these simple practices keep Jesus at the center and turn the month into a time of spiritual formation rather than frantic activity. Anchored by Psalm 85’s promise of peace and harvest, this episode invites you to reclaim your home as a haven: less noise, more grace, and an open door that people want to walk through again.

If this conversation helps you breathe a little easier, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a review with one simple tradition that centers your season.

58: Choosing A Calm (Countercultural) Christmas

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0800

What if the most memorable part of December isn’t the packed calendar but the quiet moments at home? We open the bins of decorations and talk about a countercultural Christmas built on simple traditions, secret generosity, and a steady gaze on Jesus. From watercolor afternoons and gingerbread chaos to favorite stories read by the tree, we reframe “holiday magic” as presence over performance.

Together, we push back against the cultural current that glorifies busy. We walk through practical ways to reject the rush—starting with the planner—by choosing one or two aligned events and protecting unhurried evenings. We share our “one thing” daily focus, why Mary’s habit of treasuring and pondering still speaks, and how morning time with Scripture resets the heart. Then we step into giving: a humble wooden manger that fills one straw at a time for unprompted kindness, neighbor cookie deliveries that light up a block, and ideas for quiet service that doesn’t ask for credit. We also rethink kids’ gifts with a simple three-gift approach that calms expectations and elevates gratitude.

At the center is Christ. We reflect on John 1:14 and the joy of Advent practices that trace the story from creation to the cradle, keeping Jesus in view even as we enjoy seasonal fun. Expect Scripture anchors, family-tested rhythms, and gentle challenges to prepare hearts more than homes. If you’re hungry for a slower season, clearer priorities, and a home that feels like peace, this conversation is your starting place.

If this episode helps you breathe easier this December, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.

Recommended Resources:

The Giving Manger

The Wonder of the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp

57: Loving Difficult Family Well with Biblical Boundaries

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Holiday tables can feel like tightropes: old roles resurface, expectations collide, and the urge to keep the peace can eclipse the call to make peace. We open up about awkward family moments, the pressure to please, and the liberating truth that you’re only responsible for your actions, feelings, and words—not for anyone else’s reaction. From there, we map a clear, grace-filled plan to navigate tense dynamics without losing your center.

We break down biblical boundaries as stewardship, not selfishness, and explore how guarding your heart actually frees you to love better. You’ll hear why pre-decisions reduce stress, how simple scripts like “Yes” and “No” protect your peace, and what it looks like to be both firm and kind. We dig into prayer as preparation, not an afterthought: confessing bitterness, asking for compassion, and receiving the peace of Christ that steadies you when conversations get loud. For heavier situations, we talk about fasting as a way to surrender control and seek wisdom, much like Esther did before a hard moment.

To round it out, we offer practical, memorable steps: cover the gathering in prayer, clarify your limits ahead of time, communicate clearly and with kindness, and compliment generously—even when kindness isn’t returned. Expect some disappointment from others and let that be okay. You can’t engineer outcomes, but you can cultivate a heart posture that honors God and blesses your family. If you’re ready to trade people-pleasing for peacemaking and step into the holidays with calm clarity, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a review to help others find the show.

Recommended Reading:

Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

56: A Calling To End Trafficking with Brittany Dunn

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0800

A friend’s kitchen-table Bible study turned into a national movement. Brittany Dunn joins us to share how Safe House Project is confronting child trafficking in America with a strategy built on training, survivor support, and evidence-based safe house certification—and why proximity, not sensational headlines, should reshape how we see this crisis. The numbers are sobering, but the path forward is clear, practical, and hopeful.

We talk through the real shockers—like how many victims are first trafficked by family members—and the tools anyone can use to help, including the Simply Report app for learning and reporting, and On-Watch training designed for short, focused learning. Brittany opens up about excellence as stewardship: transparent finances, measurable outcomes, and programs that stand up to scrutiny. Her leadership philosophy is simple and demanding—excellence without perfection, compassion without naivety, and prayer before plans.

If you’ve ever felt torn between meaningful work and being present at home, you’ll find a blueprint here. Brittany rejects the myth of balance and leans into managing energy and seasons, setting clear expectations at work and with her kids, and integrating family into mission so purpose becomes shared, not siloed. She also shares the spiritual rhythms that hold everything together: a 5:30 a.m. prayer call, Scripture, the “full armor” mindset, and physical training to metabolize stress and stay grounded.

Ready to engage? Become a Safe House ambassador, take On-Watch training, share the Simply Report app, or give to fund emergency housing, transportation, and case management for survivors. Subscribe, share this conversation with a friend, and leave a review to help more people learn how to spot, report, and support—because awareness paired with action can save a life.

Recommended Resources:

Simply Report

OnWatch Training

Eradicating Human Trafficking by Bill Woolf & Brittany C. Dunn

Safe House Project's Survivor Support Team serves hundreds of survivors every month exiting a trafficking situation and helping them get the services they need. To connect with our Survivor Support Team, please call (507) 769-0819 and select option 1 or start the process here.

Donate to The Safe House Project

55: Gratitude Restores Contentment

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Ever notice those quiet moments when the life you once prayed for shows up in plain sight—tiny socks in the laundry, laughter down the hall, a kiss at the door—and yet your heart still aches for the thing you don’t have? We lean into that tension and chart a clearer route from comparison to contentment, guided by Scripture, honest stories, and simple habits that actually stick.

We unpack gratitude as more than a feeling or a seasonal hashtag—it’s a practiced choice to acknowledge God’s goodness in all circumstances. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 5 and Philippians 4, we explore how contentment is learned in both feast and famine, and how “I can do all things” is really about the strength to be steady when life swings wide. With insights from Melissa Kruger’s The Envy of Eve, we name how coveting starts when we suspect God is holding out on us, and how that suspicion fuels comparison that drains joy. You’ll hear candid moments of envy—from distance from family to a first year of marriage marked by deployment—and the practical ways gratitude reframed each season without denying the pain.

From there, we move into doable rhythms: start your day with a short prayer of thanks, notice beauty in the ordinary (full gas tanks, crowded counters, messy desks that signal provision and purpose), speak gratitude aloud so your home can hear it, and redirect comparison the moment it surfaces with praise and remembrance. Philippians 2 calls us to shine without grumbling; gratitude becomes the daily resistance that keeps our tone soft and our witness bright. Along the way, we revisit Psalm 16’s language of portion and inheritance and close with the renewing cadence of Psalm 103, a reminder that forgiveness, healing, redemption, steadfast love, and true satisfaction are already at work in us.

If this conversation helps you trade striving for steadiness, share it with a friend who needs that shift today. Subscribe for more faith-filled, practical episodes, and leave a review to tell us one small blessing you’re naming this week. Your story might spark someone else’s gratitude.

Recommended Reading:

The Envy of Eve by Melissa Kruger

54: Excellence in the Midst of Darkness

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Have you ever felt like you were drowning under the weight of impossible circumstances? That moment when life piles on more than any human could possibly handle?

A military wife shares her raw, unfiltered journey through the perfect storm of overwhelm: solo parenting three children under five during a pandemic while preparing for an overseas move, only to face an unexpected second deployment just after reunion. Her breaking point reveals a profound truth many of us miss when we're struggling to keep our heads above water.

The most powerful revelation comes not in finding extraordinary strength within herself, but in surrendering to the reality that excellence in difficult seasons flows from connection, not striving. "Apart from me, you can do nothing," Jesus' words from John 15 illuminate the path forward when we've reached the end of ourselves.

Through vivid storytelling and vulnerable reflection, we discover how abiding in Christ transforms our understanding of excellence during life's heaviest moments. This isn't about pushing through on willpower or maintaining a perfect façade when everything is falling apart. It's about the counterintuitive truth that our darkest moments of overwhelm can become the very places where God's strength is most perfectly displayed.

Whether you're currently walking through a season of overwhelming circumstances or supporting someone who is, these insights offer both practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement. The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control—don't come through our striving but through our abiding. When life feels too heavy to bear, perhaps excellence looks different than we imagined.

Take heart from Psalm 61 and remember that even when your heart is faint, there is a rock higher than yourself. Your circumstances may be overwhelming, but you are never alone in them. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear they don't have to face their overwhelm alone.

53: Sharing the Gospel with Your Children

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0700

"Mama, how do I know if my name is written in the book of life?" When my young son asked me this question during our nightly Bible reading routine, I realized once again the profound responsibility we bear as Christian parents. Those innocent yet profound questions about salvation remind us that our children are spiritually curious and seeking answers about eternity.

The Great Commission wasn't just for missionaries traveling to distant lands—it starts within our own homes. As Deuteronomy 6 instructs, we're called to teach God's words diligently to our children, weaving biblical truth into everyday moments "when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down and when you rise." While Sunday school and youth group are wonderful resources, we parents must be prepared to directly share the gospel when those inevitable questions surface.

The beauty of the gospel lies in its simplicity. We don't need elaborate theological explanations or perfect prayers to introduce our children to Jesus. Like Paul told the Philippian jailer, "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved." Children between ages 4-14 are typically most receptive to spiritual truths, making this an opportune window for sharing salvation's message. Whether using the bridge analogy or simply explaining sin, forgiveness, and Jesus' sacrifice in age-appropriate terms, our consistent gospel-sharing plants seeds that God faithfully nurtures. When my own child whispered, "I think Jesus touched my heart, mama," I was reminded that while we faithfully share the message, ultimately only God can save through His Spirit's work. What conversations about Jesus might your children be ready for today?

52: Unseen Work, Eternal Significance with Emily Curtis

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0700

What happens when your most important work is the work no one sees?

The mental load of tracking school uniforms, doctor appointments, meal planning, and a thousand other details can feel overwhelming—and often thankless. When your achievements aren't visible or celebrated, how do you find meaning in the mundane?

In this soul-stirring conversation, Emily shares her journey through the invisible terrain of motherhood and homemaking with refreshing honesty. "My kids just magically think 'oh, there's clean laundry on my bed'—the laundry fairy must have done that," she laughs. Yet beneath this observation lies a profound truth: some of our most significant contributions happen behind the scenes.

We explore the tension between craving recognition and finding divine purpose in everyday tasks. Emily offers this perspective-shifting insight: "I am irreplaceable in my home. Everything I do outside my home anybody else could do, but I can only be mom to my kids and wife to my husband." This reframes domestic responsibilities not as burdens but as sacred privileges—the holy work of creating a safe harbor for those we love.

Our discussion doesn't shy away from challenging cultural norms, including social media's impact on our sense of worth and the strange glorification of the frazzled, exhausted mother. We question why busyness has become a badge of honor and offer a counterintuitive alternative: showing up with excellence in whatever season you find yourself.

Drawing wisdom from Psalm 16, we discover that "the boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places"—revealing how God's sovereign placement in our lives isn't limitation but invitation to freedom and joy. If you've ever questioned whether your unseen work matters, this conversation will remind you of its eternal significance.

Listen now and rediscover the sacred ground beneath your feet—right where you already stand.

Recommended Reading:

The Gift of Limitations by Sara Hagerty

Unseen: The Gift of Being Hidden in a World That Loves to Be Noticed by Sara Hagerty

51: Raising Discerning Kids Today

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Have your children ever asked you why they can't play the same video games as their friends or why your family doesn't celebrate certain holidays like everyone else? These seemingly innocent questions reveal a profound challenge facing Christian parents today: raising children who can discern truth in a world that deliberately blurs the lines between good and evil.

When my seven-year-old asked about Fortnite, my fifth-grader inquired about K-pop, and my other son questioned our lack of Halloween decorations, I recognized these weren't just casual curiosities. They were wrestling with something deeper—why our family looks different from others. As believers called to be "salt and light" (Matthew 5:13-16), we know standing apart is exactly what we're supposed to do, but helping our children understand and embrace this difference requires intentionality and wisdom.

Children naturally desire to fit in with their peers. Girls typically want to be liked, while boys seek to belong. This natural inclination collides with our biblical calling to be set apart, creating tension when the world celebrates values contrary to Scripture. Isaiah warns about those who "call evil good and good evil," a phenomenon our children encounter daily through media, entertainment, and social pressure. Rather than simply establishing rules, we must equip our children with discernment—teaching them to evaluate everything through the lens of God's truth. This means becoming students of the Word ourselves, engaging with cultural trends (even uncomfortable ones), asking critical thinking questions, and acknowledging the very real struggle of feeling different. Through resources like Pilgrim's Progress and examples of biblical figures who stood firm despite opposition, we can show our children they're part of a long legacy of faithful believers who chose God's ways over the world's.

What questions are your children bringing home? Instead of avoiding these conversations, see them as opportunities to develop discernment. Share your own experiences of standing apart, point them to Scripture, and remember God's promise that He gives wisdom generously to those who ask. The journey isn't easy, but raising children who can navigate this confusing world with biblical clarity is worth every challenging conversation.

Recommended Resources:

Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer

When Culture Hates You by Natasha Crain

Toxic Empathy by Allie Beth Stuckey

Little Pilgrim's Big Journey

50: Creating a Stress-Free Christmas

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Imagine waking up on December 1st feeling peaceful instead of panicked. The soft twinkling lights illuminate your living room as you enjoy a quiet moment before the day begins. Your gifts are purchased, your calendar has breathing room, and you feel genuinely excited about the season ahead.

This peaceful December morning isn't a fantasy—it's entirely possible when you start preparing for Christmas now, with intention and prayer. The irony of Christmas is striking: angels announced "peace on earth," yet for many adults (especially women), it's become the most stressful season of the year. Between overcommitted schedules, financial strain, social expectations, and family dynamics, we often find ourselves exhausted rather than joyful.

What would happen if you approached the holidays differently this year? Start by prayerfully determining what matters most to your family. For some, it might be Advent readings and meaningful conversations about Christ's birth. For others, it might involve baking cookies with neighbors or sending thoughtful cards to loved ones. Once you've identified your priorities, protect your calendar fiercely—decide which events deserve your presence and which ones you'll politely decline. Create a realistic budget for gifts and festivities, then challenge yourself to complete all shopping by December 1st.

The most transformative change happens when we shift from a performance mindset to one of presence. Children rarely remember elaborate decorations or perfect table settings—they remember simple traditions and time spent together. As Psalm 46 reminds us, sometimes the most spiritual thing we can do is "be still and know that I am God." This Christmas, will you join me in creating space for that stillness amidst the season?

Ready to transform your holiday experience? Begin your Christmas preparations today and discover the peace that comes from intentional planning and Christ-centered priorities.

49: Stop Waiting for Someday

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Have you ever kept something special tucked away, saving it for a perfect moment that never seems to arrive? Whether it's the beautiful coffee mug gathering dust in your cabinet or the dream you've postponed until "someday," this anniversary episode of Whatever is Excellent tackles our tendency to delay joy and purpose.

Reflecting on one year of podcasting, I share the personal revelation that transformed my perspective – standing in my kitchen covered in baby spit-up, finally deciding to use my "special" mugs instead of waiting for some undefined future occasion. This seemingly small choice represented a profound shift in recognizing that ordinary moments deserve celebration too.

Life naturally includes seasons of waiting, but there's a crucial distinction between God-ordained waiting and self-imposed delay. Biblical waiting builds faith through active trust, while fear-based procrastination often masquerades as patience. "The word decide means to cut off all other options," and sometimes our spiritual growth hinges on having the courage to make that decision despite uncertainty. As God told Moses at the Red Sea, "Why do you cry out to me? Tell the people of Israel to go forward."

Many of us postpone taking action until we feel completely ready, but God frequently asks us to take that first step in faith before revealing the complete plan. When I finally decided to start this podcast, it wasn't on a special day – it was just an ordinary Tuesday transformed by obedience. What first step might God be asking you to take today? Stop waiting for someday and embrace the sacred opportunity of now. Subscribe and join me on this journey of finding excellence in everyday faithfulness.

48: The Power of Communication in Motherhood with Shelley Tyson

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700

What if the most powerful tool you have as a parent isn't what you say, but how you listen? In this illuminating conversation with Shelley Tyson, we explore the transformative impact of speaking life over our children – especially during the challenging teenage years.

Shelley, a mother of four including three teenage girls, shares with remarkable candor how she's discovered that effective communication begins not with perfect words, but with attentive listening. "Words of life actually start with listening," she explains, "not just listening to the other person, but if you are a follower of Christ, it is listening to your Heavenly Father."

The conversation takes us through practical wisdom for navigating conflict with compassion, understanding hormonal influences on communication, and helping teenage girls navigate complex friendship dynamics. One particularly powerful insight emerges when Shelley shares how she helped her daughter preserve a friendship while maintaining healthy boundaries – demonstrating that clarity and kindness can coexist beautifully.

Beyond verbal communication, we discover how our daily rhythms silently communicate our priorities to our watching children. These unspoken messages often prove more influential than our carefully chosen words. As Shelley puts it, "They are observing and now it has that trickle-down effect of communication to them."

For the overwhelmed parent feeling stretched thin, Shelley offers this surprisingly simple shift: stop talking. By simply repeating back what your child says in the form of a question, you communicate value, respect and love without having to formulate the perfect response.

The conversation concludes with a moving reading of Psalm 139, reminding us that our identity and our children's worth are firmly established in God's perfect knowledge and love. Listen now to transform how you communicate with your children and speak life that nurtures their hearts and spirits.

47: Trusting God Beyond the Expectations of Others

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Ever found yourself caught between what you feel God is calling you to do and what others expect of you? You're not alone in that struggle.

After years of agonizing over my children's education, I finally made a decision that felt right for our family—only to lose cherished friendships because of it. The painful reality hit me: sometimes following God's unique calling for your family means walking a path others don't understand or approve of.

The heart-wrenching question kept surfacing: "Am I not a good Christian mom because I don't homeschool?" Those insecurities and fears of inadequacy became a heavy burden as I compared myself to other Christian women whose choices looked different from mine. But through this journey, God revealed something transformative: His purpose for me wasn't to conform to others' expectations but to love Him wholeheartedly and teach my children to do the same.

Whether you're homeschooling or sending your children to public school, your primary responsibility remains unchanged—to disciple your children and teach them about God. The methods may differ, but the mission doesn't. Just as God called Hosea to marry a prostitute, Daniel to work for pagan kings, and Esther to marry an unbeliever, He may call you to walk a path that others question or criticize.

This episode is for every parent who's felt the weight of judgment or struggled to discern God's voice amid the noise of opinions. Remember, "God's plans for you and your family are not going to look like what He is calling another family to do." Your obedience to His unique calling matters more than meeting the expectations of others. As Psalm 16 reminds us, when we set the Lord before us, we will not be shaken—even when navigating difficult decisions that others don't understand.

What decision are you wrestling with today? Trust that God's wisdom is available to you, and He's holding your future secure in His hands.

46: Back to the Basics of Ordinary Excellence

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Ready for a fresh start this fall? There's something almost magical about September that sparks that "new beginning" feeling in all of us – whether we have school-aged children or not. But as we embrace this seasonal reset, I'm challenging us to think differently about excellence.

What if true excellence isn't found in those picture-perfect moments worthy of sharing online, but rather in the small, faithful choices we make when no one's watching? Drawing inspiration from Philippians 4:8, I'm exploring how excellence grows through consistent habits, intentional routines, and biblical discipline in our ordinary days.

Our habits are the unseen architects of our lives, quietly building the framework for who we're becoming. Something as simple as making your bed each morning isn't just about tidiness – it's a declaration that you're choosing order, stewardship, and intention to start your day. These small actions compound over time, ultimately shaping our character and trajectory.

I'm sharing a simple but powerful morning routine framework that has transformed my approach to each day: time with the Lord through scripture and prayer, mental clarity through planning, and physical reset through movement and nourishment. The specific implementation will look different depending on your season of life, but these elements create a foundation for excellence that ripples through everything else.

Biblical discipline often gets a bad reputation because our brains naturally avoid anything that seems difficult or uncomfortable. Yet Hebrews 12:11 reminds us that while discipline isn't pleasant in the moment, it ultimately produces "a harvest of righteousness and peace." I never imagined I'd be excited to wake up at 5am for quiet time with God, but that's exactly what biblical discipline does – it transforms obligation into anticipation.

As you embrace this season, remember that excellence is faithfulness in the ordinary. What small step will you take today? Subscribe now for weekly encouragement as we pursue excellence together!

45: Minds Filled with Excellence - For the Love of Reading

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Reading has always held a special place in my heart—so much so that I joke with friends that one reason I had children was to have someone to read aloud to! But beyond those cozy moments under blankets with classic stories, reading serves as a cornerstone for spiritual growth, family connection, and character development.

At its foundation, reading begins with Scripture. "The book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night," reminds us that God's Word must be our primary text. For nearly twelve years, I've maintained a simple habit of reading one chapter from a nonfiction book daily, expanding my understanding of faith, marriage, parenting, and leadership. This accessible practice—just one chapter—has transformed my life while strengthening my ability to discern truth in a world increasingly dominated by fleeting content.

Family read-aloud time creates some of our most treasured memories. We've cried with Wilbur when Charlotte died, celebrated Aslan's return, and my children regularly reenact scenes from our current books. These shared literary journeys provide natural opportunities to discuss character and worldview through a biblical lens. Rather than simply providing approved reading lists, I've found teaching children to evaluate content themselves yields greater discernment. The joy comes in watching them make wise choices independently—putting back books with inappropriate language or discontinuing series that don't align with our values.

As we close Season Three, I encourage you to consider how reading might become a life-giving rhythm in your home. What simple step could you take toward filling your mind—and your family's minds—with whatever is excellent? Subscribe to my newsletter for a framework on teaching literary discernment, and join me September 2nd when we return for Season Four to celebrate a full year of Whatever is Excellent!

Recommended Resources:

Adventure Bible for Kids

Meeting with Jesus- A Daily Bible Reading Plan for Kids

What To Wear - A Kids Bible Study on Looking Like Jesus

Audio Cards for Kid Bibles

44: Iron Sharpens Iron - Build Meaningful Friendships Today

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Remember in fourth-grade where cliques first form and best friendships begin to blossom? That pivotal age when children transition from befriending everyone to selecting their inner circle marks a critical developmental stage in social awareness.

The Bible offers profound wisdom about friendship's true nature. Genesis tells us clearly that solitude was never God's design – "It is not good for man to be alone." Jesus himself modeled perfect friendship through his relationships with the disciples, demonstrating loyalty, honesty, and selflessness. His words in John 15 reveal the ultimate standard: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." Throughout Scripture, we see friendship's transformative power in relationships like David and Jonathan or Ruth and Naomi. The Proverbs remind us that "iron sharpens iron" – true friends challenge us to grow.

For military families constantly uprooting and rebuilding community, friendship requires unique courage. There's a temptation to keep relationships surface-level to avoid inevitable goodbyes, but Jesus showed us a better way. With only three years of earthly ministry, he didn't hold back from deep connection despite knowing separation was coming. Military friendships often develop remarkable depth precisely because time feels precious – there's no space for small talk when deployment looms. If you're hesitant to befriend someone who'll eventually move away, you might miss one of life's most enriching connections.

As parents, we must thoughtfully guide our children in choosing friends wisely while allowing them independence to form their own relationships. The people we surround ourselves with profoundly shape our character, values, and decisions. Consider the wisdom of Proverbs 13:20 – "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." Teach children to observe potential friends carefully: Do they show kindness? Demonstrate integrity? Tell the truth? As my daughter entered fourth grade, our discussions about friendship qualities became increasingly important, and I found myself sharing a simple mantra with my sons: "Good is cool."

What kind of friend do you want to be in this season? Who might God be inviting you to pursue in friendship, even if it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar? Take one small step this week – send that text, extend that invitation, initiate that conversation. Remember Ecclesiastes' wisdom: "Two are better than one... if either falls down, one can help the other up."

43: Simplifying Before September - 3 Areas to Declutter

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0700

The whirlwind of fall schedules looms just around the corner. Are you prepared to trade the peaceful rhythms of summer for the potential chaos of a new school year? What if this year could be different?

Discover the transformative power of simplicity as we explore three critical areas that need attention before summer ends: your overflowing calendar, your cluttered home, and your overwhelming social media feeds. Drawing from personal experience and biblical wisdom, I share how implementing thoughtful boundaries now creates space for what truly matters when schedules intensify.

Remember the stress of May—constantly rushing, saying "yes" out of obligation, and struggling to complete everything? Let's break that cycle. By reflecting on what summer rhythms are worth protecting and understanding what God is calling you to BE (not just DO), you'll gain clarity about your purpose in the coming season.

Your home environment profoundly impacts your mental state. Learn practical approaches to decluttering children's spaces, kitchen counters, and your personal sanctuary. Create systems now that will maintain order when life gets hectic. As Proverbs reminds us, "By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established."

Perhaps most revolutionary is simplifying your digital consumption. Discover how alternating weeks on and off social media transformed my summer experience and why our hearts weren't designed to carry every global struggle simultaneously. Implementing boundaries around information intake might be your most powerful step toward peace.

Ready to trade hustle for holiness and clutter for clarity? Join me in creating intentional space for listening to God, being present with loved ones, and embracing the beauty of a simplified life. What's one area you can simplify this week?

Recommended Resources:

The Simplified Planner by Emily Ley

The Cozy Minimalist by Myquillyn Smith

Unroll.me for decluttering your inbox

42: Organized Beautiful Chaos - Motherhood Through Every Season with Linda Buffington

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0700

What does motherhood look like across the different seasons of our lives? From the sleep-deprived chaos of babies and toddlers to the bittersweet freedom of the empty nest, each phase brings unique challenges and unexpected joys.

Linda Buffington takes us on her journey of raising three children under two – twins followed by a third baby just nine months later – in what she lovingly calls "organized beautiful chaos." With refreshing honesty, she reveals how asking for help and building community became her lifeline, especially when her husband's work and graduate school often left her solo parenting.

You'll discover practical wisdom about establishing routines, boundaries and responsibilities early – like teaching kindergartners to pack lunches and fifth graders to do laundry. This groundwork makes the teenage years less turbulent when inevitable boundary-testing arrives. Linda shares how she and her husband navigated these years by engaging with their children's interests while maintaining clear guidance.

Perhaps most poignant is Linda's reflection on her current season with adult children in their twenties. Her role has shifted from coach to cheerleader, requiring the grace to let go while remaining a prayer warrior and trusted advisor when needed. Through it all, she returns to a simple truth that guides every parenting decision: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart."

Don't miss Linda's heartwarming story about the Christmas pajama photos that became a cherished family tradition – a beautiful reminder that sometimes our most meaningful memories emerge when we release control and embrace joy. Whether you're in the thick of toddler tantrums or preparing to launch young adults, this conversation offers both practical strategies and spiritual encouragement for your own motherhood journey.

Connect with Linda on social media @LindaGBuffington to continue the conversation about navigating life's seasons with faith and grace. Or visit @cupandpillarmercantile to check out her online boutique.

41: Tech Boundaries - Reclaiming Childhood from Digital Distractions

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Navigating the delicate balance between technology and childhood development has become one of parenting's greatest challenges. Drawing from insightful works like "The Anxious Generation" and "Opt Out Family," this raw exploration delves into what happens when families dare to set counter-cultural boundaries around screens and devices.

Through personal stories of both struggle and triumph, I share how eliminating screen time during dinner prep transformed my twins from passive viewers to creative players. You'll discover why establishing tech boundaries isn't about restriction but about creating space for imagination, problem-solving, and genuine connection. Rather than following cultural defaults that have drastically shifted childhood from play-based to phone-based, we can intentionally shape our family's relationship with technology.

The truth is uncomfortable but liberating: easy parenting choices rarely yield the best outcomes for our children. When we pacify with screens for momentary peace, what long-term skills might our children be missing? This episode offers practical alternatives including designated tech-free zones, outdoor exploration opportunities, and age-appropriate boundaries that evolve with your children. Most importantly, you'll find encouragement that you're not alone in questioning the prevailing wisdom about kids and technology. Many parents are quietly choosing to prioritize presence over convenience, guided by biblical principles like "guarding our hearts" and "making the best use of time." What rhythms around technology might help your home better reflect what you truly value?

Recommended Reading:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch

The Opt-Out Family by Erin Loechner

How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims

When the Street Lights Come On by Ginny Yurich

40: When You Feel Triggered - Parenting with Grace

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Summer should be magical—carefree days with happy children, beachside memories, and starlit evenings. But halfway through summer, most of us are facing a different reality: sibling squabbles, constant noise, mounting messes, and our own fraying patience. That gap between expectation and reality is where our emotional triggers live.

When you're ready to scream if you have to break up one more fight or clean one more mess, you're experiencing triggers—emotional reactions to stressors that reveal what's truly filling our hearts. The beautiful truth is that these challenging moments aren't failures but invitations to grow in grace and connection with both God and our children.

Scripture offers us powerful guidance for managing our triggers. While we tend to focus on behaviors and Instagram-worthy moments, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). He calls us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry (James 1:19-20). Yet these responses don't come naturally—they overflow from hearts that are regularly filled with God's truth and grace.

Practical strategies can help us navigate common summer triggers. Establish daily quiet time for everyone (even mom), practice and reward peacemaking behaviors, and hold summer plans loosely, recognizing God might have different—and often better—purposes. Remember, God's grace meets us in our weakest parenting moments, and His power is perfected in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

The next time you feel triggered by summer chaos, pause, pray, and choose grace—for your children and yourself. What trigger have you noticed lately, and how might God be inviting you to respond differently? Summer's challenges aren't just obstacles to endure but opportunities to experience God's patience, wisdom, and joy as you seek Him first.

Recommended Reading:

Triggers by Amber Lia and Wendy Speake

39: When It's Time for "The Talk" - A Faith-Based Guide for Parents

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Every parent faces that moment of dread – when it's time to have "the talk" with their children. The questions flood in: When should we have it? Who should lead the conversation? What exactly should we say? Most importantly, how do we frame these discussions within God's design?

This episode breaks down this challenging parental responsibility using simple who, when, where, what, why, and how questions to create a practical framework for success. Starting with the foundational truth that God created sex as something good and beautiful within marriage, we explore how to communicate this life-giving message to children of various ages. Rather than treating sex education as a one-time awkward conversation, we discuss the importance of ongoing dialogue that evolves as children grow – from teaching proper anatomical terms to preschoolers to addressing dating and relationships with teenagers.

The reality is sobering: most children are exposed to information about sex by age eight, often from sources that contradict biblical values. By proactively engaging your children in these conversations, you position yourself as their trusted source of truth. Even if you feel inadequate or have regrets about your own past, God's grace covers all, and His Spirit helps in our weakness. Excellent resources like the "God's Design for Sex" series can support your efforts. Remember Psalm 119:9 as you navigate these waters: "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word." What legacy will you build regarding how your children understand God's design for their bodies and identity in Christ?

Related Resources:

God's Design for Sex by Stan & Brenna Jones

How & When to Tell Your Kids About Sex by Stan & Brenna Jones

God Made All of Me

A Child's First Book About Marriage

38: 13 Years, 13 Lessons - A Marriage Journey Through Scripture

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0700

The beauty of marriage often lies in the ordinary moments—the regular Tuesdays that make up a lifetime together. Thirteen years ago, my husband and I chose to get married on a Tuesday, a detail that perfectly captures the essence of what marriage truly is: not just a special occasion, but the beginning of countless ordinary days spent united as one.

Marriage isn't the perfect 50-50 split we often imagine. Sometimes one person carries more weight while the other struggles. There's no scoreboard in a healthy marriage—just two people committed to showing up completely for each other through every season. Your spouse brings incredible value to your life, but they were never meant to be your savior. Only Jesus can fill that role perfectly, allowing you to love your partner freely without impossible expectations.

The magic often happens in small moments—a note of encouragement tucked in a lunch bag, holding hands during difficult conversations, or celebrating your unique differences rather than trying to change each other. Cold hands meet warm ones. Type-A meets Type-B. Extrovert meets introvert. These complementary differences create a beautiful harmony when embraced rather than resisted. Through thirteen years of military moves, parenting challenges, grief, celebrations, and everything in between, we've discovered that prayer remains our greatest tool and forgiveness our most necessary practice.

Looking to strengthen your marriage? Consider implementing regular check-ins, prioritizing date nights, serving one another daily, and remembering that above all, love covers a multitude of mistakes. Marriage brings together two imperfect people making many missteps, and yet love carries us through when we choose it deliberately every day. What might it look like for you to love your spouse earnestly this week?

37: Embracing the Outdated - Creating a Welcoming Home with Bonnie Ivester

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0700

What does true hospitality look like when your home is a work in progress? Join us as we welcome Bonnie Ivester from "Embracing Outdated" who shares her journey of transforming an 80s fixer-upper into a welcoming haven while nurturing a heart for hospitality.

Bonnie reveals how her understanding of hospitality was shaped by watching others create "revolving door" homes where people felt genuinely welcome without pretense or perfection. These formative experiences—from impromptu dinners with neighbors who combined whatever ingredients they had on hand to receiving meals after her first baby—taught her that meaningful connection happens in the midst of real life, not in picture-perfect settings.

As a mother of four living in what she describes as "the most outdated 80s home," Bonnie offers practical wisdom about creating beauty within budget constraints. "We all live within a budget," she reminds us, noting that limitations simply invite creativity rather than excuses. Her constant decluttering provides peace amid the chaos of family life, while her willingness to welcome neighborhood children stretches her type-A tendencies in unexpected ways.

Perhaps most refreshing is Bonnie's perspective on comparison in our social media age: "There's always going to be a prettier house than yours." Instead of chasing perfection, she encourages listeners to seek what God has specifically for their homes and families, recognizing that we all possess creativity as image-bearers of our Creator. By focusing on making spaces functional, expressing gratitude for what we have, and embracing the process rather than rushing to completion, we create homes that genuinely welcome others.

Ready to transform your perspective on homemaking? Follow Bonnie's journey on Instagram @embracingoutdated and discover how to create a home that reflects God's love and hospitality—even with pink sinks and dated cabinets.

36: Kitchen Table Watercolors - When Work Meets Play

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Remember that magical feeling when summer break begins? The promise of adventure, quality time, and freedom from schedules? I certainly did when my daughter finished kindergarten during our time in Japan. We started with pedicures and garden walks, but soon reality hit—I still had work to accomplish while wanting to be fully present with her.

This familiar parenting tension led me to discover something beautiful about balance. Rather than seeing work and play as opposing forces, I found they could coexist in harmony. When I invited my daughter to join me at the kitchen table—explaining how my work served others—she began creating watercolor paintings for friends while I typed emails. Side by side, we worked for an hour before taking breaks to play or share a snack. These parallel activities, punctuated by focused connection, created a rhythm that honored both responsibilities and relationships.

The biblical foundation for this balance comes from God's own example. Genesis shows us that God both worked diligently and rested intentionally. By blocking time for productivity and playfulness—and being transparent with our children about these rhythms—we teach them valuable life lessons. Summer provides unique opportunities to blend work and play through family projects or even involving older children as "summer interns" in appropriate ways. When the inevitable feelings of being unproductive or overwhelmed arise, we can lean into God's grace, remembering that His "power is made perfect in weakness." Perhaps the most important realization is that ten focused minutes of engagement with your child can go remarkably far for both of you. Whether in work mode or play mode, being fully present in that moment creates the meaningful connection we're all seeking.

What would change this summer if you viewed both work and play as opportunities to honor God with excellence? How might you invite your children into this sacred dance of summer rhythms?

35: Summer Sanity - A Framework for Peace, Not Pressure

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Do you dread the long, unstructured days of summer with kids at home? You're not alone. That well-meaning quote about "only having 18 summers with your kids" often creates more anxiety than inspiration for parents already feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of filling endless summer days.

Seven years ago, I felt exactly this way—anxious about managing preschoolers and twins without the support system school provided. Today, I genuinely look forward to summer break. What changed? I discovered that creating a simple, flexible framework transforms summer from chaotic to peaceful. Children naturally thrive with predictable rhythms, and structure doesn't mean strictness—it means security.

This episode shares four practical approaches to establishing a life-giving summer schedule: creating a loose weekly framework with morning routines and afternoon activities; theming your days (Make-it Monday, Take-a-trip Tuesday); implementing a daily "room time reset" for everyone to recharge independently; and remembering to extend grace when plans inevitably change. You'll learn why incorporating both work and rest mirrors God's design and how summer offers unique opportunities for discipleship when we're intentional with our time.

Remember, you're not a cruise director responsible for orchestrating every moment of summer fun. Your mission is to cultivate peace and provide purpose for your days together. As Isaiah 26:3 reminds us, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you." What atmosphere do you want to cultivate in your home this summer, and how might a simple rhythm help make space for that?

34: Memorial Stones - Building Resilience in Kids During Life's Transitions

Tue, 27 May 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Remember that time when life suddenly shifted beneath your feet? Maybe it was a cross-country move, a new job, or an unexpected loss. Now imagine experiencing that as a child, without the emotional vocabulary or life experience to process it.

Transitions are inevitable in family life. As parents, we're entrusted not just with navigating these changes ourselves, but with guiding our children through them with grace and wisdom. Drawing from my experiences as a military spouse who moves every few years, I share how even well-prepared children struggle with change.

Children sense when change is coming, often resulting in behavioral challenges as they process confusing emotions. Rather than shielding them from these transitions, we can engage them in age-appropriate conversations that acknowledge their feelings while pointing to unchanging truths. When we had to change our daughter's school shortly after moving to California, including her in our discussions helped her not only accept the change but recognize God working through it. Her own words—"Mom, I think God is closing the door to this school"—reflected a spiritual maturity born from being invited into our family's discernment process.

Scripture offers powerful anchors during transitions. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever"—a comforting truth when everything else feels unfamiliar. The biblical stories of Abraham leaving everything behind and the Israelites setting up memorial stones after crossing the Jordan provide templates for faithful responses to change. By keeping a "journal of evidence" documenting God's faithfulness in previous transitions, we create tangible reminders our families can revisit during future changes.

How might you use your family's next transition as an opportunity for discipleship? Instead of simply saying "kids are resilient," consider how you can intentionally help them cultivate that resilience by modeling trust in God's unchanging character amidst life's inevitable changes.

33: Uprooted Yet Anchored - Your Home in Christ with Emily Curtis

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:00:00 -0700

The search for stability in an ever-changing world resonates with all of us, but perhaps none more deeply than military families. In this heartfelt conversation, Emily shares her fourteen-year journey as a Navy spouse that has taken her family through eight different homes across multiple continents.

With refreshing honesty, Emily begins by revealing how she once declared she'd never marry someone in the military—only to fall in love with a Navy man just months later. What follows is a rich exploration of how constant relocation transforms one's understanding of what "home" truly means. From the practical challenges of decorating new spaces to the deeper spiritual questions about where we find our security, Emily's story touches on universal human longings for belonging and permanence.

The conversation takes a profound turn as Emily reveals how her military lifestyle has deepened her understanding of heaven as our ultimate home. Drawing from Scripture, particularly John 14 and 2 Corinthians 4, she articulates how fixing our eyes on the unseen provides stability when everything visible keeps changing. Her vulnerability about struggling with their latest move to Hawaii—despite its paradise-like setting—reminds us that beautiful surroundings don't automatically create a sense of belonging.

What makes this discussion particularly valuable is Emily's practical wisdom for anyone feeling uprooted or disconnected. Rather than offering superficial solutions, she suggests leaning into those uncomfortable feelings and bringing them before God. Through her own wrestling, she discovered how she had been idolizing previous homes and missing the gifts of her current situation. Her insights on finding community through church groups, Bible studies, and military spouse organizations provide tangible steps for others in transition.

Whether you're a military spouse, someone facing major life transitions, or simply longing for deeper security, Emily's perspective will help you reframe your understanding of home and discover how God might be using your very instability to draw you closer to Him. Listen now to find encouragement for your journey toward making your heart at home wherever you are.

Connect with Emily via email -> emilyannecurtis@gmail.com

32: Is Beauty What We Chase, or What We Cultivate?

Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Beauty isn't some elusive standard we chase—it's woven through our very design as image-bearers of God. Are you caught in a cycle of comparison, always feeling you fall short of some impossible ideal? What if true beauty radiates most brilliantly from a heart transformed by grace?

We journey through the layers of genuine beauty in this soul-stirring exploration. Starting with inner radiance, I share the unforgettable story of Helen whose wrinkled face housed the most captivating beauty I'd ever encountered as a child. Her eyes sparkled with divine light, her words saturated with scripture—a living testament to beauty that deepens rather than diminishes with time.

Scripture offers us a transformative perspective through passages like 1 Peter 3:3-4, which redirects our focus from outward adornment to "the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit." Yet this doesn't negate caring for our physical selves. Stewarding our appearance—through simple skincare routines, thoughtful dressing, and healthy habits—becomes an act of gratitude rather than vanity when our motivation is excellence for God's glory.

The beauty conversation extends beyond our bodies to the spaces we create. Our homes can reflect divine values of order, rest, and hospitality. Small acts—clearing countertops, eliminating clutter, introducing fresh flowers, creating soft lighting—transform our environments into sanctuaries of peace that bless rather than impress others.

Every time you choose truth over trends, presence over performance, and peace over perfection, you become more radiant with the kind of beauty this world desperately needs. As Isaiah 61:3 promises, God gives "beauty for ashes" as we fix our gaze on Him. Where in your life—your soul, body, or space—might God be inviting you to reflect more of His beauty today?

31: Embracing Excellence in the Midst of the Mundane

Tue, 06 May 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Ever noticed how different cultures approach their work? During my years living in Germany, I was struck by something extraordinary—the profound sense of pride and excellence people brought to their jobs, regardless of title or status. From butchers to plumbers, each person approached their work with remarkable intentionality and ownership that transformed ordinary tasks into expressions of dignity.

This revelation couldn't have come at a better time, as my first child was born while we were abroad. It shaped my entire approach to motherhood. In this season opener, we're exploring how to bring that same intentional excellence to the sacred work of raising children. The truth is, motherhood doesn't come with performance reviews or quarterly bonuses. We rarely see immediate results from our daily investments. Yet Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us that whatever we do—including changing diapers, wiping noses, and discipling little hearts—is kingdom work done for the Lord.

The core message hinges on an important distinction: the difference between pride rooted in identity versus pride rooted in performance. When our sense of value comes from knowing who we are in Christ rather than how perfectly we execute our daily to-do lists, we discover a sustainable joy in our calling. I share practical ways to prepare your heart and body each morning for the work God has set before you, recognizing that how you begin your day reflects how you value the work itself. Whether you're a seasoned mother or just beginning your journey, this episode offers a fresh perspective on finding dignity and purpose in the beautiful marathon of motherhood. After all, what a privilege it is to end the day tired from hours of loving service to those who matter most.

Reading Recommendations:

Disciple Them Like Jesus by Barrett Johnson

Parenting by Paul David Tripp

Hard is Not the Same Thing as Bad by Abbie Halberstadt

30: Impressed or Blessed - Biblical Hospitality in Your Home

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0700

What if the most powerful ministry tool you have isn't your knowledge, talent, or resources, but simply your willingness to open your front door?

This heartfelt exploration of hospitality reveals the profound difference between cultural entertaining (which seeks to impress) and biblical hospitality (which aims to bless).

Through compelling contrasting scenarios of friend visits, we see how our focus dramatically shapes others' experiences in our homes. When we apologize for our "mess" or fret about presentation, we create discomfort. When we simply welcome people warmly and focus entirely on them, meaningful connection flourishes. The transformation happens not through fancy preparations but through a simple shift in perspective: hospitality isn't about you.

Jesus provides our ultimate model for this practice. From dining with outcasts to washing disciples' feet at the Last Supper, His hospitality never centered on impressive settings but on making people feel valued and loved. Biblical hospitality sees our homes as ministry tools where people experience God's love in action. It's less about perfect baseboards and more about perfect presence.

We explore practical ways to cultivate this hospitality: making intentional space in our schedules, embracing simplicity, involving children in the practice, extending hospitality beyond our physical spaces, and overcoming the perfectionism that keeps our doors closed. Remember, nobody notices your mess unless you point it out! As Easter approaches, let this be your invitation to prepare not just your home but your heart to welcome others just as Christ has welcomed you.

Ready to transform your gatherings? Start by focusing less on how your home looks and more on how your guests feel. The difference will be life-changing—for them and for you.

Recommended Reading:

The Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosaria Butterfield

Practicing The Way by John Mark Comer

29: From Exhaustion to Wholeness - Rhythms of Work and Rest

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0700

The moment I collapsed from exhaustion at my high school homecoming dance should have been my wake-up call. As a determined overachiever balancing academics, ballet, relationships, and faith, I had created an unsustainable rhythm that left me physically depleted. That night, friends caught me before I hit the floor – a perfect snapshot of how disordered patterns of work and rest can literally bring us to our knees.

What I've discovered since then has transformed my understanding of productivity and rest. Work isn't a punishment – it existed in Eden before sin entered the world. God placed Adam and Eve in the garden "to work it and watch over it," giving them purposeful, meaningful tasks as part of paradise. Likewise, rest isn't an indulgence but a divine pattern established by God himself, who rested on the seventh day and declared it holy.

Our modern struggle with balance often stems from self-imposed pressure amplified by technology. We feel compelled to respond to work messages at all hours, convinced our success depends on constant availability. Yet when I finally established proper boundaries after having twins, I discovered I could still be successful without sacrificing my family or burning myself out. The key was challenging the assumption that productivity equals worth and embracing Jesus's invitation: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Ready to find better rhythms in your home? Start by setting clear boundaries between work and family time. Consider establishing a weekly Sabbath, even if it's just an afternoon of intentional rest. Look for small moments of renewal throughout your day. Remember – rest isn't laziness but a profound act of faith, acknowledging that God is God and you are not. What would change if you trusted Him with both your productivity and your rest this week?

28: Habits - The Invisible Architects of Your Life

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Looking at your phone first thing in the morning instead of your Bible? Arriving at destinations with no memory of how you got there? These automatic behaviors reveal the hidden power of habits—routines that shape our lives while operating beneath our conscious awareness.

The small, daily decisions we make gradually determine our life's trajectory. As Scripture reminds us, "The beginning of wisdom is this: get wisdom." But wisdom isn't cultivated through occasional grand gestures—it's built through consistent, seemingly insignificant choices that accumulate over time. Just as a pilot adjusting course by 3.5 degrees eventually lands hundreds of miles from the intended destination, our tiny habit adjustments create massive life changes, for better or worse.

When examining habits that may be leading us astray, the process begins with awareness. Track patterns in your day, especially during moments of frustration. Identify triggers, pause before responding automatically, and replace unhelpful habits with life-giving alternatives. Something as simple as switching from a phone alarm to a traditional alarm clock can transform chaotic mornings into peaceful devotional time—proving that seemingly minor changes can radically reshape our days and, ultimately, our character. As we embrace this journey of habit evaluation and revision, we're invited to choose grace over guilt, aiming to become just 1% better each time rather than perfect all at once. Remember, "It's the little things that establish a life. Build a wise one, one habit at a time." Ready to examine one habit this week that might be silently directing your days?

Recommended Books:

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley

The Common Rule by Justin Whitmel Earley

27: Your First Love: Finding Your Identity In Christ

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Discovering your identity in Christ creates a foundation that everything else builds upon. Just as I learned that ballet discipline transfers to other dance styles, I've found that knowing who you are in Christ creates the solid foundation needed for all relationships, including marriage.

The uncertainty of your twenties brings overwhelming questions about career, purpose, relationships, and God's will. When facing these crossroads, I discovered that drawing near to God reveals who I am in Him. This identity isn't tied to success, career, or relationship status—it's anchored in being a child of God, redeemed by Christ, and filled with the Holy Spirit. A "Christian's Birthright Card" my father gave me, filled with scriptural "I am" statements, became my anchor through difficult decisions.

Understanding Psalm 37:4 transformed my perspective on singleness. When we truly align with God, His desires become our desires. I visualize this as a triangle: when both potential partners pursue God at the apex, they naturally draw closer to each other. While waiting for God's timing, I focused on deepening my relationship with Him and developing my calling. This foundation of security in Christ—not in worldly validation—became precisely what attracted my husband. As a military officer, he needed someone whose strength came from something unchanging, especially during deployments. I boldly told him early in our relationship that he would always be my "second love" after Jesus—and after the initial shock, he recognized this was exactly what he needed in a wife. Whether God has marriage in your future or not, complete surrender to Him prepares you for whatever comes next. Your relationship with Jesus is a full and complete life—let Him be your number one and trust Him to choreograph your next steps.

26: The Courage to Create: Taking Action Before You're Ready with Ine-Wilme

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0700

What if the key to creative excellence wasn't perfection but courage?

Professional cellist-turned-business coach Ina-Wilme reveals transformative insights on unlocking your creative potential while maintaining excellence in both business and motherhood.

After spending seven months meticulously crafting a course that initially earned less than $1,000, Ina learned a pivotal lesson that changed everything: "When you create before you're ready, you get the answers to the test." Her journey from classical musician to entrepreneurial coach demonstrates that real growth happens when we stop waiting for perfection and start creating with and for our audience.

For mother entrepreneurs struggling to balance creative pursuits with family life, Ina offers a refreshing perspective: "My work is a break from being a mom, and being a mom is a break from my work." This mindset shift transforms what could feel like constant demands into complementary roles that energize rather than deplete. Through her "CEO-executor-mom" daily rhythm, she demonstrates how structured boundaries can maximize productivity while preserving quality family time.

Drawing powerful parallels between music and business, Ina distinguishes between excellence and perfectionism. Like a musician who must play many notes rather than perfecting just one, entrepreneurs must embrace quantity alongside quality. "If you have ideas but don't publish them, what's the point of having them in the first place?" she challenges. Using the farming analogy of planting 700 million seeds knowing only 40% will survive, Ina encourages creators to sow abundantly with courage rather than sparingly with fear.

Ready to move past creative blocks? Discover Ina's practical "next action model" for identifying your immediate next step without overwhelming yourself. Connect with her on Instagram @Ina.Wilme to continue exploring how music principles can transform your creative process and business growth.

Interested in working with Ine? Click the link below to get on her list for the next workshop:

Find YOUR Million Dollar Idea Workshop with Ine-Wilme

25: Recognizing Negative Thought Patterns & Choosing Peace

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0700

Can your thoughts influence the way you handle things like anxiety?

This episode dives deep into the complexities of women's mental health, especially concerning anxiety and worry that many face due to societal pressures and expectations. We unravel the science behind why women are more prone to anxiety, considering research by notable figures like Jonathan Haidt and Leonard Sax that highlights the alarming trends affecting adolescent girls.

Our discussion shifts to the importance of recognizing negative thought patterns, such as catastrophizing and overgeneralizing, which can contribute significantly to anxiety. Discover practical strategies for rewiring your mind for positivity, along with the transformative role faith plays in our emotional lives. Ultimately, we emphasize the need for community support and encourage open conversations about mental health struggles. Let this episode serve as a reminder that just as the sea otter glides above the crashing waves, we too can learn to navigate life’s storms with grace and resilience.

Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on this episode!

Recommended Reading:

Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Girls on the Edge by Leonard Sax

Raising Worry Free Girls by Sissy Goff

Braver, Stronger, Smarter: A Girl's Guide to Overcoming Worry & Anxiety by Sissy Goff

24: Cherishing the Uniqueness of Women

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0800

What does it mean to truly embrace the unique design for women as envisioned through a biblical lens?

Join me on a heartfelt journey as we honor Women's History Month and International Women's Day, reflecting on the divine attributes instilled in women, from strength and grace to wisdom and gentleness. Amid these reflections, I share a personal story about giving birth to twin boys on International Women's Day and the responsibility it brings to raise them with respect for and an understanding of women's value. We celebrate the inspiring qualities of biblical figures like Esther, Deborah, and Mary, whose courage and faith exemplify God's beautiful design for femininity.

Throughout this episode, we also examine the contrasting paths of egalitarian and maternal feminism, exploring how each has sought to uplift women's rights in their own way. Discover the virtues of an exemplary woman, whose industrious nature and balance of household and business acumen highlight the strength and dignity that define her character. Her life's impact resonates beyond her family to the broader community, embodying values of inner character over external allure. Uncover the importance of cherishing these divine roles, even as we navigate the complexities of modern feminism and its interpretations. May you be encouraged by this enriching conversation that celebrates the unique and divine design for women as part of God's eternal plan.

Recommended Reading:

Mama Bear Apologetics edited by Hillary Morgan Ferrer

23: Discovering Freedom in Personal Struggles

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Ever felt like you're fighting an uphill battle with habits that seem impossible to shake?

Join me as I recount my recent personal health journey. I share how participating in a challenge initially broke my chain of unhealthy eating habits, only for them to return with a heavier emotional toll. Discover the rollercoaster of emotions and self-doubt that accompanied my quest for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially during the stress of motherhood and real life. Through candid reflections, I reveal how the key to overcoming these struggles lay in surrendering to a strength greater than my own.

The episode delves into the profound reassurance that comes from understanding we are beautifully and wonderfully made, known intimately before birth by God. I discuss the shift in perspective that made all the difference for me to finally overcome health related hurdles. This is personal and raw and vulnerable. And it is freeing to be able to share what I have learned with you.

Listen until the end with a recitation of Psalm 139 from some very special guests to help anchor you this week.

22: Raising Resilient Followers of Christ

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Have you ever watched children on a field trip and marveled at the mix of chaos and wonder?

Reflecting on such an experience, I unravel the challenges and triumphs of parenting, particularly the intricate art of teaching obedience and surrender to God. Through relatable stories and biblical narratives, I examine the human tendency toward rebellion and the illusion of control, reminding parents that while they guide, they aren't the gatekeepers of their children's salvation. Proverbs 22:6 is highlighted as a wise observation rather than a promise, steering the conversation toward nurturing a heart of obedience and faithfulness over mere behavioral compliance.

In our journey through parenting, we can draw a vivid analogy of a fenced backyard, teaching us how boundaries can actually create a sense of freedom. From this perspective, we explore how equipping children with the full armor of God, as detailed in Ephesians 6, can cultivate spiritual resilience and growth. The goal isn't just to raise "good kids," but to develop discerning followers of Christ who choose righteousness even when no one is watching. Through prayer and spiritual guidance, we aim to empower children to stand firm in their faith, embracing truth, righteousness, and salvation as their shields against life's challenges. Join me as we strive to foster a confident identity in Christ for the next generation.

Recommended Reading:

Gospel Mom by Emily Jensen & Laura Wifler

Little Pilgrim's Progress by Helen L. Taylor

21: Navigating Love & Faith with Chris Tuggle

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0800

What happens when a Navy meteorologist navigates the storms and calms of marriage?

Join us for an intimate conversation with my husband, Chris Tuggle, as we share our journey from a blind date at a San Francisco Giants game to a 12-year marriage built on love, laughter, and faith. Chris recalls how he never needed his backup list of conversation topics that day, setting the stage for a relationship characterized by genuine connection and shared values.

In our discussion, we unpack the challenges and rewards of prioritizing love amidst life's demands through a Christian lens. Chris and I explore how understanding and speaking each other's love languages have kept our partnership strong and resilient. By trusting in Jesus and grounding our marriage in faith, we’ve learned to navigate inevitable disappointments and avoid unrealistic expectations, ensuring our relationship thrives even in the toughest times.

As we reflect on our marriage's evolution, we emphasize the crucial roles of communication and spiritual alignment. Transitioning from reliance on parents to forming an independent family unit has tested us, but open dialogue and shared goals have been our anchors. By aligning our paths and keeping Christ at the center, we continue to support and uplift each other, hoping to inspire listeners with insights and encouragement for their own marriages.

20: Crafting a Morning Routine from the Heart

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Ever wondered how some people transform from night owls to early birds with purpose?

Join me as I share my personal journey of turning from someone who cherished ten hours of sleep into a disciplined early riser. You'll discover how my motivations evolved over the years, from simply wanting more free time after school to navigating the rigors of college life with early classes. As a new teacher, arriving early to serve my students became crucial, and I learned firsthand the power of aligning discipline with motivation to foster both personal and professional growth.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of building a morning routine rooted in intention. Hear how my longing to begin each day spiritually, by reading my Bible, gradually expanded into a comprehensive morning regimen that fuels my body and mind through exercise and reading nonfiction. It's all about finding peace and purpose, guided by the tranquillity of Psalm 23, whether you're a new mother or someone eager to align your routine with spiritual and personal goals. I encourage you to embrace the changing seasons of life, start small, and let the compounding effect of consistent efforts shape your journey. Join me, and discover how setting intentions can transform your mornings—and your life.

Recommended Reading:
Atomic Habits by James Clear

19: Empowering Mothers for a New Era with Anne Berry

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Discover the transformative power of embracing life's transitions with insights from Anne, an inspiring coach dedicated to guiding women through the empty nest phase. Imagine experiencing the joy of watching your children thrive independently while rediscovering your own passions and identity. Anne shares her personal journey, from a fulfilling 34-year marriage to raising successful adult sons, and the importance of respect and listening in nurturing relationships with grown children. In our conversation, you'll learn practical strategies for maintaining personal interests and social connections, preventing feelings of isolation, and preparing emotionally for this new chapter of motherhood.

Anne offers guidance on shifting from a traditional parental role to a supportive friendship, empowering mothers to embrace the changes ahead with grace and purpose. She highlights the importance of self-care and preparation for life beyond child-rearing, encouraging women to find joy and fulfillment in their own lives. Through her coaching programs and free resources, Anne provides the tools and support needed to navigate this significant life transition. Tune in and empower yourself with Anne's valuable insights, ensuring that life remains beautiful and fulfilling even as your children grow and embark on their own journeys.

You can find Anne on IG @annemberry or on Facebook at Anne Simmons Berry. Or check out her website and FREE resources here!

18: Reflections & Transformative Lessons in Motherhood

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0800

What if the essence of motherhood lies not in the milestones we meticulously plan but in the unexpected lessons that shape us along the way?

As I reflect on a decade of motherhood, I invite you to join me in reliving that snowy day when I first held my daughter, realizing that motherhood is far more than a checklist—it’s a transformative journey filled with irony, growth, and profound love. Celebrating her 10th birthday, I share ten invaluable lessons that highlight the unpredictable nature of parenting, where trusting my instincts triumphs over the countless pieces of advice found online. Through moments of gratitude and grief, we explore how to cherish and be present in each fleeting stage of nurturing our children.

Love is patient, love is kind, and it's an extraordinary force that fills the heart of a mother. Drawing inspiration from scripture, I explore the parallels between divine love and the nurturing love mothers offer their children, enhancing our appreciation for this precious bond. Through passages like 1 Corinthians 13 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, we uncover the immense privilege of channeling God's unwavering strength and grace in our parenting journey. Empowered by the assurance of an unbreakable connection to divine love, as promised in Romans 8:37-39, we celebrate the astonishing joy and growth that come from raising our little ones, continually fostering a deeper understanding of the infinite love that surrounds us.

17: The Art of Meaningful Household Rhythms

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Discover the secret to transforming your home into a sanctuary of love and purpose. Journey with me as I explore the profound impact of meaningful household rhythms, drawing inspiration from biblical stories like the fig tree in Mark 11. I'll provide you with insight into how focusing on the life within, rather than mere appearances, can lead to true fulfillment. This discussion invites you to embrace the simplicity of daily life with intentionality, setting the stage for extraordinary outcomes that resonate with peace and vitality.

Through personal stories and practical advice, I reveal the art of crafting harmonious household routines that foster excellence and contentment, particularly for women striving to create nurturing environments. By emphasizing the power of consistency and planning, I demonstrate how ordinary habits can bear extraordinary fruit. Drawing from John 15, you can underscore the transformative power of abiding in Christ to cultivate a home filled with genuine joy and abundant life. Whether it's managing family mealtimes or nurturing relationships, discover how aligning with Christ's teachings can fill your home—and life—with purpose.

Recommended Reading on this Topic:
Habits For a Sacred Home by Jennifer Pepito
Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley

16: Redefining Resolutions: A Faith-Focused Path to Personal Growth

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0800

Ever wondered why those New Year's resolutions never seem to stick?

Join me as I unpack the common pitfalls of these annual promises and reveal a transformative approach that goes beyond rigid goals. Through a candid story about my own battle with the simple task of daily flossing, we uncover how perfectionism and life's little disruptions can derail even the best intentions. Discover how shifting from an outcome-focused mindset to one that centers on personal values can lead to genuine and sustainable growth. Linking intention with actionable steps, we align closer with our spiritual path and embrace the biblical wisdom of Psalms 37:5-6.

This episode is all about redefining how we approach personal development by setting intentions that resonate with our core values. By seeking guidance and wisdom from God, we explore how intentions can be more fulfilling than traditional resolutions, leading us toward excellence and faith-driven living. You’ll learn how to pair your intentions with manageable habits, creating a roadmap for progress and spiritual alignment. Get ready to embark on a journey of meaningful change as we commit our ways to the Lord and trust in His guidance for our lives.

15: Christmas Through the Eyes of a Child with Analise Tuggle

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0800

How do cherished family traditions and heartfelt wishes shape the magic of Christmas?

Join me and my nine-year-old daughter, Analise, as we unwrap the beauty of our holiday celebrations. This episode brings you right into the warmth of our home, as Analise shares her joy in decorating our tree with ornaments collected from around the world, and her love for holiday classics like "The Santa Clause." We also dive into the sweet world of baking, with Analise revealing her enthusiasm for our family’s sugar cookie recipe, passed down through generations. Her thoughtful nature shines through when she recounts the joy of sharing these homemade treats with neighbors, turning simple gestures into lasting connections.

As we explore the deeper meaning of Christmas, Analise opens her heart with a wish for everyone to embrace the spirit of kindness and belief in Jesus. She discusses how the birth of Jesus inspires our traditions of giving, with a hope for a world united in peace and love. We share our excitement for the season, encouraging listeners to treasure time with family and friends, and to reflect on the true essence of Christmas. This episode is a celebration of joy, tradition, and meaningful giving that will inspire you to see the holidays through the eyes of a child filled with wonder and hope.

14: Transforming Marriages One Meeting at a Time with Tori Tippens

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0800

Ever wondered how a simple ritual could transform your marriage?

Tori, a dedicated mom of three and a passionate follower of Jesus, joins us to reveal the power of "marriage meetings" and their incredible impact on her relationship with her husband, Brandon. With over a decade of shared experiences, Tori opens up about the early challenges they faced, influenced by the breakup of close friends, and how these meetings have helped them stay connected and strong. Her story offers an inspiring testament to the importance of intentionality and faith in building a resilient and loving partnership.

Marriage isn’t always a walk in the park, but prioritizing your partner can make all the difference. In this episode, we uncover the vital elements of fostering a healthy and intimate marriage. From the importance of communication and feedback to reserving date nights for enjoyment, Tori offers invaluable insights into reinforcing mutual appreciation and respect. Hear how embracing biblical principles can fortify your marriage against cultural influences while providing your children with a loving example of commitment and faithfulness.

Discover practical strategies to nurture intimacy through marriage meetings, even when the conversations get tough. Tori shares how creating a supportive environment with humility and openness can enhance connection, despite potential challenges. And don't miss our enlightening discussion on "Finding the Hero in Your Husband," a book that explores supporting your partner in becoming his best self. With a blend of wisdom and personal reflection, this episode is a heartfelt guide to making marriage meetings a priority in your relationship—and perhaps even your New Year's resolutions.

You can find Tori on Instagram @torimotivatedmom
For more practicals tips on these marriage meetings follow @marriagemeeting on IG and download Tori's FREE marriage meeting guide.

Or you can download the guide here: Monthly Marriage Meeting
Grab a copy of Finding the Hero in Your Husband by Dr. Juli Slattery

13: Santa Claus and Christian Parenting: Balancing Holiday Traditions

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0800

Have you ever questioned how Santa Claus fits into the celebration of Christmas within a Christian household?

This episode takes on the intriguing balance that parents face during the holiday season. We explore the historical roots of Santa Claus, tracing back to the generous 4th-century Christian figure, Saint Nicholas, and how his legacy of kindness has shaped modern traditions. Our discussion dives into the delicate act of maintaining honesty with children while ensuring that the essence of Christmas, celebrating Jesus' birth, is never overshadowed.

We also share personal insights on honoring St. Nicholas Day on December 6th, using this as a teachable moment about giving and kindness, all while keeping the spotlight on what truly matters during Christmas. Join us as we discuss the role of intentional conversations with your spouse in shaping family traditions and explore how celebrating the virtues of St. Nicholas can enrich your holiday experience. For those curious about a deeper understanding of his life, I recommend the book "Just Nicholas." Above all, our conversation is a reminder to align holiday celebrations with personal family values, ensuring that Jesus remains the true reason for the season.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Just Nicholas by Annie Kratzsch
The Courageous Series by Voice of the Martyrs

12: A Journey to Genuine Thankfulness

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0800

Unlock the transformative power of genuine gratitude this Thanksgiving. Have the words "grateful, thankful, blessed" lost their true significance for you amidst the barrage of social media trends?

Join me as we journey back to the origins of Thanksgiving, drawing life-changing insights from the gratitude practices of the pilgrims and Israelites. Inspired by Jesus' act of giving thanks before feeding 5,000 people, we uncover how true gratitude invites miracles and transforms our lives beyond superficial expressions.

Embrace gratitude as a potent remedy against life's negativity. We explore biblical teachings from 2 Timothy 3:2 and Psalm 136:1 to highlight the enduring power of thankfulness, even in challenging times. Discover a simple, yet profound practice: a gratitude jar that encourages year-round recognition of blessings, nurturing a spirit of thankfulness in our families. Let's enrich our Thanksgiving celebrations with feasts, prayers, and the ultimate gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, embarking on a journey toward perpetual gratitude.

Reading Resources for you:
Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World by Kristen Welch
One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

11: Creating a Meaningful Advent Celebration

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0800

How do you make the Advent season special for your family?

Inspired by the unique way my six-year-old twins count down to Christmas, I've discovered that planning early can transform this time into one that’s both meaningful and joyful. Join me as I explore the beauty of Advent, a season of waiting, expectation, and spiritual readiness. From creating an Advent wreath and using calendars to family devotionals, we'll share our most cherished traditions, focusing on making this time memorable.

Choosing the right traditions for your family can elevate the Advent experience, centering on the anticipation of Jesus’s arrival rather than the commercial aspects. By thoughtfully planning, we focus on simple yet profound activities, like reading a chapter from the book of Luke each day, creating a pathway to reflect on Jesus's life and resurrection. Emphasizing joy, kindness, and generosity, you'll be able to cultivate a heart and mind ready for the coming King. Rediscover the essence of the season, celebrating not just the birth of Jesus, but also the anticipation of his return, making the Advent journey a true celebration of hope and expectation.

Resources mentioned in this episode linked below:
The Wonder of the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp

The Manger Mission

The Giving Manger

Books for you to read during Advent:
The Greatest Gift: Unwrapping the Fully Love Story of Christmas by Ann Voskamp
Emmanuel: An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas and Always by Ruth Chou Simons

10: A Journey to Biblical Literacy with Autumn Rutledge

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0800

Did you know that while many churchgoers own a Bible, engaging with it is a different story?

Autumn, the founder of Reclaimed Heart, shares her deeply personal journey from disillusionment with Bible college to leading a vibrant community of women in biblical exploration. Her story is a moving testament to the power of community support and the pursuit of biblical literacy without the need for formal seminary education. Together, we discuss how questioning and seeking understanding can transform faith into a more meaningful experience.

We dive into the findings of the American Bible Society's 2024 State of the Bible report, unraveling surprising trends in Bible engagement across generations. The data reveals an intriguing picture of cultural and regional influences, and our discussion sheds light on the barriers and motivations that shape scripture engagement.

Embarking on a spiritual journey can be daunting, but change is essential for growth. With practical tips for overcoming the barriers to Bible reading, we remind listeners that even brief, imperfect moments can ignite a desire to pursue God in a deeper way.

To get in touch with Autumn, you can email her @hello.reclaimed@gmail.com.

For more resources to help you read through the Bible, check out:
BibleProject - https://bibleproject.com
YouVersion Bible Reading App - https://www.youversion.com

For additional reading: Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin

09: Empowering You to Navigate Emotions on Election Day

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0800

Ever wonder how to equip your children with the tools they need to navigate the emotional ups and downs of life?

Discover practical strategies from David Thomas's book "Raising Emotionally Strong Boys," as we discuss ways to teach both boys and girls to recognize, regulate, and repair their emotions. This episode offers valuable insights into using tools like feelings charts to help children understand the boundaries of their control—focusing on their reactions and emotions rather than external outcomes. We explore how high-pressure events, such as election days, can become opportunities to practice self-control and trust in a bigger plan, guided by teachings from Romans and 2 Samuel.

In uncertain times, strengthening resilience and maintaining faithfulness become essential. I'm here to remind you to keep advocating for positive change while living by the gospel through your actions and words. Respect and prayers for our leaders, alongside emotional composure, are key components of a responsible citizenship. Join me as we transform challenging moments into powerful teaching opportunities, instilling a sense of strength and confidence rooted in faith.

08: Turning Failure into a Teachable Moment

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0700

What happens when a captivating book pulls you away from your responsibilities, turning a simple Monday into a whirlwind of stress?

This episode opens with a personal tale of how neglecting my duties led to chaos at home, impacting my family dynamics and, most importantly, my nine-year-old daughter. Through this relatable experience, we explore the critical role parents play in shaping the emotional atmosphere of the household. By examining the fallout of my oversight, we underscore the necessity of a flexible system and the importance of learning from our mishaps. Discover the delicate balance between taking personal time and maintaining a harmonious family environment, and learn how even the smallest actions can have ripple effects on those around us.

Join me as we transform failures into stepping stones for growth and resilience, both for ourselves and our children. Through personal reflection and biblical inspiration from Isaiah and Colossians, we emphasize the virtues of peace, compassion, and love within the family unit. This journey illustrates how ordinary challenges can become powerful lessons in grace and faith, encouraging us to set a positive tone in our homes. By confronting our missteps with honesty and openness, we pave the way for stronger family bonds and a more peace-filled household. Tune in to learn how a mindful approach to family life can lead to profound personal and relational growth.

07: Transformative Self-Care Through Faith

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0700

Can self-care cross the line into self-centeredness?

Discover how to master the fine balance between taking care of yourself and serving others in our latest episode. We'll unpack the familiar advice to "put on your oxygen mask first," especially for women and mothers who often juggle multiple caregiving roles. Through the lens of Matthew 22:36-39, we dive deep into the inherent nature of self-love and how it should never overshadow our greater command to love others. You'll also hear practical wisdom on how to ensure that your self-care practices enhance rather than hinder your ability to serve those around you.

Experience a transformative approach to daily excellence by prioritizing your relationship with God. Learn how starting your day with spiritual grounding can make you a more patient parent, a more confident professional, and a more dedicated student. With insights from Philippians 2:3-4 and 2 Corinthians 12:9, we emphasize that true strength and the ability to serve come from relying on Jesus. Tune in to understand how God's grace can empower you through your weaknesses, enabling you to show up with unparalleled excellence in every aspect of your life. This episode is a must-listen for those striving to harmoniously blend self-care and selfless service.

06: Untangling Excellence in Motherhood with Shelley Tyson

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0700

What does excellence in motherhood really mean?

Join us as we uncover this profound question with our guest, Shelley, a devoted mother of four, who shares her honest and inspiring journey. Raised with strong maternal figures and a homeschooling background, Shelley believed she had motherhood all figured out—until reality hit. In our conversation, she opens up about the "untangling process" she went through, aligning her preconceived notions with the actual experience of being a mom. Shelley redefines what it means to excel in motherhood by focusing on spiritual fruits and values from Galatians 5 and Philippians 4, offering wisdom that is both heartfelt and deeply insightful.

Maintaining a sense of excellence and balance at home can be a daunting task, especially for mothers. Shelley shares practical tips, such as establishing quiet times for children, that help create a nurturing and balanced environment. We delve into the challenges of staying motivated and maintaining personal routines when external structures are absent. Shelley emphasizes grounding oneself in spiritual practices as a way to navigate these trials. This chapter underscores the importance of setting a strong foundation for children and the personal growth that comes from aligning daily actions with faith and purpose.

Identity and mindset are crucial in navigating motherhood, and Shelley emphasizes that true excellence comes from recognizing who we already are. She passionately reframes the often-dreaded teenage years with excitement and optimism, offering a new perspective on this life stage. This episode is brimming with valuable insights and encouragement for mothers at every stage of their journey.

Get in touch with Shelley over on Instagram @shelleyctyson or you can subscribe to her bi-weekly email of encouragement: https://shelleytyson.myflodesk.com/

05: Navigating Halloween with Faith and Grace

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0700

Can Christian families truly celebrate Halloween without compromising their faith?

Explore this intriguing question and trace Halloween's evolution from its pagan roots to its modern-day form. We'll delve into ways Christian families can navigate this holiday in harmony with their beliefs. From personal stories to biblical insights, this episode offers a nuanced look at how to approach Halloween with both conviction and grace.

Join me in a thoughtful conversation as we explore a variety of perspectives on engaging with or abstaining from Halloween. Whether it's embracing alternative festivities like fall festivals and Reformation Day, or turning Halloween into an opportunity for community involvement, we discuss ways to honor personal convictions while fostering understanding and respect. In this episode, you'll find practical suggestions for using Halloween as a teaching moment for children and creative ideas for being a positive light in the community, all while respecting the diverse choices within the Christian community.

04: Choosing Holiness: The Pursuit of True Happiness

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0700

Can true happiness and contentment be achieved without focusing solely on earthly pleasures?

Explore with us as we unpack this profound question and reveal how seeking a deeper relationship with God reshapes our understanding of happiness. This episode challenges the widespread notion that God’s primary concern is our immediate happiness and highlights the potential dangers of making decisions based purely on what feels good in the moment. Drawing on insights from Oswald Chambers and biblical scriptures like Philippians 4:11-13, we illustrate how God prioritizes our holiness and provides true contentment through Jesus Christ.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that encourages prioritizing holiness over immediate gratification, and discover the profound happiness that comes from a meaningful relationship with God.

03: Redefining Excellence: Letting Go of Perfection

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0700

What if the relentless pursuit of perfection is what's holding you back from true excellence? Today, we challenge societal expectations and redefine what it means to be a woman of excellence. Reflecting on Jillian Benfield's impactful quotes and the wisdom from Titus 2:3-5, we explore how showing up and giving our best in everyday tasks can honor God and positively shape our families. Forget the unrealistic standards; it’s about serving with kindness and commitment, whether you work inside the home or out in the world.

Tune in as we share practical insights on investing your time, energy, and heart wisely, all while maintaining a loving and well-served home. Whether you’re navigating the demands of a career or focusing on nurturing your family, this conversation is for every woman striving for excellence without the burden of perfection.

Books Related to this Content:
Eve in Exile - https://a.co/d/5EVKbbX
Envy of Eve - https://a.co/d/1tfE5Jv

02: Mindful Media: Aligning Your Thoughts and Spiritual Growth

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0700

Can changing the way you think actually transform your thoughts and emotions?

Tune into the latest episode as I discuss the reticular activating system (RAS) in your brain and how it filters information. I connect these insights to the wisdom of Philippians 4:8, urging a focus on positivity and praiseworthy thoughts.

With the charming story from Patricia Polacco's "Thundercake," we illustrate how redirecting your thoughts can change your emotional landscape. Get ready to be mindful gatekeepers of your mental inputs and discover how the content we consume, from social media to TV shows, profoundly influences our mindset and behavior.

01: Living with Intentional Joy

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0700

What if you could transform your life by simply shifting your focus?

In this episode, we uncover the secrets of positive thinking through the wisdom of Philippians 4:8. As a fellow list enthusiast, I'm thrilled to break down the apostle Paul's checklist—an inspiring guide for believers aiming to reject distractions and draw closer to God. Imagine the profound impact this shift in focus could have on your roles as a wife, mother, friend, sister, and daughter. We discuss how setting your intentions on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy can redefine your everyday life, even amidst life's inevitable challenges.

Whatever Is Excellent Trailer

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Join Leanne Tuggle, mentor, entrepreneur, military spouse, mom of twins plus one and curator of weekly pizza nights to discuss whatever is excellent. Encouraging & practical wisdom that’ll help you go from just surviving to thriving.

The ultimate goal is to equip you to pursue whatever is excellent in the midst of your ordinary life and in all that you say and do.